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Day 9 (evening) arrival in Blackpool, and checking into the Big Blue hotel, and checking out the pleasure piers! although I don't recall how long the drive was from Gulliver's World to Blackpool, I do know we departed Gulliver's around 5:30, and I think we got to Blackpool a few hours later? it was too late for the park to be open (the UK parks all seemed to close pretty early), but there was still plenty of sunlight as we got towards the area. I know for sure that my excitement skyrocketed when I spotted the famous "Blackpool Tower" off in the distance: and this giant Blackpool Sculpture - that I'm sure if in the perfect spot, can line up the tower with it. before too long, we pulled up to our Hotel for the next 3 days. Actually on site, and overlooking the park (the arrangements here were incredible - HUGE thank you to both Robb & Elissa for this planning as well as the fantastic staff at the hotel !). we were going to staying at "Big Blue" very quickly we got our room keys and headed off to our rooms - tho a bunch of us had planned to meet back down in the lobby in about 40 minutes to go walk along the sea-shore to check out the pleasure piers, and what kind of dinner we might be able to find in Blackpool. my room was pretty amazing, and I remembered to actually take pics of it upon arrival. looking back from the end of the main entrance hall towards the door. that blue area on the right? a separate kids area! with bunk beds and even video games to keep the kiddos occupied now facing towards the room. . on the left is the bathroom and straight ahead is the large bedroom area I'm just too uncoordinated to use these 1/2 shower designs. . I always end up spraying water all over the bathroom! but otherwise, a beautiful bathroom. and a large room how was the view? as I mentioned above. . HOLY CRAP !!! and overlooking my holy grail too, Steeplechase. I simply cannot express enough thanks to Elissa and the universe that I ended up in this room. in this view there are pieces of EIGHT coasters (10 if you count each of Steeplechase's tracks): Infusion Big One Big Dipper Icon Avalanche Steeplechase Revolution & Nickelodeon Streak looking to the right to see more of the hotel. . tho we're in the "middle" section, which has best views of the park. it was overcast and quite windy - no impact today, as the park was closed for the day already. but it worried me a little bit for the next few days. what a view. . .if I hadn't had to go to the lobby to meet up, I would have stood here for a long, long time. meeting up, about 7 of us headed out to walk around the outskirts of the park, and along the seawall, to check out the 3 Blackpool Pleasure Piers. (it ended up being way, way further than it looked, LOL. .and I did end up taking a taxi back later after dinner instead of walking back) the park is on our right, but all along the "ground level" of the parks, are related tourist attractions and things that were quite interesting - even if none of them were open one of the park entrances from the Seawall side. Hot Ice was the show that was opening on our 1st day in the park, and we'd been invited to go watch it after park close. it was. . . . interesting. more about that tomorrow. peeking past the closed gates, that's the main park entrance, and the down for refurb drop tower right at the park front. looking across at the SeaWall was the Blackpool indoor waterpark. we crossed the street over to the seawall side, but looking back across at the Blackpool Pleasure Beach, main entrance. never did see that Casino they are advertising open but we did have dinner in the tower restaurant noted there on the 2nd night. a peek at the park map for the indoor water park. it looked like a pretty decent one, but since I was there for the theme park, I didn't even consider taking any time from the park days to go to the water park. next to the waterpark, however, was another casino. . and this one was open (and ended up in there a couple of times, to play some slots or grab a late night snack). it's nothing at all like a USA Casino - I don't think it was 24 hours - but the food was decent and served late. and the handful of slots and table games were acceptable. . tho more along the lines of what you'd see at a small off strip casino in vegas, with just a handful of options. I believe this was an "adult entertainment" bar, but loved the name "the Velvet Coaster" pics of businesses across from the seawall side of Blackpool coming up to the South Pier, you can see the Blackpool Tower off in the distance. not a whole lot open on the pier, as I think it was just too windy (and a bit too early, as this seemed really targeted towards teenagers and young adults who wanted to party) the tide was pretty far out at this point too.. that's the back of the waterpark, and behind it (and across the street) is the lift and 1st drop for the Big one. further out on the long pier and you can get a great view of the Big One. later, ALL that sand would be under water as the tide comes in some really classic carnival rides were on the pier. . tho as noted, not many things were open just yet. I think they were waiting for it to get a bit darker so the lights would really advertise the rides. tho some things were open, and had people riding them - despite the cold wind. the main draw to the South Pier is this Spinning Wild Mouse, all the way at the end of the pier over the water. too windy and was told it wouldn't operate tonight - tho it did run the next day and a bunch of TPR folks made the trek across to get the credit. this freaked me out a bit, but I did it.. . the wild mouse is placed on grating at the end of the pier. so, yeah.. you can walk out over the open sea beneath you. . . I did it - it goes all the way around the mouse and comes out on the other side from the end of the pier a look towards the Central pier, that was further North, going towards the Blackpool Tower. the Central Pier has a Ferris wheel on it, that WAS operating, despite the wind. but it was way too shaky for me to attempt - tho really, I would have gone on it if anyone else had wanted to. photo op with the two Nicks ? yes please! back onto the seawall, and moving towards Central Pier hmm. . .doesn't really look "fun". . looks perhaps a bit sad? but nearer the Tower, and by the Central Pier, it certainly got more festive, with way more "touristy" stuff. . such as Ripley's, and Madame Trussaud's, etc. . the entrance to the Central Pier not sure if there was a festival coming, or they had just put up some more art installations, but this was rather cool. stepping onto the Central Pier. .this one had a bit more traffic. just look at those waves tho.. yeah, it was windy! looking back towards Blackpool Pleasure Beach. . even I was surprised how far we had walked. the rides were reasonably priced here. . tho they were much more family friendly rides than the more extreme ones that had been on the South Pier. as said, these Ferris Wheel cars were really swinging in the breeze. . it just didn't seem safe enough ooo. . a "Grease" related diner? (but the actual food looked . . um.. . not great - so didn't eat there). Loved the advertising for it tho. that's the North Pier over there. . . but by now my feet were starting to hurt (it had been a long day), so I decided I didn't really NEED to go down to that pier. but "KandyLand" across the street? yeah. .that I could manage. yes, I bought a bunch of stuff at KandyLand. and it still amuses me greatly that the "Fudge for a Fat Bastard" was being sold right next to "a Present for my Beautiful Grandma". . .Bwaa-haa-haaaaa oh my. . I was Sooooooooooo tempted! LOL. . but I behaved. we wandered towards what seemed to be a tourist center near the tower base, that also had St Johns Church - a beautiful church dating back to 1821 (and I believe it was Nick who enjoys photographing churches and pointed it out to us). "THE Chinese Buffet" wasn't gonna be a choice for dinner, as it looked like it hadn't been open in a while. . but someone had discovered there was a Nando's nearby where the church was, and we agreed that would be a good place to head. turned out they were packed, but we went ahead and made a reservation for 45 minutes later (and said hi to the group of other TPR folks that were already there eating) and went to check out the church / area until they had a table ready for us. most everything over here was closed already, as it was kinda late. some great graffiti here. (tho I wasn't about to go down an alley to get a better pic) the Church really is beautiful. .and the way the sun was lighting it up really made it worth the visit. eventually we went back to Nandos and had a great meal. Some were gonna head back along the seawall, but I was so wiped, I opted for a cab, and Nick rode with me. so we made it back to the hotel relatively quickly. a hot shower, and laying out clothes for my first big day in the park tomorrow, and I was ready for bed. but not before spending some time looking out at my view again in the evening shadows as I was finally about to turn off the lights, Andy (I think) sent back these shots he had taken from the walk back along the seawall during sunset. these are spectacular shots. . so I saved them to my phone and am sharing here too: look how much the tide has come in! it's actually lapping those steps now! very very windy. and because Big One is in the background? this must be a shot taken of the Central Pier from the North Pier (the one I didn't go to) yeah. . look how rough that sea is. . and how high the water has gotten! and with that? I was off to bed. . and said a little prayer that it wasn't too windy tomorrow to impact our day. I will try to get up 1st day at Blackpool Pleasure Beach within the next 36 hours!2 points
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Kings Dominion has shared a new look at the work under way to convert Project 305 (formerly Intimidator 305) into Pantherian with new paint, decor and more. https://www.kingsdominion.com/blog/2025/welcoming-pantherian-to-the-jungle "For decades, a group of archaeologists known as the Whey Foundation has explored the thickets of an uncharted rainforest called Jungle X-Pedition. Here, they have uncovered a collection of unique structures and ruins that each possess a distinct mystical power. Their recent discovery connects to the prominent cat symbol found on a stone disc in the area. This is the Pantherian Shrine, a stone plinth-lined section of the jungle featuring feline carvings and a large complex of twisted forged metal. Attached to the steel pathway is a contraption whose body and markings reflect that of the panther the compound honors. What follows is an exhilarating journey through a series of twists and turns that can only be described as what it must feel like to be a large jungle predator." Two coats are being applied to the spine and rails of the track In case you haven’t heard, our world-class giga coaster is evolving from Project 305 into Pantherian, sporting a fresh new look with orange track and black supports. More than 5,000+ feet of track are being primed and painted by our friends at Baynum Solutions. When guests enter the plaza, they’ll step through a feline-like temple honoring the jungle cat. The temple entryway prepped for more work Surrounding the plaza will be shrines dedicated to the jungle cat, almost as if they guard the ancient device towering before them. An ancient language is scribed on them, coding messages that can be deciphered. The pathways are now guided with wooden rails and posts, and the queue and station have been given fresh jungle-like colors. Wood surrounds the plaza, guiding adventurers Stone carvings and shrines are cut, awaiting assembly The two passenger trains will flesh out all-new sleek decals resembling a black panther on the prowl. Artwork depict the decals for the passenger trains (final design may differ) The exit store for Pantherian will be integrated into its research center where guests can store their belongings in a locker. On-ride photos will be available to commemorate your encounter featuring new FunPix frames. Pantherian Photo research center is prepped for finishing touches We expect the project to be fully completed this summer. Stay tuned to our social media channels for updates when this panther is ready to prowl!1 point
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Europa Park has announced that the next new themed area to join the part's line-up will be Monaco. Guests can start to get a sneak peak at this new land (while also looking back at the park's history) in a new preview centre in the Silver Star Hall. Future experiences planned for the Monaco section of the park include highlighting the atmosphere of International Circus Festival of Monte Carlo, as well as the Principality's architecture, marinas, landscapes, its famous casino and more! https://presse.europapark.com/en/presse/nachricht/datum/2025/03/13/monaco-wird-18-europaeischer-themenbereich-im-europa-park-preview-center-bereits-2025-der-legende/ In 2026, Monaco will become the 18th themed area at Europa-Park. The preview centre in the Silver Star Hall will already give exciting insights into the legendary Grand Prix from 2025 In 2026, the Principality of Monaco will become the 18th themed area at Europa-Park, joining countries such as France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Switzerland as well as England Ireland. From March 2025, a preview centre will be set up in the Silver Star Hall to give visitors an exclusive taste of this unique world. Inspired by the legendary atmosphere of the Monaco Grand Prix, this new themed area will showcase the many facets that make the Principality world famous: Its emblematic buildings, its famous casino, its marinas, the Mediterranean landscapes, culture, gastronomy, and its picturesque streets. Monaco, the 'Jewel of the French Riviera', is a world-famous destination that perfectly combines history and modernity. An exceptional destination, it attracts lovers of fine dining, wellness and culture. Monaco is a world-famous brand, a symbol of excellence and prestige that characterises this new themed area. H.S.H. Prince Albert II, a great admirer of Europa-Park: "For 50 years, Europa-Park has enchanted millions of families, and I too have had the pleasure of visiting it several times with my children. I am delighted about the new partnership between the Principality and this famous theme park, which will allow the creation of a Monegasque themed area in 2026. Monaco will thus become the 18th country to be represented there, enabling millions of visitors to learn more about our Principality and hopefully come here too". In the future, Europa-Park guests will be able to experience the fascination of the prestigious Monaco Formula 1 Grand Prix - but also the luxury sights of the casino, the marinas and much more. Europa-Park owner Roland Mack: "Monaco is one of the most fascinating countries in Europe. We will offer our visitors many attractive attractions related to the Principality. As early as 2025, the park will be full of Monaco flair. I am delighted with this extremely friendly and valuable cooperation with the Principality and Prince Albert". The Prince and Sovereign is particularly committed to protecting the environment, especially the oceans and marine biodiversity. This commitment will also be reflected in the new Monegasque themed area. From 2025, the Principality will be presented at Europa-Park with a series of exclusive events. An extraordinary exhibition of vehicles from the 'Collection des Voitures de S.A.S. le Prince de Monaco' will offer visitors a unique insight into Monaco's automotive heritage. Another highlight: The magical atmosphere of the International Circus Festival of Monte Carlo comes to Europa-Park. This prestigious festival, chaired by Princess Stephanie, takes place every year in January in the Principality and brings together the greatest artists of the circus world to compete for the coveted 'Golden Clown' award. In 2025, Roland Mack was awarded the honorary title of 'Ambassador of Circus 2025'. To celebrate this art form, several new shows will be created in cooperation with Europa-Park and the artists of the Cirque de Monte-Carlo, which will immerse visitors in the fascinating world of the circus. Thanks to this unique combination of tradition, innovation and excellence, Europa-Park and its Monegasque partners promise a unique and innovative addition to the park. Between the passion of motor sports, the magic of the circus and the timeless elegance of Monaco, this partnership celebrates the art of entertainment and excellence the Principality of Monaco is famous for. https://www.europapark.de/en/theme-park/attractions/50-year-exhibition-monaco-preview-center 50 Year Exhibition & Monaco Preview Center Embark on an exciting journey through five decades of park history and, at our Preview Center at the end of the exhibition, get an exclusive first glimpse of the future of the new Monaco themed area.1 point
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This is an exciting announcement. I've been to Legoland Florida a couple of times when my kids were younger. We had a lot of fun but also I don't really feel the need to go back now that my kids are a little older. My biggest gripe about the Legoland Florida was that I wish it had just a couple more bigger "family" style rides instead of everything being so focused on smaller kids. The Legoland parks over seas have the Polar Xplorer coaster and that new B&M wing coasters, I feel like rides like that would make a huge difference at the Florida park so hopefully this indoor coaster is something like that.1 point
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Take these personal posts someplace else. We don't need to hear that talk.1 point
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The new look for the freeway sign for Six Flags Magic Mountain is done. The panels are done being painted. The "Hurricane Harbor" name is now on the top drum, the lower drum now has a detailed gold motif. It also lit up recently. That ends its six month work of repainting and installation. I found this off of the park's social media they post it recently.1 point
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^^^ Because it costs money. They should just turn it into a Standup.1 point
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I just drove 10 hours to get here so I'm glad they waited till today to announce that Pantherian isn't opening till summer.0 points
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Six Flags Magic Mountain has confirmed that Superman: Escape from Krypton has permanently closed. Lex Luthor: Drop of Doom will continue operating for the time being, but the coaster will remain standing not operating. (Photos and video from Theme Park Review) https://www.ocregister.com/2025/03/28/six-flags-magic-mountain-permanently-closes-superman-coaster/ The Superman roller coaster that was once the tallest and fastest in the world has been exposed to a lethal dose of kryptonite and will never fly again at Six Flags Magic Mountain. Six Flags Magic Mountain has permanently closed the Superman: Escape from Krypton shuttle coaster, according to Magic Mountain President Jeff Harris. “Just like other roller coasters within the theme park industry, there’s a life cycle with these coasters,” Harris said in a video conference call. “It’s just reached a point in time where we need to make a wise decision on where we really should reinvest funds that improve the guest experience the most. It just doesn’t make a lot of sense from a business perspective to put it back into Superman.” The Lex Luther: Drop of Doom attached to the coaster tower will remain in operation after Superman: Escape from Krypton closes. The drop tower ride will reopen in April following a seasonal refurbishment. Magic Mountain crews had hoped to fix Superman: Escape from Krypton when the coaster closed for maintenance in September, but the necessary parts weren’t readily available and the most prudent option was to permanently close the ride, according to Harris. “Some of the parts are obsolete,” Harris said. “It’s really tough to even get parts to keep it alive.” Now Magic Mountain is trying to figure out what to do next with the record-setting coaster. “It’s too early to disclose what we’re going to do with the actual track, cars, queue, building structure and everything else that comes with the attraction,” Harris said. “That’s yet to be determined, but we’re working through what that potentially could look like for the future.” Superman: Escape from Krypton is not closing to make room for the new first-of-its-kind coaster coming to Magic Mountain in 2026, according to Harris. The loss of Superman: Escape from Krypton will drop Magic Mountain’s coaster count to 19 — still more than any other amusement park in the world. The new 2026 coaster will bring the park’s coaster count back to 20. “We are still the Thrill Capital of the World for guests of all ages,” Harris said. “We’re still the reigning park when it comes to the quantity and variety of roller coasters.” The $20 million Intamin Reverse Freefall Coaster debuted in 1997 at Magic Mountain as Superman: The Escape, according to Roller Coaster Database. The shuttle coaster featured a pair of side-by-side 1,235-foot-long L-shaped tracks that each curved toward the sky. The electro-magnetic propulsion launch system shot riders from zero to 100 mph in 7 seconds. Riders experienced 6.5 seconds of weightlessness on the vertical section of track before dropping backward toward the launch station. In 2011, the coaster was rechristened Superman: Escape from Krypton when the ride vehicles were flipped around so riders were launched backwards and looked toward ground as they plummeted back toward Earth, according to RCDB. It’s been a tough few years for the world’s tallest roller coasters. Ohio’s Cedar Point closed the 420-foot-tall Top Thrill Dragster for the entire 2022 and 2023 seasons after a metal piece flew off the ride and seriously injured a woman waiting in the attraction queue in 2021. The rechristened Top Thrill 2 replaced the Intamin hydraulic launch system with a Zamperla electro-magnetic propulsion launch system in 2024 — but the ride only operated for about a week before the park closed the coaster again due to mechanical issues. New Jersey’s Six Flags Great Adventure demolished the 456-foot-tall Kingda Ka and Zumanjaro: Drop of Doom in February — marking the final demise of the world’s tallest roller coaster and world’s tallest drop tower, respectively. Now Superman: Escape from Krypton has been relegated to the history books. The 415-foot-tall Magic Mountain ride debuted in 1997 as the world’s tallest coaster and held the title for five years until Top Thrill Dragster opened in 2003 at Cedar Point. Superman: Escape from Krypton took the coaster height title from Dreamworld’s 377-foot-tall Tower of Terror II in Australia. The 100 mph shuttle coasters shared the speed record until the 107 mph Do-Dodonpa debuted in 2001 at Japan’s Fuji-Q Highland. The Tower of Terror II shuttle coaster track was removed in 2019 — leaving behind only the tower supporting the Giant Drop thrill ride. Superman will remain a presence at Magic Mountain on the Justice League: Battle for Metropolis dark ride, during the DC Heroes and Villains Fest this summer and in character meet-and-greet photo ops in the DC Universe themed land.0 points