Magnificent Wave Carousel Silver Dollar City Looks Sweet—But There’s a Twist
There are carousels. And then there’s the Magnificent Wave Carousel—the kind that makes your group chat explode with “WAIT WHERE IS THIS?” messages before your hair has even stopped blowing in the breeze.
Perched in the heart of Silver Dollar City, this isn’t some sleepy loop for toddlers.
The Magnificent Wave Carousel lifts you into the sky, tilts you at just the right terrifying-but-fun angle, and lets you swoop and soar like a vintage fairytale fever dream.
It’s elegant, it’s wild, and it’s got more drama than a finale rose ceremony!
But First…Buy Your Discounted Silver Dollar City Tickets
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Quick Reference Guide
Height Requirement: 48 inches (36 inches with a supervising companion)
Best for: Adults/Teens/Older Kids
Thrill level: 7/10
TrailBlazer/Super TrailBlazer Eligible: Yes
Location: The Grand Exposition
Ride Experience & Features
You know that moment in a rom-com when the music swells, and everything slows down?
That’s basically what riding the Magnificent Wave Carousel feels like, except it’s happening 40 feet in the air, and you’re also screaming a little. In the best possible way.
From the moment your swing lifts off, it’s all sky, breeze, and a swoopy kind of joy you didn’t know you needed.
It’s peaceful and wild, graceful and exhilarating—a magical paradox wrapped in chain swings and panoramic views of Silver Dollar City.
And just when you think you’ve hit peak whimsy, the ride tilts. Yes, tilts. Welcome to your birds-eye, storybook-worthy flight over the Grand Exposition Grounds.

Ride Type
Let’s call it what it is: a flying circle of pure enchantment. The Magnificent Wave Carousel is a “wave swinger” ride, also known as a tilt-and-fly carousel. But this isn’t your average spin-and-grin.
Rather than revolving on a flat plane, this carousel ascends, then tilts on a central axis, creating an elegant swooping motion.
Riders aren’t just spinning—they’re soaring, catching breezy arcs that mimic the rhythm of ocean waves. Hence the name, and honestly? It delivers.
The swings themselves are suspended by chains, and you’ll straddle the seat like you’re in a slow-motion rodeo dream. It’s smooth, it’s stunning, and it gives you that flying feeling without the free-fall panic.
No mechanical jerks. No surprise drops. Just a steady, swooping glide high above the park, where even the funnel cakes below look majestic.
Thrill Level
Let’s be clear: This isn’t a white-knuckle, hair-stuck-to-your-face kind of ride. But it still delivers a fluttery stomach flip that feels like a mix between first-date butterflies and “wait, are we really doing this?”
At 40 feet in the air, the Magnificent Wave Carousel brings just enough thrill to keep things exciting without crossing into scream-your-lungs-out territory.
You won’t lose your voice—but you will lose your breath for a second or two.
That gentle tilt adds a thrill factor that surprises most first-timers. It’s elegant in motion but delivers serious wind-in-your-teeth exhilaration.
And when you catch a sunset while spinning? Forget it. Core memory unlocked.
This ride is what you make of it: zen aerial glide or wind-whipping adventure. Either way, it’s a standout experience inside Silver Dollar City.
Accessibility Information
The Magnificent Wave Carousel is surprisingly inclusive, but there are a few things to know before you swing sky-high.
First, riders must be at least 36 inches tall to join, and kids under 48 inches need a supervising companion.
The design requires a bit of physical maneuvering, and guests should have sufficient lower body length for proper restraint.
You’ll need to step into the swing seat, straddle the chain, and lower the restraining bar.
If you experience motion sickness, vertigo, or a fear of heights? Maybe give this one a pass. It’s smooth, but not static. The lift, rotation, and tilt combo is dreamy for most, but dizzying for some.
For guests with mobility concerns, access is available through the exit gate. If you need extra time or support, team members are on hand to help you settle in safely.
Hours
The Magnificent Wave Carousel operates daily with the park’s main hours, but weather conditions will shut things down.
And yes, Silver Dollar City takes that seriously—this ride won’t budge if there’s even a hint of danger.
For instance, if the temperature dips below 35 degrees, the swings stay grounded. No chilly joyrides here.
Wind is also a factor—if it’s blowing more than 30 mph for 15+ minutes, expect a pause in operation.
Same deal with lightning. Any strike within 10 miles puts the Magnificent Wave Carousel on standby for at least 15 minutes post-storm.
Moral of the story: Check the skies before you fly. Blue skies mean go time. Also, it’s best to plan your day with a flexible, weather-watching mindset.
Location
You’ll find the Magnificent Wave Carousel in the Grand Exposition section of Silver Dollar City, right near Valley Road.
This area is basically the park’s whimsical playground, packed with charming family rides and colorful carnival vibes.
The ride sits alongside classics like Elephant March, Mighty Galleon, and the Electro Spin—so if you’re in the mood to bounce between chill and thrill, you’re in the right place. And yes, it’s very stroller-friendly.
Feeling snacky after your high-flying adventure? You’re steps away from Cakes & Cones (hello, funnel cake and soft-serve) and Lady Liberty Dining Pavilion.
The Grand Exposition is where magic meets nostalgia, and the Magnificent Wave Carousel is its crowning jewel.
Prepare to feel like you’ve stepped into a vintage postcard, only with better snacks and more Instagram potential.

How To Ride Like a Pro (and Not Lose Your Sunglasses Midair)
You don’t just stumble onto the Magnificent Wave Carousel. You plan for it. You build your day around it. This is the kind of ride that deserves strategy, comfy shoes, and just the right amount of carbs.
It’s not just a ride—it’s an event. The kind you mentally outfit-plan for.
You’ll want to feel at least moderately photo-ready when the wind hits just right, and someone in your crew inevitably whips out their phone for that mid-air “we’re flying, Jack!” moment.
With a little forethought, your 40-foot flight over the treetops becomes one of those “remember when” moments your kids bring up years later.
Arrive Early or Go Late
Want to avoid the peak-hour crowd shuffle? Hit the Magnificent Wave Carousel early in the morning or after 4 p.m.
That’s when lines are shortest, and the ride feels extra dreamy, especially if you’re gliding through golden hour like the wind-blown hero of a 90s teen movie.
The middle of the day isn’t a dealbreaker, but you’ll want to channel your inner zen master while waiting.
On the Ride
Here’s your no-regrets checklist: no phones, no hats, no sunglasses, no loose vibes.
The Magnificent Wave Carousel does exactly what the name suggests – it swings, spins, and lifts you into the air with elegant chaos.
Anything not fully strapped down might become a souvenir for the trees. Store your stuff or hand it to someone whose feet are staying on the ground.
Once you’re in the swing, stay seated and keep all limbs inside the ride like a pro. And seriously, don’t close your eyes.
The view from the top? It’s pure magic. You’ll see the Grand Exposition, treetops, and a soft blur of color like a real-life Pinterest board.
Focus on the horizon if you’re motion-sensitive. It helps.
Make It a Whole Thing with Tripster
Once you’ve floated through the sky on the Magnificent Wave Carousel, everything else feels a little… flat.
Which is exactly why you should build a trip around it. One carousel? Cute. A full day of whimsical and wild attractions? Now we’re talking core memory status.
Of course, the best adventures don’t start with stress-scrolling 47 tabs. That’s where Tripster comes in.
From family-friendly hotels near the park to can’t-miss routes that skip the lines, you’ll find all the good stuff in one place. No spreadsheets. No guesswork. No crying in the rental car.
And yes, there’s more than rides. Think dinner shows with over-the-top stunts, snack stands that deserve their own Yelp awards, and enough old-time charm to turn your phone into a photo album.
You don’t just visit Silver Dollar City, you live your best nostalgic-meets-thrill-seeker fantasy.
So go ahead, build your own bundle of fun. Tripster’s custom packages come with serious perks, surprise deals, and time-saving tools to help you plan your trip like a carousel-riding legend.
Because real-life magic? It starts with knowing where to park and where to find the best funnel cake!
Magnificent Wave Carousel FAQs
Where is the Magnificent Wave Carousel located in the park?
You’ll find it in the Grand Exposition, near Valley Road. It’s surrounded by other classic rides and snack spots.
When is the best time of day to ride?
Lines are usually shortest first thing in the morning or after 4 p.m. Bonus: evening rides come with golden hour glow.
What kind of ride is it?
It’s a wave swinger, which means it rotates, tilts, and ascends to give you that swooping flight sensation.
Is it a thrill ride or more of a scenic experience?
It’s both. No sudden drops or intense speed, but the tilt and height give it just the right flutter.
Are there any height or safety requirements?
Yes. Riders must be at least 36 inches tall with a companion or 48 inches to ride solo. The ride isn’t recommended for guests with motion sensitivity or certain health concerns.
What should I bring—or not bring—on the ride?
Leave phones, hats, and anything loose with a non-rider or in a locker. This ride swings wide and fast.
How weather-sensitive is the ride?
Very. It closes if the temperature drops below 35 degrees, winds exceed 30 mph, or lightning is nearby.
What else is there to do around the Grand Exposition?
Plenty. From kid-friendly rides to loaded fries and funnel cakes, it’s a snack-filled nostalgia trip in every direction.
How can I plan my full Silver Dollar City trip with Tripster?
Tripster helps you bundle attractions, book hotels, reserve shows, and find packages with exclusive deals. One site, zero chaos.