Galacticoaster at LEGOLAND was awarded the Golden Ticket for the Best New Theme Concept for 2026. The Golden Ticket Awards, presented annually by Amusement Today, recognizes the best of the amusement and theme park industry based on voting from industry professionals and enthusiasts. Galacticoaster opened in early 2026 and represents Merlin Entertainment’s largest single in-park investment in the history of its U.S. attractions (Merlin Entertainment is the parent company of the LEGOLAND theme parks). Having ridden it personally, calling Galacticoaster and “ride” or a “roller coaster” really sells it short as this is a multi-part story driven experience. Seeing it get a “Best New Theme Concept” award perfectly encapsulates what this attraction is all about.

The attraction is highly themed with lots of “Easter eggs” in the queue line and a great pre-show mission briefing led by Biff Dipper, a 3.5-foot-tall animatronic robotic LEGO minifigure. Guests then enter the Customization Bay to design a digital LEGO spacecraft from more than 625 possible combinations of noses, tails, wings and colors or special features that are saved to an RFID-enabled wristband. After boarding the ride vehicle each custom spacecraft comes to life on digital screens throughout the ride!

In addition to taking the top spot for Best Theme Concept, Galacticoaster was recognized as No. 4 Best New Attraction Installation of 2026 and No. 5 Best New Coaster of 2026, with LEGOLAND California Resort and LEGOLAND Florida Resort both receiving Galacticoaster recognition. LEGOLAND Florida Resort was also named No. 3 Best Family Park of 2026! This award is well deserved and Galacticoaster is a great addition to the park that should serve it well for decades to come as both a great indoor attraction for all weather conditions and a great family friendly roller coaster.