Merlin Entertainments, a global leader in branded entertainment destinations, has unveiled the first details of the space-themed experiences being developed for two US parks.
The group’s LEGOLAND Resorts in Florida and California will soon begin construction on ‘groundbreaking’ indoor rollercoasters, set to open next year. This marks the next milestone in the £70 million investment already announced for the two resorts.
The news, which closely follows the official opening of the 11th LEGOLAND Resort in Shanghai in early July is part of what Merlin Entertainments describes as a “continued commitment to bringing the LEGO brand to life, at scale, through innovative new formats across our estate”. It also reflects the business’s broader strategy of working with the owners of global brands and IPs to bring them to life through experiences. Merlin Entertainments shares these latest plans are part of an investment strategy to ‘premiumise’ its existing estate, with a focus on priority attractions with the greatest potential for growth.
As part of the yet-to-be-named attractions, families will be invited to travel together into a LEGO galaxy packed with adventure, including immersive indoor roller coasters in both Florida and California. Described as the most technologically advanced attractions the Resorts have ever created, the rides are being developed by Merlin Magic Making’s design and engineering teams, in close collaboration with the LEGO Group.
“After months of anticipation, we are delighted to confirm details of these immersive, space-themed themed experiences at two of Merlin’s premier resorts globally,” says Merlin Entertainments CEO Fiona Eastwood.
“This £70 million investment exemplifies our strategy to premiumise our existing portfolio, offering young families even more high-quality attractions, with the captivating storytelling and learning through play that LEGOLAND Resorts are renowned for.
“Our Merlin Magic Making creative team are constantly working on new, compelling and interactive experiences across our LEGOLAND Resorts as we further strengthen our partnership with the LEGO Group and broaden our appeal to LEGO’s global fan base. In both locations the boundless creativity of LEGO will meet the wonders of space – setting a new standard for fun and imagination, and once again providing guests with a new reason to visit these destination resorts.”
