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Mattel has announced plans to build a second US theme park, with Kansas set to feature attractions inspired by Barbie, Hot Wheels, Thomas & Friends and more
Tom Anstey | Planet Attractions | 21 Mar 2024
The Mattel Adventure Park in Kansas will be similar in format to the under-construction Arizona version of the destination Credit: Mattel
Mattel is expanding on its theme park ambitions, with the company announcing plans to open a second theme park in Kansas, US, in 2026.
Following on from the first Mattel Adventure Park, which will open later this year in Glendale, Arizona, the second park of the same name will open in Bonner Springs, just outside of Kansas City, with construction also starting later this year.
Working in partnership with Epic Resort Destinations, the new park will feature many similar attractions to that of its upcoming Arizona location.
Among the attractions ‘Bone Shaker: The Ultimate Ride’ and ‘Hot Wheels Twin Mill Racer’ are both Chance Rides products that aim to “give fans of all ages a day of thrills and nostalgia”. The first coaster reaches a maximum height of 84ft (25.6m), with its ride car featuring a very distinctive hot rod skull, designed to look like one of the signature miniature car toys. The second coaster features a double loop and two corkscrews, with the ride reaching a maximum speed of 50mph (80kmph) and a maximum height of 116ft (36.6m).
For younger visitors, a themed area based on Thomas & Friends will feature, with the land named ‘World of Sodor’, which includes an indoor play area with seven family-friendly rides and attractions, including the Thomas Adventure Train: Treasure Hunt.
Hotly anticipated at the Arizona location, the life-sized Barbie Beach House offers a trio of experiences including a flying theatre attraction that will take riders on a journey from the depths of the ocean to outer space and the Dream Closet Experience, which will bring the iconic doll to life through state-of-the-art hologram technology. The Barbie Rooftop eatery completes the line-up, offering panoramic views of the park, as well as pink beverages and sweet and savoury snacks.
IPs such as Magic 8 Ball and Pictionary feature in the park in the form of a mini golf course, while the iconic Castle Grayskull fortress from Masters of the Universe plays host to a laser tag experience.
“Mattel Adventure Park Kansas City will bring our iconic brands to life with epic roller coasters, family-friendly attractions, an immersive theatre, themed dining, and so much more,” said Josh Silverman, chief franchise officer at Mattel.
“We are thrilled to expand these themed entertainment destinations and invite new fans to experience the world of Mattel in all-new ways as they create lasting memories with loved ones.”
Theme park
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