Nothing says summer like the squeals heard from a roller coaster—and California theme parks always take those thrills to the next level. From pulse-pounding roller coasters to immersive themed lands, there is something for everyone. California’s new season of adventures and theme parks promises endless excitement and memories to cherish for a lifetime. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey of fun and discovery in the Golden State!
SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™ Opening at Universal Studios Hollywood
SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™, the innovative, immersive and highly anticipated themed land, opened on February 17 at Universal Studios Hollywood as the first SUPER NINTENDO WORLD in the nation. The U.S. debut will transport theme park guests and Nintendo fans into the world of Mario, Luigi and Princess Peach on Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge. The immersive land will be a visual spectacle of vibrant colours and architectural ingenuity within a newly expanded area of the theme park, featuring a groundbreaking ride, interactive areas for the whole family and themed shopping and dining. Nearby, the Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen™ is an original concept restaurant opening at Universal CityWalk in early 2023.
Disney 100 Years of Wonder Celebration at Disneyland Resort, Anaheim
Image Credits: Visit California and Carol Highsmith
Disney 100 Years of Wonder (Disney100) will be the largest cross-company global celebration in the history of The Walt Disney Co. At Disneyland Resort – the heart of the celebration – the fun kicked off on January 27, with limited-time offerings taking place throughout the year. Highlights include Platinum-infused décor throughout the resort; two all-new nighttime spectaculars: “World of Color – One” at Disney California Adventure Park and “Wondrous Journeys” at Disneyland Park; the new Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway attraction; the opening of the reimagined Mickey’s Toontown and its new ride, Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway in spring 2023; and the long-awaited return of the “Magic Happens” parade at Disneyland Park in time for spring. Disney’s new shows include Rogers: The Musical, based on the origin story of Captain America, and the new night-sky spectaculars, including Wondrous Journeys, which features projections from every animated Disney movie. Other notable new additions include San Fransokyo Square, a foodie magnet, and Disneyland Railroad, an old-school favourite consisting of a grand circle tour of Walt Disney’s original Magic Kingdom.
SeaWorld San Diego to Debut Arctic Rescue Coaster
Image Credits: Visit California and Hub
SeaWorld San Diego’s new highly anticipated coaster, a play area for kids called Rescue Jr. and the family-friendly coaster Arctic Rescue, pay tribute to the park’s wildlife rescue teams, opened in spring 2023. Joining other thrill rides at the theme park, Arctic Rescue will be the longest and fastest straddle coaster on the West Coast. This family-friendly, multi-launch ride invites guests to hop on a snowmobile and launch up to 40 mph on a chilly adventure as they race through the unpredictable arctic climate to help animals in danger. With a 48-inch height requirement, even young adventure seekers can enjoy Arctic Rescue.
Revamped and Reimagined Experiences at Knott’s Berry Farm
Image Credits: Visit California and Sean Arbabi
Montezooma’s Revenge was the first flywheel-launched roller coaster in the world when it opened in 1978, and it is the oldest shuttle loop roller coaster still in its original location. For 2023, Montezooma’s Revenge was rethemed with new thrills that allow guests to be completely surprised by the direction the train takes them. The new Fiesta Village reopened at Knott’s Berry Farm in the summer of 2023, showcasing beautiful décor across three new zones in the area, brand-new food locations, an updated Fiesta Plaza stage and a redesigned marketplace inspired by Los Angeles’ Olvera Street. Also returning in 2024 is Knott’s Boysenberry Festival, the annual food and wine festival that celebrates the park’s historic roots by highlighting the little berry that started it all, the boysenberry. Indulge in a lineup of dishes ranging from savoury foods with a boysenberry twist to one-of-a-kind speciality desserts and drinks, including a variety of wines and craft beers that you can only find at Knott’s Berry Farm during this limited-time food-inspired event.
Special Mentions
Image Credits: Visit California and Hub
Also, check out events and food festivals around your trip at Six Flags Magic Mountain, LEGOLAND California, and Six Flags Discovery Kingdom.
Cover Image Credits: Visit California and Hub
