As the economy continues to struggle, some of the top area theme parks are opening new, exciting, thrill rides to compete for the tourist dollar.  Two new rides have been planned for Universal parks and Sea World just opened on of the more unique coasters in the United States.

The new Manta ride at Sea World opened in May of 2009.  It reaches a speed of 60 mph, as you fly around face down in a horizontal position on the belly of a manta ray. The wing span of the manta ray ride is twelve feet long and sometimes skims the water when you are on the ride.

The wait line for the ride winds through the big aquarium tanks that wrap around a full 360 degrees. There are over 3,000 types of sea animals to view including a real manta ray.

Universal Studios is planning a unique thrill ride of its own: The Rip-Ride Rocket.

Universal spokesman Tom Schroder said, "Hollywood Rip-Ride Rocket is the most sophisticated roller coaster ever created. So we’re working on making it an amazing experience.” 

Riders choose the song to listen to while on the ride, and there are more than 3,800 songs to choose from. Universal claims it as the most technologically advanced roller coaster in the world. You can also edit your adventure into a music video then buy a copy to send to friends or take home.  The ride also drops seventeen stories above Universal Studios!

The new Harry Potter Park is set to open in spring 2010. Located at Universal Studios Island of Adventure, the park will have places like Flight of Hippogriff, Hogsmeade, Zonko’s, Honeydokes, Three Broomsticks, Owlery, Ollivanders, Dervish, and Bangs.  The park is estimated to cost $265 million dollars to create.

Regular Universal passes will be able to be used to get into the Harry Potter Park. Ticket prices are $79 for one-day if purchased at the gate, and $99 for a two-day Universal pass.