Utah theme park Lagoon is earning national acclaim with its new family-friendly thrill ride, Primordial. The ride has been named 2024’s best new theme park attraction by USA Today’s panel of experts, surpassing offerings from industry giants like SeaWorld and Hersheypark. Primordial, a whimsically themed roller coaster, is a state-of-the-art 3-D interactive coaster designed exclusively for Lagoon. With a unique design and local vendors and manufacturers involved in its construction, Primordial represents a quintessential roller coaster experience in Utah.
Measuring 80,000 square feet, Primordial’s roller coaster is housed within a mountain, creating an extraordinary backdrop for riders. The ride encompasses various elements that set it apart from traditional roller coasters, such as a 31-foot-tall vertical drop track element. Additionally, Primordial offers interactive gaming elements, multiple narrative and track endings, and a fantasy theme, ensuring a distinctive experience for visitors.
Julie Freed, director of special events at Lagoon amusement park, expressed her excitement about the ride’s interactive nature. She emphasized that every ride on Primordial is different, making each experience thrilling. Riders also have the opportunity to compete against others in their vehicle, adding an element of competition to the ride. Freed, who thoroughly enjoyed the gaming element, described Primordial as an immersive roller coaster experience for the whole family.
Primordial aims to cater to both young roller coaster enthusiasts and thrill-seekers. With a minimum height requirement of 36 inches and a top speed of 40 mph, the ride enables parents to enjoy the adventure alongside their children. It offers a unique narrative experience, emphasizing the concept of saving the good guy. The ride’s extended run time of five minutes allows for in-depth gameplay and storytelling.
Derek Perry, director of communications for the American Coaster Enthusiasts club, shared his positive impressions of Primordial. He praised the ride’s elements, theming, and interactive features, stating that it exceeded expectations. Perry commended Lagoon for creating an attraction suitable for all visitors, regardless of their level of interest in roller coasters.
With over 5,000 square feet of screens and built-in custom-made laser pointers, Primordial provides an interactive experience like no other. Riders can engage in games and actively participate in the attractions along the way. The ride’s multiple possible endings, achieved through switching tracks and various narrative elements, enhance the sense of adventure.
Excitement surrounding Primordial has been building ever since its opening in September 2023. Its recognition as the best new theme park attraction for 2024 further solidifies Lagoon’s reputation as a destination for thrilling and innovative experiences. As the ride gears up for its first full season of operation in March, visitors can look forward to a truly immersive and unforgettable adventure.
In summary, Lagoon’s Primordial ride has garnered national acclaim as the best new theme park attraction for 2024. With its unique interactive elements and captivating theming, the roller coaster offers an extraordinary experience for riders of all ages. Lagoon’s commitment to local vendors and manufacturers contributes to the ride’s appeal as a representation of Utah’s roller coaster culture. As Primordial prepares for its highly anticipated first full season, visitors can anticipate a state-of-the-art, action-packed adventure that pushes the boundaries of traditional roller coasters.
