LEGOLAND Florida is making some serious moves to compete with the big leagues. With Disney and Universal constantly raising the bar for thrill rides, LEGOLAND’s parent company, Merlin Entertainments, is investing $90 million into what it’s calling a “groundbreaking” new indoor roller coaster—its biggest single in-park investment to date.
A Major Expansion to Keep Up with the Competition
LEGOLAND Florida’s upcoming indoor coaster, set to open in 2026, comes at a time when Central Florida’s theme park wars are hotter than ever. Disney recently introduced Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind at EPCOT and TRON Lightcycle / Run at Magic Kingdom—two high-tech indoor coasters drawing massive crowds. Meanwhile, Universal is gearing up for its game-changing new park, Epic Universe, which will bring multiple new coasters and cutting-edge attractions when it debuts in 2025.
Merlin Entertainments is making it clear that LEGOLAND isn’t backing down from the competition. While LEGOLAND primarily caters to families with young kids, this new ride is being described as an “exploration unlike any other,” hinting at a more immersive and possibly more thrilling experience than previous attractions at the park.
LEGOLAND wrote, “NEW RIDE ALERT 🚨 We’re thrilled to share that a brand-new indoor roller coaster is coming 2026! 🎢
This first-of-its-kind new ride will launch at LEGOLAND Florida, combining LEGO building with an exhilarating ride perfect for families!”
NEW RIDE ALERT 🚨 We’re thrilled to share that a brand-new indoor roller coaster is coming 2026! 🎢
This first-of-its-kind new ride will launch at LEGOLAND Florida, combining LEGO building with an exhilarating ride perfect for families!
Sign-up for more: https://t.co/Y0MpBToRXx pic.twitter.com/Ba2eW5JX7E
— LEGOLAND Florida (@LEGOLANDFlorida) March 25, 2025
What We Know So Far
Details about the coaster’s theme and ride system are still under wraps, but LEGOLAND Florida Resort President Franceen Gonzales promised that it will be a next-level experience. “This new ride will take our guests on an unprecedented adventure, setting a new standard for fun and imagination,” she said.
In addition to the Florida installation, a second “first-of-its-kind” roller coaster is coming to LEGOLAND California as part of the same $90 million investment. According to Merlin’s CEO Fiona Eastwood, these new attractions will be “unparalleled for LEGOLAND Resorts,” utilizing advanced technology and signature LEGO creativity.
LEGOLAND’s Growing Lineup of Attractions
While fans wait for the new coaster, LEGOLAND Florida is keeping guests entertained with its upcoming SEA LIFE Florida Aquarium. Opening in May 2025, the attraction will feature over 3,000 marine animals across 25 interactive exhibits, including a massive ocean habitat, a freshwater gallery, and a hands-on stingray bay.
With its new indoor coaster and aquarium, LEGOLAND Florida is clearly positioning itself as a more competitive player in the Orlando theme park scene. While Disney and Universal still dominate with their high-budget expansions, Merlin’s latest investment signals that LEGOLAND is ready to claim a bigger piece of the pie.
Admission and Parking Information
For those planning a visit, LEGOLAND Florida’s general admission starts at $79 plus tax, with multiple-day ticket deals and annual passes available. Parking rates are as follows:
- Standard Parking: $32
- Preferred Parking: $52
Will LEGOLAND’s new coaster bring enough thrills to compete with the powerhouse rides at Disney and Universal? That remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—Florida’s theme park wars just got a whole lot more interesting.
While I look forward to this new coaster, it appears that a few days before it was announced, they laid off about 230 workers. That is worrisome.