What’s New at Walt Disney World This Summer: A Local’s Guide for Parents
Summer in Orlando? It’s not exactly my favorite season (hello, heat and humidity), but I’ll admit—there’s something magical about watching families from all over the world arrive in our city, ready for the Disney adventure of a lifetime. And this summer, Walt Disney World is pulling out all the stops with brand-new shows, special ticket offers, and limited-time magic just for the season.
Whether you’re planning your family trip or just want to keep up with what’s new in our backyard, here’s what’s coming to Disney this summer:
In Case You’re Interested:
>> Super Fun Family Restaurants
>> Cheap Family Fun
>> Orlando Hotels with Waterparks
New at Walt Disney World Summer 2025
Two All-New Stage Shows Debut May 27, 2025
Disney’s Hollywood Studios is the place to be this summer, with not one, but TWO new shows opening on May 27:
- “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure”
Ariel is swimming back onto the stage in a reimagined musical featuring your favorite songs, stunning new set pieces, and plenty of under-the-sea charm. It’s taking over the former “Voyage of the Little Mermaid” space in Animation Courtyard. - “Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After”
This one’s for the villain fans! Taking over the old Lightning McQueen Racing Academy space, this new show gives the baddies their moment to shine—think Cruella, Maleficent, Captain Hook, and more in a delightfully wicked production.
BOTH Disney World Water Parks Will Be Open!
It’s been years since we could say this…. BOTH water parks will be open at Walt Disney World May 21 – Sept. 7, 2025! Yes, you can visit Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon AND Disney’s Blizzard Beach this summer. Usually, summer has been Typhoon Lagoon’s time to shine, but now Blizzard Beach finally gets in on the action. Both water parks are among our favorite places to go swimming in Orlando.
And, this is on top of Disney’s special offer that includes admission to a Disney water park on the day of your arrival / check-in when staying at a qualifying Disney resort hotel!
New Nighttime Parade at Magic Kingdom
Later this summer (date still TBA), a brand-new nighttime parade is set to light up Main Street, U.S.A. at Magic Kingdom:
- “Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away”
Expect glowing floats, magical music, and appearances by beloved characters from Encanto, Frozen, Moana, Peter Pan, and more. This parade promises to be the perfect end to a Disney day.
Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin Closes for Refurbishment
Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin is closing for refurbishment starting in August 2025. The ride will return with new scenes, upgraded ride vehicles, and more accurate gameplay—so your little space rangers will want to come back next year to test it out.
Special Summer Offers at Walt Disney World (Booking Opens March 27)
Planning a summer trip to Disney? A fresh set of special offers has just been announced, perfect for families looking to save a little on their magical getaway:
50% Off Kids’ Tickets (Ages 3–9)
Enjoy half-off theme park tickets for children ages 3 to 9 when you purchase a 3-day or longer ticket. Valid for visits from May 27 through September 20, 2025.
3-Day, 3-Park Ticket from $89 per day
This ticket includes one admission per day to EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Available for use April 6 through September 22, 2025.
Free Disney Dining Plan
Available with select vacation packages that include a minimum 4-night stay at a Disney Resort hotel and a 4-day theme park ticket with Park Hopper option. Travel dates must fall between June 29 and December 22, 2025.
Up to 30% Off Disney Resort Hotel Rooms
Save up to 30% on stays at select Disney Resort hotels for travel dates between August 1 and October 11, 2025. The percentage of savings varies by resort and room type.
These limited-time offers can be booked starting March 27, 2025. If a Disney vacation is on your radar this summer or fall, this is a great time to start planning.
