A tough week
It's been a tough week for many theme park fans, but let's look ahead to what's next
The big news this week in the U.S. has been the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene, from Florida to Appalachia. While the storm closed theme parks, disrupted travel and destroyed some roadside attractions, the real story is more than 150 deaths, uncounted property damage and millions of people struggling now without power.
The biggest damage appears to be in Western North Carolina and Eastern Tennessee, where roads remain closed in many communities. These are areas that depend upon tourism, but now is not the time to visit. Nearby Dollywood remains open, but travel routes to the park and the popular Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge region from the east are closed.
It's a tough time for many of our friends in the eastern United States, and I know that all our readers share the hope that aid arrives swiftly to those in need and that appropriate rebuilding helps bring devastated communities back to life as soon as possible.
Now, on to the what's new on Theme Park Insider this week.
Reviews
San Diego's Howl-O-Scream does not justify its low price: On its face, Howl-O-Scream at SeaWorld San Diego seems like one of the great values offered by a Halloween theme park event in Southern California. Reality reveals something else.
Delusion gets lost in a fog with all-new 'Red Castle': As we pulled up to the Stimson House for Delusion’s Red Castle, we had high expectations. But a Halloween killer needs to take a knife to this script, cutting the narrative to the point where guests can understand it and the operations can flow better.
Spotlight - 10 top theme park rides outside the U.S.: If a theme park visit is the excuse you need to get that passport and book a trip to a new country, here are 10 top theme park attractions located outside the United States.
Deals
Visiting Disney - Walt Disney World or Disney Cruise Line? For most people, a Disney vacation means a visit to the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. But Disney's theme parks are not the only way to enjoy a Disney vacation.
Walt Disney World offers new deals on 2025 vacations: Walt Disney World now is offering several new discounts on hotel rooms as part of 2025 vacation packages. Here are the latest deals and how to get them.
Here's how to eat for free at Universal Orlando Resort: Does Universal Orlando have a free dining plan deal for hotel guests like Walt Disney World has offered? Not exactly - but Universal does have a dining deal that might be better for many families. It's definitely a lot more straight-forward.
'Kids Free October' deals are back in Southern California: Whether you live in Southern California or might think about visiting, these are some great opportunities to save money on family-friendly activities.
News
Fred Rogers characters find a new theme park home: Palace Entertainment amusement parks has announced a multi-year licensing agreement with Fred Rogers Productions, allowing six of its amusement parks to feature characters and experiences from Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood and other shows.
SeaWorld plans rescue-themed kiddie rides for San Antonio park: Rescue Jr. will open next spring, headlined by a new Zierer Force roller coaster. Beach Rescue Racer will be a 1,000-foot-long family coaster, with cars themed to beach Jeeps on their way to rescue of animals in need.
Harry Potter magical creatures join Universal Fan Fest line-up: Universal Studios Hollywood is adding a Wizarding World of Harry Potter event to its Fan Fest Nights next year.
It's a very special Disney birthday this week: October 1 is always a big day for theme park fans. That's because it is the birthday of the biggest theme park resort in the world - Walt Disney World. And it's an even more special birthday today for one famous Disney Parks visitor. So let's share some of our favorite Jimmy Carter stories.
Thank you, as always, for your readership and support. If you like what you see on Theme Park Insider, please forward this email to any interested friends and colleagues and invite them to subscribe.
Best wishes,
Robert Niles