Galaxyland Amusement Park in West Edmonton, Alberta

Galaxyland Amusement Park is located in the heart of West Edmonton Mall, North America's largest shopping complex. Spanning an area of over 400 000 square feet, Galaxyland is itself present in the record books, boasting of its title as the largest indoor amusement park on the globe. With more than twenty rides to choose from, there is a thrill for everybody, regardless of whether you enjoy the mundane or the exhilerating.

One cannot mention the park without speaking of the world-famous Mindbender roller coaster. Opened in 1985, the towering ride still ranks as the tallest and longest indoor roller coaster in the world. From a walkway situated in the center of the ride, visitors can crane their necks upwards and watch as riders dive from the breathtaking height of 145 feet in the air, and complete a twisting circuit that will flip them upside-down three times and hit speeds as high as 60 miles per hour. The ride is also notable for having some of the highest g-force of any roller coaster, which has only added to it's reputation over time.

Also catering to the delights of adrenaline junkies is the Space Shot, a 120 ft ride in which riders are catapulted towards the ceiling, only to be launched yet again toward the ground. The ride induces a powerful free-fall sensation, and is certainly not for the weak of heart. On a purely aesthetic note, the ride provides a great view of the city from the top, even if you can only see it for a second or two.

Other advanced rides in the park include the Solar Flare, which simulates hang- gliding, and the Galaxy Twister, which flips riders head over heels at high speed and hangs them upside-down.

Junior adventurers have plenty to experience, as well. The Galaxy Orbiter, Canada's first spinning coaster, sends adults and children alike on a delightful tour of the park. The Autosled, Galaxyland's junior roller coaster, carries it's riders through several enjoyable helixes, while standing at the not-so-frightening height of 30 feet tall. In addition, those who enjoy the sensation of flying can grab a seat on the Swing of the Century, a spinning ride where one sits in a chair suspended by chains and then is carried into the air.

For a more immersive experience, step into the Turbo Ride Theater, where 3-D films are screened as your chair literally twists, turns, and drops from beneath you, making you feel as if you're in the movie. As well, there is an attraction called Quirks in the Works, where you are charged with the mission of saving the world by zapping aliens from a crashed spaceship.

On top of all this, the park boasts a ferris wheel, a carousel, a miniature train with plenty of fun theming, an arcade, and a giant kids playground where parents can let their kids run free. All in all, Galaxyland promises a fun and exciting visit for any family, any day of the year.