Montréal's amusement park, opened as part of the Expo 67 World's Fair, was run for its first 34 years by the city. It was sold to the American-owned Six Flags theme-park empire in 2001. New rides have since been added, and like hot sauces, they're categorized by "thrill rating": moderate, mild, or max. There are 13 rides in the "max thrill" category, including Le Vampire, a suspended coaster that has riders experiencing five head-over-heels loops at more than 80kmph (50mph). Other attractions include a Ferris wheel, diving shows, and plenty of places to eat and drink. An antique carousel, Le Galopant, was built by Belgian artisans in 1885 and was part of the Belgian Pavilion at the 1964 to 1965 New York World's Fair. The Minirail is an elevated train that circles the park. Young children also have ample selection, including the Tchou Tchou Train and tasses magiques, in which they sit in 1 of 12 giant rotating tea cups. On 10 Saturdays from June to August, La Ronde hosts a huge fireworks competition, L'International Des Feux Loto-Québec. Although the pyrotechnics can be enjoyed for free from almost anywhere in the city overlooking the river, tickets must be purchased to watch from the open-air theater here. Call tel. 800/361-4595 or go to www.internationaldesfeuxloto-quebec.com for details.
- Frommer's Staff