With four different parks for guests to enjoy, the fabric of the Walt Disney World Resort is always changing.
No matter how many times you’ve visited Florida’s Disney parks, it’s highly likely that something will be different the next time to stop by—whether it’s something small, like the flowers planted by Disney gardeners, or something huge, like a new roller coaster. The newest rides at Disney World definitely fall under this category, as the resort is constantly trying to improve its offerings and captivate audiences.
With plenty of new Disney rides to try out in 2023 and still others to look forward to this year, you’re sure to find something exciting on your next visit to the parks. Read on to discover more about these new and upcoming attractions.
Newest Rides at Disney World 2023
In the last three years or so, a number of new Disney attractions have popped up throughout the resort.
It’s no surprise considering the rise in popularity of theme parks. After all, Disney World isn’t far from Universal Studios Florida, Universal’s Islands of Adventure and SeaWorld Orlando, which are all a short drive apart. With each of these properties constantly coming up with innovative ways to entertain crowds, introducing new rides are one of the biggest ways to draw people in. If you’re looking to experience all the new and exicting attractions at Walt Disney World this year, be sure to check out our friends at The Park Prodigy for a free vacation quote!
Here, take a look at the Disney World newest rides that are scattered throughout the four parks.
What are the Disney World New Rides at EPCOT?
EPCOT remains a very beloved Disney park and, with the love it receives, it’s no surprise that it is home to some of the most popular new Disney attractions.
Of all of the Disney World new rides, there are two within EPCOT in the last few years—and the most recent is a big one. When researching what’s new Disney World, we discovered that the latest addition at EPCOT is Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind.
Those seeking new Disney rides won’t find any thrill attractions at EPCOT In the coming years. However, there is one main attraction that is likely to draw crowds, especially during the summer months.
Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana has opened October 16th, 2023. This self-guided, walkthrough exhibit based on the Disney film of the same name has been in the works for a few years now and, though it’s not a ride, it offers ways to interact with water to discover its playful side—just like Moana did in the movie. Set within the World Nature neighborhood, it’s another attempt to showcase the beauty of the natural world while also introducing more Disney characters to EPCOT.
Guests can also now meet Figment in the Imagination Pavilion as part of the 100th Anniversary Celebration.
What is coming to EPCOT in 2024?
In addition to Journey of Water, expect to find many changes to EPCOT in the future as much of the park is under construction to create the World Nature, World Celebration and World Discovery neighborhoods. Expect to find a number of new restaurants, meet and greet areas, shops, attractions and more once these lands are completed.
During the D23 Expo in 2023, Disney announced that Test Track will be reimagined in 2024, which guests are rather excited about! Below are the two newest rides that you can experience on your next visit to EPCOT.
Related Post: Best EPCOT Rides Ranked
Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind
Location: World Discovery, EPCOT
Opening Date: May 2022
Description: This dark ride is a thrill that the whole family can enjoy as they join characters including Star-Lord, Gamora, Rocket and Groot on a mission through space. Rotating 360 degrees, Cosmic Rewind allows riders to catch all of the action as they go.
Who would love it: This one of Walt Disney World new rides the perfect option for thrill seekers and those who love ride innovation, as it’s Disney’s first-ever attraction to feature a reverse launch as well as one of the largest fully-enclosed coasters on the planet. Plus, it offers a photo to memorialize your visit.
Best Time to Ride: Because it is so new, a virtual queue is currently in place for this ride. The queue opens twice a day: at 7 a.m. and 1 p.m. You do not need to be within EPCOT during the 7 a.m. attempt, but need to have scanned in with your ticket before attempting in the afternoon. Select hotel guests may also try to join a special 6 p.m. queue on select evenings. If you’re not able to get a boarding pass or don’t want to deal with the hassle, you can also opt to purchase an individual Lightning Lane pass for this attraction.
Height Requirements: 42 inches
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Journey of Water – Inspired by Moana
Location: EPCOT, World Celebration
Opening Date: October 16, 2023
Description: “Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana” is a unique walkthrough attraction that allows guests to interact with magical, living water in a beautiful and inspiring setting. This lush exploration trail will invite guests to meet and play with magical, living water. The water will have a life of its own, just like Moana’s friend, the ocean, and will guide guests through a lush, visually stunning environment. The attraction is designed to be a reimagining of a garden, with interactive fountains and water features, leading guests from the area of the former Innoventions plaza down to The Seas Pavilion, all while exploring the importance of the natural water cycle.
Who would love it: Fans of Moana, nature enthusiasts, and families with children, as well as those who enjoy serene environments and interactive experiences. The attraction’s focus on the natural world and environmental themes may also resonate with conservationists and educators.
Best Time to Visit: As a new and unique experience, “Journey of Water” may attract significant interest, especially shortly after its opening. The best times to visit are likely early in the morning just after EPCOT opens or later in the evening before the park closes. Because it’s a walkthrough attraction, the flow might be more manageable, but visiting during off-peak times might provide a more leisurely experience.
Height Requirements: None, as it’s not a ride but an interactive walkthrough experience.
Related Post: Guide to the Disney World Virtual Queue
What are the New Rides in Hollywood Studios?
In a park that has evolved to showcase imaginary worlds from film and television, Hollywood Studios has very specific experiences to offer parkgoers. And when it comes to Hollywood Studios new rides, there are two in particular that come to mind.
Just before the pandemic hit, Disney debuted Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, a zany ride inspired by cartoon shorts. This is the first iteration of this attraction though Disneyland Resort in California is slated to open its own version in early 2023.
A few months before the launch of Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance opened to critical acclaim. This innovative ride is unlike anything Disney has done before and has caught the attention of Star Wars enthusiasts as well as the general public.
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Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway
Location: Hollywood Boulevard, Hollywood Studios
Opening Date: March 2020
Description: This trackless dark ride whisks guests through a cartoon universe aboard a train with Engineer Goofy. Following the famed cartoon duo of Mickey and Minnie, who are out for a drive in their roadster, on a whirlwind adventure that defies the rules of physics and offers plenty of twists and turns.
Who would love it: Of the newest rides at Disney, Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway is especially important, as it marks the first-ever Mickey-themed ride at any Disney park. It also appeals to those of all ages, so naturally it has been popular since it opened.
Best Time to Ride: Hop aboard Goofy’s train first thing in the morning or, if there’s something else at the top of your list, just before closing. Another option is selecting a reservation through Genie+ for a shortened wait.
Height Requirements: none
Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance
Location: Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, Hollywood Studios
Opening Date: December 2019
Description: Rise of the Resistance unlike anything you’ve experience before. This must-try display of Disney innovation is the most popular new Disney ride in ages. Hop aboard a trackless vehicle for a nearly 20-minute trip where the Resistance recruits members for a secret mission. Escape with Kylo Ren and his First Order close behind—and try not to get caught.
Who would love it: As one of the best Star Wars rides at Hollywood Studios, Rise of the Resistance is especially important to those who have long embraced the franchise. But its technological advancements and other unique elements ensure that it appeals to anyone who loves the thrill of a good theme park attraction.
Best Time to Ride: As Rise of the Resistance is probably the most popular ride at Hollywood Studios, try to visit when the park opens or close to closing. You can also opt to pay the extra fee for Lightning Lane access.
Height Requirements: 40 inches
Related Post: Best Time to Visit Galaxy’s Edge
What are the Newest Rides at Magic Kingdom?
The surge of excitement at Magic Kingdom in 2023 and 2024 is largely due to the debut of new, eagerly awaited attractions and a significant refurbishment. Spring of 2023 marked the opening of “Tron Lightcycle Run,” a technologically advanced coaster that offers a high-speed, futuristic adventure, immersing guests in a digital landscape on two-wheeled Lightcycles. Looking ahead to 2024, “Tiana’s Bayou Adventure” is set to replace the iconic “Splash Mountain.” This reimagined ride will celebrate the story of Disney’s first Black princess, Tiana, featuring vibrant music and new adventures, aligning with the cultural richness and diversity the company promotes. These enhancements signify Disney’s dedication to continual reinvention, promising visitors novel and unforgettable experiences with each visit.
What are the newest rides in Magic Kingdom?
- Tron Lightcycle Run – 2023
- Tiana’s Bayou Adventure – 2024
Related post: The 13 Top Rides at Magic Kingdom Ranked
Tron Lightcycle / Run
Location: Magic Kingdom, Tomorrowland
Opening Date: April 4, 2023
Description – on TRON Lightcycle / Run riders will hop aboard motorbikes on this high-speed roller coaster, then race across the Grid through eight Energy Gates to secure a win for their team. The ride first debuted at Shanghai Disneyland and is based on the film “TRON: Legacy.
Who would love it: Tron Lightcycle / Run will have a 48″ height requirement.
Best time to visit: The optimal time to visit “Tron Lightcycle Run” is crucial, as the attraction’s long-anticipated unveiling has sparked widespread enthusiasm. Given its multi-year development, the ride has generated immense curiosity and excitement. Therefore, it’s advisable to plan your visit during off-peak seasons or weekdays, if possible, to avoid the heaviest crowds. Additionally, utilizing Genie+ or virtual queues, if available, can significantly enhance your experience by reducing wait times. Early park hours and late evenings might also present lower wait times, allowing for a more enjoyable experience of this cutting-edge attraction.
Height Requirement: 48 inches
Related post: Is Genie Plus Worth It in Disney World?
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure
In addition, Splash Mountain will soon be no more. After closing in late January of 2023, the ride is being converted to Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, which is currently expected to open sometime in 2024. As one of the newest rides at Magic Kingdom, it is sure to attract attention, but it will also be desirable due to the theming, inspired by the popular animated film “The Princess and the Frog.” Join Princess Tiana and Louis as they as they prepare for a Mardi Gras celebration. Think zydeco music in the bayou, new friends and a timeless story that picks up where the movie left off.
Haunted Mansion 2024 – The Hatbox Ghost
For a little added magic, make sure to stop by the Haunted Mansion later in 2023, as the beloved ride will be receiving its very own Hatbox Ghost, a character that returned to the Disneyland version of the ride to much delight of guests.
What are New Rides For Animal Kingdom?
Animal Kingdom is bracing for a wave of transformation, with substantial changes on the horizon. Announced at the 2022 D23 Expo, one of the most significant refurbishments involves the reimagining of Dinoland USA, which will be completely demolished to make way for fresh experiences.
Here’s what’s on the horizon for Animal Kingdom:
New Thematic Land – Latin America’s: In a thrilling development, Animal Kingdom will introduce a brand-new land themed around “Latin America.” This area is expected to immerse guests in the worlds of ‘Encanto’ and ‘Indiana Jones,’ providing new rides, attractions, and dining experiences that draw from these rich narratives.
Upcoming Attractions and Shows for 2024:
- New Zootopia Show: In a significant shift, the Tree of Life will host a new show based on the popular movie ‘Zootopia,’ taking over from the long-running ‘It’s Tough to Be a Bug.’ This show is set to bring a different kind of energy and excitement to the park’s iconic centerpiece.
- Dinoland USA Transformation: Say goodbye to the prehistoric and hello to the “tropical Americas.” The area formerly known as Dinoland USA is set to undergo a comprehensive retheming. Guests can anticipate attractions and environments inspired by ‘Indiana Jones’ and Disney’s ‘Encanto,’ promising adventure and magic in equal measure.
These upcoming changes signal a bold new direction for Animal Kingdom, infusing the park with fresh energy and ensuring that its offerings continue to captivate the hearts of guests from around the world
Related post: Best Rides in Animal Kingdom
Best New Rides at Disney World FAQ 2023
Q: What new rides are at Disney World in EPCOT?
A: At EPCOT, guests will find two new rides: Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind and Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure. The Journey of Water – Inspired by Moana also opened on October 16th, 2023 which is a walkthrough attraction.
Q: What are the best new rides at Disney World in Hollywood Studios?
A: Hollywood Studios recently opened Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway as well as Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance. The Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser hotel is also a new addition.
Q: What are some upcoming rides at Disney World?
A: Both EPCOT and Magic Kingdom will have new attractions coming to Disney World. At EPCOT, venture through Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana, a water-themed walkthrough exhibition. At Magic Kingdom, new rides include TRON Lightcycle / Run, which opens in April 2023, and Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, currently slated for a 2024 opening.
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