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The United States theme park scene is gearing up for an exciting 2026, with three very different but highly anticipated parks poised to arrive. From kid-centric whimsy to racing-inspired thrills and brand-driven fun, these upcoming attractions promise to expand the market and offer new reasons to visit major travel destinations.
Here's our guide to everything you need to know about Universal Kids Resort, COTALAND and Mattel Adventure Park.
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From kids’ coasters to world-class thrill machines and beloved classics getting bold reboots, 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting years yet for roller coaster fans in the United States.
Here is your definitive guide to every new or reimagined coaster debuting at US theme parks in 2026 — perfect for planning trips, vacations, and coaster chasing in the coming season.
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Six Flags Magic Mountain has announced a major transformation of its longtime family area, revealing plans for Looney Tunes™ Land, a completely reimagined kids and family zone set to debut in summer 2026.
The new land will replace the park’s existing children’s area with a cohesive, story-driven environment inspired by the classic Chuck Jones era of Looney Tunes. Designed to encourage exploration, Looney Tunes Land will be divided into four distinct themed areas, each centered around iconic characters from the beloved Warner Bros. franchise.
At the heart of the land will be a central park-style hub where Bugs Bunny welcomes guests into his world. From there, families can explore environments inspired by the deserts of the American Southwest, lush tropical landscapes, and the High Sierra mountains — all brought to life through immersive theming, landscaping, and character-driven storytelling.
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Wild Waves Theme & Water Park has officially announced that the 2026 operating season will be its final year, with the park scheduled to open on May 23, 2026, and permanently close to the public on November 1, 2026.
The announcement was confirmed by Premier Parks, LLC, the operator of Wild Waves, citing ongoing financial challenges following the park’s reopening after the COVID-19 shutdown.
One of the Pacific Northwest’s most iconic amusement destinations will soon come to an end.
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Universal Destinations & Experiences has unveiled the complete slate of attractions, entertainment, dining, retail, and hotel offerings coming to Universal Kids Resort.
The company’s first-ever theme park created specifically for families with young children—opening in Frisco, Texas, in 2026—will bring seven fully themed lands to life in one colorful, kid-focused destination.
Designed from the ground up with young guests in mind, Universal Kids Resort will blend Universal-quality storytelling with playful environments, age-appropriate attractions, and sensory-friendly spaces tailored to children and their caregivers.
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Herschend Family Entertainment has signed an exclusive agreement to acquire Silverwood Theme Park, the biggest theme and water park in the Pacific Northwest.
The deal signals a major milestone for the long-running independent park and continues Herschend’s steady growth across North America.
Silverwood has been owned and operated by the Norton family since its founding in 1988 by Gary Norton. Over more than 35 years, the park has transformed from a small local attraction into a 400-acre destination featuring over 70 rides, slides, shows, and attractions, including the popular Boulder Beach Water Park and a historic 1915 steam engine train. The park draws hundreds of thousands of visitors annually to North Idaho’s scenic panhandle.
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Busch Gardens Williamsburg has announced Verbolten: Forbidden Turn, a reimagined version of its roller coaster Verbolten, set to debut in 2026.
The updated attraction will introduce a darker narrative and enhanced storytelling elements all centered around Germany’s legendary Black Forest
Originally opening in 2012, Verbolten is a family-friendly launched roller coaster housed largely indoors. The new iteration aims to refresh the ride experience through immersive narrative updates rather than a complete rebuild.
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The new 'TEA Global Experience Index' (formerly known as the 'Theme Index and Museum Index Report') is a collaboration between the Themed Entertainment Association, research partners, and editorial partners that provides critical insight into trends shaping leisure and entertainment markets worldwide.
It identifies the most visited theme parks, water parks and museums around the world, including North America's top theme parks by attendance in 2024.
The 2024 TEA Global Experience Index is presented in partnership with Storyland Studios.
