If you have not visited Walt Disney World in a couple years, things may look very different to you. The one constant at Disney World is change. As stated by Walt Disney himself, “We keep moving forward, opening new doors, and doing new things, because we’re curious and curiosity keeps leading us down new paths”. Learn the top 15 major changes that have happened to Disney World 2016-2017 to prepare for your upcoming trip, or just to know!
Disney Springs Expansion Completed in 2016
Disney Springs is a destination for shopping, dining and entertainment. Formally known as Downtown Disney, and now Dsiney Springs. Beginning in 2015 this outdoor area added more than 150 shopping and dining locations. Visit places now such as Sprinkles, Blaze Fast Fired Pizza, Tommy Bahama and many more newest additions.
Soarin got an Update at Epcot
On June 17, 2016 guests were introduced to Soarin’ Around the World. The newest video features scenes from around the world. Previously known as Soarin’ Over California.
Frozen Ever After Opens in Epcot
On June 21, 2016 guests were treated to the opening of a new ride at Norway in Epcot’s World Showcase, Frozen Ever After. This family friendly boat ride (with a small drop) brings guests through their favorite scenes from Disney’s Frozen. Go on an adventure with Anna, Elsa, Olaf and friends, plus this attraction features an on-ride photo.
Meet & Greet With Anna & Elsa
After guests ride Frozen Ever After, head next door to their Royal Sommerhus. This is where guests can now meet and greet with the famous sisters from Disney’s Frozen. Anna & Elsa are ready to sign autographs and pose for pictures since 2016 in their summer home at Epcot.
Main Street Electrical Parade Ends at Magic Kingdom
Disney’s Main Street Electrical Parade came to an end on October 9, 2016. This beloved parade of lights and characters was a long time running nighttime parade at Disney’s Magic Kingdom.
Disney’s PhotoPass Studio Opens in Disney Springs
Disney’s PhotoPass Studio at Disney Springs can be found near World of Disney. This indoor Studio is a great space to capture photos of your entire group, no matter the weather outside great pictures are possible. Plus, they are included with your Memory Maker purchase.
New Welcome Show at Magic Kingdom
No longer does the welcome show take place outside the park with the Train Station as a back drop. The new welcome show takes place at Cinderella’s Castle Stage. As of January 9, 2017 guests are now allowed to enter Main St USA instead of waiting outside the gates for the show. This changes strategy for those guests wanting to make rope drop, read about the newest opening procedures at Magic Kingdom.
Rivers of Light begins at Animal Kingdom
Animal Kingdom received its first ever night time show with the addition of Rivers of Light in 2017. Rivers of Light shares a love of nature and connection to animals with music, dance and more. It is a beautiful water show, watch on Discovery River.
Disney Quest Is Now Closed at Disney Springs
The NBA experience is coming to Disney Springs. As a result of this news, DisneyQuest closed on July 3, 2017 to host the new basketball experience. DisneyQuest is an indoor theme park with virtual experiences, it first opened the doors on June 19, 1998.
After almost 20 years opened, DisneyQuest will be replaced by The NBA experience. This will include hands on experiences, immersive videos as well as hosting a restaurant and gift shop – all themed around basketball.
Miss Adventure Falls Opens at Typhoon Lagoon
Typhoon Lagoon added a new family friendly raft ride on March 12, 2017. Discover the treasures collected by Captain Mary. Captain Mary’s bird pirate, Duncan, still lives inside the shipwreck and continues to search for treasure, watch for him to sing and talk. All while enjoying this fast adventure family raft ride! Guests of all ages and any height may ride.
Pirates of the Caribbean adds On-Ride Photo
The Pirates of the Caribbean ride in Disney’s Magic Kingdom transports guests through a time when scalawags and buccaneers invaded the seas of the Spanish Main. Disney is adding extra magic for guests who ride Pirates of the Caribbean with a new photo opportunity. The photo will taken right before you exit the haunted grotto, this began on June 19, 2017.
Pandora – World of Avatar opens at Animal Kingdom
Animal Kingdom gets a whole new land, named Pandora- World of Avatar. This new land offers 2 new attractions: Flight of Avatar and the Na’vi River Journey. Also offering a counter service, Pongu Pongu, serving many refreshing drinks and a Quick Service restaurant named Satu’li Canteen. Satu’li Canteen in Pandora was the first Disney World restaurant to offer mobile ordering.
No More Great Movie Ride at Hollywood Studios
Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway will be replacing The Great Movie Ride. The new attraction invites guests to become part of a cartoon with Mickey Mouse and his friends. Ride into the starlight and hold onto your seats for this zany adventure.
The Great Movie Ride closed on August 13, 2017.
Mission Space Has New Experiences at Epcot
Since its launch in 2003, Mission: Space has been a must visit attraction for many. Effective August 13, 2017 the missions have been updated, as well as the pre-show.
- Orange Mission – Feel the force with this intense mission: dodge meteoroids, land on Mars and more. Now with new, HD video.
- Green Mission – a family-friendly option around Earth: see Hawaiian Islands, the Northern Lights and more. The updated height restriction allows children 40-44” to ride with X-2 booster seats.
No More Jawas at Hollywood Studios
Guests have enjoyed interacting with the Jawas for years at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. They met guests at Star Wars Launch Bay for pictures and even trading small items. However, we are sad to say that the Jawas are no longer at Hollywood Studios.
Effective July 29, 2017, Jawas have left Star Wars Launch Bay. They will be missed!
However, as of Spring 2017 guests can meet a new Star Wars Character at Star Wars Launch Bay, meet with BB8.
Learn more tips and tricks for your next Walt Disney World vacation. Destinations in Florida can also help you add tips and tricks to your next vacation.