Water amusement system and method

• US 20030190967A1
• Filed: 03/28/2003
• Published: 10/09/2003
• Est. Priority Date: 07/24/1998
• Status: Active Grant

• Current Assignee: Water Ride Concepts Incorporated
• Original Assignee: NBGS International Incorporated
• Inventors: Henry, Jeffery Wayne
• Granted Patent: US 7,004,847 B2
• Time in Patent Office: Days
• US Class Current: 472/128
• CPC Class Codes: A63B 2009/008 with water spraying means
• CPC Class Codes: A63B 2208/12 specially adapted for children
• CPC Class Codes: A63G 1/12 rotated by the passengers themselves
• CPC Class Codes: A63G 21/18 Water-chutes
• CPC Class Codes: A63G 25/00 Autocar-like self-drivers; Runways therefor
• CPC Class Codes: A63G 27/00 Russian swings; Great wheels, e.g. Ferris wheels
• CPC Class Codes: A63G 3/00 Water roundabouts, e.g. freely floating
• CPC Class Codes: A63G 31/007 involving water

Abstract

A water amusement system is described which includes a number of different water park rides. The water amusement system may include a water fountain system. The water fountain system includes a roof configured to turn in response to directing a stream of water at the roof. The water amusement system may include a water carousel. The water carousel is a carousel which is configured to float on a body of water. The water amusement system may include a musical fountain system. The musical fountain system is configured to spray water, play music and/or provide visual effects. The water amusement system may include a water powered Ferris wheel. The water amusement system may include a water powered bumper vehicle system. The water powered bumper vehicle system is configured such that the vehicles are preferably propelled by streams of water produced by water nozzles arranged about the water bumper vehicle system. The water system may include a boat ride system. The boat ride system includes a number of boats which are preferably towed by a rotatable base. The boats may also include steering devices and participant interaction devices. The water amusement system may also include a water train system. The water train system is a train system which is propelled by a water propulsion device.

Claims

1. A water fountain system, comprising:

a roof comprising a friction surface;

a support member configured to be coupled to the roof to support the roof such that the roof is capable of rotating during use;

at least one conduit configured to be positioned to direct water toward the friction surface to cause the roof to rotate during use; and

a water supply system configured to supply water to the conduit during use.

2. The water fountain system of claim 1, further comprising a nozzle connected to the conduit.

3. The water fountain system of claim 2, wherein the nozzle is directionally adjustable during use.

4. The water fountain system of claim 1, wherein the support member comprises a bearing for allowing the roof to rotate during use, and wherein the roof comprises a bottom surface and a lip extending from the bottom surface, the lip being coupled to the bearing.

5. The water fountain system of claim 1, wherein the support member comprises a bushing for allowing the roof to rotate during use, and wherein the roof comprises a bottom surface and a lip extending from the bottom surface, the lip being coupled to the bushing.

6. The water fountain system of claim 1, wherein the conduit is mounted to an exterior surface of the support member.

7. The water fountain system of claim 1, wherein the conduit is disposed within the support member.

8. The water fountain system of claim 1, further comprising a lighting system for displaying lights, and further comprising a control system for operating the lighting system during use.

9. The water fountain system of claim 1, further comprising a sound system for creating musical sounds, and further comprising a control system for operating the sound system during use.

10. The water fountain system of claim 1, wherein the roof has a shape that resembles a figure selected from the group consisting of a square, a circle, a triangle, a cone, a sphere, an umbrella, a pyramid, an animal, an insect, a plant, a dinosaur, a space ship, an inner tube, a boat, an auto, and an airplane.

11. The water fountain system of claim 1, wherein the friction surface comprises a plurality of protrusions extending radially from a central portion of the roof, the protrusions comprising a curved portion for receiving the water directed from the conduit during use.

12. The water fountain system of claim 1, wherein the friction surface is located on an upper surface of the roof.

13. The water fountain system of claim 1, wherein the friction surface is located on a lower surface of the roof.

14. The water fountain system of claim 1, wherein the roof comprises an upper surface and a lower surface, and wherein the friction surface is located on both the upper surface and the lower surface.

15. The water fountain system of claim 1, wherein the water supply system comprises a valve and a reservoir, the valve being positioned along the conduit between the reservoir and an outlet of the conduit, wherein the valve is configured to interrupt a flow of water from the reservoir through the conduit during use.

16. The water fountain system of claim 15, wherein the valve is located proximate ground level such that the valve is operable by a participant located at the ground level during use.

17. The water fountain system of claim 16, wherein the valve comprises an activation device coupled to the valve, wherein the valve is configured to be operable by the interaction of a participant with the activation device during use.

18. The water fountain system of claim 15, wherein the water supply system further comprises a pump for forcing water from the reservoir to the conduit during use.

19. The water fountain system of claim 15, wherein the support member is positioned within the reservoir.

20. The water fountain system of claim 15, further comprising a lighting system for displaying lights, and further comprising a control system for operating the lighting system, the control system being coupled to the valve and configured to activate the lighting system when the valve is operated during use.

21. The water fountain system of claim 15, further comprising a sound system for creating musical sounds, and further comprising a control system for operating the sound system, the control system being coupled to the valve and configured to activate the sound system when the valve is operated during use.

22. The water fountain system of claim 1, further comprising a first conduit and a second conduit, both the first conduit and the second conduit being configured to direct water toward the roof during use.

23. The water fountain system of claim 22, wherein the first conduit is configured to direct water toward the friction surface to cause rotation of the roof in a first direction during use, and wherein the second conduit is configured to direct water toward the friction surface to cause rotation of the roof in a second direction during use, the second direction being opposite to the first direction.

24. The water fountain system of claim 22, wherein the friction surface is located on an upper surface of the roof, and wherein the first conduit and the second conduit are located above the roof to direct water towards the friction surface.

25. The water fountain system of claim 22, wherein the friction surface is located on a lower surface of the roof, and wherein the first conduit and the second conduit are located below the roof to direct water towards the friction surface.

26. The water fountain system of claim 22, wherein the friction surface is located on an upper surface and a lower surface of the roof, and wherein the first conduit is located below the roof, and wherein the second conduit is located above the roof.

27. The water fountain system of claim 22, wherein the water supply system comprises a valve, and wherein the valve is a diverter valve configured to divert water to one of the conduits while inhibiting water from passing to the other conduit during use.

28. The water fountain system of claim 27, wherein the valve comprises an activation device coupled to the valve, and wherein the valve is configured to be operable by the interaction of a participant with the activation device such that the participant can activate the valve to divert water from on of the conduits to the other conduit during use.

29. The water fountain system of claim 1, wherein the support member is configured to be the conduit.

30. The water fountain system of claim 1, further comprising a second rotatable roof comprising a second friction surface, the second rotatable roof being located at a different elevation than the other rotatable roof.

31. The water fountain system of claim 30, wherein the conduit is configured to direct water at the second friction surface of the second rotatable roof during use.

32. The water fountain system of claim 30, further comprising a second conduit wherein the second conduit is configured to direct water toward the second roof during use.

33. The water fountain system of claim 1, wherein the roof is configured such that the water falls from the roof into a reservoir during use.

34. A water fountain system, comprising:

a roof comprising a friction surface;

a support member configured to be coupled to the roof to support the roof such that the roof is capable of rotating during use;

a first conduit configured to be positioned to direct water toward the friction surface to cause the roof to rotate in a first direction during use;

a second conduit configured to be positioned to direct water toward the friction surface to cause the roof to rotate in a second direction during use; and

a water supply system configured to supply water to the first and second conduits during use, wherein the water supply system comprises a valve and a reservoir, the valve being positioned between the reservoir and the first and second conduits, wherein the valve is configured to interrupt a flow of water from the reservoir through the first conduit and the second conduit during use.

35. The water fountain system of claim 34, wherein the valve comprises an activation device coupled to the valve, wherein the valve is configured to be operable by the interaction of a participant with the activation device during use.

36. The water fountain system of claim 34, wherein the water supply system further comprises a pump for forcing water from the reservoir to the first conduit and the second conduit during use.

37. The water fountain system of claim 34, wherein the first conduit is configured to direct water toward the friction surface to cause rotation of the roof in a first direction during use, and wherein the second conduit is configured to direct water toward the friction surface to cause rotation of the roof in a second direction during use, the second direction being opposite to the first direction.

38. The water fountain system of claim 34, wherein the friction surface is located on an upper surface of the roof, and wherein the first conduit and the second conduit are located above the roof to direct water towards the friction surface during use.

39. The water fountain system of claim 34, wherein the friction surface is located on a lower surface of the roof, and wherein the first conduit and the second conduit are located below the roof to direct water towards the friction surface during use.

40. The water fountain system of claim 34, wherein the friction surface is located on an upper surface and a lower surface of the roof, and wherein the first conduit is located below the roof, and wherein the second conduit is located above the roof.

41. The water fountain system of claim 34, wherein the valve is a diverter valve configured to divert water to the one of the conduits while inhibiting water from passing to the other conduit during use.

42. The water fountain system of claim 34, wherein the valve comprises an activation device coupled to the valve, and wherein the valve is configured to be operable by the interaction of a participant with the activation device such that the participant can activate the valve to divert water from one of the conduits to the other conduit during use.

43. A water fountain system, comprising:

a first roof comprising a first friction surface;

a second roof comprising a second friction surface;

a support member configured to be coupled to the first roof to support the first roof such that the first roof is capable of rotating during use, and wherein the support member is configured to be coupled to the second roof to support the second roof such that the second roof is capable of rotating during use;

at least one conduit configured to be positioned to direct water toward the first friction surface to cause the first roof to rotate during use; and

wherein the conduit is configured to direct water toward the second friction surface to cause the second roof to rotate during use; and

a water supply system configured to supply water to the conduit during use.

44. The water fountain system of claim 43, wherein the water supply system comprises a valve and a reservoir, the valve being positioned along the conduit, between the reservoir and an outlet of the conduit, wherein the valve is configured to interrupt a flow of water from the reservoir through the conduit during use.

45. The water fountain system of claim 43, further comprising a first conduit and a second conduit, the first conduit being configured to direct water toward the first frictional surface during use, the second conduit being configured to direct water toward the second frictional surface during use.

46. The water fountain system of claim 43, wherein the second rotatable roof is positioned at a different elevation than the first rotatable roof.

47. The water fountain system of claim 43, further comprising a first conduit, a second conduit, a third conduit and a fourth conduit, the first conduit and the second conduit being configured to direct water toward the first frictional surface during use, the third conduit and the fourth conduit being configured to direct water toward the second frictional surface during use.

48. The water fountain system of claim 47, wherein the first conduit and the second conduit are configured to direct water toward the first roof such that the first roof rotates in opposite directions during use, and wherein the third conduit and the fourth conduit are configured to direct water toward the second roof such that the second roof rotates in opposite directions during use.

49. A water fountain system, comprising:

a roof comprising a friction surface;

a support member configured to be coupled to the roof to support the roof such that the roof is capable of rotating during use;

a first conduit configured to be positioned to direct water toward the friction surface to cause the roof to rotate in a first direction during use, wherein a first nozzle is connected to the first conduit;

a second conduit configured to be positioned to direct water toward the friction surface to cause the roof to rotate in a direction opposite to the first direction during use, wherein a second nozzle is connected to the second conduit; and

a water supply system configured to supply water to the first and second conduits during use, comprising;

a reservoir;

a valve, the valve being positioned between the reservoir and the first conduit and the second conduit, wherein the valve is configured to interrupt a flow of water from the reservoir through the first conduit and the second conduit during use; and

wherein the valve comprises an activation device coupled to the valve, and wherein the valve is configured to be operable by the interaction of a participant with the activation device such that the participant can activate the valve to divert water from one of the conduits to the other conduit during use.

a pump, the pump for forcing water from the reservoir to the valve during use.

50. A method for operating a water fountain system, comprising adjusting a valve to supply water into a conduit, the conduit being positioned to direct the water against a friction surface of a rotatable roof, wherein directing water against the frictional surface of the roof causes the roof to rotate.

51. The method of claim 50, wherein the valve comprises an activation device coupled to the valve, and wherein interaction of a participant with the activation device causes adjustment of the valve.

52. The method of claim 50, wherein the valve is adjusted from a location proximate ground level.

53. The method of claim 50, wherein adjusting the valve comprises operating a control system from a location proximate ground level, the control system communicating with the valve.

54. The method of claim 50, further comprising activating a lighting system to display lights proximate the roof, the lighting system being automatically activated in response to the valve being adjusted.

55. The method of claim 50, further comprising activating a sound system to produce sounds proximate the roof, the sound system being automatically activated in response to the valve being adjusted.

56. The method of claim 50, further comprising activating a sound system to produce sounds proximate the roof, and further comprising activating a light system to display lights proximate the roof, the sound system and the light system being automatically activated in response to the valve being adjusted.

57. The method of claim 50, wherein the valve comprises a handle, and wherein adjusting the valve comprises manually adjusting the handle.

58. The method of claim 50, further comprising pumping the water from a water source to the valve.

59. The method of claim 50, wherein the water fountain system further comprises a first conduit and a second conduit, and wherein the valve is a diverter valve, the diverter valve being connected to the first conduit and the second conduit, and wherein adjusting the valve causes water to pass into the first conduit while inhibiting water from entering the second conduit.

60. The method of claim 59, further comprising readjusting the valve such that the valve causes water to pass into the second conduit while inhibiting water from entering the first conduit.

61. The method of claim 60, wherein adjusting the valve causes water to pass through the first conduit to hit the roof such that the roof rotates in a first direction, and wherein readjusting the valve causes water to pass through the second conduit to hit the roof such that the roof rotates in a direction opposite to the first direction.

62. The method of claim 50, wherein the conduit comprises a first nozzle for directing the water, and further comprising directionally adjusting the nozzles.

63. A method of constructing a water fountain system, comprising:

forming a friction surface on a roof;

coupling a roof to a support member such that the roof is capable of rotating about the support member;

positioning at least one conduit proximate the roof such that the conduit is capable of directing water toward the friction surface to cause the roof to rotate; and

coupling the conduit to a water supply system, the water supply system being configured to supply water to the conduit.

64. The method of claim 63, further comprising connecting a directionally adjustable nozzle to the conduit.

65. The method of claim 63, wherein the support member comprises a bearing for allowing the roof to rotate, and wherein the roof comprises a bottom surface and a lip extending from the bottom surface, and wherein coupling the roof to the support member comprises coupling the lip to the bearing.

66. The method of claim 63, wherein the support member comprises a bushing for allowing the roof to rotate, and wherein the roof comprises a bottom surface and a lip extending from the bottom surface, and wherein coupling the roof to the support member comprises coupling the lip to the bushing.

67. The method of claim 63, wherein positioning the conduit comprises mounting the conduit to an exterior surface of the support member.

68. The method of claim 63, wherein positioning the conduit comprises mounting the conduit within the support member.

69. The method of claim 63, further comprising coupling a lighting system to the water fountain system.

70. The method of claim 63, further comprising coupling a sound system to the water fountain system.

71. The method of claim 63, wherein the friction surface is formed on an upper surface of the roof.

72. The method of claim 63, wherein the friction surface is formed on a lower surface of the roof.

73. The method of claim 63, wherein the roof comprises an upper surface and a lower surface, and wherein the friction surface is formed on both the upper surface and the lower surface.

74. The method of claim 63, wherein the water supply system comprises a valve and a reservoir, and wherein coupling the conduit to the water system comprises coupling the conduit to the valve, the valve being positioned along the conduit between the reservoir and an outlet of the conduit, wherein the valve is configured to interrupt a flow of water from the reservoir to the conduit.

75. The method of claim 74, further comprising coupling an activation device to the valve, wherein the valve is configured to be operable by the interaction of a participant with the activation device.

76. The method of claim 74, wherein coupling the conduit to the water supply system further comprises coupling the valve to a pump, the pump configured to force water from the reservoir to the valve.

77. The method of claim 63, further comprising positioning a first conduit and a second conduit proximate the roof, both the first conduit and the second conduit being configured to direct water toward the roof.

78. The method of claim 77, wherein the first conduit is positioned to direct water toward the friction surface to cause rotation of the roof in a first direction, and wherein the second conduit is positioned to direct water toward the friction surface to cause rotation of the roof in a second direction, the second direction being opposite to the first direction.

79. The method of claim 63, further comprising coupling a second rotatable roof comprising a second friction surface to the support member, the second rotatable roof being located at a different elevation than the other rotatable roof.

80. The method of claim 79, further comprising positioning a first conduit and a second conduit proximate the first roof, and further comprising positioning a third conduit and a fourth conduit proximate the second roof, wherein the first conduit and the second conduit being positioned to direct water toward the first frictional surface, and wherein the third conduit and the fourth conduit being positioned to direct water toward the second frictional surface.

81. The method of claim 80, wherein the first conduit and the second conduit are positioned to direct water toward the first roof such that the first roof rotates in opposite directions during use, and wherein the third conduit and the fourth conduit are positioned to direct water toward the second roof such that the second roof rotates in opposite directions during use.

82. A water carousel system, comprising:

a support member anchored to ground;

a support platform for holding a participant, the support platform being configured to float on water during use, wherein a rotatable portion of the support platform is configured to rotate about the support member during use;

a propulsion device coupled to the rotatable portion of the support platform, wherein the propulsion device is configured to impart a propulsive force to the rotatable portion of the support platform during use;

wherein powering of the propulsion device applies a propulsive force to the rotatable portion of the support platform during use, and wherein the rotatable portion of the support platform is configured to rotate in response to the propulsive force.

83. The water carousel system of claim 82, further comprising a roof, wherein the support member is configured to support the roof, and wherein the roof is configured to rotate independently of the rotatable portion during use.

84. The water carousel system of claim 83, further comprising a conduit positionable to direct water toward the roof to cause the roof to rotate during use.

85. The water carousel system of claim 82, further comprising a sound system for producing sounds during use, and wherein at least one feature of the sounds is varied as a function of the speed at which the rotatable portion is rotated during use.

86. The water carousel system of claim 85, wherein the feature of the sound comprises volume, rate, or pitch.

87. The water carousel system of claim 82, further comprising a sound system for producing sounds during use, wherein the sound system comprises a mechanical sound device.

88. The water carousel system of claim 82, further comprising a sound system for producing sounds during use, wherein the sound system comprises an electronic sound device.

89. The water carousel system of claim 82, further comprising a light system for producing lights during use, and wherein at least one feature of the lights is varied as a function of the speed at which the rotatable portion is rotated during use.

90. The water carousel system of claim 82, wherein the feature of the lights comprises intensity or patterns.

91. The water carousel system of claim 82, further comprising a sound system for producing sounds and a light system for activating lights during use, and wherein at least one feature of the sound system and at least one feature of the light system is varied as a function of the speed at which the rotatable portion is rotated during use.

92. The water carousel system of claim 82, further comprising:

a shaft coupled to the propulsion device; and

a participant power mechanism, coupled to the shaft, for driving the shaft during use, wherein driving the shaft powers the propulsion device.

93. The water carousel system of claim 92, wherein the participant power mechanism is a pedal system.

94. The water carousel system of claim 92, wherein the participant power mechanism is an arm activated device.

95. The water carousel system of claim 92, further comprising a gear system coupling the participant power mechanism to the shaft.

96. The water carousel system of claim 92, wherein the rotatable portion of the support platform is configured to rotate at a speed as a function of the power imparted to the participant power mechanism during use.

97. The water carousel system of claim 92, further comprising additional participant power mechanisms and additional shafts for use by additional participants.

98. The water carousel system of claim 82, further comprising a motor coupled to the propulsion device, wherein the motor is configured to power the propulsion device during use.

99. The water carousel system of claim 82, wherein the participant remains substantially dry during use.

100. The water carousel system of claim 82, wherein the participant becomes substantially wet during use.

101. The water carousel system of claim 82, further comprising a bubble generator for generating bubbles during use, and wherein at least one feature of the bubbles is varied as a function of the speed at which the rotatable portion is rotated during use.

102. The water carousel system of claim 82, further comprising a smoke generator for generating smoke during use, and wherein a feature of the smoke is varied as a function of the speed at which the rotatable portion is rotated during use.

103. The water carousel system of claim 82, further comprising a bearing coupled to the rotatable portion for allowing the rotatable portion to rotate about the support member during use.

104. The water carousel system of claim 82, further comprising a bushing coupled to the rotatable portion for allowing the rotatable portion to rotate about the support member.

105. The water carousel system of claim 82, further comprising a lighting system configured to display lights during use, a sound system configured to produce sounds during use, and a control system configured to be coupled to the lighting system and the sound system to automatically activate the lighting system and the sound system in response to a speed of rotation of the rotatable portion during use.

106. The water carousel system of claim 82, wherein the propulsion device is a water propulsion device.

107. The water carousel system of claim 82, wherein the propulsion device comprises a paddle, propeller, or paddle wheel.

108. The water carousel system of claim 82, wherein the propulsion device is a wheel, and wherein a non-rotatable portion of the platform comprises a substantially circular track, the track being configured to guide the wheel during use.

109. A water carousel system, comprising:

a support member anchored to the ground;

a support platform for holding a participant, the support platform being configured to float on water during use, the support platform comprising a non-rotatable portion and a rotatable portion, the rotatable portion being positioned above the non-rotatable portion, wherein the rotatable portion is configured to rotate with respect to the support member during use;

a propulsion device coupled to the rotatable portion, wherein the propulsion device is configured to impart a propulsive force to the rotatable portion during use;

a shaft coupled to the propulsion device; and

a participant power mechanism, coupled to the shaft, for driving the shaft during use, the participant power mechanism being operable by the participant during use;

wherein driving of the shaft powers the propulsion device such that the propulsion device applies the propulsive force to the rotatable portion during use, and wherein the rotatable portion is configured to rotate in response to the propulsive force.

110. The water carousel system of claim 109, wherein the propulsion device is a wheel, and wherein the non-rotatable portion comprises a substantially circular track, the track being configured to guide the wheel during use.

111. The water carousel system of claim 109, further comprising a gear system coupling the participant power mechanism to the shaft, wherein the gear system is configured to allow the shaft to continue rotating in the absence of power from the participant.

112. The water carousel system of claim 109, wherein the participant power mechanism is coupled to the rotatable portion such that powering the participant power mechanism causes rotation of the rotatable portion during use, and wherein the rotatable portion is configured to rotate at a speed as a function of the power imparted to the participant power mechanism.

113. The water carousel system of claim 109, further comprising a lighting system configured to display lights during use, a sound system configured to produce sounds during use, and a control system configured to be coupled to the lighting system and the sound system to automatically activate the lighting system and the sound system in response to a speed of rotation of the rotatable portion during use.

114. A water carousel system, comprising:

a first support member anchored to ground;

a second support member configured to float on water during use;

the second support member being further configured to rotate about the first support member during use;

a propulsion device coupled to the first support member, wherein the propulsion device is configured to impart a propulsive force to the rotatable portion during use;

a shaft coupled to the propulsion device;

a participant power mechanism, coupled to the shaft, for driving the shaft during use, the participant power mechanism being operable by at least one participant during use;

a seating device configured to be located on the rotatable portion to hold the participant during use, and wherein the seating device is positioned proximate the participant power mechanism to facilitate operation of the participant power mechanism by the participant during use;

a lighting system configured to display lights during use;

a sound system configured to produce sounds during use; and

a control system configured to be coupled to the lighting system and the sound system to automatically activate the lighting system and the sound system in response to a speed of rotation of the rotatable portion during use;

wherein driving of the shaft powers the propulsion device such that the propulsion device applies a propulsive force to the rotatable portion during use, and wherein the rotatable portion is configured to rotate in response to the propulsive force.

115. A method for operating a water carousel, comprising:

placing a water carousel on top of water, the water carousel comprising;

a support member anchored to ground;

a support platform for holding a participant, the support platform being configured to float on the water, wherein a rotatable portion of the support platform is configured to rotate about the support member;

a propulsion device coupled to the rotatable portion of the support platform, wherein the propulsion device is configured to impart a propulsive force to the rotatable portion of the support platform;

a shaft coupled to the propulsion device; and

a participant power mechanism, coupled to the shaft, for driving the shaft, the participant power mechanism being operable by a participant during use;

operating the participant power mechanism to drive the shaft, thereby rotating the propulsion device to rotate the rotatable portion.

116. The method of claim 115, wherein the water carousel further comprises a roof, wherein the support member supports the roof, and further comprising directing water onto the roof to make the roof rotate independently of the rotatable portion.

117. The method of claim 115, wherein the water carousel further comprises a sound system for producing sounds, and further comprising producing sounds as the rotatable portion is rotated, and further comprising varying at least one feature of the sounds as a function of the speed at which the rotatable portion is rotated during use.

118. The method of claim 115, wherein the water carousel further comprises a light system for producing lights, and further comprising producing lights as the rotatable portion is rotated, and further comprising varying at least one feature of the lights as a function of the speed at which the rotatable portion is rotated.

119. The method of claim 115, wherein the water carousel further comprises a sound system for producing sounds and a light system for producing lights, and further comprising producing lights and sounds as the rotatable portion is rotated, and further comprising varying at least one feature of the sound system and the light system as a function of the speed at which the rotatable portion is rotated.

120. The method of claim 115, wherein the participant power mechanism is a pedal, and wherein operating the participant power mechanism comprises rotating the pedal with a foot of the participant.

121. The method of claim 115, wherein the participant power mechanism is an arm activated device, and wherein operating the participant power mechanism comprises rotating the arm activated device with a hand of the participant.

122. The method of claim 115, wherein operating the participant power mechanism causes the rotatable portion to rotate at a speed as a function of the power imparted to the participant power mechanism.

123. The method of claim 115, wherein the water carousel further comprises a bubble generator for generating bubbles, and further comprising producing bubbles when the rotatable portion is rotated, and further comprising varying at least one feature of the bubbles as a function of the speed at which the rotatable portion is rotated.

124. The method of claim 115, wherein the water carousel further comprises a smoke generator for generating smoke, and further comprising producing smoke when the rotatable platform is rotated, and further comprising varying a feature of the smoke as a function of the speed at which the rotatable portion is rotated during use.

125. The method of claim 115, wherein the water carousel further comprises a seating device positioned on the rotatable portion to hold the participant, and further comprising positioning the participant on the seating device.

126. The method of claim 115, wherein the water carousel further comprises additional participant power mechanisms for use by additional participants and a sound system for producing sounds, and further comprising cooperatively operating the participant power mechanisms to produce a sound having features which match a predetermined set of features.

127. A method for constructing a water carousel system, comprising:

anchoring a support member to ground;

coupling a support platform to the support member, the support platform configured for holding a participant, the support platform being further configured to float on water during use, wherein a rotatable portion of the support platform is configured to rotate about the support member during use; and

coupling a propulsion device to the rotatable portion of the support platform such that the propulsion device is configured to impart a propulsive force to the rotatable portion of the support platform.

128. The method of claim 127, further comprising coupling a roof to the support member, wherein the roof is configured to rotate independently of the rotatable portion.

129. The method of claim 127, further comprising coupling a conduit to the support member such that the conduit is positioned to direct water toward the roof to cause the roof to rotate.

130. The method of claim 127, further comprising coupling a sound system for producing sounds to the support platform such that at least one feature of the sounds is varied as a function of the speed at which the rotatable portion is rotated.

131. The method of claim 127, further comprising coupling a light system for producing lights to the support platform such that at least one feature of the lights is varied as a function of the speed at which the rotatable portion is rotated.

132. The method of claim 127, further comprising:

coupling a shaft to the propulsion device; and

coupling a participant power mechanism to the shaft, wherein the participant power mechanism is configured to drive the shaft during use, and wherein driving the shaft powers the propulsion device.

133. The method of claim 127, further comprising coupling a motor to the propulsion device, wherein the motor is configured to power the propulsion device.

134. The method of claim 127, further comprising coupling a bubble generator to the support member such that at least one feature of the bubbles is varied as a function of the speed at which the rotatable portion is rotated.

135. The method of claim 127, further comprising coupling a smoke generator to the support member such that at least one feature of the smoke is varied as a function of the speed at which the rotatable portion is rotated.

136. The method of claim 127, further comprising positioning a bearing between the rotatable portion and the support member for allowing the rotatable portion to rotate about the support member.

137. The method of claim 127, further comprising positioning a bushing between the rotatable portion and the support member for allowing the rotatable portion to rotate about the support member.

138. The method of claim 127, wherein the rotatable portion of the support platform comprises a rotatable portion, further comprising placing the rotatable portion upon a non-rotatable portion of the support platform.

139. A musical water fountain system, comprising:

a sound system for producing a sound during use;

a fountain system for producing a fountain effect during use; and

a control system coupled to the sound system and the fountain system, wherein the control system is configured to generate a first signal to cause the sound system to produce the sound and a second signal to cause the fountain system to produce a fountain effect in response to at least one participant signal during use.

140. The musical water fountain system of claim 139, further comprising a light system coupled to the control system, wherein the light system is configured to display lights proximate the musical water fountain system during use, and wherein the control system is further configured to produce a third signal to cause the light system to produce lights in response to the participant signal.

141. The musical water fountain system of claim 139, wherein the fountain system comprises a conduit for carrying water and a valve to control water flow through the conduit, the valve being configured to be controlled by the second signal.

142. The musical water fountain system of claim 139, wherein the fountain effect comprises spraying water, bubbles, or smoke.

143. The musical water fountain system of claim 139, wherein the control system further comprises an indicator configured to produce an indication at a predetermined time during use, wherein the indication indicates when to apply a participant signal.

144. The musical water fountain system of claim 143, wherein the indicator produces a visual indication during use.

145. The musical water fountain system of claim 143, wherein the indicator produces an audio indication during use.

146. The musical water fountain system of claim 143, wherein the indicator produces a tactile indication during use.

147. The musical water fountain system of claim 143, wherein the indicator comprises an image projected on a screen during use.

148. The musical water fountain system of claim 139, wherein the control system further comprises an activation point for detecting a participant signal during use.

149. The musical water fountain system of claim 148, wherein the activation point comprises a pressure sensitive device, and wherein the participant signal comprises applying force to the activation point.

150. The musical water fountain system of claim 148, wherein the activation point comprises a movable activating device, and wherein the participant signal comprises moving the activating device.

151. The musical water fountain system of claim 148, wherein the activation point comprises a motion detector, and wherein the participant signal comprises creating movement within a detection area of the motion detector.

152. The musical water fountain system of claim 148, wherein the activation point comprises a sound detector, and wherein the participant signal comprises creating a sound.

153. The musical water fountain system of claim 148, wherein the control system is further configured to generate the first signal and the second signal in response to the detection of a participant signal by the activation point.

154. The musical water fountain system of claim 148, wherein the activation point comprises a transducer for measuring a magnitude of the participant signal.

155. The musical water fountain system of claim 148, wherein the activation point is disposed on a musical instrument.

156. The musical water fountain system of claim 148, wherein the activation point is configured to withstand a body weight of the participant during use, and wherein the control system is configured to generate a first and second signal in response to the detection of the participants body weight by the activation point during use.

157. The musical water fountain system of claim 139, wherein the control system further comprises a plurality of activation points for detecting participant signals during use.

158. The musical water fountain system of claim 157, further comprising a lighting system for displaying lights in response to a third signal from the controller, and wherein the control system is further configured to generate a third signal in response to the detection of a participant signal at one of the activation points.

159. The musical water fountain system of claim 157, wherein the control system is further configured to generate the first signal in response to the detection of a participant signal at one of the activation points, and the second signal in response to the detection of a participant signal at a different activation point.

160. The musical water fountain system of claim 157, wherein the sound system is configured to produce a plurality of sounds, and wherein the control system is further configured to cause the sound system to play a sound in response to the detection of a participant signal at one of the activation points, and to play a different sound in response to the detection of a participant signal at a different activation point.

161. The musical water fountain system of claim 160, wherein the fountain system is configured to produce a plurality of fountain effects, and wherein the control system is further configured to cause the fountain system to produce a fountain effect in response to the detection of a participant signal at one of the activation points, and to produce a different fountain effect in response to the detection of a participant signal at a different activation point.

162. The musical water fountain system of claim 157, wherein the activation points are arranged along the floor of a walkway, and wherein the activation points are configured to respond to a participant stepping upon the activation points.

163. The musical water fountain system of claim 139, wherein the control system is configured to delay playing of the sound by the sound system for a predetermined time after the control system receives the participant signal during use.

164. The musical water fountain system of claim 139, wherein the sound system comprises a sound producing device, and wherein the sound producing device is configured to produce a sound when impacted by a stream of water, and wherein the control system causes the stream of water to be produced such that the stream of water contacts the sound producing device in response to a participant signal.

165. The musical water fountain system of claim 139, wherein the fountain system comprises a plurality of pipes for producing pipe organ sounds and bubbles when in response to the participant signal.

166. A musical water fountain system, comprising:

a sound system for producing a sound during use;

a fountain system for producing a fountain effect during use;

a control system coupled to the sound system and the fountain system, wherein the control system is configured to generate a first signal to cause the sound system to produce the sound and a second signal to cause the fountain system to produce a fountain effect in response to at least one participant signal during use; and

an activation point coupled to the control system, wherein the activation point is configured to detect the participant signal during use.

167. The musical water fountain system of claim 166, wherein the control system further comprises an indicator configured to produce an indication at a predetermined time during use, wherein the indication indicates when to apply a participant signal.

168. The musical water fountain system of claim 166, wherein the activation point comprises a pressure sensitive device, and wherein the participant signal comprises applying force to the activation point.

169. The musical water fountain system of claim 166, wherein the activation point comprises a movable activating device, and wherein the participant signal comprises moving the activating device.

170. The musical water fountain system of claim 166, wherein the activation point comprises a motion detector, and wherein the participant signal comprises creating movement within a detection area of the motion detector.

171. The musical water fountain system of claim 166, wherein the activation point comprises a sound detector, and wherein the participant signal comprises creating a sound.

172. The musical water fountain system of claim 166, wherein the control system is further configured to generate the first signal and the second signal in response to the detection of a participant signal by the activation point.

173. A musical water fountain system, comprising:

a sound system for producing a sound during use;

a fountain system for producing a fountain effect during use;

a control system coupled to the sound system and the fountain system, wherein the control system is configured to generate a first signal to cause the sound system to produce the sound and a second signal to cause the fountain system to produce a fountain effect in response to at least one participant signal during use; and

a plurality of activation points for detecting participant signals during use,

wherein the control system is further configured to generate the first signal in response to the detection of a participant signal at one of the activation points, and the second signal in response to the detection of a participant signal at a different activation point.

174. The musical water fountain system of claim 173, wherein the activation point comprises a pressure sensitive device, and wherein the participant signal comprises applying force to the activation point.

175. The musical water fountain system of claim 173, wherein the activation point comprises a movable activating device, and wherein the participant signal comprises moving the activating device.

176. The musical water fountain system of claim 173, wherein the activation point comprises a motion detector, and wherein the participant signal comprises creating movement within a detection area of the motion detector.

177. The musical water fountain system of claim 173, wherein the activation point comprises a sound detector, and wherein the participant signal comprises creating a sound.

178. The musical water fountain system of claim 173, wherein the sound system is configured to produce a plurality of sounds, and wherein the control system is further configured to cause the sound system to play a sound in response to the detection of a participant signal at one of the activation points, and to play a different sound in response to the detection of a participant signal at a different activation point.

179. The musical water fountain system of claim 173, wherein the fountain system is configured to produce a plurality of fountain effects, and wherein the control system is further configured to cause the fountain system to produce a fountain effect in response to the detection of a participant signal at one of the activation points, and to produce a different fountain effect in response to the detection of a participant signal at a different activation point.

180. A musical water fountain system, comprising:

a sound system for producing a sound during use;

a fountain system for producing a fountain effect during use;

a light system for producing light during use;

a control system coupled to the sound system, the fountain system, and the light system, wherein the control system is configured to generate a first signal to cause the sound system to produce the sound, a second signal to cause the fountain system to produce a fountain effect, and a third signal to cause the light system to produce light, each of the signals being produced in response to at least one participant signal during use;

a plurality of activation points for detecting participant signals during use, and

an indicator configured to produce an indication at a predetermined time during use, wherein the indication indicates when to apply a participant signal.

181. A method for operating a musical water fountain system, comprising:

sensing the participant signal applied to an activation point;

generating a first signal and a second signal in response to sensing the participant signal;

sending the first signal to a sound system, the sound system producing a sound in response to the first signal; and

sending the second signal to a fountain system, the fountain system producing a fountain effect in response to the second signal.

182. The method of claim 181, further comprising providing an indication to a participant to create the participant signal at a pre-determined time.

183. The method of claim 182, wherein providing an indication comprises hand signaling the participant.

184. The method of claim 182, wherein providing an indication comprises providing a visual signal to the participant.

185. The method of claim 182, wherein providing an indication comprises providing an audio signal to the participant.

186. The method of claim 182, wherein providing an indication comprises providing a tactile signal to the participant.

187. The method of claim 181, wherein the activation point comprises a pressure sensitive device, and wherein sensing the participant signal comprises sensing the application of force to the activation point.

188. The method of claim 181, wherein the activation point comprises a movable activating device, and wherein sensing the participant signal comprises sensing movement of the movable activating device.

189. The method of claim 181, wherein the activation point comprises a motion detector, and wherein the sensing the participant signal comprises sensing movement within a detection area of the motion detector.

190. The method of claim 181, wherein the activation point comprises a sound detector, and wherein sensing the participant signal comprises sensing a sound.

191. The method of claim 181, wherein the first signal and the second signal are substantially simultaneously generated by the same activation point in response to sensing the participant signal.

192. The method of claim 181, further comprising generating a third signal in response to sensing the force, and sending the third signal to a light system, the light system activating a light display located proximate the fountain system in response to receiving the third signal.

193. The method of claim 192, further comprising substantially simultaneously generating the first signal, the second signal, and the third signal by the same activation point in response to sensing the participant signal.

194. The method of claim 181, wherein the activation point is positioned on an instrument.

195. The method of claim 194, wherein the instrument comprises a piano, and wherein the participant signal comprises contacting a key of the piano.

196. The method of claim 194, wherein the instrument comprises a guitar, and wherein the participant signal comprises contacting a string of the guitar.

197. The method of claim 194, wherein the instrument comprises a drum, and wherein the participant signal comprises contacting a head of the drum.

198. The method of claim 194, wherein the participant signal comprises applying body weight of the participant onto the activation point.

199. The method of claim 181, further comprising:

sensing additional participant signals applied to additional activation points;

generating additional signals in response to sensing the additional participant signals;

sending the additional signals to the sound system, the sound system producing sounds in response to the signals; and

sending the additional signals to the fountain system, the fountain system producing fountain effects in response to the signals.

200. A musical water orchestra system, comprising:

at least two musical water fountain systems, each musical water fountain system comprising;

a sound system for playing a sound during use;

a fountain system for producing a fountain effect during use; and

a control system coupled to the sound system and the fountain system, wherein the control system is configured to generate a first signal to cause the sound system to produce the sound and a second signal to cause the fountain to produce the fountain effect in response to a participant signal during use; and

an activation point coupled to the control system, wherein the activation point is configured detect the participant signal during use; and

an indicator configured to produce an indication at a predetermined time during use, wherein the indication indicates when to apply a participant signal.

201. The musical water orchestra system of claim 200, wherein the musical water fountains further comprise light systems coupled to the control systems, wherein the light systems are configured to display lights proximate the musical water fountain systems during use, and wherein the control systems are further configured to produce third signals to cause the light systems to produce lights in response to the participant signals.

202. The musical water orchestra system of claim 200, wherein the fountain effects comprise spraying water, bubbles, or smoke.

203. The musical water orchestra system of claim 200, wherein the musical fountain systems further comprise additional activation points for detecting participant signals during use.

204. The musical water orchestra system of claim 200, wherein the control systems are further configured to generate the first signal in response to the detection of a participant signal at one of the activation points, and the second signal in response to the detection of a participant signal at a different activation point.

205. The musical water orchestra system of claim 204, wherein the fountain systems are configured to produce a plurality of fountain effects, and wherein the control systems are further configured to cause a fountain system to produce a fountain effect in response to the detection of a participant signal at one of the activation points, and to produce a different fountain effect in response to the detection of a participant signal at a different activation point.

206. The musical water orchestra system of claim 200, wherein the sound produced by each of the musical water fountain systems corresponds to a musical instrument.

207. The musical water orchestra system of claim 200, wherein the indicator is configured to signal the participants, at a selected time, to apply participant signals to the musical water fountain systems.

208. A method for operating a musical water orchestra system, comprising:

providing indications to participants to create participant signals at predetermined times;

sensing the participant signals applied to activation points of musical water fountain systems;

generating first signals and second signals in response to sensing the participant signals;

sending the first signals to sound systems of the musical fountain systems, the sound systems producing sounds in response to the first signal;

sending the second signals to fountain systems of the musical fountain systems, the fountain system producing fountain effects in response to the second signal.

209. A water Ferris wheel system, comprising:

a Ferris wheel;

water interaction devices coupled to the Ferris wheel; and

a water supply system for directing a water stream onto the water interaction devices during use;

wherein the Ferris wheel is configured to rotate about a central axis in response to the force imparted by the water stream upon the water interaction devices.

210. The Ferris wheel system of claim 209, wherein the water supply system is configured to direct water onto the water interaction devices at a location above the central axis during use.

211. The Ferris wheel system of claim 209, wherein the water supply system is configured to direct water onto the water interaction devices at a location substantially even with the central axis during use.

212. The Ferris wheel system of claim 209, wherein the water supply system is configured to direct water onto the water interaction devices at a location below the Ferris wheel during use.

213. The Ferris wheel system of claim 209, wherein the water supply system is configured to supply water along a tangent of the Ferris wheel.

214. The Ferris wheel system of claim 213, wherein the water supply system is configured to supply the water stream such that the water falls from the water supply system along a substantially vertical path.

215. The Ferris wheel system of claim 209, wherein the water source comprises a conduit, a water regulation system, and a reservoir, the water regulation system being disposed between the reservoir and an opening of the conduit, and wherein water flows out of the opening of the conduit to form the water stream.

216. The Ferris wheel system of claim 215, wherein the water regulation system is configured to vary the flow of water from the reservoir through the conduit and to the water interaction devices.

217. The Ferris wheel system of claim 215, wherein the reservoir is configured to collect water from the water interaction devices.

218. The Ferris wheel system of claim 215, wherein the water regulation system comprises a pump.

219. The Ferris wheel system of claim 209, wherein the water interaction devices are coupled to seating devices of the Ferris wheel.

220. The Ferris wheel system of claim 219, wherein the water interaction devices and seating devices are separated by a wall, the wall comprising an opening for passing water from the water interaction device into the seating device.

221. The Ferris wheel system of claim 219, wherein the water interaction devices communicate with the seating devices such that water from the water interaction devices contacts at least some of the participants during use.

222. The Ferris wheel system of claim 219, wherein the water interaction devices are substantially offset from the seating devices such that water released from the water interaction devices is inhibited from contacting participants during use.

223. The Ferris wheel system of claim 222, wherein the water interaction devices are positioned between the seating devices and a central axis of the Ferris wheel.

224. The Ferris wheel system of claim 209, wherein the water interaction device comprises a paddle.

225. The Ferris wheel system of claim 209, wherein the water interaction device comprises a receptacle.

226. The Ferris wheel system of claim 209, wherein the water interaction device comprises one or more openings for releasing the water during use.

227. The Ferris wheel system of claim 209, wherein the water interaction devices are substantially non-rotatable, and wherein the water interaction devices are oriented in a substantially upright position as they pass through an apex of the Ferris wheel, and wherein the water interaction devices are oriented to release the water as they reach a location substantially below the central axis.

228. The Ferris wheel system of claim 209, wherein the water interaction devices are at least partially rotatable to release the water from the receptacles as they reach a location substantially below the central axis.

229. The Ferris wheel system of claim 209, further comprising a braking system configured to inhibit rotation of the Ferris wheel during use.

230. The Ferris wheel system of claim 209, wherein the Ferris wheel defines a first plane, and wherein the water interaction devices are oriented in a second plane, and wherein the first and second planes are substantially parallel, and wherein the second plane is laterally displaced from the first plane.

231. The Ferris wheel system of claim 209, wherein the water interaction devices are substantially non-pivotally attached to the Ferris wheel, and wherein the water interaction devices are oriented in a substantially upright position as they pass through an apex of the support member, and wherein the water interaction devices are oriented to release the water as they reach a location substantially below the central axis.

232. A water Ferris wheel system, comprising:

a Ferris wheel;

water interaction devices coupled to an outer portion of the Ferris wheel; and

a water supply system for producing a substantially vertical water stream such that the water stream is directed onto the water interaction devices during use;

wherein the Ferris wheel is configured to rotate about a central axis in response to the force imparted by the water stream upon the water interaction devices.

233. The Ferris wheel system of claim 232, wherein the water supply system is configured to direct water onto the water interaction devices at a location above the central axis during use.

234. The Ferris wheel system of claim 232, wherein the water supply system is configured to direct water onto the water interaction devices at a location substantially even with the central axis during use.

235. The Ferris wheel system of claim 232, wherein the water supply system is configured to supply water along a tangent of the Ferris wheel.

236. The Ferris wheel system of claim 232, wherein the water source comprises a conduit, a water regulation system, and a reservoir, the water regulation system being disposed between the reservoir and an opening of the conduit, and wherein water flows out of the opening of the conduit to form the water stream.

237. The Ferris wheel system of claim 232, wherein the water interaction devices are coupled to seating devices of the Ferris wheel.

238. The Ferris wheel system of claim 232, wherein the water interaction devices communicate with the seating devices such that water from the water interaction devices contacts at least some of the participants during use.

239. The Ferris wheel system of claim 232, wherein the water interaction devices are substantially offset from the seating devices such that water released from the water interaction devices is inhibited from contacting participants during use.

240. The Ferris wheel system of claim 232, wherein the water interaction device comprises a paddle.

241. The Ferris wheel system of claim 232, further comprising a braking system configured to inhibit rotation of the Ferris wheel during use.

242. A water Ferris wheel system, comprising:

a Ferris wheel;

water interaction devices coupled to an outer surface of the Ferris wheel; and

a water supply system for supplying a water stream which flows below the Ferris wheel, and wherein the water supply system is further configured to direct water onto the water interaction devices during use;

wherein the Ferris wheel is configured to rotate about a central axis in response to the force imparted by the water stream upon the water interaction devices.

243. The Ferris wheel system of claim 242, wherein the water supply system is configured to supply water along a tangent of the Ferris wheel.

244. The Ferris wheel system of claim 242, wherein the water interaction devices are coupled to seating devices of the Ferris wheel.

245. The Ferris wheel system of claim 242, wherein the water interaction devices are substantially offset from the seating devices such that water released from the water interaction devices is inhibited from contacting participants during use.

246. The Ferris wheel system of claim 242, wherein the water interaction device comprises a paddle.

247. The Ferris wheel system of claim 242, further comprising a braking system configured to inhibit rotation of the Ferris wheel during use.

248. A water Ferris wheel system, comprising:

a Ferris wheel;

water interaction devices coupled to the Ferris wheel, wherein the Ferris wheel defines a first plane, and wherein the water interaction devices are oriented in a second plane, and wherein the first and second planes are substantially parallel, and wherein the second plane is laterally displaced from the first plane; and

a water supply system for directing a water stream onto the water interaction devices during use;

wherein the Ferris wheel is configured to rotate about a central axis in response to the force imparted by the water stream upon the water interaction devices.

249. The Ferris wheel system of claim 248, wherein the water supply system is configured to direct water onto the water interaction devices at a location above the central axis during use.

250. The Ferris wheel system of claim 248, wherein the water supply system is configured to direct water onto the water interaction devices at a location substantially even with the central axis during use.

251. The Ferris wheel system of claim 248, wherein the water source comprises a conduit, a water regulation system, and a reservoir, the water regulation system being disposed between the reservoir and an opening of the conduit, and wherein water flows out of the opening of the conduit to form the water stream.

252. The Ferris wheel system of claim 248, wherein the water interaction devices are substantially offset from the seating devices such that water released from the water interaction devices is inhibited from contacting participants during use.

253. The Ferris wheel system of claim 248, wherein a water interaction device comprises a paddle.

254. The Ferris wheel system of claim 248, further comprising a braking system configured to inhibit rotation of the Ferris wheel during use.

255. A water Ferris wheel system, comprising:

a central axle member;

a support member coupled to the central axle member, wherein the support member is rotatable about the central axle member in a substantially vertical plane during use;

a base support structure, wherein the central axle member is coupled to the base support structure such that the support member is substantially suspended above the ground;

a plurality of axle members positioned about the support member during use;

a plurality of seating devices for holding participants during use, the seating devices coupled to the axle members during use;

a plurality of water interaction devices for imparting a force to the support member during use; and

a water source for supplying a water stream to the water interaction devices during use;

wherein a support member is configured to rotate about a central axle member in response to the force imparted by the water interaction devices during use.

256. A method for powering a Ferris wheel with water, comprising:

directing a water stream from a water source to a plurality of water interaction devices disposed on the Ferris wheel;

interacting at least a portion of the water stream with the water interaction devices, wherein interaction of the water stream with the water interaction devices causes rotation of the Ferris wheel; and

releasing at least a portion of the water from the water interaction devices.

257. The method of claim 256, wherein directing the water stream comprises pumping water through a conduit from the water source to the water interaction devices.

258. The method of claim 256, wherein the water interaction devices communicate with seating devices of the Ferris wheel, and further comprising passing water from the water interaction devices to the seating devices such that the water contacts the participants.

259. The method of claim 256, wherein releasing water from the water interaction devices comprises releasing water through an opening in the water interaction device as the Ferris wheel rotates.

260. The method of claim 256, further comprising collecting the released water in a reservoir located under the Ferris wheel and recycling the water to the water interaction devices.

261. The method of claim 256, wherein the water is directed to the water interaction devices at a location proximate an apex of the Ferris wheel.

262. The method of claim 256, wherein the water is directed to the water interaction devices at a location approximately level with a central axis of the Ferris wheel.

263. The method of claim 256, further comprising directing the water to the water interaction devices at a location below the Ferris wheel.

264. The method of claim 256, wherein the water interaction devices comprise receptacles, and further comprising substantially completely filling each receptacle with water at a location proximate an apex of the Ferris wheel, and further comprising substantially gradually releasing the water from the receptacles as the receptacles move from the apex to a lower portion of the Ferris wheel such that substantially all of the water is released from each of the receptacles by a time that they reach the lower portion.

265. The method of claim 256, further comprising controlling a flow rate of the water stream, wherein a rate of rotation of the Ferris wheel is a function of the flow rate of the water to the water interaction devices.

266. The method of claim 256, further comprising reducing a speed of rotation of the Ferris wheel, wherein the speed of rotation is reduced by reducing a flow of the water to the water interaction devices.

267. The method of claim 256, wherein the Ferris wheel further comprises a braking system, and further comprising reducing a speed of rotation of the Ferris wheel by reducing a flow of the water to the water interaction devices and by applying a braking force from the braking system to the Ferris wheel.

268. The method of claim 256, further comprising increasing a speed of rotation of the Ferris wheel, wherein the speed of rotation is increased by increasing a flow of the water to the water interaction devices.

269. A method of constructing a water Ferris wheel system, comprising:

coupling water interaction devices to a Ferris wheel; and

coupling a water supply system for directing a water stream onto the water interaction devices to the Ferris wheel;

wherein the Ferris wheel is configured to rotate about a central axis in response to the force imparted by the water stream upon the water interaction devices.

270. The method of claim 269, wherein the water source comprises a conduit, a water regulation system, and a reservoir, and further comprising:

positioning the conduit proximate the water interaction devices such that water passing through an opening of the conduit contacts the water interaction devices;

coupling the conduit to the reservoir; and

positioning the water regulation system between the reservoir and the opening of the conduit.

271. The method of claim 270, further comprising positioning the reservoir proximate the water interaction devices such that the reservoir collects water from the water interaction devices.

272. The method of claim 269, wherein coupling the water interaction devices to the Ferris wheel comprises attaching the water interaction devices to seating devices of the Ferris wheel.

273. The method of claim 269, wherein coupling the water interaction devices to the Ferris wheel comprises positioning the water interaction devices such that the water interaction devices are substantially offset from the seating devices.

274. The method of claim 269, wherein coupling the water interaction devices to the Ferris wheel comprises positioning the water interaction devices between the seating devices and a central axis of the Ferris wheel.

275. The method of claim 269, further comprising coupling a braking system to the Ferris wheel, wherein the braking system is configured to inhibit rotation of the Ferris wheel during use.

276. The method of claim 269, wherein the Ferris wheel defines a first plane, and wherein coupling the water interaction devices to the Ferris wheel comprises positioning the water interaction devices in a second plane, and wherein the first and second planes are substantially parallel, and wherein the second plane is laterally displaced from the first plane.

277. A water bumper vehicle system, comprising:

a plurality of vehicles configured to hold at least one participant during use;

a plurality of nozzles, the nozzles configured to direct water towards the vehicles to impart momentum to the vehicles such that the vehicles move during use;

a pressurized water source for delivering water to the nozzles during use;

at least one conduit coupling the pressurized water source to the nozzles; and

a support structure for supporting the vehicles, wherein the support structure is configured to allow the vehicles to move across the support structure in response to the directed water during use, and wherein the vehicles are substantially contained within the support structure.

278. The water bumper vehicle system of claim 277, wherein the vehicles comprise steering systems coupled to the vehicles, wherein the steering systems are configured to alter a direction of travel of the vehicle during use.

279. The water bumper vehicle system of claim 277, wherein the vehicles comprise participant restraint systems.

280. The water bumper vehicle system of claim 277, wherein the vehicles are configured to float on water during use.

281. The water bumper vehicle system of claim 277, wherein the nozzles are disposed within a nozzle assembly, and further comprising a nozzle valve disposed within the nozzle assembly, the valve being configured to restrict water flow through at least one of the nozzles while permitting water flow through at least one of the other nozzles during use.

282. The water bumper vehicle system of claim 281, wherein the nozzle valve comprises a head, the head being rotatable to cause one or more selected nozzles of the nozzle assembly to communicate with the conduit during use.

283. The water bumper vehicle system of claim 281, further comprising a control system coupled to the nozzle valve, wherein the control system is configured to adjust the nozzle valve such that substantially discontinuous pulses of water are directed from the nozzles during use.

284. The water bumper vehicle system of claim 283, wherein the control system is further configured such that the pulses are directed from the nozzles in a random sequence during use.

285. The water bumper vehicle system of claim 283, wherein the control system is further configured such that the pulses are directed from the nozzles at predetermined times during use.

286. The water bumper vehicle system of claim 281, further comprising a sensor configured to sense the presence of a vehicle proximate the sensor during use and a control system coupled to the sensor and the nozzle valve, the control system being configured to adjust the valve in response to a signal from the sensor such that a pulse of water is produced.

287. The water bumper vehicle system of claim 277, further comprising water sprayers configured to spray water at the vehicles during use.

288. The water bumper vehicle system of claim 287, further comprising a control system coupled to the water sprayers, wherein the control system is configured to operate the water sprayer such that substantially discontinuous pulses of water are directed from the water sprayer during use.

289. The water bumper vehicle system of claim 277, wherein the vehicles comprise an activation device for generating signals during use.

290. The water bumper vehicle system of claim 289, further comprising a control system configured to activate the nozzles such that substantially discontinuous pulses of water are directed from the nozzles during use, wherein the control system is configured to activate the nozzles in response to a signal from the activation device during use.

291. The water bumper vehicle system of claim 290, further comprising water sprayers configured to spray water during use, wherein the control system is further configured to activate the water sprayers such that substantially discontinuous pulses of water are directed from the water sprayers during use, and wherein the control system is configured to activate the water sprayers in response to a signal from the activation device during use.

292. The water bumper vehicle system of claim 277, wherein the support structure comprises a body of water surrounded by a barrier.

293. The water bumper vehicle system of claim 292, wherein the vehicles are configured to float on the body of the water, and wherein the nozzles are located above the body of water.

294. The water bumper vehicle system of claim 292, wherein the nozzles comprise a nozzle assembly that is configured to float on water during use.

295. The water bumper vehicle system of claim 277, wherein the support structure comprises a floor substantially surrounded by a barrier, the vehicles being configured to slide across the floor during use.

296. The water bumper vehicle system of claim 295, wherein the nozzles comprise a nozzle assembly, and wherein the nozzle assembly is configured to be positioned on the barrier during use.

297. A water bumper vehicle system, comprising:

a plurality of vehicles configured to hold at least one participant during use, wherein the vehicles are further configured to float on water during use;

a plurality of nozzles, the nozzles configured to direct water towards the vehicles to impart momentum to the vehicles such that the vehicles move during use;

a pressurized water source for delivering water to the nozzles during use;

at least one conduit coupling the pressurized water source to the nozzles; and

a body of water substantially surrounded by a barrier, wherein the vehicles are substantially contained within the barrier.

298. The water bumper vehicle system of claim 297, wherein the vehicles comprise steering systems coupled to the vehicles, wherein the steering systems are configured to alter a direction of travel of the vehicle during use.

299. The water bumper vehicle system of claim 297, wherein the vehicles comprise participant restraint systems.

300. The water bumper vehicle system of claim 297, wherein the nozzles are disposed within a nozzle assembly, and further comprising a nozzle valve disposed within the nozzle assembly, the valve being configured to restrict water flow through at least one of the nozzles while permitting water flow through at least one of the other nozzles during use.

301. The water bumper vehicle system of claim 300, further comprising a control system coupled to the nozzle valve, wherein the control system is configured to adjust the nozzle valve such that substantially discontinuous pulses of water are directed from the nozzles during use.

302. The water bumper vehicle system of claim 300, further comprising a sensor configured to sense the presence of one of the vehicles proximate the sensor during use and a control system coupled to the sensor and the nozzle valve, the control system being configured to adjust the valve in response to a signal from the sensor such that a pulse of water is produced.

303. The water bumper vehicle system of claim 297, further comprising water sprayers configured to spray water at the vehicles during use.

304. The water bumper vehicle system of claim 297, wherein the vehicles comprise an activation device for generating signals during use.

305. The water bumper vehicle system of claim 304, further comprising a control system configured to activate the nozzles such that substantially discontinuous pulses of water are directed from the nozzles during use, wherein the control system is configured to activate the nozzles in response to a signal from the activation device during use.

306. The water bumper vehicle system of claim 297, wherein the nozzles comprise a nozzle assembly that is configured to float on water during use.

307. A water bumper vehicle system, comprising:

a plurality of vehicles configured to hold at least one participant during use;

a plurality of nozzles, the nozzles configured to direct water towards the vehicles to impart momentum to the vehicles such that the vehicles move during use;

a pressurized water source for delivering water to the nozzles during use;

at least one conduit coupling the pressurized water source to the nozzles; and

a floor substantially surrounded by a barrier, wherein the vehicles are configured to slide across the floor during use, and wherein the vehicles are substantially contained within the barrier.

308. The water bumper vehicle system of claim 307, wherein the vehicles comprise steering systems coupled to the vehicles, wherein the steering systems are configured to alter a direction of travel of the vehicle during use.

309. The water bumper vehicle system of claim 307, wherein the vehicles comprise participant restraint systems.

310. The water bumper vehicle system of claim 307, wherein the nozzles are disposed within a nozzle assembly, and further comprising a nozzle valve disposed within the nozzle assembly, the valve being configured to restrict water flow through at least one of the nozzles while permitting water flow through at least one of the other nozzles during use.

311. The water bumper vehicle system of claim 310, further comprising a control system coupled to the nozzle valve, wherein the control system is configured to adjust the nozzle valve such that substantially discontinuous pulses of water are directed from the nozzles during use.

312. The water bumper vehicle system of claim 310, further comprising a sensor configured to sense the presence of one of the vehicles proximate the sensor during use and a control system coupled to the sensor and the nozzle valve, the control system being configured to adjust the valve in response to a signal from the sensor such that a pulse of water is produced.

313. The water bumper vehicle system of claim 307, further comprising water sprayers configured to spray water at the vehicles during use.

314. The water bumper vehicle system of claim 307, wherein the vehicles comprise an activation device for generating signals during use.

315. The water bumper vehicle system of claim 314, further comprising a control system configured to activate the nozzles such that substantially discontinuous pulses of water are directed from the nozzles during use, wherein the control system is configured to activate the nozzles in response to a signal from the activation device during use.

316. The water bumper vehicle system of claim 307, wherein the nozzles comprise a nozzle assembly that is configured to float on water during use.

317. A water bumper vehicle system, comprising:

a plurality of vehicles configured to hold at least one participant during use;

a plurality of nozzles, the nozzles being positionable to direct water towards the vehicles to impart momentum to the vehicles such that the vehicles move during use;

a valve configured to restrict water flow through at least one of the nozzles while permitting water flow through at least one of the unrestricted nozzles during use;

a control system coupled to the valve, wherein the control system is configured to control water flow through the nozzles during use;

a pressurized water source, coupled to the nozzles, for delivering water to the nozzles during use; and

a support structure for supporting the vehicles, wherein the support structure is configured to allow the vehicles to move across the support structure in response to the directed water during use, and wherein the vehicles are substantially contained within the support structure.

318. A method for operating a water bumper vehicle system, comprising:

transferring water from a pressurized water source to a nozzle assembly via a conduit, the nozzle assembly comprising a plurality of nozzles positioned in different directions and a valve;

directing the water through at least one of the nozzles towards a plurality of vehicles to impart momentum to the vehicles to cause at least two of the water bumper vehicles to contact one another during use; and

adjusting the valve to direct the water through at least one different nozzle.

319. The method of claim 318, wherein the water is directed through the nozzles as a substantially discontinuous pulse of water.

320. The method of claim 318, wherein the valve comprises a rotatable head, and further comprising rotating the head to cause one or more selected nozzles of the nozzle assembly to communicate with the conduit.

321. The method of claim 318, further comprising automatically controlling adjustment of the valve with a control system to direct substantially discontinuous pulses of water from the nozzles.

322. The method of claim 318, wherein the control system is configured to adjust the valve such that the water is dispensed from the nozzles in a random sequence.

323. The method of claim 318, wherein the control system is configured to adjust the valve such that the water is dispensed from the nozzles at predetermined times.

324. The method of claim 318, wherein the nozzle assembly comprises a sensor configured to sense a vehicle proximate the sensor, and wherein directing water through the nozzles is performed in response to sensing the vehicle with the sensor.

325. The method of claim 324, wherein sensing the vehicle comprises sensing a force of contact of at least one of the vehicles with the sensor.

326. The method of claim 318, wherein the nozzle assembly is disposed on a wall, and wherein the water is directed towards the vehicles to move them in a direction substantially away from the wall.

327. The method of claim 318, wherein the nozzle assembly is disposed on a wall, and wherein the wall comprises a sensor, and further comprising directing the water through the nozzles in response to sensing a vehicle with the sensor.

328. The method of claim 318, further comprising directing water from water sprayers to spray water on the vehicles.

329. The method of claim 328, further comprising automatically controlling the water sprayers with a control system to direct water from the water sprayers.

330. The method of claim 329, wherein the control system is configured to produce pulses of water in a random sequence.

331. The method of claim 329, wherein the control system is configured to produce pulses of water at predetermined times.

332. The method of claim 318, wherein the nozzle assembly is disposed on a floor, and wherein the water directed from the nozzles causes the vehicles to slide across the floor.

333. A method for constructing a water bumper vehicle system, comprising:

positioning a plurality of vehicles configured to hold at least one participant within a support structure for supporting the vehicles, wherein the support structure is configured to allow the vehicles to move across the support structure, and wherein the vehicles are substantially contained within the support structure;

positioning a plurality of nozzles about the support structure, wherein the nozzles are configured to direct water towards the vehicles to impart momentum to the vehicles such that the vehicles move; and

coupling a pressurized water source to the nozzles with at least one conduit.

334. The method of claim 333, wherein the nozzles are disposed within a nozzle assembly, and further comprising positioning a nozzle valve within the nozzle assembly such that the valve is positioned to restrict water flow through at least one of the nozzles while permitting water flow through at least one of the other nozzles during use.

335. The method of claim 334, further comprising coupling a control system to the nozzle valve, wherein the control system is configured to adjust the nozzle valve such that substantially discontinuous pulses of water are directed from the nozzles.

336. The method of claim 335, further comprising coupling a sensor to the support structure, the sensor being configured to sense the presence of one of the vehicles proximate the sensor, and further comprising coupling a control system to the sensor and the nozzle valve, the control system being configured to adjust the valve in response to a signal from the sensor such that a pulse of water is produced.

337. The method of claim 333, wherein the support structure comprises a body of water surrounded by a barrier.

338. The method of claim 333, wherein the support structure comprises a floor substantially surrounded by a barrier, the vehicles being configured to slide across the floor during use.

339. A boat ride system, comprising:

a boat, the boat being configured to hold a participant during use, wherein the boat is configured to be steered by the participant during use;

an elongated member coupled to the boat, the elongated member being rotatable about a central axis to pull the boat through water in a substantially circular path during use; and

a motor coupled to the elongated member, the motor being configured to rotate the elongated member during use.

340. The boat ride system of claim 339, further comprising a towing member for coupling the boat to the elongated member, the towing member being substantially flexible.

341. The boat ride system of claim 340, wherein the towing member is configured to allow a lateral distance of the boat to be altered during use, the lateral distance being the distance from the central axis to the boat.

342. The boat ride system of claim 339, wherein the boat comprises an automatic control system configured to steer the boat during use.

343. The boat ride system of claim 339, wherein the boat further comprises a steering system for steering the boat, the steering system being operable by a participant during use.

344. The boat ride system of claim 343, wherein the steering system comprises a rudder.

345. The boat ride system of claim 339, wherein the boat comprises a hull and a hydrofoil for steering the boat.

346. The boat ride system of claim 345, wherein the motor is configured to rotate the elongated member at a sufficient speed such that the hydrofoil lifts the hull above water level during use.

347. The boat ride system of claim 345, wherein the hydrofoil is configured to be movable by the participant to allow steering of the boat by the participant during use.

348. The boat ride system of claim 345, wherein the boat has a surface-piercing hydrofoil configuration such that the hydrofoil is configured to partially extend into the water during use.

349. The boat ride system of claim 345, wherein the boat has a fully-submerged hydrofoil configuration such that the hydrofoil is configured to fully extend into the water during use.

350. The boat ride system of claim 345, wherein the boat further comprises an automatic control system configured to move the hydrofoil to steer the boat during use.

351. The boat ride system of claim 345, wherein the boat comprises a front hydrofoil and an aft hydrofoil.

352. The boat ride system of claim 345, further comprising a participant interaction device positioned on the boat, the participant interaction device being configured to emit a projectile during use.

353. The boat ride system of claim 352, wherein the participant interaction device is configured to be activated when the boat reaches a predetermined velocity during use.

354. The boat ride system of claim 352, wherein the participant interaction device comprises a water gun located on the boat, the water gun being configured to emit water during use.

355. The boat ride system of claim 352, wherein the participant interaction device comprises an electronic gun, the electronic gun being configured to emit an electromagnetic beam during use.

356. The boat ride system of claim 355, wherein the electronic gun comprises an infrared emitting diode and being configured to emit an infrared light beam during use.

357. The boat ride system of claim 352, further comprising a target, the target comprising a receiver for sensing the projectile and generating a signal in response to each instance of sensing the projectile during use.

358. The boat ride system of claim 357, wherein the receiver is configured to sense an electromagnetic beam during use.

359. The boat ride system of claim 357, wherein the target is configured to float on water during use.

360. The boat ride system of claim 357, wherein the target comprises an effects system for creating an effect in response to the receiver sensing the projectile during use.

361. The boat ride system of claim 360, wherein the effect of the effects system comprises a sound effect, a light effect and a physical effect.

362. The boat ride system of claim 357, further comprising an electronic scoring system configured to be coupled to the target to receive signals from the target, the electronic scoring system being configured to display a score in response to the signals received from the target during use.

363. The boat ride system of claim 339, further comprising:

additional elongated members coupled to the motor; and

additional boats configured to be pulled by the additional elongated members in substantially circular paths during use.

364. The boat ride system of claim 363, further comprising additional towing members for coupling the additional boats to the elongated members, the towing members being configured to allow a lateral distance of the additional boats to be altered during use, the lateral distance being the distance from the central axis to the boats.

365. The boat ride system of claim 363, further comprising steering systems for steering the additional boats, the steering systems being operable by participants during use.

366. The boat ride system of claim 363, wherein the additional boats comprise a hull and a hydrofoil for steering the boats.

367. The boat ride system of claim 363, further comprising additional participant interaction devices positioned on the additional boat, the participant interaction devices being configured to emit a projectile during use.

368. The boat ride system of claim 367, wherein the participant interaction devices comprise an electronic gun, the electronic gun being configured to emit an electromagnetic beam during use.

369. The boat ride system of claim 367, further comprising a target, the target comprising a receiver for sensing the projectile and generating a signal in response to each instance of sensing the projectile during use.

370. The boat ride system of claim 369, wherein the target comprises an effects system for creating an effect in response to the receiver sensing the projectile during use.

371. The boat ride system of claim 369, wherein the target is configured to generate a first signal in response to each instance of being struck by a projectile from one of the participant interaction devices during use, and wherein the target is configured to generate a second electronic signal in response to being struck by a projectile from a different participant interaction device.

372. The boat ride system of claim 371, further comprising an electronic scoring system coupled to the receiver and configured to receive the first and second signals and display separate scores in response to receiving the first and second signals during use.

373. The boat ride system of claim 369, further comprising additional targets.

374. The boat ride system of claim 373, wherein the at least some of the additional targets are positioned on the additional boats.

375. The boat ride system of claim 373, wherein at least some of the additional targets are positioned on participants.

376. A boat ride system, comprising:

a boat, the boat being configured to hold a participant during use, wherein the boat comprises a hull and a hydrofoil for steering the boat;

an elongated member coupled to the boat, the elongated member being rotatable about a central axis to pull the boat through water in a substantially circular path during use; and

a motor coupled to the elongated member, the motor being configured to rotate the elongated member during use.

377. The boat ride system of claim 376, wherein the hydrofoil is configured to be movable by the participant to allow steering of the boat by the participant during use.

378. The boat ride system of claim 376, further comprising a participant interaction device positioned on the boat, the participant interaction device being configured to emit a projectile during use.

379. The boat ride system of claim 378, further comprising a target, the target comprising a receiver for sensing the projectile and generating a signal in response to each instance of sensing the projectile during use.

380. The boat ride system of claim 376, further comprising:

additional elongated members coupled to the motor; and

additional boats configured to be pulled by the additional elongated members in substantially circular paths during use.

381. A boat ride system, comprising:

a boat, the boat being configured to hold a participant during use, wherein the boat comprises a hull and a hydrofoil for steering the boat;

an elongated member coupled to the boat during use, the elongated member being rotatable about a central axis during use to pull the boat through the water in a substantially circular path during use;

a motor coupled to the elongated member, the motor being configured to rotate the elongated member during use; and

a participant interaction device positioned on the boat, the participant interaction device being configured to emit a projectile during use.

382. The boat ride system of claim 381, wherein the hydrofoil is configured to be movable by the participant to allow steering of the boat by the participant during use.

383. The boat ride system of claim 381, further comprising a target, the target comprising a receiver for sensing the projectile and generating a signal in response to each instance of sensing the projectile during use.

384. The boat ride system of claim 381, further comprising:

additional elongated members coupled to the motor; and

additional boats configured to be pulled by the additional elongated members in substantially circular paths during use.

385. A boat ride system, comprising:

a plurality of boats, the boats being configured to hold at least one participant during use, wherein each of the boats comprises a hull and a hydrofoil for steering the boat;

an plurality of elongated members coupled to the boats, the elongated members being rotatable about a central axis to pull the boats through water in a substantially circular path during use;

a motor coupled to the elongated members, the motor being configured to rotate the elongated members during use;

a plurality of participant interaction devices positioned on the boats, the participant interaction devices being configured to emit projectiles during use;

a plurality of targets, each of the targets comprising a receiver for sensing the projectile and generating a signal in response to each instance of sensing the projectile during use; and

an electronic scoring system coupled to the receivers of the targets, wherein the electronic scoring system is configured to receive signals from the targets and display separate scores in response to receiving the signals during use.

386. A method for operating a boat ride, comprising:

operating a motor to rotate an elongated member about an axis;

pulling a boat through water in a substantially circular path, the boat being connected to the elongated member and comprising a steering system; and

adjusting the steering system to maneuver the boat.

387. The method of claim 386, wherein the steering system comprises a hydrofoil, and wherein adjusting the steering system comprises moving the hydrofoil to maneuver the boat.

388. The method of claim 387, wherein moving the hydrofoil is performed by a participant.

389. The method of claim 387, wherein moving the hydrofoil is performed by an automatic control system.

390. The method of claim 388, wherein adjusting the steering system comprises adjusting a position of a rudder to maneuver the boat.

391. The method of claim 386, further comprising operating a participant interaction device to direct a projectile toward a target.

392. The method of claim 391, wherein the participant interaction device comprises an electronic gun, an wherein operating the participant interaction device causes an infrared light beam to be produced.

393. The method of claim 391, further comprising producing a target effect when the target detects the projectile.

394. The method of claim 391, wherein pulling the boat through the water causes the boat to partially rise out of the water, and further comprising activating the participant interaction device when the boat has reached a predetermined height.

395. A method of constructing a boat ride system, comprising:

coupling a boat to an elongated member;

coupling the elongated member to a motor, the motor being configured to rotate the elongated member during use; and

coupling a steering system to the boat, the steering system being configured to alter a lateral position of the boat.

396. The method of claim 395, wherein the boat is coupled to the elongated member by a towing member, the towing member being substantially flexible.

397. The method of claim 395, further comprising coupling an automatic control system to the steering system, wherein the automatic control system is configured to steer the boat.

398. The method of claim 395, wherein the steering system comprises a rudder, and wherein coupling the steering system to the boat comprises attaching a rudder to the boat.

399. The method of claim 395, wherein the steering system comprises a hydrofoil, and wherein coupling the steering system to the boat comprises attaching a hydrofoil to the boat.

400. The method of claim 395, further comprising coupling a participant interaction device to the boat, the participant interaction device being configured to emit a projectile during use.

401. The method of claim 400, further comprising positioning a target outside of the boat, the target being configured to detect the projectile.

402. The method of claim 401, further comprising coupling an electronic scoring system to the target, the electronic scoring system being configured to display a score in response to a signal received from the target during use.

403. The method of claim 395, further comprising:

coupling additional elongated members to the motor; and

coupling additional boats to the additional elongated.

404. A water train ride system, comprising:

a train configured to float on water during use, the train comprising a plurality of train cars configured to hold participants during use and a propulsion system configured to move the train through water during use; and

a trough configured to contain water during use, the trough comprising a guide configured to engage the train cars and to maintain the train within the trough while the train is moving through the trough during use.

405. The train ride system of claim 404, wherein the propulsion system comprises a water propulsion device and a motor.

406. The train ride system of claim 404, wherein the water propulsion device comprises a propeller.

407. The train ride system of claim 404, wherein the propulsion system comprises a jet propulsion system.

408. The train ride system of claim 407, wherein the jet propulsion system comprises a rotatable impeller and a motor to propel the train through the water during use, the motor being configured to rotate the impeller during use.

409. The train ride system of claim 407, wherein the jet propulsion system comprises a main body, an impeller disposed within the main body, an outer partition partially covering the main body, and a slot interposed between the main body and the outer partition, and wherein the main body comprises a tapering back portion, the impeller being configured to force the water through the slot to the tapering back portion such that the water exerts a force on the tapering back portion to propel the train during use.

410. The train ride system of claim 404, further comprising a sound system disposed in the train cars for producing sounds during use.

411. The train ride system of claim 404, wherein the train further comprises an engine car to house the propulsion system and a steam whistle.

412. The train ride system of claim 411, wherein the engine car further comprises a steam generator configured to generate steam for the steam whistle.

413. The train ride system of claim 404, wherein the trough comprises a pair of oppositely configured sidewalls, and wherein the guide comprises a pair of elongated members attached to the pair of sidewalls and configured to extend substantially into sides of the train cars during use.

414. The train ride system of claim 413, wherein the train cars comprise grooves on opposite sides of the train cars, the pair of elongated members being sized to extend into the grooves during use.

415. The train ride system of claim 414, wherein the guide further comprises a bottom elongated member coupled to a bottom of the trough, and wherein the train cars comprise a groove underneath the train cars, the bottom elongated member being configured to extend upwardly substantially into a portion of the groove during use.

416. The train ride system of claim 404, wherein the trough comprises a pair of oppositely configured sidewalls, and wherein the guides comprise an elongated member coupled to a bottom of the trough, and wherein the train cars comprise a groove underneath the train cars, and wherein the elongated member is configured to extend upwardly substantially into a portion of the groove during use.

417. The train ride system of claim 404, wherein the train further comprises a flotation member located under the train cars to render the train floatable during use.

418. The train ride system of claim 404, wherein a portion of the trough is substantially cylindrical, and an upper portion of the cylindrical portion of the trough is substantially transparent, and wherein the transparent portion of the trough is configured to inhibit water from reaching the participants during use.

419. A water train ride system, comprising:

a train configured to float on water during use, the train comprising a plurality of train cars configured to hold participants during use and a jet propulsion system configured to move the train through water during use; and

a trough configured to contain water during use, the trough comprising a guide configured to engage the train cars and to maintain the train within the trough while the train is moving through the trough during use.

420. The train ride system of claim 419, wherein the jet propulsion system comprises a rotatable impeller and a motor to propel the train through the water during use, the motor being configured to rotate the impeller during use.

421. The train ride system of claim 419, further comprising a sound system disposed in the train cars for producing sounds during use.

422. The train ride system of claim 419, wherein the trough comprises a pair of oppositely configured sidewalls, and wherein the guide comprises a pair of elongated members attached to the pair of sidewalls and configured to extend substantially into sides of the train cars during use.

423. The train ride system of claim 422, wherein the train cars comprise grooves on opposite sides of the train cars, the pair of elongated members being sized to extend into the grooves during use.

424. The train ride system of claim 423, wherein the guide further comprises a bottom elongated member coupled to a bottom of the trough, and wherein the train cars comprise a groove underneath the train cars, the bottom elongated member being configured to extend upwardly substantially into a portion of the groove during use.

425. The train ride system of claim 419, wherein the trough comprises a pair of oppositely configured sidewalls, and wherein the guides comprise an elongated member coupled to a bottom of the trough, and wherein the train cars comprise a groove underneath the train cars, and wherein the elongated member is configured to extend upwardly substantially into a portion of the groove during use.

426. A water train ride system, comprising:

a train configured to float on water during use, the train comprising a plurality of train cars configured to hold participants during use and a jet propulsion system configured to move the train through water during use; and

a trough configured to contain water during use, the trough comprising a guide configured to engage the train cars and to maintain the train within the trough while the train is moving through the trough during use;

wherein the guide comprises an elongated member coupled to the bottom of the trough, and wherein the train cars comprise a groove underneath the train cars, and wherein the elongated member is configured to extend upwardly substantially into a portion of the groove during use.

427. A method for operating a train ride system, comprising:

placing a train configured to float on water into a trough containing water, the train comprising a plurality of train cars configured to hold participants and a propulsion system;

operating the propulsion system to propel the train through the water; and

guiding the moving train through the trough by using a guide configured to engage the train.

428. The method of claim 427, wherein the propulsion system comprises a jet propulsion system.

429. The method of claim 427, wherein the propulsion system comprises a jet propulsion system, and wherein operating the jet propulsion system comprises rotating an impeller to propel the train through the water.

430. The method of claim 427, wherein the train further comprises an engine car to house the propulsion system and a steam generator disposed within the engine car, and further comprising operating the steam generator to produce steam.

431. The method of claim 427, wherein the trough comprises a pair of oppositely configured sidewalls, and wherein the guide comprises a pair of elongated members attached to the pair of sidewalls and extending to the sides of the train cars, and wherein guiding the moving train through the trough comprises interacting the elongated members with the sides of the train.

432. The method of claim 431, wherein the train cars comprise grooves on opposite sides of the train cars, and wherein guiding the moving train through the trough comprises interacting the elongated members with the grooves of the train.

433. The method of claim 431, wherein the guide further comprises an elongated member coupled to a bottom of the trough, and wherein the train cars comprise a groove underneath the train cars, the elongated member extending upward into the groove, and wherein guiding the moving train through the trough comprises mating the elongated member with the groove and passing the elongated member through the groove as the train moves.

434. The method of claim 427, wherein the guide comprises an elongated member extending upward from a bottom of the trough, and wherein the train cars comprise a groove underneath the train cars, the elongated member extending upward into the groove, and wherein guiding the moving train through the trough comprises mating the elongated member with the groove and passing the elongated member through the groove as the train moves.

435. The method of claim 427, wherein the guide comprises a pair of elongated members extending upward from a bottom of the trough, and wherein the train cars comprise grooves underneath the train cars, and wherein guiding the moving train through the trough comprises mating the elongated members with the grooves and passing the elongated members through the grooves as the train moves.

436. An amusement park system comprising:

a water fountain system, comprising;

a roof comprising a friction surface;

a support member configured to be coupled to the roof to support the roof such that the roof is capable of rotating during use;

at least one conduit configured to be positioned to direct water toward the friction surface to cause the roof to rotate during use; and

a water supply system configured to supply water to the conduit during use.

437. The amusement park system of claim 436, further comprising:

a water Ferris wheel system, comprising;

a Ferris wheel;

water interaction devices coupled to the Ferris wheel; and

a water supply system for directing a water stream onto the water interaction devices during use;

wherein the Ferris wheel is configured to rotate about a central axis in response to the force imparted by the water stream upon the water interaction devices;

a water bumper vehicle system, comprising;

a plurality of vehicles configured to hold at least one participant during use;

a plurality of nozzles, the nozzles configured to direct water towards the vehicles to impart momentum to the vehicles such that the vehicles move during use;

a pressurized water source for delivering water to the nozzles during use;

at least one conduit coupling the pressurized water source to the nozzles; and

a support structure for supporting the vehicles, wherein the support structure is configured to allow the vehicles to move across the support structure in response to the directed water during use, and wherein the vehicles are substantially contained within the support structure;

a boat ride system, comprising;

a boat, the boat being configured to hold a participant during use, wherein the boat is configured to be steered by the participant during use;

an elongated member coupled to the boat, the elongated member being rotatable about a central axis to pull the boat through water in a substantially circular path during use; and

a motor coupled to the elongated member, the motor being configured to rotate the elongated member during use; and

a water train ride system, comprising;

a train configured to float on water during use, the train comprising a plurality of train cars configured to hold participants during use and a propulsion system configured to move the train through water during use; and

a trough configured to contain water during use, the trough comprising a guide configured to engage the train cars and to maintain the train within the trough while the train is moving through the trough during use.

438. An amusement park system comprising:

a water carousel system, comprising;

a support member anchored to ground;

a support platform for holding a participant, the support platform being configured to float on water during use, wherein a rotatable portion of the support platform is configured to rotate about the support member during use;

a propulsion device coupled to the rotatable portion of the support platform, wherein the propulsion device is configured to impart a propulsive force to the rotatable portion of the support platform during use;

wherein powering of the propulsion device applies a propulsive force to the rotatable portion of the support platform during use, and wherein the rotatable portion of the support platform is configured to rotate in response to the propulsive force.

439. The amusement park system of claim 438, further comprising:

a water Ferris wheel system, comprising;

a Ferris wheel;

water interaction devices coupled to the Ferris wheel; and

a water supply system for directing a water stream onto the water interaction devices during use;

wherein the Ferris wheel is configured to rotate about a central axis in response to the force imparted by the water stream upon the water interaction devices;

a water bumper vehicle system, comprising;

a plurality of vehicles configured to hold at least one participant during use;

a plurality of nozzles, the nozzles configured to direct water towards the vehicles to impart momentum to the vehicles such that the vehicles move during use;

a pressurized water source for delivering water to the nozzles during use;

at least one conduit coupling the pressurized water source to the nozzles; and

a support structure for supporting the vehicles, wherein the support structure is configured to allow the vehicles to move across the support structure in response to the directed water during use, and wherein the vehicles are substantially contained within the support structure;

a boat ride system, comprising;

a boat, the boat being configured to hold a participant during use, wherein the boat is configured to be steered by the participant during use;

an elongated member coupled to the boat, the elongated member being rotatable about a central axis to pull the boat through water in a substantially circular path during use; and

a motor coupled to the elongated member, the motor being configured to rotate the elongated member during use; and

a water train ride system, comprising;

a train configured to float on water during use, the train comprising a plurality of train cars configured to hold participants during use and a propulsion system configured to move the train through water during use; and

a trough configured to contain water during use, the trough comprising a guide configured to engage the train cars and to maintain the train within the trough while the train is moving through the trough during use.

440. An amusement park system, comprising:

a musical water fountain system, comprising;

a sound system for producing a sound during use;

a fountain system for producing a fountain effect during use; and

a control system coupled to the sound system and the fountain system, wherein the control system is configured to generate a first signal to cause the sound system to produce the sound and a second signal to cause the fountain system to produce a fountain effect in response to at least one participant signal during use.

441. The amusement park system of claim 440, further comprising:

a water Ferris wheel system, comprising;

a Ferris wheel;

water interaction devices coupled to the Ferris wheel; and

a water supply system for directing a water stream onto the water interaction devices during use;

wherein the Ferris wheel is configured to rotate about a central axis in response to the force imparted by the water stream upon the water interaction devices;

a water bumper vehicle system, comprising;

a plurality of vehicles configured to hold at least one participant during use;

a plurality of nozzles, the nozzles configured to direct water towards the vehicles to impart momentum to the vehicles such that the vehicles move during use;

a pressurized water source for delivering water to the nozzles during use;

at least one conduit coupling the pressurized water source to the nozzles; and

a support structure for supporting the vehicles, wherein the support structure is configured to allow the vehicles to move across the support structure in response to the directed water during use, and wherein the vehicles are substantially contained within the support structure;

a boat ride system, comprising;

a boat, the boat being configured to hold a participant during use, wherein the boat is configured to be steered by the participant during use;

an elongated member coupled to the boat, the elongated member being rotatable about a central axis to pull the boat through water in a substantially circular path during use; and

a motor coupled to the elongated member, the motor being configured to rotate the elongated member during use; and

a water train ride system, comprising;

a train configured to float on water during use, the train comprising a plurality of train cars configured to hold participants during use and a propulsion system configured to move the train through water during use; and

a trough configured to contain water during use, the trough comprising a guide configured to engage the train cars and to maintain the train within the trough while the train is moving through the trough during use.

442. An amusement park system, comprising:

a water fountain system, comprising;

a roof comprising a friction surface;

a support member configured to be coupled to the roof to support the roof such that the roof is capable of rotating during use;

at least one conduit configured to be positioned to direct water toward the friction surface to cause the roof to rotate during use; and

a water supply system configured to supply water to the conduit during use; and

a water carousel system, comprising;

a support member anchored to ground;

a support platform for holding a participant, the support platform being configured to float on water during use, wherein a rotatable portion of the support platform is configured to rotate about the support member during use;

a propulsion device coupled to the rotatable portion of the support platform, wherein the propulsion device is configured to impart a propulsive force to the rotatable portion of the support platform during use;

wherein powering of the propulsion device applies a propulsive force to the rotatable portion of the support platform during use, and wherein the rotatable portion of the support platform is configured to rotate in response to the propulsive force.

443. The amusement park system of claim 442, further comprising:

a water Ferris wheel system, comprising;

a Ferris wheel;

water interaction devices coupled to the Ferris wheel; and

a water supply system for directing a water stream onto the water interaction devices during use;

wherein the Ferris wheel is configured to rotate about a central axis in response to the force imparted by the water stream upon the water interaction devices;

a water bumper vehicle system, comprising;

a plurality of vehicles configured to hold at least one participant during use;

a plurality of nozzles, the nozzles configured to direct water towards the vehicles to impart momentum to the vehicles such that the vehicles move during use;

a pressurized water source for delivering water to the nozzles during use;

at least one conduit coupling the pressurized water source to the nozzles; and

a support structure for supporting the vehicles, wherein the support structure is configured to allow the vehicles to move across the support structure in response to the directed water during use, and wherein the vehicles are substantially contained within the support structure;

a boat ride system, comprising;

a boat, the boat being configured to hold a participant during use, wherein the boat is configured to be steered by the participant during use;

an elongated member coupled to the boat, the elongated member being rotatable about a central axis to pull the boat through water in a substantially circular path during use; and

a motor coupled to the elongated member, the motor being configured to rotate the elongated member during use; and

a water train ride system, comprising;

a train configured to float on water during use, the train comprising a plurality of train cars configured to hold participants during use and a propulsion system configured to move the train through water during use; and

a trough configured to contain water during use, the trough comprising a guide configured to engage the train cars and to maintain the train within the trough while the train is moving through the trough during use.

444. An amusement park system comprising:

a water fountain system, comprising;

a roof comprising a friction surface;

a support member configured to be coupled to the roof to support the roof such that the roof is capable of rotating during use;

at least one conduit configured to be positioned to direct water toward the friction surface to cause the roof to rotate during use; and

a water supply system configured to supply water to the conduit during use; and

a musical water fountain system, comprising;

a sound system for producing a sound during use;

a fountain system for producing a fountain effect during use; and

a control system coupled to the sound system and the fountain system, wherein the control system is configured to generate a first signal to cause the sound system to produce the sound and a second signal to cause the fountain system to produce a fountain effect in response to at least one participant signal during use.

445. The amusement park system of claim 444, further comprising:

a water Ferris wheel system, comprising;

a Ferris wheel;

water interaction devices coupled to the Ferris wheel; and

a water supply system for directing a water stream onto the water interaction devices during use;

wherein the Ferris wheel is configured to rotate about a central axis in response to the force imparted by the water stream upon the water interaction devices;

a water bumper vehicle system, comprising;

a plurality of vehicles configured to hold at least one participant during use;

a plurality of nozzles, the nozzles configured to direct water towards the vehicles to impart momentum to the vehicles such that the vehicles move during use;

a pressurized water source for delivering water to the nozzles during use;

at least one conduit coupling the pressurized water source to the nozzles; and

a support structure for supporting the vehicles, wherein the support structure is configured to allow the vehicles to move across the support structure in response to the directed water during use, and wherein the vehicles are substantially contained within the support structure;

a boat ride system, comprising;

a boat, the boat being configured to hold a participant during use, wherein the boat is configured to be steered by the participant during use;

an elongated member coupled to the boat, the elongated member being rotatable about a central axis to pull the boat through water in a substantially circular path during use; and

a motor coupled to the elongated member, the motor being configured to rotate the elongated member during use; and

a water train ride system, comprising;

a train configured to float on water during use, the train comprising a plurality of train cars configured to hold participants during use and a propulsion system configured to move the train through water during use; and

a trough configured to contain water during use, the trough comprising a guide configured to engage the train cars and to maintain the train within the trough while the train is moving through the trough during use.

446. An amusement park system comprising:

a water carousel system, comprising;

a support member anchored to ground;

a support platform for holding a participant, the support platform being configured to float on water during use, wherein a rotatable portion of the support platform is configured to rotate about the support member during use;

a propulsion device coupled to the rotatable portion of the support platform, wherein the propulsion device is configured to impart a propulsive force to the rotatable portion of the support platform during use;

wherein powering of the propulsion device applies a propulsive force to the rotatable portion of the support platform during use, and wherein the rotatable portion of the support platform is configured to rotate in response to the propulsive force; and

a musical water fountain system, comprising;

a sound system for producing a sound during use;

a fountain system for producing a fountain effect during use; and

a control system coupled to the sound system and the fountain system, wherein the control system is configured to generate a first signal to cause the sound system to produce the sound and a second signal to cause the fountain system to produce a fountain effect in response to at least one participant signal during use.

447. The amusement park system of claim 446, further comprising:

a water Ferris wheel system, comprising;

a Ferris wheel;

water interaction devices coupled to the Ferris wheel; and

a water supply system for directing a water stream onto the water interaction devices during use;

wherein the Ferris wheel is configured to rotate about a central axis in response to the force imparted by the water stream upon the water interaction devices;

a water bumper vehicle system, comprising;

a plurality of vehicles configured to hold at least one participant during use;

a plurality of nozzles, the nozzles configured to direct water towards the vehicles to impart momentum to the vehicles such that the vehicles move during use;

a pressurized water source for delivering water to the nozzles during use;

at least one conduit coupling the pressurized water source to the nozzles; and

a support structure for supporting the vehicles, wherein the support structure is configured to allow the vehicles to move across the support structure in response to the directed water during use, and wherein the vehicles are substantially contained within the support structure;

a boat ride system, comprising;

a boat, the boat being configured to hold a participant during use, wherein the boat is configured to be steered by the participant during use;

an elongated member coupled to the boat, the elongated member being rotatable about a central axis to pull the boat through water in a substantially circular path during use; and

a motor coupled to the elongated member, the motor being configured to rotate the elongated member during use; and

a water train ride system, comprising;

a train configured to float on water during use, the train comprising a plurality of train cars configured to hold participants during use and a propulsion system configured to move the train through water during use; and

a trough configured to contain water during use, the trough comprising a guide configured to engage the train cars and to maintain the train within the trough while the train is moving through the trough during use.

448. An amusement park system comprising:

a water fountain system, comprising;

a roof comprising a friction surface;

a support member configured to be coupled to the roof to support the roof such that the roof is capable of rotating during use;

at least one conduit configured to be positioned to direct water toward the friction surface to cause the roof to rotate during use; and

a water supply system configured to supply water to the conduit during use;

a water carousel system, comprising;

a support member anchored to ground;

a support platform for holding a participant, the support platform being configured to float on water during use, wherein a rotatable portion of the support platform is configured to rotate about the support member during use;

a propulsion device coupled to the rotatable portion of the support platform, wherein the propulsion device is configured to impart a propulsive force to the rotatable portion of the support platform during use;

wherein powering of the propulsion device applies a propulsive force to the rotatable portion of the support platform during use, and wherein the rotatable portion of the support platform is configured to rotate in response to the propulsive force; and

a musical water fountain system, comprising;

a sound system for producing a sound during use;

a fountain system for producing a fountain effect during use; and

a control system coupled to the sound system and the fountain system, wherein the control system is configured to generate a first signal to cause the sound system to produce the sound and a second signal to cause the fountain system to produce a fountain effect in response to at least one participant signal during use.

449. The amusement park system of claim 448, further comprising:

a water Ferris wheel system, comprising;

a Ferris wheel;

water interaction devices coupled to the Ferris wheel; and

a water supply system for directing a water stream onto the water interaction devices during use;

wherein the Ferris wheel is configured to rotate about a central axis in response to the force imparted by the water stream upon the water interaction devices;

a water bumper vehicle system, comprising;

a plurality of vehicles configured to hold at least one participant during use;

a plurality of nozzles, the nozzles configured to direct water towards the vehicles to impart momentum to the vehicles such that the vehicles move during use;

a pressurized water source for delivering water to the nozzles during use;

at least one conduit coupling the pressurized water source to the nozzles; and

a support structure for supporting the vehicles, wherein the support structure is configured to allow the vehicles to move across the support structure in response to the directed water during use, and wherein the vehicles are substantially contained within the support structure;

a boat ride system, comprising;

a boat, the boat being configured to hold a participant during use, wherein the boat is configured to be steered by the participant during use;

an elongated member coupled to the boat, the elongated member being rotatable about a central axis to pull the boat through water in a substantially circular path during use; and

a motor coupled to the elongated member, the motor being configured to rotate the elongated member during use; and

a water train ride system, comprising;

a train configured to float on water during use, the train comprising a plurality of train cars configured to hold participants during use and a propulsion system configured to move the train through water during use; and

a trough configured to contain water during use, the trough comprising a guide configured to engage the train cars and to maintain the train within the trough while the train is moving through the trough during use.