Following the announcement of their new cinematic night time spectacular, The Wonderful World of Animation Show, Walt Disney World has added a number of new features to the holiday resort. From exciting new lands to additions on well-known hotels- here are five of the most exciting changes in Orlando’s top theme park destination.
1. Arrival of Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge
The long-awaited Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is finally coming to Disney's Hollywood Studios this autumn. This thrilling Star Wars themed land will feature new character meet-and-greets, a restaurant, new merchandise and two new immersive rides.
Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run will take guests on an explosive ride on the infamous ship itself, with Chewbacca and Han Solo tagging along for the ride. The other, Rise of the Resistance, will immerse the rider in a battle between the First Order and the Rebels. This new edition will make the park irresistible to any Star Wars fans this year.
2. Mickey & Minnie's Runaway Railway
Even more changes are coming to Hollywood Studios in 2019 with the opening of Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway. Fans were distraught when the Great Movie Ride, which was a fan favourite from the park’s opening in 1989, was demolished to make way for this new edition.
However, the ride is said to be ready by the end of this year and the company has high hopes for its success. The family-friendly ride will feature an original story and “lovable” new theme song. This 2D cartoon will be plunged into the 21st century with Disney’s new multi-dimensional experience.
3. Disney Skyliner
The Disney Skyliner, a new gondola system that will work alongside the monorail and buses in the resort, will begin operating in autumn this year.
The gondolas will connect Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios to a number of hotels, including Art of Animation and Pop Century. The gondolas themselves will sport exteriors of classic Disney characters, such as Mickey and Minnie, as shown at last year’s D23 Expo.
4. Animal Kingdom's "Hakuna Matata Time Dance Party"
The Lion King is making a roaring comeback to Disney’s Animal Kingdom this year, with new show “Hakuna Matata Time Dance Party” coming to the park, marking the 25th anniversary of the animated film. The event is said to be family-friendly and feature music, dancing games and some familiar faces from the movie encouraging guests to "take a walk on the wild side".
5. New Tower for Disney's Coronado Springs
Finally, the new edition to Disney’s Coronado Springs hotel is said to be finished by the end of 2019. The new 15-story Gran Destino tower will host 545 new guest rooms, as well as a restaurant on the middle floor and another on the roof.
In addition, all of the existing 1,800 rooms have been newly furnished with brand new fixtures, making this perfect for new holiday makers.