Historic amusement park turns 100: the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk centennial

Posted by sfhi on Mar 26, 2007

It’s a year to remember as the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, the only remaining seaside amusement park on the West Coast, celebrates its 100th anniversary.

Located on a mile-long beach bordering the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, the Boardwalk features 35 rides, including two that are designated National Historic Landmarks: the Looff Carousel (1911) and the Giant Dipper (1924). Complete with 73 hand-carved wooden horses and its original 342-pipe band organ still in operation, The Looff Carousel is the park’s oldest ride. The most popular ride is the Giant Dipper, a wooden roller coaster that has seen 55 million riders over the years, and is still considered one of the world’s top roller coasters.

But the Boardwalk offers much more than carnival rides. The historic amusement park is fronted by a mile-long sandy beach, and sunning, swimming, fishing, and sailing activities are always popular. The Grand Arcades house more than 300 video and pinball games, as well as a laser tag arena, indoor miniature golf, and 26 games of skill where players can win prizes. Boardwalk shoppers will find beachwear, gift, and specialty shops, and the nearby Boardwalk Bowl features 26 lanes, Atomic Bowling, kiddie bumpers, and its own arcade.

More than 30 restaurants and snack stands serve up classic amusement-park fare, from burgers and pizza to funnel cakes, cotton candy, and Marini’s famous saltwater taffy. Diners in search of fresh seafood can head to the restaurants on the adjacent Santa Cruz Municipal Wharf.

Events and Entertainment
On May 19, the Boardwalk hosts a Salute to the Centennial, with special events including a free outdoor concert with Papa Doo Run Run, acrobatic trampoline performances, thrilling high-diving acts from an 80-foot tower on the beach, and other surprises.

Also in honor of the centennial, the Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History presents the special exhibit "A Century by the Sea" (April 21 - September 2), showcasing art, artifacts, and memorabilia from the Boardwalk’s 100-year history.

In addition, the Boardwalk Beach Bandstand hosts free Friday Night concerts from June 22 to August 31, with classic bands from the 60s, 70s, and 80s.

Discount Nights
This summer, the Boardwalk is offering special discounts on Monday through Thursday nights after 5 p.m.

• 1907 Nights
  Mondays and Tuesdays after 5 p.m., June 25 - August 28
  All Boardwalk rides are just 75 cents each, with 75-cent hot dogs, Pepsi, and cotton candy, too.

• Pepsi Nights
  Wednesdays and Thursdays after 5 p.m., June 27 - August 30
  Bring in any Pepsi can and get an Unlimited Rides wristband for just $9.95.

When to Go
Boardwalk rides are open daily Memorial Day to Labor Day. During the rest of the year, rides are open weekends and most holidays, with some limited weekday hours.