May is here, and as Memorial Day approaches, so does the unofficial start of summer! It’s the perfect time to head out the door and explore something new. For some that means heading to the beach, for others a staycation. Some prefer heading to the opposite side of the world, while others may visit one of the thousands of attractions in the United States. In 2016, many Americans had this exact idea, as 81% of all U.S. households (nearly 99 million homes) visited a U.S. attraction, and 70% of those guests are planning a return visit in 2017.
One subset of the attraction industry is Family Entertainment Centers. These types of centers include arcades, thrill rides, bowling alleys, water slides, mini golf, etc. This year FEC attendance is forecasted to rise by 3%. BR&P is currently designing and has designed FECs in the past.
Arcade City, Mirror Maize & 7D Dark Ride Rendering
BR&P is working with F.A.C.E. Amusement to bring several attractions to Branson Landing. One is Arcade City, which will be a mixture of classic and modern games to create an experience for all ages. Guests will be greeted with a classic movie marquee. Technology integration will be a significant part of the experience. According to FEC visitor trends, technology makes attraction experiences more enjoyable. Guests will be able to load their money on rechargeable game cards, and use them to swipe to play. The amount of “tickets” won will also be tracked on the game cards.
Next to the arcade will be the 7D Dark Ride Adventure, an interactive shooting game for all ages. The ride will combine elements from roller coaster simulators and the senses with the use of wind, light, sound and smell. Another attraction, the Mirror Maize, a new concept for F.A.C.E., will be an indoor corn maze using all mirrors. The interior, designed to evoke a Missouri style barn, will feature sound and light effects. The guest will enter with the goal to find a lost farmer, and then try to work their way back out of the maze.
Ten Paw Alley – Great Wolf Lodge, Colorado Springs, CO
Not in the Branson area? The BR&P designed Great Wolf Lodge in Colorado Springs, Colorado opened earlier this year. The resort not only features an indoor water park, but also many attractions. Those include a ropes course, a bowling alley, an arcade, a mini golf course, an adventure park, and MagiQuest, an interactive live action game.
If relaxation is more your thing, BR&P is also designing a nautical themed observation deck located at the north court of the Branson Landing for HCW Development. Guests can relax under the sails while enjoying the view of Lake Tanycomo.
Looking to create thrills with your potential project? Give us a call at 417-865-6100 or visit www.brpae.com. Enjoy the start of summer!
Also in the May Newsletter: Wiffle Ball’s Back Y’all! Glenville Homewood Suites Opens for Guests