Merlin Entertainments announced at the IAAPA Expo 2025 that it will launch a new indoor roller coaster, Galacticoaster, at LEGOLAND Resorts in Florida and California in early 2026. The company is investing $90 million in these attractions, marking its largest single investment for both parks.
Galacticoaster is designed to combine storytelling, interactivity, and advanced ride technology. The experience begins in a Briefing Room where guests are introduced to Chief Engineer Biff Dipper, who welcomes them to Galaxy Command. Riders then customize their own digital spacecraft using interactive touchscreens and RFID wristbands, choosing from over 625 possible combinations before embarking on the ride.
The attraction was developed over three years by Merlin Magic Making with partners including ART Engineering, 2Heads, AVSC, Imagineize, and LEGO Brand Parks & Experience teams. Large-scale LEGO models created by Master Model Builders will be featured throughout the new area. In total, nine models made from more than half a million bricks will be displayed.
“Galacticoaster redefines what a family coaster can be,” said Rob Smith, COO of Merlin Entertainments. “It’s not just about the thrills – it’s about giving every guest the power to create their own story. It’s LEGO play, elevated to a whole new orbit. These investments reaffirm our commitment to the ongoing transformation of LEGOLAND Parks in North America into world class destination resorts. I can’t wait to see these space-themed experiences come to life in Florida and California early next year.”
“This project has been pure LEGO awesomeness from start to finish,” added Julie Estrada, North America Director of Communications for Merlin Entertainments. “It’s playful, it’s clever, and it’s a testament to how far we can go when imagination leads the way.”
Ahead of opening day, LEGOLAND Resorts have launched the Junior Galaxy Explorers Search program—a nationwide initiative inviting families with children interested in space themes to apply for an opportunity to preview Galacticoaster and participate in special events. Details about participation are available at LEGOLAND.com/JuniorExplorers.
The Galacticoaster will be part of the newly co-created LEGO Galaxy theme area celebrating decades of LEGO Space sets such as Space Scooter (1979), Space Buggy, and M-Tron.
LEGOLAND Florida Resort is located between Orlando and Tampa on 150 acres with over 50 rides and attractions inspired by LEGO brands and characters. The resort also includes a water park open year-round with slides and interactive play areas as well as themed hotels offering family-friendly accommodations and entertainment options.
More information about LEGOLAND Florida Resort can be found at www.LEGOLAND.com/Florida.
