Universal Studios Hollywood may not have started much work on their new Wizarding World of Harry Potter, but Universal Studios Japan sure hasn't been waiting around!
Over on the Theme Park Construction Board (which you should check out if you haven't, lots of great stuff gets posted there) some new photos of the gigantic show building for - I assume - Hogwart's castle has been built already.
Sure, it helps that Japan's Wizarding World will take up residence in a former parking lot meaning almost no ground work other than concrete removal was needed before foundations could go in. Hollywood, however, has some massive land projects needed before Harry can move in.
Check out the photos of the new show building going up at this link.
31 Aralık 2012 Pazartesi
Building Harry's New Home in Universal Studios Japan
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From The Vault: New for 1996 at Worlds of Fun
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In last week's Vault I shared the 1996 park map from Worlds of Fun. This week we will continue to look at some of the park's press materials from that year, when several new attractions were featured.
Part of the information that the park shared was a general release about what was new and happening at the theme park. The additions included the Detonator tower ride, RipCord, and the addition of the Berenstain Bear family (not the land, though, just meet and greet opportunities). The park also featured a heavily discounted gate ticket for the evening, and kids got in for only $4.95!
RipCord was an extra admission thrill attraction that simulates "sky-diving, hand-gliding, and bungee jumping," according to this press release. A Skycoaster, this style of attraction was already popular at many amusement parks across the globe. RipCord was positioned so that fliers swing out over the Beat Street Lake, adding to the thrill.
Here is a diagram of the attraction that was sent out, to provide a visual of 180 foot tall ride. The Worlds of Fun version of the ride featured room for one set of fliers at a time, where some others could accommodate two at a time.
The biggest news of the year was Detonator, a brand new S&S Sports Power double-tower space shot ride.
Here's the fact sheet for the ride. Each tower seats 12 riders and blasts them up the 200 foot tower at 45 miles per hour. The sheet also points out that Detonator was the "first two-tower design" and also the "first at a theme park in the United States." As we are well aware many, many more tower installations quickly were built around the world - including almost every Cedar Fair park.
And how about some concept art for the ride? Unfortunately the image that I received was not in color, but it's still pretty neat to check out.
Scott And Carol Present - A Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex Update
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On Thursday, Dec. 27, Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex unveiled the first phase of improvements designed to dramatically enhance the guest experience. The brand new $16 million entry is part of the 10-year Master Plan developed by Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex concessioner, Delaware North Companies Parks and Resorts, in partnership with NASA’s Kennedy Space Center.
The new entry includes a grand plaza and fountain; ticket stations and self-service kiosks; will call, guest services and information stations; a retail shop; and a restaurant. And those visiting during the holiday season will be among the very first to experience the brand new entry. 
Photo courtesy of Kennedy Space Center
Entering from the parking lot visitors encounter the grand plaza, featuring the first-ever 3D representation of NASA's insignia that spans 13 feet in diameter. To the right of the globe stands a majestic 75-foot long fountain that pays homage to the dreams of late President John F. Kennedy, for whom NASA’s Kennedy Space Center is named. Kennedy’s face, along with a quote from his famous 1962 “moon speech” at Rice University, are laser etched onto a skyward-reaching arch of blue granite that stands 30-feet at its highest point.
The 5,000-gallon fountain is spectacularly lit in the evenings with LED lights and features 26 jets of water that can be programmed to create inspiring light shows for guests as they exit the complex or during evening special events or exhibitions.
Photo courtesy of Kennedy Space Center
The changes to the entrance and ticket plaza, are just the initial elements in a start of the Center's comprehensive plan. Space shuttle Atlantis, still covered in 16,000 square feet of shrink wrap, is in the middle of a construction zone. The new shuttle $100 million, 90,000-square foot exhibit showcasing the shuttle and celebrating the 30-year space shuttle program is slated to open in July of 2013.
The Vehicle Assembly Building, or VAB in NASA terminology, is now open to the public for tours for the first time since it became operational. For those of you who remember the original trips to the moon, during that time it was called the Vertical Assembly Building, since they various parts of the rockets were stacked bottom to top as they were assembled for launch. There was no public access while rockets with dangerous chemicals were on site.
This look up the transfer aisle shows the tallest vertical enclosed space in the world. This building is so large, the 4th largest building in the world by volume, that under proper conditions it can even create its own rainstorm inside. Massive cranes with the ability to move heavy loads in the tiniest fractions of an inch picked up the parts here and moved them into the proper assembly bay.
Everything that come in this building has to be lifted over 160 feet up to the open bays and then lowered down to the transporter on top of the crawler, which is 50 feet high by itself. You to can take a peek inside one of the iconic structures of the Kennedy Space Center by signing up for the Up Close Tour. Our thanks to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex for the update, July cannot get here quick enough!
We're Back, and We're Stuffed
To contact us Click HERE
Well, after a Holiday Hiatus, we're back! First thing I want to do before getting to some editorials is to catch up on some of the bigger news.
So, the Transformers ride is opening. This is considered big news, so here's a recap. It's basically a new version of the Spiderman ride in my viewpoint, but I suppose this is a good backup plan for Universal if and when they ever lose their Marvel license to Disney. Slashfilm reported recently that the attraction vehicle is an actual transformer. Your car is a character. My good friends over at Topless Robot had this to say:
Transformers: The Movie: the Ride is just about ready to open in Universal Studios Singapore, and one of the local news stations did this report on what getting to the ride will be like. I feel like it's notable for two reasons:
1) That it could take up to 1.5 hours of waiting in line to actually get on Transformers: The Ride. The idea that anyone would wait up to 90 minutes for a ride based on Bayformers -- unless they were some sort of war criminal, and this was their court-mandated punishment -- depresses me to no end.
2) On the other hand, as the newslady is happy to point out, the walls surrounding the queue will be full of buttons to press and switches to flip, so that people can "entertain" themselves while waiting. By pressing buttons and hitting switches. Like developing infants do with toys.
As harsh as that sounds, I can't disagree. However, I'm sure I'll be amazed with the technology once it opens. You can make up your own mind by viewing this video.
In other news:
-I should point out that we have seen a new type of ticketing system put into use that could possibly eliminate turnstiles.
-Coney Island is celebrating its roots with some new construction work.
-Kennywood sold Pitfall, so could a new ride be on the way?
-TDS celebrates its 10 birthday just in time for the holidays.
Hope you all had a great Thanksgiving! And if you didn't, it could be worse. The Pilgrims had to catch their own turkey. I'll leave you with a look at what that might have looked like, courtesy of Sally Dark Rides.
So, the Transformers ride is opening. This is considered big news, so here's a recap. It's basically a new version of the Spiderman ride in my viewpoint, but I suppose this is a good backup plan for Universal if and when they ever lose their Marvel license to Disney. Slashfilm reported recently that the attraction vehicle is an actual transformer. Your car is a character. My good friends over at Topless Robot had this to say:
Transformers: The Movie: the Ride is just about ready to open in Universal Studios Singapore, and one of the local news stations did this report on what getting to the ride will be like. I feel like it's notable for two reasons:
1) That it could take up to 1.5 hours of waiting in line to actually get on Transformers: The Ride. The idea that anyone would wait up to 90 minutes for a ride based on Bayformers -- unless they were some sort of war criminal, and this was their court-mandated punishment -- depresses me to no end.
2) On the other hand, as the newslady is happy to point out, the walls surrounding the queue will be full of buttons to press and switches to flip, so that people can "entertain" themselves while waiting. By pressing buttons and hitting switches. Like developing infants do with toys.
As harsh as that sounds, I can't disagree. However, I'm sure I'll be amazed with the technology once it opens. You can make up your own mind by viewing this video.
In other news:
-I should point out that we have seen a new type of ticketing system put into use that could possibly eliminate turnstiles.
-Coney Island is celebrating its roots with some new construction work.
-Kennywood sold Pitfall, so could a new ride be on the way?
-TDS celebrates its 10 birthday just in time for the holidays.
Hope you all had a great Thanksgiving! And if you didn't, it could be worse. The Pilgrims had to catch their own turkey. I'll leave you with a look at what that might have looked like, courtesy of Sally Dark Rides.
...we're back?
To contact us Click HERE
Hello readers!
First of all, I definitely need to apologize for the lack of updates. I've been ridiculously busy with other things over the past several months, and I regret not updating this sooner. Sadly, I simply haven't had time. Thank you to those who have continued to visit and check on the site - I appreciate it greatly.
On that note, I'm hoping to get the site going again with news, Impressions, photos, and other possible new features. What better day to pick back up than on our one year anniversary! That's right, we've been up for one year today (even if we have been gone for several months), and that's an achievement I'm quite proud of. Thanks once again for your readership.
So, what have we been doing? Spring break this year included stops at Thorpe Park and Disneyland Paris, so expect to see reviews for those up sometime in the near future. On top of that, I still have one to finish off from last year; again, oops. Right now, I've just uploaded 100 photos from Thorpe to our Facebook page, including lots of pictures of The Swarm. Head on over and check it out, and maybe go ahead and like our page while you're at it ;)
I'll be sure to post as often as possible, but I can't guarantee daily updates right now. As always I'll do my best. For now, enjoy the Thorpe Park photos, and thanks for sticking with us!
-Wynn
First of all, I definitely need to apologize for the lack of updates. I've been ridiculously busy with other things over the past several months, and I regret not updating this sooner. Sadly, I simply haven't had time. Thank you to those who have continued to visit and check on the site - I appreciate it greatly.
On that note, I'm hoping to get the site going again with news, Impressions, photos, and other possible new features. What better day to pick back up than on our one year anniversary! That's right, we've been up for one year today (even if we have been gone for several months), and that's an achievement I'm quite proud of. Thanks once again for your readership.
So, what have we been doing? Spring break this year included stops at Thorpe Park and Disneyland Paris, so expect to see reviews for those up sometime in the near future. On top of that, I still have one to finish off from last year; again, oops. Right now, I've just uploaded 100 photos from Thorpe to our Facebook page, including lots of pictures of The Swarm. Head on over and check it out, and maybe go ahead and like our page while you're at it ;)
I'll be sure to post as often as possible, but I can't guarantee daily updates right now. As always I'll do my best. For now, enjoy the Thorpe Park photos, and thanks for sticking with us!
-Wynn
27 Aralık 2012 Perşembe
'Tis The Season
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Happy Holidays from all of us here at NewsPlusNotes! We hope you have a joyous and safe holiday season, filled with happy times and great memories. If you're really lucky, maybe you'll even get in a coaster ride or two!
We will be back on Wednesday once the wrapping paper has stopped flying, the cookies are all consumed, and Santa is safely resting on a well deserved vacation in Hawaii.
Iron Rattler and GateKeeper Progress
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The gifts just keep on coming! Though the main event of the season is now over, there's still plenty of new-coaster updates to keep us hanging on, right?
Above is one of several panoramic photos that Six Flags Fiesta Texas shared just before the holiday. It is of the section of track that runs on the top of the cliff midway through the ride's course. You can see some of the extreme banking that is used as the train turns on its side, then rights itself, only to do it again! And that little bunny hill at the end looks like it could be pretty wicked.
The park has the ride's new track on the top of the lift hill and start of the drop, but the area after that is still underway. This one just gets better and better with each update!
Even with plenty of snow and the holiday, things haven't totally slowed on the progress of Cedar Point's GateKeeper, either. Pointbuzz is featuring some new shots of the ride's recently added air-time hill, which is half completed. The element will be directly after the inversion seen above, and many are hoping that it might give a more than usual amount of air on a B&M.
The new photos also show the massive footers going in for the keyhole elements that will stand directly over the park's entrance. That's going to be one impressive front gate when all is said and done.
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| © Six Flags Fiesta Texas |
Above is one of several panoramic photos that Six Flags Fiesta Texas shared just before the holiday. It is of the section of track that runs on the top of the cliff midway through the ride's course. You can see some of the extreme banking that is used as the train turns on its side, then rights itself, only to do it again! And that little bunny hill at the end looks like it could be pretty wicked.
The park has the ride's new track on the top of the lift hill and start of the drop, but the area after that is still underway. This one just gets better and better with each update!
 |
| © Cedar Point |
The new photos also show the massive footers going in for the keyhole elements that will stand directly over the park's entrance. That's going to be one impressive front gate when all is said and done.
Kung Fu Panda's New Land of Awesomeness
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Australia's Dreamworld has opened their new themed area in time for their Summer season (how I miss Summer already), themed around Dreamwork's Kung Fu Panda. In fact, the area is officially called Kung Fu Panda: Land of Awesomeness. It is part of the park's Dreamworks Experience, which consists of several mini-lands with other themes such as Shrek and Madagascar.
The new area features a couple rides, one of which is a renovated bumper car attraction titled Skadoosh.
The other new ride is much bigger and gives quite a thrill: a Zamperla Air Race named Pandamonium. The ride has some neat theming, including cars that look like rickshaws from the side, and the front seats have nothing in front of them at all giving a wide open feeling of freedom. According to this report from Parkz, the park is currently operating the ride in two modes, one where the cars invert and one where they do not. The queue is divided, letting riders pick their intensity and the ride runs alternating cycles. Not surprisingly, it sounds like the fully inverting cycle is far more popular!
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| © Dreamworld |
The new area features a couple rides, one of which is a renovated bumper car attraction titled Skadoosh.
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| © Dreamworld |
We're Back, and We're Stuffed
To contact us Click HERE
Well, after a Holiday Hiatus, we're back! First thing I want to do before getting to some editorials is to catch up on some of the bigger news.
So, the Transformers ride is opening. This is considered big news, so here's a recap. It's basically a new version of the Spiderman ride in my viewpoint, but I suppose this is a good backup plan for Universal if and when they ever lose their Marvel license to Disney. Slashfilm reported recently that the attraction vehicle is an actual transformer. Your car is a character. My good friends over at Topless Robot had this to say:
Transformers: The Movie: the Ride is just about ready to open in Universal Studios Singapore, and one of the local news stations did this report on what getting to the ride will be like. I feel like it's notable for two reasons:
1) That it could take up to 1.5 hours of waiting in line to actually get on Transformers: The Ride. The idea that anyone would wait up to 90 minutes for a ride based on Bayformers -- unless they were some sort of war criminal, and this was their court-mandated punishment -- depresses me to no end.
2) On the other hand, as the newslady is happy to point out, the walls surrounding the queue will be full of buttons to press and switches to flip, so that people can "entertain" themselves while waiting. By pressing buttons and hitting switches. Like developing infants do with toys.
As harsh as that sounds, I can't disagree. However, I'm sure I'll be amazed with the technology once it opens. You can make up your own mind by viewing this video.
In other news:
-I should point out that we have seen a new type of ticketing system put into use that could possibly eliminate turnstiles.
-Coney Island is celebrating its roots with some new construction work.
-Kennywood sold Pitfall, so could a new ride be on the way?
-TDS celebrates its 10 birthday just in time for the holidays.
Hope you all had a great Thanksgiving! And if you didn't, it could be worse. The Pilgrims had to catch their own turkey. I'll leave you with a look at what that might have looked like, courtesy of Sally Dark Rides.
So, the Transformers ride is opening. This is considered big news, so here's a recap. It's basically a new version of the Spiderman ride in my viewpoint, but I suppose this is a good backup plan for Universal if and when they ever lose their Marvel license to Disney. Slashfilm reported recently that the attraction vehicle is an actual transformer. Your car is a character. My good friends over at Topless Robot had this to say:
Transformers: The Movie: the Ride is just about ready to open in Universal Studios Singapore, and one of the local news stations did this report on what getting to the ride will be like. I feel like it's notable for two reasons:
1) That it could take up to 1.5 hours of waiting in line to actually get on Transformers: The Ride. The idea that anyone would wait up to 90 minutes for a ride based on Bayformers -- unless they were some sort of war criminal, and this was their court-mandated punishment -- depresses me to no end.
2) On the other hand, as the newslady is happy to point out, the walls surrounding the queue will be full of buttons to press and switches to flip, so that people can "entertain" themselves while waiting. By pressing buttons and hitting switches. Like developing infants do with toys.
As harsh as that sounds, I can't disagree. However, I'm sure I'll be amazed with the technology once it opens. You can make up your own mind by viewing this video.
In other news:
-I should point out that we have seen a new type of ticketing system put into use that could possibly eliminate turnstiles.
-Coney Island is celebrating its roots with some new construction work.
-Kennywood sold Pitfall, so could a new ride be on the way?
-TDS celebrates its 10 birthday just in time for the holidays.
Hope you all had a great Thanksgiving! And if you didn't, it could be worse. The Pilgrims had to catch their own turkey. I'll leave you with a look at what that might have looked like, courtesy of Sally Dark Rides.
...we're back?
To contact us Click HERE
Hello readers!
First of all, I definitely need to apologize for the lack of updates. I've been ridiculously busy with other things over the past several months, and I regret not updating this sooner. Sadly, I simply haven't had time. Thank you to those who have continued to visit and check on the site - I appreciate it greatly.
On that note, I'm hoping to get the site going again with news, Impressions, photos, and other possible new features. What better day to pick back up than on our one year anniversary! That's right, we've been up for one year today (even if we have been gone for several months), and that's an achievement I'm quite proud of. Thanks once again for your readership.
So, what have we been doing? Spring break this year included stops at Thorpe Park and Disneyland Paris, so expect to see reviews for those up sometime in the near future. On top of that, I still have one to finish off from last year; again, oops. Right now, I've just uploaded 100 photos from Thorpe to our Facebook page, including lots of pictures of The Swarm. Head on over and check it out, and maybe go ahead and like our page while you're at it ;)
I'll be sure to post as often as possible, but I can't guarantee daily updates right now. As always I'll do my best. For now, enjoy the Thorpe Park photos, and thanks for sticking with us!
-Wynn
First of all, I definitely need to apologize for the lack of updates. I've been ridiculously busy with other things over the past several months, and I regret not updating this sooner. Sadly, I simply haven't had time. Thank you to those who have continued to visit and check on the site - I appreciate it greatly.
On that note, I'm hoping to get the site going again with news, Impressions, photos, and other possible new features. What better day to pick back up than on our one year anniversary! That's right, we've been up for one year today (even if we have been gone for several months), and that's an achievement I'm quite proud of. Thanks once again for your readership.
So, what have we been doing? Spring break this year included stops at Thorpe Park and Disneyland Paris, so expect to see reviews for those up sometime in the near future. On top of that, I still have one to finish off from last year; again, oops. Right now, I've just uploaded 100 photos from Thorpe to our Facebook page, including lots of pictures of The Swarm. Head on over and check it out, and maybe go ahead and like our page while you're at it ;)
I'll be sure to post as often as possible, but I can't guarantee daily updates right now. As always I'll do my best. For now, enjoy the Thorpe Park photos, and thanks for sticking with us!
-Wynn
20 Aralık 2012 Perşembe
Detail Emerge on Rides for Kings Dominion's Planet Snoopy
To contact us Click HERE
When Kings Dominion announced their bigger, better Planet Snoopy for 2013 the park wasn't quite ready to release the full details on all the new rides and attractions that would be located in it. With details finalized, the full list has now been announced. Brand new rides include:
• Snoopy’s Rocket Express: An aerial monorail that gives families a view high above Planet Snoopy.
• Flying Ace Balloon Race: Hot air balloons that lift up 15 feet into the air, as you spin around. Each balloon represents a different country throughout the world.
• Linus Launcher: This ride will give families a sense as if they are flying around together in Planet Snoopy.
• Charlie Brown’s Wind Up: Families will hop in and swing around on this baseball-themed ride.
• Snoopy’s Junction: It’s all aboard a Snoopy-themed railway, with Woodstock leading the way.
• Lucy’s Tugboat: Come on board a rocking tugboat, as guests set sail with the entire family by their side.
• Snoopy’s Space Buggies: Defy gravity, as families hop into moon buggies that bounce up and down and rotate in a circle.
• Woodstock Whirlybirds: Spin around in the classic teacups, with a new Woodstock-themed twist.
The ride collection almost appears to be a "best of" from the already existing Planet Snoopy areas at other Cedar Fair parks. Ten additional existing, re-themed rides will also be in the expansive 14 acre Planet Snoopy, giving it a grand total of 18.
The park is currently holding a contest to locate a "kidcaster" for Planet Snoopy updates throughout the winter, to be used in videos, Twitter and Facebook updates. Folks can submit their kid into the contest through January 7th.
Roller Soaker No More at Hersheypark
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Finally - it has been confirmed that Roller Soaker is being removed from Hersheypark before the start of the park's 2013 season. And one better, the park has also said that the ride will be replaced with new "water attractions" for next season.
No further details at this point, but for anyone who has been at Hersheypark during the summer and seen the popularity of their water park, it is obvious that the expansion is needed. Roller Soaker doesn't take up a ton of room, in fact part of it swings out over the wave pool, but it's still enough space for at least one slide tower, I would think.
The park's website has been changed to reflect their new count of 11 roller coasters - still quite a collection if you ask me. There was a lot of talk earlier this year of the park selling the ride, so for anyone who missed out taking a spin on Roller Soaker, perhaps you'll still have a shot in the future!
Rye Playland: Legoland New York?
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Here's an interesting twist in the story of the future of New York's Rye Playland: County officials have met with the company behind the successful chain of Legoland theme parks about turning the park into one of their properties.
And the possibility comes with a huge investment figure, as much as $200 million according to this news report. That's roughly six times as much as any other company who has expressed interest in taking over Playland has said they would pony up. Those other developers include Central Amusements - Zamperla's park operating arm - and Standard Amusements - led by former Cedar Fair executive Jack Falfas.
While all this is going on the County Executive is still moving forward with Sustainable Playland, a non-profit that has committed to redeveloping the park. Their plan involves the addition of sport fields and removing roughly half the amusements at the park in favor of a large open park area.
Could you imagine if Playland became a Legoland? That's quite an idea to wrap your brain around. I would think a lot of the character of the park would have to go, which is a shame, but at the same time the Legoland folks seem to be rather good at success. Interesting development, even if nothing comes of it, eh?
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| Rye Playland sits on the Long Island Sound |
And the possibility comes with a huge investment figure, as much as $200 million according to this news report. That's roughly six times as much as any other company who has expressed interest in taking over Playland has said they would pony up. Those other developers include Central Amusements - Zamperla's park operating arm - and Standard Amusements - led by former Cedar Fair executive Jack Falfas.
While all this is going on the County Executive is still moving forward with Sustainable Playland, a non-profit that has committed to redeveloping the park. Their plan involves the addition of sport fields and removing roughly half the amusements at the park in favor of a large open park area.
Could you imagine if Playland became a Legoland? That's quite an idea to wrap your brain around. I would think a lot of the character of the park would have to go, which is a shame, but at the same time the Legoland folks seem to be rather good at success. Interesting development, even if nothing comes of it, eh?
We're Back, and We're Stuffed
To contact us Click HERE
Well, after a Holiday Hiatus, we're back! First thing I want to do before getting to some editorials is to catch up on some of the bigger news.
So, the Transformers ride is opening. This is considered big news, so here's a recap. It's basically a new version of the Spiderman ride in my viewpoint, but I suppose this is a good backup plan for Universal if and when they ever lose their Marvel license to Disney. Slashfilm reported recently that the attraction vehicle is an actual transformer. Your car is a character. My good friends over at Topless Robot had this to say:
Transformers: The Movie: the Ride is just about ready to open in Universal Studios Singapore, and one of the local news stations did this report on what getting to the ride will be like. I feel like it's notable for two reasons:
1) That it could take up to 1.5 hours of waiting in line to actually get on Transformers: The Ride. The idea that anyone would wait up to 90 minutes for a ride based on Bayformers -- unless they were some sort of war criminal, and this was their court-mandated punishment -- depresses me to no end.
2) On the other hand, as the newslady is happy to point out, the walls surrounding the queue will be full of buttons to press and switches to flip, so that people can "entertain" themselves while waiting. By pressing buttons and hitting switches. Like developing infants do with toys.
As harsh as that sounds, I can't disagree. However, I'm sure I'll be amazed with the technology once it opens. You can make up your own mind by viewing this video.
In other news:
-I should point out that we have seen a new type of ticketing system put into use that could possibly eliminate turnstiles.
-Coney Island is celebrating its roots with some new construction work.
-Kennywood sold Pitfall, so could a new ride be on the way?
-TDS celebrates its 10 birthday just in time for the holidays.
Hope you all had a great Thanksgiving! And if you didn't, it could be worse. The Pilgrims had to catch their own turkey. I'll leave you with a look at what that might have looked like, courtesy of Sally Dark Rides.
So, the Transformers ride is opening. This is considered big news, so here's a recap. It's basically a new version of the Spiderman ride in my viewpoint, but I suppose this is a good backup plan for Universal if and when they ever lose their Marvel license to Disney. Slashfilm reported recently that the attraction vehicle is an actual transformer. Your car is a character. My good friends over at Topless Robot had this to say:
Transformers: The Movie: the Ride is just about ready to open in Universal Studios Singapore, and one of the local news stations did this report on what getting to the ride will be like. I feel like it's notable for two reasons:
1) That it could take up to 1.5 hours of waiting in line to actually get on Transformers: The Ride. The idea that anyone would wait up to 90 minutes for a ride based on Bayformers -- unless they were some sort of war criminal, and this was their court-mandated punishment -- depresses me to no end.
2) On the other hand, as the newslady is happy to point out, the walls surrounding the queue will be full of buttons to press and switches to flip, so that people can "entertain" themselves while waiting. By pressing buttons and hitting switches. Like developing infants do with toys.
As harsh as that sounds, I can't disagree. However, I'm sure I'll be amazed with the technology once it opens. You can make up your own mind by viewing this video.
In other news:
-I should point out that we have seen a new type of ticketing system put into use that could possibly eliminate turnstiles.
-Coney Island is celebrating its roots with some new construction work.
-Kennywood sold Pitfall, so could a new ride be on the way?
-TDS celebrates its 10 birthday just in time for the holidays.
Hope you all had a great Thanksgiving! And if you didn't, it could be worse. The Pilgrims had to catch their own turkey. I'll leave you with a look at what that might have looked like, courtesy of Sally Dark Rides.
...we're back?
To contact us Click HERE
Hello readers!
First of all, I definitely need to apologize for the lack of updates. I've been ridiculously busy with other things over the past several months, and I regret not updating this sooner. Sadly, I simply haven't had time. Thank you to those who have continued to visit and check on the site - I appreciate it greatly.
On that note, I'm hoping to get the site going again with news, Impressions, photos, and other possible new features. What better day to pick back up than on our one year anniversary! That's right, we've been up for one year today (even if we have been gone for several months), and that's an achievement I'm quite proud of. Thanks once again for your readership.
So, what have we been doing? Spring break this year included stops at Thorpe Park and Disneyland Paris, so expect to see reviews for those up sometime in the near future. On top of that, I still have one to finish off from last year; again, oops. Right now, I've just uploaded 100 photos from Thorpe to our Facebook page, including lots of pictures of The Swarm. Head on over and check it out, and maybe go ahead and like our page while you're at it ;)
I'll be sure to post as often as possible, but I can't guarantee daily updates right now. As always I'll do my best. For now, enjoy the Thorpe Park photos, and thanks for sticking with us!
-Wynn
First of all, I definitely need to apologize for the lack of updates. I've been ridiculously busy with other things over the past several months, and I regret not updating this sooner. Sadly, I simply haven't had time. Thank you to those who have continued to visit and check on the site - I appreciate it greatly.
On that note, I'm hoping to get the site going again with news, Impressions, photos, and other possible new features. What better day to pick back up than on our one year anniversary! That's right, we've been up for one year today (even if we have been gone for several months), and that's an achievement I'm quite proud of. Thanks once again for your readership.
So, what have we been doing? Spring break this year included stops at Thorpe Park and Disneyland Paris, so expect to see reviews for those up sometime in the near future. On top of that, I still have one to finish off from last year; again, oops. Right now, I've just uploaded 100 photos from Thorpe to our Facebook page, including lots of pictures of The Swarm. Head on over and check it out, and maybe go ahead and like our page while you're at it ;)
I'll be sure to post as often as possible, but I can't guarantee daily updates right now. As always I'll do my best. For now, enjoy the Thorpe Park photos, and thanks for sticking with us!
-Wynn
16 Aralık 2012 Pazar
The Beautiful and Mysterious Mysic Point
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My Twitter feed was abuzz today with links to some impressive new photos of Hong Kong Disneyland's Mystic Point, which is the theme park's third and final expansion land. The area has yet to open, and follows Toy Story Land and Grizzly Gulch as new mini-lands that have helped grow the park's number of rides and attractions.
The photographs are from Dejiki Nicholas' blog, and many of them focus on the facade of the new Mystic Manor ride. An updated type of Haunted Mansion attraction, the ride will use trackless vehicles to take riders through the manor, where a curious monkey has made the house full of artifacts come to life.
Of all the new attractions that have been built at Hong Kong Disneyland, myself and many others agree that Mystic Manor has the potential to be the best. The ride does not use any film or character franchise for its theme, so this will be a unique addition by any definition. While the spooky factor seems to have been tamed down over the ride's development, the quirky looking house is sure to hold some neat special effects when it finally opens.
And if the inside is anything like the outside, then we're all in for a treat. See what I mean by checking out the photos here.
Still Freezing: Antarctica Video Update
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SeaWorld Orlando has taken the next step in revealing some of the technology that will be used in Antarctica: Empire of the Penguins. The latest video in their Behind the Freeze series is shown above, and it gives away a lot of the details behind what the attraction's ride vehicles are capable of.
I really like the fact that several vehicles will make their way through the ride in a cluster, allowing guests to see other riders as they go. The series promises to reveal more of what the ride experience will involve in the next video, and from a couple quick shots in this update it appears as though vehicles will pass several large media walls.
Waldameer Welcomes Their Musik Express
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Waldameer's $2 million expansion for 2013 has seen a very special arrival this past week, with the arrival of the park's new Musik Express ride from its overseas manufacturer.
The park has already constructed the ride's concrete pad, and will quickly work to assemble the new ride. The park actually would like to open the new ride soon for guests who come to the park to purchase their season passes, and will be offering hot chocolate as well.
The Musik Express will be set in the former home of the park's Scrambler, which has been moved and updated. The new area will feature additional gardens, a fountain, and a new bronze statue, continuing the theme at the park.
The park has shared some new photos of the ride's arrival on their Facebook page. To check those out, click here.
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| © Waldameer Park |
The park has already constructed the ride's concrete pad, and will quickly work to assemble the new ride. The park actually would like to open the new ride soon for guests who come to the park to purchase their season passes, and will be offering hot chocolate as well.
The Musik Express will be set in the former home of the park's Scrambler, which has been moved and updated. The new area will feature additional gardens, a fountain, and a new bronze statue, continuing the theme at the park.
The park has shared some new photos of the ride's arrival on their Facebook page. To check those out, click here.
Time to Rock the Wooden Coaster Poll Vote!
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The annual Wooden Coaster Poll is now live for the 2012 riding season, and if you're unfamiliar with the poll it is highly regarded among us industry fans as the high mark for accurately seeing which wooden coasters are the fan favorites.
Needless to say, I suggest taking the poll regardless of how extensive your riding history is - the poll takes that into considering with some high level mathematics that I don't understand - and the poll is more and more accurate with every vote, so whether one, ten, or a hundred wooden rides - each ballot matters.
You can read the instructions on the Best Roller Coaster Poll page, and submit your ballot via e-mail. You can also check out this super easy to use online version, which makes submitting your ballot a breeze. Get voting!
From The Vault: 1995 Paramount Park Coaster Sheet
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This is another oldie but goodie, another item that I actually featured shortly after I started NPN - and the quality of that image is bad, bad, bad. So I decided to scan in it and share it again in high quality - and for a much larger audience than five years ago!
The Paramount Parks' Roller Coasters fact sheet was sent to me in 1995, and it proudly showed off the chain's "35 of the world's best roller coasters with a combined total of more than 15 miles of Paramount thrills."
And my, how the list has changed in the past 17 years! Well, at least I mean it's grown considerably if it were remade now, and tons of the rides are going under new names since Cedar Fair took over. Two of the coasters, King Cobra and Kings Island, and The Tidal Wave at Great America have been removed. Several are rumored to be on their last leg with the parks, though we won't go there!
I think it's be fun if the parks made something like this again. I know Cedar Point used to have a dedicate brochure covering their coasters, but I doubt they still produce that. I love lists!
12 Aralık 2012 Çarşamba
Oklahoma's White Water Bay: New Thrills in 2013
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White Water Bay, located in Oklahoma City, has announced the addition of a brand new slide tower for the park's 2013 season, featuring two twisted new water slides.
The park hasn't released the name of the attractions yet, but did reveal the layout of the slides, which allow us to see what the park is planning.
One of the slides will be a large bowl slide, where riders plummet downward and spin around the outside, eventually plunging down the middle into the runout.
The other slide is one of the hottest in the industry, and appears to be a TornadoWave from Proslide. The first one of these in the U.S. appeared this past Summer at Aquatica in San Antonio, Texas, and they look to be sprouting up all over pretty quickly.
Rafts on the TornadoWave head down a steep drop and immediately climb up the side of a large open air half-pipe. After sliding upward, gravity takes over and the rafts head back down and into the rest of the channel.
White Water Bay is currently operated by Premier Attractions Management, notably led by former Six Flags executives.
New Miracle Strip Adding Classic Kiddie Ride
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Miracle Strip at Pier Park is planning on bringing another ride back from the past and into its ever growing collection of amusements. The park has acquired a classic 1949 Allen Herschell kiddie car ride, seen above, that they will recondition and open once again.
The refurbishment of the ride is the next in a line of rides that started with the original Alan Herschell carousel from Miracle Strip Amusement Park. Since opening that ride in 2009 at Pier Park, a large shopping center, they've added a Balloon Race, Scrambler, Pirate Ship and Tilt-a-Whirl, among others.
It is refreshing to see a park seeking out classic rides to restore and reopen in a time when the big parks are quickly retiring these types of rides. We all know that Miracle Strip at Pier Park has their eye on the Starliner wooden coaster, but making a ride of that size and cost fit at the operation is challenging to say the least. Still, I look forward to seeing what else the park builds in the future!
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| © Magic Strip |
The refurbishment of the ride is the next in a line of rides that started with the original Alan Herschell carousel from Miracle Strip Amusement Park. Since opening that ride in 2009 at Pier Park, a large shopping center, they've added a Balloon Race, Scrambler, Pirate Ship and Tilt-a-Whirl, among others.
It is refreshing to see a park seeking out classic rides to restore and reopen in a time when the big parks are quickly retiring these types of rides. We all know that Miracle Strip at Pier Park has their eye on the Starliner wooden coaster, but making a ride of that size and cost fit at the operation is challenging to say the least. Still, I look forward to seeing what else the park builds in the future!
Scott And Carol Present - A Gatekeeper Construction Update
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Cedar Point and the Great Ohio Coaster Club sponsored a construction tour in conjunction with their winter Christmas Christmas Party. 
It wasn't exactly the most photogenic day for a construction tour, but the upside is these photos will be very different from what is already available. In this view from the midway you can see the construction fence but it looks almost like a dream farther beyond. 
The front picnic pavilion has been removed, and a few lonely footers are already poured. On top of the turn around, riders on Gatekeeper will have a gulls eye view of Blue Streak, the oldest roller coaster at Cedar Point.
Here is a close up of that footer, with the old fence in the background.
The Season Pass processing center building is scheduled to remain, but it will be greatly expanded, a welcome relief for those who have experienced long lines processing their season pass. With Gatekeeper coming online for 2013, there will be a lot of people in that line to get some fresh B & M goodness next spring.
The base of the second tower will be located here, excavation was scheduled to start Monday, 12/10/2012. This floating footer will be massive and it will need lots of concrete will be used to anchor this tower. There will be twin towers, with one located on each side of the entrance gate. They will be keyholes in each tower.
The loop will be the largest at Cedar Point and riders will approach nearly 65 mph at the exit.
All of these rollers will be used for the transfer track. Many times this section of the coaster is the last to be built because it leaves a large hole for equipment to move inside and outside the layout. Gatekeepers construction plan follows a different path.
We wondered where this fork lift was going, and it wasn't long until we found out, while we were walking along the shore of Lake Erie. 
It's hard to see it in this photo, but the American flag from the topping off ceremony still flys in the breeze. No high winds were expected, so the crane was still in the air. 
This view from the beach shows the rollover into the inverted first drop. The evacuation stairs are on each side of the track but the railings have not been installed. At the very top, only the supports for the walkway are in place, the next step is the stairs. 
Here a worker on top of the Hi-lift is finishing some minor items.
Just as we were preparing to leave, we found out where the yellow fork lift was going. It was needed to bring a support from the staging area to get it in place for Monday. According to the park, everything is right on schedule to make the 5/11/2013 Opening Day. Luckily, it is already almost the middle December, so just 6 months need to pass for our first rides on Gatekeeper.
We're Back, and We're Stuffed
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Well, after a Holiday Hiatus, we're back! First thing I want to do before getting to some editorials is to catch up on some of the bigger news.
So, the Transformers ride is opening. This is considered big news, so here's a recap. It's basically a new version of the Spiderman ride in my viewpoint, but I suppose this is a good backup plan for Universal if and when they ever lose their Marvel license to Disney. Slashfilm reported recently that the attraction vehicle is an actual transformer. Your car is a character. My good friends over at Topless Robot had this to say:
Transformers: The Movie: the Ride is just about ready to open in Universal Studios Singapore, and one of the local news stations did this report on what getting to the ride will be like. I feel like it's notable for two reasons:
1) That it could take up to 1.5 hours of waiting in line to actually get on Transformers: The Ride. The idea that anyone would wait up to 90 minutes for a ride based on Bayformers -- unless they were some sort of war criminal, and this was their court-mandated punishment -- depresses me to no end.
2) On the other hand, as the newslady is happy to point out, the walls surrounding the queue will be full of buttons to press and switches to flip, so that people can "entertain" themselves while waiting. By pressing buttons and hitting switches. Like developing infants do with toys.
As harsh as that sounds, I can't disagree. However, I'm sure I'll be amazed with the technology once it opens. You can make up your own mind by viewing this video.
In other news:
-I should point out that we have seen a new type of ticketing system put into use that could possibly eliminate turnstiles.
-Coney Island is celebrating its roots with some new construction work.
-Kennywood sold Pitfall, so could a new ride be on the way?
-TDS celebrates its 10 birthday just in time for the holidays.
Hope you all had a great Thanksgiving! And if you didn't, it could be worse. The Pilgrims had to catch their own turkey. I'll leave you with a look at what that might have looked like, courtesy of Sally Dark Rides.
So, the Transformers ride is opening. This is considered big news, so here's a recap. It's basically a new version of the Spiderman ride in my viewpoint, but I suppose this is a good backup plan for Universal if and when they ever lose their Marvel license to Disney. Slashfilm reported recently that the attraction vehicle is an actual transformer. Your car is a character. My good friends over at Topless Robot had this to say:
Transformers: The Movie: the Ride is just about ready to open in Universal Studios Singapore, and one of the local news stations did this report on what getting to the ride will be like. I feel like it's notable for two reasons:
1) That it could take up to 1.5 hours of waiting in line to actually get on Transformers: The Ride. The idea that anyone would wait up to 90 minutes for a ride based on Bayformers -- unless they were some sort of war criminal, and this was their court-mandated punishment -- depresses me to no end.
2) On the other hand, as the newslady is happy to point out, the walls surrounding the queue will be full of buttons to press and switches to flip, so that people can "entertain" themselves while waiting. By pressing buttons and hitting switches. Like developing infants do with toys.
As harsh as that sounds, I can't disagree. However, I'm sure I'll be amazed with the technology once it opens. You can make up your own mind by viewing this video.
In other news:
-I should point out that we have seen a new type of ticketing system put into use that could possibly eliminate turnstiles.
-Coney Island is celebrating its roots with some new construction work.
-Kennywood sold Pitfall, so could a new ride be on the way?
-TDS celebrates its 10 birthday just in time for the holidays.
Hope you all had a great Thanksgiving! And if you didn't, it could be worse. The Pilgrims had to catch their own turkey. I'll leave you with a look at what that might have looked like, courtesy of Sally Dark Rides.
...we're back?
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Hello readers!
First of all, I definitely need to apologize for the lack of updates. I've been ridiculously busy with other things over the past several months, and I regret not updating this sooner. Sadly, I simply haven't had time. Thank you to those who have continued to visit and check on the site - I appreciate it greatly.
On that note, I'm hoping to get the site going again with news, Impressions, photos, and other possible new features. What better day to pick back up than on our one year anniversary! That's right, we've been up for one year today (even if we have been gone for several months), and that's an achievement I'm quite proud of. Thanks once again for your readership.
So, what have we been doing? Spring break this year included stops at Thorpe Park and Disneyland Paris, so expect to see reviews for those up sometime in the near future. On top of that, I still have one to finish off from last year; again, oops. Right now, I've just uploaded 100 photos from Thorpe to our Facebook page, including lots of pictures of The Swarm. Head on over and check it out, and maybe go ahead and like our page while you're at it ;)
I'll be sure to post as often as possible, but I can't guarantee daily updates right now. As always I'll do my best. For now, enjoy the Thorpe Park photos, and thanks for sticking with us!
-Wynn
First of all, I definitely need to apologize for the lack of updates. I've been ridiculously busy with other things over the past several months, and I regret not updating this sooner. Sadly, I simply haven't had time. Thank you to those who have continued to visit and check on the site - I appreciate it greatly.
On that note, I'm hoping to get the site going again with news, Impressions, photos, and other possible new features. What better day to pick back up than on our one year anniversary! That's right, we've been up for one year today (even if we have been gone for several months), and that's an achievement I'm quite proud of. Thanks once again for your readership.
So, what have we been doing? Spring break this year included stops at Thorpe Park and Disneyland Paris, so expect to see reviews for those up sometime in the near future. On top of that, I still have one to finish off from last year; again, oops. Right now, I've just uploaded 100 photos from Thorpe to our Facebook page, including lots of pictures of The Swarm. Head on over and check it out, and maybe go ahead and like our page while you're at it ;)
I'll be sure to post as often as possible, but I can't guarantee daily updates right now. As always I'll do my best. For now, enjoy the Thorpe Park photos, and thanks for sticking with us!
-Wynn
11 Aralık 2012 Salı
Adventure Mountain Leaving Dollywood for 2014 Project
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Dollywood dropped a bit of a bomb yesterday when they announced that the park's massive ropes course structure, known as Adventure Mountain, will be closing at the end of 2012. Screamscape first broke the news, posting some comments directly from the popular theme park. Adventure Mountain will be the site of construction for a yet unnamed 2014 project during the park's 2013 season.
The new 2014 addition is only described as "one of a kind" and "nothing like you've seen before," which ironically pretty much sums up Adventure Mountain as well. The interactive course was just opened in 2010, making the attraction have three short years at the park. It sits on two acres of the hillside, and has three different paths, ranging in difficulty. It was also rather beautifully themed, which made it right at home in Dollywood.
I can only imagine what the park has planned for the spot, which takes up a decent sized part of the Wilderness Pass area. If it is worth removing a newer attraction like Adventure Mountain, I'm sure it's going to be good!
The park also revealed that they are retiring their simulator attraction in favor of adding a new 500 seat theater, which will premier a new family Dolly show next season.
Oklahoma's White Water Bay: New Thrills in 2013
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White Water Bay, located in Oklahoma City, has announced the addition of a brand new slide tower for the park's 2013 season, featuring two twisted new water slides.
The park hasn't released the name of the attractions yet, but did reveal the layout of the slides, which allow us to see what the park is planning.
One of the slides will be a large bowl slide, where riders plummet downward and spin around the outside, eventually plunging down the middle into the runout.
The other slide is one of the hottest in the industry, and appears to be a TornadoWave from Proslide. The first one of these in the U.S. appeared this past Summer at Aquatica in San Antonio, Texas, and they look to be sprouting up all over pretty quickly.
Rafts on the TornadoWave head down a steep drop and immediately climb up the side of a large open air half-pipe. After sliding upward, gravity takes over and the rafts head back down and into the rest of the channel.
White Water Bay is currently operated by Premier Attractions Management, notably led by former Six Flags executives.
Aerial Antics: Adventureland Updates
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I first featured Iowa's Adventureland on Aerial Antics over three years ago, and the park has made some significant changes since then. I thought I'd take a look at some of those using new 45 degree images that Google Maps now offers.
The largest change that the theme park has made is the addition of a full scale water park, known as Adventure Bay. The park initially started the area will a large water play structure known as Kokomo Kove, and from there spent several years building the park out. In the above "before" image the area next to and below the Outlaw roller coaster is just a field. But fast forward a few years...
And there is a whole lot of water park to be found! This past season saw the addition of a wave pool, activity area and several amenity buildings. That expansion is still being built in this image, but above it is a large chunk of the water park that is already open. There's plenty of new slides, a large lazy river, and the aforementioned Kokomo Kove as well. Who knows if the park will stop at this point, as that cluster of trees on the lower right could easily be yet another massive expansion, from the looks of it.
Adventureland was also home to an unfortunate fire in 2010 that took out half of the Main Street area. (the general entrance area of Adventureland was quite clearly modeled after Disneyland when it first opened) In the above "before" photo, the entire building on the right side of Main Street was lost in the fire.
But thankfully, the park rebuilt the building better than ever You can see that the rebuilt structure is generally the same shape as the old one, but with many modern improvements. There had to be some small changes to the area to the right of the structure, but all in all things were pretty much restored to as they were before.
The new images are from Google, and here is a link to them if you like.
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