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MSC Cruises announces first-of-kind thrill ride for newest ship

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MSC Cruises announces first-of-kind thrill ride for newest ship

MSC Cruises has unveiled its latest thrill ride. Cliffhanger, the only over-water swing ride at sea, will debut exclusively aboard MSC World America when the ship enters service in April 2025. The ride structure will tower above the new U.S. flagship’s top deck, nestled in the heart of the ship’s Family Aventura district and beckoning thrill seekers who want a rush of excitement.

Cliffhanger’s four seats start off close to the deck before powered arms lift them into the starting position—up and out over the edge of the ship. From there, riders are propelled back and forth, high above the waterline and dangling 160 feet above the ocean below. The one-of-a-kind, edge-of-your-seat thrill ride will have guests feeling the wind in their hair as their view oscillates between the water below and the sky above.

MSC World America is set to become MSC Cruises’ newest U.S. flagship when she is named at PortMiami on April 9, 2025. Guests will experience a new world of cruising as they explore seven distinct districts, each with its own atmosphere, facilities and experiences waiting to be explored. MSC World America’s districts allow guests of all ages to choose their own vacation adventure and get the most out of their time on board.

During the ship’s inaugural season, MSC World America will sail from Miami with 7-night itineraries to some of the most sought-after destinations in the Eastern and Western Caribbean, all with stops at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve – MSC Cruises’ unique private island paradise in The Bahamas.

MSC World America is carefully designed to help reduce her impact on the environment. The ship runs on LNG, a lower-emissions fuel, and is ready for renewable energy sources. Shore power connectivity, where available, reduces emissions by allowing the ship’s engines to be switched off in port. Smart technology is used throughout the ship to ensure guests can travel in comfort while keeping energy and water use low. A robust onboard recycling program minimizes waste, and even the propellers are designed to reduce noise and avoid disturbing marine life.

MSC World America is available to book by clicking here.

Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi announces Tourism Strategy 2030

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Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi announces Tourism Strategy 2030

His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, has approved the new Tourism Strategy 2030 for the emirate. Spearheaded by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), the ambitious blueprint signals a new era of expansion and strategic development in the travel and tourism sector.

The Strategy seeks to boost visitor numbers from nearly 24 million in 2023 to 39.3 million by 2030 (overnight and same-day), with a 7% year-on-year growth. Moreover, it plans to significantly elevate the tourism and travel sector’s contribution to the UAE’s GDP, raising it from approximately AED 49 billion in 2023 to AED 90 billion annually by 2030.

The Strategy will generate an estimated 178,000 new jobs by 2030 as the entire tourism infrastructure develops to meet this demand. It intends to almost double international overnight visitors from 3.8 million in 2023 approximately to 7.2 million in 2030, expand hotel room availability from 34,000 in 2023 to 52,000 by 2030, and further enhance the holiday home segment to diversify accommodation options.

H.E. Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “The Tourism Strategy 2030 marks a pivotal moment in Abu Dhabi’s transformative journey, representing a vital lever in our ongoing evolution. Delivered alongside our key partners, the Strategy underscores our steadfast commitment to fostering sustainable growth and strategic development in the travel and tourism sector. Through carefully crafted initiatives that will unlock economic opportunities, amplify our distinctive culture and enhance the emirate’s value proposition, we are laying the foundation for a vibrant and prosperous future that transcends generations.”

Fostering sustainable growth across four strategic pillars

To achieve the Strategy’s goals, 26 key initiatives have been identified across four strategic pillars: Offering and City Activation; Promotion & Marketing; Infrastructure & Mobility; and Visa, Licensing, and Regulations. These pillars form the foundation of Abu Dhabi’s comprehensive approach to realising its ambitious tourism targets and fostering sustainable growth in the sector.

The initiatives will be unlocked through the collective vision of DCT Abu Dhabi, the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED), the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT), Abu Dhabi Airports Company (ADAC), and other key government and private stakeholders, who play a strategic role in bringing Abu Dhabi’s tourism vision to life.

The first pillar, Offering and City Activation, looks to further enhance the overall guest experience by unveiling additional cultural sites, theme parks, retails offerings and new hotel chains. Overall boosting the emirate’s events calendar of year-round concerts, festivals, and family events. The dining landscape will diversify significantly, offering expanded options including the introduction of culinary schools and training programmes.

DCT Abu Dhabi will also more than double its Promotion and Marketing efforts, expanding its international reach from 11 to 26 markets and enhancing synergy within Abu Dhabi’s tourism ecosystem. It will also establish strategic global partnerships with media outlets and well-known brands for high-profile collaborations, creating compelling, market-specific content across various touchpoints.

The Strategy’s Infrastructure and Mobility pillar will increase hotel room availability across various categories, including accessible and luxury options, glamping, and farm stays. Through valued collaborations, the emirate is set to enhance roads, public transport, and infrastructure, simplifying travel within and boosting visitor inflow through increased flight seat capacity with both local and international airlines.

Lastly, both visitor experience and tourism business operations will be greatly enhanced with streamlined Visa, Licensing and Regulation processes. In collaboration with relevant government agencies, enhanced platforms and processes will reduce time frames for all applications and permits, to improve the ease of doing business and attract investment.

Building on the success of 2023

In 2023, Abu Dhabi’s tourism sector saw a remarkable surge, welcoming nearly 24 million visitors. The 27% rise in hotel guests and 54% increase in international guests bolstered the economy with an approximate AED 49 billion contribution to the UAE’s GDP.

Arrivals from key international markets like India, Russia, United Kingdom, China and Kingdom of Saudi Arabia played a pivotal role in 2023, alongside the numbers attracted by the emirate’s vibrant array of over 150 events, its pristine beaches and natural landscapes, as well as its cultural sites such as Qasr Al Hosn, Qasr al Watan and Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, which attracted more than 8.7 million visitors. Offerings across museums, cultural festivals and art exhibitions saw record-setting attendance at Louvre Abu Dhabi and the inaugural Manar Abu Dhabi public art exhibition, underscoring the emirate’s diverse appeal.

Visitor numbers were further boosted by a 44% increase in MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) events. With 960,000 delegates across 2,477 events exploring Abu Dhabi’s attractions and dining options, the food and beverage sector saw a resultant 21% revenue increase. In addition, flagship entertainment events like the MOTN Festival and Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, along with cultural milestones such as the Al Hosn Festival and the Liwa Festival, further solidified Abu Dhabi’s position as a global centre for leisure and tourism.

To learn more about the Tourism Strategy 2030, please visit: 
https://dct.gov.ae/en/who.we.are/tourism.strategy.2030.aspx

Real Madrid World, newest theme park at Dubai Parks and Resorts, opens to public

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Real Madrid World, newest theme park at Dubai Parks and Resorts, opens to public

Dubai Parks™ and Resorts and Real Madrid C.F. have announced the much-anticipated opening of Real Madrid World (RMW), the first ever Real Madrid-themed park celebrating football and basketball the Real Madrid way April 9, 2024. 

Opening at Dubai Parks™ and Resorts, the Middle East’s largest theme park destination, this new theme park is home to over 40 original Real Madrid-themed experiences and attractions that offer all guests the exclusive opportunity to feel closer to their football heroes. From visiting the locker rooms of Real Madrid players and exploring the secret sanctuary guarding the club’s winning trophies, to enjoying thrilling attractions, captivating entertainment shows and topped by the region’s first wooden roller coaster and tallest amusement ride in the world – guests are in for an unforgettable adventure, surrounded by captivating attractions and immersive experiences.

Fans will explore an impressive collection of official Real Madrid retail and merchandise in Dubai at Real Madrid World, where they are invited to personalize the Club’s shirts and other collectibles to celebrate football the Real Madrid way as well as enjoy numerous dining venues and carts offering flavorful treats with Spanish twists.

Fernando Eiroa, Chief Executive Officer at Dubai Holding Entertainment, said, “Dubai Parks™ and Resorts is the first theme park destination worldwide to announce a major partnership with Real Madrid. The world’s first and only Real Madrid-theme park celebrates the world’s love for sports and theme parks, presenting a unique adventure that has never been done or seen before. Real Madrid World will showcase the winning spirit of Real Madrid, embodying the deep passion that brings the club to life.” 

Eiroa added: “We take immense pride in crafting extraordinary entertainment experiences for guests of all ages. Our commitment contributes significantly to Dubai’s success by boosting tourism and firmly establishing the emirate as a captivating global destination.”

Real Madrid World is the newest addition to Dubai Parks™ and Resorts and is open from Sunday to Thursday from 12:00pm to 9:00pm and on Friday and Saturday from 12:00pm to 10:00pm. Families, Real Madrid fans, and theme park enthusiasts of all ages are all invited to explore its three zones: CHAMPIONS AVENUE, CELEBRATION PLAZA and STARS AVENUE, each zone paying tribute to FIFA’s Best Club of the 20th Century.

Over 40 new themed attractions, immersive experiences and fan engagement opportunities await Real Madrid World guests, including the below:

  • The HALA MADRID COASTER is the region’s first wooden roller coaster that encapsulates the emotions of the Real Madrid journey with the European Cups.
  • The STARS FLYER, standing at 460 feet, is the tallest amusement ride in the world and an iconic and adrenaline-pumping ride dedicated to the Real Madrid stars.
  • WHITE HEARTS is a walkthrough exhibition celebrating the past, present and future of the club offering various exciting experiences. The interactive experience will highlight the values of the club and transform any guest into a ‘Madridista’.
  • The BERNABÉU EXPERIENCE is a theatrical interpretation providing fans with exclusive access to the locker room, the center of the pitch and a secret sanctuary guarding the 14 football European cups and the 11 Basketball European Cups – the sacred spaces within the Santiago Bernabéu stadium in Madrid, Spain.
  • THE WAVE – LA OLA is a thrilling family roller coaster that will transport guests to the sacred seats of a stadium and embrace loyal fans who stand up, cheering their lungs out for their favorite team.
  • LA FÁBRICA TRAINING PITCH is a playground for guests of all ages with lots of football balls and mini-training equipment for the children, to practice their best shots and train like the stars.
  • THE FACTORY OF DREAMS is a virtual simulator that will take guests on a journey full of surprises where the magic that makes Real Madrid special comes alive.
  • HANDS UP! is a drop tower that invites guests to raise the Victory Cup together with the team.
  • FOOTBALL TRAINING CAMPS AND PROGRAMS where guests aged 6 and above, are invited to participate to an exhilarating experience that combines learning, teamwork, and fun, starting with a warm-up session, followed by learning some basic tricks, topped by engaging in a short team-based game to showcase their skills.
  • ENTERTAINING SHOWS feature over 15 daily sets, offering a diverse range of fascinating experiences for Real Madrid World guests. From interactive football freestyle street shows to captivating full-cast performances, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

The adventure will not be complete without indulging in delicious treats from the Real Madrid World diverse dining options, including the HALA MADRID RESTAURANT, where the passion of Real Madrid comes together with the flavours of Spain. Further excitement awaits all guests with THE REAL CHALLENGE for family challenge games, physical and digital sport interactives.

To visit Real Madrid World, guests are welcome to enjoy the One Day Pass starting from AED 295 online at www.dubaiparksandresorts.com/realmadridworld or at the gate.

Warner Bros. Discovery announces new global attraction deployments based on popular franchises

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Warner Bros. Discovery announces new global attraction deployments based on popular franchises

The FRIENDS Experience: After successful runs in more than 15 North American cities and seven international cities, the wildly popular The FRIENDS™ Experience will return to Boston this spring with an expanded footprint as part of FRIENDS’ 30th anniversary year-long celebration. Following its initial Boston pop-up in 2019 celebrating the show’s 25th anniversary, fans can revisit even more of the series’ most iconic moments at this enhanced experience with new additions including new set recreations, behind-the-scenes content and photo opportunities. Created by Warner Bros. Discovery Global Themed Entertainment, Original X Productions (OGX), and Warner Bros. Television Group, “The One in Boston” will be located in Boston’s Back Bay at 343 Newbury St. Tickets on Sale April 9 at 10 a.m. ET via www.FriendsTheExperience.com/Boston.

Harry Potter: Visions of Magic: Warner Bros. Discovery Global Themed Entertainment and NEON have announced that Resorts World Sentosa (RWS),Singapore, will host the Asia Premiere with the largest-ever engagement of HarryPotter: Visions of Magic. This unique multimedia spectacle will be shown within RWS beginning in Fall of 2024. Harry Potter: Visions of Magic created by Warner Bros. Discovery Global Themed Entertainment and NEON is an evocative and interactive art experience exploring some of the most mysterious corners of the wizarding world across more than 40,000 square foot venue. Discover a series of immersive environments inspired by enigmatic places in the magical community, like the Room of Requirement, Newt’s Menagerie, the Ministry of Magic, and more. Responsive video content, bold architecture, and original soundscapes create breathtaking multi-sensory installations, while interactive technology invites guests to illuminate the invisible, revealing visions of magic that bring the entire experience to life.

The new ‘Team Looney Tunes Get in the Game’ stage show will debut at Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi theme park April 13 and runs through May 26 with plans to follow at Parque Warner Madrid, Warner Bros. Movie World in Australia and more. The new show features Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck both vying to become coach of Team Looney Tunes. With the help from their team captains and their friend Lola Bunny, they will go head-to-head in a sports competition to see who the ultimate coach will be.

Sun’s rays create Dallas skyline during eclipse for Ripley’s Grand Prairie

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Sun’s rays create Dallas skyline during eclipse for Ripley’s Grand Prairie

As North America looked to the skies for the total solar eclipse, an innovative art activation captivated audiences at Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Blending science, art, and ancient photographic techniques, Michael Papadakis, also known as @Sunscribes, captured the total solar eclipse in his signature way — harnessing the power of the sun to create a unique piece of art for Ripley’s exhibit collection.

“With an event as rare as the Great North American Eclipse — only the second total solar eclipse in the U.S. in less than seven years — we knew we needed to capture it for the Ripley’s collection in some way,” said Director of Ripley’s Exhibit Collection, John Corcoran.

Using a technique known as heliography, Papadakis uses an array of mirrors and lenses to focus the sun’s powerful rays onto a wooden canvas. With meticulous preparation and constant movement, he can use a controlled burn like a paintbrush.

Papadakis’s fusion of art and science is truly unbelievable and a testament to Ripley’s enduring fascination with the cosmos. Also in Ripley’s collection, guests can find a 3,197-pound meteorite, the only book that’s been on the surface of the moon, and one of the company’s most expensive exhibits: the only surviving first-generation recordings of the Apollo 11 expedition, purchased at auction for $1.82 million.

But, immortalizing the fleeting moments of a total solar eclipse and transforming them into a masterpiece is no easy task.

“In 2017 I was privileged to catch the total solar eclipse just outside of Cheyenne, Wyoming,” Michael Papadakis explained. “During that eclipse, I was able to focus sunlight and create a burn up until 99% of the sun’s rays were eclipsed by the moon. This year, thanks to Ripley’s Believe it or Not!, I was able to create a much larger piece of art — taking my time throughout the various phases of the eclipse, holding the lens steady during totality, discovering what oddities appear through my lens as the moon fully eclipsed the sun.”

The projection of the 2024 total solar eclipse could be seen through Michael Papadakis’ lens during totality, when sunlight could not be harnessed due to the moon’s shadow.

Papadakis’ total solar eclipse piece will soon on go display where it was created — at Ripley’s Believe It or Not! in Grand Prairie, Texas.

Merlin Entertainments tasked Alterface to produce the scary Dämonen Gruft dark ride at Heide Park Resort

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Merlin Entertainments tasked Alterface to produce the scary Dämonen Gruft dark ride at Heide Park Resort

Now open, the Dämonen Gruft (Demon’s Crypt) compact (380 m2) dark ride produced by Alterface offers adventurous guests at Heide Park Resort, northern Germany’s largest theme park, an immersive plunge into a dangerous netherworld. The attraction is sited within “ancient catacombs discovered during excavations” last year amid whispers of dark secrets and rumors of people going missing. An anonymous video of a shadowy figure warned against attempting the “Katakomben Tour” and spoke of the Demon’s Crypt. Ominous warnings beg the question: is the Demon’s Crypt a new exciting experience not to be missed…or a terrible trap?

“Merlin Entertainments called upon Alterface to oversee the production of the show and ensure every detail—from lighting and sound to media and special effects—was flawlessly synchronized,” said Stéphane Battaille, CEO of Alterface. “Collaborating closely with Merlin on art direction, we brought their vision to life by recruiting the perfect team to realize the frightening promise of Demon’s Crypt.” Alterface worked with a mix of newcomers and highly experienced partners from around the globe for the project.

Two Belgian firms were recruited, Oddities, who provided critical support in art direction and played a vital role in bringing the concept to life, and 400 Coups who were charged with media production. Andy Garfield at Pachinko Media in the USA managed audio production, and JP Showsystems from the UK provided show control and technical design. Preston & Barbieri from Italy were contracted by Merlin Entertainments to provide the ride system, and TAA Group in Spain to provide theming.

Loading station

“Demon’s Crypt wasn’t a solo endeavor—it was all thanks to our incredible team. Each member brought their unique expertise and dedication, making this project a smooth and enjoyable collaboration that was essential to the ride’s success,” Battaille said. “And of course, it all began with a great design by and the full support of Merlin Entertainments’ Creative Lead – New Products and Concepts, Liz Cummings, and her team.”

The story of the crypt, special effects, media, and—most important, terror—are packed into Demon’s Crypt’s footprint. Eight cars, each carrying four adventurers through the seven-scene, 3:30 minute ride, provide a maximum capacity of 480 passengers per hour. “Special effects include scent, temperature, theatrical and SFX lighting, smoke, water spritz and CO2 sprays,” said Alterface’s Etienne Sainton, producer for the attraction. “Given the tight time frame, we knew we had to find highly qualified partners to realize the many conceptual and technical aspects of the project.”

While this was their first dark ride, Oddities, with creative freedom from Merlin Entertainments and Alterface’s support, made full use of the opportunity. “Everyone worked together,” said Taddéus Fraylich, Artistic Director at Oddities. “The team produced something we believe will serve as a cornerstone for Alterface and Merlin in the field of dark rides/ghost trains. We hope this was the first of many projects with Alterface!”

SLIDESHOW

Sainton favors the very first scene. “Unlike most loading stations, which are often utilitarian, with Demon’s Crypt boarding is the initial scene for Demon’s Crypt. It puts guests into the vehicles and the story right at the beginning,” he explained. “From the start it is scary—scarier than other dark rides you can find in theme parks.”

Perhaps most immersive is Scene 5, “Feast for the Souls,” which brings together most of the effects into a single frightening presentation. “A Pepper’s Ghost scrim, video, scents, water jets, immersive sound, and lighting perfectly envelop the video content and theming,” said Katleen Abraham, Production Designer at Oddities. “It’s an immersive scene that finally reveals the demonic creature that will chase the riders until the end.”

Alterface has extensive experience working in partnership with other qualified vendors to conceive, design and create guest experiences, but is also capable of realizing immersive turn-key projects. “Whether done in-house or in combination with other firms, our efforts are always driven by the client and the story,” said Battaille. “Demon’s Crypt shows how great teamwork can result in an amazing attraction. I can’t wait to see how people respond to this crazy, scary ride!”

For more information, visit Alterface.

Ecuador’s GameZone family entertainment centers engage Semnox technology

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Ecuador’s GameZone family entertainment centers engage Semnox technology

GameZone, a family entertainment center with operations in Quito and Manta, Ecuador, is expanding its innovative approach to entertainment with the installation of Semnox Solutions‘ cutting-edge technology.

With three successful locations already established and plans for two new centers in the pipeline, GameZone is revolutionizing the entertainment industry in Ecuador with its free playground offering and unique operational strategies. GameZone’s collaboration with Semnox Solutions has been instrumental in driving its growth and success. Semnox’s comprehensive solutions have optimized GameZone’s operations, resulting in improved management and a more immersive experience for visitors.

Galo Hidalgo, General Manager of HID Games SAS in Ecuador, remarked, “In the entertainment industry, strategic allies are a fundamental part of growth and development, and that is Semnox for us.”

Semnox’s Client Partner for LATAM, Diego Perez, shared his insights on the partnership: “I had the pleasure of visiting the GameZone operation in Ecuador in August 2023. I was very impressed by their innovative segmentation approach and dynamic operational model. Semnox is proud to have played a key role in making GameZone’s unique offerings possible.”

GameZone continues to challenge industry norms with its forward-thinking approach and commitment to providing exceptional entertainment experiences for its patrons.

Takabumi Asahi new CEO of Christie Digital Systems USA

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Takabumi Asahi new CEO of Christie Digital Systems USA

Ushio Inc., parent company to Christie®, has announced the appointment of Takabumi Asahi as chief executive officer of Christie Digital Systems USA, Inc.

Effective April 1, 2024, Asahi assumed his new role, succeeding Koji Naito. Asahi previously held the role of managing executive officer and chief financial officer, Ushio. He has held positions of increasing responsibility since joining Ushio in 2017 as deputy general manager. Previous to Ushio, Asahi worked for Oki Electric Industry, a Japanese information and communications services company, where he acquired global business management experience in various cutting-edge technology fields, including semiconductor, information and telecommunication technology, as well as office automation. Asahi holds an engineering degree from Japan’s Chiba University.

Asahi brings over 30 years of experience to the role, with a commitment to moving forward Ushio’s mission to promote the use of light as illumination and energy to support human well-being and societal growth through technology.

“As we work towards our mission of becoming a light solutions company, I am committed to Ushio’s focus on creating businesses with greater social value,” says Takabumi Asahi. “I’m excited to continue Christie’s important work in developing exceptional experiences for its customers and lighting the way to a sustainable, brighter future for everyone.”

Christie solutions are used around the world, from the largest mega-events to the smallest boardrooms, and include advanced RGB pure laser projection, SDVoE technology, content management, image processing, LED and LCD displays.

Iowa’s Adventureland Resort updates “Underground” themed indoor coaster for 50th anniversary

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Iowa’s Adventureland Resort updates “Underground” themed indoor coaster for 50th anniversary

Adventureland Resort has been hard at work unearthing its newest attraction, the reimagined Underground. The classic ride through an abandoned coal mine returns for the Altoona, Iowa theme park’s 50th celebration with a fresh new look. It’s just one of many improvements and additions to the park as Adventureland celebrates its golden anniversary.

The headliner of the 50th celebration will be the return of Underground, one of the world’s few indoor wooden roller coasters. The ride, which has become ingrained into Iowa culture over the years, has undergone an extensive transformation. From the moment guests walk up to the ride, there will be a noticeable difference. Riders will enter through a portal designed to look like a mine and will be transported into an abandoned coal mine with new scenes, elevated theming, enhanced audio and special effects, along with a few unexpected
surprises. The reimagination of Underground goes beyond a mere refurbishment. It delves into the depths of local history and culture, incorporating authentic elements from Altoona’s coal mining past.

“Guests will notice the improvements to Underground from the moment they walk up to the ride. The theming will be unlike anything else guests have experienced at Adventureland to date,” Adventureland General Manager Mike Lusky said. “We are thrilled to introduce an elevated experience that will take our guests on an unforgettable adventure that will leave riders returning again and again.”

Riders will be taken on a journey deep below the park in a search for gold stolen in a heist by notorious outlaw Bad Bob and his gang. As the legend goes, Adventureland was built right over the top of an abandoned mine that had become the hideout for some of the most wanted outlaws around.

Underground is not the only new thing guests will experience when the park opens on Saturday, May 18. For pork enthusiasts, Adventureland is unveiling its newest food concept, Oink’s. The new restaurant will offer a mouthwatering selection of Berkwood Farms Berkshire Pork products. From juicy tenderloins to savory pork chops, there is something to satisfy every palate. Whether refueling between rides or indulging in a delicious snack, Oink’s promises to be a haven for pork lovers.

Craft beer enthusiasts will enjoy the Iowa Craft Beer Takeover experience. During select weekends throughout the summer, this new experience for guests 21 and older will showcase breweries from across the state. Guests can sample a variety of brews on a brand-new patio, right on the Boulevard, celebrating Iowa’s vibrant craft beer scene.

Just in time for Adventureland’s 50th celebration, park guests can relive the magic of a beloved classic as the Falling Star Lounge makes its debut. Featuring the iconic sign from the Falling Star ride, beautifully refurbished and proudly displayed, this lounge area will be the perfect spot to unwind and reminisce after a day of adventure.

As the sun sets on select days this season, Adventureland will come alive with a dazzling new light show illuminating the Boulevard. With extended closing times in 2024, guests can enjoy colorful light and laser displays dancing across the night sky, creating magical memories under the stars.

With more than five decades of history to celebrate during the 2024 season, Adventureland promises a birthday bash like never before. Special events throughout the season include Bernie’s Birthday Bash and the Festival of Decades. Concerts every Saturday night July into August will feature a different decade that helped shape Adventureland’s history, followed by fireworks and a light show. Guests will also relive the past with historical displays throughout the park.

Merlin Entertainments purchases The Wheel at ICON Park, renamed The Orlando Eye

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Merlin Entertainments purchases The Wheel at ICON Park, renamed The Orlando Eye

Merlin Entertainments is expanding its estate of popular attractions and theme parks in Orlando and Central Florida with the purchase of The Wheel at ICON Park, the tallest observation attraction on the U.S. East Coast. Renamed as The Orlando Eye by Merlin Entertainments, the observation wheel in the center of Orlando’s International Drive district joins Merlin Entertainments’ other family-friendly attractions and theme parks in Orlando: SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium and Madame Tussauds Orlando, both located in ICON Park alongside The Orlando Eye, and nearby, LEGOLAND® Florida Resort and Peppa Pig Theme Park Florida in Winter Haven.

The attraction is the first acquisition made under the leadership of Merlin Entertainments’ CEO Scott O’Neil and demonstrates the company’s strategic focus on expanding its Gateway ‘mega-clusters’ of attractions in leading tourist cities throughout the world. “The acquisition of the Orlando Wheel in the vitally important tourist hub of Orlando demonstrates our Gateway strategy in action and serves to replicate our successful London Gateway formula, whereby we have clustered four of our branded attractions alongside the iconic anchor that is The London Eye,” states CEO, Scott O’Neil. “Similarly, The Orlando Eye by Merlin Entertainments will become an unmissable stop on visitors’ itineraries, delivering an elevated experience with unobstructed 360-degree views of the ICON Park area and beyond. We look forward to connecting guests to our wider portfolio of premium attractions and resort theme parks in and around Orlando as well, including our SEA LIFE aquarium, Madame Tussauds, LEGOLAND Florida Resort and Peppa Pig Theme Park.”

ICON Park’s President and CEO Chris Jaskiewicz said Merlin’s expansion plans fit well with its own growth strategy of continuing to sign quality restaurant, live entertainment and attraction tenants to its 20-acre destination in the center of the Orlando Entertainment District on International Drive. “We successfully built and developed it into a famous Orlando landmark, and now welcome The Orlando Eye by Merlin Entertainments as one of our outstanding ICON Park tenants. We’re proud that Merlin recognized the global appeal of this attraction, and of ICON Park as a destination, in selecting us as the site to expand their popular brands in Central Florida.”     

“Merlin’s newest attraction, The Orlando Eye by Merlin Entertainments, is located in the heart of Orlando where visitors will experience breathtaking 360-degree views of Central Florida, including nearby theme parks and attractions, downtown Orlando, and Kennedy Space Center on Florida’s east coast,” said General Manager of Madame Tussauds Orlando, Paul Gould. “We’ve brought together a wonderful mix of attractions within walking distance from each other to appeal to domestic and international tourists traveling to our city.”

Located in ICON Park, the 400-foot-tall Orlando Eye by Merlin Entertainments features 30 air-conditioned glass capsules. Each capsule has room for up to 15 guests to enjoy a serene 20-minute journey above the scenic landscape.

In 2023, 27% of guests who visited Merlin’s Orlando-based Madame Tussauds also visited Merlin’s SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium. Similarly to Merlin’s expanding cluster of Orlando-based attractions, the world-leader in branded entertainment destinations owns and operates several of London’s most iconic and popular entertainment attractions including the 443-foot-tall London Eye, SEA LIFE London Aquarium, Madame Tussauds London, The London Dungeon, and Shrek’s Adventure London. According to figures by VisitBritain and Merlin guest data, more than one quarter of tourists who come to London visit at least one of Merlin’s attractions.

Of the 16 U.S. states boasting Merlin attractions, Florida is now home to five attractions, and was the site of Merlin’s first Peppa Pig Theme Park, which opened in 2022. In 2023, Merlin announced the construction of America’s second Peppa Pig Theme Park, set to open in Dallas-Fort Worth in summer 2024; which is one of two Peppa Pig attractions currently under construction globally. Merlin’s three U.S.-based LEGOLAND Resorts in Florida, California, and New York are some of the most popular and most visited of Merlin’s 10 LEGOLAND theme parks open globally.

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