Hey Thrill Seekers,

What we love is new stuff. The best thing about this industry is that it never sits still. It’s an ever evolving microcosm of invitation and competition. So when a new player enters the Orlando theme park space is can cause quite the stir.

Enter Mattel and their announcement last week that they will be building five Mattel Wonder Indoor Waterparks™ with Orlando planned to be the first to open (dates to be confirmed)

Julie Freeland, VP Global Location Based Entertainment at Mattel, said: “Mattel Wonder Indoor Waterparks will encompass many iconic Mattel brands that span generations of play, offering innovative water-based attractions and amenities in a dynamic new format for Mattel. We are thrilled to collaborate with these exceptional industry leaders in waterpark development to create an experience where guests can connect with their favourite brands in an entirely new way.”

The experts Julie mentions above are aquatic design firm Martin Aquatic, waterpark management firm American Resort Management, and in collaboration with developer I-dentity Group.

Although not much information has been confirmed here’s what know so far…

Retractable Roof

• The Orlando waterpark will have a retractable roof.
• They’re working with OpenAire (a company that makes aluminium-glass structures) for that part.
• This design helps let in natural light while protecting from storms.

Theme & Branding

• The attractions will be themed around Mattel brands: Barbie, Hot Wheels, Uno, Thomas & Friends, Fisher-Price, and more.
• The design isn’t just character-based: the idea is more about sensory and architectural interpretations of the brands (rather than recreating dolls or toys exactly).
• There will be a mix of rides: lazy rivers, wave pools, water slides, etc.
• They also plan to include “experiential retail” — so not just water rides, but spaces where people can shop and hang out in themed environments. CiberCuba+1

Timeline

• The first Orlando park is targeted for 2028, according to Mattel and their partners.
• That said, the exact location within Orlando hasn’t been publicly confirmed yet.

What do you think of this new proposed water park, will you be visiting?

Smiles included…

Jamie