Starliner

Originally opening in 1963, Starliner was a historic wooden “out-and-back” coaster that held the title of Florida’s first permanent roller coaster. Designed by the legendary John Allen of the Philadelphia Toboggan Company (PTC), the ride was the star attraction of Miracle Strip Amusement Park in Panama City Beach for over 40 years. Standing 70 feet tall and reaching speeds of 55 mph, the 2,640-foot course was famous for its airtime-heavy “bunny hills” and a tunnel themed like a dragon’s mouth. Following the closure of Miracle Strip in 2004, the coaster was relocated to Cypress Gardens Adventure Park (re-opening in 2007), but it operated there for only about a year before that park also shut down. When the site was converted into LEGOLAND® Florida, Starliner was dismantled and placed into storage; despite several attempts and rumors of a revival back in Panama City Beach, the coaster has not been reassembled and remains a “lost” icon of Florida’s amusement history.