PITTSBURGH, Pa. — There are even more thrills in store for the 2025 season as Kennywood, Pittsburgh’s Thrill and Entertainment Destination, introduces its newest themed area, Kennywood Junction. Inspired by the park’s rich history and connection to the Steel City, Kennywood Junction offers fun for the entire family to experience together. Gearing up for a historic season, Kennywood will delight visitors from Pittsburgh and beyond, as the park begins its longest season ever on April 12. This year, the park introduces its best event lineup ever and opens the new Kennywood Junction, plus many more exciting surprises to come. Families are invited to strap in and get ready to ride on 412 Day, as the new Kennywood Junction opens and the park’s first-ever Eggcellent Easter Celebration begins.

Kennywood Junction will feature five newly rethemed rides, a new gift shop and a new celebration room. Details include:

• Olde Kennywood Railroad – Everyone is invited to hop aboard the historic railroad as it takes a journey through Kennywood’s storied past while taking in views of the Monongahela River and the Edgar Thomson Works, the oldest steel mill in the Steel City. The historic Gimbel’s Flyer, which debuted at the 1939 World’s Fair in New York and arrived at Kennywood in 1945, and the new Kenny Express will take you around for the ride. Along the way you will see pieces of beloved park history including a Log Jammer boat, Turnpike car, Kiddie Cadillac, and more;
• Kenny’s Cargo Drop – This high-flying adventure takes riders above Kennywood Junction on a cargo-lifting crane before quickly dropping and hopping them all the way down and back up;
• Parker’s Cloud Cruisers – Pint-sized thrills take center helicopter as riders become their very own pilot and take to the skies for a bird’s-eye view of the Raging Rapids and surrounding landmarks below;
• Fire Bustin’ Brigade – Visitors can jump on the back of a fire engine and spray water to extinguish flames while helping local Pittsburgh fire departments;
• Coal Haulin’ Convoy – Four diesel locomotives take guests for a ride as they take in the views of the new full newly themed area;
• Junction Gift Shop – After a lap on the Old Kennywood Railroad, guests can stop in new Junction Gift Shop to search for an unforgettable souvenir; and
• Celebration Room – The reimagined indoor space offers the perfect family friendly location to celebrate a birthday, graduation, family reunion or other special group outing.

The new Kennywood Junction will be the home of the park’s first ever Eggcellent Easter Celebration. Beginning on Opening Day, the fun hops in select days from Saturday, April 12 through Sunday, April 27. Guests will have the chance to meet and greet with the park’s newest costume character, Tuft the Kennywood Easter Bunny, hunt for eggs during the Easter egg scavenger hunt, enjoy spring themed food and beverage options and can even chow down on an unlimited brunch buffet.

“Kennywood and Pittsburgh are synonymous and our new family-friendly area, Kennywood Junction, pays tribute to just that, our park and its historic love for the Steel City,” said General Manager Ricky Spicuzza. “Beginning on 412 Day, the young and young at heart will be able to enjoy this all-new area and our first-ever Eggcellent Easter Celebration, offering even more reasons to visit the park egg-stra early this year.”

To celebrate the all-new themed area, Opening Day and upcoming Eggcellent Easter Celebration, the park is currently offering $50 off Platinum Season Passes during its Presidents’ Day Sale. This ultimate Kennywood Season Pass offers unique perks including admission to sister parks Sandcastle Water Park and Idlewild & SoakZone, free VIP parking, discounts on food and retail items and more for just five payments under $40 each.

ORLANDO — Universal Orlando Resort is serving up tasty new details about some of the incredible food and beverage offerings guests and clients can savor during their visit to Universal Epic Universe – officially opening on May 22, 2025 at Universal Orlando Resort. Known for consistently raising the bar, Universal Orlando’s award-winning culinary team has reached epic heights with the development of more than 100 creative new menu items that add yet another layer of immersion for guests to enjoy across the five imaginative worlds that make up the all-new theme park. Epic Universe marks the next step in elevating the dining experiences across the destination with food & beverage that goes beyond the typical theme park fare and has become an attraction in and of itself.

From full-service restaurants to fast casual dining locations, Epic Universe offers a wide range of menu items across 30 dining locations that feature options to satisfy every palate. Guests can savor everything from popular culinary staples like seafood, eclectic Asian, barbecue, Italian and French cuisine to uniquely themed items like the Butterbeer Crêpe in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, the Mario Burger in SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, Yaknog in How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk and Stakes in Dark Universe. 

Here is a first look at some of the appetizing items guests can expect at Universal Epic Universe: 

CELESTIAL PARK
While strolling through the heart of Universal Epic Universe, guests can find a diverse slate of cuisine across more than 15 dining locations, including the Atlantic restaurant – which sits across the shimmering waters of Neptune’s Pool and lives by the motto “Sea food? Eat food;” The Blue Dragon Pan-Asian Restaurant – where guests can dine under the constellations alongside two neon dragons adorning the walls, The Oak & Star Tavern – where guests can gather around an oak tree and relish in savory barbecue, and so much more. Some of the delicious dishes guests can enjoy in Celestial Park include:

• Sea Bass (Atlantic) – a delectable portion of Sea Bass nestled amid the subtle sweetness of carrot mochi and vibrant crunch of fresh sugar snap peas. Aromatic lemongrass broth complements the buttery bass, while starfruit slices add a splash of tropical cit-rus notes
• Landlubber’s Snickerdoodle Loot (Atlantic) – a fun beach-style dessert perfect for young explorers featuring a snickerdoodle cake served in a beach pail with cookie butter ganache, surrounded by Biscoff sand and gummy sharks
• Tonkotsu Ramen (The Blue Dragon Pan-Asian Restaurant) – this Asian comfort food features delicate ramen noodles immersed in a rich pork broth, topped with tender chashu pork, tare egg, shiitake mushrooms, and fragrant togarashi oil
• Platters with Mango Bread & Pickles – (The Oak & Star Tavern) – guests can choose from smoked brisket, smoked ribs, pulled pork, cheddar jalapeno sausage or spit-roasted herbed-infused chicken and pair with sides like braised greens, mac and cheese, and more
• Harvest Moon Pizza (VG) (Pizza Moon) – this vegan masterpiece features rich tomato sauce adorned with grilled artichoke hearts, Divina tomatoes and roasted peppers, topped with Castelvetrano olives and arugula for a crisp finish
• Grand Atlantic Martini (Atlantic) – a tantalizing cocktail with dry gin, aperitif wine and a gilded lemon twist for garnish
• Waturi Punch (Celestiki) – guests can transport to an island oasis with a refreshing blend of rum, bitters and fruit juices
• The Plastered Owl (The Oak & Star Tavern) – a perfectly blended cocktail crafted with dark rye whiskey, simple syrup, cherry syrup, lemon juice, lemon wedges and muddled cherries
• Khaosan Boba (The Blue Dragon Pan-Asian Restaurant) – a delightful blend of Thai-inspired milk tea and paired with coffee boba and frothy coffee foam
• Meteor Strike (Bar Zenith) – a cosmic blend of light rum, triple sec, zesty lime and pineapple juices, topped with lemon-lime soda and a sprinkle of edible gold glitter, and garnished by a flaming lemon extract-infused raw sugar cube meteor

THE WIZARDING WORLD OF HARRY POTTER – MINISTRY OF MAGIC
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic will include a variety of enchanting dining locations – Café L’air De La Sirène, Le Gobelet Noir and more – filled with French-inspired cuisine and new iterations of familiar favorites, including:

• Butterbeer Crêpe (Café L’air De La Sirène) – for the first time ever, guests can enjoy the flavors of Butterbeer in a crepe that includes shortbread cookie butter, Bavarian cream, Butterbeer cream, strawberries, Butterbeer drizzle and a Butterbeer shortbread cookie
• Baguette de Dinde (Café L’air De La Sirène) – a charmingly scrumptious dish featuring sliced cracked black pepper turkey piled high with arugula, crisp apples and creamy Brie served with a warm crusty baguette with zesty mustard butter and apple butter
• Alchemist’s Platter (Le Gobelet Noir) – an exquisite spread featuring smoked sausage, potato and cheese pierogies, tangy pickled eggs, vibrant marinated beets, savory caramelized onions, and a warm pretzel served with zesty German mustard and cheese fondue
• Lentil Stew (VG) (Le Gobelet Noir) – a hearty stew of lentils, savory vegan bacon, and vibrant root vegetables served with artisan bread
• Quiche Lorraine (Café L’air De La Sirène) – a savory dish featuring egg custard baked in a flaky pie crust filled with crispy bacon, gruyère cheese and caramelized onions with mornay sauce, and a side of fresh berries topped with a lavender honey drizzle

SUPER NINTENDO WORLD
Guests can power up for their next adventure in SUPER NINTENDO WORLD with tasty cuisine inspired by the story and experiences within the world at four dining locations like Toadstool Cafe, Yoshi’s Snack Island and more with items such as:

• Mario Burger (Bacon, Mushroom & Cheese) (Toadstool Cafe) – power up with this all-beef patty, topped with savory mushrooms, fresh lettuce, tomato and melted American cheese, served on a brioche bun with a side of truffle French fries
• Luigi Burger (Pesto Grilled Chicken) (Toadstool Cafe) – this flavorful dish features grilled chicken topped with basil pesto, melted Swiss cheese, green peppers, and fresh spinach, all served on a soft brioche bun with a side of Truffle French fries
• Bowser’s Fireball Challenge (Toadstool Cafe) – step up to this challenge featuring a towering one-pound meatball topped with gooey mozzarella cheese in rich mushroom marinara sauce and fresh parsley served with a Bowser-inspired puff pastry and a side of hot sauce
• Yoshi’s Smoothie (Apple Melon) (Yoshi’s Snack Island) – cool off with a refreshing blend of tart Granny Smith apple and sweet honeydew syrup, frozen to creamy perfection with milk and topped with whipped cream and green apple bursting boba

HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON – ISLE OF BERK
Guests can feast like Vikings within dining locations like Mead Hall, Spit Fyre Grill and Hooligan’s Grog & Gruel, where they’ll find:

• Yaknog (Mead Hall) – a fun drink that captures the spirit and adventure of Berk with its rich and creamy concoction of malted chocolate, cinnamon and a generous swirl of whipped cream
• Thawfest Platter (Mead Hall) – feast like a Viking with this grand spread of tender chicken drumsticks glazed in a wild berry BBQ glaze, grilled salmon, and succulent sausage served with a medley of roasted carrots, cipollini onions, Nordic fries, and side sauces
• Nordic Harvest Salad (VG) (Mead Hall) – this salad features kale and arugula greens, crisp red cabbage, radishes and hearty ancient grains, with blueberries and crisp apples for a tangy flavor, a sprinkle of trail mix that adds a satisfying crunch and raspberry vinaigrette to top it all off
• Stormfly’s Catch of the Day (Mead Hall) – a fun dessert perfect for young Vikings featuring a chocolate mousse fish nestled atop a bed of colorful crispy rice cereal for a delightful combination of creamy and crunchy sweetness

DARK UNIVERSE
While exploring Darkmoor, guests will find the ghastly dining locations Das Stakehaus, The Burning Blade Tavern and De Lacey’s Cottage – each featuring food and beverage offerings that are to die for, including:

• Stakes (Das Stakehaus) – guests can sink their teeth into a scrumptious meal on a stake with a choice of three protein options – Fish on a Stake (blackened salmon steak), Bird on a Stake (grilled dry rubbed chicken tenderloin) or Bits and Pieces (seared and glazed wild mushroom brisket meatloaf) – all served with roasted veggies and charred green onion mashed potatoes
• “Blood” Orange Chicken Sandwich (Das Stakehaus) – flash-fried marinated chicken breast tossed in a tantalizing blood orange sauce served in a sinister black bun with tangy pickles, a slaw and crispy fries
• Our Favorite Vegan Familiar’s Stuffed Cabbage (VG) (Das Stakehaus) – featuring impossible meat wrapped in tender cabbage leaves nestled in a rich bell pepper tomato sauce and accompanied by a vibrant beet bucatini
• Hunter’s Garlic Stake (The Burning Blade Tavern) – a crispy cheesy garlic pretzel perfectly prepared to a golden brown served with a rich garlic dipping sauce

PADUCAH, Ky. — Dippin’ Dots, the original beaded ice cream beloved by families for nearly four decades, is coming home with its customers for the first time, thanks to the launch of Dippin’ Dots Ice Cream Sundaes. Loyal Dippin’ Dots fans and fanatics had long hoped for a home freezer variety, but the iconic special occasion treat had been available only at venues such as amusement parks, stadiums, malls and movie theatres. Now, Dippin’ Dots Sundaes will be available at grocery stores nationwide, offering a new at-home format reminiscent of the Dippin’ Dots desserts typically enjoyed out-of-home.

Starting today, Dippin’ Dots Sundaes debut in Kroger stores and affiliated banners nationwide, with additional retailers to follow throughout the year. Available in two fan-favorite flavors—Cookies ’n Cream and Cotton Candy—each box includes four individually portioned cups at a suggested retail price of $6.99.

“Our customers have been asking for Dippin’ Dots in grocery stores for years, and we’re thrilled to finally make it happen,” said Kimmra Hingher, vice president of marketing. “Dippin’ Dots have always been a treat tied to special outings, and now fans can bring that fun home anytime. With Dippin’ Dots Sundaes, every day can feel like a celebration!”

Perfectly portioned and designed for everyday fun, Dippin’ Dots Ice Cream Sundae cups transform family moments into sweet celebrations. Each cup features signature Dippin’ Dots beads layered with cookie pieces, creamy ice cream, and topped with a flavorful sauce that keeps the iconic beaded texture intact. These portable 4-ounce cups are a modern twist on the classic sundae—ready for grab-and-go indulgence just a grocery store away. 

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — The International Association of Fairs and Expositions (IAFE) is excited to announce the launch of the 2025 Economic Impact Study. This comprehensive study aims to provide valuable insights into the economic and fiscal contributions of fairs to their host communities. 

Data Collection Now Open
All fairs in the United States are now strongly encouraged to participate by completing the simple form on the IAFE website at absolutely no cost, regardless of size, attendance, or even IAFE membership status. 

“The more fairs that participate, the better and more meaningful the tool will be. We are aiming for a 70% response rate to ensure the most accurate information possible in the final report,” emphasized David Grindle, CAE, President & CEO of IAFE.

The form asks simple questions, including both fair and non-fair attendance and revenue, public sector support, sales tax rate, and lodging tax rate. 

Process Overview
Data collection is the first step in the development. The second step, data analysis and compilation, will be conducted by Johnson Consulting, the firm hired by the IAFE to complete the study. The third and final step is to create the final report, which will be made available for free to IAFE members in early summer 2025.

Add-On Option
Johnson Consulting has contracted with the IAFE to provide members with an individualized economic impact study at the low rate of $1,500 by request only. This is the only cost associated with the study and is completely optional. If a fair wishes to participate in this add-on option, they must indicate as such when completing the data collection form. Johnson Consulting will contact them with further instructions. 

Key Points

• IAFE does NOT have access to the submitted data. Johnson Consulting will analyze and compile the data. 
• Participation is FREE for both members and non-members of the IAFE
• Limited participation to United States fairs only IAFE members are encouraged to participate in the Economic Impact Study and stay up-to-date with the latest information, including frequently asked questions, links to materials, and more by visiting www.fairsandexpos.com/economic-impact.

In addition to the IAFE, this is done with the support of Eastern States Exposition (The Big E), MA; Iowa State Fair; and the Outdoor Amusement Business Association (OABA).

WILDWOOD, N.J. — Morey’s Piers, an iconic family-owned amusement park in Wildwood, New Jersey is proud to announce that it’s President and CEO, Will Morey, has been reappointed to the U.S. Department of Commerce Travel and Tourism Advisory Board (TTAB) for a third term.  This prestigious appointment spans two administrations, highlighting Mr. Morey’s longstanding commitment to promoting and advancing the travel and tourism industry at the national level.

The TTAB serves as the official advisory body to the Secretary of Commerce, providing expert guidance on policies and programs that impact the U.S. travel and tourism industry. The Board’s mission is to advise on critical issues including travel facilitation, visa policies, infrastructure development, aviation security, and sustainable tourism. Under the Visit America Act, the TTAB is now a congressionally mandated federal advisory board, further amplifying its role in shaping the industry’s future.

“Congratulations to Will Morey on his well-earned reappointment to the Department of Commerce’s Travel and Tourism Advisory Board. His extensive experience and leadership in the travel and tourism industry, especially through Morey Piers, will be invaluable in shaping policies that support and grow this vital sector. We are excited for his continued impact on the future of tourism at the national level.”
— Tom Bracken, President and CEO, New Jersey Chamber of Commerce

Morey’s experience in the tourism industry makes him a valuable addition to the TTAB.  As a previous Chairman of the Board of Directors of IAAPA (International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions), as well as service on other IAAPA Committees (Government Relations and Audit), he has decades of experience at both the Micro and Macro levels of the Amusement and Tourism industries.Bottom of Form

“On behalf of IAAPA, the global association for the attractions industry, I would like to congratulate Will Morey, President and CEO of Morey’s Piers, on his reappointment to the U.S. Travel and Tourism Advisory Board (TTAB). As Past Chair of IAAPA’s Board of Directors, he brings the relevant knowledge, experience, and connections within the industry to represent the voice of the attractions industry.  Additionally, through his active engagement with public and private sector travel and tourism organizations at the local, state, and national levels, Mr. Morey ensures the needs of locally owned and operated attractions across the country are effectively represented.”
— Jacob Wahl, President and CEO, IAAPA

OABA has secured a discounted rate for the RIDEBOOKS online database as a member benefit. This equips larger groups and shows with an interactive database of critical safety information, including NDTs, Manuals, and Bulletins. Dozens of carnival operators, state inspection agencies, and third-party inspectors already utilize RIDEBOOKS to make our industry as safe as possible.

OABA members have full access for $99/year, about a 33% discount from standard rates. Carnivals can access up to 75% in savings for multiple users through group discounted rates by contacting us at [email protected] .

Through the efforts of Tim Kwiatkowski of OABA and Avery Wheelock, the new owner of RIDEBOOKS, we believe the platform will become the primary tool used for information exchange within the Amusement device industry, and we welcome you to join us!

Scan the QR code below to view a demonstration of the RIDEBOOKS platform.

The Wave has taken a big step forward in its plans to bring a slice of the ocean to London, with the appointment of Endless Surf as its technology partner. The £50m+ project for the state-of-the-art inland surfing destination in north London, would transform around 100 acres of land in Lee Valley Regional Park.

This will be The Wave’s second destination and builds on the success of its groundbreaking surf park in Bristol. The project, which has been in development for a number of years, will make London the first capital city in the world to feature a surf park.

The project will progress using Endless Surf’s technology and construction solutions, which will help to overcome challenging site conditions. Public consultation on the revised plans for the site at Lee Valley Leisure Complex in Edmonton, in the London Borough of Enfield, is due to take place in March and the team aims to submit a planning application in the spring.

Hazel Geary, CEO of The Wave, comments:
“London has long been in our sights, as part of our mission to share the health benefits of water and waves with people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities. We have been working closely with Lee Valley Regional Park Authority to progress plans for this incredible, but underused, land in the London Borough of Enfield. London is one of the world’s most dynamic and influential cities – and with its diverse population, strong sports culture, and high volume of visitors, it is the perfect location for an inland surfing experience.

“We are incredibly excited to work with the Endless Surf team on our next inland surf destination. Having watched the success of their first surf park launch in Munich, we can’t wait to deploy their innovative technology to bring perfect waves for all to North London. As a pioneer in the surf park sector, we have always chosen to be technology agnostic, as realise that different developments have different requirements and restraints. We partnered with Wavegarden to open the world’s first Wavegarden Cove in 2019 at our Bristol site, which has been a great commercial success. Now we are delighted to be working with Endless Surf, as the right tech partner for our London project.”

“This site is in many ways a hidden oasis and we want to open it up for the community. As we did in Bristol, we will develop it in a way that increases biodiversity, enhances the green space and helps people access it. Endless Surf’s attractive organic shape, with uninterrupted views across the wave pool, and hidden wave generation technology, fits well with our design approach of working in harmony with nature.”

Combining The Wave’s expertise in surf destination development and operations, with Endless Surf’s powerful, customizable wave pool technology, this project will deliver a consistent, year-round surf destination. It will allow seasoned surfers, newcomers, and spectators the opportunity to experience high-quality waves and an urban beach experience all within the Greater London area.

This project is the latest in a series of announcements for Endless Surf, following its global debut at o2 SURFTOWN MUC last year. It is set to be the second and largest Endless Surf lagoon in Europe. The Wave London will feature ES48 technology: Endless Surf’s flagship model that uses forty-eight pneumatic caissons to generate waves for all skill levels and surf styles across four simultaneous zones. With the ability to precisely customise wave heights, speeds, angles, operating modes, and more, the ES48 will produce waves of up to 15-seconds in Split Peak and 26-seconds in Single Peak configuration.

Paul Chutter, President at Endless Surf, said:
“We’re proud to work alongside The Wave to bring Endless Surf waves to the exciting global metropolis that is London. There is no better place to showcase all that our flagship model has to offer, whether you’re a novice or a pro.

“In addition to our unique wave engineering, we’ve intentionally designed our lagoon to overcome some of the challenging site conditions that surf park developers often face. It is great to see these cost-saving solutions in action at sites around the world.

“For us this partnership is the perfect fit. The Wave has already demonstrated its ability to create a thriving surf destination, and we’re thrilled to help create what will be a landmark project for the entire surf industry.”

BALTIMORE, Md. — SimEx-Iwerks, a leader in innovative cinematic attractions, is proud to announce the release of its new brand identity today. This marks the first time the company’s logo and visual identity have been updated since its founding in 1981 by Michael Needham and Shiori Sudo. The rebranding is part of a larger restructuring initiative following the company’s transition to being management-owned in June 2024. The company will also launch a refreshed website and will increase its social engagement.

SimEx-Iwerks has built its legacy on groundbreaking work in the entertainment industry, specializing in immersive attractions and experiences that combine storytelling, special effects, and close collaborations with leading studios. Their attractions engage the senses and create lasting memories.

“This is an exciting time for us, and our rebrand is just the beginning,” said Kate Magnusson, Vice President, Marketing & Partnerships. “It’s a reflection of our unwavering commitment to delivering high-quality, out-of-home experiences that inspire, entertain, and educate.”

2025 will bring a series of exciting announcements from SimEx-Iwerks, including enhanced R&D initiatives, new products, and innovative custom attraction concepts. Among the highlights will be the next level 4D Experience®, the Immersion Theater, and thrilling updates to the FlyRide® flying theater. Additionally, SimEx-Iwerks will continue to lead the way in creating and curating exceptional attraction film content to complement its experiences, with new titles set to debut this year. “We’ve seen the industry evolve and our mission remains the same: to take people on journeys and tell stories in ways that simply can’t be experienced at home,” said Mike Frueh, Senior Vice President, Licensing & Distribution. “Now, more than ever, there’s something special about sharing a real, in-person experience. Bringing families and friends together to talk, laugh, and learn—that’s always been at the heart of what we do, and we see endless opportunities to keep creating those moments.”

SimEx-Iwerks continues to be at the forefront of innovation, crafting unique and memorable experiences for audiences around the globe. The company looks forward to sharing its next chapter of growth and creativity with the world.

LOUISVILLE, Ky. — This Valentine’s season, Kentucky Kingdom is sharing the love with guests by unveiling the full lineup of attractions and renderings of Discovery Meadow— a new $11 million family-friendly land. As part of the $25 million investment over the next two seasons, Discovery Meadow will open to the public on May 10, 2025. The new land features six acres dedicated to family fun with a Kentucky twist and includes three new attractions, 24 new and re-themed experiences, and its very own character. Guests can look forward to more fun and more ways to make memories worth repeating in an atmosphere that celebrates the spirit of Kentucky.

Three Brand-New Family Rides:

• Redbird Racer – Spin and swoop aboard a vibrant cardinal defending its home.

Get ready to dash through the trees on our new swinging family ride inspired by one of Kentucky’s famous flyers. This ride promises an exciting adventure for guests of all ages.

• Scout’s Squirrel Race – Playful squirrels chase the ultimate prize—a giant acorn.

Bounce around on our new family ride nestled in the lush gardens of the new land. This experience highlights one of nature’s most diligent and resourceful foragers, promising fun for the entire family.

• Cumberland Express – A whimsical garden train adventure wrapped in vines.

Hop aboard our family-friendly train that winds through the wilderness. Spot and hear the furry friends who call this beautiful landscape home as you embark on this delightful journey!

More Comfort, More Fun:

• Shaded 4,800 square foot playground – The perfect cool-down spot for explorers of all ages.
• Two refreshed eateries plus a brand-new Dippin’ Dots cart.
• More seating & shade – Relax and recharge with added comfort.
• Games Garden – Classic yard game fun with a Kentucky twist.
• Two refurbished restrooms.
• Two new retail locations

Discovery Meadow will also feature four “wow” moments offering fans photo ops to capture the beauty of the new land. Of course, Discovery Meadow wouldn’t be complete without its newest character, Scout the Squirrel.

“Discovery Meadow is the most exciting addition to Kentucky Kingdom in years, and we can’t wait for families to experience this incredible land,” said Sarah Worrell, General Manager of Kentucky Kingdom. “From brand-new rides to reimagined favorites, interactive play areas, and surprises at every turn, Discovery Meadow is designed to spark family joy, adventure, and connection like never before. It’s a true celebration of Kentucky’s beauty and spirit—bigger, bolder, and more immersive than anything we’ve ever done.”

Discovery Meadow is just the beginning. Following its opening, more details will be shared about plans for $14 million worth of improvements in 2026.

Discovery Meadow and Kentucky Kingdom Theme and Water Park officially opens May 10, 2025, but Season Passholders will get an exclusive first look on May 9.

FARMINGDALE, N.Y. — Adventureland announced it will be freezing its prices— without freezing the fun! Long Island’s most popular amusement park, offering family fun for everyone since 1962, is offering more value this year, and for the same ticket prices as last year. The park is freezing its admission rates, group rates, season pass rates, and birthday party rates at the same prices from the 2024 season.

“At a time when everything around us is going up, we are proud and excited to be able to provide our guests this price freeze on admission,” said Jeanine Gentile, Adventureland Park Manager.“We are still making additions to the park, so you will definitely see some great changes for this upcoming season. But one thing that will not be changing is the admission prices for the 2025 season!”

The price freeze is not the only exciting news from Adventureland. For the first time, the amusement park is offering payment plans through FlexPay for online orders of $100 or more. This brand-new option will allow visitors to book tickets and purchase season passes online—now—and conveniently pay over time. Daily tickets and season passes are currently available for purchase online. For full details please visit https://adventureland.us/?keyword=Tickets

Last year, Adventureland announced plans for a multi-year, five-phase $15 million redevelopment. Now currently in phase 2, the amusement park promises a ‘Bigger and Better’ 2025 season, which includes two new outdoor games: ‘Wave Blaster’ and ‘Jungle Run.’ Additionally, plans are in place to install three new concession stands and a third restroom facility. Especially exciting is the highly-anticipated new family ride, ‘Wave Twister,’ scheduled to open this spring.

The opening weekend of the 2025 season will be March 22^nd and 23^rd. For more details, visit Adventureland.us.