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Icon of the Seas will feature the largest waterpark at sea when it sets sail for the first time in 2024, here’s what went into developing the record-breaking attraction


Christie has teamed up with Brazil’s Museum of Image and Sound of Ceará on the installation of an immersive multimedia room as part of a revamp of the historic institution


Kate Mavor CBE has announced that she will step down as CEO of English Heritage later this year


A cargo port controversially seized from a US company last week by the Mexican government has been earmarked for an XCaret style water and theme park, as well as a docking point for cruise ships


SeaTrade Cruise Global is returning to Florida next week. Here’s everything you need to know...


Immersive attractions developer Miral has confirmed that SeaWorld Abu Dhabi will open in May


Development company Seven is to launch the world’s first Play-Doh-themed attractions in partnership with Hasbro


David Herrera has been named the new president of Norwegian Cruise Line, with Harry Sommer transitioning to be the next president and chief executive officer of parent company Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings


Ferrari World Abu Dhabi’s Mission Ferrari opened to the public to much fanfare in January. Holovis’s James Lodder shares a decade-long journey to realise this incredible immersive rollercoaster experience


The Lucas Museum of Narrative Art is expected to open in 2025 after experiencing several delays.


Disney has revealed a ‘real’ lightsaber at this year’s SXSW, an arts and technology festival currently underway in Austin, Texas


Staffordshire-based theme park Alton Towers has unveiled details of its upcoming Curse at Alton Manor dark ride ahead of its opening on March 18


Thousands of UK museum and heritage workers have joined industrial action protesting against low pay and other working conditions.


The first phase of construction on a new aquarium and nature conservation campus in Florida is scheduled to begin in October


A new report exploring the market dynamics of the global cruise industry estimates the sector to grow to $16.7bn over the next several years


Teaching the construction sector the necessary skills to retrofit the UK’s heritage structures could provide the British economy with a £35bn boost, a new report has suggested


The Whitney Museum of American Art’s long-term director Adam Weinberg is set to leave the institution in November, with Scott Rothkopf set to succeed him in the role


Therme Manchester, a major waterpark and wellbeing resort development in the UK, will soon enter its first phase of construction following demolition works


Universal’s Parks & Resorts division will now be called Universal Destinations & Experiences following a rebranding


London’s Natural History Museum has turned down a proposal to establish a branch in Aberdeen’s vacant Norco House building, saying it has no plans to develop a regional offer.


Bruce Vaughn is set to return to Disney Imagineering as chief creative officer, co-leading the division alongside Imagineering president Barbara Bouza


The Millennium Forum theatre in Derry has become the first Irish cultural venue to achieve Makaton Friendly Status


Tate Liverpool will close its doors in October ahead of a £25.5m multi-year redevlopment helmed by British architecture firm 6a architects


Equity is different from equality, and on International Women’s Day Una de Boer reflects how to support this foundational step towards a more just world


Fun Spot America Atlanta’s hotly-anticipated RMC-manufactured ArieForce One is set to open later this month, with the major attraction representing the park’s largest-ever investment


Scandinavian artist Olafur Eliasson has collaborated with author Robert MacFarlance to create a permanent art installation on the West Cumbria coastline


Keith James, president of JRA; Robin Breese-Davies, executive vice president of ted; and Danielle Kramer, executive vice president of RWS, speak to Planet Attractions about what looks to be a bumper year ahead for the company


The UK’s National Lottery Heritage Fund has announced several changes to its funding priorities to address concerns for the ‘health and future of the nation’s heritage’


Adam Hattan explains how content creators can be effectively used to drive new and returning guests to your attraction


A private contemporary art museum in the US has received a US$1.9bn endowment, one of the largest arts donations ever made, from US businessman Mitchell Rales


The Young V&A, formerly the V&A Museum of Childhood, will reopen in East London, after a multi-year, multi-million-pound redevelopment


The Smithsonian has raised more than US$55m towards the development of its upcoming American Women’s History Museum in Washington, D.C.


Universal wants to enhance its interactive experiences on offer, with the operator filing two new patents for character and wand technologies at its parks


Aquatic play structures are among the fundamentals needed for a waterpark. WhiteWater’s Cassidy Newman tells us why...


Florida’s Republican governor has declared an end to Disney’s ‘corporate kingdom’ with new legislation seeing the state gaining effective control of the company’s Florida operations


Ukrainian security company Ajax Systems has installed US$13,000 worth of security equipment to protect several Banksy artworks in Kyiv created by the artist during the Russian invasion


Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince has announced plans for New Murabba - a US$48bn commercial downtown development in Riyadh, anchored by a cube-shaped skyscraper large enough to accommodate 20 Empire State buildings


Merlin Entertainments is adding to its cluster of attractions in Blackpool, with a £2.3m Gruffalo-themed attraction set to open later this year


Original costumes, set designs, drawings and handwritten lyrics will allow visitors to V&A East to trace David Bowie’s creative process across six decades


Romain Grosjean’s torched F1 car from the 2020 Bahrain Grand Prix is set to go on display as part of a wider touring exhibition looking at the world of F1


A riverside retreat featuring Manhattan’s first public beach is set to open in New York City this summer


DEAL is coming back to Dubai next month. Here’s everything you need to know about the region’s hottest attractions show


Rumours that a Peaky Blinders theme park is in the works are not to be believed but officials have said there are potential plans for a permanent attraction based on the popular IP


3D printing has been used to create a full-size replica of a World Heritage site in China, offering visitors an up close and personal experience while also securing crucial data for future world heritage protection


Fancy a job as a rollercoaster test rider? Well good news - Blackpool Pleasure Beach is on the hunt...


The Hegra Welcome Centre in AlUla, Saudi Arabia, has unveiled a new exhibit; the reconstructed face of Hinat, a woman who lived more than 2,000 years ago


Cedar Fair has broken revenue and earnings records, with the operator bouncing back from the effects of the global pandemic


A recent survey suggesting the public would support the phasing out of large animals in zoos doesn’t ‘seem to relate to the real world’, according to BIAZA


London is set to emulate New York’s Highline with its own version running from Camden to St Pancras. Here’s everything you need to know about the £14m project


From waterpark suppliers and media specialists to creative designers and dark ride producers, Planet Attractions has gone to every corner of the globe to find out what’s hot in 2023


A new partnership between ZooTampa and the Children’s Hospital at Tampa General Hospital will see the development of several new wellbeing-focussed experiences at the zoo


SeaWorld is expanding its network of rescue centres with the launch of Yas SeaWorld Research and Rescue - the first such SeaWorld site to open outside of the US


Disney is set to axe 7,000 people as part of a US$5.5bn cost cutting plan following its Q1 results. The operator’s parks however continue to thrive with the Parks, Experiences and Products division performing strongly


A museum dedicated to sharing Scotland’s history with the occult will open in Edinburgh at the end of February


Unesco has offered its support to the victims of the devastating earthquake that rocked Turkey and Syria this week as concern grows for a number of historically important World Heritage sites in the region


The popular Titanic Belfast attraction will reopen next month with four new galleries and a 7.6m-long replica of the iconic ship following a multi-million pound revamp


Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway is the featured addition to Disneyland as the park celebrates 100 years of Disney with a host of new attractions and experiences


The former Pleasure Island could find new life as a tourist destination after plans were submitted to turn the former theme park into a £65.9m holiday site


Operator Great Wolf has broken ground on a new US$300m resort in Connecticut, with a 91,000sq ft indoor waterpark set to be the development’s main attraction


Hersheypark has revealed the official video for the highly anticipated Wildcat’s Revenge, showing for the first time the full track layout of the upcoming hybrid coaster in first person


SeaWorld has announced a shakeup of its leadership structure, making eight new appointments as the company seeks to accelerate growth


Norway’s TusenFryd will soon launch Europe’s first ever suspended triple launch coaster, with the NOK100m Storm - The Dragon Legend being described as the ‘most important single investment’ in the park’s 34-year history


Media tech specialist 7thSense has been recognised for two products in its brand new Performer range at this year’s ISE, which is currently underway in Barcelona


South Carolina’s Greenville Zoo is looking at changing to a nonprofit operation following a city consultation last month


The Vagina Museum has announced that it will close this week after being asked to vacate its East London premises


The owners of four luxury flats overlooked by the Tate Modern in London have won a privacy bid over the use of the gallery's viewing platform.


A new report exploring the market dynamics of the global amusement and theme park industries estimates the sector to grow to $85bn in the next five years


Workers at the British Museum along with a number of other institutions across the UK are set to go on strike in February


Kids in Museums has launched a new initiative aimed at having young people discuss, learn and advocate for the future of the museum sector


Universal parent company Comcast revealed a nearly 50% increase in revenue driven by theme park attendance in its annual financial report


Patients at a number of children’s hospitals across the state of South Carolina can now explore Charleston’s popular aquarium remotely, using a robot to interact with the exhibits and take part in tours


Disney is celebrating 100 years with an adult-oriented immersive experience coming to London, Berlin and Paris in 2023


An interactive experience taking visitors inside hit NBC sitcom ‘The Office’ is set to open in Toronto later this year


Universal Studios Hollywood is levelling up the experience at the upcoming Super Nintendo World with its all-new Power-Up Band. Here’s what the technology does


Another mega project has been announced for Saudi Arabia, with the PIF’s Seven announcing plans for a SAR1bn entertainment destination in the city of Tabuk


Connect&Go - a global leader in guest and attractions management technology - has grown significantly over the last decade. Its co-founder Anthony Palermo spoke to Planet Attractions


Chessington World of Adventures has unveiled what will become the world’s first Jumanji-themed coaster when it opens later this year


Tate St Ives is seeking an architect-led multi-discipline team to lead a major renovation of Palais de Danse, the former studio of renowned sculptor Barbara Hepworth


The fifth annual MENALAC Awards ceremony will take place in Dubai, with the event bringing together senior leaders to celebrate attractions across the Middle East and North Africa


A new technology from the Industrial Technology Research Institute can display information about different animals inside aquariums by tracking the eye movements of the user


MSC and the New York Knicks have announced a multi-year marketing partnership that sees MSC become the official cruise line of the NBA side


Attractions.io has teamed up with SSA Group to provide a fully digital experience for visitors to cultural attractions in 2023


The UK government has announced the launch of a new Energy Bill Discount Scheme offering significant discounts for vulnerable businesses including museums and heritage sites


A ‘radical, once-in-a-generation’ development will see Bradford’s National Science and Media Museum undergo a year-long transformation starting in June


After a difficult few years the museum sector is showing promising signs of recovery with several exciting projects set to open this year. Here are 14 of 2023’s most anticipated museum openings


The Sidemen recently took a trip to Dubai for an epic game of hide and seek in one of the world’s premiere waterparks


Heritage organisations in the UK are in serious jeopardy of closure as a result of the cost of living crisis, with nine in 10 concerned about their future


A zoo in the UK will start to fit solar panels to try to save money after seeing its energy bill soar over the past year.


A plot to steal a 10-tonne ancient statue of Egyptian Pharaoh Ramesses II has been foiled after police arrested three men attempting to make away with the gigantic antiquity


Following Argentina’s historic win at the 2022 World Cup, the student accommodation that global footballing icon Lionel Messi stayed in is set to be turned into its own mini museum


A family-friendly Universal theme park is coming to Texas while a permanent Horror Nights experience is making its way to Las Vegas


Nike chair and Disney director Mark Parker is set to succeed Susan Arnold as Disney’s new chairman


Rodin Museum officials have decided to pull out of a €16m project in the Canary Islands, which would have seen an outpost of the famous institution built in Santa Cruz de Tenerife


Disney is introducing a number of consumer-friendly changes to its US parks, including an increase on the number of days its lowest-priced ticket will be available and increased access for annual passholders


It’s a new year with old records just waiting to be broken by some incredible new projects. Here are twelve blockbuster rollercoaster openings for the coming year


Arguably Britain’s most well known dinosaur - the Natural History Museum’s iconic ‘Dippy’ the diplodocus - is set for a three year move to Coventry starting next month


Trade body Experience UK has named David Willrich as its new chair


The virtual band worked with Google to host two first-of-their-kind AR experiences in New York and London to promote their new single


A Ukrainian activist who tried to take a Banksy work from Kyiv faces a 12-year prison sentence for an act he says was intended to support the work of the country’s army


A new version of Amazon’s Alexa digital voice assistant will come complete with Disney branding and the ability to work alongside the operator’s MagicBand+ technology


Just a quick message from everyone at Planet Attractions to say thank you and to wish you a happy holiday


Py Gerbeau is leaving the London Resort project with those in charge saying the development will be significantly scaled back to accommodate a number of environmental concerns


The Neobio Museum is a brand new attraction in Shanghai, China, offering experiential STEM education to young people


The Museum of Sex is expanding, with the New York attraction announcing plans to open a new Miami location in the spring


Berlin’s AquaDom aquarium exploded in the early hours of the morning on December 15. It contained a million litres of water and more than 100 different fish species


Simworx’s new flying theatre concept delivers a thrilling and immersive experience within a limited footprint. Simworx CEO Terry Monkton and lead creative Matt Clarkson told Planet Attractions more about the Brass Ring Award-nominated attraction


The Italian theme park will open a new themed maze attraction inspired by the multi-billion-dollar movie franchise


The opening marks the North American debut of the attraction, which first opened at Universal Studios Japan in 2021


When it comes to all-in-one solutions for visitor attractions, Semnox’s Venue Management Software system has transformed operations at popular FEC Kokomo Joe’s. Here’s how the technology works


A world-first Discovery entertainment centre is coming to Saudi Arabia with more to follow in the coming years


The highly-anticipated Pipeline surf coaster is coming to SeaWorld Orlando this spring. SeaWorld’s vice president of rides and engineering, Jonathan Smith, spoke to Planet Attractions about the project


London Eye operator Merlin Entertainments has applied to extend the attraction’s planning permission ahead of its 2028 deadline


Hasbro’s Monopoly Lifesized has opened in Riyadh following a three-way partnership between the toy manufacturer, the Al Hokair Group and The Path Entertainment Group


New online courses from the Natural History Museum will share exciting insights into the institution’s research


Convious has signed a multi-year deal with West Midland Safari Park to supply its fully-integrated eCommerce and guest experience platform


A new attraction inspired by the BBC’s


Culture, heritage and sport sites are set to receive £4.5m over the next three years to support actions in the Welsh Government’s Anti-Racist Wales Action Plan


Country music icon Dolly Parton has revealed plans to open a self-dedicated museum in Tennessee that could form part of a wider cultural complex


Disney Parks has teamed up with the Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs (RICE) to introduce a supply chain accelerator programme focused on transforming the businesses of diverse entrepreneurs


Developed specifically for attractions, nWave’s newest title takes viewers on an adventure with skunk and martial artist Meg, as she searches for a missing relic


PortAventura has announced plans for a new Uncharted dark ride coaster with Sally Dark Rides and Intamin behind the €25m attraction


Audiences around the world will soon get to see record-breaking stunt performers pushing the boundaries of what is possible with Guinness World Records and Mirage Entertainment Design announcing the launch of an exciting new show


Saudi Entertainment Ventures - part of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund - will develop more than 150 new attractions in the kingdom across 21 integrated entertainment destinations


EAG - the Entertainment, Attractions and Gaming International Expo - is on course for one of the largest shows in its history after its organisers revealed registration is up 58% on 2020’s pre-pandemic figure.


Real Madrid’s president Florentino Perez worked with a team of Disney executives including former CEO Michael Eisner on a plan to turn the world-famous football club into a theme park


Merlin executive Fiona Eastwood has been promoted to oversee the operator’s global portfolio of theme parks and midway attractions


World-leading visitor transportation specialist Severn Lamb has announced a major move in the acquisition of US company Trams International


Directors from The Met, British Museum, Louvre and National Gallery have signed an open letter published by ICOM condemning the ‘risky endangerment’ of irreplaceable artworks in climate demonstrations


The world-first theme park will feature several key attractions inspired by iconic Mattel brands including Barbie, Thomas & Friends and Hot Wheels


A new permanent exhibition exploring life on Mars has opened at the Carnegie Science Center in Pittsburgh, US


Dronisos is seeking partners in the US following a successful year, which saw the company serve as a technology partner for Disneyland Paris


More than 36,000 people travelled to Orlando in November for the annual spectacular known as IAAPA Expo. Planet Attractions was in attendance


Footballing legend Cristiano Ronaldo has taken over the iconic Times Square to unveil a new waxwork for Madame Tussauds New York


Longtime member and actor Helena Bonham Carter CBE has become the first female president of The London Library


The attractions industry and wider attractions community has paid tribute to the legendary Alberto Zamperla following his death last week aged 71


In a shocking move, Disney has reappointed Bob Iger as CEO, effective immediately, as Bob Chapek is ousted after less than three years in the role


ProSlide will announce a major new project at this year’s IAAPA Expo, with the company also revealing a record number of projects for 2023


WhiteWater will unveil six new products at IAAPA Expo, including three new waterslides, an all-in-one play structure and an innovation that ‘has been years in the making.’


Extreme Engineering will announce four new Cloud Coaster projects as well as debut two new products at this year’s IAAPA Expo in Orlando


A number of exhibitors will be using Christie technology at this year’s IAAPA Expo, with the company also set to showcase its MicroTiles LED among the products on its own stand


Spree Interactive is getting into the Christmas spirit a little early this year, with the launch of its Christmas Crunch VR title at the upcoming IAAPA Expo in Orlando


Ride manufacturer Zamperla is behind the CA$9m development of what will be Canada’s fastest launch coaster when it opens in 2024


Princess Cruises has debuted a brand new immersive experience that combines dining, storytelling, music, scent and more for a one-of-a-kind journey through the Mediterranean


RWS’s Sponsored Spotlight will showcase the company’s ‘endless possibilities’ following major acquisitions


IAAPA has unveiled the list of finalists for its prestigious Brass Ring Awards, with winners to be announced during a special ceremony at this year’s IAAPA Expo in Orlando, Florida


Red Raion will offer an exclusive preview of its latest title - ‘Around the World in 80 Days - Journey of Wonders’ - at this year’s IAAPA Expo


Frontgrid has launched its ParadropVR Pod attraction at Adventure Park Snowdonia in North Wales


The 2022 edition of IAAPA will see experience and attraction design firm Scruffy Dog return to the trade show floor for the first time since 2017


IAAPA has appointed Jakob Wahl as its new president and CEO. Wahl will assume the role at the beginning of 2023


The dynamic media-based attractions specialist will showcase the attraction alongside its new Overdrive concept at the IAAPA Expo in Orlando, Florida


Industry legends Joan Ganz Cooney, Xavier Lopez Ancona, Darrell Metzger and Dennis Speigel are all set to be inducted into IAAPA’s prestigious Hall of Fame at this month’s IAAPA Expo


The immersive attractions designer will unveil details of its new attraction, new project and new ride content throughout this year’s IAAPA Expo, which takes place at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando in November


Cunard has announced its 2023 Insights enrichment programme, with adventurer Bear Grylls taking centre stage for the operator’s maiden 2023 voyage to Alaska


Following a special panel session featuring some of the UK’s top theme park content creators, Planet Attractions joined Jack Silkstone, Sean and Jo Dyer, and Kieran Adams as they explored this year’s IAAPA Expo Europe in London


Disney World’s Blizzard Beach waterpark will reopen to the public next month with new Frozen additions following a lengthy refurbishment


Gateway Ticketing Systems has appointed Joe Marshall to lead the company’s UK operations


Flight bookings to Qatar and the UAE are currently 10 times higher than pre-pandemic levels ahead of this winter’s FIFA World Cup


Convious showcased its digital engagement platform at this year’s IAAPA Expo Europe. The company’s managing director for the UK & Ireland, Andy Povey, tells Planet Attractions about everything the company has to offer


Leading experience designers Mather & Co have named Kim Kherlopian as the company’s new managing director. Planet Attractions caught up with him at this year’s IAAPA Expo Europe to find out more


Ahead of a special industry panel looking at iconic attractions, experts from WhiteWater have named their personal picks, explaining why they think their choice is an iconic attraction


Cruise operator Holland America Line is celebrating 150 years with the announcement of a partnership with the Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation


Ohio’s Kings Island theme park will introduce Adventure Port, its newest themed area, in 2023. The themed land will feature several attractions and enhanced theming on a classic rollercoaster


IAAPA’s president and CEO, Hal McEvoy spoke to Planet Attractions about this year’s IAAPA Expo Europe, the industry’s post-Covid recovery, his retirement plans and more


Creative firm Zeitgeist Design and Production is behind three of this year’s haunted houses at Hersheypark’s Halloween spectacular Dark Nights


WhiteWater brings a strong presence to each and every IAAPA Expo. The company’s chief marketing officer, Una de Boer, tells Planet Attractions about everything the company has to offer


Industry veteran Paul Kent has been named as VP of global business development at Mad Systems


A world-first theme and waterpark utilising Sony IPs has opened its doors in Pattaya, Thailand


UK museums are struggling to meet skyrocketing energy bills, with the energy crisis posing a higher threat to the sector than the Covid-19 pandemic


A wildfire on Easter Island which could have been started deliberately has caused ‘irreparable’ damage to the Unesco World Heritage Site’s iconic moai head statues


Clearwater Marine Aquarium has debuted a new manatee exhibit to inform guests about the threats the species faces as well as the work being carried out by various groups to protect them


AVIXA produces a number of popular events around the world, including InfoComm and Integrated Systems Europe. The organisation's regional manager for the UK and Ireland, Ben Barnard, spoke to Planet Attractions


Russia’s lethal barrage of strikes against Ukrainian cities this week has seen a number of cultural sites in the capital of Kyiv hit


The world’s tallest freestanding drop tower will be dismantled in Orlando following the death of a 14-year-old boy on the ride


IAAPA’s director, Global Communications, Caitlin Dineen, spoke to Planet Attractions at this year’s IAAPA Expo Europe about her new role and what goes into putting on an event of such magnitude


Researchers from the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine and London’s Natural History Museum have discovered the cause of damage to several medieval murals in a Unesco World Heritage site in Ukraine


The entertainment group will provide full creative and production services for all live entertainment at this year’s IAAPA Expo


Holla at your boy for the zoo work - Paradise Wildlife Park recently turned to professional pool cleaner turned social media influencer Miles Laflin - aka The Pool Guy - to clean the zoo’s animal pools


The Louvre is among a number of French cultural institutions and landmarks turning their lights off in an attempt to cut soaring energy costs


Family-friendly active free-roam VR experiences provider Spree Interactive showcased its technology at this year’s IAAPA Expo Europe. Co-founder and CEO Jonathan Nowak Delgado spoke to Planet Attractions at the show


A panel of industry legends will share their stories about the creation and evolution of Disney’s Epcot at this year’s IAAPA Expo in Orlando, Florida


Katapult brought its entire team down to this year’s IAAPA Expo Europe in London. The company’s creative strategist, Kelly Herrick, spoke to Planet Attractions


Simworx has partnered with Katapult to develop a new dark ride offering an adrenaline-fuelled car chase. Simworx CEO Terry Monkton and lead creative Matt Clarkson spoke with Planet Attractions about the exciting new project


Vantage announced the launch of The Joy Economy at this year’s IAAPA Expo Europe. Planet Attractions spoke to the Whitewater division’s new president, Michael Jungen, about the campaign and what he hopes to deliver with the technology


As Florida prepares for the arrival of Hurricane Ian, here’s how the state’s theme parks are handling the situation


Experiential design collective Conductr made its first appearance at an IAAPA show this year as part of the Experience UK stand in London. Planet Attractions spoke to co-founder and CEO Peter Cliff about the start-up and its plans for the future


With sizeable business growth and the need for new team members, HB Leisure has embarked on a recruitment drive, with the company aiming to expand its workforce in multiple locations worldwide


More than 200,000 people have voted in this year’s UK Theme Park Awards 2022 with Alton Towers, Flamingo Land, Drayton Manor and more coming out with some of the top accolades


Triotech has landed a deal with Puy du Fou Asia that will see the dynamic attractions specialist supply several attractions to the upcoming SAGA attraction in Shanghai


The Giant - a mammoth moving attraction and exhibition - is coming to a city near you


IAAPA Expo Europe saw a 30% increase in attendees to its 2022 show in London, compared to its previous year in Barcelona


BoldMove will offer attendees a close-up look at its AR Hybrid Quest attraction


IAAPA Expo Europe is coming to London this September. Here’s everything you need to know about the event


OCT Group has debuted a first-of-its-kind attraction at its new Fabland Valley Resort in China. Triotech’s Ernest Yale and Nol van Genuchten speak to Planet Attractions about the exciting new multi-path dark ride, how it came to be and what it could mean for future attractions


WhiteWater is set to offer attendees a first look at its record-breaking Icon Tower at this year’s IAAPA Expo Europe


The attractions community has been sharing stories of the profound impact Queen Elizabeth II had on some of Britain’s most beloved institutions, paying tribute to the monarch following her death, aged 96


Planet Attractions recently travelled to meet the team behind IAAPA Expo Europe - the EMEA region’s largest trade show for the attractions industry. Here’s what to expect from this year’s show.


Convious will recreate the guest experience to showcase the full capabilities of its cloud-based sales and marketing solution with an interactive, rocket ship-themed booth


Progress slow and hampered by financial woes, but museum soldiers on with hopes of a full reopening in 2027


Holovis has created an innovative two-in-one system that supports the delivery of two different media or real-time interactive experiences simultaneously within the same ride or attraction


Riders will face stormy weather and supernatural mysteries on this Intamin launch coaster


JRA has revitalised Bush's Visitor Center Museum in Tennessee, celebrating the brand’s history and all things bean with an all-new guest experience


accesso is set to showcase what it calls ‘the future of mobile consumer engagement’ at this year’s IAAPA Expo Europe, with expanded solutions designed to help operators connect, engage and build loyalty with visitors


Alterface has revealed new theming and media packages for its award-winning Action League dark ride


The kind of robotic technology seen at theme park rides worldwide will soon be available to cruise passengers out at sea


The 30-year-old Newport aquarium is also restoring and renovating its indoor exhibits and coffee shop


Experience design firm FORREC will be on hand to discuss several of its high-profile projects, including the new Legoland Korea Resort, at this year’s IAAPA Expo Europe


The US$69m addition furthers the Queens Museum mission to bring arts and education to a diverse and international community


The multi-million-euros project will enable PortAventura to get one-third of its annual energy from clean electricity, and should be ready to power the park by the end of the year


As well as multi-sensory, playful and colourful installations, the attraction has a café, bar and retail store


Attractions.io is adding a new feature to its mobile platform with the company set to showcase its new for 2022 wayfinding solution at this year’s IAAPA Expo Europe


Changes to the 2007 definition of a museum reflect industry’s more inclusive and sustainable aims and roles


An immersive experience celebrating the life and music of rock legend Prince has opened in Chicago


FORREC and Sun Group have formed a long-term strategic partnership to develop world-class tourism projects in Vietnam


The Natural History Museum’s Generation Hope: Act for the Planet programme will offer a series of free in-person and online events aimed at young people to help drive positive change for the planet


Media-based attractions specialist Triotech will showcase a new stand-up flying theatre attraction and announce a major European theme park project at this year’s IAAPA Expo Europe


Hongkou attraction to honour city’s avant-garde literary movement of the 1920s and its respected authors


With an influx of Ukranian refugees threatening to overwhelm available housing in Scotland, the government has announced plans to accommodate up to 1,750 people onboard Ambassador Cruise Line’s Ambition on a temporary basis


The dynamic media-based attractions specialist will showcase several new ride concepts at IAAPA Expo Europe


Blurring the lines between an experiential art gallery, interactive theme park and detailed film set, Wake the Tiger is a new attraction that just opened its doors in Bristol, UK. We spoke to co-founder Graham MacVoy about the new attraction, dubbed the world’s first ‘Amazement Park’


More than 30 people have been injured after two rollercoaster trains crashed into each other at Legoland Germany


RWS Entertainment Group will showcase its capabilities as a full-service provider of visitor attractions and experiences at this year’s IAAPA Expo Europe following two major acquisitions


Carnival’s new sustainability plan will cut its emissions by 500,000 metric tons per year and save US$150m annually in fuel costs


Merlin has announced that three of its ‘next generation’ Lego Discovery Centres are coming to the US in 2023


SeaWorld, Cedar Fair and Universal have all experienced strong second quarters with the operators also revealing some hints as to what’s coming for each in the near future


A light trail inspired by the iconic forest from the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beast franchises will open in the US in October


A new art installation powered by data from London’s Natural History Museum will provide an ever-changing visual representation of how society’s choices impact the natural world


Carmel Allen has been named the new managing director of Tate


Planet Attractions is set to be joined by some of the UK’s top content creators this September for a special panel session to be held at IAAPA Expo Europe in London


Mather & Co has developed the visitor experience for Hydro Ness - a new hydro scheme in Scotland on the River Ness that generates renewable energy using an Archimedes Screw


The British Museum has proposed a ‘Parthenon partnership’ that could see the Parthenon Marbles - also known as the Elgin Marbles - returned to Greece for the first time in more than 200 years


A change in the law will see private ownership of big cats in the US banned, putting an end to possession of tigers, lions and other big cat species except by qualified entities


Michael Myers, Dracula and now The Weeknd will be offering the scares at this year’s Halloween Horror Nights, with the Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter set to debut an all-new horror experience


IAAPA is on the hunt for its new president and CEO with a global search now underway to find a replacement for the outgoing Hal McEvoy


Fundraising has started for the Natural History Museum’s Urban Nature Project, a scheme which will allow the museum to turn its five-acre site into a free-to-visit educational outdoor space


As we enter the busiest time of the year for most waterpark operators, the team at WhiteWater has offered some tips to ensure the season runs smoothly


Experiential design collective Conductr has appointed Ben Dowson to oversee the company’s creative division


Shark Week is back for 2022 and Planet Attractions has taken a deep dive to find a collection of shark-related content that you can take in during the event


Disneyland’s Finding Nemo attraction has undergone a complete renovation, with the new attraction reopening to the public after a year-long closure


Disney is about to launch its upgraded MagicBand+, with the wearable technology offering a host of new features for visitors


Merlin Entertainments has partnered with Coca-Cola to offer exclusive experiences to guests who recycle their used plastic bottles at Merlin attractions


The projection mapping market could be worth as much as US$8bn according to a new report on the technology


Former pro skateboarders Jason Lee and Chris Pastras have donated personal skateboarding memorabilia to The Smithsonian to be a part of its sports history collection


Detailed replicas of the controversial Elgin or Parthenon Marbles, created by a robot, will soon go on display in London


Six Flags is offering improved access for its guests with physical disabilities with a specialised restraint harness that allows them to experience rides they would otherwise be unable to


The heatwave currently cooking the UK has forced the closure of one of Europe’s most visited zoos


Rounding up all the biggest news from fans and influencers, here is your latest edition of From the Community from Planet Attractions


Planet Attractions travelled to Belgium recently to meet Peter van der Schans, IAAPA’s new executive director and vice president for the Europe, Middle East, and Africa region. Here’s what he had to say


Art conservators at the National Galleries of Scotland have discovered a hidden self-portrait of Van Gogh on the back of another of the artist’s works during an X-ray


A £38m cultural development in the north of England is set to open its doors this weekend, with the debut of the astonishing Shakespeare North Playhouse in Prescot


The Avengers have assembled, this time in Paris for the launch of Avengers Campus at Disneyland Paris with stars Brie Larson, Pom Klementieff and Iman Vellani (and even Bob Chapek) all on-hand for the spectacular opening event

Industry insights



International Women’s Day: Equality is the goal, but EQUITY is how we'll get there




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WATCH: Hersheypark unveils first-person look at Wildcat’s Revenge

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Everything you need to know about SeaTrade Cruise Global 2023



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How do you fit a record-breaking waterpark onto a cruise ship?


Icon of the Seas will feature the largest waterpark at sea when it sets sail for the first time in 2024, here’s what went into developing the record-breaking attraction

Eleven million pixels: Christie powers new immersive room in Brazil’s Museum of Image and Sound of Ceará


Christie has teamed up with Brazil’s Museum of Image and Sound of Ceará on the installation of an immersive multimedia room as part of a revamp of the historic institution

English Heritage CEO to step down


Kate Mavor CBE has announced that she will step down as CEO of English Heritage later this year

Mexican President wants to build XCaret rival on controversially-seized cargo port


A cargo port controversially seized from a US company last week by the Mexican government has been earmarked for an XCaret style water and theme park, as well as a docking point for cruise ships

Everything you need to know about SeaTrade Cruise Global 2023


SeaTrade Cruise Global is returning to Florida next week. Here’s everything you need to know...

Miral confirms May opening for SeaWorld Abu Dhabi


Immersive attractions developer Miral has confirmed that SeaWorld Abu Dhabi will open in May

PIF’s Seven to develop world’s first Play-Doh attractions in partnership with Hasbro


Development company Seven is to launch the world’s first Play-Doh-themed attractions in partnership with Hasbro

Leadership transition for Norwegian as cruise line names David Herrera new president


David Herrera has been named the new president of Norwegian Cruise Line, with Harry Sommer transitioning to be the next president and chief executive officer of parent company Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings

Mission Holovis: How Holovis brought Ferrari World Abu Dhabi’s immersive mega coaster Mission Ferrari to life


Ferrari World Abu Dhabi’s Mission Ferrari opened to the public to much fanfare in January. Holovis’s James Lodder shares a decade-long journey to realise this incredible immersive rollercoaster experience

The Lucas Museum opening set for 2025


The Lucas Museum of Narrative Art is expected to open in 2025 after experiencing several delays.

Disney unveils ‘real’ lightsaber at SXSW


Disney has revealed a ‘real’ lightsaber at this year’s SXSW, an arts and technology festival currently underway in Austin, Texas

Alton Towers reveals details of its ‘most immersive dark ride ever’ ahead of March launch


Staffordshire-based theme park Alton Towers has unveiled details of its upcoming Curse at Alton Manor dark ride ahead of its opening on March 18

UK museums workers join public sector strike


Thousands of UK museum and heritage workers have joined industrial action protesting against low pay and other working conditions.

Work to begin on new multi-million-dollar aquarium in Florida


The first phase of construction on a new aquarium and nature conservation campus in Florida is scheduled to begin in October

Global cruise industry projected to be worth $16.7 billion by 2031, new report reveals


A new report exploring the market dynamics of the global cruise industry estimates the sector to grow to $16.7bn over the next several years

Green retrofit of UK’s heritage sector could provide £35bn economic boost


Teaching the construction sector the necessary skills to retrofit the UK’s heritage structures could provide the British economy with a £35bn boost, a new report has suggested

After two decades at the helm, Adam Weinberg is set to step down as Whitney director


The Whitney Museum of American Art’s long-term director Adam Weinberg is set to leave the institution in November, with Scott Rothkopf set to succeed him in the role

Work to begin on UK’s £250m Therme Manchester waterpark resort


Therme Manchester, a major waterpark and wellbeing resort development in the UK, will soon enter its first phase of construction following demolition works

Universal announces rebranding of Parks & Resorts division


Universal’s Parks & Resorts division will now be called Universal Destinations & Experiences following a rebranding

Natural History Museum rules out proposal for Aberdeen branch


London’s Natural History Museum has turned down a proposal to establish a branch in Aberdeen’s vacant Norco House building, saying it has no plans to develop a regional offer.

Industry veteran Bruce Vaughn set for return to Disney Imagineering


Bruce Vaughn is set to return to Disney Imagineering as chief creative officer, co-leading the division alongside Imagineering president Barbara Bouza

Derry theatre becomes first in Ireland to achieve Makaton Friendly Status


The Millennium Forum theatre in Derry has become the first Irish cultural venue to achieve Makaton Friendly Status

Tate Liverpool to close in October ahead of £25.5m renovation


Tate Liverpool will close its doors in October ahead of a £25.5m multi-year redevlopment helmed by British architecture firm 6a architects

International Women’s Day: Equality is the goal, but EQUITY is how we'll get there


Equity is different from equality, and on International Women’s Day Una de Boer reflects how to support this foundational step towards a more just world

Opening date announced for Fun Spot America’s highly-anticipated ArieForce One coaster


Fun Spot America Atlanta’s hotly-anticipated RMC-manufactured ArieForce One is set to open later this month, with the major attraction representing the park’s largest-ever investment

Scandinavia’s Olafur Eliasson to create major new artwork on UK coastline


Scandinavian artist Olafur Eliasson has collaborated with author Robert MacFarlance to create a permanent art installation on the West Cumbria coastline

Transforming the business: Meet the minds behind RWS Entertainment Group


Keith James, president of JRA; Robin Breese-Davies, executive vice president of ted; and Danielle Kramer, executive vice president of RWS, speak to Planet Attractions about what looks to be a bumper year ahead for the company

National Lottery Heritage Fund announces changes to funding priorities as part of Heritage 2023 strategy


The UK’s National Lottery Heritage Fund has announced several changes to its funding priorities to address concerns for the ‘health and future of the nation’s heritage’

How to work with content creators (influencers) to drive attendance and improve brand affinity


Adam Hattan explains how content creators can be effectively used to drive new and returning guests to your attraction

Billionaire hands Met-sized US$1.9bn endowment to the museum he co-founded


A private contemporary art museum in the US has received a US$1.9bn endowment, one of the largest arts donations ever made, from US businessman Mitchell Rales

London’s Young V&A to open in July following multi-million-pound redevelopment


The Young V&A, formerly the V&A Museum of Childhood, will reopen in East London, after a multi-year, multi-million-pound redevelopment

Smithsonian raises US$55m for American Women’s History Museum


The Smithsonian has raised more than US$55m towards the development of its upcoming American Women’s History Museum in Washington, D.C.

Universal files patents for enhanced interactive technologies at its parks


Universal wants to enhance its interactive experiences on offer, with the operator filing two new patents for character and wand technologies at its parks

Standing the test of time with aquatic play


Aquatic play structures are among the fundamentals needed for a waterpark. WhiteWater’s Cassidy Newman tells us why...

Ron DeSantis strips Disney of self-governing powers following ‘Don’t Say Gay’ row


Florida’s Republican governor has declared an end to Disney’s ‘corporate kingdom’ with new legislation seeing the state gaining effective control of the company’s Florida operations

High-tech security systems installed to protect Banksy’s Ukraine murals


Ukrainian security company Ajax Systems has installed US$13,000 worth of security equipment to protect several Banksy artworks in Kyiv created by the artist during the Russian invasion

Saudi Arabia’s PIF announces US$48bn New Murabba development in Riyadh anchored by giant cube


Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince has announced plans for New Murabba - a US$48bn commercial downtown development in Riyadh, anchored by a cube-shaped skyscraper large enough to accommodate 20 Empire State buildings

Merlin bringing multi-million-pound Gruffalo attraction to Blackpool


Merlin Entertainments is adding to its cluster of attractions in Blackpool, with a £2.3m Gruffalo-themed attraction set to open later this year

Treasure trove of David Bowie artefacts secured for permanent display at V&A East


Original costumes, set designs, drawings and handwritten lyrics will allow visitors to V&A East to trace David Bowie’s creative process across six decades

Formula 1 driver Romain Grosjean’s burnt-out car to go on display


Romain Grosjean’s torched F1 car from the 2020 Bahrain Grand Prix is set to go on display as part of a wider touring exhibition looking at the world of F1

Manhattan’s first public beach to open in the summer


A riverside retreat featuring Manhattan’s first public beach is set to open in New York City this summer

DEAL 2023: Opening new doors in the Middle East


DEAL is coming back to Dubai next month. Here’s everything you need to know about the region’s hottest attractions show

No Peaky Blinders theme park but potential permanent attraction in the works, say tourism bosses


Rumours that a Peaky Blinders theme park is in the works are not to be believed but officials have said there are potential plans for a permanent attraction based on the popular IP

World Heritage site reproduced using 3D printers opens in China


3D printing has been used to create a full-size replica of a World Heritage site in China, offering visitors an up close and personal experience while also securing crucial data for future world heritage protection

Blackpool Pleasure Beach seeks rollercoaster test rider ahead of new season


Fancy a job as a rollercoaster test rider? Well good news - Blackpool Pleasure Beach is on the hunt...

Reconstructed face of 2,000-year-old woman revealed in Saudi Arabia


The Hegra Welcome Centre in AlUla, Saudi Arabia, has unveiled a new exhibit; the reconstructed face of Hinat, a woman who lived more than 2,000 years ago

Cedar Fair makes record US$1.82bn in 2022


Cedar Fair has broken revenue and earnings records, with the operator bouncing back from the effects of the global pandemic

BIAZA rejects survey suggesting large animals should be phased out of zoos but agrees more can be done to support animal conservation


A recent survey suggesting the public would support the phasing out of large animals in zoos doesn’t ‘seem to relate to the real world’, according to BIAZA

London to get its own Highline after Camden plans approved


London is set to emulate New York’s Highline with its own version running from Camden to St Pancras. Here’s everything you need to know about the £14m project

Supplier Showcase 2023: The biggest attractions projects landing worldwide this year


From waterpark suppliers and media specialists to creative designers and dark ride producers, Planet Attractions has gone to every corner of the globe to find out what’s hot in 2023

ZooTampa announces health-focussed partnership with Tampa General Hospital


A new partnership between ZooTampa and the Children’s Hospital at Tampa General Hospital will see the development of several new wellbeing-focussed experiences at the zoo

SeaWorld’s first rescue centre opens outside of US with launch of Abu Dhabi site


SeaWorld is expanding its network of rescue centres with the launch of Yas SeaWorld Research and Rescue - the first such SeaWorld site to open outside of the US

Disney to axe 7,000 jobs in US$5.5bn cost cutting plan following Q1 results


Disney is set to axe 7,000 people as part of a US$5.5bn cost cutting plan following its Q1 results. The operator’s parks however continue to thrive with the Parks, Experiences and Products division performing strongly

Two-hundred-year-old mummified cat among the exhibits as Scotland’s first witchcraft museum prepares to open in Edinburgh


A museum dedicated to sharing Scotland’s history with the occult will open in Edinburgh at the end of February

Unesco offers support as earthquake damages World Heritage sites in Turkey and Syria


Unesco has offered its support to the victims of the devastating earthquake that rocked Turkey and Syria this week as concern grows for a number of historically important World Heritage sites in the region

Titanic Belfast to reopen in March following £4.5m revamp


The popular Titanic Belfast attraction will reopen next month with four new galleries and a 7.6m-long replica of the iconic ship following a multi-million pound revamp

Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway comes to Disneyland as part of Disney100 celebrations


Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway is the featured addition to Disneyland as the park celebrates 100 years of Disney with a host of new attractions and experiences

Plans submitted to redevelop former Pleasure Island site into tourist destination


The former Pleasure Island could find new life as a tourist destination after plans were submitted to turn the former theme park into a £65.9m holiday site

Great Wolf Lodge breaks ground on US$300m resort in Connecticut


Operator Great Wolf has broken ground on a new US$300m resort in Connecticut, with a 91,000sq ft indoor waterpark set to be the development’s main attraction

WATCH: Hersheypark unveils first-person look at Wildcat’s Revenge


Hersheypark has revealed the official video for the highly anticipated Wildcat’s Revenge, showing for the first time the full track layout of the upcoming hybrid coaster in first person

SeaWorld makes leadership changes with a number of new roles created to accelerate growth


SeaWorld has announced a shakeup of its leadership structure, making eight new appointments as the company seeks to accelerate growth

Europe’s first triple launch coaster coming to Norway’s TusenFryd in April


Norway’s TusenFryd will soon launch Europe’s first ever suspended triple launch coaster, with the NOK100m Storm - The Dragon Legend being described as the ‘most important single investment’ in the park’s 34-year history

7thSense wins big at ISE with double Best of Show Award


Media tech specialist 7thSense has been recognised for two products in its brand new Performer range at this year’s ISE, which is currently underway in Barcelona

Greenville Zoo explores nonprofit model following strategic assessment


South Carolina’s Greenville Zoo is looking at changing to a nonprofit operation following a city consultation last month

London’s Vagina Museum to close after East London property guardianship ends


The Vagina Museum has announced that it will close this week after being asked to vacate its East London premises

Flat owners win Tate Modern viewing platform privacy case


The owners of four luxury flats overlooked by the Tate Modern in London have won a privacy bid over the use of the gallery's viewing platform.

Global amusement and theme park markets projected to be worth $82 billion by 2028, new report reveals


A new report exploring the market dynamics of the global amusement and theme park industries estimates the sector to grow to $85bn in the next five years

British Museum workers among those set to strike in February


Workers at the British Museum along with a number of other institutions across the UK are set to go on strike in February

Kids in Museums launches ‘Future is Now’ youth summit to engage young people in the museum sector


Kids in Museums has launched a new initiative aimed at having young people discuss, learn and advocate for the future of the museum sector

Universal reports record earnings for 2022, driven by theme park attendance


Universal parent company Comcast revealed a nearly 50% increase in revenue driven by theme park attendance in its annual financial report

Children in hospital can now explore South Carolina Aquarium remotely using a robot


Patients at a number of children’s hospitals across the state of South Carolina can now explore Charleston’s popular aquarium remotely, using a robot to interact with the exhibits and take part in tours

Disney bringing major immersive experience to London, Berlin and Paris in 2023


Disney is celebrating 100 years with an adult-oriented immersive experience coming to London, Berlin and Paris in 2023

‘The Office’ visitor interactive experience coming to Toronto in March


An interactive experience taking visitors inside hit NBC sitcom ‘The Office’ is set to open in Toronto later this year

‘A life size living videogame’: How Universal’s new Power-Up Bands transform the Super Nintendo World experience


Universal Studios Hollywood is levelling up the experience at the upcoming Super Nintendo World with its all-new Power-Up Band. Here’s what the technology does

PIF’s Seven announces SAR1bn entertainment destination for Saudi city of Tabuk


Another mega project has been announced for Saudi Arabia, with the PIF’s Seven announcing plans for a SAR1bn entertainment destination in the city of Tabuk

WATCH: Anthony Palermo on how Connect&Go is transforming attractions operations


Connect&Go - a global leader in guest and attractions management technology - has grown significantly over the last decade. Its co-founder Anthony Palermo spoke to Planet Attractions

Chessington to open world’s first Jumanji coaster


Chessington World of Adventures has unveiled what will become the world’s first Jumanji-themed coaster when it opens later this year

Tate seeks architect for major Palais de Danse project


Tate St Ives is seeking an architect-led multi-discipline team to lead a major renovation of Palais de Danse, the former studio of renowned sculptor Barbara Hepworth

MENALAC Awards head to Dubai for 2023 edition


The fifth annual MENALAC Awards ceremony will take place in Dubai, with the event bringing together senior leaders to celebrate attractions across the Middle East and North Africa

Eye-tracking technology can identify different fish in an aquarium and tell the user what they’re looking at


A new technology from the Industrial Technology Research Institute can display information about different animals inside aquariums by tracking the eye movements of the user

New York Knicks announces multi-year partnership with cruise operator MSC


MSC and the New York Knicks have announced a multi-year marketing partnership that sees MSC become the official cruise line of the NBA side

Attractions.io and SSA Group join forces to deliver fully digital experience to cultural attractions in 2023


Attractions.io has teamed up with SSA Group to provide a fully digital experience for visitors to cultural attractions in 2023

UK energy relief extended to support museum and heritage sector


The UK government has announced the launch of a new Energy Bill Discount Scheme offering significant discounts for vulnerable businesses including museums and heritage sites

Bradford’s National Science and Media Museum to close ahead of year long £6m revamp


A ‘radical, once-in-a-generation’ development will see Bradford’s National Science and Media Museum undergo a year-long transformation starting in June

Fourteen of 2023’s most anticipated museum openings


After a difficult few years the museum sector is showing promising signs of recovery with several exciting projects set to open this year. Here are 14 of 2023’s most anticipated museum openings

WATCH: The Sidemen play hide and seek at Dubai’s Aquaventure Waterpark


The Sidemen recently took a trip to Dubai for an epic game of hide and seek in one of the world’s premiere waterparks

Cost of living crisis leaves nine in 10 heritage sites fearing for their future


Heritage organisations in the UK are in serious jeopardy of closure as a result of the cost of living crisis, with nine in 10 concerned about their future

Telford zoo to install solar panels in attempt to combat rising energy costs


A zoo in the UK will start to fit solar panels to try to save money after seeing its energy bill soar over the past year.

Police arrest three in Egypt after failed attempt to steal 10-tonne statue of Ramesses II


A plot to steal a 10-tonne ancient statue of Egyptian Pharaoh Ramesses II has been foiled after police arrested three men attempting to make away with the gigantic antiquity

Lionel Messi’s World Cup accommodation to become museum


Following Argentina’s historic win at the 2022 World Cup, the student accommodation that global footballing icon Lionel Messi stayed in is set to be turned into its own mini museum

Universal announces plans for new Texas theme park and Nevada horror experience


A family-friendly Universal theme park is coming to Texas while a permanent Horror Nights experience is making its way to Las Vegas

Nike chair Mark Parker named new Disney chairman


Nike chair and Disney director Mark Parker is set to succeed Susan Arnold as Disney’s new chairman

Paris’s Rodin scraps plans for €16m Canary Islands outpost


Rodin Museum officials have decided to pull out of a €16m project in the Canary Islands, which would have seen an outpost of the famous institution built in Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Disney makes consumer-focused changes to US park policy for first time since Iger’s return


Disney is introducing a number of consumer-friendly changes to its US parks, including an increase on the number of days its lowest-priced ticket will be available and increased access for annual passholders

Twelve of the biggest rollercoaster openings of 2023


It’s a new year with old records just waiting to be broken by some incredible new projects. Here are twelve blockbuster rollercoaster openings for the coming year

Natural History Museum’s Dippy headed to Coventry for three-year exhibition


Arguably Britain’s most well known dinosaur - the Natural History Museum’s iconic ‘Dippy’ the diplodocus - is set for a three year move to Coventry starting next month

David Willrich named new Experience UK chair


Trade body Experience UK has named David Willrich as its new chair

WATCH: Gorillaz makes history with groundbreaking AR performances supported by Google technology


The virtual band worked with Google to host two first-of-their-kind AR experiences in New York and London to promote their new single

Ukrainian activist faces 12-year prison sentence for trying to remove Banksy mural


A Ukrainian activist who tried to take a Banksy work from Kyiv faces a 12-year prison sentence for an act he says was intended to support the work of the country’s army

Hey Disney!’: Amazon Alexa-powered digital voice assistant gets Disney facelift


A new version of Amazon’s Alexa digital voice assistant will come complete with Disney branding and the ability to work alongside the operator’s MagicBand+ technology

Happy Holidays from Planet Attractions


Just a quick message from everyone at Planet Attractions to say thank you and to wish you a happy holiday

London Resort plans ‘significantly’ scaled back as boss Py Gerbeau steps down


Py Gerbeau is leaving the London Resort project with those in charge saying the development will be significantly scaled back to accommodate a number of environmental concerns

‘Boundless exploration’: Shanghai’s Neobio Museum opens to the public


The Neobio Museum is a brand new attraction in Shanghai, China, offering experiential STEM education to young people

New York’s Museum of Sex is expanding into Miami


The Museum of Sex is expanding, with the New York attraction announcing plans to open a new Miami location in the spring

World’s largest freestanding aquarium, home to 1,500 fish, explodes


Berlin’s AquaDom aquarium exploded in the early hours of the morning on December 15. It contained a million litres of water and more than 100 different fish species

Pegasus: Inside Simworx’s new Brass Ring Award-nominated flying theatre attraction


Simworx’s new flying theatre concept delivers a thrilling and immersive experience within a limited footprint. Simworx CEO Terry Monkton and lead creative Matt Clarkson told Planet Attractions more about the Brass Ring Award-nominated attraction

Gardaland announces new Jumanji-themed maze attraction for 2023


The Italian theme park will open a new themed maze attraction inspired by the multi-billion-dollar movie franchise

Super Nintendo World to open at Universal Studios Hollywood in 2023


The opening marks the North American debut of the attraction, which first opened at Universal Studios Japan in 2021

All-in-one: How Semnox’s Venue Management system has transformed operations at Kokomo Joe’s


When it comes to all-in-one solutions for visitor attractions, Semnox’s Venue Management Software system has transformed operations at popular FEC Kokomo Joe’s. Here’s how the technology works

PIF’s Seven reveals plans for Warner Bros Discovery edutainment attractions across Saudi Arabia


A world-first Discovery entertainment centre is coming to Saudi Arabia with more to follow in the coming years

‘A first of its kind experience’: SeaWorld’s Jonathan Smith on operator’s upcoming Pipeline surf coaster


The highly-anticipated Pipeline surf coaster is coming to SeaWorld Orlando this spring. SeaWorld’s vice president of rides and engineering, Jonathan Smith, spoke to Planet Attractions about the project

Merlin seeks extension to keep iconic London Eye in British capital beyond 2028


London Eye operator Merlin Entertainments has applied to extend the attraction’s planning permission ahead of its 2028 deadline

Monopoly Lifesized opens in Saudi Arabia


Hasbro’s Monopoly Lifesized has opened in Riyadh following a three-way partnership between the toy manufacturer, the Al Hokair Group and The Path Entertainment Group

Natural History Museum launches online masterclass series


New online courses from the Natural History Museum will share exciting insights into the institution’s research

Convious named tech partner for West Midland Safari Park


Convious has signed a multi-year deal with West Midland Safari Park to supply its fully-integrated eCommerce and guest experience platform

BBC Earth Experience to open in London in 2023


A new attraction inspired by the BBC’s

Anti-racist action in culture, heritage and sport gets £4.5m boost from Welsh government


Culture, heritage and sport sites are set to receive £4.5m over the next three years to support actions in the Welsh Government’s Anti-Racist Wales Action Plan

Dolly Parton announces plans for Tennesse Dolly museum


Country music icon Dolly Parton has revealed plans to open a self-dedicated museum in Tennessee that could form part of a wider cultural complex

Disney World welcomes black entrepreneurs for supply chain accelerator education programme


Disney Parks has teamed up with the Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs (RICE) to introduce a supply chain accelerator programme focused on transforming the businesses of diverse entrepreneurs

nWave unveils new attractions title ‘Meg and the Lost Scepter’


Developed specifically for attractions, nWave’s newest title takes viewers on an adventure with skunk and martial artist Meg, as she searches for a missing relic

PortAventura announces world-first Uncharted dark ride coaster


PortAventura has announced plans for a new Uncharted dark ride coaster with Sally Dark Rides and Intamin behind the €25m attraction

Guinness World Records partners with Mirage Entertainment Design for new live stunt show


Audiences around the world will soon get to see record-breaking stunt performers pushing the boundaries of what is possible with Guinness World Records and Mirage Entertainment Design announcing the launch of an exciting new show

Saudi Arabia’s PIF to invest US$13.3bn in development of 21 integrated entertainment destinations across the kingdom


Saudi Entertainment Ventures - part of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund - will develop more than 150 new attractions in the kingdom across 21 integrated entertainment destinations

EAG on course for huge show after visitor registrations soar


EAG - the Entertainment, Attractions and Gaming International Expo - is on course for one of the largest shows in its history after its organisers revealed registration is up 58% on 2020’s pre-pandemic figure.

Michael Eisner and Florentino Perez had plans to turn world famous Real Madrid football club into €2.5bn theme park


Real Madrid’s president Florentino Perez worked with a team of Disney executives including former CEO Michael Eisner on a plan to turn the world-famous football club into a theme park

Merlin promotes Fiona Eastwood to oversee midway attractions and theme parks


Merlin executive Fiona Eastwood has been promoted to oversee the operator’s global portfolio of theme parks and midway attractions

Severn Lamb announces major acquisition of US company Trams International


World-leading visitor transportation specialist Severn Lamb has announced a major move in the acquisition of US company Trams International

92 museum directors sign open letter condemning climate action against ‘irreplaceable’ artworks


Directors from The Met, British Museum, Louvre and National Gallery have signed an open letter published by ICOM condemning the ‘risky endangerment’ of irreplaceable artworks in climate demonstrations

Epic Resorts Destinations unveils attractions for world’s first Mattel theme park


The world-first theme park will feature several key attractions inspired by iconic Mattel brands including Barbie, Thomas & Friends and Hot Wheels

US$4.4m Mars exhibition opens at Carnegie Space Center


A new permanent exhibition exploring life on Mars has opened at the Carnegie Science Center in Pittsburgh, US

Dronisos targets US market following exciting year


Dronisos is seeking partners in the US following a successful year, which saw the company serve as a technology partner for Disneyland Paris

IAAPA Expo 2022: 36,000 gather for industry extravaganza


More than 36,000 people travelled to Orlando in November for the annual spectacular known as IAAPA Expo. Planet Attractions was in attendance

WATCH: Cristiano Ronaldo unveils Madame Tussauds Waxwork with Times Square takeover


Footballing legend Cristiano Ronaldo has taken over the iconic Times Square to unveil a new waxwork for Madame Tussauds New York

Helena Bonham Carter named first female president of The London Library


Longtime member and actor Helena Bonham Carter CBE has become the first female president of The London Library

Industry pays tribute to legendary Alberto Zamperla following his death


The attractions industry and wider attractions community has paid tribute to the legendary Alberto Zamperla following his death last week aged 71

Bob Iger named CEO of Disney as Bob Chapek is ousted


In a shocking move, Disney has reappointed Bob Iger as CEO, effective immediately, as Bob Chapek is ousted after less than three years in the role

ProSlide set to shatter projects record for 2023 with major announcement coming at IAAPA Expo


ProSlide will announce a major new project at this year’s IAAPA Expo, with the company also revealing a record number of projects for 2023

WhiteWater to launch six new projects at IAAPA Expo including ‘years in the making’ innovation


WhiteWater will unveil six new products at IAAPA Expo, including three new waterslides, an all-in-one play structure and an innovation that ‘has been years in the making.’

Extreme Engineering to reveal new ride, product and coaster installs at IAAPA Expo


Extreme Engineering will announce four new Cloud Coaster projects as well as debut two new products at this year’s IAAPA Expo in Orlando

Christie set to showcase offerings as technology set to go on display across IAAPA Expo


A number of exhibitors will be using Christie technology at this year’s IAAPA Expo, with the company also set to showcase its MicroTiles LED among the products on its own stand

Spree Interactive to launch Christmas-themed VR experience at IAAPA Expo


Spree Interactive is getting into the Christmas spirit a little early this year, with the launch of its Christmas Crunch VR title at the upcoming IAAPA Expo in Orlando

Zamperla to install Canada’s fastest launch coaster at Vancouver’s Playland Amuseument Park


Ride manufacturer Zamperla is behind the CA$9m development of what will be Canada’s fastest launch coaster when it opens in 2024

Princess Cruises unveils 360: An Extraordinary Experience


Princess Cruises has debuted a brand new immersive experience that combines dining, storytelling, music, scent and more for a one-of-a-kind journey through the Mediterranean

RWS to showcase new capabilities following JRA and ted acquisitions in Sponsored Spotlight at IAAPA Expo


RWS’s Sponsored Spotlight will showcase the company’s ‘endless possibilities’ following major acquisitions

IAAPA announces 2022 Brass Ring Awards finalists


IAAPA has unveiled the list of finalists for its prestigious Brass Ring Awards, with winners to be announced during a special ceremony at this year’s IAAPA Expo in Orlando, Florida

Red Raion to preview new title at IAAPA Expo


Red Raion will offer an exclusive preview of its latest title - ‘Around the World in 80 Days - Journey of Wonders’ - at this year’s IAAPA Expo

Frontgrid opens ParadropVR Pod attraction at first UK location


Frontgrid has launched its ParadropVR Pod attraction at Adventure Park Snowdonia in North Wales

Scruffy Dog to exhibit at IAAPA Expo for the first time in five years


The 2022 edition of IAAPA will see experience and attraction design firm Scruffy Dog return to the trade show floor for the first time since 2017

IAAPA names Jakob Wahl president and CEO


IAAPA has appointed Jakob Wahl as its new president and CEO. Wahl will assume the role at the beginning of 2023

Simworx to launch Pegasus flying theatre at IAAPA Expo


The dynamic media-based attractions specialist will showcase the attraction alongside its new Overdrive concept at the IAAPA Expo in Orlando, Florida

Four industry legends to be inducted into IAAPA Hall of Fame


Industry legends Joan Ganz Cooney, Xavier Lopez Ancona, Darrell Metzger and Dennis Speigel are all set to be inducted into IAAPA’s prestigious Hall of Fame at this month’s IAAPA Expo

Triotech to reveal new attraction, project and ride content at this year’s IAAPA Expo


The immersive attractions designer will unveil details of its new attraction, new project and new ride content throughout this year’s IAAPA Expo, which takes place at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando in November

Bear Grylls set to join cruise operator Cunard on Alaska voyage


Cunard has announced its 2023 Insights enrichment programme, with adventurer Bear Grylls taking centre stage for the operator’s maiden 2023 voyage to Alaska

WATCH: Exploring IAAPA Expo Europe with ParkSpill, Jack Silkstone and Kieran Adams


Following a special panel session featuring some of the UK’s top theme park content creators, Planet Attractions joined Jack Silkstone, Sean and Jo Dyer, and Kieran Adams as they explored this year’s IAAPA Expo Europe in London

Frozen fun for Blizzard Beach as Disney announces Florida waterpark's November reopening


Disney World’s Blizzard Beach waterpark will reopen to the public next month with new Frozen additions following a lengthy refurbishment

Gateway names Joe Marshall new managing director for United Kingdom


Gateway Ticketing Systems has appointed Joe Marshall to lead the company’s UK operations

Fifa World Cup boosts Gulf tourism as Qatar prepares for global spectacle


Flight bookings to Qatar and the UAE are currently 10 times higher than pre-pandemic levels ahead of this winter’s FIFA World Cup

WATCH: Meet Convious’s managing director for the UK & Ireland, Andy Povey


Convious showcased its digital engagement platform at this year’s IAAPA Expo Europe. The company’s managing director for the UK & Ireland, Andy Povey, tells Planet Attractions about everything the company has to offer

WATCH: Meet Mather & Co’s new managing director, Kim Kherlopian


Leading experience designers Mather & Co have named Kim Kherlopian as the company’s new managing director. Planet Attractions caught up with him at this year’s IAAPA Expo Europe to find out more

Industry experts name iconic attractions ahead of special IAAPA webcast


Ahead of a special industry panel looking at iconic attractions, experts from WhiteWater have named their personal picks, explaining why they think their choice is an iconic attraction

Holland America Line partners with Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation for 150th-anniversary celebration


Cruise operator Holland America Line is celebrating 150 years with the announcement of a partnership with the Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation

Kings Island’s Adventure Port set for 2023 debut


Ohio’s Kings Island theme park will introduce Adventure Port, its newest themed area, in 2023. The themed land will feature several attractions and enhanced theming on a classic rollercoaster

WATCH: Meet IAAPA’s president and CEO Hal McEvoy


IAAPA’s president and CEO, Hal McEvoy spoke to Planet Attractions about this year’s IAAPA Expo Europe, the industry’s post-Covid recovery, his retirement plans and more

Zeitgeist develops haunted houses for Hersheypark’s Dark Nights event


Creative firm Zeitgeist Design and Production is behind three of this year’s haunted houses at Hersheypark’s Halloween spectacular Dark Nights

WATCH: Meet WhiteWater’s chief marketing officer Una de Boer


WhiteWater brings a strong presence to each and every IAAPA Expo. The company’s chief marketing officer, Una de Boer, tells Planet Attractions about everything the company has to offer

Paul Kent to lead global business development at Mad Systems


Industry veteran Paul Kent has been named as VP of global business development at Mad Systems

Sony’s world-first theme and waterpark opens to the public in Thailand


A world-first theme and waterpark utilising Sony IPs has opened its doors in Pattaya, Thailand

Rising energy costs could pose more of a threat to UK museum sector than Covid, Museums Association warns


UK museums are struggling to meet skyrocketing energy bills, with the energy crisis posing a higher threat to the sector than the Covid-19 pandemic

Wildfires cause ‘irreparable’ damage to Easter Island’s famous statues


A wildfire on Easter Island which could have been started deliberately has caused ‘irreparable’ damage to the Unesco World Heritage Site’s iconic moai head statues

Clearwater Marine Aquarium set to debut new Manatee Springs exhibition


Clearwater Marine Aquarium has debuted a new manatee exhibit to inform guests about the threats the species faces as well as the work being carried out by various groups to protect them

WATCH: Meet AVIXA’s regional manager, UK and Ireland, Ben Barnard


AVIXA produces a number of popular events around the world, including InfoComm and Integrated Systems Europe. The organisation's regional manager for the UK and Ireland, Ben Barnard, spoke to Planet Attractions

Cultural sites damaged in Ukrainian capital in latest wave of Russian attacks against country


Russia’s lethal barrage of strikes against Ukrainian cities this week has seen a number of cultural sites in the capital of Kyiv hit

Icon Park’s Orlando FreeFall to be taken down following death


The world’s tallest freestanding drop tower will be dismantled in Orlando following the death of a 14-year-old boy on the ride

WATCH: Meet IAAPA’s director of global communications Caitlin Dineen


IAAPA’s director, Global Communications, Caitlin Dineen, spoke to Planet Attractions at this year’s IAAPA Expo Europe about her new role and what goes into putting on an event of such magnitude

Natural History Museum partners with National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine to help save historic artworks


Researchers from the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine and London’s Natural History Museum have discovered the cause of damage to several medieval murals in a Unesco World Heritage site in Ukraine

RWS to produce live entertainment at IAAPA Expo


The entertainment group will provide full creative and production services for all live entertainment at this year’s IAAPA Expo

WATCH: Paradise Wildlife Park recruits The Pool Guy to boost social media presence


Holla at your boy for the zoo work - Paradise Wildlife Park recently turned to professional pool cleaner turned social media influencer Miles Laflin - aka The Pool Guy - to clean the zoo’s animal pools

Louvre turns the lights out amid spiralling energy costs


The Louvre is among a number of French cultural institutions and landmarks turning their lights off in an attempt to cut soaring energy costs

WATCH: Meet Spree Interactive CEO and co-founder Jonathan Nowak Delgado


Family-friendly active free-roam VR experiences provider Spree Interactive showcased its technology at this year’s IAAPA Expo Europe. Co-founder and CEO Jonathan Nowak Delgado spoke to Planet Attractions at the show

Disney legends set to come together to celebrate 40 years of Epcot


A panel of industry legends will share their stories about the creation and evolution of Disney’s Epcot at this year’s IAAPA Expo in Orlando, Florida

WATCH: Meet Katapult’s creative strategist Kelly Herrick


Katapult brought its entire team down to this year’s IAAPA Expo Europe in London. The company’s creative strategist, Kelly Herrick, spoke to Planet Attractions

Into Overdrive: Inside the innovative new dark ride from Simworx


Simworx has partnered with Katapult to develop a new dark ride offering an adrenaline-fuelled car chase. Simworx CEO Terry Monkton and lead creative Matt Clarkson spoke with Planet Attractions about the exciting new project

WATCH: Meet Vantage president Michael Jungen


Vantage announced the launch of The Joy Economy at this year’s IAAPA Expo Europe. Planet Attractions spoke to the Whitewater division’s new president, Michael Jungen, about the campaign and what he hopes to deliver with the technology

Hurricane Ian set to hit Florida as theme parks prepare for ‘storm of the century’


As Florida prepares for the arrival of Hurricane Ian, here’s how the state’s theme parks are handling the situation

WATCH: Meet Conductr CEO and co-founder Peter Cliff


Experiential design collective Conductr made its first appearance at an IAAPA show this year as part of the Experience UK stand in London. Planet Attractions spoke to co-founder and CEO Peter Cliff about the start-up and its plans for the future

HB Leisure on recruitment drive as business grows globally


With sizeable business growth and the need for new team members, HB Leisure has embarked on a recruitment drive, with the company aiming to expand its workforce in multiple locations worldwide

Alton Towers, Flamingo Land and Drayton Manor pick up top accolades in UK Theme Park Awards 2022


More than 200,000 people have voted in this year’s UK Theme Park Awards 2022 with Alton Towers, Flamingo Land, Drayton Manor and more coming out with some of the top accolades

Triotech announces major partnership with Puy du Fou Asia


Triotech has landed a deal with Puy du Fou Asia that will see the dynamic attractions specialist supply several attractions to the upcoming SAGA attraction in Shanghai

Paddy Dunning announces worldwide locations for ‘The Giant’


The Giant - a mammoth moving attraction and exhibition - is coming to a city near you

IAAPA Expo Europe makes triumphant return, with 30 percent more attendees than 2021 event


IAAPA Expo Europe saw a 30% increase in attendees to its 2022 show in London, compared to its previous year in Barcelona

BoldMove to showcase AR Hybrid Quest attraction at IAAPA Expo Europe


BoldMove will offer attendees a close-up look at its AR Hybrid Quest attraction

Everything you need to know about IAAPA Expo Europe 2022


IAAPA Expo Europe is coming to London this September. Here’s everything you need to know about the event

A new take on dark rides: Ernest Yale and Nol van Genuchten on OCT’s game-changing walkthrough attraction from Triotech


OCT Group has debuted a first-of-its-kind attraction at its new Fabland Valley Resort in China. Triotech’s Ernest Yale and Nol van Genuchten speak to Planet Attractions about the exciting new multi-path dark ride, how it came to be and what it could mean for future attractions

WhiteWater to showcase Icon Tower at IAAPA Expo Europe


WhiteWater is set to offer attendees a first look at its record-breaking Icon Tower at this year’s IAAPA Expo Europe

Attractions across the world pay tribute to Queen Elizabeth II following her death


The attractions community has been sharing stories of the profound impact Queen Elizabeth II had on some of Britain’s most beloved institutions, paying tribute to the monarch following her death, aged 96

Meet the team behind IAAPA Expo Europe


Planet Attractions recently travelled to meet the team behind IAAPA Expo Europe - the EMEA region’s largest trade show for the attractions industry. Here’s what to expect from this year’s show.

Convious to demonstrate full capabilities of eCommerce platform on rocket ship booth at IAAPA Expo Europe


Convious will recreate the guest experience to showcase the full capabilities of its cloud-based sales and marketing solution with an interactive, rocket ship-themed booth

National Museum of Brazil completes first phase of restoration following catastrophic 2018 fire


Progress slow and hampered by financial woes, but museum soldiers on with hopes of a full reopening in 2027

Guests can now enjoy different experiences on the same ride at the same time thanks to new TiO innovation from Holovis


Holovis has created an innovative two-in-one system that supports the delivery of two different media or real-time interactive experiences simultaneously within the same ride or attraction

Busch Gardens Williamsburg preparing storm-themed adventure indoor ride DarKoaster


Riders will face stormy weather and supernatural mysteries on this Intamin launch coaster

Bean-tastic: JRA redevelops Bush’s Visitor Center Museum


JRA has revitalised Bush's Visitor Center Museum in Tennessee, celebrating the brand’s history and all things bean with an all-new guest experience

accesso promises to ‘showcase the future of mobile’ at IAAPA Expo Europe


accesso is set to showcase what it calls ‘the future of mobile consumer engagement’ at this year’s IAAPA Expo Europe, with expanded solutions designed to help operators connect, engage and build loyalty with visitors

Alterface unveils new Action League theme designs ahead of IAAPA Expo Europe


Alterface has revealed new theming and media packages for its award-winning Action League dark ride

Passengers on new MSC cruise liner set for high-octane Robotron ride


The kind of robotic technology seen at theme park rides worldwide will soon be available to cruise passengers out at sea

Improvements continue at Oregon’s aquarium with addition of jellyfish exhibit


The 30-year-old Newport aquarium is also restoring and renovating its indoor exhibits and coffee shop

FORREC to showcase new projects at IAAPA Expo Europe


Experience design firm FORREC will be on hand to discuss several of its high-profile projects, including the new Legoland Korea Resort, at this year’s IAAPA Expo Europe

Community-focused children’s museum central to Queens’ gallery expansion


The US$69m addition furthers the Queens Museum mission to bring arts and education to a diverse and international community

PortAventura set to build solar farm to provide the theme park with green energy


The multi-million-euros project will enable PortAventura to get one-third of its annual energy from clean electricity, and should be ready to power the park by the end of the year

Museum of Ice Cream’s fifth location opens its doors in Shanghai


As well as multi-sensory, playful and colourful installations, the attraction has a café, bar and retail store

Attractions.io to showcase new wayfinding features at IAAPA Expo Europe


Attractions.io is adding a new feature to its mobile platform with the company set to showcase its new for 2022 wayfinding solution at this year’s IAAPA Expo Europe

Defining moment: ICOM Prague Conference approves new museum definition


Changes to the 2007 definition of a museum reflect industry’s more inclusive and sustainable aims and roles

Immersive attraction dedicated to Prince opens in Chicago


An immersive experience celebrating the life and music of rock legend Prince has opened in Chicago

FORREC partners with Sun Group to develop entertainment projects in Vietnam


FORREC and Sun Group have formed a long-term strategic partnership to develop world-class tourism projects in Vietnam

Generation Hope: London’s Natural History Museum launches programme encouraging climate action


The Natural History Museum’s Generation Hope: Act for the Planet programme will offer a series of free in-person and online events aimed at young people to help drive positive change for the planet

Triotech to present new standing theatre attraction and announce major European theme park project at IAAPA Expo Europe


Media-based attractions specialist Triotech will showcase a new stand-up flying theatre attraction and announce a major European theme park project at this year’s IAAPA Expo Europe

Building work begins on Shanghai’s new museum devoted to literature


Hongkou attraction to honour city’s avant-garde literary movement of the 1920s and its respected authors

Ambassador Cruise Line’s Ambition chartered to house Ukranian refugees in Scotland


With an influx of Ukranian refugees threatening to overwhelm available housing in Scotland, the government has announced plans to accommodate up to 1,750 people onboard Ambassador Cruise Line’s Ambition on a temporary basis

Simworx to showcase new ride concepts at IAAPA Expo Europe


The dynamic media-based attractions specialist will showcase several new ride concepts at IAAPA Expo Europe

The world’s first ‘Amazement Park’: Wake the Tiger’s Graham MacVoy on Bristol’s newest immersive attraction


Blurring the lines between an experiential art gallery, interactive theme park and detailed film set, Wake the Tiger is a new attraction that just opened its doors in Bristol, UK. We spoke to co-founder Graham MacVoy about the new attraction, dubbed the world’s first ‘Amazement Park’

Rollercoaster crash at Legoland Germany leaves 30 injured


More than 30 people have been injured after two rollercoaster trains crashed into each other at Legoland Germany

RWS to showcase full capabilities at IAAPA Expo Europe following key multi-national acquisitions


RWS Entertainment Group will showcase its capabilities as a full-service provider of visitor attractions and experiences at this year’s IAAPA Expo Europe following two major acquisitions

Carnival to cut fleetwide emissions by 500,000 metric tons with new sustainability initiative


Carnival’s new sustainability plan will cut its emissions by 500,000 metric tons per year and save US$150m annually in fuel costs

Merlin’s ‘next generation’ of Lego Discovery Centre coming to three US locations


Merlin has announced that three of its ‘next generation’ Lego Discovery Centres are coming to the US in 2023

Earnings reports: SeaWorld, Cedar Fair and Universal all soar in the face of Covid-19


SeaWorld, Cedar Fair and Universal have all experienced strong second quarters with the operators also revealing some hints as to what’s coming for each in the near future

Harry Potter Forbidden Forest experience coming to the US


A light trail inspired by the iconic forest from the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beast franchises will open in the US in October

Robotic plant powered by data from Natural History Museum will wilt or grow based on society’s choices over biodiversity


A new art installation powered by data from London’s Natural History Museum will provide an ever-changing visual representation of how society’s choices impact the natural world

Tate names Carmel Allen its new managing director


Carmel Allen has been named the new managing director of Tate

Planet Attractions to host influencer panel at IAAPA Expo Europe


Planet Attractions is set to be joined by some of the UK’s top content creators this September for a special panel session to be held at IAAPA Expo Europe in London

Mather develops visitor experience for hydroelectric scheme on Scotland’s River Ness


Mather & Co has developed the visitor experience for Hydro Ness - a new hydro scheme in Scotland on the River Ness that generates renewable energy using an Archimedes Screw

British Museum proposes ‘Parthenon partnership’ with Greece over Elgin Marbles


The British Museum has proposed a ‘Parthenon partnership’ that could see the Parthenon Marbles - also known as the Elgin Marbles - returned to Greece for the first time in more than 200 years

Big Cat Public Safety Act passes the US House of Representatives


A change in the law will see private ownership of big cats in the US banned, putting an end to possession of tigers, lions and other big cat species except by qualified entities

The Weeknd is debuting a haunted house at Universal's Halloween Horror Nights


Michael Myers, Dracula and now The Weeknd will be offering the scares at this year’s Halloween Horror Nights, with the Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter set to debut an all-new horror experience

Hunt begins for IAAPA’s new president and CEO


IAAPA is on the hunt for its new president and CEO with a global search now underway to find a replacement for the outgoing Hal McEvoy

London’s Natural History Museum launches fundraising campaign for free-to-visit green space


Fundraising has started for the Natural History Museum’s Urban Nature Project, a scheme which will allow the museum to turn its five-acre site into a free-to-visit educational outdoor space

Some handy tips to get waterpark operators through the busiest time of year


As we enter the busiest time of the year for most waterpark operators, the team at WhiteWater has offered some tips to ensure the season runs smoothly

Ben Dowson to lead creative division at Conductr


Experiential design collective Conductr has appointed Ben Dowson to oversee the company’s creative division

Everything you need to know about Shark Week


Shark Week is back for 2022 and Planet Attractions has taken a deep dive to find a collection of shark-related content that you can take in during the event

Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage reopens at Disneyland following year-long refurbishment


Disneyland’s Finding Nemo attraction has undergone a complete renovation, with the new attraction reopening to the public after a year-long closure

MagicBand+ technology set for July 27 launch at Walt Disney World


Disney is about to launch its upgraded MagicBand+, with the wearable technology offering a host of new features for visitors

Merlin and Coca-Cola partner for guest recycling reward initiative


Merlin Entertainments has partnered with Coca-Cola to offer exclusive experiences to guests who recycle their used plastic bottles at Merlin attractions

Projection mapping market to be worth US$8bn by 2030


The projection mapping market could be worth as much as US$8bn according to a new report on the technology

Smithsonian acquires decks from pro skaters Jason Lee and Chris Pastras


Former pro skateboarders Jason Lee and Chris Pastras have donated personal skateboarding memorabilia to The Smithsonian to be a part of its sports history collection

Parthenon Marbles replica carved by AI to go on display in London


Detailed replicas of the controversial Elgin or Parthenon Marbles, created by a robot, will soon go on display in London

Inclusivity for all: Six Flags introduces special restraints for disabled guests


Six Flags is offering improved access for its guests with physical disabilities with a specialised restraint harness that allows them to experience rides they would otherwise be unable to

UK’s record-breaking heatwave forces closure of Chester Zoo


The heatwave currently cooking the UK has forced the closure of one of Europe’s most visited zoos

From The Community: Climbing Colossus, Holiday World and Disney’s Dole Whip Day


Rounding up all the biggest news from fans and influencers, here is your latest edition of From the Community from Planet Attractions

‘We're the industry of fun and it's time to have fun again’: Peter van der Schans on IAAPA EMEA, industry challenges and what to expect at this year’s IAAPA Expo Europe


Planet Attractions travelled to Belgium recently to meet Peter van der Schans, IAAPA’s new executive director and vice president for the Europe, Middle East, and Africa region. Here’s what he had to say

National Galleries of Scotland X-ray uncovers hidden Van Gogh self-portrait


Art conservators at the National Galleries of Scotland have discovered a hidden self-portrait of Van Gogh on the back of another of the artist’s works during an X-ray

Shakespeare North: £38m playhouse set to rival London’s Globe Theatre


A £38m cultural development in the north of England is set to open its doors this weekend, with the debut of the astonishing Shakespeare North Playhouse in Prescot

Avengers Campus unveiled at Disneyland Paris ahead public grand opening


The Avengers have assembled, this time in Paris for the launch of Avengers Campus at Disneyland Paris with stars Brie Larson, Pom Klementieff and Iman Vellani (and even Bob Chapek) all on-hand for the spectacular opening event



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