Theme Park Spot Talk: Week of 11/21/2025
IAAPA Week Delivers Surprises, Updates, and Big Moves Across the Industry
It’s IAAPA week! A lot of announcements as well as updates from the already-known projects have landed, and it’s been an exciting one. I wish I could pack every reveal into today’s Theme Park Spot Talk, but with family life, work responsibilities, and the kids wrapping things up before Thanksgiving break, this week has been a whirlwind. Still, we’ve got some great highlights to dive into. Let’s get to the fun stuff!
Latest News
1
Six Flags Qiddiya City Sets December Opening as a New Era of Global Thrills Begins
Photo Courtesy of SIx Flags Qiddiya City
Six Flags Qiddiya City is officially set to open this December, marking one of the most ambitious theme park debuts in recent years. This massive destination is shaping up to be something the global industry keeps a close eye on, especially with its world-record attractions and huge themed zones. As we get closer to opening day, the excitement only grows—this park is aiming to redefine what a Six Flags experience can be.
Beyond the thrill lineup, Six Flags Qiddiya City represents a push toward large-scale tourism and entertainment expansion in Saudi Arabia. It’s a major international move and one of the most significant additions to the global theme park landscape this decade.
2
A Coaster in the Parking Lot: Mango’s Tropical Café Drops a Wild Surprise for I-Drive
Photo Courtesy of Mango’s Tropical Café
Only in Orlando do you expect dinner shows, nightlife, and… a full-on launch coaster sprouting out of the parking lot. Mango’s Tropical Café stunned IAAPA attendees and Orlando locals alike with the reveal of a massive S&S launch coaster and a towering combo drop tower coming to International Drive. It’s loud, wild, unexpected, and totally fitting for I-Drive’s flair for spectacle.
This attraction is going to change the visual skyline of the area and bring even more attention to one of Orlando’s busiest strips. Mango’s is swinging big, and honestly, it’s going to be fun watching this project transform from concept art to one of I-Drive’s signature thrills.
3
Indiana Beach Celebrates 100 Years with Zero Gravity, Revealed at IAAPA
Photo Courtesy of Indiana Beach
Indiana Beach continues to lean into its historic charm as it prepares for its 100th anniversary next season. At IAAPA, the park revealed Zero Gravity, the latest addition coming to the lakeside lineup. It’s a fitting nod to a century of thrills—small park charm mixed with fresh new energy.
The anniversary season already feels special, and Zero Gravity is a welcome addition that complements the nostalgic, quirky, and beloved atmosphere Indiana Beach is known for. Next year is going to be a huge milestone for the park and its fans.
4
Roaring Back to Life: The Beast Begins Its Next Big Upgrade at Kings Island
Photo Courtesy of Kings Island
Kings Island continues its commitment to preserving its wooden legends. This time, The Beast is receiving its next round of upgrades, focusing on delivering an even smoother, more controlled, and more powerful ride experience. Kings Island remains one of the rare parks still choosing to reinvest in their wooden coasters rather than removing them—something longtime fans truly appreciate.
This latest upgrade signals that Kings Island sees The Beast as the icon it is. It’s refreshing to see classic coasters receiving care and attention instead of being replaced. The world’s longest wooden coaster continues to stand tall.
5
Family Kingdom and RMC Set the Stage for a Bold New Era for Myrtle Beach
Photo Courtesy of Coaster Chit Chat
One of the biggest IAAPA surprises was the reveal of the new RMC Raptor coaster coming to Family Kingdom. This marks a major expansion for Myrtle Beach and elevates the park into an entirely new category of destination entertainment. With a custom layout and signature RMC punch, this addition promises a major tourism boost.
Family Kingdom is taking a bold step forward, and pairing with RMC shows the park is serious about growing into a bigger player. This is going to put Myrtle Beach on many coaster travelers’ 2026 destination list.
Read More: Raptor on the Rise at Myrtle Beach
Upcoming Events
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Photo of the Week
Nemesis at Alton Tower Resort
The.iconic.geek captured an incredible shot of Nemesis, soaring into the new season with style and force. The timing, angle, and mood of the image really show Nemesis in its full glory. Definitely give them a follow for more amazing coaster photography.
Video of the Week
Fast & Furious Hollywood Drift
Fast and Furious Hollywood Drift Coaster at Universal Hollywood Studio continues to move forward, and this latest construction update gives us a closer look at the scale of the project.
Universal continues to show steady progress, and it’s always fun watching these massive builds rise piece by piece. This one is shaping up to be a big addition for Hollywood.
IAAPA Coverage Update
I almost forgot IAAPA was happening this past week until the updates started rolling in, and then suddenly all the excitement kicked in. I still hope to attend the expo someday—there’s nothing else like seeing the future of the industry laid out in real time. IAAPA always feels like the ultimate preview of what’s coming, from train reveals to new attraction concepts to wild surprise announcements.
While I mentioned a few highlights in today’s edition, the full recap will come the first part of December. There’s plenty more to talk about, and IAAPA definitely delivered this year.
CoasterMedia Update
The Holiday Season is officially here, and with that comes travel, busy crowds, long lines at stores, and the excitement of seasonal events returning. More updates are coming to the website soon, and as always, thank you for checking in every week. Have a great Thanksgiving and enjoy time with your friends and family.
– CoasterMedia Team
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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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