The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is thrilled to announce some exciting updates and changes coming to UNEXTINCT, a world of illuminated animals. 

New May Dates!
The Zoo has added several May dates to the UNEXTINCT schedule, giving guests more opportunities to experience this unforgettable event. UNEXTINCT will run Fridays and Saturdays from May 3 through May 25 and Sunday, May 26.  

Added Value!
As an added value for UNEXTINCT, all event ticket holders will also now have the opportunity to enjoy the historic 1914 Mangels-Illions Grand Carousel, and for the roller coaster enthusiasts, Tidal Twist will also be available for free during their visit.

New Times!
As part of the transition into the warmer spring season and as the sun sets later, the Zoo is updating operating hours to enrich the UNEXTINCT experience. Starting April 19, the gates will open at 8 p.m., giving guests ample time to discover Tidal Twist, enjoy photo opportunities, encounter the animals of Adventure Cove, savor delicious foods, and browse exciting UNEXTINCT memorabilia, all before the UNEXTINCT experience begins at dusk.

UNEXTINCT—a first-of-its-kind experience in the Midwest.
As guests embark on an immersive nighttime journey of light and sound, they will be introduced to awe-inspiring illusions that shed light on the critical need for wildlife conservation.  

UNEXTINCT was created by former Disney Imagineers from Mangolin Creative, harnessing dramatic effects to transport visitors into a digital wonderland of nature. This experience delves into the worlds of endangered and extinct species, delivering a captivating and enlightening narrative. 

As the Zoo animals settle in for the evening, UNEXTINCT comes alive, promising an evening stroll that will be unforgettable. Guests will experience:

• Fifteen areas to explore illusions of over 70 extinct and threatened species  
• LED Bar serving up cocktails 
• Exciting interactive activities 
• Various entertainment in the entry plaza of the Zoo on select nights
• The 1914 Mangels/Ilions Carousel and the 4D Theater are open 
•  And much more!

LOS ANGELES — Clearwater Marine Aquarium, Florida’s marine life rescue center, announces it will now offer guests Weather Guarantees in partnership with Sensible Weather, the leading weather protection provider for travel and outdoor experiences. Through this partnership, CMA is the first aquarium to offer this first-of-its-kind protection.

Perfectly timed for unpredictable spring weather, this partnership allows guests to enjoy everything the aquarium has to offer, including outdoor exhibits, boat tours and more, without worrying about the weather, by adding a Weather Guarantee to their ticket purchase. Recognizing how rain and other inclement weather can negatively impact outdoor activities and experiences, Sensible’s Weather Guarantees protect businesses and their guests by proactively offering a reimbursement if the rain forecast exceeds the predetermined threshold. 

“We’ve seen huge success with Weather Guarantees at our hospitality partners across hotels, campgrounds and other outdoor experiences,” says Nick Cavanagh, Ph.D., Sensible CEO. “We’re excited to continue expanding into other areas that are susceptible to negative weather impacting the experience in partnership with CMA.”

Sensible Weather quantifies and manages weather risk for guests, using proprietary models to quickly analyze decades of climate data from anywhere in the world. Payouts for the Weather Guarantees are managed based on pre-set parameters, which means no haggling or lengthy claims processes. Sensible Weather will pay CMA visitors who add a Weather Guarantee to their reservation up to 100% of ticket price in real-time, based on the day-of forecast, via a text notification typically before the predicted weather event occurs. Visitors are paid out whether or not they choose to continue with their planned activity, meaning they can book without worrying they’ll lose money – and the partner doesn’t need to worry about last-minute cancellations impacting revenue. 

“We’re thrilled to be able to offer Weather Guarantees for our visitors. While people may think of aquariums as an indoor experience, we also have a variety of fun outdoor spaces and activities to enjoy,” says Anthony Rivera, chief operating officer at CMA, “This is a great way to ensure our visitors can take advantage of everything we have to offer, and rest assured they will be reimbursed accordingly if weather gets in the way.”

ORLANDO — Today, Universal Orlando Resort reveals inspiring details about its two newest shining stars, Universal Stella Nova Resort, opening January 21, 2025, and Universal Terra Luna Resort, opening February 25, 2025. Brought to life by the award-winning Universal Creative team and co-owned and operated by Loews Hotels & Co, the alluring hotels place guests and clients in the center of marvelous galaxies and diverse planetary elements for an experience unlike anywhere else in the universe – complete with tranquil sleeping accommodations, entertaining amenities for the whole family to enjoy, various cosmic-inspired dining options and so much more. 

Boasting a combined total of 1,500 luminous, ultramodern and surreal guest rooms, Stella Nova Resort and Terra Luna Resort provide even more options for guests and clients to seamlessly experience all the jaw-dropping thrills of a Universal Orlando vacation at an affordable price point. Below is an overview of what guests will experience at these radiant hotels.

OTHERWORLDLY THEMES AND ACCOMMODATIONS
Universal Stella Nova Resort is a place where guests will take off for amazing adventures at the theme parks and touch down for relaxation and recharging in between the fun. Designed to reflect the infinite vastness of the universe – where galaxies spiral ever outward and unknown worlds revolve around unnamed stars – this hotel is highlighted in serene teals and calming purples to instantly put guests at ease.

Universal Terra Luna Resort represents another world within Universal Orlando – inviting guests to explore the unknown and step onto planets that have yet to be discovered. Here, guests will find themselves in the midst of an extraordinary landing zone within an awe-inspiring solar system – accented with fresh surroundings and terrestrial greens and golds.

Both properties offer 750 double-queen guest rooms that comfortably sleep up to four guests and feature spaceship-styled windows – making this the ultimate escape for guests looking to rest amongst stars and planets.

COSMIC-INSPIRED FOOD & BEVERAGE OUTLETS
Stella Nova Resort and Terra Luna Resort offer a variety of unique dining options for guests looking to have a meal or grab a quick snack in between visits to the parks, including:

• Cosmos Cafe and Market at Stella Nova Resort and Omega Cafe and Market at Terra Luna Resort – these quick service restaurants feature made-to-order American classics for breakfast, lunch and dinner, plus a selection of grab-and-go items.
• Galaxy Bar and Galaxy Grill at Stella Nova Resort and Moonrise Bar and Moonrise Grill at Terra Luna Resort – guests can enjoy burgers, quesadillas and salads at these walk-up service pool bars and grills. Plus, guests 21 and older can purchase cocktails, beer and wine (with a valid photo ID).
• Nova Bar at Stella Nova Resort and Luna Bar at Terra Luna Resort – each hotel’s lobby bar* will offer specialty cocktails curated with unique ingredients, along with the classics.  

STELLAR AMENITIES
Stella Nova Resort and Terra Luna Resort are so much more than just places to sleep; each hotel offers a variety of incredible amenities for guests to kick back and enjoy dedicated resort days just as much as theme park days, including:  

• Resort-style Pools – each hotel features a nearly 10,000 square foot pool with a relaxing hot tub, comfortable lounge and table-top seating in the pool area, a firepit and more. Plus, the whole family can enjoy the resorts’ recreational activities like poolside movies and outdoor games.
• Fitness Centers – guests can take advantage of complimentary, state-of-the-art fitness centers featuring a variety of strength and cardio equipment – and, locker rooms with showers available for use on arrival and departure days.
• Game Rooms – guests of all ages can enjoy a variety of standard arcade and video games in the hotels’ dedicated game rooms.
• Recreation Rooms – each hotel features approximately 1,000 square-feet of multi-purpose space for small gatherings.
• Universal Orlando Resort Stores – guests can purchase everything from sundries and necessities to Universal Orlando merchandise to commemorate their vacation.

EXCLUSIVE THEME PARK BENEFITS
Staying at any Universal Orlando Resort hotel is the best way to experience all that the destination has to offer with the inclusion of exclusive theme park benefits. Guests staying at Stella Nova Resort or Terra Luna Resort, or any of the other Universal Orlando hotels, can take advantage of Early Park Admission to Universal Volcano Bay and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida or The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade at Universal Islands of Adventure up to one hour before the park opens (valid theme park admission required), complimentary shuttle bus transportation to the theme parks and Universal CityWalk, resort-wide charging privileges, complimentary merchandise delivery and more.

Stella Nova Resort and Terra Luna Resort are adjacent to Universal Epic Universe and just minutes away from the existing Universal Orlando theme parks. More details about Epic Universe, which will open at a later date in 2025, will be revealed in the months ahead.

IRVING, Texas — Zero Latency, the global leader in immersive entertainment and creator of the largest free-roam VR network in the world, is now open in Irving, Texas, offering the opportunity to get fully immersed in a variety of mind-bending worlds.

Even if you think you know what to expect when it comes to VR, Zero Latency Irving will be unlike anything you’ve tried before, with epic gameplay experiences and best-in-class gear that is unrivalled. The giant arena features Zero Latency’s next-generation technology, allowing groups of up to eight people to get fully immersed with more freedom of movement and agency than ever before – without the need for backpacks, extra wires or other distractions.

“Since opening our doors, the wave of positive feedback has simply blown us away,” said Sameer Gautam, owner of Zero Latency Irving. “Exciting adventures await at Zero Latency Irving. We’re all about bringing you fun, immersive VR experiences, from edge-of-your-seat zombie hunts to mind-bending puzzle adventures. Our guest’s laughter and smiles tell us we are hitting the mark, creating memorable moments that go beyond the game.”

“It is not just about the technology and games but the whole experience. That is why we have given our space a little extra touch to match the adventurous spirit of our games, ensuring a smooth transition from reality to virtual worlds. Our wonderful customers share stories of their incredible visits, eager for their next adventure with us. Whether you’re looking for an exciting outing with friends or a new way to spend family time, we promise an experience filled with joy and surprises. We’re here to make every visit special, and we’re just getting started!”

Now with over 90 locations in 27+ countries, Zero Latency continues to innovate with its physical, large-scale spaces, bringing players new heart-racing adventures to escape from the pressures of the real world, including:

• Outbreak: Embark on an adrenaline-fueled journey, where your team of soldiers must race against time to find a cure for the zombie virus
• Far Cry VR: Conquer the award-winning virtual world of Rook Island in this Zero Latency and Ubisoft exclusive adventure
• Sol Raiders: Team up in an adrenaline-pumping chase for the ultimate power source against real opponents in player-versus-player combat
• Singularity: Fight against killer robots in this science fiction shooter on a station stranded in the depths of space, with zero-gravity environments
• Undead Arena: Survive a post-apocalyptic game show and keep the crowds entertained as you fight your way through hordes of zombies
• Engineerium: Enter an ancient world where gravity is not as it seems in this puzzle adventure

Zero Latency recently celebrated 3.7 million plays worldwide, with best-in-class technology ensuring that players can experience immersive worlds not available anywhere else. Late last year, Zero Latency launched its newest game, Outbreak, a thrilling zombie shooter adventure on a truly gigantic scale, with development in progress on an experience based on Warhammer 40k: Space Marine.

Zero Latency Irving is located at 2448 Irving Mall Suite B13A, Irving. Zero Latency Irving is currently welcoming adventurers with an exciting offer: when you play three games, the fourth game is on us, completely free! Plus, as a token of our appreciation for your feedback, enjoy a 25% discount on another game when you leave us a review based on your experience.

ICON Experiences is making plans to add an elevated entertainment experience to downtown San Antonio, creating a welcoming destination for family, friends, and visitors to rise above their daily view and discover a one-of-a-kind San Antonio.

The first-class destination will be anchored by Grandisimo, a 200-foot-tall observation wheel that celebrates the larger-than-life spirit of Texas. With 42 fully enclosed, climate-controlled gondolas, Grandisimo will serve as a family-friendly destination to celebrate the diversity and richness of San Antonio.

Guests will experience a grand new view of downtown San Antonio and views up to 20 miles in all directions from the largest observation wheel in Texas.

Perfect for enjoying a day of fun for all ages, from the youngest to the young at heart, Grandisimo will be complemented by several other familiar experiences, each with their own unique San Antonio flavor. While Grandisimo will be a stunning addition to the San Antonio skyline, guests will also delight in the custom-crafted carousel, mini golf course highlighting local creative artistry, and signature food and drinks inspired by the tastes of Texas.

Pending local permits and approval, construction is slated to begin in 2024 with completion in late 2025.

ICON Experiences, led by partners that began their entertainment industry careers in Central Texas, creates, and operates experiences that inspire – first-class destinations that bring communities together for fun and inspiration.

GILBERTSVILLE, Pa. — Gateway Ticketing Systems, the world leader in ticketing, admission control, and revenue-generating solutions for the attractions industry, is thrilled to announce the appointment of Kristen Hasenauer as the new Human Resources Director and member of the executive leadership team. 

Kristen’s role will be pivotal in shaping and executing human resources strategies that align with the company’s Core Values. Kristen’s expertise in career pathing, HR initiatives, and people development make her an ideal candidate for this position. Her unwavering dedication to talent retention, fostering employee engagement, and driving organizational success will be pivotal in cultivating and enhancing the company’s culture. 

“We are excited to welcome Kristen to our executive team,” said Michael Andre, President and CEO of Gateway Ticketing Systems®. “Her leadership style, which prioritizes people, innovative ideas for career development, and passion for human resources programs, will have an immediate positive impact on our company. We eagerly anticipate witnessing her contributions and ideas take shape and drive positive change.”

Kristen holds a bachelor’s degree in industrial/organizational psychology from Millersville University and ten years of experience in human resources management. She is certified by the Society for Human Resource Management and the Manufacturing Leadership Institute. She has a proven track record of implementing strategic employee development initiatives that drive engagement, foster talent development, and support organizational growth. She will play a critical role in developing and implementing strategies that align with Gateway’s Core Values of Customer Care, Integrity, Passion, Accountability, Teamwork, and Communication.

“I am delighted to join Gateway as the new Director of Human Resources and become part of such a dynamic and forward-thinking team,” said Kristen Hasenauer. “I look forward to enhancing Gateway’s success by introducing strategies and initiatives that prioritize our people, empower our team members, and foster a culture of organizational excellence.”

ST. LOUIS — Intercard has installed its cashless technology in Aztlan Urban Park, the new amusement park located in Mexico City’s famous Bosque de Chapultepec, one of the world’s largest urban parks. Aztlan Urban Park replaces an older amusement park and is part of the city government’s plan to refresh the popular destination, which includes museums, a historic castle and other public attractions.

Aztlan Urban Park will feature 18 attractions including carnival games, a 4D theatre experience and the tallest Ferris wheel in Latin America. Intercard’s initial installation includes 18 turnstiles, 10 POS systems, 12 games and 8 iTeller kiosks. On completion of its final phase, the park will have 36 attractions, all connected to the Intercard system.

 “After an intensive search for software for access control and park sales, we decided on Intercard as it is the leading company in cashless systems in the amusement park and entertainment center market globally,” says Enrique Guerrero Bacab, IT manager for Aztlan Urban Park.

Maria Acevedo, Veronica Berrera and Amira Pereira of Intercard did the installation in February 2024.

Intercard is a proud sponsor of the IAAPA Latin America Amusement Expo to be held April 15-18 in Medellin, Colombia.

CRYSTAL LAKE, Ill. — During its 2024 Annual Membership Meeting in Las Vegas, AMOA elected a new class of directors. The new Class of 2027, consisting of eight operators and distributors from around the country, are:

• Timothy Acord, Bavarian Lodge Inn, Frankenmuth, MI
• Brian Baumann, AVS Companies, Minneapolis, MN
• Ryan Brooks, Alpha Vending, Oklahoma City, OK
• Mark Cumming, ATM Merchant Services, Alvin, TX
• Mike Gelatka, Mike’s Amusements, St. John, IN
• Tara Scudder, GRE Amusements LLC, Burlington, IA
• Philip Webb, PDQ Merchant Enterprises, Johnsburg, IL
• Marcus Zappa, Lorain Music and Vending, Amherst, OH

In addition, the following 2024-2025 AMOA Principal Officers, elected at its Mid-Year Board Meeting in September 2023, took the helm for a one-year term at the conclusion of Amusement Expo International.

• President Bob Burnham, Jr. of Paradise Pinball & Amusement, LLC, Cheyenne, WY
• First Vice President Brian Brotsch of Knox Amusement, Rochester, NY
• Treasurer Tommy Hendley of B & H Vending & Amusements, Indian Trail, NC
• Secretary Scott John of Amuse-O-Matic, Frederick, MD

AMOA Officers and Directors whose terms expired at the close of the show were sincerely thanked and recognized for their dedication and service to the association and the industry. They will now join the illustrious AMOA Heart & Soul. The AMOA Heart & Soul consists of the generations of men and women that have served on the AMOA Board of Directors since 1948.

ATHENS, Texas — Extreme Engineering, a global leader in family coasters, attractions, and engineering design, proudly announces the debut of the world’s first commercial golf ball cannons at Las Vegas’ newest venue, Atomic Golf. Positioned as a bold brand of golf entertainment, Atomic Golf offers an expansive 99,000 square feet of entertainment, fun, and games, making it one of the largest driving ranges of its kind. Nestled adjacent to the Stratosphere Hotel, this exciting facility boasts four floors, over 100 high-tech golf bays, and eight diverse games to cater to every golfer’s preferences. 

Extreme Engineering’s collaboration with Atomic Golf had led to the development of state-of-the-art golf ball launching cannons, providing guests of all ages with an exhilarating way to launch golf balls onto the driving range. Phil Wilson, Chief Development Officer at Extreme Engineering, expressed enthusiasm about the project stating, “Working with the team at Atomic Golf was an absolute blast. Bringing their concept to reality was one of our favorite design projects to date. Witnessing guests’ excitement while operating the cannons was even more rewarding.”

Situated exclusively at designated golf bays, guests can load a bucket of balls into the cannon system. Once the spring-loaded handles are pulled back, the cannons automatically charge their integrated air cells, signaled by a green light indicating readiness for launch. Guests can aim precisely using the cannon’s scope, enhancing the experience.

“The sounds of the cannon launching balls adds another dimension to the thrill, “noted Jeff Wilson, CEO of Extreme Engineering. “The distinctive sound captures the attention of surrounding guests, making it a showcase attraction.”

Atomic Golf is now open daily, offering pre-booking options for individual bays accommodating up to 16 guests. Additionally, group events, including luxury suites with VIP elevators, are available to provide the ultimate golfing experiences for visitors.  

BONNER SPRINGS, Kansas — Adventure enthusiasts will soon be ableto pack their bags and visit Destination KCK, a world-class, year-round entertainment destination coming to Bonner Springs, Kansas in Wyandotte County.

Destination KCK will captivate visitors with immersive themed areas accessible by foot or boat, that offer a blend of distinctive retail and dining experiences. Highlights include a luxurious RV Park Resort, a charming Christmas Village and picturesque lakeside hotels, one of which centers around the highly anticipated Mattel Adventure Park.Epic Resort Destinations, the creators of award-winning, must-see destinations will design and operate the new attraction.

The development will bring a whole new set of adventures just west of the acclaimed Village West development in Kansas City. Destination KCK will transform the 180-acre land parcel into a resort and vacation destination sure to create lifelong memories for locals and visitors alike.

“We are excited to bring this attraction and entertainment-based development to Kansas,” said Epic Resort Destinations CEO Glen B. Bilbo. “Destination KCK will be the perfect place to escape with the entire family. If you’re planning a day at the Mattel Adventure Park, a family weekend at our hotels or luxury RV Resort or organizing a conference or special event, Destination KCK has it all. With options for shopping and lakefront dining and an exciting array of attractions and seasonal festivals catering to all ages, Destination KCK ensures an unforgettable experience filled with family fun and entertainment.”

Designed around a central, 12-acre lake providing waterfront views for guests staying at one of the three resort hotels, Destination KCK also offers a variety of lakefront experiential dining options. To enhance the experience, guests can take a boat excursion, a trip on a personal watercraft or a zipline adventure over to the resort. Visitors can also enjoy thrilling, heart-pounding theme park rides at Mattel Adventure Park or stroll through a Christmas Village where they can enjoy exclusive retail experiences and celebrate the holiday season 365 days a year.

In addition to the more than 500 hotel guest rooms, Destination KCK has a luxury RV Park Resort and custom cabins for a unique glamping experience. There’s nothing else in the market quite like Destination KCK, and Epic Resort Destinations is proud to call Kansas the home of this all-new entertainment world.

The Destination KCK megaplex spans more than 180 acres and will feature eight themed areas with an impressive array of experiences for the entire family:

• Mattel Adventure Park, featuring more than 25 themed rides & attractions capturing the excitement of some of the most beloved toy brands, including Hot Wheels, Barbie, Thomas the Tank Engine, Masters of the Universe and more
• Retail: 34 Specialty and Experiential Retail Stores
• Restaurants: Six Themed Waterfront Restaurants
• Hotels: Over 500 rooms spread over three different hotels, including 22,500 square feet Conference Center, and 40,500 square feet of Events Center space
• Rainforest Attraction
• Additional Attractions including a Fly & Dive Theater, Boat Excursions, Personal Watercraft, Zip Lines and Major Ice-Skating Rink as a part of the Winter Festival located in the Christmas Village
• Two Enclosed Special Events Pavilions located in the center of the lake for fully catered corporate and family events and weddings
• A Luxury RV Park Resort: 161 Class C Resort Sites, 97 Class A Motor Coach Sites and 59 Custom Cabin & Glamping Sites and 10,000 square feet for a Clubhouse, Indoor/ Outdoor Pool, Lakes & Complete Amenity Package
• Office: 44,515 square feet of Class A Office Space

The destination will also bring an anticipated 1,750 new jobs to the region, boosting the local economy while providing valuable employment opportunities for area residents.

Stay tuned for updates and visit DestinationKCK.com to learn more about this world-class destination coming to west Kansas City.