By Debra Simon and Brack Johnson

 

From a space-themed indoor coaster to Orlando’s newest professional sports team to a two-level interactive adult obstacle course, the Florida vacationland’s additions create a busy platform for a happy stay.

 

The theme park capital welcomes more than 25 fresh adventures in 2026, spanning theme parks, attractions, dining, entertainment, sports and retail.

 

Major highlights at Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, SeaWorld and LEGOLAND include red-hot rides, immersive lands and live shows. Beyond the parks, the destination is introducing standouts such as entertainment complexes, nightlife and more.

 

Here’s a look at what’s up in O-Town:

 

Universal Orlando Resort

• Universal Orlando Resort marks the 25th anniversary of the first Harry Potter film with offerings throughout the year in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
• Visitors continue to flock to Universal Epic Universe, Orlando’s latest theme park, featuring over 50 attractions across five immersive worlds: Celestial Park, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Ministry of Magic, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, How to Train Your Dragon - Isle of Berk and Dark Universe.

 

 

Walt Disney World Resort

• At EPCOT, Frozen Ever After is home to the updated audio-animatronics figures of Anna, Elsa and Kristoff. Patrons can take flight on an immersive journey with Soarin’ Across America, refreshed in celebration of America’s 250th anniversary. 
• Disney’s Hollywood Studios unveils two entertainments in the reimagined Walt Disney Studios area, including “Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live!,” a high-energy show with tunes and dancing, and “The Magic of Disney Animation,” inspired by Walt Disney Animation Studios and the Emmy-winning short film “Once Upon a Studio.” An original mission touches down in the Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge with an exploit centered around “The Mandalorian and Grogu.” Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring the Muppets takes guests inside a recording studio where the Electric Mayhem is laying down tracks. 
• The arrival of Bluey and Bingo at Conservation Station at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park is a significant extension of the park’s presentations, inviting individuals of all ages to dance, meet-and-greet, and play favorite games from the hit animated series.   
• At Magic Kingdom Park, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin reopens following enhancements. The galactic space battle spotlights redesigned ride vehicles with Star Command-inspired styling, onboard video monitors for real-time scoring, handheld blasters and interactive targets, while Big Thunder Mountain reopens with innovative magic.
• Level 99 at Disney Springs transforms the former NBA Experience into an interactive adult obstacle course with more than 50 physical and mental challenges plus a bar and restaurant serving Detroit-style pizza and beer.

 

SeaWorld Orlando

• SEAQuest: Legends of the Deep, a first-of-its-kind suspended ride, debuts at SeaWorld Orlando. Thrill-seekers can embark on a dark, submersible ride through different underwater ecosystems to take in the inspiring stories of the sea.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LEGOLAND Florida Resort

• Galacticoaster blasts off at LEGOLAND Florida in the park’s space-themed land. The indoor coaster allows riders to embark on a LEGO galaxy escapade with a customizable spacecraft and immersive cosmic scenes.  

 

 

Beyond the Big Theme Parks

• Society Park, a 2.4-acre sports and entertainment complex, launches on International Drive. Dubbed a “Gen Z country club,” it holds nine padel courts, an exhibition court, two children’s courts, three pickleball courts, a pro shop, a spa and two restaurants.  
• Build-A-Bear Workshop unfurls a multi-level flagship store - its largest - at ICON Park, offering classic "make-your-own" outings along with interactive and personalized elements for all ages.
• Museum of Ice Cream Orlando, specializing in colorful exhibits, sweet treats and an amazing sprinkle pool, kicks off at International Drive’s Pointe Orlando. 
• Fraggle Rock: A Space-y Adventure, a live show starring the Emmy Award-winning Fraggles characters and NASA’s real-life space explorers, premieres at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex.
• The Florida Mall takes on 11 retailers, including Glow or Go, an immersive team challenge with high-energy game zones; Pop Mart, the Beijing-based collectible brand; and Round1 Bowling and Arcade, a Japanese-style, multi-entertainment facility with bowling, arcade games and claw machines.
• The Mall at Millenia introduces a wave of updates, including an expanded Christian Louboutin space, a Versace store, a renovated Gucci gallery and openings from Lids, PacSun, Suitsupply and Vuori.

 

 

Events and Entertainment

• The United Football League shows off the Orlando Storm, the city’s newest professional sports team. The UFL franchise plays its inaugural season at Inter&Co Stadium, home to professional men’s and women’s soccer teams. 
• Blue Man Group returns to Orlando with a custom-built stage at ICON Park, displaying the show’s signature mix of art, live music, comedy, non-verbal storytelling and audience participation.
• Capone’s Dinner & Show draws back the curtains at Dezerland Park Orlando, showcasing a larger stage, expanded restaurant and updated storyline.
• Orlando Ballet performs at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts’ Steinmetz Hall, including “Carmen” and “The Great Gatsby.”  
• CityArts Café gets underway inside the historic Rogers Kiene Building, home to CityArts Orlando in downtown. The café is part of the Downtown Arts District’s mission to cultivate the arts in the city.
• Still Lounge by Dre and Snoop, which sets up shop at Live! at the Pointe Orlando, blends West Coast swagger and Southern soul. Night owls appreciate a rotation of DJs, live performances and playlists inspired by Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg.

 

 

 

Photos courtesy Visit Orlando.