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| (c) 2011 Legoland Florida |
Dewayne Bevil, The Orlando Sentinel, October 13, 2011
The first new theme park in Central Florida in more than a decade is almost ready for guests. Saturday's grand opening of Legoland Florida ushers in a new era filled with colorful building-block figures -- from Einstein to Elvis -- and rides for children. Here's a look at select attractions at the Winter Haven park.
The Dragon is the high-profile coaster that emerges from the theme park's castle. Before speeding off, riders glide by Lego models of a royal court and a big, red, steamed beast.
Ford Driving School sets little drivers loose on the road. Boating School is a companion attraction on a waterway.
Big Test Live Show features "model citizens" (Legoland-speak for employees) in a comic song-and-dance presentation about fire safety.
Guests can spend hours inspecting details (and Elvis) at Miniland USA, which re-creates American landmarks, including the Daytona International Speedway and Kennedy Space Center. The pirate section is the first one to be in any Legoland theme park.
Big Shop is big on souvenirs and merchandise, including Lego building kits. The store is in an area at the front of the park known as "The Beginning," but it's situated to get you coming and going.
Aquazone Wave Runners combines simple navigation with water cannons and a bit of G forces for an attraction that can soak riders.
Lost Kingdom Adventure hones the point-and-shoot skills through an Egyptian-themed dark ride that's also a competition.
Imagination Zone is fronted by a way-oversized Lego bust of Albert Einstein. Inside are "Build & Test" activities, including an earthquake simulator for guests' Lego creations.
Pirates' Cove is home to a water-ski show featuring Lego characters on the banks of Lake Eloise.
Lego Technic Test Track roller coaster has a steep drop and curves plus a good overall view of the theme park.
