New Mattel theme park with Hot Wheels, Thomas attractions coming to Glendale AZ

[June 11, 2021: Kevin Stone]

The country’s first Mattel theme park, complete with Hot Wheels and Thomas the Tank Engine attractions, is coming to Glendale.

The Mattel Adventure Park will be part of the ambitious Crystal Lagoons Island Resort project near State Farm Stadium and the Westgate Entertainment District.

Officials announced the toy-making giant’s involvement during a groundbreaking ceremony for the resort Thursday morning.

The adventure park will feature a Hot Wheels roller coaster, go-kart experiences, an indoor Thomas section and a full-size passenger train based on the popular children’s character.

“A passion for innovation and excellence has driven the design of our venue,” Mark Cornell, the resort’s president of attractions and entertainment, said in a press release.

“Mattel shares our vision and sets the platinum standard for the concept of play. We are thrilled to create the country’s first Mattel Adventure Park in Glendale.”

Developer ECL Glendale, LLC aims to open complex in 2022, ahead of State Farm Stadium hosting Super Bowl LVII in February 2023.

The resort plans call for a 48-acre development on the southwest corner of 95th Avenue and Cardinal Way, just south of the stadium, anchored by an 11-acre water park.

The lagoon will have white sand beaches and be up to 10 feet deep.

The project also includes 630 hotel rooms, restaurants, retail and office space, and a 130-foot-high “aerobar.”

According to documents from when the initial resort plans were approved by the Glendale City Council, the development will create an estimated 1,800 jobs and nearly $10 million in tax revenue annually for Glendale for 25 years.

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