What’s new at Cedar Point? Planet Snoopy Leads the Way!by Marilyn LoeserFamily fun will be “out of this world” at Cedar Point amusement park and resort in Sandusky, Ohio, when it opens this year on Saturday, May 10.  Planet Snoopy is the latest family area and features seven rides, including a mini-tea cup-style ride, miniature train, 4 x 4 trucks, a bouncing tower, spinning balloons, rocket ships and a crazy sub ride as well as games, themed décor showcasing Snoopy’s worldly travels and special live appearances by Snoopy and the entire PEANUTS gang.
 The original PEANUTS Playground upgrade now features a family center with changing stations and private areas to feed children in a quiet atmosphere.
Planet Snoopy offers guests with small children yet another area for those who aren’t yet ready to ride the park’s bigger rides  and coasters. With Planet Snoopy, Cedar Point now offers four child-specific areas. A new restaurant is opening this year too, featuring a children-only menu with a small “adult-only” section. The interior carries forward the PEANUTS theme as well. By now, if you haven’t had enough Snoopy fun, head for the Good Time Theatre and the “Snoopy’s Big Bow Wow On Ice” show — one of four new shows slated for 2008. Another new show, located in the former aquatic stadium is “All Wheels Extreme.”  Skilled stunt bikers, skateboarders and rollerbladers perform flips, tricks and unbelievable stunts in this high-energy BMX-style show.
In the Centennial Theatre, “Signed, Sealed, Delivered” will feature singers and dancers in a stage show celebrating music of the ‘50s and ‘60s and the Red Garter Saloon will showcase an all-new musical revue. Known around the world for its roller coasters, Cedar Point’s reputation has long included child-friendly attractions, live shows and other less-intensive rides. Sandcastle Suites Hotel In addition to the new shows and attractions, a two-year refurbishment at the Sandcastle Suites Hotel will be completed this year. The $3 million renovation includes an improved lobby and registration area, upgraded suites and newly decorated hallways.  Located on the tip of the Cedar Point Peninsula, Sandcastle Suites has 187 guest suites, including three Grand Vista Suites that include an indoor Jacuzzi and a wraparound deck or patio. The hotel also includes an outdoor pool and whirlpool spa, tennis courts, a gazebo and boardwalk and shuttle service to the gates of the park.
Cedar Point opens for its 139th summer on Saturday, May 10. For a complete operating calendar and more information on what’s new for 2008, log on to the website. | 