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What's Coming to Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando in 2024 and Beyond

by Tad on February 20, 2024 846 Orlando   Video

Inside This Post Inside This Post

'Sup! Welcome to Tad's toadally awesome list of what's coming to Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Orlando Resort and the other Florida theme parks in 2024 and beyond! As the Frog Family’s resident thrill seeker, tech junkie and head frog videographer — thank you very much — I love to keep tabs on all of the attractions and experiences heading to the Orlando theme parks, and I've been doing it for a few years. This year, we've got much to look forward to, so let's break it down!

What's Coming to Disney World and Universal Orlando in 2024 - Happily Ever After

 

We're so frogcited about the new rides and experiences coming in 2024, including Tiana's Bayou Adventure (coming summer 2024) and a new DreamWorks-themed land at Universal Studios Florida.

If you're curious about all of the Universal Orlando and Disney World construction around the parks, you're at the right place. Be sure to bookmark this page because I add to it as new rides, shows and other hoppenings are announced! (Hop here to see what opened in 2023 and previous years.) And of course, openings bring excited fans to the parks, so if you're wondering about the best times to visit Disney World and Universal Orlando, this post should help as you plan your trip, whether you want to be first in line or avoid the elevated crowds.

What's Coming to Disney World and Universal Orlando in 2024 and Beyond

Magic Kingdom Park

Tiana's Bayou Adventure — summer 2024 — Splash Mountain will be getting a total makeover as it transforms into “Tiana’s Bayou Adventure,” debuting in summer 2024 at Magic Kingdom (along with Disneyland Park later in the year). Inspired by "The Princess and the Frog," the popular log flume ride's new storyline will pick up after the final kiss, and follow Princess Tiana, Naveen and Louis on a musical adventure. Enjoy lively Mardi Gras celebrations with familiar faces as guests travel through the bayou with original music inspired by the film. Splash Mountain permanently closed Jan. 23, 2023, to prepare for this retheming.

Country Bear Musical Jamboree — summer 2024 — The beloved bears will be performing a new act, featuring favorite Disney songs in different genres of country music. The last day to see the original show was Jan. 26, 2024, before it reopens later in the summer.

What's Coming to Disney World - New Pirates of the Caribbean Lounge

Pirates of the Caribbean-themed lounge — TBD — A new lounge will extend the story from Pirates of the Caribbean in Adventureland.

Disney's Animal Kingdom

What's Coming to Disney World - Zootopia Show

Zootopia show — TBD — A new show based on "Zootopia" is in the works for the Tree of Life theater, replacing It's Tough to be a Bug. You'll visit different biomes from the film along with Judy Hopps, Nick Wilde and more furry friends from the movie.

EPCOT

CommuniCore Plaza and CommuniCore Hall — 2024 — This new multi-use facility and outdoor event space will support EPCOT's festivals. The plaza will have an outdoor stage to host musical performances, and the hall will be an exhibition and gallery space, featuring experiences that highlight art, live music and food (complete with a demonstration kitchen). Also, a permanent Mickey & Friends location will find its home right next to CommuniCore Hall.

Test Track refresh — TBD — The fan-favorite attraction will undergo a reimagining. Imagineers and teams from Chevrolet are drawing inspiration from the original World of Motion attraction to bring "that spirit of optimism" to the ride.

PLAY! pavilionpostponed Originally slated to open in time for Walt Disney World's 50th anniversary, this new pavilion in the former Wonders of Life location will showcase first-of-its-kind experiences devoted to play and fun, including an interactive city where guests will be able to interact with characters. Help Edna Mode on a fashionable quest to rid the world of uninspired style, or compete in a water balloon fight with Huey, Dewey, Louie and Webby.

"Wondrous China" film — postponed — This World Showcase pavilion will receive a new film that is presented in a seamless 360-degree format.

Mary Poppins Attraction — postponed — At this time, development for this attraction has been postponed indefinitely. The United Kingdom pavilion was set to host the first attraction inspired by Mary Poppins, allowing guests to stroll along Cherry Tree Lane, past Admiral Boom's house, and enter Number 17, the Banks family's home.

Disney's Hollywood Studios

What's Coming to Disney World and Universal - Star Tours

New Star Tours Adventures — April 5, 2024 — Get ready to make the jump to lightspeed because frog favorites Ahsoka Tano, Cassian Andor, Din Djarin and Grogu will appear in new adventures at the Star Tours attraction beginning on April 5. With these additions, you'll have the opportunity to experience one of more than 250 variations aboard your Starspeeder 1000, including a visit to the planet of Peridea from the "Ashoka" series. This is the Way.

"The Little Mermaid - A Musical Adventure" show — fall 2024 — A reimagined "Little Mermaid" show is coming to the Animation Courtyard Theater in fall 2024 with new scenes.

Walt Disney World Resort Hotels

The Cabins at Fort Wilderness — July 1, 2024 — The Cabins at Fort Wilderness are undergoing refurbishment to become a new Disney Vacation Club property, with a projected opening date of July 1, 2024. You can become a member at this resort starting Feb. 27, 2024, and you can book a stay as early as March 12, 2024.

Universal Orlando Resort

What's Coming to Universal Orlando Resort - DreamWorks Land

DreamWorks Land — summer 2024 — The former Woody Woodpecker's KidZone area will transform into a family-friendly space inspired by DreamWorks Animation. Hop on the caterpillar, Caterbus, and join Poppy, Branch and more as you try to escape from spooky spiders on Troll's Trollercoaster. Visit Panda Village and learn the ways of the Dragon Warrior at Po's Kung Fu Training Camp. Hang out with Shrek, Fiona and Donkey at Shrek's Swamp Meet. Sit back, relax and enjoy a new live show at DreamWorks Imagination Celebration and prepare to meet some of your favorite characters at DreamWorks Character Zone. Feeling famished? Silence your roaring stomach at Swamp Snacks and Trolls Treats. And don't froget to grab some fun souvenirs at High Five Hideaway!

What's Coming to Universal - Stella Luna and Terra Nova Resorts

Universal Stella Nova Resort and Universal Terra Luna Resort January 2025 and February 2025, respectively — Two new hotel properties are coming to Universal Orlando! Each featuring 750 guest rooms in the resort's Prime Value Category, Universal Stella Nova Resort and Universal Terra Luna Resort will be located adjacent to the future site of the new Universal Epic Universe theme park. Universal Stella Nova Resort will be inspired by distant galaxies, new stars and mysterious black holes, while Universal Terra Luna Resort will be inspired by the massive and diverse planetary elements of the universe.

What's Coming to Universal and Disney World - Universal Epic Universe concept art

Universal Epic Universe — summer 2025 — Universal Orlando Resort announced that it's building a brand-new theme park called Universal Epic Universe. Universal says it will be its most immersive and innovative theme park yet. And now, in exciting news, Universal has announced the five worlds we'll be transported to! Celestial Park will be the gateway to explore The Wizarding World of Harry Potter — Ministry of Magic, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, How to Train Your Dragon — Isle of Berk and Dark Universe, home to classic Universal monsters. Located about 12 minutes away from its existing properties, Universal Epic Universe will nearly double Universal's total available acreage and contain over 50 attraction, entertainment and shopping experiences.

Shigeru Miyamoto with Nintendo - What's Coming to Disney World and Universal

Super Nintendo World at Universal Epic Universe summer 2025  — Universal has partnered with Nintendo to bring to life experiences based on Nintendo's games, characters and worlds. It has been confirmed that Super Nintendo World will be one of the themed lands at Universal Epic Universe. The very first Super Nintendo World opened at Universal Studios Japan on March 18, 2021.

New Nighttime Spectacular — date TBD  Universal Orlando's Cinematic Celebration has ended its run at Universal Studios Florida. Universal has announced that a new nighttime show experience will be taking its place. No further details have been shared.

What's Coming to Other Florida Theme Parks in 2024 and Beyond

SeaWorld Orlando

What's Coming to SeaWorld - Penguin Trek

Penguin Trek — spring 2024 — A new family-friendly launch coaster is coming to SeaWorld Orlando! Penguin Trek will take guests on an Antarctic adventure with two launches along a 3,020-foot indoor and outdoor track, reaching speeds up to 43 mph on their snowmobile-style vehicles. Once riders complete their penguin rescue mission, they'll end up in SeaWorld's very own penguin habitat.

Aquatica Orlando

Tassie's Underwater Twist — spring 2024 — The newest addition will be an immersive waterslide that journeys through Australia's Shark Bay seagrass meadow. The reimagined slide will measure 129 feet long and feature a unique super-bowl element, a synchronized video display and an orchestral score.

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay & Adventure Island

Phoenix Rising — spring 2024 — The newest roller coaster coming to Busch Gardens Tampa will feature family-friendly thrills with speeds up to 44 mph. The suspended coaster will swing riders from side to side above the Serengeti Plain, and feature on-board audio with a one-of-a-kind soundtrack.

Castaway Falls — spring 2024 — This all-new, multi-level interactive water-play attraction at Adventure Island will have four exciting waterslides, soakers, jets, water shooters, sliding buckets and more, doubling the size of the former splash area.

LEGOLAND Florida Resort 

LEGO Ferrari Build & Race — spring 2024 — Start your engines! You'll get to see a life-size Ferrari made from LEGO bricks, enter a "build zone" to create your own LEGO Ferrari race car, test it out on obstacle courses and digitally customize your car in a virtual race.

SEA Life Florida Resort — fall 2024 — This new aquarium will feature interactive exhibits centered on marine life and exploration.

I hope you've enjoyed this look at what's coming to Disney World and Universal in 2024 and beyond. Make sure to come back to see what's been added as you get closer to your visit. Hop on over to our When to Visit Orlando page for more planning tips, part of our Orlando Planning Timeline!

Related: Best Time To Visit Disney World

Related: Best Time To Visit Universal Orlando Resort

Stay cool!

Keep hopping, Tad!
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1–50 of 793 comments
Sep 14, 2021 at 1:52 p.m. Tina M Griego Says...

I am coming Dec. 4-11 and was wondring do I still need to reserve a day due to COVID to go to Magic Kingdom? If so whats the best way to do that so it's legit?

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Sep 14, 2021 at 10:13 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Tina!

Yes, Disney Park Pass reservations are still required. You can make reservations here.

Stay cool!

Tad

Reply
Feb 10, 2021 at 4:12 a.m. Joshua Rodriguez Says...

I want to visit universal and islands of adventure in may for my birthday because I haven't been in years and I know may is usually busy around that time. Do you know a good time sometime near or after velocicoaster releases that won't be as packed. and also, do you think they might release it at an earlier date cuz I heard they started testing with real people already.

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Feb 10, 2021 at 2:24 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Joshua!

We are still anxiously awaiting an opening date for VelociCoaster - once we have a date, we'll be sure to keep this post updated! Crossing our fingers that it's open for your birthday :)

Keep hopping!

Leap

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Oct 12, 2020 at 5:31 p.m. Heather L Says...

I can't wait until traveling and adventures are back again! I have family in Orlando and would love to take my son on an adventure there!

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Sep 29, 2020 at 3:03 p.m. Holly Says...

We love you folks. We have bought all our tickets through you for years and love your crowd calendar!

Will Remy's Ratatouille Adventure actually open in 2020? That would be great. I wish one of the coasters would open by April 2021.

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Sep 29, 2020 at 2:02 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Thank you so much, Holly - we're so hoppy to hear it! We are crossing our fingers for Remy's, but nothing official has been announced just yet. We'll continue to keep this post updated as we hear more!

Stay cool!

Tad

Reply
Apr 4, 2020 at 9:53 a.m. Amaury Says...

This website is just amazing. Everything usefull for a future trip is in there. Good job :p I don't plan to go at Orlando soon but when I go, I'll use this site to prepare almost everything.

PS: Is this normal there is nothing for Animal Kingdom?

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Apr 6, 2020 at 8:53 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Thanks so much, Amaury - we're glad you hopped by! More news may come for Disney's Animal Kingdom as the year goes on (such as last year's Lion King festivities, new Tree of Life awakenings, etc.). We'll keep this post updated as we hear more!

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Jan 16, 2020 at 3:29 p.m. Dave Says...

Just started getting your emails before our trip in late Oct. The tips and info in your newsletters was very helpful. Would like to go back again soon and spend more time in Epcot for the wine and food festival

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Jan 16, 2020 at 11:52 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Dave!

We are so hoppy to hear it! If you want to live vicariously through 2019's event details, be sure to hop over to our guide to Epcot's International Food and Wine Festival here. Fingers crossed you get to hop there soon - be sure to keep us posted!

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Nov 7, 2019 at 8:03 p.m. Chris Says...

So excited to see the new SeaWorld coaster Ice Breaker open up this coming spring!

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Oct 21, 2019 at 11:04 a.m. Kerri Says...

Thanks for the updates! I think I am most excited for Tron coming soon

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Oct 17, 2019 at 6:41 p.m. Christopher M Reid Says...

Cant wait for this

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Oct 11, 2019 at 6:22 p.m. Sheri DeOrio Says...

Thanks for putting the updates all in one place. There's so much to look forward to!

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Oct 11, 2019 at 4:48 p.m. Nina Says...

Great updates on all the new things coming!!! I can't wait to see them!!!!

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Oct 11, 2019 at 2:38 p.m. Johnny Rojas Says...

Thanks, as usual always informative!!

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Oct 6, 2019 at 2:33 a.m. S Sumner Says...

We plan on going in 2021. When will the new happenings be opening then?

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Oct 8, 2019 at 3:37 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Summer!

Much of what's opening in 2021 don't have exact opening dates just yet, unfortunately, but we do know that Mickey and Minnie's Runaway Railway, new World Showcase shows and Remy's Ratatouille Adventure will be open by the time your trip comes around, to name a few! We'd suggest bookmarking this post and continuing to check back - we'll keep updating as new dates are released!

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Aug 26, 2019 at 10:23 p.m. Wayne D Says...

My daughter is getting married March 2019 and I want to send them to DisneyWorld for a wedding present but Iam overwhelmed with all the information. Im retired and wife is disabled and live on a tight budget. Are there any "packages" for a wedding gift there? I'm looking for the best "bang for the buck!" Where do I start??? Thank you!

Reply
Aug 27, 2019 at 9:32 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Wayne!

We think this is such a fun idea! While there isn't a wedding package offered, we can help you get this taken care of the old fashioned way :) Disney offers lots of vacation packages - you'll just need an idea of dates they'd like to visit and your budget to start. They do run specials throughout the year, so be sure to check in periodically here! Likewise, we offer discounted tickets and hotel rooms, just not bundled in a package :) For hotels, if you'd like for them to stay on-site, the most affordable option is in the Value category (we recommend Pop Century). Another option would be Disney gift cards; unlike some other retailers, Disney gift cards can be used to pay for hotel rooms, tickets, food - basically anything on Disney property. You could always bundle a gift card with a Disney picture frame, Bride and Groom Mickey ears or something else that's Mickey/wedding themed to give it a personal touch :) We hope this helps, Wayne! Please let us know if we can help with any additional questions!

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Jul 3, 2019 at 3 p.m. Michele Says...

I would love to see all the new things at Universal-our last visit was 20 years ago. Delicate question...can you enjoy all the neat looking Harry Potter rides and areas without having read the books or seen the movies?

Reply
Jul 3, 2019 at 12:57 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Michele,

You absolutely can! Enjoy!

Keep hopping!

Leap

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Jul 3, 2019 at 2:17 p.m. Debbie P Says...

Cannot wait, we are going to Universal Florida next month, first time!

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Jun 26, 2019 at 2:02 p.m. Brandi Smith Says...

I wasn't planning on going back to Universal this trip to Florida, but I think now, I may not have a choice! Thanks for the tips

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Jul 3, 2019 at 2:39 p.m. Randy P Says...

Just came back, I love this park!!

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May 30, 2019 at 3:49 a.m. Tony B Says...

I remember my parents taking our family to DisneyWorld in 1974, It absolutely was a MAGICAL NEW WORLD !!! We still talk about it and the other trips we have taken there throughout the years. It was such a nice blessing for me to take my family there twice when our children were young! I’m sure WALT is looking down and smiling just knowing how much happiness he has created and shared with so many families. Now that I am older I would love to be able to take my Grandchildren there and share the experiences with them that only Walt Disney could provide for families. I truly wish upon a star that WDW would have maybe some type of a lottery gift to help a family to enjoy the MAGICAL WORLD OF WALTER ELIAS DISNEY and his never ending experiences that he has created for children and their families to be able to enjoy together. I am on a disability income from bone cancer and absolutely do not have the funds to even enjoy WDW with my family, not even one last time... All I can do is Hope Pray and WISH UPON A STAR for help in this matter. THANKYOU for letting me share my feelings and thoughts. Sincerely Tony B

Reply
Apr 26, 2019 at 7:47 p.m. Tracy Says...

This is one of the best articles I’ve found!!! This is perfect information! I didn’t know about the new DVC where the old water park was located. That Star Wars Hotel will be sold out I’m sure how fun for those SW lovers. At Disney ur never bored and it’s always changing and they make it so ur never done with it. Sucks sometimes and overwhelming for people like me wirh anxiety over it lol just cuz I feel it’s business to get to the rides! Lol. Thank you

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Apr 26, 2019 at 3:13 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Tracy, it makes us so hoppy to hear from you! Thanks so much for taking the time to read and comment.

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Apr 21, 2019 at 1:55 a.m. Alan Says...

OMIGOSH!!!!!!!! I just went to Disney and Universal for the fourth time in January this year, and I knew all about the new star wars land, Tron coaster, and Hagrid's ride along with the gondola in Hollywood studios were already being build, but I didn't know that this is what going to go on in the next decade or so!!!!!! Thanks, man!! This will be really helpful in the future the next time I visit WDW and Universal with the fam!!! Thanks again!!!!!!!

Reply
Apr 23, 2019 at 8:36 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

You are so welcome, Alan! Thanks for taking the time to comment!

Stay cool!

Tad

Reply
Apr 16, 2019 at 2:38 a.m. Rick Rogers Says...

Why not give videos to see what the new rides will look like?

Reply
Apr 16, 2019 at 4:14 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Rick!

We absolutely plan to do so once they open - stay tuned!

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Feb 1, 2019 at 10:05 p.m. David Says...

Went Disney World Christmas 2017. Awesome! Planning to go back summer of 2021.

Reply
Jan 1, 2019 at 9:06 p.m. Amanda Says...

Does the new accomodation at Universal include express passes please?

Reply
Jan 16, 2019 at 11:42 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Amanda,

Good question! No, it does not. The hotels that offer Unlimited Express are Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel and Loews Royal Pacific Resort.

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Dec 2, 2018 at 4:15 a.m. Nancy Says...

Can't wait to go!

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Nov 29, 2018 at 7:37 p.m. Marisa Huynh Says...

We cant wait to visit the parks!

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Aug 29, 2018 at 8:36 a.m. Tisha Says...

My hubby is gonna be thrilled. Star Wars. Can't wait for the next visit.

Reply
Sep 24, 2018 at 2:12 p.m. Kara misso Says...

When are you going to put a minions ride at universal studios in Orlando

Reply
Sep 25, 2018 at 11:23 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Kara!

There actually is! Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem is one of Lily's favorites.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Aug 21, 2018 at 10:20 p.m. Slinky Says...

What awesome new experiences are coming. I can't wait.

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Jul 3, 2018 at 7:35 a.m. The Taylor's Says...

Super excited...we are going spring break 2019...

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Jul 1, 2018 at 4:17 a.m. Carrie Capehart Says...

I really want to g9

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Jul 1, 2018 at 4:17 a.m. Cliff Plummer Says...

Wow so many exciting things coming. toy story land sounds awesome!

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Jul 1, 2018 at 3:57 a.m. Heather Stone Says...

Love everything DISNEY!!! So many new memories to make over the next few years!

Reply
Jul 1, 2018 at 3:40 a.m. Jean Says...

Looking forward to the new Wizarding World ride at Universal!

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Jul 1, 2018 at 2:29 a.m. Ronald F Says...

I am so looking forward to Star Wars Land!

Reply
Jul 1, 2018 at 12:31 a.m. Amy A Says...

Planning a trip in August...would be better if it were free!! :)

Reply
Jul 1, 2018 at 12:28 a.m. Marilyn Dowd Says...

Cant wait for Skyliner.Lots of news

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Jul 1, 2018 at 12:28 a.m. Kimberly Eckard Says...

Looks amazing!

Reply
Jul 1, 2018 at 12:23 a.m. CHG Says...

Can’t wait to visit the water park!

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Jul 1, 2018 at 12:15 a.m. Ssandmeier Says...

Can't wait to go.

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Jul 1, 2018 at 12:09 a.m. Donna porter Says...

This is great information. I would love to go back here since it has been over 20 years!

Reply
Jun 30, 2018 at 11:48 p.m. Malissa O Zuniga Says...

Cant wait to visit again!!

Reply
Jun 30, 2018 at 11:12 p.m. Robin Says...

So exciting! I can't wait for the Tron coaster!

Reply
Jun 30, 2018 at 10:30 p.m. Cory Thornton Says...

Ready to go to Orlando for all of the above! Especially Star Wars Land and Harry Potter

Reply
Jun 30, 2018 at 10:29 p.m. Bailey Says...

Awesome article- loved the puns! Can’t wait for Star Wars land. Disney and Universal rock!

Reply
Jun 30, 2018 at 10:08 p.m. Iliana M Says...

Can't wait to visit!

Reply
Jun 30, 2018 at 10:06 p.m. Jill Carroll Says...

I would like to plan a visit!

Reply
Jun 30, 2018 at 9:45 p.m. Iliana Mendiola Says...

Awesome news!

Reply
Jun 30, 2018 at 9:40 p.m. Elisha Brewer Says...

Sounds fun!

Reply
Jun 30, 2018 at 9:06 p.m. T. Flaherty Says...

So excited to visit for the first time!

Reply
Jun 30, 2018 at 7:51 p.m. Linda M Says...

Can't wait for my next vacation down there!

Reply
Jun 30, 2018 at 7:23 p.m. Marshal711 Says...

Can’t wait to get back to both Universal and Disney again!

Reply
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