Orlando, the Theme Park Capital of the World® and the most-visited destination in the United States, is raising the bar once again in 2026. From the world’s first-ever Slotharium to new rides, shows, sports teams, hotels, and dining experiences, the city continues to reinvent what it means to be a global vacation hotspot.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Orlando fan, here’s a look at what’s new and coming soon across the destination.
New at the Theme Parks and Attractions
Walt Disney World Resort
EPCOT
- Frozen Ever After unveils updated audio-animatronics of Anna, Elsa, and Kristoff in February.
- This summer, guests can soar on Soarin’ Across America, a new immersive experience celebrating America’s 250th anniversary.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios
- Two new live experiences debut this summer: “Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live!” and “The Magic of Disney Animation.”
- On May 22, Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run launches a new mission inspired by “The Mandalorian and Grogu.”
- Later in the summer, Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster Starring the Muppets makes its highly anticipated debut.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park
- Fan-favorite characters Bluey and Bingo arrive for playful meet-and-greets, dancing, and family fun.
Magic Kingdom Park
- Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin reopen in spring following enhancements.
Disney Springs
- Level 99, a two-story interactive venue featuring over 50 physical and mental challenges, debuts as a new adult-focused attraction.
Universal Orlando Resort
- Universal celebrates the 25th anniversary of the first Harry Potter film with limited-time experiences throughout the year in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, including Butterbeer Season (March 1–May 31).
- Guests can also continue exploring Universal Epic Universe, Orlando’s newest theme park, with 50+ attractions across five immersive worlds.
SeaWorld Orlando
- SEAQuest: Legends of the Deep, a first-of-its-kind suspended family dark ride, makes its debut.
LEGOLAND Florida Resort
- Galacticoaster launches February 27, featuring customizable spacecraft and immersive cosmic scenes in a new space-themed land.
Beyond the Theme Parks
- Sloth World, the world’s first and only Slotharium, opens in February on International Drive, offering guided, small-group experiences in a rainforest-style habitat.
- Society Park, a 2.4-acre sports and entertainment complex with padel and pickleball courts, spa amenities, and restaurants, opens in April.
- Build-A-Bear Workshop debuts its world’s largest multi-level flagship store at ICON Park.
- Museum of Ice Cream Orlando opens at Pointe Orlando, complete with colorful exhibits and the iconic sprinkle pool.
- Fraggle Rock: A Space-y Adventure brings an original live show to Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex.
- The Florida Mall welcomes 11 new retail brands and an upcoming Round1 Bowling and Arcade.
- The Mall at Millenia unveils luxury retail expansions, refreshed fashion galleries, and new dining options.
Events, Sports & Live Entertainment
- The United Football League introduces the Orlando Storm, the city’s newest professional sports team, playing at Inter&Co Stadium.
- Blue Man Group returns on May 1 with a new home at ICON Park.
- Capone’s Dinner & Show opens a new, larger location at Dezerland Park Orlando.
- Orlando Ballet presents major performances at Dr. Phillips Center’s Steinmetz Hall, including Carmen, Balanchine, Godden, Gill, and The Great Gatsby.
New and Reimagined Places to Stay
- EVEN Hotel by IHG, a dual-branded EVEN Hotels and Staybridge Suites property, opens near Universal Epic Universe and the Orange County Convention Center with 288 rooms focused on wellness and comfort.
New Dining and Nightlife Experiences
- Cowboy Curry, a Japanese beef curry house by Chef William Shen, opens at Mills Market.
- Harlow Grove Restaurant & Bar, a two-story restaurant lounge, opens in Winter Garden.
- The Reverie, an American brasserie by James Beard-recognized Chef Brandon McGlamery, opens in Winter Park’s Hannibal Square.
A Destination That Never Stops Evolving
From blockbuster theme park experiences to immersive attractions, professional sports, and standout dining, Orlando’s 2026 lineup proves the destination continues to lead the world in innovation and entertainment. Whether you’re planning your next vacation or rediscovering your hometown, there’s never been a better time to experience what’s new in Orlando.
