DESTINATION GPS

More Magic, More Fun

Walt Disney World_® Resort has big summer plans. Here’s what to expect.

Every year, the wants, needs, hopes, and dreams for the ultimate summer family vacation fluctuate, but there’s one thing that’s remained the same for more than 50 years: A trip to Walt Disney World is a rite of passage for children and adults alike. No matter when you visit, how many times you visit, or who you visit with, each experience feels singular. And there within lies the enchantment of this special place. There’s always something innovative on the horizon, and this summer, there’s a thrilling new ride, charming new characters, and captivating new shows.

The bayou meets Disney magic in a can’t-miss attraction, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, opening June 28, 2024 at Magic Kingdom^® Park. So, grab somebody, come on down and join Princess Tiana on an exhilarating musical adventure that crescendos with a 50-foot drop that leads you to the grandest celebration this side of the Mississippi during Mardi Gras season.

Meanwhile at Disney’s Hollywood Studios_®, the beloved Joy will join other Pixar stars at Pixar Plaza, just in time for Inside Out 2 to hit theaters on June 14, 2024. And over at EPCOT_®, keep your eye out for Mirabel and Bruno at “¡Celebración Encanto!” The characters are reuniting for a limited-time sing-along show on the new CommuniCore Plaza stage. The stage is part of a newly transformed EPCOT_® that will also be unveiled in June. It features more spaces for families to relax, more spots to stop for meals and snacks, and, of course, more entertainment.

Perhaps the most celebrated Disney film of all time, Walt Disney Animation Studios’ The Lion King will be the star at Disney’s Animal Kingdom_® Theme Park this summer. In honor of its 30th anniversary, The Lion King will prowl throughout the entire park with special themed food, beverages, and merchandise, as well as new photo opportunities and a trip to Rafiki’s Planet Watch® where you can meet Timon and Rafiki at the Conservation Station_® and learn to draw Characters from The Lion King at the Animation Experience.

After dark, the traditional fireworks show at Magic Kingdom Park won’t be the only attraction in the sky. At Disney Springs_®, drones take to the skies with Disney Dreams That Soar, a summertime experience featuring state-of-the-art drones choreographed to create designs in the sky that bring Disney stories to flight with a soaring musical score and memorable movie quotes.

As to Disney properties, logos, artwork: ©Disney