What Can We Expect from Icon Park’s Massive Expansion?

Icon Park in Orlando is gearing up for significant changes in the coming years, with a large-scale expansion slated for 2026 and 2027.

The growth is, in part, a strategic response to Universal's new Epic Universe theme park opening nearby, signaling heightened competition in the area’s entertainment sector.

Key developments include the confirmed construction of the Arte Museum by d’strict, a 30,000-square-foot digital art installation inspired by successful locations in Las Vegas and New York. The project is on track for a 2027 opening and is expected to draw considerable foot traffic and media attention.

The Blue Man Group is also set to make a highly anticipated return to the Orlando market, with a new 500-seat theater along Universal Boulevard scheduled to open in 2026. This addition aims to further diversify Icon Park's entertainment offerings and appeal to a broad demographic.

On the retail front, the expansion includes plans for an additional 70,000 to 100,000 square feet of commercial space. New tenants are projected to open in 2026, including the largest Build-A-Bear Workshop to date, which will feature new interactive elements designed to enhance the guest experience.

The park will also welcome Sushi Saint, which is launching its second Central Florida location with a focus on handrolls and omakase experiences.

Meanwhile, the aftermath of the tragic 2022 FreeFall ride incident continues to shape Icon Park’s operations and the broader industry environment. In December 2024, a Florida jury ordered the Austrian manufacturer Funtime to pay $310 million to Tyre Sampson’s family following the fatal accident. Additionally, a former ride technician filed suit in March 2025, claiming prior safety concerns were ignored and that he was terminated after refusing to alter maintenance records. Legislative changes have followed. The “Tyre Sampson Act,” passed in May 2023, mandates seat belts on rides exceeding 100 feet and introduces new inspection protocols. The Orlando FreeFall ride itself was dismantled in March 2023.

Other notable updates include Icon Park’s continued partnership with FOX 35 Orlando for the Ultimate Tailgate event in September 2025, reinforcing community engagement and brand visibility.

In August 2025, The Wheel at Icon Park resumed operations after a power failure impacted more than 60 riders, following comprehensive inspections and repairs.

Overall, Icon Park is positioning itself for a new era, balancing ambitious growth with increased focus on safety, compliance, and guest experience.