Mass layoffs are underway at LEGOLAND Florida, and 234 employees are slated for layoffs. The job cuts are scheduled to start on March 25 and will continue through April 7.
The entertainment department makes up about 75% of these layoffs. Last week, the park’s parent company, Merlin Entertainments, notified Florida Department of Economic Opportunity via a Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN).
“At LEGOLAND Florida Resort we are making operational changes to help us elevate the guest experience in 2025 and beyond. This includes changes in how we deliver entertainment,” a Legoland representative said in a statement. “The decision to reduce the size of some of our teams was undoubtedly difficult, but these changes will allow the Resort to operate more flexibly and responsively in a competitive market.”
The announcement comes in the midst of LEGOLAND’s construction of a major new attraction: SeaLife Florida.
OVERVIEW OF MERLIN ENTERTAINMENTS: LEGOLAND FLORIDA’S PARENT COMPANY
Merlin Entertainments is one of the world’s largest entertainment companies, operating over 140 attractions globally. The company has a significant presence in Florida, featuring attractions such as LEGOLAND Florida, SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium, SEA LIFE Florida, and the Orlando Eye.
LEGOLAND Florida Resort, located in Winter Haven, is designed for families and LEGO enthusiasts, particularly catering to children aged 2 to 12. The park includes over 50 rides, shows, and attractions inspired by LEGO themes. Key features include Miniland USA, which replicates famous U.S. landmarks using millions of LEGO bricks, and LEGO NINJAGO World, which offers an interactive ride experience. The resort also houses a water park and the LEGOLAND Hotel, enabling families to extend their visit with overnight accommodations.
In Orlando, Merlin operates several attractions at ICON Park. The Orlando Eye, now referred to as the Wheel at ICON Park, is a 400-foot-tall observation wheel that offers panoramic views of the Orlando skyline, nearby theme parks, and Cape Canaveral on clear days. The ride provides air-conditioned capsules for visitor comfort.
SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium is also located at ICON Park and features exhibits showcasing marine life from around the world. The aquarium includes themed zones, such as the Atlantic Ocean Tunnel, where guests can walk through a 360-degree underwater tunnel surrounded by various aquatic species. SEA LIFE emphasizes conservation and education through interactive exhibits and programs aimed at raising awareness of aquatic ecosystems. Additionally, SEA LIFE Florida offers similar marine experiences, focusing on ocean life and conservation initiatives.
