Cedar Point reimagines beachfront into new Boardwalk area

Zamperla spinning coaster anchors updated section

AT: Tim Baldwin

tbaldwin@amusementtoday.com

SANDUSKY — With more than 150 years of entertaining multiple generations of families and thrill seekers, Cedar Point has created a loyal audience that enjoys coming back again and again. Over the past decade, the park has successfully focused on specific sections of the park and has given them a crowd-pleasing makeover. In 2023, an area close to the front of the park has embraced Cedar Point’s historic ties with the Lake Erie beach. It has been dubbed The Boardwalk.

“The place-making is what this area is about,” said Tony Clark, public relations director, Cedar Point. “You could have just had Wild Mouse and Grand Pavilion and called it a day. But when we do improvements, we do the whole area. When the lakeside midway just had Wicked Twister and the Giant Wheel, it didn’t really have a theme; it didn’t have a vibe. Now it does. It’s now a more vibrant part of the park.”

The newly envisioned Boardwalk has two large additions — a spinning Wild Mouse coaster from Zamperla and the Grand Pavilion restaurant. The park’s Scrambler (Eli Bridge) and Matterhorn (Mack Rides) were relocated from the park’s main midway to help complement the Boardwalk area. Both former rides and new rides have sharp signage to offer a cohesive stylized feel.

“The Boardwalk’s retro vibe really comes out in the décor and signage,” Clark told Amusement Today. “It’s kind of ‘50s and yet older than that, so it has this weird but fun juxtaposition of possibly multiple eras, which is really the point. It is our vision of what guests may have experienced when they came to the boardwalk years and years ago. Obviously not the big rides and other attractions, but when they saw the Grand Pavilion for the first time and thought ‘Oh wow!’ and it was amazing, the same thing is happening now. That’s what we were looking for — that awe, that wonder.”

The Wild Mouse pays homage to former such coasters that existed at Cedar Point decades ago, but with the updated spinning component. It is a modern take on an established classic.

“The Twister Freeform is an updated version of our classic Twister Coaster. When we spoke with Cedar Point, they asked us to provide an experience that gave a nod to the past but offered a modern ride experience,” said President and CEO Antonio Zamperla. “We believe it is a great example of the next generation of Zamperla coasters.”

“The addition of Wild Mouse perfectly balances the setting and attractions of The Boardwalk,” said Carrie Boldman, vice president and general manager, Cedar Point. “Being a part of family tradition is extremely important to all of us at Cedar Point. Wild Mouse allows young kids and adults to enjoy a ‘first’ roller coaster thrill together, and the spinning action of each car just makes it fun!”

There are seven cars, six are colorful mice with given names on the outside of the cars. The seventh car is a piece of cheese, which makes it a fun spin to be loaded in that particular car. At the top of the lift is another throwback to the park’s Wildcat coaster, with its feline namesake making a swipe at oncoming cars.

The installation of the coaster was done by Baynum Solutions, the expanded operations of the company formerly known as Baynum Painting. Wild Mouse was the company’s first coaster installation project in its construction division of its portfolio of services. Baynum was pleased the erection was a smooth process.

Baynum President Chris Baynum gives compliments to their partners: “Critical planning and preparedness by Cedar Point, Zamperla and the general contractor allowed us to begin and substantially complete installation prior to the tumultuous weather the Lake Erie peninsula can sometimes present in the winter months. The collaborative effort between all parties laid the groundwork for a smooth install and steady transition to the park for commissioning and operation.”  

“We pride ourselves on being adaptive to meet the ever-growing needs the industry presents,” added Melissa Bramford, marketing director, Baynum Solutions. “So many of our accomplishments have been the result of embracing challenges and being passionate about delivering solutions. Diversifying our portfolio to include construction services has allowed us to become a turnkey service provider — it’s a great feeling knowing our park partners can rely on us to facilitate successful projects in many forms.”

“We’re fortunate to have spent decades in amusement parks restoring and enhancing existing attractions,” Baynum told AT. “The legacy of our exposure to rides and attractions coupled with adding some of the industry’s most experienced professionals to our team was a winning combination for this project — the confidence in our team is at an all-time high.”  

Although Cedar Point has a reputation for building record-breaking, massive coasters, this one aimed at a broader audience helps diversify the company’s offerings for families.

“Sometimes simple is actually best,” said Clark. “We nailed that. But we also did something different. It’s a new model for Zamperla. It’s a new coaster for us that pays homage to the one we had. This really is all about adding family attractions to the lineup. We also added the sass and fun with all the facial expressions on the cars.”

“Cedar Point challenged our design team in a lot of ways,” said Adam Sandy, roller coaster sales and marketing director, Zamperla. “We went back to the drawing board and created a custom layout just for the park. We are thrilled with not only the layout, but the ride as a whole. It delivers in the way that Zamperla promised with the re-introduction of the Roller Coaster Business Unit in 2021. The ride is exciting, smooth and features the latest coaster technology. It is a huge step up from older Zamperla coasters and lays a new benchmark for our coaster quality.”

The ride features a moving station for continuous loading. The track length is 1,312 feet.

The cheese car is also specifically designed for ADA loading.

“Working to go beyond ADA compliance is extremely important to us,” said Ramon Rosario, sales director of the Americas, Zamperla. “The cheese car not only looks great, it also features a hinged door that opens allowing riders transferring from a wheelchair easier vehicle access.”

The Grand Pavilion makes a visual statement to the area. As proved by previous dining locations, but it features a high throughput of guests while offering elevated fare. New items such as slow-roasted turkey breast, dry-rub pork loin and gourmet sides provide more than the standard midway food. Guests get to select an entrée and their choice of side to create the dinner they want.

“When we evaluated the opportunity at Grand Pavilion, it was a chance to showcase menu items that were familiar, but elevated,” said Bob Marks, VP of food and beverage, Cedar Point. “We wanted choices that our guests couldn’t find elsewhere in the park and the funnel cake fried shrimp is a great example. The funnel cake is a guest favorite, so our culinary team put together a fun twist on simple shrimp by incorporating the sweetness of that dessert. This is just a taste of what’s to come as we explore and expand our in-park offerings.”

The Grand Pavilion has two floors. The upper floor has a large bar area with appetizers available, and three outdoor balconies, one of which extends over the beach promenade walkway.

When asked what he liked best about the Grand Pavilion, Clark immediately said, “Hands down for me is the outdoor spaces. We tell people all the time that the beach is part of our history. It’s what made us famous, but when you have the chance to experience the visual of that without riding, it lets you see how special it is. And you have a bar that addresses the guests’ requests to have a place to chill.”

Pipeline: The Surf Coaster makes splash at SeaWorld

Orlando receives a first-of-its-kind coaster from B&M

AT: David Fake

Special to Amusement Today

ORLANDO — Pipeline: The Surf Coaster, the first surf model coaster designed by Bolliger & Mabillard Consulting Engineers, Inc. (B&M), officially opened to guests at SeaWorld Orlando on May 27, after a several-week passholder and media preview.

At the grand opening event, Vice President of Operations for SeaWorld Orlando Rob McNicholas described Pipeline: The Surf Coaster in this way, “Only at SeaWorld Orlando can you surf at 60 miles per hour. You'll go 110 feet in the air on our hammerhead wave. Your surfboard will go upside down in a maneuver meant to mimic an ‘alley oop,’ which is known in the surfing community. But what really sets this ride apart is its five airtime moments. But they're not normal airtime moments, they're prolonged airtime moments. And that's due to the unique first-of-its-kind seat design, which allows the seats to rise and fall two inches in each direction. The wave time, airtime and motion is ridiculous, and is the coolest experience I've ever had on a roller coaster. Truthfully. But you'll see it for yourself soon.”

The new LSM launch coaster has received much praise, not only for its unique and SeaWorld-apropos theme, but also for its smooth comfortable ride experience. A ride experience so fun and exciting that it also makes Pipeline: The Surf Coaster a re-rideable family thrill ride.

Historically, however, stand-up coasters have not been known for their comfort or re-rideability. What has changed? Why has B&M ventured back to its roots with a new stand-up coaster design after more than 20 years? To answer those questions, it is necessary to look back over the history of the stand-up coaster.

Stand-up coasters were a new, exciting concept that was well-received throughout the first half of coaster wars of the late 1980s, 1990s and early 2000s. This was a period in which parks were more likely to spend large amounts on new, leading-edge, record-breaking and unique prototype coaster styles with the ROI being the promise of increased park attendance, awards, acclaim and bragging rights.

TOGO and Intamin were the forerunners in the stand-up coaster style in the '80s. However, many argue that it wasn’t until Walter Bolliger and Claude Mabillard broke away from Giovanola, a manufacturing company who supplied rides to Intamin, and started their own design and manufacturing company, that the stand-up coaster reached its highest form of design.

That occurred in 1990 when Bolliger and Mabillard saw their company’s first installation, Iron Wolf, a stand-up coaster, open at Six Flags Great America in Gurnee, Illinois. The coaster opened to rave reviews.

B&M would design and install an additional eight stand-up coasters between 1990 and 1999, when Georgia Scorcher opened at Six Flags Over Georgia, B&M’s last stand-up design prior to Pipeline: The Surf Coaster.

Since the late '90s, stand-up coasters have seen a waning trend in popularity. Some stand-up coaster installations have been retrofitted with sit down or floorless-style B&M trains in an effort to increase ridership. Others have been completely removed and scrapped.

Stand-up coasters, including B&M’s, have become a polarizing coaster style — people either love them or hate them. For many in the latter camp, there are two main detractors of the original stand-up coasters.

The first is that the original stand-up coasters utilized rigid, over-the-shoulder restraints or large wings restraints through which riders put their arms, then pulled tight to their shoulders, chest and head. These restraints frequently resulted in headbanging and earring injuries due to exaggerated lateral forces caused by the higher center of gravity created by the standing position.

The second detractor was the discomfort caused by the fixed bicycle-style seat, or “saddle,” which once locked into place, has a comfort-level that ranges from awkward and uncomfortable to outright painful, due to its position, lack of give and the forces asserted on the rider throughout the course of the ride.

Then in 2020, recent patent filings surfaced for a new B&M stand-up coaster model, the Surf Coaster. It is in the illustrations that accompanied the patent filing where the question “why now” is answered.

The illustrations also clearly explained that B&M hadn’t abandoned the stand-up coaster over the prior two decades, they were merely perfecting it and addressing the comfort issues of its early designs.

The difference between the old and the new is that B&M’s surf model coaster utilizes a patented design that permits the harness and bicycle-style seat to have a four-inch range of motion that is affected by positive or negative G-forces experienced throughout the ride.

When there are positive forces present, the restraint system lowers. When there are negative forces present, the restraint system rises. During moments of negative G-forces, riders’ feet often leave the floor of the open-sided ride vehicle, which resembles a surfboard.

The rigid over-the-should restraints were replaced with a rubber comfort vest that prevents the headbanging that often occurred on the early stand up coasters.

“The layout for this ride was specifically developed to leverage the uniqueness of the new restraint system. It's unlike any other roller coaster that's out there. We really wanted to maximize those vertical motions — the zero-G feeling, as well as the amazing drop-ins,” explained Jeff Hornick, vice president of attraction design and development for SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment. “Also on the back end of the roller coaster there are a series of left and right and up and down transitions that really make it as fun as possible to give you just the right amount of ‘play’ and really feel like you're surfing. You feel like you're doing a little back and forth motion like a real surfer. So even if you're not a surfer, you get to be one on Pipeline.”

Pipeline: The Surf Coaster is the seventh at the park, affording SeaWorld Orlando bragging rights and a marketing campaign of “Coaster Capital of Orlando.”

•seaworld.com/orlando

Get out of the office and into the parks

INDUSTRY VOICE: Adam Sandy, Zamperla

We understand the struggle. As a park manager or ride salesperson, you're inundated with emails that never end and a phone that won't stop ringing. But if you're responsible for selling attractions or managing a property, you're needed in the park. The most successful leaders, like those who help first-year employees engage and grow with the park feel the pulse of their business by walking it every day. They notice when a queue line is full of carvings because the line isn't moving or when trash cans have been placed in the wrong spot, leading to garbage being strewn all over the place. Also, those new employees do need to see a leader above them, not just someone who wears a path from their car to their computer.

For those of us who sell attractions, it's tempting to stay home and pitch new concepts on Teams. But we miss out on so much when we do that. What are guests saying about my new ride? What are they saying about my competitor's? We've all been there when that phone call comes in because a new concept is experiencing more downtime than anticipated and we need to get on a plane. Our job is to understand the challenges our buyers face, not just call and say, “Hey man, how’s it going?” when we have not stepped into a park in years.

While the definition of a normal park season is changing, Halloween stretched operating days out more than anyone imagined 30 years ago, for most properties there is a finite number of money making days. That means there is a limited amount of time for you to see what's happening. While it is a comfortable place to be, the office is the last place where you can learn about what is going on in your park or your customer’s park.

So, get out from behind your desk this summer. We have memories to help create.

You never forget your last

AT NOTEBOOK: John W.C. Robinson, jrobinson@amusementtoday.com

As a kid growing up, my father was the vice president of LeSourdsville Lake/Americana Amusement Park. Naturally, I spent a ton of my childhood there. However, ironically enough, I was terrified of roller coasters my entire youth and never braved the park's legendary wooden coaster, The Screechin' Eagle. And the park shuttered before I overcame my fears.

Fortunately, for me, in my early 20s, the park reopened — under new ownership — and I was able to spend a summer evening riding and reriding the coaster. As luck would have it, the park was quiet that night so the operators just let us ride through the station — without additional ride tickets — more than a half dozen times back to back. It was wonderful.

However, in a sudden shock, the park closed permanently just a couple weeks after those rides. If I hadn't seized that free evening, I would've never gotten to ride the roller coaster that was the background for so many of my childhood memories and photos.

Every season, popular and legendary rides close at parks for good. Even treasured parks are shut down never to reopen in what feels like the blink of an eye. However, every park — every ride — is part of the memories and childhood of so many guests, forever living on in their dreams, their minds and their photo albums.

For our industry, the National Roller Coaster Museum and Archives works diligently to preserve its history. But the industry's true lineage is kept in the hearts of our guests who remember rides and moments so fondly. Be it their first coaster, their first ride with their own child or even just the sound of the nearby midway games as they stole a kiss from that secret crush ... every moment within our gates is treasured by someone, somewhere.

And, when a ride or park is lost to time, those treasured moments are where those rides and parks will live on for eternity.

The ride of a lifetime

CINCINNATI, Ohio — With flight prices on the incline, Amusement Today's John Robinson decided to seize an opportunity for an alternate means of travel to Amusement Expo 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Robinson chose to ride his 1994 Harley-Davidson Softail from his home in Cincinnati, Ohio, to the expo and then onward to Los Angeles California, to cover Universal Studios Hollywood's new Super Nintendo World expansion for AT. Robinson's travels included time along the legendary Route 66. AT/JOHN W.C. ROBINON

Registration is open for Networking Event of the Year

Amusement Today, Dollywood share 2023 Golden Ticket Awards' schedule

AT: Tim Baldwin

tbaldwin@amusementtoday.com

ARLINGTON, Texas — The return of The Networking Event of the Year brings about the opportunity for experienced professionals to spotlight the best of the industry. The Golden Ticket Awards will take place on September 8 and 9 at Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. With the host hotel being the famous DreamMore Resort, industry professionals should prepare for a weekend of fantastic opportunities for social interaction, the sharing of best practices and the networking of creative ideas both the attendees and parks can offer. As a winner of numerous Golden Ticket Awards, Dollywood will delight and inspire those within the amusement industry.

This will be the third time for Dollywood to play host for the Golden Ticket Awards, and management is already at work preparing to welcome park operators, manufacturers, marketers and more from the amusement industry.

“Dollywood is excited to host the industry for the Golden Ticket Awards. It really is one of the most special events of the year, and we are proud to have everyone as our guests here in the Great Smoky Mountains,” said Pete Owens, executive vice president, marketing, The Dollywood Company. “And while we are thrilled to showcase our properties, we take the most pride in the hardworking Dollywood hosts who make everything come together in spectacular fashion. The Golden Tickets are just one part of what is a truly big year for us. With the addition of Big Bear Mountain, the opening of HeartSong Lodge & Resort this fall, a record-breaking Coaster Con, and, of course, the Golden Tickets, this is a year to remember at Dollywood. We look forward to seeing everyone in September!”

Registration for the event — still complimentary — is currently open and the full event schedule is available at GoldenTicketAwards.com. In addition, the site provides a direct link to make discounted room reservations for DreamMore Resort.

The 2023 Golden Ticket Awards event will feature the second annual National Roller Coaster Museum and Archives (NRCMA) Golf Tournament. Taking place on Friday, September 8, at the Sevierville Golf Club's River Course, the event is a chance for industry professionals to relax, take in 18 holes, network and raise money to preserve the industry's history.

The course is 7,120 long yards with wide fairways and larger greens. Much of the front nine runs alongside the Little Pigeon River and the entire course is picturesque. The course is flat with the exception of four holes on the back nine where elevation gets higher, which allows for beautiful panoramic views. Golfers may even see a bald eagle or two during their round.

•goldenticketawards.com

Family friendly DarKoaster storms into Busch Gardens Williamsburg

AT: B. Derek Shaw

bdshaw@amusementtoday.acom

WILLIAMSBURG, Va. — In mid-May, Busch Gardens Williamsburg jumped into roller coaster double digits with the addition of DarKoaster: Escape the Storm, its latest thrill-seeker attraction inside what was originally the Curse of DarKastle dark ride in the Oktoberfest section of the themer. Billed as North America’s first all-indoor straddle coaster, the family-friendly attraction fills a niche in the line-up of roller coasters appealing to all age groups.

“It’s a ride that will have appeal across a wide audience, making it a great addition to an already world-class lineup of attractions,” said Kevin Lembke, president, Busch Gardens Williamsburg.

The ride builds on the legacy of the Curse of DarKastle, as it tells the next chapter in the story. King Ludwig’s abandoned fortress resurfaces as strange weather patterns have been recorded near the cursed castle grounds. A supernatural force is imminent as ghost-hunter explorers discover that they are evading more than just a raging storm. As the weather strikes, the straddle snowmobile-style seats allow for an immersive ride as guests lean into banks and turns across the 2,454 feet of track, encountering four accelerating launches while speeding through the elements in total darkness.

Elizabeth Ringas, president of American Coaster Enthusiasts, was quick to give praise: “This is the perfect addition to the park. It fills such a niche gap that they had between Grover’s coaster for small children and then advancing as we grow our future enthusiasts. There’s something everyone will enjoy on this coaster. It meets the needs of the whole family. It’s just thrilling enough, and the effects are great. It’s really fun to have different effects throughout the ride. I love that they added a dark ride back to the park. That was the one piece they were really missing. The fact that it’s a family dark ride makes it even better, and the icing on the cake is that it is a coaster. I love a dark ride coaster. A perfect combination.”

Riders straddle the seat like they would a snowmobile and are then secured with a lap bar. Lembke explained why this style was chosen: “Working with our partners at Intamin, we knew we wanted to offer a new rider experience that complements the coasters already in the park. The straddle coaster was a great way to ensure DarKoaster would have a thrilling rider experience while delivering a new coaster style to our already diverse lineup.”

Suzy Cheely, vice president, design and engineering for the park, explained the timetable. “We typically start planning a couple of years prior to opening. In the case of DarKoaster, we started survey work and construction documents in January of 2021,” she said.

There were a few hurdles, namely working with an existing station and structure. The design was completely different due to building constraints.

“There are always challenges with every project. For this one, fitting the track inside an existing building was the most challenging. I think we maximized the amount of track we could fit, and I think the results speak for themselves,” said Cheely.

A switch track after one pass of the ride in the building doubles the length of the experience for riders before it returns to the station.

Sandor Kernacs, president, IntaRide LLC (Intamin), was pleased with the end result. “We had been talking with the park on how to boost attendance and be successful,” he said. “This is a really nice ride with excellent use of the space. I think it worked out very well.”

There was a two-year delay due to the pandemic. Supply chain issues with getting electrical parts hampered the process, however, the ride was delivered on time and opened as scheduled. It is the park’s tenth roller coaster.

“Partnering with Intamin on Pantheon and then on DarKoaster were both very positive and collaborative experiences,” Cheely told Amusement Today.

In addition to the usual assortment of ride-branded souvenirs and clothing, visitors (21 and up) can also enjoy DarKoaster Black Lager, a limited-release beer brewed by The Virginia Beer Company, which is featured in commemorative cans.

B&M's Maximus – Flight of the Guardian anchors new area

Merlin makes its largest investment in Legoland Deutschland

AT: Tim Baldwin

tbaldwin@amusementtoday.com

GUENZBURG, Germany — More than €15.5 million was the single-largest investment made by Legoland Deutschland in its two-decade history. Parent company Merlin Entertainment followed its 2022 investment of more than €14 million on its Ninjago Quarter and resort room renovations bringing a combined total that is notably impressive for a park with its audience aimed at families with children ages 12 and under. The new 2023 expansion brings a new themed area.

“We are proud, and it is a huge display of trust of Merlin Entertainment to our location that we are able to invest almost €30 million in our resort in only two years,” said General Manager Manuela Stone. “The whole team is excited about this positive signal toward our location.”

The new land is called Mythica. Its anchor is a roller coaster from Bolliger & Mabillard, the first of its kind for a Legoland park, not to mention the first ride in the chain to go upside down. The ride is called Maximus – Der Flug des Wächters (translated means Maximus – Flight of the Guardian). It is termed a “wing coaster” in the B&M portfolio.

"We are excited to build the worldwide first roller coaster of its kind in a Legoland Park here and fulfill the long-fostered desire of our guests for a park expansion with a high action and energy level,” said Dirk Schlecht, technical director. "The coaster [is] accessible for children from primary-school age, a first thrill they can share together with their older siblings — an experience for the whole family.”

B&M is renowned for its massive, world-class coasters, some of which rise to more than 300 feet in the sky. Maximus is the company’s shortest installation, owing to Legoland’s target demographic. However, it expands the audience with larger thrills, offering younger children a reason to return in years ahead. Despite a height of only 56 feet, families are flipped upside down twice. The two inversions are a corkscrew element and a heartline roll. The final roll soars right over the entrance into the Mythica area.

The two trains on the coaster are manufactured to look like they were made from Lego bricks.

Riders must be 120 centimeters (47.2 inches) to fly.

Installation of the ride was done by RCS GmbH. The ride has a track length of 1,500 feet. Maximus is the park’s fourth roller coaster.

A pair of spinning drop tower rides called Fire and Ice Towers, supplied by Zierer, also create action in the new land. The height requirement to ride is one meter (39 inches). Each of the two towers seats 10 riders.

“The Double Family Freefall Tower is one of our most popular products as it is a ride for even the youngest visitors of amusement parks,” said Maximilian Biller, marketing and sales, Zierer. “With its moderate height of 12 meters — depending on the top decoration — it is the perfect opportunity for young children to experience their first drop tower adventure. Besides freefall movements, the towers also combine rotating and jumping/bouncing motions, creating an amazing ride experience.”

Zierer also supplied the drop towers to sister park Legoland Windsor.

“The ride itself is especially popular among amusement parks because it combines the aforementioned features with a high capacity and with a small footprint,” Biiller told Amusement Today. “This makes it a perfect addition not only for bigger parks, but also for smaller ones. Additionally, the ride comes with some great theming possibilities.”

Mythica also includes Lavaland Playground, which contains opportunities for younger ones to climb and slide.

The new land features animals that sport combined features. Maximus, the winged lion, for example, is beautifully rendered in Legos on the ride station’s façade. Other sculptures throughout the area feature mythical creatures, and as is always true with Legoland parks, the artwork is impressive with thousands and thousands of manhours used in creating the statues. And, of course, models from Lego’s Mythical Creatures brand are featured in the queuing for the coaster, enticing youngsters to purchase one and take it home as a keepsake. Bobs, a flying unicorn that shoots rainbows from its horn, is another principal character.

The expansion did not include any types of buildings (shops, eateries or restroom facilities), but the range of activities does increase the length of park stay.

Legoland Deutschland opened in 2002. Mythica is the park’s 11th themed section.

Rocky Mountain brings Wildcat’s Revenge coaster to Hersheypark

AT: B. Derek Shaw

bdshaw@amusementtoday.acom

HERSHEY, Pa. — The long-anticipated opening of Wildcat’s Revenge at Hersheypark took place in early June to the delight of roller coaster enthusiasts and park guests. The ride is a hybrid of the 1996-2022 Great Coasters International Inc. wooden Wildcat and Rocky Mountain Construction (RMC) structure and steel I-box track. The original footings and a third of the GCII structure were used in the reprofiled model. This is RMC’s first project in Pennsylvania. The ride comes 100 years after the first Wildcat coaster opened (Philadelphia Toboggan Company, 1923-1945).

Even before the 140-foot lift hill, there are a few twists and turns right out of the station, giving riders a taste of what is to ensue. There are four unique inversions, spaced throughout Wildcat’s Revenge, mostly following the original layout, with modifications. This smooth ride that never lets up, includes the world’s largest 270-degree underflip, which the park describes as ascending upwards before the train twists counterclockwise into a roll before descending.

Each of the ride seats offers a pair of grab handles along with a loop to clutch in the center for those who opt not to put their hands in the air. A new free locker system allows guests to easily check any loose items before embarking on the ride.

Darren Torr, president of RMC talked about how the partnership with Hersheypark began. “It started even before I joined the company in 2018 with exploratory conversations. At IAAPA [Expo] about a year and a half ago, Laura [Woodburn Krolczyk] and Vickie [Hultquist] reached out to us — super knowledgeable about coasters. They had a vision about what they wanted to accomplish with the ride,” he said. “We really worked with them to dial in exactly the ride experience they were looking for, the guest demographic they were looking to serve. They liked what we came up with. It was a year and a half of sweat and tears to pull this thing off.”

It also didn’t hurt that Tony Rossi, managing director of maintenance, sent a package to RMC’s headquarters in Hayden, Idaho, early on.

“To tell you the truth, I sent them a box of jumbo Twizzlers with a note saying, ‘Make me a track,’ and they did. We put this together — the whole deal — in 14 months,” Rossi said.

A mild winter helped with the construction process.

“Mother Nature was kind to us this year. It went smoothly, very smoothly. Everyone worked hard. This team was unbelievable to work with. We got what I think is an award-winning ride,” said Rossi.

“There’s nobody in our company that says, ’it’s not my job.’ We do whatever it takes. I’m really proud about how hard everybody worked to make this happen,” said Torr.

Jake Kilcup, director of design and engineering, commented on the changes the company made to the ride: “With these reprofiles, we try to tap into the history as much as we can, both for the park and for us. It’s great inspiration to take something that existed for so long and a lot of people really enjoyed and breathe new life into it. The focus here was to create a ride for the whole family, something that’s re-rideable. Our industry is to create memories. We do our best to help that happen.”

While the 1923-style station with low-pitched gables around the roof's perimeter remained, it was also made to serve as a workspace underneath.

Rossi explained, “Instead of having it remote in the service center, we decided to keep it right here at the ride, which we have done for the last few rides. Great Bear has it, Skyrush has it, Candymonium has it and now Wildcat’s Revenge. It makes service[ing] of this ride much easier. Our season is getting longer and our overhaul time is a small port hole we’re trying to drive a boat through. Right here we can start in our fringe season with one train, get that back up and continually have things running and easy to work on right there where it’s at. It makes it so much easier.”

How does Wildcat’s Revenge fit into the Hersheypark lineup of roller coasters? Quinn Bryner, director of public relations explained, “We’re really proud to add our hybrid to our collection. Now with this coaster, we’ve got 15 — all of varying thrills and types, and so with that we’ve got the most coasters in the northeast. We think we have one of the most eclectic collections in the northeast as well. Guests have been asking for a very long time for us to add a hybrid, and so with Wildcat’s Revenge that’s exactly what we did. We think it offers the best of what wood and steel can do for the rider experience. People think it’s a great fit for our collection. We have all of their signature elements in one coaster experience. People have commented that it is really smooth, it’s fast, it’s intense, it doesn’t let you know what’s coming, it doesn’t let you go from that first drop. That’s exactly what the team worked really hard to design.”

“I’ve been around a lot of coasters in my life. I’ve built a lot from the ground up. I am nothing but pleased with what we have and what we can offer our guests,” said Rossi. “I’m glad it’s here.”

•hersheypark.com

Two new Zamperla attractions anchor refreshed area

Kings Island opens Adventure Port with new rides, enhancements

AT: Tim Baldwin

tbaldwin@amusementtoday.com

MASON, Ohio — Kings Island boasts a very loyal local audience, and longtime visitors should enjoy what the theme park has done for 2023. What is new also touches on things from the past.

Adventure Port is a rethemed area of the park that management felt had become a bit neglected. Removed rides and aging theming have now been replaced with refreshed life and activity.

“We started saying, ‘What do we want to do here?’ The area wasn’t really Oktoberfest anymore; it wasn’t really Coney Mall,” said General Manager Mike Koontz. “We had an anchor here with [the restaurant], and we felt we should do something in this area to tie it all together and create a new experience. We felt there was an opportunity to take this area and reimagine it.”

Adventure Port comes with a backstory. The myths of an ancient civilization and its mighty city carved out of stone have lured travelers from around the globe to a bustling port community. Enrique, an unseen merchant, welcomes explorers searching for the lost city’s forbidden temple, fabled riches and mysterious wonders.

Adventure Port was created by a collective effort between JRA and Cedar Fair’s Experience Design and Creative Studio led by Chuck Meyer.

“I was pleased that we chose JRA just for the history that Jack Rouse had with Kings Island,” Koontz told Amusement Today. “I always like it when we can find Cincinnati companies willing to invest in the park. They feel a little bit of pride and ownership.”

Two new rides from Zamperla bring the action.

“Zamperla is thrilled to provide Sol Spin (Endeavor 24) and Cargo Loco (Tea Cup 12) to anchor the reimagining of Adventure Port,” said Michael Coleman, North American sales manager, Zamperla. “These two rides provide a broad appeal and give Adventure Port something for everyone to enjoy. The height restrictions on these rides allow for all demographics to have a great experience.”

“We knew we were going to be partnering with Zamperla,” said Koontz. “When I was researching their inventory of rides, I saw the teacup ride which wasn’t exactly the same as the old Der Spinnen Keggers (1972 – 1989) but similar. Some of that nostalgia is really important to our guests.”

Themed as shipping barrels, Cargo Loco has 12 vehicles in which riders have complete control of the spinning action. Humorously, when the ride arrived, all the barrels had some sort of alcohol printed on the side. The park decided to create a variety of options ranging from pecans to potatoes to pinto beans.

“Our ride associates are phenomenal,” laughed Koontz. “They’ve already incorporated in their interactions with [comments] like “Hey, Fish Oil is spinning faster than everybody else. Way to go, Fish Oil.’ They are making a fun experience for our guests.”

“Cargo Loco riders have the ability to control the amount of spin in each barrel, which allows guests to sit back and relax or have a truly dizzying experience,” added Coleman.

Sol Spin is a throwback to a previous Enterprise ride called Skylab that operated from 1986 to 1997.

The Adventure Express roller coaster (Arrow, 1991) has received some new embellishments, including a new entrance and sharp signage. Refurbished effects and new props will allow eagle-eyed riders to note the differences, many of which are in the station itself.

JRA did their first walk-through of the area in early summer of 2022.

“We completed designs by September,” added Kate Batt, project manager, JRA. “Through November was a detailing phase.”

“It was understood that Adventure Express was to stay the theme that it was, and the interest was to build a theme around Adventure Express to embrace the area,” said Corie Flood, designer, JRA. “We took over the Oktoberfest beer garden as part of this zone.

The longstanding restaurant has been elevated to a more colorful experience. Although the facility has been known by many names, it is now Enrique’s to fit into Adventure Port’s storyline. The menu features hand-crafted burritos. The backside, now called Mercado, is more of a bar area where tables with colorful umbrellas look over a small pond with Enrique’s boat afloat.

“We wanted it to be fun and very vibrant and stand out,” said Flood. “It’s very welcoming; it’s very inviting.”

Through the rockwork, colors, entry portal and new signage, Adventure Port intrigues returning visitors with new ambiance.

“I grew up from around here and came to Kings Island,” Flood told AT. “It’s very fun to see Kings Island embrace more theme park-esque zones and give the guests a more immersive experience rather than something that is more ‘amusement park.’”

“Investing in the theming and storytelling and details is exciting,” added Batt. “Enrique is part of our story. Everything he does is kind of homemade. We took a lot of scenic aging in painting to give it that type of character.”

Intamin, Sally team-up to create one-of-a-kind attraction

PortAventura World debuts Uncharted dark ride/coaster experience

AT: Tim Baldwin

tbaldwin@amusementtoday.com

SALOU, Spain — The Far West themed land of PortAventura has a new look on its skyline. A rocky, cliff-like exterior disguising its newest attraction is breathtaking. The red-orange rock and sparse vegetation offer a realistic desert setting. A western-looking building in front of the façade helps further set the stage.

Uncharted: The Enigma of Penitence is an innovative and creative leap for indoor attractions. It is promoted as a dark ride, but to be more accurate, it is a combination of a roller coaster and a dark ride. Among the partnerships are Intamin Amusement Rides and Sally Dark Rides. The investment is a reported €25 million.

Based on the Uncharted film from Sony, which was based on a popular video game, the indoor attraction has numerous moments to wow guests.

“This attraction is the outcome of a pivotal agreement with an industry giant in entertainment, Sony Pictures,” said David Garcia, managing director, PortAventura World. “The alliance permits us to extend our global footprint by means of a product that is truly state-of-the-art on an international scale and stands equal to the finest attractions globally.”

“The PortAventura, Sony and Sally Dark Rides teams all got together to use the Uncharted movie as a reference point. We were able to develop a unique story that we can bring to PortAventura’s guests that takes them on an incredible ride through an amazing adventure,” said Rich Hill, chief creative officer, Sally Dark Rides. “It’s a dark coaster experience that is also telling a story. There is so much packed into this attraction.”

This attraction is the first collaboration between Sally and Intamin.

“The Multi Dimension Coaster is the first of its kind in many ways,” said Sascha Czibulka, executive vice president, Intamin. “It is not only the world’s first indoor quintuple LSM launch coaster but also features the world’s first side launch.”

The length of the track is just shy of 2,300 feet. The tallest height of the track inside the building is 40 feet. Each of the three trains seats 12 riders.

“This unique dark ride coaster has Europe’s first side drop, as well as the first dark ride offering drifting maneuvers with controlled spinning vehicles,” Czibulka told Amusement Today. “It is the first Multi Dimension Coaster in Spain, and therefore has many first-off elements in the country such as Spain’s first backward drop, first backward launch and Spain’s first launched spike element. All of these unique coaster technologies give guests an incredibly thrilling, two-minute indoor coaster experience.”

Luis Valencia, development director of PortAventura World, is confident the opening of Uncharted: The Enigma of Penitence reinforces the resort’s role as being a disruptor in the entertainment industry: “The implementation of cutting-edge technology and the characteristics of its multi-dimensional journey offers plenty of surprises with its many twists and turns, special effects and audiovisuals. The immersive storytelling is really exciting and promotes very positive values.”

“We like to create stories based on amazing characters,” said Hill. “Our goal is to bring the Uncharted story to PortAventura’s guests in the form of this incredible roller coaster experience.”

The entire adventure takes place in a 55,666-square-foot building. The queue is incredibly immersive and helps begin to spin the tale for explorers. Animatronics from Sally in the queue are effective at conveying what is about to transpire. Multiple thematic rooms keep the detail elaborate throughout. Repeat riders are bound to see fun details they hadn’t on the previous journey. Many characters from the movie and video games via screen offer more of the storytelling.

Sally had previously worked with PortAventura on its Sesame Street: Street Mission family dark ride.

“With Uncharted, we are taking it to a new level,” said Hill. “The thrill, the motion of the vehicle, the dynamic ride system — we think that guests who are coming to experience this attraction are going to experience something new and exciting.”

“This Multi Dimension Coaster is not only highly innovative in terms of layout and ride experience but also in respect to the technology incorporated ensuring the highest safety and maximum comfort,” said Czibulka.

RCS was responsible for the construction.

Guests with functional disabilities are offered to “ride” through a virtual reality experience.

An immersive themed retail area complements the attraction.

“Our guests can anticipate an unmatched, innovative experience that enhances the diversity and quality of attraction offered,” said Garcia. “All of this reinforces our position as one of the premier tourist destinations in both Europe and the world.”

New Super Himalaya is a hit with Quassy's guests

AT: Pam Sherborne

psherborne@amusementtoday.com

MIDDLEBURY, Conn. — The new Bertazzon Super Himalaya, which opened at the beginning of Quassy Amusement Park and Water Park's 2023 season in Middlebury, Connecticut, has proven to be a real crowd pleaser.

"It is a beautiful ride and a great addition for us," said Eric Anderson, park owner. "It has over 7,000 lights and has great sound. It was just built great. Our guests love it."

Also known in parts of the world as the Musik Express, this fast-paced, circular thrill ride features 20, three-passenger cars connected in a circle. It travels at speeds of up to 12 revolutions per minute as it speeds through peaks and valleys. It rotates in both a forward and backward position.

Anderson said the ride 's size is 60 feet by 60 feet. He feels the fact that three friends can sit together only adds to the fun experience.

The Super Himalaya replaces an older ride the park had had for many years, a Chance Rides Music Fest.

It joins the lineup of more than 20 rides at Quassy that range from kiddie to thrilling.

After major additions to Quassy over the past two years, Anderson said for the 2024 season, they plan to shift to cosmetics and maintenance improvements to the park.

In 2022, the park added a new ProSlide water slide. The slide uses ProSlide's RocketBlast water propulsion system, which implements water jets to push two-person rafts up rapid inclines and through several bowl segments for a total of three launches.

"So, for 2024, we don't have anything big planned," noted Anderson.

Quassy opened for the 2023 season at the end of April for weekend operations and went fulltime June 1.

The park is celebrating its 115-year birthday this year, having been founded as an amusement park in 1908. It was originally called Lake Quassapaug as it sits on the south shore of Lake Quassapaug. In its early years, it was more of a summer resort featuring swimming, a picnic grove, dancing and a carousel.

It was after World War II that Quassy established itself as a full-fledged amusement park with the addition of more rides, then eventually the water park.

•quassy.com

Reimagined Saw Mill Plunge, entrance highlight Castle Park's 2023

AT: Pam Sherborne

psherborne@amusementtoday.com

RIVERSIDE, Calif. — Visitors to Castle Park in Riverside, California, have been eagerly awaiting the reopening of the park's reimagined iconic Saw Mill Plunge flume ride. An exact date hasn't been set, but it will be very soon.

Parkgoers already have experienced some of Castle Park's other additions and improvements. The other large one, aside from the Saw Mill Plunge, is the new main gate, meeting guests at the opening of the 2023 season in May.

Park officials were pleased to be able to debut the new main gate that incudes a new Castle Park sign, new ticket booths and a fully repainted entrance area.

"Guests also will see brand-new royal signage throughout the park adding to the all-new theming for park-goers," said Ken Withers, park general manager.

Yet, Withers knows parkgoers are eager to eperience the reimagined Saw Mill Plunge as they watch the finishing touches being put into place.

"Anticipation is building for the opening of the park’s reimagined classic water ride, Saw Mill Plunge," Withers said. "Our guests just can’t wait to float through the retro saw mill experience, through twists, turns and rushing rapids as they splash their way down a towering plunge."

Withers said the Palace Entertainment-owned Castle Park teamed up with Whitewater West, a leading water park manufacturer headquartered in Vancouver, British Columbia, to implement a new state-of-the-art operating system and five new four-person logs as part of the Saw Mill Plunge's upgrade.

The new ride also will sport a new retro look and new paint featuring shades of blue. In addition, it has received a new control system and new sensors throughout.

The Saw Mill Plunge originally opened at Castle Park in 1989. It was designed by Castle Park founder Bud Hurlbut. The reimagined ride has the classic flume ride’s exterior while guests will float through a retro sawmill experience.

Withers said the park-wide transformation for 2023 focused on the main gate enhancements plus the retroduction of the Saw Mill Plunge.

"But we are always looking ahead to make sure Castle Park continues being Riverside's best theme park," Withers said.

Castle Park features over 25 rides and attractions. There are four, 18-hole championship miniature golf courses, a water play area and a vast selection of carnival midway and arcade games.

The park's water area, Buccaneer Cove, features a four-level water play area, five water slides, an aqua dome, spray cannons and more. Also offered are chair and cabanna rentals and a food and sundry area.

Castle Park's arcade offers a rotating line-up of the latest state-of-the-art video games mixed in with popular classics. There are more than 50 arcade games, air hockey, pop-a-shot and over 30 claw and ticket redemption games.

•castlepark.com

Paradox Museum New Jersey coming to American Dream in July

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. — Paradox Museum announced that its third U.S. location will officially open its doors this July at the American Dream mall.

With more than 70 “mind-twisting, eye-tricking” exhibits encompassing 11,000 square feet, Paradox Museum New Jersey will force guests to rethink what’s real and what’s not, with exhibits that will challenge the senses and make for the ultimate photo opp.

“We’re incredibly excited to finally be able to bring the unique, one-of-a-kind experience that only the Paradox Museum can offer to New Jersey,” said Marc Gregory Tipton, regional sales and marketing manager, Paradox Museum. “We could not imagine a better home for the museum than American Dream and know that once guests enter through our doors, they’ll be drawn to fully explore the intricacies of the paradoxes before them, challenged to think again and again about what’s real and what’s not.”

Adding to a large list of unique American Dream attractions, Paradox Museum New Jersey will feature dozens of stand-out exhibits, including its popular Upside Down room where all objects — and people — will seem to defy gravity. Curated specifically for the New Jersey market, the Upside Down Room at Paradox Museum New Jersey will be set in a “Jersey Diner.” Guests can strike poses as though they’re sipping on a milkshake at the bar or sitting down ready to order dinner, all while through the lens of their camera, their world literally gets turned upside down.

Ideal for all ages and interests, a trip through Paradox Museum New Jersey will take visitors approximately 60 to 90 minutes. Team members will be available to guide guests as they explore elaborate exhibits and puzzling experiences, all while learning about vision, perception and the human brain. The museum will also include the Paradox Boutique where visitors can purchase souvenirs, games, clothing, accessories, and gadgets exuding paradox. The collection of fun, entertaining and educational products has been curated to challenge perspectives to exercise the brain.

 Founded by the Paradox Group, the New Jersey destination joins three other Paradox Museum locations in the United States and five locations in Europe; more than two dozen additional locations are in development through 2024.

Romania's Miramagica now cashless with Intercard

ST. LOUIS, Mo. — Intercard has installed a cashless technology system at Miramagica, a family amusement park in Bucharest, the capital city of Romania. The venue is owned by Britta Trading, the leading operator of FECs in the country. Miramagica is located in the heart of celebrated Herastrau Park in Bucharest.

Intercard’s Austin Lacy did the installation on-site in May 2023. Miramagica offers visitors more than 30 rides and attractions including bumper cars, bumper boats, a mini train, a carousel, a drop tower and a Ferris wheel. The new cashless system replaces an outdated token system.

“Miramagica Park draws large numbers of families with children and the new cashless system will make it easier for them to enjoy the rides and attractions,” stated Lacy. “It’s a classic amusement park with a great mix of old and new rides in a beautiful park setting.”

Two long weekends; six days for San Bernardino County Fair

AT: B. Derek Shaw

bdshaw@amusementtoday.com

VICTORVILLE, Calif. — This year, the Saturday to Memorial Day Monday in May and the first Friday to Sunday in June were the operating dates for the San Bernardino County Fair. Located in the high desert section of California, the 84-acre fair has been delighting guests for 76 years.

Helm and Sons Amusements from Colton, California. was the carnival provider, bringing in 40 rides with an equal split between major and kiddie. There were two areas for kiddie rides. They also operated 10 games and five food stands. Pre-fair ride wristbands were $35 and $55 on-site.

“We were blessed with perfect fair weather — high 70s and low 80s with a slight breeze,” said Davey Helm, owner. “The economy [was not an issue] with the customers we saw. It was fantastic.”

Making its debut on the Helm and Sons midway was a brand new 126-foot KMG Speed themed as Medusa. Also new to that spot was a newly refurbished Grand Prix roller coaster (Zierer). Majestic kiddie bumper cars were also new to the site. Brand-new Denny’s Electric Inc. LED lighting packages were on both the Giant Wheel (Chance Rides) and Century Wheel (also Chance). The top three rides were the Giant Wheel, Medusa and Grand Prix roller coaster. Ride revenue was just shy of $600,000.

Helm had positive comments about the fair and fairgrounds: “It’s a great venue that also doubles as one of three of our primary winter quarters. Also, there’s a great management team in Victorville.”

When asked about employment challenges and strategies, Helm said, “We opened later this year from 2 to 10 p.m. and look to go from 3 to 11 p.m. next year each day to ensure our teammates get proper rest away from working at the fair. These hours are ideal, and we feel are the model hours of operation in California for fairs and carnival-driven festivals. [It is] late enough in the day to beat the heat [and] early in the night to avoid the late-night issues that can arise.”

The first weekend featured a monster truck event, demolition derby and a pro-open bull riding event brought to the fair by Western Heritage Rodeo. The second weekend featured entertainment. Acts in the concert series included Mexican singer Ana Bárbara and country singer Michael Ray, and a free-with-admission Night of Faith concert with Crowder, a contemporary Christian artist.

“This is our time to provide entertainment and showcase the future farmers and talents of our community,” SBC Fair CEO Jennifer Morgan said in a news release. “We’ve worked very hard to bring new and exciting things this year.”

The theme was "A Place Where Everyone Comes Together." General admission at the gate was $10, with children 2 and younger free. Parking onsite was $5.

The 2024 fair takes place May 25-27 and May 31-June 2.

•sbcfair.com

On the Midway: First Fruits Farm Memorial Balloon Festival

LOUISBURG, N.C. — The First Fruits Farm Memorial Balloon Festival was held June 3-4 at the 1,000-acre property in Louisburg, North Carolina. Walkways were lined with photos honoring fallen military personnel and guests were treated to afternoon entertainment which included the All-Veterans Parachute Team, DareDevil Dogs (presented by Purina), hot air balloon glow, amusement rides, bands, fireworks and more. Numerous veteran organizations were on hand with displays and related information. Admission was $15 per person with parking also $15. A VIP pass ($95) included admission, preferred parking, private tented area with buffet dinner and beverages. A balloon mass ascension as well as tethered rides were available in the early evening prior to the glow. The event was originally scheduled for Memorial Day weekend but postponed due to inclement weather

—Ron Gustafson

Transformed Sandcastle Waterpark welcomed guests in May

AT: Jeffrey Seifert

jseifert@amusementtoday.com

WEST HOMESTEAD, Pa. — Sandcastle Waterpark completed a massive two-year park improvement project just in time for its Memorial Day holiday weekend opening. Guests entering the park those first few days of the season noticed the changes immediately as the first thing they see when entering the park is a brand-new sign and steel archway with illuminated lettering.

Inside, all of the slides have been recoated and refreshed by Safe Slide Restoration of Fredericksburg, Missouri. Buildings were made brighter and better with new themes and fresh new colors with work undertaken by local contractors and painters. A few new attractions have been added as well. New foliage, flowers and ornamental grass have updated the landscape, making for a more pleasing environment. The lockers have been refurbished and the locker area has been refreshed with vibrant new hues and new signage promoting attractions within the park. Guests will continue to find bright new colorful signage identifying food venues and attractions throughout the park.

“We are looking forward to welcoming guests to the brand-new Sandcastle this season, with eye-catching upgrades throughout the entire park,” said Assistant General Manager Zach Zapf. “The team has been working hard to elevate the park experience in every way. Our guests are sure to be wowed by all the improvements.”

Mon Tsunami wave pool and the family-friendly Mushroom Pool have a new brick façade, backdrops and a waterfall element. Dragon’s Den, the park’s tube chute/bowl slide that featured a dragon in the bowl, has been updated with a new dragon at the entrance and a new water-spraying dragon in the bowl. A misty spray has been added to help shroud the abyss into which riders plunge as they exit the bowl.

The Sandcastle Bridge Bar and Grill now sports a new beachy atmosphere and a turfed area outside adds Cornhole for visitors to play. Giant garage-style doors can be opened to expand the space and let in fresh air. An all-new menu embodies the seaside feel with offerings such as shrimp tacos, fish and chips, frozen margaritas, tropical cocktails and more. On the Boardwalk, the famous dipped cone from sister-park Kennywood will now be served at the water park.

Under the slides, kids and families can enjoy digging in the new Sandbox and creating sand sculptures. An oversized Adirondack chair provides a perfect opportunity for family photos.

Sandcastle will offer special events all summer long to give guests a reason to revisit. During Father's Day weekend the park held its annual Father's Day Flop belly flop contest. Jammin’ July will feature live music every Saturday and Sunday in July from some of the finest bands in the southwestern Pennsylvania region.

Sandcastle Waterpark opened in 1989 by Kennywood Entertainment on land that once housed a railroad switching yard for U.S. Steel. Located about five miles from Kennywood, the two have always been cross-promoted in the Pittsburgh market.

In 2007 Kennywood Entertainment sold its properties to Parque Reunidos, an international park operator based in Madrid, Spain. Palace Entertainment, which was established in 1998 and operated amusement parks, water parks and FECs throughout the United States and England, was acquired by Parque Reunidos in 2007 and became a subsidiary of the parent company. In 2020 Palace Entertainment established a corporate facility near Kennywood and is now primarily involved with the operation of parks and attractions in the United States on behalf of Parque Reunidos.

Great Wolf Lodge Poconos expansion nears completion

AT: Jeffrey Seifert

jseifert@amusementtoday.com

TANNERSVILLE, Pa. — Great Wolf Lodge Pocono Mountains, one of the earlier-built lodges, is nearing completion of a $125 million expansion and update project. The massive multi-phase project has been in the works since 2019 — nearly 15 years after the lodge opened in 2005.

The expansion includes a new outdoor pool, ropes course, entertainment area, additional eateries and 30 three-bedroom woodland villas. The property’s grand lobby has been updated with new carpeting, furniture and fixtures. In a press release at the time of the announcement, the general manager indicated that significant enhancements would be made to nearly every inch of the resort. A new tower adds 202 family-friendly suites bringing the total room count to 633, which makes it the second-largest resort in the Great Wolf portfolio.

The expansion project also includes the addition of 40,000 square feet to the indoor water park along with seven new slides. Among the new attractions is Mountain Edge Raceway, a four-lane mat racer with added twists. Otter Run is a body slide with multiple twists and turns. Wolf Tail is an enclosed side winder with a drop capsule launch. Slides similar to Wolf Tail at other Great Wolf lodges have proven to be extremely popular. Slidewinder is a tube slide that guests can enjoy with double or single tubes. The double tubes have the new seating arrangement that places one rider backward and the other forward. As thrill seekers encounter high-banked, open-air curves, they may find themselves switching direction. The finale is a mini-tornado and a 180-degree banked turn before plunging into the splashdown.

Once the expansion is complete, it will result in nearly 118,000 square feet of water attractions. The addition of seven new slides brings the total slide count to 20.

An outdoor pool, Racoon Lagoon, features an oversized resort-style pool with interactive fountains, poolside seating and a poolside bar.

A new restaurant, Fireside, is the first full-service restaurant at the Poconos location. True to its name, the restaurant specializes in bringing the outdoors indoors with fire-cooked dishes such as New York Strip steak, grilled salmon, burger and smoked chicken wings. Fireside seats about 200 people in the dining room and another 20 at the full-service bar. Along with the fire-cooked dishes are salads, soups, sandwiches and additional entrees. The restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The resort’s existing buffet restaurant was renovated to provide a more modern aesthetic and to create more seating options for families. It has been given a new name — Timbers Tables.

Opened in 2005, the Poconos property was built at a cost of $150 million. In 2019 all 401 guest suites were updated and additional attractions for children were added. The first phase of the expansion was completed in 2022 and added a Dunkin’ Restaurant, Woods End Creamery ice cream shop and Great Wolf Candy Company store.

There are currently 20 Great Wolf Lodges in North America, with the newest in Perryville, Maryland, having recently opened.

Sesame Place refreshes water attractions with Sesame Street IP

AT: Tim Baldwin

tbaldwin@amusementtoday.com

LANGHORNE, Pa. — In 1981, Sesame Place opened its gates, and families with young children have since been entertained with activities just their size. For more than four decades, the park has evolved and seen major growth.

The property offers a variety of amusement attractions, as well as shows. Rides come in the form of both water park offerings and dry rides. Since the Sesame Street IP has become part of SeaWorld Entertainment, Elmo, Big Bird, Abby Cadabby and the various characters have been seen more prominently.

At the Pennsylvania property, Sesame Street characters are giving an entirely fresh look to established areas in the park. A major transformation now themes an area as Big Bird’s Beach.

“The slides and pools that are now a part of Big Bird’s Beach were previously themed as Twiddlebug Land, giving guests the unique perspective of a twiddlebug,” said Meagan Passero, communication manager, Sesame Place. “As a result, everything was made to look larger than life. While Twiddlebug Land will always hold a place in our hearts, Sesame Place strives to remain current and provide new, exciting experiences to guests. Our water rides and play areas are among our most popular attractions, and we know these new areas will be excellent additions to our already world-class offerings.”

One of the partners on the project was 3dxScenic, a fabrication division of L!VE, which creates immersive, three-dimensional design for events and experiences.

“Big Bird’s Beach is the new land that resides on the former location of Twiddlebug Land,” said Brittany Frosio, 3dx’s project manager for Big Bird Beach. “The old land, while having well-served the park, was looking a bit dated, and management wanted to provide a larger footprint from some of Sesame Street’s better-known characters. Now Elmo, Rosita and Abby have their own attractions named for them.”

“The new Sesame Place marquee sign atop Elmo’s Surf and Slide sits where the iconic Rubber Ducky once resided and serves well as a roadside billboard both for guests inside and approaching the park, said Mark Rosenzweig, senior account executive, 3dxScenic. “For Rubber Ducky afficionados, fear not — the rubber ducky is now placed on ground level near the Sesame Street neighborhood and serves as a fantastic photo op. The mural wall behind the wave pool was the largest single element in this project.”

“Our fans have always been passionate about the park, and while they were at first surprised to hear about the update, they have since celebrated the transformation and new attractions with us,” Passero told Amusement Today.

3dx worked around some wrinkles to make the project a success.

“Installing the wave pool mural was particularly challenging as the pool had already been filled with water, so our teams had to rig the segments from the service road behind the pool,” said Frosio.

3dx had worked at Sesame Place’s sister park in San Diego when it was transformed from the former Aquatica in 2022.

“This was retheming of a land of the park rather than the entire park but still makes up a considerable footprint in the water park area,” Rosenzweig said. “The new land gives a more immersive beach-like feel with palm trees and sculpted sand — the latter used as bases for signage. The land also has over 25 surfboards serving as décor on Elmo’s Surf and Slide tower.”

“We always work closely to exchange ideas with our sister park, Sesame Place San Diego, and we’re pleased to see that our fans on the West Coast enjoy the park as much as they do on the East Coast!” said Passero.

“The most rewarding aspect of transformative projects like Big Bird’s Beach is watching the park guests enjoy and interact with the new land,” said Rosenzweig. “Big Bird’s Beach truly is a park within a park as it is home to the property’s rebranded family raft slide, tube slides, wave pool and splashpad. This truly was a perfect collaboration between 3dx, Sea World Parks and Sesame Workshop that has added new layers of color and immersion to one of the most popular areas of the park.”  

Updated attractions in Big Bird’s Beach include Elmo’s Surf ‘n’ Slide, a six-person raft slide; Abby’s Splash & Spray Garden, a water oasis with a giant water can sprinkler; Rosita’s Seaside Slides (single or double tube); and Little Bird’s Bay, a 10,000-square-foot family wave pool with a maximum depth of 18 inches.

At the all-new water play area, Bert & Ernie’s Splashy Shores, kids can interact with tipping buckets, spraying jets, a water curtain, a water bobble and a spraying water tower.

“The Sea World and Sesame Place teams were a joy to collaborate with,” said Frosio. “They were amazing partners through the entire process of the project from concept to installation. 3dx is proud to have partnered with Sesame Place on yet another fantastic scenic install.”

Extreme Engineering introduces the new towering Hooli-Hoop attraction

AT: Pam Sherborne

psherborne@amusementtoday.com

ATHENS, Texas — Officials of Extreme Engineering, a global supplier in engineering design and family-friendly attractions, has had a busy spring introducing its latest attraction, the Hooli-Hoop Tower ride.

Company officials debuted the ride at this year’s IAAPA Expo Asia held at the Marina Bay Sands in Singapore, June 13-16.

The Hooli-Hoop is being touted as triple the fun since it includes three towers that interact with each other by launching, dropping and spinning riders down the twisted columns. Each Hooli-Hoop offers different ride paths and intensities all while operating in close proximity of each other.

"This ride breaks the mold from traditional tower attractions,” said Phil Wilson, chief development officer of Extreme Engineering. "The Hooli-Hoop is perfect in modular spaces, indoors and can allow up to 18 riders at all times."

The Hooli-Hoop attraction offers unique features and a one-of-a-kind ride experience for families to share. It stands 27 feet high. There is an optional rotating platform for extra thrills and spins.

“One of the best ride features is that the towers allow riders to come into close proximity with each other," Wilson said. "You feel as you can almost reach out and high-five the rider next to you.”

The Hooli-Hoop was designed in the spirit of being inclusive to small children and adults to enjoy, allowing a rider height as short as 40 inches.

The Hooli-Hoop's accessibility for most indoor spaces is an advantage as the company begins its marketing. It only needs an entry door of eight feet wide by 10 feet tall. The three towers fit within a 40-foot footprint, safely operating in the closest ride envelope as possible.

The new ride offers over 540 riders per hour, the optional rotating platform, creative theming options and comes at a competitive price point.

Hooli-Hoop’s name was created by Oliver Wilson, age seven years. He is the grandson of Jeff Wilson, founder of Extreme Engineering. When the young Wilson first saw the ride, he immediately referred to it as Hooli-Hoop. The inspired name stuck.

The Hooli-Hoop is another addition to Extreme Engineer's arsenal of rides and attractions. For more than 28 years, the company has supplied the amusement and entertainment industry family coasters, engineering design and adventure rides.

The company is the creator of patented mobile rock-climbing walls and auto-belay systems. Some of the company's installations include the Cloud Coaster roller coaster, High-Action Adventure parks, ziplines, Extreme Air launchers, climbing walls and many other theme park attractions around the world.

•extremeengineering.com

Palace Entertainment announced the appointment of Michael (Mike) Lusky as general manager of Adventureland Resort in Altoona, Iowa, and Donald Spiller as general manager of Raging Waters Los Angeles.

Lusky will lead the Adventureland Resort team and will also support Sea Life Park Hawaii as group manager. Lusky has worked for various companies in the theme park, water park and hospitality spaces, including Six Flags Entertainment, Great Wolf Resorts, Premier Parks and Funtime Inc.

Spiller is a seasoned theme park veteran who brings more than 25 years of experience, most recently serving as General Manager for the past four years at Six Flags Hurricane Harbor of Phoenix, Arizona. Spiller served in operational positions of increased responsibility at Six Flags Magic Mountain and Hurricane Harbor in Los Angeles. He is well-respected in the industry and has several technical credentials as an AIMS International instructor and certified Ellis and Associates lifeguard instructor.

“We couldn’t be more pleased to have Mike and Donald join the Palace team,” said Chief Operating Officer, Bonnie Weber. “Their years of hands-on industry experience and breadth of knowledge will add great value to the organization.”

Six Flags Entertainment Corporation has named Brian Bacica park president for Six Flags Great Adventure properties, which includes Six Flags Great Adventure, Hurricane Harbor New Jersey and Six Flag’s Wild Safari Drive-Thru Adventure. In joining the Six Flags Great Adventure team, Bacica brings with him a diverse knowledge of the attractions industry and a strong history of leadership.

Six Flags VP of Operations, Public Safety, Maintenance, and Engineering Jason Freeman was at the park to share the announcement with the Six Flags Great Adventure team. Freeman offered: “Brian’s years of experience in leadership roles and his diverse background in food and beverage, events, and theme parks, make him the perfect choice to lead these three extraordinary properties.”

Bacica most recently served as a regional vice president at TriMark USA and has held executive positions with Au Bon Pain and Peak Event Services. He spent much of his career in theme parks including roles with the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California, and Universal Parks & Resorts.

“I am extremely excited about the opportunity to work for the world’s largest regional theme park company at one of its most unique properties,” said Bacica. “I look forward to working with the team to continue driving park initiatives while enhancing the guest experience for years to come.”

Integrated cashless arcade payment system supplier Embed has named Kathleen Goy as its new marketing chief of staff. Goy, who is is currently the global head of events at Embed, will take on the role to lead marketing teams such as creatives, events, PR and media.

As Chief of Staff, Goy will be CMO Sara Paz’s right-hand woman in easing communications and operations in the department and across the Embed organization.

“I am honored to have this vote of confidence from the head honchos,” shared Goy. “I’m excited to see how I can encourage teams to fuel fun with this new role.”

Waldameer Park and Water World owner Paul Nelson passes

ERIE, Pa. — Ask anyone in northwestern Pennsylvania who is one of the major influencers in that region, Paul Nelson’s name would always be on that list. Paul T. Nelson died May 19 at age 89. He was a long-time owner and visionary of Waldameer Park & Water World, right near the entrance to Presque Isle State Park.

Nelson was a larger-than-life person always seen on the grounds of his beloved park, whether it be on a golf cart or foot, carrying a two-way radio, ready to respond at a moment’s notice. He was always smiling and always moving. He loved his park and it showed.

"I have a feeling and it's deep within me that we owe this community an awful lot," Nelson told the Erie Times-News in 2015, when the park won a Commitment to Erie award. "This is my hobby, instead of golf. My community is my hobby. I like Erie, I like my community, and I want to keep it that way." The previous year, Nelson himself won a Commitment to Erie Legacy Award.

That commitment goes a long way back — 78 years to be exact, when Nelson was just 11. He started to work for park owner, Alex Moeller, who adopted Paul and eventually willed the place to him. Nelson became general manager when Moeller died in 1965. The year prior, Nelson served as president of the Pennsylvania Amusement Parks Association.

By the late 1970s, the park was showing its age, and an infusion was needed to bring new life into the place. Nelson knew what to do. He sold off the animals from the carousel (replacing them with fiberglass ones) using those proceeds to help fund the Water World expansion, which opened in 1986.

Every few years, new rides were added, continually refreshing the park and keeping it current. Its signature ride would be put in for the 2008 season, the Ravine Flyer II wooden roller coaster. Shortly before his passing, Nelson was actively involved in the installation of Rocket Blast, a $9 million water coaster addition to Water World that opened this season.

“[During one visit] we had a long chat about family parks, as well as some interesting stories about Bill Tracy, the man that created Waldameer's Whacky Shack, Pirate's Cove and who created some figures for the miniature railroad. A lot of history is gone with the passing of Paul,” said Rick Davis DAFE founder.

Book author Jim Futrell shared a couple of Nelson memories, concluding with, “It showed how successful you can be in life if you truly love what you do, pay attention to the little things and don't lose sight of the big picture.”

Although Nelson is no longer around, the park is in good hands as three family generations will keep it going and growing.

—B. Derek Shaw

David Dean, former president of Lubbock's Joyland, dies at 67

LUBBOCK, Texas — James “David” Dean died peacefully in the loving care of his wife, Kristi, at their home in Lubbock, Texas, on May 29. He was 67.

His parents, Jimmy and Katie Dean, acquired a small park in Lubbock (Mackenzie Park Playground) in 1973 and renamed it Joyland. The Dean family transformed it and grew Joyland over the years. The park offered classic rides and modern thrillers.

For 50 seasons, Joyland entertained families in Lubbock and surrounding towns. [See Amusement Today, June 2022.]

David often commented that the best memories he had of owning Joyland were seeing the smiles on people’s faces.

David was quite skilled with machines, which made him a natural fit to work with amusement rides. Anyone who knew David knew full well that he was an extremely hard worker.

In addition to his mechanical expertise, his most valuable contribution to Joyland was his heart. He loved the park, and he enjoyed welcoming kids and families each season. David was the true embodiment of all the admirable qualities and characteristics of being an owner of a family-owned traditional park.

“David Dean and his wife Kristi were always extremely welcoming to the coaster fans from Texas and surrounding states. Every other year, a group of enthusiasts would make a pilgrimage to visit Joyland, along with the other traditional park in West Texas, Wonderland in Amarillo. No matter how busy the day’s tasks kept him, he always shared his smile and interacted with fans when he could. Enthusiasts enjoyed listening to his tales when the group assembled for dinner. He was a kind and humble man, but his friendliness and hospitality were completely sincere. ACE will miss him,” said Jason Knutson, regional representative, American Coaster Enthusiasts.

A hobby of David’s was his love of cars and drag racing, which dated back to his childhood. He loved racing for the sheer enjoyment. In younger days, he participated in racing competitions and his winnings allowed him to buy an engagement ring to propose to Kristi. He loved taking his family, including his pets, to the races.

“I had known David since 1963, as the Deans were neighborhood friends and business partners in the amusement industry,” said Paul Borchardt, president, Wonderland Amusement Park. “One weekend when David was about nine, I had read that Amarillo had a drag strip and races were that weekend. He expressed a real interest in cars, so I took him with me. Many years later when Paula and I moved back to Amarillo, I became friends with him and admired his interest in MOPAR, as I was a Corvette man.”

The Deans made the decision to close Joyland last fall. Even though health concerns began to take their toll, he was still involved in finding homes for the many rides that delighted visitors at Joyland.

David’s impact on the city of Lubbock and its generations of families is unmistakable.

“I remember his positive and loyal attitude, always with a smile. He had a willing attitude,” said Borchardt.

He is survived by his wife, Kristi; her parents, Stan and Betty Blevins; his three sons Jason (and wife Jen), James (and partner Heather) and Zach (and fiancé Breeann), as well as his sister, Mary Haiduk and husband Ray.

—Tim Baldwin

RMC adds its 208 ReTraK to Fun Spot America's Mine Blower

AT: David Fake

Special to Amusement Today

KISSIMMEE, Fla. — 2023 has already been a “huge” year for Fun Spot America Theme Parks. Not only is it the park chain and FEC’s 25th anniversary year, but they also have made Fun Spot America Atlanta the year’s must-visit theme park for coaster enthusiasts by adding ArieForce One, a world-class coaster installation by Rocky Mountain Construction (RMC), that has been receiving rave reviews since it opened in March 2023.

Now, Fun Spot America Kissimmee has just reopened Mine Blower, its signature coaster, after a several-month closure for refurbishment and retracking. This process was conducted by RMC using their patented 208 ReTraK product as a replacement for traditional wood coaster track in key areas of the ride that had become noticeably rough since the thrilling Gravity Group-built coaster debuted in 2017.

Not only will the installation of the 500-plus feet of new RMC 208 ReTraK smooth out the rough spots, but it will also reduce maintenance in the long-term, due to its all-steel design.

“While we were working on another full-scale project with Fun Spot in Georgia, Mine Blower in Florida came up. [The park] was talking about doing some track repair and maintenance, and we said, ‘Hey, you know, this would probably be a good opportunity to being putting some of our 208 ReTraK system on Mine Blower,’” said RMC’s COO and Designer Jake Kilkup.

“Our 208 ReTraK is based on our patented I-Box track system and is essentially a reimagined version of our Topper Track, which has been out there for quite some time,” Kilkup added.

“In just about the same way that he came up with our Topper Track, our founder, Fred Grubb, saw that parks were replacing the same track every three to four years, and it was never a permanent solution. Parks don't necessarily want to reimagine an entire ride; they just want to lower maintenance costs,” he continued. “The layout might be great, and there's no need to change it, and we're just trying to smooth out the rough spots.”

The difference between RMC’s Topper Track and its 208 ReTraK is that the Topper Track still maintains a wood element. The 208 ReTraK is an all-steel track, but here RMC uses a premium grade weathered steel that doesn’t need to be coated.

“There is actually an element in the steel that causes a flash rust, and that rust is the coating that protects the material. So, the big idea was basically to be able to replace the wood track for the steel track but make it as affordable as possible and reduce maintenance and capex budgets,” said Kilkup.

The custom 208 ReTraK is precision-manufactured utilizing RMC’s laser measurement system, CNC plasma cutting abilities, and patented semi-automated welding technology. The premium grade weathered steel is manufactured to match the existing coaster profile and installs seamlessly to the coaster’s existing structure.

The key to cost savings is that the park does not need to retrack the full circuit all at once and, therefore, it does not become one huge payment for a park. By completing the conversion in this manner, the park is able to use money they already have allocated to be used for the maintenance of the ride.

RMC has been slowly replacing track in this as-needed manner on Tremors and Timber Terror at Silverwood in Idaho.

“We’ve been working our way through the troubled sections, one at a time, over the past three years and trying to help the park clean it up as much as they can and lower their maintenance costs for the ride,” Kilkup said.

According to RMC, the 208 ReTraK product lasts up to five times longer than traditional wood coaster track and eliminates the need for continuous inspection, repair and replacement of track sections. Additionally, 208 ReTraK is able to utilize a ride’s existing trains, mechanical system and controls. Value added is that 208 ReTraK delivers a smoother ride, reduces downtime and improves wheel longevity.

208 ReTraK is designed and manufactured at RMC’s facility in Hayden, Idaho. Both as-needed track replacements or complete circuit, off-season retrack projects can be installed turnkey by RMC’s factory team or by the park with RMC providing onsite technical support.

While he is not at liberty to speak specifics, Kilkup says that RMC has several other “irons in the fire right now” regarding additional 208 ReTraK projects at other parks. “There has been a lot of interest, and a lot of conversations are already pretty far down the road.”

The Folks at Fun Spot America Theme Parks are also quite pleased with what RMC has brought to the table, both with ArieForce One at the Atlanta park and Mine Blower in Kissimmee.

“Working with RMC on our ArieForce One roller coaster at Fun Spot Atlanta in Fayetteville, Georgia, has been nothing short of incredible. Now, to work with RMC and their 208 ReTrak Solution on Mine Blower is a game changer for our park,” said John Arie Jr., Fun Spot president, and CEO.

John Chidester, senior vice president of marketing for Fun Spot, said that what ArieForce One has done for Fun Spot Atlanta has been “like flipping a switch on” when it comes to increased attendance and recognition on the national scale for the park. “We are very pleased. We still have a long way to go to where we want to be, but we're so proud of what our employees are doing to increase and maintain the visitation and repeat attendance so that people want to come back again and again. It’s amazing what a ride like ArieForce One has done to help people recognize ‘Oh, there is something different in Fayetteville and this is new and exciting.’”

As for Mine Blower, Chidester said, “The guys from Gravity Group gave us a great wood coaster, but we’ve learned that it's really expensive and difficult in Florida, probably more so than anywhere else, to maintain a wood coaster with the high heat, heavy rain, and humidity. It’s just so tough. We know the same reasons were why Iron Gwazi went from wood to steel. So, when the guys at RMC presented this retrack system and this became an option, we thought, ‘Okay, it's definitely worth exploring.’ We love what we have in Mine Blower, but if we're going to have a dynamic coaster, we need to make it more maintainable. This track replacement has only made it even more exceptional. Truly, it just does. We have already had enthusiasts out to ride it, and they're just loving it.”

Fun Spot America debuted on December 24, 1997 as a small five-acre park with go-karts, rides and an arcade. Twenty-five years later, Fun Spot America Theme Parks now feature more than 100 acres of family fun across three diverse and unique locations. The flagship Orlando location includes the city’s first wooden roller coaster in its 31-ride collection.

The Kissimmee park boasts the world’s tallest SkyCoaster in addition to Mine Blower, Florida’s only inverting wooden rcoaster.

•fun-spot.com

Fiesta Texas adds new coaster vehicles, opens new gaming lounge

AT: Tim Baldwin

tbaldwin@amusementtoday.com

SAN ANTONIO — Much is abuzz at Six Flags Fiesta Texas. The theme park has already introduced new festivals, debuted new shows and has given its water park a complete makeover (see AT JUNE 2023).

Its operations team has also taken a bold move. To help sustain full capacity, the majority of the roller coasters can now operate with maximum units. This spring, a third train for the park’s iconic Iron Rattler was supplied by Gerstlauer.

“With the new train, it allows us to operate consistently with a two-train operation year-round,” said Park President Jeffrey Siebert. “Before, when a train was in rehab or we were waiting for parts, it would go down to a one-train operation, which you can imagine with such a popular attraction, it was really not enjoyable for our guests. We don’t want to disappoint our guests with longer-than-necessary waits when we go through the rehab process.”

Typically, the refurbishment would take six to eight weeks, but Siebert also notes that the attraction’s trains are somewhat prototypical that have parts made just for Iron Rattler. The trains also feature thematic features on both the front car and the back car.

“As the story always goes, when we contacted Gerstlauer requesting a quote, they said, ‘You won’t believe it. We just cleaned out the warehouse a month ago and threw away the molds for the head and the tail.’ We actually sent the head and the tail for them to replicate,” Siebert told Amusement Today.

Interestingly, the park just purchased two new trains for the Vekoma Boomerang coaster. This seemed rather surprising owing to the fact that the shuttle coaster can only operate one train.

“The commitment has been to keep our rides running and make sure our guests are happy and offer a premium experience,” Siebert said. “Part of that was to upgrade the ride — all new controls, all new braking system, structural improvements and with two trains, the ride never has to go down for a two-month or three-month window. This allows us to get three months of additional rides with the ride constantly in circulation.”

The magnetic braking system has been noted for its quietness, and the new trains are the latest models that provide much more comfort than the original train from 1999. The frictionless brakes also reduce wear and tear and needed maintenance.

Siebert likes to note that the park’s Boomerang is the most-ridden model in the Six Flags chain.

Wonder Woman Golden Lasso Coaster, the original prototype Raptor coaster from Rocky Mountain Construction will soon undergo a similar refurbishment. Following the July 4 holiday, the coaster will also receive new control equipment, new booster tires and new brakes. In addition, all three trains will receive upgrades to be more in line with the second-generation models from RMC. This will be a several-months-long process.

It’s worth noting that when the Bolliger & Mabillard dive coaster, Dr. Diabolical’s Cliffhanger, opened last summer, Fiesta Texas debuted it with an additional train for consistent full capacity.

“It definitely allows us to operate all our [coasters] with multiple units year-round and still successfully doing the necessary rehab,” Siebert said.

Elsewhere in the park, Six Flags Fiesta Texas debuted the first-of-its-kind facility within any theme park. Called ESIX Gaming, the new lounge offers visitors the chance to take a break in a climate-controlled lounge with the latest top-of-the-line gaming equipment. The park has partnered with IGN Entertainment, the world’s number-one entertainment platform in gaming. According to park officials, IGN has more than 286 million unique users.

“With the development of this new state-of-the-art ESIX Gaming arena, Six Flags not only raises the bar for the amusement industry but also shows the world its commitment to the gaming category,” said IGN Strategic Partnerships and Innovation SVP Karl Stewart. “Their new arena offers guests unprecedented access to the latest games, technology and favorite teams in an intimate and highly competitive environment.”

The ultra-modern 52-seat lounge features a bar, bathrooms, cell phone charging stations and a shop to test and purchase the latest gaming equipment. The Razer gaming stations also include a Razer Live streaming station in which guests have the opportunity to broadcast and host their own live content, including a webcam, key lights, dynamic microphone and gaming chair within a sound-enclosed booth.

“The concept of esports and egaming has been kicked around for quite a while as it has grown in popularity,” said Siebert. “Colleges and universities are offering more scholarships. There are more national and local competitions, so the concept has been out there for a while. Early last year, the concept began solidifying with our partner Coca-Cola for creating the world’s first-of-its-kind space.”

The space is sleek and has futuristic lighting that exudes a cool vibe. Patrons can purchase play time by the hour starting at $10, and it becomes cheaper the longer a visitor plays. The streaming booth runs $14 per hour.

“While Six Flags is known for its thrills and innovation — many of our guests love the rides, the shows, fireworks and the water park — there is a huge audience out there that is just as thrilled by egames and sports, computer games … you name it,” said Siebert. “This is a space designed with the gamer in mind. Every piece of furniture is lit, and we can change the colors within a second if we need.”

The park partnered with the University of Texas San Antonio, and its student-based Roadrunner Gaming has helped run the facility. Staffing wasn’t an issue as the park received a huge response in the first week of applications.

Upstairs from the gaming venue is a new Coke VIP Lounge. It can help facilitate tournaments, and during regular daily operations diamond pass holders have a relaxation space, including food options and a bar.

Josefina’s Magical Imperial Journey — a makeover of family ride

AT: Tim Baldwin

tbaldwin@amusementtoday.com

RUST, Germany — Three years after Europa-Park opened, a towboat ride (Dschungel Floβfahrt) was added to the park’s lake in 1978. At the time, it featured an African theme. While slightly an odd fit for a park based on European countries, the ride still offered a scenic, relaxing ride through numerous props within the water.

As with the majority of the rides at Europa-Park, it was manufactured by Mack Rides.

Keeping more with European ties, the park has completed a two-year makeover of the ride. Long gone is the African feel aboard wooden rafts. Josefina’s Magical Imperial Journey now fits into the land of Austria.

“It had been in the park a long time. The biggest problem with a ride is the two or three months that we have to re-do it,” said Roland Mack, co-founder, Europa-Park. “Because it is in the middle of the park, that makes it tough for the decision to ‘go.’ In those three months, winter could be a big, big problem. When you work on things in the corner of the park, you can work on it year-round and not be in this terrible time pressure.”

The decision was to make it a two-year project. The groundwork and sewage were done just before the 2022 season. The boats and some improvements in decorations of the center of the lake came for the 2023 season.

“Europa-Park wanted to keep many aspects of the boat but still have a new look and feel of the ride,” said Maximilian Roeser, marketing, Mack Rides. “The boats themselves were designed in-house with many details of the decoration and a surprise: the little table at the last two rows of the boat allowing guests to have a drink or snack while riding on the lake. But everything else needed to be exactly the same to fit the existing decoration, the tow boat ride system and the station.”

The new boats are beautiful with fanciful adornments, flags and lampposts and take on a completely different feel. Nothing from the previous boats was retained.

“Everything is brand new. Only the connection to the tow cable is the same,” said Roeser.

One of the unique features of the new boats are the addition of small tables on certain boats where guests can purchase suitable snacks beforehand and enjoy them aboard during their journey.

“We came up with the idea to take food on the boat,” said Mack. “We will redo the restaurant side [of the food outlet] in the future, but we will keep the food idea to see if it can work. We offer certain food items that people can bring. I promised my grandson we would take food and ride together one day. Ideas like this are very special for small kids.”

Even after more than four decades, the original ride was still well-maintained and featured detailed scenes, playful fountains and numerous animatronics. The reimagining of the ride makes it even more elaborate. The tale along the way now includes the Yomis, which are mischievous and playful elf-like creatures. The Yomis are also featured in a film in the Enchanted Forest to further expand their adventures.

The ride’s finale, once a thematic cave, is now an elegant tunnel that showcases a royal wedding. An audio soundtrack also complements the journey on each boat.

Its high throughput is one of the ride’s other strengths.

“Josefina’s Kaiserliche Zauberreise (Magical Imperial Journey) is a ride that is appreciated by so many guests in the park,” Roeser told AT. “You get a very long ride time while you can sit back and relax and just be a spectator of the theming and the park itself. As this is a ride with about 1,500 guests per hour, it hardly sees a long line, and therefore it is a great attraction to just walk by and hop on. Also, it delivers to so many guests from the grandparents to the smaller children that now also can see the Yomis, a newly introduced story of fairytale figures that live and play in this area.”

Guests have embraced the ride, which lasts between nine and 10 minutes.

“It is getting a lot more riders in this format over its last incarnation!’ said Chip Cleary, park consultant.

“I think it looks good now,” Mack smiled.

StaCool Vests promise to keep workers safe, cool

LECANTO, Fla. — Developed by StaCool Industries, the StaCool Vest Core Body Cooling System is now available in luminescent safety colors. It's designed to help workers beat the summer heat, allowing work zone employees to stay safe, cool and productive despite elevated ambient temperatures.

The vests are fully adjustable and models are available in safety yellow, orange as well as green to wear over normal clothing, providing all-day comfort with unrivaled mobility. Under-vests are also available, to be worn under other clothing, so there is a StaCool Vest to suit any style, preference and application. Easy to care for, micro-thin, highly breathable materials provide wearers unsurpassed cooling comfort and mobility. ThermoPaks around vest provide hours of cooling; a spare set of ThermoPaks are included with each StaCool Vest to extend cooling time and comfort when the initial set thaws. A thermal barrier is built in to ensure wearer does not get too cold.

Ideal for road crews, welders, utility workers, power plant employees, foundry workers, industrial/manufacturing employees, Surgeons, Hazmat and military professionals, including those wearing level A protective clothing, fire departments, construction workers, landscapers and lawn crews, athletes, and anyone wanting to remain cool in hot conditions.

Vests can be purchased directly from StaCool Industries or through national distributors.

Maintaining a consistent core body temperature is safer than exposing workers to possible heat related illnesses such as heat exhaustion or heat stroke and since wearers are cooler, they are considerably more productive. Providing workers with cooling vests has proven to enhance employee satisfaction and retention.

•stacoolvest.com

Six Flags launches the first theme park Micro Markets

JACKSON TWP., N.J. and VALENCIA, Calif. — The Coca-Cola Company and Six Flags have teamed up to bring the first ever frictionless micro market experiences to theme park visitors. Since June 1, guests at Six Flags Great Adventure were able to purchase park essentials using Amazon's Just Walk Out technology, without waiting in line at the register.

“Quick Six is an innovative collaboration between Amazon, Coca-Cola and Six Flags that pairs refreshing Coca-Cola beverages with summer fun,” said Rachel Chahal, director of amusement and eatertainment partnerships at The Coca-Cola Company.

A seamless experience, the concept store, Quick Six, offers the first and only automated checkout-free shopping experience within a theme park. The store uses frictionless commerce technology to deliver a satisfying shopping experience for park guests, allowing them to save time and leave the store without having to wait in line to pay. Visitors can peruse the store, place items in their virtual cart and then simply leave when they’re done, with their selections automatically charged to the payment method used to enter the store.

“We are thrilled to be able to offer this convenience to our park guests,” explained Six Flags Vice President Stephanie Borges. “Checkout-free stores powered by Just Walk Out technology provide fast, seamless and contactless transactions, which we think will resonate really well in this setting.”

The 400-square-foot stores showcase a curated selection of Coca-Cola products, as well as snacks, sunscreen, ponchos and other must-haves for an enjoyable day at Six Flags Great Adventure and, later this summer, at Six Flags Magic Mountain.

"We're excited to be partnering with Amazon and Coca-Cola on a new retail location, Quick 6, opening at the park this summer," according to a Six Flags Magic Mountain representative. "This is a joint venture with Amazon and Coca-Cola that will offer the innovative 'just walk out' technology allowing guests to shop and purchase items without having to wait in line for a cashier."

Designed for convenience, this unique store integrates Amazon’s checkout-free technology to create an elevated guest experience that surprises and delights park guests, saves time, and generates revenue.

"We are excited to collaborate with Six Flags and Coca-Cola to deliver a better experience for guests and enable them to spend more time enjoying all these iconic parks have to offer,” said Jon Jenkins, vice president of Amazon’s Just Walk Out technology.