By Holley Long
Summer is a time of relaxation and fun in the sun. And for Orlando theme parks, it’s a time for unveiling interesting attractions, shows, and more! Curious what to expect this season? Read below to find out what’s new and coming to the parks, from Universal Studios to Fun Spot America!
Universal Orlando Resort
Probably one of the biggest anticipated openings of the season is Minion Land at Universal Studios. The section of the park will include a new attraction, Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast, during which guests will blast through the Vicious Six in order to become the star supervillain. Already open is Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, a ride in which guests assist the mischievous Gru and go on a trip through his laboratory. It’s fun for the whole family!
Minion Land will also open with new places to grab a bite. Sit down for lunch at Illumination’s Minion Café, which replaces Monsters Cafe, or grab a sweet treat at Bake My Day. For quick snacks, guests can also check out the sweet and savory popcorn at Pop-A-Nana or frozen treats at Freeze Ray Pops.
Images by Universal Orlando Resort
Until Minion Land opens, guests can check out another awesome experience that recently opened for the summer: the Tribute Store. This season’s theme is Jurassic Park, in honor of the blockbuster’s 30th anniversary. With behind the scenes exhibits, new merchandise, and photo ops pulled straight from the film, it’s a must-do for anyone visiting the park this summer.
Walt Disney World Resort
Just in time for summer, several meet-and-greets have opened at Walt Disney World Resort! Now at Hollywood Studios, guests can meet Ariel from the live-action “The Little Mermaid,” which was recently released in theaters. She’s located at the end of the Walt Disney World Presents attraction, near the theater, where Sulley from “Monster’s, Inc.” used to appear.
If you still want to meet Sulley, don’t worry! He’s still around, but has moved over to Pixar Place, which recently reopened near Toy Story Land. In this section of the park, modeled after a city block from the film, “The Incredibles,” guests can meet Sulley, Mr. Incredible and Elastigirl, Frozone, and, of course, the iconic Edna Mode.
Edna’s accolades and best superhero designs are on display throughout the queue to meet her, and decor throughout Pixar Place calls back to so many iconic movies. It’s definitely worth a stop during your next Hollywood Studios visit!
SeaWorld Orlando
Are you stoked? The highly anticipated Pipeline: The Surf Coaster is now open at SeaWorld Orlando! The first-of-its-kind surf coaster lets riders feel every bank and curve due to innovative seats that move during the experience—it’s like you’re actually catching a wave! The thrill level is through the roof, making this a must-do for roller coaster lovers everywhere.
Image by Seaworld Orlando
For those who aren’t big lovers of roller coasters, there’s still plenty of new things to enjoy at SeaWorld Orlando. Take a seat at Nautilus Theater for the all-new stage show, Surf Holiday. The live performance includes singing, dancing, and a message about the importance of preservation and conservation in order to keep our oceans healthy and beautiful.
Then, when the sun goes down, it’ll be time for SeaWorld Orlando’s Summer Spectacular! DJ’s will mix popular music, performers will dance in the streets, and fireworks will light up the sky. And, starting in July, Nautilus Theater will host the Summer Spectacular Concert Series! The full lineup is not yet available, but we can definitely expect some great performances.
Legoland Florida
Want to watch something “x-tremely” cool? Then check out Legoland Florida’s all-new family-friendly show, Go Xtreme! The thrilling stunt show is full of acrobatics, skateboard tricks, and more, and a panel of judges will determine which performances are the best. Prepare to sit on the edge of your seats—and, of course, don’t try this at home.
Image by Legoland Florida Resort
Also new at Legoland Florida for the season is The Rhythm Bricks, a percussion group that will roam throughout the theme park, giving families a bit of entertainment while they head to their next ride.
Fun Spot America
At the Fun Spot America location in Kissimmee, one ride is getting a major upgrade. The Mine Blower, a wooden roller coaster, will be retracted with steel in some sections, which should improve the experience for riders. While the ride is currently closed, it is expected to reopen this summer in time for Fun Spot’s 25th anniversary.
Overall
Something exciting is always happening at the Orlando theme parks, and summer is the perfect time to enjoy all the new offerings! From minions to firework shows, there’s fun for the whole family, and it’s safe to say this season will be a blast, no matter what theme park you visit!
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