WyCo is kenough for Mattel: Toymaker says theme park coming in 2026 — driven by Barbie, Hot Wheels, He-Man

Fresh off a blockbuster summer-turned-Oscar season, the toymaker behind the hit “Barbie” movie announced plans Wednesday to open a new theme park — featuring some of its most notable product lines — in the Kansas City region by 2026.

“Barbie” fans take photos with displays inside Kansas City’s Union Station; photo by Nikki Overfelt Chifalu

“Mattel Adventure Park Kansas City will bring our iconic brands to life with epic roller coasters, family-friendly attractions, an immersive theater, 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.”

The new park in Bonner Springs, Kansas, is expected to be home to the larger-than-life Barbie Beach House, featuring an interactive retail experience where fans can build their customized Barbie sets in the Barbie Dream Closet Experience, which uses hologram technology to bring Barbie to life right before guests’ eyes. The attraction also includes a unique, Barbie-themed flying theater and The Barbie Rooftop restaurant and bar.

Kansas City residents were among those who embraced the nostalgia and fandom of Barbie in summer 2023 as the movie premiered. The KC Streetcar bore a special Barbie wrap, a Barbie pop-up bar debuted and fans flocked to theaters — all as local entrepreneurs aimed to capitalize on the craze.

Now it appears to be Wyandotte County’s turn.

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But Mattel Adventure Park Kansas City won’t just be dolled up for Barbie enthusiasts. The theme park — expected to be located near The Legends and Kansas Speedway, although representatives of Mattel declined to provide an exact address — is set to provide “infinite fun for the whole family,” said Mark Cornell, president of Epic Resort Destinations, which is developing the location through a licensing agreement with Mattel.

“We are bringing Mattel’s powerhouse brands to life through state-of-the-art technology and engaging experiences,” he added.

Among the attractions:

• Hot Wheels roller coasters — The Hot Wheels Bone Shaker themed ride will feature the famous hot rod’s skull design, while the double-looping Hot Wheels Twin Mill Racer guarantees a serious adrenaline boost for all riders.
• Thomas & Friends: World of Sodor — Five family-friendly experiences and rides including a dedicated indoor play space for little adventurers.
• He-Man vs. Skeletor Laser Tag — Masters of the Universe fans can fight for Eternia in a massive laser tag arena in the likeness of the iconic Castle Grayskull fortress.
• Magic 8 Ball — An 18-hole mini-golf experience.
• UNO — A larger-than-life custom climb structure that delivers nostalgia and adventure for all ages.

Mattel Adventure Park Kansas City is the second Mattel concept from Epic, which previously announced plans for a similar park in Glendale, Arizona. That project is expected to open in late 2024.