Long before Orlando became synonymous with massive theme parks like Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, smaller attractions offered visitors unique and intimate experiences. Among them was the Mystery Fun House, a quirky and beloved attraction that operated from March 27, 1976, to February 18, 2001. Located near International Drive on Major Boulevard, just across from where Universal Orlando Resort stands today, Mystery Fun House carved out its own niche in the city’s bustling entertainment scene.
The brainchild of David A. Siegel, founder of Westgate Resorts, Mystery Fun House aimed to create an interactive, family-friendly attraction that relied on creativity and imagination rather than large-scale rides. Visitors entered a world of themed rooms, each designed to entertain, challenge, and surprise. The centerpiece was a mirror maze, a disorienting labyrinth of reflections that delighted and baffled guests of all ages.
Other standout attractions included the Moonscape, which featured foam walls and floors to simulate the sensation of walking on the moon, and a spooky haunted area that kept thrill-seekers on their toes. Mystery Fun House quickly became a hit with locals and tourists alike, offering a fun and affordable alternative to the more expensive theme parks.
As its popularity grew, Mystery Fun House expanded its offerings. In the 1980s, it introduced Starbase Omega, one of the earliest laser-tag facilities in the area. This futuristic, action-packed experience drew in a new wave of visitors and became a favorite among teenagers. An arcade filled with the latest video games added another layer of entertainment, while a dinosaur-themed mini golf course provided outdoor fun for families.
The attraction’s ability to adapt to changing trends kept it relevant for years. It combined low-tech, hands-on fun with innovative ideas that appealed to all age groups, making it a standout in the competitive Orlando market.
Despite its success in the 1970s and 1980s, Mystery Fun House began to face challenges as Orlando's entertainment industry grew more competitive. The arrival and expansion of Walt Disney World, SeaWorld, and Universal Studios brought a wave of large-scale attractions that drew visitors away from smaller venues. Mystery Fun House struggled to compete with these juggernauts, and attendance began to decline in the 1990s.
By February 18, 2001, Mystery Fun House closed its doors for good. The building was repurposed as a check-in center for Westgate Resorts, marking the end of an era for this quirky Orlando attraction.
Although it closed over two decades ago, Mystery Fun House remains a cherished memory for those who experienced its charm. Fans fondly recall its themed rooms, interactive challenges, and the sense of wonder it inspired. The attraction holds a special place in Orlando's history as one of the city’s most unique and imaginative entertainment options.
Over the years, Mystery Fun House has been featured in nostalgic articles and videos, keeping its memory alive. However, parts of the original structure, including Starbase Omega, were damaged during Hurricane Irma in 2017, further erasing its physical presence.
Mystery Fun House may no longer exist, but its legacy endures as a testament to the creativity and innovation that defined Orlando's entertainment scene before the rise of mega theme parks. It offered visitors something different—a chance to explore, play, and laugh in an environment that celebrated fun for its own sake.
Whether you were navigating the mirror maze, battling it out in Starbase Omega, or sinking a hole-in-one on the mini golf course, Mystery Fun House was a place where memories were made. It remains a beloved chapter in the story of Orlando, reminding us of a time when small attractions could deliver big magic.
Do you have memories of Mystery Fun House? Share them in the comments below!
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