Welcome to another magical journey with Unlocking the Magic, where we dive into the latest and greatest updates from Walt Disney World. Whether you’re a seasoned park-goer or planning your first visit, there’s always something new and exciting on the horizon. Let’s explore the top 10 attractions, updates, and changes coming your way this summer.
Big Changes to Disney Genie Plus
Starting July 24th, Disney Genie Plus will be renamed to Lightning Lane Multi-Pass. Resort guests can pre-book their selections up to seven days before check-in, while non-resort guests can book three days prior to their park visit. This change brings a breath of fresh air, making it less stressful to secure your favorite rides. The new system allows holding a maximum of three multi-pass selections at any time, plus up to two individual selections daily. The pre-booking feature is a step in the right direction, easing the 7:00 AM scramble on the day of your visit.
Epcot Transformation Complete
June 10th marked the completion of Epcot’s transformation with the opening of CommuniCore Hall. This new space, though somewhat sterile inside, offers a blank canvas for Imagineers to craft unique festival experiences. The highlight is the Mickey and Friends meet-and-greet area, which beautifully merges classic Epcot aesthetics with modern flair. The colorful backdrops and fantastic lighting make it a must-visit spot for photos and character interactions.
New Show at CommuniCore Plaza
Epcot also introduced a limited-time show, “Cielo Encanto,” featuring hosts Alec and Elina. This interactive sing-along includes popular songs from “Encanto,” audience participation, and a grand finale with Mirabel and Bruno. The show, perfect for families with young children, runs multiple times daily until September 6th. Additionally, a live band performs in the evening, making CommuniCore Plaza a vibrant space for nighttime entertainment.
Star Tours Updates
Star Tours at Hollywood Studios has added new scenes and characters, including Ahsoka, Mando, Grogu, and Cassian Andor. These updates bring the total number of ride variations to 250, ensuring a unique experience every time. If you’re a Star Wars fan, don’t miss the chance to see these exciting new additions.
Ride Refurbishments
Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster is set to reopen on July 1st after a six-month refurbishment. Meanwhile, Peter Pan’s Flight will close from July 8th to August 21st for updates, which may include changes to the Native American scene. The Frontierland Shootin’ Arcade has closed permanently to make way for a new DVC Lounge. These refurbishments aim to enhance the overall guest experience while preserving the magic of these classic attractions.
Test Track Reimagining
Test Track at Epcot began its reimagining on June 16th. Inspired by the original World of Motion, the new version promises detailed physical sets and possibly animatronics. The removal of the scaffolding canopy will reveal the building’s architecture, enhancing its visual appeal. While there’s no set reopening date, the anticipation for Test Track 3.0 is high.
Country Bear Musical Jamboree
The Country Bear Musical Jamboree will debut its new show on July 17th, featuring the bears reinterpreting Disney songs in various country music styles. Upgraded animatronics and new costumes promise a fresh, entertaining experience. With songs like “Try Everything” from Zootopia and “A Whole New World” from Aladdin, this show is set to be a delightful addition to Magic Kingdom.
The Little Mermaid: A Musical Adventure
This fall, Hollywood Studios will welcome “The Little Mermaid: A Musical Adventure,” replacing the Voyage of the Little Mermaid. The new show will feature advanced puppetry, blacklight effects, and motion capture technology for animated sequences. With a mix of classic and new songs, this technologically upgraded show promises to captivate audiences of all ages.
Disney Dreams That Soar at Disney Springs
Debuting on May 24th, “Disney Dreams That Soar” is a breathtaking drone show at Disney Springs. With over 800 drones creating larger-than-life characters in the sky, this show celebrates the joy of flight. Performances are held twice nightly, offering a mesmerizing experience that shouldn’t be missed. If successful, we might see more drone shows across Walt Disney World, potentially enhancing nighttime entertainment at other parks.
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure
Finally, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure opened on June 28th at Magic Kingdom, replacing Splash Mountain. The ride features a virtual queue system and will eventually switch to a standby line. With state-of-the-art animatronics, projection mapping, and immersive theming, this ride offers a modern twist on a beloved classic. Though it may not capture all the thrills of Splash Mountain, it provides a vibrant and engaging experience that fans will enjoy.
What are you most excited to experience at Walt Disney World this summer? Let us know in the comments below and stay tuned for more magical updates!