It’s A Barbie World – New Mattel Adventure Park

As productive adult members of society, we strive for success in all we do.  We build careers, keep track of our children’s busy lives, and give back to our communities.  But what we don’t often do is embrace the sheer joy of playing like we did when we were kids.  So when I recently read an article about a new destination attraction, it stopped me in my tracks and put a big-cheesy-swing-as-high-as-you-can grin on my face.

Friends – if you haven’t already heard, the new Mattel Adventure Park is coming!

Mattel Adventure Park

The Mattel Adventure Park is slated to open sometime in 2024 in Glendale, Arizona.  As a child of the 80s and former guru of all things Barbie, I immediately began Googling everything I could find about this fun-tastic throwback to childhood and a simpler time.

The first-ever Mattel park will highlight its most popular brands like Hot Wheels, Thomas & Friends, and Masters of the Universe.  But at its well-manicured and glamorous core, the park promises to be a “Barbie World.”

It’s A Barbie World

Fans of the blond bombshell (in all her variations) will be able to hang out at the Barbie Beach House and enjoy a journey from underwater to outer space in the Barbie flying theater (after all, Barbie CAN do it all!)  They’ll also have a chance to sip signature pink cocktails on the Beach House’s third-story rooftop while enjoying stunning views of the park.

As a previously stated self-proclaimed guru, I had ALL the Barbie necessities:

• Three-story cardboard house with string elevator that never worked
• “Remote-controlled” Corvette connected to the controller by the shortest wire ever
• An inflatable pool that I was only allowed to fill with water and play with in the bathroom
• Bins and bins of fabulous Barbie ensembles and accessories

So perhaps it’s no surprise that I was thrilled to learn about the most awesome attraction of all! Guests can literally raid Barbie’s closet through the Dream Closet Experience!

State-of-the-art hologram technology will allow them to dress like the always fashionable icon.  I spent HOURS dressing Barbie dolls in the latest styles or looks of my own design – and now I’ll be able to bring those looks to life?!?  SOOOOO cool!!

Other Mattel Fan Favorites

Of course, other Mattel favorites will be featured throughout the 9-acre property.  A Hot Wheels-themed double-looping launch coaster, a treasure hunt journey with Thomas & Friends, and a mini-golf course plagued by the antics of the Rock ‘Em Sock ‘Em Robots are just a few highlights.

There will also be a 4,500-square-foot state-of-the-art laser tag arena with a Masters of the Universe Grayskull Castle theme!

LINK TO CONSTRUCTION CAM

About the Park

According to Travel + Leisure, Mattel Adventure Park will be part of the larger VAI Resort.  This $1 billion 60-acre destination will become the largest in Arizona and inspired by destinations like Mykonos and Dubai (definitely Barbie approved!) The theme park is a collaborative effort of Mattel and EPIC Resort Destinations.

The park website notes that its “unique indoor/outdoor design keeps your family cool and comfortable on even the hottest Arizona day with acres of air-conditioned space for your enjoyment.”  It appears that developers have spared no expense to turn treasured childhood memories into real family fun!

 “Do” Play!

The next time you feel overwhelmed by the responsibility of adulting, follow Ken’s lead and “do” play!  Take a minute to indulge in the playful fantasy that Mattel Adventure Park promises.  It is literally the stuff of my eight-year-old Barbie Dreamhouse dreams…. and the middle-aged mom in me is ready to go!

Opening day 2024 can’t come soon enough!!