A:  I'm not sure, but the people at American Coaster Enthusiasts (ACE) publish a book on this. One thing is sure: it changes every few years, because somebody else wants to claim the record.

Q:  When was the first amusement park and where was it? 

A:  I'm not sure. I guess it depends on what qualifies as an amusement park, but I know that "The Great Escape" in Glen's Falls, New York claims to be the oldest theme park still operating. Coney Island in New York City was one of the earliest well known parks. I think it is closed now. You might check with the International Association of Theme Parks and Attractions. They are on the Internet also, I think.

  Q:  Is there a maximum height they are allowed to build a ride by law?

A:  No! It just better be safe.

  Q:  How long does it take to build one ride?

A:  It can take several months or a year or more to design a ride. Then it takes about the same time to build it. Then, it takes a month or two to finish programming and test the ride.

Parks in the cold parts of the country often have a hard time building a new ride between September or October when they close and April or May when they reopen. It takes lots of work!

Q:  What is the maximum cost of a ride to build and design? 

A:  That keeps changing too, and I'm not really sure, but I know that some of the big parks like Disney and Universal Studios have spent, say, $60,000,000 or more on a single ride.