Theme Park Spot Talk: Week of 11/14/2025
Holiday Cheer and New Horizons Around the Parks
It has been a relatively quiet week, but that’s expected as many parks wrap up their 2025 seasons and shift gears from spooky to sparkly. Florida, of course, never stops. Let’s jump right into what’s been happening across the theme park world.
Latest News
1
Silverwood’s Next Chapter: Herschend Set to Welcome Idaho’s Beloved Theme Park Into Its Growing Family
Photo Courtesy of Silverwood
Big news out of Idaho this week as Herschend Family Entertainment moves forward with acquiring Silverwood Theme Park. For many fans, this marks an emotional but exciting turning point. Silverwood has always been a deeply loved regional destination, known for its impressive coaster lineup and the charm of Boulder Beach. With Herschend stepping in, there is optimism that new investment, storytelling, and guest-focused enhancements are coming.
Herschend’s track record with Dollywood and Silver Dollar City has been nothing short of remarkable, and many believe that Silverwood will get the same thoughtful blend of tradition and innovation. Nothing is changing immediately, but this is the start of a brand-new chapter for the Northwestern favorite.
2
Verbolten: Forbidden Turn Set to Reimagine a Busch Gardens Williamsburg Favorite in 2026
Photo Courtesy of Busch Gardens Williamsburg
Busch Gardens Williamsburg surprised fans with the reveal of Verbolten: Forbidden Turn, a reimagining of the iconic coaster. The original Verbolten has built a loyal following thanks to its indoor show scenes, sudden drop track, and sleek German-themed storyline. Now, the park aims to level up the entire experience for 2026.
Forbidden Turn promises enhanced theming, updated sets, and new story elements that lean more into folklore and the mysterious Black Forest setting. While details are still under wraps, fans are buzzing about how the ride’s indoor segment might evolve. The classic backbone of the coaster will remain, but this is shaping up to be a significant refresh that could breathe new life into a crowd favorite.
3
Dark Days for Six Flags:
More Park Closures May Be on the Horizon
Photo Courtesy of Six Flags
Six Flags continues to face significant financial challenges as reports suggest additional parks may be at risk of closure. Following the shutdown of multiple properties earlier this year, the company appears to be assessing which locations still fit into their long-term vision. With a recent earnings report revealing major losses, the outlook isn’t particularly bright.
Longtime fans are understandably concerned, especially in regions where Six Flags parks are major entertainment hubs. While the company hasn’t yet confirmed which parks could face closure next, the shifting landscape of the industry makes it clear that Six Flags is in the midst of difficult and possibly transformative decisions.
4
MrBeast Levels Up: Inside the Wild New World of
Beast Land
Photo Courtesy of MrBeast
Beast Land continues to dominate conversation—even as a pop-up concept. MrBeast’s ambitious themed experience in Saudi Arabia has blown up social media thanks to its massive scale, over-the-top theming, and trademark chaotic energy. From interactive challenges to immersive lands themed after his larger-than-life brand, Beast Land feels like a digital universe brought to life.
Fans are already wondering whether this could lead to a longer-term or even permanent installation. With the popularity of the event and the global reach of MrBeast’s brand, anything is possible. For now, Beast Land stands as one of the biggest and wildest theme park surprises of 2025.
5
Scar Steals the Show: A Fierce New Popcorn Bucket Roars into Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Photo Courtesy of Disney
This week, Scar from The Lion King took over Disney’s Animal Kingdom with a stunning new popcorn bucket that fans are calling one of the best villain releases in years. Featuring glowing eyes and sculpted details that capture Scar’s signature intensity, the bucket has already become a must-have collectible.
The line to purchase one reportedly stretched through multiple areas of the park—proof that Disney lovers will go to great lengths for good merch. Whether you collect them or just admire them, this one is already destined to become a fan favorite.
Upcoming Events
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Photo of the Week​
Monorail at Epcot
This week’s spotlight goes to @park_photojournal, who captured an incredible shot of the Disney Monorail gliding past Spaceship Earth. The sleek futurism of the monorail mixed with EPCOT’s iconic geosphere creates an image that feels both nostalgic and timeless. Give them a follow for more stunning park photography on Instagram.
Fun fact: Did you know the Walt Disney World Monorail transports an estimated 150,000 guests on peak days? It’s one of the busiest monorail systems in the world and has been running since 1971.
Video of the Week​
Lost Kingdom Adventure – Legoland Florida
Let’s hop aboard Lost Kingdom Adventure with Orlando Experience as they take us through the 2025 updates at Legoland Florida. This Sally Corp dark ride blends family-friendly laser-blast action with classic Egyptian theming. I got to ride this myself earlier this year during my daughter’s field trip, and it remains a charming staple of the park.
Fun fact: The ride features over 1,200 unique targets, many of which respond with sound or motion, making each play-through a little bit different. It’s a perfect attraction for families looking to compete for the highest score.
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CoasterMedia Update​
Credit Rolls for November will be posted soon. It’s the Holiday Season back-to-back, and with plenty going on behind the scenes personally, things might feel a little slower than usual — but they’re coming! Our new Holiday Section goes live on Black Friday, featuring festive updates with a Central Florida focus. Stay tuned for a magical season ahead.
– 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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