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'STEM' on Planet Attractions | Planet Attractions
 
'STEM' on Planet Attractions


Italian rollercoaster manufacturer Zamperla has debuted two new attractions at this year’s IAAPA Expo Europe, which is currently underway at the Messe Wien Exhibition & Congress Center in Vienna, Austria.


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


Three former Columbus Zoo and Aquarium executives engaged in a pattern of corrupt activity that cost the facility more than $2.2 million, according to an indictment.


Experience UK’s UK Pavilion will return at this year’s IAAPA Expo Europe, with the booth offering an ‘experiential showcase of British ingenuity’ to all attendees


NASA and the USDA Forest Service are offering public facing STEM operations in the US the chance to plan a ‘living piece of spaceflight history’ with seedlings literally flown to the moon and back


Attractions.io will showcase its guest experience platform at this year’s IAAPA Expo Europe, with representatives on hand to guide visitors through the platform


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


Ticketing specialist Convious will host several education sessions on revenue, visitor experience and operations at this year’s IAAPA Expo Europe in Vienna


At this year’s IAAPA Expo Europe, Simworx will showcase a new turnkey ride concept, alongside its expansive portfolio of dynamic media-based attractions


AV specialist Christie has partnered with Illuminarium Experiences and Secret Location to supply projectors and maintenance support to a new immersive attraction in Toronto, Canada.


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


Convious’s eCommerce ticketing platform has reached new standards in data security and privacy after achieving Service Organisation Control 2 (SOC 2) Type 1 IT security compliance.


Integrated digital solutions provider, Semnox Solutions has announced a new partnership with Glitch, a family entertainment centre (FEC) in Dubai.


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


The Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) has announced plans to transform the Sanskar Kendra museum in India’s Gujarat region into a World Heritage City museum.


As the company continues its rapid expansion in 2023, guest experience platform Attractions.io has named Ted Ismert as its new chief operating officer


Art dealers across the European Union EU) are lobbying their governments to take advantage of a new EU law to reduce value-added tax (VAT) rates on art sales.


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


Adam Savage, the original co-host of Discovery Channel’s


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


The Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia has announced the launch of Asfar - a new company designed to support the growth of the kingdom’s tourism sector


The National Railway Museum in Yorkshire, UK, has opened its largest new gallery in more than a decade, with the launch of the £6m ‘Wonderlab: The Bramall Gallery’.


Plans to create a new space and aviation museum in Kinross, Scotland, have taken a major step forward after the UK government approved £1.6m (US$2m, €1.9m) in funding for the project.


The Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute (STRI) has received a US$12m (€11m, £10m) grant from the Bezos Earth Fund to support a major forest carbon project.


The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum has announced the public phase of a US$89m capital campaign to fund a complete transformation of the museum, its first significant renovation in nearly 40 years


The First Bank of the United States in Philadelphia has been granted US$22m in federal funding to turn the historic building into an interactive museum


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


The Sphere, MSG’s new entertainment arena in Las Vegas, US, was lit up for the first time this month as part of a pre-launch ahead of its official debut in September


Connect&GO has announced two new partnerships in France that will see the attractions technology specialists integrate its Konnect all-in-one platform with leading French ticket providers Ticketmaster France and France Billet


Engineering company Sanvik has used artificial intelligence to design a statue that draws on the styles of famous artists spanning three continents and 500 years, with the resulting work on display in Sweden’s Tekniska Museet


More than 80 projectors from Christie’s Inspire Series have been selected by visitor attractions in China’s southern Guangdong province as their preferred projection system.


Attractions.io is seeking to partner with new vendors on its guest experience platform, introducing new technologies to further enhance its overall offering


The Disney World resort in Orlando, Florida, US, has updated its Genie + ride reservation system so that guests can choose to use it on a single-park basis.


Park officials at California’s Knott’s Berry Farm hope to reopen its Xcelerator rollercoaster this summer.


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


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


On 18 May 2023, experts in resilience-based management and local teams from Unesco marine World Heritage sites met online to share best practices and first-hand insights on designing and implementing resilience strategies that take a holistic approach in addressing the impacts of climate change and help communities to adapt to the inevitable change.


Detroit Zoo has a “unique opportunity” to act as a leader in STEM education for diverse audiences, says the zoo’s CEO, Hayley Murphy.


A new species of ankylosaur discovered on the Isle of Wight in the UK has been named after the London Natural History Museum’s Paul Barrett.


Concerns have been raised after local government passed a bill allowing intensive irrigated strawberry farming on a World Heritage-protected wetland in Spain


accesso has announced the acquisition of leading ticketing and visitor management system provider VGS, with the award-winning SnApp platform to be rebranded accesso Horizon


The US and Canadian Coastguards are helming a major rescue mission to recover a missing tourist submarine that disappeared in the Atlantic Ocean less than two hours into an expedition to see the wreckage of the Titanic


The Aquarium of Niagara in New York, US, has appointed the Turner Construction Company to lead the development of its upcoming Great Lakes 360 experience.


The Sursock Museum in Beirut, Lebanon, has reopened to the public, almost three years after it was destroyed in a deadly explosion that claimed the lives of more than 200 people.


The Jamaican government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Georgia Aquarium in the US, that will see the two parties work together on a number of projects, including the establishment of several marine life sanctuaries in the country.


Vennersys has announced a partnership with the Old Operating Theatre Museum and Herb Garret, which will see the online ticketing and integrated POS provider install its VenposCloud attraction management software at the heritage attraction.


Australia’s government is providing greater protection to the Great Barrier Reef, announcing a AU$160m package to phase out commercial gill net fishing by 2027


Miirage is a new modular holographic system bringing the virtual world to life without any additional need for mobile devices, screens or wearables. The creators behind the technology speak to Planet Attractions about the new product and exactly what it can do...


A brand new big cat habitat has opened at Blackpool Zoo in Lancashire, UK.


A waterpark with dogs complete with a bar for its human owners has opened in St Petersburg, Florida, US.


Cairns Aquarium is on the hunt for a new investor, with Colliers appointed to seek expressions of interest for the popular Queensland attraction


The Royal Commission for the ancient Saudi Arabian city of AlUla has approved plans for a new eco-luxury destination with its own museum


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


Japanese architecture firm Kengo Kuma & Associates has won an international design competition to design a new visitor centre at Butrint National Park in Albania


Brogent Technologies will soon introduce a new virtual racing experience in Qatar, with the attraction part of the country’s largest indoor theme park - Doha Quest.


The Legend, one of the US’ oldest wooden rollercoasters, is set to reopen at Arnolds Park in Iowa, US, this summer after a 10-year renovation process.


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


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


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


Universal Destinations and Experiences has filed a patent for a new kind of wearable technology.


Connect&Go has announced a three-year partnership with Canada’s Canyon Sainte-Anne nature attraction in Quebec.


A new brand home dedicated to Pilsner Urquell has opened its doors in Prague. BRC’s Christian Lachel tells Planet Attractions how the attraction celebrates the brand’s place in Czech history and culture


A man in the UK has died after getting stuck inside an indoor caving experience at a climbing centre.


Six Flags Magic Mountain is about to become home to the largest solar project in the US installed by a for-profit organisation, with the massive solar carport set to offset 100% of the theme park’s energy usage with clean energy.


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


The first ever recipients of The King’s Awards for Enterprise have been announced, with 7thSense recognised for demonstrating outstanding short-term growth and commercial success in international trade over the last three years


A first-of-its kind offering will make guests feel like they’re at the heart of the action during live UFC events, with Cosm’s ‘shared reality’ spectacles set to transform the way we watch live sporting events


You can experience Carnegie Science Center with a roaring twenties twist on April 14, with the popular attraction set to host a special adults-only speakeasy night


A new museum celebrating the legacy of Amelia Earhart is set to open its doors in the aviation legend’s hometown of Atchison, Kansas


Attractions management technology specialist Connect&GO has announced a three-year contract renewal with Canada’s Super Aqua Club waterpark in Quebec.


Universal Destinations & Experiences is seeking a patent that may offer a tease at one of the rumored attractions at its Epic Universe theme park under construction in Orlando.


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


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


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


The Welsh Government has committed to investing £4m (US$4.93m, €4.55m in a bid to bring a new tourism attraction to Swansea.


Universal Parks & Resorts has filed a new ride patent that could hint at a future attraction at its upcoming Epic Universe resort in Orlando, Florida.


NASA is to award millions of dollars of funding to museum projects across the US that encourage student participation in STEM subjects


Meyer Group has unveiled the cruise ship of the future with its Reverse concept showing what such a vessel could look like in the year 2100


The former home of British King, Edward VIII, will be opened to the public for the first time when it opens next year as a museum.


The City Art Gallery in Southampton, UK, is set to undergo urgent roof repairs after receiving a £2.23m (US$2.74m, €2.52m) grant from the UK’s Department of Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS).


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


Cashless solutions provider Embed will showcase a new tech innovation at this year’s DEAL event in Dubai, with a new line of solutions developed alongside Amazon Web Services (AWS).


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


Holovis has revealed an exciting year ahead for the experiential design firm, which has already launched one major theme park project and has another on the way in 2023.


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


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





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.


Cruise line MSC Group is set to expand its fleet with two new ships in 2023.


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


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


A 24-year-old man now linked to an unusual string of crimes that kept the Dallas Zoo on the lookout for missing animals told police that after he swiped two monkeys from their enclosure, he took them onto the city's light rail system to make his getaway, court records show.


Ticketing technology specialist Gateway Ticketing Systems has appointed Sharon Parker to the role of senior manager of marketing.


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


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


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


British astronaut Tim Peake has announced he will permanently step down from his role as a European astronaut to focus on his work as an ambassador for space and science.


Bavaria Filmstadt has switched its eCommerce and ticketing operations to Convious, following a new partnership with the experience economy specialist.


For the first time since the pandemic, California’s Aquarium of the Pacific has relaunched its Aquarium on Wheels programme.





The Aquarium of Niagara is expanding and adding a second building to its campus.


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


Connecticut’s Mystic Aquarium has partnered with the developers of the state’s first offshore wind farm to conduct studies of the effects of the turbines on marine mammals and sea turtles.


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


A cast of the world’s most complete Titanosaur – one of the largest dinosaurs ever discovered – will make its European debut in an exhibition at London’s Natural History Museum (NHM) next spring.


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


Fresh off last week's IAAPA Expo, leading waterpark supplier Whitewater is celebrating after being honoured with three prestigious awards.


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


Online ticketing and integrated POS provider Vennersys has said that using a cloud-based ticketing solution could help save the environment.


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


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


Carnegie Science Center in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, US, has unveiled plans for a new permanent exhibition dedicated to “the next giant leap”, Mars.


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


Following extensive renovation, the National Air and Space Museum in Washington DC, US, will reopen the west end of its National Mall building later this year.


Ticketing specialists Vennersys recently partnered with Clevedon Pier in Somerset, UK, to implement a new ticketing management system to help modernise the attraction’s admission processes and deliver an integrated approach to managing revenue streams.


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


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


With just a few months to go until the grand opening of the highly-anticipated Ghibli Park in Nagoya, Japan, the attraction has revealed that tickets will be sold via a lottery-based booking system, with attendance to the attraction being limited to create an atmosphere likened to that of the Ghibli adventures themselves.


Coney Island’s New York Aquarium is, for the first time since it was devastated by Hurricane Sandy, in full operation, with all public exhibits open to the public.


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


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


The under-construction SeaWorld Abu Dhabi is currently in the process of installing solar panels on its roof in an attempt to make the new mega attraction as clean as possible for the environment.


FlowRider’s FlowSurf technology was inspired by river waves and creates never-ending waves


Royal Caribbean Cruises has filed a request that if approved will see SpaceX’s Starlink satellite internet service rolled out across the operator’s entire fleet


The Science and Industry Museum has received a generous donation from The Law Family Charitable Foundation for the refurbishment of its Power Hall


SeaWorld has pledged to ensure the long-term health of the world’s oceans in accordance with the UN’s Sustainability Development Goal 14


The Adler Planetarium in Chicago is one of a number of informal education institutions to receive NASA funding to serve students from communities underrepresented in STEM fields


It might seem like something straight out of Sci-Fi but flying taxis in Dubai came a step closer to reality in the last week following an agreement to introduce the first electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) touristic flights from the Atlantis, The Palm.



Eureka! Science + Discovery - a new STEM attraction coming to Wirral, UK, later this year - has unveiled its first exhibit, a 12-foot tall cat statue.


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


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


The British government is supporting a range of public sector organisations in reducing their dependency on carbon and improving energy efficiency


Orlando's popular Volcano Bay waterpark hit a landmark this week, with Universal celebrating five years since the Florida attraction opened to the public for the first time.


How do you develop a POS system that caters to both digital natives and the generation before them? Convious’s Miendu Dang has the answers


A new dark ride concept based on the iconic Fisher Price IP from Mattel has been unveiled, with the new attraction utilising a number of the brand’s popular children’s toys, which will be blown up into epic proportions for the experience.


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


The Delaware Museum of Nature and Science is set to reopen on May 23 following an extensive renovation


A new Supreme Committee has been formed to plan and implement the future of the Expo 2020 Dubai district


Former Disney man Michael Jungen has taken up a new position as the president of WhiteWater’s Vantage division.


What can the House of Gucci movie teach us about sustainability? WhiteWater’s Una de Boer tells all


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


Leaders in the themed entertainment industry gathered last month for the return of TEA Summit and Thea Awards Gala for the first time in two years. Christine Kerr on behalf of the TEA and Nicole Sangster from Thea Award recipients Simworx both report on the event


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


We've rounded up all the special events you should be attending this month


Cruise operator MSC has announced that starting at the end of May, two of its ships will begin using shore power in an attempt to cut emissions.


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 Giant Company, an Ireland-based visitor attractions specialist has launched The Giant, its flagship visitor attraction concept, into the Middle East & North Africa (MENA) region at the Dubai Entertainment, Amusement & Leisure (DEAL) trade show in Dubai.


Marwell Zoo and Attractions.io have teamed up for the development of a brand new app designed to enhance the visitor’s digital experience


The companies have entered into a three-year partnership that will see Accesso supply its point of sale solutions across four of Pyek Group’s waterparks


Seventeen security guards turned curator to create an exhibit inspired by music, black artists, humour, and social justice, or simply time spent guarding a particular piece


San Diego Zoo has launched one of its most ambitious ever additions, with the brand-new US$69m Wildlife Explorers Basecamp showcasing a number of different ecosystems through a series of immersive experiences


Attractions.io has announced a new partnership with Chester Zoo, with the animal attraction in the UK launching a fully-branded mobile app to enhance the visitor experience.


Lonnie Bunch, 14th Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution, has released a statement on behalf of the organisation, pledging its support to the people of Ukraine and their cultural heritage. In the statement, Bunch revealed that the Smithsonian Cultural Rescue Initiative (SCRI) is in contact with people in the country in order to facilitate the preservation of Ukraine’s history.


Disney’s Imagination Campus has released a new look at the iconic Space Mountain from a STEM perspective, exploring the science and technology behind the attraction while also looking at the role that energy and acceleration play in the design of rollercoasters.


Disney has shared a sneak peek at Disney’s upcoming Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind ride at Epcot, with Liz Diaz, senior ride development engineer for Disney Imagineering unveiling the load station and Starjumpers for the hotly-anticipated attraction.


The Ivankiv Historical and Local History Museum was burned to the ground as Russia continues its aggressive invasion of the country


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


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


The Qiddiya Investment Company is developing Saudi Arabia’s first-ever waterpark, with the mammoth investment set to cost a whopping US$750m


One Twitter user has taken lessons learned from Imagineering in a Box - Disney Imagineering's free, online educational curriculum from the Kahn Academy - to recreate the Yeti at Animal Kingdom using just Lego, wool and modelling clay.


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



Creative software and technology company 7thSense has announced the acquisition of design, consulting and production company Bluebox Attractions.


Dutch architecture studio MVRDV has blamed London’s Westminster City Council for the disastrous Marble Arch Mound project, revealing that its advice was ignored and design watered down, with the firm adding that “we stand by our initial design”.


Forming the first phase of a US$70m 20-year project, a new otter habitat at the Santa Ana Zoo will come complete with underwater viewing area and a state-of-the-art life support system to maintain water quality


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


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


WaterSlider VR is the latest offering from BoldMove, with the new product offering an underwater VR experience inside a life raft


Work being carried out by the Louvre and Sotheby’s could ‘lead to restitutions’ as the Parisian institution researches the history of items in its collection acquired between 1933 and 1945


UK-based experiential design company Holovis has signed a joint venture agreement with Shanghai Luoman Lighting Technologies Inc, with the new agreement covering the entirety of China as the two companies work closely to realise the market's fast-growing outdoor experiential projects.


Using breakthrough aquatic life support technology, Monterey Bay Aquarium will soon debut a collection of sea creatures you would normally only be able to see at the very bottom of the ocean


Parks! America Inc has announced a partnership with ticketing and technology solutions provider accesso to provide a more convenient and easy-to-navigate admission, reservation and shopping system to guests at its Wild Animal Safari attractions.


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


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


Convious has named Andy Povey as its new managing director for the UK and Ireland, with Povey set to lead the company’s ambitious growth plan for the region


What does the future look like for immersive experiences when it comes to location-based entertainment? Michael Mascioni has the answers


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


NASA has selected a group of projects from across the US to receive a share of US$520,000 in funding as Education Community Anchors



The water ride manufacturer will offer new sustainable services and products as part of its commitment to decarbonise the attractions industry


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


Ticketing specialist Gateway has announced the promotion of Chase Mory to its new director of operations.


A new virtual reality platform from VRsenal can double efficiency, throughput and ROI in footprint and price compared to the company’s previous single-player model


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


Arizona's Phoenix Zoo has gone live with Galaxy Connect from Gateway Ticketing Systems, streamlining the attraction's ability to sell admission tickets on third-party distributor websites.


The Disneyland Resort in California has announced some adjustments to its theme park ticket pricing, with the attraction moving from a five-tier demand pricing structure for one-day tickets to a six-tier system.


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


High-performance media specialist 7thSense has appointed Erik Iversen as senior product manager for pixel processing products.


Oslo’s Munch Museum is opening to the public for the first time this week, offering a twist to the usual museum experience.


Disney has debuted it's brand new Disney Genie app at Walt Disney World, with the service coming soon to Disneyland as well.


Foul play is thought to be the reason that hundreds of drones crashed to the ground during a special performance earlier this month.


The first ship from Virgin Voyages fleet of cruise ships has completed its journey from PortMiami to Nassau and Bimini in the Bahamas


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


Once open, the museum aims to champion children’s creativity and encourage visitors to develop their skills through performance, play and design


The Pandora Papers have revealed The Met as one of several major institutions to have displayed looted items linked to indicted art dealer Douglas Latchford



IAAPA’s international trade show is back with IAAPA Expo Europe emanating from Barcelona, Spain. Here’s everything you need to know about the event


7thSense will be exhibiting at IAAPA Expo Europe as part of the Experience UK Pavilion


Attractions.io has developed a direct-to-table in-app food ordering system for those who want to maintain social distancing


Smash & Reload is a family-friendly attraction that combines competitive gameplay with a fun and interactive IP


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


The experience follows a pod of endangered orcas struggling for survival in the Pacific Ocean


The upgraded Galaxy is an integrated solution combining ticketing, admission control, resource management


Covid PCR testing should be abandoned for most holidaymakers, says travel organisation Abta


Battle Arena is a new interactive ride concept from Lagotronics Projects that pits riders against each other as they battle to score points


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


Park Beyond’s ‘impossification’ system promises to let your imagination run wild with a new theme park simulator unlike any we’ve ever seen on modern systems


Everything is about to get bigger (and smaller) as Disney continues to take the world by storm with its latest animatronic projects


The ice rink was cancelled last year due to the ongoing pandemic


China has welcomed a flying theatre to its Changbaishan Biosphere Reserve with Brogent Technologies supplying the landmark new attraction


The four-day event will feature educational presentations, success stories, breakout sessions and networking opportunities


The poster features several Star Wars figures, which, according to Disney, are meant to represent the guests and the choose-your-own-adventure-style experience they’ll undertake at the hotel


Hailed as one of the world’s best dark ride attractions, Universal’s Spider-Man dark ride will be celebrated at this year’s IAAPA Expo in Orlando with the return of the popular Legends Panel event


The World Heritage Committee has inscribed 13 new sites in Europe, Asia and the Middle East to Unesco’s World Heritage List


Disney has released a new docuseries exploring how it managed to bring some of its most popular attractions to life


Unesco has deleted Liverpool from its World Heritage List after a committee determined new developments were damaging the city’s global heritage


The Smithsonian has received the largest donation in its history with Amazon founder Jeff Bezos donating US$200m for the development of two key projects for the institution


We spoke to Triotech’s Ernest Yale and Nol van Genuchten about Knott’s Berry Farm’s iconic Bear-y Tales dark ride, which has been reimagined for a brand new audience more than three decades later


The Colosseum’s hypogeum has undergone a major restoration allowing visitors to explore the historic passageways for the first time


The long-awaited Shanghai Astronomy Museum is set to open its doors to the public on July 18


The Mobile Food Ordering system saves guests time and reduces the risk of COVID transmission


The Museum of the Home has been refused permission to remove a statue of Robert Geffrye despite public calls to ditch the controversial work


Three British art galleries will present a series of exhibitions and collaborations looking back at the past year to explore the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic


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


Targeting students in Chicago’s underserved neighbourhoods, photojournalist Tonika Johnson and architect Taylor State have discussed creativity and collaboration as part of MSI’s Black Creativity programme



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





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




IAAPA Expo Europe 2023: Vekoma to showcase new rollercoaster launches




Industry insights



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




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

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



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Zamperla unveils two new attractions at IAAPA Expo Europe 2023


Italian rollercoaster manufacturer Zamperla has debuted two new attractions at this year’s IAAPA Expo Europe, which is currently underway at the Messe Wien Exhibition & Congress Center in Vienna, Austria.

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

Former Columbus Zoo executives indicted over US$2.2m corruption scheme


Three former Columbus Zoo and Aquarium executives engaged in a pattern of corrupt activity that cost the facility more than $2.2 million, according to an indictment.

IAAPA Expo Europe 2023: Experience UK gearing up for return of UK Pavilion


Experience UK’s UK Pavilion will return at this year’s IAAPA Expo Europe, with the booth offering an ‘experiential showcase of British ingenuity’ to all attendees

Moon tree seedlings to be shared with public-facing STEM educators


NASA and the USDA Forest Service are offering public facing STEM operations in the US the chance to plan a ‘living piece of spaceflight history’ with seedlings literally flown to the moon and back

IAAPA Expo Europe 2023: Attractions.io to present guest experience platform in Vienna


Attractions.io will showcase its guest experience platform at this year’s IAAPA Expo Europe, with representatives on hand to guide visitors through the platform

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

IAAPA Expo Europe 2023: Convious to reveal ‘hidden worlds’ of experience economy


Ticketing specialist Convious will host several education sessions on revenue, visitor experience and operations at this year’s IAAPA Expo Europe in Vienna

IAAPA Expo Europe 2023: Simworx to debut Zombie Metro Mayhem concept


At this year’s IAAPA Expo Europe, Simworx will showcase a new turnkey ride concept, alongside its expansive portfolio of dynamic media-based attractions

Christie partners with Illuminarium for immersive experience in Toronto


AV specialist Christie has partnered with Illuminarium Experiences and Secret Location to supply projectors and maintenance support to a new immersive attraction in Toronto, Canada.

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


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

Convious ticketing platform achieves SOC 2 IT security compliance


Convious’s eCommerce ticketing platform has reached new standards in data security and privacy after achieving Service Organisation Control 2 (SOC 2) Type 1 IT security compliance.

Semnox Solutions installs several cashless solutions at Glitch, Dubai


Integrated digital solutions provider, Semnox Solutions has announced a new partnership with Glitch, a family entertainment centre (FEC) in Dubai.

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


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

India’s Sanskar Kendra to become world heritage museum


The Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) has announced plans to transform the Sanskar Kendra museum in India’s Gujarat region into a World Heritage City museum.

Ted Ismert named new chief operating officer for Attractions.io


As the company continues its rapid expansion in 2023, guest experience platform Attractions.io has named Ted Ismert as its new chief operating officer

EU dealers lobby to slash VAT rates on art sales


Art dealers across the European Union EU) are lobbying their governments to take advantage of a new EU law to reduce value-added tax (VAT) rates on art sales.

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


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

MythBusters host to set sail with Princess Cruises in November


Adam Savage, the original co-host of Discovery Channel’s

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


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

Saudi Arabia’s PIF announces launch of Saudi Tourism Investment Company


The Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia has announced the launch of Asfar - a new company designed to support the growth of the kingdom’s tourism sector

UK’s National Railway Museum launches STEM-focussed Wonderlab


The National Railway Museum in Yorkshire, UK, has opened its largest new gallery in more than a decade, with the launch of the £6m ‘Wonderlab: The Bramall Gallery’.

Kinross space museum plan secures £1.6m in government funding


Plans to create a new space and aviation museum in Kinross, Scotland, have taken a major step forward after the UK government approved £1.6m (US$2m, €1.9m) in funding for the project.

Bezos Earth Fund grants US$12m to Smithsonian to support major forest carbon project


The Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute (STRI) has received a US$12m (€11m, £10m) grant from the Bezos Earth Fund to support a major forest carbon project.

Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum set to undergo major redevelopment following launch of US$89m capital campaign


The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum has announced the public phase of a US$89m capital campaign to fund a complete transformation of the museum, its first significant renovation in nearly 40 years

First Bank of the United States set to undergo US$22.2m museum transformation


The First Bank of the United States in Philadelphia has been granted US$22m in federal funding to turn the historic building into an interactive museum

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.

Sphere lights up Vegas Strip for the first time ahead of September launch


The Sphere, MSG’s new entertainment arena in Las Vegas, US, was lit up for the first time this month as part of a pre-launch ahead of its official debut in September

Connect&GO announces new partnerships with Ticketmaster France and France Billet


Connect&GO has announced two new partnerships in France that will see the attractions technology specialists integrate its Konnect all-in-one platform with leading French ticket providers Ticketmaster France and France Billet

WATCH: AI draws on 500 years of history to design statue in the styles of iconic sculptors


Engineering company Sanvik has used artificial intelligence to design a statue that draws on the styles of famous artists spanning three continents and 500 years, with the resulting work on display in Sweden’s Tekniska Museet

Visitor attractions in Guangdong illuminated with Christie projectors


More than 80 projectors from Christie’s Inspire Series have been selected by visitor attractions in China’s southern Guangdong province as their preferred projection system.

Attractions.io enhances partnership strategy to expand integrated app ecosystem


Attractions.io is seeking to partner with new vendors on its guest experience platform, introducing new technologies to further enhance its overall offering

Disney World updates Genie+ to offer more flexible guest experience


The Disney World resort in Orlando, Florida, US, has updated its Genie + ride reservation system so that guests can choose to use it on a single-park basis.

Xcelerator to reopen at Knott’s Berry Farm this summer


Park officials at California’s Knott’s Berry Farm hope to reopen its Xcelerator rollercoaster this summer.

Immersive Smurfs experience set to tour US in 2024


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

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


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

Unesco: Building climate resilience for people and nature at marine World Heritage sites


On 18 May 2023, experts in resilience-based management and local teams from Unesco marine World Heritage sites met online to share best practices and first-hand insights on designing and implementing resilience strategies that take a holistic approach in addressing the impacts of climate change and help communities to adapt to the inevitable change.

Detroit Zoo looks at STEM initiatives for diverse audiences


Detroit Zoo has a “unique opportunity” to act as a leader in STEM education for diverse audiences, says the zoo’s CEO, Hayley Murphy.

Newly-discovered species of dinosaur named after museum scientist


A new species of ankylosaur discovered on the Isle of Wight in the UK has been named after the London Natural History Museum’s Paul Barrett.

Strawberries threaten Spanish World Heritage site


Concerns have been raised after local government passed a bill allowing intensive irrigated strawberry farming on a World Heritage-protected wetland in Spain

accesso acquires VGS in major deal that sees VGS platform rebranded accesso Horizon


accesso has announced the acquisition of leading ticketing and visitor management system provider VGS, with the award-winning SnApp platform to be rebranded accesso Horizon

Major rescue mission underway for missing tourist submarine


The US and Canadian Coastguards are helming a major rescue mission to recover a missing tourist submarine that disappeared in the Atlantic Ocean less than two hours into an expedition to see the wreckage of the Titanic

Aquarium of Niagara reveals new details of upcoming Great Lakes 360 experience


The Aquarium of Niagara in New York, US, has appointed the Turner Construction Company to lead the development of its upcoming Great Lakes 360 experience.

Beirut’s Sursock Museum reopens three years after being destroyed in an explosion that killed 220 people


The Sursock Museum in Beirut, Lebanon, has reopened to the public, almost three years after it was destroyed in a deadly explosion that claimed the lives of more than 200 people.

Jamaica signs blue economy MoU with Georgia Aquarium


The Jamaican government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Georgia Aquarium in the US, that will see the two parties work together on a number of projects, including the establishment of several marine life sanctuaries in the country.

Old Operating Theatre Museum partners with Vennersys to modernise attraction management system


Vennersys has announced a partnership with the Old Operating Theatre Museum and Herb Garret, which will see the online ticketing and integrated POS provider install its VenposCloud attraction management software at the heritage attraction.

AU$160m plan to phase out gill net fishing on Great Barrier Reef a ‘globally significant moment’


Australia’s government is providing greater protection to the Great Barrier Reef, announcing a AU$160m package to phase out commercial gill net fishing by 2027

Bridging realities: How Miirage’s no-glasses holographic experience could change the game for immersive experiences


Miirage is a new modular holographic system bringing the virtual world to life without any additional need for mobile devices, screens or wearables. The creators behind the technology speak to Planet Attractions about the new product and exactly what it can do...

Blackpool Zoo opens new £1.5m big cat habitat


A brand new big cat habitat has opened at Blackpool Zoo in Lancashire, UK.

Waterpark for dogs opens alongside sports bar in Florida


A waterpark with dogs complete with a bar for its human owners has opened in St Petersburg, Florida, US.

Cairns Aquarium seeks investors as Colliers launches global search


Cairns Aquarium is on the hunt for a new investor, with Colliers appointed to seek expressions of interest for the popular Queensland attraction

Museum at the heart of plan for luxury eco-resort in Saudi Arabia’s ancient city of AlUla


The Royal Commission for the ancient Saudi Arabian city of AlUla has approved plans for a new eco-luxury destination with its own museum

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


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

Architects Kengo Kuma to design visitor centre for Albanian World Heritage site


Japanese architecture firm Kengo Kuma & Associates has won an international design competition to design a new visitor centre at Butrint National Park in Albania

Brogent to install virtual race simulator at Doha Quest


Brogent Technologies will soon introduce a new virtual racing experience in Qatar, with the attraction part of the country’s largest indoor theme park - Doha Quest.

One of the US’ oldest wooden roller coasters to reopen after 10-year refurbishment


The Legend, one of the US’ oldest wooden rollercoasters, is set to reopen at Arnolds Park in Iowa, US, this summer after a 10-year renovation process.

Iconic Spider-Man ride to close at Universal Studios Japan


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

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

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

Universal files patent for new interactive wearable tech


Universal Destinations and Experiences has filed a patent for a new kind of wearable technology.

Connect&Go signs three-year contract with Quebec’s Canyon Sainte-Anne attraction


Connect&Go has announced a three-year partnership with Canada’s Canyon Sainte-Anne nature attraction in Quebec.

Pilsner Urquell: BRC’s Christian Lachel on Prague’s new ‘Original Beer Experience’


A new brand home dedicated to Pilsner Urquell has opened its doors in Prague. BRC’s Christian Lachel tells Planet Attractions how the attraction celebrates the brand’s place in Czech history and culture

Man dies after becoming trapped in adventure centre caves


A man in the UK has died after getting stuck inside an indoor caving experience at a climbing centre.

Six Flags Magic Mountain to install massive solar carport


Six Flags Magic Mountain is about to become home to the largest solar project in the US installed by a for-profit organisation, with the massive solar carport set to offset 100% of the theme park’s energy usage with clean energy.

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


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

7thSense recognised with prestigious King’s Award Enterprise in International Trade


The first ever recipients of The King’s Awards for Enterprise have been announced, with 7thSense recognised for demonstrating outstanding short-term growth and commercial success in international trade over the last three years

‘Beyond the arena’: UFC set to offer ‘shared reality’ live events at all-new experiential venues


A first-of-its kind offering will make guests feel like they’re at the heart of the action during live UFC events, with Cosm’s ‘shared reality’ spectacles set to transform the way we watch live sporting events

Carnegie Science Center to host adults-only speakeasy event


You can experience Carnegie Science Center with a roaring twenties twist on April 14, with the popular attraction set to host a special adults-only speakeasy night

Amelia Earhart Hangar Museum honours hometown aviation hero in Kansas


A new museum celebrating the legacy of Amelia Earhart is set to open its doors in the aviation legend’s hometown of Atchison, Kansas

Connect&GO extends contract with Quebec’s Super Aqua Club


Attractions management technology specialist Connect&GO has announced a three-year contract renewal with Canada’s Super Aqua Club waterpark in Quebec.

Universal parks carousel tech may hint at future theme park ride


Universal Destinations & Experiences is seeking a patent that may offer a tease at one of the rumored attractions at its Epic Universe theme park under construction in Orlando.

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


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

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


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

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


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

Welsh Government backs proposed skyline attraction in Swansea with £4m investment


The Welsh Government has committed to investing £4m (US$4.93m, €4.55m in a bid to bring a new tourism attraction to Swansea.

Universal files patent for multi-level dark ride


Universal Parks & Resorts has filed a new ride patent that could hint at a future attraction at its upcoming Epic Universe resort in Orlando, Florida.

NASA awards millions in STEM funding to museums and science centres across the US


NASA is to award millions of dollars of funding to museum projects across the US that encourage student participation in STEM subjects

Seatrade Cruise Global 2023: Meyer Group showcases ‘cruise ship of the future’ concept


Meyer Group has unveiled the cruise ship of the future with its Reverse concept showing what such a vessel could look like in the year 2100

Edward VIII’s French home to become a museum


The former home of British King, Edward VIII, will be opened to the public for the first time when it opens next year as a museum.

Southampton’s City Art Gallery to undergo urgent roof repairs after receiving £2.23m grant from DCMS


The City Art Gallery in Southampton, UK, is set to undergo urgent roof repairs after receiving a £2.23m (US$2.74m, €2.52m) grant from the UK’s Department of Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS).

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

Embed to showcase new FEC tech solution at DEAL


Cashless solutions provider Embed will showcase a new tech innovation at this year’s DEAL event in Dubai, with a new line of solutions developed alongside Amazon Web Services (AWS).

Universal files patents for enhanced interactive technologies at its parks


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

Major Holovis projects set to open in 2023


Holovis has revealed an exciting year ahead for the experiential design firm, which has already launched one major theme park project and has another on the way in 2023.

Standing the test of time with aquatic play


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

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


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

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.

MSC Group to debut two new cruise ships in 2023


Cruise line MSC Group is set to expand its fleet with two new ships in 2023.

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

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


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

Texas man arrested for stealing two monkeys from Dallas Zoo says he'll do it again if released


A 24-year-old man now linked to an unusual string of crimes that kept the Dallas Zoo on the lookout for missing animals told police that after he swiped two monkeys from their enclosure, he took them onto the city's light rail system to make his getaway, court records show.

Sharon Parker appointed as senior manager of marketing at Gateway Ticketing Systems


Ticketing technology specialist Gateway Ticketing Systems has appointed Sharon Parker to the role of senior manager of marketing.

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


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

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


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

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


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

Britain’s Tim Peake retires as astronaut to focus on ambassadorial role


British astronaut Tim Peake has announced he will permanently step down from his role as a European astronaut to focus on his work as an ambassador for space and science.

Convious named ticketing partner at Bavaria Filmstadt


Bavaria Filmstadt has switched its eCommerce and ticketing operations to Convious, following a new partnership with the experience economy specialist.

Aquarium of the Pacific relaunches Aquarium on Wheels programme


For the first time since the pandemic, California’s Aquarium of the Pacific has relaunched its Aquarium on Wheels programme.

Busch Gardens Williamsburg gearing up for 2023 launch of DarKoaster



Aquarium of Niagara announces first-ever expansion


The Aquarium of Niagara is expanding and adding a second building to its campus.

Twelve of the biggest rollercoaster openings of 2023


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

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


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

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


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

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


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

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


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

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


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

Natural History Museum launches online masterclass series


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

Mystic Aquarium partners with offshore wind developer to study impact of turbines on marine wildlife


Connecticut’s Mystic Aquarium has partnered with the developers of the state’s first offshore wind farm to conduct studies of the effects of the turbines on marine mammals and sea turtles.

EAG on course for huge show after visitor registrations soar


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

Behemoth: World’s largest dinosaurs to go on display at London’s Natural History Museum in 2023


A cast of the world’s most complete Titanosaur – one of the largest dinosaurs ever discovered – will make its European debut in an exhibition at London’s Natural History Museum (NHM) next spring.

US$4.4m Mars exhibition opens at Carnegie Space Center


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

Whitewater celebrates Brass Ring and Impact Awards


Fresh off last week's IAAPA Expo, leading waterpark supplier Whitewater is celebrating after being honoured with three prestigious awards.

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


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

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

Gateway names Joe Marshall new managing director for United Kingdom


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

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


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

Paul Kent to lead global business development at Mad Systems


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

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


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

Clearwater Marine Aquarium set to debut new Manatee Springs exhibition


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

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


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

Meet climate change pledges with cloud-based ticketing, says Vennersys


Online ticketing and integrated POS provider Vennersys has said that using a cloud-based ticketing solution could help save the environment.

Into Overdrive: Inside the innovative new dark ride from Simworx


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

WATCH: Meet Vantage president Michael Jungen


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

Carnegie Science Center to open new permanent exhibition dedicated to Mars


Carnegie Science Center in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, US, has unveiled plans for a new permanent exhibition dedicated to “the next giant leap”, Mars.

Paddy Dunning announces worldwide locations for ‘The Giant’


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

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

Busch Gardens Williamsburg preparing storm-themed adventure indoor ride DarKoaster


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

Simworx to showcase new ride concepts at IAAPA Expo Europe


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

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


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

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


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

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


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

National Air and Space Museum to reopen half of flagship building in October


Following extensive renovation, the National Air and Space Museum in Washington DC, US, will reopen the west end of its National Mall building later this year.

Clevedon Pier partners with Vennersys for modernised ticketing system


Ticketing specialists Vennersys recently partnered with Clevedon Pier in Somerset, UK, to implement a new ticketing management system to help modernise the attraction’s admission processes and deliver an integrated approach to managing revenue streams.

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


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

Everything you need to know about Shark Week


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

Lottery-based tickets to new Ghibli attraction as visitor numbers are capped


With just a few months to go until the grand opening of the highly-anticipated Ghibli Park in Nagoya, Japan, the attraction has revealed that tickets will be sold via a lottery-based booking system, with attendance to the attraction being limited to create an atmosphere likened to that of the Ghibli adventures themselves.

New York Aquarium fully reopens for the first time in a decade


Coney Island’s New York Aquarium is, for the first time since it was devastated by Hurricane Sandy, in full operation, with all public exhibits open to the public.

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

Alterface’s summer of dark rides


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

SeaWorld AbuDhabi supplied with clean solar energy


The under-construction SeaWorld Abu Dhabi is currently in the process of installing solar panels on its roof in an attempt to make the new mega attraction as clean as possible for the environment.

FlowRider launches nature-inspired FlowSurf technology to create ‘never-ending’ waves


FlowRider’s FlowSurf technology was inspired by river waves and creates never-ending waves

SpaceX’s Starlink could be rolled out across Royal Caribbean Cruise ships pending FCC approval


Royal Caribbean Cruises has filed a request that if approved will see SpaceX’s Starlink satellite internet service rolled out across the operator’s entire fleet

Manchester’s Science and Industry Museum gifted £3m for Power Hall renovation


The Science and Industry Museum has received a generous donation from The Law Family Charitable Foundation for the refurbishment of its Power Hall

SeaWorld commits to world’s oceans with UN Sustainability Development pledge


SeaWorld has pledged to ensure the long-term health of the world’s oceans in accordance with the UN’s Sustainability Development Goal 14

Chicago’s Adler Planetarium to receive share of US$12.5m in NASA STEM funding


The Adler Planetarium in Chicago is one of a number of informal education institutions to receive NASA funding to serve students from communities underrepresented in STEM fields

Dubai’s flying taxis could take off as early as 2026


It might seem like something straight out of Sci-Fi but flying taxis in Dubai came a step closer to reality in the last week following an agreement to introduce the first electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) touristic flights from the Atlantis, The Palm.

Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind opens at Epcot



The cat’s (almost) out of the bag at Eureka! Science + Discovery


Eureka! Science + Discovery - a new STEM attraction coming to Wirral, UK, later this year - has unveiled its first exhibit, a 12-foot tall cat statue.

Legoland construction starts up again as Covid lockdown starts to ease


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

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

National Football Museum and Royal Botanic Gardens get share of £553m in carbon reduction scheme


The British government is supporting a range of public sector organisations in reducing their dependency on carbon and improving energy efficiency

Volcano Bay turns five


Orlando's popular Volcano Bay waterpark hit a landmark this week, with Universal celebrating five years since the Florida attraction opened to the public for the first time.

The generation game: How modern POS is transforming attractions operations


How do you develop a POS system that caters to both digital natives and the generation before them? Convious’s Miendu Dang has the answers

Fisher Price dark ride concept unveiled by Simtec and Scruffy Dog


A new dark ride concept based on the iconic Fisher Price IP from Mattel has been unveiled, with the new attraction utilising a number of the brand’s popular children’s toys, which will be blown up into epic proportions for the experience.

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

Delaware Museum of Nature and Science to reopen as a ‘Tik-Tok-friendly’ attraction following multi-million-dollar renovation


The Delaware Museum of Nature and Science is set to reopen on May 23 following an extensive renovation

Dubai establishes Supreme Committee to oversee future development of Expo 2020 District


A new Supreme Committee has been formed to plan and implement the future of the Expo 2020 Dubai district

Michael Jungen to lead WhiteWater’s Vantage as new president


Former Disney man Michael Jungen has taken up a new position as the president of WhiteWater’s Vantage division.

Two sustainability mantras from the House of Gucci movie


What can the House of Gucci movie teach us about sustainability? WhiteWater’s Una de Boer tells all

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

Back with a bang: TEA Summit and Thea Awards Gala return


Leaders in the themed entertainment industry gathered last month for the return of TEA Summit and Thea Awards Gala for the first time in two years. Christine Kerr on behalf of the TEA and Nicole Sangster from Thea Award recipients Simworx both report on the event

Cedar Fair reports loss in first quarter of 2022


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

Attractions Calendar: May


We've rounded up all the special events you should be attending this month

Shore power helps MSC Cruises cut emissions


Cruise operator MSC has announced that starting at the end of May, two of its ships will begin using shore power in an attempt to cut emissions.

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

DEAL 2022: The Giant Company launches flagship attraction in MENA region


The Giant Company, an Ireland-based visitor attractions specialist has launched The Giant, its flagship visitor attraction concept, into the Middle East & North Africa (MENA) region at the Dubai Entertainment, Amusement & Leisure (DEAL) trade show in Dubai.

Enhancing the digital experience: Marwell Zoo adopts Attractions.io technology for launch of new app


Marwell Zoo and Attractions.io have teamed up for the development of a brand new app designed to enhance the visitor’s digital experience

Pyek Group names Accesso as dedicated technology partner


The companies have entered into a three-year partnership that will see Accesso supply its point of sale solutions across four of Pyek Group’s waterparks

From protecting art to selecting art: Baltimore museum guards pick the art they want you to see


Seventeen security guards turned curator to create an exhibit inspired by music, black artists, humour, and social justice, or simply time spent guarding a particular piece

San Diego Zoo’s US$69m Wildlife Explorers Basecamp opens to the public


San Diego Zoo has launched one of its most ambitious ever additions, with the brand-new US$69m Wildlife Explorers Basecamp showcasing a number of different ecosystems through a series of immersive experiences

Chester Zoo app transformed with Attractions.io partnership


Attractions.io has announced a new partnership with Chester Zoo, with the animal attraction in the UK launching a fully-branded mobile app to enhance the visitor experience.

Smithsonian releases statement on Ukraine crisis


Lonnie Bunch, 14th Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution, has released a statement on behalf of the organisation, pledging its support to the people of Ukraine and their cultural heritage. In the statement, Bunch revealed that the Smithsonian Cultural Rescue Initiative (SCRI) is in contact with people in the country in order to facilitate the preservation of Ukraine’s history.

The science behind Space Mountain


Disney’s Imagination Campus has released a new look at the iconic Space Mountain from a STEM perspective, exploring the science and technology behind the attraction while also looking at the role that energy and acceleration play in the design of rollercoasters.

Disney shares sneak peek at Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind at Epcot


Disney has shared a sneak peek at Disney’s upcoming Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind ride at Epcot, with Liz Diaz, senior ride development engineer for Disney Imagineering unveiling the load station and Starjumpers for the hotly-anticipated attraction.

Ukraine culture minister calls for UNESCO to revoke Russia’s membership after Russian forces destroy museum housing works by folk artist Maria Prymachenko


The Ivankiv Historical and Local History Museum was burned to the ground as Russia continues its aggressive invasion of the country

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


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

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


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

Saudi Arabia unveils plans for US$750m mega waterpark development


The Qiddiya Investment Company is developing Saudi Arabia’s first-ever waterpark, with the mammoth investment set to cost a whopping US$750m

STEM meets Imagineering with recreation of Expedition Everest's mighty Yeti


One Twitter user has taken lessons learned from Imagineering in a Box - Disney Imagineering's free, online educational curriculum from the Kahn Academy - to recreate the Yeti at Animal Kingdom using just Lego, wool and modelling clay.

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


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

Bournemouth high street becomes first in the UK to feature permanent projection mapping system



7thSense acquires Bluebox Attractions


Creative software and technology company 7thSense has announced the acquisition of design, consulting and production company Bluebox Attractions.

‘Loveless execution’: MVRDV stands behind concept of Marble Arch mound following development fiasco


Dutch architecture studio MVRDV has blamed London’s Westminster City Council for the disastrous Marble Arch Mound project, revealing that its advice was ignored and design watered down, with the firm adding that “we stand by our initial design”.

Construction begins on US$6.6m river otter habitat at Santa Ana Zoo


Forming the first phase of a US$70m 20-year project, a new otter habitat at the Santa Ana Zoo will come complete with underwater viewing area and a state-of-the-art life support system to maintain water quality

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


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

Attractions Calendar: Your diary dates for 2022


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

Explore the seven seas with new VR attraction from BoldMove


WaterSlider VR is the latest offering from BoldMove, with the new product offering an underwater VR experience inside a life raft

Louvre partners with Sotheby’s to investigate provenance of items acquired during World War II


Work being carried out by the Louvre and Sotheby’s could ‘lead to restitutions’ as the Parisian institution researches the history of items in its collection acquired between 1933 and 1945

Holovis partners with Luoman Lighting on Chinese market following joint venture agreement


UK-based experiential design company Holovis has signed a joint venture agreement with Shanghai Luoman Lighting Technologies Inc, with the new agreement covering the entirety of China as the two companies work closely to realise the market's fast-growing outdoor experiential projects.

Into the Deep: Monterey Bay Aquarium to debut never-before-seen deep-sea creatures in new exhibit


Using breakthrough aquatic life support technology, Monterey Bay Aquarium will soon debut a collection of sea creatures you would normally only be able to see at the very bottom of the ocean

Parks! America Inc partners with accesso on ticketing solution


Parks! America Inc has announced a partnership with ticketing and technology solutions provider accesso to provide a more convenient and easy-to-navigate admission, reservation and shopping system to guests at its Wild Animal Safari attractions.

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


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

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


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

Andy Povey to lead UK and Ireland operations for Convious following appointment


Convious has named Andy Povey as its new managing director for the UK and Ireland, with Povey set to lead the company’s ambitious growth plan for the region

New horizons for immersive experiences in leisure facilities


What does the future look like for immersive experiences when it comes to location-based entertainment? Michael Mascioni has the answers

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


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

STEM projects to receive share of NASA funding after being named Education Community Anchors


NASA has selected a group of projects from across the US to receive a share of US$520,000 in funding as Education Community Anchors

PaintScaping brings Dallas Zoo to life



Polin reveals plans to become net-zero, launches Bright environmental initiative


The water ride manufacturer will offer new sustainable services and products as part of its commitment to decarbonise the attractions industry

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


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

Chase Mory named new director of operations at Gateway Ticketing Systems


Ticketing specialist Gateway has announced the promotion of Chase Mory to its new director of operations.

IAAPA 2021: VRsenal set to showcase multiplayer unattended VR Arcade platform


A new virtual reality platform from VRsenal can double efficiency, throughput and ROI in footprint and price compared to the company’s previous single-player model

Visitor attractions need to be paying attention to the metaverse


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

Phoenix Zoo adopts Gateway's Galaxy Connect


Arizona's Phoenix Zoo has gone live with Galaxy Connect from Gateway Ticketing Systems, streamlining the attraction's ability to sell admission tickets on third-party distributor websites.

The price is right?


The Disneyland Resort in California has announced some adjustments to its theme park ticket pricing, with the attraction moving from a five-tier demand pricing structure for one-day tickets to a six-tier system.

From The Community: How does Disney’s Test Track work? What’s happening at the Tiger King compound? And who just got married?


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

7thSense Welcomes Erik Iversen as senior product manager


High-performance media specialist 7thSense has appointed Erik Iversen as senior product manager for pixel processing products.

Oslo’s Munchmuseet ‘reinvents the museum experience’


Oslo’s Munch Museum is opening to the public for the first time this week, offering a twist to the usual museum experience.

Genie out of the bottle


Disney has debuted it's brand new Disney Genie app at Walt Disney World, with the service coming soon to Disneyland as well.

Alleged foul play causes drone show to fall out of the sky


Foul play is thought to be the reason that hundreds of drones crashed to the ground during a special performance earlier this month.

Virgin Voyages’ Scarlet Lady completes “MerMaiden” voyage 18 months later than scheduled


The first ship from Virgin Voyages fleet of cruise ships has completed its journey from PortMiami to Nassau and Bimini in the Bahamas

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


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

Museum of Childhood to be rebranded as Young V&A following £13m renovation


Once open, the museum aims to champion children’s creativity and encourage visitors to develop their skills through performance, play and design

Pandora Papers link prominent museums with looted Cambodian antiquities


The Pandora Papers have revealed The Met as one of several major institutions to have displayed looted items linked to indicted art dealer Douglas Latchford

Attractions.io demoing direct-to-table in-app food ordering system



Everything you need to know about IAAPA Expo Europe 2021


IAAPA’s international trade show is back with IAAPA Expo Europe emanating from Barcelona, Spain. Here’s everything you need to know about the event

7thSense’s Pico to power Experience UK wall display at IAAPA Expo Europe


7thSense will be exhibiting at IAAPA Expo Europe as part of the Experience UK Pavilion

Attractions.io to unveil new F&B solution at IAAPA Expo Europe


Attractions.io has developed a direct-to-table in-app food ordering system for those who want to maintain social distancing

BoldMove to showcase Smash & Reload dark ride at IAAPA Expo Europe


Smash & Reload is a family-friendly attraction that combines competitive gameplay with a fun and interactive IP

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


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

New Smithsonian AR experience highlights human connection to the ocean


The experience follows a pod of endangered orcas struggling for survival in the Pacific Ocean

Gateway Ticketing to showcase Galaxy upgrade at IAAPA Expo Europe


The upgraded Galaxy is an integrated solution combining ticketing, admission control, resource management

ABTA calls on UK government to scrap Covid tests for majority of travellers


Covid PCR testing should be abandoned for most holidaymakers, says travel organisation Abta

Lagotronics Projects to introduce Battle Arena attraction at IAAPA Expo Europe


Battle Arena is a new interactive ride concept from Lagotronics Projects that pits riders against each other as they battle to score points

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


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

New theme park sim from Tropico developer turns genre on its head


Park Beyond’s ‘impossification’ system promises to let your imagination run wild with a new theme park simulator unlike any we’ve ever seen on modern systems

Project Exo is just the start of Disney’s robotic ambitions


Everything is about to get bigger (and smaller) as Disney continues to take the world by storm with its latest animatronic projects

Natural History Museum to host ice rink for final time as plans move forward for Urban Nature redevelopment project


The ice rink was cancelled last year due to the ongoing pandemic

Soaring through Changbaishan with new attraction from Brogent Technologies


China has welcomed a flying theatre to its Changbaishan Biosphere Reserve with Brogent Technologies supplying the landmark new attraction

Gateway Ticketing to host in-person Galaxy User Group meeting at Mob Museum in Vegas


The four-day event will feature educational presentations, success stories, breakout sessions and networking opportunities

Disney offers sneak peek at Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser attraction ahead of 2022 opening with new official poster


The poster features several Star Wars figures, which, according to Disney, are meant to represent the guests and the choose-your-own-adventure-style experience they’ll undertake at the hotel

IAAPA Legends Panel returns in 2021 to celebrate Universal’s Spider-Man attraction


Hailed as one of the world’s best dark ride attractions, Universal’s Spider-Man dark ride will be celebrated at this year’s IAAPA Expo in Orlando with the return of the popular Legends Panel event

Thirteen sites added to Unesco’s prestigious World Heritage List


The World Heritage Committee has inscribed 13 new sites in Europe, Asia and the Middle East to Unesco’s World Heritage List

Behind the Attraction: New Disney+ series takes a look at some of Disney’s most iconic attractions


Disney has released a new docuseries exploring how it managed to bring some of its most popular attractions to life

Everton stadium plans and waterfront redevelopment sees Liverpool stripped of World Heritage status


Unesco has deleted Liverpool from its World Heritage List after a committee determined new developments were damaging the city’s global heritage

Jeff Bezos donates US$200m to Smithsonian


The Smithsonian has received the largest donation in its history with Amazon founder Jeff Bezos donating US$200m for the development of two key projects for the institution

Thirty-four years in the making: How Triotech took a classic dark ride attraction and brought it into the 21st century


We spoke to Triotech’s Ernest Yale and Nol van Genuchten about Knott’s Berry Farm’s iconic Bear-y Tales dark ride, which has been reimagined for a brand new audience more than three decades later

Colosseum’s underground labyrinth opens to the public following €25m restoration


The Colosseum’s hypogeum has undergone a major restoration allowing visitors to explore the historic passageways for the first time

Shanghai’s highly-anticipated planetarium and astronomy museum set to open later this month


The long-awaited Shanghai Astronomy Museum is set to open its doors to the public on July 18

Avonturenpark Hellendoorn eliminates F&B queues with Convious Mobile Food Ordering solution


The Mobile Food Ordering system saves guests time and reduces the risk of COVID transmission

Museum of the Home faces protests as British government prohibits removal of statue with links to slave trade


The Museum of the Home has been refused permission to remove a statue of Robert Geffrye despite public calls to ditch the controversial work

Art for your health: NHS key workers and young people to curate National Partners Programme exhibitions


Three British art galleries will present a series of exhibitions and collaborations looking back at the past year to explore the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic

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


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

WATCH: Chicago’s Museum of Science and Industry celebrates black creativity with Taylor Staten and Tonika Johnson


Targeting students in Chicago’s underserved neighbourhoods, photojournalist Tonika Johnson and architect Taylor State have discussed creativity and collaboration as part of MSI’s Black Creativity programme



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