Mattel Adventure Park is set to bring beloved toy brands to life with two upcoming locations in Glendale, Arizona, and Bonner Springs, Kansas. These parks promise immersive experiences featuring iconic Mattel franchises such as Hot Wheels, Barbie, Thomas & Friends, and Masters of the Universe. Originally slated to open in 2024, the date for Glendale have been pushed. Here is what we know:
- Glendale, Arizona: Originally slated for earlier openings, the Glendale park’s debut has been rescheduled to late 2025. This delay ensures the completion of expanded resort amenities and attractions.
- Bonner Springs, Kansas: The Kansas location is on track to open in 2026, with groundbreaking planned for later this year.
Park Overviews and Attractions
Both parks will offer a variety of attractions tailored to fans of all ages:
- Hot Wheels: Thrill-seekers can look forward to the Hot Wheels Bone Shaker: The Ultimate Ride, an 84-foot-tall family roller coaster featuring the iconic skull design, and the Hot Wheels Twin Mill Racer, a high-speed coaster with double loops and corkscrews.
- Barbie: Visitors can immerse themselves in the Barbie Beach House, which includes the Barbie Dream Closet Experience—an interactive attraction utilizing hologram technology to bring Barbie to life—and the Barbie Flying Theatre, offering a journey from underwater realms to outer space. The Barbie Rooftop provides panoramic views alongside signature pink beverages and snacks.
- Thomas & Friends: The Thomas Adventure Train: Treasure Hunt offers a life-sized, electric-powered Thomas the Tank Engine passenger train, taking families on interactive adventures.
- Masters of the Universe: Fans can engage in the He-Man vs. Skeletor Laser Tag, a state-of-the-art arena set within a life-size Castle Grayskull, inviting guests to join the battle for Eternia.
- Mattel Games: The parks will feature a nine-hole mini golf course inspired by games like Pictionary and Rock ‘Em Sock ‘Em Robots, as well as an UNO-themed climbing structure, offering interactive fun for all ages.
Resort Features and Accommodations
The Glendale park is part of the expansive VAI Resort, a $1.1 billion development encompassing 60 acres. The resort will offer over 1,100 hotel rooms, a large central lagoon, multiple dining options, an outdoor amphitheater, and various entertainment venues, positioning it as Arizona’s largest resort upon completion. Glendale was designed with Arizona’s hot climate in mind. The park features approximately five acres of indoor, climate-controlled space to ensure year-round comfort for guests.
In Kansas, the Bonner Springs location spans approximately 180 acres, providing ample space for additional attractions and amenities. Plans include multiple roller coasters, immersive dining experiences like the Hot Wheels Legends Bar and Grill, and comprehensive resort facilities to enhance the guest experience.
