WyCo is kenough for Mattel: Toymaker says theme park coming in 2026 — driven by Barbie, Hot Wheels, He-Man
March 20, 2024 | Startland News Staff
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.
RELATED: Don’t sleep on ‘Barbie’, KC theater owner warns as Barbenheimer blockbuster arrives
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.
- 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.
2024 Startups to Watch
stats here
Related Posts on Startland News
WiGo trips isolated travel in its tracks, connecting like-minded journeys through years-in-the-works app
WiGo Trips takes the isolation out of globetrotting, said Jaqui McCarthy, connecting people on a “LinkedIn for travellers” social networking app set to launch Saturday. Soon to be available on iOS and Android, WiGo is expected to feature a marketplace through which users can display and discuss travel plans, CEO and co-founder McCarthy said. Selected…
Daytime TV exposure weaves new challenge for once-bullied teen wig designer: a startup reality check
Fifteen-year-old Trenton Lee found his purpose on the brink of suicide, he recalled, glossing through the pages of a portfolio chronicling the first months of his newly launched Kansas City wig business — a path that ultimately led him to a couch alongside TV and radio personality Steve Harvey. “I was just at the lowest…
Target deals new verse to KC-born Mixtape card game; players could pick founder’s next tune
Mixtape allows players of the KC-made card game to “hide behind the song,” connecting without fear of vulnerability, said creator Joel Johnson. That appeal recently helped push the cross-generational, multi-genre product onto Target shelves across the country. Players draw cards with such scenario questions as, “What song or band changed the way you think about…
Fund Me, KC: GenU looks in the mirror to remove student mental health stigmas
Startland News is continuing its segment to highlight area entrepreneurs’ efforts to accelerate their businesses. This is an opportunity for entrepreneurs — like those working on behalf of the mental health support site GenU — to share their crowdfunding stories to gain additional support. Who are you and what is your organization? Risa Stein, PhD…