Jump to content
  TPR Home | Parks | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube | Instagram 

Legoland Florida Discussion Thread


Recommended Posts

On Thursday I along with Robb had the opportunity to attend a special media event for the unveiling of a brand new attraction at Legoland Florida. The Fresh from Florida Greenhouse is an updated attraction that has been a part of Cypress Gardens' history since before the park became an "adventure park." While not a part of the park's opening projects, General Manager Adrian Jones made it clear that the park's ability to greatly exceed their attendance and revenue targets has allowed for smaller projects like this one to move forward. He also made it clear that there's much more in store for Legoland Florida, including the upcoming opening of the Legoland Water Park as well as the soon-to-begin construction on the Legoland Hotel, which he said would likely be the largest hotel in the chain thus far, and would include additional gardens and an expansion of the historic Cypress Gardens mansion still found on the property today.

 

The Fresh from Florida Greenhouse itself is an awesome little exhibit with a great mix of education, interactivity and Lego models embedded in a well designed environment. It truly was a great blend of all that Legoland does so well.

 

Having only been to Legoland Florida during its some of the construction tours, it was quite a difference to see the park open to the public. The place was much busier than I expected, and we agreed that the crowd that the park saw on that day was more than we ever saw at Cypress Gardens Adventure Park. It is truly clear to see a new passion for the park with Legoland and its wonderful staff, especially Adrian Jones. I was truly shocked at the level of detail found in the parks (specifically in Miniland), especially because I had never been to another Legoland location before this. The landscape and design of the park (in part thanks to what was already developed for Cypress Gardens over the years) blends beautifully into the fabric of what Legoland has laid out, and if you had now clue that Cypress Gardens existed first, you'd swear that Legoland must have been around for quite some time.

 

Another interesting note... The park has been receiving minor additions and operational updates since its opening, including new covered awnings for queues and open areas needing shade. They've also opened several smaller attractions in the Imagination Zone plus one more dining venue! To see some of the earlier visits to the park and compare to how things are, check out our Media Preview Report as well as our Park Opening Report.

 

Considering we went on an accelerated tour of the park due to time constraints, I'm eager to get back to the park and see what a full day there could include. There are several attractions I did not get to experience (or experience enough) and I think I could probably spend another couple of hours just taking in all of the detail at Miniland. Plus, with the Legoland Water Park, Legoland Hotel and continued efforts to bring old Cypress Gardens facilities back into Legoland, I truly look forward to returning to this park as soon as possible. I honestly cannot get over how impressed I was with this park!

 

Now, its time for an Adam-sized photo report!

DSC00527.JPG.ccd871e46b14c4772280c2458ce559cd.JPG

Welcome to Legoland Florida!

DSC00531.JPG.49dfe809568a737cc04eecea23640ac7.JPG

The entrance to the park is very well designed and looks nothing like its predecessor.

DSC00538.JPG.90107f41923cb1969899f9493ada3dfa.JPG

There's an organic reason we're here today...

DSC00539.JPG.c24d43ed406e707ea74353f88cba5040.JPG

Theme Park Review was invited to attend the media preview of the Fresh from Florida Greenhouse!

DSC00540.JPG.192c5b700bdc501bd4affb8c37749721.JPG

This greenhouse has actually been at Cypress Gardens since before it was the Adventure Park. Known as the Wings of Wonder Greenhouse, it included live butterflies within its glass walls.

DSC00541.JPG.0b8a91b8a4a927766928798a4cf458d8.JPG

Located right next to the park's historic mansion, the greenhouse is near the main entrance plaza of the park.

DSC00542.JPG.51ab8ec961770f5e71ce4ddd649b42b8.JPG

Fresh from Florida sponsors the revived attraction in the hopes of promoting local agricultural markets and the education of agriculture at a young age.

DSC00565.JPG.78fa02e128af7d6349c9030923773e00.JPG

Park General Manager Adrian Jones kicked off the opening ceremony with some words on the exponential success of Legoland Florida since its opening. Notice the Lego mini-figure on his name badge...

DSC00571.JPG.b022f1b24482a24887140f678085e1d5.JPG

Adrian Jones welcomes Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Adam Putnam to the podium, giving him the mini-figure from his badge. The mini-figure was a Lego version of Adam Putnam!

DSC00572.JPG.08d81c283bf8245ed39c870b5cd59b66.JPG

He seemed pretty excited to be presented himself in Lego form.

DSC00578.JPG.69796e2190e56a712ea55f0110608d72.JPG

Looks very nice!

DSC00584.JPG.90d134888710371dd59152fc4ec15f5c.JPG

Time to plant the last tree near the Greenhouse to mark the grand opening of the attraction!

DSC00586.JPG.c31aa09c2e9c95152b20b94bd0b4be00.JPG

Shovel, shovel, shovel!

DSC00595.JPG.210865858daadd6781a0aef714e0f4b8.JPG

And with that, the opening ceremonies concluded.

DSC00597.JPG.9bc8eb607297b52864a58d40b219e1b7.JPG

He's my buddy! He's your buddy! He's Buddy Lego!

DSC00598.JPG.41ae60d6f14dff84ef30effb2a75cdf6.JPG

We all know who is in charge here!

DSC00601.JPG.dfc5b9bba1467c83361bdffcd063c445.JPG

Tiny attention to detail like this took me by surprise.

DSC00602.JPG.ce262cd49a2c710e981df5bd63582c75.JPG

Noted!

DSC00603.JPG.0c66cb3fac0359181c9c82f994c6f114.JPG

Here we go!

DSC00607.JPG.41baaf600614f9b0e5f5219d8720b427.JPG

They've got this awesome little game where you guess the seed and press a button based on your guess...

DSC00608.JPG.aef546385c2b0e966e1f3eee1542add5.JPG

Based on your answer, a mouse will pop up to let you know if you answered correctly or not. Very cute!

DSC00612.JPG.418f3096c0d96e79ea1542076bf2e5d9.JPG

These mice can be found throughout the greenhouse.

DSC00614.JPG.be69a9b9b7c55a2b23c36419b982a996.JPG

Lego mini displays are integrated into the greenhouse landscape.

DSC00617.JPG.2ca58cfe48ec25727164e5ec92522ae5.JPG

The venue itself is pretty large and features air conditioning, which makes for a very relaxing experience to be taken at a leisurely pace.

DSC00619.JPG.701dac5316ae93760c81f1e5cfc7fbda.JPG

General Manager Adrian Jones took the time to talk to us about the new Greenhouse and about future plans for the park.

DSC00620.JPG.e2d344b4f19ecae925823f5716c4241c.JPG

He's definitely passionate about Legoland Florida, and it was a great pleasure to have the chance to hear from him regarding the many things in store for this fantastic park!

DSC00621.JPG.09f21e37b5c6b3025a5b8f67416fac78.JPG

DSC00625.JPG.95dd944ed0f11bf987facb0c15dd35f9.JPG

Go Gators!

DSC00627.JPG.81a2b69907edf1878e00c979dd65c786.JPG

I think this illustrates the beauty of the greenhouse pretty well!

DSC00630.JPG.6dca33a035e651c436bc7b85ab6e2565.JPG

The little details...

DSC00632.JPG.11324772ec49037a69e88240b10be855.JPG

Some of the displays feature interactive elements like this one!

DSC00635.JPG.ae20f0c47cd22a96d0c921711734cf0e.JPG

These Lego oranges look good enough to eat!

IMG_0983.thumb.JPG.bd4faf7f2017c4c0244e7ebc6f992572.JPG

They have a cow-milking simulator here!

DSC00639.JPG.c294cc22f384c41dc6851e1aee19606a.JPG

Experience +1

DSC00642.JPG.6d2348dcb0c950b92e3e2f60cc70b0ee.JPG

There's a section of the exhibit based on beeswax and honey.

DSC00643.JPG.7b986b6566e49457d638da7bffde5da9.JPG

"Not the bees! AHHHHHHH Ahgarbulagabah my eyes! my eyes!"

 

Name the reference!

DSC00645.JPG.c9b3920e29343c9ab9ac6812cd7d367f.JPG

The bees even light up!

DSC00649.JPG.9e869bd94d160dd48285b1eef4740053.JPG

There's a wishing well here for donations to Merlin's Magic Wand.

DSC00654.JPG.4df6af0e468bc6680ce12e2103a40a9f.JPG

A tribute to the history of the greenhouse from when it was open at Cypress Gardens.

DSC00657.JPG.b863d0936ad1e0d873d8f94356a9d0d3.JPG

Fresh fruit anyone?

DSC00675.JPG.54fceea076f67a39eec6bc2a9ae6adf2.JPG

Well there was plenty of it at the exit!

DSC00681.JPG.215a3c33274eb3a4db7ffb1184f84f01.JPG

They even gave us some delicious samples that made us do this...

DSC00682.JPG.d3311528fa8e521dd47704aa82764232.JPG

I covet fresh fruit on wafers... Tis a weakness of mine.

IMG_0986.thumb.JPG.04295f280c906c8a5ab52f3747fbc503.JPG

We like good fruit!

DSC00684.JPG.778c8f7fa43a57081eee4fa35f91ab96.JPG

Time to move out into the rest of the park...

Edited by jedimaster1227
Link to comment
Share on other sites

(Continued)

DSC00685.JPG.16686a0085154a272d66bf0033e46066.JPG

Time to check out Miniland for the first time!

DSC00687.JPG.decf702c985a73466f04555dbec9e02a.JPG

A few of the Legoland Water Park benches has shown up within the park's borders...

DSC00688.JPG.83d1045f8ed5ce00c1616b358ba2080e.JPG

It's the Daytona 500 Speedway!

DSC00689.JPG.667e400385c95640997d9e1e0cde30ed.JPG

DSC00690.JPG.1387660c60e389ce6c0f0c44ed8c63e1.JPG

The cars even race!

DSC00697.JPG.9d15bb8fcbe10a983f4511771b1d4491.JPG

The Florida section of Miniland features a scale model of the Bok Tower from Bok Tower Gardens.

DSC00703.JPG.8863dc526a3113e2ce82ecdd37153c25.JPG

The Rocket Garden at Kennedy Space Center still exists at Legoland Florida despite being taken down to make way for the Shuttle Atlantis experience.

DSC00704.JPG.15114547599fc246ecf701a56f804158.JPG

The recreation is flawless!

DSC00705.JPG.4c7eb19acde01ebed7bea369d73d4105.JPG

Seriously awesome stuff!

DSC00717.JPG.a9019d6df5f9b87a279f1748d48be53b.JPG

Excuse me while I geek out...

DSC00720.JPG.35e95da89c997af9d85e823c9b30b981.JPG

DSC00723.JPG.d0497649df5f2a341ce99a63c117273a.JPG

New York, New York.

DSC00730.JPG.6c9f33afd3aeb90c6b9e66a8b6ae4191.JPG

Mirage with a working volcano!

DSC00736.JPG.e513ee4d3f1e0cdca73d4edc81e000f8.JPG

Here's one you should recognize!

DSC00744.JPG.28d3195a5ada7438e14e2f94d94c67df.JPG

And the actual New York too...

DSC00749.JPG.45e0ac4e41bad87ebac04101644e2d3b.JPG

Washington, D.C. features a moving marching band!

DSC00751.JPG.4ef5c480bf19b40d6cf1e4c1163f229a.JPG

The Grauman's Chinese Theater sans Great Movie Ride...

DSC00752.JPG.dcc5060e28827d3a2af28090bf9bc322.JPG

No Hollywood Rip, Ride, Rockit here! YAY!

DSC00754.JPG.30e69a850e6411e255cc71d5ca7b9fc0.JPG

DSC00756.JPG.d6abe1ed17f537362728c374dcf8a41b.JPG

If you're going to San Francisco...

DSC00757.JPG.733eb9be1ce88b0decec5f0cbbadd0f4.JPG

Tiny details...

DSC00760.JPG.e2bd15d4b515c6c35da001ec5064c920.JPG

More of D.C.

DSC00761.JPG.f00bb951a3b0e67fd66431647ff4e548.JPG

DSC00762.JPG.ffb729ff81f288ccc83a69980fdf0dd3.JPG

DSC00763.JPG.c5bb7042a0df891450fae2879a12f8f3.JPG

DSC00767.JPG.85773596699bce730d5cbab7bbaba5ab.JPG

The Pirates scene was insanely impressive! Moving ships, exploding cannons, water blasts. They went all out with this one!

DSC00774.JPG.25bbc1a77f6fa511e3c21cfc059161ee.JPG

Moving into the Land of Adventure...

DSC00775.JPG.767c121c70265f197e01e11c7c310cc6.JPG

We love Sally Dark Rides!

DSC00778.JPG.14a456199d8663b3ee84ac346e458586.JPG

Theming!

DSC00782.JPG.6687b4308693baf31bc97caed93e0115.JPG

Beetle Bounce blends well into the area.

DSC00784.JPG.1741f2066ea927dc653f255d7f024905.JPG

The Royal Joust looked like fun, but we skipped it today.

DSC00785.JPG.aa7a3adaebcef10a2f0b8d8ac87c4717.JPG

DSC00788.JPG.ba1f94bdf79075287cd592422c733ff1.JPG

The most heavily themed area is definitely Lego Kingdoms.

DSC00792.JPG.c8a327045245c61a09ce7bc76725dcc5.JPG

DSC00793.JPG.f8ee1794f67967ffed23f8d3edbf9307.JPG

Look out!

DSC00795.JPG.0126486f9440a867d817e04d4c67d182.JPG

Coastersaurus looks far better than Triple Hurricane did thanks to the addition of some well grown foliage.

DSC00796.JPG.3a3213e98a52c7ef16d4283e92c23b88.JPG

I spy fresh wood!

DSC00799.JPG.604bb672217f8a3255f2402a2d2af15c.JPG

Also didn't have time for the Safari Trek, but it looked awesome!

DSC00800.JPG.001d90cd16354d581714d3e825d5157a.JPG

Coastersaurus had a 45 minute wait, so we had to skip it, but I look forward to riding it when I return.

DSC00801.JPG.c82945093af9598c559575a9691cd6fd.JPG

About a week ago, Legoland Florida debuted a new food item in the form of Waffle Spears!

DSC00803.JPG.2d14f06e9e0a8a22abe8d1f53ec84692.JPG

DSC00807.JPG.86bf76712208d019a7c1e7907569a758.JPG

Fresh wood!

DSC00810.JPG.8f484dee3d45f0024b3bef6d6af56733.JPG

This was one attraction we HAD to do today!

DSC00812.JPG.e157572c0f51148da8276b64289d5342.JPG

Aquazone Wave Racers is probably my favorite attraction in the park that I've experienced so far!

IMG_0988.thumb.JPG.9d55413c4a5a4c0abb265885a0f9fe1d.JPG

It's kind of like the Flyers you find at most parks (like Knoebels) except you whip the vehicles using water instead of wind.

IMG_0989.thumb.JPG.baf06a148db1290f526310ca8f1b29d3.JPG

This is a look of genuine terror... As awesome as this ride was, it seriously freaked me out!

DSC00818.JPG.fc752137438e73ee18db78ea38548e79.JPG

This was still a concrete pad the last time I was here!

DSC00823.JPG.fc5266228213d833dc02dbf95bc67f58.JPG

Guess where we went next?

DSC00825.JPG.aba7bdca544c06c7a7717e21a7521f9b.JPG

Lego City Rescue Academy was so much fun, and was quite a workout for my weak arm muscles!

DSC00827.JPG.2b727549919b9f2af27e7dea423aa6da.JPG

Another must do at Legoland Florida!

DSC00828.JPG.098e18d90d179960a0f44b61885fdb00.JPG

The Lego City Ford Driving School is definitely popular with the young ones...

DSC00831.JPG.1f5549a52f1ac25243c462af20be1536.JPG

Definitely looking forward to checking out the Legoland Water Park later this year!

DSC00832.JPG.3b8fb7c612669de5b371689e0aaf5369.JPG

The former Swamp Thing sports a new station and track color scheme.

DSC00834.JPG.d2ed850598d3c0c8cac1a924d704561d.JPG

The Imagination Zone is pretty neat.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

(Continued)

DSC00835.JPG.abc1bf87812157bc6f2c4f9328ab7f1d.JPG

The I-Zone Panini dining location opened recently at the park...

DSC00836.JPG.047851bf0e5bd06b59216715e8293f5f.JPG

A nice and simple location...

DSC00839.JPG.f99f17fbfe99fcbdf129c6ebce4d880b.JPG

The Hero Factory also recently opened in the Imagination Zone.

DSC00840.JPG.67caad57c99a3a88414a9dc9c3eb5b16.JPG

It seemed pretty busy during our visit.

DSC00842.JPG.ebbc8a1e0baa2d321e90daa3e329773b.JPG

The Imagination Zone also features the WB Games Zone!, as WB Games now publishes all Lego-branded games.

DSC00843.JPG.f28ff1279c24995bc45b7a3ec6cf3dde.JPG

There are game stations for guests to try out different Lego games on different consoles.

DSC00844.JPG.c7fab4f4977cb65dbd1d72f94dbb9f14.JPG

DSC00845.JPG.74f463eb4f76bda6669abc9a94231439.JPG

Robb shared with me the story of the Chainsaw Bunny... Do you know why he's significant?

DSC00846.JPG.7af9abc3e8b2c3835e5ba78b7c5b9cb0.JPG

Lego Batman and Robin from the video game are featured in the park currently.

DSC00847.JPG.1038f5773e28e02810d1fa12c923d39d.JPG

We see you Chainsaw Bunny!

DSC00848.JPG.93446f84386ad948510db24c9f4d0442.JPG

Pirates Cove hosts a water ski show, which we covered previously before the park opened.

DSC00849.JPG.43224353ee030455ea54b8d4e2ee8682.JPG

Time to act all good and historically proper!

DSC00850.JPG.269695884265b3fff7c7421273bfabec.JPG

Legoland Florida has done an incredible job integrating the Cypress Gardens heritage into their new park.

DSC00851.JPG.12fec040f69641b50a14b360470a561a.JPG

Even the logo is a throwback to the old park!

DSC00853.JPG.e88d451c7918b072d1caffc165bc1af9.JPG

DSC00858.JPG.6cac9a6725afcceaf231fada45363668.JPG

She's awfully purty!

DSC00859.JPG.d14a35e28ad65aec28264d398d55926a.JPG

Stunning!

DSC00867.JPG.de6acf67d29604df64277378387e682d.JPG

Time to visit the famous Banyan Tree!

DSC00869.JPG.bdd99380d1a24e39e1d08ff629bdcc14.JPG

So cool!

DSC00871.JPG.abbfa983fca4067563c9eed76d0d6618.JPG

This'll be my Hannukah card picture!

DSC00873.JPG.440967dba54125ce414f4477cbeca917.JPG

What have we here?

DSC00874.JPG.b0fad75da748608c3a84d16005d8381d.JPG

It's the Legoland Water Park progress!

DSC00875.JPG.63879a372510a6450efc761ab3b39ffe.JPG

The thrill slide tower is getting a new cover and paint job!

DSC00880.JPG.05263cf7168c334308edee4b8bd28d40.JPG

"Going up the stairs and going down the stairs, and going up the sideways stairs!"

DSC00881.JPG.a2872cee901d05d10493f5b38df00be2.JPG

Good and proper!

DSC00887.JPG.4c3ef0ef1c57c8b1e4d5fae03ddfba28.JPG

A look back...

DSC00888.JPG.96dbb7f01a4c0d6e1d015e147095011a.JPG

We promised Renee we'd include a trash can photo... Plus they serve Pepsi.

DSC00889.JPG.2818aac597416fad39f8708e675ef98d.JPG

DSC00892.JPG.694124aef1d43033e1b68eb38b5b7791.JPG

There's some amazing landscapes at Legoland Florida!

DSC00893.JPG.a5645fa008025a9cdff398588b44649f.JPG

DSC00894.JPG.1aedd53e36331b535acabf8ba30ed591.JPG

DSC00896.JPG.f0b44b70332b5c36669d05b6e02f9fb9.JPG

The Lego Friends Shop opened at the park recently.

DSC00897.JPG.ac6f5196265124f3ccedaf0ce4d8c9b7.JPG

The park's carousel has been updated to include Lego horses.

DSC00898.JPG.9da2ba906e39dcf8fe3bfcd0d985515c.JPG

And now they have Lego jesters!

DSC00900.JPG.1874f2ba6fe060da4de8bfd53b11659c.JPG

My favorite photo op!

DSC00902.JPG.9db873b3691552ed2f272d5d7348ade2.JPG

DSC00903.JPG.d56717c2b4985c31eb1ee23dc3cfa6a6.JPG

DSC00905.JPG.4d3e04c3422f33af04afca6f1d57c519.JPG

Time to check out The Dragon!

DSC00907.JPG.c1cd0444934a4c3a79389fa20c2db90b.JPG

It's all for the love of Larry!

DSC00908.JPG.f6c8c089a288f97d45e4902df5c30c70.JPG

DSC00910.JPG.13d83dcf2d6c7ad5a9c8652e976cd8b3.JPG

The former Okeechobee Rampage underwent a significant upgrade to become The Dragon. The track was extended at the beginning and end of the attraction to allow for new show scenes and a slightly longer ride experience.

DSC00911.JPG.40202be69a13e154b64e0ff58fcf3eb2.JPG

The ride has an additional train but was only running one during our visit...

DSC00913.JPG.373f8a3e5eebfa308ae823750ef76cb8.JPG

And here it is!

DSC00915.JPG.63c342bf3f77340a9f13d76ca00e59f9.JPG

DSC00916.JPG.12a44d126f329d1325c5608d187a93af.JPG

DSC00917.JPG.5cb5bd851d1662022fd26462b22bf214.JPG

There's a rat cut in half.

DSC00918.JPG.2af33cb2a0a1bb1013d405eb6c7c3041.JPG

DSC00919.JPG.305222081937c1e2f10e7fdcacb655fc.JPG

DSC00920.JPG.e3ba051aec73e18925e68c9ca870969c.JPG

He's huge!

DSC00921.JPG.36323c966911af9773ec9a61c7fef725.JPG

His tail even busts through the wall.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

(Concluded)

DSC00922.JPG.e1a39ad85b2ba48ff3832a44da9ad406.JPG

Time to go outside...

DSC00923.JPG.1c01df0c28eafa8a90d98057f890fb46.JPG

Here's where the old part of the ride starts.

DSC00927.JPG.786aafc7edbdb446c4f71d33b55c313b.JPG

The straight-away beneath the lift hill is the former brake run from the original layout of the coaster.

DSC00928.JPG.c6bcf309fb0974f7e47d4c5eda2d3988.JPG

The former brakes were removed and a new s-curve was added to lead the train back to the new station.

DSC00932.JPG.ddc9b2647f29eb99015b5fa0a6f44258.JPG

Slacking on the job...

DSC00934.JPG.49bf7d4c63faecca22b73cff7c867c53.JPG

I had no choice but to try some of Granny's Apple Fries!

DSC00935.JPG.7ba958efc4cbac99b0b483e6c8ce8c2f.JPG

I certainly wasn't disappointed!

DSC00936.JPG.86689de0837103c064ff87576a459506.JPG

Definitely a great snack to share with others!

DSC00939.JPG.007e03c2a8512ad68f7419b38461bf0a.JPG

Fuzzball?

DSC00940.JPG.379c4b063dffa2bcbabd9697bdb69482.JPG

SQUEEEEE!

DSC00945.JPG.6f073f35282eda3672ed23fa4516b3c8.JPG

Time to visit the Lego Factory!

DSC00947.JPG.536a77bc289db3d783ca6ec5a0acaa13.JPG

DSC00948.JPG.239a42b02b9121e2d784626fe4772ff5.JPG

DSC00949.JPG.123c5c298ceeebb0cc52e90514f21bed.JPG

DSC00965.JPG.2009f719277c3eb2713f03494be90a9e.JPG

I was thoroughly impressed with Legoland Florida and can't wait to come back!

DSC00966.JPG.c813a58661c1ba74f9ad56c4f8ab49ba.JPG

We definitely will be!

DSC00967.JPG.69816b0c48644789c0c1f7b8ce03e111.JPG

DSC00968.JPG.057549906a2c96187b03373339f4c9ef.JPG

It's so nice to see the parking lot full!

DSC00970.JPG.8cdb9646fbe63fa760386f0d09b70342.JPG

We see you Flying Island! You certainly are a rare bird!

DSC00973.JPG.a6f6881409ff3acc2b41f139d6355e98.JPG

Thanks again for a great time Legoland Florida! This was another awesome media event and a great day at the park!

DSC00978.JPG.3938abf5d8210e7f69b41bdecf96ea64.JPG

And seriously. Shame on these people! Park at Legoland--it is seriously worth it!

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Awesome TR... I was one of the people who initially believed this park would not do particularly well because of the location, but I am happy to be wrong on that account. Also the bees reference is from one of the best(in a bad way) movies ever... THE WICKERMAN(Nicolas Cage version... cause the original is awesome)

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Did you notice in the picture showing other park locations has 5 other Legoland parks listed in the U.S. ? They are planning some serious expansions to their park chain from the looks of it.

 

Those other locations in the US are Discovery Centers and Sea Life exhibits, not theme parks.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

This looks really beautifully put together. Will find a way to get out there next time I'm in O-town.

 

I hadn't realized just exactly what those "Wave Runner" type rides were all about, and now I'm MUCH more interested.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Legoland Florida has sent us photos and video of the Legoland Water Park as it reaches its latest milestone, getting one of its most important elements--WATER!

 

[coastertube]http://www.themeparkreview.com/coastertube/play.php?vid=LLF_Waterpark_Gets_Water_h264broll_sl84[/coastertube]

2012_03.29_LEGOLAND_WATERPARKUPDATE_006.thumb.JPG.c67925e76bc3b00a941d8629325905f9.JPG

2012_03.29_LEGOLAND_WATERPARKUPDATE_013.thumb.JPG.d92b9b60f81a5d1230545e5c5e82c845.JPG

2012_03.29_LEGOLAND_WATERPARKUPDATE_015.thumb.JPG.9b3f017d4d606db7f5f65d2b8f921582.JPG

Link to comment
Share on other sites

  • 1 month later...

Legoland Florida has sent us an updated regarding the Legoland Water Park opening this month!

 

Training for the “most important job in the park” began today as newly minted lifeguards took to the wave pool at LEGOLAND® Florida’s soon-to-open water park attraction.

 

Trainees practiced deep-water rescues, swimming drills and compact jumps from atop a lifeguard stand. All training was certified by the American Red Cross.

 

There was also time for a little horseplay, with trainees performing a synchronized “wave” in the pool and taking a spin on a LEGO® Build-A-Raft.

2012_05.01_LEGOLANDWATERPARK_007.JPG.db39b77a507fa9f214fd3f16f1eef3b4.JPG

Training for the "most important job in the park" began Tuesday as newly minted lifeguards took to the wave pool at LEGOLAND® Florida. The new Water Park at LEGOLAND® Florida opens May 26th featuring the LEGO Wave Pool, Build-A-Raft River, Twin Chasers, Splash, Joker Soaker, and DUPLO Splash Safari.

2012_05.01_LEGOLANDWATERPARK_005.JPG.2b0ce9cd74a87494574efd364775f757.JPG

2012_05.01_LEGOLANDWATERPARK_003.JPG.8b1df78eca77f7626b77f9db1314966f.JPG

2012_05.01_LEGOLANDWATERPARK_017.JPG.784b5a9cb4ee9c0e4203031084d8017a.JPG

2012_05.01_LEGOLANDWATERPARK_015.JPG.915673b3ce047a2d6c3c9242b582a335.JPG

2012_05.01_LEGOLANDWATERPARK_022.JPG.1c83824eeecfdd269983a7f5774be0bc.JPG

2012_05.01_LEGOLANDWATERPARK_012.JPG.a00a83fb22f96407e0d8a687a68e4d39.JPG

Edited by jedimaster1227
Link to comment
Share on other sites

Legoland Florida has sent us a press release regarding their development of a "Roller Coaster Readiness" program.

 

The 2012 summer travel season is here and theme parks from coast to coast are rolling out all-new, ever-daring thrill rides.

 

For parents hoping that this is the year their child musters the courage to take that first roller coaster adventure, it's a tough call: do they encourage, bribe or shame their kids into facing their fears? Or let them decide for themselves?

 

This summer, LEGOLAND® Florida, Central Florida’s newest theme park, is helping families deal with Veloxrotaphobia, or fear of roller coasters, by arming parents with “Roller Coaster Readiness” tips.

 

Leadership at the park reached out to nationally-recognized psychologist and award-winning author Dr. Susan Bartell to create tools for both guests and employees to help parents manage these challenging situations.

 

“Our junior roller coasters offer just the right blend of speed and thrill that make LEGOLAND Florida the perfect spot for kids to ride their very first roller coaster,” says Adrian Jones, LEGOLAND Florida general manager. “But because we know the ‘pink knuckle’ nature of these attractions doesn’t mitigate a first timer’s fears, we wanted to provide resources to parents as well as our model citizens to ensure that every first plunge is a positive experience for the entire family.”

 

According to Bartell, there are a host of mistakes parents commonly make when it comes to handling their child’s fear of roller coasters.

 

“Dismissing a child’s fear, comparing them to a sibling or friend, bribing them with gifts and money, or labeling a child with a negative name based on their reluctance won’t make them any braver,” says Bartell. “In fact those strategies often cause greater anxiety, and resentment and make them more reluctant, not to mention ruin what should be a great day for the family.”

 

Brochures featuring the tips will be available online and at the front gate and include things families can do before they leave home and during the day, as well as ways to manage a melt-down and ways to celebrate at the end of the day.

 

Before Your Trip

 

Bartell suggests starting at home with these tips before leaving on the trip.

  • Learn Online – Young children (especially those who are anxious), don’t like surprises. So, visit the LEGOLAND Florida website with your child and look at the different attractions, discussing how much fun each one will be.
  • Tell a Story – Talk to your child about fun roller-coaster experiences that you and other people had when they were kids. Be as animated, silly and positive as possible.

What to do When You Get to the Park

  • Focus on Fun – As you arrive, review the park map and point out all the fun attractions, not just the roller coasters.
  • Take it Slow – Invite your child to pick which attractions she most wants to experience. If she is reluctant to try the roller coasters, begin with at least a couple of her choices.

As the Day Continues…

  • Watch and Learn – When some people in your party are eager to try a roller coaster, don’t split up. Rather, watch the roller coaster ride with your reluctant child, all the time commenting excitedly about how much fun it looks and how happy and excited kids are as they come off the ride. Point out that kids coming off the ride do not look scared and are not crying.
  • Nervous is Normal – Explain that while riding a roller coaster, it is normal to feel a little nervous, scream, close your eyes, and squeeze someone’s hand – in fact, it is part of the fun. Explain that feeling a bit nervous doesn’t mean you are too scared to go on the roller coaster.

At the End of the Day…

  • No Regrets – If your child expresses regret that he didn’t try the roller coaster, don’t make him feel bad. Now that the day is over, it’s easy for him to ‘be brave.’ Instead, remind him there is always a next time, and that he should focus on the rides he enjoyed and the fun that was had by all.

645021171_LEGOLANDFloridaTechnicCoaster.thumb.jpg.8209c3e859f0d83014aabee937095dfb.jpg

Edited by jedimaster1227
Link to comment
Share on other sites

  • 3 weeks later...

Twice this weekend Theme Park Review was invited to participate in special occasions at Legoland Florida, both surrounding the new Legoland Water Park!

 

The first event (Thursday) served not only as the media preview, but as the first annual pass holder preview for the park, with a special twist. To help launch the "resort's" newest aspect, the park decided to challenge the existing Guinness World Record of the number of beach balls thrown in the air at the same time (with the previous record being 401 balls). It wasn't hard to beat the record, considering the park had 1,355 guests volunteer to throw their complementary beach balls up for the cause. It was definitely an awesome sight to be seen from an elevated platform (like the one I got to stand on), with the sea of beach balls waving like the water in the wave pool where many of the guests waded during the record breaking process. After breaking the record, the water park was left open for us to explore! I'll come back to a rundown of the park after describing Day 2...

 

The second event (Saturday) was the Legoland Water Park's grand opening, kicked off by General Manager of Legoland Florida, Adrian Jones. Staged in front of the Joker Soaker water fortress attraction, Adrian and Tim Oldenburg, one of the Water Park Representatives cut the ribbon (using a Lego scissor) to mark the opening... And with that, Joker Soaker's giant water bucket tipped to soak the two park leaders in their business attire! Quite an awesome moment to be seen!

 

Now on to the dissecting the water park itself! Located in the back corner of the park neighboring Flight School most closely (as well as a section of the Cypress Gardens botanical gardens), the Legoland Water Park occupies the same space as the former Splash Island Water Park which was an offering at the Cypress Gardens Adventure Park. Utilizing almost all of the existing water park infrastructure, Legoland Florida absorbed the property and modified it to serve as its newest, and largest-to-date water park in the chain. Comprised of three body slides, two tube slides, a wave pool, a large water fortress (complete with tipping bucket), a lazy river featuring the popular "build-a-raft" concept launched at the California sister park, a dining venue and gift shop, all of these former Splash Island staples have been Lego-ized to blend in with the rest of Legoland Florida. Also added to the water park is the DUPLO wading pool and several Lego water play stations fit for the younger guests visiting.

 

As with the other Lego Water Park(s), floatation vests are offered for guests free of charge and lockers are available for a small fee. Admission to the Legoland Water Park requires valid park admission to Legoland Florida, as well as a $12 up charge fee to enter (although children age 3 and younger get in free). The water park also rents private cabanas (which we were able to test out), which is a nice plus!

 

The new Legoland Water Park is an excellent value and a fantastic new offering for prospective and return guests of Legoland Florida. For such a small fee, you get an awesome family-friendly experience without ever having to leave the main park. Guests of the Water Park can also leave the water park to enjoy the main park and return as they please throughout the day by getting their hand stamped. While there, I observed (what not surprisingly I had come to expect) enthusiastic team members and employees working in the water park whose focus on safety and promoting a memorable experience was clearly at the top of their priorities. Managed by a fantastic team of enthusiastic and dedicated leaders, Legoland Florida continues to amaze me with their impressive care of every aspect of their guest experience and continuing to keep their product up to date. General Manager Adrian Jones continued to express his (infectious) enthusiasm for the park and its future, making it clear that we should expect something new for the park EVERY year. With the Legoland Hotel to confirmed to be on the way (building off of the success of the Windsor property) and plenty of additional park space left for expansion (I've got a great set of photos I took from the Island in the Sky that I'll post soon that show this off), I'd say the future is bright for Legoland Florida!

 

And to think, two years ago many people were skeptical of how even Legoland could turn the floundering Cypress Gardens into a successful tourism staple... Look at how the park not only continues to exceed attendance and profit expectations, but has already added a new water park, several new attractions, shops and restaurants in less than seven months from its opening date. They're clearly doing something right, and it can definitely be seen by visiting the park for yourself, so get out there!

DSC02370.JPG.3ebb0d2b608791348866fa27014d1109.JPG

Guess where we are today!

DSC02591.JPG.227aed852cee45d395292bdf3d8d9095.JPG

Time to approach the new Legoland Water Park! Notice the lazy river flows underneath the entrance bridge!

DSC02594.JPG.3b225db98b585e9b5ce450859ebaea08.JPG

One more thing Legoland does really well: color schemes!

DSC02593.JPG.30959728f7d7c8149b3ae39613ddcc9f.JPG

In case you already forgot what this report is about...

DSC02372.JPG.43417f098f8fc8d1852b206a4a9537f5.JPG

Some of the "build-a-rafts" were out and about in the lazy river before the park opened for the preview day.

DSC02376.JPG.12ece287b4297f7239cc18de44bbc311.JPG

For those of you that have been to the park, this should help to give you an idea of the location of the Legoland Water Park.

DSC02380.JPG.5c2c8b28989496e1273516f63fa16599.JPG

As a part of the Guinness World Record attempt, we were all given beach balls!

DSC02382.JPG.bdd0be2335ff3ba1a440eaa9cf8c77c2.JPG

If you visited Splash Island at Cypress Gardens previously you'll be sure to recognize the park, but you'll also notice the amount of Lego theming that has been added in the conversion process.

DSC02383.JPG.8590871d0f87fa5b0fcabb966a3d830a.JPG

Standard water park rules presented in a respectful manner.

DSC02391.JPG.14a086adf7c0130d1fbd38ec274c2163.JPG

With 1,355 volunteers present, the record wasn't hard to beat!

DSC02394.JPG.f7e3abc36d21a9dd624ce6b2777e13f5.JPG

I mean, there were really a ton of people here!

DSC02400.JPG.286ec5108b3ce7a3ac96182e62460301.JPG

A cherry picker was brought in to capture video of the record attempt from above.

DSC02405.JPG.9ba323fe020df930dadbaf78d05e0cf9.JPG

Not shortage of Lego touches here!

DSC02407.JPG.62d2b46f34765616783a51107fbd01a5.JPG

The buildup before the record attempt including a dance along.

DSC02409.JPG.d1517be709deca82a8e26dd8a5c16a3a.JPG

It was truly quite a feat to see!

DSC02413.JPG.01a9fe3f8868d447c799d47b18d16f01.JPG

It's Lifeguard Buddy!

DSC02415.JPG.7546ae1097df795177a47ecdf897ac78.JPG

They even had beach babes!

DSC02416.JPG.625b1c483d1d20ca0da351af8460cf0f.JPG

I couldn't resist!

DSC02419.JPG.24f73a7ff3f033e38744ddefcaa08d84.JPG

Twin Chasers was the popular complex of the day...

DSC02423.JPG.96074eda8c64f487601c040475872027.JPG

Dispatching at the same time, the two slides have guests finishing at the exact same time, as if they were racing.

DSC02430.JPG.3f65282953a4eda5f8d5f8169151850a.JPG

Looks nice!

DSC02431.JPG.64667acf228d4aa9871d570e64b869c6.JPG

A guest enjoys one of the Twins!

DSC02432.JPG.eef12776657c4856d1b31bce8fd735d9.JPG

One of the two Twin Chasers is fully enclosed while the other is an open air slide.

DSC02421.JPG.ac848054ba92a3d6df939e7b796445e6.JPG

Splash Out is the body slide complex for the park--definitely the biggest thrill for the older guests in the park.

DSC02424.JPG.79c54369f9bad2b05ddedb03be12972d.JPG

And it is quite photogenic!

DSC02425.JPG.e4de43e62b403a003f8b2ccccea1ba86.JPG

Down you go!

DSC02426.JPG.5b9475d623d741d343b5ed3a108139b3.JPG

I see a smile!

DSC02427.JPG.56393f5788fb14b23a24dcc2fe97669a.JPG

The slide has a neat little "pre-drop" unlike most major body slides I've seen.

DSC02428.JPG.c8aa8e3e6ada1900fcb5a90baa9c96b6.JPG

The longer line for Twin Chasers versus the bigger slides of Splash Out seems to evidence the park's audience tastes.

DSC02434.JPG.987c0740a8cfdb52c1799da8d07f1193.JPG

While walking back towards Joker Soaker, two random beach balls chased each other down the path without wind or anything propelling them (I'm seriously not kidding).

DSC02435.JPG.3dfc48ed9957bec5b135a155a51c39be.JPG

They seriously just kept rolling on without a driving force behind them... Kind of reminds me of the Horror B-Movie "Tire."

DSC02436.JPG.67339a72414f67783ac2bf66f26fdbea.JPG

"An odd tan you have sir!"

DSC02438.JPG.2febb7bb92acbfca8b5ddd4f01d0e0b0.JPG

The Legoland Water Park has benches made entirely out of milk jugs. Yay for Green Initiatives!

DSC02441.JPG.51e0056bbf85f94aca0ed773631b86b4.JPG

Twin Chasers sign love for Larry...

DSC02444.JPG.4cd69ede28d4aa40373666055e43bd0c.JPG

The water park has the same style directional signage as the main park.

DSC02445.JPG.804d0b2ccc7d3d0c484cef4cf2c90b11.JPG

Joker Soaker is the park's water fortress attraction...

DSC02446.JPG.78ae28dae2a26b56519b4753bc1ba181.JPG

And it has several small slides stemming from its top.

DSC02447.JPG.969df8285159c662394da805f5a18c53.JPG

These slides were also popular with the younger guests.

DSC02448.JPG.b908cf1922aa068b9de91b0746260bb2.JPG

Even more slides!

DSC02449.JPG.e6a249b2ab168ad9688eb632033bf20b.JPG

Guests can spray or drop water on guests below!

DSC02450.JPG.b8fec721b9898c1969ff16077c1da7e5.JPG

See?

DSC02454.JPG.c5e815329f099ed91efbf36e5ff3882b.JPG

The Joker Soaker slides are fun for all ages!

DSC02455.JPG.554b9fb386868df97c326678c7ea0c8d.JPG

And there's no doubt, this water fortress has character!

DSC02456.JPG.e4a220972e7a91584e70b22ba3d30231.JPG

The Joker Soaker's tipping water bucket is pretty awesome.

DSC02466.JPG.1b329bbcfec46e895399b228c2f136c7.JPG

And it certainly gets the job done!

DSC02467.JPG.b5ea34ca257951654cb8824b94108157.JPG

Hence the attraction name...

DSC02471.JPG.8533c6ca713bf59e29e531ff1f58e3ed.JPG

My mind jumped to Space Invaders when I saw her shirt.

DSC02477.JPG.41f6c0cb220c697426d0e41f3dcb3326.JPG

There are some water play stations set up throughout the park which provide entertainment to younger guests and their families.

DSC02479.JPG.6990268c971ae665fbb27edbb1a98254.JPG

There's also no shortage of Lego bricks to be put into the active circulation of the lazy river.

DSC02481.JPG.27c17bee0f5a555d87b0d2583c8a4503.JPG

I did see some small Lego buildings on rafts, but nothing too stunning yet.

DSC02483.JPG.b602b065f97d5ca9d90b8a0cb9c39134.JPG

I want this fountain!

DSC02486.JPG.73fd9114b580a938fc10fd831dc00648.JPG

Lifeguards on Stilts!

Coming to SyFy in 2013

 

Lifeguards on Stilts meets Sharktopus

Coming to SyFy in 2014

DSC02487.JPG.af1891b3e804b602948a521e4e85c5a3.JPG

The DUPLO wading pool was a new addition to the Legoland Water Park, being one of the few things not previously existent (in any form) in the former Splash Island water park.

DSC02490.JPG.4b8c137c110e655c22ea8471ff50b3e4.JPG

DUPLO animals act as controllable fountains for the younger guests to play with.

DSC02491.JPG.c43d39d3dc0176bda02462421578c02f.JPG

Must've just chomped on a water balloon.

DSC02492.JPG.8d5520601d22c0bbc50008c77dc1f7a9.JPG

Don't quite get this one... Needs a cool and refreshing Coca-Cola to give it more contextual sense.

 

Do you agree?

DSC02597.JPG.4f5273f0882e5ee861f16c2c7ef783df.JPG

The Surf Shop features Lego merchandise as well as swim gear for sale.

DSC02598.JPG.534f2c3255e5ff5200e4c9273d58ae29.JPG

The Beach n Brick Grill is the park's main food and beverage option.

DSC02506.JPG.f934bc5269462a892afdab27f7944b4d.JPG

Seriously folks, the Legoland Water Park is pretty awesome! Come check it out along with the rest of Legoland Florida! There's so much to ride, see, do and explore at this park, there really is something here for everyone!

 

Thanks to Legoland Florida for having me out this weekend to cover everything!

Link to comment
Share on other sites

The Legoland people definitely brought something to Cypress Gardens that the developers of Adventure Park lacked: actual knowledge about what they're doing.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

In terms of normal water parks, this one doesn't look half-bad. I'd sure visit it if I was visiting Legoland. I do think that the park needs another slide structure though. Maybe a family raft ride.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

This addition looks great and really gives me a reason to visit Legoland sometime soon. I know they were left over from Cypress Gardens but it's nice to see some larger body slides thrown into the mix of the family park. I know the Legoland water park in California doesn't have any body slides that big and if this park had been built from the ground up slides that like probably would have been excluded but I bet they will be fairly popular for some of the older kids and adults alike.

 

Can't wait to see what they end up adding here in the future, with all of the cool water park technology out there these days I'm sure Legoland will has some creative projects up their sleeve.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Yeah, it does seem like a bit of a bummer hear that you have to be 48" tall to do any of the slides outside of the bucket play structure or toddler areas. Hopefully they'll put some 36" and 42" slides in by next summer. Especially with the Disney parks down the road which have a ton of full size slides for kids.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Create an account or sign in to comment

You need to be a member in order to leave a comment

Create an account

Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!

Register a new account

Sign in

Already have an account? Sign in here.

Sign In Now
  • Recently Browsing   0 members

    • No registered users viewing this page.
×
×
  • Create New...

Important Information

Terms of Use https://themeparkreview.com/forum/topic/116-terms-of-service-please-read/