What’s New in Orlando in 2025?

2025 is shaping up to be a year full of excitement and discovery, with Orlando offering plenty of new reasons to visit. Often called the Theme Park Capital of the World, Orlando is not just about its famous parks—it’s about fresh attractions, unforgettable experiences, and innovative places that will thrill you and your family. Whether you’re planning a trip with friends or setting New Year’s travel goals, Orlando remains one of the most exciting destinations in the U.S.

 

From the highly anticipated Universal Epic Universe, a brand-new theme park at Universal Orlando Resort, to stylish accommodations and culinary delights, Orlando has surprises waiting for everyone. It’s hard not to look forward to what’s coming next in this vibrant city that promises more than a vacation—it’s an experience of a lifetime.

 

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What Are the New Theme Park Experiences in Orlando in 2025?

 

Discover the exciting additions to Orlando’s world-renowned theme parks this year, from state-of-the-art rides to new entertainment options.

 

Universal Orlando Resort’s Universal Epic Universe

 

Opening its doors on May 22, 2025, Universal Epic Universe is set to redefine theme park experiences. As the fourth park at Universal Orlando Resort, it will feature five immersive worlds:

1. Super Nintendo World

2. Celestial Park

3. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter — Ministry of Magic

4. How to Train Your Dragon — Isle of Berk

5. Dark Universe

These interconnected worlds promise extraordinary adventures for visitors of all ages. Tickets are already on sale, so plan your visit to be among the first to explore this breathtaking park.

 

SeaWorld Orlando

 

Following the success of Penguin Trek at SeaWorld Orlando and Tassie’s Underwater Twist at Aquatica Orlando in 2024, more exciting attractions are expected to debut in 2025.

 

Walt Disney World Resort’s 2025 Attractions

 

After the 2024 openings of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at Magic Kingdom Park and other surprises, Walt Disney World Resort has even more magic planned for this year.

 

• The Little Mermaid — A Musical Adventure debuts in summer 2025 at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This stage show reimagines the beloved animated classic.
• New Test Track Scenes at EPCOT launch in 2025, showcasing cutting-edge technology with an emphasis on innovation, customization, and personalization.
• Pirates of the Caribbean-Themed Lounge and an EPCOT Lounge Inspired by Spaceship Earth will bring new dining and entertainment options to Walt Disney World Resort.
• Disney Starlight, a high-tech nighttime parade, will light up Magic Kingdom for the first time in almost a decade.

 

LEGOLAND Florida Resort

 

LEGOLAND Florida Resort introduced LEGO Ferrari Build & Race at LEGOLAND Florida Theme Park in 2024. In 2025, they’re set to make waves with an exciting new attraction.

 

SEA LIFE Florida Aquarium

 

Expanding on the success of SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium at ICON Park, SEA LIFE Florida Aquarium will surpass its predecessor in size and scope. Debuting in spring 2025, this new attraction will feature over 3,000 animals across nearly 150 species, hands-on exhibits, and a “The Theme Park Under the Sea” finale.

 

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What New Experiences Await Beyond the Parks?

 

Orlando offers fresh adventures beyond its famous theme parks. Here’s what’s new in 2025:

 

• Blue Man Group at ICON Park: This iconic multisensory show returns in a state-of-the-art 500-seat theater, opening April 3, 2025.
• Art & Food Walking Tours: Discover Orlando’s cultural and culinary gems with guided tours by United Arts of Central Florida. Visit museums, galleries, and foodie hotspots across Downtown Orlando, Loch Haven Cultural Park, and Winter Park.
• New Attractions at Fun Spot America:

At Orlando (I-Drive): Enjoy family rides like Tea Cups and thrillers like MACH FUN with spiraling dives.

At Kissimmee (Old Town): New rides include the Swing Around in Kids Spot and Up and Overboard, an inverted pendulum ride with twin gondolas.

• Hamlin House Paddle and Social Club: Opening soon in SODO, this venue combines indoor and outdoor pickleball courts with upscale dining for a unique social experience.
• International Soccer Matches: The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup comes to Orlando, hosting global matches at Camping World Stadium and Inter&Co Stadium. Key games include:

 

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Plus, in January’s FC Series at Inter&Co Stadium, enjoy matches featuring:

• Cruzeiro vs. São Paulo FC (Jan. 15)
• Atlético vs. Cruzeiro (Jan. 18)
• Orlando City vs. Atlético (Jan. 25)

 

Other must-sees include the Life Exhibit at Orlando Science Center, Judson’s Live at Dr. Phillips Center, and the Brightline high-speed rail service, making travel even smoother.

 

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What’s New in Orlando Hotels and Resorts?

 

Whether you’re looking for luxury stays or family-friendly accommodations, Orlando’s hospitality scene continues to grow.

 

New Openings

 

• Universal Helios Grand Hotel

 

Opening May 2025, the Universal Helios Grand Hotel will feature 500 rooms, 35 suites, and premium amenities like a rooftop bar, poolside lounge, and a private entrance to Universal Epic Universe.

 

• Universal Stella Nova and Terra Luna Resorts

 

The Universal Stella Nova Resort debuts January 21, 2025, followed by the Universal Terra Luna Resort on March 25. Both offer 750 spaceship-inspired rooms, resort pools, fitness centers, game rooms, and dining options.

 

Upgraded Favorites

 

• Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort

 

Renovations at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort will finish in 2025, with upgraded rooms and enhanced meeting spaces equipped with advanced technology.

 

• Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground

 

By spring 2025, Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground will complete 365 newly renovated cabins, already available to Disney Vacation Club members.

 

• Island Tower at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows

 

Opened in December 2024, the Island Tower offers lagoon-view penthouses, tropical pools, terrace gardens, and the innovative Wailulu Bar & Grill with an all-electric kitchen.

 

• Villatel Orlando Resort

 

Set to complete in early 2025, Villatel Orlando Resort brings 526 villa-style units, an adventure water park, a fitness center, dining, and children’s play areas to the I-Drive Entertainment District.

 

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What Are the New Culinary Delights in Orlando?

 

Orlando’s culinary scene is buzzing with new additions in 2025:

 

• New Restaurants at Orlando International Airport : Orlando International Airport is adding over 40 new restaurants and shops, including eight local favorites like:

1. Stasio’s Italian Deli

2. Smoke & Donuts

3. Kelly’s Ice Cream

4. SoDough Detroit Pizza

5. Milkhouse

6. Jam-Eng Caribbean and English Cuisine

7. 4 Rivers Smokehouse

8. Otto’s High Dive

Renovations begin mid-2025, with some spots opening by year’s end.

 

• East End Market Expansions : The Audubon Park hotspot now includes Rion’s Ocean Room, offering poke bowls, and Gyukatsu Rose, specializing in Japanese fried beef cutlets. Additionally, Gideon’s Bakehouse has introduced Stuart & Bonnie’s, a colorful food truck serving citrus-themed desserts and drinks.

 

• Final Chapter Lounge at Four Seasons Resort Orlando : This library-inspired speakeasy, open on select evenings, offers a cozy vibe and signature cocktails for guests aged 21 and up.

 

• The Glass Knife : Winter Park’s Park Avenue District will welcome a second location of this beloved bakery in spring 2025, featuring its iconic cakes, pastries, and baked goods.

 

• Moso Nori : Chef Henry Moso debuts a temaki-focused hand-roll bar in Winter Park, offering beer, wine, and sake-infused cocktails.

 

• Oza by Tim Liu : Opened in late 2024, this Mills 50 District gem combines izakaya ambiance with omakase-style dining for a fusion culinary experience.

 

• The Cake Bake Shop : Located on Disney’s BoardWalk, this enchanting spot offers afternoon tea, savory dishes, and signature desserts in a magical setting, with complimentary parking and entry.

 

• Alien Treats : Thornton Park’s latest addition features cosmic-themed desserts, including freeze-dried sweets, milkshakes, and ice cream.

 

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Big Changes Coming to Orlando Travel in 2025

 

As Orlando’s tourism landscape expands, here are key updates to keep in mind:

 

• Potentially Increased Travel Volume

 

With Universal’s Epic Universe opening on May 22, 2025, visitor numbers are set to surge. This landmark theme park will draw massive crowds, especially near Universal and Disney areas, leading to busier roadways. Allow extra time for travel and plan ahead to avoid delays.

 

• Car Rentals Are Getting More Expensive

 

Renting a car in 2025 comes with rising expenses. Orlando International Airport’s Customer Facility Charge (CFC) has increased from $6 to $9, adding to other fees like the Energy Recovery Fee, Florida Surcharge, and Vehicle License Fee. Weekly SUV rentals could surpass $150, making alternatives worth considering.

 

How Orlando Superior Transportation Makes 2025 Travel Easy

 

With all the new attractions and increased travel volume in 2025, Orlando Superior Transportation is here to make your visit smoother. Our direct transfers from Orlando International Airport to popular spots like Universal’s Epic Universe, Disney, and other major resorts mean you won’t have to deal with the hassle of traffic.

 

Whether you’re visiting new attractions, attending unforgettable New Year’s Eve Events, or heading to iconic destinations, our family-friendly vehicles ensure everyone is comfortable. We offer premium experiences with luxury sedans, SUVs, and vans that fit your needs. Skip the stress and enjoy a relaxed, top-tier ride with Orlando Superior Transportation.

 

Reserve Your Ride Today

 

With so much to explore in Orlando in 2025, let Orlando Superior Transportation handle your journey. Whether you’re visiting new attractions or heading to iconic destinations, we’ll ensure your trip starts and ends on a high note.

 

Book your premium ride now and travel in style and comfort!