Theme Park Spot Talk: Week of 9/12/2025
A week between screams, farewells, and fun new beginnings
It’s a quiet week as we’re in that sweet spot between Universal, Disney, and Busch Gardens’ Halloween kickoffs and the seasonal park haunts launching next week. But don’t worry—we still have some exciting updates about what’s coming soon, what’s sticking around, and even a farewell to a classic coaster model. Let’s dive in!
Latest News
1
Universal Kids Resort Update (Frisco, Texas)
Photo Courtesy of Universal Kids Resort
Construction is rolling right along at the new Universal Kids Resort in Frisco. Crews are making steady progress on what’s shaping up to be a colorful, family-focused destination that will introduce Universal’s signature creativity to a brand-new audience. From the latest construction shots, you can already spot framework for rides and themed areas starting to take shape. This resort is promising to be the first of its kind—crafted for families with younger kids but still offering that immersive Universal magic. It’s one we’ll be keeping a close eye on!
2
Farewell to the Vekoma Flying Dutchman
Photo Courtesy of CoasterMedia (Firehawk at Kings Island)
Last weekend, coaster fans said goodbye to the final Vekoma Flying Dutchman as Six Flags America officially closed Batwing. This ride was the last of its kind, marking the end of an era for a bold (and at times quirky) coaster design. Personally, I’ve had the chance to ride two Flying Dutchmans: Firehawk at Kings Island and Nighthawk at Carowinds. Firehawk gave a strong, fast finish, while Nighthawk added an eerie thrill as it soared over water—but it was also the ride where I lost one of my good cameras (lesson learned: zippered pockets are a must!).
The Flying Dutchman debuted in 2001, offering riders the sensation of flight with a unique loading system that tilted riders onto their backs before flipping them into the flying position. While the design never became a widespread hit, it remains a fan-favorite memory for many thrill-seekers.
3
Six Flags and Peanuts Partnership Extended
Photo Courtesy of Six Flags Entertainment Corporation
Good news for fans of Snoopy and the gang—Six Flags and Peanuts have extended their licensing deal through 2030! That means Peanuts-themed attractions, kids’ areas, and seasonal overlays will continue delighting families for years to come.
What makes this even more interesting is Six Flags’ long-running deal with Looney Tunes, which doesn’t expire until 2053. That means the parks will continue to juggle two major family-friendly brands across the chain. Will we see more integration between the two? Or perhaps some creative separation? Either way, the Peanuts’ presence is safe for at least another five years.
4
Monstropolis Takes Shape
Photo Courtesy of Disney
It’s happening! Progress on Monstropolis, the new Monsters, Inc.-themed land, is moving fast and fans are buzzing with excitement. ParkStop just shared an excellent update showing off the land’s growing skyline and themed elements coming into view. For fans who’ve long dreamed of a Monsters, Inc. ride inspired by Sulley’s epic door chase scene, this feels like a dream finally coming true. Seeing Monstropolis go vertical is a huge step toward bringing Pixar’s monster world to life—and I can’t wait to walk those streets myself.
5
Bluey Roller Coaster at Alton Towers
Photo Courtesy of Alton Towers
Parents, pack your bags—the world’s first Bluey-themed roller coaster is officially coming to Alton Towers in the UK! Bluey has become a global phenomenon, and now fans young and old will get the chance to step into her colorful world with a family coaster designed just for them. Alton Towers has been making moves lately to bring in strong family-friendly IPs, and this might be one of their biggest yet. If you’ve got little ones who adore Bluey, this might just be the perfect excuse to plan a UK theme park adventure.
Upcoming Events
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Photo of the Week​
Five Nights at Freddy’s at HHN
Five Nights at Freddy’s is proving to be one of the breakout hits at this year’s Halloween Horror Nights. The Orlando house especially has wowed fans with jaw-dropping sets and creepy, lifelike animatronics that make you feel like you’ve stepped straight into Freddy Fazbear’s Pizza. Combine that with the equally chilling presence of Terrifier’s Art the Clown, and this year’s HHN is already shaping up to be one for the books.Â
Video of the Week​
Jurassic Corn Maze at Holiday World
Only Holiday World could dream up something like this—putting full-size dinosaurs inside a corn maze as part of their Happy Halloween Weekends! Starting September 20, guests can explore the Jurassic fun while celebrating spooky season with the park’s signature family twist. It’s playful, unexpected, and perfectly Holiday World.
CoasterMedia Update​
Our Halloween section is getting its finishing touches, and by next Friday, most of the parks on our list will be fully updated. It’s a lot of work, but seeing it come together has been exciting—and yes, believe it or not, we’re already gearing up for Christmas coverage starting November 1st. Back-to-back craziness? Absolutely. But that’s the fun of it, and we’re here for it!
– CoasterMedia Team
Get the inside scoop on your favorite attractions and theme parks around the world, from new rides and special events to helpful tips and hidden tricks.
That’s it for this week’s Theme Park Spot Talk. What story are you most excited about? Let us know.
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