The summer of 2013 is turning into a banner year for Orlando. From SeaWorld’s Antarctica, to Universal’s Transformers and Springfield, and even Disney’s Tangled Toilets, Orlando has created an aura of anticipation and excitement for guests traveling to Central Florida.
It is in this climate that Orlando Fun Spot, once a small side attraction intended to entertain tweens and teens after the other parks close, has thrown its hat into the ring with the new Orlando mantra “Go big or go home!” And with the addition of 2 major roller coasters, they delivered (If you don’t believe me, watch the ride video at the end of the article).
Back in 2010, Fun Spot purchased an additional 10 acres of land, tripling its size, with plans to expand its offerings. When the expansion was announced, many, including myself, scoffed at the idea of a larger Fun Spot being anything more than a short diversion when major players are competing for your precious time and money.
On June 8th, guests will have their first chance to judge for themselves if Fun Spot has become less “spot” and more “Fun” during the huge Grand Re-opening. Today we are going to bring you a preview of this new expansion, so you can see just how different this new Fun Spot is.
New Entrance
Right off the bat, when you come to Fun Spot you will notice that the new entrance is bright, beautiful, and sports an art deco style. It is a far cry from the previous steel building. While admission is free to Fun Spot, you will need an armband to ride any of the attractions. The new ticket windows make it very clear where to go, and what you need to get. As you enter, there is a giant map and colorful lighting that help set the tone for your experience.
Entrance Plaza and New Restaurant
Through the entrance, you are greeted with a huge plaza area that feels a bit like a European Amusement Park of old, with wide stone paths and flat rides on the perimeter, allowing you to easily decide which attraction you want to visit next.
Fun Spot has also built a new quick service restaurant that will be serving guests an improved menu in a drastically improved facility.
Sky Coaster
The first visible sign of Fun Spot’s expansion you can see for miles around. Standing at 250 feet is Fun Spot’s brand new Sky Coaster. Purchased from the MGM-Grand in Las Vegas, its light green glow at night hints at its place of origin. But don’t let that light green color fool you, this ride is not for the faint of heart, but for those seeking a pure adrenaline rush!
Freedom Flyer
Bringing big thrills to a family audience is Fun Spot’s Vekoma family suspended rollercoaster. With a top over 6 stories high, some great turns, and “close calls,” this suspended coaster has thrills and delights while being very accessible to families.
White Lightening
The shining star of this entire expansion is the White Lightening hybrid wooden rollercoaster built by GCI. Wooden Rollercoasters have a long and storied history in Florida (most of those being sad stories), but Fun Spot learned where others have failed! With a steel frame and wooden tracks, this coaster delivers on thrills, and an incredible amount of air time! I found myself completely in love with this coaster.
Don’t take my word for it, checkout the video below of my first ride on White Lightening, courtesy of Rob Alvey at Theme Park Review!
With Fun Spot’s late hours, and free admission, it will be easy next time you are in Orlando to check out this major expansion!
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