A new theme park is coming to the US in 2024 in the form of Mattel Adventure Park. This theme park based around the popular toy and game brand will be opening in Glendale, Arizona. While the idea of a theme park in the Arizona heat may seem unsettling, this theme park will be mostly indoors and include acres of air-conditioning.
The park is part of a new entertainment destination that was originally called Crystal Lagoons Island Resort but will now be known as VAI Resort after being purchased by new owners last April.
While it was previously thought that the park and surrounding resort would open in early 2023, the official website now states that the resort will be opening in 2024. The entertainment destination, similar to Downtown Disney or Disney Springs, will feature restaurants, shopping, a large swimmable lagoon complete with white sand beaches, a hot air balloon, a wedding venue, an interactive theater, a hotel, and a concert space. It is also expected to bring 1,800 new jobs to the area.
For more in-depth information on the upcoming VAI Resort, check out our recent article, Everything We Know About The Upcoming VAI Resort.
Mattel Adventure Park will include several popular Mattel IPs including Hot Wheels, Barbie, Thomas and Friends, and Masters of the Universe. There have been a few rides and experiences that have been confirmed for this park. The first is a double-looping launch Hot Wheels roller coaster. This coaster, designed by Chance Rides, will be akin to Lightning Run at Kentucky Kingdom. However, this model will feature inversions making this the most thrilling of the offerings at the park. This will not be the only Hot Wheels roller coaster though. Boneshaker will be a Hot Wheels family coaster and include some “fire” ride vehicles. It is also thought to be part dark ride. Additionally, there will be a go-kart track themed to Hot Wheels where you can race your friends and family.
Thomas and Friends will also have at least one ride at this new park. The Thomas and Friends Adventure Train Treasure Hunt will be a train attraction that will feature a life-size Thomas the tank engine. Barbie will be joining guests on a flying journey in a new flying theater adventure. This theater attraction will be similar to rides like Soarin’ at the Disney Parks.
Rides are not the only attractions that we have heard details about. Masters of the Universe will be represented with a life-size Castle Grayskull. Within guests will be able to take part in He-Man Versus Skeletor Laser Tag. If Castle Grayskull isn’t your vibe, you can instead step foot into Barbie’s Beach House. On the rooftop of Barbie’s Beach House, you can enjoy perfectly pink-themed beverages and sweet and savory snacks. You can even take a trip inside Barbie’s iconic closet.
The park will include a miniature golf course themed to popular Mattel games like Rock Em’ Sock Em’ Robots and Pictionary and a massive climbing structure made from oversized Uno cards. Finally, the park will also boast themed party zones perfect for children’s birthday parties.
The Mattel Adventure Park and surrounding resort were originally slated to be open by now, so we hope that there aren’t any more delays and we can look forward to checking out this family-friendly theme park in 2024.
Are you excited to ride a double-looping launch Hot Wheels roller coaster? Do you want to join Barbie on a flying journey in a new flying theater adventure? Let us know your thoughts on the upcoming Mattel Adventure Park by leaving us a comment below or on our Facebook page.
