For travelers who are looking for magical moments to infuse into their getaway experiences, there’s no place on the map quite like Florida. For many visitors heading this way, a trip just isn’t quite complete without quality time set aside to explore and enjoy Disney World theme parks alongside family and friends. These beloved stops have a lot to offer adventurers in the way of character meet-and-greets, rides, attractions, performances, and parades whether you focus your fun on time at Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, or Animal Kingdom too.
This year, those who are enthusiastically looking ahead to changes and updates at the parks were thrilled with what they heard from the D23 Park Panel at the highly anticipated Expo. Every park within the Walt Disney World resort has an upgrade, update, or new addition on the lineup, giving future parkgoers a lot to look forward to on the calendar. With many of the changes planned for 2025, now is a great time to get a comprehensive rundown of what’s to come.
New Must-Experience Attractions and Updates at Magic Kingdom
Of all the Walt Disney World theme parks getting exciting upgrades in the near future, Magic Kingdom is seeing the largest expansion to date. A highlight addition that was showcased at the D23 Expo this year specific to Magic Kingdom was the expansion of a new land inspired by Pixar Animation Studios’ “Cars” franchise. Within the parameters of Frontierland, this new land will feature two attractions revolving around guests getting to race with Lighting McQueen. The ride is going to be a rally-inspired race that goes beyond Radiator Springs and includes some wild new terrain to conquer. As you weave around geysers and Mater’s mudholes, you’ll find something for the entire family to love! As of now, construction on this new attraction is slated to begin in early 2025.
Villains Land will also be coming to Magic Kingdom in the near future and will be designed to showcase some of the more ill-intentioned characters that have always been a part of Disney stories. The theme of this new space will be “Where happily ever after may feel like just a distant dream.” It’s a unique twist on traditional Disney World favorites and is anticipated to include two new attractions as well as themed shopping and dining experiences on-site. While there’s currently no set opening date, it’s certainly one that Disney enthusiasts are going to want to keep their eyes on.
Finally, Magic Kingdom is scheduled to get a new nighttime parade which will be known as “Disney Starlight,” as well as a new tavern themed around “Pirates of the Caribbean.” When the sun sets in 2025, the new parade will showcase the stories of beloved Disney characters using high-end technology to pair light, music, dance, and more. Afterward, guests can head over to the new tavern and enjoy a pirate-themed menu in good company!
Animal Kingdom Must-See New Attractions
Time enjoyed at Animal Kingdom is always thrilling and the future is looking even more wild! This park is scheduled to have the current DINOLAND, U.S.A. transitioned into a land that highlights Tropical Americas instead. The new space will span 11 acres of terrain and feature an Encanto-themed attraction as well as an Indian Jones-themed attraction. Whether you’re making your way through a Maya temple or visiting the Family Madrigal’s magical home, you’ll find yourself delighted by the new take on this popular park. It’s estimated that construction will begin on the Tropical Americas space in late 2024 with an anticipated opening date of 2027. In the winter of 2025, Animal Kingdom guests can also look forward to the arrival of a “Zootopia” show which will be hosted at the Tree of Life Theater.
Hollywood Studios Updates
Not to be upstaged, Hollywood Studios was also announced to be looking forward to some fun changes in the near future. A Monsters Inc. Land is slated to be added to the park’s lineup complete with a thrilling, suspended coaster taking passengers through the factory door vault alongside Mike and Sulley. Construction on the Monsters, Inc. Land experience is currently planned to kick off early next year. Hollywood Studios will also see a revamp of the Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run experience as Mando and Grogu are added in by 2026—just in time for the release of the film!
Exciting Changes at EPCOT
At EPCOT, visitors can expect changes as early as 2025 with a reimagined Test Track opening with advanced and improved technology standards in place. There will also be a new lounge inspired by “Spaceship Earth” to check out that’s sure to inspire a futuristic approach to dining at the park.
Book Your Getaway Today
Now is a great time to begin putting your travel plans into place. When you’re heading this way, the team at Reunion Rentals is ready and waiting to make sure you get settled into luxurious accommodations to top off your trip in style. Reach out today to learn more about our exciting and inviting property options available and to start planning!
