Mattel's Massive New Theme Park Will Open in 2024
A permanent Barbie World is coming to Glendale, Arizona. Here's what we know so far.
Soon, Barbie World won't just be a magical place inside the screens at movie theaters and brought to life by the effervescent and charming duo of Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling. Mattel Adventure Park is currently under construction in Glendale, Arizona and will feature rides and experiences from iconic Mattel brands like Hot Wheels, Barbie, Thomas the Train, and more.
Mattel Adventure Park was originally slated to open sometime in 2023, though if you watch the live construction cam of the theme park build site, it seems that only a Hot Wheels roller coaster looks close to completion. This week, Mattel confirmed to Thrillist that doors will officially open in 2024.
Details on the park are still a bit scant, but what we do know so far is that the park will be open 365 days each year, and a majority of the entertainment at the nine acre indoor/outdoor park will be indoors.
There will be two fully themed Hot Wheels roller coasters on site, Hot Wheels Bone Shaker: The Ultimate Ride and the Hot Wheels Twin Mill Racer. The Bone Shaker will be a family ride that rises 84 feet in the air, while the Twin Mill Racer will feature a double loop and two corkscrew turns. Here are all of the details on the additional attractions we know about so far:
- Thomas & Friends: World of Sodor will feature seven family-friendly experiential attractions and rides including dedicated indoor play space.
- A full-scale Barbie Beach House will offer Barbie fans a closer look inside Barbie’s iconic closet in the Barbie Dream Closet Experience, which uses hologram technology to bring Barbie to life. The attraction will also include a rooftop bar and restaurant.
- A massive Masters of the Universe 4,500-square-foot laser tag arena in the designed in the style of the Castle Grayskull fortress.
- A mini golf experience inspired by Magic 8 Ball, Pictionary and other Mattel games.
- A larger-than-life custom climb UNO structure.
"Mattel Adventure Park is an amazing opportunity to bring our beloved brands to life," said Julie Freeland, senior director of global location based entertainment at Mattel, in a statement to Thrillist. “Construction is underway and substantial progress has been made on what will give fans of all ages a day of thrills and nostalgia. We're especially excited for families to experience the Hot Wheels Bone Shaker rollercoaster – a dream come true for any Hot Wheels fan.”
NBC Los Angeles reports that the park will also feature a passenger train.
"We are delighted for Glendale to be the flagship location for this resort that will bring technology and globally established partners to create a one-of-a-kind environment," said Glendale City Manager Kevin Phelps in a press statement. "The Crystal Lagoons and the Mattel themed Adventure Park will complement our thriving sports and entertainment district and support our goal of being a premier destination for visitors from across the globe and for Glendale residents."
Watch this space for more updates as we await further details ahead of Mattel Adventure Park's 2024 opening date.
Looking for more travel inspo?
If you're ready for an adventure but not sure where you'd like to go or what to do, we're on it. The best new hotels opening up around the world. The most exciting places to travel without a passport. The world's best beaches, as ranked by travel influencers. It's all here along with all the travel news you need to stay informed and inspired.