Something BIG is coming to Orlando! The world’s largest Build-A-Bear Workshop is preparing to open at ICON Park on Thursday, November 5, 2026, bringing an entirely new level of interactive fun to International Drive.

This isn’t your typical Build-A-Bear location. The massive three-story flagship will introduce exclusive themed workshops, customizable plush experiences, an interactive dessert shop, and several attractions designed for children, families, collectors, and longtime Build-A-Bear fans.

From the first-ever Pokémon Workshop to an immersive Hello Kitty and Friends experience, here’s everything we know about this exciting new Central Florida destination!

A Three-Story Build-A-Bear Experience Unlike Any Other

Build-A-Bear is transforming its traditional stuffed animal workshop into a multi-level destination featuring hands-on activities, exclusive merchandise, and new ways to personalize furry friends.

Guests will still enjoy the classic Build-A-Bear experience, including choosing a stuffed animal, bringing it to life, selecting accessories, and participating in the beloved Heart Ceremony.

However, the new ICON Park flagship takes that experience much further with specialty shops and interactive spaces that aren’t typically found at traditional Build-A-Bear locations.

What’s Coming to the World’s Largest Build-A-Bear?

⚡ First-Ever Pokémon Workshop

Pokémon fans have something especially exciting to look forward to!

The Orlando flagship will introduce the world’s first Build-A-Bear x Pokémon Workshop, featuring an immersive environment inspired by the popular franchise.

Visitors can expect collectible Pokémon plush, themed apparel, recognizable Pokémon imagery, and photo opportunities throughout the specialty shop.

The experience is designed to appeal to Pokémon fans of all ages, making it an exciting stop for families and collectors visiting International Drive.

🎀 Hello Kitty and Friends Workshop

Sanrio fans will have their own colorful destination inside the new flagship!

The Build-A-Bear x Hello Kitty and Friends Workshop will feature dreamy pink surroundings, custom displays, and an assortment of Hello Kitty and Friends plush.

Even more exciting, select plush will be exclusive to the ICON Park location, giving collectors another reason to visit.

This will be the fourth specialty Build-A-Bear x Hello Kitty and Friends Workshop, bringing the popular collaboration to one of Orlando’s busiest entertainment destinations.

🐶 Promise Pets Adoption Experience

Animal lovers can explore an interactive Promise Pets experience designed around adopting and caring for their own plush companions.

This specialty area will feature imaginative, adoption-inspired activities that encourage nurturing play and storytelling.

It’s another way Build-A-Bear is expanding beyond its traditional stuffed animal creation experience.

🎨 Build-A-Bear Design Studio

For visitors looking to create something truly unique, the new Build-A-Bear Design Studio will offer a premium, appointment-only experience.

Guests will work one-on-one with a Design Consultant to create a completely customized furry friend.

Instead of choosing only from traditional predesigned animals, visitors can select details such as animal style, fur texture, color, eye color, and paw designs.

Interactive digital tools will help guests visualize their creation before a skilled seamstress brings the design to life.

The experience concludes with a special reveal, the signature Heart Ceremony, and exclusive keepsakes.

Important: The Design Studio is a premium experience requiring an appointment. Pricing and reservation details should be confirmed directly with Build-A-Bear.

🧁 Interactive Build-A-Bear Bakeshop

There’s even something sweet coming to the new location!

The Build-A-Bear Bakeshop will offer an interactive dessert experience where visitors can decorate their own cupcakes and cookies.

Rather than operating as a traditional café, the Bakeshop will focus on hands-on creativity, allowing guests to frost and decorate their treats.

It’s a fun addition for birthdays, family outings, and anyone who enjoys getting creative in the kitchen.

🪡 Personalize Me Customization Station

Want to make your furry friend even more personal?

The new Personalize Me station will offer additional customization options, including embroidered names, initials, numbers, patches, and select screen-printed designs.

Visitors can personalize clothing and accessories, including T-shirts and hoodies, and even add embroidery to the ears of select stuffed animals.

These additional options will give guests more ways to create a one-of-a-kind souvenir from their Orlando visit.

When Does the World’s Largest Build-A-Bear Open?

The new flagship Build-A-Bear Workshop is officially scheduled to open on Thursday, November 5, 2026.

Build-A-Bear has announced that additional details about the grand-opening celebration will be released closer to opening day.

Specific opening-day hours and special celebration activities have not yet been confirmed.

Where Is the New Build-A-Bear Located?

The world’s largest Build-A-Bear Workshop will open at ICON Park, a popular entertainment destination along International Drive in Orlando.

Location: ICON Park

Address: 8375 International Drive, Orlando, FL 32819

Opening Date: November 5, 2026

Experience: Three-story interactive Build-A-Bear flagship

Parking: Free parking available on levels 4–7 of the ICON Park parking garage.

ICON Park is also home to numerous restaurants, attractions, shops, and entertainment experiences, making it easy to turn a Build-A-Bear visit into a full family outing.

How Much Will It Cost to Visit?

Specific pricing for the new specialty experiences has not yet been fully announced.

Costs will depend on the products and experiences guests choose, with premium options such as the Design Studio potentially requiring separate pricing.

Visitors should check official Build-A-Bear information before visiting for current pricing, reservations, and availability.

Is the New Build-A-Bear Family-Friendly?

Absolutely! The new location is being designed as a multigenerational destination for children, teens, adults, and collectors.

Families with younger children can enjoy the classic stuffed animal creation experience, while older visitors may especially appreciate the Pokémon and Hello Kitty specialty shops, exclusive merchandise, and premium customization options.

Whether you’re planning a birthday outing, looking for a unique Orlando souvenir, or simply exploring International Drive, the new flagship promises plenty of opportunities to create memories together.

Official Websites & More Information

For the latest information about the grand opening, available experiences, and future announcements, visit the official websites below.

🧸 Build-A-Bear Workshop:
Visit the Official Build-A-Bear Website

🎡 ICON Park:
Visit the Official ICON Park Website

📰 Official Grand Opening Announcements:
Read Build-A-Bear’s October 20 Announcement

Another Exciting Addition to Orlando’s International Drive!

With its massive three-story layout, exclusive Pokémon and Hello Kitty experiences, interactive Bakeshop, and expanded customization options, the world’s largest Build-A-Bear Workshop is shaping up to be a must-visit destination for families and collectors alike.

Mark your calendars for November 5, 2026, and keep an eye out for additional grand-opening announcements as the date approaches!

Looking for more exciting places opening around Central Florida? Explore more local discoveries, upcoming attractions, family-friendly destinations, and hidden gems right here on Central Florida Local!

Photos courtesy of Build-A-Bear Workshop.

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