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Part 9 The Day Is Yours, So Enjoy It: Tusenfryd The original entrance sign at Tusenfryd used to day “dagen er din,” which means “the day is yours” in English (or so says Google Translate). I remember hearing someone translate this as “enjoy your day” back in 2006 when I first visited the park with TPR, but I might be misremembering what was said. Whatever it means, Tusenfryd is still a very good park in the beautiful Norwegian mountains. It looks like a ski resort with coasters and other rides. This is my third visit to Tusenfryd, the last being in 2009, and the park has changed since then. Gone is the old “Viking ship simulator,” but the excellent Speed Monster and the cute-as-a-button Teeny Weeny remain. They’ve done some nice work upgrading some sections of the park, too, such as the spruced-up Route 66 and the new Dragonville. Speaking of Dragonville, this is the home of the park’s newest coaster--a Gerstlauer launched suspended ride called Storm. If you like intensity, you’ll like Storm. It also has some rather violent airtime, particularly during the first half. On the “transitional” hill, the airtime was so crazy that it felt like someone was driving spikes into my thighs. The second half of the ride isn’t as intense (and it’s more fun), but my legs were pretty sore that day and the next morning. Then again, I was also the oldest person on the trip. I’ve come to appreciate more “floaty” airtime. Even thought I’ve liked this ride during past visits, the park’s woodie, Thunder Coaster, has not aged particularly well. It now sports Timberliner trains, but I think it could use some re-tracking. It’s very bumpy. But Speed Monster is still excellent. This Intamin launched coaster is smooth as glass and has a great, twisted layout with plenty of airtime. ERT on this coaster was great--I could ride it all day. Oh, and the old Arrow loopscrew, appropriately named Loopen, still exists. My memory of it was evil, so I didn’t ride it this time. Others in the group didn’t think it was all that bad. But you know how coaster enthusiasts love to kid people. We spent the previous night in Oslo, so let’s start the photos there. Sheesh! Thor is sure careless with that hammer. He left it lying around Djurs Sommerland, too. No wonder Odin gets impatient with him. Here we have two naked people on top of what appears to be a giant dildo. You’re welcome. Oh hi, Ligeia! My, how you’ve grown while I’ve been away. TROLL! A beautiful Norwegian sunset. “Nice city you got here. Shame if someone were to poop all over it.” Time for the day to be ours at Tusenfryd. We started the day, which was ours, here. Mike, you’re gonna hurt yourself! Save your strength for Storm. Storm starts with a forward launch, a rollback into a backward launch, then a drop into a stronger forward launch. This seems to be the latest fashion in coasters. I prefer the second half of this ride after you fly by the station. This is the painful transitional airtime hill. But the little dragon head on the front of the train is cute. Look! An Old West-style town! I know you’re all very surprised to see this. (“Will Kane” was the name of Gary Cooper’s character in “High Noon.” I guess the “Morgan” part comes from “Morgan Earp.”) Marshal, I think they’re doing more than just laundry at Kitty’s House if you get my drift. Morgan Kane City is the home of the buck naked version of Big Thunder. Norwegian tacos, anyone? Thunder Coaster is growing older and crankier. Well, don’t we all? Nice setting, though. “Oh, great. We’re on Teeny Weeny. People are taking pictures and shooting video. Life is good.” Livin’ the dream, baby! Based on what I’ve seen at Tusenfryd, . . . . . . Vikings like to get really wet. (I think this is either an AJ or Andy photo.) Thor’s Hammer is a good 3D dark ride--sort of Norway’s answer to Curse of DarKastle. Few are honorable enough to carry the Hammer of Thor. My . . . that’s a big one. Matt has found his soulmate. I guess he’s into really big Viking guys in armor. Who knew? A jungle-themed ride in Norway? Eh--why not? Here’s where you can “get your kicks” . . . oh, gawd, that song’s as old as me. Why Loopen--what a great big new sign you have. Why, this new sign and the fresh paint will make all the difference for this old Vekoma loopscrew. Godspeed, my friends. I salute you . . . from a safe distance. They said it wasn’t that bad . . . or was that the concussion talking? This whole section of the park looks much nicer than it used to. Route 66 is a fitting home for the park’s best ride. There are two ways to ride Speed Monster. Like the little boy . . . . . . or like the little girl. Whatever you decide, this is a great launched coaster. It don’t need no stinkin’ backward launch. I spy with my little eye two familiar faces in the front row. “Whee” is the appropriate response here. Any ERT spent on Speed Monster is well spent, indeed. I see nothing to dislike here. AJ wishes he were on this train. Now there’s a good way to end a ride--well done, Intamin! My thanks to whomever took this photo. Long may Speed Monster run!

you are very welcome. . . I love this park, and always happy to share. and as for those online (and yes, there ARE several) who are loudly and vocally complaining it was a lot of hype for 3 "kiddie" rides? I say to them: 1- they aren't "kiddie" rides. . most of the rides in thrillseeker park were for older kids - they removed one of the two truly kiddie rides (Bucking Broncos) over to Iron Rattler. Leaving only one true kiddie ride (the speedway electric cars) over there. The rest of the rides? Adults and older teens always ride anyways and were welcome to. Kid Flash, and the 3 new rides, are FAMILY rides, not kiddie rides. 2 - if expecting a new coaster announcement? that's on them - the park got a giant Dive Coaster in 2022, and in 2023 is getting the family Kid Flash. 2025 is the 30th anniversary of the Boardwalk.. . . so at NEXT YEAR's FT92, I expect an announcement of a new coaster - by the boardwalk area. & 3 -

Told by higher up at the park that it is slated to go in Dragon's Wing's old spot. Don't think it would fit in Xcalibur's old footprint, and it will probably help the GP to differentiate between the two. I don't think the park plans to remove the current Joker, so I guess we'll have Joker, Inc. and Joker: Carnival of Chaos, unless they spend the money to retheme the swinging ship.

Disney has announced that Disneyland will be giving The Haunted Mansion an outdoor plaza expansion and new retail location! https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2023/08/new-haunted-mansion-grounds-expansion-retail-shop-coming-to-disneyland-resort-in-2024/ The stately grounds of the Haunted Mansion will expand with a spirited metamorphosis at Disneyland Resort next year. In 2024, the additions will build on the story and lore of the Haunted Mansion and include an expanded outdoor queue to immerse guests in enhanced theming, as well as a new retail shop adjacent to the attraction’s exit. Local legend suggests the manor known today as the Haunted Mansion was first built by a prosperous sea captain. To this day, the mansion’s staff faithfully maintains the happy haunting grounds. The expanded queue will tie into these stories and more, including new gardens inspired by Master Gracey, Madame Leota and the one-eyed cat. Each of the gardens will feature unique elements ranging from a water fountain and gazebo to themed statuary and landscaping. In fact, guests will be able to see a new greenhouse where the groundskeepers for the Haunted Mansion grow their plants. The pet cemetery and horse-drawn funeral hearse will continue to reside on the attraction’s grounds. And speaking of Madame Leota, we felt it was time to continue her presence beyond the walls of the Haunted Mansion with an all-new retail shop. This carriage house of the mansion, belonging to Leota, will be a standalone shop that we are just “dying” to tell you more about in the future. We also will make enhancements to the plaza adjacent to Tiana’s Palace. This area is one that holds a lot of memories and history, and a new, elegant park-like setting will be a place to relax and enjoy the ambiance and live entertainment under the shade of new and historic trees. Construction on these additions will begin in January 2024. We will take the opportunity to help improve the accessibility of these areas which includes a new elevator exit from the Haunted Mansion for guests with disabilities.

The orientation in my pic would swing out 50ft closer to the lagoon. I only put the support structure footprint on there.

Great Escape has announced Bobcat, a brand-new wooden coaster for 2024! https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230830146448/en/The-All-New-Bobcat-Coaster-Pounces-into-Six-Flags-Great-Escape-in-2024 Six Flags Great Escape, the thrill capital of upstate New York, proudly announces a brand-new roller coaster for 2024, The Bobcat. This exciting addition marks the first new wooden coaster introduced to New York state since 1999 and is the first new coaster to be constructed at Six Flags Great Escape since 2003. Replacing the Alpine Bobsled which retires September 4, 2023, the family coaster features an adventurous mix of speed, airtime, twists and turns. “We knew we had to find a perfect fit to replace the Alpine Bobsled in the hearts of our guests,” said Resort President Rebecca Wood. “This beautiful, all-natural wooden family coaster will deliver a smooth, fast and heart-pounding experience. It is sure to be an instant classic.” Fast facts about The Bobcat: Speeds up to nearly 40 mph; Height: 55.4 feet; Length: 1412 feet; 2 trains, 12 passengers per train; Height requirement: 42” with person of responsibility, 48” to ride alone; Beautiful, natural design to compliment park surroundings; Revolutionary coaster trains provide smooth rider experience. Pending Town of Queensbury approval, The Bobcat will begin its prowl in the spring of 2024, just in time for the park’s 70th anniversary celebration. A perfect complement to the fabled Comet, The Bobcat will provide the unique feel of a quintessential wooden coaster, introducing thrill-seekers to quick turns, spunky drops and heart-pumping excitement aboard a custom, state-of-the-art, themed train.

It's very bizarre how the park is handling it. Not pulling it down OR acknowledging it is so weird. Thanks for the answer on the SFOT and they did. I'd guess this will replace Joker Inc. and Axis Chemicals will get a redressing or something. I'm hoping that when the announcement comes, you'll be able to see the location from the rendering.

Thank you for the answer. Worst part of that is a Troika is just plain a better ride than the Turbillions. In other news there's no news. The park has not sent out ANY social media posts about this new ride and there's no news release either.

I have to ask, and have probably asked this before ..... how many pizzas do you create and bake, every week? On average? Just curious of me. And of course, I have to add ..... "nom nom nom nom" to all of the above.

The app has a slightly different description. It mentions a themed queue. Edit: Wonder where it is going? If they put it where the current Joker is the Axis Arcade could contain a funhouse queue - no need for a new building. And the 75ft width just happens to fit between the building and Batman's high turnaround.

THANK YOU for the report! I look forward to seeing much of this next year! This park never ceases to amaze me!

for those of you who haven't heard the news yet today out of SFFT (from the FT92 fan event). . . here are the highlights from the "ride" announcements. . tho they also announced the festivals (the International food festival last month - that was SO good, is coming back, and several new shows announced as well). - Kid Flash will be opening in October. Yes, the two tracks will have different names, but they haven't yet decided on them (my question to Jeffrey after event ended) - Wonder Woman phase 1 refurb is almost done, and will be reopening shortly, but with same trains (refurb work has been done on them). Phase 2 will take place in 2024, and will replace all 3 trains with the newer train design -better comfort collar and no seatbelt. -- the new slides in the waterpark, are behind schedule, tho parts are on site, and the opening has officially moved to 2024 -- Skyscreamer is getting a retheme - to Supergirl. - Thrill Seeker Park is no more! Besides the confirmed removal of the Pirate Playscape, and the Looney Tunes Theater (and the moving of Bucking Broncos over to by Iron Rattler). . the whole area will now be part of the DCUniverse! all rides getting rethemed: Rambling Road - will become Penguin themed Sky Searchers - will become Poison Ivy themed Streamliner Coaster - will become Batgirl themed Stunt Pilots - will become Green Lantern Themed PLUS there will be 3 new rides added: a Zamperla Nebulaz - Cyborg themed a 70foot "bounce" tower, with rotating seats - Shazam themed & a Monorail!!! Themed to Superman/Metropolis, that will start in the corner back where the theater was, and will travel overhead out to Batman, and then back around the DCU area. 4 car trains, with 4 passengers per car. . an almost 5 minute ride. I was there here are some pics! it's not quite September yet. . but some of the Fright Fest decorations are already out! let's take a peek at Kid Flash! Track complete, all LED lights affixed, and they are working on the station. As noted above, Jeffrey announced it's opening in October, and we should keep an eye on emails for passholder previews, and sneak peek party information it looks BEAUTIFUL lookie at allll those electrical boxes to control the light package. this is gonna look stunning at night. they have restored a classic figure to the carousel! the bacwards seated clown is now back on the carousel after years and years of being gone! this was the first weekend of Octoberfest, and Spassburg area is all decked out - including this massive Animatronic that turns his head and heaves giant mugs of beer. gotta stop in and say hi to Sweet, sweet, Connie. and costumed cast members out to celebrate Octoberfest - asked for a pic, and they were happy to Oblige. (yes, I'm sweating. .it was 106 today!) ahhh. . into the cool (A/C) Zaragoza theater for FT92, the fan event that everyone is invited to. we got a peek at the entrance to Kid Flash (too slow to catch it, sorry), and the loading station: (and yeah, that really tall guy, stood up on his seat even tho he was in the front row. . so his head is in all my pictures. . sorry. . . don't have energy to crop, so enjoy his head in every pic). the Kid Flash cars for each train. . 2 seats across in each row. some of the signage that will be in the queue. for your train junkies. . here are some pics of the updated Wonder Woman trains. . coming in 2024. we got some updates on Boo Fest (the not so scary fright fest) as well as Frightfest (a new house, a new show, a new scare zone (the WHOLE boardwalk will be an evil carnival scare zone)) and a performance from the cast of Zombie Prom Jeffrey announced a new event coming up in ~6 weeks. . and man does this sound cool and yes, they will be doing fireworks at noon. . during the full eclipse! and it's a Saturday! ok. .here are looks at the ride announcements. bye bye "Thrillseeker Park" - hello part of DC Universe! been saying for MONTHS they were gonna retheme Skyscreamer. . as it made no sense to have a Non-DC ride between Superman & Kid Flash coasters. Really pleased they went with Supergirl! and the 3 new rides: the locations of where the rides will be in relation to the area. so basically back along side Bugs Bunny Rapids flume area. where this structure currently sits. Along that fence (and up some stairs) will be the Metroliner station. as announced, SFFT will now have the largest collection of DC Universe themed rides of any park in North America! Park President Jeffrey Siebert and I after the presentation.

I like that, though. I feel like it contributes to the line never being more than a couple train wait every time I go.

Getting caught up, I laugh every time I think about our people trying to go back later in the day to get a 'normal' ride on Tornado only for the ops to put it back to insane mode special for them! Also, all those unsuspecting GP!!! lol!!!

Not to sound like a broken record, but.... this is highway robbery. Tendies and fries for almost nineteen dollars when you add sales tax.