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Triotech has announced the launch of its latest project - a ‘next generation interactive dark coaster at Salt Lake City’s Lagoon Park


Chessington World of Adventures is your 2023 UK Theme Park of the Year, with Alton Towers, Drayton Manor and Blackpool Pleasure Beach also picking up big wins in this year’s UK Theme Park Awards


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


Experiential design firm FORREC will showcase several of its latest projects, including the upcoming American Heartland Theme Park resort in Oklahoma, US


Visitors to this year’s IAAPA Expo Europe will be able to walk away with a number of unique items and VIP experiences thanks to a charity auction to be held at the event in Vienna


A new Nerf-themed attraction is coming to Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, with the major new addition to the area set to open in 2024


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


Six Flags has teamed up with Google Cloud to transform its digital offering and enhance the guest experience


The Disney World resort has hosted its largest-ever wish-granting event with more than 50 children invited to the resort for its Once Upon A Wish Party


Attractions across Florida have made preparations and many have closed following the arrival of Hurricane Idalia and predicted storm surges


An extreme heat policy introduced to all SeaWorld operations in the US could see other operators follow suit following a tough weather-related summer for theme parks


Peter van der Schans has now been at the helm of IAAPA’s EMEA operations for more than a year. He shares with Planet Attractions how that year has gone and the progress being made in the global attractions markets of Europe, the Middle East and Africa


A new Intamin-designed rollercoaster, combining water elements with a thrill ride experience, will open at Six Flags Over Georgia in 2024


Republican governor Ron DeSantis has called for Disney CEO Bob Iger to drop the company’s federal lawsuit against the state of Florida


Manufactured by Rocky Mountain Construction, Silver Dollar City’s new Fire in the Hole indoor coaster is set to be the largest such attraction in the region when it opens in spring 2024


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


CGI studio Red Raion announces the launch of new CGI title ‘Van Helsing - Rise from the Dark’ in 5D, VR and Dome formats


Disney’s parks and experiences division has reported US$8.3bn in revenue for Q3 2023, despite rising operational costs and lower guest attendance at the Disney World resort in Florida


SeaWorld Entertainment has seen a decline in both visitor attendance and revenue in the first half of 2023


Chessington World of Adventures has been announced as the host for this year’s UK Theme Park Awards, with George Akid set to return to his role as presenter during the awards ceremony at the popular attraction


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


Scruffy Dog Creative Group has been contracted to lead development design and handle design delivery at the upcoming Six Flags theme park in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia


French theme park and animal attraction Le Pal is celebrating its 50th year in 2023. Its CEO, Arnaud Bennet speaks to Planet Attractions on half-a-century of one of the country’s most popular offerings


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


Cedar Point has announced a sequel to Top Thrill Dragster, with Zamperla behind the reimagined Top Thrill 2, which will break the record for the world’s tallest and fastest triple-launch strata coaster when it opens in 2024


A number of wildlife organisations have called on the UK’s Levelling Up secretary Michael Gove to revoke the controversial London Resort’s status as a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project


Universal’s theme parks have set revenue and profitability records with the division continuing to perform for the operator’s parent company Comcast


You can now vote on the Britain’s best theme parks for 2023 following the opening of the public vote for this year’s UK Theme Park Awards


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


A major US$2bn theme park and resort development comparable to the likes of Disney and Universal is set to open in 2026 in the state of Oklahoma


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


Dronisos has broken the record for the largest drone show ever performed in Europe, with the company behind Disneyland Paris’s Bastille Day nighttime spectacle


Bob Iger has had his Disney contract extended by two years as the company continues to search for a successor following his surprise return as CEO last year


Disney is seeking 100 applicants from black and underrepresented communities across the US for the 2024 edition of its Dreamers Academy scheme


Merlin Entertainments has partnered with RAW Charging to install electric vehicle charging points at five UK attractions this summer


Tokyo’s Hanayashiki theme park is set to introduce an array of new additions, with the 170-year-old theme park about to launch a number of new attractions and a new themed zone later this month


Molly Murphy has been named the new president of Universal Creative, with the former Gensler principal set to lead the design and creation of Universal theme park experiences across the world


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


A virtual Disney theme park in the Metaverse remains a long-term possibility following a partnership between Disney and Apple’s upcoming Vision Pro headset


The finalists in this year’s UK Theme Park Awards have been announced, with Alton Towers, Chessington World of Adventures and Blackpool Pleasure Beach among the major contenders in the running for this year’s top prize


Disney has revealed a first look at San Fransokyo Square, a new Big Hero 6-themed land opening at the Disneyland Resort in California in August


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


One person has died and nine have been left seriously injured after a rollercoaster car derailed at Sweden’s Gröna Land amusement park


Europa-Park has reopened following a major fire at the park earlier this week


Planet Attractions will partner with this year’s UK Theme Park Awards, joining the expert judging panel and acting as media partner for the awards


After Disney announced that its CFO Christine McCarthy is taking a family medical leave of absence from the company, it has been suggested that Bob Iger could stay on as CEO beyond his planned departure from the company in 2024


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


Saudi Arabia is set to invest a further US$800bn on top of the US$1tn investment it has already made in tourism, with even more new projects set to come up in the kingdom over the course of the next decade


Catherine Zeta-Jones, Mark Wahlberg, Jaime Camil and Abraham Ancer are the figureheads for a star-studded promotional campaign for the upcoming Vidanta World theme park, which is set to open in its first phase later this year


A new themed land has arrived at Kings Island, with Adventure Port taking visitors on a journey in search of an ancient lost city’s forbidden temple


World of Frozen is currently under construction at Hong Kong Disneyland. Here’s how it’s looking at the moment


Six Flags will become the first theme park operator to utilise Amazon’s Just Walk Out technology, with the cashless and cashierless shopping experience coming first to Six Flags Great Adventure in June


Donald Finley, owner of the Bayville Adventure Park on Long Island, New York, has pleaded guilty to fraudulently obtaining US$3m in Covid relief funding to buy himself a house


How can you leverage user-generated content and photo purchases to drive revenue and simultaneously promote your attraction? Attractions.io’s Peter O’Dare has the answers...


SeaWorld and Miral are celebrating the launch of SeaWorld Abu Dhabi - the first SeaWorld-branded attraction to open in more than thirty years and the first to open outside the US


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


Disney has scrapped plans for a US$1bn corporate campus in Lake Nono, Florida, as the company’s public feud with Florida governor Ron DeSantis continues


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


Global attractions association IAAPA has launched its 2022-2026 Global Theme and Amusement Park Outlook report, with the research forecasting a 7% increase in attendance at North American theme parks


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


Le Pal has welcomed a brand new dark ride experience, with BoldMove Nation and Triotech joining forces to bring Champi’Folies to life at the French theme park and animal attraction


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


Andreas Andersen speaks to Planet Attractions about what's coming for Liseberg following the launch of Luna Park, the opening of the Grand Curiosa Hotel and the soon-to-open Oceana waterpark


The board appointed by Florida governor Ron DeSantis has filed a lawsuit against Disney just days after the entertainment giant sued the board for stripping it of its self-governed status


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


Disney has sued Florida governor and presidential hopeful Ron DeSantis, claiming the state’s retaliation for its stance on LGBTQ+ issues violates its constitutional rights


Disney’s leadership structure continues to change, with Bob Iger naming company veteran Asad Ayaz as the company’s first-ever chief brand officer


Will AI take over the planet or could it just maybe develop your next new dark ride attraction? Tom Anstey asked an AI a few simple questions to see how it would do in developing such a ride concept


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


Bob Iger has slammed Florida governor Ron DeSantis for for being ‘anti-business’ and ‘anti-Florida’ following moves to try and strip Disney of its self-governing power


Arie Force One has been cleared for take off at Fun Spot America Atlanta, with the RMC steel coaster hybrid marking a major addition to the Georgia theme park


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


Disney has managed to strip power from the newly-appointed board governing its Florida parks by invoking the name of King Charles III in an ongoing dispute with governor Ron DeSantis


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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 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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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 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


Almost 70 European theme park enthusiasts made their way to the US last month for the trip of a lifetime, gathering to visit seven of the country’s top theme parks


Merlin is introducing a new education scheme that will offer training opportunities to guest-facing staff members to help elevate their careers and encourage diversity in the company’s senior ranks


California’s Great America will cease to operate by 2033 after Cedar Fair announced the US$310m sale of the land the park is built on


After months of speculation, Disney has extended the contract of Bob Chapek, with the company CEO set to stay at its head until at least 2025


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


NBCUniversal CEO Jeff Shell has revealed that Universal theme parks are experiencing ‘historic’ park attendance and hotel bookings


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


Anika Noni Rose, who voiced Tiana in the 2009 hit, revealed that The Princess and the Frog ride could open in 2024 during an appearance on US morning show Live with Kelly and Ryan


Is Kanye West planning to enter the attractions realm?


The cartoon twins are popular in Malaysia and Indonesia, and will be used as the IP for the proposed attraction


Site workers will be kept inside a ‘closed-loop’ system following strict prevention and control measures


The highly-anticipated ‘Flying Eyes’ dark ride opened at the Sun World Theme Park in late April


Visitation and revenue soared for SeaWorld in the first three months of the year, with the most visitors in Q1 since 2013 and record all-time revenue for the period


Cedar Fair has reported its Q1 earnings for 2022 with announced losses despite net revenues surging after a Covid-hit period in 2021


Lin-Manuel Miranda says that Disney’s Imagineers ‘are on it’ when it comes to the development of a new Encanto attraction for Disney’s theme parks


Nick Varney who has led Merlin since its inception and Mark Fisher, who played a key role in the company’s formation, have both announced their intention to leave the attractions giant 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


A number of attractions suppliers and manufacturers have been named winners of China’s prestigious Golden Crown Awards


ted is the latest company to come under the RWS umbrella, with the entertainment group now able to add a number of new strings to its ever-expanding bow


Disney’s opposition to Florida’s contentious new state law which limits discussion of LGBTQ issues in schools could see the operator lose its self-governing status as a result of suspending political donations


Attractions.io’s Peter O’Dare explains how user segmentation is transforming the visitor experience for the better


The former tallest rollercoaster in the world is being dismantled following an accident on a separate ride that has seen the complete demolition of Mexico City’s La Feria de Chapultepec theme park


The hotly-anticipated Fønix from Vekoma has opened to the public at Fårup Sommerland with the new rollercoaster representing the park’s largest investment ever


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


Swedish theme park Gröna Lund has recruited popular actor Felix Herngren to voice an alien in its new advertising campaign for the 2022 season


Efteling will break ground on a new hotel at the end of this year’s summer season, with the 143-bedroom development to open its doors in 2024


Could Bob Iger be Chelsea FC’s co-saviour? The former Disney man has been linked as an investor for the Premier League club alongside Steve Pagliuca


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.


With a number of ongoing issues, the London Resort theme park development has withdrawn its current planning application with a new proposal set to be resubmitted later in the year


Shanghai Planetarium, Shanghai Museum and more than 100 city parks have already closed to the public


Merlin will develop and operate exclusive Jumanji-themed attractions


The B&M-designed Emperor has opened to the public at SeaWorld San Diego


Disney’s Bob Chapek has denounced a bill aimed at banning the discussion of LGBTQ+ issues in the classroom but the Human Rights Campaign has refused a Disney donation, saying the statement doesn’t go far enough


Super Nintendo World is making its US debut in 2023, with the attraction now under construction at Universal Studios Hollywood


In order for theme parks to run operations in a smooth and efficient manner, internal communications are key. Ross McCaw, CEO and founder of OurPeople, tells us more


Gail Evans has been named executive vice president, chief digital and technology officer for Disney Parks, Experiences and Products.


The RAAPA Expo will go ahead as scheduled despite the difficulties being caused for people and businesses in Russia following Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine


A combined US$400m investment, Resorts World Sentosa is launching the first phase of its RWS 2.0 expansion plan, with an all-new Minions land at Universal Studios Singapore and the redevelopment of the rebranded and reimagined Singapore Oceanarium


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


Continuing a long-running Super Bowl tradition, three Super Bowl-winning members of the Los Angeles Rams are making their way to Disneyland


Disney doubled revenues at its parks in its second quarter, with Bob Chapek saying that there is more storytelling infused into every aspect of a visit to a Disney park than ever before


Long-time Studio Ghibli producer Toshio Suzuki has detailed how studio co-founder, Hayao Miyazaki, was convinced to go ahead with the project


One of Asia’s most anticipated theme parks has finally opened its doors with Genting SkyWorlds offering a number of Fox IPs and attractions following a near-decade-long wait


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


SeaWorld Entertainment has made a bid of US$3.4bn for Cedar Fair, with the bid sending company stocks soaring ahead of the proposed takeover


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


Efteling must cut its nitrogen emissions or cap its visitor numbers to five million people a year


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


The Circus Bumba land was inspired by Flemish children’s TV show Bumba and has been in development for several years


Visitors to SeaWorld’s US parks are being offered a new perspective on animal care, with a brand-new education programme taking them behind the scenes of its animal operations


Honouring East Asian traditions, Disney’s Lunar New Year celebration has returned to the Disneyland Resort in California


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


Both Bob Iger and Bob Chapek received huge pay boosts in 2021, with Disney’s top men pulling in a staggering US$74.8m between them last year


Just in time to celebrate its 30th anniversary this year, the Sleeping Beauty Castle has reopened to guests at Disneyland Paris following a 12 months renovation period


Lagotronics Projects will develop several media-based attractions, including a VR coaster and a dark ride for the upcoming Pradera Islands theme park


Gardaland has offered a first look at the ride vehicle for the upcoming Jumani - The Adventure dark ride attraction


Have you ever wanted to own an actual piece of rollercoaster track? Well now you can, with Blackpool Pleasure Beach now selling parts of the Big One for the most avid of theme park enthusiasts


We’re not far off Mark Zuckerberg’s big reveal of the metaverse and what that means for the future, but when it comes to attractions, there are some companies already well ahead of the curve. Andrew Jacobs, accesso’s chief commercial officer, explains what it means for operators to be in a mobile-first world.


Reanimated and ready to take a bite out of its visitors, the former Camelot Theme Park is being resurrected as an immersive cinematic zombie experience


New attractions based on Hey Duggie, JoJo & Gran Gran and Andy’s Dinosaur Adventures will open at CBeebies Land at the Alton Towers Resort later this year


You can now vote for your favourite influencers and content creators in the 2021 Clamshell Awards from Cupcakes & Coasters


Work on a new dinosaur-themed rollercoaster at Tayto Park is currently underway, while construction is also expected to begin on two steel coasters next year


Orange County – the home of both Universal and Disney’s Florida operations – has been declared a Covid-19 hotspot


YellowRoc and ActiveLeisure have announced a partnership to deliver a complete construction and installation service for themed attractions


The Met is taking its first-ever look at Disney’s theme parks as part of a special exhibition dedicated to the inspirations behind Walt Disney’s most iconic creations


Tis the season to be jolly AND to give gifts, so why not give a special gift to a special someone from your favourite attraction? We took a look at some of our favourite stocking fillers from the world’s biggest attractions


Change is coming for Universal, with the incoming chairman and CEO, Mark Woodbury, handing new senior positions to Karen Irwin, Tom Mehrmann and more in a major shakeup of the company’s leadership structure


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


We asked some of the industry’s top names from Disney and Universal where it all started for them - with their first-ever ride experience


Bob Iger is set to hand the reins over to Susan Arnold, who becomes the first woman to be appointed Disney chairman in the company’s history


Planet Attractions’ Editor-in-Chief Tom Anstey is set to host a panel looking at trends emerging from Vietnam’s growing attractions industry


Vice chair Woodbury, who has played a key role in the Comcast company’s parks expansion worldwide, steps up in March 2022


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


Michael Spanos steps down after two years as CEO; Ben Baldanza takes Bassoul’s former position as chairman of the board


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


Despite a lack of international visitors and a decline in overall visitor numbers, SeaWorld Entertainment has seen record earnings for its third quarter, marking continued recovery from a COVID-hit 2020 for the operator


For a limited time starting November 21, visitors to Downtown Disney will be able to experience Star Wars: Tales from the Galaxy’s Edge in virtual reality


As part of its mission to become a full-fledged resort and leisure destination, Ocean Park is hosting a month-long wellness event with yoga, hiking and glamping starting November 7


Alice in Wonderland has reached the grand old age of 70 and as a result the Disney Imagination Campus has taken a look at the science behind its historic Mad Tea Party attraction


Shanghai Disneyland is reopening to the public after a single case of Covid-19 caused the park to be shut down and all of its guests tested


The founder of Madame Tussauds and the father of the Latin American attractions industry have both taken their rightful place as a part of the IAAPA Hall of Fame


Universal’s theme park attendance has surged in Q3, with Universal Orlando at the forefront after recording its most profitable quarter ever


When it comes to global trends this is THE next big thing and there’s a good chance you don’t quite know what it means yet. Welcome to the metaverse and here’s exactly why you need to get in on the ground floor.


Six Flags has seen staff costs more than double since the pandemic with cost-cutting measures taking place elsewhere in the business to accommodate the sharp rise in labour expenses


Six Flags continues to show positive recovery from a COVID-affected 2020 with visitor numbers almost reaching pre-pandemic levels in its latest earnings report


The Rig is a unique venture that will transform a former oil rig in the Arabian Gulf into a resort featuring theme parks, hotels, restaurants and even actual sky diving!


Universal has released first person footage of what it’s like to ride its brand new Velocicoaster at night


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.


New experiences for the visually impaired are set to be rolled out at a number of Merlin attractions, including Legoland Parks, Legoland Discovery Centres and Sea Life aquariums


A panel of industry legends will share their stories about the creation of Universal’s ever-popular Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man dark ride at this year’s IAAPA Expo in Orlando


This year’s event will offer a host of horror-themed attractions, including new scare zones and horror mazes


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


With Evergande at risk of complete collapse thanks to US$305bn worth of debts, the future of its portfolio of 15 theme parks across China is currently uncertain


From October 7 Universal Studios Hollywood and Six Flags Magic Mountain will both be affected by new rules that require proof of vaccination before entry


With the US still not setting a firm date in November to open up to international visitors, IAAPA is working with the government to help its members attend the biggest attractions show of the year


Inka Park will be the first leisure destination of its kind in Latin America


Starting in October De Grote Efteling Koekoekshow will tour both the Netherlands and Belgium


Bob Chapek believes Disney’s parks division has emerged stronger than when the company entered the global pandemic


Cruise operator Carnival recently made headlines around the world with the debut of the first rollercoaster to operate at sea. Maurer Rides’ Marco Hartwig explains how this all came about


Security specialists Axon have supplied Six Flags’ US theme parks with body cameras for staff


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


The tourism development plan will encourage the predicted 10 million visitors a year to Universal Studios to explore the wider Beijing area

Industry insights



What’s next for the experience economy and consumer trends?




Video



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

In Depth



Solving the puzzle: Connect&GO’s Anthony Palermo on how technology is rapidly changing attractions management



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IAAPA Expo Europe 2023: Triotech celebrates launch of ‘next generation’ Primordial interactive dark coaster for US’s Lagoon Park


Triotech has announced the launch of its latest project - a ‘next generation interactive dark coaster at Salt Lake City’s Lagoon Park

Chesington named UK’s best theme park as UK Theme Park Award winners revealed


Chessington World of Adventures is your 2023 UK Theme Park of the Year, with Alton Towers, Drayton Manor and Blackpool Pleasure Beach also picking up big wins in this year’s UK Theme Park Awards

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

IAAPA Expo Europe 2023: American Heartland and Mandai Bird Paradise among projects to be showcased by FORREC


Experiential design firm FORREC will showcase several of its latest projects, including the upcoming American Heartland Theme Park resort in Oklahoma, US

Big prizes up for grabs in Vienna as charity auction announced for IAAPA Expo Europe


Visitors to this year’s IAAPA Expo Europe will be able to walk away with a number of unique items and VIP experiences thanks to a charity auction to be held at the event in Vienna

Nerf Action Xperience to open in Tennessee in 2024


A new Nerf-themed attraction is coming to Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, with the major new addition to the area set to open in 2024

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

Six Flags to transform operations and guest experience with Google Cloud partnership


Six Flags has teamed up with Google Cloud to transform its digital offering and enhance the guest experience

Disney World hosts largest-ever wish-granting event for World Princess Week


The Disney World resort has hosted its largest-ever wish-granting event with more than 50 children invited to the resort for its Once Upon A Wish Party

Attractions prepare as Hurricane Idalia arrives in Florida


Attractions across Florida have made preparations and many have closed following the arrival of Hurricane Idalia and predicted storm surges

SeaWorld ‘laying down a blueprint’ with industry-leading extreme heat policy


An extreme heat policy introduced to all SeaWorld operations in the US could see other operators follow suit following a tough weather-related summer for theme parks

Evolving the industry of fun: Peter van der Schans on the attractions markets in Africa, the Middle East and Europe


Peter van der Schans has now been at the helm of IAAPA’s EMEA operations for more than a year. He shares with Planet Attractions how that year has gone and the progress being made in the global attractions markets of Europe, the Middle East and Africa

Intamin coaster to open at Six Flags Over Georgia in 2024


A new Intamin-designed rollercoaster, combining water elements with a thrill ride experience, will open at Six Flags Over Georgia in 2024

DeSantis calls for Disney to drop federal lawsuit against him


Republican governor Ron DeSantis has called for Disney CEO Bob Iger to drop the company’s federal lawsuit against the state of Florida

Midwest’s largest indoor rollercoaster to open at US’s Silver Dollar City in 2024


Manufactured by Rocky Mountain Construction, Silver Dollar City’s new Fire in the Hole indoor coaster is set to be the largest such attraction in the region when it opens in spring 2024

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

Red Raion launches new CGI title ‘Van Helsing - Rise from the Dark’


CGI studio Red Raion announces the launch of new CGI title ‘Van Helsing - Rise from the Dark’ in 5D, VR and Dome formats

Disney parks reports US$8.3bn in revenue despite lower guest attendance in Florida


Disney’s parks and experiences division has reported US$8.3bn in revenue for Q3 2023, despite rising operational costs and lower guest attendance at the Disney World resort in Florida

SeaWorld reports drop in attendance and revenue for Q2 2023


SeaWorld Entertainment has seen a decline in both visitor attendance and revenue in the first half of 2023

UK Theme Park Awards 2023 come to Chessington World of Adventures as George Akid announced as presenter


Chessington World of Adventures has been announced as the host for this year’s UK Theme Park Awards, with George Akid set to return to his role as presenter during the awards ceremony at the popular attraction

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

Scruffy Dog secures significant contract with Six Flags, Qiddiya


Scruffy Dog Creative Group has been contracted to lead development design and handle design delivery at the upcoming Six Flags theme park in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Generational development: Arnaud Bennet on 50 years of Le Pal


French theme park and animal attraction Le Pal is celebrating its 50th year in 2023. Its CEO, Arnaud Bennet speaks to Planet Attractions on half-a-century of one of the country’s most popular offerings

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

Cedar Point announces record-breaking sequel to Top Thrill Dragster with reengineered Top Thrill 2


Cedar Point has announced a sequel to Top Thrill Dragster, with Zamperla behind the reimagined Top Thrill 2, which will break the record for the world’s tallest and fastest triple-launch strata coaster when it opens in 2024

Conservation groups call on UK government to revoke London Resort’s planning status


A number of wildlife organisations have called on the UK’s Levelling Up secretary Michael Gove to revoke the controversial London Resort’s status as a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project

Theme parks continue to shine for Comcast as Universal breaks earnings record


Universal’s theme parks have set revenue and profitability records with the division continuing to perform for the operator’s parent company Comcast

UK Theme Park Awards 2023 open to public vote


You can now vote on the Britain’s best theme parks for 2023 following the opening of the public vote for this year’s UK Theme Park Awards

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

Plans announced for US$2bn theme park and resort development in Oklahoma


A major US$2bn theme park and resort development comparable to the likes of Disney and Universal is set to open in 2026 in the state of Oklahoma

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

Dronisos and Disneyland Paris set record for largest drone show in Europe


Dronisos has broken the record for the largest drone show ever performed in Europe, with the company behind Disneyland Paris’s Bastille Day nighttime spectacle

Disney extends Bob Iger’s contract to 2026 as search for successor continues


Bob Iger has had his Disney contract extended by two years as the company continues to search for a successor following his surprise return as CEO last year

Applications open for 2024 Disney Dreamers Academy


Disney is seeking 100 applicants from black and underrepresented communities across the US for the 2024 edition of its Dreamers Academy scheme

Merlin to install electric vehicle charging points at five major UK attractions


Merlin Entertainments has partnered with RAW Charging to install electric vehicle charging points at five UK attractions this summer

Tokyo’s oldest theme park set to launch new attractions and themed zone


Tokyo’s Hanayashiki theme park is set to introduce an array of new additions, with the 170-year-old theme park about to launch a number of new attractions and a new themed zone later this month

Molly Murphy to lead Universal Creative after being named new president


Molly Murphy has been named the new president of Universal Creative, with the former Gensler principal set to lead the design and creation of Universal theme park experiences across the world

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

Virtual Disney Metaverse theme park a ‘long-term possibility’


A virtual Disney theme park in the Metaverse remains a long-term possibility following a partnership between Disney and Apple’s upcoming Vision Pro headset

Nominees announced for UK Theme Park Awards 2023


The finalists in this year’s UK Theme Park Awards have been announced, with Alton Towers, Chessington World of Adventures and Blackpool Pleasure Beach among the major contenders in the running for this year’s top prize

Disney reveals concept art for upcoming San Fransokyo Square at Disneyland Resort


Disney has revealed a first look at San Fransokyo Square, a new Big Hero 6-themed land opening at the Disneyland Resort in California in August

‘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

One dead and nine injured in rollercoaster crash at Sweden’s Gröna Lund


One person has died and nine have been left seriously injured after a rollercoaster car derailed at Sweden’s Gröna Land amusement park

Europa-Park reopens following blaze


Europa-Park has reopened following a major fire at the park earlier this week

Planet Attractions partners with 2023 UK Theme Park Awards


Planet Attractions will partner with this year’s UK Theme Park Awards, joining the expert judging panel and acting as media partner for the awards

Iger could stay on at Disney following abrupt exit of Christine McCarthy


After Disney announced that its CFO Christine McCarthy is taking a family medical leave of absence from the company, it has been suggested that Bob Iger could stay on as CEO beyond his planned departure from the company in 2024

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

Saudi Arabia plans further US$800bn investment in tourism projects


Saudi Arabia is set to invest a further US$800bn on top of the US$1tn investment it has already made in tourism, with even more new projects set to come up in the kingdom over the course of the next decade

WATCH: Work progresses on Mexico’s Vidanta World theme park as Hollywood stars showcase upcoming resort destination


Catherine Zeta-Jones, Mark Wahlberg, Jaime Camil and Abraham Ancer are the figureheads for a star-studded promotional campaign for the upcoming Vidanta World theme park, which is set to open in its first phase later this year

Kings Island’s Adventure Port ready to welcome guests for grand opening


A new themed land has arrived at Kings Island, with Adventure Port taking visitors on a journey in search of an ancient lost city’s forbidden temple

WATCH: Hong Kong Disneyland offers fly-through of under-construction World of Frozen


World of Frozen is currently under construction at Hong Kong Disneyland. Here’s how it’s looking at the moment

Six Flags becomes first theme park operator to adopt Amazon’s ‘Just Walk Out’ shopping technology


Six Flags will become the first theme park operator to utilise Amazon’s Just Walk Out technology, with the cashless and cashierless shopping experience coming first to Six Flags Great Adventure in June

Theme park owner pleads guilty to fraudulently claiming US$3m in Coronavirus aid


Donald Finley, owner of the Bayville Adventure Park on Long Island, New York, has pleaded guilty to fraudulently obtaining US$3m in Covid relief funding to buy himself a house

It takes a village: How to increase spending and social reach through micro-influencing with Attractions.io


How can you leverage user-generated content and photo purchases to drive revenue and simultaneously promote your attraction? Attractions.io’s Peter O’Dare has the answers...

First SeaWorld park to open outside US launches in Abu Dhabi


SeaWorld and Miral are celebrating the launch of SeaWorld Abu Dhabi - the first SeaWorld-branded attraction to open in more than thirty years and the first to open outside the US

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

Disney scraps US$1bn Florida campus amidst DeSantis feud


Disney has scrapped plans for a US$1bn corporate campus in Lake Nono, Florida, as the company’s public feud with Florida governor Ron DeSantis continues

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

North American theme park market set for significant growth in attendance and guest spending, says IAAPA report


Global attractions association IAAPA has launched its 2022-2026 Global Theme and Amusement Park Outlook report, with the research forecasting a 7% increase in attendance at North American theme parks

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

BoldMove and Triotech collaborate to bring all new Champi'Folies dark ride to Le Pal


Le Pal has welcomed a brand new dark ride experience, with BoldMove Nation and Triotech joining forces to bring Champi’Folies to life at the French theme park and animal attraction

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

100 years of Liseberg: Andreas Andersen on park's centenary additions


Andreas Andersen speaks to Planet Attractions about what's coming for Liseberg following the launch of Luna Park, the opening of the Grand Curiosa Hotel and the soon-to-open Oceana waterpark

Disney vs DeSantis: Florida governor’s oversight board files counter suit as Disney dispute escalates


The board appointed by Florida governor Ron DeSantis has filed a lawsuit against Disney just days after the entertainment giant sued the board for stripping it of its self-governed status

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

Disney sues Florida governor Ron DeSantis over ‘targeted campaign of government retaliation’


Disney has sued Florida governor and presidential hopeful Ron DeSantis, claiming the state’s retaliation for its stance on LGBTQ+ issues violates its constitutional rights

Asad Ayaz named Disney’s first-ever chief brand officer


Disney’s leadership structure continues to change, with Bob Iger naming company veteran Asad Ayaz as the company’s first-ever chief brand officer

I asked an AI to develop a Sonic the Hedgehog dark ride. Here’s what it came up with


Will AI take over the planet or could it just maybe develop your next new dark ride attraction? Tom Anstey asked an AI a few simple questions to see how it would do in developing such a ride concept

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

Bob Iger brands governor Ron DeSantis retaliations against Disney ‘anti-business, anti-Florida’


Bob Iger has slammed Florida governor Ron DeSantis for for being ‘anti-business’ and ‘anti-Florida’ following moves to try and strip Disney of its self-governing power

Rocky Mountain Coaster’s highly-anticipated Arie Force One makes debut at Fun Spot America Atlanta


Arie Force One has been cleared for take off at Fun Spot America Atlanta, with the RMC steel coaster hybrid marking a major addition to the Georgia theme park

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

Royal lives clause enters King Charles III into Disney vs DeSantis feud


Disney has managed to strip power from the newly-appointed board governing its Florida parks by invoking the name of King Charles III in an ongoing dispute with governor Ron DeSantis

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

Miral confirms May opening for SeaWorld Abu Dhabi


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

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

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

Universal announces rebranding of Parks & Resorts division


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

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

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

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

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

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

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...

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

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

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

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

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

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

‘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

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

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

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

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

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

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

‘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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Busch Gardens Williamsburg preparing storm-themed adventure indoor ride DarKoaster


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

European coaster enthusiasts travel to US for theme park excursion


Almost 70 European theme park enthusiasts made their way to the US last month for the trip of a lifetime, gathering to visit seven of the country’s top theme parks

Merlin introduces career acceleration scheme for frontline staff


Merlin is introducing a new education scheme that will offer training opportunities to guest-facing staff members to help elevate their careers and encourage diversity in the company’s senior ranks

California’s Great America to close after Cedar Fair announces land sale


California’s Great America will cease to operate by 2033 after Cedar Fair announced the US$310m sale of the land the park is built on

‘Right leader at the right time’: Bob Chapek to remain at Disney until at least 2025 after board unanimously agrees contract extension


After months of speculation, Disney has extended the contract of Bob Chapek, with the company CEO set to stay at its head until at least 2025

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

Universal theme parks experiencing ‘historic’ park attendance, CEO reveals


NBCUniversal CEO Jeff Shell has revealed that Universal theme parks are experiencing ‘historic’ park attendance and hotel bookings

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

Splash Mountain’s Princess & the Frog overhaul coming in 2024, says movie’s star


Anika Noni Rose, who voiced Tiana in the 2009 hit, revealed that The Princess and the Frog ride could open in 2024 during an appearance on US morning show Live with Kelly and Ryan

Kanye West files trademarks for theme park attractions


Is Kanye West planning to enter the attractions realm?

Malaysian animation studio plans new theme park to appeal to Upin & Ipin fans across Southeast Asia


The cartoon twins are popular in Malaysia and Indonesia, and will be used as the IP for the proposed attraction

Legoland construction starts up again as Covid lockdown starts to ease


Site workers will be kept inside a ‘closed-loop’ system following strict prevention and control measures

Simworx takes riders on an adventure through the clouds with new dark ride attraction at Vietnam’s Sun World theme park


The highly-anticipated ‘Flying Eyes’ dark ride opened at the Sun World Theme Park in late April

Pandemic resurgence as SeaWorld soars with record results in first quarter


Visitation and revenue soared for SeaWorld in the first three months of the year, with the most visitors in Q1 since 2013 and record all-time revenue for the period

Cedar Fair reports loss in first quarter of 2022


Cedar Fair has reported its Q1 earnings for 2022 with announced losses despite net revenues surging after a Covid-hit period in 2021

‘The Imagineers are on it’: Encanto songwriter Lin-Manuel Miranda hints at potential plans for Disney’s parks


Lin-Manuel Miranda says that Disney’s Imagineers ‘are on it’ when it comes to the development of a new Encanto attraction for Disney’s theme parks

Nick Varney and Mark Fisher both announce retirements from Merlin Entertainments


Nick Varney who has led Merlin since its inception and Mark Fisher, who played a key role in the company’s formation, have both announced their intention to leave the attractions giant in 2023

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

Suppliers recognised in Asia Attractions Golden Crown Awards


A number of attractions suppliers and manufacturers have been named winners of China’s prestigious Golden Crown Awards

RWS Entertainment Group announces acquisition of The Experience Department


ted is the latest company to come under the RWS umbrella, with the entertainment group now able to add a number of new strings to its ever-expanding bow

‘Don’t Say Gay’ feud escalates as Florida Senate advances bill to strip Disney of self-governing status


Disney’s opposition to Florida’s contentious new state law which limits discussion of LGBTQ issues in schools could see the operator lose its self-governing status as a result of suspending political donations

The Netflix approach: How user segmentation is changing the visitor experience game


Attractions.io’s Peter O’Dare explains how user segmentation is transforming the visitor experience for the better

Mexican theme park enters final stages of demolition following fatal incident


The former tallest rollercoaster in the world is being dismantled following an accident on a separate ride that has seen the complete demolition of Mexico City’s La Feria de Chapultepec theme park

Record-breaking Fønix debuts at Fårup Sommerland


The hotly-anticipated Fønix from Vekoma has opened to the public at Fårup Sommerland with the new rollercoaster representing the park’s largest investment ever

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

WATCH: Swedish actor Felix Herngren voices alien in new Gröna Lund advertising campaign


Swedish theme park Gröna Lund has recruited popular actor Felix Herngren to voice an alien in its new advertising campaign for the 2022 season

Efteling reveals new details about upcoming hotel experience


Efteling will break ground on a new hotel at the end of this year’s summer season, with the 143-bedroom development to open its doors in 2024

Former Disney chief Bob Iger linked with Chelsea FC sale


Could Bob Iger be Chelsea FC’s co-saviour? The former Disney man has been linked as an investor for the Premier League club alongside Steve Pagliuca

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.

London Resort withdraws £2.5bn plan over logistical and environmental issues


With a number of ongoing issues, the London Resort theme park development has withdrawn its current planning application with a new proposal set to be resubmitted later in the year

Disneyland closed as Shanghai reports highest ever daily Covid cases


Shanghai Planetarium, Shanghai Museum and more than 100 city parks have already closed to the public

Sony strikes exclusive deal with Merlin to expand Jumanji brand into theme parks


Merlin will develop and operate exclusive Jumanji-themed attractions

Emperor: California’s tallest, fastest and longest dive coaster opens at SeaWorld


The B&M-designed Emperor has opened to the public at SeaWorld San Diego

Human Rights Campaign rejects Disney money until company takes ‘meaningful action’ against Florida’s controversial ‘Don’t Say Gay’ bill


Disney’s Bob Chapek has denounced a bill aimed at banning the discussion of LGBTQ+ issues in the classroom but the Human Rights Campaign has refused a Disney donation, saying the statement doesn’t go far enough

Super Nintendo World set to make debut at Universal Studios Hollywood in 2023


Super Nintendo World is making its US debut in 2023, with the attraction now under construction at Universal Studios Hollywood

Theme parks must streamline their internal comms to ensure a smooth and successful re-opening in the summer


In order for theme parks to run operations in a smooth and efficient manner, internal communications are key. Ross McCaw, CEO and founder of OurPeople, tells us more

Gail Evans to lead Disney into the future after being named new chief technology officer


Gail Evans has been named executive vice president, chief digital and technology officer for Disney Parks, Experiences and Products.

‘The situation in Moscow is stable’: RAAPA Expo to go ahead next month despite Russia’s invasion of Ukraine


The RAAPA Expo will go ahead as scheduled despite the difficulties being caused for people and businesses in Russia following Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine

Expansion of Universal Studios and reimagined Singapore Oceanarium form first phase of US$400m redevelopment at Resorts World Sentosa


A combined US$400m investment, Resorts World Sentosa is launching the first phase of its RWS 2.0 expansion plan, with an all-new Minions land at Universal Studios Singapore and the redevelopment of the rebranded and reimagined Singapore Oceanarium

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

WATCH: Super Bowl winners Matthew Stafford, Cooper Kupp and Aaron Donald are going to Disneyland!


Continuing a long-running Super Bowl tradition, three Super Bowl-winning members of the Los Angeles Rams are making their way to Disneyland

‘We’ve transformed the guest experience’: Bob Chapek on Disney’s impressive second quarter


Disney doubled revenues at its parks in its second quarter, with Bob Chapek saying that there is more storytelling infused into every aspect of a visit to a Disney park than ever before

‘Leave it to Goro’: Studio Ghibli co-founder’s change of heart on upcoming Japanese theme park project


Long-time Studio Ghibli producer Toshio Suzuki has detailed how studio co-founder, Hayao Miyazaki, was convinced to go ahead with the project

Malaysia’s US$800m Genting SkyWorlds has finally opened its doors


One of Asia’s most anticipated theme parks has finally opened its doors with Genting SkyWorlds offering a number of Fox IPs and attractions following a near-decade-long wait

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

Cedar Fair soars as SeaWorld takeover rumours swirl


SeaWorld Entertainment has made a bid of US$3.4bn for Cedar Fair, with the bid sending company stocks soaring ahead of the proposed takeover

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

Judge rules Efteling must cut emissions or cap attendance


Efteling must cut its nitrogen emissions or cap its visitor numbers to five million people a year

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

Work begins on Circus Bumba attraction at Plopsaland De Panne


The Circus Bumba land was inspired by Flemish children’s TV show Bumba and has been in development for several years

SeaWorld’s new ‘Inside Look’ education programme is offering visitors behind-the-scenes look at its animal care operations


Visitors to SeaWorld’s US parks are being offered a new perspective on animal care, with a brand-new education programme taking them behind the scenes of its animal operations

Year of the Tiger: Disneyland marks Lunar New Year with return of celebration at California Adventure


Honouring East Asian traditions, Disney’s Lunar New Year celebration has returned to the Disneyland Resort in California

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

Disney filing reveals that Bob Chapek and Bob Iger more than doubled their personal earnings in 2021


Both Bob Iger and Bob Chapek received huge pay boosts in 2021, with Disney’s top men pulling in a staggering US$74.8m between them last year

Disneyland Paris completes one-year renovation of iconic Sleeping Beauty castle


Just in time to celebrate its 30th anniversary this year, the Sleeping Beauty Castle has reopened to guests at Disneyland Paris following a 12 months renovation period

Lagotronics to develop new attractions for major theme park development in the Philippines


Lagotronics Projects will develop several media-based attractions, including a VR coaster and a dark ride for the upcoming Pradera Islands theme park

WATCH: Gardaland unveils ride vehicle for world-first Jumanji attraction


Gardaland has offered a first look at the ride vehicle for the upcoming Jumani - The Adventure dark ride attraction

You can now buy an actual piece of track from Blackpool Pleasure Beach’s iconic Big One rollercoaster


Have you ever wanted to own an actual piece of rollercoaster track? Well now you can, with Blackpool Pleasure Beach now selling parts of the Big One for the most avid of theme park enthusiasts

Reimagining the guest experience in a mobile-first world with accesso


We’re not far off Mark Zuckerberg’s big reveal of the metaverse and what that means for the future, but when it comes to attractions, there are some companies already well ahead of the curve. Andrew Jacobs, accesso’s chief commercial officer, explains what it means for operators to be in a mobile-first world.

Back from the dead: Abandoned Camelot theme park to reopen as immersive zombie experience


Reanimated and ready to take a bite out of its visitors, the former Camelot Theme Park is being resurrected as an immersive cinematic zombie experience

Alton Towers announces new CBeebies Land attractions opening in spring 2022


New attractions based on Hey Duggie, JoJo & Gran Gran and Andy’s Dinosaur Adventures will open at CBeebies Land at the Alton Towers Resort later this year

Shortlist revealed for 2021 Clamshell Awards


You can now vote for your favourite influencers and content creators in the 2021 Clamshell Awards from Cupcakes & Coasters

Ireland’s Tayto Park to invest €30m in three new rollercoasters


Work on a new dinosaur-themed rollercoaster at Tayto Park is currently underway, while construction is also expected to begin on two steel coasters next year

Potential problems for Universal and Disney as Orange County named Florida hotspot for Covid-19


Orange County – the home of both Universal and Disney’s Florida operations – has been declared a Covid-19 hotspot

YellowRoc and ActiveLeisure announce partnership to develop themed attractions


YellowRoc and ActiveLeisure have announced a partnership to deliver a complete construction and installation service for themed attractions

New York’s Met explores inspiration behind Walt Disney’s iconic creations


The Met is taking its first-ever look at Disney’s theme parks as part of a special exhibition dedicated to the inspirations behind Walt Disney’s most iconic creations

Christmas gifts: Thirteen special items you can get direct from your favourite attractions


Tis the season to be jolly AND to give gifts, so why not give a special gift to a special someone from your favourite attraction? We took a look at some of our favourite stocking fillers from the world’s biggest attractions

Leadership shakeup at Universal as corporate landscape changes with multiple appointments


Change is coming for Universal, with the incoming chairman and CEO, Mark Woodbury, handing new senior positions to Karen Irwin, Tom Mehrmann and more in a major shakeup of the company’s leadership structure

‘Hot Grinch’ goes viral following Universal visitor interaction


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

Industry legends share their first ride experiences


We asked some of the industry’s top names from Disney and Universal where it all started for them - with their first-ever ride experience

Disney appoints Susan Arnold as first female chair in its 98-year history


Bob Iger is set to hand the reins over to Susan Arnold, who becomes the first woman to be appointed Disney chairman in the company’s history

Planet Attractions to present at Vietnam Theme Park Virtual Expo & Conference 2021


Planet Attractions’ Editor-in-Chief Tom Anstey is set to host a panel looking at trends emerging from Vietnam’s growing attractions industry

Universal Parks veteran Mark Woodbury to take over as CEO


Vice chair Woodbury, who has played a key role in the Comcast company’s parks expansion worldwide, steps up in March 2022

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

Selim Bassoul takes the reins as CEO and president of Six Flags


Michael Spanos steps down after two years as CEO; Ben Baldanza takes Bassoul’s former position as chairman of the board

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

Record quarter for SeaWorld despite attendance decline on pre-COVID numbers


Despite a lack of international visitors and a decline in overall visitor numbers, SeaWorld Entertainment has seen record earnings for its third quarter, marking continued recovery from a COVID-hit 2020 for the operator

Meta and Lucasfilm team up for immersive Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge preview experience at Disneyland


For a limited time starting November 21, visitors to Downtown Disney will be able to experience Star Wars: Tales from the Galaxy’s Edge in virtual reality

Yoga, hiking and glamping on the menu as Ocean Park partners with HSBC Life Well+ for month-long wellness event


As part of its mission to become a full-fledged resort and leisure destination, Ocean Park is hosting a month-long wellness event with yoga, hiking and glamping starting November 7

Disney Imagination Campus celebrates 70 years of Alice In Wonderland with look at science behind iconic Mad Tea Party attraction


Alice in Wonderland has reached the grand old age of 70 and as a result the Disney Imagination Campus has taken a look at the science behind its historic Mad Tea Party attraction

Shanghai Disney lockdown lifted after 34,000 tested in response to single positive Covid case


Shanghai Disneyland is reopening to the public after a single case of Covid-19 caused the park to be shut down and all of its guests tested

Marie Tussaud and Marcelo Gutglas inducted into IAAPA’s prestigious Hall of Fame


The founder of Madame Tussauds and the father of the Latin American attractions industry have both taken their rightful place as a part of the IAAPA Hall of Fame

Universal Orlando reports most profitable quarter in its history despite having no international visitors


Universal’s theme park attendance has surged in Q3, with Universal Orlando at the forefront after recording its most profitable quarter ever

Visitor attractions need to be paying attention to the metaverse


When it comes to global trends this is THE next big thing and there’s a good chance you don’t quite know what it means yet. Welcome to the metaverse and here’s exactly why you need to get in on the ground floor.

‘Tight’ labour market sees Six Flags staff costs double to US$40m


Six Flags has seen staff costs more than double since the pandemic with cost-cutting measures taking place elsewhere in the business to accommodate the sharp rise in labour expenses

Six Flags attendance is almost back at pre-pandemic levels following Q3 earnings release


Six Flags continues to show positive recovery from a COVID-affected 2020 with visitor numbers almost reaching pre-pandemic levels in its latest earnings report

Saudi Arabia converting off-shore oil rig into jaw-dropping theme park resort


The Rig is a unique venture that will transform a former oil rig in the Arabian Gulf into a resort featuring theme parks, hotels, restaurants and even actual sky diving!

WATCH: Experience Universal’s Velocicoaster ride at night


Universal has released first person footage of what it’s like to ride its brand new Velocicoaster at night

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.

Merlin partners with eSight to offer inclusive experiences for the visually impaired


New experiences for the visually impaired are set to be rolled out at a number of Merlin attractions, including Legoland Parks, Legoland Discovery Centres and Sea Life aquariums

Team behind Universal’s iconic Spider-Man dark ride to speak at IAAPA Expo


A panel of industry legends will share their stories about the creation of Universal’s ever-popular Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man dark ride at this year’s IAAPA Expo in Orlando

Thorpe Park celebrates 20 years of fear with the return of Fright Nights


This year’s event will offer a host of horror-themed attractions, including new scare zones and horror mazes

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

Evergrande collapse puts theme parks in jeopardy


With Evergande at risk of complete collapse thanks to US$305bn worth of debts, the future of its portfolio of 15 theme parks across China is currently uncertain

New mandate requires visitors to Los Angeles County theme parks to show proof of vaccination before entry


From October 7 Universal Studios Hollywood and Six Flags Magic Mountain will both be affected by new rules that require proof of vaccination before entry

IAAPA supports overseas visitors wanting to attend November Expo in Orlando


With the US still not setting a firm date in November to open up to international visitors, IAAPA is working with the government to help its members attend the biggest attractions show of the year

Jora Vision named lead development partner of upcoming Inka Park


Inka Park will be the first leisure destination of its kind in Latin America

Efteling set to debut touring theatre experience in October


Starting in October De Grote Efteling Koekoekshow will tour both the Netherlands and Belgium

‘Minor miracle’ Disney parks positioned as well as they are, says Chapek


Bob Chapek believes Disney’s parks division has emerged stronger than when the company entered the global pandemic

The making of Bolt: How Maurer Rides created Carnival’s game-changing rollercoaster at sea


Cruise operator Carnival recently made headlines around the world with the debut of the first rollercoaster to operate at sea. Maurer Rides’ Marco Hartwig explains how this all came about

Security at all of Six Flags’ US parks to wear body cameras


Security specialists Axon have supplied Six Flags’ US theme parks with body cameras for staff

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

Beijing plans tourism development around Universal Studios


The tourism development plan will encourage the predicted 10 million visitors a year to Universal Studios to explore the wider Beijing area



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