This year’s Top 25 BEST roller coasters in America list got completely shaken up thanks to Stardust Racers at Epic Universe—and honestly, that should tell you how good both sides really are. After nearly 40 years of riding coasters all over the country, I’m finally ready to share my current rankings, and yes, there are surprises (including a brand-new #1). I break down why certain coasters climbed, why a few slipped, and what specific moments make each ride special—like Phantom’s Revenge’s massive second drop into the ravine, Pantheon’s swing launch at Busch Gardens Williamsburg, and why Magnum XL-200 is basically an airtime support group (except there is no support). In the top half, I get into the coasters that are still elite but come with caveats—like Outlaw Run’s roughness, or why Steel Vengeance is nearly perfect… aside from an ending that just doesn’t do anything for me. Then we hit the heavy hitters: Fury 325’s all-time first drop, Top Thrill 2’s pure adrenaline and quick dispatches, and Air Force One being my favorite re-ride coaster because it’s basically therapeutic. And for 2025, I officially moved Iron Gwazi to #2—because after about 10 near-perfect rides, a front-row night ride sealed it: VelociCoaster is my new #1.