ARLINGTON, Texas — Six Flags Over Texas, the Thrill Capital of Texas, today announced that Dino Off Road Adventure will open to the public on June 15, 2024 following an exclusive preview for season pass holders. The new ride is a retheming of the Chaparral Antique Cars, which originally debuted at the park in 1962, and promises guests an exciting new take on a beloved classic.

“We can’t wait for our guests to experience the prehistoric thrills of Dino Off Road Adventure,” says Park President Richard Douaihy. “These new archaeological additions will continue our long-standing tradition of providing our guests with unparalleled family fun and thrills.”

Dino Off Road Adventure highlights include:

• 15 life-size dinosaur animatronics including a Tyrannosaurus Rex, three Velociraptors, a Stegosaurus, and more;
• Each animatronic features state of the art movement and sound effects;
• A fleet of 14 adventure-ready vehicles to take riders along a 1,470-foot track.

Diamond Season Pass Holders will be able to ride Dino Off Road Adventure during an exclusive preview on June 14, and all Season Pass Holders and Six Flags Members will be able to ride from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on June 15. The ride opens to the public at 4 p.m. on June 15.

Dino Off Road Adventure is located within the Texas section of Six Flags Over Texas.

LAS VEGAS — AREA15, Las Vegas’ ultimate immersive entertainment district and events venue, announces the installation of a new state-of-the-art HOLOPLOT sound system in its iconic 360-degree, projection-mapped Portal. This upgrade firmly establishes The Portal not only as a visual marvel but also as a top-tier venue for audio excellence.

The newly installed sound system features four X1 Modul 96 and four X1 Modul 80-S from HOLOPLOT, a leader in audio innovation. Unlike traditional sound systems, the HOLOPLOT X1 system utilizes 3D Audio-Beamforming and sophisticated digital processing to direct sound with pinpoint accuracy, creating an enveloping audio environment without relying on increased decibel levels. This technology enables sounds to be steered precisely, focusing on target areas only and thereby enhancing clarity and detail without the usual spread and loss of sound quality in large spaces. 

“Integrating HOLOPLOT’s revolutionary audio technology with our existing Meyer LFC1100 subwoofers elevates the auditory experience to match the stunning visual capabilities of our Panasonic 4K projectors,” said JD Bouck, director of production, AREA15. “This upgrade is part of our commitment to providing unparalleled sensory experiences for all our visitors.”

The upgraded sound system in The Portal, featuring advanced HOLOPLOT technology, elevates the venue’s already stellar reputation in Las Vegas. By employing the same cutting-edge audio technology used at renowned venues such as the Sphere, AREA15 ensures every DJ performance and live event in The Portal delivers unparalleled sound quality, creating an even more captivating atmosphere for guests. This enhancement underscores AREA15’s commitment to maintaining its status as a premier destination for music and entertainment.

ST. LOUIS — From July 1-2 an Intercard team headed by CEO Scott Sherrod and North America sales manager Rob Geiger will be at Bowl Expo at the Gaylord Rockies Convention Center near Denver, Colorado. There Intercard will introduce its new iQ readers that read QR codes, setting the new standard for unattended amusement center payment technology.

The increasing acceptance of the QR code world-wide prompted Intercard to introduce the iQ series. The iQ reader can scan customer presented QR codes for payment and redemption point collection. This will enable customers to use mobile devices or printed receipts instead of play cards to active games, reducing costs for BEC operators and owners of unattended arcades. An iQTeller kiosk will be available later in 2024.

“With the iQ series, customers can purchase or recharge game play and use a mobile device or paper receipt with QR code to play games, collect points and even redeem prizes,” says Scott Sherrod, CEO of Intercard, “all without the help of a center employee. It’s a big step into the future.”

Visit booth #922 and find out why leading bowling operators including Bowlero and Round1 rely on Intercard for innovative and dependable cashless technology that boosts revenues and improves customer service.

Also at the show will be new account executive Justin Michaels. Amusement veteran Justin grew up in the industry, starting as a teenager working in his grandparents’ arcade. Justin comes to Intercard after 20 successful years with Redemption Plus, another amusement industry icon.

Intercard is part of Smart Buy, BPAA’s endorsement program, and has been chosen by the Smart Buy committee as the best cashless technology system for BPAA members. Smart Buy provides BPAA Members with national account pricing and tremendous discounts they cannot get on their own. 

LAS VEGAS — DREAMBOX360º, the immersive and intimate 5D projection experience, announces it will open at The LINQ Promenade on the Las Vegas Strip this July. Conceived and developed by Noel Bowman of Minus5º ICEBAR, DREAMBOX360º will offer several captivating projection experiences, including a thrilling 360-degree, 5DX movie experience created in partnership with Lumen and Forge titled “The Arctic Ghost Ship: A Quest in Search of the Lost Rum.”

Lumen and Forge specializes in world-class projection shows, custom content production, 360-degree video, modern visual storytelling and more.

Featuring a 15-minute original, animated movie adventure, “The Arctic Ghost Ship” experience will invite guests to sip cocktails with Captain Flint McGreggor as they embark on a thrilling quest for the lost rum. Surrounded by 360 degrees of hi-res visuals and sound, guests will become even more enveloped by this unique journey thanks to 5DX effects such as rain, mist, wind and more.

DREAMBOX360º will also offer a variety of other immersive experiences when it opens. On Friday and Saturday evenings, it will transform into The Weekend Trip – a psychedelic experience offering mind-altering, trippy projections, a live DJ, open bar featuring an array of libations and 5D effects such as thunderstorms and blizzards. The versatile space will also be customizable for corporate events and product launches with branded logos and imagery. The Birthday Box experience allows for bespoke slideshows that can be produced for personal surprise celebrations and private events such as engagements, anniversaries, birthdays, reunions and more. 

Distinctive from other projection attractions around the globe, DREAMBOX360º will cater to small audiences of up to 55 to create an uncommonly intimate and immersive atmosphere.

“Through our collaboration with Lumen and Forge, ‘The Arctic Ghost Ship’ is more than a short, animated movie adventure—it’s a testament to the magic that happens when innovation meets storytelling,” said Noel Bowman, owner, DREAMBOX360º. “The experience promises to be a thrilling, cutting-edge, dramatic experience, so we can’t wait for guests to be transported to a realm of wonder this July.”

DREAMBOX360º will be located at 3545 S. Las Vegas Blvd. next to Minus5º ICEBAR at The LINQ Promenade on the Las Vegas Strip. Tickets to DREAMBOX360º experiences will be available in the coming months. Guests must be 10 years of age or older to visit the attraction. 

In a blaze of fireworks, with a square packed with visitors, the 2024 attraction was officially inaugurated: Wolf Legend, a Drop & Twist Tower for thrill-seeking families and daredevils of all ages, a highly immersive, one-of-a-kind adventure, capable of capturing the imagination and excitement of several generations.

The eye-catching attraction, open for the whole season in the heart of the Park, was launched for the public by Gardaland’s CEO Sabrina de Carvalho with an innovative “ribbon cutting”: a flaming torch themed with the area.

“Wolf Legend” draws its inspiration from the pivotal figure of the new attraction: a majestic wolf of over 16 metres that,struck by a curse, was turned to stone with his huge jaws wide open.Visitors are summoned to challenge the heights by performing a daring ritual: throwing themselves into the jaws of the stone animal to break the curse that imprisons it. The Wolf Legend adventure begins already at the entrance portal, where an imposing tree trunk has (due to the curse) taken on the features of the majestic animal. The adventurers then board a gondola, and on the notes of a ritual chant, begin to ascend the octagonal tower surrounded by glittering symbols to be deciphered, and extraordinary lighting effects. Only when they reach the highest point of the attraction do they fall from 25 metres into the jaws of the wolf, passing through dense clouds of smoke. Guests are invited to climb up and down several times, and repeatedly rotate around the tower, for a memorable and unique experience before the final descent.

“Wolf Legend was conceived and designed by the Creative Team of Merlin Entertainments after having listened to and assessed the requests of our visitors, through surveys that we constantly carry out within the Park”, comments Sabrina de Carvalho, CEO of Gardaland. “This is why we are confident that it will meet the favour of our public, to whom we wish to offer a complete, exclusive and magical experience”.

Gardaland therefore continues to invest in order to strengthen its position as a tourist destination at European level and confirm itself as a top player in the family entertainment industry. “Every year, we invest in infrastructures, in the management of attractions and in services”, says CEO de Carvalho. “The overall investment for the current season is around 14 million Euro. This figure includes both the creation of the new attraction and the staging of shows in the Park, as well as initiatives and extraordinary maintenance throughout Gardaland Resort, including the three hotels and SEA LIFE”.

In the meantime, attendance figures at the Resort confirm that 54 per cent of the guests are Italian, but there are also foreigners, especially from the German area. “Every year we receive millions of guests and, also for the current season, bookings are in line with forecasts. For the summer, we aim to record 95-98% occupancy as in previous years”. The strategic position of the Resort allows visitors not only to enjoy days at the Park and to relax in the large water park area, but also to travel to the nearby cities of art, while returning, however, to stay in the heart of the entertainment park and Lake Garda. “The objective of Gardaland Resort is to win the hearts of the whole family with brand new experiences”, confirms Sabrina de Carvalho.

Among the season’s novelties, on the shows front the programme expands with !MPOSSIBLE at Gardaland Theatre, a magic and illusions show that has won the hearts of young and old alike in a very short time, while a timeless classic is staged at the 4D cinema: LOONEY TUNES™ 4D.On the Park’s avenues, Street Animation troupes bring dancers, singers, magicians, a dragon with his brave knight and many other performers to surprise visitors in fun adventures.

From 15 June to 8 September, Gardaland will get into the swing of the summer season with Gardaland Night is Magic – the evening openings until 11pm, offering guests 13 hours of pure fun and plenty of new emotions, in the splendid evening setting of Lake Garda.

SANTA MONICA, Calif. — Take a stroll on the Santa Monica Pier to “Snackville” at Pacific Park, the all-new fun, food area with reimagined culinary concepts by Michelin-Star Chef James Kent, that features five new dining options that officially opens on Friday, June 7. 

“Snackville” is the first of many exciting new capital investments to be introduced at Pacific Park. “Snackville” is located on the world-famous Santa Monica Pier boardwalk and offers hand-held treats and delicious eats right by the entrance to the two-acre amusement park including:

• Smashie’s Burgers, serving smash burgers, loaded hot dogs, and a selection of freshly fried fries. Smashie’s anchors the new “Snackville” at Pacific Park. Smashie’s hot, fresh burgers are charbroiled on the griddle, topped with slices of American cheese, grilled onions, and all-new Smashie Sauce, then assembled and pressed for a crispy, melty, juicy, burger experience.
• Mr. Nice Fry, serving fresh fry varieties including Skinny Dippers, Swirly Fries and Tater Wheels. Mr. Nice Fry satisfies boardwalk guests’ cravings for all things golden, brown and delicious. Mr. Nice Fry’s fun selection of fried potatoes is served with tasty dipping sauces and premium seasonings to keep tater lovers coming to the boardwalk again and again.
• eegee’s, an Arizona beverage staple since 1971, is making its Hollywood debut over the cool blue waters of the Pacific Ocean. Located inside Mr. Nice Fry, eegees are the perfect blend of real fruit and frozen goodness that’ll have you sipping on sunshine year round.
• Churrita Churro, a classic fried dough treat gets a decadent upgrade at Churrita. Cinnamon sprinkled, dulce de leche filled, or chocolate dipped, get your churro fix, with or without creamy soft-serve ice cream at Santa Monica’s hottest new sweet shop.
• Scoops Creamery, located just inside Snackville’s main entrance, Scoops Creamery serves frozen treats including hand-scooped ice cream, milkshakes, and sundaes. Scoops Creamery is open daily and offers six flavors of Dippin’ Dots and freshly made funnel cakes, which you can top with your choice of Lappert’s premium ice cream. 
• Cosmic Funnel Cake, Pacific Park’s signature Funnel Cake is a boardwalk treat that can’t be missed on any visit to the Santa Monica Pier. The name comes from the technique of pouring batter through a funnel into hot oil. The funnel gives the cake its signature texture. Funnel Cakes are typically served with a dusting of powdered sugar. At “Snackville” they are served at Cosmic Funnel Cakes and Scoops Creamery and can be topped with strawberries, whipped cream, or even a scoop of your favorite Lappert’s premium ice cream.

“Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier has been an opportunity to apply our restaurant experience to some of my most beloved amusement park foods,” said James Kent, Michelin-Star Chef and Executive Chef at Saga Hospitality Group. “We’ll serve exactly what I want when I’m on the water with my family, namely the definitive smash burger and extra crispy fries.”

Chef James Kent’s culinary journey began at Bouley, leading to Le Cordon Bleu and Johnson & Wales. He honed his skills at renowned kitchens like Babbo and Jean-Georges before joining Eleven Madison Park. Under Kent’s leadership as chef de cuisine, EMP earned four stars from The New York Times and three Michelin stars. In 2017, Kent set out to pursue his first solo project–an ambitious pair of restaurants in the landmark Art Deco building at 70 Pine Street in New York’s Financial District. Kent opened Crown Shy, the first of those restaurants, in March 2019. Just six months after opening, the restaurant was awarded a Michelin star. After 18 months of pandemic-related delays, the pair opened SAGA–a fine-dining restaurant in the tiered spire of the building–in August of 2021. In October 2022, SAGA was awarded two Michelin stars.

“Pacific Park is excited to be working with Chef James Kent and look forward to implementing the new culinary concepts developed for ‘Snackville’ and other projects,” said Nathan Smithson, Senior Director of Business Affairs at Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier. “We look forward to introducing ‘Snackville’ to a whole new audience visiting Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier.”

SC Holdings, an investment firm with extensive experience in the consumer, entertainment, and hospitality sectors, recently acquired the operating group of Pacific Park and committed $10 million in capital investments over the next five years in Pacific Park’s food and entertainment programs, supporting park operations and keeping it a fun and friendly destination for tourists, families, and the community.

ORLANDO — SAK Comedy Lab, Orlando’s premier improv comedy theater, is now delighting audiences at its new home at 55 West Church Street. The move represents the largest capital investment in the company’s 47-year history.

Originally founded in 1977, SAK Comedy Lab has called Orlando home since 1991, and this new venue marks a return to Church Street after leaving its first Downtown location in 1999. Throughout its three decades in Orlando, the company has operated successfully as a rare entertainment beacon that’s been able to run continuously and grow almost exclusively off admission and bar sales, a robust improv university program and a corporate outreach department.  

“SAK’s journey has been a delight to witness,” said Terry Olsen, Founder of SAK Theatre Company. “It germinated from a little band of traveling street theater performers in Minnesota, to contracting with Disney to open street entertainment at EPCOT, to the live entertainment venue we know today that has spanned four Downtown locations.”

With a build-out cost of $1.4M, SAK Comedy Lab’s new location was brought to life by McCree General Contractors and Adirondack Studios, who helped create an exciting cityscape feel in the venue’s lobby, box office and bar areas. The theater itself is equipped with 175 seats in a stadium seating format, with a stage and set reminiscent of SAK’s earlier venues, but with intricate, professionally designed and built theming. The entire venue boasts 7,200 square feet of space, inclusive of the back-of-house classroom space featuring three separate studios, a small office and a green room for performers.

“This new location at 55 West offers fresh life to our company, said Chris Dinger, Executive Director of SAK Theatre Company. “We find ourselves in a neighborhood more conducive to our live entertainment audience, an upgrade to every aspect of the experience and triple the classroom space of our previous venue. That combination of upgrades means many more years of laughs for our audiences, our students and our corporate partners.”

Cincinnati Reds players spent today’s rare home off-day having fun at Kings Island with their families and friends.  Some of them, including Jonathan India, Nick Martinez and Fernando Cruz checked out the park’s new Camp Snoopy and family roller coaster, Snoopy’s Soap Box Racers. The park’s newest coaster is 74-foot tall and travels 36 mph over 1400 feet of track. Kings Island and Soak City Water Park are open every day this summer through August 18.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The National Association of Amusement Ride Safety Officials (NAARSO) is excited to announce the 38th Annual Safety Seminar, taking place from January 26 to January 31, 2025, in beautiful Charlotte, North Carolina.

NAARSO, a non-profit organization committed to promoting safety within the amusement industry through the doctrine of “Safety Through Communication,” invites industry professionals to join this comprehensive event aimed at enhancing the safety and reliability of amusement rides and attractions.

Seminar Highlights:

• Expert Speakers: Attendees will have the opportunity to learn from industry leaders about best practices in amusement ride safety.
• Networking Opportunities: Connect with peers, professionals, and vendors from across the industry, fostering valuable relationships and collaborations.
• Certification Courses: Participants can enhance their qualifications with specialized safety certifications, with CEUs available. Courses include:
  • Inspector Level 1 through 3
  • Operations Level 1 through 3
  • Aquatic Operations Level 1
  • Additional certifications to be announced
• Hands-On Training: Gain practical knowledge by visiting Carowinds, where attendees will learn about the diverse needs for operations and inspections of various attractions.

Mark your calendars for this enriching week dedicated to advancing safety practices within the amusement ride industry. NAARSO will be releasing more information on the exact location, hotel group rate discounts, and registration information later this year.

SeaWorld Orlando is excited to celebrate World Oceans Day and the one-year anniversary of the SeaWorld Coral Rescue Center, one of the largest public-facing facilities dedicated to coral conservation in the United States. To honor this special occasion, SeaWorld is offering a free reusable, wheat-based utensil set to the first 1,000 guests who visit The Shoppes at Waterfront on June 8, starting at park open, while supplies last.

This initiative aligns with SeaWorld’s ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship and conservation. The reusable utensil set is the latest effort in combating single-use plastic pollution, joining SeaWorld’s history of pioneering environmental practices. SeaWorld was one of the first theme parks in the U.S. to eliminate single-use plastic bags and straws to help keep oceans free of plastic, and in 2023, the parks launched biodegradable cutlery across its locations nationwide.

The SeaWorld Coral Rescue Center has welcomed a record number of visitors since its opening on June 9, 2023, providing them with a unique opportunity to observe and interact with coral biologists as they perform daily husbandry for “at risk” Florida corals. The center allows guests to view living corals up close, learn about conservation efforts, and understand the steps everyone can take to improve ocean health. Housing hundreds of living coral colonies and 15 different species, many of which are listed as threatened under the U.S. Endangered Species Act, the center is a testament to SeaWorld’s dedication to coral conservation.