Global Creator of Dark Rides Celebrates Early Honors for Two Rides that Debuted This year in Europe and the United States

Sally Dark Rides, the globally recognized leader in creating family dark rides and attractions, is proud to announce that two of its newest dark ride experiences have been named as finalists in the annual IAAPA 2023 Brass Ring Exhibitor Awards program. The pair of dark ride attractions exemplify the ingenuity, creativity, and partnership approach Sally brings to new each project and installation.

Sally is a finalist in the following two categories:    

UNCHARTED: The Enigma of Penitence – IAAPA  2023 IAAPA Brass Ring Exhibitors Award: Best New Product > Category 1: Major Ride/Attraction > Class A – Product cost of more than US$3 million

Treasure Hunt: The Ride - IAAPA 2023 IAAPA Brass Ring Exhibitors Award: Best New Product > Category 2: Family Ride/Attraction

Sally Dark Rides has been installing all-new rides throughout 2023. With three exclusive, innovative and unique new dark ride attractions opening this year, and a fourth well under way, the company continues to deliver outstanding ride experiences for clients around the world.

Located at PortAventura World in Spain, “Uncharted: The Enigma of Penitence,” is the first-ever dark coaster ride experience for Sally. By partnering with global roller coaster manufacturer, Intamin Amusement Rides, Sally combined dark ride storytelling with coaster thrills. Complete with an interactive puzzle-solving queue and Sally’s technologically advanced animatronics throughout, Uncharted is the latest example of the company’s ability to bring globally recognized intellectual properties to life. Since opening in June, Uncharted has earned accolades from industry insiders and park fans alike. In September, Uncharted earned its first European Star Award as one of the Best New Roller Coasters in 2023. More recently, it has also earned the award for European Top New Attraction by Italian-based fan site, ParksMania.  

Treasure Hunt: The Ride is the result of Sally’s first-ever partnership with co-designer and co-creator Daniels Wood Land.  A stand-alone attraction, Treasure Hunt is the only theme park ride located on California’s historic Cannery Row. First announced at IAAPA Expo 2021, Treasure Hunt opened in July. Through dedicated artisanship, storytelling, and craftsmanship, the ride weaves an original tale about pirates and the search for lost treasure. Blending pirate lore with imagination, Treasure Hunt’s use of multimedia gameplay, seamless scene transition, and many interactive scenic elements surprise and delight guests of all ages.

“We’ve had a busy and exciting year,” shared John Wood, president, Sally Dark Rides, “To share the honor as a finalist for Best New Ride Concept finalist alongside so many other incredible rides means a great deal to our entire team. Treasure Hunt: The Ride and Uncharted: The Enigma of Penitence are vastly different dark rides, yet they are united by the creativity, originality and attention to detail Sally brings to each project and client.”

Sally Dark Rides is exhibiting at IAAPA Expo 2023 in Booth 2267. IAAPA Brass Ring Award winners will be selected and presented during IAAPA Expo 2023 on Tuesday, Nov. 14.