Operation of the Cyclone began June 26, 1927 and has been operated by Astroland Park since July 3, 1975. The Cyclone was designed by Vernan Keenan and built by Harry C. Baker. The first proud owners/operators where Jack & Irving Rosenthal all of the tradition and years of family fun was started by an initial investment of only $175,000.

The Cyclone is a compact wood twister type of ride with ground dimensions that measure75 feet by 500 feet. With a height of 85 feet and the length of first drop 85 feet at a 60 degree angle, the Cyclone definately gets your heart pumping. The track length of 2,640 feet boasts a surprising six 180 degree turns as part of the 12 total number of turns and changes direction 16 times per ride. Riders crossover tracks 18 times while changing elevation 27 times at a speed of 60 miles per hour.

Having a ride time of one minute and fifty seconds the Cyclone operates three trains with three cars per train, with a rider capacity of 24 passengers per cycle. Some of the more unusual features are that the Cyclone is on a steel track on almost entirely wood structure; Classic Trains, station, and operational procedures; distinction of being the most copied roller coaster ever built -- 7 "clones" currently operating throughout the United States, Europe and Japan.

The Cyclone was designated a New York City Landmark on July 12, 1988, and has been listed in the National Register of Historic Places since June 26, 1991.