The best theme park attractions use a lot of razzle-dazzle to immerse guests in their alternate universes, but they never forget to effectively tell a story. Engaging your senses, enveloping you, and placing you at the center of the action, a great attraction makes you forget about the technology behind the illusion and transports you to a magical place. The best attraction designers know that parks are all about shared experiences. By taking the themed journeys together, families and friends create treasured memories.
The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man
This incredible -- OK, Amazing -- attraction combines a unique roving motion base simulator technology with a 3-D film experience to totally immerse riders in the world of Spidey and his archenemies. The height of park design and creativity, Spider-Man borders on mind-altering. At Universal Orlando's Islands of Adventure.
The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror
Among the best of the modern-day Disney attractions, TofT combines the thrills of a wild freefall ride with superb storytelling and effects. At Disney-MGM Studios in the Walt Disney World resort.
Pirates of the Caribbean
Many consider this classic Disneyland ride to be the best theme park attraction ever. Walt himself was deeply involved in its creation but died before it opened in 1967. Also at Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom.
Terminator 2: 3-D
This mind-blowing Universal Studios Florida attraction is the best 3-D theater-style film. It is so engaging, many guests refer to it as a ride -- even though they remain seated in a theater.
Indiana Jones Adventure
This Disneyland ride's trackless, computer-controlled vehicles, a breakthrough in attraction design, take guests on a number of different journeys.
Poseidon's Fury
Myths and legends come alive in a fascinating walk-through presentation. The effects are mind-boggling, particulalry the finale (which I wouldn't think of divulging). At Universal Orlando's Islands of Adventure.
Soarin' Over California
This Disney's California Adventure (that's the theme park next to Disneyland) attraction takes motion simulator technology to new heights -- literally.
Men in Black Alien Attack
The latest twist in theme park attractions is to have guests interact with the ride. MIB at Universal Studios Florida is the best of the new shoot-em-up breed.
Haunted Mansion
More rib-tickling than gut-wrenching, this classic Disneyland and Walt Disney World Magic Kingdom attraction is stuffed with gags and effects.
Journey to Atlantis
SeaWorld Orlando entered the high-concept arena of theme park attractions in a big way with this roller coaster/flume ride. Great themeing throughout and a cool ending.
Photo: (C) Arthur Levine 2002, licensed to About.com, Inc.
