What's New for Summer 2025 in Orlando
- Alastair Mac
- Jun 10
- 13 min read
Whether you're a local looking for the latest hot spots or a visitor looking for new things to do, check out our guide to all that's new in Orlando this summer!
Welcome to Summer 2025 in Orlando, and what an exciting time to be in the city beautiful, with so many new things to do!
Yes, there is always new experiences to enjoy in Orlando but this summer there is a huge variety of new things to do, including a brand new theme park, Epic Universe at Universal Orlando Resort. This new park features The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, Dark Universe and Celestial Park.
Over at Walt Disney World there is a brand new nighttime parade,Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away at Magic Kingdom to look forward to, plus two brand new shows at Disney's Hollywood Studios, Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After and The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure.
Not to be outdone, SeaWorld Orlando has debuted a brand new flying theater attraction, Expedition Odyssey, a first-of-its-kind Arctic Adventure that brings unparalleled ride technology, breathtaking real-world footage and up-close encounters with Arctic wildlife, together with special events throughout summer.
Over in Tampa, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay are debuting Wild Oasis at Jungala – North America’s most immersive kid-friendly adventure realm, and LEGOLAND Resort Florida open ASEA LIFE Florida, where guests can dive into more than 25 interactive exhibits, including a stingray bay, hands-on rockpools, and 10 underwater-themed galleries.
And if you thing thats plenty new things to do in Orlando, there is more, much more, check out our list and get ready for a fun-filled summer in Orlando!
What's New for Summer 2025 in Orlando
NOW OPEN
The moment that thrill seekers and theme park enthusiasts from around the world have been waiting for is finally here: Universal Epic Universe, Universal Orlando Resort’s groundbreaking new theme park that has been nearly a decade in the making, officially opened to guests on Thursday, May 22, 2025.
One of the most immersive and innovative theme parks ever created, Epic Universe transports guests to five imaginative worlds filled with extraordinary adventures: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, Dark Universe and Celestial Park.
NOW OPEN
Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After is now casting a spell over Hollywood Studios. In this new show, the villains we love to loathe take center stage.
To figure out who has been the most misunderstood, the Magic Mirror summons you (yes, you!) to help him decide who’s been the most unfairly treated. The likes of Cruella de Vil, Captain Hook, and Maleficent step into the spotlight to make their case about why they’ve been treated the most unfairly over the years. Step into this mysterious realm now, where Disney’s most infamous baddies finally get their chance to share their side of the story. Ready to root for your favorite villain? It’s all happening now at Hollywood Studios!
NOW OPEN
The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure is now open at Hollywood Studios! Journey under the sea with Ariel and friends in this all-new theatrical production inspired by the Walt Disney Animation Studios classic The Little Mermaid.
This fully reimagined show takes the audience to Ariel’s treasure trove, keeping the lively puppets, props, and scenery center stage. But new to this production, get ready to be dazzled with new digital puppetry and jaw-dropping effects. Plus, the addition of new-to-the-show songs!
Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away at Magic Kingdom
Debuts July 20
Main Street U.S.A. will shine brighter than ever when the all-new nighttime parade, “Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away,” makes its debut on July 20, 2025, at Magic Kingdom Park in Walt Disney World Resort!
Through the power of the Blue Fairy’s magic, guests will watch dreams and wishes come true throughout this star-kissed parade. As the lights dance from float to float, guests will see favorite classic and contemporary characters from Walt Disney Animation Studios and Disney Pixar films – some for the very first time in a Disney Live Entertainment nighttime parade.
At the heart of the parade is a new original theme that blends a majestic musical score with classic melodies from beloved Disney animated films. Guests can look forward to seeing beloved Disney characters throughout the parade in shining, shimmering splendor, all culminating in the parade’s finale. A whimsical train, inspired by the iconic Main Street Electrical Parade float, emerges to take dreamers of all ages on a ride through the stars.
Test Track at EPCOT
Opening Late Summer
With work on this reimagined experience already underway, guests are in for a thrilling ride when Test Track presented by General Motors makes its returning lap in late summer 2025. Pushing the boundaries of innovation, Walt Disney Imagineering has been working with General Motors on a new storyline for this beloved attraction. Guests should be on the lookout as the cars return to the track with their new look this summer!
NOW OPEN
Expedition Odyssey is now open at SeaWorld Orlando! A first-of-its-kind Arctic Adventure that brings unparalleled ride technology, breathtaking real-world footage and up-close encounters with Arctic wildlife to make this the most immersive Arctic experience ever created!
At the heart of Expedition Odyssey is a revolutionary ride system that pushes the boundaries of theme park technology. Unlike traditional motion-based attractions, this next-generation vehicle delivers an unparalleled range of motion, allowing guests to soar, dive, twist and glide with the fluidity of ocean currents.
The adventure begins as guests embark on a breathtaking tour of the Arctic. Guests will feel the rush of navigating powerful currents as they dodge towering icebergs, race alongside pods of beluga whale and dive deep into the hidden depths of the sea—all while experiencing seamless motion and immersive sensory elements that make every twist and turn feel impossibly real.
The adventure doesn’t end when the ride does. Expedition Odyssey seamlessly transitions guests into a real-world encounter with live Arctic animals, including beluga whales and walrus.
Opens June 6
SEA LIFE Florida at LEGOLAND Florida Resort is counting down the days until its grand opening day on June 6, 2025.
At SEA LIFE Florida, guests will soon dive into more than 25 interactive exhibits, including a stingray bay, hands-on rockpools, and 10 underwater-themed galleries—all designed with accessibility and inclusivity at heart.
SEA LIFE Florida is introducing the world’s first “Theme Park Under the Sea” experience in the main ocean exhibit where guests will not only be able to explore as they walk through a 30-foot long underwater tunnel, but they’ll be able to see animals interacting with coral carousels and deep-sea roller coasters—making this an unforgettable adventure for both the guests and the animals.
From glowing tanks and immersive habitats to a 180-degree underwater tunnel that brings the world’s first theme park under the sea to life… this is one experience you won’t want to miss. With over 3,000 incredible creatures (from Peacock Flounders and Moon Jellies to Fiddler Rays and a Giant Pacific Octopus) SEA LIFE Florida is ready to wow guests at every turn!
Opens June 6 Inspired by lush rainforests and teeming with animal encounters, thrilling rides and interactive play zones, Wild Oasis promises unforgettable experiences for the whole family. Within Wild Oasis, guests will embark on an incredible adventure. From encountering fascinating new animals to soaring down the all-new Tree Top Drop, families can explore interactive climbing structures, cool off at an immersive splash pad, and take on a thrilling self-guided scavenger hunt.
Designed to ignite curiosity and excitement, Wild Oasis promises an action-packed experience for explorers of all ages.
Fun Spot America has opened its newest family thrill ride, the Up and Overboard at its park in Kissimmee, the high-flying attraction takes guests to new heights as they soar above the midway. Up and Overboard is the first of two new rides debuting in Kissimmee this year. The park has also added the brightly colored kiddie swing ride, Swing Around, to the Kids Spot area.
Plus at Fun Spot America Orlando, the park will open two new rides. The MACH FUN tower ride which takes guests for a side-by-side flight through the air. They will climb and dive all while controlling the height and roll of their plane as they flip 360 degrees. Reaching an altitude of 50 feet, the MACH FUN is the tallest interactive 360° Flying Jet Ride in North America. Plus, the little ones will love the silly and colorful Tea Cup.
OPENS SOON
High Point Climbing and Fitness will open a new facility in Orlando’s Packing District this spring. The 45,000-square-foot gym will feature a 52-foot rope climbing area with Florida’s only competition speed wall, a large bouldering and training zone and a 5,000-square-foot Kid Zone designed for young climbers. Additionally, the space will include a fitness area with weights; strength and aerobic machines; a yoga studio; locker rooms with showers; and a pro shop.
Activate, the world’s first active gaming facility and viral social media sensation, has made its Florida debut, bringing its interactive experience to The Pointe Orlando, the over 10,000-square-foot attraction blends digital gameplay and high-energy challenges in a social setting.
Activate Orlando features 12 high-tech game rooms – like the social media-famous Mega Grid, Mega Laser, Strike and Control, to name a few – designed to react in real time, keeping players engaged at every turn.
Opening August
PopStroke is getting ready to open their newest location at Hamlin-Winter Garden. Set to open in August, PopStroke offers a unique, family-friendly mini golf and casual dining experience, with two 18-hole putting courses, a full bar & restaurant, lively bars, jumbotrons, tvs all throughout for wathching games, an ice cream parlor, and outdoor play area.
May 16 - September 27 (Select Nights)
Get ready, Orlando—AquaGlow is back, bigger and brighter than ever! Your favorite nighttime splash party returns to Aquatica Orlando on select nights from May through September, bringing back everything you love: high-energy dance parties, dazzling laser light shows, and unlimited complimentary soft drinks to keep you refreshed all night long while you enjoy low wait times during this exclusive limited-capacity family-friendly event! But that’s just the beginning—this year, we’re turning up the glow with all-new experiences that take the party to the next level!
May 17 - September 7
DC Super Heroes: Discover Your Superpowers is an interactive, action-packed exhibit at Orlando Science Center that lets you step into the world of Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman, and other legendary heroes. Do you have what it takes to save the day?
May 23 - September 1 (Select Dates)
Indulge in summer flavors and kick-off your day with events like Viva La Musica (June) and NEW Bands, Brew & BBQ (July – August), NEW animal and cirque presentations and stay late to experience the Ignite Fireworks.
May 23 - August 10 (Select Dates)
Stay Longer. Play Later! Celebrate all summer long with the ultimate evening thrills that light up the park with extended hours, non-stop dazzling entertainment and special summer eats & treats!
May 27 - September 1
This summer, Walt Disney World Resort dazzles with even more magical experiences for the whole family with the debut of Cool Kid Summer —a limited-time celebration packed with new, whimsical entertainment and unforgettable fun for kids and the kid at heart. From May 27 to Sept. 1, 2025, families can immerse themselves in exciting shows, interactive games, and enchanting surprises throughout the four theme parks and select resort hotels. Guests will discover this summer that there has never been a better time to visit The Most Magical Place on Earth, with special offers, exclusive experiences, and new entertainment, including Disney villains taking center stage, Princess Ariel dazzling audiences once again, and a brand-new parade lighting up the night. Whether creating core memories or rediscovering the magic, Cool Kid Summer delivers unforgettable experiences for all ages throughout the season and beyond.
June 2 - July 28, Select Dates
You're invited to The Ultimate Playdate! Delight in early access to Turi’s Kid Cove before the park officially opens, so you and your little ones get a head start on the fun-filled adventure that awaits.
June 6 - August 3
Join Busch Gardens Tampa Bay as the theme park celebrates Sesame Streets Safari of Fun's 15th Birthday with exciting activities and fun for the whole family!
June 13 - August 9, Select Dates
Get ready to light up your summer nights at AquaGlow, a brand-new family-friendly nighttime event that transforms Adventure Island into a dazzling neon paradise! Experience an electric atmosphere filled with vibrant lights, pulsing music, and immersive surprises around every corner. From glowing entertainment to high-energy vibes, it's the ultimate way to celebrate summer after dark.
Coming Soon
The world-famous Blue Man Group will debut their brand new show in their new custom-built Orlando theater at ICON Park later this summer, hopefully! The show was set to debut on April 3, 2025, but due to delays on the new Blue Man Group theater being built beneath the towering 400-ft. Orlando Eye, the opening has been delayed.
The theater will be the first that Blue Man Group has built from the ground up. The custom-built, 578-seat theater will be uniquely designed for Blue Man Group’s multi-sensory performances and include state-of-the-art audio, lighting, video technology.
The Pointe Orlando located on International Drive is now home to Dick's Last Resort, a southern style restaurant and bar chain known for its rowdy environment and gruff staffers it was completed in 2025.
Also coming soon at The Pointe is Taffer's Tavern, an elevated restaurant and bar concept from 'Bar Rescue' host Jon Taffer. Plus, later this year, The Pointe Orlando will welcome Sandbox VR, an immersive VR complex and Zukka Sushi an innovative sushi restaurant.
NOW OPEN
A brand new aesthetically-driven and sophisticated dining experience is now open at International Drive’s highly coveted restaurant, Corazón by Baires - KALI Dining Room.
Located at 8126 International Drive, Orlando, the modern, innovative space will be located adjacent to Corazón’s main dining room, spanning a comfortable 4,000 square feet. Perfectly designed for corporate events, family gatherings, and celebrations, KALI is redefining private dining by serving up Corazón’s Latin American-inspired dishes in an upscale and high-tech space.
Opens June 4
EPCOT's new adults-only lounge, GEO-82, will open at Walt Disney World Resort on June 4, with reservations available beginning May 6. This adult-exclusive, sophisticated spot nestled within Spaceship Earth will feature a unique beverage program to enjoy as you delight your taste buds with a selection of small bites that are as beautiful as they are delicious.
Guests can indulge in globally inspired small plates like Jumbo Lump Crab Gâteau and Truffled Ahi Tuna, complemented by innovative cocktails such as the Brown Butter Old Fashioned and Clarified New York Sour.
Coming Soon
Agave Bandido is officially joining the Hamlin community! This South Florida-inspired Mexican restaurant is serving up brunch, birria, and downtown vibes in the heart of Horizon West. Coming soon to the Lake District with a massive covered patio, glowing interiors, and weekend entertainment that brings the party to your table.
NOW OPEN
City Food Hall has opened in Ivanhoe Village at 1412 Alden Rd, featuring over 10 chef-driven food stalls and global cuisine including Eggdose, Ramen Takagi, Taglish, Cheese to Share, Kalalou and more; multiple full-service bars; second-floor French brasserie, Chez Les Copains, led by Chef Mike Collantes. The venue also hosts unique events including karaoke, trivia and bingo.
NOW OPEN
A new chocolate shop has opened in Orlando, offering a delicious new sweet spot for those with a sweet tooth in Orlando. The new concept, O Bon Chocolatier which specializes in hand-crafted bon bons and artisanal treats is from the creator of Light On The Sugar, and is located within East End Market in the Audubon Park Garden District of Orlando.
Handcrafted with the finest of ingredients, you can look forward to hand crafted Bon Bons, Chocolate Bars, Dragée, Hot Cocoa, and a seasonal selection of limited-time Bon Bons and Chcocolates. Speciality Bon Bons will include Gianduja Sea Salt Hazelnut, Passionfruit Mango, Earl Gray Lavender, Strawberry Basil Chocolate, Chocolate Caramel, and Lychee Raspberry.
NOW OPEN
Tiger Sugar, the popular international bubble tea shop founded in Taichung, has opened its first Orlando location at 717 N Mills Ave, Orlando, in the Mills 50 District this month. Known for their original methods and authentic Taiwanese flavors, the shop will feature a variety of flavors including their signature black sugar bubble tea.
NOW OPEN
Black Phin Coffee Bar has opened in Winter Park at 1152 Harmon Ave, specializing in Vietnamese phin-drip coffee using robusta beans. The shop features a variety of drinks including matcha yuzu, ube lattes and earl grey citrus, alongside matcha white chocolate and miso toffee cookies. Guests can also shop for plants at The Heavy plant pop-up.
NOW OPEN
A new spot in Orlando's nightlife is here! Located at 861 N Orange Ave, Orlando, Noir Bar, a speakeasy-style cocktail bar located through a secret door next to Talay Thai in downtown Orlando, has recently opened. Noir Bar serves Thai-inspired craft cocktails accompanied by small plates in a dark, luxurious setting where every cocktail tells a story of its own.
NOW OPEN
Lorelei, a new French neighborhood wine bar is located at 737 N. Thornton Ave. The 10-seat bar features a selection of European wines and a menu developed by chef Eric Norvelus offering cheese and meat boards; duck prosciutto bruschetta; scallop carpaccio; blue crab cannolis; caviar enhancements and desserts.
May 15 - September 1
Orlando’s coolest bar, ICEBAR Orlando, is transforming in an Epic way this summer! From Thursday, May 15, 2025 through Monday, September 1, 2025, “ICEBAR Orlando’s Epic Summer” will transport guests into an unforgettable evening on International Drive featuring specialty themed cocktail experiences in both the ICEBAR and the room temperature Fire Lounge, as well as a delicious food menu available nightly.
Guests will enjoy Epic entertainment offerings, including a weekly challenge with giveaways, complimentary photos with a specialty digital photo frame, patio games, live ice carving performances every weekend and special parties all summer long.
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