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
- Universal Orlando released a flurry of news about some major updates coming to the theme parks and Universal CityWalk. After much speculation (and the arrival of construction walls over the past month), the Lost Continent will officially close in phases, including Mythos Restaurant in 2027, to make way for a new themed area. Also at Islands of Adventure, Thunder Falls Terrace will close this summer to transform into an all-new, signature full-service restaurant, debuting in 2027. At Universal Studios Florida, Universal Orlando's Horror Make-Up Show will temporarily close May 12, 2026, and reopen later this year with a reimagined experience showcasing a mix of classic and modern horror properties. Lastly, *NSYNC's Joey Fatone's Fat Ones Hot Dogs & Italian Ice is coming to CityWalk and will replace Hot Dog Hall of Fame, which is set to close in July 2026.
- Disneyland has started the design and testing process for a fully electric Autopia ride vehicle prototype. The resort has an agreement with the California Air Resources Board to retire the gas-powered engines in early 2027. More details about the planned ride update will be shared at a later time, and exact closing and reopening dates have not been set yet.
- Disney Springs is leveling up with new experiences coming this summer. Previously announced, Level99 will open its fourth and largest venue to date in Disney Springs West Side. Level99 features more than 60 life-size mini games to test your body and mind with physical and mental challenges. Also, Six Ravens, a new grab-and-go dining concept from the minds of the popular Gideon's Bakehouse, will open this summer, featuring Coffyns (yeast rolls stuffed with savory fillings) and local craft beers. And for Cool Kids' Summer, don't miss a dance party celebrating the new Disney+ original movies "Descendants: Wicked Wonderland" and "Camp Rock 3" at the AdventHealth Waterside Stage on select nights.
- Incoming transmission! We got a first look at the new mission briefing from Din Djarin and Grogu, coming to Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run at both Disney's Hollywood Studios (Walt Disney World Resort) and Disneyland Park (Disneyland Resort). The new adventure debuts May 22, 2026, falling on the same day as "The Mandalorian and Grogu" releases in movie theaters.
- Disney Eats shared a bite-sized preview of Fairy Bread Cake, which will be one of the "Bluey"-inspired treats coming to Disney's Animal Kingdom. The Fairy Bread Cake, aka vanilla birthday cake dipped in white chocolate and rainbow sprinkles with raspberry dipping sauce, will be available at Pizzafari, starting May 26, 2026.
- Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is finally back after a lengthy refurbishment. To celebrate its reopening, Disney shared its legendary backstory, including the lore of Barnabas T. Bullion and the town of Tumbleweed. You can also find our full ride POV on our YouTube channel!
- Electric Ocean returns with a bang to SeaWorld Orlando, starting June 12, 2026, and continuing on select nights through Sept. 7, 2026. The special summer event, included with theme park admission, boasts an entertainment lineup with nighttime animal presentations, a cirque show, a new drone show and fireworks.
That's a wrap on the latest theme park and cruise news.
Hoppy planning!
