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From the shaky wooden coasters of early 20th-century amusement parks to today's cutting-edge attractions, the evolution of thrill rides has been remarkable. Modern rides must surpass their predecessors in size and intensity, and these colossal coasters dominate the scene.
This global ranking of the tallest roller coasters features massive steel structures, with Kingda Ka leading the pack. Soaring 456 feet into the air, this ride at Six Flags Great Adventure in New Jersey has held the record since its 2005 debut. It also boasts the title of North America's fastest coaster, hitting speeds of 128 mph.
The U.S. is also home to the planet's second-tallest roller coaster. Top Thrill Dragster, standing at 420 feet, set a world record upon its 2003 launch at Ohio's Cedar Point. It remained the tallest for two years until Kingda Ka claimed the crown.
Spain's Ferrari Land is home to Red Force, the tallest roller coaster outside the United States, standing at 367.3 feet. Other notable entries on the list of the world's tallest operational coasters include Japan's Steel Dragon 2000 and Canada's Leviathan. Explore the complete ranking below.
For thrill-seekers, height isn't the only factor that defines a great roller coaster. Speed, track length, and the number of loops and turns are equally crucial. Discover the record-breaking coasters that excel in these categories and beyond.
- Kingda Ka // Six Flags Great Adventure, New Jersey
- Top Thrill Dragster // Cedar Point, Ohio
- Superman: Escape From Krypton // Six Flags Magic Mountain, California
- Red Force // Ferrari Land, Spain
- Fury 325 // Carowinds, North Carolina
- Steel Dragon 2000 // Nagashima Spa Land, Japan
- Millennium Force // Cedar Point, Ohio
- Leviathan // Canada's Wonderland, Canada
- Intimidator 305 // Kings Dominion, Virginia
- Orion // Kings Island, Ohio
