Almost 50 years later, Adventureland's "Tornado" to gain historic landmark status
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Billie Ray (left) and former Gov. Robert Ray ride the Tornado on its opening day in 1978. Photo: Courtesy of Adventureland
Generations of Iowans have ridden Adventureland's iconic "Tornado" rollercoaster, and soon, the wooden ride will gain the coveted designation of "rollercoaster landmark."
Driving the news: The Tornado will be named a landmark by American Coaster Enthusiasts next month, during the group's national conference on Aug. 17.
- Only 48 rollercoasters have been recognized as landmarks, denoting a ride's historic value.
Here's a look back at the history of the Tornado:
How it started: The ride first opened to large fanfare in 1978 with former Gov. Robert Ray presiding over the Tornado's opening ceremony, according to a past Register article.
- With a $1.5 million price tag, the wooden coaster stood out regionally for its speed reaching 55 miles per hour and a defying height of 93 feet and 7 inches.
Zoom in: Bill Cobb, the ride's designer, claimed the Tornado's last car was smoother than its front and said it lasted 48 seconds.
- "It's about as long as necessary to give you enough of a thrill. To scare you enough," Cobb told the Register at the time.
The intrigue: While the Tornado was a tourist draw, it proved troublesome for nearby residents along NE 56th Street.
- Drivers would slow down to watch it, while others would park and spectate on weekends, resulting in "noise, unwanted traffic, tire tracks" and other debris, the Register wrote.
Since then, the Tornado has undergone renovations to preserve it, including retracking and rebuilding its trains, according to Adventureland spokesperson Alex Payne.
If you go: Daily admission is $45 to Adventureland. (Back in 1978, it was $8 for adults.)
