Cedar Point Sky Ride and Giraffe Statue 1971

This authentic 1970s color photograph, captured in 1971, documents one of the most whimsical landmarks of the Cedar Point skyline in Sandusky, Ohio. The archival image features a towering, stylized giraffe statue, a beloved piece of mid-century park decor that stood near the main midway. In the background, the colorful red and yellow buckets of the Von Roll Sky Ride are seen suspended from their cables, transporting guests high above the park grounds. Below the giraffe’s neck, the bright striped canvas of a circus-style tent and a fluttering American flag add to the festive atmosphere. Originally installed during the park’s major thematic expansion in the 1960s, these oversized animal figures helped define the family-friendly aesthetic of the era. While Cedar Point is still standing and has evolved into a global destination for record-breaking roller coasters, the landscape has changed significantly; many of the original large-scale statues have been removed to make way for modern attractions, though the Sky Ride remains an operational favorite. This factual record preserves the playful and vibrant character of the park during the early seventies. All our images are available as royalty-free instant downloads for use in books, media, and creative projects – or make your own prints for home, work, or as a truly unique gift.