The TRAVELER'S JOURNAL, May twenty-ninth, checking out the new scream parks.

Yesterday marked the opening of the traditional summer season at amusement and theme parks across America. Surveying this year's crop of new attractions, the emphasis seems to be as much dream and scream as theme. Consider these recent west coast additions.

There's California Adventure, which debuted recently adjacent to Disneyland in Anaheim. The 55-acre dreamland is meant to evoke the allure of the Golden State's other major attractions, such as wine country, a beachfront and a replica of the Golden Gate Bridge. One popular ride, "Soaring California," lifts riders high over a 90-foot-wide domed screen depicting the state's many wonders.

Also new is Bonfante Gardens, a nature-loving theme park in Gilroy, CA, 40 miles south of San Jose, with acres of lush gardens and old time rides, such as the "Garlic Twirl." Think spinning teacups.

Coaster fans are flocking to Six Flags Magic Mountain in Valencia, just north of LA. This year they've unveiled three new coasters, bringing the park's total to a world record 15. With a top speed of 10 miles an hour, "Goliath Jr" is for kids. On "Deja Vu," riders sit in ski-liftlike chairs and shoot over a 196-foot vertical tower, then whipped around a 110-foot-tall loop and pretzel. For sheer terror, try the two and a half minute ride simply called, "X." Compressed air accelerates the winglike seats from zero to 80 mile per hour in less than 2 seconds. Like many new breed coasters, the watch word is no longer hold on to your hats. It's hold on to your heads.

These amusements are detailed in this issue of National Geographic Traveler, a supporter of our program. You can register for a free sample copy on our home page.

FMI For information: California Dreamin, www.disney.com
Bonfante Gardens: www.bonfantegardens.com or 408-840-7100

Six Flags Magic Mountain, www.sixflags.com/magicmountain or 661-255-4100.

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