LEGOLAND Launches $90 Million Expansion to Rival Disney World

LEGOLAND Florida is making a big move in the battle for Central Florida theme park dominance. With Disney and Universal constantly upping the ante with high-tech coasters and immersive attractions, LEGOLAND is stepping into the ring with a $90 million investment in what is being touted as a “groundbreaking” indoor roller coaster.

Merlin Entertainments, the parent company of LEGOLAND, announced Tuesday that this major addition will open in 2026, making it the largest single in-park investment in LEGOLAND history. While details about the theme and ride experience remain under wraps, executives promise an “unprecedented adventure” designed to set a new standard for family thrills.

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

Competing with Florida’s Biggest Theme Parks

LEGOLAND’s announcement comes as Disney and Universal continue to expand their lineups with major coaster investments. EPCOT’s Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind and Magic Kingdom’s TRON Lightcycle / Run have raised the bar for indoor roller coasters, delivering high-speed, immersive experiences themed to beloved franchises. Meanwhile, Universal Orlando Resort is gearing up for the grand opening of Epic Universe on May 22, 2025, which will introduce multiple coasters and cutting-edge indoor attractions across several new themed lands.

While LEGOLAND has traditionally focused on younger audiences, this new ride is expected to bridge the gap between classic family-friendly attractions and more thrilling experiences seen at its competitors. “This new ride will take our guests on an unprecedented adventure, setting a new standard for fun and imagination,” said LEGOLAND Florida Resort President Franceen Gonzales.

What We Know About the Ride So Far

LEGOLAND has yet to release specifics about the coaster’s theme, track layout, or ride technology. However, the company has emphasized that the attraction is being “co-created and imagined” by LEGO’s creative team alongside Merlin’s design experts. Given LEGOLAND’s focus on interactive, story-driven experiences, fans can expect a ride that blends cutting-edge tech with hands-on engagement.

Additionally, LEGOLAND has clarified that the ride will cater to families with children ages 2 to 12. This aligns with the park’s broader strategy of providing attractions that parents and kids can enjoy together, rather than the high-intensity thrills seen at Disney and Universal.

A New Era for LEGOLAND Florida

LEGOLAND Florida has been steadily expanding its footprint, and this indoor coaster is just the latest addition to its growing lineup. In addition to the new ride, the park is also gearing up for the grand opening of SEA LIFE Florida Aquarium in May 2025. This new attraction will feature over 3,000 marine animals across 25 interactive exhibits, further diversifying the park’s offerings.

With this bold investment, LEGOLAND is proving that it’s ready to take on the heavyweights of the theme park industry. While it may not have the blockbuster IPs of Disney or the thrill factor of Universal, it’s clear that LEGOLAND is carving out its own niche with high-quality, family-friendly experiences. Whether this new coaster can truly rival the likes of TRON Lightcycle / Run or Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind remains to be seen—but one thing is certain: LEGOLAND Florida is making moves to stay competitive in the ever-growing theme park wars.