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Saudi Arabia’s mega-investment into its tourism and attractions industry continues with the kingdom announcing plans to open a world-first Dragon Ball theme park in Qiddiya City


Mattel has announced plans to build a second US theme park, with Kansas set to feature attractions inspired by Barbie, Hot Wheels, Thomas & Friends and more


Universal Orlando is launching its new DreamWorks Land this summer with attractions including a Trolls coaster, Shrek’s Swamp and an interactive Kung Fu Panda experience. Here’s everything that will feature...


McDonald’s is bringing its manga counterpart to life with its new ‘WcDonald's’ campaign introducing an immersive dining experience among other anime-themed products


WWE is offering the ‘ultimate’ five-day fan experience during the week of this year’s Wrestlemania, with WWE World offering a host of immersive experiences, exhibits and interactions this April


Fans of My Neighbor Totoro will finally get the chance to ride the iconic Catbus for real starting next month when a fleet of special vehicles make their debut at Japan’s Ghibli Park


John Wick is the latest major IP to be announced for Las Vegas’s immersive entertainment district Area15, with the new experience taking visitors inside the world of the franchise as they navigate their own high-stakes action adventure


Legendary professional wrestler Triple H has shared a first look at The Undertaker’s Graveyard Escape - an attraction coming to the all new WWE Experience, set to open this week in Riyadh


Two Vekoma coasters coming to Warner Bros Movie World’s upcoming Wizard of Oz themed land have been named after new details about the new land were unveiled by the park


Legoland’s upcoming Minifigure Speedway is taking shape ahead of its opening later this year, with the record-breaking ‘Roxie’ now in place as the ride’s centrepiece


Triotech and BoldMove have jointly announced the launch of the new Smash and Reload Maxi dark ride product alongside a new IP - Voodoo Festival


Warner Bros Discovery and Paramount are in preliminary talks to merge the two companies. Here’s what such a deal could mean for the attractions industry


The game changing Epic Universe has been dubbed Universal’s ‘most ambitious theme park yet’, with the operator offering a first official look at its fourth Orlando gate


The Caribbean island of St Vincent is eyeing cruise visitors for a major new theme park based on the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise


Merlin, Lego and Hasbro are teaming up to create new Duplo theme visitor experiences based on the Peppa Pig IP


Tom Hanks is bringing visitors to the moon and back with a new immersive experience co-written by the actor currently on show at London’s Lightroom


A cultural attraction dedicated to China’s Great Wall will become a national museum when it reopens in 2025 following an extensive renovation


A new visitor attraction dedicated to Manchester City has opened its doors in Abu Dhabi, with the new City Challenge offering visitors a chance to show off their footballing skills through a range of immersive experiences


A major new addition is coming to Japan’s Yomiuriland, with the operator announcing plans to develop a nature-based Pokémon theme park at its home in Tokyo


Legendary rock band Kiss have promised to ‘change music performance history’, after unveiling their own digital avatars and announcing a special stage show working with the likes of Thierry Coup, Industrial Light & Magic, and Pophouse Entertainment Group


You can now pass beyond the doors of the Hobbiton Movie set in New Zealand, with director Sir Peter Jackson behind the development of two ‘83% human size’ Hobbit holes for visitors to explore


Disney’s first fully-themed Frozen land is now open at Hong Kong Disneyland, with World of Frozen the latest offering in major expansion of the company’s park portfolio


Kids Industries has created a range of immersive experiences such as Legoland’s Lego Mythica: World of Mythical Creatures. Its CEO, Gary Pope, shares his thoughts on the arrival of Netflix’s recently-launched ‘Squid Game: The Challenge’ and how this reflects on the growing LBE market


Formula 1 and Tottenham Hotspur are joining forces to deliver a first-of-its-kind karting experience that will allow people of all abilities to feel as though they are part of an F1 Grand Prix


The Messi Experience - an immersive visitor attraction dedicated to global footballing megastar Lionel Messi - will open its doors in Miami in April next year


A new free-roaming immersive Angry Birds experience has made its debut, with the Pigvasion sending players on a mission to recover stolen eggs from some villainous pigs


Bing and Flop will continue to appear at Gulliver’s theme parks until at least 2025, with the operator announcing an extension to its popular partnership with series producer Acamar films


Seattle Aquarium is promising comic mischief following the launch of an Animal Crossing exhibit at the popular attraction with the Nintendo partnership running through to the end of the year


Record numbers of retailers and visitors from France, Germany, Italy and Spain were in attendance at this year’s Brand Licensing Europe (BLE), with this year’s event placing special emphasis on location based entertainment (LBE).


The 2023 edition of the Brand Licensing Expo is to host a new location-based entertainment trail offering special events in partnership with several major brands and IP


RWS Global will in attendance at this year’s IAAPA Expo Europe to discuss major projects including the opening of the Hasbro City FEC, as well as several cruise line and resort partnerships


The Pokémon Company has announced an unusual collaboration that will see the popular Pokémon IP arrive at the Vincent Van Gogh Museum for a special event


The Disney Treasure cruise ship will set sail at the end of next year, with Disney unveiling its latest offering in a rapid expansion of its popular cruise operation


A world-first SpongeBob interactive dark ride is coming to Las Vegas’s Circus Circus, with Sally Dark Rides behind the US$6m development


Path Entertainment Group and Hasbro recently worked together to produce a world-first immersive Monopoly experience. Path CEO David Hutchinson shares all with Planet Attractions


An exhibition inspired by hit-series Derry Girls has drawn a record number of visitors to Londonderry’s Tower Museum


A new immersive land, dedicated to Illumination’s Minions and Despicable Me franchises, has opened at the Universal Orlando Resort in Florida, US


The Gunpowder Plot is a multilayered immersive experience set at the Tower of London. Planet Attractions spoke to the team behind the development to see exactly how it came to life...


A new Peppa Pig-themed visitor experience has opened at the Natural History Museum in London, UK


The upcoming Mattel Adventure Park is set to open in 2024 with several attractions dedicated to several IPs including Barbie and Hot Wheels


Work is set to start on Bali’s highly-anticipated Paramount theme park, with the major development representing the largest of its kind for the Indonesian tourist destination


A new immersive experience showcasing the work of French impressionist painter Claude Monet is coming to London, UK


Japan’s Ghibli Park has confirmed the opening dates for Mononoke Village and Valley of Witches with the areas set to open in late 2023 and early 2024


Universal has revealed a first look at its upcoming Stranger Things experience ahead of its Halloween Horror Nights event


Marvel’s ‘Rogers: The Musical’ has been brought to life with a limited time run of the musical seen in Hawkeye now on show at Disney California Adventure Park


Paradise Wildlife Park has welcomed KSI and The Sidemen to the animal attraction for a viral game of hide and seek


Warner Bros and Neon are working in collaboration to develop a new contemporary art experience based on the world of Harry Potter


The Smurfs are making their way to the US in the form of an immersive touring location-based experience set to make its debut in 2024


Lionel Messi is about to get his own touring attraction, with ‘The Messi Experience, A Dream Come True’ set to debut in the US in 2024


A replica of Barbie’s Malibu Dreamhouse has been listed on vacation rental site Airbnb ahead of the release of the highly-anticipated Barbie movie


All of Us Are Dead will be the first Korean horror series to make its way to a Universal park, after being announced for this year’s Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Singapore


The PIF-owned Red Sea Global has been announced as the sponsor of the Al-Ahli Football Club, also owned by PIF, in Saudi Arabia’s Saudi Pro League


Morph has arrived in London for a wheelchair accessible public art trail, with the event to run until August in an effort to raise money for the children’s charity Whizz Kidz


Location-based experiences are taking centre stage at this year’s Brand Licensing Europe event, which is now open for registration ahead of its return to London’s ExCeL in October


The Last of Us is the first major new IP to be announced for this year’s Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios


A new visitor experience inspired by beloved British soap opera Coronation Street has opened in Manchester, UK


BBC Studios is to launch a collection of immersive experiences on metaverse platform; The Sandbox later this year


Build-A-Bear is on the hunt for new partners in locations offering family experiences, with the company announcing a new partnership to bring its Workshops to all four of Kalahari’s US waterpark resort destinations


Triotech has been selected to supply interactive dark rides for Saudi Arabia’s upcoming Transformers attractions


Merlin’s Scott O’Neil and Sony’s Jeffrey Godsick have hinted at the use of further Sony IPs in Merlin attractions following the launch of World of Jumanji at Chessington World of Adventures in the UK


Disney has announced that its Star Wars Galactic Starcruise experience will cease operations permanently in September 2023 after only 18 months


Universal Orlando has revealed details and renderings of its upcoming Minion Land, with the hotly-anticipated attraction set to open to the public this summer


Universal Studios Japan has announced the closure of The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man: The Ride, with the attraction to cease operations permanently in early 2024


Disney Imagineering has shared a sneak peek at its first-ever Frozen rollercoaster, which is currently under construction at Hong Kong Disneyland


A major Transformers attraction is planned for Seven’s upcoming entertainment destination in Riyadh, with plans for two further attractions in the kingdom as Saudi Arabia’s PIF continues to expand its entertainment offerings


Ahead of the launch of SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, SeaWorld CEO Marc Swanson has said the company would look at domestic licensing or joint venture projects should the ‘right opportunity’ present itself


Europe’s answer to the Velocicoaster has its opening date, with the highly-anticipated Batman-themed Gotham City Escape set to launch on May 13


An official location tour dedicated to hit BBC series ‘Call the Midwife’ has opened at The Historic Dockyard Chatham in Kent, UK


A new blockbuster exhibition based on hit CBBC show Operation Ouch! will open at the Science and Industry Museum (SIM) in Manchester, UK, in July


Sega Sammy Holdings has agreed a deal to acquire Rovio, with Sega aiming to accelerate its mobile gaming capabilities while also acquiring a powerful IP in the world of entertainment


The 50th anniversary of Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon is being celebrated with a special show taking place at 100 planetariums worldwide


The highly-anticipated Tron/Lightcycle Run rollercoaster will open today (April 4) at Disney’s Magic Kingdom. The ride was originally scheduled to open in 2021 but experienced several setbacks due to the Covid-19 pandemic


The highly-anticipated Katmandu Park Punta Cana has opened in the Dominican Republic. Developed by Falcon’s Beyond, the park features cutting-edge rides and attractions themed around the company’s ‘The Hidden Realms of Katmandu’ IP


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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 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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


An official stage production based on Stranger Things is in the works after the series became Netflix’s first English-language show to be viewed for more than one billion hours


The Disney Wish will soon set sail with visitors on board following a special christening event in Port Canaveral, Florida


Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights 2022 will see the debut of a new Mummy as fans await the reopening of iconic Revenge of the Mummy attraction


The new Finding Nemo production opened at Animal Kingdom in early June and features a new script and set design


With Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind now open at Walt Disney World, Disney has released a behind-the-scenes look at how the attraction and its special scenes have been brought to life


Universal has revealed the return of Michael Myers for this year’s Halloween Horror Nights, with the iconic slasher set to deliver the frights for the always popular horror spectacular


Is Kanye West planning to enter the attractions realm?


Launching this summer, Stranger Things: The Experience is the result of a partnership between Netflix and live-entertainment discovery platform Fever


Returning this Autumn, Disney Cruise Line’s Halloween on the High Seas will include new one-of-a-kind Halloween experiences


The new Gruffalo Discovery Land at Twycross Zoo opened to the public in April. Lauren Heath-Jones paid a visit to The Deep Dark Wood to find out more


You can finally be a Barbie girl in a Barbie world with World of Barbie - a brand new immersive touring attraction set to make its debut later this year in Toronto


The iconic Nerf brand will gain its first themed land in its 53-year history with the debut of a new attraction coming to Brazil’s Beto Carrero World in 2023


Honor of Kings, Minions and Jurassic World are all set to feature in a range of new themed experiences coming to Universal Beijing this year


Cityneon, Disney Location-Based Experiences and Lightstorm Entertainment have collaborated to develop an all-new Avatar attraction coming to Singapore’s Gardens by the Bay later this year


Starting this June you’ll be able to find the Wizarding World’s Fantastic Beasts at the Royal Ontario Museum, with the popular Natural History Museum exhibition set to embark on the first leg of its world tour


You CAN talk about Bruno at Disneyland this spring, with the multi-Platinum-certified song set to take over the iconic It’s a Small World ride as part of an Encanto celebration


Walkman’s at the ready, Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind finally has its launch date, with the Vekoma reverse launch coaster set to make its debut in May.


Warwick Castle will soon be home to a Zog-themed playland, with the popular IP set to arrive at the heritage attraction in April


Sesame Place San Diego is set to open next month, with the location set to include an interactive Sesame Street Neighbourhood along with themed attractions


Twycross Zoo is set to launch a new attraction in the spring, with the UK’s first Gruffalo Discovery Land being developed to ‘inspire the next generation of conservationists’


Fans will experience Game of Thrones like never before, with the ‘ground-breaking’ attraction featuring authentic sets, costumes and props used in the show’s production


Merlin’s popular Legoland Discovery Centres have undergone a rebranding and reimagination, with the first Lego Discovery Centre coming to Belgium this summer


The first phase of the long-awaited Ghibli Park in Japan will open in November 2022 with a themed land inspired by the studio’s My Neighbor Totoro animation


Merlin has announced its acquisition of Cadbury World in the UK, reaching an agreement with Mondelez International to take over the iconic chocolate attraction


With so many big things coming in the year ahead, we’ve rounded up all the key events taking place this year. Welcome to your attractions calendar for 2022.


Disney Animation has revealed that parts of Encanto were inspired by dark rides, leading to fans calling for the smash hit to get its own attraction at Epcot


The Avengers are leading the way for Disneyland Paris’ 30th-anniversary celebrations, with the rest of the Disney gang not too far behind in an exciting year for the French attraction


Set to premiere in 2023, Pixar Day at Sea is a brand new voyage from the Disney Cruise Line, with the exclusive event coming to the operator’s Disney Fantasy ship next January


A pair of highly anticipated John Wick and Now You See Me attractions are making their way to MOTIONGATE at Dubai Parks and Resorts. Planet Attractions spoke to FORREC’s Eric O’Rourke about the record-breaking new additions


Martin Luther King Jr’s original ‘I have a dream’ speech is now on display at the National Museum of African American History and Culture, which is open in observance of Martin Luther King Jr day


A Peter Rabbit attraction will be making its way to the UK in 2022, with an all-new experience from Merlin set to add to the operators growing portfolio on the Blackpool seafront


The Grinch might have stolen Christmas but apparently he did while looking good


The show has been exclusively developed for the Disney Wish and will feature a reimagined script and score


Alterface, Storyland and Studios Occitanie are collaborating with the video game company on the project, which is slated to open in 2025


The Ferrari Experience comprises immersive simulator rides, an eSports adrenaline hub and an exclusive themed dining experience


Eleven major new ride attractions to open at waterparks and theme parks in 2022 – the most “significant and exciting lineup” in SeaWorld history


The six-zone Paramount Film and Television Park is part of a US$8 billion tourism development and is expected to open in Yunnan province in 2024


The three-part zone, opening next spring, allows guests to get creative as they design and build their own Lego cars and take part in a virtual race


The K-pop music arena plans to host some 190 concerts per year


A new Stranger Things-themed retail experience will feature immersive photo opportunities, exclusive merchandise and an in-store arcade


Paul Rudd, Evangeline Lily, Anthony Mackie, Brie Larson and more have lent their talents to the Disney Cruise Line’s upcoming Marvel Experience


Disneyland is getting its first movie with Halloween’s David Gordon Green lined up to direct the origin story of origin stories


The team behind Universal Studios’ iconic Horror Nights in Singapore has launched an exhibition exploring what goes into planning the horrifying event.


Pokémon is set to make its mark at Universal Studios Japan following a landmark deal to bring the popular IP to the park starting in 2022


Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure is the main feature of the expanded French pavilion which will make its debut next month to kickstart Disney World’s 50th-anniversary celebrations


King’s Cross’ Platform 9 ¾ installation will tour four major UK train stations to celebrate the twentieth anniversary of the first Harry Potter film


The US$1.08bn Legoland Shenzhen Resort is Merlin’s latest - and largest - venture in the Chinese market


The self-guided Mr. Men Little Miss Discovery Trail takes visitors through the museum’s permanent collection of Mr. Men and Little Miss memorabilia


ZSL London Zoo will host several family-friendly, Bing-themed activities, free to its visitors throughout the Autumn


The Lego Pop & Play Tour will feature several activity stations inspired by different Lego IPs


Netflix’s The Haunting of Hill House is set to make its theme park debut at Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Orlando


Donkey Kong could soon be making his theme park debut after reports suggest Nintendo and Universal have big plans for the popular franchise


He’s fast, he’s blue and he might just be coming to an attraction near you. Here are Sega’s attractions plans for Sonic the Hedgehog in 2022 and beyond


Disney has brought Marvel to life like never before with the launch of Avengers Campus at Disneyland California Adventure


The National Air and Space Museum’s US$250m transformation continues with one of Star Wars’ X-Wings set to go on display outside the Albert Einstein Planetarium


Take a look at what Avengers Campus cast members will be wearing ahead of its public launch on June 4


Godzilla the Ride: Great Kaiju Decisive Dominance Battle will be the signature attraction for Seibu-en’s new 1960s-themed Showa land


Twitter user HelmsmanFreddy appears to have discovered the secretive fictional nation of Wakanda in Disneyland’s new expansion plans


They might well be playing Jaja Ding Dong at the new Eurovision Museum, coming to Húsavík, Iceland, later this year


Universal is rethinking elements of its Dr Seuss attractions after the book’s publisher removed number of titles from circulation


David Walliams’ children’s book is being brought to life at Alton Towers, which has offered a first look at the ride opening April 12


Marvel: Universe of Super Heroes is designed for diehard and casual fans alike


Rejoice preschoolers and parents - a Peppa Pig theme park is making its way to Florida


Build your own soap bottle droid with Imagine from Home


The resort will include a 260,000 sq ft water park and luxury themed suites


Raya and the Last Dragon is coming to Animal Kingdom, with new experiences including a 40-tonne sand sculpture and a behind-the-scenes look at the upcoming movie


Part of Universal’s new immersive world might not actually be a part of the Nintendo universe


Dippy22 has already built Toad’s Cafe and Peach’s Castle and, once completed, will release the park as a playable map


Former Sega CEO Tom Kalinske will be the first of the Strong Museum’s guests in its new ‘Cocktails with the Creators’ Zoom series


The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have won the Super Bowl, with Tom Brady and Rob Gronkowski punching their ticket to the happiest place on earth


The Utah theme park says the star’s latest album infringes on its trademark


All Aboard! This Nintendo-adorned train will ferry consumers to Universal’s Super Nintendo World when the new land opens in 2021


She usually serves clients such as Russell Brand, Demi Lovato and 50 Cent but now Maeve Reilly is turning her attentions to Mickey and Minnie for a new line of Disney merchandise


Spider-Man himself reveals all about his new dark ride attraction coming to Disneyland later this year


Despite an extremely challenging year, Disney has continued to give back to charities across the world


Imagineering veteran and founder of the Designer's Creative Studio, Theron Skees, reveals how to take a brand concept and transform it into a physical environment


Traditional audiences need to broaden their audiences and generate some much-need income by partnering with big-name IPs


Heigh Ho! Disney gives viewers a sneak peek at new Snow White dark ride


The popular Belgian IP will be the main focus of a brand-new media-led family attraction


And they lived happily ever after! Inside Jordan Fisher and Ellie Woods’ Disney World wedding



Joyeux Noël! Get in the holiday spirit with a performance of Mickey’s Magical Christmas Lights.


A new video offering a first glimpse at the ride vehicles for the new Jurassic World VelociCoaster has been released by Universal.


The opening date for the hotly-anticipated Super Nintendo World has been announced in a new video from Universal Studios Japan.


Disney’s strict costume rules at its parks led to a Disney fashion revolution. Lauren Heath-Jones finds out more.


Jordan Middleton explains how leveraging user-generated content can create more authentic and emotive marketing in the attractions world.


Lego has turned Rome’s historic colosseum into a 9,036-piece construction, which is now available to buy


A brand new Nickelodeon family entertainment centre is about to open its doors in Shenzhen, China. Planet Attractions spoke to China Leisure president, Linda Dong, about the upcoming project, the country’s FEC market and the importance of major IPs to developments in China

Industry insights



Spatial Sound, Immersive Audio: What is it and is it here to stay?




Video



WATCH: Steve Drake on accesso’s expanding portfolio

In Depth



Mundo Amazonia: Exploring Bellewaerde Park’s new themed area for 2024



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IP and brands | Planet Attractions
IP and brands

Saudi Arabia lands latest major IP with announcement of world-first Dragon Ball theme park


Saudi Arabia’s mega-investment into its tourism and attractions industry continues with the kingdom announcing plans to open a world-first Dragon Ball theme park in Qiddiya City

Mattel to open second theme park in Kansas in 2026


Mattel has announced plans to build a second US theme park, with Kansas set to feature attractions inspired by Barbie, Hot Wheels, Thomas & Friends and more

Everything set to feature inside Universal Orlando’s all-new DreamWorks Land opening this summer


Universal Orlando is launching its new DreamWorks Land this summer with attractions including a Trolls coaster, Shrek’s Swamp and an interactive Kung Fu Panda experience. Here’s everything that will feature...

McDonald’s to host immersive anime and manga dining experience as restaurant chain launches ‘WcDonald’s’ campaign


McDonald’s is bringing its manga counterpart to life with its new ‘WcDonald's’ campaign introducing an immersive dining experience among other anime-themed products

WWE announces five-day immersive visitor experience to coincide with WrestleMania 40


WWE is offering the ‘ultimate’ five-day fan experience during the week of this year’s Wrestlemania, with WWE World offering a host of immersive experiences, exhibits and interactions this April

Ghibli Park’s real-life ‘Catbus’ vehicles to debut in March


Fans of My Neighbor Totoro will finally get the chance to ride the iconic Catbus for real starting next month when a fleet of special vehicles make their debut at Japan’s Ghibli Park

John Wick the latest major addition to Area15 as new immersive experience announced for Las Vegas entertainment district


John Wick is the latest major IP to be announced for Las Vegas’s immersive entertainment district Area15, with the new experience taking visitors inside the world of the franchise as they navigate their own high-stakes action adventure

Triple H offers sneak peek at Undertaker’s Graveyard Escape as WWE Experience prepares to open


Legendary professional wrestler Triple H has shared a first look at The Undertaker’s Graveyard Escape - an attraction coming to the all new WWE Experience, set to open this week in Riyadh

Vekoma coasters coming to Warner Bros Movie World’s Wizard of Oz land named as new details revealed


Two Vekoma coasters coming to Warner Bros Movie World’s upcoming Wizard of Oz themed land have been named after new details about the new land were unveiled by the park

Legoland Windsor unveils world’s tallest Lego figure as upcoming coaster takes shape


Legoland’s upcoming Minifigure Speedway is taking shape ahead of its opening later this year, with the record-breaking ‘Roxie’ now in place as the ride’s centrepiece

Triotech and BoldMove introduce Smash and Reload Maxi alongside Voodoo Festival IP


Triotech and BoldMove have jointly announced the launch of the new Smash and Reload Maxi dark ride product alongside a new IP - Voodoo Festival

Paramount and Warner Bros Discovery continue to discuss a potential US$38bn merger - here’s what it could mean for the attractions industry


Warner Bros Discovery and Paramount are in preliminary talks to merge the two companies. Here’s what such a deal could mean for the attractions industry

‘Most ambitious theme park yet’: Harry Potter, Mario and more set to feature as Universal shares official first look at upcoming Epic Universe resort


The game changing Epic Universe has been dubbed Universal’s ‘most ambitious theme park yet’, with the operator offering a first official look at its fourth Orlando gate

Pirates of the Caribbean theme park planned for St Vincent


The Caribbean island of St Vincent is eyeing cruise visitors for a major new theme park based on the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise

Merlin, Lego and Hasbro team up to create Peppa Pig experiences


Merlin, Lego and Hasbro are teaming up to create new Duplo theme visitor experiences based on the Peppa Pig IP

Tom Hanks shares love of space with London’s immersive Moonwalkers experience


Tom Hanks is bringing visitors to the moon and back with a new immersive experience co-written by the actor currently on show at London’s Lightroom

China’s Great Wall Museum set to reopen in 2025 following major renovation


A cultural attraction dedicated to China’s Great Wall will become a national museum when it reopens in 2025 following an extensive renovation

Manchester City launches interactive attraction in Abu Dhabi’s Yas Mall


A new visitor attraction dedicated to Manchester City has opened its doors in Abu Dhabi, with the new City Challenge offering visitors a chance to show off their footballing skills through a range of immersive experiences

Pokémon theme park announced for Tokyo’s Yomiuriland


A major new addition is coming to Japan’s Yomiuriland, with the operator announcing plans to develop a nature-based Pokémon theme park at its home in Tokyo

Kiss promises to ‘change music performance history’ as band launches digital alter-egos and avatar stage show


Legendary rock band Kiss have promised to ‘change music performance history’, after unveiling their own digital avatars and announcing a special stage show working with the likes of Thierry Coup, Industrial Light & Magic, and Pophouse Entertainment Group

Hobbiton Movie Set opens iconic ‘Hobbit holes’ to the public for first time


You can now pass beyond the doors of the Hobbiton Movie set in New Zealand, with director Sir Peter Jackson behind the development of two ‘83% human size’ Hobbit holes for visitors to explore

World of Frozen arrives at Hong Kong Disneyland


Disney’s first fully-themed Frozen land is now open at Hong Kong Disneyland, with World of Frozen the latest offering in major expansion of the company’s park portfolio

Lessons ‘Squid Game - The Challenge’ can teach LBE about bringing an IP to life and engaging its fanbase


Kids Industries has created a range of immersive experiences such as Legoland’s Lego Mythica: World of Mythical Creatures. Its CEO, Gary Pope, shares his thoughts on the arrival of Netflix’s recently-launched ‘Squid Game: The Challenge’ and how this reflects on the growing LBE market

Formula 1 and Tottenham Hotspur partner on world-first karting experience


Formula 1 and Tottenham Hotspur are joining forces to deliver a first-of-its-kind karting experience that will allow people of all abilities to feel as though they are part of an F1 Grand Prix

Messi Experience world tour set for Miami debut in April


The Messi Experience - an immersive visitor attraction dedicated to global footballing megastar Lionel Messi - will open its doors in Miami in April next year

Pigvasion: Attraktion! and Rovio launch free roaming immersive Angry Birds experience


A new free-roaming immersive Angry Birds experience has made its debut, with the Pigvasion sending players on a mission to recover stolen eggs from some villainous pigs

Bing and Flop set to extend stay at Gulliver’s theme parks following extension of Acmar Films partnership


Bing and Flop will continue to appear at Gulliver’s theme parks until at least 2025, with the operator announcing an extension to its popular partnership with series producer Acamar films

Nintendo and Seattle Aquarium partner on Animal Crossing exhibits


Seattle Aquarium is promising comic mischief following the launch of an Animal Crossing exhibit at the popular attraction with the Nintendo partnership running through to the end of the year

Records broken as Brand Licensing Europe focuses on LBE


Record numbers of retailers and visitors from France, Germany, Italy and Spain were in attendance at this year’s Brand Licensing Europe (BLE), with this year’s event placing special emphasis on location based entertainment (LBE).

Brand Licensing Expo gets underway with new location-based entertainment trail


The 2023 edition of the Brand Licensing Expo is to host a new location-based entertainment trail offering special events in partnership with several major brands and IP

IAAPA Expo Europe 2023: RWS Global to showcase major cruise line collaborations, resort partnerships and Hasbro City opening


RWS Global will in attendance at this year’s IAAPA Expo Europe to discuss major projects including the opening of the Hasbro City FEC, as well as several cruise line and resort partnerships

Pokémon and Van Gogh collaboration to open at the end of September


The Pokémon Company has announced an unusual collaboration that will see the popular Pokémon IP arrive at the Vincent Van Gogh Museum for a special event

Disney Treasure latest offering in ‘unprecedented expansion’ of Disney Cruise Line


The Disney Treasure cruise ship will set sail at the end of next year, with Disney unveiling its latest offering in a rapid expansion of its popular cruise operation

World-first SpongeBob dark ride coming to Las Vegas


A world-first SpongeBob interactive dark ride is coming to Las Vegas’s Circus Circus, with Sally Dark Rides behind the US$6m development

Lifesized: How Path Entertainment and Hasbro brought Monopoly to life as a visitor experience


Path Entertainment Group and Hasbro recently worked together to produce a world-first immersive Monopoly experience. Path CEO David Hutchinson shares all with Planet Attractions

Derry Girls Experience draws record visitor numbers for Northern Ireland’s Tower Museum


An exhibition inspired by hit-series Derry Girls has drawn a record number of visitors to Londonderry’s Tower Museum

Highly-anticipated Minion Land opens at Universal Orlando Resort


A new immersive land, dedicated to Illumination’s Minions and Despicable Me franchises, has opened at the Universal Orlando Resort in Florida, US

Unfoiling the plot: Meet the team behind the Tower of London’s Gunpowder Plot experience


The Gunpowder Plot is a multilayered immersive experience set at the Tower of London. Planet Attractions spoke to the team behind the development to see exactly how it came to life...

Peppa Pig’s Discovery Playroom opens at London’s Natural History Museum


A new Peppa Pig-themed visitor experience has opened at the Natural History Museum in London, UK

Mattel Adventure Park to open in Arizona in 2024


The upcoming Mattel Adventure Park is set to open in 2024 with several attractions dedicated to several IPs including Barbie and Hot Wheels

Work set to start on Paramount’s Bali theme park development


Work is set to start on Bali’s highly-anticipated Paramount theme park, with the major development representing the largest of its kind for the Indonesian tourist destination

Immersive Monet experience making its way to London later this year


A new immersive experience showcasing the work of French impressionist painter Claude Monet is coming to London, UK

Opening dates announced for two new lands at Japan’s Ghibli Park


Japan’s Ghibli Park has confirmed the opening dates for Mononoke Village and Valley of Witches with the areas set to open in late 2023 and early 2024

WATCH: New trailer offers first look at Stranger Things for Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights


Universal has revealed a first look at its upcoming Stranger Things experience ahead of its Halloween Horror Nights event

Disney brings Hawkeye’s ‘Rogers: The Musical’ to life at California Adventure


Marvel’s ‘Rogers: The Musical’ has been brought to life with a limited time run of the musical seen in Hawkeye now on show at Disney California Adventure Park

WATCH: KSI and The Sidemen play hide and seek inside Paradise Wildlife Park


Paradise Wildlife Park has welcomed KSI and The Sidemen to the animal attraction for a viral game of hide and seek

Harry Potter interactive art experience set to debut in European city in 2023


Warner Bros and Neon are working in collaboration to develop a new contemporary art experience based on the world of Harry Potter

Immersive Smurfs experience set to tour US in 2024


The Smurfs are making their way to the US in the form of an immersive touring location-based experience set to make its debut in 2024

The Messi Experience: Touring tribute to Lionel Messi set to debut in US in 2024


Lionel Messi is about to get his own touring attraction, with ‘The Messi Experience, A Dream Come True’ set to debut in the US in 2024

Barbie’s iconic Malibu Dreamhouse listed on Airbnb


A replica of Barbie’s Malibu Dreamhouse has been listed on vacation rental site Airbnb ahead of the release of the highly-anticipated Barbie movie

‘All of Us Are Dead’ coming to Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Singapore


All of Us Are Dead will be the first Korean horror series to make its way to a Universal park, after being announced for this year’s Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Singapore

PIF-owned Red Sea Global announces sponsorship deal with Saudi Pro League’s PIF-owned Al-Ahli FC


The PIF-owned Red Sea Global has been announced as the sponsor of the Al-Ahli Football Club, also owned by PIF, in Saudi Arabia’s Saudi Pro League

First-of-its-kind cultural event brings Morph to London for wheelchair-friendly public art trail


Morph has arrived in London for a wheelchair accessible public art trail, with the event to run until August in an effort to raise money for the children’s charity Whizz Kidz

Location-based experiences the focus as registration opens for Brand Licensing Europe 2023


Location-based experiences are taking centre stage at this year’s Brand Licensing Europe event, which is now open for registration ahead of its return to London’s ExCeL in October

The Last of Us set for theme park debut at Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights


The Last of Us is the first major new IP to be announced for this year’s Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios

Coronation Street Experience opens to the public in Manchester


A new visitor experience inspired by beloved British soap opera Coronation Street has opened in Manchester, UK

BBC Studios developing immersive experiences for the metaverse


BBC Studios is to launch a collection of immersive experiences on metaverse platform; The Sandbox later this year

Build-A-Bear seeks family-focussed destinations as company partners with Kalahari to open stores across waterpark portfolio


Build-A-Bear is on the hunt for new partners in locations offering family experiences, with the company announcing a new partnership to bring its Workshops to all four of Kalahari’s US waterpark resort destinations

Triotech selected to develop multiple attractions for Transformers experiences in Saudi Arabia


Triotech has been selected to supply interactive dark rides for Saudi Arabia’s upcoming Transformers attractions

Playstation and Ghostbusters among IPs on the table for potential Merlin-Sony attractions, say bosses


Merlin’s Scott O’Neil and Sony’s Jeffrey Godsick have hinted at the use of further Sony IPs in Merlin attractions following the launch of World of Jumanji at Chessington World of Adventures in the UK

Star Wars Galactic Starcruiser to close at Disney World after less than two years


Disney has announced that its Star Wars Galactic Starcruise experience will cease operations permanently in September 2023 after only 18 months

Universal Orlando offers first look at highly-anticipated Minion Land attraction


Universal Orlando has revealed details and renderings of its upcoming Minion Land, with the hotly-anticipated attraction set to open to the public this summer

Iconic Spider-Man ride to close at Universal Studios Japan


Universal Studios Japan has announced the closure of The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man: The Ride, with the attraction to cease operations permanently in early 2024

Hong Kong Disneyland reveals first look at Frozen coaster as opening date for World of Frozen is announced


Disney Imagineering has shared a sneak peek at its first-ever Frozen rollercoaster, which is currently under construction at Hong Kong Disneyland

Transformers announced as latest brand to come to Saudi Arabia under Seven banner


A major Transformers attraction is planned for Seven’s upcoming entertainment destination in Riyadh, with plans for two further attractions in the kingdom as Saudi Arabia’s PIF continues to expand its entertainment offerings

SeaWorld could explore domestic licensing ventures, says CEO


Ahead of the launch of SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, SeaWorld CEO Marc Swanson has said the company would look at domestic licensing or joint venture projects should the ‘right opportunity’ present itself

Parque Warner’s highly-anticipated Batman-themed coaster to launch in May


Europe’s answer to the Velocicoaster has its opening date, with the highly-anticipated Batman-themed Gotham City Escape set to launch on May 13

‘Call the Midwife’ location tour launches at The Historic Dockyard Chatham


An official location tour dedicated to hit BBC series ‘Call the Midwife’ has opened at The Historic Dockyard Chatham in Kent, UK

CBBC’s ‘Operation Ouch!’ to become major exhibition at Manchester’s Science and Industry Museum


A new blockbuster exhibition based on hit CBBC show Operation Ouch! will open at the Science and Industry Museum (SIM) in Manchester, UK, in July

Sega Purchases Angry Birds owner in US$706m deal


Sega Sammy Holdings has agreed a deal to acquire Rovio, with Sega aiming to accelerate its mobile gaming capabilities while also acquiring a powerful IP in the world of entertainment

Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon to be celebrated with special anniversary show at 100 planetariums worldwide


The 50th anniversary of Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon is being celebrated with a special show taking place at 100 planetariums worldwide

Tron Lightcycle Run finally opens at Disney’s Magic Kingdom after two-year delay


The highly-anticipated Tron/Lightcycle Run rollercoaster will open today (April 4) at Disney’s Magic Kingdom. The ride was originally scheduled to open in 2021 but experienced several setbacks due to the Covid-19 pandemic

Katmandu Park Punta Cana opens in the Dominican Republic


The highly-anticipated Katmandu Park Punta Cana has opened in the Dominican Republic. Developed by Falcon’s Beyond, the park features cutting-edge rides and attractions themed around the company’s ‘The Hidden Realms of Katmandu’ IP

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

Universal announces rebranding of Parks & Resorts division


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Stranger Things slated for stage adaptation after fourth season receives record viewings


An official stage production based on Stranger Things is in the works after the series became Netflix’s first English-language show to be viewed for more than one billion hours

Disney Wish christened ahead of debut voyage


The Disney Wish will soon set sail with visitors on board following a special christening event in Port Canaveral, Florida

Universal set to welcome new Mummy to parks for Halloween Horror Nights 2022


Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights 2022 will see the debut of a new Mummy as fans await the reopening of iconic Revenge of the Mummy attraction

Reimagined Finding Nemo musical opens at Disney’s Animal Kingdom


The new Finding Nemo production opened at Animal Kingdom in early June and features a new script and set design

WATCH: Go behind the scenes of Epcot’s Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind


With Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind now open at Walt Disney World, Disney has released a behind-the-scenes look at how the attraction and its special scenes have been brought to life

Michael Myers set for Halloween Horror Nights return at Universal


Universal has revealed the return of Michael Myers for this year’s Halloween Horror Nights, with the iconic slasher set to deliver the frights for the always popular horror spectacular

Kanye West files trademarks for theme park attractions


Is Kanye West planning to enter the attractions realm?

Netflix partners with Fever to launch live-action Stranger Things experience in London


Launching this summer, Stranger Things: The Experience is the result of a partnership between Netflix and live-entertainment discovery platform Fever

Halloween on the High Seas to return to Disney Cruise Line with all-new themed programming


Returning this Autumn, Disney Cruise Line’s Halloween on the High Seas will include new one-of-a-kind Halloween experiences

No such thing? Exploring The Gruffalo Discovery Land at Twycross Zoo


The new Gruffalo Discovery Land at Twycross Zoo opened to the public in April. Lauren Heath-Jones paid a visit to The Deep Dark Wood to find out more

Immersive touring Barbie attraction to make debut in Toronto this summer


You can finally be a Barbie girl in a Barbie world with World of Barbie - a brand new immersive touring attraction set to make its debut later this year in Toronto

World-first Nerf-themed land coming to Beto Carrero World in 2023


The iconic Nerf brand will gain its first themed land in its 53-year history with the debut of a new attraction coming to Brazil’s Beto Carrero World in 2023

Universal Beijing set to introduce a host of new experiences based on top IPs


Honor of Kings, Minions and Jurassic World are all set to feature in a range of new themed experiences coming to Universal Beijing this year

Immersive Avatar experience coming to Singapore’s Gardens by the Bay


Cityneon, Disney Location-Based Experiences and Lightstorm Entertainment have collaborated to develop an all-new Avatar attraction coming to Singapore’s Gardens by the Bay later this year

Fantastic Beasts set to start museum world tour in Ontario


Starting this June you’ll be able to find the Wizarding World’s Fantastic Beasts at the Royal Ontario Museum, with the popular Natural History Museum exhibition set to embark on the first leg of its world tour

Encanto set to take over Disneyland’s iconic Small World ride


You CAN talk about Bruno at Disneyland this spring, with the multi-Platinum-certified song set to take over the iconic It’s a Small World ride as part of an Encanto celebration

WATCH: Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind arrives at Epcot next month


Walkman’s at the ready, Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind finally has its launch date, with the Vekoma reverse launch coaster set to make its debut in May.

Zog comes to Warwick Castle with new themed playland


Warwick Castle will soon be home to a Zog-themed playland, with the popular IP set to arrive at the heritage attraction in April

Sesame Place San Diego slated for March opening


Sesame Place San Diego is set to open next month, with the location set to include an interactive Sesame Street Neighbourhood along with themed attractions

The Gruffalo to debut at Twycross Zoo as attraction unveils plans for new themed land


Twycross Zoo is set to launch a new attraction in the spring, with the UK’s first Gruffalo Discovery Land being developed to ‘inspire the next generation of conservationists’

Game of Thrones Studio Tour opens in Northern Ireland


Fans will experience Game of Thrones like never before, with the ‘ground-breaking’ attraction featuring authentic sets, costumes and props used in the show’s production

Lego and Merlin reimagine Discovery Centres for 2022 with all-new ‘next generation’ experience


Merlin’s popular Legoland Discovery Centres have undergone a rebranding and reimagination, with the first Lego Discovery Centre coming to Belgium this summer

Studio Ghibli theme park gets November 2022 opening date


The first phase of the long-awaited Ghibli Park in Japan will open in November 2022 with a themed land inspired by the studio’s My Neighbor Totoro animation

Merlin set to bring the magic to Cadbury World following acquisition deal


Merlin has announced its acquisition of Cadbury World in the UK, reaching an agreement with Mondelez International to take over the iconic chocolate attraction

Attractions Calendar: Your diary dates for 2022


With so many big things coming in the year ahead, we’ve rounded up all the key events taking place this year. Welcome to your attractions calendar for 2022.

Theme park dark ride inspires Disney's Encanto


Disney Animation has revealed that parts of Encanto were inspired by dark rides, leading to fans calling for the smash hit to get its own attraction at Epcot

Avengers Campus coming to Disneyland Paris this summer as Disney announces lineup for 30th-anniversary celebrations


The Avengers are leading the way for Disneyland Paris’ 30th-anniversary celebrations, with the rest of the Disney gang not too far behind in an exciting year for the French attraction

Pixar Day at Sea coming to Disney Cruise Line in 2023


Set to premiere in 2023, Pixar Day at Sea is a brand new voyage from the Disney Cruise Line, with the exclusive event coming to the operator’s Disney Fantasy ship next January

Behind the magic: FORREC’s Eric O’Rourke reveals all about MOTIONGATE’s new John Wick and Now You See Me attractions


A pair of highly anticipated John Wick and Now You See Me attractions are making their way to MOTIONGATE at Dubai Parks and Resorts. Planet Attractions spoke to FORREC’s Eric O’Rourke about the record-breaking new additions

Martin Luther King’s original ‘I have a dream’ speech goes on display at National Museum of African American History and Culture


Martin Luther King Jr’s original ‘I have a dream’ speech is now on display at the National Museum of African American History and Culture, which is open in observance of Martin Luther King Jr day

Merlin announces plans to bring Peter Rabbit to Blackpool with brand new immersive attraction


A Peter Rabbit attraction will be making its way to the UK in 2022, with an all-new experience from Merlin set to add to the operators growing portfolio on the Blackpool seafront

‘Hot Grinch’ goes viral following Universal visitor interaction


The Grinch might have stolen Christmas but apparently he did while looking good

Disney Wish to transport guests under the sea with Broadway-style stage show of The Little Mermaid


The show has been exclusively developed for the Disney Wish and will feature a reimagined script and score

Assassin’s Creed creator Ubisoft plans entertainment complex and theme park in France


Alterface, Storyland and Studios Occitanie are collaborating with the video game company on the project, which is slated to open in 2025

IAAPA 2021: Simworx and Katapult launch midway media-based Ferrari attraction


The Ferrari Experience comprises immersive simulator rides, an eSports adrenaline hub and an exclusive themed dining experience

SeaWorld announces unprecedented list of new thrill rides and coasters, plus another Sesame Place, coming soon to US parks


Eleven major new ride attractions to open at waterparks and theme parks in 2022 – the most “significant and exciting lineup” in SeaWorld history

Star Trek, Tomb Raider, Mission Impossible among IPs to star at Paramount theme park and tourism complex in China


The six-zone Paramount Film and Television Park is part of a US$8 billion tourism development and is expected to open in Yunnan province in 2024

Ferrari speeding in to Legoland California with an interactive build-and-race attraction


The three-part zone, opening next spring, allows guests to get creative as they design and build their own Lego cars and take part in a virtual race

Multi-use K-pop attraction CJ LiveCity breaks ground in Seoul


The K-pop music arena plans to host some 190 concerts per year

Immersive Stranger Things retail experiences to open in New York and Los Angeles


A new Stranger Things-themed retail experience will feature immersive photo opportunities, exclusive merchandise and an in-store arcade

Marvel actors assemble for Disney Wish cruise experience


Paul Rudd, Evangeline Lily, Anthony Mackie, Brie Larson and more have lent their talents to the Disney Cruise Line’s upcoming Marvel Experience

Disneyland set to get its own movie as Disney lines up host of names to develop epic feature


Disneyland is getting its first movie with Halloween’s David Gordon Green lined up to direct the origin story of origin stories

Behind the screams: Halloween Horror Nights Exhibition opens at Universal Studios Singapore


The team behind Universal Studios’ iconic Horror Nights in Singapore has launched an exhibition exploring what goes into planning the horrifying event.

Pokémon is coming to Universal Studios Japan in 2022


Pokémon is set to make its mark at Universal Studios Japan following a landmark deal to bring the popular IP to the park starting in 2022

Ratatouille arrives at Epcot with expansion of French pavilion


Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure is the main feature of the expanded French pavilion which will make its debut next month to kickstart Disney World’s 50th-anniversary celebrations

Platform 9 ¾ is going on a UK tour to celebrate 20 years of Harry Potter


King’s Cross’ Platform 9 ¾ installation will tour four major UK train stations to celebrate the twentieth anniversary of the first Harry Potter film

Merlin breaks bricks on world’s largest Legoland Resort in Shenzhen


The US$1.08bn Legoland Shenzhen Resort is Merlin’s latest - and largest - venture in the Chinese market

Museum of Brands celebrates 50 years of Mr Men and Little Miss


The self-guided Mr. Men Little Miss Discovery Trail takes visitors through the museum’s permanent collection of Mr. Men and Little Miss memorabilia

Bing Bunny heading to London Zoo following Acamar Films partnership


ZSL London Zoo will host several family-friendly, Bing-themed activities, free to its visitors throughout the Autumn

Lego launches UK touring pop-up experience


The Lego Pop & Play Tour will feature several activity stations inspired by different Lego IPs

The Haunting of Hill House makes its way to Universal with brand new maze for Halloween Horror Nights


Netflix’s The Haunting of Hill House is set to make its theme park debut at Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Orlando

Is Donkey Kong making his way to Universal’s theme parks?


Donkey Kong could soon be making his theme park debut after reports suggest Nintendo and Universal have big plans for the popular franchise

Super Sonic: The attractions history of Sega’s most iconic IP and potential plans for theme park developments in 2022


He’s fast, he’s blue and he might just be coming to an attraction near you. Here are Sega’s attractions plans for Sonic the Hedgehog in 2022 and beyond

Avengers, and Bob Chapek, assemble at Disneyland for epic grand opening ceremony of Avengers Campus


Disney has brought Marvel to life like never before with the launch of Avengers Campus at Disneyland California Adventure

Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum acquires iconic X-Wing from Lucasfilm


The National Air and Space Museum’s US$250m transformation continues with one of Star Wars’ X-Wings set to go on display outside the Albert Einstein Planetarium

Cast Members ASSEMBLE - Disney shows off costumes ahead of Avengers Campus launch


Take a look at what Avengers Campus cast members will be wearing ahead of its public launch on June 4

Godzilla dark ride attraction set to debut in Japan


Godzilla the Ride: Great Kaiju Decisive Dominance Battle will be the signature attraction for Seibu-en’s new 1960s-themed Showa land

Did a Disney fan just spot Wakanda in Disneyland Forward plans?


Twitter user HelmsmanFreddy appears to have discovered the secretive fictional nation of Wakanda in Disneyland’s new expansion plans

Eurovision Museum coming to Húsavík after Iceland’s government awards development funding


They might well be playing Jaja Ding Dong at the new Eurovision Museum, coming to Húsavík, Iceland, later this year

Dropped Dr Seuss titles leads Universal to ‘evaluate’ Islands of Adventure’s Seuss Landing


Universal is rethinking elements of its Dr Seuss attractions after the book’s publisher removed number of titles from circulation

WATCH: Go behind the scenes of David Walliams’ Gangsta Granny: The Ride at Alton Towers


David Walliams’ children’s book is being brought to life at Alton Towers, which has offered a first look at the ride opening April 12

Chicago’s Museum of Science and Industry to celebrate 80 years of Marvel when it reopens in March


Marvel: Universe of Super Heroes is designed for diehard and casual fans alike

Stand-alone Peppa Pig theme park coming to Legoland Florida in 2022


Rejoice preschoolers and parents - a Peppa Pig theme park is making its way to Florida

Disney Imagineering partners with ABC for ‘one-of-a-kind’ DIY Disney experience


Build your own soap bottle droid with Imagine from Home

Mexico’s first Nickelodeon resort to open in June


The resort will include a 260,000 sq ft water park and luxury themed suites

Disney’s Animal Kingdom celebrates release of Raya and the Last Dragon with new themed experiences


Raya and the Last Dragon is coming to Animal Kingdom, with new experiences including a 40-tonne sand sculpture and a behind-the-scenes look at the upcoming movie

Universal may have accidentally included a fan made design in Super Nintendo World


Part of Universal’s new immersive world might not actually be a part of the Nintendo universe

Super Nintendo World is currently under construction in Minecraft


Dippy22 has already built Toad’s Cafe and Peach’s Castle and, once completed, will release the park as a playable map

Meet the man who turned Sonic into a global phenomenon with the Strong Museum


Former Sega CEO Tom Kalinske will be the first of the Strong Museum’s guests in its new ‘Cocktails with the Creators’ Zoom series

WATCH: Super Bowl winners Tom Brady and Rob Gronkowski are going to Disney World!


The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have won the Super Bowl, with Tom Brady and Rob Gronkowski punching their ticket to the happiest place on earth

Taylor Swift in hot water after Evermore theme park sues singer over album name


The Utah theme park says the star’s latest album infringes on its trademark

The Nintendo hype train is real and you can ride it all the way to Universal Studios Japan


All Aboard! This Nintendo-adorned train will ferry consumers to Universal’s Super Nintendo World when the new land opens in 2021

WATCH: Celebrity stylist Maeve Reilly collaborates with Disney on worldwide launch of Disney nuiMOs


She usually serves clients such as Russell Brand, Demi Lovato and 50 Cent but now Maeve Reilly is turning her attentions to Mickey and Minnie for a new line of Disney merchandise

Tom Holland offers behind-the-scenes look at new Spider-Man attraction coming to Disneyland in 2021


Spider-Man himself reveals all about his new dark ride attraction coming to Disneyland later this year

WATCH: Disney celebrates a year of giving


Despite an extremely challenging year, Disney has continued to give back to charities across the world

Dimensionalising Brand: How to take an IP and turn it into a physical place


Imagineering veteran and founder of the Designer's Creative Studio, Theron Skees, reveals how to take a brand concept and transform it into a physical environment

Is The Mandalorian the answer to your museum’s funding problems?


Traditional audiences need to broaden their audiences and generate some much-need income by partnering with big-name IPs

WATCH: Disneyland transforms Snow White’s Enchanted Wish


Heigh Ho! Disney gives viewers a sneak peek at new Snow White dark ride

BoldMove set to bring Marsupilami to life with Houba World announcement


The popular Belgian IP will be the main focus of a brand-new media-led family attraction

WATCH: Actor Jordan Fisher and wife Ellie Woods’ magical Disney World wedding


And they lived happily ever after! Inside Jordan Fisher and Ellie Woods’ Disney World wedding

Step into the world of Newt Scamander as Natural History Museum launches Fantastic Beasts exhibition



WATCH: Mickey’s Magical Christmas Lights at Disneyland Paris


Joyeux Noël! Get in the holiday spirit with a performance of Mickey’s Magical Christmas Lights.

WATCH: Get a first look at the ride cars for Universal’s VelociCoaster


A new video offering a first glimpse at the ride vehicles for the new Jurassic World VelociCoaster has been released by Universal.

Universal Studios Japan offers first real look at Super Nintendo World


The opening date for the hotly-anticipated Super Nintendo World has been announced in a new video from Universal Studios Japan.

Disney-bounding: How Disney's no dress-up rule sparked a major style trend


Disney’s strict costume rules at its parks led to a Disney fashion revolution. Lauren Heath-Jones finds out more.

Ditch the over-produced emotional Christmas ad and replace it with real-life experience


Jordan Middleton explains how leveraging user-generated content can create more authentic and emotive marketing in the attractions world.

WATCH: Rome’s legendary colosseum transformed into largest ever Lego set


Lego has turned Rome’s historic colosseum into a 9,036-piece construction, which is now available to buy

China Leisure’s Linda Dong on bringing a Nickelodeon FEC to Asia


A brand new Nickelodeon family entertainment centre is about to open its doors in Shenzhen, China. Planet Attractions spoke to China Leisure president, Linda Dong, about the upcoming project, the country’s FEC market and the importance of major IPs to developments in China



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