Woodstock Express

Often cited as the perfect “first big coaster” for young thrill-seekers, Woodstock Express has been a staple of the park’s award-winning kids’ area since it opened in 1972. This classic wooden coaster, designed by John C. Allen, reaches speeds of 35 mph and features a series of gentle drops and turns that provide a genuine “big coaster” feel on a smaller scale. Throughout its long history, the ride has mirrored the changing themes of the park’s children’s section through four different names: it debuted as The Scooby-Doo (1972–1979), was renamed The Beastie (1980–2005) to capitalize on the popularity of its massive “older brother” in Rivertown, became Fairly Odd Coaster (2006–2009) during the Nickelodeon Universe era, and finally settled on Woodstock Express in 2010 with the introduction of Planet Snoopy. Despite the many name changes, the layout remains a beloved rite of passage for generations of Cincinnati families.