Hey there, fellow thrill-seekers! I’m here to take you on a journey behind the scenes of your favourite theme park rides! Have you ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes of building and creating the rides you love so much? Well, wonder no more! I’m going to share with you all the juicy details that make these rides so fantastic!

The Concept Stage 💭

Behind every successful ride is an idea 💡. During the concept stage, designers and engineers gather to brainstorm ideas for the next big ride. This includes deciding the theme, type and intensity level of the ride. Once an idea has been selected and approved, the design process begins. This is where the creativity comes alive, and sketches are created to bring the idea to life.

A group of people sitting down with a sketchbook, drawing a rollercoaster.

The Design Phase 🎨

The design phase involves creating detailed renderings of the ride so that the engineers have a clear understanding of how it should be built. Each design is precisely planned out to ensure the safety of the riders and ensure that the ride will last for years to come. The computer-aided design (CAD) software is used to create a virtual model of the ride to ensure its mechanical and safety aspects meet local regulations.

A computer screen open with a 3D rendering of a coaster on it, architects and engineers guiding the design.

The Engineering Level 🛠️

After the design phase, the engineers will come in and start work to create the ride structure, mechanical systems, and framework. They typically work with an array of sophisticated tools, such as hydraulic machines and welding equipment, to construct the ride’s frame. The process can take months, and multiple teams will often complete different aspects of the ride, such as the track and cars

A team in orange jumpsuits working on a ride construction, welding, and hammering away at metal infrastructure.

The Safety Check 🔎

After the ride structure is complete, all aspects of the ride are tested to confirm that the ride is operational and safe. Engineers and safety inspectors will test the ride multiple times during and after construction. They will simulate different weather conditions, movements, and speeds to verify that the ride will behave perfectly under any condition. They also conduct extensive testing on the ride’s mechanical components to ensure it is safe for the riders.

A train full of crash test dummies being hurled around a rollercoaster track to test the function and safety of the ride.

The Theming Phase 🌟

The theming phase is where designers, artists, and other workers create the theme, setting, style, and visual aspect of the ride. This phase is where they add the storytelling and excitement that makes each ride unique and entertaining. For example, Disneyland’s Space Mountain is based around a space theme, with stars, planets, and other elements creating an immersive experience.

A colourful aerial view of Disney's Splash Mountain, including water, logs and lots of smiling riders.

The Soft Opening & Grand Opening 🎉

After the ride is constructed, tested, and themed, it undergoes a series of testing known as a soft opening. During the soft opening, a limited number of riders are allowed to ride the new attraction to gauge riders’ reactions and address technical issues. Once all the issues are identified and resolved, the ride is ready to be launched officially. The grand opening may include banners, press conferences, events and special offers to celebrate the new addition!

People of all ages, enjoying themselves, screaming and cheering whilst riding their favourite theme park rides.

Conclusion 🎡

And that’s it folks! A behind-the-scenes look into the creation of your favorite theme park rides. It’s a long and detailed process that requires a lot of planning and effort, but it’s all worth it once the new ride is up and running, providing endless thrills for many generations of riders.

A bonanza of happy children running through a theme park, smiling from ear to ear with colourful balloons and lots of cotton candy.