Whether you live in Orlando or you're planning a visit in 2025, there's a ton of new additions and things to look forward to this year, including new attractions, new places to eat, new theme park rides, and even a brand new epic them
Whether you've not been to Orlando for a few years or a few months, 2025 is shaping up to be an epic year to visit the city beautiful.
The huge news this year is the addition of a brand new theme park, with Universal Orlando Resort opening Universal Epic Universe on May 22, 2025. Also new this year is the return of Blue Man Group, plus, we have new attractions at Walt Disney World, including a new nightime parade, daytime shows and more.
Seriously, 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 daily updated news, here at Gotta Go Orlando we ensure you have the latest news on what's new in Orlando.
So, are you ready to find out what's coming to Orlando in 2025? Read on for all the details!
Universal Epic Universe Theme Park
The epic news from Universal Orlando Resort is that they will open an entirely new theme park this year, Universal Epic Universe!
Universal Orlando Resorts highly anticipated fourth theme park – Universal Epic Universe – will officially open on May 22, 2025, unlocking the portals to five astounding worlds that will bring to life extraordinary adventures that go beyond guests’ wildest imaginations.
Universal Epic Universe is the most ambitious theme park Universal Destinations and Experiences has ever created and will be the next game-changer for theme park entertainment.
With a total of more than 50 incredible experiences that range from groundbreaking attractions to breathtaking entertainment to incredibly themed dining and shopping and so much more, Epic Universe will present a level of theme park immersion and innovation that is unmatched across five themed worlds: Celestial Park, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk and Dark Universe.
3 New Hotels at Universal Epic Universe
Universal Helios Grand Hotel, a Loews Hotel
Opening May 22, 2025. a spectacular 500-room resort located at the much-anticipated Universal Epic Universe theme park opening in 2025, Universal Helios Grand Hotel is a majestic Mediterranean-inspired escape rising above the lush gardens and scenic waters of Celestial Park at Epic Universe.
Designed to blend immersion and relaxation to create a hotel stay like no other, this palatial resort features tranquil sleeping accommodations, entertaining amenities for the whole family to enjoy, divine dining options, a stunning rooftop bar and the hotel’s very own dedicated entrance to the new theme park.
As soon as guests step into this radiant sanctuary, they will be transported to a fantastical world within the palace of Helios, the Greek god of the sun, adorned with beautiful details of celestial patterns, dazzling constellations and elegant yet casual Mediterranean design elements. And through the lobby’s magnificent floor-to-ceiling windows is a breathtaking vista of Celestial Park – boasting some of the best views of Epic Universe in the entire hotel and immersing guests in the park’s brilliance by day and night.
Universal Stella Nova Resort
This new hotel officially opened on January 21, 2025. Universal Stella Nova Resort is a tranquil space with 750 guest rooms inspired by the infinite vastness of the unknown universe, where galaxies spiral ever outward and unknown worlds revolve around unnamed stars.
Universal Stella Nova Resort is located adjacent to the all-new Universal Epic Universe theme park, opening May 22, 2025. Epic Universe is accessible via walking path or complimentary shuttle. Universal Orlando’s other theme parks and Universal CityWalk are also easily accessible via convenient and complimentary shuttles.
Universal Terra Luna Resort
Opening March 25, 2025. Universal Terra Luna Resort is a landing zone for relaxation and recharging between the fun – featuring 750 guest rooms, terrestrial tones and sweeping curves to inspire thoughts of exploring new worlds.
Universal Terra Luna Resort is located adjacent to the new Universal Epic Universe theme park, opening May 22, 2025. All of Universal Orlando's theme parks and Universal CityWalk are accessible via convenient and complimentary shuttles.
Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away at Magic Kingdom
Summer 2025 will shine brighter than ever with the debut of “Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away”, a breathtaking new nighttime parade at Magic Kingdom Park! Continuing Disney’s legacy of dazzling evening entertainment, this all-new spectacle invites guests to dream the night away with a perfect blend of nostalgia, innovation, and enchanting storytelling.
Featuring beloved characters from Walt Disney Animation Studios classics like “Peter Pan” and “Pinocchio” alongside modern favorites from “Encanto,” “Frozen,” and “Moana,” each float is a radiant celebration of Disney magic. Join the Blue Fairy from “Pinocchio” as she weaves the transformative magic of starlight throughout the parade to illuminate the stories in a stunning constellation of wonder, hope and imagination.
Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Deep in the shadows of Sunset Boulevard, an all-new live stage production is about to cast its spell in summer 2025. “Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After” invites guests into the Magic Mirror’s mysterious realm, where the most fiendish of foes – Cruella de Vil, Captain Hook, and Maleficent – take center stage. With witty humor, mischievous charm, and dazzling performances, this delightfully wicked show will keep audiences spellbound as Disney’s most infamous evildoers gather for some diabolical fun. Guests of all ages should prepare for a magical encounter where villains finally get their moment to shine!
The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure at Hollywood Studios
Get ready to shell-ebrate! “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure” is making its splashing debut in summer 2025! This all-new theatrical production of the Walt Disney Animation Studios classic brings Ariel’s undersea world to life with dazzling physical sets, vibrant puppetry, live performers and breathtaking visuals.
Fans of the beloved film can expect plenty of nods to its nostalgia and iconic animation style, along with unforgettable songs like “Under the Sea” and “Part of Your World.” Plus, audiences will be treated to two new musical numbers, “Daughters of Triton” and “Kiss the Girl.” Perfect for fans young and old, this under-the-sea adventure is sure to have everyone singing along
Test Track at EPCOT
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 early in the year!
Zootopia: Better Zoogether! at Disney's Animal Kingdom
In winter 2025, The Tree of Life Theater will debut an all-new 4D production, “Zootopia: Better Zoogether!” Families can join their favorite herd from the hit Walt Disney Animation Studios movie including Judy Hopps, Nick Wilde and more for an exhilarating new wild story.
New Arctic Flying Theatre at SeaWorld Orlando
In 2025, SeaWorld Orlando will open its latest ground breaking attraction in Spring 2025: the World’s first-of-its-kind Arctic flying theatre. This new experience invites you and your family to soar over icy landscapes, dive beneath frozen waters and come face-to-face with some of the planet’s most magnificent creatures.
From majestic beluga whales to awe-inspiring orcas and walruses, this adventure puts you right in the middle of the action. It’s also all indoors, so rain or shine, this attraction guarantees you a cool, thrilling escape for the entire family all year round.
Building on the family-friendly thrills of the park’s newest attraction, Penguin Trek, this new ride designed and built by Mack Rides accommodates guests with a minimum height requirement of just 39 inches, ensuring the whole family can enjoy the adventure together. You will embark on a 4:30 minute journey within one of two of the attraction’s immersive multi-level theatres, each accommodating 30 guests.
You will experience the Arctic as if you were truly there, witnessing jaw-dropping visuals both in the air and underwater, including the stunning Aurora Borealis and remote, untouched areas of the Arctic. Thanks to custom filming equipment specifically created for this project, the award-winning production team was able to film in some of the most remote parts of the Arctic, capturing its diverse environment in stunning detail. From lush, green landscapes that challenge the typical perceptions of the Arctic to the snow-capped vistas and crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life, guests will be transported to locations that are otherwise inaccessible to most.
Blue Man Group at ICON Park
The world-famous Blue Man Group will debut their brand new show in their new custom-built Orlando theater at ICON Park on April 3, 2025, with tickets now available for purchase!
ICON Park – the popular 20-acre entertainment destination of attractions, dining and nightlife – is located in the center of the rapidly growing Universal Boulevard/ International Drive region, with the new Blue Man Group theater to be built beneath the towering 400-ft. Orlando Eye
The new theater will be the centerpiece of ICON Park’s entrance that faces Universal Boulevard and the new EPIC Universe opening in May next year. 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.
Blue Man Group performances will take place Tuesday through Sunday and will be dark on Mondays. Evening and matinee performances will take place one to two times daily, and the latest show schedule can be viewed at https://www.blueman.com/orlando/buy-tickets.
Wild Oasis at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay will unveil its next game-changing attraction in Spring 2025, the ALL-NEW Wild Oasis realm, which will be North America’s most engaging and interactive adventure realm.
Located within the Jungala area of the park, the all-new Wild Oasis is designed to ignite the imagination and engage all the senses, promising non-stop excitement for every member of the family.
Prepare to be captivated by the sights and sounds of the rainforest, the rush of a newly reimagined drop tower featuring state-of-the-art digital and sound effects, an interactive water-play wonderland, and a multi-level climbing canopy. Plus, discover an all-new, multi-species animal habitat for up-close encounters with some of the world's most fascinating animals.
SEA LIFE Florida at LEGOLAND Florida Resort
In 2025, discover the amazing wonders of the underwater world at SEA LIFE Florida at LEGOLAND Florida Resort. Here, at this new 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!
Crush Yard Pickleball Club & Restaurant
South Carolina-Pickleball chain Crush Yard Pickleball Club & Restaurant has opened a huge "Eatertainment" concept in Kissimme with the pickleball paradise featuring indoor courts, a restaurant, bar, and an outdoor lounge.
Opening in January, this 47,861 square foot space, located at 7840 West Irlo Bronson Highway (US 192) in Kissimmee, promises fun for the entire family, featuring 10 indoor pickleball courts, a gourmet restaurant + full bar, many private event spaces and an arcade.
Hamlin House Paddle and Social Club
Hamlin House is a modern take on a social club providing an elevated experience for the growing pickleball community in Orlando. Featuring indoor and outdoor pickleball courts alongside elevated dining offerings, Hamlin House Paddle and Social Club will open in downtown’s SODO district later this year.
Hamlin House located at 231 W. Grant Street will offer three indoor courts, together with four outdoor courts, together with a coffee shop, restaurant and bar, offering "healthful cuisine" and creative cocktails.
Post Malone The BIG ASS Stadium Tour at Camping World Stadium
Post Malone is bringing The BIG ASS Stadium Tour to Camping World Stadium on June 10 with Jelly Roll and Sierra Ferrell!
Known for redefining the modern concert experience with his genre-blending sound and electrifying stage presence, Post will bring a massive production to Orlando.
The BIG ASS Stadium Tour, promises fans a concert experience filled with a mix of his biggest hits, fan favorites, and brand new songs from his sixth studio album, F-1 Trillion,
New Attractions At Fun Spot America, Orlando & Kissimmee
Fun Spot America Theme Parks is introducing four new rides to it's parks in Orlando and Kissimmee. The new attractions will bring a mix of fresh thrills and family-friendly experiences for guests of all ages.
The silly and colorful Tea Cups at Fun Spot Orlando, replace the park’s existing version while still offering the classic family ride experience.
The MACH FUN tower ride which takes guests for a side-by-side flight through the air will be located in Fun Spot Orlando. 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.
Adding to the fun at Fun Spot Kissimmee, the Swing Around will be located in the Kids Spot section of the park. Developed especially for Fun Spot’s youngest guests, Swing Around is a classic swing attraction.
Kissimmee guests will set sail on the massive 60-foot-tall Up and Overboard, an SBF-Visa Group Inverted Pendulum ride. Featuring twin gondolas guests will experience the feeling of complete weightlessness as they swing through the air. Evening rides will be memorable, too, as the Up and Overboard brightens the sky with its vivid colors and dancing lights. .
Kennedy Space Center Visitors Complex
Prepare for an unprecedented experience with the first-quarter of 2025 opening of The Gantry at LC-39. This innovative, interactive attraction at Kennedy Space Center reimagines the observation gantry at Launch Complex 39, offering stunning 360° views of active launch pads, NASA’s spaceport and the surrounding wildlife refuge.
Featuring immersive exhibits such as the Earth Information Center, where guests explore how space tech provides a holistic view of how the planet is changing in ways that affect all life on earth and the Rocket Build Interactive, where guests can design and virtually launch rockets, experiencing the thrill of space flight from a launch site within view of Kennedy Space Center’s working space ports.
The Gantry brings space exploration to life. Guests will also experience a thrilling Test Fire Simulation, an interactive launch viewing area and a shaded courtyard with climbing sculptures inspired by local wildlife.
International Soccer Matches
Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) is bringing the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup to the U.S., and Orlando will be a hosting city with games played at Camping World Stadium and Inter&Co Stadium in downtown Orlando. They include Ulsan HD vs. Mamelodi Sundowns FC (June 17) and SL Beneficia vs. Auckland City FC (June 20) at Inter&Co Stadium, followed by four matches at Camping World Stadium: Club Leon vs. CR Flamengo (June 24), Juventus vs. Manchester City (June 26), a Round 16 game (June 30), and a Quarter Finals game (July 4).
Plus, three Brazilian soccer clubs — São Paulo FC, Atlético Mineiro and Cruzeiro — will visit Florida in January as part of the FC Series. Played at Inter&Co Stadium, matches in Orlando will include Cruzeiro vs. São Paulo FC (Jan. 15), Atlético vs. Cruzeiro (Jan. 18), and Orlando City vs. Atlético (Jan. 25).
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 spring 2025 opening.
Activate Orlando
The Pointe Orlando is set to welcome Activate, a live-action gaming adventure, designed to challenge all skill levels. What Is Activate? Enter the game where you become the player in the world’s first active gaming facility. Jump, climb, problem-solve and laugh, as you and your friends move between challenges. Each dynamic game room has interactive technology that reacts in real time, ensuring an adrenaline-filled adventure.
Dick’s Last Resort
Dick’s Last Resort is returning to Orlando following a break of almost 9 years! The chain known for really good food, and really rude waiters, abruptly closed its Orlando location at Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets in November 2016.
Dick’s Last Resort, where sarcasm is always on the menu and customers should come with a sense of humor and a thick skin, is returning to Orlando at The Pointe on International Drive in early 2025.
H Mart
The long awaited arrival of H Mart in Orlando should be happening this year! New Jersey-based Korean grocery store H Mart revealed plans to open its largest ever store in Orlando back in 2021.
The store will be H Mart's first store in Florida, as well as its biggest in the country. The new store will be located in the former SuperTarget on W Colonial and Dorscher Rd, between Hiawassee and Apopka-Vineland
Street Feast
A new food truck park and entertainment venue, Street Feast, is in the works for a 5.5-acre site on South Poinciana Blvd in Kissimmee.
Street Feast will feature space for 40 food truck spots, a bandshell stage, an arcade, a playground, a fountain area, and both indoor and outdoor seating for over 700 people. The venue will also feature private cabanas for rent and a beer and wine bar. Expect Street Feast to open in late 2025.
Vans Warped Tour at Camping World Stadium
The countdown is on! Vans Warped Tour is making its highly anticipated return to Orlando's Camping World Stadium on Nov 15 & 16, 2025.
The Vans Warped Tour, recognized as one of the most successful and longest-running festivals of its kind, is making a triumphant return in 2025, marking its 30th anniversary in partnership with Insomniac, the experience creators behind some of the world’s largest music festivals and live events, to revive the magic for both longtime fans and newcomers alike.
The event will showcase 70 to 100 bands, reflecting a wide range of genres including but not limited to rock, punk rock, alternative, pop punk, emo, and more.
Vans Warped Tour has always been committed to accessible pricing, and the 2025 return is no exception, with full weekend passes starting at an all-inclusive price of $149.98 ($119.99 ticket + $29.99 fees), available for presale beginning October 24th at 9 a.m. PT / 12 p.m. ET at www.vanswarpedtour.com.
The Good Pour
Wine and spirits retailer with a heart, The Good Pour, with locations in Longwood and Gainsville is set to open multiple Central Florida locations this year, with its long-awaited College Park flagship store opening in Janaury.
The former CVS store located in the heart of College Park at 2201 Edgewater Drive, is The Good Pour's largest location to date, encompassing 9,000 SF of retail space and features a massive selection of over 5,000 wines, spirits, beers, gifts and sundries, together with a tasting bar, offering free samples.
The Good Pour, founded by Ray and Giuliana Horal, believes in giving back, with a portion of every sale donated to a charity of the customers’ choosing, including Pet Alliance, Audubon Center for Birds of Prey, United Way, and Second Harvest Food Bank.
The retailer has donated nearly $200,000 to charities within its first year, and has a Pour Board which gives a breakdown on how much each of the 100 plus charities it supports is receiving.
In addition to the new College Park location, a Winter Park location at the former Wells Fargo at 631 S. Orange Avenue is set to open in April, followed by a new location in Oviedo on Alafaya Trail!
Villatel Orlando Resort
Located on International Drive and minutes from Orlando's world-famous theme parks, Villatel Orlando Resort redefines luxury travel with its playful, spacious accommodations and sprawling resort amenities.
Designed for families and groups of all sizes, The Villas sleep up to 26 guests, and offer unique features like full kitchens, private pools, game rooms, movie theaters, and spacious living areas for the ultimate home-away-from-home experience. Adding a unique, family-friendly touch, The Villas also feature immersive themed rooms designed to continue the magic of the theme parks.
Set upon an 80-acre property, the resort will debut its 256 Apartments by Marriott Bonvoy and resort experiences in early 2025. Highlights of the resort's amenities include a multi-slide water park, kids' wet playground, lazy river, grand pool, basketball and pickleball courts, a fitness center, golf simulator, and a poolside bar and grill. The apartments will offer two- to three-bedroom layouts with full kitchens, private balconies, and bed counts for up to eight guests.
Learn more at Villatel.com/villatelorlandoresort.
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