A new year means new rides and attractions at theme parks. So, if you want to start planning your vacation, here’s a sample of what’s in store.
If you love roller coasters, you’ll want to check out a new one at SeaWorld in Orlando — Penguin Trek. This indoor/outdoor ride is designed for families. You’ll board your snowmobile for an exciting trip through the breathtaking vastness of Antarctica, navigating the twists and turn of an icy cavern before ending up at real a penguin habitat.
Lego fans have a choice of three Legoland parks, in California, Florida and New York’s Hudson Valley. Legoland California, 30 minutes north of San Diego, is celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2024 with the opening of the dinosaur-themed Dino Valley and North America’s first Lego World Parade. At Legoland Florida, in Winter Haven, between Tampa and Orlando, the Ferrari Build & Race Experience is coming in the spring. You can build and race your own car, and check out a life-size Ferrari made from Lego bricks.
A new themed space opening at Universal Studios Florida will bring to life characters from DreamWorks Animation films like “Shrek,” “Trolls” and “Kung Fu Panda.” The park will also celebrate Mardi Gras on select nights from Feb. 3 to April 7, inspired by Carnival celebrations around the world, including parades, live concerts and international cuisine.
Disney World and Disneyland always have a terrific lineup of events throughout the year. EPCOT’s International Festival of the Arts, which runs through Feb. 19, includes the Disney on Broadway concert series and an Animation Academy, where you can learn how to draw Disney characters. The International Flower & Garden Festival opens on Feb. 28, featuring gorgeous gardens, unique exhibits and sculptures of Disney characters. At Disneyland, Pixar Fest returns from April 26 to Aug. 4. As part of the festivities, a new daytime parade is coming to Disney California Adventure — Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration.
One of the Magic Kingdom’s most anticipated new rides, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, is slated to open in late 2024 at both Disney World and Disneyland. It’s inspired by the movie “The Princess and the Frog,” which starred Disney’s first African American princess. The story will take you on an adventure through the Louisiana bayou with Princess Tiana, Prince Naveen and the jazz-loving alligator Louis as they prepare to host a Mardi Gras celebration featuring the sights and sounds of New Orleans.
Finally, an old favorite is getting a makeover. Fans of “The Little Mermaid” can look forward to a reimagined theatrical production inspired by the movie that’s scheduled to debut at Disney World’s Hollywood Studios in the fall. “The Little Mermaid — A Musical Adventure” will feature new set pieces, cutting-edge special effects and a new design that captures Ariel’s imagination and emotions.
For help navigating any travel plans, contact us.
Journeys Travel Group 