With summer winding down and the start of school just around the corner, there’s still time for one more family day at Playland Park in Rye — and now there’s a new ride to check out.
Scorpios, Playland’s new swing ship ride, is officially open, giving visitors another reason to make the most of the final weeks of summer.
A new thrill at Playland
Scorpios is a classic pirate ship-style ride that swings passengers back and forth in a pendulum motion. The ride can hold up to 42 passengers and features a custom scorpion-themed ship with an old Mediterranean-inspired design.
According to manufacturer Metallbau Emmeln, the ride uses AC technology designed to provide smooth acceleration. Riders must be at least 50 inches tall to ride alone, while riders standing between 43 and 49 inches must be accompanied by a supervising companion who is at least 14 years old.
Scorpios joins Playland’s collection of long-term attractions, including the Dragon Coaster, Grand Carousel and Sawmill River.
County officials welcome new ride
Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins spoke at the opening of the new ride and highlighted Scorpios as another sign of Playland’s ongoing comeback.
“The opening of Scorpios marks another exciting step forward in Playland Park’s exciting comeback,” Jenkins said. “We’re very proud to bring this new ride to one of our most beloved destinations here in Westchester County.”
Jenkins also encouraged families and friends to come experience the attraction for themselves.
Westchester County Parks Acting Commissioner William Bland also praised the addition in the county’s press release announcing the ride’s opening.
“Scorpios is a wonderful addition to Playland’s collection of attractions and enhances the experience of our guests,” Bland said. “As we continue investing in the park and building on its historic legacy, we’re excited to welcome visitors to enjoy our newest addition.”
Riders give Scorpios a try
Some visitors who have already experienced Scorpios said the ride delivers the excitement they were expecting.
“It was really thrilling, although a little crammed … but overall, it was nice,” said Willy Maldonado, a Brooklyn resident.
Mateo Montieo, also from Brooklyn, said the feeling of moving up and down was a highlight of the experience.
“It was fun, that feeling in your stomach when going up and down, made it exciting,” Montieo said.
More summer fun at Playland: Tickets, fireworks, closing day and more
With a new ride, summer admission deal and plenty of familiar attractions, there’s still time to make a trip to Playland before summer officially comes to an end.
Westchester County residents can visit Playland and enjoy the rides for $15, while admission for non-residents is $25.
Visitors can also cool off at Playland Beach and Pool, which are open daily through Labor Day, Monday, Sept. 7, from 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., weather permitting. Last entry is at 6 p.m., and admission and parking fees apply.
Friday night fireworks continue at 9 p.m., giving visitors another way to end their day at the park.
Playland Amusement Park is located at 1 Playland Parkway in Rye, New York. For the full schedule, hours, tickets and parking information, visit PlaylandPark.org.
This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: New Scorpios pirate ship ride opens at Playland as summer winds down
Reporting by Michelle Grisales, Rockland/Westchester Journal News / Rockland/Westchester Journal News
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By Michelle Grisales, Rockland/Westchester Journal News | USA TODAY Network
