Things to do in Los Angeles - Top Dozen Sights

By Betsy Malloy, About.com Guide

Go Zoom! at Six Flags Magic Mountain

It's easiest to sum it up this way: Roller coasters. Goliath. It starts with a 255-foot drop into a dark tunnel, at 85 miles per hour. Roller coasters. Tatsu, The tallest, fastest, longest flying coaster on Earth. Did we say roller coasters? How about Riddler's Revenge, the world's tallest, fastest stand-up roller coaster? It turns you upside down 6 times in one ride.

For the most part, the Magic Mountain experience consists of standing in line a long time, taking a short-but-exhilarating ride, then getting into another line - short ride - long line - you get the idea.

Magic Mountain is in Valencia, a 45-minute drive northwest of downtown Los Angeles off I-5.

Pros and Cons

If you're an adrenaline junkie who loves big, fast, screamin' rides, Magic Mountain is the place for you. You'll have bragging rights for some of the most extreme coasters anywhere.

On the downside, there's little to do at Magic Mountain otherwise, especially for younger children - and the only way to shorten your waiting time is to pay extra for their Flash Pass. Because of its inland location - and little shade - it can be extremely hot in the summer.

More About Six Flags Magic Mountain

If you're convinced you want to go, buy Six Flags Magic Mountain tickets online

If you need more information, check the Complete Guide to Six Flags Magic Mountain. It will tell you about hours, how to get tickets, admission discounts, how to get there and the best time to go.

See where it is on a map. It's the yellow-colored push pin.

Don't Take Our Word For It

See how others rate Six Flags Magic Mountain - from Yuck! to Awesome! For your reference, everyone's taste is different and our readers are a fussy bunch, with the best-rated attractions in the LA area getting a little less than 60% Awesome votes.