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'Rides' on Planet Attractions


The last year has been stacked for ride manufacturer Vekoma, which is celebrating a bumper year in 2024, along with major announcements and completions for both 2025 and 2026


The global gaming phenomenon Minecraft is coming to the real world for the first time in a global deal to open themed rides, attractions, hotel rooms and retail outlets, starting with the UK and US.


Check out the first person footage for Tecuani Beast, coming to Mexico's under development BON Luxury Theme Park. Developed by Vekoma Rides the multi launch coaster features more than 16 seconds of airtime across the ride experience.


Planet Attractions is expanding its portfolio of websites, announcing the launch of its brand-new portal, Planet Rides.


Grupo Vidanta and VidantaWorld's BON Luxury Theme Park will feature 23 world class attractions with a major addition unveiled at IAAPA Expo.


Grupo Vidanta and VidantaWorld have announced BON Luxury Theme Park, a new theme park experience in Mexico featuring partners including Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group, Vekoma Rides, Mack Rides, Intamin and P&P Projects.


Premier Rides and Canada's Wonderland have unveiled the ride car for AlpenFury, a new attraction set to launch in 2025.


With almost 42,000 industry professionals descending on Orlando for this year’s IAAPA Expo, here’s everything you need to know about this year’s event


Rollercoaster manufacturer Vekoma will unveil a new rollercoaster in partnership with resort developer Grupo Vidanta and reveal 2025 openings during the IAAPA Expo


WhiteWater is unveiling several new products and attraction categories during this year’s IAAPA Expo, with the new additions said to ‘redefine’ the modern waterpark


Leading rollercoaster and water ride manufacturer Reverchon will debut a new Flume ride and ride safety system at this year’s IAAPA Expo


China's first Legoland theme park will open in summer 2025 in Shanghai, its developers announced on Nov. 6 during the seventh China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai.


Industry veteran Alexander Bresinsky has been named the new Director Business Development for Simtec Systems


New Orleans' former Six Flags theme park, which shuttered in the wake of Hurricane Katrina, is finally coming down.


A museum that housed the national fairground collection is closing for the final time this weekend.


Merlin’s upcoming Peppa Pig Theme Park in Texas, has its opening date, with the highly-anticipated visitor attractions set to open to the public on March 1st, 2025.


WhiteWater’s Geoff Chutter is set to be inducted into the IAAPA Hall of Fame, with Chance Rides’ Dick Chance also joining alongside two more industry veterans in this year’s class


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


ETF recently announced an expansion to its portfolio with the 2.0 addition of its ride system. Called the Dynamic Mover, the company has promised not just an evolution of its current offering, but a “revolution” of what it has on offer


A new indoor theme park is nearing completion in the Netherlands, with Bommelwereld set to open to the public in 2025


Universal has filed a patent application for a technology that would place sensors around a theme park. These sensors could use machine learning to detect unruly guests and track rule-breakers, with the aim of improving the guest experience for others.


WhiteWater has celebrated the year in style, showcasing a series of aquatic attractions worldwide alongside its latest product innovations and company initiatives





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


This year’s UK Theme Park Awards will be hosted at Thorpe Park, with presenter George Akid also set to return to his role as host for the event’s awards ceremony


The Giant-8-Loop launch coaster will be among the ride innovations on show from Maurer when the company appears later this month at IAAPA Expo Europe


Two major theme park developments are set to open to the public this December, with Pico Play working on both the upcoming Wizard of Oz-themed land at Warner Bros Movie World and the first-of-its-kind Jungle Rush rollercoaster at Dreamworld


The Peppa Pig Theme Park making its way to Texas has been delayed until 2025


A trio of suppliers have joined forces on Enchanted Greenhouse - an interactive dark ride attraction coming to the under-development Six Flags Qiddiya City


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


Virginia is home to more than two dozen roller coasters, and it’s about to add another that will be the tallest, longest and fastest of its kind — a new coaster Kings Dominion is calling the Rapterra.


BoldMove and E&S Rides have announced Spinfinity Coaster - a new family-friendly experience that combines an immersive dark ride with a spinning coaster attraction


Deadpool and Wolverine have made their mark on Disney’s parks, with a joint appearance seeing Deadpool enter the Disney Parks Universe by mocking the controversial history of its Splash Mountain ride


The Thailand Amusement and Attraction Parks Expo is coming back to Bangkok’s Impact Exhibition Center later this year, with the event acting as a key meeting point for Southeast Asia’s growing attractions sector


A new theme park has opened to the public in Jining China, with Glorious Orient the fourth such branded attraction to open from operator Fantawild


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


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.


Few of Disney's theme park rides have been more controversial than Splash Mountain. The update to it could also be one of the most costly, despite being a basic log flume.


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.


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


The merger of Six Flags and Cedar Fair is complete, with the newly-branded Six Flags Entertainment Corporation now holding the title of North America’s largest theme park operator


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


Universal’s Epic Universe has revealed details of Dark Universe, the last of five immersive themed lands set to make up the long-awaited theme park


Planet Attractions will partner with this year’s UK Theme Park Awards, joining the expert judging panel and acting as media partner once again for the 2024 edition of the prestigious awards


Europa-Park’s Journey to Rulantica is entering its final week of operations, with the theatre attraction set to make way for a new show ride - the Gameplay Theater


Leading themed entertainment design firm Falcon’s Creative Group has been announced as the master planner for the upcoming Dragon Ball theme park in Qiddiya, Saudi Arabia


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


In the last thirty years, there has been a slow but steady increase in the number of vertical dark rides all over the world. So why should you go vertical at your attraction? Erik Huijing tells all...


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


Aquarabia is the latest major addition to Saudi Arabia’s Qiddya, with the under-construction waterpark project set to be the largest in the Middle East when it opens in 2025


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


Planet Attractions and Dark Ride Database have announced an exciting new partnership that will see the industry sources cross-promote various dark ride content across both platforms


How do you utilise different revenue strategies to maximise your park’s return on investment? Vantage’s Aaron Mendelson explains...


The longest multi-launch coaster in Europe has opened to the public with Europa-Park’s Voltron Nevera acting as the anchor attraction for the park’s new Croatian-themed area


The record-breaking Bermuda Storm is one of the most impressive attractions in the world and it took a host of creative minds and companies from every corner of the globe to bring it all together. Here’s the story behind its creation


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:


Plans to build a water park at the Mall of America in Bloomington are picking up steam again after previous efforts stalled during the COVID-19 pandemic.


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


The longest multi-launch coaster in Europe will open to the public next month with Europa-Park announcing an opening date for the Mack-designed Voltron Nevera


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


A new waterpark, themed lands and a Smurfs dark rides are all in the works for Holiday Park in Germany, with its owner Plopsa announcing a five-year, €80m investment in the regional attraction





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


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


Triotech has a big year ahead, with the company’s year including new theme park openings across Asia, the Middle East and Europe


Alterface has a number of major projects and products set to launch in 2024, with its interactive technology utilised in the recently opened SpongeBob attraction at Circus Circus


From Circuit Breaker at Cotaland to Flight of the Wicked Witch at Warner Bros Movie World, Vekoma’s 2024 has been hailed as ‘unprecedented’ with the rollercoaster manufacturer set for a number of major project launches across the world in the coming year


Attack on Titan will be the subject of a new flying theatre film from Brogent, with the company also planning the launch of new projects in the US, Mexico South Korea and Hong Kong


WhiteWater is set for a big 2024, with the waterpark supplier outlining a host of projects set to open their doors in the coming year


Triotech has announced a partnership with sales and project consultancy firm JNELC in order to expand the Canadian company’s reach in Europe


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


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


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


Europa Park CEO Michael Mack has shared an update on the park’s upcoming Voltron Nevera coaster, with new footage showing ride testing ahead of the ride’s opening later this year.


Vekoma has shared a big update on its upcoming Circuit Breaker, with the ride car for the upcoming attraction at Circuit of the Americas undergoing both sound and light tests.


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


Swedish theme park Liseberg’s upcoming waterpark addition - Oceana - is nearing completion, with the attraction’s CEO, Andreas Andersen, sharing an update on the project.


Sally Dark Rides has been acknowledged for two of its newest Dark Rides of The Whispering Pines Haunted Hotel and Treasure Hunt: The Ride


IMPS, owner of The Smurts IP, has partnered with Mack Rides and Lagotronics Projects to create a new interactive dark ride.


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


North Yorkshire Council has announced plans to reopen Alpamare, a shuttered waterpark in Scarborough, UK, for the 2024 summer season after taking ownership of the attraction.


Knott’s Berry Farm has announced several additions to Camp Snoopy, with Zamperla set to provide three new attractions for the themed land.


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


Scruffy Dog and Sela have teamed up to produce Wonder Garden - an immersive experience offering ‘limitless creativity’ during Riyadh Season


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.


Miral has announced a major expansion of its Yas Waterworld waterpark, with the award-winning attraction set to add more than 3.3km of slides across 16,9000sq m to the destination by 2025


This year's IAAPA Expo brought huge news from across the industry, with Falcon’s Flight - the record-breaking coaster by Intamin coming to Six Flags Qiddiya - among the headliners


Sally Dark Rides has announced as part of its continued collaboration with Paramount Global and Nickelodeon to develop and install the first-ever SpongeBob SquarePants dark ride outside of the US.





IAAPA Expo is making its grand return to Orlando’s Orange County Convention Center this week, with the 2023 edition of the event selling out its trade show floor for the first time since 2019


RWS Global will make its trade show debut at this year’s IAAPA Expo, with the company set to showcase its projects from the past 12 months


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


A coaster themed after gravy and Thanksgiving dinner is among the offerings this IAAPA season, with Vekoma highlighting a host of major projects set to open in 2024 at this year’s Expo


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


Chuck E. Cheese has announced a multi-year licensing, entertainment and marketing partnership that will for the first time see the brand become part of a new waterpark development.


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


Intamin, Simworx and Vekoma are among the winners in this year’s Park World Excellence Awards, with 2023’s recipients named at a glamorous show in Vienna, Austria


One of the Isle of Wight’s most popular attractions is up for sale, with Robin Hill now on the market following a ‘prolonged period of financial turbulence’


With its launch in 2010, Chinese toymaker Pop Mart set off a collectible craze with its anime-style figurines.


Jora Vision and Vekoma have unveiled new details on Tír na nÓg - a new €20m addition coming to Ireland's Emerald park.


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


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


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...


IAAPA is gearing up for its largest EMEA event ever, with the 2023 edition of IAAPA Expo Europe taking place in Vienna between September 25 - 28. Here’s everything you need to know about the event


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


AV specialist Christie is to showcase new additions to its M 4K RGB projector series as well as new projects, including an immersive visitor attraction in Toronto, Canada


Triotech will showcase several new projects and rides at this year’s IAAPA Expo Europe, including its Stand Up Theater and Qube attractions


Plans have been announced to develop a ‘tent city’ in northern India offering visitors to the destination water sports and hot air balloon rides among the activities available.


Development company Saudi Entertainment Ventures (Seven) has announced its latest mega project in the kingdom of Saudi Arabia - a SAR1.1bn (US$292m, €272m, £234m) entertainment centre in Yanbu.


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


WhiteWater is set to announce several new projects at this year’s IAAPA Expo Europe. The waterpark manufacturer will also showcase its line of Blaster water rides at the event


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


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


Two new attractions are set to open at Nickelodeon Universe at Mall of America, with construction beginning on the rides this autumn.


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


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


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


Voting is soon set to close on this year’s UK Theme Park Awards, with the public vote set to conclude on September 2.


IAAPA has offered a first glimpse at this year’s IAAPA Expo Europe, taking place in Vienna, Austria, in September


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


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


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


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


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



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


US theme park Kennywood is on the hunt to fill more than 250 positions for its annual Phantom Fall Fest, voted among the top 10 best Halloween theme park events in the country.


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


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


A former Disney Imagineer has said the operator’s theme parks are more stressful and less fun for families.


Italian ride manufacturer Zamperla has opened two new rides at the Adventureland theme park in Des Moines, US.


Carowinds has offered an update after the theme park in Charlotte, US, was forced to close down one of its rides after a support pillar completely cracked through.


The operator of SplashMania Waterpark in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, has announced plans to add new rides and attractions over the next 10 years.


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


Carowinds in Charlotte, US, was forced to close down one of its rides after a support pillar completely cracked through.


Princess Cruises has said it will not be adding a rollercoaster or waterpark to its offerings, after announcing a new activity zone onboard its upcoming Sun Princess.


Plans have been approved for a new US$350m resort and entertainment destination in Missouri, US.


WhiteWater’s Grant Poje showcases five indoor waterpark projects that are helping to advance the sector and boost the sector’s mainstream popularity


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


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


Majid Al Futtaim Entertainment is offering sub-zero temperatures to visitors in the UAE with the launch of its newest attraction - Snow Abu Dhabi


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


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


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


WhiteWater has revealed details of more than 60 major projects across its waterpark, water ride and surf divisions opening worldwide throughout 2023


Showcasing exactly what it means to produce an immersive entertainment experience, RWS Entertainment Group and MSC Cruises have turned their eyes to fitness and wellbeing, with a new programme on MSC’s Euribia debuting in May and June for teens and kids.


SeaWorld San Diego has announced a retheming of the former Sesame Street Bay into ‘Rescue Jr’ - an interactive play area dedicated to marine animal rescue and conservation.


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


Swedish theme park Liseberg’s upcoming waterpark addition - Oceana - will take elements from some of the best offerings around the world and make it its own, according to CEO Andreas Andersen.


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


Blackpool Pleasure Beach’s indoor dark flume ride Valhallaha has reopened following an extensive £4m refurbishment.


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


Ohio’s Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is set to debut a Ferris wheel attraction later this month, with the new Adventure Sky Wheel set to open to the public on May 27.


A new attraction has opened its doors at Walibi Holland, with a pair of Zamperla attractions taking residence in the park’s new Speed Zone - Off Road family area.


With the attractions and cruise industries seemingly closer than ever before, RWS CEO Ryan Stana speaks to Planet Attractions about what that means and the steps we can take to bring these two powerhouses under one metaphorical roof


Idaho’s Roaring Springs Waterpark is set to reopen to the public next month with a number of major additions to the attraction.


Jeff Cheney, the mayor of Frisco, Texas, has revealed how and why Universal chose the US city for its next major theme park project.


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


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


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


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


We’re still early into 2023 and leading waterpark manufacturer WhiteWater has already opened two water rides – Super Flume and River Raft at VinWonders in Phú Quốc, Vietnam.





Media-based attractions manufacturer Brogent Technologies has a big year ahead as the company aims to push the boundaries of flying theatre technologies and other media-based attractions.


The long-awaited Aquaman: Power Wave at Six Flags Over Texas now has its opening date, with the Mack Rides coaster set to open on March 11.


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


IAAPA has partnered with Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority (GEA) to launch a new trade summit dedicated to the region.


Construction and utilities provider Keir International has been awarded an US$18.3m (€17.1m, £15.2m) contract for a waterpark project in Saudi Arabia.


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


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


Europa Park managing director Michael Mack has shared a construction update on an upcoming coaster scheduled to open in 2024.


Popular British theme park Thorpe Park is bidding farewell to Derren Brown but not the ghost train currently sharing his name, with the operator revealing plans for a major overhaul of the experience simply dubbed ‘Ghost Train’.


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



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


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


Police last month broke down the doors of an art gallery in an attempt to save an unconscious woman - only to discover that she wasn’t actually real.


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


Dark ride specialists Sally have unveiled Haunted Hotel - a new attraction for Funtown Splashtown in Saco, Maine, US.



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


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


Visitors to Shanghai Disney were shut inside the park, with people not allowed to leave the popular theme park until they were able to show a negative Covid test.


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


The National Emergency Services Museum in Sheffield has been named the UK’s most family-friendly museum.


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



Ride manufacturer Premier Rides has dropped an interesting hint ahead of this year’s IAAPA Expo, promising that “something wild is coming” on its social media channels.


The new iPhone 14 Pro has a fantastic feature that activates when it thinks a user has been in a crash. This however isn’t great for theme parks, with the phone reportedly automatically calling emergency services after riding on a rollercoaster.


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


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


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


With just a few weeks to go until the world’s first Ghibli theme park opens to the public, Studio Ghibli has offered a sneak peek at the attraction, which aims to create an atmosphere unique to any theme park anywhere in the world.


One of the most eye-catching and iconic rides at Drayton Manor in the UK will close permanently on October 30, with fans being invited to take one last ride on the Apocalypse drop tower.


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


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


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


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


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


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


The UK’s Chessington World of Adventures theme park is about to welcome a world-first, with


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


A collection of 52 leading museums, galleries and art spaces in Tokyo, Japan, will team up to deliver a range of programming for a citywide art programme, taking place later this year.


Skyline Park’s new rollercoaster along with another new attraction have both been pushed back due to manufacturing problems caused by supply chain issues.


The Titanic Delux Golf Belek - a hotel and resort destination in Antalya, Turkey - has debuted a first-of-its-kind attraction from waterpark specialists Polin, the Rift waterslide.


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


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


Alterface has shared details of three interactive projects opened last month featuring the supplier’s interactive technology.


Coney Island’s Luna Park in New York, US, is about to undergo a major expansion, with plans to add three new attractions to the historic theme park.


Ticketing, POS and visitor management software specialists Vennersys have been announced as a sponsor for this year’s UK Theme Park Awards.



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


Following a short delay, a new flagship attraction has opened in Foley, Alabama, US, with the debut of the ProSlide-supplied Tropic Falls Indoor Water Park.


The Tropical Paradise waterpark - part of the VinWonders Nha Trang Amusement Park - has reopened its doors following an expansion featuring new Polin attractions


A new addition to Universal Studios Singapore slated to open in 2024 has broken ground, with work starting on the park's upcoming Minion Land.


It’s a busy year for WhiteWater, which has more than 70 waterpark projects across the world opening in 2022. We’ve rounded these projects up so you can keep track of everything happening this year


Drayton Manor has been forced to delay the opening of a brand new attraction after nesting birds decided to call the upcoming ‘Loki’ home.


The Butlin’s chain of seaside resorts in the UK has announced a brand new £2.5m attraction, which will be the largest of its size in the country when it opens next year..


SeaWorld’s Adventure Island waterpark in Tampa, Florida, has welcomed a new addition in the form of Rapids Racer - the world’s first ProSlide Dueling FlyingSaucer.


Drayton Manor in the UK is gearing up for the launch of its newest land, the multi-million pound ‘Vikings’.


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


Fast becoming one of the key industry events for the visitor attractions sector, here’s everything you need to know about this year’s Saudi Entertainment and Amusement Expo


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


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


Knoebels - the US’s largest free admission amusement resort - has partnered with Attractions.io to launch a new guest experience app.


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


The Hettema Group and Themespace are to combine their talents to form a single independent creative studio known as THG




The Dubai Entertainment, Amusement & Leisure Exhibition returned in 2022, bringing with it much success for attendees and exhibitors alike


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


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



Triotech has been recognised with two prestigious MENALAC Awards at this year’s DEAL show in Dubai, with the company winning awards for both Best New Concept and Best New Product for FECs.


South Korea is about to welcome a major new theme park addition with the launch of Lotte World Adventure Busan on Thursday (March 31).



Part of the Qetaifan Island North entertainment destination, new imagery has shown the latest update for Qatar’s upcoming US$270m (€245.7m, £206.2m) Aquatar Waterpark.


The event will feature an extensive tradeshow and the MENALAC LEA Conference and awards


Merlin will develop and operate exclusive Jumanji-themed attractions


German rollercoaster manufacturer Maurer Rides has launched a new interactive snow coaster.


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




Vekoma looks to 2025 following stacked year of projects





HUSS celebrates multiple Brass Ring Awards




Get ready to ride: Planet Attractions announces launch of Planet Rides website




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

In Depth



Intelligent thinking: When will conversational AI become the primary form of guest communication?



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Vekoma looks to 2025 following stacked year of projects


The last year has been stacked for ride manufacturer Vekoma, which is celebrating a bumper year in 2024, along with major announcements and completions for both 2025 and 2026

Merlin announced US$110m plan to open Minecraft theme parks in UK and US


The global gaming phenomenon Minecraft is coming to the real world for the first time in a global deal to open themed rides, attractions, hotel rooms and retail outlets, starting with the UK and US.

Tecuani Beast - POV


Check out the first person footage for Tecuani Beast, coming to Mexico's under development BON Luxury Theme Park. Developed by Vekoma Rides the multi launch coaster features more than 16 seconds of airtime across the ride experience.

Get ready to ride: Planet Attractions announces launch of Planet Rides website


Planet Attractions is expanding its portfolio of websites, announcing the launch of its brand-new portal, Planet Rides.

Vekoma unveils Tecuani Beast coaster


Grupo Vidanta and VidantaWorld's BON Luxury Theme Park will feature 23 world class attractions with a major addition unveiled at IAAPA Expo.

Leading companies come together for VidantaWorld's BON Luxury Theme Park


Grupo Vidanta and VidantaWorld have announced BON Luxury Theme Park, a new theme park experience in Mexico featuring partners including Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group, Vekoma Rides, Mack Rides, Intamin and P&P Projects.

Premier Rides unveils AlpenFury ride car for Canada's Wonderland


Premier Rides and Canada's Wonderland have unveiled the ride car for AlpenFury, a new attraction set to launch in 2025.

Everything you need to know about IAAPA Expo 2024


With almost 42,000 industry professionals descending on Orlando for this year’s IAAPA Expo, here’s everything you need to know about this year’s event

Vekoma to unveil ‘surprising’ rollercoaster and 2025 openings at IAAPA Expo


Rollercoaster manufacturer Vekoma will unveil a new rollercoaster in partnership with resort developer Grupo Vidanta and reveal 2025 openings during the IAAPA Expo

WhiteWater ‘redefining’ modern waterparks with new additions at IAAPA Expo


WhiteWater is unveiling several new products and attraction categories during this year’s IAAPA Expo, with the new additions said to ‘redefine’ the modern waterpark

Reverchon to launch next generation Flume ride and new ride safety restraints at IAAPA Expo


Leading rollercoaster and water ride manufacturer Reverchon will debut a new Flume ride and ride safety system at this year’s IAAPA Expo

Merlin announces opening date for Legoland Shanghai


China's first Legoland theme park will open in summer 2025 in Shanghai, its developers announced on Nov. 6 during the seventh China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai.

Simtec names Alexander Bresinsky new Director Business Development


Industry veteran Alexander Bresinsky has been named the new Director Business Development for Simtec Systems

New Orleans Six Flags that closed in wake of Hurricane Katrina is finally being demolished


New Orleans' former Six Flags theme park, which shuttered in the wake of Hurricane Katrina, is finally coming down.

Vintage fairground museums closes down permanently


A museum that housed the national fairground collection is closing for the final time this weekend.

Texas’s Peppa Pig Theme Park sets opening date for 2025


Merlin’s upcoming Peppa Pig Theme Park in Texas, has its opening date, with the highly-anticipated visitor attractions set to open to the public on March 1st, 2025.

WhiteWater’s Geoff Chutter among inductees into 2024 IAAPA Hall of Fame


WhiteWater’s Geoff Chutter is set to be inducted into the IAAPA Hall of Fame, with Chance Rides’ Dick Chance also joining alongside two more industry veterans in this year’s class

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

ETF Ride Systems presents Dynamic Mover technology


ETF recently announced an expansion to its portfolio with the 2.0 addition of its ride system. Called the Dynamic Mover, the company has promised not just an evolution of its current offering, but a “revolution” of what it has on offer

Jora Vision, Vekoma, Zamperla and more unite for Bommelwereld indoor theme park project


A new indoor theme park is nearing completion in the Netherlands, with Bommelwereld set to open to the public in 2025

Universal patents line jumping detection technology


Universal has filed a patent application for a technology that would place sensors around a theme park. These sensors could use machine learning to detect unruly guests and track rule-breakers, with the aim of improving the guest experience for others.

WhiteWater celebrates landmark with product and project showcase


WhiteWater has celebrated the year in style, showcasing a series of aquatic attractions worldwide alongside its latest product innovations and company initiatives

Animatronic Spongebob cooking up a storm at IAAPA Expo Europe



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

UK Theme Park Awards head to Thorpe Park for 2024 edition


This year’s UK Theme Park Awards will be hosted at Thorpe Park, with presenter George Akid also set to return to his role as host for the event’s awards ceremony

Giant-8-Loop on show as Maurer Rides heads to Amsterdam for IAAPA Expo Europe


The Giant-8-Loop launch coaster will be among the ride innovations on show from Maurer when the company appears later this month at IAAPA Expo Europe

Duo of major theme park projects from Pico Play coming to Australia in December


Two major theme park developments are set to open to the public this December, with Pico Play working on both the upcoming Wizard of Oz-themed land at Warner Bros Movie World and the first-of-its-kind Jungle Rush rollercoaster at Dreamworld

Peppa Pig theme park in Texas delayed until 2025


The Peppa Pig Theme Park making its way to Texas has been delayed until 2025

Alterface, ETF and Jora Vision unveil new dark ride attraction coming to Six Flags Qiddiya City


A trio of suppliers have joined forces on Enchanted Greenhouse - an interactive dark ride attraction coming to the under-development Six Flags Qiddiya City

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

Kings Dominion unveils plans for 'Rapterra'


Virginia is home to more than two dozen roller coasters, and it’s about to add another that will be the tallest, longest and fastest of its kind — a new coaster Kings Dominion is calling the Rapterra.

BoldMove and E&S Rides ‘spice up’ classic with Spinfinity Coaster


BoldMove and E&S Rides have announced Spinfinity Coaster - a new family-friendly experience that combines an immersive dark ride with a spinning coaster attraction

Deadpool mocks Splash Mountain’s controversial past on Disney park debut


Deadpool and Wolverine have made their mark on Disney’s parks, with a joint appearance seeing Deadpool enter the Disney Parks Universe by mocking the controversial history of its Splash Mountain ride

TAAPE 2024: Thailand’s premier attractions expo returns to Bangkok in September


The Thailand Amusement and Attraction Parks Expo is coming back to Bangkok’s Impact Exhibition Center later this year, with the event acting as a key meeting point for Southeast Asia’s growing attractions sector

Fantawild’s Glorious Orient theme park opens in China


A new theme park has opened to the public in Jining China, with Glorious Orient the fourth such branded attraction to open from operator Fantawild

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

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.

Disney spends US$142m on Splash Mountain's Tiana’s Bayou Adventure transformation


Few of Disney's theme park rides have been more controversial than Splash Mountain. The update to it could also be one of the most costly, despite being a basic log flume.

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.

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

Six Flags and Cedar Fair finalise merger to become largest theme park operator in North America


The merger of Six Flags and Cedar Fair is complete, with the newly-branded Six Flags Entertainment Corporation now holding the title of North America’s largest theme park operator

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

Universal’s Epic Universe unveils Dark Universe land ahead of 2025 opening


Universal’s Epic Universe has revealed details of Dark Universe, the last of five immersive themed lands set to make up the long-awaited theme park

Planet Attractions teams up with UK Theme Park Awards for 2024 edition


Planet Attractions will partner with this year’s UK Theme Park Awards, joining the expert judging panel and acting as media partner once again for the 2024 edition of the prestigious awards

Europa-Park’s Journey to Rulantica set to make way for Mack Gameplay Theater


Europa-Park’s Journey to Rulantica is entering its final week of operations, with the theatre attraction set to make way for a new show ride - the Gameplay Theater

Falcon’s Creative Group to master plan world-first Dragon Ball theme park


Leading themed entertainment design firm Falcon’s Creative Group has been announced as the master planner for the upcoming Dragon Ball theme park in Qiddiya, Saudi Arabia

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.

Vertical dark rides: Five reasons to go vertical now


In the last thirty years, there has been a slow but steady increase in the number of vertical dark rides all over the world. So why should you go vertical at your attraction? Erik Huijing tells all...

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

Record-breaking attractions in store as largest waterpark in Middle East announced for Saudi Arabia’s Qiddiya


Aquarabia is the latest major addition to Saudi Arabia’s Qiddya, with the under-construction waterpark project set to be the largest in the Middle East when it opens in 2025

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

Planet Attractions and Dark Ride Database announce content partnership


Planet Attractions and Dark Ride Database have announced an exciting new partnership that will see the industry sources cross-promote various dark ride content across both platforms

Maximising ROI: Revenue strategies for operators


How do you utilise different revenue strategies to maximise your park’s return on investment? Vantage’s Aaron Mendelson explains...

Europa-Park’s record-breaking Voltron Nevera opens to the public


The longest multi-launch coaster in Europe has opened to the public with Europa-Park’s Voltron Nevera acting as the anchor attraction for the park’s new Croatian-themed area

Storm surge: How Chimelong Spaceship’s award-winning and record-breaking Bermuda Storm was brought to life


The record-breaking Bermuda Storm is one of the most impressive attractions in the world and it took a host of creative minds and companies from every corner of the globe to bring it all together. Here’s the story behind its creation

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:

Plans unveiled for scaled-back Mall of America water park


Plans to build a water park at the Mall of America in Bloomington are picking up steam again after previous efforts stalled during the COVID-19 pandemic.

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


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

Europa-Park’s record-breaking Voltron Nevera gets April opening date


The longest multi-launch coaster in Europe will open to the public next month with Europa-Park announcing an opening date for the Mack-designed Voltron Nevera

Mattel to open second theme park in Kansas in 2026


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

Germany’s Holiday Park lays out €80m master plan featuring Smurfs, new waterpark and more


A new waterpark, themed lands and a Smurfs dark rides are all in the works for Holiday Park in Germany, with its owner Plopsa announcing a five-year, €80m investment in the regional attraction

IAAPA Expo Europe



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

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

Triotech working on new theme park openings across Asia, the Middle East and Europe in 2024


Triotech has a big year ahead, with the company’s year including new theme park openings across Asia, the Middle East and Europe

SpongeBob kickstarts year for Alterface as new projects and products in store for 2024


Alterface has a number of major projects and products set to launch in 2024, with its interactive technology utilised in the recently opened SpongeBob attraction at Circus Circus

‘Unprecedented’ year for Vekoma as ‘incredible number of projects’ set for launch in 2024


From Circuit Breaker at Cotaland to Flight of the Wicked Witch at Warner Bros Movie World, Vekoma’s 2024 has been hailed as ‘unprecedented’ with the rollercoaster manufacturer set for a number of major project launches across the world in the coming year

Brogent plans Attack on Titan content as company also prepares to open trio of flying theatres in 2024


Attack on Titan will be the subject of a new flying theatre film from Brogent, with the company also planning the launch of new projects in the US, Mexico South Korea and Hong Kong

Bumper year for WhiteWater as supplier outlines range of projects opening in 2024


WhiteWater is set for a big 2024, with the waterpark supplier outlining a host of projects set to open their doors in the coming year

Triotech expands European reach with JNELC partnership


Triotech has announced a partnership with sales and project consultancy firm JNELC in order to expand the Canadian company’s reach in Europe

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

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


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

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

Voltron Nevera 'magnificently moving' as Michael Mack shares update


Europa Park CEO Michael Mack has shared an update on the park’s upcoming Voltron Nevera coaster, with new footage showing ride testing ahead of the ride’s opening later this year.

Closer look at on-board audio and lighting offers update on Vekoma’s upcoming Circuit Breaker coaster


Vekoma has shared a big update on its upcoming Circuit Breaker, with the ride car for the upcoming attraction at Circuit of the Americas undergoing both sound and light tests.

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

‘All slides in place’ as Liseberg’s Oceana waterpark nears completion


Swedish theme park Liseberg’s upcoming waterpark addition - Oceana - is nearing completion, with the attraction’s CEO, Andreas Andersen, sharing an update on the project.

Sally Dark Rides earns top awards


Sally Dark Rides has been acknowledged for two of its newest Dark Rides of The Whispering Pines Haunted Hotel and Treasure Hunt: The Ride

Lagotronics Projects teams up with IMPS and Mack Rides on new Smurfs attraction


IMPS, owner of The Smurts IP, has partnered with Mack Rides and Lagotronics Projects to create a new interactive dark ride.

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

Hopes for Alpamare as council reveals plans to reopen shuttered waterpark


North Yorkshire Council has announced plans to reopen Alpamare, a shuttered waterpark in Scarborough, UK, for the 2024 summer season after taking ownership of the attraction.

Zamperla supplies new attractions for Knott’s Berry Farm’s Camp Snoopy


Knott’s Berry Farm has announced several additions to Camp Snoopy, with Zamperla set to provide three new attractions for the themed land.

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

Scruffy Dog and Sela unveil immersive Wonder Garden experience park


Scruffy Dog and Sela have teamed up to produce Wonder Garden - an immersive experience offering ‘limitless creativity’ during Riyadh Season

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.

Extensive expansion announced for Yas Waterworld


Miral has announced a major expansion of its Yas Waterworld waterpark, with the award-winning attraction set to add more than 3.3km of slides across 16,9000sq m to the destination by 2025

‘Evolution of the century’: Intamin reveals new details on world’s tallest, fastest, and longest rollercoaster


This year's IAAPA Expo brought huge news from across the industry, with Falcon’s Flight - the record-breaking coaster by Intamin coming to Six Flags Qiddiya - among the headliners

SpongeBob's Crazy Carnival Ride coming to Turkey's Land of Legends


Sally Dark Rides has announced as part of its continued collaboration with Paramount Global and Nickelodeon to develop and install the first-ever SpongeBob SquarePants dark ride outside of the US.

Sally unveils Mr Krabs animatronic at IAAPA Expo



Everything you need to know about IAAPA Expo 2023


IAAPA Expo is making its grand return to Orlando’s Orange County Convention Center this week, with the 2023 edition of the event selling out its trade show floor for the first time since 2019

IAAPA Expo 2023: RWS Global to showcase 2023 project highlights in trade show debut


RWS Global will make its trade show debut at this year’s IAAPA Expo, with the company set to showcase its projects from the past 12 months

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

IAAPA Expo 2023: Vekoma to showcase Gravy and Flash themed coasters among 2024 highlights


A coaster themed after gravy and Thanksgiving dinner is among the offerings this IAAPA season, with Vekoma highlighting a host of major projects set to open in 2024 at this year’s Expo

‘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

Chuck E. Cheese set to make waterpark debut after signing first-ever location based entertainment deal


Chuck E. Cheese has announced a multi-year licensing, entertainment and marketing partnership that will for the first time see the brand become part of a new waterpark development.

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

Suppliers and attractions celebrated as Park World Excellence Award winners revealed


Intamin, Simworx and Vekoma are among the winners in this year’s Park World Excellence Awards, with 2023’s recipients named at a glamorous show in Vienna, Austria

Isle of Wight’s Robin Hill up for sale following ‘financial turbulence’


One of the Isle of Wight’s most popular attractions is up for sale, with Robin Hill now on the market following a ‘prolonged period of financial turbulence’

Chinese toy company Pop Mart launches its own theme park in Beijing


With its launch in 2010, Chinese toymaker Pop Mart set off a collectible craze with its anime-style figurines.

IAAPA Expo Europe 2023: Jora Vision, Vekoma unveil €20m Emerald Park additions


Jora Vision and Vekoma have unveiled new details on Tír na nÓg - a new €20m addition coming to Ireland's Emerald park.

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


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

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


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

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...

Everything you need to know about IAAPA Expo Europe 2023


IAAPA is gearing up for its largest EMEA event ever, with the 2023 edition of IAAPA Expo Europe taking place in Vienna between September 25 - 28. Here’s everything you need to know about the event

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


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

IAAPA Expo Europe 2023: Christie to present new technologies and projects in Vienna


AV specialist Christie is to showcase new additions to its M 4K RGB projector series as well as new projects, including an immersive visitor attraction in Toronto, Canada

IAAPA Expo Europe 2023: Triotech to showcase latest projects and attractions


Triotech will showcase several new projects and rides at this year’s IAAPA Expo Europe, including its Stand Up Theater and Qube attractions

Hot air balloon rides and water sports planned for tent city attraction in Varanasi


Plans have been announced to develop a ‘tent city’ in northern India offering visitors to the destination water sports and hot air balloon rides among the activities available.

Saudi Arabia’s Seven announces US$292m entertainment centre in Yanbu


Development company Saudi Entertainment Ventures (Seven) has announced its latest mega project in the kingdom of Saudi Arabia - a SAR1.1bn (US$292m, €272m, £234m) entertainment centre in Yanbu.

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

IAAPA Expo Europe 2023: WhiteWater to announce several upcoming projects


WhiteWater is set to announce several new projects at this year’s IAAPA Expo Europe. The waterpark manufacturer will also showcase its line of Blaster water rides at the event

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

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


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

New attractions to open at Nickelodeon Universe at Mall of America


Two new attractions are set to open at Nickelodeon Universe at Mall of America, with construction beginning on the rides this autumn.

World-first SpongeBob dark ride coming to Las Vegas


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

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


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

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


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

Voting on UK Theme Park Awards to close this week


Voting is soon set to close on this year’s UK Theme Park Awards, with the public vote set to conclude on September 2.

IAAPA reveals show highlights ahead of IAAPA Expo Europe 2023 in Vienna


IAAPA has offered a first glimpse at this year’s IAAPA Expo Europe, taking place in Vienna, Austria, in September

SeaWorld reports drop in attendance and revenue for Q2 2023


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

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


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

Mattel Adventure Park to open in Arizona in 2024


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

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

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

Justin Simien shares Haunted Mansion journey from Disney parks cast member to film director


Disney’s latest film release -

UK Theme Park Awards 2023 open to public vote


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

Kennywood on the hunt for hundreds of scare actors


US theme park Kennywood is on the hunt to fill more than 250 positions for its annual Phantom Fall Fest, voted among the top 10 best Halloween theme park events in the country.

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


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

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


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

Modern Disney more stressful and less fun for families, says former Imagineer


A former Disney Imagineer has said the operator’s theme parks are more stressful and less fun for families.

Adventureland welcomes two new Zamperla attractions


Italian ride manufacturer Zamperla has opened two new rides at the Adventureland theme park in Des Moines, US.

Carowinds and B&M investigate cracked support pillar as repair work begins on Fury 325 coaster


Carowinds has offered an update after the theme park in Charlotte, US, was forced to close down one of its rides after a support pillar completely cracked through.

Gamuda announces 10-year plan for SplashMania Waterpark


The operator of SplashMania Waterpark in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, has announced plans to add new rides and attractions over the next 10 years.

Nominees announced for UK Theme Park Awards 2023


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

Carowinds closes hypercoaster after support pillar cracks


Carowinds in Charlotte, US, was forced to close down one of its rides after a support pillar completely cracked through.

Princess Cruises: ‘We’re not going to do a rollercoaster’


Princess Cruises has said it will not be adding a rollercoaster or waterpark to its offerings, after announcing a new activity zone onboard its upcoming Sun Princess.

Plans approved for US$350m resort and entertainment complex in the Ozarks


Plans have been approved for a new US$350m resort and entertainment destination in Missouri, US.

Five indoor waterparks that are forecasting future trends


WhiteWater’s Grant Poje showcases five indoor waterpark projects that are helping to advance the sector and boost the sector’s mainstream popularity

Planet Attractions partners with 2023 UK Theme Park Awards


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

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


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

Abu Dhabi’s first indoor snow park opens to the public


Majid Al Futtaim Entertainment is offering sub-zero temperatures to visitors in the UAE with the launch of its newest attraction - Snow Abu Dhabi

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


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

First SeaWorld park to open outside US launches in Abu Dhabi


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

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


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

WhiteWater announces major project openings for 2023


WhiteWater has revealed details of more than 60 major projects across its waterpark, water ride and surf divisions opening worldwide throughout 2023

Turning fitness and wellbeing into entertainment with RWS and MSC Cruises


Showcasing exactly what it means to produce an immersive entertainment experience, RWS Entertainment Group and MSC Cruises have turned their eyes to fitness and wellbeing, with a new programme on MSC’s Euribia debuting in May and June for teens and kids.

SeaWorld’s Sesame Street Bay undergoing Rescue Jr retheming


SeaWorld San Diego has announced a retheming of the former Sesame Street Bay into ‘Rescue Jr’ - an interactive play area dedicated to marine animal rescue and conservation.

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


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

Liseberg’s Oceana offers best of multiple worlds with upcoming waterpark development


Swedish theme park Liseberg’s upcoming waterpark addition - Oceana - will take elements from some of the best offerings around the world and make it its own, according to CEO Andreas Andersen.

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


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

Blackpool Pleasure Beach’s Valhalla reopens following £4m refurbishment


Blackpool Pleasure Beach’s indoor dark flume ride Valhallaha has reopened following an extensive £4m refurbishment.

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


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

Columbus Zoo set to debut Adventure Sky Wheel


Ohio’s Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is set to debut a Ferris wheel attraction later this month, with the new Adventure Sky Wheel set to open to the public on May 27.

Zamperla installs two new rides at Walibi Holland


A new attraction has opened its doors at Walibi Holland, with a pair of Zamperla attractions taking residence in the park’s new Speed Zone - Off Road family area.

Rising with the rides: RWS’s Ryan Stana on how the cruise and attractions industries are reimagining entertainment


With the attractions and cruise industries seemingly closer than ever before, RWS CEO Ryan Stana speaks to Planet Attractions about what that means and the steps we can take to bring these two powerhouses under one metaphorical roof

Major Roaring Springs expansion will make waterpark one of the largest in the US when it opens in May


Idaho’s Roaring Springs Waterpark is set to reopen to the public next month with a number of major additions to the attraction.

Frisco mayor reveals why Universal chose Texas city for new kid's theme park


Jeff Cheney, the mayor of Frisco, Texas, has revealed how and why Universal chose the US city for its next major theme park project.

Katmandu Park Punta Cana opens in the Dominican Republic


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

Miral confirms May opening for SeaWorld Abu Dhabi


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

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


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

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


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

Global openings for WhiteWater in 2023


We’re still early into 2023 and leading waterpark manufacturer WhiteWater has already opened two water rides – Super Flume and River Raft at VinWonders in Phú Quốc, Vietnam.

Rock 'n' Roller Coaster closes at Disney World's Hollywood Studios



New Brogent offerings expand creative options for flying theatres


Media-based attractions manufacturer Brogent Technologies has a big year ahead as the company aims to push the boundaries of flying theatre technologies and other media-based attractions.

Aquaman: Power Wave set to open at Six Flags Over Texas in March


The long-awaited Aquaman: Power Wave at Six Flags Over Texas now has its opening date, with the Mack Rides coaster set to open on March 11.

Blackpool Pleasure Beach seeks rollercoaster test rider ahead of new season


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

IAAPA to host new trade summit in Riyadh


IAAPA has partnered with Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority (GEA) to launch a new trade summit dedicated to the region.

Keir International lands US$18m waterpark contract


Construction and utilities provider Keir International has been awarded an US$18.3m (€17.1m, £15.2m) contract for a waterpark project in Saudi Arabia.

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


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

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


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

Europa Park coaster hits construction milestone


Europa Park managing director Michael Mack has shared a construction update on an upcoming coaster scheduled to open in 2024.

Thorpe Park replacing Derren Brown’s Ghost train with new iteration


Popular British theme park Thorpe Park is bidding farewell to Derren Brown but not the ghost train currently sharing his name, with the operator revealing plans for a major overhaul of the experience simply dubbed ‘Ghost Train’.

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


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

Port Aventura's Uncharted coaster among 2023's most anticipated openings



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


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

Chessington to open world’s first Jumanji coaster


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

Police break into gallery to rescue unconscious woman only to find out she was actually an art installation


Police last month broke down the doors of an art gallery in an attempt to save an unconscious woman - only to discover that she wasn’t actually real.

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


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

Twelve of the biggest rollercoaster openings of 2023


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

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


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

PortAventura announces world-first Uncharted dark ride coaster


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

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


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

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


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

IAAPA Expo 2022: 36,000 gather for industry extravaganza


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

Industry pays tribute to legendary Alberto Zamperla following his death


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

Sally's Haunted Hotel on show at IAAPA Expo


Dark ride specialists Sally have unveiled Haunted Hotel - a new attraction for Funtown Splashtown in Saco, Maine, US.

More on SeaWorld Orlando's world-first surf coaster



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


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

IAAPA announces 2022 Brass Ring Awards finalists


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

Shanghai Disney shuts doors as visitors are unable to leave park without negative Covid test


Visitors to Shanghai Disney were shut inside the park, with people not allowed to leave the popular theme park until they were able to show a negative Covid test.

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


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

National Emergency Services Museum wins Family Friendly Museum Award 2022


The National Emergency Services Museum in Sheffield has been named the UK’s most family-friendly museum.

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


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

Maurer Rides showcases world-first Spike Omega Coaster



‘Something wild is coming’, says Premier Rides ahead of this year’s IAAPA Expo


Ride manufacturer Premier Rides has dropped an interesting hint ahead of this year’s IAAPA Expo, promising that “something wild is coming” on its social media channels.

iPhone 14 Pro’s crash detection feature is calling emergency services when people ride on rollercoasters


The new iPhone 14 Pro has a fantastic feature that activates when it thinks a user has been in a crash. This however isn’t great for theme parks, with the phone reportedly automatically calling emergency services after riding on a rollercoaster.

Kings Island’s Adventure Port set for 2023 debut


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

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


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

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


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

A first look inside Japan's new Ghibli Park


With just a few weeks to go until the world’s first Ghibli theme park opens to the public, Studio Ghibli has offered a sneak peek at the attraction, which aims to create an atmosphere unique to any theme park anywhere in the world.

Drayton Manor’s Apocalypse stand up drop tower to close permanently this month


One of the most eye-catching and iconic rides at Drayton Manor in the UK will close permanently on October 30, with fans being invited to take one last ride on the Apocalypse drop tower.

Everything you need to know about IAAPA Expo Europe 2022


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

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


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

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


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

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


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

FORREC to showcase new projects at IAAPA Expo Europe


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

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


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

World’s first Jumanji-themed land coming to Chessington World of Adventures


The UK’s Chessington World of Adventures theme park is about to welcome a world-first, with

Simworx to showcase new ride concepts at IAAPA Expo Europe


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

Collection of 52 museums, galleries and art spaces to team up for Art Week Tokyo


A collection of 52 leading museums, galleries and art spaces in Tokyo, Japan, will team up to deliver a range of programming for a citywide art programme, taking place later this year.

Supply chain issues delay new rides for Germany’s Skyline Park


Skyline Park’s new rollercoaster along with another new attraction have both been pushed back due to manufacturing problems caused by supply chain issues.

Polin debuts Rift waterslide in Turkey


The Titanic Delux Golf Belek - a hotel and resort destination in Antalya, Turkey - has debuted a first-of-its-kind attraction from waterpark specialists Polin, the Rift waterslide.

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


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

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


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

Alterface’s summer of dark rides


Alterface has shared details of three interactive projects opened last month featuring the supplier’s interactive technology.

Coney Island's Luna Park to expand with three new attractions


Coney Island’s Luna Park in New York, US, is about to undergo a major expansion, with plans to add three new attractions to the historic theme park.

Vennersys named sponsor for UK Theme Park Awards


Ticketing, POS and visitor management software specialists Vennersys have been announced as a sponsor for this year’s UK Theme Park Awards.

Splash Mountain reimagined as Tiana’s Bayou Adventure for 2024



From The Community: The Bizzare Garfield dark ride, Alton Towers as an F1 track and how Disneyland is responsible for the creation of Doritos


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

US$70m Tropic Falls Indoor Water Park opens in Alabama


Following a short delay, a new flagship attraction has opened in Foley, Alabama, US, with the debut of the ProSlide-supplied Tropic Falls Indoor Water Park.

Vinwonders Nha Trang reopens expanded Tropical Paradise waterpark


The Tropical Paradise waterpark - part of the VinWonders Nha Trang Amusement Park - has reopened its doors following an expansion featuring new Polin attractions

Universal Studios Singapore breaks ground on Minion Land attraction


A new addition to Universal Studios Singapore slated to open in 2024 has broken ground, with work starting on the park's upcoming Minion Land.

Land, sea and everywhere in between: WhiteWater’s global openings for 2022


It’s a busy year for WhiteWater, which has more than 70 waterpark projects across the world opening in 2022. We’ve rounded these projects up so you can keep track of everything happening this year

Nesting birds delay Drayton Manor ride opening


Drayton Manor has been forced to delay the opening of a brand new attraction after nesting birds decided to call the upcoming ‘Loki’ home.

Butlin’s to open record-breaking Skypark playground attraction in 2023


The Butlin’s chain of seaside resorts in the UK has announced a brand new £2.5m attraction, which will be the largest of its size in the country when it opens next year..

ProSlide debuts world-first Dueling FlyingSaucer at SeaWorld’s Adventure Island waterpark


SeaWorld’s Adventure Island waterpark in Tampa, Florida, has welcomed a new addition in the form of Rapids Racer - the world’s first ProSlide Dueling FlyingSaucer.

Vikings set for debut at Drayton Manor


Drayton Manor in the UK is gearing up for the launch of its newest land, the multi-million pound ‘Vikings’.

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


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

Everything you need to know about SEA Expo 2022


Fast becoming one of the key industry events for the visitor attractions sector, here’s everything you need to know about this year’s Saudi Entertainment and Amusement Expo

Pandemic resurgence as SeaWorld soars with record results in first quarter


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

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


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

Knoebels Amusement Resort partners with Attractions.io on new app


Knoebels - the US’s largest free admission amusement resort - has partnered with Attractions.io to launch a new guest experience app.

Suppliers recognised in Asia Attractions Golden Crown Awards


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

Hettema Group and Themespace merge to form THG


The Hettema Group and Themespace are to combine their talents to form a single independent creative studio known as THG

TEA Summit enters second day



Jack Silkstone rides The Smiler for an entire day



Deals at DEAL: Middle East attractions show hails successful return to Dubai in 2022


The Dubai Entertainment, Amusement & Leisure Exhibition returned in 2022, bringing with it much success for attendees and exhibitors alike

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


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

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


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

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang rides at Beaulieu



Triotech wins big at DEAL 2022


Triotech has been recognised with two prestigious MENALAC Awards at this year’s DEAL show in Dubai, with the company winning awards for both Best New Concept and Best New Product for FECs.

Lotte World Adventure Busan Theme Park set for grand opening


South Korea is about to welcome a major new theme park addition with the launch of Lotte World Adventure Busan on Thursday (March 31).

DEAL show underway in Dubai



Construction update on Qatar’s US$270m Aquatar Waterpark


Part of the Qetaifan Island North entertainment destination, new imagery has shown the latest update for Qatar’s upcoming US$270m (€245.7m, £206.2m) Aquatar Waterpark.

DEAL to welcome global entertainment industry to Dubai for 2022 show


The event will feature an extensive tradeshow and the MENALAC LEA Conference and awards

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


Merlin will develop and operate exclusive Jumanji-themed attractions

Maurer Rides targets ski resorts with new Spike Snow Coaster


German rollercoaster manufacturer Maurer Rides has launched a new interactive snow coaster.

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


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

Original colour scheme for The Racer as Kings Island starts restoration work on classic coaster





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