What's new at Cedar Point this year?

And with three million people visiting the park each year, it draws in Miami Valley residents just as it does folks from around the globe.

It’s things like this that has led to the park being awarded the “Best Amusement Park in the World” by trade publication, “Amusement Today” for the past 12 years.

New this year at Cedar Point this year is Shoot the Rapids. Riders climb into one of 10 boats and navigate through meandering rivers and eventually shoot through whitewater rapids. The ride lasts three minutes.

Cedar Point also has two other mini-parks on site including Soak City Waterpark and Challenge Park. Both require separate admissions, but when purchased with regular park admissions there is a discount.

Cedar Point also has a variety of hotels and resorts adjacent to the park, including the historic Hotel Breakers.

For more information on the park and the attractions it has planned this season, visit www.cedarpoint.com.

How to go Cedar Point

When: May 15 to Oct. 31. Park is open 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on weekdays until June 4 when it then stays open until 10 p.m. Weekends starting May 15 park is open 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Hours are more limited in October.

How to get there: Located in Sandusky, on Lake Erie. Depending on where you live in southern Ohio, you can take Interstate 71 or Interstate 75 to northern Ohio. Then, find your way to the Ohio Turnpike. Use Exit 118 (US 250) and follow the signs north, or take Exit 110 (SR 4) and follow Route 4 north. Once you get to Sandusky, just follow the signs to the Cedar Point Causeway.

Ticket prices: Cedar Point has a variety of pricing options and Internet specials, but basically children and seniors pay $19.99 for one-day admissions. A child is determined as anyone under 48 inches in height. Adult entry is $45.99.

Platinum pass: Kings Island and Cedar Point are owned by the same parent company: Cedar Fair, L.P. Both Kings Island and Cedar Point sell a platinum pass which includes valid admission at all Cedar Fair amusement and water parks during the 2010 season. It also includes free parking at all parks. If this appeals to you, act quick — season passes go up in price after May 30.