There’s another ‘world’s tallest’ addition to the SkyPlex, coming to Orlando’s I-Drive tourist corridor- Skyfall and it will be the world’s tallest drop ride, according to Joshua Wallack, managing principal of the Skyplex development. The attraction will join the Skyscraper roller coaster at the upcoming Skyplex complex. The 570-foot tall Skyscraper will be the world’s tallest roller coaster when it opens in 2017.
Skyplex, a $250 million entertainment complex, is being developed by Wallack Holdings and comprises approximately 495,000 square feet located on 12 acres. The development will include upscale arcading, simulators, rock climbing, bars, restaurants and retail and is planned to open in 2016.
The new thrill ride Skyfall isn’t the only attraction that Wallack is opening on I-Drive. The Miami Beach-based company is also behind the 50,000-square-foot Mango’s Tropical Cafe that is currently under construction south of side of Sand Lake Road and is set to open this summer.
The new Skyfall will top off at more than 460 feet high and the track will be embedded in the structure of the SkyPlex. Riders will slowly climb the tower, and after resting 15 seconds, they will plunge straight down at speeds of over 90 miles per hour. Skyfall will be located behind the Polercoaster supports and tracks, meaning when you rise and drop, you will be able to see the Skyscraper riders passing by.
The current record for tallest drop ride is held by Zumanjaro: Drop of Doom, at Six Flags Great Adventure in New Jersey. The 415-foot high drop ride is part of the 460-foot Kingda Ka roller coaster.
Meanwhile, before the new Skyfall takes on passengers, the Orlando Eye, a giant observation wheel is set to open on May 4, along with other Merlin Entertainments developments, Madame Tussauds Orlando and Sea Life Orlando Aquarium that will also open on the same day. And let’s not forget the world’s tallest swing, Star Flyer, new 420-foot-tall spinning attraction that is scheduled to open at I-Drive next year.
It seems the attractions in Orlando are pushing and elbowing for the titles of ‘world’s tallest’ and if you are seeking for new adrenaline fuels, it’s time to start planning your trip.