World of Barbie; immersive experience based on upcoming movie opens in Los Angeles overnight ahead of US tour

Prepare yourself for a plastic, fantastic reckoning as we creep closer to the release of Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling’s eagerly anticipated summer blockbuster, Barbie. Already, people have started marketing Barbie themed products, from wedding invitations to an adult line of beauty products. Oh, and the titular doll herself, as no doubt we’ll see a Margot Robbie version of Barbie and Ryan Gosling version of Ken in miniature, plastic form. 

But for those amongst us that want to truly want to be a Barbie Girl in a Barbie World (thank you Aqua), then those lucky enough to be reading this in the United States will be delighted to know that a fully immersive experience based on Mattel’s iconic lady has recently opened in Los Angeles. The World of Barbie, currently residing at Santa Monica Place, offers fans of the doll and those curious to the fascination many have with the 64-year-old icon. 

Barbie fans are in for a treat with a visit to her iconic Dreamhouse, brought to life in all its pink glory. The experience includes a full-size camper van built by the world-famous West Coast Customs, perfect for chilling out and taking selfies in. For those with a taste for adventure, the Barbie Interstellar Airways shuttle provides the chance to travel to intergalactic destinations. Budding musicians can even create their own masterpieces in the Music Studio, complete with a microphone to record their songs. And for fans of Barbie's history, the Dreamhouse showcases dolls and accessories from over six decades of fun.

Plans are in place for the experience to travel across the United States, ahead and during the cinematic release of Greta Gerwig’s taste on sometimes polarising figures throughout history. No plans however if the United Kingdom will get the same experience - we are sure though there are a couple of large scale malls like those in the US that could house it. 

Being a bit of a sucker for an immersive experience, and a kid at heart when it comes to pop culture and theme parks, Peopleworld asked me where I would like to visit that also houses immersive experiences based on popular pop culture franchises. Fancy that!

Super Nintendo World (Universal Studios)

Super Nintendo World is based on the popular video game franchise, Super Mario Bros., and features various attractions and experiences that allow visitors to step into the world of Mario and his friends.

Some of the main attractions at Super Mario World include:

• Mario Kart: Koopa's Challenge: This is a highly immersive augmented reality ride that puts guests in the driver's seat of a Mario Kart vehicle as they race through a variety of courses inspired by the video game series.
• Yoshi's Adventure: This is a family-friendly ride that takes guests on a journey through the Mushroom Kingdom on the back of Yoshi, Mario's trusty dinosaur friend.
• Power-Up Band: This is a wearable wristband that allows guests to interact with various elements throughout the land, such as hitting virtual blocks to collect coins and unlocking hidden surprises.
• In addition to the attractions, Super Mario World also features various dining options, shops, and photo opportunities with beloved characters from the Super Mario Bros. franchise.

Super Nintendo World first opened at Universal Studios Japan in March 2021 and then translated over to Universal Studios Hollywood only two months ago, with its grand opening ahead of The Super Mario Bros Movie in February 2023.

Springfield (Universal Studios)

Springfield is a themed land at Universal Studios Hollywood in 2015 and two years earlier at Universal Orlando Resort which is based on the fictional town of Springfield from the popular TV show, The Simpsons. The land features various attractions, dining options, and experiences that allow guests to step into the world of The Simpsons and include: 

• The Simpsons Ride: This is a motion simulator attraction that takes guests on a wild ride through Krustyland, the theme park within a theme park featured on the show.
• Kang & Kodos' Twirl 'n' Hurl: This is a spinning ride that allows guests to control their own flying saucers as they try to shoot down targets and score points.
• The Kwik-E-Mart: This is a fully themed convenience store that sells various Simpsons-themed merchandise and snacks, including the famous Buzz Cola.
• Moe's Tavern: This is a replica of the iconic bar from the show where guests can grab a Duff beer and mingle with some of the show's characters.

In addition to these attractions, Springfield also features various other dining options, including Krusty Burger, Cletus' Chicken Shack, and Lard Lad Donuts. Guests can also meet some of their favourite characters from the show, such as Homer, Marge, and Bart.

Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge (Disneyland)

Opening in 2019, Disney’s acquisition of the Star Wars franchise led to a dream come true for Jedis and padawans everywhere - Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. Guests are transported to the planet of Batuu, an outpost on the edge of the galaxy that's home to smugglers, bounty hunters, and other colourful characters and its biggest attraction - Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run.

Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run allows guests to pilot the Millennium Falcon on a mission to deliver smuggled goods. The ride features stunning visuals and immersive gameplay, making it a must-ride for any Star Wars fan. Rise of the Resistance also takes guests on a journey through the galaxy as they join the Resistance in a battle against the First Order. 

Those wanting something a little less dizziness-inducing might be interested in Savi's Workshop, as guests can create their own custom lightsabers in this immersive workshop experience. The process involves selecting components and assembling the saber with the help of a master builder. If building a lightsaber isn’t your idea of relaxing, Oga's Cantina - serves up exotic drinks and snacks inspired by the Star Wars universe. The atmosphere is lively and filled with interesting characters, making it a great spot to relax and take in the surroundings.

Dok-Ondar's Den of Antiquities - This shop sells a variety of unique and rare Star Wars-themed merchandise, including lightsabers, Jedi robes, and other collectibles. Sadly, no sign yet of the infamous Mos Eisley Cantina popping up anytime soon.