Back in July, we shared the exciting news that Build-A-Bear Workshop was on its way to opening the world’s largest location right here in Orlando, just a short drive from Walt Disney World. Now, we’re happy to announce that it’s officially open. Build-A-Bear has opened the doors to its most personalized experience yet at ICON Park on International Drive, and it’s unlike any Build-A-Bear you’ve visited before.
For many families, Build-A-Bear is a childhood memory. Picking out a furry friend, watching it get stuffed, choosing its outfit, and making a wish during the Heart Ceremony has been a special moment for kids and grown-ups alike. The new ICON Park location keeps all of that magic, but takes it to a whole new level. Spread across three stories and more than 30,000 square feet, this flagship-style Workshop adds new ways to customize your plush, exclusive themed shops, a bakeshop, and even an open-air terrace for celebrations.
Whether you’re a longtime Build-A-Bear fan or looking for a fun rest-day activity during your Orlando vacation, this new location is worth adding to your plans. Here’s everything you need to know about the world’s largest Build-A-Bear Workshop.
A Grand Opening on International Drive
The new Build-A-Bear Workshop opened on Thursday at ICON Park, home of The Wheel on International Drive. The grand opening drew excited guests hoping to be among the first inside, and the first 10 eligible visitors in line were offered free furry friends for a year.
Jazzy Danziger, vice president of Brand Creative and Innovation at Build-A-Bear, described it as “the most personalized experience that we’ve ever created for our fans and followers.”
ICON Park CEO Chris Jaskiewicz said the brand chose Orlando because of its reputation as a top destination for families. Build-A-Bear CEO Chris Hurt also called the location the brand’s most ambitious experience yet.
The Classic Build-A-Bear Experience
Even with all the new additions, the heart of Build-A-Bear is still here. Guests can enjoy the classic journey:
- Choosing a furry friend
- Stuffing it
- Dressing it
- Naming it
- Taking part in the famous Heart Ceremony
The location even features a Heart Ceremony chandelier, adding a little extra wow factor to the moment.
The Largest Selection of Furry Friends
The Choose Me area offers the largest selection of furry friends at any Build-A-Bear Workshop. That includes ICON Park exclusives like:
- Friendly Flamingo
- Green Alligator
- Orlando Pretty Petals Pawlette
These Florida-inspired exclusives make great souvenirs from your Orlando trip.
Build-A-Bear Design Studio
One of the biggest new features is the Build-A-Bear Design Studio, a first for the brand. This appointment-only experience pairs guests with a dedicated Design Consultant to create a completely custom furry friend.
Guests can choose:
- Premium fabrics and textures
- Fur types and colors
- Eye colors
- Paw designs
Digital tools let you preview and adjust your design before a skilled Build-A-Bear seamstress brings it to life. Since it’s appointment-only, be sure to check Build-A-Bear’s website before your visit.
Even More Ways to Personalize
If you want to add special touches to your furry friend, there are plenty of options:
- Personalize Me: Embroidery, screen printing, and patches for plush and outfits, including names, initials, and ear embroidery on select plush
- Scent Bar: More than 20 scents to choose from
- Hear Me: Add music, special messages, or your own voice recording
Build-A-Bear Bakeshop
The fun doesn’t stop with plush. The Build-A-Bear Bakeshop lets guests frost and decorate their own cookies and cupcakes. It’s an interactive treat stop that kids will love.
Three Themed Specialty Shops
The ICON Park location also debuts three themed shops inside the Workshop:
- Build-A-Bear x Pokémon Workshop: The first-ever Pokémon specialty shop, featuring collectible plush, apparel, and themed photo ops
- Build-A-Bear x Hello Kitty and Friends Workshop: A pink, dreamy space with a curated collection of Hello Kitty and Friends plush, including ICON Park exclusives
- Promise Pets: An adoption-inspired experience where guests welcome new furry friends through imaginative pet care play
Celebration Terrace
On the upper level, the open-air Celebration Terrace overlooks International Drive and The Wheel. It’s designed for birthday parties, corporate events, and group celebrations, and it gives families a place to relax and spend time together.
Designed by a Big Name
The new Workshop was designed by award-winning design firm Chute Gerdeman, the team behind immersive spaces like the FAO Schwarz flagship in New York City, which is also home to a Build-A-Bear shop.
Save With ICON Park Passes
If you’re planning a full day at ICON Park, there are ways to save:
- Play Pass: $99.99 per person for nine experiences, including Blue Man Group, Museum of Illusions, Ripley’s Crazy Golf, and a $10 discount at Build-A-Bear
- Fun Pass: $84.99 for a smaller bundle of experiences
Both passes are valid for 10 days after purchase. ICON Park also offers free parking and free valet, plus 10% to 20% dining discounts at participating restaurants. Passes can be purchased at The Wheelhouse Bar inside ICON Park.
Plan Your Visit
The world’s largest Build-A-Bear Workshop is open now at ICON Park. It’s just a short drive from Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort, making it a perfect rest-day stop between theme park visits.
Will you be building a bear at the new ICON Park location?
