A Madame Tussauds and a 425-feet “Orlando Eye” observation wheel are two of three attractions that may well be part of the landscape on International Drive in Orlando.
Merlin Entertainments, a leading name in location based family entertainment, confirmed on Wednesday that it is working with entertainment company Circle Entertainment and developer Unicorp to bring the attractions to Central Florida.
According to a statement from the global visitor attraction operator, talks are well advanced, and if agreed, the attractions will form a major part of Circle and Unicorp’s plans for “I-Walk Orlando”, expected to open in 2013.
Commenting Paul Kanavos, President of Circle Entertainment, said “I-Walk Orlando will be a very exciting addition to International Drive, providing a unique mix of leisure and retail activities.”
Unicorp’s President Chuck Whittall said, “We are so pleased to undertake this extraordinary new development opportunity that will re-shape the landscape of International Drive. We waited patiently for four years to create the ideal retail and entertainment destination. This is it and will be a world wide destination. I-Walk Orlando has secured all necessary zoning and entitlements.”
Merlin Entertainments’ CEO Nick Varney observed, “I-Walk Orlando is destined to be a ‘must visit’ destination for Orlando’s millions of visitors. With this project we believe Merlin, Unicorp and Circle Entertainment will be bringing an exceptional group of new attractions to what is undoubtedly the best and most exciting location for family entertainment any where in the world.”
Merlin is also slated to open LEGOLAND Florida in Winter Haven later this year.
