Valleyfair’s North Star placed in US travel awards

The newest ride at Minnesota amusement park Valleyfair (owned by major operator Cedar Entertainment) placed fourth in the USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice travel award contest for Best New Amusement Park Attraction.

The 230-foot-tall Starflyer (by Funtime) named North Star made its debut at Valleyfair in 2017. It spins riders more than 20 stories above the ground, seated in two-person chain-link swings that allow their feet to dangle. Riders reach speeds of up to 40 mph as the swings ascend and descend the tower.

“North Star has been such a great addition to our park,” general manager, Brad Marcy, said, “it is a fantastic family ride and we are glad our guests and Season Passholders enjoy it as much as we do.”

North Star ranks as the second tallest ride in the park next to the 275-foot Power Tower, and is the only ride of this type in the upper Midwest. Its location positions North Star at the front of the park where, living up to its name, it serves as a beacon to guide and greet guests on their journey through the park.