Since the beginning of our
history,
International Drive Orlando has shown the world that we are
one of the most dynamic and burgeoning districts in the area. In a short 45
years, we’ve gone from a small mile and a half-paved road, with a few
attractions and hotels, and grown to become one of the most entertaining places
to visit in
Central Florida. Put on your seatbelts and prepare for a wild ride. You’re about to take a spin
down memory lane with us.
Malibu Grand Prix
Malibu Grand Prix opened doors to fun! Their idea helped springboard racing centers across the country.
Fun N Wheels
In 1979, Fun Spot America Founder John Arie, Sr opened
Fun N Wheels – one of the first themed action parks with multiple tracks, family rides, and
an open-air arcade. The concept was a hit with locals and tourists alike and
the park became a staple in the community.
A look at Fun Spot
Action Park.
Despite its promise, Arie sold Fun N Wheels and later opened
a new park in 1997 called Fun Spot Action Park (later named
Fun Spot America) near its predecessors previous location.
The new park featured a signature, patented designed
multi-level go-kart track, a 102-foot-tall Ferris wheel, and a two-story video
arcade. The new staple of family fun,
Fun Spot America purchased an additional 10 acres of
vacant land and added the world’s second tallest Skycoaster (second only to
Fun
Spot America – Kissimmee’s location), and two new
roller coasters, the wooden White Lightning and the steel Suspended Family Coaster Freedom
Flyer. After years of growth and restructuring, on June 8, 2013 Fun Spot
America https://fun-spot.com/orlando/
held a grand re-opening celebrating the tripling size of the park and the
park’s 15th anniversary.
The wooden coaster,
White Lightning, has been a fan favorite for 20 years!
One of the
hidden treasures on International Drive,
Magical Midway features two wooden elevated go-kart tracks, a
fast track, bumper cars, bumper boats, carousel, Space Blast tower, and is home
to one of the largest arcades in Orlando. In addition to these fabulous
attractions
Magical Midway hosts the world’s largest Sling Shot and Starflyer – attractions that only the
bravest of the brave attempt!
From the moment you hop in
your cart, you’ll feel like a true NASCAR driver.
In December of 2014,
I-Drive NASCAR raced onto
International Drive, putting you in the driver seat with champions of the industry. The
family-friendly entertainment complex features kart racing, a bowling alley,
gaming arcade, dine-in restaurant and corporate meeting space where NASCAR fans can share a passion for fast
cars and thrilling racing.
In true NASCAR fashion, visitors receive a "Racer Card" that allows
guests to track their own racing times, which are also used to queue for
upcoming races.
Taking it up a notch, Andretti will let you train like
a professional with
racing simulators! It’s so realistic that you can feel the motion and vibrations of the car,
experience the tension of the seat belt, and hear the roaring engines on the
track. This is the only simulator of its kind in commercial use in the United
States and it’s only available on
International Drive!
While International Drive is nicknamed “I-Drive”, we
really RACE to show the world who we are! Our variety of
entertainment venues
and amusement parks make us a unique destination for both locals and tourists. We cannot wait to
see what new developments are in store for us as we continue to grow! Don’t hesitate,
plan your next visit to International Drive Orlando today!