ICON Park

A Mixed Bag of Fun and Discomfort: My Experience at ICON Park, Orlando

During my recent visit to ICON Park in Orlando, Florida, I was captivated by its blend of attractions, eateries, and the iconic Orlando Eye. As a family-friendly hotspot, it's a vibrant testament to Orlando's rich culture of fun and entertainment. For most of my visit, the park lived up to its promise of an enjoyable experience.

Yet, despite the general air of excitement and enjoyment, my experience took an unfortunate turn that highlighted an issue worth addressing. As someone who has worked in public safety for many years, I am well-versed in the laws and rules surrounding photography in public spaces. This background made an encounter with an overzealous armed security guard all the more perplexing and disheartening.

While engaging in a common tourist activity—photographing and videoing a group on the slingshot ride—I found myself singled out from a crowd of 8 to 10 people doing the exact same thing. The distinguishing factor, uncomfortably clear, was that I was the only black person in the vicinity. The guard questioned my relationship to those on the ride and upon learning I had none, advised me against photographing them. His justification was vague, mentioning potential complaints from the riders, a concern that seemed unfounded given the public nature of the activity and the location.

Given my professional background, I questioned whether this was a specific policy in Florida, to which he responded negatively. The explanation provided did not align with my understanding of public photography laws, making the interaction feel not only unnecessary but discriminatory. His parting remark, suggesting I was "starting to see things his way" after I expressed my discomfort, was particularly galling.

This experience, isolated yet impactful, marred my perception of ICON Park. It serves as a reminder that even in places designed for universal enjoyment, there can be moments that feel exclusive and unwelcoming. My hope is that ICON Park addresses these concerns, ensuring that security staff are properly trained on public photography laws and the importance of treating all guests with impartiality and respect. No visitor should have to feel singled out or unwelcome due to a misunderstanding or misapplication of the rules.

In conclusion, while ICON Park offers a myriad of attractions that many will find enjoyable, my visit underscores the importance of creating an environment where all guests, regardless of their background, feel equally valued and respected. Ensuring this could transform a good experience into a great one for everyone who visits.