ORLANDO — Walt Disney World Resort is introducing a series of new attractions, shows, and dining options across its parks throughout 2025, according to recent announcements and media reports. The updates include new theatrical productions, a reimagined classic ride, and the addition of new themed areas.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios will be the home of two new stage shows opening this summer. “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure,” a new theatrical production based on the animated film, will feature reimagined songs and sets. Additionally, a new show titled “Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After” is slated to open, bringing characters like Cruella de Vil, Captain Hook, and Maleficent to the stage in a live production, according to the official Disney Parks Blog.
At EPCOT, the popular Test Track attraction, presented by Chevrolet, is set to reopen in late summer 2025 following a significant refurbishment. The reimagined ride will feature a new storyline, as reported by the Disney Tourist Blog. EPCOT will also see the opening of a new lounge inspired by the park’s iconic Spaceship Earth. The new venue, named GEO-82, is now open and provides an elevated dining experience with views of the World Celebration Gardens, per WDWNT.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom is also receiving a new 4D production. “Zootopia: Better Zoogether!” is scheduled to open this winter at the Tree of Life Theater, featuring characters Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde, according to a report from WDWNT. This new show will debut as the park prepares for the closure of the DINOSAUR attraction in 2026.
Other developments at the resort include the opening of a Pirates of the Caribbean-inspired tavern in Magic Kingdom and the expansion of MagicBand+ capabilities. Additionally, major new lands themed to “Encanto,” “Cars,” and an entire “Villains Land” are in the early stages of planning for the coming years, according to reporting from CNET.