Thrill Season Begins: Hottest New Theme Park Rides of the past Month

March and April 2025 has ignited the theme park season with a surge of adrenaline-pumping rides debuting worldwide. From cutting-edge coasters to immersive thrill machines, parks in Europe and North America have unleashed attractions that are redefining excitement. Here’s a look at some of the hottest new rides that just dropped.

YoY - Walibi Holland

Walibi Holland in the Netherlands has debuted YoY it's double single-rail coaster by Rocky Mountain Construction (RMC). This European first features two distinct tracks: the “Chill” side (blue) with no inversions, reaching 49.7 mph for families, and the “Thrill” side (green) with six inversions, hitting 51 mph and delivering 4.0 G-forces for adrenaline junkies. Both tracks, approximately 1,640 feet long and 98 feet tall, offer dueling moments, including a high-five element. Located between Goliath and Xpress: Platform 13, YoY enhances Walibi’s thrill-heavy lineup, joining award-winners like Untamed.

Rapterra - Kings Dominion

Kings Dominion in Virginia launched Rapterra on March 29, 2025, the world’s tallest and longest launched wing coaster. This 145-foot-tall, 3,086-foot-long Bolliger & Mabillard creation accelerates to 65 mph in four seconds, featuring three inversions, including a dive loop. Themed around a mythical Jungle Hawk and an ancient volcanic shrine, Rapterra offers a soaring experience with wing-style seating. Park VP Bridgette Bywater called it the “perfect centerpiece” for Kings Dominion’s 50th anniversary, making it a must-ride for thrill-seekers.

Mecalodon - Walibi Belgium

Walibi Belgium introduced Mecalodon April 5th 2025, a family-friendly Gerstlauer coaster. Spanning 1,312 feet and reaching 31 mph, this ride offers smooth twists and turns for younger riders while thrilling all ages. Its prehistoric aquatic theme, integrated with the park’s lake, creates a visually striking experience. Mecalodon complements Walibi’s intense coasters like Kondaa and Psyké Underground, earning praise on forums like Coasters World for its family appeal.

Toxicator - Alton Towers

Alton Towers in the UK unveiled Toxicator on March 15, 2025, the world’s first elevated suspended Top Spin ride. This 78-foot-tall Huss Park Attractions creation flips riders above a “toxic alien acid” pool with synchronized water effects. Set in Forbidden Valley and tied to the Nemesis storyline, Toxicator represents Phalanx technology battling a mythical beast. Despite a brief opening-day closure due to a sewage issue, riders, including ballerina Karla Doorbar, praise its intense spins. VP Bianca Sammut hailed it as a new standard for thrill rides.

Special Mention: Universal Epic Universe Soft Opening

Universal Epic Universe in Orlando, Florida, began its soft opening for influencers and annual pass holders in early April 2025, ahead of its public debut on May 22, 2025.

Early visitors have showered Stardust Racers with praise, calling it “the best dueling coaster in the world” for its silky-smooth ride, powerful launches, and intense airtime.