Mattel Inc. has announced plans to construct its first indoor water park in Orlando, Florida, marking the beginning of a series of five planned locations across the United States. The proposed park will feature attractions themed around popular Mattel brands, such as Barbie and Hot Wheels, offering a variety of water-based experiences including lazy rivers, wave pools, and slides.
The engineering and design firm Kimley-Horn has submitted a pre-application permit for the 11-acre site in Orange County, according to a report from Fox 35 News. This initiative follows Mattel’s announcement in November regarding a new vision for “experiential aquatic destinations” that will incorporate its iconic brands into innovative entertainment formats.
Details of the Development
Julie Freeland, vice president of global location-based entertainment at Mattel, emphasized the significance of the project, stating, “Mattel Wonder Indoor Waterparks will encompass many iconic Mattel brands that span generations of play.” Freeland noted that the parks aim to deliver unique and engaging water-based attractions tailored for families.
The development will be a collaborative effort involving several partners, including aquatic design firm Martin Aquatic and waterpark management company American Resort Management, alongside the developer I-dentity Group. Martin Aquatic is recognized for its extensive portfolio, which includes major projects such as Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay and Universal Orlando’s Volcano Bay.
Josh Martin, president and creative director of Martin Aquatic, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, saying, “Blending our innovative experiential design with Mattel’s family of brands is a dream come true.” He highlighted the goal of evoking a sense of wonder for both children and adults who visit the parks.
Future Announcements Expected
As the project progresses, more details regarding the water parks will be released. This venture represents a significant shift for Mattel, which is seeking to expand its brand presence beyond traditional toy manufacturing into new realms of entertainment.
With these indoor water parks, Mattel aims not only to attract families looking for unique recreational experiences but also to create lasting memories tied to its beloved products. The first park’s location near the renowned Disney World is expected to draw significant interest, positioning it as a noteworthy addition to Florida’s entertainment landscape.
