COLUMBUS, Ohio — While many roller coaster enthusiasts flock to Cedar Point or Kings Island, a lesser-known gem is being recognized for its historical significance.

In July, the American Coaster Enthusiasts awarded the Sea Dragon roller coaster at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium the classic coaster designation and recognized it as the 47th ACE Roller Coaster Landmark. The ride is the oldest operating roller coaster in the Buckeye State.

“What makes Sea Dragon so unique is that it is still manually braked,” said Vice President Anthony Sabo. “Our operator actually uses big levers in the station to manually stop the train as it is going through the ride.”

The ACE Roller Coaster Landmark is reserved for rides with historical significance. Sea Dragon opened in 1956 as one of the first junior roller coasters designed for families with young children. The ride has been in the same location since its debut, though the property has changed hands a few times over the years.

“Sea Dragon has a very storied history,” said Sabo. “It was under the Zoo Amusement Park for a while. It became Wyandot Lake, and then in 2008, it got turned back over to the zoo and became part of the Columbus Zoo property.”

The wooden coaster has a height of 37 feet, reaching a top speed of 25 miles per hour along 1,320 feet of track. While it is designed for younger riders, it still packs quite a punch, offering a thrill for riders of all ages.

“Sea Dragon has been a part of people's childhoods in Columbus and the greater central Ohio area,” said Sabo. “That’s going to be a memory they are going to carry with them for their rest of their lives and we love maintaining this attraction to have that legacy continue forward.”

Come mid-September, Sea Dragon will be transformed with special lighting and effects as a part of the zoo’s ZOMBIEzi Bay Halloween-themed attraction.