New Things To Do in Orlando: Discover the Latest Attractions for 2025!
Loyal theme park fans know the City Beautiful is chock full of world-class attractions and rides. Yet, you may be unaware of the bounty of amusement park madness coming your way.
Wondering what’s new in Orlando this year? We’ve got all the details on new attractions in Orlando! The city is buzzing with fresh attractions and adventures that promise to amp up your fun meter.
From the magical realms of Walt Disney World to the heart-pounding new rides in Orlando’s Universal Resort, not forgetting the aquatic wonders at SeaWorld, there’s a whole new world of excitement waiting just for you. Buckle up and get ready to explore new things to do in Orlando 2025—we guarantee it’s going to be a wild ride!
New Orlando Attractions in Walt Disney World Resort
Get ready to mark your calendars and dust off those Mickey ears because Walt Disney World is gearing up for an action-packed 2025, bursting with new thrills, magical moments, and significant changes! Whether you’re a Disney veteran or a first-time visitor, this year promises to sprinkle a little extra pixie dust on your vacation plans. We’ll dive into exciting new additions, thrilling transformations, and important closures, ensuring you have all the details to plan your ultimate Disney adventure.
Frontierland, Magic Kingdom: Fasten your seatbelts as Frontierland in Magic Kingdom park gears up for an exciting expansion with two new Cars-themed attractions, designed to delight racers of all ages. The first attraction promises a heart-pounding rally race through rugged mountains. Prepare to tackle wild terrain, climb steep trails, dodge erupting geysers, and splash through Mater’s favorite mudholes in what’s sure to be a thrilling adventure.
The second attraction, tailored for our smaller racers, will offer a more family-friendly experience, allowing everyone to join in the fun of Radiator Springs. Construction is set to begin in 2025, but keep your eyes on the road ahead as these dates could shift with the approval of plans and permits.
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Magic Kingdom: 2025 is a landmark year for the beloved Big Thunder Mountain Railroad in Magic Kingdom, which will be closed for refurbishment. But fret not—this closure is making way for the spectacular developments in the new Villains land. It’s the perfect time to explore other thrills and keep the excitement rolling!
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Pirates of the Caribbean Tavern, Magic Kingdom: Set sail for the all-new Pirates of the Caribbean Tavern, slated to open its doors in late 2025 at Magic Kingdom. This rowdy refuge will extend the lore of its namesake ride, complete with the return of the iconic Barker Bird. Though details are still emerging, expect this tavern to be a treasure trove of pirate-themed adventures and storytelling.
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, Magic Kingdom: Experience the magic of New Orleans with Tiana s Bayou Adventure, which opened in November 2024. This attraction, transforming the legacy of Splash Mountain, encapsulates the heart and soul of “The Princess and the Frog” with vibrant scenes and catchy tunes that celebrate Southern culture and adventure. Besides Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, the Journey of Water inspired by Moana is another delightful ride from Walt Disney Animation Studios.
The Little Mermaid — A Musical Adventure, Hollywood Studios: Prepare to be enchanted by “The Little Mermaid — A Musical Adventure,” debuting in summer 2025 at Disney s Hollywood Studios. This reimagined production, inspired by the original animated classic, will breathe new life into Ariel’s underwater journey. Fans can look forward to beloved musical numbers such as “Part of Your World” and “Poor Unfortunate Souls,” along with a fresh rendition of “Kiss the Girl.”
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Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away, Magic Kingdom: Prepare to be dazzled by “Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away,” a new nighttime parade illuminating Main Street, U.S.A. in Magic Kingdom with its high-tech wizardry. Led by the enchanting Blue Fairy, this parade will weave a tapestry of Disney dreams with characters from “Encanto,” “Frozen,” and “Peter Pan.” Debuting in summer of 2025, this spectacle is set to become a shimmering highlight of your Disney nights.
Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After, Hollywood Studios: Also in summer of 2025, the Sunset Showcase at Disney’s Hollywood Studios will transform into a “mysterious, reflective realm of the Magic Mirror” for the new Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After show. Get ready for live performances from infamous villains like Cruella de Vil, Captain Hook, and Maleficent, each making dramatic entrances and captivating audiences with their dark charisma.
Zootopia: Better Zoogether, Animal Kingdom: It’s a sad goodbye to “It’s Tough To Be A Bug,” but get ready for “Zootopia: Better Zoogether,” debuting in winter 2025 at Animal Kingdom. Join Judy Hopps, Nick Wilde, and other beloved characters as they take you through the diverse biomes of Zootopia in a brand new, immersive attraction.
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Test Track 3.0, EPCOT: Rev up your engines for the all-new Test Track 3.0, reopening in late summer 2025 at EPCOT. This reimagined attraction takes you into the world of automotive innovation, blending a rich history with the thrilling potential of future technologies.
2025 is shaping up to be an unforgettable year at Walt Disney World with these new attractions in Orlando. So, lace up those comfy shoes, pack your sense of adventure, and get ready to explore the magic—Disney style!
Universal Orlando Resort’s Epic Universe
The grand opening of Universal Epic Universe in 2025 is poised to be the most significant change in the landscape of theme parks, reshaping not only Universal Studios Florida but the entire industry. This transformative expansion will introduce five new worlds, each offering unique experiences: Celestial Park, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™, Dark Universe, and How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk.
Here’s an in-depth look at the major areas within Universal Epic Universe that are set to redefine the theme park experience:
Celestial Park: As the entry point and the heart of Universal Epic Universe, Celestial Park is a dynamic nexus that connects the various worlds within the park. During the day, it’s a beautiful, lush living garden with spectacular fountains, and at night, the entire area lights up and transforms into a completely different environment, offering a breathtaking experience. Here are some rides not to miss in Celestial Park:
- Constellation Carousel: Take a magical ride on the Constellation Carousel, where you’ll twirl amidst the stars on celestial creatures that spin and rotate, mimicking a graceful journey through the galaxy. Adorned with twinkling lights and set under a captivating dome, this carousel transforms a classic experience into an ethereal adventure, making you feel as if you’re gliding across the night sky.
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- Stardust Racers: Blast off on Stardust Racers, a high-velocity dual-launch coaster that captures the exhilarating rush of a comet shooting through space. Reach speeds of up to 62 mph and heights of 133 feet as you race along a 1.8-mile track designed to mimic the thrilling, unpredictable path of celestial bodies. At night, this ride lights up, with coaster cars sparkling like shooting stars against the dark sky—an unforgettable sight!
- Astronomica: Discover Astronomica, the interactive heart of Celestial Park. This unique wet-play attraction doubles as a cosmic compass, guiding you through the wonders of the Epic Universe. By day, enjoy playful water features and engaging activities; by night, watch as it transforms into a vibrant spectacle of lights, colors, and music. A visit to Astronomica offers fun and discovery at any hour, making it a stellar stop on your theme park adventure.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ – Ministry of Magic This expansion of the beloved Wizarding World introduces the Harry Potter Ministry of Magic, offering fans a new dimension to explore. This area delves into the magical bureaucracy of the wizarding world, featuring both the British Ministry of Magic and its French counterpart seen in the “Fantastic Beasts” films.
Guests can expect an immersive environment where they can experience the inner workings of the wizarding government, participate in a new narrative involving iconic characters, and engage with rides that blend storytelling with cutting-edge technology.
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Prepare for an adrenaline-pumping journey with Harry, Ron, and Hermione in the all-new thrill ride, Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry™. With a minimum height requirement of 40 inches, this motion simulation ride brings you into the heart of the Ministry of Magic where you’ll face trials, tribulations, and the unexpected as Dolores Umbridge™ stands trial.
Navigate through the depths of the Ministry, where magic, mystery, and mayhem await at every turn. Get ready to encounter not only Harry, Ron, and Hermione but also some uninvited guests who add a twist to your adventure.
SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™: Already a fan favorite in Japan and Hollywood, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™ at Universal Epic Universe promises to be a standout attraction. This vibrant and colorful world brings to life the environments and characters from Nintendo’s beloved games. Here are some things to expect:
- Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge: Take the wheel in this interactive ride through Bowser’s Castle! Using special goggles, you’ll join Team Mario to race against Team Bowser, tossing shells and collecting coins just like in the game. With tracks that take you underwater and into the clouds, it’s a thrilling blend of motion simulation and real-world fun.
- Yoshi’s Adventure: Perfect for families, this gentle ride takes guests on a treasure hunt with Yoshi. Climb aboard your favorite dinosaur and search for glowing eggs while taking in whimsical views of Super Mario Land.
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- Key Challenges: Test your skills in these interactive mini-games scattered throughout the land. Whether you’re dodging Thwomps or helping a Piranha Plant get back to sleep, each challenge rewards you with digital keys. Collect three keys, and you’ll unlock the ultimate battle: Bowser Jr. Shadow Showdown, where you’ll reclaim the Golden Mushroom from Bowser Jr. in a fun, interactive showdown.
- Toadstool Cafe: When hunger strikes, head to Toadstool Cafe, where Chef Toad serves up playful, themed dishes. The menu promises to delight both your taste buds and your sense of whimsy, offering a dining experience as immersive as the rides.
- Meet & Greets: What’s Super Mario Land without its iconic characters? Snap a selfie with Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, or Toad, and let your Power-Up Band enhance the interaction with special in-game bonuses.
Donkey Kong Country
For a tropical twist, step through the portal into Donkey Kong Country, where lush jungle vibes and adventurous rides await:
- Mine-Cart Madness: Join Donkey Kong and his friends in this high-energy coaster as you race to protect the Golden Banana from the Tiki Tak people. With cutting-edge technology, this ride mimics the wild maneuvers of Donkey Kong’s mine carts, offering a unique blend of family-friendly thrills and high-speed fun.
- Tropical Details: The transition from Super Mario Land to Donkey Kong Country is a feast for the senses. Rockwork, vibrant flowers, and hidden gems create an overgrown jungle atmosphere that immerses guests in the world of the beloved franchise.
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Dark Universe: This chilling addition plunges visitors into a gothic realm inhabited by Universal’s iconic monsters like Dracula, Frankenstein’s Monster, and The Mummy. Dark Universe combines the thrill of horror with the allure of mystery, offering attractions that explore the darker side of the Universal legacy. Here are some things to look forward to:
- Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment: Dive deep into Frankenstein Manor, where Dr. Victoria Frankenstein, the great-great-granddaughter of the infamous creator, believes she can control the legendary monsters of lore. As the experiment spirals out of control, guests will navigate through dimly lit corridors encountering Dracula, The Wolf Man, and other creatures brought to life with stunning realism by cutting-edge animatronics.
- Curse of the Werewolf: A thrilling adventure awaits on the fringes of Darkmoor Village at the camp of The Guild of Mystics. Here, guests discover they bear the mark of the werewolf and must escape the clutches of the beast that hunts them. This family-friendly spinning coaster offers hair-raising turns and terrifying encounters with werewolves lurking in the shadows.
- Das Stakehaus: After escaping the horrors, feast among the undead at Das Stakehaus, a vampire-themed eatery where gothic opulence meets culinary delight. The establishment, run by vampires’ loyal familiars, offers a menu rich in garlic-infused dishes—an amusing nod to its vampiric roots. Surrounded by vampire art and artifacts, guests might wonder if they’re dining among these eternal creatures.
- Pretorius’ Scientific Oddities: For those looking to bring a piece of Dark Universe home, Pretorius’ Scientific Oddities offers a collection of curious trinkets and attire perfect for any fan of the macabre. Named after the eccentric scientist Dr. Pretorius, this shop features an eclectic range of items from bizarre scientific instruments to unique monster memorabilia.
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- Live Your Monster Fantasy: The Darkmoor Monster Makeup Experience allows guests to transform into their favorite Universal monster with professional makeup applications. For a less permanent transformation, temporary tattoos and specialized apparel are available, letting visitors fully immerse themselves in their monster alter egos.
- Engage with the Darkness: Dark Universe isn’t just about scares; it’s about interactive storytelling that engages guests with the rich lore of Universal’s monster legacy. Meet-and-greet opportunities with characters like Frankenstein and his Bride, Ygor, and The Invisible Man add a personal touch to the experience, allowing guests to interact directly with the legends themselves.
How to Train Your Dragon — Isle of Berk: Step into the rugged world of How to Train Your Dragon — Isle of Berk, where the landscape is as wild as the dragons that roam it. This new addition brings to life the popular DreamWorks Animation films, offering guests the chance to immerse themselves in a Viking village where dragons and humans live together in harmony.
Upon entering Isle of Berk, guests are immediately transported into a vibrant, bustling Viking Village perched above the sea. The entrance is marked by iconic Viking and dragon statues, setting the stage for an environment where these mythical creatures and humans exist in harmony.
Isle of Berk features an array of exhilarating attractions that blend the thrill of the films with the excitement of theme park rides, dining options, and more:
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- Hiccup’s Wing Gliders: This high-flying coaster offers guests a dragon’s eye view of Berk, simulating the flight of dragons with sweeping, soaring movements that glide over the village and sea.
- The Untrainable Dragon: A live show where a new, mysterious dragon appears in Berk, challenging the Viking’s knowledge about their dragon friends. The show features aerial stunts and the beloved character Toothless, providing a spectacle of flight that captivates all ages.
- Dragon Racer’s Rally: Guests can test their skills as dragon racers on this thrilling ride, maneuvering through aerobatic challenges that mimic the dragon flights from the film series. It’s a race to become the ultimate dragon rider, offering both intense excitement and competitive fun.
- Fyre Drill: Dive into a splashy adventure with Ruffnut and Tuffnut at the helm. This boat ride pits teams against each other in a playful battle to hit targets and soak opponents, all set within the central lagoon of Berk for spectacular views of the action.
- Viking Training Camp: Tailored for younger explorers, this interactive area lets kids engage in Viking training exercises, from climbing and sliding to navigating through obstacles, all under the watchful eye of Fishlegs, Berk’s dragon-training expert.
- Gobber’s Forge: Not just a backdrop for the series, this forge serves as a themed dining experience where guests can enjoy hearty meals fit for a Viking, surrounded by the clanging of hammers and the warmth of the forge.
- Berk’s Market: A marketplace where guests can find everything from Viking gear to plush dragons, offering souvenirs and crafts that reflect the artistry and culture of Berk.
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- Meet and Greets: One of the most magical aspects of visiting Berk is the opportunity to meet and interact with characters from the films. Guests can have up-close encounters with Hiccup and Toothless, participate in photo ops, and even learn a bit of dragon lore from the trainers themselves. This personal interaction adds an unforgettable layer to the experience, making visitors feel like part of the Berk community.
Universal Epic Universe is not just expanding the physical footprint of Universal Orlando Resort; it’s pushing the boundaries of what a theme park can be! But wait, there’s more news…
New Hotels Near Universal Orlando Resort
Universal Epic Universe is set to amaze not just with its rides and attractions but also through its accommodation offerings, with three spectacular new hotels set to open in 2025!
Universal Helios Grand Hotel: Situated just steps away from the action, the Universal Helios Grand Hotel offers a luxurious, sun-themed retreat. Adorned with celestial patterns and constellation details, this full-service hotel boasts a Mediterranean-inspired ambiance that merges the grandeur of the heavens with the beauty of the earth.
Its prime location includes a dedicated entrance to Celestial Park, offering guests exclusive access to the heart of Epic Universe. Imagine waking up and stepping straight into a day-to-night transformation of the park—a truly stellar experience!
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Universal Stella Nova Resort and Universal Terra Luna Resort: For those fascinated by the cosmos, the Universal Stella Nova Resort and Universal Terra Luna Resort are stellar picks. Inspired by galaxies and celestial bodies, these sister hotels offer distinct experiences: Stella Nova dazzles with teal and purple hues reflecting a vibrant galaxy, while Terra Luna’s gold and green motifs echo the thrill of celestial discovery.
Both hotels feature facades adorned with dichroic panels that change appearance based on the viewer’s perspective and the light, making every angle a new discovery. With 750 luxurious rooms, resort-style amenities, and various dining options, these hotels are perfect for explorers looking to indulge in the unknown corners of the universe.
Scheduled to open their doors on January 21, 2025, for Stella Nova, and February 25, 2025, for Terra Luna, these hotels are already accepting reservations.
New Attractions To Expect at SeaWorld Orlando
Get ready for an exhilarating escape at SeaWorld Orlando with the launch of the Arctic Flying Theatre in Spring 2025! This pioneering attraction will whisk you and your family away on a breathtaking journey over frosty landscapes and under icy waters. Imagine soaring beside beluga whales, diving with orcas, and coming face-to-face with walruses—all from the comfort of a state-of-the-art flying theatre.
This all-weather, fully indoor adventure offers awe-inspiring visuals of the Arctic’s vast wilderness, including the stunning Aurora Borealis and untouched, remote regions, making it a perfect, thrilling escape regardless of the weather outside.
With a minimum height requirement of just 39 inches, this family-friendly experience ensures that adventurers of nearly all ages can enjoy the ride together. Experience the Arctic as if you were truly there, with jaw-dropping visuals that take you from marine depths to the outer atmosphere, giving you a satellite view of this incredible, expansive region.
And don’t forget, Tassie’s Underwater Twist, which opened last year, is another exciting ride option at Aquatica Orlando. Perfect for those looking to dive into an aquatic adventure.
Book Your Adventure With Tripster!
Want to save on tickets? Check out our discounts on Orlando’s hotels, attractions, shows, and vacation packages. Plus, we have a handy travel guide with all the insider tips for your Disney, LEGOLAND Florida Resort, and more trips you might need!
New Attractions in Orlando FAQs
What is the newest park in Orlando?
The newest park in Orlando is Universal Epic Universe. Set to open in 2025, it promises to offer innovative attractions across multiple themed lands, revolutionizing the theme park experience.
What is the most visited park in Orlando?
Magic Kingdom is the most visited park in Orlando, renowned for its classic attractions and enchanting experiences that draw millions of visitors each year. This iconic park continues to captivate guests with its magical blend of nostalgia and innovation.
Did We Miss Any of the New Attractions in Orlando?
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