At the 2024 Horizons: Disney Experiences Showcase during D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event, Disney dropped some exciting news about the future of their parks. This year’s announcements were especially noteworthy because, unlike past events where ideas were more about dreams and possibilities, Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D’Amaro assured us that these projects are already in the works.
D’Amaro emphasized that the Imagineers are hard at work bringing these new plans to life. So, what does this mean for us? Let’s take a closer look at the upcoming changes and enhancements coming to both Orlando and Anaheim, as well as Disney Cruise Line and international parks.
Walt Disney World in Orlando:
Hollywood Studios:
Monsters, Inc. Land: A brand-new area themed around Pixar’s Monsters, Inc. is set to debut at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This immersive land will allow guests to stroll through a Monsters, Inc. inspired environment and experience the first suspended coaster in any Disney park. Construction will begin in 2025.
Millennium Falcon Update: A new storyline featuring the Mandalorian and Grogu will be added to Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run, launching in 2026.
Magic Kingdom:
Cars Land: A new section inspired by Pixar’s Cars will be introduced in Frontierland. This will not be Radiator Springs, but it will feature two attractions—a thrilling rally race and a family-friendly ride. Work on this area will start in early 2025.
Disney Villains Land: A new land dedicated to Disney villains will be constructed “soon.” This is something fans have been eagerly anticipating for years.
Disney Starlight Parade: This new nighttime parade, starting in summer 2025, will use cutting-edge technology to continue the legacy of nighttime spectaculars. Expect appearances from characters from Peter Pan, Encanto, and Frozen.
Pirate Tavern: A new pirate-themed tavern will open in Magic Kingdom in 2025, providing a fun place to relax for all fans of the pirate life.
Epcot:
New Lounge: A lounge inspired by Spaceship Earth will open in 2025.
Test Track Redesign: Test Track will be reimagined in 2025 to showcase the evolution of automotive technology and its impact on our lives. The updated attraction will feature new show scenes and a scenic outdoor route.
Animal Kingdom:
- Pueblo Esperanza, a new 11-acre area themed around Tropical Americas, is set to begin construction later this year and is expected to open in 2027. This vibrant new land will include a large hacienda, one of the biggest quick-service restaurants at Walt Disney World Resort, a giant carousel featuring a wood carver’s favorite Disney animals, and two exciting signature attractions.
- The first is an Encanto-themed ride where guests can explore the Madrigal family’s magical Casita.
- The second is a new Indiana Jones attraction offering a fresh adventure unlike any other worldwide. Indy has uncovered a perfectly preserved Mayan temple and heard rumors of a mythical creature inside. This will replace the current Dinosaur ride.
Disneyland in Anaheim:
Disneyland (Celebrating its 70th Anniversary):
Walt Disney – A Magical Life: Debuting in 2025, the pioneer of audio-animatronics, Walt Disney himself, will be brought to life at the Main Street Opera House.
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure: Opening on November 15, 2024, this attraction inspired by The Princess and the Frog will kick off the holiday season.
California Adventure:
Coco Attraction: An all-new attraction themed around Pixar’s Coco will be introduced, with construction starting in 2026.
Avengers Campus Expansion: The Avengers Campus will expand with two new attractions. Avengers Infinity Defense will have guests traveling through iconic Marvel locations, while Stark Flight Lab will simulate a flight experience with Tony Stark. The expansion will start in 2025.
A new land inspired by Avatar: The Way of Water: Includes a thrilling excursion that transports guests to the expansive and breathtaking seas of Pandora.
Disney Cruise Line:
New Ships: The Disney Cruise Line fleet will grow to 13 ships between 2027 and 2031.
Disney Hercules: A new stage production featuring the music and characters from Hercules will debut on the Disney Destiny next year.
Disney The Tale of Moana: This new show on the Disney Treasure will include a giant puppet of Te Kā and will debut later this year.
International Parks:
Shanghai Disneyland and Hong Kong Disneyland: Both parks have new Spiderman attractions coming!
Disneyland Paris: World of Frozen will be opening in 2026 at its soon-to-be-renamed second park, Disney Adventure World. Starting January 2025, the park will debut a new nighttime spectacular featuring classic Disney and Pixar songs, with projections on Sleeping Beauty Castle and down Main Street. Also, a new Lion King-themed land is coming and will include a log flume ride featuring Simba and Pride Rock.
Tokyo Disneyland: The new nighttime spectacular, Reach for the Stars, debuts at Tokyo Disneyland on September 20.
There’s so much to look forward to! Whether you’re planning a visit before these exciting changes roll out or want to be among the first to experience the new attractions, I’d love to help you plan your magical getaway. Feel free to reach out for assistance HERE with your trip or contact your Smart Moms Travel agent.
