Last year, my best friend surprised her niece and nephew with a trip to Walt Disney World Resort. She went all out, even making an advent-style countdown full of Mickey ornaments, Cinderella stickers, and MagiClip dolls. To be honest, I think she was more excited than they were! And that’s what I love about Disney World; whether you’re 5 or 35, you’re going to have a blast. I mean, her 5-year-old niece was obsessed with meeting Snow White and the newest Disney princess, Elena of Avalor, but her 8-year-old nephew was all about Star Wars at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. He (and my friend’s husband) were freaking out over the Star Wars show because it’s one of the newest, hottest attractions at Disney World; they knew they’d get to go home and brag about it with their friends. Yeah, both of them.
One of the coolest things about Disney World is that even though they’ve got the classic rides like Space Mountain and it’s a small world, there’s always something new and fabulous being unveiled at one of Disney World’s four theme parks. Personally, I’m quite partial to the fireworks and pyrotechnics but I know my daughter would die of happiness if she met Elsa and Anna in the new attraction themed to the village of Arendelle. So, no matter where you’re interests lie, I’ve put together a list of the absolute coolest new things to do and see. Go ahead and check it out!
New Things to Do & See at Walt Disney World
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Pandora – The World of Avatar
What it is: Here's what you can expect when this attraction opens this summer: Crossing over the new entry bridge to Pandora, The World of Avatar, you'll enter into the base camp of Alpha Centauri Expeditions where an eco-tour group will lead you to this wondrous new land. The wizards behind Disney World have teamed up to wow guests with both a Na’vi River Journey boat ride, and flying over Pandora on a Mountain Banshee as part of the Avatar Flight of Passage. It looks seriously incredible.
Where it is: Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Perfect for: Older kids and families
Travel tip: Pandora - the World of Avatar will complete the transformation of Disney’s Animal Kingdom from a daytime destination to a nighttime theme park.Photo: Walt Disney World News
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Meet Princess Elena of Avalor
What it is: Line up, everybody: There's a new princess in town! Elena of Avalor is the star of the hottest new animated series on the Disney Channel and Disney Junior. Elena was inspired by diverse Latin cultures, and is both brave and courageous, thoughtful and tender -- an ideal role model for our children. After receiving a warm Disney welcome from Cinderella, she's ready to greet guests at Princess Fairytale Hall.
Where it is: Magic Kingdom
Perfect for: Little kids and families
Travel tip: Be sure to check specific show times daily so you don't miss Elena's story and performance of "My Time."
Photo: Walt Disney World News
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Frozen Ever After
What it is: Assuming your kids are as into Frozen as mine are, they are going to love this “Summer Snow Day” family-friendly adventure. Explore the Kingdom of Arendelle, from Kristoff’s icehouse to Oaken’s shop, then board a boat at the harbor and sail past Troll Valley and up north to Elsa's glittering Ice Palace. No trip to Arendelle is complete without meeting the fiercely loyal sisters, and guests end the trip at their beautifully detailed Royal Sommerhus, modeled after a picturesque Norwegian village.
Where it is: Epcot
Perfect for: The whole family
Travel tip: Get a "FastPass+" to cut down on your wait time. Also, if you're coming from the park's main entrance, head to Frozen Ever After via the International Gateway in World Showcase for the most direct route.
Photo: Walt Disney World News
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The Muppets Live Show
What it is: Everyone's favorite fuzzy puppets are back with a historical comedy sketch show: The Muppets Present...Great Moments in American History. As usual, the Muppets are hilarious as they bring to life the stories of our founding fathers using comedy, song, and dance throughout the day at Liberty Square.
Where it is: Magic Kingdom
Perfect for: Every generation
Travel tip: Check the time guide to be sure you catch the show. And, for more Muppet fun, stop by PizzeRizzo* for a slice and head up to Rizzo’s Deluxe Supreme Banquet Hall, where there’s always a "wedding reception" in progress that guests can join in on! (*At Hollywood Studios).
Photo: Walt Disney World News
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‘Once Upon a Time’ Nighttime Spectacular
What It Is: This cool new nighttime projection show dazzles audiences with gorgeous three-dimensional effects that illuminate every inch of Cinderella Castle. Basically, the castle becomes a canvas allowing visitors to fly to Neverland with Peter Pan, watch Alice in Wonderland grow to the size of the castle, or cheer for the Beast as he duels Gaston. The spectacular is narrated by the beloved Mrs. Potts from Beauty & the Beast, and comes to a climax with special guest appearances by some of our favorite Disney characters. Oh, and did I mention the fireworks? Yeah.
Where it is: Magic KingdomPerfect for: All families and fans of classic Disney films
Travel tip: Arrive early to snag a spot up front -- the best place to watch the magic unfold!
Photo: Walt Disney World News
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Savor the Savanna
What it is: This two-hour evening safari through the beautiful landscape of the Harambe Wildlife Reserve gives guests a chance to explore Africa's most beautiful sights while spotting exotic creatures as they roam through the reserve. Finally, end the memorable dusk tour by feasting on African-inspired tapas and delectable wine and beer pairings.
Where it is: Disney's Animal Kingdom
Perfect for: Grown-ups and older children (no one under age 8 will be admitted); valid theme park admission is required.
Travel tip: Due to the bumpy nature of the safari, this is not recommended for those who are in poor health or are pregnant. Make a reservation in advance, and leave 10 extra minutes to walk from the turnstiles to the Harambe check-in area. Valid theme park admission is required.
Photo: Walt Disney World News
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Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular
What it is: Any Star Wars fans in the family? This extraordinary nightly production will transport guests to a galaxy far, far away with an unforgettable display of fireworks, pyrotechnics, and special effects – and throughout the park there’s a galaxy of stellar experiences including Jedi Training, Star Wars Launch Bay, Star Tours, and a new Star Wars tour. Of course there will also be visits from your fave Star Wars characters, as well as a menacing demonstration by Captain Phasma and the stormtroopers. Eek!
Where it is: Disney's Hollywood StudiosPerfect for: Bigger kids and grown-ups
Travel tip: Be prepared for pathways and courtyards to become congested during these shows, and plan to arrive early to get a good view.
Photo: Walt Disney World News
