☀️ Orlando Theme Parks Are Bringing the Magic This Summer – A Mom’s Guide to What’s New in 2025 💕
- Amanda Batts
- Apr 17
- 5 min read
Hi sweet friends,
As a mom, there’s nothing quite like watching your kids’ eyes light up when the castle comes into view or when they spot their favorite character walking by. And if you’re anything like me, planning theme park trips is less about thrill rides and more about making memories that last forever. 💞
So I wanted to take a few minutes—mom to mom (or dad, grandparent, or cool aunt!)—to share all the exciting, heart-skipping, memory-making new things coming to Orlando’s theme parks this summer. Whether you’re planning your first visit or your fiftieth, there’s something truly special happening this year, and I want to help you catch it all.
Here’s what’s new at our favorite parks this summer—and why it might just be the best season yet to visit.
🎥 Disney’s Hollywood Studios – A Splash of Magic & a Dash of Mischief (Opening May 27)
Mark your calendar for May 27, because two brand-new shows are debuting at Hollywood Studios—and they are packed with magic and just the right amount of Disney drama.
✨ “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure” This reimagined live show brings Ariel’s world back to the stage with beautiful puppetry, dazzling effects, and a touching, sing-along-worthy storyline. I can already picture my little ones singing to "Part of Your World" and all of us being mesmerized by the updated visuals... I'm personally most excited for the addition of the "Kiss the Girl" scene!
🖤 “Disney’s Unfairly Ever After: Villains’ Spectacular” Finally, a chance for the villains to shine! This witty and theatrical new nighttime show is sure to be entertaining for the whole family, especially Disney fans who can’t get enough of Maleficent and the rest of the iconic villains.
🏰 Magic Kingdom – A New Parade to Light Up Your Night
Get ready for some serious goosebumps, because the new “Starlight Magic Parade” is twinkling its way into Magic Kingdom this summer—and it’s going to be stunning. Although the opening date hasn't been announced yet, but I can tell you if the amount of times I've dreamed of having a nighttime parade back at Magic Kingdom means anything, this is sure to be worth the wait!
It’s giving Main Street Electrical Parade vibes with a fresh, modern sparkle, and I can’t wait to watch it with a Mickey bar in hand. ✨🍦
🌌 Universal Orlando – The Epic Universe We’ve All Been Dreaming Of (Opening May 22)
Okay, deep breaths. Because this is HUGE.
Epic Universe is finally opening on May 22, and this new park is truly next level. Think five immersive worlds—each completely unique—and rides that will blow your socks off (in the best, most thrilling way). - I'm going to link out my recap when we visit 4/26 for a preview! I'll give you our honest review!
Here’s what I’m excited about:
Super Nintendo World I love Super Nintendo World in Universal Hollywood, so being able to have this even larger expanded version of the land in our Orlando backyard is a dream come true! And that precious Yoshi ride is calling my name!
How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk Our plan is to rope drop the Toothless meet and greet because I can't even imagine how magical that experience is! The show and roller coaster I'm also hearing really good things about.
The Wizarding World – Ministry of Magic this attraction I have heard is incredible! I can't wait to ride it!!
Plus cutting-edge rides, shows, restaurants, and themed lands that feel like walking into a dream.
It’s bold, it’s beautiful, and it’s going to change family vacations in Orlando forever. Just remember to pack extra patience—opening summer means big crowds. But also? Big memories.
Let my friends at Get Away Today know Tiny Themes Blog sent you so you can land some great ticket discounts!
🧱 LEGOLAND Florida – Building Big Fun With New Summer Surprises
LEGOLAND is one of those parks that always feels safe, joyful, and just right for younger kids—and this summer, they’re turning it up a notch with two exciting additions:
🎉 LEGO Festival Weekends early this summer May 3rd - June 8th, expect a brick-tastic new celebration with character dance parties, building zones, live entertainment, and plenty of chances for kiddos to show off their creativity.
🌊 SEA LIFE Florida Aquarium – Brand New! Opening right on property this summer, this immersive aquarium is perfect for cooling off and slowing down. Expect hands-on exhibits, gorgeous tanks, and a gentle pace that’s ideal for families who need a break from the hustle of the parks. I had the privilege of going on a hard hat tour of the location this spring and it's going to be amazing. The coral design in their main tank is theme park inspired and it's going to be stunning!!
🐬 SeaWorld Orlando
SeaWorld is celebrating it's 60th anniversary and they're bringing the festivities to Orlando! They're offering summer-long spectaculars that include:
🎧 Live DJs💃 Special performances and surprise entertainers throughout the park🎆 Nightly fireworks and a groundbreaking stunt show make the summer at SeaWorld filled with excitement and adrenaline. Also don't forget their amazing Sesame Street splash zone. It's the best mid-day break on a hot summer Orlando day!
SeaWorld's summer spectacular is a sweet mix of nostalgia and new energy—and it’s a great option for families looking for animal experiences and big coasters.
💕 From One Park-Loving Parent to Another…
Here’s what I know: These parks can be magical, but they can also be overwhelming. Don’t forget to:
Build in downtime (a hotel pool afternoon can work wonders)
Hydrate often (Florida sun is no joke)
Capture the small stuff—like your child’s smile when they see their favorite character or the quiet joy of a shared churro at sunset
Keep your expectations manageable - I live here and I literally still haven't done it all. I always recommend talking with your crew about their top must do for the day and work those into your adventure then let the rest be icing on the cake. Littles can be unpredictable, but honestly the times that we've planned the least are the times that we've enjoyed our days the most!
This summer is shaping up to be one of the most exciting yet for Orlando theme parks, and I hope you and your family get to soak in all the joy and wonder of the season!
If you have questions, need packing tips, or want help choosing which days to go where, I’m always here to help. Because we’re all just doing our best to make some magic, right? 💖
With love (and probably some sunscreen on my shirt), Your Theme Park Mama 🌈🎠
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