What's new for 2011 at america's theme parks

With average gas prices expected to top $4 a gallon this summer, the scariest thrill ride could be the one that leads to the gas station, where these days, the dollar tally seems to be climbing as high as a monster coaster.

Regardless, the theme park industry is optimistic that its comeback last year after a disappointing 2009 season will continue as the 2011 summer heats up. Here's a geographic breakdown of what's new.

CALIFORNIA

Premiering June 3 at Disneyland Resort in Anaheim is The Little Mermaid ~ Ariel's Undersea Adventure , part of an ambitious, multi-year expansion at Disney California Adventure park. The dark ride spotlights characters from the movie in a simulated underwater journey. 

FLORIDA

Opening this October in Winter Haven, about 40 miles from Walt DisneyWorld, is the all-new Legoland Florida. Targeted at the age 2 to 12 set, this is the largest of the five Legolands to date. Its 10 "lands" will house 50 rides, shows and attractions on the site of Cypress Gardens, the state's first theme park. 

MIDWEST

Bay Beach Amusement Park in Green Bay, Wis., adds the 2,500-foot-long roller coaster "Zippin Pippin" with drops of up to 70 feet at speeds of up to 40 mph. 

NEW ENGLAND

The Wooden Warrior, a 1,200-foot-long wooden roller coaster, debuts at Quassy Amusement Park in Middlebury, Conn. The three-car train reaches a top speed of 35 mph and takes riders down a 40-foot drop. 

Source: USA Today