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California’s Great America

It’s a sister park to favorites like Knott’s Berry Farm.

August 27, 2009|By Cary Ordway
(Page 2 of 2)

Troy, 10, made a beeline for the roller coasterswhile his older sister Ashlea offered to accompany him with certain restrictions: she would not, she declared, ride on anything that made her go upside down. Since most of the roller coasters and thrill rides do that, Troy became the primary test pilot on several of the more aggressive roller coaster rides

Troy’s verdict after trying out a number of roller coasters and other thrill rides: “Awesome.”

Troy and Ashlea also enjoyed the Survivor ride that is quite unlike anything you’ve seen before and manages to dip and twirl you in a way that seems designed to deeply disturb that fried chicken meal you got back at Maggie Brown’s.

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They also picked out a few of the gentler rides like Barney Oldfield’s Speedway, the Flying Eagles and the Celebration Swings. The point is there was no shortage of rides and attractions and, in fact, our day was so busy we didn’t even get a chance to take in the magic or BMX shows, both of which looked like they would be fun experiences.

Our trip to Santa Clara was all the more enjoyable because we stayed overnight very close to the park at the Biltmore Hotel and Suites. Arriving at the Biltmore mid-day, we learned that shuttles to the park ran every hour, which proved a convenience and also a cost savings because parking at Great America is $12 per day. At the end of the day, we simply phoned for pickup and a van was at the park gate in just a few minutes to take us back to the hotel.

The Biltmore proved to be a good selection because the rooms are set up nicely for a family.

While we didn’t get time to use it, there is a heated outdoor swimming pool that would be quite refreshing after a day at theme park.

Also great for families was the excellent hot breakfast included with the room. The breakfast included bacon, eggs, potatoes, cereals, breads, pastries, coffee and orange juice.

For more information on California’s Great America, phone (408)988-1776 or visit www.cagreatamerica.com.

For more information on travel in California, visit www.californiaweekend.com.


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