Hi there! Welcome to our weekly roundup of the most interesting news around Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland Resort, Disney Cruise Line, Universal Orlando, Universal Studios Hollywood and other theme parks and cruise lines.
Weekly Roundup of Theme Park and Cruise News
- There's a great big, beautiful tomorrow in store for Walt Disney's Carousel of Progress at Magic Kingdom! Last year at Destination D23, Disney shared that the Carousel of Progress would receive a new opening scene with a Walt Disney Audio-Animatronic. Well, now we just learned we'll also see what John, Sarah and the family have been up to lately, as each scene will be refreshed with new decades. The updated acts will represent the moon landing in 1969, Halloween night in 1985, New Year's Eve in 1999 and, of course, the possible future. Carousel of Progress will close July 6, 2026, and reopen in 2027.
- Mega Movie Summer returns to Universal Studios Hollywood with interactive experiences, food and merch inspired by blockbuster films and upcoming movies! Hoppening daily from June 13 to Aug. 9, 2026, you'll find new "Minions & Monsters" stars (Henry and James), Christoper Nolan's "The Odyssey" featured in the Studio Tour, "Fast & Furious" entertainment to celebrate the 25th anniversary, "Wicked" meet-and-greets and "Jaws" themed food.
- Cool Kids' Summer is now in full swing! Across all the theme parks, water parks, Disney Springs and even a few select resort hotels, you'll find interactive experiences such as character greetings and dance parties — plus, new rides and attraction updates. A lot is hoppening this summer, so keep track of all the fun in our Cool Kids' Summer guide and catch our top summer tips.
- While the Walt Disney Studios courtyard area recently opened at the start of Cool Kids' Summer, The Magic of Disney Animation is still coming later in the season, and Disney gave another sneak peek at what you'll find inside. Inspired by the short film "Once Upon a Studio," your favorite Disney animated characters will come to life, whether it's learning how to draw with Olaf or exploring the whimsical Wonderland-themed indoor playground. Stay tuned for the opening date!
- Heads up: Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure will no longer be offered as an eligible Universal Express attraction, effective July 1, 2026. Universal states that the operational change will improve the flow of the experience for all guests.
- Disney Cruise Line has rolled out several policy changes concerning door decorations, alcohol limits and camera equipment, which take effect starting June 3, 2026. Door decorations are still welcome, but must be placed only on stateroom doors (not the corridor walls or ceilings). Otherwise, any damage as a result of guideline violations will incur a $100 fee. For alcohol brought onboard, guests 21 and older can bring one bottle of unopened wine (instead of two) or six beers (remains the same). Additionally, all alcohol purchased at ports of call will be collected and stored until the end of the cruise. Lastly, selfie sticks, handheld extension poles and tripods are permitted onboard and may be used in most areas if folded and under 18 inches. If exceeding 18 inches, equipment must be stored in the stateroom and can only be used on land at ports of call.
- It's time for a playcation! As the first regional Universal Destinations & Experiences theme park dedicated to families with young children, Universal Kids Resort will have its grand opening July 1, 2026, in Frisco, Texas. The theme park will be home to seven themed lands based on "Shrek," "SpongeBob SquarePants," "Jurassic World" and more. Packed with kid-friendly attractions, immersive play areas, interactive shows and character greetings, Universal Kids Resort promises big fun for little kids (and the entire family!). Plus, you can stay steps away at Universal Kids Resort Hotel! Universal Kids Resort tickets and hotel bookings are now available through Undercover Tourist, so you can save some green.
- SeaWorld Orlando officially opened Expedition Odyssey: Fire and Ice, a new version of the flying theater attraction, which debuted last year. The ride received updates to the entry experience, pre-show and the main storyline with an all-new mission. Once you take off, you'll fly over mountains, glaciers and waterfalls, and even encounter an erupting volcano and Arctic wildlife. The minimum height requirement remains 39 inches.
That's a wrap on the latest theme park and cruise news.
Hoppy planning!
