A new virtual reality attraction is coming to Busch Gardens Williamsburg in Spring 2018 replacing the former Europe in the Air experience in the Ireland area of the theme park.

Utilizing virtual reality (VR) headsets and the state-of-the-art motion simulator located in the former Europe in the Air attraction, the yet-to-be-named experience will be the first of its kind in the US.

With this marriage of technology, Busch Gardens Williamsburg will be able to take riders through a portal into a hidden world of mythical characters, set against an Irish theme.

“We’re going to take you places that you never thought possible,” said Busch Gardens Vice President of Engineering Larry Giles. “Nowhere else has this ever been done.”

Busch Gardens Williamsburg disclosed plans for the ride during a presentation at Pass Member Preview Day. Pass members in attendance helped announce the park’s plans during a card reveal that displayed a “Virtual Reality 2018” logo.

“This new virtual reality attraction will dramatically transform the capabilities of our motion simulator and deliver a truly unique experience,” Busch Gardens President David Cromwell said. “We will create an immersive environment that all families can enjoy."

The trailer (shown below) teases that "there are two worlds in Ireland, the one we know, and the otherworld, invisible to humans... until now."

Busch Gardens Williamsburg also announced an official opening date of April 7 for InvadR, its new wooden roller coaster featuring a 74-foot drop, nine air-time hills and a top speed of 48 miles per hour.

While InvadR is Busch Gardens Williamsburg’s first wooden roller coaster, it’s the park’s eighth roller coaster overall.



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