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
- All it took was a little faith, trust and extra pixie dust. While the Disney Starlight nighttime parade debuted at Magic Kingdom last July and showed the pair potentially flying in concept art, Peter and Wendy have stayed grounded on their float ... until now. Peter Pan and Wendy can now fly above the rooftops of the London skyline (weather permitting). We think this choreography makes the parade even more magical!
- To celebrate the upcoming May the Fourth, the Force is whipping up new "Star Wars" popcorn buckets, sippers and other novelties at Disneyland Resort. From Lightsaber Swizzle Sticks that can be swirled in sodas or slushies to a replica Jabba's Sail Barge bucket with light-up elements and hidden characters, there's something for every "Star Wars" foodie fan.
- Big news for Big Thunder fans — The Wildest Ride in the Wilderness will return May 3, 2026, at Magic Kingdom! The fan-favorite ride has been under refurbishment since January 2025 to receive a new ride track and control system, including updated passenger trains. With all these improvements, the ride is lowering its height requirement from 40 inches to 38 inches, so now even more little ones can experience the mysterious magic of the Rainbow Caverns.
- Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin also officially reopened after a months-long refurbishment, introducing new handheld blasters, lasers, targets and a robot named Buddy. You can also now score over 1 million points to become a Galactic Hero. For our latest tips and tricks on the newest version of the ride, hop over to our guide, and if you don't mind spoilers, check out our ride POV below!
- Luke Combs' Category 10 Bar was announced earlier this year, but turns out it won't be the only future change for Universal CityWalk Orlando! The Universal Legacy Store will return later this month, featuring exclusive merch inspired by "E.T.," "Jaws," "Back to the Future" and Universal Monsters. In 2024, it was replaced by the Universal Epic Universe Preview Center. But the Legacy store will take back that location again, with the Preview Center closing April 13, 2026. Additionally, later this summer, Five Guys will replace the Burger King Whopper Bar, which will close April 21, 2026.
- Undercover Tourist has dropped some new deals this week! Here's a quick review of these offers:
- If you're looking to visit Universal Studios Hollywood, you can now Buy a Day, Get a Second Day FREE for a limited time. This general admission ticket is valid for two days through Dec. 16, 2026 — the first visit is valid on your initial selected date only, but the second visit can be used anytime through Dec. 16 (blackout dates apply).
- You can now get a free $20 DiningDollars.com credit with any SeaWorld ticket purchased through Undercover Tourist. In fact, it covers all of the United Parks & Resorts locations across the country, including Busch Gardens, Discovery Cove, Sesame Place, Aquatica, Adventure Island and Water Country USA.
- Looking for an Alaskan cruise? Save up to 25% on select Alaska sailings this summer, plus get a free in-room decor set when you book through Undercover Tourist.
That's a wrap on the latest theme park and cruise news.
Hoppy planning!
