The Evolution of Dezerland Park Orlando
Once upon a time, in the heart of Orlando, Florida, a place known as Festival Bay Mall opened its doors in 2002. Developed by Belz Enterprises, this mall had a vision but struggled to find footing.
Fast forward to 2014, and the mall transformed into Artegon Marketplace, an artisanal shopping experience.
Yet, the marketplace also faced challenges and eventually closed its doors. But in 2020, like a phoenix rising from the ashes, the space rebirthed as Dezerland Park Orlando.
The transformation was nothing short of magical. The mall turned into an 800,000-square-foot indoor attraction. It became a place where fun and excitement knew no bounds.
The change was so significant that it caught the attention of locals and tourists alike, making it a hot spot for things to do in Orlando, Florida.
The park’s evolution wasn’t an overnight affair. It took careful planning, a vision for entertainment, and a knack for knowing what people wanted. The result? A place that offers a blend of shopping, dining, and amusement, all under one roof.
The journey from Festival Bay Mall to Dezerland Park is a tale of transformation. It’s a story of how a struggling mall became Florida’s largest indoor attraction.
It’s a testament to the idea that with the right vision and execution, any place can become a wonderland of opportunities.
So, what led to this transformation? It was a combination of factors, including the need for an indoor entertainment space in Orlando and the vision of creating a one-stop destination for fun and leisure.
Thus, Dezerland Park came into existence, offering a new lease on life to a space with many ups and downs.
Navigating the 800,000 Square Feet of Fun
Dezerland Park Orlando is massive, with an area spanning 800,000 square feet. It’s like a small city dedicated to fun and entertainment.
The park is so large that it’s easy to get lost in its various attractions. From karting to arcade games, there’s something for everyone.
One of the highlights is the new track layout for karting. It’s been designed to be faster, offering an adrenaline-pumping experience. Then there’s the Laser Tag Maze, a 3,000-square-foot arena where you can team up with friends for high-energy fun.
But that’s not all. The park also features bumper cars, virtual reality games, and a trampoline park called Jump Start. Each attraction is designed to offer a unique experience, ensuring that there’s never a dull moment.
The variety is mind-boggling. From classic games like pinball to modern virtual reality experiences, the park is a melting pot of old and new. It’s like stepping into a world where different eras of entertainment come together.
So, whether you’re an adventure seeker or prefer a laid-back experience, Dezerland Park has got you covered.
The Auto Experience – A Museum Like No Other
Let’s shift gears and discuss something unique at Dezerland Park—the Auto Experience. This isn’t your ordinary museum; it’s Orlando’s largest museum dedicated to automobiles and vehicles. The Auto Experience is a paradise for car enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
The museum is divided into lounges and exhibits, offering a unique perspective on automotive history. One of the standout exhibits is the Bond Museum, dedicated to cars from the iconic James Bond movies.
Then there are the Cars of Israel, France, and Europe exhibits, showcasing vehicles historically significant in those places.
But the crown jewel has to be the 100+ foot car that holds a Guinness World Record. This behemoth features a helicopter pad, a jacuzzi, and putting green. It’s so large that it can accommodate 75 people inside. This car is not just a vehicle; it’s a marvel of engineering and design.
The Auto Experience also offers themed lounges like the Duesenburg Lounge and the Cars of the Stars exhibit. Each lounge is like stepping into a different world, filled with cars that tell a story. From luxury vehicles to military cars, the range is extensive and fascinating.
This museum is not just about looking at cars; it’s about experiencing them. Each exhibit offers interactive elements that allow visitors to get up close and personal with these automotive marvels. It’s a place where you can see and feel the history of automobiles.
Eat, Drink, Shop – More Than Just an Amusement Park
After all the fun and games, feeling peckish or in the mood for some retail therapy is natural. Well, Dezerland Park has that covered, too.
The park offers a variety of dining options, each with its unique flair. The choices are plenty, from the Bond Lounge’s killer menu to Amigo Burrito’s Latin flavors.
The Jumpstart Cafe offers snacks and more for those who prefer a quick bite. And if you’re in the mood for something sweet, Milk, the House of Cereal offers an all-you-can-eat cereal bar. Yes, you read that right—an all-you-can-eat cereal bar!
And let’s not forget the drink options. The choices are endless, from classic cocktails at The Pinball Palace to a full bar at Axecelsior. You’ll find the perfect spot here, whether you’re in the mood for a drink or looking to unwind.
Shopping is also an experience here. The options are endless, from leather goods for the biker in you to Rocket Fizz, a store specializing in soda, candy, and novelty items. There’s even a Bass Pro Shop for those interested in outdoor and fishing gear.
So, whether you want to dine, shop, or relax, Dezerland Park offers various options beyond the usual amusement park fare. It’s a place where you can spend an entire day and still not run out of things to do.
Practical Information for Visitors
Are you planning a visit to Dezerland Park in Orlando? Here’s some practical information to make your trip smooth. The park is open from Monday to Thursday from 12 pm to 9 pm, Friday from 12 pm to 11 pm, Saturday from 11 am to 12 am, and Sunday from 11 am to 10 pm.
During the holidays, the park has a particular schedule. On Christmas Eve, it’s open from 12 pm to 6 pm, and on Christmas Day from 12 pm to 8 pm. The park closes at 8 pm on New Year’s Eve but is back to regular hours on New Year’s Day.
One of the best parts? The park offers free entrance and parking, making it accessible for everyone.
So, you can spend your money on fun activities, dining, and shopping instead of worrying about entry fees and parking charges. (Please check the park’s website for current schedules and conditions.)
What Sets Dezerland Park Orlando Apart
So, what makes Dezerland Park unique? For starters, it’s Florida’s largest indoor attraction, offering a variety of activities that cater to different age groups and interests. There’s something for everyone, from the adrenaline-pumping karting track to the laid-back bowling lounge.
But it’s not just the variety that sets it apart; it’s the quality of the experiences. Each attraction, whether the Auto Experience or the dining options, is designed to offer something unique.
It’s a place where you can enjoy a comprehensive entertainment experience without stepping out of the building.
Moreover, Dezerland Park has managed to create a space that blends different forms of entertainment.
It’s not just an amusement park or a shopping mall; it’s a hybrid that offers the best of both worlds. It’s where you can spend an entire day and still feel like you’ve only scratched the surface.
In a city known for its theme parks and outdoor attractions, Dezerland Park offers something different—an indoor space where fun, food, and shopping come together. It’s a place that has redefined what an amusement park can be, offering a new entertainment experience.
Conclusion
And so, the tale of Dezerland Park Orlando ends, but the experiences it offers are far from over. From its humble beginnings as Festival Bay Mall to its transformation into an 800,000-square-foot wonderland, it’s a place that has constantly evolved to offer something new and exciting.
It’s not just another amusement park; it’s a destination that offers a comprehensive entertainment experience.
From the Auto Experience that takes you on a journey through automotive history to the variety of dining and shopping options, Dezerland Park is a place that promises endless possibilities.
So, the next time you’re looking for a place that offers a blend of fun, food, and retail therapy, look no further. Dezerland Park is the place to be, a wonderland where every visit provides a new adventure.