SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA THEME PARK ROUNDUP
By
Steve Zall and Sid Fish
Summer 2015
This summer is really heating up with all of the new attractions and shows sizzling at our local theme parks, such as:
Disneyland Resort Launches Diamond Celebration, Marking 60 Years of Magic with
Three New Nighttime Spectaculars
Diamond Celebration Sparkles with Dazzling Entertainment, Décor, Food; Disneyland Diamond Days Sweepstakes Gives Away Daily Prizes
For six decades, the Disneyland Resort has explored the frontiers of immersive storytelling and entertainment technology, bringing exciting attractions and inventive entertainment to life for guests from around the world.
“Few companies have both a legendary past as well as a limitless future,” said Bob Iger, chairman and CEO of The Walt Disney Company. “But we had the great fortune to be founded with a spirit of creativity and innovation — one that continues to define this phenomenal company, allowing us to keep moving forward to meet the future without ever losing sight of who we are and where it all started. We’re thrilled to usher in Disneyland’s Diamond Anniversary and celebrate the triumph of imagination in a place where dreams really do come true.”
A glittering new parade, new fireworks spectacular and all-new “World of Color” show raise the bar, once again, on creativity and entertainment technology, keeping the Disneyland Resort and its guests forever young:
“Paint the Night – All-New Electrical Parade” – When the lights go down in Disneyland, the Diamond Celebration illuminates the park with a brilliant, new parade. The luminescent parade creates a river of color flowing down Main Street, U.S.A., with an array of Disney characters and more than 1.5 million brilliant LED lights that flash and glow as Mickey Mouse uses his vivid imagination to “Paint the Night”. With dazzling special effects, unforgettable music, energetic performances, fun surprises and spectacular floats, “Paint the Night” is more vibrant than any parade in 60 years at the Disneyland Resort. Even the choreography glows, as parade performers light up with their props and costumes.
Tinker Bell leads the procession in a magical, musical overture, closely followed by a float reminiscent of the giant bass drum that led the classic “Main Street Electrical Parade”. Lightning McQueen races in with his buddy Mack Truck, who makes a hefty impression at 54-feet long, covered from headlights to tail pipe in gleaming light. Anna and Elsa from “Frozen” glide through the night in a shimmering palace of ice and snow.
Guests also will be delighted to see Cinderella, Rapunzel and beloved characters from tales such as “Monsters, Inc.,” “The Little Mermaid,” “Beauty and the Beast” and “Toy Story,” with Mickey and his pals creating a breathtaking grand finale.
“Disneyland Forever,” presented by Honda – The dazzling new fireworks spectacular “Disneyland Forever” is a street-to-sky, immersive experience like nothing seen before at the Disneyland Resort. Guests are surrounded by the worlds of timeless Disney tales, from the tips of their toes to the sky high above, thanks to the largest installation of projection mapping technology in a Disney park and surprising special effects. One minute they will be standing on Main Street, U.S.A., and the next they could be stampeding across Simba’s Pride Lands, dancing with King Louie from “The Jungle Book,” traveling “Under the Sea” with the Little Mermaid, flying over London with Peter Pan, dripping in honey with Pooh in a whimsical dream of heffalumps and woozles, or shivering as Queen Elsa brings a glimmering blanket of snow over Disneyland.
For the first time in Disneyland fireworks history, Nemo from the Disney●Pixar animated film “Finding Nemo,” will “just keep swimming” in the skies above Sleeping Beauty Castle, as the Matterhorn is transformed into the fiery peak of Mt. Wannahockaloogie, a special monument from that film. Two original songs enrich the show: the “Disneyland Forever” theme “Live the Magic,” and the inspiring closing song “A Kiss Goodnight,” written by another Disney Legend, Richard M. Sherman, and sung by Ashley Brown, star of the Broadway production of “Mary Poppins.” The “stage” for “Disneyland Forever” fireworks will extend from the sky above to the buildings of Main Street, U.S.A., the façade of “it’s a small world,” the Matterhorn and mist screens along the Rivers of America, with specially designed digital projections offering guests new experiences at each location.
“World of Color – Celebrate! The Wonderful World of Walt Disney” – Award-winning actor Neil Patrick Harris will join Mickey Mouse on a magical water canvas to entertain guests in this fun-filled new presentation of the popular, nighttime “World of Color” spectacular in Disney California Adventure. Both epic and intimate in scope, “World of Color – Celebrate!” brings to life the remarkable story of Walt and The Happiest Place on Earth with animated imagery, live-action film, fountains, lasers, special effects and a stirring musical score. Guests will take an inspirational journey through the unparalleled imagination of Walt Disney, exploring his decades-long legacy of memorable animated moments around the world and the dream of Disneyland Park. “World of Color – Celebrate!” reminds guests that, if they never give up on their dreams, anything is possible.
Disneyland Diamond Days** – an exciting text-in-for-a-chance-to-win sweepstakes – will award daily and weekly prizes as part of the Diamond Celebration. Weekly prizes include a one-carat, authentic diamond, custom engraved for Disney, paired with a stay in the Disneyland Dream suite; a clear, crystal Cinderella slipper, with a diamond-and-topaz pendant, and private experiences in the park such as a party in Fantasyland or a romantic cruise aboard the Mark Twain Riverboat. The available prize will vary each week.
Daily prizes also will be awarded during the Diamond Celebration, and each daily prize package for that day includes an individualized tour of the parks with dining, preferred access to select attractions, and VIP viewing at some of the dazzling, new nighttime spectaculars.
Daily prizewinners must be present on the Disneyland Resort premises at the time of entry and at the time of prize redemption in order to be able to enjoy these special experiences and theme park admission is not necessary to enter or win the sweepstakes. Further details may be found at Disneyland.com/Diamond Days.
In addition, Mickey Mouse and some of his friends have dressed up for the celebration in sparkling, new Diamond Celebration costumes, and the iconic Sleeping Beauty Castle in Disneyland and Carthay Circle Theatre in Disney California Adventure glisten with gleaming veneer and diamond medallions.
Ingenious new window displays will begin appearing at the Main Street Emporium in Disneyland, providing some additional Diamond Celebration surprises, and even the resort cast members, who help make the magic for every guest, have a bit of extra sparkle in their Diamond Celebration name tags. To add to the fun, Disneyland attractions undergoing regular refurbishments – Haunted Mansion, Matterhorn Bobsleds and the newly re-themed Grizzly Peak Airfield – have reopened with new magic added to the classic experiences. An enhanced Peter Pan’s Flight will open later this summer.
Entertainment, Dining and Shopping Experiences Add to the Celebration
The after-dark “Mad T Party” returns to Disney California Adventure as a dazzling new “Diamond Mad T Party,” featuring sparkling new decor, interactive fun, dancing and delectable food and drink.
Restaurants and food carts in Disneyland and Disney California Adventure offer new drinks and cupcakes specially created for the Diamond Celebration. Later this summer, drinks will be available in “Made with Magic” sippers, which light up to accompany the new after-dark shows. Additional “Made with Magic” merchandise items – newly designed ear hats, wands and paintbrushes – also will be available for the celebration.
More than 500 special merchandise items have been created for the Diamond Celebration, including apparel, accessories, art, collectibles, headwear, home décor, jewelry, pins, souvenirs, toys and more. They can be found at shops throughout Disneyland Resort, including Disney Showcase and Main Street Emporium in Disneyland, Elias & Co. in Disney California Adventure, World of Disney in the Downtown Disney District and more.
The Diamond Celebration invites resort guests to experience the dawning of a new era of Disney magic while enjoying the memory-making magic that has always been at the heart of a Disneyland Resort visit. Now, more than ever, Disneyland Resort is the place where dreams come true.
** NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Void where prohibited. Open to legal residents of the 50 U.S., D.C., Mexico and Canada (excluding Quebec) who are age of majority as of date of entry. Specific prizes to be awarded in the weekly sweepstakes will be announced online at Disneyland.com/DiamondDays the preceding week. Sponsor: Disney Memories, 500 S. Buena Vista Street, Burbank, CA 91521, U.S.A.
Enter daily sweepstakes by correctly texting word of the day to short code 347639 (Disney) or by using sponsor tablet (available only at the Disneyland® Resort (“Resort”)). Word of the day can be found in ungated areas of the Resort (areas of Resort that do not require paid admission) or at http://www.Disneyland.com/DiamondDays (the “Sweeps, Site”).Entrant must be physically present at the Resort premises (which includes ungated areas) at the time of entry into daily sweepstakes.
Potential daily sweepstakes winners will be notified (via text or phone) at approx. 11:00 AM PT each day and must contact Sponsor within 60 minutes of notification or prize will be forfeited. Daily prize can only be claimed on Resort premises and only on the same day as entry. Entrants may enter the weekly sweepstakes via text, sponsor tablet or online (at the Sweeps Site). Only certain prizes determined by the Sponsor will be awarded in any given week; specific prizes to be awarded in the weekly sweepstakes will be announced online at the Sweeps Site the preceding week. Correct word of the day must be included in all eligible entries.
Msg. & data rates may apply. One response text confirming receipt will be sent upon text entry and potential winner may receive a notification text. Text entries from Mexican phone carriers may not be possible in the U.S. For Official Rules including full details on how to enter, free alternate methods of entry, full list of prizes, privacy policy and notification, visit http://www.Disneyland.com/DiamondDays. For help, reply HELP to short code 347639. Sponsor: Disney Memories, 500 S. Buena Vista Street, Burbank, CA 91521, U.S.A.
The Disneyland Resort features two spectacular theme parks – Disneyland (the original Disney theme park) and the reimagined Disney California Adventure Park – plus three hotels and the Downtown Disney District, comprising unique dining, entertainment and shopping experiences. The Resort’s hotels are the luxurious, 948-room Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, which also features 50 two-bedroom equivalent Disney Vacation Club units; the magical, recently renovated, 975-room Disneyland Hotel – both AAA Four Diamond properties – and the 481-room Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel with its “day-at-the-beach” fun. For information on attractions and vacations at Disneyland Resort, visit Disneyland.com, call (866) 43-DISNEY or contact local travel agents.
Disneyland Resort in Anaheim is open daily year round. For more information call 866-603-4763 or visitwww.disneyland.com.
Knott’s Opens Voyage To The Iron Reef™ Interactive 4-D Ride and Presents
New Shows for the Summer Season
Soak City Water Park Now Open Daily
Invites Guests to a Premier Summer Oasis
Knott’s Berry Farm just discovered a problem brewing beneath the boardwalk; the Kraken Queen and her maniacal aquatic army have surfaced and are feeding on the steel of Knott’s beloved attractions. Guests who have what it takes to become brave deep sea navigators will climb aboard four-person submarine-inspired ride vehicles and embark on the four-minute, 4-D interactive adventure into the Iron Reef.
Voyage to the Iron Reef’s™ 4-D experience integrates high definition 3-D animation with creative place making props and scenery. The media based ride enables the actions of our guests to have a direct impact on the outcome of the experience, and ensures that no two voyages are ever the same.
Voyage to the Iron Reef™ Ride Insights:
Iron Reef is the newest interactive 4-D ride on the West Coast
It is also the only interactive 4D ride in the dense So Cal theme park marketplace featuring an entirely original story and characters (does not re-tell a story guests are already familiar with)
The ride spans over 600 Ft (183.2 M) of track - Iron Reef’s sheer size per sq. ft.( Approx. 18040 sq. ft.) is equaled to:
Riding the equivalent of two football fields all while battling 4-D elements and mechanical minions
Almost FOUR NBA basketball courts: An official NBA or NCAA basketball court measures 94 feet by 50 feet and has an area of 4,700 square feet
Almost FIVE baseball infields: The size of the infield (area between the bases) is 3,600 sq. feet
Almost FIVE Silver Bullet Rides: Total Track Length: 3,125 ft.
Knott’s Summer Shows
Farm fresh summertime fun at Knott’s Berry Farm will enhance all of the wholesome charm and excitement guests enjoy year-round at the iconic theme park. Select days through September 7, Knott’s summer entertainment headliners are Blockbuster Beagle!, Vertical Impact, Vertical Impact: Geared Up!, and more sensational shows:
(NEW) Blockbuster Beagle!...on ice - Charles M. Schulz Theatre: Snoopy and his Peanuts buddies "go Hollywood" bringing Walk of Fame glamour, dazzling movie lot escapades and California excitement to a brand new ice show adventure. Join Snoopy and our world-class ice skating stars for this amazing new production! June 13 - August 23; no shows on Wednesdays
(NEW) Vertical Impact – Calico Square Stage: The show presents the ultimate blend of extreme stunts with highflying acrobats performing a one of a kind performance perfect for the entire family! This high-energy show is set to the most popular songs of today, combining everything from trampoline stunts, BMX riders, skaters, dancers, and aerialists. Every show ends with an informal meet & greet for the guests with the entire cast on stage. June 13 - August 23. No shows on Mondays & Tuesdays
(NEW) Vertical Impact: Geared Up! – Calico Square Stage: The fun continues after dark as the cast pumps up the volume with the latest hits, the biggest tricks and awesome special effects. The pace is intensified, the stunts are electrified, and the cast is breaking down the walls, defying gravity, and taking it all to the next level. "DJ Nytemadness” keeps the party going mixing all the best of current EDM, dance & pop hits after each show while the gleeful cast invites guests become a part of the fun. June 13 - August 23; no shows on Mondays & Tuesdays
(NEW) Big Band Swingin’ Sundays – Boardwalk Circle: The timeless allure of swing dancing is something guests won’t want to miss this summer! Jump, Jive & Swing to the sounds of Orange County’s best local Big Bands. Sundays, June 14 – August 30
Krazy Kirk and the Hillbillies – Bird Cage Theatre: Things get krazy when Krazy Kirk and the Hillbillies perform their toe tappin’, knee slappin’, side splittin’ country comedy show that has Knott’s audiences clamoring for more! See Knott’s website for show dates and times
(NEW) Salsa Bands – Fiesta Plaza Stage: Fiesta Plaza stage heats up this summer with the infectious energy created by some of Orange County’s most popular salsa bands. See Knott’s website for show dates and times
The Ghost Town Miners – Spurs Stage: For a “Yeehaw” of a good time guests won’t want to miss the Ghost Town Miners sing and play some of the best bluegrass this side of the Rio Grande! June 16 – August 20; Tuesday – Wednesday
The Big Fat Steve Band – Boardwalk Circle Stage: Back by popular demand, The Big Fat Steve Band is a one-of-a-kind dance band with a swingin’ beat. Enjoy the live musicality of rockabilly, swing and classic sounds. The only thing missing is your dance moves. See Knott’s website for show dates and times
Ghost Town Streetmosphere – Ghost Town Streets: Ghost Town is alive with townsfolk who will put you smack dab in the middle of the Wild West. New residents have put down stakes recently - Clem Culpepper, the ever hopeful gold miner, Ma & Pa Shine, our resident moonshiners & Nathan Quickly, the Pony Express Agent, and more Calico townsfolk
Charlie Brown’s Happy Campers - Camp Snoopy Theatre: Charlie Brown, Lucy, Linus, their friend JT, and the world’s most popular beagle, Snoopy will take the stage in a show that’s sure to make an outdoorsman out of anybody! Daily, June 14 – September 1
Additional information:
Providing guests with extra time to take advantage of all of the new limited-time offerings, Knott’s extends its Park hours from 10am to 10pm during the summer season
We also invite guests to celebrate Fourth of July and Labor Day at Knott’s Berry Farm. Fourth of July celebration includes a Salute to America Fireworks & The Mountain Fife & Drums Corps. The Mountain Fife & Drum Corps travels back in time to the birth of our great nation with their authentic music and costumes. Then end the celebration with a fireworks display that celebrates the freedoms that define America. On Labor Day, the Park’s skyline will glow with a brilliant fireworks show that can be seen for miles. July 4th and September 6th only
Knott’s Soak City
Soak City is Southern California’s premier water park with a theme inspired by beach and surf towns of the 1950’s Orange and Los Angeles County coast. Water slides and attractions at Knott’s Soak City pay tribute to the area’s rich surfing heritage with names like Malibu Run and Laguna Storm Watch Tower. And like those at Knott’s theme park, the rides and attractions at Knott’s Soak City are truly world-class.
Pacific Spin is Soak City’s most action-packed water adventure to date, carrying 700 passengers per hour at a maximum speed of 35 feet per second! This thrilling multi-person raft ride includes a 132-foot long tunnel that drops its riders 75 feet into a six-story funnel. After pitching riders back and forth through swirling water, the ride culminates in a waterfall splash. Guests with the need for more speed, can brave the waves from high atop Old Man Falls or race friends headfirst on a mat down the multi-lane speed slides of Banzai Falls. Take in the summer sun and conquer the swells of Tidal Wave Bay’s wave pool. In addition, the park’s figure-eight Sunset River is the widest and one of the longest water park lazy rivers anywhere!
Time to relax? With 35 semi-private cabanas available for rent by the day, guests can have it made in the shade. Soak City cabanas are furnished with lounge chairs and an umbrella shaded table, and offer waiter service and free inner-tube rentals. For cabana reservations visit soakcityoc.com.
Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday June 26 - August 9, all 2015 Knott’s Soak City, Gold and Platinum Season Passholders can enter the water park half an hour before it opens to the general public with exclusive early entry starting at 9:30 a.m.
Knott’s Soak City Orange County owns the distinction of being one of the safest water parks in the United States. For the 14th consecutive year the lifeguard staff of Soak City Orange County has been awarded the Platinum National Aquatic Safety Award for consistently exceeding the criteria for aquatic safety. This award is granted only to facilities scoring in the top eight percent of the audit criteria as established by Jeff Ellis & Associates, a leader in aquatic safety consulting for water parks worldwide. Soak City Orange County was also awarded the Decade of Aquatic Safety Excellence Award at the 2013 IASS Training in Arizona.
Guests can maximize their summertime fun by upgrading to a Gold Season Pass and ride and slide at both the Knott’s theme park and Soak City every day of the 2015 season. Regular admission for the water park is just $38 and $27 for juniors (ages 3-11) and seniors (62 and over) and includes unlimited use of all water park rides and attractions; kids under 3 years old are always free.
Operating days, hours and prices vary and are subject to change. For information on the day that you plan to visit, please call (714) 220-5200 or visit www.soakcityoc.com. Join the conversation by using #SoakCityOC.
For park operating hours, show times and more visit the Knott’s Berry Farm website at www.knotts.com. Join the conversation using the hashtag #NewAtKnotts
Knott's Berry Farm in Buena Park is open daily year round. For more information call 714-220-5200 or visitwww.knotts.com, where you can also download the Knott’s Berry Farm mobile app for your smartphone, or save time and money with Knott’s Print@Home tickets.
LEGOLAND® California Resort Unveils Heartlake City and All-New Star Wars™ Miniland Model
Heartlake City
Streamers burst through the air, music blasted and celebrities applauded as LEGOLAND® California Resort officially opened its latest addition, LEGO® Friends Heartlake City. The family theme park’s new land opened in style as celebrities, Make-a-Wish families and a San Diego Padre walked the “purple” carpet before enjoying the festivities with their families.
Based on the popular LEGO® Group’s toy line and TV show “LEGO Friends,” Heartlake City was brought to life when a little girl helped the city’s mayor turn the key to power up the Friends Forever Stage, spin the carousel at Mia’s Riding Camp and turn on the Heartlake Fountain. As Heartlake City came to life, the LEGO Friends live girls appeared on stage to perform a song for the guests and get the party started. Guests joined in the fun by singing and dancing, exploring and constructing LEGO horses in the stables and riding the carousel.
LEGO Friends Heartlake City is packed with fun and excitement around every corner. Guests can enjoy living like a LEGO Friend for a day while exploring Mia’s Riding Camp, a 62 horse and jeep carousel ready to take guests on an adventure, the Heartlake Fountain where children and their friends can splash about, and the Heartlake Stables ready for LEGO building activities. Guests can even sing along with the LEGO Friends on the Friends Forever Stage all before enjoying sweet crêpes at the City Park Crêperie. LEGO Friends Heartlake City is included in the cost of admission to LEGOLAND California Resort.
Star Wars Model
The Empire returns to LEGOLAND® California Resort with the largest LEGO® Star Wars™ Miniland model display yet. On the evening of March 4, the galaxy’s most powerful weapon is unveiled: The LEGO® Star Wars™ Miniland Death Star Model Display.
Casting a shadow over LEGO Star Wars™ Miniland, the Death Star spans 8-feet wide, 13-feet high and weighs more than 1900 pounds. Featuring a planet-destroying super laser, the massive LEGO model is made out of more than 500,000 LEGO bricks and includes a display of the famous trench run scene where Luke Skywalker maneuvered his X-wing fighter through the combat zone to destroy the Death Star. Adjacent to the LEGO Death Star, guests are invited to use their imaginations to construct their own LEGO starships at building stations while X-Wings, TIE Fighters and Y-Wings circle overhead.
The LEGO Star Wars™ Miniland Death Star is designed from the Star Wars: Episode IV A New Hope. It includes six animated Turbo Laser Turrets and LEGO starship models built out of more than 20,000 LEGO bricks.
The new LEGO model display is LEGOLAND California Resort’s latest major addition in LEGO Star Wars™ Miniland, which opened in 2011 and expanded with the addition of the LEGO Star Wars™ Miniland Gallery in 2012.
For ticket prices, operating schedule and additional information, visit www.LEGOLAND.com or call 760-918-LEGO (5346).
LEGOLAND California Resort includes LEGOLAND California, SEA LIFE Carlsbad Aquarium and LEGOLAND Water Park, all geared for families with children between the ages of 2 and 12. LEGOLAND California features more than 60 rides, shows, and attractions including LEGO Star Wars™ Miniland and the all-new Pirate Reef where guests board boats that drop down 25 feet between two battling pirate ships! SEA LIFE incorporates LEGO models into a child’s voyage to the depths of the ocean and features play zones, fun facts, quiz trails, and the all-new Claws exhibit.
LEGOLAND California Resort in Carlsbad is open daily through September 14, and the LEGOLAND Hotel is open year round. For more information call 760-918-5346 or visit www.legoland.com.
Guests Can Stay and Play
During Summer Nights at Seaworld
There is no better way to spend the evenings in San Diego than by experiencing Summer Nights at SeaWorld®. After the sun has set, SeaWorld is a whole new park after dark, with special nighttime entertainment, including SeaWorld’s family of killer whales in Shamu’s Celebration: Light Up The Night and the hilarious Sea Lions Tonite show, starring California sea lions Clyde® and Seamore® and the mischievous O.P. Otter®. Then, as the evening comes to a crescendo, SeaWorld’s Celebrate the Wonder™ fireworks light up the night’s sky. SeaWorld’s summertime extravaganza kicked off on May 23 (weekends only) but kicks into really high gear in mid-June. Summer Nights take place nightly June 13 through mid-August and then continue weekends-only through Sept. 7, 2015.
With so much to see and do at SeaWorld this summer—including Explorer’s Reef®, SeaWorld’s new arrival experience, and Manta®, the park’s double-launch, multi-media roller coaster—there’s never been a better time to visit. To make Summer Nights even more fun and affordable, guests can purchase an annual SeaWorld Membership, which allows repeat admission for an entire year, plus free parking and discounts on food and merchandise (the SeaWorld 1-Year Membership cost is $155 for all ages). The 2015 SeaWorld Fun Card allows for repeat admission through the end of the year (with a few blackout dates) all for the price of a single-day admission ($89 for ages 10 and older; $83 for ages 3–9).
2015 Summer Nights lineup
Shamu’s Celebration: Light Up The Night: SeaWorld’s newest nighttime killer whale show features original music and production elements, as well as spectacular killer whale behaviors.
Sea Lions Tonite: Summer Nights guests won’t want to miss Sea Lions Tonite, a hilarious adventure featuring famous California sea lions Clyde® and Seamore®. The prankster-loving pinnipeds poke fun at the stars of classic daytime SeaWorld shows, including Blue Horizons®, One Ocean®, Pets Rule!® and Cirque de la Mer®.
Fireworks: During Summer Nights at SeaWorld®, guests may enjoy the park’s fireworks display, Celebrate the Wonder™, which caps off an evening full of amazing nighttime animal shows. Display time varies according to park hours; for park hours and show schedules, visit www.SeaWorldSanDiego.com. SeaWorld will celebrate the Fourth of July with our Independence Day Fireworks Spectacular, an extended display set to patriotic music, at 10:10 p.m. July 4, 2015.
Cirque de la Mer: Returning for its 15th summer, this acrobatic odyssey is performed on land, water and in the air at SeaWorld’s bayside venue, Cirque Stadium. The popular summer daytime show features acrobats, trampoline artists, aerialists and trapeze artists. Returning this year is a 40x10 trampoline wall where the performers can show off their acrobatic skills and even dive 19 feet into Mission Bay!
Attractions, Rides and More: In addition to the special summer shows and activities, nearly all of SeaWorld’s other attractions remain open every evening during Summer Nights, including Explorer’s Reef®, Manta®, Turtle Reef™, Journey to Atlantis®, Wild Arctic®, the Penguin Encounter®, Shipwreck Rapids® and more.
Tips for making the most of your Summer Nights at SeaWorld:
Log on to the park’s website (www.SeaWorldSanDiego.com) and purchase tickets, skipping the ticket line at the park. Learn about other discounts, show schedules and more online or by calling (800) 257-4268.
During projected days of peak attendance, SeaWorld allows guests to enter the front of the park 45 minutes prior to full-park opening. Early birds can use this time to pick up a park map and check the show schedule, grab a light breakfast and plan their day.
Arrive at animal shows at least 30 to 45 minutes before the scheduled show time to secure a good seat and enjoy interactive, crowd-pleasing, pre-show activities.
Visit SeaWorld attractions while animal shows in the area are occurring: While thousands of guests are watching the Blue Horizons® show, for example, visit the Shark Encounter located just north of Dolphin Stadium.
Seaworld Camp=Happy Marine Life Lovers
SeaWorld® San Diego has everything kids need to learn and have fun at its one-of-a-kind SeaWorld Camps. Up-close animal encounters with graceful dolphins; splendid penguins; endangered sea turtles; and not-so-dangerous sharks connect campers with the natural world and inspire a lifelong appreciation for wildlife and wild places. In addition to meeting animals, SeaWorld Resident Camp, Day Camp and Group Camp fosters fun, outdoor explorations, making new friends from around the world, and all of SeaWorld San Diego’s awesome rides, shows and attractions. SeaWorld San Diego Resident Camp five-night sessions begin every Sunday and end each Friday, June 14 through Aug. 14. SeaWorld San Diego Day Camp five-day sessions run Monday through Friday, June 15 to Aug. 15. Space is limited. To register or learn more call (800) 257-4268 or visit www.SeaWorldSanDiego.com/Education.
Aquatica San Diego Returns
Aquatica SeaWorld’s Waterpark™ is back to make a splash for a third season. With a combination of thrills, a serene beachside resort atmosphere and up-close animal encounters, Aquatica San Diego is the place to be this summer. From serene to extreme, guests of all ages will delight in the many slides and attractions at Aquatica including the now-heated pools at Walkabout Waters, Kata’s Kookabura Kove and Slippity Dippity. Guests looking for a more extreme experience will scream with delight on Taumata Racer® that rises nearly 60 feet above the ground, zooming riders face down 375 feet on face-down mats before racers across the finish line in their rainbow-hued lanes; Big Surf Shores, a large wave pool with more than 500,000 gallons of water and an expansive sandy beach; HooRoo Run®, where adventurers have a choice of two enclosed and two open-air slides that take them down an 80-foot descent; Loggerhead Lane, a lush tropical attraction with a winding 1,250-foot-long lazy river that features an up-close view of more than a dozen Caribbean flamingos; and a habitat with dozens of freshwater turtles. Aquatica is located in Chula Vista, California.
SeaWorld San Diego in San Diego is open daily year round. For more information call 800-257-4268 or visitwww.seaworldsandiego.com.
Six Flags Magic Mountain Introduces World’s Longest Hybrid Coaster
and Immersive New Area that Includes a
New Show in the Gearworks Theatre
Today the most anticipated new coaster of the year and the world's longest hybrid coaster made its debut at Six Flags Magic Mountain, the "Thrill Capital of the World." TWISTED COLOSSUS boasts a state-of-the-art Iron Horse Track, providing a ride experience never before possible on wooden coasters, such as over-banked turns and inversions, all while racing along side by side trains. TWISTED COLOSSUS features numerous exciting components including a “Top Gun Stall” element, Zero G Roll, two lift hills, 18 airtime moments and a first-ever “High Five” element where riders can almost high-five guests riding an opposing train. TWISTED COLOSSUS is the focal point of the newly themed area, SCREAMPUNK DISTRICT, which includes entertainment, a new food venue and a new shopping area and brings the Valencia theme park's coaster count to a world-record 19. TWISTED COLOSSUS opened to the public on Saturday, May 23.
“We are thrilled yet again to add another unique, record-breaking coaster to our second-to-none collection of world-class attractions and I’m happy to say, Twisted Colossus delivers, truly living up to Six Flags Magic Mountain’s unprecedented thrill DNA,” said Bonnie Rabjohn, Six Flags Magic Mountain park president. “With a broad appeal, Twisted Colossus will usher in the next generation of thrill seekers whose parents grew up riding the iconic original Colossus – keeping the coaster relevant and thriving for many generations to come. And, I can promise you, this isn’t your daddy’s Colossus.”
With its unique construction, TWISTED COLOSSUS will feature:
“Top Gun Stall” – an inversion where the train slows down upside down;
Western Hemisphere’s first “High Five” – where two trains pass through an overbanked turn with the illusion that riders can reach out and “high five” each other;
Zero G Roll where track twists 360 degrees;
A staggering 116-foot drop at an amazing 80-degrees;
18 airtime moments;
2 lift hills;
Four minutes of thrills on nearly 5,000 feet of track – longest hybrid coaster in the world.
TWISTED COLOSSUS is the perfect addition to the park’s coaster collection, joining other adrenaline-pumping coasters, including Full Throttle — a triple launch coaster featuring the world’s tallest loop, Tatsu — the tallest, fastest and longest flying coaster in the world, X2 — the world’s first and only 5th dimensional coaster, and Goliath — the “giant among giants” mega coaster.
Six Flags Magic Mountain in Valencia is open daily through August 30. For more information call 661-255-4100 or visitwww.sixflagsmagicmountain.com.
Universal Studios Hollywood Celebrates 50 Years with the “Fast & Furious—Supercharged” Ride, “Nighttime Studio Tour” and “Springfield,” Hometown of The Simpsons
The spotlight shines brightly on Universal Studios Hollywood as the world-class destination celebrates a milestone 50th anniversary with the much-anticipated opening of the “Fast & Furious—Supercharged” thrill ride, “Springfield,” an-all new immersive experience surrounding “The Simpsons Ride,” and a “Nighttime Studio Tour” as part of the theme park’s pioneering epic transformation.
This monumental undertaking – the most ambitious in the theme park’s storied 50-year history –radically alters and reimagines its familiar footprint as The Entertainment Capital of L.A. sets its sights on the next 50 years.
From its humble beginnings five decades ago, Universal Studios Hollywood has emerged as one of the most progressive and exciting theme park experiences anywhere, while remaining true to its roots of immersing guests in the awe-inspiring world of movie-making magic.
Since its inception, Universal Studios has lifted the veil on Hollywood’s most illustrious industry, placing guests at the heart of favorite movies and television shows. It continues to be at the forefront of innovation, imagination and inspiration, working in collaboration with some of the most influential filmmakers in the business and the greatest minds in entertainment – Steven Spielberg, Matt Groening, James L. Brooks, Peter Jackson, Michael Bay and Chris Meledandri – to create intriguing rides and attractions.
The “Glamour Trams” of yesteryear that gave way to today’s world-famous Studio Tour is undergoing a top to bottom makeover to coincide with the 50th anniversary, and by 2016, will roll out a fleet of new, contemporary trams, including the installation of ultra-comfy cushioned seats. A modern exterior and sleek logo design will contribute to the updated aesthetics of these iconic trams, while a new Art Deco-themed Studio Tour entry portal, located within the theme park, will greet guests.
Offered in multiple languages, including Mandarin, Japanese, Spanish and English, and led by expert guides, the acclaimed Studio Tour remains a hallmark Universal Studios Hollywood attraction bringing millions of guests through an authentic movie and television studio and into its elusive world motivated by three compelling words: lights, camera, action.
Fast & Furious - Supercharged
This summer, high-octane excitement raced onto the scene when Universal Studios Hollywood introduced “Fast & Furious—Supercharged,” a pulse-pounding, adrenaline-fueled thrill ride as the new grand finale to the world-famous Studio Tour.
This gripping, technologically-advanced ride, inspired by Universal Pictures’ most successful film franchise of all time and featuring the film’s original cast members, propels guests into the high-stakes underground world of fast cars and daring escapades traveling at accelerated speeds of up to 120 miles per hour. Situated within a newly constructed 65,000 square foot building on the legendary backlot, the high speed, 3D-HD ride reunites stars from the Fast & Furious series – Vin Diesel (Dominic “Dom” Toretto), Dwayne Johnson (Luke Hobbs), Michelle Rodriguez (Letty Ortiz), Tyrese Gibson (Roman Pearce) and Luke Evans (Owen Shaw) – in a revolutionary mega-attraction, conceived as a new installment to the dynamic film series that can only be experienced at The Entertainment Capital of L.A.
“Fast & Furious—Supercharged” is a high-octane, adrenaline-fueled thrill ride and new grand finale to the world-famous Studio Tour. The dynamic hydraulic motion-based ride tells an original Fast & Furious story that fuses sophisticated hyper-realistic special effects with a state-of-the-art 3D audio system and 3D-HD imagery, projected onto the world’s longest and most expansive 360-degree screen. Spanning nearly 400 feet in length to encircle Studio Tour guests within the newly constructed 65,000-square-foot structure on the legendary backlot, the sprawling custom-built screen employs 34, 4K projectors and a sophisticated projection configuration system to envelop guests in unprecedented realism.
Coupled with an intense blend of thrilling visceral effects, “Fast & Furious—Supercharged” takes guests on a wild ride that begins the moment they board the Studio Tour. Exclusive interstitial content – that was filmed with the cast members –is featured on the tram monitors, highlighting interactions as they engage guests en route to the ride’s climatic scenes. Along the tram route and featured on the ride, sightings of numerous prop cars from the Fast & Furious series, including Dom’s iconic Dodge Charger, enhance the story.
Join the conversation online using #FastFuriousRide, and for all the latest news, “Like” us on Facebook, follow us onInstagram and Twitter at @UniStudios.
Springfield
The layout of the park became unrecognizable when “Springfield,” hometown of America’s favorite family, The Simpsons, breathed new life to the sprawling and vibrant space surrounding “The Simpsons Ride.” “Springfield” is designed to capture the spirit of the animated town and engage visitors and fans of the show in the intensely absorbing and colorful world made famous throughout the series’ record-setting 26 seasons.
Guests visiting “Springfield” have the pleasant sensation of being hurled through their television sets and into the accurately depicted town, complete with signature eateries such as Krusty Burger, Cletus’ Chicken Shack, Luigi’s Pizza and Phineas Q. Butterfat’s Ice Cream Parlor, along with Homer’s favorite hangouts, Lard Lad Donuts, Moe’s Tavern and Duff Brewery.
Nighttime Studio Tour
Universal’s slate of new 2015 attractions will entertain from sunup to sundown when the theme park broadens the scope of its popular Studio Tour with the introduction of a “Nighttime Studio Tour,” designed to enlighten guests on the art of moonlight movie-making.
Under a blanket of stars, over 20 locations along the famed Studio Tour route will showcase an array of luminous onset lighting and special effects used in nighttime production. Theatrical lighting will cast a glow on iconic backlot sets as Studio Tour guides shed light on Hollywood secrets and tricks of the world’s most glamorous trade, including how filmmakers create the effect of daylight amid the black of night. Celebrated stars who found fame on Universal’s backlot will also make cameo appearances on the “Nighttime Studio Tour,” including Marilyn Monroe, Norman Bates and Frankenstein. The “Nighttime Studio Tour” will run every weekend throughout the summer from July 4th through Labor Day.
The excitement that these new rides, attractions and themed immersive lands will bring to guests is only a prelude to the highly-anticipated arrival of “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™” in 2016.
In the spirit of the popular social media trend Throwback Thursdays (#TBT), Universal Studios Hollywood’s Facebook,Twitter, and Instagram will pay tribute to its legacy with a collection of nostalgic photos. Join the conversation and share Universal Studios Hollywood memories using #UniStudios50th and @UniStudios.
Universal Studios Hollywood, The Entertainment Capital of L.A.SM, includes a full-day, movie-based theme park andStudio Tour; the CityWalk entertainment, shopping and dining complex, the Universal CityWalk Cinemas and the “5 Towers” state-of-the-art outdoor concert venue. World-class rides and attractions include the incredibly popular 3D Ultra-HD adventure, “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem” and immersive “Super Silly Fun Land,” the critically-acclaimed mega-attraction, “Transformers™: The Ride-3D,” the intense, award-winning ride, “King Kong 360 3-D” on the behind-the-scenes Studio Tour, “Revenge of the MummySM—The Ride” and “Jurassic Park® —The Ride.” As part of its milestone 50th anniversary celebration in 2015, Universal Studios Hollywood debuts a slate of dynamic new attractions, including the electrifying 3D-HD thrill ride, “Fast & Furious—Supercharged” as the grand finale to the famed Studio Tour, “Springfield,” hometown of America’s favorite TV family, adjacent to the award-winning “The Simpsons RideTM” and the “Nighttime Studio Tour,” offering evening tours of the iconic movie backlot.
Universal Studios Hollywood in Universal City is open daily year round. For more information call 800-864-8377 or visitwww.universalstudioshollywood.com.
With all of this happening, how can you NOT go and experience it? Make this summer even more fun-filled by immersing yourself today!
