Frills & Chills: A look at what's new at theme parks around the country

NEW YORK — It's a big year for fans of theme parks and roller coasters all over North America.

The long list of new attractions includes the rock 'n' roll-themed Hard Rock Park in Myrtle Beach, S.C.; the Nickelodeon-themed park at Minnesota's Mall of America; Toy Story Mania! at Disney; The Simpsons at Universal; and enough new thrill rides to literally make your head spin.

The coasters include Behemoth, Canada's longest, fastest and tallest coaster, opening at Canada's Wonderland near Toronto; Fahrenheit at Hersheypark in Pennsylvania; and the Dark Knight Coaster at Six Flags in New Jersey and near Chicago, based on the upcoming Batman movie "The Dark Knight." There are also new Tony Hawk-themed rides opening at several Six Flags, a water ride at Dollywood where you shoot giant soakers at other riders and interactive targets, and new children's areas at San Diego's SeaWorld, Cedar Point and other parks.

"There are new thrills and exciting family adventures from coast to coast at America's theme parks this summer," said David Mandt, spokesman for the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions. "Everything from thrilling roller coasters to action-packed dark rides to whimsical children's areas and a number of new water park attractions. There's something for everyone."

Mandt said that most Americans are within a "one-tank drive to a local theme park," making the parks a good family destination even in a slow economy. And while theme-park admission can be pricey for a family of four, Mandt mentioned a couple of ways to save. Tickets bought online are often cheaper than at the gate; parks sometimes offer deals or discount coupons on soda cans, milk cartons or other items; and some employers offer theme-park discounts as a benefit. Also, if you're likely to go a couple of times, "a season pass will typically pay for itself in less than three visits," Mandt said.

Here are some of the new parks and attractions in the U.S. and Canada. Check with parks for specific opening dates.

In California and Florida:

THE SIMPSONS RIDE, Universal Orlando, Orlando, Fla., www.universalorlando.com and at Universal Studios Hollywood, Los Angeles, www.universalstudioshollywood.com. The Simpsons Ride, a simulator ride that's part thrills, part TV show, replaces Back to the Future at Universal in Hollywood and Orlando.