I don’t know about you guys, but I have become weary of all these “best of the year” “top ten of the decade” “year in review” lists and I think it’s my job to give you something just a tad more interesting. Well, unless you really dig those top ten lists, because then you’ll most likely be disappointed.

So I’m going to give you my absolute favorite new additions of the year. Favorite ride and show. Perhaps favorite isn’t the best word – most memorable seems to fit the bill a bit better. Keep in mind this is only what I personally experienced, so if you’re upset that Hollywood: Rip Rockit & Ride isn’t up here, well, I am too.

Without any further ado, let’s bang this out! Also, feel free (if not compelled) to do the same in the comments. I will be sure to include the general consensus in the bottom of this post!

Favorite New Ride of 2009: Terminator Salvation: The Ride. Wonderful pacing, incredibly smooth, and with theming that rivals… Well just about anything else that has been done by Six Flags. Terminator is a great attraction that finally brought a truly fun wooden roller coaster to Southern California. Now I don’t have to waste the money on Knott’s to have my back shaken by Ghostrider.

Favorite New Show of 2009: Alright, so I’ll be honest with you guys. I only saw three “new” shows this year. The new fireworks show at Disneyland, the Creature of the Black Lagoon at Universal Studios Hollywood, and a Princess and the Frog Show at Disneyland. Now, of the three, the new fireworks show at Disneyland is the clear winner for me. Partially because it is a great show. And partially because the Princess and the Frog show was rather small and not all that impressive, and the Creature of the Black Lagoon was very mediocre (See my review here: http://www.coasterdom.com/2009/06/30/the-creature-from-the-black-lagoon-a-raging-rocking-show-review/) and is now removed from the park entirely (or that is what it appears).

So, what was your favorite ride and show of 2009? Please post in the comments below!

Thank you for reading, I look forward to entertaining you all (or informing at the very least) over the coming year. I wish you all a happy, and safe new year!

-Jacob Sundstrom