Another big takeover deal
There's been another big acquisition deal among theme park chains. Plus, we have fresh looks inside Universal's new theme park.
Dollywood, meet Kennywood. Y’all family now.
Parques Reunidos found its buyer for its Palace Entertainment theme parks in the United States. It’s Herschend, the owner of Dollywood, Silver Dollar City and several other regional attractions in the Midwest and South. The new deal will give Herschend control of dozens of attractions from coast to coast, including its first properities in Southern California.
Will Herschend ownership bring improvements to the soon-to-be-former Palace parks? That’s what fans are hoping. For now, Herschend (wisely, IMHO) is promising no immediate changes in day-to-day operations of its new parks, as it focuses on the transition and the parks’ long-term future.
Here is our story on the deal, along with fan reaction in the comments: Herschend to buy Palace Entertainment's theme parks
In other news from the company’s parks:
New ride review
Six Flags strikes gold in Georgia with its new coaster: Six Flags Over Georgia’s much anticipated Ultra Surf Coaster, Georgia Gold Rusher, is now open. With launches, water effects, and numerous pops of ejector air time, this new coaster has far exceeded expectations.
Epic news
Universal releases official photos from inside Epic Universe: Universal has been prohibiting most photography inside Epic Universe during its employees previews, but this week the resort released official photos of each of the new lands in the park. Such as this new view of Dark Universe…
Universal shows off its new Dragon character meet: Even fans who typically skip theme park character meets might want to put Universal Orlando's new 'How to Train Your Dragon' encounter on their Epic Universe to-do lists.
Merchandise is part of the show at Universal Epic Universe: Here is more information about the shops that visitors will find inside Universal Orlando's new Epic Universe theme park. And some of what Universal is selling is much more than a souvenir to take home.
Over at Disney
Disney Cruise Line makes deal for more cruises in California: Disney Cruise Line has secured a deal that takes it one step closer to sailing from Southern California year round.
It's 'no kids allowed' at this new Walt Disney World location: We have a name now for the new lounge coming to Walt Disney World's EPCOT later this year.
Yo ho - it's a pirate's life today for every theme park fan: Yesterday was the day to celebrate the most important attraction in Disney's theme park history. The original Pirates of the Caribbean ride opened 58 years ago, on March 18, 1967, at Disneyland in California.
Happy birthday to Walt Disney Studios Park: Walt Disney Studios Park in Paris is celebrating its 23rd - and possibly, last - birthday, at least under its current name. The park is set to transform into Disney Adventure World next year.
Finally,
SeaWorld looks to bring visitors to the Arctic with new ride: SeaWorld's new flying theater ride now has a name - Expedition Odyssey.
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Robert Niles
Great morning read.