 |
| Landmark #1044 | San Diego County | Visited: January 26, 2014 | Plaque? YES! 🙂 |
| What is it? | The Giant Dipper Roller Coaster! |
| What makes it historical? | THE GUIDE SAYS: The 1925 Giant Dipper Roller Coaster (or “Earthquake”) is a large wooden roller coaster, and its highest “hills” reach a height of 75 feet. It is one of only two large wooden scaffolded roller coasters remaining on the West Coast. The Giant Dipper was designed by noted coaster builders Prior and Church. It is the prime survivor and most visible symbol of the Mission Beach Amusement Center. It was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1987.
OTHER TIDBITS: The brainchild of San Diego developer, John Spreckels, this whole roller coaster was constructed in just under two months! It was a main attraction in Belmont until 1976 when it fell into disrepair and unpopularity! It was slated for destruction until it was declared a National Historic Landmark and restored. Now, thanks to getting a second chance, it still puts the “fun” in “functional!” It’s the sister coaster to the Giant Dipper at the Santa Cruz Boardwalk! This landmark is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places! |
| How can I Help the Helpers? | HERE’S HOW:
|
| Where is this place? | LISTED DIRECTIONS: 3190 Mission Blvd San Diego, CA 92109 ANNOTATIONS: From Los Angeles: ~119mi (192km) — 2hrs |
| When should I go? | Belmont Park is open from 11:00 AM until 10:00 PM on Fridays and Saturdays, and from 11:00 AM until 8:00 PM on Sundays! Check ahead, though, because the Giant Dipper is sometimes closed for repairs! |
