CHARLOTTE, N.C.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Six Flags Entertainment Corporation (NYSE: FUN), the largest amusement park operator in North America, today announced that it will close Six Flags America and Hurricane Harbor in Bowie, Maryland, after the 2025 operating season. The property, which is approximately 500 acres, will be marketed for redevelopment as part of Six Flags’ ongoing portfolio optimization program. The company has engaged CBRE, a global leader in commercial real estate services and investments, to market the property for sale.

“As part of our comprehensive review of our park portfolio, we have determined that Six Flags America and Hurricane Harbor are not a strategic fit with the company’s long-term growth plan,” said Six Flags President & CEO Richard A. Zimmerman. “After reviewing a number of options, we believe that marketing the property for redevelopment will generate the highest value and return on investment. We anticipate strong interest in the property and will continue to strategically pursue portfolio optimization opportunities as we work to unlock the full value of our portfolio.”

“This was a difficult decision, and we recognize the impact it will have on our Six Flags America and Hurricane Harbor park associates and guests,” Zimmerman added. “We are grateful to our park associates who work hard to create lifelong memories for our guests, and Six Flags is committed to supporting all impacted associates through the closure process at the end of this year. Six Flags America and Hurricane Harbor have been an important part of the local community, and this final season will be an opportunity to celebrate the decades of fun that guests have enjoyed at the property.”

Six Flags America employs approximately 70 full-time associates. Severance and other benefits will be provided to all eligible associates. The park’s final operating day will be Sunday, November 2, 2025. The closure of Six Flags America and Hurricane Harbor is not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s financial results in 2025.

All 2025 season passes and tickets will be honored throughout the final operating season at Six Flags America and Hurricane Harbor. For the latest information about the park, including operating calendar, please visit the Six Flags America website.

To read the entire press release, click here. 

In the News: The Summer is Electric as Splish Splash Water Park Introduces First-Ever Nighttime Event

Official Release Here.

This Summer is Electric as Splish Splash Water Park Introduces First-Ever Nighttime Event New York’s Largest Water Park® Unveils New Neon Nights Inviting Guests to Glow with the Flow CALVERTON, NY [April 22, 2025] –Splish Splash Water Park, is inviting park-goers to spend their weekends under the lights. Beginning Friday, July 11 and running every Friday and Saturday through August 16, Neon Nights is where family fun shines brighter. Plus, there’s more this summer as Splish Splash celebrates 35 seasons beginning on Opening Day, Saturday, May 24. 

Neon Nights is the all-new electric event under the stars. Guests will follow the lights and sounds through the bubble tunnel to the Kahuna Bay wave pool, where the action pulses in full, vivid color. A live DJ will pump the energy while visitors zip down some of their favorite slides in the dark. Families will splash in the middle of the wave pool surge, immersed in a complete LED light show with dazzling special effects.

Neon Nights will run every Friday and Saturday from July 11 to August 16, from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Tickets for the event will go on sale on May 7. Gold and Platinum Season Passholders will receive free admission; with discounted pricing available for Bronze and Silver Passholders. 

In addition to the all-new night event, Splish Splash is thrilled to announce the launch of two new Luxury Cabanas, designed to elevate guests' water park experience to unparalleled comfort and style. Paradise Pavilion and Hang Ten Hideaway will be located right in front of the Kahuna Bay wave pool, providing a more versatile and luxurious space that adapts to any occasion more than ever before. Offering the perfect blend of sun and shade, guests will find plenty of comfortable seating, a dining room and kitchen area, a dedicated cabana server, a private shower area, a bar area, and more. 

"Get ready to experience Splish Splash like never before,” said General Manager Mike Bengtson. “This season we’re introducing an electrifying night event that will light up our visitors' summer nights, paired with the ultimate daytime indulgence of our brand-new luxury cabanas. The cabanas will bring a whole new level of fun and relaxation to the park while Neon Nights promises unforgettable excitement." Park-goers will also have the chance to explore the all-new Stingray Bay when the new splash-tastic water playground debuts. 

The new kid-friendly zone will offer families more than 15 fun and silly ways to stay cool during their visit to Splish Splash. The all-new water playground will be decked out with three pint-sized water slides, six interactive spray features, five water play features, a dump bucket, and fun to soak and spray. From sun-soaked thrills in the park’s new luxury cabanas to the dazzling excitement of the night event, Splish Splash will be the ultimate destination this season creating unforgettable memories from daybreak to starlight. 

For more information on Neon Nights, the new luxury cabanas, and to purchase a 2025 Season Pass – for as low as four payments of just $25 each now, visit splishsplash.com. About Splish Splash Water Park: Splish Splash is New York’s Largest Water Park. Celebrating 35 summers of family fun, the Long Island water park first opened in May 1991. Today, Splish Splash is home to over 30 rides, slides, attractions, two wave pools, several kiddie areas, and a lazy river.

In the News: Gilroy Garlic Festival

Gilroy, CA (March 28, 2025) - The Gilroy Gardens Board of Directors has granted Garlic Festival.

Association conditional approval is required for using the South County Grove, a separately gated area on park property, as the location for this year’s festival. We remain optimistic that the Garlic Festival Association will work diligently towards meeting

all the conditions in the conditional approval. The Gilroy Garlic Festival will be a separately ticketed event, independently managed by the festival team, with attendees entering directly through the South County Grove entrance. Guests visiting Gilroy Gardens will not have access to the festival, and there will be no joint or crosspromotional ticketing options between the two events.

Please visit their website for more information about the Gilroy Garlic Festival, including event details and ticketing. 

Gilroy Gardens

To view full press release click here. 

In the News: Lake Compounce Announces Ultimate Season of Family Fun Headlined by New Entertainment All Season Long

BRISTOL, CONN. March 27, 2025 – The countdown is on to Opening Day at America’s First Amusement Park as Lake Compounce gears up for it 179th season. Celebrating its most robust lineup of entertainment yet, this year promises to provide the Ultimate Season of Family Fun as the park debuts its first-ever pirate themed stunt show, adds spectacular drone shows, introduces an all-new haunted house during Phantom Fall Fest and so much more.

The Lake Compounce gates will officially reopen on Saturday, May 3 at 11 a.m. with more updates debuting on the iconic Wildcat and Boulder Dash Roller Coasters, all-new entertainment, additional park-wide enhancements and more. This year’s event lineup is bigger and better than ever before, offering a new reason for families to visit every month. Details include:

• NEW! Kids Fest: introduces new pint-sized thrills and family entertainment every weekend in June with character meet-and-greets, themed treats like the new Kids Lunchbox, Unicorn Milkshakes and endless entertainment – all included with park admission. This June, families will have the chance to meet:

o May 31 – June 1: Peppa Pig and her brother George – with oinktastic fun for everyone

o June 7-8 & 21-22: Daniel Tiger from PBS KIDS’ Emmy® Award-winning Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood

o June 14-15: The iconic Power Rangers – uniting powers and saving the world

o June 28-29: Blippi – offering curious adventures for growing minds

• NEW! Splashbucklers Pirate Show: Ahoy! New laughs and high adventure take center stage this summer. The whole family is invited to cheer on the daring Captain Cunning as he protects the Queen’s booty from plundering scalawags and ne’er-do-wells daily from July 12 through August 17.

• NEW! Upgrades on Wildcat – The nearly 100-year-old Wildcat coaster has completed the final phase of its two-year re-tracking project with Gravity Group. More than 1,400 feet of track have been replaced with Gravity Group’s signature vertically stacked track offering riders a smoother and faster ride.

• NEW! Upgrades on Boulder Dash – The award-winning Boulder Dash coaster continues its transformation with over 1,000 feet of steel Titan Track added as part of an on-going re-tracking project. Titan Track, created by Great Coasters

International merges steel and wood to create a smoother ride experience.

• Fourth of July Celebration: Families from New England and beyond are invited to celebrate America with dazzling fireworks on July 4 and 5 and live performances on the park’s iconic floating stage on July 4, 5 and 6.

• NEW! Drone Shows—On August 30, 31, and September 1, synchronized Drones will take the sky over the lake for a spectacular display, lighting up the night sky with park-inspired and fan-favorite designs.

• NEW! at Phantom Fall Fest—This season, Lake Compounce will debut an all-new haunted house as it adds its largest and scariest haunted house to its fourth annual day-to-night Halloween event. The frights return select days from September 20 through October 26.

• Holiday Lights – New England’s favorite holiday tradition returns with more than 500,000 lights, Connecticut’s Tallest Christmas Tree, festive food options and more, select days from November 28 through December 28.

“We’re committed to delivering a next-level guest experience at Lake Compounce by creating a robust lineup of entertainment for the 2025 season, including the introduction of Splashbucklers, an all-new pirate themed comedy stunt show taking over the floating lake stage,” said Doug Hemphill, General Manager. “With so much new entertainment and a second year focusing on ride improvements for our beloved roller coasters, something is exciting waiting for guests every time they visit.”

To get the most out of the 2025 season, visitors can buy a 2025 Season Pass now for less than a day ticket, just $54.99. Select passes also include free parking, soda, friend tickets, and more. Season Passholders can unlock even more value every time they visit with the All-Season Dining Pass. For just $99.99, passholders can enjoy two meals per visit all season long.

For more information on the all-new entertainment lineup, to purchase Season Passes and the All-Season Dining Pass, and to view the park’s operating calendar, visit LakeCompounce.com.

About Lake Compounce:

From single-day adventures to weekend getaways, Lake Compounce has been the place for great family escapes for over 175 years. With uniquely themed attractions of all shapes and sizes, America’s first amusement park offers endless fun. Located in Bristol, Connecticut, this timeless New England tradition features Connecticut’s Largest Water Park,

Crocodile Cove and offers overnight stays at Lake Compounce Campground. 

Media Release Here.

In the News: Baby Shark Makes a Splash at SeaWorld with Exclusive New Live Character Experiences and All-New Animated Music Video

See full press release here.

ORLANDO, Fla. (March 20, 2025) – SeaWorld and The Pinkfong Company, the global entertainment company behind Baby Shark, are teaming up to celebrate 10 years of Baby Shark this year with exclusive live character interactions coming to SeaWorld parks, plus the world premiere of a brand-new animated music video, where Pinkfong and Baby Shark visit SeaWorld as veterinarians. Baby Shark and friends will swim from park to park, starting April 18 in SeaWorld San Diego before heading to SeaWorld Orlando for the summer on June 30 and then over to SeaWorld San Antonio for the fall starting September 11.

This limited-time celebration will bring immersive Baby Shark-themed experiences to all three parks, including:

Live Character Meet & Greets with Baby Shark and Pinkfong.

Themed Activities, Food and Merchandise.

Win a Fin-tastic Family Getaway! Fans can enter a national sweepstakes for a chance to win Baby Shark merchandise and tickets to experience the magic at SeaWorld.

“We are excited to team up with The Pinkfong Company to bring the fun of Baby Shark to life in our parks, pairing education with entertainment in engaging and fun ways," said Marc Swanson, CEO of United Parks & Entertainment. "This collaboration allows us to connect with families in a new, unique, and memorable way while also reinforcing our mission of marine life conservation."

"For 10 years, Baby Shark has brought joy to families worldwide, and we’re thrilled to celebrate this milestone with SeaWorld. This collaboration creates unforgettable experiences that bring Baby Shark’s world to life in a whole new way," said Bin Jeong, CEO, of Pinkfong USA.

A New Baby Shark Music Video – Featuring SeaWorld’s Rescue Team!

In a brand-new 2-minute animated music video debuting on April 30, Pinkfong and Baby Shark visit SeaWorld as veterinarians! They meet their baby animal friends and observe how happy and healthy they are thanks to the world-class care they receive at SeaWorld.

During their visit, Pinkfong and Baby Shark meet baby turtles rescued by the SeaWorld Rescue Team, who found them abandoned and lost wandering the beach alone. Working together, they care for the turtles and return them to the ocean, reflecting the team’s commitment to helping ill, injured, or orphaned animals in need of expert care with the goal of rehabilitation and returning them to the wild. After a busy day of helping animals, Pinkfong and Baby Shark end their adventure with a ride on their favorite SeaWorld attractions!

The video will be available in English and Spanish on Pinkfong’s YouTube channel, as well as Seaworld’s brand and park social channels.

in the News: Wild Buffalo opening at La Mer de Sable in 2025

Hauts-de-France, France – Skyline Attractions is thrilled to share its collaboration with Great Coasters International, Inc. (GCII) on the upcoming debut of Wild Buffalo at La Mer de Sable in Hauts-de-France, France. Wild Buffalo marks the park’s first wooden coaster and GCII’s first roller coaster installation in France.

Designed and engineered by Skyline Attractions for GCII, Wild Buffalo offers an exciting blend of airtime and lateral thrills across its 1,643’ [500.8 m] of wooden track. The family-friendly ride stands 48.4’ [14.8 m] tall, but navigates an elevation difference of 74.1’ [22.6 m] with its clever use of the existing terrain. A standout feature of the ride is its mid-course tunnel, which the train navigates twice in opposing directions.

Skyline Attractions played a pivotal role in bringing Wild Buffalo to life, coordinating with La Mer de Sable and GCII to create an exciting layout that fits the park’s available space and existing ride lineup. Skyline Attractions also supported GCII in completing the ride’s design and engineering, utilizing its growing arsenal of custom-built software. The collaboration between Skyline Attractions and GCII has previously led to award-winning coasters such as Mystic Timbers at Kings Island, Texas Stingray at SeaWorld San Antonio, and Wicker Man at Alton Towers.

To view full press release, click here. 

In the News: New Water’s Edge Expansion Opens at Wild Adventures for 2025

VALDOSTA, Ga. - Wild Adventures Theme Park in Valdosta, Georgia, launches its 2025 season on March 15 with exciting new rides, live entertainment and immersive experiences, offering unforgettable family adventures through December.

Wild Adventures’ new Season begins Saturday, March 15, with the debut of Water’s Edge, an exciting new expansion featuring three family-friendly rides, new animal habitats, a new entertainment stage and more.

“This expansion is another step forward in our commitment to creating unforgettable experiences for our guests and their families at Wild Adventures,” said Jon Vigue, vice president and general manager. “Water’s Edge will transform a large section of the park into a vibrant, immersive environment that not only enhances the guest experience but also allows us to continue expanding our fall and winter events in the future.”

Inspired by the charm and vibrance of a seaside village, Water’s Edge is a bright new adventure that provides guests with opportunities to soar, explore, learn and relax.

When the new area debuts on March 15, guests can take a spin on the latest Boat Parade, a lively speedboat-themed ride that whirls and twirls, creating the sensation of cruising along choppy waters. The guests can also feel the rush of the new Wing Swinger, a thrilling family swing ride that lifts riders high, creating a a soaring experience. Water’s Edge is also home to the reimagined Horizon Wheel, an illuminated Ferris wheel that offers stunning panoramic views of Wild Adventures and the scenic lake at the park’s center.

View full press release here. 

In the News: Stolen Quassy Carousel Figurine Recovered After 40 Years

MIDDLEBURY, Conn. - The elusive Lake Quassapaug sea monster has resurfaced after disappearing nearly 40 years ago. The sea monster, also known as a hippocampus among carousel enthusiasts, was stolen from Quassy Amusement Park on Nov. 16, 1985, and its whereabouts were unknown until late December of last year.

Now the rare hand-carved figurine is back in the hands of the family-owned lakeside property thanks to a handful of collectors who have watched for the missing artifact all these years.

"We have gotten a priceless piece of our history back," an ecstatic Quassy President Eric Anderson said of the saga. "It was the lead figurine on the carousel - one everybody wanted to ride," added the park's George Frantzis II.

Full Release Here

In the News: The “Fast & Furious—Supercharged” Attraction on the Universal Studios Hollywood World-Famous Studio Tour Prepares for its Last Ride on March 10, as the Theme Park Readies for the All-New, High-Speed Outdoor Roller Coaster, “Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift”

The “Fast & Furious—Supercharged” Attraction on the Universal Studios Hollywood World-Famous Studio Tour Prepares for its Last Ride on March 10, as the Theme Park Readies for the All-New, High-Speed Outdoor Roller Coaster, “Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift”

Official Release Here. 

Universal City, California, February 24, 2025 – Universal Studios Hollywood invites guests and fans of the Fast & Furious franchise to experience “Fast & Furious—Supercharged” one last time before the world-famous Studio Tour attraction closes on March 10, 2025. A thrilling new experience will arrive at Universal Studios Hollywood when “Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift” launches as the destination’s first-ever, high-speed outdoor roller coaster in 2026.

“Fast & Furious—Supercharged,” inspired by the popular Fast & Furious franchise, launched in 2015 as the grand finale to the Studio Tour and has entertained millions of guests, taking them on an exhilarating, virtual high-speed 3D chase to save one of their own from an international crime cartel.

The closure of this attraction will pave the way for an exciting all-new Studio Tour attraction to be announced soon.

For more information about Universal Studios Hollywood, visit www.UniversalStudiosHollywood.com; like Universal Studios Hollywood on Facebook and follow @UniStudios on Instagram and X.

In the News: 25 Years and Still Growing: Gilroy Gardens’ 25th Anniversary Season Starts March 22

Gilroy Gardens’ official public 2025 Opening Day will be on Saturday, March 22. Throughout March, April, and May, guests are invited to take a springtime stroll through history during the 25th Anniversary Celebration, which will feature live entertainment, celebration banners, colorful flower beds, and historical exhibits and memorabilia throughout the park.

In the summer (timed to coincide with the local cherry harvest), Gilroy Gardens will host the all-new Cherry Jubilee, a “stupendous cherry-centric extravaganza” full of fun cherry-themed entertainment, games, specialty food, and eccentric characters.

Returning in late summer will be the popular Friday evening Carnival Nights event, which debuted in 2024 featuring jugglers, magicians, and all the park’s rides lit up at night.

In the fall, Gilroy Gardens will be transformed into the wacky world of BOO Alley during The Great Big BOO, where guests come in costume to go trick-or-treating along the BOO Trail, sing and dance to a live musical show, and encounter friendly characters like Wolfgang Werewolf and Vinnie the Vampire on themed rides throughout the park.

To see full press release, click here. 

In the News: PEPPA PIG Theme Park Dallas-Fort Worth Announces its Status as a Certified Autism Center™

North Richland Hills, Texas (12/10/2024) — Texas’ first PEPPA PIG Theme Park has partnered with The International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) to earn accreditation as a Certified Autism Center™ (CAC) in time for its grand opening on March 1, 2025. 

To accredit PEPPA PIG Theme Park, IBCCES will provide and require the following:  

Staff-wide autism sensitivity and awareness training

An onsite review conducted by IBCCES to develop detailed sensory guides 

Increased accessibility and support for visitors The accreditation will provide the proper tools to promote awareness and show families the options available to plan their ultimate day of adventure.  

“Merlin Entertainments is uncompromising about safety, security and welfare, setting the highest standards for all our guests and team members,” says PEPPA PIG Theme Park Dallas-Fort Worth General Manager Jeremy Aguillar. “We’re proud this certification allows our attraction to be accessible to many more little ones and their families with specific sensory needs.”

The park also offers accessible rides, entertainment venues and play areas that will appeal to guests and team members with accessibility needs:

Peppa Pig’s Balloon Ride includes wheelchair-accessible baskets, so guests can roll onto the ride without needing to leave their chairs. 

The ground at Muddy Puddles Splash Pad is specially graded for wheelchair use and water play elements are curated so guests of all heights can enjoy.

Peppa’s Pedal Bike Tour includes sensory rich details and is designed to meet all ADA guidelines and standards. 

“So many families are looking for accessible and welcoming options, and we're thrilled to work with PEPPA PIG Theme Park Dallas-Fort Worth to provide another option for autistic and sensory-sensitive visitors to play and have fun,” shares IBCCES board chairman Myron Pincomb.

View full press release here. 

In the News: Major Investment Heading for Six Flags Great Adventure

JACKSON, N.J. — November 14, 2024 — In a recent news release, Six Flags Entertainment Corporation (NYSE: FUN), the largest amusement park operator in North America, announced a more than $1 billion investment its theme parks over the next two years. Six Flags Great Adventure will launch THE FLASH™: Vertical Velocity in 2025. In a groundbreaking announcement, Six Flags Great Adventure also revealed that a multi-world-record-breaking launch roller coaster will debut at the Jackson theme park in 2026. 

“With our dedication to creating unforgettable experiences, the park’s multi-year expansion plans will bring major investments, including record-breaking thrill rides, revitalized family experiences, elevated dining, expanded events, and continuous enhancements across the property,” said Brian Bacica, park president. 

“In 2025, we’re thrilled to debut THE FLASH™: Vertical Velocity, North America’s first super boomerang coaster. And in 2026, we’ll unveil an all-new, multi-record-breaking launch coaster, a must-ride attraction sure to capture fans’ imaginations,” Bacica said. 

To make way for this landmark addition, the park has retired the Kingda Ka and GREEN LANTERN™ coasters, and construction will begin soon. This exciting new ride underscores Six Flags’ commitment to continually elevating the park experience and making every visit an unforgettable adventure for all.

Sunsetting the Former ‘King of Coasters’

Kingda Ka, ranked as the world’s tallest and fastest coaster, has delivered more than 12 million rides since 2005. The ride’s retirement, besides removing The Twister and Parachutes, makes way for a new signature attraction – a multi-record-breaking launch coaster – to debut in 2026. 

The park will also remove The Sky Way for future development, continuing the park’s commitment to enhancing the guest experience. 

“We understand that saying goodbye to beloved rides can be difficult, and we appreciate our guests’ passion. These changes are important to our growth and dedication to delivering exceptional new experiences. We look forward to sharing more details next summer,” Bacica added.

Too see full press release click here. 

In the News: Roger Williams Park Zoo Hosts Holiday Lights Spectacular

Providence, Rhode Island (October 29, 2024): New England’s favorite winter tradition, the Holiday Lights Spectacular, is coming to Roger Williams Park Zoo.

Walk through a winter wonderland where over 3.5 million twinkling lights light up the Zoo. Discover dazzling displays featuring festive decorations and enchanting illuminations. From reindeer that shimmer to snowmen who sparkle, it’s like stepping into a holiday fairy tale brought to life. Don’t miss out on this magical experience.

Join us and ring in the season nightly from November 29 through January 4, 2025, from 5:00 to 9:30 p.m. Bundle up, grab an adult beverage or hot chocolate, roast some s’mores, and stroll through 40 acres of illuminated pathways. It’s the perfect holiday experience to share with friends and family.

For full press release, click here. 

In the News: Record-breaking Siren's Curse tilt coaster to lure Cedar Point® thrill seekers in 2025

SANDUSKY, Ohio (Sept. 19, 2024) – Cedar Point, The Roller Coaster Capital of the World®, will add fathoms of thrills to its world-renowned and record-breaking collection of scream machines with the 2025 debut of Siren’s Curse – the tallest, fastest and longest “tilt” roller coaster in North America.

Siren’s Curse hearkens to the legend and lore of mysterious creatures living beneath the surface of Lake Erie, often spoken of – but never spotted. The sirens of the lake who lured sailors to their underwater demise with their sweet, seductive songs will finally rise to land and attempt to entrap guests in a sinister two-minute fate of non-stop roller coaster innovation.

Riders will hear the echo of the siren’s chilling melodies as they ascend an old 160-foot-tall Lake Erie shipping crane tower, the sounds growing more sinister as riders reach the top. Their fate will hang in the balance as they encounter the roller coaster’s signature moment: a dead stop on a “broken off” section of track. The creaking platform holding the train of riders will slowly tilt the entire train into a 90-degree vertical position, forcing riders to peer straight down, hoping their train will connect to the twisted track below.

For the entire press release, click here. 

In the News: Conquer the Skies when Rapterra Launches into Kings Dominion

DOSWELL, VA—Kings Dominion, central Virginia’s beloved amusement park, is thrilled to announce the arrival of Rapterra as part of the park’s 50th anniversary season in 2025. Standing at 145 feet tall and 3,086 ft long, this incredible new attraction is the world's tallest and longest launched wing coaster. It promises an unforgettable experience filled with heights, speed, and exhilarating maneuvers for all park-goers.  

Rapterra, inspired by the mighty Jungle Hawk, offers riders the sensation of flight. The adventure begins with a powerful launch, accelerating passengers to 65 miles per hour in just four seconds before ascending to its zenith over the Jungle X-Pedition midway. The ride then plummets into a dive loop, and navigates a series of thrilling aerial maneuvers, including an S-turn, a wing slide, a flat spin, an airtime hill, and a 360-degree raptor roll. The 89-second ride totals three inversions before a smooth return to the station. 

“We are excited to unveil Rapterra, the must-do ride of 2025, at Kings Dominion,” said Bridgette Bywater, vice president and general manager of Kings Dominion. “This extraordinary addition promises new thrills for our guests, making it the perfect centerpiece for our 50th anniversary celebration and reaffirming why Kings Dominion is the ultimate destination for unforgettable memories and exhilarating excitement.” 

Manufactured by industry leader Bolliger and Mabillard, Rapterra's winged coaster design positions riders on either side of the track, offering an immersive, floorless experience that simulates flying. The basalt grey support columns and patina green track create loops, twists and rolls, ensuring a thrilling adventure from start to finish. 

Construction of Rapterra is already in progress, with completion expected this fall. The coaster will officially open in 2025, coinciding with Kings Dominion's milestone 50th anniversary celebration. More information on the 50th anniversary celebration will be shared later. 

See the full press release here. 

In the News: Thorpe Park’s newest rollercoaster HYPERIA launches to the public today

Thorpe Park’s newest ride Hyperia- the UK’s tallest and fastest rollercoaster – launches today, 24th May 2024! With the launch date also coinciding with the park’s 45thanniversary, it’s set to be a Spring bank holiday weekend to remember! 

Neil Poulter, Divisional Director at Thorpe Park says, “Hyperia has been years in the making and we know our fans and followers from all over the world have been waiting with baited breath to take flight on Hyperia! We’re delighted that guests will be able to enjoy the UK’s tallest, fastest and most weightless rollercoaster from 24th May 2024, which will also mark Thorpe Park’s 45th birthday! What better way to mark our milestone birthday than by unveiling our most epic and record-breaking ride to date! We can’t wait to celebrate our most thrilling season here at Thorpe Park with as many guests as possible.” 

 Plus, Hyperia isn’t the only new addition at Thorpe Park this year! With the 2024 season marking the dawn of a new era for Thorpe Park, many exciting new updates have been made across the park including brand new land Big Easy Boulevard where fun for the whole family is guaranteed. 

If a day of thrills isn’t enough and you want to make it a short break, look no further than the Thorpe Shark Cabins. Located onsite and within the park’s gates, you’re only a stone’s throw away from all the theme park action! AND the park recently announced new additions to their thrilling-themed-bedroom line up - three BRAND NEW Hyperia Cabins including unlimited fastrack on a coaster of your choice**** AND a single-use Hyperia Fastrack ticket! With perks galore included in each stay, guests can stay in a standard cabin or immerse themselves in one of five quirky ride-themed room types – choose from Colossus, The Swarm, Stealth, Nemesis or NEW Hyperia! Enjoy a thrilling staycation just steps from our iconic rollercoasters, with 2 day theme park entry included & early morning Fastrack.

To read the entire press release please click here. 

In the News: Red Panda Paradise: Roger Williams Park Zoo Unveils Cutting-Edge Habitat

Providence, RI (March 2024) Roger Williams Park Zoo announces the opening of a newly built, cutting-edge habitat explicitly designed for its red pandas, Kendji and Zan. This meticulously crafted sanctuary prioritizes optimal animal welfare and comfort while offering enriching experiences for visitors of all ages.

Kendji and Zan’s new home boasts a spacious two-story, climate-controlled indoor space that mimics their natural Himalayan habitat. This ensures their well-being,

regardless of fluctuating Rhode Island temperatures and humidity. Strategically placed viewing windows offer guests clear views of the red pandas’ playful antics, offering a balance between animal comfort and visitor engagement. A remote camera system ensures the red pandas’ safety and well-being even when out of sight.

To view full press relase, click here. 

In the News: Unique Morgan’s Wonderland Unveils Its Largest Expansion To Kick Off 2024 Season

SAN ANTONIO – Unique Morgan’s Wonderland, still the world’s first and only theme park designed with those with special needs in mind and built for everyone’s enjoyment, today unveiled $6.5 million in new attractions to launch the park’s 2024 Grand Opening Celebration: New Year, New Rides, New Joy.

“Since the end of October, we’ve been busy adding new attractions and refreshing the park for the enjoyment of our guests from near and far,” said Gordon Hartman, who along with wife Maggie cocreated the nonprofit park, thanks to the inspiration of their daughter with special needs, Morgan. “This constitutes the largest expansion in our history that began in spring 2010. Four major attractions have been added to our core of 25 already-popular elements.”

These major additions are:

• the 4D Magic Cinema theater in Sensory Village, giving guests the sensation of riding a thrilling roller coaster;

• Pirate Island Cruises, a passenger boat ride across the park’s 8-acre catch-and-release fishing lake;

• Rocket’s Sky Flight Adventure, a four-seat zip line that soars above the lake and that’s named after one of the super-hero mascots comprising the park’s Wonder Squad; and

• Jette’s Wonder Bikes, a wheelchair-accessible ride named for another mascot that’s in keeping with the park’s butterfly theme of enabling everyone – especially those with special needs – to soar to new heights of enjoyment.

Upgrades to food outlets and other park facilities complement the new additions, said Richard Pretlow, Morgan’s Wonderland president. He added that guests can enjoy the refreshed park daily during spring break through March 17.

View full press release here. 

In the News: Half-price Winter Wonder Days and Free Day Dec. 27th with Food Donation

PROVIDENCE, RI (Dec. 1, 2023): January and February bring the perfect weather to New England for visiting the Zoo and seeing animals outside, enjoying nature’s cooler temperatures. Roger Williams Park Zoo is open Thursday through Monday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and half-price admission is available from January 1 to February 29, 2024.

The Zoo’s snow leopards are happy during the winter months. Snow leopards have adapted to live in colder environments, including their stocky bodies, thick fur, and small and rounded ears, all of which help minimize heat loss. A snow leopard’s large, fur-covered forepaws help the animal travel on rocky surfaces and avoid sinking into the snow.

Red wolves also acclimate well to colder weather. Zoo guests can often witness these charismatic creatures frolicking in the snow or lounging near heat sources, showcasing their ability to adapt to the changing seasons.

If you have not been to the Zoo in the winter, come and enjoy this season. It is always an adventure at Roger Williams Park Zoo.

All tickets must be purchased in advance online at rwpzoo.org.

For full press release, click here. 

In the News: Experience Butterfly Oasis at Stone Zoo

At Butterfly Oasis, generously made possible by StonehamBank, guests of all ages will wander along a winding path displaying a water feature and sculptural palm trees all within the 20-foot-high geodesic dome. As guests explore the space, they will be delighted by a range of butterfly species including monarchs, white peacocks and red admirals. The space will also house an eclosion box for guests to learn about the lifecycle of butterflies and watch as they emerge from their chrysalises.

“We’re excited to sponsor the Butterfly Oasis at Stone Zoo. This exhibit reflects our commitment to supporting community enrichment and providing memorable experiences for all,” said Edward F. Doherty, Jr., President and CEO of StonehamBank.

Butterfly Oasis will further introduce guests to the importance of pollinators in healthy ecosystems and ways that we can help them thrive. The space is planted with native and tropical pollinator plants, which will provide nectar for the butterflies. This vibrant new attraction seamlessly fits in with the Caribbean Coast, home to the bright Caribbean flamingo flock, colorful macaws and Jamaican iguanas.

For full press release, click here.