originally posted on 10/27/2025
Photo: Paul Drabek. View full-sized image.
Congratulations, Daredevil Daze, you’re old enough to vote! On Saturday, September 6, 49 ACEers gathered at Six Flags St. Louis in Eureka, Missouri, for the 18th annual Daredevil Daze event. After some online debate, the decision was made to hold the event the weekend before Frightfest in order to have evening ERT, which is not possible during the Halloween event.
Batman The Ride.
Photo: Jeff Wheaton. View full-sized image.
Attendees enjoyed the traditional opening with the first ride of the day on Batman The Ride, the popular Bolliger & Mabillard clone, before the public was let into the park.
It turned out to be a beautiful 75 degree, low-humidity (for those of you in the know, a miracle), low-attendance day. Other than the unfortunate and notable exception of Screamin’ Eagle, down all day for a reported lift hill mechanical issue, most other rides were up and running with coasters on two train operations. The relatively new Zamperla pendulum ride, the Joker, was still waiting for parts to open the funhouse portion of the queue, but the ride itself was reliably up and running. Also, park guests were treated to a rare occurrence, as the left side of the Log Flume was operating — an uncommon event in recent years.
At lunch, which included some tasty fried chicken wings and drummettes, along with a variety of offerings, attendees could talk to members of management and pick up a few tchotchkes. The new entertainment manager reported that the park is planning enhancements to the entertainment offerings next year and that the process has already begun. He also stated that park management is lobbying for other improvements and enhancements with Coaster Con 2027 in mind. Whatever is in store, the park has definitely made several necessary infrastructure improvements to keep it operating well into the future.
An extensive walkback for The Boss allowed attendees to see it from many angles.
Photo: Kim Graber. View full-sized image.
The Boss.
Photo: Kim Graber. View full-sized image.
A group photo was taken during the walkback for The Boss.
Photo: Paul Drabek. View full-sized image.
Lunch was followed by a lengthy and detailed walkback for The Boss, which was celebrating 25 years at the park. This included a chance to ascend the stairs partway up toward the midcourse brake run for a unique view of The Boss in action.
Although still awaiting some features, Philadelphia Toboggan Company’s recently restored #15 historic carousel was open for attendees.
Photo: Jeff Wheaton. View full-sized image.
Shortly before the scheduled park close, the group gathered for a twilight ride on the recently and meticulously restored historic carousel. This Philadelphia Toboggan Company beauty was designated #15 for the company and initially opened in 1915 at Luna Park in Cleveland, Ohio. While the ride still awaits its chariots, all of the horses have been painstakingly and beautifully restored. Each one is unique, and the amazing craftsmanship is evident. Kudos to the park for taking this project on and seeing it through with such care.
Mr. Freeze: Reverse Blast.
Photo: Paul Drabek. View full-sized image.
American Thunder.
Photo: Paul Drabek. View full-sized image.
Attendees then enjoyed two hours of ERT on Mr. Freeze: Reverse Blast, the Premier Rides linear induction motor-launched shuttle, and American Thunder, the classic Great Coasters International woodie. The park graciously added American Thunder and a second hour of ERT as well as snacks to the agenda.
On a closing note, there was some discussion with park employees regarding the upcoming 50th anniversary of Screamin’ Eagle in 2026. The park is working on a plan to recognize that much-anticipated anniversary. Screamin’ Eagle, an ACE Roller Coaster Landmark, is without a doubt the Grand Dame of the park, sitting bright white up on the hill overlooking her kingdom, waiting for enthusiastic riders.
ACE Heart of America was grateful to Six Flags St. Louis, the regional rep team and all the volunteers for this fun day with friends.
— Kim Graber
#ACENews