From the colossal return of King Kong, to a “Galaxy Far, Far Away” coming closer than ever, to the launch of the tallest, fastest and longest roller coaster — Orlando’s newest attractions are bigger, bolder and better-than-ever. The theme park capital of the world introduces must-see additions for visitors to create unforgettable summer vacations. Visitors this summer can save an additional 5% on already discounted attraction tickets atVisitOrlando.com/tickets with the New For Summer promo code: NFS2016. Offer available until June 15, 2016.
Archive for Orlando
Disney World Faces a Surprising Challenger
Disney transformed Central Florida into the theme park capital of the world, and that has inspired a growing number of competitors.
From Springs to Falls to Frozen, Orlando Awash With ‘A Sweet 16’ of New Openings in 2016
From popular film franchises Frozen and King Kong to Orlando’s tallest, fastest and longest roller coaster, the theme park capital of the world is a destination where unique experiences mix with activities specifically for kids and families.
While Orlando has long been known as home to seven of the top theme parks in the world, Disney, Universal and SeaWorld constantly evolve each year with one-of-a-kind attractions, resorts and retail, dining and entertainment complexes.
With vehicles diving into movie magic and immersive themed environments, Orlando’s newest openings set the stage for another year of millions of unforgettable guest experiences that can only be found in Orlando.
New in 2016
- Walt Disney World Resort will complete a multi-year transformation of Downtown Disney into Disney Springs. Featuring an eclectic and contemporary mix from Disney and other noteworthy brands, this new expansion will double the number of shops, restaurants and other venues for guests to explore, to more than 150 establishments. The new area will include already announced restaurants:
- The Edison, similar to its sister location in Los Angeles, is the third new venue announced to open at Disney Springs. With a theme that centers around a 1920s-period electric company with live entertainment, classic American food and craft cocktails, the industrial gothic space will have 35-foot ceilings and a number of themed areas.
- Frontera Fresca also opens at Disney Springs, the creation of celebrity Chef Rick Bayless, a six-time James Beard Foundation award winner. Known for his authentic Mexican cuisine, Bayless’ menu includes specialties such as hand-crafted tortas, tacos, salads, fresh-made guacamole and classic Mexican braised meat entrees, all crafted with his time-honored recipes.
- Homecoming: Florida Kitchen and Southern Shine is celebrity Chef Art Smith’s new restaurant opening in summer at Disney Springs. The James Beard Foundation award winner was born and reared in the town of Jasper, Fla., and after 25 years of preparing award-winning meals for celebrities and heads of state and appearing on television, he is making Florida his home once again. The rustic-chic restaurant will feature Southern classics and whimsical cocktails, punches and coolers.
- STK planned to open in early in the year, an upscale steakhouse that blends two concepts into one—the modern steakhouse and a chic lounge. Features include a live DJ, high-energy atmosphere and a sleek environment designed to encourage guests to interact and mingle.
Orlando lodging faceoff: Disney, Universal, Legoland
The big three of Orlando-area resorts, Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and LegoLand, have new or renovated hotels. USA Today’s Waldy Diez explains what you can expect.
