By Ken Storey
Back in March, 2013 Legoland Florida announced a major expansion
to the park with a new Legends of Chima branded area. Based on the
new product line, LEGO Legends of Chima, LEGOLAND Florida will bring this world
to life with The World of Chima presented by Cartoon Network. Families will
embark on a journey in search of a mystical energy source through a
highly-interactive water ride experience, the Quest for CHI.
“This is the first time a theme park has invested
in a major expansion concurrently with the rollout of a new brand and product
line, and it was an easy decision based on how well Lego Legends of Chima has
been received by children and those who are young at heart around the world,”
said Legoland Florida General Manager Adrian Jones. “This is also a reflection
of the overall success of the park, which has already enabled us to open a new
Water Park and build multiple new attractions during the past 18 months.”
Chima is expected
to be huge; it's already the highest tested new Lego theme in the past 12
years. Legoland Florida recently opened
a new 4D movie based on the new theme but the land itself will open in
July. The new land will feature a meet
and greet with the Chima characters and Speedorz
Arena where guests can try different Lego cars.
The central aspect
of the new land is a brand new interactive water ride, The Quest for CHI. Entering through a highly themed stone and
moss covered entrance guests will enter the Lion Temple which will feature a Mount
Cavora floating above the water and towering 45feet into the air. Interactivity will be central in the ride with guests using water
cannons to help Laval the Lion Prince defeat Cragger the Crocodile King. The ride will feature a number of different ‘habitats’
including the Rhino Quarry, Raven’s Roost, Eagle’s Nest, Wolves Encampment,
Gorilla Forest and Crocodile Swamp.
The ride is quickly
taking shape at the park. Recently Legoland
Florida posted some aerial shots of the construction site on their Pinterest page
devoted to the new land.
 |
| While their new home is being built the future Lego residents have been traveling around Central Florida, including spending some time with Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer in Lake Eola Park. |