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Home / Blog / When to Visit / What's Coming to Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando in 2025 and Beyond

What's Coming to Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando in 2025 and Beyond

by Tad on January 29, 2025
846 Orlando

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 2025 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 hoppening in 2025, including a new nighttime parade at Magic Kingdom, a new Disney Villains show at Hollywood Studios and — of course — the grand opening of Universal Epic Universe.

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 in 2025 and Beyond

Magic Kingdom Park

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

Pirates of the Caribbean-themed lounge — Late 2025 — A new lounge will extend the story from Pirates of the Caribbean in Adventureland.

Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away — Summer 2025 — This brand-new nighttime parade will feature new technology, pixie dust from the Blue Fairy and characters from "Frozen," "Encanto" and more.

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad refurbishment — 2026 — This lengthy refurbishment begins Jan. 6, 2025, and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad will remain closed for at least a year, reopening sometime in 2026. Disney has said it'll return with "a little bit of new magic."

New Villains Land — TBD — While there's not an exact timeline yet, plans are in active development for a dark and sinister land that will house our favorite Disney villains and include two major attractions, dining and shopping. Reminder, just don't eat any apples while you're there!

New "Cars"-themed area — TBD — This land will replace Rivers of America and Tom Sawyer Island and include two new attractions. One attraction is set to be a thrilling race through the mountains, while the other will be a family-friendly ride. There is no known opening date — however, work will begin in 2025.

Disney's Animal Kingdom

What's Coming to Disney World - Zootopia Show

Zootopia: Better Zoogether — Winter 2025 — 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. It's Tough to be a Bug will close March 17, 2025.

Tropical Americas — 2027 — Tropical Americas is a brand-new land that will replace Dinoland, U.S.A., and will be home to two new attractions (see below!). Construction starts later this year, with the area set to open in 2027. The village will feature a large central fountain, one of Disney World's biggest quick-service restaurants and a carousel with fan-favorite Disney animals. Dinoland, U.S.A. is set to close in phases, with TriceraTop Spin closing Jan. 13, 2025.

New "Encanto" attraction — 2027 — A new ride where you can step right into the Family Madrigal's Casita! The first-ever "Encanto" ride begins after Antonio receives his gift, transforming his room into a rainforest. Join him as he explores his new space, and you might even run into other family members along the way.

New "Indiana Jones" attraction — 2027 — This new ride will replace the Dinosaur attraction and features Indy in an entirely new storyline. Indiana Jones has heard rumors of a mythical creature that inhabits an ancient Mayan temple, so he's off to explore it and take riders along for the adventure.

EPCOT

What's Coming to Disney World - Test Track Refresh

Test Track refresh — Late Summer 2025 — The fan-favorite attraction will undergo a reimagining after closing on June 17, 2024. Imagineers and teams from General Motors are drawing inspiration from the original World of Motion attraction to bring "that spirit of optimism" to the ride with an all-new storyline.

Spaceship Earth lounge — Late Spring 2025 — This family-friendly lounge will replace the former corporate lounge and will be designed using the geometric sphere as inspiration, metallic tones and rich textures.

Disney's Hollywood Studios

What's Coming to Disney World - Little Mermaid Show

"The Little Mermaid - A Musical Adventure" show — Summer 2025 — A reimagined "Little Mermaid" show is coming to the Animation Courtyard Theater in summer 2025 with new scenes.

Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After — Summer 2025 — In an all-new live production, enter the mysterious realm of the Magic Mirror and encounter the most infamous Disney Villains, including Cruella de Vil, Captain Hook and Maleficent. Lightning McQueen Racing Academy closed Oct. 7, 2024, to make way for this new show.

New Millenium Falcon: Smugglers Run story with Mando and Grogu — 2026 — New adventures are coming to a galaxy far far away that will feature Mando and his youngling once "The Mandalorian and Grogu" film kicks off in the theaters in 2026.

New "Monsters, Inc." land — TBD — A new "Monsters, Inc."-themed land is in the works and will feature Disney Parks' first-ever suspended coaster. The coaster will send you through the door vault and zoom through the monster factory. The land's story will pick up after the "Monsters, Inc." events and will also include dining, shopping and a new theater show. Work is scheduled to begin on this project in 2025, as it takes over the Grand Avenue section of the park. Melrose's Ristorante Italiano will close May 10, with Muppet*Vision 3D and PizzeRizzo following June 7.

Rock 'n' Roller Coaster's Muppets retheme — TBD — Don't stress! The Muppets aren't leaving Hollywood Studios — they're just moving to Sunset Boulevard to take over Rock 'n' Roller Coaster, which will become the first Disney ride to feature the Muppets.

Walt Disney World Resort Hotels and Disney Springs

Disney Lakeshore Lodge — 2027 — A new DVC resort is coming to the Bay Lake area, between Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground and Disney's Wilderness Lodge.

What's Coming to Universal Orlando Resort in 2025 and Beyond

Universal Epic Universe

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

Universal Epic Universe — May 22, 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 experiences. Discount tickets through Undercover Tourist are available, as of Oct. 22, 2024. Let's jump into a few more details on each of these incredible worlds!

What's Coming to Disney World and Universal - Celestial Park, Stardust Racers

Celestial Park — May 22, 2025 — The heart of Epic Universe, Celestial Park is the world between worlds and the gateway to the four additional worlds. Celestial Park puts the "park" back in theme park, with sprawling gardens, fountains and most importantly, the Chronos device: a giant machine that uses the power of the universe to power Celestial Park and its portals that transport you to these additional worlds. In addition to shopping and dining stops, Celestial Park is also home to three attractions: Stardust Racers, Constellation Carousel and Astronomica.

What's Coming to Disney World and Universal - How to Train Your Dragon

How to Train Your Dragon - Isle of Berk — May 22, 2025 — Enter the portal and step into an eighth-century Viking village that may look familiar to fans of the heartwarming "How to Train Your Dragon" films. (Isle of Berk is set between the second and third films, to be exact.) Explore a world literally built for Vikings, by Vikings: nine-foot-tall doors, chainsaw-carved benches, and Viking ships docked in the breathtaking lagoon. Aspiring dragon riders can get their training started on Hiccup's Wing Gliders, Dragon Racer's Rally and Fyre Drill attractions, or get the wiggles out at the Viking Training Camp play area. Quench your thirst (and appetite) from all of that hard work at Mead Hall, or check out the breathtaking "The Untrainable Dragon" show, where Toothless soars above the audience. And of course, you can even meet dragons (Toothless included) in Isle of Berk.

What's Coming to Disney World and Universal - Super Nintendo World

Super Nintendo World — May 22, 2025 — Wahoo! Super Nintendo World at Epic Universe will take visitors into the iconic world of Nintendo, in two distinct areas: Super Mario Land, and for the first time in the U.S., Donkey Kong Country. Attractions will include Yoshi's Adventure, Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge and Mine-Cart Madness. Throughout the world, you'll find interactive experiences, including opportunities to earn digital coins, stamps and keys with a Power-Up Band, dine in Toadstool Cafe and meet your favorite Nintendo characters such as Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach and more.

Dark Universe

Dark Universe — May 22, 2025 — Enter a world where mystery fills the air and monsters lurk in the shadows. In the village of Darkmoor, the stories are real ... and you're about to come face-to-fang with some of the most famous creatures ripped from the silver screen. Help Dr. Victoria Frankenstein and her monster stop Dracula from unleashing a horde of enraged monsters in Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment — one of the scariest rides Universal has ever created. Outrun gnashing teeth and razor-sharp claws in Curse of the Werewolf, a spinning family coaster inspired by "The Wolf Man." Undergo your own terrifying transformation in the Darkmoor Monster Makeup Experience. Sink your teeth into delicious fare at Das Stakehaus and The Burning Blade Tavern.

Ministry of Magic - Place Cachée

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Ministry of Magic — May 22, 2025 — Get ready to travel through space and time when you enter the third installment of Universal Orlando's Wizarding World. Upon passing through the Phoenix Arch, you'll arrive at Place Cachée, a hidden pocket of 1920s Paris inspired by the "Fantastic Beast" films. Here you'll be able to step right up to Le Cirque Arcanus where a greedy ringmaster has stolen Newt Scamander's famed suitcase, procure your own wand at Cosme Acajor Baguettes Magique and cast spells on enchanted objects, indulge in French-inspired cuisine at Café L'air De La Sirène, a charming cafe serving breakfast lunch and dinner and mingle with other Dark witches and wizards at Le Gobelet Noir, a timeworn auberge in the shadowy corners of Place Cachée.

While you're here, though, don't froget to stop by the Paris Métro-Floo and travel to the British Ministry of Magic in the late 1990s. Dolores Umbridge is on trial and has wicked plans to repair a broken Time-Turner and restore Voldemort's reign. I have quite the feeling Harry, Ron and Hermione might need your help to stop her from escaping.

Universal Epic Universe Hotels - Stella Nova and Terra Luna Resorts

Universal Stella Nova Resort and Universal Terra Luna Resort NOW OPEN, and opening March 25, 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 are located adjacent to the future site of the new Universal Epic Universe theme park. Universal Stella Nova Resort is 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.

Universal Helios Grand Hotel — May 22, 2025 — How about a new hotel located inside Epic Universe?! Named after the Greek god of the sun, Helios Grand Hotel continues Epic's celestial theming, with over 500 rooms, incredible views of the new theme park and its very own entrance into the park.

What's Coming to Other Florida Theme Parks in 2025 and Beyond

SeaWorld Orlando & Aquatica Orlando

World's First Fully Immersive Arctic Flying Theater — spring 2025 — Get ready to soar over breathtaking icy landscapes, chase the dazzling northern lights and dive beneath the frozen waters in this one-of-a-kind flight theater that will take riders on a dynamic adventure through the Arctic's vast and varied ecosystem. This groundbreaking attraction will bring you face-to-face with some of the planet's most magnificent creatures, including majestic beluga whales and awe-inspiring orcas and walruses. A cool, thrilling escape for the entire family all year round, this new ride will accommodate guests with a minimum height requirement of just 39 inches — ensuring explorers of all ages can enjoy the adventure together. Prepare to embark on a 4.5-minute journey within one of two immersive multi-level theaters and witness jaw-dropping visuals both in the air and underwater, including the stunning Aurora Borealis and remote, untouched areas of the Arctic. It'll be as if you're truly there.

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay & Adventure Island

What's Coming to Disney World and Universal - Wild Oasis

Wild Oasis — spring 2025 — Soon to be North America's most engaging and interactive adventure realm, the all-new Wild Oasis realm will breathe new life into the tucked-away Treetop Trails of Jungala. Promising non-stop excitement for every member of the family, this game-changing attraction is designed to ignite the imagination and engage all the senses. Get ready to be captivated by the sights and sounds of the rainforest, the rush of newly reimagined drop tower featuring state-of-the-art digital and sound effects, an interactive water-play wonderland and a multi-level climbing canopy. You'll also be able to get up close with some of the world's most fascinating animals in an all-new multi-species habitat. Talk about a roaring good time!

LEGOLAND Florida Resort 

SEA Life Florida Resort — 2025 — 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 2025 and beyond. Make sure to come back to see what's been added as you get closer to your visit. 

Related: Best Time To Visit Disney World

Related: Best Time To Visit Universal Orlando Resort

Stay cool!

Keep hopping, Tad!
View Comments

Comments

701–750 of 793 comments
Jun 21, 2018 at 4:16 a.m.
de66ie Says...

Would love to go to Disney World!

Reply
Jun 21, 2018 at 4:04 a.m.
Mel C. Says...

Lots to look forward to!!

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Jun 21, 2018 at 3:28 a.m.
Amy Hall Says...

Hoping to get to go in 2019!

Reply
Jun 21, 2018 at 3:09 a.m.
SheilaS. Says...

Everything Star Wars is what my family is most excited about! I love all of the new things that are headed our way!

Reply
Jun 21, 2018 at 2:14 a.m.
Margosha74 Says...

The Harry Potter world is our all time favorite! Can’t wait to plan another trip to Orlando in the next year or 2

Reply
Jun 21, 2018 at 2:01 a.m.
Debbie Says...

I enjoy getting the updates and offers.

Reply
Jun 21, 2018 at 2 a.m.
Sheila Ritter Says...

Some really cool things coming but I am most excited about Toy Story Land.

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Jun 21, 2018 at 1:59 a.m.
Shirley Winand Says...

Can't wait for my Disney World vacation. I got my tickets from you and I am ready to go.

Reply
Jun 21, 2018 at 1:56 a.m.
MD Says...

It's time to go to Universal and leave Disney for a while. Maybe they will update it.

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Jun 21, 2018 at 1:44 a.m.
P KIngery Says...

Great info- thanks for sharing!

Reply
Jun 21, 2018 at 12:50 a.m.
Eileen T. Says...

Wow. I live near Orlando and I didn't know all the new adventures that will take place soon. I will have to check them all. excited.

Reply
Jun 21, 2018 at 12:44 a.m.
Peggy F Says...

haven't been to Universal Studios in years. I would love to be able to see all the New (at least for me) Harry Potter rides

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Jun 21, 2018 at 12:08 a.m.
Joanne W. Says...

Although I live in Florida, it has been years since we have been to Universal Studios. There are so many new things to see and experience. I would love to win a trip!

Reply
Jun 21, 2018 at 12:01 a.m.
Katrina Kajganic Says...

I love you guys, and have been a loyal customer for years! Can't wait to check out all the new attractions with the kids soon :)

Reply
Jun 20, 2018 at 11:51 p.m.
Jeane Campbell Says...

Wow, that's a lot of changes. We took the grands about 6 years ago.. looks like it's time to go back. Lots of changes.

Reply
Jun 20, 2018 at 11:49 p.m.
Christina Dominguez Says...

There is so much to do in Orlando. Thank you for such great information!

Reply
Jun 20, 2018 at 11 p.m.
Allen Thomas Says...

Excited for this! Thanks.

Reply
Jun 20, 2018 at 10:26 p.m.
Theresa Michalik Says...

Can't wait for Toy Story to open...we arrive in 55 days.

Reply
Jun 20, 2018 at 10:15 p.m.
Sarah Says...

cool!!

Reply
Jun 20, 2018 at 10:10 p.m.
tracy vornberger Says...

Universal's Aventura Hotel and Toy Story Land — summer 2018

Reply
Jun 20, 2018 at 9:51 p.m.
drpace Says...

Can't wait for all the cool things coming to Disney World, but especially excited about Star Wars- Galaxy's Edge!

Reply
Jun 20, 2018 at 9:40 p.m.
carlm Says...

So cool! I hope I win a trip!

Reply
Jun 20, 2018 at 9:36 p.m.
BillB Says...

Can't wait for Galaxy's Edge!

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Jun 20, 2018 at 9:35 p.m.
busymom4two Says...

It is always good to know the new things before you planning a visit to Orlando

Reply
Jun 20, 2018 at 9:20 p.m.
megan Says...

Love all the great info! Can always count on this site for accurate and up to date information. Thanks so much! Can't wait till I can get back to Orlando!

Reply
Jun 20, 2018 at 9:04 p.m.
ValerieW Says...

Love your site and your service! You've exceeded my expectations in providing information and better than the park admission tickets!

Reply
Jun 20, 2018 at 8:27 p.m.
Sadi Says...

Looove the Incredibles dance party

Reply
Jun 20, 2018 at 8:23 p.m.
Lona Bye Says...

Brought tickets with undercover for Orlando Disney and universal . Awesome trip . Good prices

Reply
Jun 20, 2018 at 8:21 p.m.
Prisila Says...

I cant wait to see Toy story Land and Galaxy Edge..........def. be waiting for its arrival

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Jun 20, 2018 at 8:17 p.m.
Jenn F Says...

Looks like so much fun!

Reply
Jun 20, 2018 at 8:15 p.m.
Whitney T Says...

So excited for all the new changes!!

Reply
Jun 20, 2018 at 8:10 p.m.
Ayla Says...

I'm actually glad they are finally removing the Ellen ride from Epcot. Don't get me wrong; it will be missed but very excited to see the new Guardians of the galaxy ride in that area. I love Epcot, can't wait to see all the projects completed.

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Jun 20, 2018 at 8:03 p.m.
mary warning Says...

Very interesting facts! I will be using them next time I visit

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Jun 20, 2018 at 7:41 p.m.
Mary B Says...

great info can't wait to use all your tips and info when planning my trip thanks

Reply
Jun 20, 2018 at 7:40 p.m.
Rachel K. Says...

New restaurant in Japan?!?!! AHMAHGAAAAASH. We spend like half of our Epcot days in japan. I don’t even know how it happens but it does. SO EXCITED.

Reply
Jun 20, 2018 at 7:33 p.m.
Melissa Says...

Looks like we need to start planning another trip!

Reply
Jun 20, 2018 at 7:31 p.m.
Andre Says...

I would really like to check out the new attractions!

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Jun 20, 2018 at 7:31 p.m.
Kelly Gibbs Says...

Very good info, can't wait to go!

Reply
Jun 20, 2018 at 7:20 p.m.
Travis Says...

cant wait

Reply
Jun 20, 2018 at 7:16 p.m.
James Raschel Says...

This looks so fun!

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Jun 20, 2018 at 7:04 p.m.
Patrick Stinson Says...

Going in November! This will be helpful!

Reply
Jun 20, 2018 at 6:54 p.m.
Patricia Raschel Says...

I've got to get here!!

Reply
Jun 20, 2018 at 6:48 p.m.
Beverly Says...

Very informative newsletters!! Thanks for all the awesome tips!

Reply
Jun 20, 2018 at 6:38 p.m.
KentuckyMom Says...

Though we thought Universal was a blast overall, the new Fast & Furious ride was a huge disappointment...very long line (even with the Express pass) and the ride was short and NOT very exciting. Both my kids thought it was a dud.

Reply
Jun 20, 2018 at 6:37 p.m.
Ron Ablang Says...

The Hall of Presidents might be the worst attraction in this article. Most likely pass on that one.

Reply
Jun 20, 2018 at 6:33 p.m.
SAIT ILHANER Says...

So great, thanks for sharing

Reply
Jun 20, 2018 at 6:32 p.m.
Leo Says...

Good information! Can't wait to visit one of these.

Reply
Jun 20, 2018 at 6:26 p.m.
lghetti Says...

I love this blog. Really helped plan our DW trip last month!

Reply
Jun 20, 2018 at 6:25 p.m.
Tim P Says...

So excited for the future of Amusement

Reply
Jun 20, 2018 at 6:13 p.m.
MendyV Says...

As always one of the most useful, informative blogs out there. Thank you!

Reply

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