Hat-trick of magical attractions from Merlin in Orlando
A hat-trick of star attractions – Madame Tussauds and SEA LIFE aquarium and The Orlando Eye, - are all on track to open in Orlando’s International Drive in Spring 2015.
The three wizard attractions from Merlin Entertainments plc are all under construction, ready for the opening of the I-Drive 360 complex next year.
Two waxworks have been announced for the new Madame Tussauds of singer-actress Selena Gomez and entertainer Ricky Martin, who helped pick out his figure’s outfit, which comes from his latest world tour, and copied its pose.
He says, “It was such an incredible experience to take part in the Madame Tussauds process. I’m truly amazed at how much work has gone into making this figure as authentic as possible.”
Madame Tussauds, the world’s most famous celebrity wax attraction, will showcase lifelike wax figures of the most influential celebrity and historical figures and is due to include a "family-fun twist”, the Orlando Sentinel reports.
SEA LIFE Orlando will provide enchanting displays of more than 5,000 fascinating creatures, including colorful fish, sharks, jellyfish, sea horses and more. It will feature winding tunnels, floor-to-ceiling tanks, bubble aquariums, educational components and Orlando's only 360-degree viewing tunnel.
The Orlando Eye, the cantilevered observation wheel at the heart of the complex, a little sister icon to London’s world-famous landmark, will provide breathtaking views of Central Florida from fully enclosed, air-conditioned glass capsules.
The Merlin group, which is behind the success LEGOLAND Florida theme park that opened in 2011, says Orlando is “the best and most exciting location for family entertainment anywhere in the world”.
Nick Varney, Chief Executive of Merlin Entertainments plc, says, “We believe that this is an exceptional group of attractions, which will not only provide three quite different new experiences for visitors, but also together add an exciting new dimension to what is already available in the region.
Garrett Kenny, CEO of top real estate developer and agent, Feltrim Group, says theme parks are a major part of the reason that the area attracts so many tourists and helps keep the buy-to-let property sectors so buoyant.
“The success of LEGOLAND Orlando proves that Merlin can deliver world-class attractions that take their place alongside Disney, Universal and other leading theme parks in the area. Some of our clients are already looking forward to seeing them.”
James Paulding, Merlin’s Head of Openings for North America, believes the three new attractions will “become must-do experiences for every visitor to Orlando.”
“We are very excited to be bringing some of Merlin’s best-loved global attractions to International Drive. SEA LIFE and Madame Tussauds have already proven their popularity with audiences across North America; and in Europe and Asia.”