What's New and Coming to Orlando in 2024

Whether you've not been to Orlando for a few years or a few months, there is always something new to discover, from new theme park rides and attractions, to new resorts, restaurants, and more, and in 2024 there is a ton of exciting new additions in the works!

2024 is shaping up to be an exciting year in Orlando, with tons of new attractions, hotels, restaurants, and so much more in the works.

You’ll never run out of new things to do in Orlando. and with so much to do, that's where we come in, from our weekly event guides, to our monthly planning guides, and our daily updates news articles, here at Gotta go Orlando we ensure you are the first to know all that's new in Orlando.

So, are you ready to find out what's coming to Orlando in 2024? Read on for all the details!

THEME PARKS

ATTRACTIONS

RESTAURANTS & BARS

SHOPS

HOTELS & RESORTS

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THEME PARKS

What's New at Orlando Theme Parks in 2024

Here in Orlando we are fortunate to have the best theme parks in the world right on our doorstep, and there is always something new and exciting to experience, from the latest rides and attractions, to new restaurants, entertainment, and hotels, and the great news is that 2024 is no exception, with every Central Florida theme park planing new experiences to keep us coming back again, and again!

In 2024, new additions coming to Walt Disney World include Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at Magic Kingdom, and a brand new DVC tower at Polynesian Village Resort.

At Universal Orlando Resort, a brand new land will open in 2024 based on the beloved characters from Dreamworks, while over at SeaWorld Orlando, the park will debut it's eight rollercoaster, Penguin Trek, a new immersive family coaster.

At LEGOLAND Florida they will debut two new additions, a Sea Life aquarium, and a Ferrari attraction. At Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, a fun new family coaster, Phoenix Rising is in the works, and this is just for starters!

Read on for all the details...

Walt Disney World

2023 has brought many new additions to Walt Disney World, including the opening of TRON: Lightcycle/Run at Magic Kingdom in April, and the multi-month transformation of EPCOT, including the October opening of Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana, and the December opening of World Celebration Gardens including Dreamers Point, where guests can sit beside a new bronze statue of the original dreamer himself, Walt the Dreamer.

Also in December, an all-new nighttime show, Luminous: Symphony of Us debuted at EPCOT, plus the new additions don't end there, in 2024 and beyond, Disney fans have tons of new additions to look forward to.

Tiana’s Bayou Adventure

The big news from Walt Disney World is that sometime in 2024, Walt Disney World will unveil the new Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at Magic Kingdom, which Walt Disney Imagineering are currenly creating from the shuttered Splash Mountain.

The story will pick up where the film left off as guests join Princess Tiana and jazz-loving alligator Louis on an adventure down the bayou as they prepare to host a one-of-a-kind celebration during Mardi Gras season where everyone is welcome.

Country Bears Musical Jamboree

The Country Bears at Magic Kingdom are getting a brand new show, featuring all new Disney songs, including Bear Necessities from The Jungle Book!

The Country Bear Jamboree at Magic Kingdom is one of the parks original attractions, but in 2024 the attraction will change to the Country Bear Musical Jamboree.

Disney Imagineer Chris Beatty says when the show debuts, the bears will be reinterpreting favorite Disney songs in different genres of country music. Imagineers are envisioning the new experience as a homage to the classic musical revues in Nashville and they’re working with Nashville musicians to get the authentic country sound.

The Country Bear Jamboree will still have the fun and friendly tone fans enjoy with the same famous characters like the loveable Trixie, Big Al and others.

Pirates of the Caribbean Lounge

Although we don't know a timeline, a brand new Pirates of the Caribbean-themed lounge is coming to Adventureland at Magic Kingdom Park.

This first-of-its-kind experience will extend the story of Pirates of the Caribbean. Imagineers are in the design process now, with more details to come in the future! Exciting news also is that the new tavern will see the return of Peg-Leg Pete, also known as the Barker Bird that was once stationed outside the attraction!!

CommuniCore Hall & Plaza

The all-new "Walt the Dreamer" statue may have debuted as a focal point of the stunning World Celebration Gardens in World Celebration, but we still have more to look forward to in the re-imagining of EPCOT, with CommuniCore Hall & CommuniCore Plaza due to open in early 2024.

CommuniCore Hall will be the home of a dynamic exhibition space that will transform with each festival throughout the year, as you can see here in one possibility imagined for EPCOT International Festival of the Arts.

The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure

The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure, a fully reimagined theatrical production inspired by the Walt Disney Animation Studios classic "The Little Mermaid," will debut in the newly refreshed Animation Courtyard theater in fall 2024 at Disney's Hollywood Studios.

The new show will replace the original Voyage of the Little Mermaid show, which debuted on January 7, 1992 at Hollywood Studios, the show ran until March 2020, when Walt DIsney World was forced to close due to the COVID Pandemic.

The newly reimagined show will feature stunning new set pieces, cutting-edge effects, and a bold new design that captures Ariel's imagination and emotions through her unique view of the world around her.

The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure will include much loved songs featured in the film, including "Part of Your World," "Poor Unfortunate Souls," and "Kiss The Girl."

Test Track

While no timeline has been announced, Test Track at EPCOT is to be completely reimagined, with imagineers along with teams from Chevrolet reaching back into history for inspiration—from the original World of Motion, to bringing that spirit of optimism to the next iteration of the Test Track attraction! Chevrolet will continue to sponsor the reimagined attraction.

Star Tours featuring Ahsoka

In 2024, Ahsoka will be added to the Star Tours attractions at Disney's Hollywood Studios.

Zootopia Attraction

It’s Tough To Be A Bug is being replaced with a brand new Zootopia attraction. The show is being created for the Tree of Life theater at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park, with imagineers currently finalizing the concept that will feature a Clawhauser Audio-Animatronic as part of the attraction.

The current concept for the new “Zootopia” experience has guests visiting the different biomes you only glimpse in the film, traveling along with Judy Hopps, Nick Wilde and other characters. Imagineers are currently finalizing the concept and more details will be coming in the future includibg when this new attraction will open.

Disney Vacation Club Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness

Walt Disney World will open 350 new Disney Vacation Club cabins that are set to replace the current cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground.

The new cabins are expected to open in 2024. Disney say that the proposed cabins would be built with an eye toward the environment, utilizing the footprint of the existing cabins and taking advantage of more energy-efficient features.

Design concepts offer a fresh take on the current cabin experience and are inspired by the resort’s idyllic setting, while also paying homage to the resort’s unique culture and heritage through the magic of Disney storytelling.

Each proposed, stand-alone cabin offers spacious accommodations, sleeping up to six adults, and features a bedroom, bathroom, living room, full kitchen and private patio.

DVC Tower at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

A new DVC tower due to open in late 2024 is currently under construction at Polynesian Village Resort. Located on the shores of Seven Seas Lagoon and on the monorail line to Magic Kingdom, the new DVC Tower is being built in the area that was home to Disney’s Spirit of Aloha Dinner Show.

The Cake Bake Shop by Gwendolyn Rogers

The Cake Bake Shop by Gwendolyn Rogers is currently under construction in the space that was previously home to the ESPN Club at Disney's Boardwalk.

Upon opening, this sweet spot will feature both savory and sweet items on its menu, and of course showcase the incredible cakes that Gwendolyn and her team have created, for brunch, lunch, and dinner. The restaurant and bakery will serve cookies, French macarons, brownies, dessert bars, pies, and cheesecakes in addition to the handmade cakes.

Tropical Americas Land

Beyond 2024, Walt Disney World have big plans for the resort, including a whole new land at Animal Kingdom that is set to see Dinoland U.S.A. reimagined into a new land inspired by a region sometimes referred to as “tropical Americas.”

As part of their research, Imagineers are looking at some of the most biodiverse areas on the planet in the regions just north and south of the equator here in the Western Hemisphere – the northern part of South America, stretching up into Central America.

New experiences inspired by “Encanto” and the fan-favorite adventurer Indiana Jones are being planned for the reimagined land.

In the concept art it shows Indiana Jones will be replacing the existing Dinosaur ride.

You can also see rendering from Encanto!

Bruce Vaughn, head of Walt Disney Imagineering says there’s a long way to go and a lot more to discover but Imagineering teams in Florida are up for the challenge."

In addition to the new land at Animal kingdom, imagineers at Walt Disney World have huge plans for Magic Kingdom, and although we don't know the details, or a timeline, Disney have given us all a few clues, read on for the details...

Beyond Big Thunder Mountain

At the Destination D23 event that took place i September 2023, at Walt Disney World, Disney Parks, Experiences and Products Chairman Josh D’Amaro and Bruce Vaughn, chief creative officer of Walt Disney Imagineering shared a special blue sky look at the exciting "Beyond Big Thunder Mountain" expansion that is currently being planned for Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World.

Vaughn explained that the current expansion being planned for Magic Kingdom will be similar in scope to Pandora — The World of Avatar at Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and will be the biggest expansion in Magic Kingdom history.

While not giving away any specifics of the expansion, Vaughn said, "There's a lot of room to play with around there. And we're looking at the possibility of adding new attractions, restaurants shows you dream it we're thinking about it. And like I said, the ideas are looking really great."

Josh D’Amaro shared that "There's still a long way to go. But I just want all of our fans to know that we are about to go into overdrive at the Magic Kingdom. And I am looking forward to spending more time with your team as we keep refining these ideas to create something really special that every single person in here is going to love."

Universal Orlando Resort

Ever since a boy wizard called Harry Potter first arrived at Universal Orlando Resort, and practically transformed Universal into one of most popular destintations in the world, Universal Orlando has been busy adding new attractions and experiences year on year.

In 2023 alone, Universal opened an entirely new land at Universal Studios Florida based on the Minions. Minions Land features a brand new attraction, Illuminations Villain Con Minion Blast, togther with a quick-serve restaurant, meet-and-greets, and more.

Looking forward to 2024 and beyond, Universal will be opening new attractions, new lands, and even a brand new theme park!

Dreamworks Animation Land

In 2024, Universal Orlando Resort will debut an all-new themed land featuring DreamWorks Animation’s animated characters.

The colourful new DreamWorks Animation land will include favorite characters like Gabby from Gabby’s Dollhouse and themed, interactive play spaces and attractions that will feature popular franchises like Shrek, Trolls and Kung Fu Panda.

The land will include a new swamp home for Shrek and Donkey, and a roller-coaster inspired by Trolls.

With the new land taking over the previous home of Woody Woodpecker’s KidZone, the new Trolls coaster is a re-theme of the Woody Woodpecker's Nuthouse Coaster that was in the previous land.

The new DreamWorks land, coming to Universal Studios Florida, is already under construction at Universal Studios Florida, and will debut at Universal Orlando Resort in 2024.

Epic Universe

The epic news from Universal is that in 2025 they will open an entirely new theme park, Universal Epic Universe!

The currently under-construction Universal Epic Universe was first announced in August 2019, with an original opening set for summer 2023, but due to the COVID-19 pandemic work on the park was delayed, and is now scheduled to open in Summer 2025.

Universal Epic Universe is located a few miles south-east from the existing Universal Orlando Resort, within a huge 750-acre site south of Sand Lake Road and east of Universal Boulevard.

Epic Universe will use a hub-and-spoke format, consisting of four themed lands that will be entered from a central hub, with each land featuring a uniquely-themed gateway. The themed lands will be, in clockwise order from entry, Super Nintendo World (confirmed), Dark Universe, tthemed to Universal Classic Monsters (un-confirmed), Fantastic Beasts, an expansion of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, (un-confirmed), and a land themed to the Isle of Berk from the How to Train Your Dragon franchise, (un-confirmed).

While Super Nintendo World is the only land so far confirmed by Universal Orlando, thanks to permits filed witth Orange County, the majority of the details are widely know.

Super Nintendo World

So far the only confirmed land in Epic Universe, Super Nintendo World will allow guests to ride Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge, grab something to eat at Toadstool Café and use their power-up bands in various areas around the new land. Larger thean the Hollywood version of the land, it will be bigger, and even more immersive, featuring three immersive rides.

First up will be Yoshi's Adventure, which is a family dark ride featuring characters from the Yoshi's Island series of games. In addition to the indoor segments, the ride will include outdoor segments, giving guests a great overview of the land. There will be a game element to this attraction with guests able to press tcolorful egg buttons on the ride vehicle to complete a mission for Captain Toad.

This upcoming land will also feature a first of its kind roller coaster themed to Donkey Kong and will feature a unique ride system that makes it look like riders are jumping off the tracks, just like in the Donkey Kong games. This new ride concept is completely unique and uses a hidden roller coaster track that connects to ride vehicles via a boom arm. Because the actual ride track can't be seen and the track that guests see under their ride vehicle is just for show, the ride vehicle can be made to look like it is "jumping" from track to track.

The third ride in the land will be Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge, an augmented reality dark ride that is primarily based on the Mario Kart 8 video game.

Dark Universe

Dark Universe will be theamed to Universal's classic monstersm including Frankenstein, Dracula, Wolfman, and more. Guests will enter the land through a portal themed with imposing rocks, tree roots, and large vines. Once guests walk through the portal they will walk under a broken bridge before entering a Transylvania style European village.

The land will feature two dining locations, and a large retail location. The lands main attraction will an indoor ride with a similar ride system to Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey. The show building is believed to be inspired by the Château Miranda in Belgium. This headline ride will feature Frankenstein’s Monster, the Mummy, Wolfman, Hunchback, Creature from the Black Lagoon. The lands second attraction will be a Mack family spinning coaster themed to Wolfman.

Fantastic Beasts

This new Harry Potter land will be set within the city of Paris as presented in the prequel Fantastic Beasts film franchise. Guests will enter the land through a portal designed to resemble the Porte Saint-Denis arch, and find stores similar to those featured in the other Harry Potter lands.

In terms of attractions, the land will feature a theater show that will take place within the Circus Arcanus circus tent, rumored to include wand duels and perhaps some audience interaction.

The lands main attraction, and one of the park’s headliners, will take place inside the British Ministry of Magic as seen in the original Potter books and films. Once inside the Ministry of Magic, guests will be transported from Paris to London through the magical Floo Network transportation system. Once they arrive, they’ll be whisked onto magic elevators (similar to the vehicle ride system used on The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man and Transformers rides) and taken on an adventure featuring Professor Dolores Umbridge as its primary villain.

How to Train Your Dragon

The How to Train Your Dragon land will be dominated by a huge Intamin multi-launch steel roller coaster encircling the land. Once guests enter the portal into this land they will find themselves inside the Isle of Berk after the events of the first film, you will see two large statues and Viking boats in a large lagoon. In addition to the coaster, there will be a twin Gerstlauer Sky Fly ride where riders will be able to control how thrilling their ride will be. Using a lever attached to their seat, riders can decide whether they want to rotate their seat.

A third ride in the land is an interactive boat ride manufactured by Mack Rides, the ride will allow riders to fire water cannons as the boats float around the ride path. This large land will also include a theater show featuring live actors and puppets.

Rounding out the land will be retail locations, and an upscale dining location, together with a quick-serve location.

Universal Stella Nova & Terra Luna Resorts

As part of the brand new Epic Universe, Universal is also constructing three hotels, two of these hotels are located just off Universal Blvd: Universal Stella Nova Resort and Universal Terra Luna Resort.

Both hotels will open ahead of the new theme park, with Universal Stella Nova Resort opening first on January 21, 2025, with Universal Terra Luna Resort opening its doors on February 25, 2025.

Both hotels offer 750 guestrooms each, and are co-owned and operated by Loews Hotels & Co. and will fall into the Prime Value category of hotels.

SeaWorld Orlando

SeaWorld Orlando is pushing full steam ahead in its quest to be the rollercaoste capital of Orlando, and in 2023 the theme park introduced Pipeline: The Surf Coaster, a first-of-its-kind surf coaster, where you experience the rush of launching 110 feet up at 60 mph and feeling every bank and curve as though you’re really riding the waves, thanks to innovative dynamic seats that gives you unparalleled freedom of movement, and in 2024, yet another first-of-its-kind coaster is coing to SeaWorld!

Penguin Trek

Prepare for Penguin Trek at SeaWorld Orlando, an unforgettable family launch coaster adventure where you will board your snowmobile and race along with your expedition team at up to 43 miles per hour, navigating twists and turns and narrowly escaping the crumbling hazards of an icy cavern.

This new indoor/outdoor family ride set to open in Spring 2024, and is the most immersive addition to the Coaster Capital of Orlando, and with a height requirement of just 42”, it’s the perfect journey for families to share.

Described by SeaWorld as the ultimate family launch coaster experience, "Penguin Trek" features a unique snowmobile styled ride car where once aboard, riders will embark on an exhilarating journey through the breathtaking vastness of Antarctica as they join a penguin research mission unlike any other.

Penguin Trek at SeaWorld Orlando will be a unique family friendly coaster experience with riders aboard a snowmobile styled ride car on an indoor and outdoor tack that will conclude in SeaWorld's Penguin Habitat.

Featuring two exhilarating launches and a maze of twists and turns, this unforgettable coaster moves at speeds of up to 43 mph across a 3,020-foot track that traverses both indoors and outside. Yet, what sets this experience apart as truly extraordinary is its unparalleled finale: as the coaster comes to a halt, guests find themselves not in a simulated penguin colony, but in the very heart of SeaWorld Orlando's own penguin habitat.

An experience for the whole family, the ride accommodates rider heights from 42-inches to 77-inches. A unique and immersive blend of coaster thrills and authentic animal interaction offers the whole family the spirit of adventure and exploration, while further connecting SeaWorld's mission and commitment to animal care, education, and research.

Aquatica Orlando

In May 2023, Aquatica Orlando debuted the ALL-NEW Turi’s Kid Cove, a kids water adventure attraction filled with watering palms, tipping buckets, spraying jets, water bobbles, and more. Plus, your kids can grab a tube and glide into fun on the ALL-NEW Tamariki Twirl, a kid-sized wave slide designed just for them.

In 2024, it will be the big kids having fun, as SeaWorld debut a brand new attraction, Tassie's Underwater Twist.

Tassie's Underwater Twist

SeaWorld Orlando are bringing a brand new attraction to Aquatica Orlando in the Spring of 2024, Tassie's Underwater Twist, an all-new immersive waterslide will transform the guest ride experience into an awe-inspiring journey through Australia's Shark Bay seagrass meadow.

Described by SeaWorld as an immersive waterslide experience like no other, Tassie's Underwater Twist will transport guests to the depths of the ocean, where they'll glide through a vibrant underwater world teeming with marine life. Manufactured by WhiteWater West Industries, the enhanced slide measures 129 feet in length and features a super-bowl element enjoyed by riders on a two-person innertube. As the rider reaches the unique bowl of the slide they’ll begin to circle around the basin and find themselves surrounded by lush seagrass meadows, schools of colorful fish, and even the occasional shark. To enhance the immersive experience, Tassie's Underwater Twist will feature a synchronized video display and a captivating orchestral score. The video projections will bring the underwater world to life, while the music will evoke a sense of wonder and excitement. In addition to being an exhilarating waterslide ride, Tassie's Underwater Twist will also provide an educational perspective for guests. Visual components along the path of the ride will enlighten visitors about the importance of seagrass meadows and the marine life that depends on them.

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

Busch Gardens Tampa welcomed Serengeti Flyer in 2023, a new attraction billed as the world’s tallest and fastest ride of its kind, with each swing, riders soar higher and higher above Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s expansive 65-acre Serengeti Plain while experiencing multiple negative-G moments before plunging back toward the Earth. Serengeti Flyer features twin dueling arms that soar progressively higher reaching speeds of 68 mph and a maximum height of 135 feet at the ride’s peak, and the fun dosen't stop there, in 2024, yet another new attraction is coming to the popular theme park.

Phoenix Rising

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay has revealed that Phoenix Rising, a brand new family roller coaster is coming to the theme park in 2024.

Once open, Phoenix Rising will take thrill seeking families on a hair raising journey swinging them side to side as it does so, reaching speeds of up to 44 mph throughout it's 1,831 ft of inverted steel track.

The new ride will be the first ride at the park to feature onboard audio and will sport a minimum height requirement of only 42 inches to ride.

Phoenix Rising, a B&M inverted coaster will be coming to the Pantopia area of the park.

This exhilarating new attraction will have riders soaring over the Serengeti Plain, and will be the largest family-friendly addition to the Tampa Bay theme park.

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The coaster is being built in the location of Sand Serpent, which was permanently closed and demolished earlier this year.

Adventure Island

Adventure Island is Busch Garden's Tampa Bay's water park and recently the aprk has seen a huge expansion including a park-wide modernized theme, the recently opened Shaka-Laka Shores, water slides Rapids Racer and Wahoo Remix, the renovation of Captain Pete’s, the popular full-service Hang Ten Tiki Bar, and new lounging areas and cabanas.

Castaway Falls

Adventure Island will debut Castaway Falls, in Spring 2024. The all-new multi-level, interactive water-play attraction will feature more than 100 play elements, including two giant tipping buckets that dump more than 1,300 gallons of water combined.

Castaway Falls will have four exciting water slides, soakers, flow pipes, hose jets, spray jets, water shooters, water curtains, tipping troughs, spinning and sliding buckets, and much more. The new attraction replaces the former splash area and is double the size of the former Splash Attack, making the new addition to Adventure Island bigger and splashier than ever before.

Harmonizing with the water park’s paradise-like ambiance, Castaway Falls resembles a splash haven and a fun-filled retreat for the young and young-at-heart. Castaway Falls will immerse guests in a watery world of excitement, perfect for all park guests, even the littlest splashers.

LEGOLAND Florida

Race into 2024 at LEGOLAND Florida Resort with two new additions for 2024. First up, LEGOLAND Theme Park will debuts the new LEGO Ferrari “Build and Race” Experience this spring. Then, splash into an all-new adventure with the opening of SEA LIFE Florida Resort in Fall 2024.

LEGO Ferrari Build and Race

From your imagination to the racetrack... It's race time at the new LEGO Ferrari Build & Race Experience opening Spring 2024 at LEGOLAND Florida Resort! See a life-sized LEGO Ferrari and create your own Ferrari race car in interactive play zones before you test drive it through three extreme test tracks. Then digitally build and race on a virtual track to the finish line! Plus, the youngest drivers will design their own Ferrari with bigger bricks in the LEGO DUPLO build zone.

SEA LIFE Florida Resort

Discover the amazing wonders of the underwater world at SEA LIFE Florida Resort, an all-new aquarium opening this Fall 2024 at LEGOLAND Florida Resort. Here, at this family-friendly aquarium, guests will marvel at a diverse range of marine life, interact with captivating exhibits, and embark on a voyage of oceanic exploration, ending in the ultimate final seascape—The Theme Park Under the Sea!

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ATTRACTIONS

Cool Zoo Orlando

Cool Zoo Wildlife Center, a wildlife rehabilitation and rescue center in Polk County is opening a new indoor attraction on International Drive that will offer up-close encounters with many animals including sloths, kangaroos, lemurs, alligators, capybaras, snakes, porcupines and more.

Visitors to the 10,000 square feet indoor wildlife experience will meet the animals, together with interactive educational elements, highlighting the importance of conservation, together with hands-on activities including gemstone mining, wax hands fun, and fossil finding.

Judson’s at Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts

The Joyce & Judson Green Room, to be known as Judson’s Live is a new, intimate music space that will have it's grand opening on Tuesday, February 6, 2024. This new venue joins the Walt Disney Theater, Alexis & Jim Pugh Theater, Steinmetz Hall and Seneff Arts Plaza on the Dr. Phillips Center campus.

Inspired by the legendary listening rooms of the world’s most musical cities, Judson’s Live is an intimate artistic oasis. Designed with stellar acoustics in mind, artists of all genres sound their most impressive in this elevated and inviting space, surrounded by table-style seating for 150. The atmosphere is low-key with a stylish slant, anchored by a grand piano once belonging to Judson Green, the late jazz musician, beloved Dr. Phillips Center board member.

Art2

Art2 is an urban pocket park that will be open to the public in Spring 2024 and will be developed on the southwest corner of Orange Ave. and Robinson St. Park amenities include a two-story container structure with a café, art gallery, stage, seating, and more. The Park will include audiovisual equipment throughout the footprint, space for two food trucks, green space for scheduled activities, and a downtown gateway feature.

Pinstripes Orlando Bistro, Bowling and Bocce

Opening at Vineland Pointe in O-Town West, Pinstripes Orlando Bowling & Bocce will serve delicious Italian and American cuisine, and feature a bowling alley and bocce ball courts. Pinstripes Orlando Bistro, Bowling and Bocce will be located in a huge 28,000-square-foot space in Vineland Pointe, that was originally going to be home to an Alamo Drafthouse, and is set to open in Spring 2024.

Senso Beach Club

Senso Beach Club Entertainment Complex is a project a long time in the planning, this is an idea that was first touted way back in 20218. This 40,000 square-feet, multi-level entertainment complex will boast two pools, several bars, and roof top areas. Programming throughout the season will be highlighted by SENSO Beach Club resident DJs together with the world's premier electronic music talent. Currently, the project is looking at a late 2024 opening.

Crush Yard Pickleball Club & Restaurant 

The South Carolina-based chain Crush Yard Pickleball Club & Restaurant will be opening a pickleball paradise featuring indoor courts, a restaurant with elevated pub food, a bar, and an outdoor lounge in Kissimmee at 7840 W. Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway in Kissimmee.

The Pickleball Club

The Pickleball Club, a private, membership-based high-amenity indoor pickleball club is set to open at 1427 N. Semoran Blvd. The 33,800-square-foot climate controlled facility will include 12 indoor pickleball courts, 130 parking spaces and Players’ Courtyard with two outdoor pickleball courts and two bocce ball courts.

The Orlando location will also feature a 3,900-square-foot Players’ Lounge mezzanine overlooking the courts, the company’s own restaurant, Pickle’s Café, and Dink’s Pro Shop. The club is expected to break ground in June 2024 and open in the summer of 2025.

Orlando Surf Club

Coral Springs based developer, Ocean Sports Development are building a massive 13 acre Surf Park near to Walt Disney World in a former construction land-fill site close to the Horizon West development in Winter Garden.

In addition to the surf pool, the project will also include volleyball courts, pavilion, tiki bars, surf shop and more. Currently no opening date has been reveald, but expect the project to open in 2025/2026.

AREA15

Las Vegas attraction, AREA15 is scheduled to open in Orlando in 2024, although no construction has starte on the project. Located on the southeast corner of I-4 at the intersection of Lake Street and Regency Village Drive, the 300,000 SF immersive art experience and events center will include a range of attractions, art installations, retail offerings, restaurants and bars, and more, all under one roof. AREA15 will also host events, art exhibitions, nightlife and shows. Currently no start date or completion date has been revealed.

AxeVentures

AxeVentures is opening on International Drive, the new urban axe throwing restaurant and lounge, replacing the former Gift Factory. An estimated opening date is yet be announced.

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RESTAURANTS & BARS

Tom's Watch Bar

Tom's Watch Bar, is an 11,000 SF sports bar concept from Smashburger founder Tom Ryan and will soon be occupying the roof-top space in the Hollywood Plaza parking garage on I-Drive, next to Mango's Live.

The new Tom's Watch Bar will feature Top Golf simulators and several other entertainment features, and its calendar, once open, will feature a variety of watch parties and events. The menu in the new sports bar will include traditional sports bar staples such as burgers and wings but also sushi-grade tuna towers and poke bowls. Estimated opening date is expected to be early 2024.

Sports & Social and PBR Cowboy Bar

36,000 square feet of immersive indoor and outdoor space anchored by nationally acclaimed concepts Sports & Social and PBR Cowboy Bar, as well as an incredible outdoor Live! Plaza is coming to Pointe Orlando on I-Drive, offering a year-round gathering place for special events, live music, sports watching, and festivals. Two additional concepts will be announced at a later date. The target opening date for the new immersive dining and entertainment hub is 2024.

Masti

A growing Indian street food chain based in Atlanta is coming to the Hollywood Plaza Garage on International Drive. Masti Indian Street Eats describe themselves as "Fun Indian Street Eats Meets The City Life In The USA."

When the restaurant opens, expect casual dining with Bollywood tunes serving classic Indian food and innovative American-Indian fusion. Estimated opening is expected to be in early 2024.

Packing District Food Hall

Scheduled to open in early 2024, the Packing District Food Hall will feature 11 vendors in a 22,400-square-footspace featuring an elevated plaza with outdoor green space. Hospitality HQ, run by award-winning chef Akhtar Nawab, whose restaurant Alta Calidad in Brooklyn earned a Michelin Bib Gourmand in 2018, will operate the hall.

Maw’s Mountain Moonshine

Maw’s Mountain Moonshine is coming to Old Town, Kissimmee in Spring 2024.  Already extremely popular after its first year in Mount Dora, Fla., the five generations Adkins moonshine family is now bringing a second location of their Craft Cocktail Distillery to Old Town, located in Kissimmee.

Steel Chef's Market

International Drive's first food hall Steel Chef's Market, will have 53,000 SF of retail and restaurant space and will be made up of 26 shipping containers.

Wave Asian Bistro

The popular Mount Dora sushi house known for fusion fare such as sushi burritos & donuts, create-your-own bento boxes & poke bowls will anchor the soon-to-open Maitland Social at 360 E. Horatio Ave. in a 1,400-square-foot space in the building with an outdoor patio. Other businesses moving in will include Vitality Bowls Superfood Cafe, Foxtail Coffee Co. and Urban Body Works.

Torchy's Tacos

Texas based taco chain Torchy's Tacos is opening their second Central Florida location at Vineland Pointe, Orlando in 2024.

Fogo de Chao

Fogo de Chao has started construction on their second International Drive location on Vineland Pointe. The 8,000 SF Brazilian Steakhouse is due to open early 2024.

Raising Cane’s

Raising Cane’s have big plans in Florida, with plans to open upwards of 25 locations in the state, with the first already open at 7105 Palm Parkway. In 2024, Raisisng Cane's will open at 12040 Pioneers Way, 8170 W. Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway, and in Lake Nona at Narcoossee Road.

Loyd Have Mercy Orlando

Dezerland Action Park on I-Drive will be welcoming a new restaurant, Loyd Have Mercy Orlando, a southern soul food restaurant currently located at Titusville, expected to open early 2024. 

Jinya Ramen Bar

Jinya Ramen Bar is opening a second Central Florida location at 234 E. Mitchell Hammock Road in Oviedo early in 2024.

Divina Carne

Divina Carne, a Brazilian steakhouse based in Cancun, Mexico, will be opening in early 2024 in the former TGI Friday on North I-Drive.

Chuck Lager America’s Tavern

Growing restaurant brand Chuck Lager America’s Tavern is set to open soon at 8151 International Drive, Orlando, a location that was previously home to Walk-On's Sports Bistreaux. Co-created by celebrity chef Fabio Viviani, Chuck Lager is centered around the idea that life’s best stories take shape over delicious food and a couple of drinks.

Big Chicken

NBA legend Shaq O'Neal is opening one of his hugely popular Big Chicken restaurants in Orlando at the Market at Southside at 250 E. Michigan Street. From crispy chicken sandwiches and tenders to Cheez-It crusted mac n’ cheese and hand-crafted ice cream shakes, each menu item tells a story all while offering guests an inside look into the life and personality of Shaquille O’Neal.

Bangkok Thai

A new Thai cuisine restaurant, Bangkok Thai will be replacing the former Tony Roma's on International Drive, estimated completion is TBA. 

Bear Hug Brewing Company

Bear Hug Brewing Company is a new micro-brewery coming to Orlando. I-Drive will be gaining a new brewery, Bear Hug Brewing will be replacing the former George's Music Store and will be a micro brewery and tasting room. Completion is TBA.

Moso Nor

Moso Nori, a concept by James Beard Award finalist Henry Moso, is coming to Winter Park. The hand roll bar serving a variety of temaki is opening at 1100 S. Orlando Ave next summer. Moso Nori will feature an island bar with 30 seats, where chefs will serve cylindrical rolls fashioned from premium roasted Japanese nori with filling including dry-aged fish, foie gras, and vegetables.

White Rabbit

White Rabbit is set to open at E. Robinson St. White Rabbit will offer international-themed tapas, small plates and craft cocktails in downtown Orlando. The New York City inspired Restaurant and Bar is being described as where Latin American and American gastropub cuisine meet craft cocktails. The new venue will be a place to eat, share, and drink in a chic setting with live music and modern vintage art.

Natsu Omakase

Natsu Omakase, an exclusive 10-seat sushi omakase concept is set to open at 777 N. Orange Ave.. Omakase, a form of Japanese dining in which customers leave themselves in the hands of a chef and receive a meal which is innovative, elegant, seasonal, and uses the finest ingredients available.

Eastwood

Eastwood will be a fire-centric restaurant featuring a custom wood-burning grill over a blend of oak and hardwood lump coal, as well as a large-scale smoker. The 3,300 SF restaurant, led by Team Market Group’s lead culinary brain and executive chef, Nick Grecco, will be located in the former Kittinger Printing building at 1024 N. Mills Avenue, across the street from Will’s Pub.

Light On The Sugar

Light On The Sugar which is known for creating French goods with Asian inspired flavors such as Matcha, Ube, Taro, Black Sesame and more, is opening a new location within Waterford Lakes Town Center, next to Regal Cinemas and Zaza Cuban Cafe.

I Love Orlando Cafe

I Love Orlando Cafe is opening at 151 E. Washington St. overlooking Lake Eola in ealry 2024.

Brooklyn Dumpling Shop

Brooklyn Dumpling Shop has turned classic diner staples into dumplings and they offer never-ending options to choose from, and the are planning an Orlando location

Sorekara 

Chef William Shen is opening a new restaurant called Sorekara at 4979 New Broad St. The restaurant will embody the Japanese philosophy of culinary arts re-created with European imagination.

Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls

The former home of Embassy Irish Bar at 2 S. Orange Avenue, will be the location for Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls. The chain features lobster rolls, shrimp rolls, crab rolls, BLT rolls, New England clam chowder, lobster grilled cheese, lobster mac and cheese, lobster bisque, and salads, as well as Whoopie Pies for dessert.

Sickies Garage Burgers & Brews

Burger restaurant Sickies Garage is opening its second area location at the Orlando International Premium Outlets. The menu at Sickies Garage boasts 50 brews, and 50 different kinds of burgers and sandwiches all served in a unique garage setting.

Pepper Lunch

Pepper Lunch is opening in Orlando in 2024, bringing it's affordable teppanyaki-style concept to the city, offering a novel menu of sizzling Steaks, Curry Rice, Teriyaki and Pasta based dishes, plus the signature Pepper Rice on the brand’s patented hot iron plate. At Pepper Lunch, each guest is the MasterChef, where they can ‘Sizzle It Your Way.’

Mid Drive Dive

Mid Drive Dive will open at 2401 Edgewater Drive in College Park, a restaurant and bar serving American snacks, salads, sandwiches and mains. At the bar, guests can enjoy cocktails, beers and wines.

The Original Rainbow Cone

The Original Rainbow Cone, a Chicago tradition for over 97 years is coming to Orlando. The ice cream shop that is known for its multi-flavor cones featuring orange sherbet, pistachio, vanilla, strawberry, and chocolate, opened its first Florida location in the Tampa Bay area of Bradenton in September, and will open in Orlando in 2024

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SHOPPING

Primark

Irish based Primark, a discount Fashion, Home & Beauty retailer, and one of the leading brands on the high streets of the United Kingdom, and Ireland is coming to the Florida Mall, Orlando. In addition to having an entrance inside the Florida Mall, the new Primark store will have its own direct access from the parking lot. The 50,000 SF space is next to American Girl, H & M, and Zara, and is scheduled to open in Spring 2024.

International Festival Shopping Plaza / Olinda Center

The International Festival Shopping plaza has started renovations with improvements to the existing building as well as new tenants, which will become the Olinda Center. Tenants already include Burlington, TJ Maxx and five Below. As well as, a new Brazilian cuisine restaurant, Pao na Chapa and Sushi Yama, a Asian cuisine restaurant. The plaza will also be welcoming two chain restaurants: Chipotle and First Watch. Completion for the shopping plaza is ongoing.

Target

Target at Vineland Pointe will be adding 52,460 SF to the existing store. The expansion is expected to be completed in Spring 2024.

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HOTELS & RESORTS

Evermore Orlando Resort

Opening on January 1, 2024, The luxurious Evermore Orlando Resort has been purpose-built for large groups and families, offering accommodations from 2 to 11-bedroom vacation homes, all resort-run to make your stay exceptionally easy. Formerly the Villas of Grand Cypress, the new Evermore Orlando Resort will also feature a luxurious Conrad Hotel, a first for the Central Florida area.

Evermore also offers two Jack Nicklaus-designed golf courses, and Evermore Bay, featuring a stunning 20-acre tropical beach complex with zero-entry swim areas, bars, cabanas, private fire-pits, and an aquatic adventure area including waterslide, rope swing, and watersports.

Conrad Orlando

The Conrad Orlando at Evermore will debut January 2024 with 433 rooms, including 51 suites and 10 family suites offering “oversized accommodations.” Other amenities include 40,000 square feet of indoor meeting space, a spa and numerous dining options, including a rooftop experience.

Caribe Royale Orlando Resort, Stadium Club

Caribe Royale Orlando Resort will debut its all-new, one-of-a-kind Stadium Club, in January 2024. Described as a high-tech and immersive sports entertainment destination, Stadium Club will emanate the energy of a nightclub and the comfort of a neighborhood sports bar.

The two-story, 9,000-square-foot club will feature cutting-edge offerings including eight pro-level sports simulators by Full Swing Golf, a virtual reality suite, two bars, two 165-inch XHD projector displays, and a 110-foot-long ribbon display television for 360-degree viewing. Sports-themed decor will be complemented by stadium-style cuisine. The space will accommodate more than 500 seated guests, and full venue buyouts are available.

Daskk Orlando Hotel near Universal Blvd

The former Quality Suites on Canada Avenue, located between Universal Blvd. and International Drive is currently being transformed into a new boutique hotel named DASKK Orlando Hotel Near Universal Blvd.

The new hotel by Choice Hotels, has been completely remodelled including the reception, lobby, restaurant, guest rooms, and meeting rooms is accepting bookings from January 15, 2024 onwards. Hotel amenities include free WiFi in your room and throughout the hotel, plus free parking on premises. The redesigned guest room, include a microwave, refrigerator, flat-screen TV, hair dryer, refreshing showers and extra comfy beds. When you are looking for extra room, many rooms also come with a sofa bed.

Hyatt House Orlando / International Drive

Hyatt House Orlando / International Drive is scheduled to open Spring 2024. The property offers a total of 175 guest accommodations that include suites that come with a fully equipped kitchen and a separate living area. Ammenities include a 55-foot-long outdoor pool, Omelet Bar, H Market, and H BAR.

Omni Orlando at ChampionsGate

Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate is adding a new sleeping room wing, increasing the resort’s total room count to 1,005. Also, the resort added an outside feature called the Sunset Terrace. The Terrace features an event lawn area with 9,906 square feet (about twice the area of a basketball court) of artificial turf and concrete walkways. Eagles Edge at ChampionsGate is a unique golfing experience featuring TopTracer technology. This technology uses smart targets and gameplay to track the speed and distance of golf balls from a digital screen. The venue will have 30 covered hitting bays, flexible indoor and outdoor event space and serve classic American cuisine and cocktails. Eagles Edge can accommodate a minimum of 40 guests to more than 1,000 in combination with adjoining mini golf and a lighted nine-hole, par 3 course.

Embassy Suites by Hilton Orlando Sunset Walk

Opening early 2024, Embassy Suites by Hilton presents a new lifestyle in Orlando, a Condo Hotel concept in the heart of Margaritaville Orland Resort’s growing paradise. This is a unique opportunity to own a combination of Embassy Suites’ award-winning hospitality and Sunset Walk’s non-stop entertainment and amenities, all just minutes away from Orlando’s world-class theme parks and excitement. 

Universal Stella Nova & Terra Luna Resorts

Just off of Universal Boulevard, Universal Orlando Resort is currently very busy building its brand new theme park, Epic Universe which is scheduled to open in summer 2025, and it's not jut the theme parks rides and attractions that are being built, new hotels are also under construction, including Universal Stella Nova Resort and Universal Terra Luna Resort.

Universal Stella Nova Resort will open first, opening its doors on January 21, 2025, with Universal Terra Luna Resort opening its doors on February 25, 2025.

W Hotel on Universal Blvd

A new Marriott branded W Hotel on Universal Blvd will consist of a 22-story tower hotel, 400-rooms, five bars and restaurants, featuring a world-famous destination restaurant with 400 seats. The hote will also feature a 3,000 SF, 2,000-seat live music venue that will offer concerts and entertainment. Completion date is currenty set at 2026.

Nobu Hotel Orlando

Nobu Hotel Orlando, is set in the heart of Orlando. The resort will feature 300 accommodations including eight stunning villas, a Nobu restaurant, and 50 stylish residences, and meeting and event space. Nobu Hotel Orlando is currently estimated to open in 2026.

Everest Place Orlando

Everest Place located at Four Corners is a 1 Billion dollar master-planned community that will feature luxury hotels including Mysk by Shaza, a halal-friendly space focused on health and wellness, and the return of Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts to Orlando, and more. Once complete, Everest Place will include 783 condos, 793 hotel rooms, 900 rental apartments, 20 acres of land for commercial and retail space, and 12 acres for a recreational water park. The development will also include a park, a lake with a waterfront boardwalk, and nature trails. No details have been released on when any element of the development plans to open.

Cambria Suites Hotel Downtown Orlando

This proposed 7-story hotel featuring 155 rooms with 82 parking spaces, a ground floor restaurant, an amenity deck, and a rooftop lounge is centrally located in the heart of downtown Orlando near Lake Eola Park. No start, or completion date been announced for this project.

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