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'People' on Planet Attractions | Planet Attractions
 
'People' on Planet Attractions


Shepreth Wildlife Park is set to host a special holiday charity ball, with the event raising funds for its in-demand hedgehog conservation programme


An abandoned theme park has been turned into a scare city in time for Halloween.


A new wave park has been announced for Bahrain, with the attraction set to be part of a landmark destination when it opens to the public in 2026


A makeshift aquarium built around a leaking fire hydrant in New York that created major buzz across social media has been paved over by the city


Turkish studio Melike Altınışık Architects has unveiled the Seoul Robot & AI Museum in South Korea, where visitors can "explore the endless possibilities of robotics and AI".


China Tourism Group Corp. is considering a potential deal to gain control of some of the country’s most iconic theme parks run by Haichang Ocean Park Holdings Ltd., according to people familiar with the matter.


The long-awaited return of a New York City attraction arrives Monday: the reopening of The Vessel.


Visitors to a recently reopened aquarium in China were demanding refunds after it turned out the attraction’s signature whale shark was actually a robotic replacement


The National Lottery Heritage Fund has awarded 15 UK heritage projects a share of £30m in funding, with London’s Crystal Palace Park and North Yorkshire’s Ripon Museum among recipients


A tourism influx is putting the Komodo dragon's habitat at risk with Indonesia’s government considering partial park closures in 2025 to protect the species


Shinsegae Group has announced the inking of a US$3.4bn deal that will see a Paramount theme park and wider resort open in South Korea in 2029


One person has died and 23 others have been rescued after a lift malfunctioned at a disused Colorado gold mine.


Walmart has promised a glimpse into the future of shopping, with the global retailer announcing plans to create “immersive commerce experiences” for its customers


All of Florida’s major theme parks have shut with the arrival of Hurricane Milton in the state.


More than 360,000 people had their say in this year’s UK Theme Park Awards, with a record public vote seeing Thorpe Park crowned Theme Park of the Year, while Hyperia was named the Best New Attraction for 2024


IAAPA is set to host its first Expo event in the Middle East with IAAPA Expo Middle East coming to Abu Dhabi in 2026. IAAPA’s president and CEO, Jakob Wahl, speaks to Planet Attractions


IAAPA returns to Amsterdam for the 2024 edition of IAPPA Expo Europe. Here’s everything you need to know about the event


A zoo in Thailand is urging its visitors to behave after a doubling in attendance following the birth of a baby pygmy hippo called Moo Deng


Integrated attractions management platform Connect&GO has announced the addition of three new members to its leadership team


Squid Game: The Experience is coming to New York City in October as Netflix is stirring up interest in another upcoming season of the streaming series.


Alterface’s Moviemax has made its debut in Saint-Tropez’s Azur Park, with the attraction’s first season hailed as an “unqualified success”


An immersive Beetlejuice experience has opened in Los Angeles to celebrate the forthcoming release of the highly anticipated Beetlejuice sequel


The British government has announced a probe into the use of dynamic pricing after ticket seller Ticketmaster significantly increased costs for the Oasis reunion while customers sat in a virtual queue


Miirage is behind a new holographic experience at Melbourne Museum that stars Victoria - a record-breaking T-Rex that represents one of the largest and most complete T-Rex fossils ever to go on display


Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd is looking to blame Tourism New Zealand and the Institute of Geological and Nuclear Science (GNS) for the deaths and injuries to passengers who went to Whakaari White Island while travelling on its Ovation of the Seas cruise liner.


The famous Coney Island Cyclone roller coaster in New York City was shut down indefinitely after coming to a stop mid-ride this week.


Rain following a severe drought has seen an 1,100-year-old pyramid in Mexico partially collapse at the Ihuatzio archaeological site


Travel service provider Trip.com Group has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Merlin Entertainments to attract visitors to marine-focused events and experiences across the Asia region


At least 30 people have been injured following a fire on a Ferris wheel at a music festival in Germany


Europa-Park’s mascots Ed and Edda are at the heart of a major campaign that will see the launch of a new videogame, motion picture and family attraction, with all three products set to launch in the summer of 2025


The museum in Dijon, France, has seen an unexpected visitor surge since the Olympic opening ceremony, as people flock to view a painting that might have inspired a contentious tableau criticized by some Christians and conservatives.


A content creator who went viral producing tongue-in-cheek reviews of towns and businesses in the UK has turned his eye to the world of attractions. Planet Attractions spoke to Phil Carr about his social media rise and what’s next for the TikTok star


The historic Wolsey Rooms at Hampton Court Palace have re-opened with a brand-new exhibition, ‘The Tudor World’, celebrating the early reign of the iconic Tudor king, through a vivid display of original artworks, historic objects, and interactive experiences.


Tottenham Hotspur is delighted to launch its first-ever Heritage Tour, detailing the incredible story of the history, architecture and people that make up the past, present and future of the Club and its local area.


A prominent Russian critic has said that the country’s culture scene is ‘fully returning to the 1930s era of control and censorship’ following Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine


The trial of Dolores Umbridge will be the story for the centrepiece attraction of Epic Universe’s Wizarding World, with Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry utilising ‘first-of-its-kind’ ride technology


The Royal Albert Memorial Museum & Art Gallery has announced a new programme that aims to improve wellbeing through cultural activities, with ‘Museum Meet Up’ a scheme for local people over 50 who are facing anxiety and loneliness.


A controversial £1.7bn scheme that would have seen a major road running alongside Stonehenge become an underground dual-carriageway tunnel has been scrapped by the British government


There’s been a lot going on in the world of attractions over the last week. Here are some of the headlines:


Cadbury World is in the midst of a multi-million-pound investment from its new owner, Merlin Entertainments. Alterface’s Stephane Battaille explains how one of the attraction’s biggest investments - Cadbury Chocolate Quest - was brought to life


Dreamland in Margate will have to meet a series of safety conditions after concerns were raised following the death of a teenager during a drum and bass event.


A clay pigeon and a golden poo splat are the new logo for the rebranded London Museum, which is more than halfway through its multi-year, £437m move to Smithfield


An upcoming theme park development in Poland is looking to provide competition to the likes of Energylandia, with the expansive Hossoland set to become one of the country’s largest attractions when it opens to the public next year


Brian Robinson, chief creative officer at Universal Creative, has shared his insight on the creative story behind the Epic Universe Preview Center at Universal Orlando’s CityWalk


A mobile aquarium is being used in Ohio to teach people about the waterway’s biodiversity.


Liseberg has announced the formal decision to rebuild its indoor water park Oceana after much of the attraction was destroyed following a fire earlier this year


A date has been set for the decision on controversial plans for a major theme park and holiday resort on the banks of Loch Lomond.


Venice’s experiment with payment systems for tourists only had a small impact on reducing crowds, a politician has said, meaning prices will almost certainly be hiked next year.


Boasting 99% positive feedback from its users, the Knoebels Amusement Resort app has expanded its offering, working with Attractions.io to add native purchasing to the popular platform


Commercial space flight is becoming more and more common, with companies including SpaceX, Blue Origin and Virgin Galactic all transporting paid customers into space over the last several years.


With a change in government following last week’s General Election, the culture sector must move past the “climate of distrust” created by the stoking of the culture wars, says Darren Henley, chief executive of Arts Council England (ACE).


Ahead of the opening of its transformed gardens on July 18, London’s Natural History Museum has unveiled Fern, the bronze cast of its iconic diplodocus ‘Dippy’, to the public


Norway’s Bø Sommarland - one of the largest waterparks in Europe - is celebrating the launch of a new NOK10m (US$932,000, €854,000, £734,000) waterslide.


A number of people have been injured following an incident on a ride at Wales' largest theme park.


The redeveloped Nassau Cruise Port is looking for family-friendly options to add to its offering, with plans announced to develop a US$35m waterpark as part of the tourist destination


The Young V&A in east London has won the prestigious Museum of the Year award, fighting off competition from the National Portrait Gallery to win the £120,000 prize.


Copenhagen’s tourist body is offering visitors to the Danish city the chance to pay for a variety of attractions in the city by completing a number of climate-friendly actions


A court in Potsdam, Germany, said this week that two people who had taken bribes during the construction of the Museum Barberini, a private museum run by collector Hasso Plattner.


Despite the scorching heat, countries in the Middle East are continuing to build theme parks. Qatar is the latest, greenlighting a $5.5 billion project 40 minutes north of the capital Doha. It’s called Simaisma and it’s been built by a state-owned company, Qatari Diar, appointed by the government. With a theme park at its core, the project will span eight million square meters (1,976 acres) along seven kilometers of beachfront land. The development is also set to include an 18-hole golf course surrounded by 300 villas, hotels, a marina and beach club, as well as homes and shops.


Tourists will be rewarded with free food and activities if they participate in environmentally friendly tasks while visiting Copenhagen, the city's tourist board has announced.


The River is a first-of-its-kind exhibition for London’s Natural History Museum, with acclaimed Norwegian artist Jana Winderen using sound to explore the world below the surface of the River Thames


French historic attraction operator Puy du Fou has announced plans to open its first UK theme park in Oxfordshire


Sir Mark Jones, the former director of the British Museum and V&A, has said the UK’s biggest museums should introduce an entrance for overseas visitors.


As tourists continue to visit Japan in record numbers, many tourism businesses and attractions across the country are increasing prices, charging more for foreign visitors to enjoy certain products and experiences


Barcelona says it's at capacity, with city council officials voting to raise its tourist tax for the second time this year in an attempt to curb visitor numbers


The first giant pandas to enter the US in 21 years are on their way to San Diego, with the landmark moment seeing Beijing loan the iconic animals to the zoo as “envoys of friendship between the Chinese and American peoples”.


Iceland is starting to feel the effects of over-tourism, with the country’s government planning to introduce a flexible tax to stem the effects of an influx of visitors to the island nation


New for 2024, Tassie’s Underwater Twist utilises digital elements to create a one-of-a-kind immersive waterslide experience, with the new addition now open to the public at Aquatica Orlando


Six Flags has taken its first step into the luxury hotel market, with the operator opening a new safari-themed hotel at its Great Adventure park in New Jersey


As the cost of living increases, parents are putting themselves into debt in order to facilitate a trip to a Disney park for their children


A major heritage attraction in China has found itself under scrutiny after installing timers above all of its public toilets in order to cope with an increase in visitor numbers


The highly-anticipated Eden Project Dundee has received planning permission from councillors, meaning the £130m (US$165.3m, €153.5m) project can now go ahead


The French are famous for their cheese and now it’s being celebrated with the launch of a new cheese museum in Paris - the first in the country


New research has found that museums in the UK need a 10-20% increase in funding just in order to stabilise their finances, with many concerned over ongoing funding shortfalls


The Albergo dei Poveri, one of Europe’s biggest historic buildings, is undergoing nearly €150m worth of work that will see it house the National Archaeological Museum of Naples, as well as university facilities and the city’s National Library


UK charity Guide Dogs has partnered with Warner Bros Studio Tour London in order to enhance the visitor experience for those with visual impairments and to create a best-in-class blueprint for other attractions to follow in the future


The reopening of an attraction in Bristol, UK, is being celebrated with a city-wide hunt for free tickets to the popular science centre.


Christie is offering a showcase of “95 years of innovation” at this year’s InfoComm, with the AV specialists set to showcase a range of integrated and interactive technology at this year’s event.


Despite facing a number of global challenges, the cruise industry is on target to break a pre-pandemic record as nearly 35 million passengers are expected to take to the seas for a cruise vacation


In a world affected by conflict, climate change and economic uncertainty, culture and cultural icons are under threat, but the British Council and its partners are leading projects across 19 countries to protect and preserve the world's cultural heritage. Stephanie Grant, director of the Cultural Protection Fund explains how this work is being done and why it is essential


India’s largest chain of theme parks, Wonderla, is set to launch its fourth offering with the May 24 launch of Wonderla Bhubaneswar.


Australia’s Perth Zoo has started the next phase of its government-backed AUS$51m expansion with work starting on a new gibbon habitat that will triple the animals’ space while also offering visitors new ways to see them


Universal Destinations & Experiences has said that as much as 92% of 6,000 local residents surveyed are in favour of plans for a Universal theme park in the UK.


Hallmark is launching its own immersive Christmas experience, with the themed event coming to Kansas City this holiday season


Visiting zoos and aquariums can influence positive behavioural changes and attitudes, a new study has found.


Safari style lodges overlooking giraffes grazing on a savannah have been given the go ahead at Chester Zoo.


WhiteWater has been named as the supplier to Qiddiya’s Aquarabia, with the company set to deliver a range of groundbreaking and record-breaking products to the under-construction attraction


London’s Natural History Museum has announced its newly transformed gardens will open to the public this July


An ex-intelligence officer from Saudi Arabia has alleged that Saudi forces were instructed to use ‘lethal force’ against those resisting relocation as a result of the under-construction linear mega city The Line


The German city of Bad Harzburg has a new dark ride addition, with its operator HarzVenture hoping the new attraction proves popular as tourists seek entertainment options during the winter months


An increasing trend at Disney World is somewhat surprisingly seeing more and more people choosing to work remotely from the resort’s theme parks.


French theme park and zoo Le Pal is celebrating the launch of Fjord Explorer - its brand new Water Coaster ride from Mack Rides and BoldMove


Two men have been charged with criminal damage following the felling of the famous Sycamore Gap tree along Hadrian’s Wall


The European Commission is inviting tourism destinations across Europe to showcase their innovative sustainable tourism practices, with the launch of the 2025 edition of the European Green Pioneer of Smart Tourism competition.


More than 40 cultural heritage sites in Gaza have been damaged in the Israel-Gaza conflict, Unesco has revealed.


A new attraction has arrived at Germany’s Heide Park, with Dämonen Gruft frighting and delighting visitors since its launch in March. Alterface’s Stéphane Battaille spoke to Planet Attractions about what went into the horror-filled ride’s creation


Changes set to be made to Disney’s Disability Access Service will punish those with disabilities rather than prevent use by able-bodied ‘disability fakers’, a group has said


Over a dozen people have been injured following an incident at Universal Studios Hollywood that saw a tram carrying passengers crash.


As the city of Amsterdam continues to attempt to reduce tourism numbers, the city is taking its next big step by saying ‘no’ to new hotels.


A new immersive experience is coming to Las Vegas, with ‘Bob Marley Hope Road’ set to open at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino later this year.


Design consultancy Mather & Co has been appointed to reimagine the Hereford Museum and Art Gallery, with the project set to see the museum's Grade II-listed building transformed into a contemporary cultural destination for local people and tourists.


Queues of up to an hour were in place ahead of the first public event about Universal’s UK theme park plans, with the operator saying the local people have embraced the project, keen for it to become a reality.


Disney says it is changing its policy for guests with disabilities at its theme parks, with the changes coming alongside the threat of a lifetime ban from its parks for those who attempt to misuse the programme.


DEAL celebrated its 30th edition with a record-breaking show that saw more people than ever visit the regional meeting point. Here's what happened:


Cedar Fair is making use of Attractions.io’s MapLayr, utilising the interactive and layered mapping technology to add 'flair and functionality' as it reimagines the mobile experience across all 13 of its US theme parks


Already the largest of its kind in Europe, here’s how the Signal light festival worked with Christie to bring the spectacle to life


After overseeing a transformation of London’s National Portrait Gallery, Nicholas Cullinan has been chosen to do the same again, this time as director of the British Museum


Oklahoma City Zoo officials and supporters gathered Tuesday to celebrate the long-awaited opening of Expedition Africa, the largest habitat in the zoo’s 122-year history.


Archaeologists undertaking excavations on Insula 10 (Regio IX)—a central area of the city of Pompeii—have discovered an ancient Roman construction site.


Thailand is looking to its calendar of major festivals to draw tourists to the country, with its government eyeing to generate more income through the sector.


‘Evolution of Cruise’ will be the theme for this year’s Seatrade Cruise Global ahead of the industry-leading event’s return in April


First-of-its-kind research from Historic England has quantified the impact of local heritage on residents, with the annual economic benefit of historic sites in the country worth an estimated £29bn


English Heritage is testing body-worn cameras at four of the national organisation’s sites in an attempt to deter anti-social behaviour and crime, as well as to protect its staff during ‘confrontational situations’



Natalia Szczepanczyk, segment manager for Experiential and Immersive Applications at Holoplot, shares insights into the status quo of immersive entertainment and the advances in audio technology Holoplot brings


Aura: The Forest at the Edge of the Sky is among the outstanding projects to be recognised with a Thea Award, with the Weta Workshop celebrating its achievements in creating the multisensory retail experience


BoldMove’s expanded Smash and Reload formats, as well as its new Voodoo Festival IP will be a key focus for the company through 2024


Saudi Arabia’s tourism push is gaining momentum with more than US$13bn of private investment attracted by the kingdom’s ongoing spending spree


Holovis technology has been celebrated at the 30th annual TEA Thea Awards, with SeaWorld Yas Island, Abu Dhabi claiming one of the prestigious prizes


With the entertainment industry expected to contribute around US$23bn to Saudi Arabia by 2030, it’s no wonder that SEA Expo continues to grow at pace with the rapidly expanding market. Here’s what to expect for its sixth edition this May


Perth’s Elizabeth Quay is set to welcome an immersive art experience from award-winning studio Atelier Sisu next month, with large-scale ‘bubbles’ to captivate audiences through a vibrant sound and light spectacle.


An iconic British rollercoaster is about to reopen to the public following a complete track replacement, with Nemesis Reborn opening to the public for the new season at Alton Towers starting March 16.


The Smithsonian Institution will introduce a new policy on human remains that will see descendants or communities of origin able to decide what happens to their ancestors


There’s a trend on social media that is seeing more and more virtual and AI influencers gain significant popularity, should you be using them to promote your attractions? Tom Anstey explores...


The UK’s Science Museum Group has revealed a significant partnership with the Saudi Ministry of Culture which includes the development of a new Museums Hub in Riyadh as the two nations focus on boosting co-operation, cultural exchange and more in the museum sector


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


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


Normandy’s historic D-Day landing beaches could finally be named a Unesco World Heritage Site with the cultural organisation now ready to consider a new application 80 years on from the event that marked the beginning of Europe’s liberation from the Nazis


Ripley’s is offering out its latest annual free of charge after some of its titles were pulled from school libraries as a direct result of Florida’s controversial law restricting the discussion of LGBTQ+ issues in public schools.


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


Gone are the days of stuffy and quiet museums. In today's world, people seek unique experiences, an escape from reality, and a place where they can immerse themselves and express their creativity. With this in mind, we have asked our designers about the trends that are currently shaping museums. Read on to discover their insights


Workers who bring characters such as Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck and Cinderella to life could be about to unionise.


Belgium’s Bellewaerde Park is investing €21m in a new themed land for 2024. Erik Huijing visited Mundo Amazonia ahead of its opening next month to get a behind the scenes look at the upcoming addition to the park


Saudi Arabia’s tourism push is hitting the rails with the country investing US$75m into an Orient Express-style luxury train that will travel to two of the Kingdom’s World Heritage Sites


The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland’s (RZSS) Highland Wildlife Park has announced that it has joined the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA).


The fire that has almost totally destroyed Swedish theme park Liseberg’s under-construction Oceana Water World waterpark continues to burn, with emergency services saying that firefighting efforts are being complicated by risk of building collapse.


Two people are in critical condition following an incident in which a tree fell onto PortAventura’s Tomahawk coaster


From waterpark suppliers and media specialists to creative designers, dark ride producers and operations specialists, Planet Attractions has gone to every corner of the globe to find out what’s hot in 2024


Liseberg’s under construction Oceana waterpark has been almost totally destroyed following a major fire that has seen 22 people seek medical care, while one man remains missing


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


The streets, hotels and restaurants around the ruins of Machu Picchu - Peru’s most famous tourist attraction - remained almost deserted Wednesday, with train services to the area canceled amid a week-long protest over the outsourcing of entry ticket sales to a private company.


With records for the tallest, fastest and longest rollercoaster all set to be broken by a single ride, it should give you an idea of the kind of thrills in-store for thrillseekers this year as we list 26 of the biggest coaster launches coming in 2024


Director Steven Spielberg has said the upcoming Epic Universe theme park in Orlando from Universal is being “built on an amazing concept”.


Charity organisation Survival International has called on Prince Harry to ‘distance himself’ from African Parks and step down from its board, after allegations emerged accusing some of its guards of abuse against Indigenous people


Red Sea Global, a developer behind a number of major tourism-focused projects in Saudi Arabia, has unveiled beach cleaning robots designed to keep its waterfronts plastic free.


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





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


The Giant has its first location, with the mammoth moving attraction and accompanying exhibition set to open at the American Dream Mall in New Jersey, US, in 2025


It's a big number for a small museum.


Japanese authorities are fighting over tourism on Mount Fuji by announcing plans to introduce a toll and visitor cap on the World Heritage site’s most popular hiking trail


Buda, Texas, will be the location of a brand new US$1.5m golf-themed family entertainment centre, after city council members approved incentive funding of up to US$400,000 to realise the project.





The American Heritage Museum has unveiled the restoration of a WWII-era German Deutsche Reichsbahn Rail Car in the first phase of a project aiming to develop a comprehensive permanent exhibit remembering the Holocaust


A Wild West theme park has been severely damaged by fire, with two people injured and millions in damage caused by the blaze.


Pokémon cards meant to be released at the Van Gogh Museum will return to the cultural attraction in February or March after the cards were originally removed from sale as a result of a public riot.


Malta National Aquarium has opened a brand new attraction from Triotech that blends state-of-the-art technology with special effects to create an exciting and educational underwater experience


The Gold Coast’s theme parks will be among the attractions to benefit from a scheme that will see 50,000 vouchers worth AU$50 (US$33, £26) each offered to spend on experiences in the area.


For 40 years, Battersea Power Station was closed to the public and one of London’s largest (literally) enigmas. But these days the old power station is open for all to explore. Following a mega redevelopment completed in 2022, BPS boasts everything from designer shopping and swanky bars with incredible vistas to glitzy multi-million-pound penthouses and a shiny new tube station.


Blackpool Pleasure Beach in Lancashire, UK, has launched a recruitment drive to fill more than 100 job vacancies as the theme park gears up for its 2024 season.


More than 4,000 people representing FECs, leisure attractions and more are expected to attend this year’s EAG Expo, with the annual event representing one of the first in-person gatherings for the attractions industry on the 2024 calendar.


Artists from across the world are set to travel to the Lithuanian capital of Vilnius later this month as they display their illumination projects for the sixth annual Vilnius Light Festival.


Entering 2024, companies across the attractions and themed entertainment industries are on the hunt for new talent. Check out some of the positions available right now worldwide


A new AI-powered Elvis Presley concert experience billed as a celebration of the artist’s life and legacy is coming to London later this year


The Science Museum of Minnesota (SMM) in the US, has received a US$6.5m (€5.3m, £5.1m) donation, the largest in the institution’s history.


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


An animal attraction that earns the vast majority of its revenue from visiting tourists is suffering significant declines as a result of the cruise industry.


The British Museum has been branded ‘astonishingly out of touch’ after announcing its decision to accept a record-breaking £50m donation from oil giant BP


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


The Blue Lagoon - one of Iceland’s most popular tourist attractions - has reopened for the first time in over a month following fears of a volcanic eruption.


Former Walt Disney Attractions chairman Dick Nunis has died aged 91.


The cruise industry is lined up for a record year, with travellers from across the globe booking trips in greater numbers than even before as the travel sector bounces back from the effects of the global pandemic


International tourism has almost completely recovered from the Covid-19 pandemic with many destinations reaching or even exceeding pre-pandemic levels, according to UNWTO


Outernet London - the West End’s visually stunning immersive entertainment district is now one of the British capital’s most popular attractions after welcoming 6.25 million visitors since opening in November last year.


A new attraction has opened its doors inside the Rockefeller Center, with the New York landmark now offering visitors a chance to recreate one of the most iconic images in history -


Criminal orders have been issued against two Legoland employees, after a rollercoaster crash that injured 29 people.


Sansei Technologies has announced the acquisition of leading experience design firm Forrec, with the Japanese ride and equipment manufacturer promising to elevate the guest experience through the new partnership


Peru’s government is planning to significantly increase the number of people allowed to visit the iconic Machu Picchu on a daily basis.


Renowned artist Tracey Emin has been appointed a trustee of the British Museum, with Emin becoming the first female Royal Academician appointed to the role in the institution’s history.


Storyland Studios is behind the development of Libertyland USA - a world class theme park and resort development coming to South Dakota in 2026


Saudi Arabia has won a bid to host World Expo 2030 in Riyadh, with US$7.8bn set to be invested into building a site that focuses on ‘shaping a prosperous and sustainable future’


Daleks, the Tardiss and other icons of


A new theme park nestled within the forests of Japan’s northern Okinawa Prefecture will open in 2025, with the surrounding nature inspiring the soon-to-debut Jungalia.


A post-pandemic surge in tourist arrivals to the Middle East is fuelling a shift towards experiences over products, with destinations such as the upcoming Six Flags Qiddya and the SEVEN entertainment destinations predicted to net the region a combined US$14bn (€12.79bn, £11.89bn) annually by 2028.


A recent study has revealed that people from the Gen Z age bracket are seeking more sustainable brands, with customers feeling significantly more positive about those that make sustainability a priority.


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


Triotech has unveiled a brand new attraction at IAAPA Expo, with SuperFly set to debut in Canada at FEC NEB's Fun World.


Dual additions to accesso’s product portfolio have strengthened the attractions technology provider’s offering in 2023. Steve Drake, accesso’s senior vice president of Global Initiatives, speaks to Planet Attractions


September saw the debut of a brand-new addition to Salt Lake City’s Lagoon Park - a hybrid rollercoaster and dark ride experience known as Primordial. Planet Attractions speaks to Ernest Yale and Nol Van Genuchten about the experience and how its team brought the first-of-its-kind attraction to life


One of the Edwardian era’s last remaining passenger steamships has docked in Kingston, Ontario, with the vessel set to become a permanent heritage attraction.


Benoit Cornet, CEO of dark ride specialists BoldMove Nation, has said that visitors are looking more and more for experiences they can immerse themselves in, with attention to detail being key to creating such an attraction.


Intamin’s Lukas Spieldiener speaks to Planet Attractions on the launch of a number of immersive projects this year, with further such attractions also in the pipeline for 2024 and beyond


The 2024 edition of the Museums + Heritage Awards will be open for nominations starting November 1.


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


Officials from Israeli museums have called on the International Council of Museums to recognise Hamas as a terror organisation “akin to the Taliban”


A major cultural attraction has opened its doors in Manchester, with the £210m Aviva Studios representing the largest investment in a national cultural project since the opening of Tate Modern in 2000


Attractions industry veteran Clara Rice has been named global marketing director of Adirondack Studios (ADKS), a creative solution provider targeting designers, producers, artists and other themed entertainment professionals.


Yorkshire’s Craven Museum has beaten off competition from some of the UK’s top museums, galleries, historic homes and heritage sites to be named the winner of this year’s Family Friendly Museum Award


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


Morty - an experience app which describes itself as ‘the ultimate social copilot for you and your friends’ - has raised more than US$2.2m as the company expands operations into the haunted attractions market


Dr Nick Merriman is set to replace Kate Mavor CBE as chief executive of English Heritage, the charity has announced.


Benoit Cornet shares a fascinating insight into the world of dark rides and the emergence of his new company - BoldMove Nation


The Association of Science and Technology Centers has announced the winners of this year’s Roy L. Shafer Leading Edge Awards, with each recognised for their dedication to increasing the understanding of and engagement with science and technology among all people


ADG’s Julie Kline speaks to Planet Attractions on everything the company has to offer, including the upcoming US$400m Okana development in Oklahoma


Alex Book, co-founder and chief strategy officer at Arcade – The Creative Reality Company, explains how attractions and cultural institutions can make use of immersive technologies to reach new audiences


A new exhibit from the National WWII Museum in New Orleans will give its visitors the opportunity to have conversations with some of the heroes of World War II, with AI technology powering the upcoming Voices from the Front experience


Disney’s ability to create high-quality content on movies and TV along with real-world versions of these experiences allows the company to “occupy an unrivalled presence within the minds of people across the globe”.


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


IAAPA Expo Europe has come to its conclusion, with lots of news coming out of the record-breaking event in Vienna


There’s a transformative shift happening when it comes to use of technology in attractions management. Anthony Palermo, co-founder of Connect&GO, spoke to Tom Anstey...


Pittsburgh's Carnegie Science Center is set to welcome a popular Titanic exhibition, with visitors to be immersed in full-scale room re-creations of the doomed vessel alongside 154 authentic artefacts when it opens to the public next month.


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


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 US$14.5m project, including a new planetarium, has been approved for the town of Spartanburg in South Carolina, US


A controversial housing development on the former site of Bristol Zoo in Clifton, UK, is to go ahead despite public backlash.


The Great Wall of China has suffered ‘irreversible damage’ after two people dug a hole through the wall with an excavator to create a shortcut


Up to seven people could soon be charged with the theft of a solid gold toilet stolen from Blenheim Palace in 2019 following a major breakthrough in the case


A Banksy exhibition has broken box office records at Glasgow’s Gallery of Modern Art, attracting more than 180,000 visitors during its 10 week run


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


The head of the Smithsonian Institution has apologised for its collection of human remains.


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


Pink paint being smeared onto a Tom Thomson work at the National Gallery of Canada is the latest in a long line of recent attacks against art in the name of protest.


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


The Gorman Museum of Native American Art will reopen next month with a celebratory weekend marking the institution’s 50th anniversary


France is taking action at a national level to counter over-tourism in major tourism locations such as the Unesco World Heritage site of Mont Saint Michel.


Heritage operation Severn Valley Railway (SVR) has confirmed the sale of one of its most popular locomotives in an effort to secure its financial future.


The Museums Association has said ‘categorically’ that theft from collections is ‘incredibly rare, after more than 1,500 priceless artefacts were found to have been stolen from the British Museum


Norway’s cruise industry is booming, with 5.5 million passengers expected to make a port call during 2023 as individual visits shoot up by 29%


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


The Orlando Museum of Art is suing its former director Aaron De Groft for allegedly seeking to profit from the sale of several fake Jean-Michel Basquiat artworks


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


Astronaut and space diplomat Namira Salim has revealed plans to develop a new space tourism concept offering a space hotel, themed restaurants, a stargazing deck and a possible theme park


Historic England has announced the appointment of Conservative peer Lord Neil Mendoza as its new chair.


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


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


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


Japanese people are opting to stay at home rather than travel overseas despite the complete end to Covid-travel restrictions in the country as of October 2022.


London’s Horniman Museum has been awarded £5.7m by the National Lottery Heritage Fund for its Nature + Love project


Seven has announced the latest entertainment mega destination to come to Saudi Arabia following the breaking ground of its SAR1.3bn development in the city of Al-Madinah


China’s Hangzhou Zoo has had to assure its visitors that its sun bears are not just people in costume, after footage of one of the animals standing like a person went viral online.


The Dr Samuel D. Harris National Museum of Dentistry (NMD) in Baltimore, US, has been awarded a US$1.28m (€1.2m, £1m) grant from the Science Education Partnership Award to transform how young people are taught about oral health.


The recently launched Sensational Museum project has outlined its goal to challenge the hierarchical split between museum provision for disabled and non-disabled people, and create museums that "work for everyone".


The UK’s national tourism board VisitBritain/VisitEngland is to open a new head office in Birmingham.


Unesco says it’s deeply dismayed over an attack carried out by the Russian forces, which hit several cultural sites in the city centre of Odesa, while President, Volodymyr Zelenskyy has pledged retaliation for the act


The Roald Dahl Museum has announced plans to develop free resources for schools as part of its commitment to anti-racism.


A lioness currently being hunted in the southwestern outskirts of Berlin is not thought to be from any local zoos, animal sanctuaries or circuses.


Extreme flooding in northern India has seen water make it all the way to the walls of the Taj Mahal - the first time such an occurrence has happened in 45 years


A senior politician for the island nation of Tobago has said that a US$300m waterpark development must not come ‘at the expense of ordinary citizens’ as the country faces a water deficit


A young entrepreneur has raised upwards of US$100,000 in her ambition to build a theme park dedicated to the US state of Texas.


The proposed Eden Project Dundee attraction has begun the formal planning process after submitting a proposal of application notice to Dundee City Council



Shepreth Wildlife Park to host hedgehog hospital charity event





Attractions.io’s AI Assistant to be unveiled at IAAPA Expo




Alterface to debut Imagination Playground at IAAPA Expo




Industry insights



The world is on fire, so why should we care about cultural heritage?




Video



WATCH: ‘Surround yourself in horror’ as Universal’s Horror Unleashed prepares for 2025 debut

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Everything you need to know about IAAPA Expo Europe 2024



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Shepreth Wildlife Park to host hedgehog hospital charity event


Shepreth Wildlife Park is set to host a special holiday charity ball, with the event raising funds for its in-demand hedgehog conservation programme

Abandoned theme park becomes Halloween horror attraction


An abandoned theme park has been turned into a scare city in time for Halloween.

Region-first technology to be implemented as Bahrain Surf Park - Club Hawaii announced for 2026


A new wave park has been announced for Bahrain, with the attraction set to be part of a landmark destination when it opens to the public in 2026

City officials pave over Brooklyn’s viral fire hydrant aquarium


A makeshift aquarium built around a leaking fire hydrant in New York that created major buzz across social media has been paved over by the city

Melike Altınışık Architects reveals futuristic Seoul robot museum


Turkish studio Melike Altınışık Architects has unveiled the Seoul Robot & AI Museum in South Korea, where visitors can "explore the endless possibilities of robotics and AI".

China Tourism Group eyes deal for Haichang Theme Parks


China Tourism Group Corp. is considering a potential deal to gain control of some of the country’s most iconic theme parks run by Haichang Ocean Park Holdings Ltd., according to people familiar with the matter.

The Vessel at Hudson Yards reopens with new safety measures following deaths


The long-awaited return of a New York City attraction arrives Monday: the reopening of The Vessel.

Robotic whale shark causes controversy as visitors say they’ve been deceived by Chinese aquarium


Visitors to a recently reopened aquarium in China were demanding refunds after it turned out the attraction’s signature whale shark was actually a robotic replacement

National Lottery Heritage Fund awards £30m to heritage projects across the UK ahead of thirtieth anniversary


The National Lottery Heritage Fund has awarded 15 UK heritage projects a share of £30m in funding, with London’s Crystal Palace Park and North Yorkshire’s Ripon Museum among recipients

Home of the Komodo Dragon under strain from increased tourism as government considers closures


A tourism influx is putting the Komodo dragon's habitat at risk with Indonesia’s government considering partial park closures in 2025 to protect the species

Deal signed for US$3.4bn Paramount theme park in South Korea


Shinsegae Group has announced the inking of a US$3.4bn deal that will see a Paramount theme park and wider resort open in South Korea in 2029

One dead and 23 rescued after lift malfunction at Colorado gold mine


One person has died and 23 others have been rescued after a lift malfunctioned at a disused Colorado gold mine.

Walmart enters virtual world with immersive retail experiences


Walmart has promised a glimpse into the future of shopping, with the global retailer announcing plans to create “immersive commerce experiences” for its customers

All of Florida’s major parks close as Hurricane Milton hits state


All of Florida’s major theme parks have shut with the arrival of Hurricane Milton in the state.

UK Theme Park Awards highlight best in class for Britain’s top attractions


More than 360,000 people had their say in this year’s UK Theme Park Awards, with a record public vote seeing Thorpe Park crowned Theme Park of the Year, while Hyperia was named the Best New Attraction for 2024

‘Finally’: Jakob Wahl on IAAPA Expo’s move to the Middle East


IAAPA is set to host its first Expo event in the Middle East with IAAPA Expo Middle East coming to Abu Dhabi in 2026. IAAPA’s president and CEO, Jakob Wahl, speaks to Planet Attractions

Everything you need to know about IAAPA Expo Europe 2024


IAAPA returns to Amsterdam for the 2024 edition of IAPPA Expo Europe. Here’s everything you need to know about the event

Thai zoo urges visitors to behave after baby hippo Moo Deng goes viral


A zoo in Thailand is urging its visitors to behave after a doubling in attendance following the birth of a baby pygmy hippo called Moo Deng

Connect&GO strengthens leadership team with three new appointments


Integrated attractions management platform Connect&GO has announced the addition of three new members to its leadership team

Immersive Squid Game experience coming to New York


Squid Game: The Experience is coming to New York City in October as Netflix is stirring up interest in another upcoming season of the streaming series.

Alterface’s first Moviemax attraction makes debut in Saint-Tropez


Alterface’s Moviemax has made its debut in Saint-Tropez’s Azur Park, with the attraction’s first season hailed as an “unqualified success”

Pop-up Beetlejuice experience has opened in LA ahead of the theatrical release of highly-anticipated sequel


An immersive Beetlejuice experience has opened in Los Angeles to celebrate the forthcoming release of the highly anticipated Beetlejuice sequel

Government probe announced as dynamic pricing takes the spotlight in Oasis ticket controversy


The British government has announced a probe into the use of dynamic pricing after ticket seller Ticketmaster significantly increased costs for the Oasis reunion while customers sat in a virtual queue

Miirage creates holographic experience for Melbourne Museum’s landmark T-Rex exhibition


Miirage is behind a new holographic experience at Melbourne Museum that stars Victoria - a record-breaking T-Rex that represents one of the largest and most complete T-Rex fossils ever to go on display

Royal Caribbean to point fingers over Whakaari volcano tragedy


Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd is looking to blame Tourism New Zealand and the Institute of Geological and Nuclear Science (GNS) for the deaths and injuries to passengers who went to Whakaari White Island while travelling on its Ovation of the Seas cruise liner.

Coney Island's 97-year-old Cyclone shut down indefinitely following mid-ride malfunction


The famous Coney Island Cyclone roller coaster in New York City was shut down indefinitely after coming to a stop mid-ride this week.

Extreme weather leads to collapse of ancient Mexican pyramid


Rain following a severe drought has seen an 1,100-year-old pyramid in Mexico partially collapse at the Ihuatzio archaeological site

Trip.com Group partners with Merlin Entertainments to create aquarium experiences across Asia


Travel service provider Trip.com Group has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Merlin Entertainments to attract visitors to marine-focused events and experiences across the Asia region

Festival-goers injured after fire breaks out on Ferris wheel


At least 30 people have been injured following a fire on a Ferris wheel at a music festival in Germany

New videogame for Europa-Park mascots to launch alongside motion picture and family attraction in 2025


Europa-Park’s mascots Ed and Edda are at the heart of a major campaign that will see the launch of a new videogame, motion picture and family attraction, with all three products set to launch in the summer of 2025

Dijon Museum sees surge after Olympic ceremony over controversial painting


The museum in Dijon, France, has seen an unexpected visitor surge since the Olympic opening ceremony, as people flock to view a painting that might have inspired a contentious tableau criticized by some Christians and conservatives.

Honest comedy: TikTok’s viral town reviewer Phil Carr is turning his focus to attractions


A content creator who went viral producing tongue-in-cheek reviews of towns and businesses in the UK has turned his eye to the world of attractions. Planet Attractions spoke to Phil Carr about his social media rise and what’s next for the TikTok star

Henry VIII’s early reign brought to life at Hampton Court Palace


The historic Wolsey Rooms at Hampton Court Palace have re-opened with a brand-new exhibition, ‘The Tudor World’, celebrating the early reign of the iconic Tudor king, through a vivid display of original artworks, historic objects, and interactive experiences.

Tottenham Hotspur launches heritage tour


Tottenham Hotspur is delighted to launch its first-ever Heritage Tour, detailing the incredible story of the history, architecture and people that make up the past, present and future of the Club and its local area.

Russian culture ‘fully returning to 1930s era of control and censorship’ says critic


A prominent Russian critic has said that the country’s culture scene is ‘fully returning to the 1930s era of control and censorship’ following Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine

‘Battle at the Ministry’ to feature as Universal unveils new details about Harry Potter attraction coming to Epic Universe


The trial of Dolores Umbridge will be the story for the centrepiece attraction of Epic Universe’s Wizarding World, with Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry utilising ‘first-of-its-kind’ ride technology

‘Museum Meet Ups’ scheme aims to tackle loneliness in over 50s


The Royal Albert Memorial Museum & Art Gallery has announced a new programme that aims to improve wellbeing through cultural activities, with ‘Museum Meet Up’ a scheme for local people over 50 who are facing anxiety and loneliness.

British government scraps controversial Stonehenge tunnel scheme


A controversial £1.7bn scheme that would have seen a major road running alongside Stonehenge become an underground dual-carriageway tunnel has been scrapped by the British government

What’s the latest?


There’s been a lot going on in the world of attractions over the last week. Here are some of the headlines:

Interactive indulgence: Alterface’s Stephane Battaille on bringing Cadbury World’s new interactive chocolate-themed dark ride to life


Cadbury World is in the midst of a multi-million-pound investment from its new owner, Merlin Entertainments. Alterface’s Stephane Battaille explains how one of the attraction’s biggest investments - Cadbury Chocolate Quest - was brought to life

Heritage theme park Dreamland to have license reviewed following drugs overdose at event


Dreamland in Margate will have to meet a series of safety conditions after concerns were raised following the death of a teenager during a drum and bass event.

Bird’s eye poo: London Museum unveils pigeon logo alongside new brand identity


A clay pigeon and a golden poo splat are the new logo for the rebranded London Museum, which is more than halfway through its multi-year, £437m move to Smithfield

Major new theme park to open on Polish coast in 2025


An upcoming theme park development in Poland is looking to provide competition to the likes of Energylandia, with the expansive Hossoland set to become one of the country’s largest attractions when it opens to the public next year

WATCH: Universal Creative shares story behind Epic Universe Preview Center


Brian Robinson, chief creative officer at Universal Creative, has shared his insight on the creative story behind the Epic Universe Preview Center at Universal Orlando’s CityWalk

Mobile aquarium uses wild-caught fish to teach people about Ohio River’s biodiversity


A mobile aquarium is being used in Ohio to teach people about the waterway’s biodiversity.

Liseberg to reconstruct Oceana following devastating fire


Liseberg has announced the formal decision to rebuild its indoor water park Oceana after much of the attraction was destroyed following a fire earlier this year

Decision date set as Flamingo Land plans £40m Loch Lomond development


A date has been set for the decision on controversial plans for a major theme park and holiday resort on the banks of Loch Lomond.

Venice set to increase entry charge in 2025 following pilot scheme


Venice’s experiment with payment systems for tourists only had a small impact on reducing crowds, a politician has said, meaning prices will almost certainly be hiked next year.

Knoebels and Attractions.io expand partnership with native purchasing addition


Boasting 99% positive feedback from its users, the Knoebels Amusement Resort app has expanded its offering, working with Attractions.io to add native purchasing to the popular platform

Space startups building balloons to carry tourists 100,000 feet into the stratosphere


Commercial space flight is becoming more and more common, with companies including SpaceX, Blue Origin and Virgin Galactic all transporting paid customers into space over the last several years.

Culture sector must move past the 'climate of distrust', says Arts Council chief executive


With a change in government following last week’s General Election, the culture sector must move past the “climate of distrust” created by the stoking of the culture wars, says Darren Henley, chief executive of Arts Council England (ACE).

Fern the diplodocus unveiled as transformed Natural History Museum gardens prepare to welcome visitors


Ahead of the opening of its transformed gardens on July 18, London’s Natural History Museum has unveiled Fern, the bronze cast of its iconic diplodocus ‘Dippy’, to the public

Bø Sommarland celebrates launch of NOK10m HiwiHuhu waterslide


Norway’s Bø Sommarland - one of the largest waterparks in Europe - is celebrating the launch of a new NOK10m (US$932,000, €854,000, £734,000) waterslide.

People injured after ride 'fell to the floor without stopping' at Oakwood Theme Park


A number of people have been injured following an incident on a ride at Wales' largest theme park.

Nassau Cruise Port to build US$35m waterpark


The redeveloped Nassau Cruise Port is looking for family-friendly options to add to its offering, with plans announced to develop a US$35m waterpark as part of the tourist destination

Young V&A wins Museum of the Year award


The Young V&A in east London has won the prestigious Museum of the Year award, fighting off competition from the National Portrait Gallery to win the £120,000 prize.

Copenhagen’s attractions play key role as city launches green experience economy initiative


Copenhagen’s tourist body is offering visitors to the Danish city the chance to pay for a variety of attractions in the city by completing a number of climate-friendly actions

German court says two people took bribes during construction of Museum Barberini


A court in Potsdam, Germany, said this week that two people who had taken bribes during the construction of the Museum Barberini, a private museum run by collector Hasso Plattner.

Qatar joins Middle East’s theme park frenzy with $5.5 billion project


Despite the scorching heat, countries in the Middle East are continuing to build theme parks. Qatar is the latest, greenlighting a $5.5 billion project 40 minutes north of the capital Doha. It’s called Simaisma and it’s been built by a state-owned company, Qatari Diar, appointed by the government. With a theme park at its core, the project will span eight million square meters (1,976 acres) along seven kilometers of beachfront land. The development is also set to include an 18-hole golf course surrounded by 300 villas, hotels, a marina and beach club, as well as homes and shops.

Rewards for tourists who litter pick in Copenhagen


Tourists will be rewarded with free food and activities if they participate in environmentally friendly tasks while visiting Copenhagen, the city's tourist board has announced.

Natural History Museum announces debut of contemporary audio art installation ‘The River’


The River is a first-of-its-kind exhibition for London’s Natural History Museum, with acclaimed Norwegian artist Jana Winderen using sound to explore the world below the surface of the River Thames

Puy du Fou reveals plans to expand into UK with £300m theme park in Oxfordshire


French historic attraction operator Puy du Fou has announced plans to open its first UK theme park in Oxfordshire

Former British Museum and V&A director says overseas visitors should pay entry fee to UK’s top institutions


Sir Mark Jones, the former director of the British Museum and V&A, has said the UK’s biggest museums should introduce an entrance for overseas visitors.

Japan bumping up prices as tourism numbers surge


As tourists continue to visit Japan in record numbers, many tourism businesses and attractions across the country are increasing prices, charging more for foreign visitors to enjoy certain products and experiences

Barcelona the latest destination to declare itself at capacity, as city votes to raise tourist taxes


Barcelona says it's at capacity, with city council officials voting to raise its tourist tax for the second time this year in an attempt to curb visitor numbers

First pandas to come to US in two decades head for San Diego


The first giant pandas to enter the US in 21 years are on their way to San Diego, with the landmark moment seeing Beijing loan the iconic animals to the zoo as “envoys of friendship between the Chinese and American peoples”.

Iceland plans over-tourism crackdown with new flexible tax


Iceland is starting to feel the effects of over-tourism, with the country’s government planning to introduce a flexible tax to stem the effects of an influx of visitors to the island nation

Tassie’s Underwater Twist offers one-of-a-kind immersive waterslide experience at Aquatica Orlando


New for 2024, Tassie’s Underwater Twist utilises digital elements to create a one-of-a-kind immersive waterslide experience, with the new addition now open to the public at Aquatica Orlando

Six Flags launches luxury New Jersey safari hotel


Six Flags has taken its first step into the luxury hotel market, with the operator opening a new safari-themed hotel at its Great Adventure park in New Jersey

A trip to Disney World puts average family US$2,000 in debt, says study


As the cost of living increases, parents are putting themselves into debt in order to facilitate a trip to a Disney park for their children

On the clock: China installs toilet timers at popular World Heritage site


A major heritage attraction in China has found itself under scrutiny after installing timers above all of its public toilets in order to cope with an increase in visitor numbers

Dundee’s £130m Eden Project gets council approval


The highly-anticipated Eden Project Dundee has received planning permission from councillors, meaning the £130m (US$165.3m, €153.5m) project can now go ahead

Paris welcomes France’s first cheese museum


The French are famous for their cheese and now it’s being celebrated with the launch of a new cheese museum in Paris - the first in the country

Two-thirds of UK museum directors concerned over funding shortfalls


New research has found that museums in the UK need a 10-20% increase in funding just in order to stabilise their finances, with many concerned over ongoing funding shortfalls

Museum plans included as Italy begins major redevelopment of one of Europe’s largest historic buildings


The Albergo dei Poveri, one of Europe’s biggest historic buildings, is undergoing nearly €150m worth of work that will see it house the National Archaeological Museum of Naples, as well as university facilities and the city’s National Library

Dogwarts: Warner Bros Studio Tour partners with guide dog charity to improve accessibility for visually impaired


UK charity Guide Dogs has partnered with Warner Bros Studio Tour London in order to enhance the visitor experience for those with visual impairments and to create a best-in-class blueprint for other attractions to follow in the future

STEM attraction launches city-wide ticket hunt ahead of reopening


The reopening of an attraction in Bristol, UK, is being celebrated with a city-wide hunt for free tickets to the popular science centre.

Christie to offer end-to-end solutions at InfoComm 2024


Christie is offering a showcase of “95 years of innovation” at this year’s InfoComm, with the AV specialists set to showcase a range of integrated and interactive technology at this year’s event.

Cruise industry on target for record year as passenger numbers set for all-time high


Despite facing a number of global challenges, the cruise industry is on target to break a pre-pandemic record as nearly 35 million passengers are expected to take to the seas for a cruise vacation

The world is on fire, so why should we care about cultural heritage?


In a world affected by conflict, climate change and economic uncertainty, culture and cultural icons are under threat, but the British Council and its partners are leading projects across 19 countries to protect and preserve the world's cultural heritage. Stephanie Grant, director of the Cultural Protection Fund explains how this work is being done and why it is essential

India’s Wonderla to launch new theme park in Bhubaneswar


India’s largest chain of theme parks, Wonderla, is set to launch its fourth offering with the May 24 launch of Wonderla Bhubaneswar.

Perth Zoo masterplan in full swing as work starts on multi-million dollar gibbon habitat


Australia’s Perth Zoo has started the next phase of its government-backed AUS$51m expansion with work starting on a new gibbon habitat that will triple the animals’ space while also offering visitors new ways to see them

Universal says 92% of people support UK theme park plan


Universal Destinations & Experiences has said that as much as 92% of 6,000 local residents surveyed are in favour of plans for a Universal theme park in the UK.

Hallmark to launch immersive Christmas-themed experience


Hallmark is launching its own immersive Christmas experience, with the themed event coming to Kansas City this holiday season

Zoo and aquarium visits influence people to change behaviour and be more sustainable


Visiting zoos and aquariums can influence positive behavioural changes and attitudes, a new study has found.

Chester Zoo set to open safari lodges where guests can watch giraffes from their rooms


Safari style lodges overlooking giraffes grazing on a savannah have been given the go ahead at Chester Zoo.

WhiteWater to supply record-breaking attractions for Qiddiya’s Aquarabia waterpark


WhiteWater has been named as the supplier to Qiddiya’s Aquarabia, with the company set to deliver a range of groundbreaking and record-breaking products to the under-construction attraction

Transformed Natural History Museum gardens to reopen in July


London’s Natural History Museum has announced its newly transformed gardens will open to the public this July

Lethal force allegations made against Saudi Arabia’s The Line


An ex-intelligence officer from Saudi Arabia has alleged that Saudi forces were instructed to use ‘lethal force’ against those resisting relocation as a result of the under-construction linear mega city The Line

Germany’s HarzVenture expands operations with new Bad Harzburg dark ride attraction


The German city of Bad Harzburg has a new dark ride addition, with its operator HarzVenture hoping the new attraction proves popular as tourists seek entertainment options during the winter months

Disney World theme parks are becoming remote working hotspots


An increasing trend at Disney World is somewhat surprisingly seeing more and more people choosing to work remotely from the resort’s theme parks.

Le Pal’s €11m Fjord Explorer opens to the public alongside new themed neighbourhood


French theme park and zoo Le Pal is celebrating the launch of Fjord Explorer - its brand new Water Coaster ride from Mack Rides and BoldMove

Two charged over felling of famous Sycamore Gap tree


Two men have been charged with criminal damage following the felling of the famous Sycamore Gap tree along Hadrian’s Wall

European Commission seeks Green Pioneer of Smart Tourism for 2025


The European Commission is inviting tourism destinations across Europe to showcase their innovative sustainable tourism practices, with the launch of the 2025 edition of the European Green Pioneer of Smart Tourism competition.

More than 40 heritage sites damaged in Israel-Gaza conflict, Unesco confirms


More than 40 cultural heritage sites in Gaza have been damaged in the Israel-Gaza conflict, Unesco has revealed.

Alone in the Dark: Alterface’s Stéphane Battaille on Heide Park’s terrifying new Dämonen Gruft dark ride attraction


A new attraction has arrived at Germany’s Heide Park, with Dämonen Gruft frighting and delighting visitors since its launch in March. Alterface’s Stéphane Battaille spoke to Planet Attractions about what went into the horror-filled ride’s creation

Disney rule change punishes people with disabilities for actions of able-bodied ‘disability fakers’, says group


Changes set to be made to Disney’s Disability Access Service will punish those with disabilities rather than prevent use by able-bodied ‘disability fakers’, a group has said

Universal tram accident injures more than a dozen people


Over a dozen people have been injured following an incident at Universal Studios Hollywood that saw a tram carrying passengers crash.

Amsterdam bans new hotel development in latest bid to reduce tourism numbers


As the city of Amsterdam continues to attempt to reduce tourism numbers, the city is taking its next big step by saying ‘no’ to new hotels.

Bob Marley immersive experience making its way to Las Vegas


A new immersive experience is coming to Las Vegas, with ‘Bob Marley Hope Road’ set to open at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino later this year.

Mather appointed to reimagine Hereford Museum and Art Gallery


Design consultancy Mather & Co has been appointed to reimagine the Hereford Museum and Art Gallery, with the project set to see the museum's Grade II-listed building transformed into a contemporary cultural destination for local people and tourists.

Locals queue for hours ahead of public consultation for UK Universal theme park


Queues of up to an hour were in place ahead of the first public event about Universal’s UK theme park plans, with the operator saying the local people have embraced the project, keen for it to become a reality.

Disney threatens guests who lie about disabilities with lifetime bans from theme parks


Disney says it is changing its policy for guests with disabilities at its theme parks, with the changes coming alongside the threat of a lifetime ban from its parks for those who attempt to misuse the programme.

Landmark 30th edition of DEAL makes its mark on MENA region


DEAL celebrated its 30th edition with a record-breaking show that saw more people than ever visit the regional meeting point. Here's what happened:

Attractions.io’s MapLayr utilised for reimagined Cedar Fair guest experience app


Cedar Fair is making use of Attractions.io’s MapLayr, utilising the interactive and layered mapping technology to add 'flair and functionality' as it reimagines the mobile experience across all 13 of its US theme parks

Bright and beautiful: How Europe’s biggest light festival delivered with Christie


Already the largest of its kind in Europe, here’s how the Signal light festival worked with Christie to bring the spectacle to life

Nicholas Cullinan to join British Museum as new director


After overseeing a transformation of London’s National Portrait Gallery, Nicholas Cullinan has been chosen to do the same again, this time as director of the British Museum

Oklahoma City Zoo unveils $35M Expedition Africa exhibit


Oklahoma City Zoo officials and supporters gathered Tuesday to celebrate the long-awaited opening of Expedition Africa, the largest habitat in the zoo’s 122-year history.

An ancient construction site, complete with cement recipe, is discovered in Pompeii


Archaeologists undertaking excavations on Insula 10 (Regio IX)—a central area of the city of Pompeii—have discovered an ancient Roman construction site.

Thailand places emphasis on festivals in bid to attract more tourists


Thailand is looking to its calendar of major festivals to draw tourists to the country, with its government eyeing to generate more income through the sector.

Seatrade Cruise Global to explore ‘Evolution of Cruise’ at 2024 event


‘Evolution of Cruise’ will be the theme for this year’s Seatrade Cruise Global ahead of the industry-leading event’s return in April

Wellbeing created by local heritage in England creates £29bn a year in economic benefits, says study


First-of-its-kind research from Historic England has quantified the impact of local heritage on residents, with the annual economic benefit of historic sites in the country worth an estimated £29bn

English Heritage sites trial body cameras in attempt to deter anti-social behaviour


English Heritage is testing body-worn cameras at four of the national organisation’s sites in an attempt to deter anti-social behaviour and crime, as well as to protect its staff during ‘confrontational situations’

Park World Excellence Awards



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


Natalia Szczepanczyk, segment manager for Experiential and Immersive Applications at Holoplot, shares insights into the status quo of immersive entertainment and the advances in audio technology Holoplot brings

Forest at the edge of the sky: Wētā Workshop celebrates Thea recognition for immersive mall experience


Aura: The Forest at the Edge of the Sky is among the outstanding projects to be recognised with a Thea Award, with the Weta Workshop celebrating its achievements in creating the multisensory retail experience

BoldMove’s Smash and Reload iterations and new IP company focus for 2024


BoldMove’s expanded Smash and Reload formats, as well as its new Voodoo Festival IP will be a key focus for the company through 2024

Saudi Arabia attracts US$13bn of private investment as tourism industry continues to grow at pace


Saudi Arabia’s tourism push is gaining momentum with more than US$13bn of private investment attracted by the kingdom’s ongoing spending spree

Holovis technology celebrated as SeaWorld Yas Island Abu Dhabi recognised with Thea Award


Holovis technology has been celebrated at the 30th annual TEA Thea Awards, with SeaWorld Yas Island, Abu Dhabi claiming one of the prestigious prizes

SEA Expo positioned as key industry event as Saudi attractions market continues to surge


With the entertainment industry expected to contribute around US$23bn to Saudi Arabia by 2030, it’s no wonder that SEA Expo continues to grow at pace with the rapidly expanding market. Here’s what to expect for its sixth edition this May

Atelier Sisu’s ‘Ephemeral’ making its way to Perth


Perth’s Elizabeth Quay is set to welcome an immersive art experience from award-winning studio Atelier Sisu next month, with large-scale ‘bubbles’ to captivate audiences through a vibrant sound and light spectacle.

Iconic UK coaster Nemesis to reopen at Alton Towers following refurbishment


An iconic British rollercoaster is about to reopen to the public following a complete track replacement, with Nemesis Reborn opening to the public for the new season at Alton Towers starting March 16.

Smithsonian to introduce new human remains policy following task force investigation


The Smithsonian Institution will introduce a new policy on human remains that will see descendants or communities of origin able to decide what happens to their ancestors

How can attractions capitalise on the rise of AI and virtual influencers?


There’s a trend on social media that is seeing more and more virtual and AI influencers gain significant popularity, should you be using them to promote your attractions? Tom Anstey explores...

Science Museum Group to develop Riyadh hub after announcing partnership with Saudi Ministry of Culture


The UK’s Science Museum Group has revealed a significant partnership with the Saudi Ministry of Culture which includes the development of a new Museums Hub in Riyadh as the two nations focus on boosting co-operation, cultural exchange and more in the museum sector

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


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

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


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

D-Day landing beaches could be named World Heritage Site as Unesco considers listing


Normandy’s historic D-Day landing beaches could finally be named a Unesco World Heritage Site with the cultural organisation now ready to consider a new application 80 years on from the event that marked the beginning of Europe’s liberation from the Nazis

Ripley’s responds to Florida book ban by offering free books to residents


Ripley’s is offering out its latest annual free of charge after some of its titles were pulled from school libraries as a direct result of Florida’s controversial law restricting the discussion of LGBTQ+ issues in public schools.

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


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

Museum exhibition design trends


Gone are the days of stuffy and quiet museums. In today's world, people seek unique experiences, an escape from reality, and a place where they can immerse themselves and express their creativity. With this in mind, we have asked our designers about the trends that are currently shaping museums. Read on to discover their insights

Disneyland’s costumed performers consider unionisation


Workers who bring characters such as Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck and Cinderella to life could be about to unionise.

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


Belgium’s Bellewaerde Park is investing €21m in a new themed land for 2024. Erik Huijing visited Mundo Amazonia ahead of its opening next month to get a behind the scenes look at the upcoming addition to the park

Saudi Arabia investing US$75m for region’s first luxury train experience


Saudi Arabia’s tourism push is hitting the rails with the country investing US$75m into an Orient Express-style luxury train that will travel to two of the Kingdom’s World Heritage Sites

Scotland’s Highland Wildlife Park joins WAZA


The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland’s (RZSS) Highland Wildlife Park has announced that it has joined the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA).

Liseberg fire still burning three days in


The fire that has almost totally destroyed Swedish theme park Liseberg’s under-construction Oceana Water World waterpark continues to burn, with emergency services saying that firefighting efforts are being complicated by risk of building collapse.

Two in critical condition after tree falls on to PortAventura rollercoaster


Two people are in critical condition following an incident in which a tree fell onto PortAventura’s Tomahawk coaster

Supplier Showcase 2024: The biggest attractions projects landing worldwide this year


From waterpark suppliers and media specialists to creative designers, dark ride producers and operations specialists, Planet Attractions has gone to every corner of the globe to find out what’s hot in 2024

One missing as Liseberg’s under construction Oceana waterpark destroyed by fire


Liseberg’s under construction Oceana waterpark has been almost totally destroyed following a major fire that has seen 22 people seek medical care, while one man remains missing

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


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

Protests over new ticketing system for Machu Picchu


The streets, hotels and restaurants around the ruins of Machu Picchu - Peru’s most famous tourist attraction - remained almost deserted Wednesday, with train services to the area canceled amid a week-long protest over the outsourcing of entry ticket sales to a private company.

Twenty-six of the biggest rollercoaster launches coming in 2024


With records for the tallest, fastest and longest rollercoaster all set to be broken by a single ride, it should give you an idea of the kind of thrills in-store for thrillseekers this year as we list 26 of the biggest coaster launches coming in 2024

‘Epic Universe is built on an amazing concept’ says Steven Spielberg


Director Steven Spielberg has said the upcoming Epic Universe theme park in Orlando from Universal is being “built on an amazing concept”.

Prince Harry urged by charity to step down from African Parks board following serious abuse allegations against rangers


Charity organisation Survival International has called on Prince Harry to ‘distance himself’ from African Parks and step down from its board, after allegations emerged accusing some of its guards of abuse against Indigenous people

Beach cleaning robots remove plastics from Saudi beaches


Red Sea Global, a developer behind a number of major tourism-focused projects in Saudi Arabia, has unveiled beach cleaning robots designed to keep its waterfronts plastic free.

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


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

Protesters throw soup at the Mona Lisa in the Louvre museum in Paris



Pirates of the Caribbean theme park planned for St Vincent


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

The Giant coming to New Jersey’s American Dream


The Giant has its first location, with the mammoth moving attraction and accompanying exhibition set to open at the American Dream Mall in New Jersey, US, in 2025

Sacramento History Museum reaches 1 billion views on YouTube channel


It's a big number for a small museum.

Visitor cap for Mount Fuji as Japan cracks down on tourist pollution


Japanese authorities are fighting over tourism on Mount Fuji by announcing plans to introduce a toll and visitor cap on the World Heritage site’s most popular hiking trail

Tap In golf FEC coming to Texas in 2025


Buda, Texas, will be the location of a brand new US$1.5m golf-themed family entertainment centre, after city council members approved incentive funding of up to US$400,000 to realise the project.

Denmark says people ‘need to chill’ in new tourism campaign



Holocaust-era train car goes on display at American Heritage Museum


The American Heritage Museum has unveiled the restoration of a WWII-era German Deutsche Reichsbahn Rail Car in the first phase of a project aiming to develop a comprehensive permanent exhibit remembering the Holocaust

German theme park damaged by fire


A Wild West theme park has been severely damaged by fire, with two people injured and millions in damage caused by the blaze.

Pikachu card that caused riot and employee thefts to go back on sale at Van Gogh Museum


Pokémon cards meant to be released at the Van Gogh Museum will return to the cultural attraction in February or March after the cards were originally removed from sale as a result of a public riot.

Triotech instals new attraction at Malta National Aquarium


Malta National Aquarium has opened a brand new attraction from Triotech that blends state-of-the-art technology with special effects to create an exciting and educational underwater experience

Australian government boosts weather impacted Gold Coast attractions with voucher scheme


The Gold Coast’s theme parks will be among the attractions to benefit from a scheme that will see 50,000 vouchers worth AU$50 (US$33, £26) each offered to spend on experiences in the area.

Battersea Power Station officially one of London’s most popular attractions


For 40 years, Battersea Power Station was closed to the public and one of London’s largest (literally) enigmas. But these days the old power station is open for all to explore. Following a mega redevelopment completed in 2022, BPS boasts everything from designer shopping and swanky bars with incredible vistas to glitzy multi-million-pound penthouses and a shiny new tube station.

Blackpool Pleasure Beach launches recruitment drive ahead of 2024 summer season


Blackpool Pleasure Beach in Lancashire, UK, has launched a recruitment drive to fill more than 100 job vacancies as the theme park gears up for its 2024 season.

London’s Excel prepares to host EAG Expo


More than 4,000 people representing FECs, leisure attractions and more are expected to attend this year’s EAG Expo, with the annual event representing one of the first in-person gatherings for the attractions industry on the 2024 calendar.

Artists descending on Lithuania for Vilnius Light Festival


Artists from across the world are set to travel to the Lithuanian capital of Vilnius later this month as they display their illumination projects for the sixth annual Vilnius Light Festival.

Companies seek new hires as new year rings in fresh opportunities for attractions industry


Entering 2024, companies across the attractions and themed entertainment industries are on the hunt for new talent. Check out some of the positions available right now worldwide

Return of the King: Elvis to make posthumous return with live avatar experience


A new AI-powered Elvis Presley concert experience billed as a celebration of the artist’s life and legacy is coming to London later this year

Science Museum of Minnesota receives historic US$6.5m donation


The Science Museum of Minnesota (SMM) in the US, has received a US$6.5m (€5.3m, £5.1m) donation, the largest in the institution’s history.

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


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

Cruise industry affects Cayman Islands turtle centre


An animal attraction that earns the vast majority of its revenue from visiting tourists is suffering significant declines as a result of the cruise industry.

British Museum criticised after signing record-breaking £50m funding deal with BP


The British Museum has been branded ‘astonishingly out of touch’ after announcing its decision to accept a record-breaking £50m donation from oil giant BP

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


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

Iceland’s Blue Lagoon reopens following volcanic eruption fears


The Blue Lagoon - one of Iceland’s most popular tourist attractions - has reopened for the first time in over a month following fears of a volcanic eruption.

Former Disney chairman Dick Nunis passes away


Former Walt Disney Attractions chairman Dick Nunis has died aged 91.

Cruise industry set for bumper year with record number of passengers booked for 2024


The cruise industry is lined up for a record year, with travellers from across the globe booking trips in greater numbers than even before as the travel sector bounces back from the effects of the global pandemic

International tourism close to full recovery after 2023 arrivals close in on 90 percent of pre-pandemic figures


International tourism has almost completely recovered from the Covid-19 pandemic with many destinations reaching or even exceeding pre-pandemic levels, according to UNWTO

Outernet beats out London’s top attraction to become most visited


Outernet London - the West End’s visually stunning immersive entertainment district is now one of the British capital’s most popular attractions after welcoming 6.25 million visitors since opening in November last year.

New Rockefeller Center visitor attraction allows visitors to recreate iconic New York City beam photo


A new attraction has opened its doors inside the Rockefeller Center, with the New York landmark now offering visitors a chance to recreate one of the most iconic images in history -

Penalty orders issued against Legoland employees in Germany following coaster accident


Criminal orders have been issued against two Legoland employees, after a rollercoaster crash that injured 29 people.

Sansei Technologies promises to elevate guest experience after announcing major acquisition of Forrec


Sansei Technologies has announced the acquisition of leading experience design firm Forrec, with the Japanese ride and equipment manufacturer promising to elevate the guest experience through the new partnership

Machu Picchu footfall set to skyrocket as government raises visitor cap


Peru’s government is planning to significantly increase the number of people allowed to visit the iconic Machu Picchu on a daily basis.

Tracey Emin joins British Museum as trustee


Renowned artist Tracey Emin has been appointed a trustee of the British Museum, with Emin becoming the first female Royal Academician appointed to the role in the institution’s history.

World-class theme park and resort development coming to Mount Rushmore area


Storyland Studios is behind the development of Libertyland USA - a world class theme park and resort development coming to South Dakota in 2026

Saudi Arabia wins bid to host World Expo 2030 in Riyadh


Saudi Arabia has won a bid to host World Expo 2030 in Riyadh, with US$7.8bn set to be invested into building a site that focuses on ‘shaping a prosperous and sustainable future’

LCI produces water projections for 60th anniversary of Doctor Who


Daleks, the Tardiss and other icons of

Theme park inspired by nature to debut in Japan in 2025


A new theme park nestled within the forests of Japan’s northern Okinawa Prefecture will open in 2025, with the surrounding nature inspiring the soon-to-debut Jungalia.

Middle East’s leisure and entertainment industry predicted to hit US$14bn by 2028 as experience economy surges


A post-pandemic surge in tourist arrivals to the Middle East is fuelling a shift towards experiences over products, with destinations such as the upcoming Six Flags Qiddya and the SEVEN entertainment destinations predicted to net the region a combined US$14bn (€12.79bn, £11.89bn) annually by 2028.

Gen Z seeks brands that prioritise sustainability, says study


A recent study has revealed that people from the Gen Z age bracket are seeking more sustainable brands, with customers feeling significantly more positive about those that make sustainability a priority.

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


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

Triotech announces new SuperFly attraction coming to NEB's Fun World


Triotech has unveiled a brand new attraction at IAAPA Expo, with SuperFly set to debut in Canada at FEC NEB's Fun World.

WATCH: Steve Drake on accesso’s expanding portfolio


Dual additions to accesso’s product portfolio have strengthened the attractions technology provider’s offering in 2023. Steve Drake, accesso’s senior vice president of Global Initiatives, speaks to Planet Attractions

Next generation: How Triotech innovated a first of its kind attraction with Lagoon Park’s Primordial


September saw the debut of a brand-new addition to Salt Lake City’s Lagoon Park - a hybrid rollercoaster and dark ride experience known as Primordial. Planet Attractions speaks to Ernest Yale and Nol Van Genuchten about the experience and how its team brought the first-of-its-kind attraction to life

Historic cruise ship offers ‘exciting legacy project’


One of the Edwardian era’s last remaining passenger steamships has docked in Kingston, Ontario, with the vessel set to become a permanent heritage attraction.

‘Immersion’ top of list for world-class dark ride development


Benoit Cornet, CEO of dark ride specialists BoldMove Nation, has said that visitors are looking more and more for experiences they can immerse themselves in, with attention to detail being key to creating such an attraction.

WATCH: Intamin’s Lukas Spieldiener on company’s immersive projects


Intamin’s Lukas Spieldiener speaks to Planet Attractions on the launch of a number of immersive projects this year, with further such attractions also in the pipeline for 2024 and beyond

Nominations for Museums + Heritage Awards to open November 1


The 2024 edition of the Museums + Heritage Awards will be open for nominations starting November 1.

Messi Experience world tour set for Miami debut in April


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

Israeli museum officials issue urgent appeal to ICOM to condemn Hamas attacks in open letter


Officials from Israeli museums have called on the International Council of Museums to recognise Hamas as a terror organisation “akin to the Taliban”

UK’s largest cultural investment in a generation opens doors in Manchester


A major cultural attraction has opened its doors in Manchester, with the £210m Aviva Studios representing the largest investment in a national cultural project since the opening of Tate Modern in 2000

Clara Rice joins Adirondack Studios as global marketing director


Attractions industry veteran Clara Rice has been named global marketing director of Adirondack Studios (ADKS), a creative solution provider targeting designers, producers, artists and other themed entertainment professionals.

Craven Museum named winner of Family Friendly Museum Award 2023


Yorkshire’s Craven Museum has beaten off competition from some of the UK’s top museums, galleries, historic homes and heritage sites to be named the winner of this year’s Family Friendly Museum Award

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


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

Experience app Morty raises US$2.2m as platform expands into haunted attractions market


Morty - an experience app which describes itself as ‘the ultimate social copilot for you and your friends’ - has raised more than US$2.2m as the company expands operations into the haunted attractions market

Dr Nick Merriman named as chief executive of English Heritage


Dr Nick Merriman is set to replace Kate Mavor CBE as chief executive of English Heritage, the charity has announced.

Thought leaders: Benoit Cornet on how BoldMove is developing the total dark ride package


Benoit Cornet shares a fascinating insight into the world of dark rides and the emergence of his new company - BoldMove Nation

STEM educators celebrated as ASTC names winners of Roy L. Shafer Leading Edge Awards


The Association of Science and Technology Centers has announced the winners of this year’s Roy L. Shafer Leading Edge Awards, with each recognised for their dedication to increasing the understanding of and engagement with science and technology among all people

WATCH: Julie Kline on ADG, EpicSurf and company’s development pipeline


ADG’s Julie Kline speaks to Planet Attractions on everything the company has to offer, including the upcoming US$400m Okana development in Oklahoma

Using technology to take the visitor experience beyond the four walls


Alex Book, co-founder and chief strategy officer at Arcade – The Creative Reality Company, explains how attractions and cultural institutions can make use of immersive technologies to reach new audiences

Upcoming AI experience allows museum visitors to speak to the heroes of World War II


A new exhibit from the National WWII Museum in New Orleans will give its visitors the opportunity to have conversations with some of the heroes of World War II, with AI technology powering the upcoming Voices from the Front experience

Disney occupies ‘unrivalled presence within the minds of people across the globe’, says analyst


Disney’s ability to create high-quality content on movies and TV along with real-world versions of these experiences allows the company to “occupy an unrivalled presence within the minds of people across the globe”.

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


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

Record-breaking results as IAAPA Expo Europe concludes Vienna event


IAAPA Expo Europe has come to its conclusion, with lots of news coming out of the record-breaking event in Vienna

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


There’s a transformative shift happening when it comes to use of technology in attractions management. Anthony Palermo, co-founder of Connect&GO, spoke to Tom Anstey...

Titanic exhibition set to arrive at Carnegie Science Centre


Pittsburgh's Carnegie Science Center is set to welcome a popular Titanic exhibition, with visitors to be immersed in full-scale room re-creations of the doomed vessel alongside 154 authentic artefacts when it opens to the public next month.

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


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

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

Plans approved for multi-million-dollar planetarium in South Carolina


A US$14.5m project, including a new planetarium, has been approved for the town of Spartanburg in South Carolina, US

Controversial Bristol Zoo housing development to go ahead despite public backlash


A controversial housing development on the former site of Bristol Zoo in Clifton, UK, is to go ahead despite public backlash.

Construction workers attempting to create shortcut dig hole through Great Wall of China


The Great Wall of China has suffered ‘irreversible damage’ after two people dug a hole through the wall with an excavator to create a shortcut

Breakthrough in Blenheim Palace US$6m gold toilet theft


Up to seven people could soon be charged with the theft of a solid gold toilet stolen from Blenheim Palace in 2019 following a major breakthrough in the case

Banksy’s first solo exhibition in 14 years draws record numbers to Glasgow gallery


A Banksy exhibition has broken box office records at Glasgow’s Gallery of Modern Art, attracting more than 180,000 visitors during its 10 week run

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


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

Smithsonian apologises for collection of human remains


The head of the Smithsonian Institution has apologised for its collection of human remains.

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

Pink paint smear at National Gallery of Canada the latest in long line of art-related climate protests


Pink paint being smeared onto a Tom Thomson work at the National Gallery of Canada is the latest in a long line of recent attacks against art in the name of protest.

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

Gorman Museum of Native American Art celebrates 50 years with opening of expanded new home


The Gorman Museum of Native American Art will reopen next month with a celebratory weekend marking the institution’s 50th anniversary

France set to combat over-tourism at popular heritage sites


France is taking action at a national level to counter over-tourism in major tourism locations such as the Unesco World Heritage site of Mont Saint Michel.

Heritage railway forced to sell historic locomotive amid rising costs


Heritage operation Severn Valley Railway (SVR) has confirmed the sale of one of its most popular locomotives in an effort to secure its financial future.

Museum theft ‘rare’ says Museums Association following British Museum revelations


The Museums Association has said ‘categorically’ that theft from collections is ‘incredibly rare, after more than 1,500 priceless artefacts were found to have been stolen from the British Museum

Norwegian cruising at an all-time high as 5.5 million sail to destination in 2023


Norway’s cruise industry is booming, with 5.5 million passengers expected to make a port call during 2023 as individual visits shoot up by 29%

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

Orlando Museum of Art sues former director for seeking to profit from fake Basquiats


The Orlando Museum of Art is suing its former director Aaron De Groft for allegedly seeking to profit from the sale of several fake Jean-Michel Basquiat artworks

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

Astronaut Namira Salim reveals concept for Earth’s first ‘space hotel’ and resort


Astronaut and space diplomat Namira Salim has revealed plans to develop a new space tourism concept offering a space hotel, themed restaurants, a stargazing deck and a possible theme park

Lord Mendoza appointed chair of Historic England


Historic England has announced the appointment of Conservative peer Lord Neil Mendoza as its new chair.

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


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

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

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

Japanese tourists staying at home despite lifting of Covid travel restrictions


Japanese people are opting to stay at home rather than travel overseas despite the complete end to Covid-travel restrictions in the country as of October 2022.

Horniman Museum’s Nature + Love project awarded £5.7m in Lottery funding


London’s Horniman Museum has been awarded £5.7m by the National Lottery Heritage Fund for its Nature + Love project

Saudi Arabia’s Seven breaks ground on latest project with SAR1.3bn entertainment destination coming to Al-Madinah


Seven has announced the latest entertainment mega destination to come to Saudi Arabia following the breaking ground of its SAR1.3bn development in the city of Al-Madinah

Bears are not humans in disguise, insists Chinese zoo


China’s Hangzhou Zoo has had to assure its visitors that its sun bears are not just people in costume, after footage of one of the animals standing like a person went viral online.

National Museum of Dentistry receives US$1.28m grant to revolutionise oral health education for young learners


The Dr Samuel D. Harris National Museum of Dentistry (NMD) in Baltimore, US, has been awarded a US$1.28m (€1.2m, £1m) grant from the Science Education Partnership Award to transform how young people are taught about oral health.

Sensational Museum project aims to change how museums work for everyone


The recently launched Sensational Museum project has outlined its goal to challenge the hierarchical split between museum provision for disabled and non-disabled people, and create museums that "work for everyone".

VisitBritain to open new headquarters in Birmingham


The UK’s national tourism board VisitBritain/VisitEngland is to open a new head office in Birmingham.

Unesco and Zelenskyy condemn Russian attacks on historic World Heritage Site


Unesco says it’s deeply dismayed over an attack carried out by the Russian forces, which hit several cultural sites in the city centre of Odesa, while President, Volodymyr Zelenskyy has pledged retaliation for the act

Roald Dahl Museum takes action to address legacy of author’s racism


The Roald Dahl Museum has announced plans to develop free resources for schools as part of its commitment to anti-racism.

Suspected lion roaming Berlin area not from a zoo


A lioness currently being hunted in the southwestern outskirts of Berlin is not thought to be from any local zoos, animal sanctuaries or circuses.

Floodwaters reach Taj Mahal for first time in almost half-a-century


Extreme flooding in northern India has seen water make it all the way to the walls of the Taj Mahal - the first time such an occurrence has happened in 45 years

Minister questions US$300m Tobago waterpark project over water shortages


A senior politician for the island nation of Tobago has said that a US$300m waterpark development must not come ‘at the expense of ordinary citizens’ as the country faces a water deficit

Entrepreneur eyes ‘TexasLand’ theme park