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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


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


Kazakhstan has welcomed the country’s first flying theatre ride with Brogent Technologies behind the landmark new attraction


A 4D dome experience at the National Center of Meteorology has opened its doors to the public as part of an engagement strategy that helps audiences understand weather data and meteorological research


Endless Surf coming to Germany after plans approved for Surftown MUC


WAZA CEO Martin Zordan discusses the global disruption caused by COVID-19, the association’s plans during another challenging year and how community has kept the world’s animal attractions going through an unprecedented event


Time to get hyped! Grona Lund has released an amazing new ad ahead of Monster - King of Roller Coasters’ debut next month


Vietnam’s largest theme park, a game-changing aquarium project and 12,000 hotel rooms are just a few of the features of the new Phu Quoc United Center


Visitors will get their first roll of the dice in August, when ‘Monopoly LIfesized’ makes its official London debut


In addition to the waterpark development, the former Six Flags site will boast theme parks and hotels under Sunac


Could LED technology take the market from traditional projection in the coming years? Holovis’ Jon Tozer weighs up the pros and cons of both technologies


The bar will feature a retro games space and an urban forest to offset its carbon emissions


The famed dinosaur expert will appear on the show in an attempt to raise funding for a touring exhibition featuring his animatronic dinosaurs


The Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Campus is the latest addition to the zoo’s multi-year masterplan


Knott's Bear-y Tales: Return To The Fair will not only celebrate 100 years of Knott’s Berry Farm but also the reopening of the park following a year-long closure


Aerosmith has been the star of Disney’s Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster since it opened


Falcon’s Creative has introduced its new ÄEONXP system - an application designed to further immerse visitors in themed entertainment experiences


In recent years, museums across the US, Europe, Australia and beyond have had to face up to the issue of decolonisation. Cultural institutions possess artefacts historically taken from colonised countries and are now having to face up to that reality. But that’s not all...


Rounding up all the biggest news from both publications and associations, here is your latest edition of From the Industry from Planet Attractions


It’s been a landmark few weeks for Amazon, which recently launched its first till-less ‘just walk out’ stores in the UK. The shops remove tills and make retail a completely frictionless experience - something the visitor attractions sector should certainly be looking at


Peter Cliff explains how Lego is utilising Holovis technology to create a state-of-the-art interactive dark ride


The fourth shrine of Tutankhamun is heading to the Grand Egyotian Museum, Shakespeare’s Globe reopens for business, Paul Chutter on his new role at WhiteWater and Boris Johnson sparking controversy over the Elgin Marbles. Welcome to the latest edition of The Week from Planet Attractions


The sweet shop of space is most certainly open for business and some of the world’s richest people have their face pressed up against the window, but is there room for the visitor attractions industry?


With Warner Bros ending its live owl performances, Benedict Cumberbatch sending out a message of hope for the struggling culture sector, the first apes to be vaccinated against Covid and the luchadores taking a stand against non mask wearers, welcome to the latest edition of The Week with Planet Attractions


It’s time to tackle an army of mutated mushrooms in a new collaboration from BoldMove and Triotech


The great apes are the first to be vaccinated against COVID-19 following a breakout among the gorilla population earlier this year


With a Eurovision Museum making its way to Iceland, Michael Mack on ‘the toughest year in the history of our business’, Beetlejuice returning to Horror Nights and a man who owns an army of robot dinosaurs, welcome to the latest edition of The Week with Planet Attractions


In part two of our exclusive interview with the man who advised on Jurassic Park and has his own army of robotic dinosaurs, ‘Dino’ Don Lessem returns to talk everything from the business of dinosaurs to the world-famous Trump Toilet


Could the Diamond Balloon soon be coming to a city near you?


Don Lessem has gone from advising on Jurassic Park to building enough robotic dinosaurs that he could fill an entire zoo. In part one of our interview, we get a peek into the life of ‘Dino Don’, who talks about everything from Steven Spielberg to the real-life dinosaur that’s been named after him


With a Disney legend joining Virgin Galactic, Edvard Munch making like Banksy, Boris Johnson setting a roadmap and Peppa Pig making her way to Florida, welcome to the latest edition of The Week with Planet Attractions


Rounding up all the biggest news from both publications and associations, here is this week’s edition of From the Industry


Students on the SEAS programme were tasked with developing two interactive museum exhibits with an emphasis on accessibility


While COVID-19 has been a huge disruptor globally, businesses are using this time to reshape their operations for the better


Rounding up all the biggest news from both publications and associations, here is this week’s edition of From the Industry


The Art of Engineering has developed a program capable of designing optimised track layouts


New research could change the way plastic is recycled, offering attractions a greener alternative in the future


More than 20 years since it first opened the Men in Black dark ride is still one of the most popular attractions at Universal Studios Orlando


Almost cold as ice, Bart Dohmen, CEO of Unlimited Snow, explains how new technology is transforming the snow play experience for visitors and improving the bottom line


Rounding up all the biggest news from both publications and associations, here is this week’s edition of From the Industry


The proposed attraction will “connect the night sky to life on earth through STEM education and leading-edge experiences”


A surge in Coronavirus cases has put Nintendo’s theme park debut on hold for the time-being


The long-awaited museum is now expected to open in spring 2021 after experiencing a number of delays tied to the Coronavirus pandemic


How do you operate a zoo when your customers aren’t allowed to visit? Chester Zoo MD Jamie Christon tells Planet Attractions how the attraction made it through 2020 and what management’s outlook is for 2021


Take a look at the Australian Museum’s A$57.5m redevelopment


Recognising the world’s most astonishing attractions, Planet Attractions names 2021’s Wonder Award winners


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


Combining cutting-edge technology with traditional stagecraft, a new virtual reality experience from the Royal Opera House will make its grand debut in 2021


Europa Nostra has announced which of Europe's heritage sites are most at risk


Tier three is a major blow for London’s theatre venues, which had only just been given permission to reopen a few weeks ago


Rounding up all the biggest news from across the industry’s publications and associations


The attraction has been in development for three years


Who was Ota Benga? How did this happen and why did it take 114 years for the zoo in question to apologise?


The Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall visited a number of entertainment venues to show their support for the sector



PIF’s Seven to develop world’s first Play-Doh attractions in partnership with Hasbro





Leadership transition for Norwegian as cruise line names David Herrera new president




The Lucas Museum opening set for 2025




Industry insights



International Women’s Day: Equality is the goal, but EQUITY is how we'll get there




Video



WATCH: Hersheypark unveils first-person look at Wildcat’s Revenge

In Depth



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



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

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

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


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

A flight through history: Brogent develops Kazakhstan’s first-ever flying theatre as part of government-backed tourist development


Kazakhstan has welcomed the country’s first flying theatre ride with Brogent Technologies behind the landmark new attraction

New 4D theatre for UAE as National Center of Meteorology launches Science Dome


A 4D dome experience at the National Center of Meteorology has opened its doors to the public as part of an engagement strategy that helps audiences understand weather data and meteorological research

Munich soon to welcome Germany’s first surf park after plans approved for major development in Bavarian capital


Endless Surf coming to Germany after plans approved for Surftown MUC

‘The situation is still very challenging’ - An unprecedented year for WAZA and lessons learned from the pandemic


WAZA CEO Martin Zordan discusses the global disruption caused by COVID-19, the association’s plans during another challenging year and how community has kept the world’s animal attractions going through an unprecedented event

Grona Lund releases epic teaser ad for Monster - King of the Roller Coasters


Time to get hyped! Grona Lund has released an amazing new ad ahead of Monster - King of Roller Coasters’ debut next month

Vietnam’s ‘Sleepless City’ open for business as US$2.8bn mega-development featuring country’s largest theme park opens doors


Vietnam’s largest theme park, a game-changing aquarium project and 12,000 hotel rooms are just a few of the features of the new Phu Quoc United Center

Hasbro and Gamepath are bringing an immersive Monopoly experience to London later this year


Visitors will get their first roll of the dice in August, when ‘Monopoly LIfesized’ makes its official London debut

Major waterpark occupying former Six Flags site coming to Hangzhou Bay in June


In addition to the waterpark development, the former Six Flags site will boast theme parks and hotels under Sunac

LED is here to challenge projection’s throne


Could LED technology take the market from traditional projection in the coming years? Holovis’ Jon Tozer weighs up the pros and cons of both technologies

BrewDog to open ‘first of its kind’ carbon-negative bar and visitor experience in Las Vegas


The bar will feature a retro games space and an urban forest to offset its carbon emissions

‘Dino’ Don Lessem to appear on Shark Tank


The famed dinosaur expert will appear on the show in an attempt to raise funding for a touring exhibition featuring his animatronic dinosaurs

Zoo Knoxville unveils US$18m reptile and amphibian habitat


The Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Campus is the latest addition to the zoo’s multi-year masterplan

Return to the Fair: Knott’s Berry Farm set for grand reopening with launch of history-inspired dark ride


Knott's Bear-y Tales: Return To The Fair will not only celebrate 100 years of Knott’s Berry Farm but also the reopening of the park following a year-long closure

Fans call for Disney to retheme Aerosmith’s Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster with new act


Aerosmith has been the star of Disney’s Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster since it opened

Falcon's Creative debuts custom user interface for immersive themed entertainment experiences


Falcon’s Creative has introduced its new ÄEONXP system - an application designed to further immerse visitors in themed entertainment experiences

The tough challenge of decolonisation


In recent years, museums across the US, Europe, Australia and beyond have had to face up to the issue of decolonisation. Cultural institutions possess artefacts historically taken from colonised countries and are now having to face up to that reality. But that’s not all...

From The Industry: The Disney BritCruise, the relationship between Covid and museums, and honouring a Star Trek legend


Rounding up all the biggest news from both publications and associations, here is your latest edition of From the Industry from Planet Attractions

It’s time for a retail revolution


It’s been a landmark few weeks for Amazon, which recently launched its first till-less ‘just walk out’ stores in the UK. The shops remove tills and make retail a completely frictionless experience - something the visitor attractions sector should certainly be looking at

HoloTrac - The revolutionary technology powering Legoland’s newest attraction


Peter Cliff explains how Lego is utilising Holovis technology to create a state-of-the-art interactive dark ride

The Week: A new home for Tutankhamun, the return of Shakespearean theatre, WhiteWater’s new president and the fate of the Elgin Marbles


The fourth shrine of Tutankhamun is heading to the Grand Egyotian Museum, Shakespeare’s Globe reopens for business, Paul Chutter on his new role at WhiteWater and Boris Johnson sparking controversy over the Elgin Marbles. Welcome to the latest edition of The Week from Planet Attractions

The final fun-tier: Is it time to take space tourism seriously?


The sweet shop of space is most certainly open for business and some of the world’s richest people have their face pressed up against the window, but is there room for the visitor attractions industry?

The Week: Final flight of the owls at Harry Potter attractions, Benedict Cumberbatch’s message for culture and the luchadores fighting Covid


With Warner Bros ending its live owl performances, Benedict Cumberbatch sending out a message of hope for the struggling culture sector, the first apes to be vaccinated against Covid and the luchadores taking a stand against non mask wearers, welcome to the latest edition of The Week with Planet Attractions

BoldMove and Triotech partner for new dark ride attraction


It’s time to tackle an army of mutated mushrooms in a new collaboration from BoldMove and Triotech

San Diego Zoo becomes world’s first zoo to vaccinate great ape population against COVID-19


The great apes are the first to be vaccinated against COVID-19 following a breakout among the gorilla population earlier this year

The Week: Eurovision in Husavik, Michael Mack on Europa-Park’s year and the man behind Jurassic Park’s dinosaurs


With a Eurovision Museum making its way to Iceland, Michael Mack on ‘the toughest year in the history of our business’, Beetlejuice returning to Horror Nights and a man who owns an army of robot dinosaurs, welcome to the latest edition of The Week with Planet Attractions

Part Two: Meet ‘Dino’ Don Lessem - The business of dinosaurs, the Trump toilet and the future of robotics


In part two of our exclusive interview with the man who advised on Jurassic Park and has his own army of robotic dinosaurs, ‘Dino’ Don Lessem returns to talk everything from the business of dinosaurs to the world-famous Trump Toilet

Diamond Balloon - a revolutionary new take on viewing experiences


Could the Diamond Balloon soon be coming to a city near you?

Part One: Meet ‘Dino’ Don Lessem - The man who advised on Jurassic Park and has his own army of robotic dinosaurs


Don Lessem has gone from advising on Jurassic Park to building enough robotic dinosaurs that he could fill an entire zoo. In part one of our interview, we get a peek into the life of ‘Dino Don’, who talks about everything from Steven Spielberg to the real-life dinosaur that’s been named after him

The Week: Joe Rohde shoots for the stars, restrictions lifted and Peppa Pig’s new Florida home


With a Disney legend joining Virgin Galactic, Edvard Munch making like Banksy, Boris Johnson setting a roadmap and Peppa Pig making her way to Florida, welcome to the latest edition of The Week with Planet Attractions

From The Industry: Underwater attractions, become an astronaut and restoring art from the capitol riots


Rounding up all the biggest news from both publications and associations, here is this week’s edition of From the Industry

Smithsonian partners with Yale students to develop accessible museum experiences


Students on the SEAS programme were tasked with developing two interactive museum exhibits with an emphasis on accessibility

From volume to value: Making positive change during a global pandemic


While COVID-19 has been a huge disruptor globally, businesses are using this time to reshape their operations for the better

From The Industry: Trendswatch, Cars Week and the rise of ‘vaccine tourism’


Rounding up all the biggest news from both publications and associations, here is this week’s edition of From the Industry

Can artificial intelligence design the perfect rollercoaster?


The Art of Engineering has developed a program capable of designing optimised track layouts

Pioneering recycling method could help attractions cut down on single use plastic


New research could change the way plastic is recycled, offering attractions a greener alternative in the future

Universal's Men in Black ride hits 100 million rider milestone


More than 20 years since it first opened the Men in Black dark ride is still one of the most popular attractions at Universal Studios Orlando

Snow play: The evolution of snow in visitor attractions


Almost cold as ice, Bart Dohmen, CEO of Unlimited Snow, explains how new technology is transforming the snow play experience for visitors and improving the bottom line

From the Industry: Tom Mehrmann on Universal Beijing, diversity in zoos and Bernie Sanders does his best to keep warm


Rounding up all the biggest news from both publications and associations, here is this week’s edition of From the Industry

Fundraising campaign launched for US$18m Phoenix science facility and attraction in Arizona


The proposed attraction will “connect the night sky to life on earth through STEM education and leading-edge experiences”

Japan’s Covid surge puts Super Nintendo World launch on indefinite hiatus


A surge in Coronavirus cases has put Nintendo’s theme park debut on hold for the time-being

Oslo’s long-awaited Munch Museum set for spring launch


The long-awaited museum is now expected to open in spring 2021 after experiencing a number of delays tied to the Coronavirus pandemic

Managing a pandemic: How has Chester Zoo handled the Coronavirus crisis?


How do you operate a zoo when your customers aren’t allowed to visit? Chester Zoo MD Jamie Christon tells Planet Attractions how the attraction made it through 2020 and what management’s outlook is for 2021

WATCH: See the newly-renovated Australian Museum


Take a look at the Australian Museum’s A$57.5m redevelopment

Recognising excellence as inaugural Wonder Award winners are revealed


Recognising the world’s most astonishing attractions, Planet Attractions names 2021’s Wonder Award winners

WATCH: Disneyland transforms Snow White’s Enchanted Wish


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

The Royal Opera House is combining VR with opera for a world-first ‘hyper reality’ immersive experience


Combining cutting-edge technology with traditional stagecraft, a new virtual reality experience from the Royal Opera House will make its grand debut in 2021

These are Europe’s 12 most endangered heritage sites


Europa Nostra has announced which of Europe's heritage sites are most at risk

Devastation for West End Theatres as COVID restrictions hit London


Tier three is a major blow for London’s theatre venues, which had only just been given permission to reopen a few weeks ago

From the Industry: Blooloop’s sustainability conference, Top Golf’s partnership with Angry Birds and Park World’s Excellence Awards


Rounding up all the biggest news from across the industry’s publications and associations

Gröna Lund sets opening date for Monster - King of Roller Coasters


The attraction has been in development for three years

Ota Benga: The Congolese teenager caged and put on display in a zoo


Who was Ota Benga? How did this happen and why did it take 114 years for the zoo in question to apologise?

Prince Charles ‘praying’ that culture venues can reopen soon following visit to London’s Soho Theatre


The Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall visited a number of entertainment venues to show their support for the sector



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