US LEGOLAND parks gain Classic space rides following Merlin’s £492m loss
Two of the US LEGOLAND resorts will be expanding with Classic Space areas next year, following Merlin Entertainment’s £492m loss in 2024.
Nostalgic LEGO enthusiasts longing for the days of Classic Space might want to consider a trip to either LEGOLAND Florida or California early next year, when the parks will see a new ride and land, respectively, inspired by the retro LEGO theme. Merlin Entertainments announced the expansions earlier this week.
LEGOLAND Florida will be receiving an indoor space roller coaster with a store and a DUPLO Tot Zone as part of a small area. LEGOLAND California is getting a full land named LEGOLAND SPACEPORT 886, referencing 886 Space Buggy from 1979.
The California land will include the indoor roller coaster as well as two other rides, a shop, places to eat and a junior astronaut training zone. Both will be opening in early 2026 and take inspiration from the recent LEGO City space sets, as well as the iconic eras of Classic Space.
“After months of anticipation, we’re delighted to confirm details of these immersive, space-themed experiences at two of Merlin’s premier resorts globally,” shared Fiona Eastwood, CEO of Merlin Entertainments. “This £70 million investment exemplifies our strategy to premiumise our existing portfolio, offering young families even more high-quality attractions, with the captivating storytelling and learning through play that LEGOLAND Resorts are renowned for.
“Our Merlin Magic Making creative team is constantly working on new, compelling and interactive experiences across our LEGOLAND Resorts as we further strengthen our partnership with the LEGO Group and broaden our appeal to LEGO’s global fan base. In both locations, the boundless creativity of LEGO will meet the wonders of space, setting a new standard for fun and imagination, and once again providing guests with a new reason to visit these destination resorts.”
These major expansions follow the £492 million loss stated in Merlin Entertainment’s 2024 annual report, which covers not just LEGOLAND but the brand’s other experiences worldwide. These losses are attributed to a fall in the value of some of Merlin’s theme parks and attractions.
“Following site changes (openings, acquisitions and divestments) made in 2024, we are developing further opportunities to maximise the value of our existing estate,” states the 2024 annual report.
“We will focus on efficient investment through disciplined internal focus on investment criteria, return thresholds and hurdles; in-house expertise in capital expenditure efficiency, project delivery, revenue and variable cost management, and maximising returns from marketing spend. To this end, we will continue to maintain prudent practices when investing in our existing estate.”
Merlin Entertainments recently expanded the LEGOLAND brand with the biggest park ever in Shanghai, including the world’s first Monkie Kid area. The new space roller coaster and land will be opening at LEGOLAND Florida and California in early 2026.
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