As 2026 approaches, theme park enthusiasts can look forward to an impressive lineup of new attractions across the United States. From thrilling roller coasters to immersive experiences, this list highlights ten of the most anticipated rides set to open next year.
Major Attractions to Watch
Universal Kids in Frisco, Texas, is set to debut a family-friendly theme park that will feature lands based on popular franchises including DreamWorks and Nickelodeon. Spanning 97 acres, this park will include seven themed areas such as Shrek’s Swamp and Jurassic World Adventure Camp. Anticipated to attract families with young children, the park will also have a themed hotel and space for future expansion.
Another standout attraction will be the Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift roller coaster at Universal Studios Hollywood. This innovative ride will incorporate 360-degree rotating coaster vehicles designed to resemble drifting race cars. With a track length of 4,100 feet, the coaster will accelerate from zero to 72 mph, providing an exhilarating experience for fans of the franchise that has grossed over $7 billion worldwide.
Dollywood is preparing to unveil its largest single attraction investment to date with the NightFlight Expedition. This unique experience will combine elements of a roller coaster and whitewater rafting, taking riders on a nighttime journey through the Smoky Mountains. The $50 million attraction will feature a Mack Rides Rocking Boat Ride, promising excitement and adventure.
Innovative Experiences Await
At SeaWorld Orlando, the SeaQuest: Legends of the Deep ride will introduce a groundbreaking experience involving a three-person submersible vehicle that explores undersea environments. This will be the world’s first Vekoma suspended dark ride, allowing guests to navigate through themed settings filled with marine life.
Five Flags Over Texas will introduce the Tormenta Rampaging Run, billed as the world’s tallest, longest, and fastest dive coaster. With a height exceeding 300 feet and a beyond-vertical drop, this coaster promises to set new standards for thrill rides.
Kings Island is revitalizing its classic dark ride with the Phantom Theater: Opening Nightmare. This attraction will feature animatronic figures and interactive gameplay, offering riders a chance to collect “ghost notes” while navigating through a haunted theater filled with surprises.
Disney parks will also see updates, with the new Soarin’ Across America films set to debut at both Disney California Adventure and Epcot. This revamped ride will showcase breathtaking aerial views of the United States, filmed at 33 different locations to celebrate the country’s diversity.
Additionally, SeaWorld San Antonio will launch the Barracuda Strike, an inverted coaster reaching speeds of 44 mph, and Six Flags New England will introduce the Quantum Accelerator, a dual-launch coaster aimed at tweens.
Lastly, Legoland California and Legoland Florida will welcome the Galacticoaster, a unique indoor coaster that allows young riders to design their own spaceships for an intergalactic mission through the Lego Galaxy.
As construction progresses and more details emerge, 2026 is poised to be an exciting year for theme parks across the United States. With attractions that blend innovative technology and immersive storytelling, visitors can look forward to unforgettable experiences in the coming year.
