Walt Disney World continues to set the bar in customer service and excellence and, therefore, is always growing and expanding. Making dreams a reality is what Disney does best; the Imagineers are always working hard to implement creative and engaging new additions for the beloved vacationers. Keep reading to learn more about what Disney fans can expect from the new projects coming to Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort!
Walt Disney World opened its doors in Orlando, Florida, on October 1, 1971, with 19 attractions. On the anniversary of its first year, it received more than 10 million visitors. Having been open for more than five decades, Walt Disney World has grown exponentially in popularity and in its offerings. Its estimated 58 million visitors per year enjoy more than 170 rides offered throughout the various theme parks: Magic Kingdom, Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and EPCOT.
There are several attractions that have stood the test of time, still operating since its opening in 1971–Jungle Cruise, It’s a Small World, and Peter Pan’s Flight, to name a few. These are still considered some of the most popular and best rides in Magic Kingdom.
Is all this talk giving you the Disney parks travel bug? Book a stay at one of our Element Vacation Homes to be one of the first in line for all the exciting things to look forward to this year.
New Attractions at Disney
Rather than new rides, Walt Disney World is launching a handful of exciting new attractions in 2025!
New attractions are always exciting, especially for returning visitors, because as these faithful Disney fans come back to their favorite Disney parks, each trip continues to feel fresh and provides something different to enjoy.
Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away
- Location: Magic Kingdom
- Type of Attraction: Parade
- Expected: Summer of 2025
One of the most entertaining things in Magic Kingdom is watching a street parade. Whether you stake out your spot beforehand or stumble upon one, a parade delivers an electric experience, and Disney Starlight is sure to be no different–especially because it is a new nighttime parade.
Magic Kingdom is always, well, magical. But there is something special about Magic Kingdom at night. The shop windows glow, Main Street buzzes, and Cinderella’s Castle stands majestically waiting for its nightly fireworks show to dazzle its visitors.
This parade features a mix of modern and classic stories, such as Moana, Encanto, Peter Pan, and Pinocchio.
Pirates of the Caribbean Tavern

Photo Credit: Michael Gray via Flickr CC 2.0
- Location: Magic Kingdom
- Type of Attraction: Lounge
- Expected: Late 2025
This new lounge is inspired by Adventureland’s major attraction, the Pirates of the Caribbean ride. Adjacent to the popular ride, it will occupy the space formerly known as the Pirates League, a spot for young guests to transform into pirates and/or mermaids.
The tavern will be ready to say “Ahoy” to its guests in late 2025, providing swashbuckling entertainment, a mouthwatering menu, and a jolly good time!
Meet and Greet with Bluey
- Location: Magic Kingdom
- Type of Attraction: Meet and Greet
- Expected: TBD 2025
Everyone’s favorite family of dogs is coming to Walt Disney World! Josh D’Amaro, Chairman of Disney Experiences, said: “Bluey has become a household name for families around the world and we are thrilled to bring her story to life in new ways. We can’t wait to watch our youngest guests and their families make memories with Bluey in our parks and on our cruises.”
We don’t have all the details yet, but we eagerly await the chance to get to interact with Bluey and Bingo very soon.
Zootopia: Better Zoogether
- Location: Disney’s Animal Kingdom
- Type of Attraction: Show
- Expected: Winter 2025
One of Disney’s Animal Kingdom’s main attractions is the Tree of Life, which was known to host a show inspired by A Bug’s Life called It’s Tough to Be a Bug. The Tree of Life will now be the location of a new show called Zootopia: Better Zoogether, inspired by Zootopia, naturally.
Fun fact: Zootopia 2 is set to release in late November of 2025, which will be perfect timing for the premiere of the 3D film experience Better Zoogether. We can’t wait to see all of our favorite faces from the films!
Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After
- Location: Disney’s Hollywood Studios
- Type of Attraction: Show
- Expected: Summer 2025
There is nothing quite like a live show at a Disney park. Take Indiana Jones, for example–fans have flocked to sit in those seats and watch the magic of the amusement show take place since 1989!
You won’t want to miss the debut of this playfully mischievous new show featuring some of your favorite foes. Watch the antics of Captain Hook, Maleficient, and Cruella as they take the stage to charm (or deceive?) their viewers.
All this talk of troublemaking makes us extra eager for the new villain’s Land to come to fruition in the distant future. Villains Land was teased at a recent Disney’s D23 Expo and will be a dark, twisty new land in Magic Kingdom.
The Little Mermaid: A Musical Adventure

Photo Credit: auntie rain via Flickr CC 2.0
- Location: Disney’s Hollywood Studios
- Type of Attraction: Show
- Expected: Summer 2025
When the Disney parks reopened in 2021 after the global pandemic, The Voyage of the Little Mermaid show did not reopen its doors. It was a beloved, interactive show that stole the hearts of its audience every time.
Soon, you can once again join Ariel and her nautical friends under the sea for this fully reimagined theatrical production of The Little Mermaid, featuring live performers, colorful sets, and the cherished songs we all love.
Test Track

Photo Credit: Inside the Magic via Flickr CC 2.0
- Location: EPCOT
- Type of Attraction: Ride
- Expected: Late Summer 2025
Test Track closed in the summer of 2024 for its third round of refurbishments. This current reimagined version of this fast-moving ride will debut a polished entrance, a queue with six updated vehicle exhibits, and new show scenes, including a route in the great outdoors. It will reopen nearly a year later, with General Motors as the original sponsor.
Spaceship Earth Lounge
- Location: EPCOT
- Type of Attraction: Lounge
- Expected: Late Spring 2025
Spaceship Earth is to EPCOT as Cinderella’s Castle is to Magic Kingdom–it’s an icon. When people think of EPCOT, it’s likely that Spaceship Earth is the first thing they imagine. EPCOT is also widely known for being a cultural treat for the taste buds, as guests can explore foods from around the world.
The Spaceship Earth Lounge is a new dining experience that will have tourists raving. In addition to serving delectable cuisine, this new lounge will celebrate the history of Spaceship Earth, provide incredible views of the EPCOT, and give a front row seat to the nightly firework show, Luminous: The Symphony of Us.
Remember: Dining reservations are recommended for all in-park table-service restaurants, including the Spaceship Earth Lounge.
Universal Epic Universe: Coming May 2025
Just 15 minutes down the road from Walt Disney World sits the popular Universal Orlando Resort, which has three theme parks for its visitors to enjoy: Universal Studios Florida, Universal Islands of Adventure, and Universal Volcano Bay.
The biggest news in the Universal world is the opening of their highly-anticipated fourth park: Universal Epic Universe. Discover the five wonderful worlds located in Epic Universe on its opening date of May 22, 2025.
1. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Ministry of Magic

Photo Credit: Solarisys
Tourists have been able to wander through Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida and board the Hogwarts Express train to explore Hogsmeade at Universal Islands of Adventure.
Now, with the new addition of the Ministry of Magic, fans will be able to travel to Paris in the 20s and then travel by Métro-Floo to see the British Ministry in the 90s. This world features a new ride, Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry of Magic, where passengers will join forces with Harry, Ron, and Hermione against Dolores Umbridge.
2. SUPER NINTENDO WORLD

Photo Credit: ibubie
SUPER NINTENDO WORLD opened at California’s Universal Studios Hollywood in February of 2023, and it’s been a long-awaited opening for Florida’s Disney park guests.
This bright, colorful world will feature Super Mario Land and Donkey Kong Country, along with many exciting attractions, including a new ride, Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge.
3. Dark Universe
You guessed it–this universe is, well, dark. Get up close and personal with iconic classic monsters such as Dracula, The Mummy, Frankenstein’s Monster, and more in the Dark Universe.
You won’t want to miss what is lurking and looming in the Darkmoor Village. Attractions such as the Curse of the Werewolf ride and Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment are sure to draw a curious crowd.
4. How to Train Your Dragon: Isle of Berk
Hang on tight! Viking visitors can expect all things flying and fire-breathing as they step back in time and explore the Isle of Berk. This world will feature a dragon racing trainer attraction, an immersive stage show, and a thrilling rollercoaster ride through the theme park.
5. Celestial Park
All worlds lead to Celestial Park, the center of the Universal Epic Universe. Park guests will be dazzled and awestruck by the otherworldly discoveries that await in this new theme park. But, it’s not only a feast for the eyes. Enjoy the deliciously fascinating fine dining of An Undersea Adventure in Atlantic or The Blue Dragon Pan-Asian Restaurant.
Adventure-seekers will appreciate the Stardust Racers rollercoaster that blasts you into the cosmos. Those who appreciate a less high-thrill but still exciting ride will enjoy the Constellation Carousel, which is as stellar and starry as it sounds.
Where to Stay and Explore Disney World and Universal Studios’ New Projects
Wow, Mickey and the Walt Disney Company have sure been busy! There are lots of new additions to add to your upcoming trip itinerary. From fine dining to thrill-seeking rides, from personal meet and greets to engaging live shows, there is something for every traveler!
It’s time to make your reservations and pack your bags. We have your unique themed accommodations covered at Element Vacation Homes!