Hi there! Welcome to our weekly roundup of the most interesting theme park news around the Walt Disney World Resort, the Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld Orlando and other theme parks.
Here Are This Week's Theme Park Highlights:
- It's about to get bananas at Universal Studios Florida! In summer 2023, Universal will introduce Minions Land, which will include the existing fan-favorite, Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, as well as a brand-new attraction — Illumination's Villain-Con Minion Blast — and a new Minion Cafe. Villain-Con Minion Blast will combine screen technology, gaming interactivity and physical sets to create a unique adventure, causing mayhem with mischievous Minions and nefarious foes alike.
- There's a brand-new Disney Genie+ update that we welcome with open arms — you can modify a Genie+ Lightning Lane reservation to select a new return time or attraction without having to cancel it completely. You'll need to update to the latest versions of the Disneyland app for Disneyland and the My Disney Experience app for Disney World. Both updates are now live.
- Wands at the ready! The Wizarding World of Harry Potter has debuted an interactive wand collection that includes 12 new designs, plus an additional one that is exclusive to each Universal Parks destination. For instance, you can find a larch and phoenix feather wand at Universal Orlando and a walnut and dragon heartstring wand at Universal Studios Hollywood. Each wand comes with a first-ever "wand lore" insert that summarizes the unique features of the wand and the attributes of its ideal owner. Swish and flick!
- This week, a Universal executive shared that Universal's Epic Universe is still right on target for a summer 2025 opening. The new theme park was announced back in 2019, and there's still very little we know so far, aside from confirmation that there will be different themed lands, an entertainment center, hotels, shops and restaurants. However, we do know that it will be home to Super Nintendo World!
- Disney's Magnolia Golf Course is getting a makeover with new touches of Disney magic. It is set to partially reopen Dec. 12, with 14 holes while the redesign continues. To celebrate the course's 50 years, each hole will have a new Disney-themed name from a classic Disney film, such as "The Lion King" or "Aladdin," and a quote from Walt Disney or Arnold Palmer. The course will be completed in 2023.
- Walt Disney World Resort gate prices, as well as on-site hotel rates, have increased as of Dec. 8, 2022. Undercover Tourist will hold old ticket prices and hotel rates for a limited time — lock in old prices before they're gone! You can save up to $173 per ticket, for a limited time.
That’s it for the theme park news this week! Have a great weekend.
Hoppy planning!
