Disney is ever-changing and it’s hard to keep up with some of the changes. Today I am going to share what’s new at Disney World in 2023. With new attractions, policies, and returning favorites at Walt Disney World Resort, now, more than ever it’s time to plan a Disney World Vacation.
What’s New at Disney World in 2023
While the 50th Anniversary may be coming to an end at the end of March 2023, that doesn’t mean new and exciting things aren’t taking place at Walt Disney World. Many experiences that were paused for Covid-19 are coming back this year as well as fan favorites.
What’s New at the Magic Kingdom
Disney is Retiring Enchantment and Bringing Back Happily Ever After
When Enchantment debuted on October 1, 2021, many fans, myself included, were very disappointed with the music and fireworks. Disney’s Wishes fireworks will always be my favorite, but Happily Ever After was amazing in its’ own right!
Fan-favorite nighttime spectacular ‘Happily Ever After’ returns to Magic Kingdom Park on April 3, featuring all-new projections down Main Street, U.S.A. ‘Disney Enchantment’ will be offered through April 2. Get ready to reach out and find your happily ever after at Cinderella Castle soon!
TRON Lightcycle – Opening April 4th, 2023
The story of TRON Lightcycle / Run picks up after “TRON: Legacy” where Kevin’s son, Sam Flynn, has opened a second gateway into a digital world called the Grid. The first portal was built at Shanghai Disneyland with the original TRON Lightcycle Power Run.
When guests enter the queue at Magic Kingdom, they’ll feel as if they’ve been digitized and transported to the Grid for a special Lightcycle race. It’s your Team Blue against the Grid’s menacing Programs, Team Orange. Your goal is to be the first to race through eight Energy Gates and secure victory. The attraction will be one of the fastest coasters at any Disney theme park in the world.
The Walt Disney Railroad has Reopened
Since Tron required a lot of space in Tomorrowland, The Walt Disney Railroad needed to be rerouted. The Railroad closed in 2018 so it has been a long time since we have ridden the rails.
Not only did the train receive some needed refurbishments they also gave the narration an update. One of the most notable changes is a new tunnel constructed near TRON Lightcycle / Run, which takes Guests under the canopy of the coaster.
The attraction hours are currently 10 AM to 6 PM daily. Before heading to the park, make sure to double-check the daily schedule to find out when you can hop on the railroad at any one of its three stations.
Splash Mountain is Closing to Make Way For Tiana’s Bayou Adventure
Splash Mountain is closing on January 23rd so it can be transformed for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure.
What’s New at Epcot?
Epcot is in a current state of change. Recent new rides, Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind and Ratatouille, are just the tip of the iceberg.
Disney is Retiring Harmonious and Bringing Back Epcot Forever
Just like Magic Kingdom, Epcot is retiring the fireworks show they had during their 50th Celebration.
An all-new nighttime spectacular is planned to debut at EPCOT later this year. Before the new show launches, Disney is bringing back ‘EPCOT Forever’ as an interim show over the skies of World Showcase Lagoon starting April 3. Similar to how it appeared in 2021, ‘EPCOT Forever’ is the perfect offering while the Cast Members prep the Lagoon, including a phased removal of the UGLY fireworks platforms following the final ‘Harmonious’ performance on April 2. A limited-time spectacle of lasers, lighting, special effects, and fireworks, ‘EPCOT Forever’ returns with a collection of songs that offer both a trip down memory lane and a look toward the future.
Encanto is coming to the Epcot Internal Flower & Garden Festival
For the first time, topiaries of Mirabel, Antonio, Isabela, and Luisa from Disney “Encanto” will make a grand appearance at the festival. Located near the EPCOT main entrance, these new topiaries are sure to be a must-do photo moment. (But remember: We don’t talk about Bruno.)
And that’s not all. A new Princess Tiana topiary will grace The American Adventure.
What New at Disney’s Hollywood Studios?
Not too many changes at Hollywood Studios this year since they just completed Galaxy’s Edge. The one experience that is coming is very exciting to me though. Hollywood Studios does not have many great food options. I am hoping the new restaurant will help with that problem.
Roundup Rodeo BBQ will open in Spring 2023
Andy’s backyard is getting ready for more toys! Roundup Rodeo BBQ will open in Spring 2023 to welcome guests for delicious barbecue and toy-sized fun.
Using his imagination, Woody’s Roundup toys, and other playthings, Andy has built a rodeo restaurant for all his pals. Disney is excited for guests to enter the dining room and discover just how much fun Andy had creating a rollicking place for honorary toys to enjoy barbecue-inspired comfort foods served family-style, with platters of house-smoked meats, a roundup of sides and some miniature sweet surprises along the way.
Other Disney World Changes in 2023
- Disney Got Rid of Resort Parking Fees. Guests of Walt Disney World resorts no longer have to pay additional parking fees at the resort. As always, if you have a car and are staying in a Disney resort parking at the parks is free.
- Passholders Can Enter the Parks after 2 Without a Park Pass Reservation. There are a few stipulations like you still need Magic Kingdom reservations on the weekend. This is a step in the right direction though!
As you can see, there is a lot to look forward to at Walt Disney World in 2023. What change are you most excited about? Let me know in the comments.
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