As the excitement builds for 2026, theme parks across the United States are gearing up to unveil a host of thrilling new attractions. From cutting-edge roller coasters to immersive dark rides, the upcoming year promises to deliver unforgettable experiences for visitors of all ages. Here is a look at the top ten attractions set to debut in 2026.
Universal Kids: A New Family Destination in Texas
Universal Kids, a new theme park in Frisco, Texas, is designed specifically for families with young children. This 97-acre resort will feature lands inspired by popular franchises including DreamWorks, Nickelodeon, and Illumination films. When it opens in March 2026, guests can explore seven themed areas, such as Shrek’s Swamp and Jurassic World Adventure Camp, ensuring fun for the whole family.
The park will also include a themed hotel and has been designed with future expansion in mind, highlighting Universal’s commitment to creating a comprehensive family entertainment experience.
Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift at Universal Studios
Universal Studios Hollywood is set to thrill adrenaline seekers with the launch of the Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift roller coaster. This ride will feature 360-degree rotating coaster vehicles that resemble the high-speed race cars from the beloved film franchise, which has grossed over $7 billion globally. Riders will experience exhilarating speeds of up to 72 mph on a track that spans 4,100 feet, all while drifting in a replica of Dominic Toretto’s iconic 1970 Dodge Charger.
Dollywood’s NightFlight Expedition Takes Adventure to New Heights
Dollywood is introducing the NightFlight Expedition, a one-of-a-kind attraction that combines roller coaster thrills with a whitewater rafting experience. Set against the backdrop of the Smoky Mountains, this $50 million investment represents the largest single attraction investment in the park’s history. The ride will take guests on a soaring nighttime flight before transitioning into a roller coaster and a rafting excursion, all wrapped up in a mysterious dark ride over a shimmering lake.
SeaQuest: Legends of the Deep at SeaWorld Orlando
SeaWorld Orlando will unveil SeaQuest: Legends of the Deep, the world’s first Vekoma suspended dark ride. This innovative ride will allow guests to embark on an underwater adventure in three-person submersible vehicles, exploring shipwrecks filled with marine life such as sharks and jellyfish. The ride’s design will enhance the storytelling experience, immersing riders in a journey through glowing undersea worlds.
Tormenta Rampaging Run: A World Record Dive Coaster
Six Flags Over Texas will debut the Tormenta Rampaging Run, which is set to become the world’s tallest, longest, and fastest dive coaster. This groundbreaking ride will feature a height of over 300 feet and a beyond vertical drop, redefining the dive coaster category. The attraction will be themed around the Running of the Bulls tradition in Pamplona, Spain, offering a unique cultural twist to the thrilling experience.
Phantom Theater: Opening Nightmare Returns to Kings Island
Kings Island in Ohio is reviving its classic dark ride with Phantom Theater: Opening Nightmare. This updated attraction promises an interactive experience where riders can use spellbound flashlights to collect “ghost notes” during a stormy opening night. Featuring 26 scenes with animatronic figures and hidden Easter eggs, this ride aims to blend nostalgia with modern technology.
Soarin’ Across America: A New Aerial Adventure
Disney California Adventure and Epcot will refresh their popular flight simulator attraction, Soarin’ Across America, just in time for the 250th anniversary of the United States. The updated experience will showcase stunning aerial footage captured at 33 locations across the country, celebrating the beauty and diversity of America. Advanced filming techniques will ensure that the new scenes resonate with audiences.
New Attractions at SeaWorld San Antonio and Six Flags New England
SeaWorld San Antonio will introduce the Barracuda Strike, an inverted coaster that reaches speeds of up to 44 mph. This $8.8 million ride will glide above the park’s water ski lake, providing a unique thrill. Meanwhile, Six Flags New England will launch the Quantum Accelerator, a dual-launch straddle coaster designed for tweens seeking an elevated level of excitement. With its steampunk theme and innovative design, this ride promises to captivate a younger audience.
Galacticoaster: An Intergalactic Adventure for Young Astronauts
Legoland California and Legoland Florida are set to debut the Galacticoaster, an indoor ride where young guests can design their own spaceships for an intergalactic mission. This attraction will feature 1,500-foot tracks enclosed within expansive “space port” buildings, offering a fully immersive experience as riders navigate through cosmic scenes in custom Lego spacecraft.
As these attractions prepare to launch, theme park enthusiasts can expect an exciting year ahead in 2026. With innovative rides and immersive experiences, parks across the United States are poised to captivate visitors and create lasting memories for families and thrill-seekers alike.
