BoldMove reimagines Terre en Colère at Vulcania
This summer marks the reopening of Terre en Colère at the French park Vulcania near Clermont-Ferrand, France. The beloved simulator ride has been completely reimagined by the creative and production teams of BoldMove Nation and Amak Productions. Originally developed by CEO Benoit Cornet at the start of his career, already in cooperation with Amak Productions, the attraction […]
“Time Rider” – The new iconic coaster wheel at Gyeongju World
On June 28, 2025, Gyeongju World in South Korea opened their centerpiece attraction, Time Rider, to commemorate their 40th anniversary. This meticulously themed Coaster Wheel offers a dual experience catering to both families and thrill seekers. Two Unique ExperiencesSetting itself apart from classic Giant Wheel and observation attractions, Gyeongju World has chosen Intamin’s Coaster Wheel […]
Brogent announces the opening of Niagara Takes Flight, and debuts two new rides at IAAPA Expo Asia 2025
Niagara Takes Flight: The First Flying Theater Set Beside a Global IconIn partnership with Niagara Parks, Brogent is thrilled to unveil Niagara Takes Flight, a brand-new flying theater set to open in late August. Nestled beside the iconic Niagara Falls, this attraction is the first flying theater celebrating a world-famous natural wonder, offering visitors an […]
Happy Independence Day weekend from Amusement Today
The Amusement Today staff want to wish you and your families a Happy Independence Day weekend! Our offices will be closed on Friday, July 4, as our staff enjoys the holiday with their families. EXTRA! EXTRA! Your Desktop Edition will not publish that morning as a result. Desktop Edition will resume normal publication on Monday, July 7. Thank you! Happy […]
Mall of America will soon experience a taste of Switzerland with the upcoming opening of Läderach, the luxury Swiss chocolatier
BLOOMINGTON, Minn. — Mall of America will become home to the first Minnesota location of the premium Swiss chocolatier, Läderach. The brand will bring world-class Swiss craftsmanship and irresistible indulgence to Mall visitors. Known for their unwavering commitment to quality, Läderach creates handcrafted chocolates using the finest ingredients sourced directly from Switzerland, ensuring exceptional freshness […]
Falcon’s Beyond — How to break into Theme Park Design: Insider tips from industry experts
As a themed entertainment company located in the heart of the theme park capital in the world, Falcon’s Beyond gets many inquiries about what it takes to land a job in the exciting world of theme park and attraction design. The new episode of the company’s Experience Imagination podcast offers advice on what it takes to […]
Betson Enterprises partners with Elston Electric on large-scale game room installation at new Chicago arcade venue
CHICAGO, Ill. — Betson Enterprises, the industry leader in distributing location-based amusement products, partnered with Elston Electric on a large-scale game room installation as part of Chicago’s newest arcade destination inside the Salt Shed complex. Betson supplied and installed 45 of the 110 games that make up Elston Electric’s expansive 8,000-square-foot arcade space. Betson Enterprises […]
Chance Rides announces the launch of new, all-electric eTrams
WICHITA, Kan. — Chance Rides, LLC recently announced the launch of its all-electric eTrams — a next-generation transportation solution designed to meet today’s evolving mobility demands. Partnering with Swedish-based EVX Mobility, Chance Rides brings Swedish-engineered innovation and solutions to the market with a vehicle that upholds the same quality and durability the company’s larger trams […]
Aardman at IAAPA Expo Asia 2025
The successful global release of Aardman’s latest feature film, Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl was followed by a fantastic awards campaign which kickstarted the year, including a double BAFTA win and an Academy Award® nomination. The halo effect of this release has resulted in a huge demand for the brand across attractions, live experiences and consumer […]
Alterface appoints three new leaders in the U.S., China, and Korea, affirming the company’s strategic global expansion
WAVRE, Belgium — Interactive technology solutions provider Alterface is significantly boosting its international presence with three key business development appointments across the United States, Greater China, and Korea. The expansion reinforces Alterface’s leadership in interactivity, seamlessly blending creative design and technology to craft meaningful experiences for global audiences. The initiative strengthens the company’s presence in […]
Tee it up for the cause: The 2025 Golden Ticket Golf Tournament returns to Charlotte
Get ready to hit the greens — plans are in full swing for the 2025 Golden Ticket Golf Tournament, taking place Friday, September 5, in Charlotte, North Carolina, ahead of this year’s Golden Ticket Awards at Carowinds. The annual event brings together industry friends for a fun, friendly (and highly competitive) day of golf — […]
Ellis & Associates expands fulltime staff, welcomes aquatics professional Adrianne Newman as client manager
MAITLAND, Fla. — Ellis & Associates, Inc. (E&A), the world leader in aquatic safety since 1983, continues to grow, expanding the fulltime client services team for the third time in less than two years with the addition of aquatics, safety and operations professional, Adrianne Newman. Adrianne began her aquatics career in 2000 as a 15-year-old […]
RWS Global, world leader in summer entertainment, prepares 100+ shows and activations at over 20 family destinations in the United States and Europe
NEW YORK, N.Y. — RWS Global, the world’s leader in live moments across entertainment and sports, has embarked on an unprecedented season of summer fun at nearly two dozen theme parks and other family attractions around the world. RWS Global is collaborating with its partners in the United States and Europe to deliver over 100 […]
ProSlide: Limited-edition socks & big ideas at IAAPA Asia
It’s not every day you receive socks at a trade show—especially from a company known for building some of the most well-renowned water parks. At ProSlide, we’ve created a limited-edition run of socks inspired by some of our most exciting projects around the world. This year’s pair celebrates Chimelong, home to the world’s first Launched […]
The summer program at Movie Park Germany steps into the spotlight!
BOTTROP-KIRCHHELLEN — Movie Park Germany kicks off production for a movie-like summer! When the high season begins on the Hollywood set and the vacation period is already lurking in the next scene, Germany’s largest movie and amusement park expands its entertainment offerings. Illusionist Christian Farla comes back in July for his new show “Magic Impossible” […]
EXTRA! EXTRA! The July 2025 issue is now available!
In this issue:
Intercard adds Amanda Walker to sales team
ST. LOUIS — Intercard, the world leader in cashless technology, has added Amanda Sue Walker to its team as sales assistant and trade show coordinator. She reports to Rob Geiger, Intercard North American sales manager. Amanda has worked with leading organizations in cybersecurity including Apex Service Partners, Data Connectors, Darktrace, Crowdstrike, Check Point and Okta. Her […]
Canada’s Marineland announces sale of iconic amusement rides
NIAGARA FALLS, Ontario — Marineland, one of Canada’s most well-known family entertainment destinations, announces that it will begin the process of selling the rides located at the park. For decades, Marineland has been home to a collection of beloved rides that have brought joy to millions of guests. As the park evolves, it is now […]
PortAventura World celebrates its 30th anniversary with an event that consolidates its leadership in tourism and leisure in Europe
PortAventura World celebrated its 30th anniversary with an institutional event that brought together prominent representatives from both the public and private sectors for an evening full of emotion, tributes, and future vision. The gathering honoured a project that, since 1995, has transformed the tourism and leisure landscape in Spain and Europe, with over 100 million visits and a steadfast commitment to innovation, sustainability, and […]
Sacoa Cashless System announces upcoming trade show appearances in Europe and North America
Sacoa, the global leader in cashless management solutions for the entertainment and leisure industries, is proud to announce its participation in two major upcoming events: INTERAZAR 2025, taking place from June 16 to 18 at IFEMA Madrid, Spain (Booth #E21), and the International Bowl Expo 2025, happening from June 29 to July 3 at the Gaylord National […]
Playdium teams with Intercard for Sri Lanka’s biggest and newest FEC
ST. LOUIS — Intercard’s latest cashless technology plays a crucial role at Playdium, the newest and biggest indoor FEC in Sri Lanka. Recently opened in the capital city of Colombo, the 16,000 square foot center features Brunswick bowling, a 34-game arcade, VR attractions, bumper cars, soft play and a full service restaurant. Playdium is revolutionizing out-of-home […]
ETF: Benefits of trackless dark ride systems in theme parks
Dark rides have become an increasingly popular way to engage a wider audience. These indoor attractions offer experiences for all ages and operate reliably regardless of weather and with high uptime. A trackless ride system expands creative potential even more and brings extra tangible benefits in cost, flexibility, maintenance and safety. Creative freedom and storytelling […]
Intercard Bowl Expo test drive and win big
ST. LOUIS — Intercard will be at Bowl Expo in Washington D.C. July 1-2 with an opportunity for one lucky showgoer to win big. Visitors to the Intercard show booth #929 who test drive the iTeller PlusXL kiosk will be entered in a drawing to win a $500 Visa gift card and a customized Intercard […]
Legacy Entertainment to create Loco Waterpark at Perfect Day Mexico
NEW YORK, N.Y. — Royal Caribbean has pulled back the curtain on the game-changing Perfect Day Mexico, revealing the first details about what vacationers can expect upon its debut in Fall 2027. Spanning over 200 acres on Mexico’s Caribbean Coast, the destination will feature seven distinct neighborhoods, complete with 12 dining options, 24 bars, and […]
Wavegarden Cove technology to anchor HTX Surf, a Beach Street Development surf destination in Houston, Texas
SAN DEBASTIAN, Spain — HTX Surf will become a key destination for surfing and the lifestyle it embodies, featuring a 52-module Wavegarden Cove. The system delivers over 20 different wave types, varying in size, power, and shape to suit surfers of all skill levels. Following a detailed review with investors and an in-depth analysis of […]
Dollywood named to Newsweek America’s Greatest Workplaces 2025 List
PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. — Dollywood’s recent run of awards continued this week with Newsweek adding the Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, theme park to its America’s Greatest Workplaces 2025 list following the results of a recent survey. Dollywood is part of the “Entertainment Providers” grouping of companies and is one of only three theme park companies to be featured […]
Themed Entertainment Association announces Entertainment + Culture Advisors (ECA) and The Park Database (Park DB) join Storyland Studios as strategic research partner for the 2024 TEA Global Experience Index
BURBANK, Calif. — The Themed Entertainment Association (TEA) is pleased to announce Entertainment + Culture Advisors, LLC (ECA) and The Park Database (Park DB) as its research partner for the 2024 TEA Global Experience Index™, formerly the Theme Index and Museum Index Report. The annual report has served as the definitive study of attendance at the world’s top theme parks, water parks, and museums […]
Eastern States Exposition team recognized with Patriot Awards for exemplary support for military personnel
WEST SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — On Friday, May 23, Earl T. Bonett, a representative from the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), visited Eastern States Exposition (ESE) to recognize ESE President and CEO Gene Cassidy and Johnny Ramirez, ESE’s Captain of Public Safety, with the Patriot Award. The mission of the ESGR is to gain support for the National Guard […]
Innovation on the Slide: How Slick City and VLocker are redefining the entertainment experience
In the dynamic world of family entertainment, standing still is not an option. For Bron Launsby, co-founder of Slick City, innovation is not just a strategy — it’s the lifeblood of the business. What started as a singular attraction inside a trampoline park has now evolved into a groundbreaking indoor slide park concept that’s taking the […]
Calling all builders! Are you the next Lego Master? For the first time ever… Lego Masters Audition episodes will be filmed at Legoland California Resort!
CARLSBAD, Calif. — Have you ever wanted to compete on LEGO Masters? Season five of the hit competition series airs Mondays at 8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT on FOX and the next day on Hulu. For the first time ever, LEGO Masters will not only be filming audition episodes at LEGOLAND California Resort, but park guests will be able to check out the action and be inspired […]
June 2025
The JUNE 2025 issue includes:
Lost Treasure Mini Golf celebrates 30 years of adventure, fun, and family memories across the U.S.
NORTH MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. — Professor Hacker’s Lost Treasure Golf, the beloved adventure miniature golf company that began with a single course in North Myrtle Beach in 1995, is proudly celebrating 30 years of family-friendly fun! This year marks several exciting milestones for the company: the 30th Anniversary of its first-ever location at Lost Treasure Golf North Myrtle Beach, 25 […]
Hall U Need and Intercard partner again near Paris
ST. LOUIS — Hall U Need, the award-winning French urban entertainment chain, has chosen Intercard cashless technology for its latest location near Paris. The new FEC opened in April at the Westfield Carré Sénart mall in Lieusaint southeast of the French capital. It is Intercard’s second installation for Hall U Need, which already uses the […]
Scruffy Dog Creative Group delivers landmark theming fabrication package for Six Flags Qiddiya City
Scruffy Dog Creative Group is proud to announce the successful completion of its work on the fabrication of a major themed entertainment package for Six Flags Qiddiya City – a flagship theme park within Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative. Delivered in early 2025, the project marks a significant milestone for the group’s international production portfolio […]
RWS Global announces plans to open Middle East headquarters
NEW YORK — RWS Global, the world’s leader in live moments across entertainment and sports, today announced its plans to open a headquarters in Riyadh, expanding the company’s significant footprint in the Middle East. This expansion shows RWS Global’s commitment to the region’s continued investment in innovation across entertainment, tourism, leisure travel and sport. The […]
WaveGarden has done it again: Unprecedented Waves arrive at Beyond The Club in São Paulo, with Gabriel Medina stoked on his first sessions
SAN SEBASTIAN — The world’s leading company, Wavegarden, redefines once again the limits of innovation in artificial waves for surfing. Its latest project at Beyond the Club, São Paulo, marks a turning point in the development of surf lagoons. With a powerful combination of cutting-edge engineering and a revolutionary technological approach, it has exceeded all expectations. […]
The Resorts Companies name John Alvarez general counsel
CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. — The Resorts Companies, Inc., owner of Massanutten Resort and Bluestone Peak in Rockingham County, Virginia near Harrisonburg, and Wilderness Presidential Resort in Spotsylvania County, Virginia near Fredericksburg, today announced the appointment of John Alvarez as general counsel. In this key leadership role, Alvarez will oversee all legal matters for The Resorts Companies and […]
RWS Global expands leadership team with addition of Hans Vollrath as Executive Vice President of Land Production and Ashley Hong as Vice President of Licensing
NEW YORK — RWS Global, the world leader in live moments across entertainment and sports, has announced two strategic leadership appointments as part of its continued global expansion. Hans Vollrath joins as Executive Vice President of Land Production, while Ashley Hong steps into the newly created role of Vice President of Licensing. These additions emphasize the company’s […]
The Point Surf Park breaks ground in Florida, powered by the USA’s first Endless Surf Lagoon
FELLSMERE, Fla. — The Point Surf Park and Endless Surf, next-generation wave pool technology, have announced their partnership to introduce Florida’s inaugural surf park. Already under construction on Florida’s east coast, The Point is set to make waves in 2026. On track to become the Citrus State’s very first surf park and the first Endless […]
NRCMA: Four historic roller coaster cars saved and preserved
PLAINVIEW, Texas — The National Roller Coaster Museum and Archives (NRCMA), the world’s largest collection of historic amusement ride vehicles and memorabilia, has successfully raised the funds to save and preserve four historic coaster cars from across North America, all thanks to ride enthusiasts from around the world. The vehicles that fans helped the museum rescue […]
Aardman joins forces with Peel X to elevate immersive experiences for attractions sector
BRISTOL, U.K. — Aardman, the multi-award-winning independent animation studio has today announced a strategic collaboration with leading digital experiences studio, Peel X, to support the expansion of its immersive augmented reality (AR) experiences to more visitor attractions across the UK and beyond. Peel X will deliver development and technical support, providing the robust and scalable […]
WhiteWater to open more than 60 extraordinary new projects worldwide in 2025
VANCOUVER, Canada — Another year of exciting project openings is ahead for WhiteWater’s diverse clients across indoor and outdoor water parks, at hotels and resorts, and on cruise ships. Over 60 new projects are opening across the globe in 2025, featuring record-breakers, world’s firsts, as well as tried-and-true guest favourites, taking WhiteWater’s team from bustling urban […]
SBI Americas partners with PB Amusement to expand U.S. presence
Since its inception SBI Americas LLC, the U.S. subsidiary of SBI Sweden, has emerged as a leader in innovative and reliable kiddie rides in America. An Orlando warehouse was recently opened to better serve U.S. customers, and many new notable customers have been secured including Cherry Crest Adventure Farm and Knoebels Amusement Resort just to […]
Urge Congress to protect funding for BridgeUSA J-1 Program
IAAPA supports the Alliance for International Exchange in its campaign urging members of Congress to protect funding for international exchange programs. On Friday, May 2, the Trump Administration released its FY26 “skinny” budget—a preliminary outline of the president’s priorities for the next fiscal year. The proposal includes a drastic 93% cut to the U.S. State […]
RWS Global and OneTeam Partners join forces to bring immersive live experiences to sports venues
NEW YORK and LOS ANGELES — RWS Global, the world’s leader in live moments across entertainment and sports, and OneTeam Partners, the commercial partner to numerous Players Associations and thousands of elite athletes, today announced a strategic partnership to reimagine the fan experience at sports venues across North America. The organizations will seek to collaborate […]
Pinkfong and Baby Shark join SeaWorld in the global launch of its first educational sing-along video showcasing the wonders of marine life
ORLANDO — SeaWorld celebrates 10 years of Baby Shark with today’s debut of “Happy, Happy SeaWorld!” – a vibrant new animated music video that spotlights marine life and SeaWorld’s dedication to ocean conservation. The video will stream on YouTube as part of a nationwide collaboration between SeaWorld and Pinkfong, the creators behind the global Baby Shark phenomenon, […]
Chance Rides welcomes Travis Lane
Travis Lane joins Chance Rides as Project Management Director, bringing deep experience from Spirit AeroSystems. He’ll lead the company’s PM team and report to President & CEO Aaron Landrum.
Texas takes the global stage as Meow Wolf Grapevine and houston earn Top Awards At IAAPA Honors 2025
GRAPEVINE, Texas —This week, Meow Wolf’s Texas-based exhibitions have achieved international acclaim at IAAPA Honors 2025, one of the most prestigious award programs in the global attractions industry. Announced this week at Europa-Park in Rust, Germany, Meow Wolf Grapevine was named 2025’s Top Location-Based Experience (LBE) in the world, while Meow Wolf Houston received global recognition for Best Food & […]
Intercard to SEA Expo with award-winning iQ System
ST. LOUIS — Intercard, the world leader in cashless technology, will exhibit at this year’s 7th annual SEA Expo. The company will feature the latest version of its award-winning iQ reader at the show, which runs from May 20-22, 2025 at the Riyadh Front Exhibition & Conference Center in Riyadh. Intercard’s CEO Scott Sherrod and Alberto Borrero, senior […]
MSC Cruises unveils new family entertainment for Summer 2025
GENEVA, Switzerland — This summer, MSC Cruises is redefining family fun at sea with an enhanced entertainment lineup designed to create unforgettable memories for guests of all ages. From high-energy game shows and interactive experiences to dazzling parades and dynamic parties, the updated program offers something for everyone, from the youngest cruisers to teens and their parents. Beginning […]