Recommended Videos
International Drive experienced a major business boom in 2025, and the future looks bright for Orlando’s tourist district.
Greetings, In the Loop subscribers. It’s Haley.
Sparked by the grand opening of Universal’s Epic Universe, nearby attractions like ICON Park reported visitation increases of up to 20%, benefiting from the influx of tourists.
New developments, including hotels, restaurants, and affordable housing projects, are underway, and transportation improvements also signal sustained growth.
This week, I got the official announcement that Sloth World is coming to International Drive. Deemed the world’s first and only “Slotharium”, the animal attraction will be home to 40 sloths and promises a small-group experience in a calm rainforest setting.
Another attraction that is still in the works (and has suffered delays in the process) is the new theater that will house Blue Man Group.
I received this recent update about the build.
“We’ve made significant progress on building the future home of our newest Blue Man Group show behind The Orlando Eye at ICON Park. Construction is well underway, and we look forward to sharing an opening date for our Orlando show soon.”
Blue Man Group
Walt Disney World
The final jam sessions 🤘
With next summer set as the target for the opening of Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster starring The Muppets—and with work already underway on the preshow area after Disney quietly covered the recording studio window—we knew a closing date for Disney’s Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster starring Aerosmith wasn’t far off.
You have a couple of months before the Aerosmith theme will sunset.
ICYMI: Hooray for Bluey 💙🧡
When news broke about Bluey’s official presence at domestic Disney parks and Disney Cruise Line, my reaction was “I can’t wait to tell my toddler!”
What makes the animated series truly special is its ability to connect with viewers of all ages, not just young children. So the fact that Disney World will be getting a Bluey and Bingo experience next summer is a big deal.
I won’t hide my excitement about meeting the Heeler sisters, but the experience would be even better if their cousin Muffin were there too.
The Eras exhibit 🎤
Taylor Swift polished up real nice on her Eras Tour, and now, three iconic outfits from her record-breaking tour are on display at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Fans can admire the “Reputation” snake-motif bodysuit, the “Tortured Poets Department” white dress, and the “Midnights” ensemble, all coinciding with the release of her Eras Tour docuseries on Disney+.
Disney boosts AI ▶️
Disney is teaming up with OpenAI, investing $1 billion to bring beloved characters like Mickey Mouse to the AI video tool Sora.
Disney is all about finding new ways to showcase its storytelling, and this partnership aims to make sure creators’ rights are protected.
Fans will even see some of these AI-generated videos on Disney+.
Legoland Florida
Launching soon 🚀
During the kick-off of its holiday festivities last weekend, Legoland Florida revealed that its highly anticipated indoor space roller coaster has an official launch date.
Click here to watch the video of the drone show celebration.
Universal Orlando
An epic countdown 🕛
Universal Orlando is inviting guests to celebrate New Year’s Eve across its resort.
If you’re one of the lucky ones to be at Epic Universe on Dec. 31, you can expect live music at the Hemisphere Stage and a spectacular midnight fountain show.
The festivities continue throughout Universal CityWalk and the resort’s hotels, offering tailored parties and seasonal treats.
Holiday photos are like holiday cards; you can’t have enough.
Be sure to post your holiday photos on our PinIt! page. There’s an “In The Loop” channel.
As always, keep me in the loop through my email or reach out to me on X or Instagram.
- Haley