We've had to wait a while longer for this one, as is true with many attractions set to open within the past two years, but Coney Island's Luna Park is hard at work on getting their 2022 expansion completed for the summer. The park is adding a new area that will feature a roller coaster entwined with a modern log flume, along with several new common areas that will feature amenities and areas to relax and enjoy.
As seen in these photos from the park, the construction is progressing well with a significant portion of the new coaster already in place. Plus, these photos were from several weeks ago so there is probably more standing at this point. The track and supports are a mix of blue and green colors, with thematic elements slowly going up around parts of the ride as well.
The coaster is designed to be a family ride, but is pretty large all
things considered. Oddly, Luna Park doesn't seem to be advertising the
expansion yet on their website, but it's definitely heading for a summer
2022 opening. The log flume right by the ocean and boardwalk will be a wonderful addition as well, with a smaller drop to start and a much larger drop to finish the attraction. Both of the new attractions will share a large station structure, with what looks like queue space under cover - another plus.
Luna Park in Sydney, Australia, has announced a massive addition for their summer 2021 season, including 9 new rides - one of which will be the first Intamin Hot Racer roller coaster. The addition will cost $30 million and bring the park's roster of attractions into the 21st century with modern, thrilling rides. The addition is seen as coming as the perfect time as the hope is that the world will be in recovery from the pandemic for Sydney's summer 2021, which starts around late Fall in North America.
The Managing Director of Luna Park Sydney, Peter Hearne, said: “We are investing over $30 million to upgrade park facilities, introduce nine new, state-of-the-art rides and update some of our other attractions, while ensuring we retain the heritage and history of this much-loved Sydney destination. We are excited to announce the introduction of nine new permanent rides that will thrill and excite all age levels, including six new children’s rides; a family coaster; a thrill ride; and a new Big Dipper, which will be the first inline seating launch roller coaster in the world."
The Intamin Hot Racer coaster, called Big Dipper, will not only be the first of Intamin's single rail coasters, but also the first of its genre to feature a launch. We just saw Intamin debut the model online recently, and they have more information on their site about it as well.
At Luna Park the coaster will start with a small launch out of the station at 31 miler per hour to get things going, followed by a Stengel Dive turn. Soon after there is another launch to 45 miles per hour that will send the single seater, in-line trains up into a non-inverting loop followed by a sidewinder inversion. Other elements on the coaster include airtime hills, high speed downward s-curves, a wave turn and a flatspin inversion.
For a small space, the Big Dipper will certainly pack a punch. Check out the below video for much more on the ride:
BROOKLYN, NY, November 19, 2019 – Families, ride enthusiasts, foodies, and entertainment seekers from
around the world have many new reasons to visit Luna Park in Coney Island for its 10th Birthday in 2020.
A festive atmosphere and cherished experiences await Luna Park guests during its 10th year of operation.
Beginning April 4, 2020 Luna Park in Coney Island will come to life, with birthday themed fun and
excitement as dazzling acts and a joyful ambiance transform America’s playground into a special 10th year
birthday bash all season long. Just in time for the party, Luna park will unveil its newly added sites as part of
the Luna Park expansion project in Coney Island adding more reasons to celebrate. By way of the expansion,
Luna Park brings more fun and innovation to Coney Island with 4 new rides and attractions: Big WaveZ,
Ropes Course Adventure Zone, The Super Flume Ride, The Junior Coaster and a recreational public space.
Big WaveZ, an interactive water ride will make its worldwide debut in Luna Park in Coney Island in 2020. Big
WaveZ transports guests into the lair of the Roman mythical god Neptune. Sensors on the passenger vessel
allow guests to interact with a temperamental Neptune as well as influence the movement of the ride. A
touch screen platform increases the fun, allowing individuals waiting on the Big WaveZ line to participate
and impact passengers’ fates. This innovative technology ensures that each ride on Big WaveZ is a uniquely
guest-tailored experience that leaves no passenger dry.
Also new to Luna Park in Coney Island is a Ropes Course Adventure Zone. Climbers will experience breathtaking views of the boardwalk and ocean with the newly installed 4 level adventure zone. This circus
themed area will be located next to the Thunderbolt coaster featuring obstacles, ropes courses, as well as
zip lines for all ages and skill levels.
Luna Park in Coney Island will also premiere The Super Flume Ride and The Junior Coaster. The Super
Flume Ride will provide guests with a semi-circle panoramic view of the shoreline before plunging down to
a speed of over 30 mph for the big splash. The ride will operate with 12 flume boats that can seat up to 6
guests at a time. The track of The Super Flume Ride will be tactically entwined with that of The Junior
Coaster generating a distinctive experience for our guests. The Junior Coaster, a family thrill ride, will be
strategically interlaced with the new The Super Flume Ride. Riders will embark on an inimitable coaster as it
bends and curves throughout the path of The Super Flume Ride, heightening their ride experience. The
Junior Coaster is comprised of two enchantingly fabricated trains equipped with ADA access.
In addition to the rides, Luna Park will open a new public space. Stillwell Avenue between Surf Avenue and
the boardwalk will make its debut as brand new easily accessible open space that invites the community
and visitors to relax and enjoy Coney Island. The public space will offer ample recreational opportunities
with shaded seating, greenery and a colorful facade. Art installations, artful photo ops, and performances in
this area will showcase the diverse traditions and culture of Coney Island.
“Each season, our goal is to deliver the best thrills and experiences to our local community as well as the
tourists that visit us each year,” said Alessandro Zamperla, President of Central Amusement International.
“With the celebration of our 10th season and the addition of these new rides and spaces, we are excited to
grow, provide quality entertainment, and bring the finest in amusement park innovations to New York City.
We continue to restore the legacy of Coney Island by bringing new and exhilarating attractions and
entertainment to our guests.”
Luna Park takes pride in being New York City’s largest amusement destination and maintains its
commitment to enhancing Coney Island year after year. Throughout the 2020 season, park-goers of all ages
can anticipate new innovative rides and attractions, an increased environmentally friendly presence,
delicious new food and beverage offerings and birthday themed festivities. Happy Birthday Luna Park!
ABOUT LUNA PARK
Named after an iconic piece of Coney Island's history, Luna Park is the largest amusement park and New
York City’s most famous playground with a heritage that stretches back more than 130 years. Luna Park
provides New Yorkers and tourists from around the world with a full destination experience of family friendly amusements, boardwalk eats, souvenir shops, thrill rides and special events. Each year, Luna Park
continues to light up the famous Coney Island skyline with its timeless landmarks and novelties. In close
proximity to nearly three miles of sandy beaches, two and a half miles of boardwalk and other top
attractions, Luna Park, which employs more than 800 people, offers over 40 games, rides and roller coasters
and is a fun-filled world-class destination for all ages. For more information about Luna Park in Coney Island,
including a full list of rides, entertainment, food and more, please visit https://lunaparknyc.com/.
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