IAAPA Expo Europe 2026: The Latest Innovations in the Amusement Park Industry

Wave Catcher (Ravening – Efteling)

Wave Catcher is an interactive family attraction. Riders move in a circle and can control the swing of the gondolas entirely on their own using a lever. The maximum height is 5 meters, and the maximum speed is 40 km/h. A total of 36 visitors can ride in 18 gondolas on this interactive ride. What makes it special is that guests with disabilities are also welcome to ride, as long as they can board the ride independently. The first carousel of this kind will open on December 1 at the Dutch theme park Efteling under the name “Ravenring.” A model of the ride was on display at IAAPA to mark the occasion.

DRX Plattform (SCORE – Gröna Lund)

This is a new trackless dark ride system. The cars move through the space using radar technology, without the need for tracks. This allows the track and route to be customized or even redesigned. Additionally, the themed ride can be made interactive with a shooting system. A media package consisting of images, sound, lighting, and special effects rounds out the system, creating the perfect all-in-one experience. The world premiere will take place at Gröna Lund in Sweden. Under the name “SCORE,” visitors embark on a historical journey through the amusement park’s archives. Using a laser gun, you can shoot at targets to score as many points as possible. This attraction is scheduled to open in the spring of 2027.

Spinfinity Splash Coaster (Manakai – O´Gliss Park)

The Spinfinity Splash Coaster combines the mechanics of a spinning coaster with those of a water attraction. The cars run on a roller coaster track and can rotate during the ride. Also, the ride features water effects and a big splash-down at the end. The seating arrangement is another highlight: Riders sit together in a circular car, allowing them to see each other during the ride. French amusement park O’Gliss Park will be home to “Manakai,” the first ride of its kind. The new attraction is scheduled to open in 2028 in a Polynesian-themed area.

EatX (Erdbeere-Speisereise – Karls Erlebnis-Dorf Elstal)

Mack Rides has unveiled EatX, a new dark ride dining concept. This new system combines an immersive themed ride with dining. Visitors ride in an autonomous table, called the Flow Diner, through various themed rooms while enjoying a specially curated menu. Visitors can thus expect a blend of storytelling, theming, and cuisine—a truly unique experience. Karls Erlebnis-Dorf in Elstal will be home to the first EatX installation. The “Strawberry Culinary Journey” tells the story of the discovery of the strawberry. “The experience combines a specially developed three-course meal with a journey through five themed worlds.” (MACK Group)

Wooden Coaster (Durango – Magic Land)

MagicLand in Italy is getting a new wooden roller coaster from the manufacturer Gravity Group. A new roller coaster, named “Durango,” is scheduled to open in the spring of 2027. The ride features two dark tunnels and a zero-G roll (an inverted element). The rest of the numbers are impressive as well: 98.4 feet high, reaching speeds of 50 mph, and featuring 13 airtime moments. The ride’s theme is based on a Mexican gold mine.

Flash Racer

The Flash Racer is a new racing simulator featuring state-of-the-art technology. The simulator includes a large curved screen, an audio system, a professional racing seat, a professional steering wheel, lights, and much more. In addition, a 6-axis platform provides a realistic driving experience thanks to its wide range of motion.

DynaView

Huss is introducing new seats. These are designed to ensure safety and a comfortable ride on modern attractions. The DynaView seats feature an open, ergonomic design and include lap bars for greater freedom of movement. There are three gondola modes: Controlled (the ride program is pre-programmed), FreeFlow (free movement driven by centrifugal force and gravity), and Interactive (riders can control the gondola themselves). Thanks to the audio system, lighting, and customizable designs, the new seats can be perfectly tailored to meet customers’ specifications.

Sky Grip

With “Sky Grip,” Wiegand is introducing a new and innovative system for water slides. “Instead of starting from an elevated platform, the experience begins right at ground level. Riders decide for themselves how high they want to be pulled up by a special launch mechanism before the ride begins.” (Wiegandwaterrides)

Building Bricks

Europa-Park is getting its own building block sets. Starting in November, you’ll be able to purchase various designs at the park or in the online store. Designs include, for example, the main entrance, Voltron, Euro Mir, the Panorama Coaster, and much more.