Amusement Parks and Attractions in U.S. and Canada to Open in 2017
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As amusement parks and attractions open for the 2017 season, the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) releases its annual compilation of what is new at parks and attractions in the United States and Canada.
The 2017 list includes more than 170 fresh experiences at 75 amusement parks and attractions, including new parks and land areas, rides, roller coasters, slides, games, and more.
Trends highlighted in the 2017 line up include the additions of water parks and water-based attractions, family-friendly attractions, vintage/classic rides, and the continued merging of technology and attractions.
Several parks provide an escape from the heat this summer through new water-based attractions. More than 30 water slides and more than 35 new water-based attractions make a splash including nine brand new water parks or expanded water sections open with outdoor or indoor options.
More than 40 family-friendly attractions open including gondola rides, spinning rides, roller coasters, interactive exhibits, family entertainment centers, and more suitable for all ages. These multi-generational attractions allow families to experience the fun together.
Technology continues to enhance attractions providing immersive, interactive, virtual reality (VR), and 3-and 4-D experiences. VR-enhanced roller coasters transform the ride experience as passenger headsets fully immerse guests with 360-degree content synced to the ride’s motion. The advent of water jet propulsion technology creates a rocket blast water coaster, while touch-screens, wearable, and waterproof technology save guests time and money. Environments and attractions completely immerse guests into various stories with intricate theming, sophisticated animatronics, hand-gesture technology, motion seating, 3-D glasses, high-tech sound, and other 4-D effects.
More than 20 nostalgic guest experiences roll back time and allow guests to experience vintage attractions and classic park rides that entertain all ages.
According to the IAAPA Global Theme and Amusement Park Outlook 2016-2020 report, parks in the United States and Canada are expected to entertain 412 million people and generate $23 billion in 2017.
A list of new attractions is available at www.IAAPA.org/WhatsNewUSandCanada.
