Governor Cuomo Announces Full Opening of Theme Park at LEGOLAND® New York Resort in Orange County

 

First New Major Theme Park in Northeast in More Than Four Decades  

  

Highlights Revival of New York's Tourism Industry, Encouraging New Yorkers to Safely Explore Great Destinations Across State 

 Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced the opening of the final land to open at LEGOLAND® New York Resort in Goshen, Orange County - the first new major theme park in the Northeast in more than four decades. Developed by Merlin Entertainments, the 150-acre project is the first LEGOLAND® theme park in the Northeast, the third in the United States and the ninth in the world. It features seven LEGO® themed lands, each with its own rides and attractions, and strong educational elements for children ages two to 12 and their families.

"The pandemic took a devastating toll on New York, and as we make our comeback, the new LEGOLAND®New York Resort in Orange County is a testament to the resilience and ingenuity that this state has always been known for," Governor Cuomo said. "This magnificent destination for people of all ages will help spur the Mid-Hudson region's economic recovery, jumpstart the state's critical tourism industry, and provide a world-class, family-friendly experience for travelers from all over the world."  

The theme park is the first to feature the world-premiere LEGO® Factory Adventure Ride, which transforms guests into Minifigures and gives them a whimsical "brick's eye view" of how LEGO® is made. The ride also incorporates a specialized ADA vehicle capable of carrying a guest who uses a wheelchair. It is one of several amenities that allows LEGOLAND® New York to be enjoyed by visitors of all abilities, including a "Sensory Room" where children and families can combat sensory overload. 

A 250-room LEGOLAND® Hotel is now taking bookings starting August 6. Built for kids, each of the Hotel's fully LEGO® themed rooms will feature a separate children's sleeping area, with daily children's entertainment and scavenger hunts for LEGO® prizes. Located just steps away from the theme park, the Hotel will also feature a heated resort-style swimming pool. 

Stephanie Johnson, Divisional Director of LEGOLAND® New York Resort, said, "We appreciate the support of New York State and Empire State Development as LEGOLAND® New York Resort prepares to welcome guests from far and wide to build unforgettable memories this summer. We aim to be a child's first theme park experience, and we've always seen the Hudson Valley as the perfect fit for LEGOLAND® New York Resort, not only for its picturesque setting, but its proximity to the largest tourist market in the world. After the challenges of the past year, we are pleased to see signs that people are ready to travel again, and we're proud to play a part in the rebirth of New York's crucial tourism economy." 

LEGOLAND® New York was supported by $15.1 million in grants through the Regional Economic Development Council and Upstate Revitalization Initiative. Additionally, LEGOLAND®New York and New York State invested more than $40 million in new road and bridge infrastructure to enhance capacity and improve reliability, including the reconfiguration of the Route 17 Exit 125 interchange; construction of a new bridge over Route 17; widening the South Street and Route 17M intersection; and the reconstruction of Harriman Drive.

More than $37 million has also been invested to grow and modernize nearby New York Stewart International Airport in the Town of New Windsor. This included expanding the terminal by 19,850 square feet, adding a permanent federal inspection service facility, expanded service, more restrooms, and the construction of a solar canopy over the airport parking lot, providing 90 percent of the power needs for the entire passenger terminal. In March, the governor announced three new initiatives to support and encourage larger passenger volumes with the revitalization of travel and tourism.