Laff Trakk at Hershey Park is a unique indoor spinning coaster that combines the thrill of a roller coaster with the whimsy of a funhouse. This glow-in-the-dark attraction features freely spinning cars, a 51-foot lift hill, and a 1,400-foot track filled with curves, drops, and trick sections. Themed as a modern funhouse, Laff Trakk pays homage to Hersheypark’s past while offering a cutting-edge ride experience that lasts 1 minute and 10 seconds, reaching speeds of up to 40 mph.
What Makes Laff Trakk Unique Among Hershey Park Attractions?
Laff Trakk stands out as Hershey Park’s first indoor, spinning glow-coaster. Its distinctive features include:
- Glow-in-the-dark environment
- Freely spinning ride vehicles
- Back-to-back seating arrangement
- Funhouse-inspired theming
These elements combine to create a disorienting and thrilling experience unlike any other in the park.
How Does the Ride Experience Unfold?
The Laff Trakk experience begins even before boarding the ride:
- Queue area: Features a hall of mirrors and blacklight effects
- Loading area: Displays a mural of “Laffin Sal’s House of Fun”
- Ride start: Sharp turn followed by a 51-foot climb
- Main elements:
- Curved main drop
- Halfpipe section
- Trick-track portion
- Ground-level helix
Throughout the ride, cars spin freely based on weight distribution, ensuring a unique experience with each run.
What Are the Technical Specifications of Laff Trakk?
Here’s a breakdown of Laff Trakk’s key specifications:
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Type | Steel – Spinning – Enclosed |
| Manufacturer | Maurer AG |
| Height | 51 feet (16 m) |
| Length | 1,400 feet (430 m) |
| Top Speed | 40 mph (64 km/h) |
| Inversions | 0 |
| Duration | 1 minute, 10 seconds |
| Capacity | 850 riders per hour |
Who Can Ride Laff Trakk?
Laff Trakk has specific height and age requirements:
- Minimum height: 42 inches (107 cm)
- Maximum height: 76 inches (193 cm)
- Minimum age: 5 years old
Additionally, there are weight restrictions:
– Combined weight per car: Cannot exceed 705 pounds
What Safety Measures Are in Place?
Hershey Park prioritizes rider safety with several measures:
- Secure restraint system
- Weight distribution guidelines
- Restrictions on loose articles
- Special guidelines for guests with prosthetic limbs
Riders over 6 feet 4 inches may face difficulties due to the restraint system design.
How Does Laff Trakk Compare to Other Hershey Park Rides?
Laff Trakk offers a unique experience compared to other Hershey Park attractions:
- Indoor setting: Unlike most coasters in the park
- Spinning mechanism: Adds an extra layer of thrill
- Theming: Nostalgic funhouse atmosphere
- Family-friendly: Accessible to a wide range of ages and heights
While not the fastest or tallest ride in the park, its combination of elements makes it a standout attraction.
What Do Visitors Say About Laff Trakk?
Visitor reviews highlight several aspects of Laff Trakk:
Pros:
– Unique theming and glow-in-the-dark effects
– Fun and unpredictable spinning sensation
– Family-friendly nature
– Nostalgic funhouse atmosphere
Cons:
– Tight and potentially uncomfortable restraints
– Cramped ride vehicles
– Potential for long wait times during peak hours
Overall, most visitors find Laff Trakk to be a satisfying and memorable experience.
How Can Visitors Maximize Their Laff Trakk Experience?
To get the most out of Laff Trakk, consider these tips:
- Visit during off-peak hours for shorter wait times
- Use Hershey Park’s Fast Track option to skip lines
- Secure loose articles before riding
- Distribute weight evenly in the car for optimal spinning
- Ride multiple times for varied experiences due to the spinning nature
What’s the History Behind Laff Trakk’s Concept?
Laff Trakk’s design pays homage to Hersheypark’s past:
- Inspired by funhouses present in the park from 1930 to 1972
- Incorporates modern technology with nostalgic theming
- Represents a fusion of classic amusement park elements and contemporary coaster engineering
This blend of old and new creates a unique attraction that appeals to multiple generations of park-goers.
How Does Laff Trakk Contribute to Hershey Park’s Overall Attraction Mix?
Laff Trakk plays a significant role in Hershey Park’s attraction lineup:
- Offers a mid-level thrill suitable for families
- Provides an indoor option for all-weather enjoyment
- Adds variety to the park’s coaster collection
- Serves as a bridge between kiddie rides and more intense coasters
Its presence enhances the park’s ability to cater to a wide range of preferences and thrill levels.
What Future Plans or Upgrades Are in Store for Laff Trakk?
While specific future plans for Laff Trakk are not publicly available, Hershey Park consistently evaluates and updates its attractions. Potential enhancements could include:
- Updated theming elements
- Improved queue area entertainment
- Enhanced lighting and special effects
- Refined ride vehicle comfort
As with all park attractions, Laff Trakk will likely see ongoing maintenance and potential upgrades to keep the experience fresh and exciting for returning visitors.
References:
– https://coasterpedia.net/wiki/Laff_Trakk
– https://coastercritic.com/2019/01/03/review-laff-trakk-hersheypark/
– https://www.hersheypark.com/explore-the-park/rides/laff-trakk/