Disney continues to add new features and attractions to its theme parks and cruise lines, as outlined Sunday at its D23 Expo.
Disney Parks, Experiences and Products Chairman Josh D’Amaro kicked off the Boundless Future: Disney Parks, Experiences and Products presentation following a special performance of the popular anthem “Happily Ever After” by singer-songwriter Jordan Fisher.
Here’s everything you need to know!
Walt Disney World
Tron Light Cycle Run
Tron Light Cycle Run, is slated to open in spring 2023 at Magic Kingdom. This new attraction will launch guests from zero to 60 miles per hour – the fastest for any Disney roller coaster – in a matter of seconds, sending them through over 3,169.3 feet of track atop two-wheeled Lightcycles into a mysterious computer game world inspired by the movie Tron: Legacy.
“Happily Ever After”
“Happily Ever After” is getting an update and the nighttime spectacular will once again light up the skies at Magic Kingdom Park in 2023.
“Blue sky” Projects
These projects are still in early development. Josh D’Amaro talked about the possibility of revamping Dino Land at Animal Kingdom. The initial idea is for the space to bring “Zootopia” to the park.
At Magic Kingdom, Disney is asking the question: “What is behind Big Thunder Mountain?” The company teased that an area based on “Coco” could be in that location or “Encanto.” Perhaps, both. D’Amaro even teased the possibility of also bringing to life an area of Magic Kingdom overrun by Disney villains.
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure will replace Splash Mountain. The attraction will take you directly after the events of “The Princes and the Frog” and follows Princess Tiana as she searches for a missing ingredient for a party celebrating Carnival. The ride is slated to reopen in late 2024.
The Transformation of EPCOT Continues
The World Celebration neighborhood in due to open in late 2023. With lush, green space for you to relax, plus the opening of Communicore Hall and Communicore Plaza, this central location in the park will be the new home for festivals and the perfect space to gather with family and friends. It will also be home to Dreamers Point, an inspiring new area where you can view the new Walt Disney statue called “Walt the Dreamer.”
Night-time Spectacular for Epcot
Disney is creating a new night-time spectacular for Epcot to celebrate the company’s 100th anniversary. Additionally, Journey of Water, inspired by “Moana,” which was announced back in 2019 will open in late 2023.
Hat Box Ghost
Hat Box Ghost will appear at the Haunted Mansion in Walt Disney World.
Disneyland Resort
Avengers Campus at Disney California Adventure Park
Avengers Campus at Disney California Adventure will be expanding with a third attraction featuring a brand-new story that will bring guests into battle alongside their favorite Super Heroes. The ride is based on the multiverse and riders will battle against villains from different universes, including King Thanos.
Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway
Disneyland’s Toon Town land will get a version of Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway attraction from Hollywood Studios in Orlando, Florida, in 2023.
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure will replace Splash Mountain. The attraction will take you directly after the events of “The Princes and the Frog” and follows Princess Tiana as she searches for a missing ingredient for a party celebrating Carnival. The ride is slated to reopen in late 2024.
Pacific Wharf
Pacific Wharf at Disney California Adventure will be transformed into San Fransokyo from “Big Hero Six,” and include the chance to meet Baymax, the helpful health-care robot. Additionally, Paradise Pier Hotel is becoming Pixar Place Hotel.
Disney100 Celebration at Disneyland Resort Kicks Off in Late January 2023
The Disney100 anniversary celebration will kick off in late January 2023 with special limited-time celebrations taking place throughout the whole year. The park will receive new platinum-infused décor, new sparkling looks for Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and their pals, special food and beverage offerings, and so much more.
Nighttime Spectaculars
Two new nighttime spectaculars — “World of Color – One” and a new fireworks show “Wondrous Journeys” — will kick off in late January at Disneyland Resort.
Downtown Disney
Downtown Disney will add several new restaurants including Porto’s Bakery and Cafe and Din Tai Fung.
International Parks
Hong Kong Disneyland
Hong Kong Disneyland is getting a new Walt Disney statue, which is inspired by Walt watching his children ride on a merry-go-round and inspiring the launch of Disney’s theme parks. The park’s Frozen-themed land will open in the second half of 2023.
Tokyo Disney Resort
The park is in the midst of adding a new land to its park based on “Frozen,” “Tangled” and “Peter Pan” called Fantasy Springs.
Disneyland Paris
A new promenade will be added to attach its new Frozen-inspired land to the rest of the park and a “Tangled” themed attraction will be added to the new garden area.
Disney Cruises
Disney’s sixth cruise ship is called “Disney Treasure” and celebrates Walt Disney’s love of adventure. The grand hall is inspired by “Aladdin” and features a statue of Jasmine and Aladdin riding on the magic carpet.
Disney is also opening a new island vacation spot located in the Bahamas called Lighthouse Point.