Merlin Entertainments has announced the upcoming launch of Galacticoaster, an indoor roller coaster set to open at LEGOLAND Resorts in Florida and California in early 2026. The announcement was made during the IAAPA Expo 2025.
The new attraction marks Merlin’s largest single investment for these two resorts, with $90 million allocated for both sites. This move is part of the company’s ongoing strategy to expand its LEGO-themed offerings through innovative experiences.
Galacticoaster will offer a space-themed adventure that combines storytelling, interactivity, and advanced ride technology. Visitors begin their journey in a Briefing Room led by Chief Engineer Biff Dipper, who introduces guests to Galaxy Command before they customize their own spacecraft using interactive touchscreens and RFID wristbands. Riders can create their craft across four build phases—Nose, Tail, Wings, and Special Features—resulting in over 625 possible combinations. Their designs are integrated into the ride experience as they travel through a LEGO solar system featuring special effects and appearances from classic LEGO Space characters.
Development of Galacticoaster took more than three years and involved Merlin Magic Making along with ART Engineering, 2Heads, AVSC, Imagineize, and teams from LEGO Brand Parks & Experience.
“Galacticoaster redefines what a family coaster can be,” said Rob Smith, COO of Merlin Entertainments. “It’s not just about the thrills – it’s about giving every guest the power to create their own story. It’s LEGO play, elevated to a whole new orbit. These investments reaffirm our commitment to the ongoing transformation of LEGOLAND Parks in North America into world class destination resorts. I can’t wait to see these space-themed experiences come to life in Florida and California early next year.”
“This project has been pure LEGO awesomeness from start to finish,” added Julie Estrada, North America Director of Communications for Merlin Entertainments. “It’s playful, it’s clever, and it’s a testament to how far we can go when imagination leads the way.”
In advance of opening day, LEGOLAND Resorts have launched the Junior Galaxy Explorers Search—a nationwide initiative inviting families with young space enthusiasts to participate for a chance at previewing the new attraction and joining opening day celebrations. Details are available at LEGOLAND.com/JuniorExplorers.
The Galacticoaster is part of the newly developed LEGO Galaxy theme that pays tribute to past and present LEGO Space sets such as Space Scooter (1979), Space Buggy, M-Tron, and other references for fans. The area will also feature nine large-scale models constructed from more than half a million LEGO bricks by Master Model Builders.
Opening dates for both locations will be announced soon.
For more information about LEGOLAND Florida Resort—including its range of attractions spanning over 150 acres near Orlando and Tampa—visit www.LEGOLAND.com/Florida.
