Archive - Park Journey

Published on

January 22, 2014

Six Flags Magic Mountain update - X2 back open. Bugs Bunny World construction update. Scrambler Refurbishment.

Six Flags Six Flags Magic Mountain

We hadn't planned on doing another Magic Mountain update so soon after our last update, but the crowd favorite coaster X2 reopened last weekend after a multi-month closure.
We'll also have an update on the new coaster in Bugs Bunny World and one of the few remaining flat rides at the park is being refurbished.

X2 back open

X2 reopened this past weekend after being closed for the past few months due to a lift chain hill replacement.
Unfortunately, despite the park hyping the reopening, the ride opened an hour after the park on both Saturday and Sunday and was only running 1-train on Sunday (the day we visited).

This was the line of eager riders at about 11:00am Sunday Morning while the ride was still testing.

A view of a ride operator up on the lift-hill during the rides testing process.

For a ride that had been hyped by the park (and social media) for the past week as making it's triumphant return, not having the ride ready when the park opening is pretty much inexcusable. Especially considering they had months to fix any issues with the ride. Testing didn't even begin until the park opened at 10:30am.

Perhaps the best thing about the ride reopening is the great pictures you can get from the X2 bridge again.

While I'm personally not the biggest fan of X2, I do understand it's popularity. I'm glad it's reopened but it's imperative that the park get what is arguably the most popular coaster in the park open with the park on a consistent basis.
The ride apparently opened with the park and was back to 2-train operations on Monday (January 20). Hopefully that's a good sign for the future.

Scrambler Refurbishment

In an unexpected development, the Scrambler flat ride has yet again been removed from the park. According to my park sources however, the ride is just being refurbished and will be back this spring.

If you'll recall, in the early 2000's the parks original scrambler was damaged when a tree fell on it. This one has been at the park since 2003 so it's nice to see it getting some off-season TLC.

A good portion of the rides control systems have been removed as well.

While the Scrambler is in refurb this brings the number of (non-upcharge) flat rides at the park to a whopping 6 (Buccaneer, Swashbuckler, The Flash, Wonder Woman: Lasso of Truth, Sandblasters, Grand Carousel). Hopefully some new flat rides are on the agenda soon.

They need one of those handy-dandy refurbishment signs out here.

Bugs Bunny World Makeover and New Coaster

The park continues to prepare for the new kiddie coaster in Bugs Bunny World. We still don't have a name or a layout of the coaster however. Below is the former location of the Tweety Bird Cages (which is being moved) and the Foghorn Leghorn Barnyard Railway (which has been removed).

Sadly some of the trees we hoped would be saved in our last update have indeed been removed.

A complete overview of the area. A pretty big chunk of land has opened up. Not sure what, if any of the existing infrastructure will be saved. Hopefully at least some of the themeing will remain intact.

The Tweety Bird Cage ride is being set up in it's new location. The cages were not out so hopefully they are backstage getting some TLC.

Where the ride control booth will be.

Over where the General Sam Tree used to be it looks like they are building what is likely a Bugs Bunny World sign as well as some new planters. Judging by the depth of the hole and supports it doesn't appear that it will be a very tall sign (which is fine so the young ones can see it).

Some work on the nearby planters is also being done. The wall on the right (with the black background) is new.

The picture below from our last update (January 3rd) shows the portion of the wall that has been added in the last 2 weeks.

Sorry Folks, Restaurants closed, the Moose out front shoulda told ya

Looks like one of the last pieces of "High Sierra Territory" may be gone forever. Rumor is that the restaurant will reopen but under a different theme (possibly Full Throttle). Considering it's proximity to Bugs Bunny World some kind of character dining would be perfect for this location.

More trees biting the dust.

A peek inside, considering all the antlers on the ground I'm guessing the moose is gone.

Around The Park

Not really a whole lot going on elsewhere in the park. I do always enjoy a "Nacho Cheese" joke though.

Even though Mooseburger is closed it's not stopping the park from promoting it. Maybe a sign that it's not gone forever?

A look at the parks refurbishment list. It's certainly the off-season. I'd anticipate additional Bugs Bunny World attractions going down for refurbishment as they prepare to beautify the area in the months ahead.

New Season Pass deal. No upgrade to Gold for you procrastinators but free Hurricane Harbor isn't too shabby.

Also hearing that the new Bonzai Pipeline slides are sitting behind Tornado. They haven't begun removing the existing slides for installation yet, when they do we'll be sure to head up and get some pictures.

That's going to wrap it up for this update. Hope you enjoyed it.

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Published on

January 21, 2014

Harry Potter and Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem update at Universal Studios Hollywood

2014 Attractions Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem Harry Potter Hogwarts Simpsons Springfield Studio Tour Universal Studios Hollywood

We are very excited to bring you the first of what we hope will be many updates for the upcoming Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Hollywood. The area doesn't open until 2016 so that gives us lots of time to follow all aspects of construction.
As if Harry Potter wasn't enough, the new for 2014 attraction "Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem" is inching closer to opening this spring. There is also a lot of work going on around The Simpsons Ride.

Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Before we get into what the area for Wizarding World of Harry Potter looks like now, let's take a look at what the area looked like just a few short months ago on September 13, 2013. Thanks so much to CoasterMatt for the following "Before" pictures.

And this is what that same area looks like today.

What is at the moment big piles of dirt will eventually be the highly themed world of Harry Potter.

Big machines that punch holes in the ground are on site as well as the crane that can be seen from well outside the park. Isn't there some kind of spell that can just make this be ready to open tomorrow?

As seen from outside the park.

Lots of stuff in the staging area.

From inside the park you can get an idea of just how big the crane is.

The size and scope of this project is, quite simply, the biggest project in the parks history. This is going to change the park, not only expanding the size of the upper lot but most likely changing the way the park is seen from a local and tourist standpoint. While other parks have had a lock on the local Southern California market for years, Universal Studios was always seen as a park for tourists with only an occasional visit for locals. This project will expand the local market for the park unlike anything else in the parks history.

Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem

The park is also hard at work on the new for 2014 attraction, Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem. Unlike it's Florida Counterpart this attraction brings with it an entire new "mini-land" that is rumored to include a spinning ride.
Given how popular the franchise is (especially the Minions), and considering the lack of major attractions in the local market, this is probably going to be the biggest attraction opening in Southern California in 2014.

It looks like the crane is mainly being used for the "Super Silly Fun Land" area.

The facade for Gru's house is only one of many things featured from the movies. And this is only what we can see so far.

I'm sure this guy was doing something pretty important. Actually, since these pictures were taken the sign for the ride has been installed (just to the left of where the crane is in the picture below).

From the lower lot you can see some of the work being done on "Super Silly Fun Land"

A lot of Despicable Me merchandise has already started to show up in the stores both inside the park and at CityWalk.

It's so FLUFFY!!!!

Once we get some firm opening dates for Minion Mayhem we will be sure to share them

Around The Park

As if Harry Potter and Despicable Me weren't enough, there is a lot of work going on around The Simpsons Ride for the long-rumored Springfield makeover. The queue for the ride is also getting some work done.

However, no official announcement has been made.

There are walls from the entrance of Shrek 4D all the way to the entrance of the Studio Tour. As a result, Doc Brown's chicken and a few other restaurants and stores have closed.

If you haven't been to the park for awhile, some big recent changes include the removal of the Wild West arena and the addition of the new Universal Plaza which really opens up the park.

A couple of tidbits from the Studio Tour. Always make sure to check the production board to see what's filming, you never know what you might see.

Beware of Norman Bates

The Avalanche Tunnel/Curse of the Mummy's Tomb is completely gone, opening up a huge plot of land. Not sure if this is going to be part of Harry Potter or something different.

An overhead view of just how much has been cleared.

Looks like Jaws finally got what was coming to him.

That's going to wrap it up for this update. Considering how fast Harry Potter and Minion Mayhem are progressing we are likely going to have pretty consistent updates from the park.

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Published on

January 16, 2014

Six Flags Great Adventure hosting Auditions (Feb 8) and Job Fair (Feb 15)

2014 Attractions Six Flags Six Flags Great Adventure Six Flags Hurricane Harbor

Six Flags Great Adventure Will Offer 4,000 Jobs in 2014

Park will host auditions Feb. 8, job fair Feb. 15

WHAT:

Six Flags Great Adventure, New Jersey’s largest seasonal employer and the largest employer in Ocean County, is hiring more than 4,000 employees including 200 interns for the 2014 season, which will feature the debut of the world’s tallest drop tower, Zumanjaro: Drop of Doom.

The park will host entertainment auditions Feb. 8 beginning at 1 pm and a job fair Feb. 15 from 10 am to 4 pm. Before attending, new applicants must visit www.sixflagsjobs.com to complete an online application.

Six Flags offers a wide variety of positions and paid internships and provides team members many benefits including advancement opportunities, health and medical benefits, reward and recognition programs, scholarships, free park admission, incentives from area businesses and much more. According to the popular Warner Bros. game show “Let’s Ask America,” available on Scripps Television Stations, U.S. residents polled chose Six Flags as the most fun place to work.

Six Flags is looking for enthusiastic candidates of all ages and backgrounds, and has positions available in retail, games, park services, ride operations, food service, admissions, guest relations/VIP services, market research, loss prevention, security, landscaping, safari guides, lifeguards, entertainment performers and show technical support, accounting, cash control, human resources, graphic design and public relations.

The Six Flags Employment Center opens Feb. 10 with hours Monday to Friday from 1 to 6 pm, and Saturdays from 9 am to 5 pm. Walk-in applicants who have completed their online application and rehires are welcome.

The 2014 season kicks off April 12 and runs on a varied schedule through Nov. 2. More information is available at www.sixflags.com

WHEN/WHERE:

Entertainment Auditions: Saturday, February 8 - 1:00 p.m. actors, 1:30 p.m. dancers, 2:30 p.m. show hosts, 3:00 p.m. specialty performers (i.e. stilt walkers, jugglers, drummers)

Showcase Theater, Six Flags Great Adventure, 1 Six Flags Blvd., Jackson, NJ 08527

Enter via Employment Entrance approximately one mile west of main park entrance and follow signs to theater.

Job Fair: Saturday, February 15 - 10 am to 4 pm

Six Flags Great Adventure’s Employment Center, 1 Six Flags Blvd., Jackson, NJ 08527

Enter via Employment Entrance approximately one mile west of main park entrance.
Published on

January 14, 2014
Knott's Announces Camp Snoopy Attractions (Updated Jan 24)

2014 Attractions Camp Snoopy Cedar Fair
2014 marks the beginning of an exciting time in Knott’s history as its treasured Camp Snoopy celebrates the big 3-0 with a complete restoration of the entire land! Today, Knott’s Berry Farm is proud to announce the three new rides coming to the land of High Sierra fun: Charlie Brown’s Kite Flyer, Pig Pen’s Mud Buggies and Linus Launcher. The addition of the three new family rides, built by Zamperla, demonstrates Knott’s commitment to reinvestment in one of the most beloved children’s areas ever created.

Charlie Brown’s Kite Flyer invites campers to “fly a kite” with Charlie Brown and soar above the land’s winding paths and babbling streams – but watch out for the kite-eating tree! This 32-passenger adventure allows guests to sit side-by-side on 16 swings for a spin that whisks riders up to 18 feet above the ground. As the tree rises, good ol’ Charlie Brown is revealed upside down and all tied up in kite string! Charlie Brown’s Kite Flyer will replace Snoopy Bounce.

Pig Pen’s Mud Buggies lets tykes climb aboard their very own all-terrain vehicle for an adventurous ride around the High Sierras. Six four-seater ATVs will spin, bounce, and bump up to 24 guests at a time, while Pig Pen looks on from his center perch. Pig Pen’s Mud Buggies will replace Log Peeler.

Linus Launcher recreates that classic Peanut’s moment when Snoopy grabs Linus’ blanket and launches him on a wild ride. On Linus Launcher, guests lay on one of twelve “blankets” as they fly round and round. Up to 24 guests lay side-by-side while Snoopy launches them up almost 10 feet in the air. Guests will enjoy a Woodstock’s-eye view of Huff ‘n Puff, The Grizzly Creek Lodge, and all of Camp Snoopy below! Linus Launcher will replace Charlie Brown’s Speedway.

Get a sneak peak of the revitalized area with an all new preview sketch, featuring the new rides. In the picturesque rendering, the three new attractions are stunningly depicted: Pig Pen’s Mud Buggies (front left); Charlie Brown’s Kite Flyer (front right); Linus Launcher (back right).

During construction, Knott’s will share exciting announcements and progress through a series of weekly updates on Knotts.com. Over the next several weeks, Knott’s will unveil new changes to the land and take readers behind the scenes of this enormous construction project. Join the conversation on social media using #CampSnoopy to track even more updates on Facebook,Twitter, and Instagram. Camp Snoopy construction began on January 6th and will continue until the grand re-opening in early summer. Don’t miss any of the exciting news from Knott’s Berry Farm in 2014!

A 2014 Season Pass is a great way to experience all of Knott’s Farm Fresh Fun all year long!Knott’s Berry Farm Season Passes are now available online for just six easy payments of $14.00.

Camp Snoopy’s 30th Anniversary: Week Two Update

The first step on your journey through Camp Snoopy’s High Sierras will now be more realistic than ever. Knott's Berry Farm’s Project Development team has broken ground in Camp Snoopy and enhanced the pathways that surround the freshly painted Sierra Sidewinder. By the end of construction, this dirt-like pavement will wind through all of Camp Snoopy’s midways. The pavement, along with new rustic lighting and fence structures, further bring to life the outdoor camp atmosphere.

Let’s take a hike over to the North end of Camp Snoopy where we find the re-themed Timberline Twister! The ride puts you in the driver seat of Charlie Brown’s entry into this year’s Camp Snoopy Pinewood Derby. Twist your way through the trees and the surrounding wilderness as you race to the finish line to help Charlie Brown win his first merit badge. As part of construction, the attraction will also feature a new loading station shade structure. The Timberline Twister is a not-so-scary kids’ roller coaster located next to Camp Bus.

Knott's Berry Farm has added Krazy Kirk and the Hillbillies (formerly known as Billy Hill and the Hillbillies) to its world class lineup of live entertainment starting January 18.

WHAT: Knott’s Berry Farm is delighted to announce that Krazy Kirk and the Hillbillies (formerly known as Billy Hill and the Hillbillies) have signed on to perform at the theme park weekends (Saturday and Sunday) beginning January 18, 2014. This world famous bluegrass country music group will perform sets of their toe tappin’, hand clappin’ and gut bustin’ musical comedy show on the Wilderness Dance Hall stage located in Ghost Town.

WHEN: Weekends starting Saturday, January 18

TIME: Saturday 1/18 – 1:00, 2:30, 3:30, & 4:30 p.m. - Sunday 1/19 – 5:30, 6:30, 8:00, & 9:00 p.m.

Weekend performances after 1/19 will be announced at www.knotts.com

Keep up with this project and more 2014 projects in our Project Tracker.

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Published on

January 13, 2014
2014 Project Tracker

2014 Attractions Adventuredome Dollywood Hershey Park Silver Dollar City
Updated March 19th - Welcome to the Park Journeys 2014 Project Tracker. We will be updating this page once we get firm opening dates for attractions coming in 2014.
We are hoping you will be able to use this tool so you can better plan your summer trips and make sure you don't miss anything.

*Project is on schedule
*Project is in danger of opening late
*Project has been confirmed to be opening late

El Loco - Adventuredome
Circus, Circus - Las Vegas
Get ready for negative G-force.......Over-the-edge twists.

Status: Now Open!!!

* All Photo's courtesy of Adventuredome - Circus, Circus - Las Vegas

El Loco Fun Facts:
The Adventuredome at Circus Circus is home to one of six El Loco models Indiana, UK, France, Australia and China...and the only indoor El Loco in the United States.
El Loco's design pushes the limits of what can be accomplished with a smaller footprint, maximizing space with a soaring, eye-catching structure
Riders will experience twists, turns and drops very unique in the coaster world as they ascend 90 feet before dropping over and under to experience a negative 1.5 vertical-G
Up to six cars are able to cycle through the track at the same time
El Loco's design pushes the limits of what can be accomplished with a smaller footprint, maximizing space with a soaring, eye-catching structure
Riders will enjoy a custom soundtrack with speakers in each seat
Minimum height requirement – 48 inches
Tallest point – 90 feet
Top speed – 45 mph
El Loco's innovative, four-person cars feature an open design giving riders the feeling of flying during the 72-second ride along 1,300 feet of track
For more information on El Loco, visit the Adventuredome Website

* Note: We are hoping to be in Las Vegas shortly after El Loco opens or during it's Grand Opening. Stay Tuned!!!

Goliath - Six Flags Great America
Chicago, IL
Coming in 2014, Six Flags Great America will introduce a brand new triple-record-breaking wooden coaster that will be the new staple of the park’s skyline.

Status: Opening Spring, 2014

* All Photo's courtesy of Six Flags

This giant new beast will feature impressive heights, astonishing speeds, and stomach-tightening inversions: Goliath will be the world’s fastest wooden coaster with the tallest and steepest drop, plunging riders down 180 feet and rocketing through twists and turns at 72 miles per hour.

Holding three world records, Goliath is the most extreme coaster of its kind and provides adrenaline rush like no other. Riders will elevate up to touch the sky atop the 165-foot lift hill. Then, you’ll whip over the peak and conquer the world’s tallest and steepest heart-racing drop, at an unbelievable 180 feet and a near-vertical 85 degrees. You’ll reach the bottom of this gut-wrenching slope before you even have time to scream.

Reaching top speeds of 72 miles per hour—the fastest of any wooden roller coaster—you’ll then thunder around surprising curves and outrageous twists. You’ll face three intense over-banked turns, a 180-degree zero G-roll twist, and two wild inversions, flipping head-over-heels through a winding inverted drop and a spiraling inverted zero G stall.

The extreme, record-breaking, first-of-its-kind roller coaster is set to debut in spring 2014 in the County Fair section of the park. Are you ready to conquer Goliath?

For more information on Goliath visit the Six Flags Great America Website.

Hersheypark - Family is the Focus for 2014
Hersheypark - Hershey, PA
Three New Rides Will Offer Thrills for All Ages
Enhanced Hersheypark App to Debut in Spring

Status - Opening Spring 2014

The roller coaster count at Hersheypark will increase in 2014 when the Park introduces a new coaster designed for families to ride together.

If you remember the thrill of your first coaster and want to share that moment with your child, or another young family member, Hersheypark will give you more opportunities to do so with the arrival of Cocoa Cruiser, new gravity coaster.

“Many of our guests share roller coaster memories with us and tell us their first coaster experience was here at Hersheypark,” said Kevin Stumpf, general manager, Hersheypark. “We are happy to offer another ‘first coaster’ opportunity for our younger guests and look forward to hearing their stories in the future.”

Cocoa Cruiser’s layout is a compact oval featuring a midcourse helix, or turn that forms a radius of more than 360-degrees. The ride, with a six car train that holds up to twelve riders, will be located in the Park’s Music Box Way area.

Two other family favorite rides will open in the Park for the 2014 season—a Tea Cup Ride and Sweet Swing. All three rides are designed and built by Zamperla Rides, an Italian-based company known around the world for designing family thrill rides.

An all-time classic, Tea Cups will feature six cups that hold two adults and two children in each cup. The iconic tilted tea pot is the centerpiece of the attraction and the surrounding cups include a central steering wheel which allows riders to spin the ride at their own pace.

Sweet Swing resembles a large bench swing with two sides; each side of the swing will accommodate up to six riders, with a maximum of two adults. The swing motion provides both exhilaration and air time for riders.

"Everyone at Zamperla is excited to be adding these three new rides to Hersheypark," said Zamperla Sales Director Ramon Rosario. “Our rides are designed to attract and entertain the entire family, so they will be a perfect fit."

In addition to the new rides, Hersheypark will expand its food offering with the arrival of Chickie’s & Pete’s, the legendary Philadelphia/South Jersey eatery known for their signature Crabfries. Other tempting menu selections include Chickie’s & Pete’s favorites like the Philly Cheesesteak, Crabby Sweets and the Crab Pretzel.

"We are very excited to bring some of Chickie's and Pete's signature food to Hersheypark, especially our world famous Crabfries,” said Pete Ciarrocchi, chairman and CEO of Chickie’s & Pete’s. “We have joked that The Sweetest Place on Earth just got a little crabby with the addition of Crabfries.”

Park guests will be able to easily locate the new rides and food locations by using the 2014 enhanced and customized Hersheypark Map App. The new App, anticipated to be ready in the spring, offers guests the ability to search attractions based on rider height, locate all items from baby food to roller coasters, and utilize a "take me there" directional function allowing guests to map their route to and from any location within the Park. Users will be able to connect to the App through Facebook or personal email.

The three new family-focused rides and Chickie’s & Pete’s are scheduled to debut in May when Hersheypark opens for its 107th season of family fun. For more information please visit http://www.hersheypark.com/general_info/new_2014.php or call 1-800-242-4236.

FireChaser Express - Dollywood
Pigeon Forge, TN
Dollywood theme park adds another innovative coaster to its lineup with FireChaser Express, the nation’s first dual-launch family coaster that travels forward and backward.

Status - Opening March 22, 2014

* All Photo's Courtesy of Dollywood

FireChaser Express launches twice, traveling forward and backward on a winding 2,427-foot track. The coaster launches from the loading station traveling from zero to 16 mph in just 1.1 second. As the journey ends, a backward launch from zero to 20 mph in two seconds sends FireChaser Express back to the station traveling in the opposite direction. Perched 12 stories above the park’s Wilderness Pass area, the coaster’s 39-inch minimum height requirement invites families to ride together.

   “FireChaser Express is truly special to me because families can ride this coaster together,” Dolly Parton said. “Most four-year-olds are tall enough to ride FireChaser Express so I’m excited that lots of families will take their first coaster ride together at Dollywood. I’m thrilled to offer folks a memory like this to cherish forever. That’s a blast!”

   FireChaser Express is the first capital investment in a 10-year plan that includes more than $300 million in future developments, including attractions and resorts, all to be at or adjacent to Parton’s Dollywood theme park, located just miles from the entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

   A 79-foot lift propels FireChaser Express through a “trick track” section where the passenger trains twist from side to side. Riders also encounter two helices and six zero-gravity moments on a journey that lasts two minutes and 19 seconds. FireChaser Express features three 14-passenger trains with an hourly capacity of 750 riders.

FireChaser Express celebrates the volunteer-based fire departments of the 1940s who protected the neighboring Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Coaster passengers are volunteer recruits needed to help Chief Pete Embers spot any potential fire hazards in the area. They are especially mindful of recent lightning in the area and Crazy Charlie Cherriebaum’s Gas & Fireworks Emporium. Recruits never know when they might be called to save the day.

Once the five-bell alarm sounds in Station 7, it’s go time in Dollywood’s Wilderness Pass as FireChaser Express launches from the station and careens through fire towers and the mountainside amid crashed rockets, a destroyed fireworks storage shed, fallen telephone poles with “rocket darts” and other charred remnants that litter the coaster’s path. FireChaser Express takes its volunteer recruits through the fireworks testing area where they encounter the mythical “Big Bertha” skyrocket and a lightning hit at Crazy Charlie’s Gas & Fireworks Emporium. As FireChaser Express races to extinguish the blaze, the coaster encounters a fireworks explosion, catapulting FireChaser Express into a backward launch sending the coaster on a reverse ride back into the station!

   FireChaser Express is the latest addition to The Dollywood Company’s list of unique new rides. In March 2012, Dollywood opened the $20 million Wild Eagle, the country’s first wing coaster. In 2013, Dollywood’s Splash Country followed with the addition of RiverRush, Tennessee’s first and only water coaster.

For more information on FireChaser Express visit the Dollywood Website.

Six Flags Hurricane Harbor (New Waterpark)
Atlanta, GA
Six Flags Over Georgia, the premier theme park in the South, announced today that it will soon break ground on Hurricane Harbor, an all-new tropically-themed water park.

Status: Opening Spring, 2014

Hurricane Harbor will be free with park admission and completely transform the area formerly occupied by the Southern Star Amphitheater while offering wet and wild thrills for guests of all ages.

“Our entirely new water park inside of Six Flags Over Georgia will further support our goal of delivering of a world-class destination for all ages,” said Dale Kaetzel, park president. “When combined with our continuing focus on creating a safe, family-friendly environment in our park, this multi-million dollar investment will be a “must do” experience for anyone living in or visiting Metro Atlanta.”

“This year’s investment in Hurricane Harbor complements many other economic initiatives in Cobb County and is the first step of our multi-year investment plan that includes future expansion of the water park into an adjacent parcel of undeveloped land,” added Kaetzel.

Hurricane Harbor, set to open in late May 2014, will include an 800,000 gallon wave pool, a multi-slide tower, and a “world’s first” single slide tower combining two extreme slide thrills, plus an interactive children’s water play area. A tropical island theme will include new food locations, shopping, cabanas and expansive deck, lounge and shade amenities.

“The addition of a huge new water park will add a whole new dimension that our guests have been asking for. In the South, you can never have too many opportunities to cool off and Hurricane Harbor is the perfect complement to our world class ride and entertainment package,” noted Kaetzel.

Six Flags White Water in Marietta, Georgia, featuring Typhoon Twister new in 2013, will also expand its “guest-popular” Dive-in Movies during the 2014 season by adding an all new entertainment stage featuring music and new ways to enjoy the legendary Atlanta Ocean wave pool. Six Flags White Water will operate from mid-May through Labor Day and continue to offer a total water park experience, serving guests with thrills from mild to wild.

Construction plans for Hurricane Harbor are well underway and groundbreaking of the site will begin in September. The new Hurricane Harbor will kick off its’ inaugural weekend with an opening spectacular that will be an historic event and remain open throughout the summer season.

Calico Mine Ride and Camp Snoopy improvents at Knott's Berry Farm
Buena Park, CA
Knott’s Berry Farm is proud to announce two major projects for 2014 that continue reinvestment in the park’s rich history and heritage

Our most recent Knott's update (Feb 4) can be found here.

Status: Opening Early Summer, 2014

* All Photo's Courtesy of Knott's Berry Farm

Camp Snoopy celebrates its 30th Anniversary with the revitalization of the entire land of High Sierra fun. The classic Calico Mine Ride, Knott’s first major attraction and theme park industry icon, will undergo an all-encompassing refurbishment complete with new state-of-the-art animatronic figures and enhanced scenery. Camp Snoopy’s area beautification and the revitalized Calico Mine Ride are slated to open early summer of 2014.

“Camp Snoopy and Calico Mine Ride have delighted guests for decades and are classics that families come back time and again to experience together” said Raffi Kaprelyan, Knott's Berry Farm’s vice president and general manager. “The revitalization of these areas will once again demonstrate our commitment to Knott’s heritage and will preserve these experiences for a new generation of guests to enjoy.”

Camp Snoopy, home of the beloved PEANUTS Gang, has welcomed the young and the young at heart since its
grand opening on July 1, 1983. In honor of the land’s 30th anniversary, the High Sierra mountains camp theming will be enhanced throughout. Thirty years ago the five-acre nature wonderland was created by the Knott family to be a carefree place where nature, adventure and imagination come to life, and in 2014 it will undergo a number of exciting updates including new rides and restoration of the entire area with the original inspiration in mind.

Additionally in 2014, Knott’s beloved Calico Mine Ride will undergo complete refurbishment.

The Calico Mine Ride, Knott’s first major ride, opened in Ghost Town in November 1960 and was quickly
recognized as one of the world’s most immersive “dark rides.” The beloved attraction designed by industry pioneer- Bud Hurlbut, carries riders aboard ore cars, on a realistic adventure through dimly lit tunnels of a working gold mine. The winding journey takes passengers to underground lakes, waterfalls, caverns filled with thousands of mysterious formations, chambers filled with steaming, bubbling pots and geysers. At several points in the trip, riders find themselves along the rim of a sixty five foot deep and ninety foot wide scene filled with dozens of animated miners trying to strike it rich.

The Calico Mine Train attraction stands 7 stories tall. Every year over 1 million guests take part in the eight
minute journey. The mountain required over 275 tons of steel to complete and was the first attraction with a “hidden” themed queue that snakes upward to the loading station, out of sight of onlookers. The design preserves the impressive forced perspective of the mountain range, based on the sites in the authentic ghost town at Calico in California’s Mojave Desert.

In January 2014 the attraction will close for a comprehensive restoration by Knott’s Berry Farm’s design and
production team. The project will be another partnership with Garner Holt Productions, Inc., (GHP) the team that brought award winning new enhancements to the Timber Mountain Log Ride in 2013 with lifelike animatronics and stunning show scenes.

“It is our company’s top priority to preserve and enhance the original story of a working gold mine deep in the
heart of the Old West” said Garner Holt, GHP’s founder and president. “The Calico Mine Ride will be filled with lifelike sounds and motion, while maintaining the uniquely authentic feel of the attraction as designed by Knott’s and industry legend Bud Hurlbut.” The renovation of the iconic attraction includes the addition of over 50 new state-of-the-art animatronic figures, all new audio and theme lighting system, and special effects that will capture the imagination of would-be miners as they journey deep into the winding caverns of the attraction.

In 1954, Knott’s Berry Farm founder, Walter Knott, delivered an open letter to his employees in which he wrote “You know, we never fully enjoy the things we have until we share them with those we love.” Next summer, Knott’s invites the world to come back to Camp Snoopy and Ghost Town to enjoy these new adventures together.

For more information on Knott’s Berry Farm including admission, park hours and events visit www.knotts.com or download the Knott's Berry Farm app for your smart phone.

Update: January 14, 2014 - Three new attractions announced for Knott's Berry Farm. Full details here.

Zumanjaro: Drop of Doom - Six Flags Great Adventure
Jackson, NJ
Coming in 2014, Six Flags Great Adventure will introduce Zumanjaro: Drop of Doom, a brand new record-breaking drop ride feature breathtaking views, impressive heights, astonishing speeds, stomach-tightening drops, and an adrenaline rush like no other.

Status: Opening Spring, 2014

First, your eight-person gondola will blast to the top of the 415-foot structure in approximately 30 seconds. You’ll pause for a moment to check out the aerial view of the park and anticipate the rapid heart-racing plummet coming up next. Everything soon becomes a blur as gravity pulls your gondola downwards at 90 miles per hour, reaching ground level again in less than 10 seconds—before you even have time to scream.

The three soaring Zumanjaro towers will share their structure and be built on the face of the record-breaking Kingda Ka coaster. As you rise and fall along the vertical track, the Kingda Ka steel trains will be thundering around the track at 128 miles per hour at the same time.

Zumanjaro: Drop of Doom was inspired by the African theme of Safari Off Road Adventure, last summer’s new attraction that created the world’s largest theme park. While waiting to board Zumanjaro, guests will pass an all-new animal area, where they can watch native African Anubis baboon play and interact in their habitat.

To make room for the newest addition to Six Flags Great Adventure, we must bid farewell to a classic. Rolling Thunder, our classic wooden coaster, will close to the public on September 8 to help make way for construction of the new ride. New technological advances and preferences have created a new generation of thrill rides, and Rolling Thunder’s popularity has decreased over the years. Be sure to tackle this coaster’s 85-foot drop and 10 dipping hills before it slips into history.

The extreme Zumanjaro: Drop of Doom is set to debut in spring 2014. Are you ready to take on this all-new drop ride?

Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem - Universal Studios Hollywood
Universal City, CA
Coming Spring 2014, experience Despicable Me Minion Mayhem and join Gru, his daughters, and the mischievous Minions on a heartwarming and hilarious 3-D ride. Start your adventure in Gru’s home, where you’re recruited for his latest scheme – one where you’ll become an actual Minion.

Our most recent update from Universal Studios Hollywood (March 9) can be found here.

Status: Opening April 10, 2014

Universal Studios Hollywood announces the much-anticipated arrival of "Despicable Me Minion Mayhem," a 3D Ultra-HD movie motion-simulator adventure. Universal Pictures and Illumination Entertainment's worldwide blockbuster Despicable Me will come to life in Hollywood in an attraction modeled after the one in its sister park, Universal Orlando Resort® – with the addition of a few surprises unique to the Entertainment Capital of L.A.SM

"Based on the consumer feedback at our sister park, we expect the 'Despicable Me' ride experience to be a popular, family-friendly attraction for Universal Studios Hollywood. The ride continues the story line of the main characters from the blockbuster film through all-new 3D Ultra-HD animation, together with an interactive ride vehicle system," said Larry Kurzweil, President and Chief Operating Officer, Universal Studios Hollywood. "In 'Despicable Me Minion Mayhem,' our guests will experience the hilarious and heartwarming characters of the beloved film in a whole new way."

The fully immersive experience will debut in 2014 with the loveable cast of leading characters that have captured the laughter of audiences worldwide: super-villain Gru, his adorable girls (Margo, Edith and Agnes) and the unpredictably hilarious Minions.

"The 'Despicable Me Minion Mayhem' attraction at Universal Studios Hollywood will continue to push the creative envelope with its exceptional show content, sight gags, special effects and 3D digital animation. The exterior treatment will feature even more thematic and colorful creative touches that will literally place park guests inside Gru's world," said Mark Woodbury, President, Universal Creative.

Guests will experience whimsically themed queues, preshow videos and comedic dialogue that set up the fundamental plot: Gru schemes to create more mischievous Minions from human recruits.

Guests will be transported into Gru's house as they meander through his living room and encounter visual elements as seen in the film – including the moon-shrinking SR-6 shrink ray – while they zig zag through a zany adventure featuring Gru's super-villain laboratory. The exciting journey continues as they swerve, bounce and plunge to get through the frantically humorous Minion training mission while donning specially designed 3D Minion goggles. Fun and frolic continue in a post-show dance party where Minion walkaround characters invite guests to strut their stuff in an impromptu Minion-inspired dance party.

"Despicable Me Minion Mayhem" was produced in collaboration between Universal Creative and Illumination Entertainment, and was recently honored as Best Animated Special Production at the 2012 Annie Awards, which recognizes Outstanding Achievements in the field of Animation.

Speedy Gonzales Hot Rod Racers - Six Flags Magic MountainValencia, CA
Six Flags Magic Mountain Announces Newest Roller Coaster

Speedy Gonzales Hot Rod Racers will become 19th roller coaster

Our most recent update from Six Flags Magic Mountain (March 17) can be found here.

Status: Opening Early Summer 2014

Six Flags Magic Mountain, the “Thrill Capital of the World,” today announced its newest pint-sized roller coaster. Speedy Gonzales Hot Rod Racers will anchor the revitalized Bugs Bunny World, becoming the fourth roller coaster in the children’s area, more than any other U.S. theme park.

Sitting in miniature hot rod race cars, riders will enjoy an action-packed adventure with plenty of drops and thrills on a roadster-themed racetrack. Kids and parents can ride together as they take a sprint around the grand prix track. Joining 11 other rides and attractions, from flying airplanes to pint-sized trucks and trains, Speedy Gonzales Hot Rod Racers will debut in early summer.

“We are excited to introduce Speedy Gonzales Hot Rod Racers to our coaster collection at Six Flags Magic Mountain,” said Bonnie Rabjohn, Six Flags Magic Mountain and Hurricane Harbor park president. “This time it’s a fun adventure for our littlest guests. The mini-coasters in Bugs Bunny World are the perfect training ground for aspiring thrill seekers at the ‘Thrill Capital of the World.’ No doubt we will be creating lots of magical memories for them this year.”

With the addition of Speedy Gonzales Hot Rod Racers, the Valencia theme park will boast 19 roller coasters, more than any other theme park on the planet, including the new Full Throttle, which debuted in June 2013 as the world’s tallest and fastest looping coaster; X2, the world’s first 5th dimensional coaster; Tatsu, the world’s tallest and fastest flying coaster; Goliath, the giant among giants; Viper and more.

Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Diagon Alley - Universal Studios Orlando
Orlando, FL
2014’s Most Anticipated New Theme Park Experience Opens This Summer and Brings More of Harry Potter’s Adventures to Life

Expansive New Area Will Feature Something for Everyone:
The Hogwarts Express, A Groundbreaking Ride, Plus Spectacular Shops and Dining

Status: Opening Summer 2014

Never before has a theme park created a guest experience like this: you climb aboard the Hogwarts Express in Hogsmeade and moments later arrive at King’s Cross Station – where the wonders of London and Diagon Alley unfold before you.  And it is all real.

With this summer’s opening of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley, Universal Orlando Resort and Warner Bros. Entertainment will bring even more of Harry Potter’s adventures to life inside a new, magnificently themed area that includes a revolutionary attraction experience, as well as all-new themed shops and dining.

The two companies today revealed first-ever details about the new area and the one-of-a-kind adventures it will offer the whole family.  The spectacularly themed environment will double the size of the sweeping area already dedicated to Harry Potter’s adventures at Universal Orlando, expanding it across both Universal theme parks.

And – just like in the books and films – guests will be able to travel between the two areas aboard the iconic Hogwarts Express.

Universal Orlando launched a global phenomenon when it opened The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade at its Islands of Adventure theme park in 2010.  That area includes the iconic Hogwarts castle – which houses the groundbreaking Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey attraction – and the village of Hogsmeade.  The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley will be located within Universal Orlando’s second theme park, Universal Studios, and will create new experiences based on the signature areas of London, Diagon Alley and Knockturn Alley.

Universal’s creative team has been working closely with Stuart Craig and the production team from the Harry Potter films to make the new area as authentic and spectacular as possible – just as it did with The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Hogsmeade.

The vision for The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley is unprecedented, with Universal Orlando creating the world’s first centrally themed, multi-park experience.

After arriving at King’s Cross Station aboard the Hogwarts Express, guests will pass through London and the iconic brick wall archway from the films into Diagon Alley – a bustling, wizarding hub within a Muggle city.  There will be shops, dining experiences, and a new ride called Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts – a multi-sensory, multi-dimensional journey that will take theme park attractions to a new level.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley will give visitors the exciting opportunity to:

Board the Hogwarts Express and journey between London’s King’s Cross Station (located in Universal Studios Florida) and Hogsmeade Station (located in Universal’s Islands of Adventure). The journey will be filled with views of London and the British countryside – as well as a few surprises. Park-to-park admission is required.

Experience a groundbreaking new, multi-dimensional thrill ride, Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts,which will place riders in the middle of an incredible adventure as they navigate their way through the perils of the Gringotts vaults
Witness the magical experience of a wand choosing a wizard at Ollivanders: Makers of Fine Wands since 382 BC, one of the wizarding world’s premier wand shops
Discover the darker side of magic in Knockturn Alley, the darkest of dark places that features Borgin and Burkes – a shop specializing in the Dark Arts that will offer a wide variety of Dark objects, such as Death Eater masks, skulls, and other sinister items

Explore some of Diagon Alley’s famous shops, including:

Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes, a vibrant shop featuring novelty items, magical jokes, and toys inspired by the books and films that will amaze the mischievous child in everyone
Madam Malkin’s Robes for All Occasions, where guests will find a variety of wizardwear from Hogwarts school uniform ties, scarves and jumpers, to authentic wizard’s robes and character costumes
Magical Menagerie, which features a collection of plush animals, such as owls and Hippogriffs
Wiseacre’s Wizarding Equipment, where guests can grab wizarding essentials such as telescopes, binoculars, armillary spheres, compasses, magnifying glasses and hourglasses
Quality Quidditch Supplies, offering a wide assortment of apparel and equipment including Quidditch sweaters, brooms, Golden Snitches, Bludgers, Bludger bats, Quaffles and more
Scribbulus, featuring authentic writing implements and products such as feather quills, ink and inkwells, bookmarks, journals, parchment paper, seals, stationery sets and postcards

Enjoy traditional British fare that includes favorite dishes such as fish and chips, bangers and mash and more at the Leaky Cauldron
Visit Florean Fortescue’s Ice-Cream Parlour for frozen treats in a variety of tantalizing and unique flavors such as strawberry-and-peanut-butter ice-cream and many others

And more!

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Published on

January 8, 2014

El Toro named best Wooden Coaster in the U.S.

2014 Attractions Six Flags Great Adventure

JACKSON, NJ—January 6, 2014-- About.com’s travel and theme park expert Arthur Levine just named Six Flags Great Adventure’s El Toro the No. 1 wooden coaster in North America.

El Toro’s 4,400 feet of track and nine airtime hills deliver two intense minutes that can be compared to riding a raging bull. The thrill machine has wowed adrenaline junkies at the Jackson, NJ theme park since 2006, and still ranks as one of the tallest and fastest wooden coasters in the world. El Toro has taken top honors as “the world’s best wooden coaster” according to Amusement Today during its esteemed “Golden Ticket” awards in 2013, and an additional “world’s best wooden coaster” title on Mitch Hawker’s internet coaster poll in 2012.

“How wonderful is El Toro? It just may be the finest ride, period, among all wooden and steel thrill machines. The first time I rode it, I was flabbergasted by its relentless and powerful airtime. My guess is that you will be also,” Levine wrote on About.com.

In addition to El Toro’s accolades, two additional thrill rides at Six Flags Great Adventure continue to receive the highest steel roller coaster honors: the 23-story, 80-mph Nitro and the 45-story, 128-mph Kingda Ka.

Six Flags Great Adventure will reopen for the 2014 season April 12. In late spring, Six Flags Great Adventure will shatter the world record for tallest drop ride with the addition of the 41-story Zumanjaro: Drop of Doom, currently under construction.

Connected to the iconic Kingda Ka roller coaster—the 456-foot monster that ranks as the world’s tallest coaster and fastest in North America—Zumanjaro will hoist riders 415 feet into the sky and rocket them back to Earth at 90 miles per hour while Kingda Ka trains launch right toward them at speeds of up to 128 miles per hour.

"Zumanjaro solidifies Six Flags Great Adventure’s dominance as the Northeast’s thrill capital,” said John Fitzgerald, park president. “This is precisely the world-class, record-breaking attraction our guests have come to expect from Great Adventure. Zumanjaro is destined to top many ‘must ride’ lists in 2014."

The park will also debut a new baboon exhibit in the theme park, and Six Flags Hurricane Harbor will expand its first-class cabana rental service with the introduction of Cabana Cove and the addition of a tiki bar.

Six Flags season passes are now on sale for the 2014 season and provide unlimited visits and exclusive perks. For more information, visit www.sixflags.com/greatadventure or call 732/928-1821.

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Six Flags Magic Mountain update - X2 back open. Bugs Bunny World construction update. Scrambler Refurbishment.

X2 back open

Scrambler Refurbishment

Bugs Bunny World Makeover and New Coaster

Sorry Folks, Restaurants closed, the Moose out front shoulda told ya

Around The Park

Harry Potter and Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem update at Universal Studios Hollywood

Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem

Around The Park

Six Flags Great Adventure hosting Auditions (Feb 8) and Job Fair (Feb 15)

Knott's Announces Camp Snoopy Attractions (Updated Jan 24)

2014 Project Tracker

El Toro named best Wooden Coaster in the U.S.