Making construction appealing to the next generation is critical to helping the industry overcome a significant worker shortage. It’s also the central idea behind Diggerland USA, the nation’s first full-fledged construction-themed amusement park and waterpark located just 20 miles from Philadelphia in West Berlin, New Jersey. Diggerland features real-life construction equipment that has been made safe for children and adults to operate and explore. The rides are designed specifically for the park, with safety features that make it appropriate for young children. Brothers Yan and Ilya Girlya, owners of Diggerland, worked in the construction industry for 30 years, learning the ropes from their parents, who owned a construction business that focused on public works and schools. The brothers came across several Diggerland theme parks in the United Kingdom and thought if it worked across the pond, it should be an easy transition to bring it to America. Though there have been several other construction-themed amusement parks since Diggerland USA opened in 2014, at the time there was nothing like it in America. “Driving the machines is thrilling while providing a sense of direction and full control. It gives younger kids a hands-on experience and a boost of confidence that they, too, can do it just like the people who operate the equipment for a living,” said Yan. All-day tickets are $46.99 online and $53.99 at the gate.
