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Author: amusementtoday

Go Usa Fun Park drives 25% revenue growth with Power Tee automation

MURFREESBORO, Tenn. — Power Tee, a global leader in automated teeing technology, today announced that GO USA Fun Park has realized a 25% increase in driving range revenue following the installation of the Power Tee system across its hitting bays. The upgrade has enhanced the guest experience and further established GO USA Fun Park as a leading destination for golf […]

Hersheypark to celebrate America’s 250th with patriotic summer events

HERSHEY, Pa. — One of the country’s most iconic destinations, Hersheypark amusement park in Hershey, Pa., has announced its plans to celebrate America’s 250th with events and activations all summer long. The largest amusement park in Pennsylvania will offer multiple dates of fireworks presented by HERSHEY’S, an all-new star-spangled show, limited-time food and drink, select Americana-themed rides and Hershey Characters […]

Summit Canyon takes shape at Water World Colorado

COHOES, N.Y. — Aquatic Development Group (ADG) is proud to announce its comprehensive and pivotal role in the creation of Summit Canyon, a brand-new adventure-filled land of Water World Colorado, set to open Summer 2026. This exciting redevelopment of the oldest corner of the park captures the spirit of Colorado’s great outdoors while offering guests new ways […]

Palm Beach Zoo unveils renovation of koala habitat

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation Society’s two beloved koalas, Ellin (female) & Sydney (male), will return to an expanded habitat that brings a part of the Australian Outback to West Palm Beach. Starting on this date, guests can slow down and enjoy the pace of these koalas as they explore […]

AIMS International announces new board leadership and director appointments

DALLAS, Texas — AIMS International, the world leader in amusement industry safety education and certification, today announced new leadership for its Board of Directors. Randall Wilke will assume the role of Board President, Michelle Faulk will serve as Vice President, and Andrew Wheeler has been appointed to the Board of Directors. All appointments take effect April 1. Wilke succeeds Pat Hoffman, […]

Meow Wolf names Matthew Henick as chief executive officer

SANTA FE, N.M. — Meow Wolf, the immersive entertainment company that transforms art, storytelling, and technology into world-bending experiences, today announced that Matthew Henick has been named Chief Executive Officer, effective April 27, 2026. The announcement comes at a defining moment for the company: Meow Wolf is preparing to open its highly anticipated Los Angeles […]

Get ready to ride: Kennywood kicks off a new season April 18

PITTSBURGH, Pa. — Kennywood’s Open! There are just ten days left until Pittsburgh’s Thrill and Entertainment Destination opens for the park’s 128th Season.A sure sign that spring has returned to the ‘Burgh, the park gates will swing open on Saturday, April 18, at 11 a.m. The USA Today 10Best nominated Theme Park will kick off the season with an all-new […]

WhiteWater exclusive water attraction vendor for Mattel Wonder Indoor Waterparks

DALLAS, Texas — American Resort Management, LLC, the official licensor of the five recently-announced Mattel Wonder Indoor Waterparks, is partnering with Vancouver-based manufacturer, WhiteWater, to be the exclusive global water attraction vendor for all future locations. Mattel will be bringing its beloved characters and brands to life through immersive aquatic destinations together with these partners. […]

Canada’s Wonderland opens May 3, debuts ‘The DareDeviler’ early summer

VAUGHAN, Ontario — Canada’s Wonderland, the country’s premier amusement park, today unveiled what’s new for the 2026 season, launching May 3. Highlights include the transformation of Flight Deck into The DareDeviler, along with a full slate of events and entertainment – featuring the return of Brew & BBQ in June, and three new live shows spanning cirque, acrobatics and musical performance. […]

RES Rides announces the opening of the world’s first Wave Twist L at Adventureland Long Island, USA!

ALTENDORF, Switzerland — RES RIDES AG, is making waves once again with another crowd‑pleasing, one‑of‑a‑kind attraction. The world’s first Wave Twist L opened at Adventureland Long Island March 28, 2026, named the Wave Twister. This custom‑engineered attraction introduces a completely new ride experience, simulating the exhilarating sensation of gliding atop massive ocean waves. Riders will […]

Dollywood’s Public Employee Appreciation Days return to celebrate America’s Veterans, first responders and teachers

PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. — One of Dollywood’s long-standing promotions returns once again to honor those who work tirelessly every day to serve our country and our communities. Dollywood’s Public Employee Appreciation Days returns this spring and provides qualifying guests across the country an opportunity to buy a one-day Dollywood admission ticket online for just $59 plus […]

Amusement Today’s 2026 “What’s New! Guide”

Amusement Today will be publishing its annual amusement industry preview in the May 2026 issue. To make certain your new-for-2026 installs are included, send a list of your 2026 projects to jseifert@amusementtoday.com. The deadline for inclusion is April 15, 2026.  AT is looking for any new ride or attraction at parks, water parks, family entertainment centers, traveling carnivals […]

Theme park Toverland to replace bobsleigh ride with new ‘swinging bobsled’

Toverland will soon say goodbye to the popular bobsleigh ride Maximus’ Blitz Bahn. It will be replaced by a completely new attraction: a swinging bobsled. The new ride retains the key features of Maximus’ Blitz Bahn, including allowing riders to control their own speed. The current ride will close on Sunday 17 May 2026 to […]

Spring into Adventure: unleash the fun at La Jolla Indian Adventure Park

PAUMA VALLEY, Calif. — Spring break is here, and there’s no better way to embrace the season than with a splash of outdoor adventure! Just a short drive from San Diego and Temecula, nestled on hundreds of acres of pristine wilderness, La Jolla Indian Adventure Park is buzzing with excitement, ready to turn your spring break into an […]

Spring Break Fun-anza! Soar, climb, and explore at Quarry Park Adventures

ROCKLIN, Calif. — Spring break is coming, and there’s no better place for families to enjoy outdoor adventure than Quarry Park Adventures. Nestled within the stunning, 160-year-old quarry landscape in downtown Rocklin’s historic Quarry District, this outdoor playground transforms the rugged beauty of the past into a vibrant hub of fun, thrills, and memorable moments. Whether your […]

Wonderland opens for a new era of fun this Friday, April 3

AMARILLO, Texas — Wonderland Amusement Park is set to kick off its highly anticipated 2026 season this Friday, April 3, marking the beginning of its 75th year of family fun in the Texas Panhandle. The park will officially celebrate its reopening with a Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony in partnership with the Amarillo Chamber of Commerce on Thursday, April […]

Star Lanes Polaris named AAMA FEC of the Year, continuing a legacy of excellence among TrainerTainment clients

FORT WORTH, Texas — TrainerTainment, a division of The GrowthPro Group, proudly announces that coaching client Star Lanes Polaris has been named FEC of the Year by the American Amusement Machine Association. Recognized at Amusement Expo International, this award honors top-performing family entertainment centers that set the standard in guest experience, operational excellence, revenue growth, […]

WhiteWater unveils signature attractions at Sun World Vũng Tàu, setting a new benchmark for Vietnam’s aquatic entertainment

VUNG TAU, Vietnam — Rising along Vietnam’s southern coastline, Sun World Vũng Tàu is making waves as one of the country’s largest and most ambitious beachfront entertainment destinations. At its core is Aqua Adventure Water Park, where the global leading water park designer and manufacturer WhiteWater delivered a lineup of stellar attractions that anchor the park’s […]

AAMA meets with legislators on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC

CARY, Ill. — On Wednesday, March 4, AAMA members met with 10 congressional offices as well as representatives from the House Ways and Means Committee to share and seek solutions to several challenges facing the Amusement Industry. The AAMA members in attendance represented a cross section from the industry and included: They met with five […]

Spring awakens at Skull Canyon: wildflowers and adventure in bloom

CORONA, Calif. — As Spring approaches, Skull Canyon Ziplines is beginning to blossom with California poppies and native wildflowers, transforming sections of the rugged hillsides into a tapestry of orange and golden yellow hues. Typically peaking from March through early summer, this seasonal display offers outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers a chance to enjoy the scenic beauty […]

TEA to bring themed entertainment industry together at Liseberg

BURBANK, Calif. — The Themed Entertainment Association (TEA) is excited to announce the reschedule of the 2026 TEA SATE EME conference which will now take place 6-9 July in Gothenburg, Sweden. The incredible event will be hosted by Liseberg, one of the most iconic theme parks in the world. “SATE program is a core experience for our members, […]

Universal Studios Hollywood introduces its all-new dining pass inviting guests to enjoy its culinary creations with a selection of entrées, snacks and beverages for maximum value

UNIVERSAL CITY, Calif. — Universal Studios Hollywood introduces its all-new Dining Pass, offering guests a convenient and flexible way to enjoy meals and snacks throughout their theme park visit for a single price. The Dining Pass, available now, can be purchased on site or online. The new Dining Pass serves up a menu of curated items, including […]

Six Flags Over Texas brings high-flying dog stunts to Southern Palace Theatre April 3 – May 3

Perondi’s Stunt Dog Experience makes its way to Six Flags Over Texas this spring for a tail-wagging and energetic performance starting April 3. The interactive show offers a variety of canine entertainment that features both rescue and shelter dogs from across the country. These dogs perform incredible stunts, Frisbee tricks, dance routines, athletic feats, and more for guests of all ages. The show is free with park admission and runs on select weekends through May 3. The show will be […]

Toverland celebrates its anniversary with an illusion show and 25-hour opening

Theme park Toverland will celebrate its 25th anniversary in style. From the 18th of April, visitors will be able to enjoy Magic Memories, a show created especially for Toverland by world-famous illusionist Hans Klok. Also on the program is the ToverFestival: 25 Hours of Magic. This unique event lasts a whopping 25 hours and takes […]

S&S Worldwide celebrates Nutcracker opening at Lagoon

LOGAN, Utah — S&S Worldwide (S&S) is thrilled to celebrate the opening of Nutcracker at Lagoon. The newest Screamin’ Swing has been opened at the manufacturer’s home park, and the employees couldn’t be happier. “I am so excited about this ride,” says Project Manager, Steve Johnson. “Being able to build a ride so close to […]

Blogger hits milestone on Laser Tag Day

In celebration of International Laser Tag Day, blogger Laurie Jean Britton (TiviachickLovesLaserTag.com) marked a milestone by playing her 700th laser tag arena during a visit to Recoil Trampoline Park in Valdosta, GA. Britton toured several laser tag sites throughout Georgia and northern Florida on Laser Tag Day, noting that “This is a day to celebrate […]

Accesso acquires Dexibit, establishing the first cross platform AI and analytics platform for visitor attractions

ORLANDO — accesso Technology Group (AIM: ACSO), the leading global technology provider to leisure, entertainment and cultural markets, today announced the acquisition of DexibitLimited, the only AI and analytics platform purpose-built for the visitor attractions industry. Operators generate vast amounts of data, but it often sits in disconnected systems and takes too long to turn […]

Cinemacon gets first look at Hybrid Impulse Plus Reader from Intercard

ST. LOUIS — Intercard, the world leader in cashless technology for the amusement industry, will exhibit at the cinema industry’s CinemaCon 2026 at Caesar’s Palace in Las Vegas from April 13-15. Account executive Joe Guccione will be at booth 732J to showcase Intercard’s cashless payment systems for use in cinemas. Featured this year is Intercard’s new hybrid […]

2026 Amusement Expo International a winner in Las Vegas

Buoyed by a move of this year’s AEI to the state-of-the-art West Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center and a new headquarters hotel—Resorts World—the energy and excitement levels spilled over to the exhibit hall, education program and everything in between! Here’s a closer look at AEI numbers this year: Show Floor Expo registration statistics […]

Universal Orlando Resort celebrates 35 years of pure fear with Halloween Horror Nights 35 — running select nights August 28 through November 1

ORLANDO — Universal Orlando Resort commemorates its longstanding legacy of horror as Halloween Horror Nights – the World’s Premier Halloween Event – returns for its milestone 35th year for 48 select nights from August 28 through November 1. Guests can now purchase select tickets and upgrades for what will be Universal Orlando’s most expansive Halloween Horror Nights event ever […]

SeaWorld Orlandoreceives prestigious accreditation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums

SILVER SPRING, Md. — The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) has announced that SeaWorld Orlando was granted accreditation by AZA’s independent Accreditation Commission. Each application was evaluated by the independent Accreditation Commission and determined to meet AZA’s standards for animal wellbeing, care, and management. “Congratulations to the leadership and staff at SeaWorld Orlando for […]

Six Flags Great Adventure unveils Shoreline Pier: a wave of new thrills inspired by New Jersey’s Iconic Boardwalks

JACKSON, N.J. — Six Flags Great Adventure today announced Shoreline Pier at The Boardwalk, a vibrant new rides area that channels the electricity, nostalgia, and unmistakable charm of New Jersey’s iconic oceanside amusement piers. Opening in late spring 2026, Shoreline Pier introduces five attractions — four new to Great Adventure — along with classic boardwalk treats, fresh theming, and an […]

Six Flags New England kicks off 2026 season with the launch of Quantum Accelerator

AGAWAM, Mass. — Six Flags New England opens its gates for another season of thrills and family fun on Saturday, April 11. Headlining the 2026 season is the debut of Quantum Accelerator, New England’s first dual-launch straddle coaster. Season Passholders will receive exclusive first access to the new ride during opening weekend. Access to all other guests begins Friday, April 17, as the park kicks off daily operation […]

Industrial robot arm reveals hidden detail in Lego artwork for public audience

EINDHOVEN — An industrial robot arm is being used to explore a LEGO artwork live for the public in Eindhoven, revealing details that visitors would normally overlook. The installation, launched this week as part of the exhibition Bricks of Wonder, introduces the Robotic Art Experience, a new format combining robotics and LEGO art. Bricks of […]

Amusement Entertainment Management Client Wins 2026 FEC of the Year

Star Lanes Polaris of Columbus, Ohio proudly accepted The American Amusement Machine Association’s (AAMA) 2026 Family Entertainment Center Location of the Year Award during the AAMA President’s Ceremony held at Amusement Expo in Las Vegas, March 18, 2026. Brothers Doug & Jeff Mechling, owners of Star Lanes Polaris, began their journey in 2013, opening a […]

Merlin joins forces with Sony Pictures Entertainment and Triotech to bring the world of Jumanji to life at Madame Tussauds

Merlin Entertainments – a world leader in branded entertainment destinations – today announces four new locations across its global estate where the World of Jumanjj is being crafted into an immersive ride for guests to enjoy. Using Triotech’s XD Dark Ride platform, a new interactive Jumanji-themed experience will be on offer to guests visiting Madame Tussauds locations […]

Wavegarden partners with Surf Eye to launch the next generation of CheckMySurf

SAN SEBASTIAN, Spain — Wavegarden, the global leader in the surf park sector, has partnered with Surf Eye, a leading provider of AI video technology systems, to power the evolution of CheckMySurf, Wavegarden’s proprietary coaching and automated video technology. This partnership not only elevates the surfing experience and accelerates skill progression but also drives lagoon […]

WhiteWater marks soft opening of record-breaking Aquarabia Qiddiya City

VANCOUVER, Canada — WhiteWater is marking the soft opening of Aquarabia Qiddiya City in Saudi Arabia, a major new destination water theme park that brings together more than 22 rides and attractions across a highly varied, fully themed guest experience. For WhiteWater, the project reflects the growing scale and complexity of destination water theme parks. […]

Six Flags Great Escape prepares for major hiring event this weekend

QUEENSBURY, N.Y. — Six Flags Great Escape Resort is gearing up for the 2026 season with an onsite, in-person hiring event Saturday, March 28. The park seeks more than 1,500 part-time and seasonal employees for the 2026 season. Job seekers can apply in person at the Human Resources office March 28. Those with internet access are encouraged to […]

Arcade Time named Best New Arcade in the U.S. in national design awards

ORLANDO — Arcade Time Entertainment (Arcade Time) in Orlando, Florida, has been named Best New Arcade in the U.S. in the 41st Annual Bowling Center Architecture and Design Awards, presented by Bowling Center Management (BCM) magazine. The award highlights the center’s high-energy atmosphere, immersive attractions, and the central role bowling plays in its rapidly expanding success. Open 24 hours […]

180 Years of thrills: Lake Compounce to celebrate historic 2026 season

BRISTOL, Conn. — 180 years strong and Lake Compounce Amusement and Water Park is just getting started. 2026 brings a historic milestone for America’s First Amusement Park, as the park gears up to reopen the gates at 11 a.m. on Saturday, May 9, with several park-wide upgrades. To celebrate the historic season, the park will gift […]