This summer, our local amusement and water parks are overflowing with families eager to make up for thrills lost over the last two years.
We checked in with our popular theme parks in Southern California to see what new attractions you and your family can expect when you visit. Some new rides are still swimming in secrecy, so we can’t wait for the big reveals!
Disneyland
This summer, Disneyland Resort will continue celebrating its 50th anniversary, which kicked off last October and will sail through March.
One highlight is the 30th anniversary of “Fantasmic,” the nighttime spectacular performed on the Rivers of America. Featuring a 45-foot-tall Maleficent dragon, Mickey faces countless villains from Disney stories during his dream in which he is, once again, the sorcerer’s apprentice.
Disney’s “Celebrate Soulfully” will pay tribute to Black heritage and culture. At Fantasyland Theatre, the cast of “Tale of the Lion King” will transform “The Lion King” movie into an adaptation focused on its accurate cultural roots. From June 1 to July 4, California Adventure will host daily live performances of Black music genres from jazzy to doo-wop tunes.
Six Flags Magic Mountain
Wonder Woman Flight of Courage is slated to debut at Six Flags Magic Mountain this summer, bringing the park its world record of 20 roller coasters. The Wonder Woman ride will reign as the tallest, longest, single-rail coaster on the planet. Riders will fly over 3,300 feet of track, towering 13 stories and soaring at speeds up to 58 miles per hour. The new coaster will be located in the six-acre DC Universe, where guests can immerse themselves inside the DC comic book world.
Legoland
Legoland recently created a life-sized red Ferrari — entirely out of Legos. Park visitors can sit inside the Lego Ferrari and pose for professional photos. At the end of the tour, guests can customize their own digital Ferraris and race them on the track to see who has the fastest design.
Knott’s Berry Farm
Knott’s Berry Farm is determined to make this summer a memorable one by reviving old attractions and adding summertime events. After a two-year hiatus, Ghost Town Alive is returning on select days for an interactive storyline and live characters that guests can engage with as they search for clues and solve puzzles. Daytime musical performances will include Mariachi Angelitas and Krazy Kirk and the Hillbillies, comedic musicians. Knott’s Summer Nights will keep the party going with a wide array of live band genres, tasty food and endless games. Another reopening: Soak City Waterpark, which will remain active until Sept.18, the park’s longest open season for the water feature.
Raging Waters
Raging Waters is introducing a new attraction called Bombs Away, a fitting name for a thrill that has guests stand inside a tube, waiting in anticipation for the floor to drop at any moment.
No need to worry about carrying around wet cash — the park is cashless. Guests can use Apple Pay, debit or credit cards or add money to a specialized card for the day.
Isabella Fusco is an editorial intern at L.A. Parent and MBA student at Pepperdine University.
