Legoland Launches "Lego Galaxy" with New Thrill Ride and Interactive Experiences
Legoland parks in California and Florida have unveiled "Lego Galaxy," a brand-new space-themed land. This significant expansion, which includes the "Galacticoaster" thrill ride, new attractions, and dining options, is part of a $90-million investment by parent company Merlin Entertainment across both locations.
The "Lego Galaxy" expansion integrates modern technology and engaging experiences while upholding Legoland's signature family-friendly approach, representing a significant investment from Merlin Entertainment.
Lego Galaxy Overview
Legoland California's "Lego Galaxy" spans 2.4 acres, mirroring its Florida counterpart in scope and ambition. The Galacticoaster, the centerpiece of the new land, officially opened at the Winter Haven, Florida, park on February 27, followed by the Carlsbad, California, location on March 6. This initiative aims to blend cutting-edge technology with immersive experiences, all while maintaining the beloved, family-oriented spirit of Legoland.
The Galacticoaster
The "Galacticoaster" is an indoor, launch-style thrill ride, designed to be Legoland California's fastest attraction. Riders will reach speeds of 40 mph during its approximately 60-second duration. With a minimum height requirement of 36 inches, the ride offers a spinning experience through a darkened, Lego-infused galaxy environment. The narrative sends guests on a mission to save the galaxy from an "asteroid of probable destruction," featuring whimsical elements like floating farmers and barnyard animals. The ride's motion has been described as smooth and twisting, with cars rotating around a central asteroid amidst twinkling stars, planetary projections, and intricate Lego brick creations. Tom Storer, North American project director for Merlin Magic Making, cited Space Mountain as a key inspiration for the ride's design.
Interactive Design Feature
A standout feature of the Galacticoaster is its interactive virtual system located in the queue area. Groups of four riders, or solo riders paired with others, use touchscreen terminals to collaboratively design their own spaceship. Guests work together to select elements like the ship's nose and wings within 20-second intervals per section. This innovative process results in over 625 unique spacecraft combinations. After the design phase, two members of the group scan an RFID wristband. During the ride, the basic ride cart visually transforms to display the custom-designed ship on-screen. The virtual Lego pieces used in the designs correspond to publicly available physical parts, and on-screen design options may evolve over time, potentially incorporating holiday themes or characters, with some secret choices accessible without explicit user input.
Preshow Experience
Before boarding the Galacticoaster, guests enter an 80-person command center. Here, they are greeted by Biff Dipper, the park's first full-body animatronic Lego figure. Biff Dipper, an engineer character, introduces guests to the ride's immersive story and outlines their crucial mission to save the galaxy. His advanced digital face is capable of displaying over 40 distinct expressions, enhancing the preshow narrative.
Additional Galaxy Land Attractions
Beyond the Galacticoaster, the new Lego Galaxy areas offer several other engaging attractions and amenities:
- Rocket Assembly Bay: This cooperative video game allows guests to construct physical spaceships, which are then scanned directly into the game, bringing their creations to life virtually.
- G-Force Test Facility: A thrilling spinner ride with a minimum height requirement of 40 inches. Guests are elevated on rotating arms, simulating an "astronaut training experience" through dynamic swinging and rotation.
- Launch & Land: Designed for younger astronauts, this preschool-focused ride accommodates guests with a minimum height of 34 inches. Seated guests gently lift off, providing an elevated view of the land, complete with interactive buttons for "engine tests."
- U.F.O. (Ultimate Food Outlet): A modern, cashless eatery where orders are conveniently placed and displayed on terminals for efficient service.