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You might be better off using one of the local taxi services , such as Colonial Cab. Or, better yet, just rent a car.

Plus, they also have . . .

I think of it as a "sequel" to Curse of DarKastle, and I'm looking forward to what sort of effects they'll use in the show building. As for Battle for Eire, my guess is that it'll be "special event space" for a few years, at least. One of the returning HOS mazes, KILLarney Diner, is still in there.

^Marathon the log ride and mine train.

Busch Gardens Gives Us a Look at DarKoaster For years now, the building formerly known as DarKastle in Oktoberfest has politely housed some haunted houses and Santa's Workshop. But, at last, a ride is returning to the sinister home of Mad King Ludwig. In fact, the new ride, DarKoaster, looks like something that fits both Howl-o-Scream and Christmas Town: a crazy "snow mobile" ride in which you try to escape an evil blizzard! The ride has been a bit of an "open secret" for a while, but the park made a more formal announcement at a media event on Tuesday, September 6. After a brief presentation and video by Kevin Lembke, park president, they took us backstage to DarKastle to give us a look at the ride itself. But we had another visitor, too . . . Yes, Jack would like to remind us that while DarKoaster is a fine thing, indeed, don't forget that Howl-o-Scream starts on Friday, September 9! Here's the park's official press release for DarKoaster. Here's a look at the media day and DarKoaster. Welcome to the Abbeystone Theatre in Killarney. There will be no traditional Irish dancing today, but this makes up for it. I think the scary face in the storm might be old Ludwig. Park president Kevin Lembke tells us about DarKoaster. Remember--you have been warned! Here, we see coaster enthusiasts in their natural habitat. Be very quiet! We don't want to startle them. Suzy Cheely, vice president of design and engineering, was there to answer questions about the new ride. DarKoaster will feature projection-mapping effects and physical set pieces to tell its story. As I recall, we were standing in what used to be the maintenance bay for Curse of DarKastle. It was the entrance of the Distorted Dimensions HOS maze a few years ago, too. Lots of twisty track in here. It looks like they're repurposing some of the old ride's theming, too. You can see it a bit more clearly here. Here's a close up of one of the launch sections. A closer look at the twistiness of it all. Looks like it'll get pretty "stormy" in there. Gets pretty close to the ceiling there. One last look at the track. "COME BACK, YOU FOOLS! I was gonna make espresso." And that's a wrap from Busch Gardens--for now!

I like me a good, scary tiki mug--and some of that calimari.

I think "Jekyll and Hyde" would've been a better name than "The Ultimate." The first half was a pleasant ride across a meadow, while the second half was a blazing path through Hell with a crazed demon that tried to kill you!

The old man speaks the truth! I also agree about bad karma = Boomerang. Really bad karma = SLC. Hideously bad karma = Golden Horse knockoff SLC. I love this report--thanks for finally updating it.

New area looks like it should be nice but, yeah, I know what you mean.

The layout is very interesting, bordering on the bizarre--which is OK by me.

Who's ready for Howl-o-Scream? Here's what the park has planned for this year! Busch Gardens Howl-O-Scream®--Virginia’s Premier Halloween Event, Returns with a Twisted New Game and Three All-New Haunted Houses, Plus the Most Sinister Sale of the Season Busch Gardens Howl-O-Scream returns on select nights September 9 – October 31, 2022 Conquer the frights with the best deal of the season, buy a 2023 Fun Card and get now through Howl-O-Scream FREE Three NEW haunted houses and three new terror-tories Scares at every turn with a total of five haunted houses, five terror-tories™, four shows and two party zones Busch Gardens Howl-O-Scream returns with a twisted new game and an evil host, beginning on Friday, September 9, 2022. In this ghoulish game show, every guest is a contestant, led to their destiny by the master of scare-monies. Your fate awaits with five haunted houses, five terror-tories, four sinister shows, two party zones, and unsuspecting scares awaiting their victims at every turn. Beyond the haunts, guests can take horror to new heights with nighttime rides on eight world-class coasters, including the all-new Pantheon, the world’s fastest multi-launch coaster. Howl-O-Scream takes screams to the extreme with three NEW haunted houses and three NEW terror-tories, complete with seven menacing BOOze bars and bites to fuel the fear and tackle the night’s frights. Busch Gardens Howl-O-Scream will take place on select dates from September 9 - October 31, 2022. Looking for sinister savings? The best deal of the season is reincarnated for Howl-O-Scream 2022. For a limited-time, guests who purchase a 2023 Fun Card will get now through Howl-O-Scream FREE, plus unlimited visits January 27 through September 4, 2023. Guests will have nowhere to hide as iconic frights are combined with newly unleashed experiences. Fan-favorite houses Witch of the Woods and KILLarney Diner will return in 2022, as well as two signature terror-tories, Ripper Row and Meat Market. These staple scares are paired with the following hair-raising new additions: 2022 All-New Haunted Houses NEW! Inferno: When death is only the beginning, there’s no end to the scorching terror in sight. As the ground opens to the fiery torments of the dead, your only hope for escape is to journey further into this twisted domain. Descend deep into the pits of Lucifer’s lair to find your way out but beware--the underworld’s demonic horde is yearning for your soul. NEW! Death Water Bayou: The sounds of the carnival celebration grow faint as you are beckoned deeper into the bayou by an unseen force. The cursed hands rise out of the swamp, reaching in desperation for their next devilish devotee. Beware of the bayou or fall victim to the horrors cast by the swamp’s sinister citizens. NEW! Nevermore Chapter 2: A disturbing new chapter in the Nevermore saga has been unveiled, wreaking horror and havoc for the nobility and townsmen alike. The gothic nightmare reads on as tales of torment and terror take frightening form. Explore a world where literature comes to life and Poe’s poignant prose takes on an even darker reality. 2022 All-New Terror-Tories NEW! Dead A-Head: The bloodied bodies of the beheaded are lurking through the streets of France seeking revenge for their bludgeoned fate. Beware of your surroundings--one wrong move and it could be your head on the chopping block. NEW! Gorgon Gardens: Don’t look too closely--staring straight into the soul-less eyes of these serpent sisters leads to venomous consequences and a stone-cold eternity. There’s no escaping these sinister sirens once you’ve been added to their succulent garden of souls. NEW! Scary Tale Road: Once upon a time, these fairy tale fantasies lured you to sleep with picturesque places and harmonious heroes. Survival is slim as these childhood icons have been ripped from the pages and are now haunting your dreams. Plus, guests can experience daytime fun with thrilling coasters, fall theming, family-friendly shows, and more, all at the world’s most beautiful theme park. Parental discretion is advised after 6:00 PM, as Howl-O-Scream contains amplified scares that are not recommended for children. Best Deal of the Season – 2023 Fun Card with Howl-O-Scream FREE The best way to experience Howl-O-Scream 2022 is with a Busch Gardens Fun Card or Membership. For a limited-time, guests who purchase a 2023 Fun Card will get now through Howl-O-Scream FREE. Hurry, before prices go up August 28! 2023 Fun Card holders also get unlimited visits from January 27 through September 4, 2023, plus unlimited admission during Howl-O-Scream 2022. For unbeatable benefits and admission, guests can purchase a Membership to receive 12 months of visits with amazing park perks including free parking, up to six free guest tickets, savings on merchandise and more.

Tripsdrill is a park I need to visit again. It was a lot of fun back in 2008, but it looks even better now. As for the great "Europa v. Phantasialand" debate, I'm on Team Europa, although I like Phantasialand, too. If only they had kept Hollywood Tour--its cheesiness made it adorable.

OK, that's enough of that. Everybody go to their respective corners and relax.

Agreed. Universal Japan had a temporary Wizard of Oz-themed area years ago. I'm curious to see what Movie World really does with theirs.

For those of you who have been wondering what's been going on with the old candy shop in Germany . . . Sip in Secret at an ALL-NEW Theme Park Speakeasy, Opening this Month at Busch Gardens Williamsburg For a Limited-time, Guests Can Save 20 Percent on Reservations for this Exclusive Experience Something new is brewing at the all-new Bürgermeister’s Hideaway This immersive, one-of-a-kind experience debuts on July 20 Guests 21+ can enjoy handcrafted cocktail flights customized to each season For a limited-time, all reservations receive a 20 percent grand opening discount Save up to 55 percent on tickets, Fun Cards and Memberships during the Summer Sale A one-of-a-kind, immersive bar experience is debuting this summer at Busch Gardens Williamsburg with the addition of an all-new speakeasy. Bürgermeister’s Hideaway will open on July 20 and offers guests an opportunity to partake in a spirited experience with festive drink and fantastic ambiance. Behind a sweet façade visitors will explore an exclusive hideaway bar that houses mystery and marvel for all to enjoy. The tale of Bürgermeister’s Hideaway dates back to a centuries-old mystery bar that offers a different type of counter service with a drink that is contrary to its country. This hidden den, run by Busch Gardens’ iconic Bürgermeister, offers signature cocktail, mocktail, wine, and beer flights that will leave guests craving more. Beverage flights are chef curated and seasonally inspired, debuting with the vibrant flavors of summer. Guests who select the cocktail flight can sip on the perfect blend of sweet and spice with the refreshing Watermelon Jalapeno Margarita and the Banana Nutella Martini, a smooth and savory concoction with a hint of hazelnut. Prost to sweet surprises with this ALL-NEW adventure at Busch Gardens Williamsburg. Visitors must prebook their speakeasy visit here. Each reservation includes a timed entry to Bürgermeister’s Hideaway and one drink flight. For a limited-time, guests can save 20 percent on reservations purchased before July 22. Throughout the year, Members receive a discount on this all-new experience.

It's nice to hear that Walygator has turned Anaconda into an enjoyable ride. I haven't been there since 2008, when that coaster would've put any torture by the Spanish Inquisition to shame. Europa looks excellent, as usual. I appreciate the beautiful theming and the "balance" of the park (good mix of thrill and dark rides).

Maybe everybody went to Water Country, instead.

^I doubt that a "30% chance of isolated thunderstorms" is going to discourage anyone from going on a holiday weekend. I see Quick Queue in your future.

I visited this park when it first opened as Marriott's Great America back in the 1970s. We almost lost it when Marriott pulled out, but the City of Santa Clara ran it for a while, before Paramount and Cedar Fair came along.

It appears that Arizona is finally getting a new park. MATTEL AND EPIC ANNOUNCE ADDITIONAL BRAND EXPERIENCES FOR UPCOMING MATTEL ADVENTURE PARK EL SEGUNDO, Calif., – May 24, 2022 –Mattel, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAT) and EPIC Resort Destinations, LLC. announced today that Mattel Adventure Park in Glendale, Arizona will feature additional brand activations from Barbie, Masters of the Universe, and Mattel Games when it opens in 1Q 2023. These Mattel brands join the previously announced Hot Wheels roller coaster and go-karting experiences and Thomas & Friends indoor theme park. “Mattel Adventure Park will be even more engaging and entertaining at launch, with the addition of these iconic Mattel brand experiences,” said Julie Freeland, Senior Director, Global Location Based Entertainment, Mattel. “The expansion of this flagship attraction brings together the largest representation of Mattel’s beloved brands in a live space as never before.” The additional brand experiences planned for Mattel Adventure Park will be highlighted by the Barbie Beach House, designed to be a must-visit destination for Barbie fans of all ages. The Barbie Beach House features the Barbie flying theater, taking riders on a journey from deep underwater to outer space; the Dream Closet Experience, where Barbie, through state-of-the-art hologram technology, is brought to life to help curate the ultimate wardrobe; and the Barbie Rooftop where guests can enjoy a selection of signature pink beverages perfectly paired with sweet and savory snacks while enjoying panoramic views of the property. Mattel Adventure Park will also feature a nine-hole mini golf experience that translates the Mattel Games portfolio into an immersive environment. Families can putt-putt while battling Rock ‘Em Sock ‘Em Robots, or through a life-sized Pictionary game board with additional games featured throughout. The #1 card game property, UNO, will be represented as a larger-than-life climbing structure where guests can jump on oversized UNO cards and race to the top. Master of the Universe’s iconic Castle Grayskull has been transformed into a 4,500+ sq. ft. state-of-the-art laser tag arena where fans “have the power” to fight for Eternia. A Laser Tag experience will bring the world of Eternia to life and invites guests to join an epic battle to regain the power of the Universe. “We are extremely excited to add Barbie, Masters of the Universe and Mattel Games themed attractions and rides to an already outstanding offering in development at the first-ever Mattel Adventure Park. We have spared no expense to bring these iconic brands to life in ways that will delight visitors of all ages for years to come.” Said Mark Cornell, President, Epic Resort Destinations. About Mattel Mattel is a leading global toy company and owner of one of the strongest catalogs of children’s and family entertainment franchises in the world. We create innovative products and experiences that inspire, entertain, and develop children through play. We engage consumers through our portfolio of iconic brands, including Barbie®, Hot Wheels®, Fisher-Price®, American Girl®, Thomas & Friends®, UNO®, Masters of the Universe®, Monster High® and MEGA®, as well as other popular intellectual properties that we own or license in partnership with global entertainment companies. Our offerings include film and television content, gaming and digital experiences, music, and live events. We operate in 35 locations and our products are available in more than 150 countries in collaboration with the world’s leading retail and ecommerce companies. Since its founding in 1945, Mattel is proud to be a trusted partner in empowering children to explore the wonder of childhood and reach their full potential. Visit us online at mattel.com. About EPIC Resort Destinations EPIC is a resort destinations developer specializing in Intellectual Property driven resorts and location-based entertainment. We are guest obsessed and, on a mission, to create, develop, and operate world-class destinations and attractions that are extraordinary, safe, and fun places where epic memories are created and shared. Our unique blend of family-friendly fun is created by combining time proven “wind in your face” themed rides, globally iconic brands with multigenerational emotional resonance, and immersive theatrical experiences featuring original media content. Current developments under construction include Mattel Adventure Park, Barbie Beach House, and a flying immersive theater in Glendale, Arizona, with future destinations under consideration across North America. Visit us at matteladventurepark.com.

This is typical for the first year or two of a new coaster at Busch Gardens. Pantheon will probably become part of the "regular" Quick Queue lineup in time.

^Sound advice for a busy holiday weekend.

It opened with the park during my last few visits. I went there first thing at opening last Sunday and waited about 20 minutes for the back row. By the time I finished my ride, the wait was over 70 minutes.

Throw in Abbott and Costello, and you got a deal!

The only Pigeon Forge attraction I've done outside of Dollywood is that Jurassic boat ride. I thought it was hilarious, but the mannequins outside were scary. Great report, Adam.