THEME PARKS
Walt Disney World president announces retirement after 36-year career
Read full article: Walt Disney World president announces retirement after 36-year careerJeff Vahle became president in May 2020, navigating Walt Disney World through the COVID-19 pandemic — which forced a temporary shutdown of the resort — and led the landmark 50th anniversary celebration of Walt Disney World.
Universal, UCF launch school to shape future of themed entertainment
Read full article: Universal, UCF launch school to shape future of themed entertainmentThe two Orlando powerhouses announced the launch of the Universal School of Experience Leadership and Innovation, a first-of-its-kind program designed to train the next generation of immersive experience leaders.
Level99 is hiring 150 workers ahead of its Disney Springs debut. Here’s how to apply
Read full article: Level99 is hiring 150 workers ahead of its Disney Springs debut. Here’s how to applyLocated at Disney Springs West Side, the interactive social gaming venue will bring more than 60 life-sized mini-games to a sprawling 45,000-square-foot space designed for adults and teens.
Lost Continent closing at Universal Islands of Adventure as resort unveils sweeping updates
Read full article: Lost Continent closing at Universal Islands of Adventure as resort unveils sweeping updatesUniversal Orlando Resort has confirmed the area at Universal Islands of Adventure will close in phases over the coming months to make way for a new themed land.
Passport, stamps, play: Peppa Pig Theme Park Florida debuts limited-time travel event
Read full article: Passport, stamps, play: Peppa Pig Theme Park Florida debuts limited-time travel eventThe globe-trotting experience follows Peppa, Mummy Pig, Daddy Pig, George, and baby Evie on their first holiday as a family of five.
‘Truly unacceptable:’ Lawmakers demand accountability in Sloth World animal deaths
Read full article: ‘Truly unacceptable:’ Lawmakers demand accountability in Sloth World animal deathsJoined by Orange County commissioners and sloth conservation experts who traveled from Costa Rica, Eskamani spoke outside the shuttered Sloth World facility on International Drive.
Walt Disney World president announces retirement after 36-year career
Read full article: Walt Disney World president announces retirement after 36-year careerJeff Vahle became president in May 2020, navigating Walt Disney World through the COVID-19 pandemic — which forced a temporary shutdown of the resort — and led the landmark 50th anniversary celebration of Walt Disney World.
🤸♀️Cirque du Soleil’s ‘Drawn to Life’ blends Disney animation, jaw-dropping acrobatics
Read full article: 🤸♀️Cirque du Soleil’s ‘Drawn to Life’ blends Disney animation, jaw-dropping acrobaticsStep into Disney animation, then watch it take flight. Cirque du Soleil’s Drawn to Life at Disney Springs mixes big feelings, big stunts and big magic.
Level99 is hiring 150 workers ahead of its Disney Springs debut. Here’s how to apply
Read full article: Level99 is hiring 150 workers ahead of its Disney Springs debut. Here’s how to applyLocated at Disney Springs West Side, the interactive social gaming venue will bring more than 60 life-sized mini-games to a sprawling 45,000-square-foot space designed for adults and teens.
💐Celebrating Mother’s Day: One mom’s inspiring Disney legacy
Read full article: 💐Celebrating Mother’s Day: One mom’s inspiring Disney legacyFor Mother's Day a longtime Walt Disney World cast member reflects on raising her two children alongside her career — and what it means now that both of them have joined the company she’s called home for decades.
Gunman cased Disney, other targets before Pulse 10 years ago
Read full article: Gunman cased Disney, other targets before Pulse 10 years agoIn the decade since a gunman killed 49 people at Pulse, evidence has gradually emerged suggesting the gay nightclub was chosen as a target only minutes before the terrorist attack.
Universal, UCF launch school to shape future of themed entertainment
Read full article: Universal, UCF launch school to shape future of themed entertainmentThe two Orlando powerhouses announced the launch of the Universal School of Experience Leadership and Innovation, a first-of-its-kind program designed to train the next generation of immersive experience leaders.
Lost Continent closing at Universal Islands of Adventure as resort unveils sweeping updates
Read full article: Lost Continent closing at Universal Islands of Adventure as resort unveils sweeping updatesUniversal Orlando Resort has confirmed the area at Universal Islands of Adventure will close in phases over the coming months to make way for a new themed land.
Universal CityWalk gets nostalgic with new classic movie rides shop, plus Five Guys dethrones Burger King
Read full article: Universal CityWalk gets nostalgic with new classic movie rides shop, plus Five Guys dethrones Burger KingThe new Universal Legacy Store will replace the Epic Universe Preview Center as Universal continues a broader refresh of CityWalk.
‘Lifeless:’ New footage shows what happened after Stardust Racers rider dies
Read full article: ‘Lifeless:’ New footage shows what happened after Stardust Racers rider diesNews 6 has obtained newly released body-camera footage showing what exactly happened after a guest was killed on Epic Universe’s Stardust Racers rollercoaster last year.
Universal Orlando announces ticket sales for Halloween Horror Nights 35
Read full article: Universal Orlando announces ticket sales for Halloween Horror Nights 35Spring is here, but Universal is already looking forward to fall and the Halloween season. The theme park announced tickets for Halloween Horror Nights, in what they say is their most expansive spooky season event ever!
Here are the big attractions coming to Central Florida’s theme park landscape in 2026
Read full article: Here are the big attractions coming to Central Florida’s theme park landscape in 2026From SeaWorld Orlando’s groundbreaking SEAQuest: Legends of the Deep to exciting ride refurbishments and fresh experiences at Walt Disney World, the region is set for a year of unforgettable fun.
Orlando’s Spooky Empire to conjure Halloween Horror Nights inside look
Read full article: Orlando’s Spooky Empire to conjure Halloween Horror Nights inside lookThe spooky season is still a few months away, but horror fans can get their frightful fix in Orlando this weekend, including exclusive panels of two premier Halloween festivals. Spooky Empire, the largest convention for horror fans in the United States, runs Friday through Sunday at the Doubletree by Hilton at SeaWorld.
SeaWorld Orlando unveils full concert lineup for Seven Seas Food Festival, Mardi Gras celebration
Read full article: SeaWorld Orlando unveils full concert lineup for Seven Seas Food Festival, Mardi Gras celebrationSeaWorld Orlando has announced an exciting addition to its Seven Seas Food Festival lineup, inviting guests to let the party play on with newly added performers.
SeaWorld Orlando’s Seven Seas Food Festival returns with rocking concerts, culinary delights
Read full article: SeaWorld Orlando’s Seven Seas Food Festival returns with rocking concerts, culinary delightsRunning from Jan. 31 to May 4, guests can savor nearly 200 food and drink options inspired by international cultures while enjoying the attractions and animal presentations.
OTHER ATTRACTIONS & MORE THEME PARK NEWS
Florida looking into criminal investigation for Orlando Sloth World deaths
Read full article: Florida looking into criminal investigation for Orlando Sloth World deathsFlorida prosecutors are looking into whether criminal charges are possible after dozens of sloths died ahead of the opening of Sloth World in Orlando. On Friday, Attorney General James Uthmeier responded to a call for a criminal investigation from State Rep. Anna Eskamani, D-Orlando.
SeaWorld Orlando, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay offer free admission to veterans for Military Appreciation Month
Read full article: SeaWorld Orlando, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay offer free admission to veterans for Military Appreciation MonthVeterans can register for the complimentary ticket through May 10 and have until June 30 to visit the Orlando park.
McDonald’s, Legoland Florida team up for BOGO ticket deal this summer
Read full article: McDonald’s, Legoland Florida team up for BOGO ticket deal this summerWith any qualifying purchase, customers will score a coupon on the back of their receipt good for one free child hopper ticket with the purchase of a paid adult hopper ticket.
2,000 bats, cavern glow-up among wild changes at Magic Kingdom’s Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
Read full article: 2,000 bats, cavern glow-up among wild changes at Magic Kingdom’s Big Thunder Mountain RailroadDisney announced that Magic Kingdom classic is set to reopen in May, following a top-to-bottom refurbishment — and it’s bringing new thrills along for the wild ride.
Lawmaker calls for criminal investigation after rescued sloth dies from failed Orlando attraction
Read full article: Lawmaker calls for criminal investigation after rescued sloth dies from failed Orlando attractionA rescued sloth’s death is prompting renewed scrutiny of an Orlando attraction, as a state lawmaker calls for a state and federal investigation into animal deaths, alleged mismanagement and potential legal violations.
2 of 13 rescued Sloth World sloths die at Central Florida Zoo
Read full article: 2 of 13 rescued Sloth World sloths die at Central Florida ZooThe zoo confirmed the remaining 12 sloths are currently in stable condition. Staff said their full focus has now shifted to ensuring those animals continue to recover.
Bricks and kicks: FIFA World Cup 2026 experience coming to Legoland Florida this summer
Read full article: Bricks and kicks: FIFA World Cup 2026 experience coming to Legoland Florida this summerThe limited-time fan zone is packed with interactive games, hands-on LEGO builds, and larger-than-life character moments.
Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party will have its earliest start ever. Here’s when
Read full article: Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party will have its earliest start ever. Here’s whenGuests with party tickets may enter Magic Kingdom as early as 4 p.m., and this year, Halloween lands on a Saturday.
Aquatica Orlando’s AquaGlow returns with new nighttime slides, laser show
Read full article: Aquatica Orlando’s AquaGlow returns with new nighttime slides, laser showThe limited-capacity, family-friendly nighttime event runs select nights from May 15 through Sept. 26, transforming the park into a neon-lit escape.
Straight out of Wonderland: Inside the new tea experience at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort
Read full article: Straight out of Wonderland: Inside the new tea experience at Disney’s Grand Floridian ResortThe lounge quietly reopened in March for the first time since before the COVID-19 pandemic, and trust me — it was worth the wait.
🧱A day at Legoland Florida: New rides, Miniland USA, and the must-try Granny’s Apple Fries
Read full article: 🧱A day at Legoland Florida: New rides, Miniland USA, and the must-try Granny’s Apple FriesSpend a day at Legoland Florida Resort with highlights including Galacticoaster, Lost Kingdom Adventure, The Dragon, Miniland USA, SEA LIFE Florida, and Granny’s Apple Fries.
Disney H2O Glow After Hours brings neon nights, throwback characters to Typhoon Lagoon this summer
Read full article: Disney H2O Glow After Hours brings neon nights, throwback characters to Typhoon Lagoon this summerBeyond the character meet-and-greets, Disney H2O Glow After Hours delivers a full sensory experience with neon lights and the DJ Dance Party.
Blue Man Group returns to Orlando with new show, theater built just for them
Read full article: Blue Man Group returns to Orlando with new show, theater built just for themBlue Man Group is set to kick off live shows on May 1 at the brand-new Blue Man Theater at ICON Park, marking the group’s return to the city after a years-long absence.
🎊Think you can win a game show? Now you can put your skills to the test
Read full article: 🎊Think you can win a game show? Now you can put your skills to the testExperience Great Big Game Show Orlando on International Drive (I-Drive) — a live, interactive 60-minute game show attraction where teams compete in fast-paced mini games, trivia, and challenges perfect for friends, families, and corporate team-building.
🤘We got a taste of the Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets soundtrack. Here are our rock-on ratings
Read full article: 🤘We got a taste of the Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets soundtrack. Here are our rock-on ratingsThe songs won’t be released, previewed, or heard anywhere else until guests experience them inside the attraction.
SeaWorld Orlando expands Expedition Odyssey with new Arctic adventure
Read full article: SeaWorld Orlando expands Expedition Odyssey with new Arctic adventureExpedition Odyssey: Fire & Ice, an all-new, story-driven upgrade to its popular indoor flying theater ride, is set to debut later this spring.
Universal CityWalk gets nostalgic with new classic movie rides shop, plus Five Guys dethrones Burger King
Read full article: Universal CityWalk gets nostalgic with new classic movie rides shop, plus Five Guys dethrones Burger KingThe new Universal Legacy Store will replace the Epic Universe Preview Center as Universal continues a broader refresh of CityWalk.
‘Future of America:’ Science students awarded for moon projects at Kennedy Space Center
Read full article: ‘Future of America:’ Science students awarded for moon projects at Kennedy Space CenterAs the record-breaking Artemis II mission inspires millions around the world, some of Central Florida’s little space enthusiasts are getting some well-deserved recognition too.
Walt Disney World reveals reopening date for refurbished Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
Read full article: Walt Disney World reveals reopening date for refurbished Big Thunder Mountain RailroadDisney announced that Magic Kingdom classic is set to reopen in May, following a top-to-bottom refurbishment — and it’s bringing new thrills along for the wild ride.
🫒Eat good, feel good: Amare at Disney’s Swan Reserve makes modern Mediterranean the new luxury
Read full article: 🫒Eat good, feel good: Amare at Disney’s Swan Reserve makes modern Mediterranean the new luxuryEat good, feel good at Amare inside the Walt Disney World Swan Reserve Hotel, where modern Mediterranean cooking—bright herbs, citrus and olive oil—meets tableside moments like the Ishka Bubble bread and parchment-baked sea bass.
Manatee Melby returns home, drawing crowd to Brevard County park
Read full article: Manatee Melby returns home, drawing crowd to Brevard County parkA manatee’s journey from a storm drain to the open water captivated a community. And for one Melbourne Beach family, it became something even more personal.
CUTE ALERT! Red river hog triplets arrive at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
Read full article: CUTE ALERT! Red river hog triplets arrive at Disney’s Animal Kingdom LodgeDisney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge welcomed three red river hog piglets, born recently and currently thriving under the watchful eyes of the resort’s dedicated animal care team.
Walt Disney World unveils summer ticket deals, resort offers for families
Read full article: Walt Disney World unveils summer ticket deals, resort offers for familiesWalt Disney World is sweetening summer 2026 with a new after-2 p.m. ticket ahead of a rollout of exciting upgrades and new experiences.
‘Lifeless:’ New footage shows what happened after Stardust Racers rider dies
Read full article: ‘Lifeless:’ New footage shows what happened after Stardust Racers rider diesNews 6 has obtained newly released body-camera footage showing what exactly happened after a guest was killed on Epic Universe’s Stardust Racers rollercoaster last year.
Universal Orlando announces ticket sales for Halloween Horror Nights 35
Read full article: Universal Orlando announces ticket sales for Halloween Horror Nights 35Spring is here, but Universal is already looking forward to fall and the Halloween season. The theme park announced tickets for Halloween Horror Nights, in what they say is their most expansive spooky season event ever!
FIRST LOOK: Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin brings new tech to Disney’s Magic Kingdom
Read full article: FIRST LOOK: Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin brings new tech to Disney’s Magic KingdomKey upgrades coming to Buzz Lightyear's Space Range Spin include handheld blasters, all-digital targets and refreshed ride vehicles designed to make it easier to track individual scores. The ride reopens at Disney's Magic Kingdom on April 8.
Universal Orlando previews ‘Infernal Carnival of Nightmares,’ return of 2 icons at MEGACON
Read full article: Universal Orlando previews ‘Infernal Carnival of Nightmares,’ return of 2 icons at MEGACONUniversal Orlando is bringing back two icons for the 35th anniversary of Halloween Horror Nights and these two frenemies are promising new levels of fear at their 'Infernal Carnival of Nightmares.'
Lawsuit seeks to end Sesame Street-SeaWorld agreement over ‘brazen’ contract breaches
Read full article: Lawsuit seeks to end Sesame Street-SeaWorld agreement over ‘brazen’ contract breachesThe parent company of the “Sesame Street” franchise is suing SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment, accusing them of “repeated, intentional breaches” of its current contract agreement, and “rogue retaliatory actions.” Sesame Workshop doesn’t just want money, though; it wants to end its nearly 50-year deal with SeaWorld altogether.
‘A million points and beyond:’ Disney shares new details on Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin
Read full article: ‘A million points and beyond:’ Disney shares new details on Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger SpinThe interactive attraction’s refurbishment adds handheld blasters, all-digital targets that react with light and visuals.
Universal Orlando Resort brings back Volcano Bay Nights for after-dark fun
Read full article: Universal Orlando Resort brings back Volcano Bay Nights for after-dark funThe limited-capacity event runs on select nights, promising lower wait times, themed entertainment and exclusive food and drink options.