Utah's newest state park roars to life
Driving the news: Located about 15 miles northwest of Moab, Utahraptor State Park opened last week, featuring a campground, visitor center and mountain biking trails.
The intrigue: The 46th state park is named after one of the state's most famous dinosaurs, the Utahraptor.
The carnivorous dinosaur is known for inspiring the vicious velociraptors seen in "Jurassic Park."
The deadly hunter's fossils have been found in Dalton Wells Quarry and Gaston Quarry in Grand County. Dalton Wells is home to "one of the largest dinosaur bone beds in North America," per Visit Utah.
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Forbes
09-07-2025
- Forbes
Inside Thailand's ‘Jurassic World: Rebirth' Filming Locations And How To Visit Them
The gateway to the eponymous theme park, from the film 'Jurassic Park', 1993. (Photo by Murray ...) 'Jurassic World: Rebirth,' the latest installment in the Jurassic franchise, opened on July 2 and has already grossed more than $318 million worldwide. Its critical reception was stronger than 'Jurassic World: Dominion' in 2022, albeit still lukewarm compared to the audience's reaction, which continues to pack theatres for dinosaur action. Will moviegoers turn into set-jetters, eager to explore the film's exotic backdrops across Thailand that brought the fictional 'Ile Saint-Hubert' to life? Indeed, interest in 'Jurassic World Rebirth' is not stopping at the box office. Google Trends data shows breakout searches for everything from cast details and trailer footage to filming locations. Thailand was already enjoying a pop culture spotlight earlier this year thanks to 'The White Lotus' Season 3, which aired in February and was filmed primarily on Koh Samui. Now, 'Jurassic World: Rebirth' puts another region of Thailand, Krabi, in the spotlight, raising the question of whether the country is on the verge of yet another tourism surge. Tourism Authority of Thailand listed all filming locations including Ban Ba Kan in Northern Ao Luek that provided the terrain for fast-paced jungle chase scenes, or the famous Railay Beach which often featured prominently in aerial shots throughout the film. However, the film's primary locations in Thailand all lie within national parks or protected areas. Visiting them responsibly is essential. Here is where 'Jurassic World: Rebirth' was filmed, and how to visit each site with care for the environment. Khao Phanom Bencha National Park, Krabi Khao Phanom Bencha National Park showcases its beauty during the movie's jungle treks and dense rainforest sequences. Its towering trees, misty peaks, and cascading waterfalls were a natural fit for the film's deep-island terrain, with hiking trails that lead to hidden caves and panoramic viewpoints. The five-tiered, over 260-feet Huai To Falls was the filming location where Dr. Henry Loomis (Jonathan Bailey) falls through the trees and lands in a pool of water. Huay To Waterfall in Khao Phanom Bencha National Park, Krabi. The park is about 12 miles north of Krabi Town, spanning over 50,000 acres. It is the smallest national park in Thailand, yet it is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including white-handed gibbons, stump-tailed macaques, mouse deer, wild boars and over 120 bird species. With only 20,000 annual visitors and minimal infrastructure, Thailand's smallest national park may not be ready for a blockbuster tourism surge. If set-jetters begin arriving in large numbers, the park's fragile ecosystem and limited facilities could face serious strain. In delicate ecosystems like this, responsible travel is not just recommended, but required. Ko Kradan, Hat Chao Mai National Park, Trang Kradan Island (Koh Kradan) is prominently featured during the beach landing scenes and coastal hideouts. Sunset Beach is where Duncan Kincaid's (Mahershala Ali) boat crashed. However, according to an interview with production designer James Clyne by Conde Nast Traveller, most of it is CGI. Travelers eager to visit the beach will not find it exactly as it appears in the film. Aerial view of beautiful sea at Ko Kradan island in Trang province Thailand The island is part of Hat Chao Mai National Park in Trang Province, about a 45-minute boat ride from the mainland. Its white-sand beaches, coral reefs and crystal-clear waters provided the perfect cinematic backdrop for the film's opening moments, as characters arrive on the fictional island's ('Ile Saint-Hubert') shores. But with growing attention comes greater responsibility. The coral ecosystems here are delicate and increasingly vulnerable to warming seas, pollution and tourist activity. Travelers visiting this island should help protect it by choosing reef-safe sunscreen, avoiding contact with corals while swimming or snorkeling and refraining from standing on or collecting marine life. Ko Kradan's natural beauty is already vulnerable, a fact made clear by its annual closure to tourism from August 1 to September 30. The two-month break is part of a conservation effort to allow its ecosystems time to recover and regenerate. Ao Phang Nga National Park, Phang Nga Bay Ao Phang Nga National Park has already appeared in the 1974 James Bond film titled 'The Man with the Golden Gun', and now it adds another Hollywood title to its résumé. Its towering limestone karsts rising from emerald waters were the backdrop of several scenes in 'Jurassic Park:Rebirth'. James Bond island with traditional Thai wooden longtail boat and beautiful sand beach in Phang Nga ... More Bay, Thailand. 'It is already a famous destination as there is lots of boat tours in the bay. However, some parts are more crowded than other. The area around James Bond Island and Koh Panyee tends to be overcrowded but there is still area more preserved around Koh Yao Noi,' advised Elisa Lopez, product manager for Thailand at EXO Travel. The park is also home to Thailand's largest native mangrove forest, a critical ecosystem that supports a wide range of wildlife. The park hosts around 180 bird species, including the rare mangrove pitta and seven types of kingfishers, as well as smooth-coated otters, dusky leaf monkeys and crab-eating macaques. Rare sightings of dugongs and finless porpoises highlight the park's marine importance. The park is easily accessible from both Phuket and Krabi. The main access point, Tha Dan Pier in Phang Nga Town, is roughly 40 miles northeast of Phuket and about 60 miles northwest of Krabi. Klong Root, Krabi Kayaking on Klong Root, Krabi Klong Root offers a quieter moment in the film, capturing scenes of peaceful freshwater canals. It is where the surviving protagonists of the film attempt to evade dinosaurs by walking chest-deep in water in the mangrove forest. Klong Root features jungle-lined streams and crystal-clear waters, making it a popular spot for kayaking and swimming. The village of Nong Thale, where the entrance is located, is about 10 miles from Krabi Town. Jurassic-Themed Tourism Grows Beyond Filming Locations Beyond the filming locations, Bangkok is preparing to take the franchise experience a step further. 'Jurassic World: The Experience,' a sprawling 65,000 sq ft immersive exhibition featuring animatronic dinosaurs, VR-enhanced sets and full-scale recreations of Isla Nublar, is set to open on August 8. The installation marks a strategic move to attract set-jetters, leveraging the global buzz around the film to drive a new wave of movie-inspired tourism. Hotels are also gearing up to welcome set-jetters drawn by 'Jurassic World: Rebirth.' At Banyan Tree Krabi, guests can book a Jurassic-themed experience that includes a half-day longtail boat excursion to Hong Island, a three-hour tour of Klong Root, and a custom guidebook detailing filming locations for those planning to explore the sites independently. Aerial view of Banyan Tree Krabi "It didn't surprise us at all that the film's producers would call on Krabi as the setting for a dinosaur habitat," said Haruethai Maneerat, general manager at Banyan Tree Krabi. "I can't count the number of times I've had guests remark that the landscape is so abundantly natural."
Black America Web
29-06-2025
- Black America Web
Top-Rated Amusement Parks in the U.S.
Top-Rated Amusement Parks in the U.S. Indiana Amusement Park Ranks Among America's Top 10 Best-Rated Looking for the perfect theme park for your next family getaway? A new study by Chicks Gold analyzed visitor reviews to uncover the top-rated amusement parks in America—and Indiana's own Holiday World & Splashin' Safari made the top 10! Using data from Google and Tripadvisor, parks with 10,000+ reviews were ranked based on the percentage of 5-star ratings. Here's the Top-Rated Amusement Parks in the U.S.: Top-Rated Amusement Parks in the U.S. was originally published on 1. Discovery Cove – Orlando, Florida ⭐️ 85.29% of visitors gave it 5 stars Discovery Cove is a one-of-a-kind tropical oasis. Visitors love the all-inclusive experience, where you can swim with dolphins, snorkel with eagle rays, and float through a freshwater oasis. It's quiet, luxurious, and offers a unique escape from the usual park chaos. It's also part of the SeaWorld family. 2. Knoebels Amusement Resort – Elysburg, Pennsylvania ⭐️ 83.30% A family-owned classic, Knoebels is America's largest free-admission amusement park. Known for its nostalgic charm and affordability, it features 60+ rides, including three wooden coasters, a century-old carousel, and free picnic areas. 3. Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster – Pigeon Forge, Tennessee ⭐️ 80.74% This mountain coaster winds through the scenic Smoky Mountains. Riders control their speed, making it fun for thrill-seekers and first-timers. It's also one of the longest downhill tracks in the U.S., with rides lasting up to 8 minutes. 4. Universal Islands of Adventure – Orlando, Florida ⭐️ 80.13% This park is a themed thrill ride paradise, with immersive zones like Marvel Super Hero Island, Jurassic Park, and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. High-speed roller coasters and 3D attractions draw fans of all ages. 5. Disney California Adventure – Anaheim, California ⭐️ 78.99% Located next to Disneyland, this park features lands inspired by California and Disney favorites. Popular areas include Pixar Pier, Avengers Campus, and Cars Land, making it a hit with families and Marvel fans alike. 6. Magic Kingdom – Bay Lake, Florida ⭐️ 77.72% Walt Disney World's iconic park is home to Cinderella Castle, classic rides like Space Mountain and Haunted Mansion, and endless character meet-and-greets. It's the most visited theme park in the world for a reason. 7. Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex – Merritt Island, Florida ⭐️ 77.58% This isn't your average park—space lovers will enjoy rocket exhibits, astronaut meetups, and immersive simulators. Visitors can even witness live launches depending on timing. It's a mix of education and excitement. 8. Disney's Animal Kingdom – Bay Lake, Florida ⭐️76.82% Where else can you go on a safari, ride a banshee in Pandora, and see live animal exhibits all in one park? Animal Kingdom blends wildlife with storytelling in true Disney fashion. 9. Universal Studios Florida – Orlando, Florida ⭐️ 76.51% A working movie studio and theme park, Universal Studios offers blockbuster attractions like the Transformers ride, The Simpsons land, and Diagon Alley from the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. It's fast-paced and full of movie magic. 10. Holiday World & Splashin' Safari – Santa Claus, Indiana ⭐️76.33% This family-owned Indiana gem offers free soft drinks, free sunscreen, and free parking—a rarity in the amusement park world. It's divided into holiday-themed lands and features award-winning wooden coasters and one of the best water parks in the country, including record-breaking water coasters. 11. FULL LIST: TOP 50 Rank Theme Park Location % of 5-Star Reviews 1 Discovery Cove Orlando, FL 85.29% 2 Knoebels Amusement Resort Elysburg, PA 83.30% 3 Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster Pigeon Forge, TN 80.74% 4 Universal Islands of Adventure Orlando, FL 80.13% 5 Disney California Adventure Anaheim, CA 78.99% 6 Magic Kingdom Bay Lake, FL 77.72% 7 Kennedy Space Center Merritt Island, FL 77.58% 8 Disney's Animal Kingdom Bay Lake, FL 76.82% 9 Universal Studios Florida Orlando, FL 76.51% 10 Holiday World & Splashin' Safari Santa Claus, IN 76.33% 11 Epcot Bay Lake, FL 76.23% 12 Disneyland Anaheim, CA 75.86% 13 Breckenridge Ski Resort Breckenridge, CO 75.52% 14 The Island in Pigeon Forge Pigeon Forge, TN 74.26% 15 Cedar Point Sandusky, OH 74.14% 16 Disney's Hollywood Studios Bay Lake, FL 73.94% 17 Universal Studios Hollywood Universal City, CA 73.00% 18 Dollywood Pigeon Forge, TN 72.35% 19 Silver Dollar City Branson, MO 72.18% 20 Knott's Berry Farm Buena Park, CA 72.16% 21 Fun Spot America – Orlando Orlando, FL 72.07% 22 Gatorland Orlando, FL 71.95% 23 Kings Island Kings Mills, OH 71.91% 24 Fun Spot America – Kissimmee Kissimmee, FL 71.80% 25 ICON Park Orlando, FL 70.62% 26 ZooTampa at Lowry Park Tampa, FL 70.28% 27 Silverwood Theme Park Athol, ID 70.00% 28 Six Flags Magic Mountain Valencia, CA 69.54% 29 Wildlife World Litchfield Park, AZ 68.84% 30 Nickelodeon Universe East Rutherford, NJ 68.73% 31 Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Tampa, FL 68.30% 32 Pacific Park Santa Monica, CA 67.76% 33 Nickelodeon Universe Bloomington, MN 67.69% 34 Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Santa Cruz, CA 67.43% 35 SeaWorld Orlando Orlando, FL 67.42% 36 Busch Gardens Williamsburg Williamsburg, VA 67.16% 37 Kemah Boardwalk Kemah, TX 66.87% 38 Hersheypark Hershey, PA 66.74% 39 Morey's Piers Wildwood, NJ 66.72% 40 Carowinds Charlotte, NC 66.34% 41 Canobie Lake Park Salem, NH 66.31% 42 Wild Adventures Valdosta, GA 66.18% 43 Belmont Park San Diego, CA 66.07% 44 Traders Village Grand Prairie, TX 66.01% 45 Old Town Kissimmee, FL 65.57% 46 SeaWorld San Diego San Diego, CA 64.59% 47 Six Flags Great Adventure Jackson, NJ 64.57% 48 Kings Dominion Doswell, VA 64.47% 49 Jenkinson's Boardwalk Point Pleasant Beach, NJ 64.12% 50 Lagoon Farmington, UT 64.10% source
Forbes
26-06-2025
- Forbes
Thailand's New Favorite Getaway: Why Krabi Should Be On Your Radar
Thai traditional wooden longtail boat in Krabi, Thailand. getty Americans know Bangkok and Phuket, but Krabi? This lesser-known destination is located in the heart of southern Thailand, near the western coastline and the Andaman Sea. While it's a favorite spot for Europeans, it's still relatively unknown for Americans. But with the latest Jurassic Park movie, Jurassic World: Rebirth, hitting theaters July 2, that might change. Thailand in general has long since been a favorite vacation destination. 'From January 1 to April 21, 2025, Thailand welcomed over 11.35 million visitors,' says Chompu Marusachot, Director, Tourism Authority of Thailand New York Office. She notes that the high numbers are due to several factors including increased air lift (which includes both increased flight frequencies as well as new routes). Other factors include the Kingdom's commitment toward marriage equality and the connection to the 'Go Thai Be Free' campaign, which supports and informs LGBTQ+ travelers. Another big tourism boost is from exposure from popular films and shows including The White Lotus Season 3 and the latest Jurassic Park movie, Jurassic World: Rebirth. 'We anticipate that the upcoming Jurassic Park film will boost tourism, especially among travelers eager to experience a real-life Jurassic world,' says Marusachot. 'Krabi's dramatic landscapes are featured prominently in the film, including locations like Railay Beach, Phra Nang Cave, Hong Island, and Than Bok Khorani National Park. These sites are not only cinematic backdrops but also fully accessible for visitors who want to follow in the footsteps of the stars.' In terms of the type of traveler Thailand attracts, it is a wide landscape. 'From solo adventurers and cultural enthusiasts to families, honeymooners, and LGBTQ+ travelers, Thailand caters to those seeking authentic experiences,' says Marusachot. 'With a long-standing reputation for inclusivity and hospitality, plus recent milestones, such as the passage of Thailand's marriage equality bill, Thailand is committed to being a safe, welcoming, and enriching destination for all.' In terms of trends, Marusachot notes that more travelers are seeking out ritualistic and spiritual journeys to Thailand, drawn by the desire for deeper, more authentic cultural connections. Discovering Krabi Mangrove forest in Krabi, Thailand. getty 'U.S. travelers may be less familiar with Krabi compared to popular beach destinations like Phuket because there are fewer direct international flights and a less concentrated tourist infrastructure compared to other Thai destinations,' says Marusachot. 'However, Krabi has so much to offer and is only a short flight from Bangkok. The destination is full of natural attractions including hot springs, limestone caves, and scenic hikes. It also has a vibrant nightlife and incredible street food. Krabi also serves as a gateway to over 200 islands and islets, and some of Thailand's most stunning beaches and marine environments.' Island-hopping adventures include sunset dinners, longtail boat rides, kayaking and swimming in bioluminescent waters. People might be surprised to learn that Krabi is a world-class scuba diving destination as well. 'Hin Daeng and Hin Muang are two sites worth visiting to experience drift diving, and undersea walls and caves,' says Marusachot. 'Phi Phi Island also offers dive sites such as Hin Dot and Shark Point, which are renowned among locals for its funny-looking bearded scorpionfish and whale sharks. There are many dive centers in Phi Phi and Lanta.' Where to stay Avani+ Koh Lanta Krabi Resort Avani Two popular hotels in Krabi include Avani+ Koh Lanta Krabi Resort and Avani Ao Nang Cliff Krabi Resort. The Avani+ Koh Lanta Krabi Resort has 91 rooms, suites and villas; a private beach; sunset bar and on-site spa. Meanwhile the Avani Ao Nang Cliff Krabi Resort has 178 rooms, suites and villas; a rooftop bar with ocean views; and a spa and fitness center. At the Koh Lanta property, the pool villas are especially popular because of the private plunge pool, waterfront location and extra space. Piyapong Kunluck, Hotel Manager Avani+ Koh Lanta Krabi Resort thinks the new Jurassic Park movie will bring more Americans to Krabi. 'Everyone loves the Jurassic Park movies—kids, teens, adults—it has such a huge following and audience. People are going to see all the beauty of Krabi in the film and want to explore it.' Kunluck notes that while Krabi attracts visitor year-round, the months of November through March are especially popular. 'The sea is calm, the weather is nice,' he says. 'It's good for scuba diving and snorkeling—the water is so clear, the visibility is incredible.' Avani+ Koh Lanta Krabi Resort offers many adventure activities including kayaking. Avani Kunluck notes that the property currently gets a lot of visitors from Scandinavia, the UK and Germany. American travelers are slowly increasing as the word gets out that Krabi is the place to go for active adventure and nature. 'We have hot springs, kayaking, hiking, snorkeling, diving,' says Kunluck. 'There's plenty to do.' To tap into the anticipated boom from the movie, the property is offering a four night Jurassic Paradise package for a family of four. The package includes two-nights at Avani Ao Nang and two-nights at Avani+ Koh Lanta. It also includes themed Jurassic-era dining at Avani Ao Nang and adventure excursions including kayaking through mangroves and hiking. Travelers get a choice of Lava Stone Renewal or Age of Rebirth spa treatment for two guests and Jurassic-inspired cocktails & mocktails at both resorts. Complimentary transfers between resorts and late check-out is included.
