From a new theme park to Michelin-recognized restaurants and high-profile soccer matches, Orlando will heat up this summer with a lineup of immersive experiences and family-friendly fun.
“This summer marks one of the most exciting seasons in Orlando’s history, with the first new theme park in 25 years opening in May, and a wave of new experiences and sporting events that continue to give travelers new reasons to choose Orlando,” said Casandra Matej, President and CEO of Visit Orlando, in a press statement. “Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a regular to our destination, this summer Orlando delivers new, unbelievably real vacation opportunities for all types of travelers.”
Theme Parks
The biggest headline this summer is the opening of Universal Epic Universe at Universal Orlando Resort on May 22. The highly anticipated park features five themed worlds and 50 rides and attractions. At Walt Disney World Resort, two new shows will debut at Hollywood Studios on May 27. “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure” offers a reimagined stage production, while “Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After” spotlights iconic characters like Maleficent and Captain Hook.
EPCOT’s Test Track will debut late summer with revamped scenes showcasing futuristic technology, and Magic Kingdom Park welcomes its first nighttime parade since 2016 with Disney Starlight, a visually dazzling spectacle.
SeaWorld Orlando joins the summer lineup with Expedition Odyssey, the world’s first Arctic-themed flying theater, opening May 1. LEGOLAND Florida Resort introduces SEA LIFE Florida on May 23—an engaging aquarium experience with interactive marine exhibits and a whimsical finale: “The Theme Park Under the Sea.” LEGOLAND will also host a new LEGO Festival every weekend in May leading to World Play Day on June 11.
Beyond the Parks
Fan-favorite Blue Man Group makes its return with a brand-new residency at ICON Park, blending music, movement and multimedia in a non-verbal, highly entertaining performance.
Sports fans have plenty to cheer for as Orlando hosts six matches for the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup at Inter&Co Stadium and Camping World Stadium. International stars such as Manchester City’s Erling Haaland and Benfica’s Nicolas Otamendi will take the pitch in June and July. The city’s own Orlando City SC and Orlando Pride will also play home matches throughout the summer.
A Dining Scene Worth Traveling For
Orlando’s culinary credentials continue to grow with recognition from the 2025 MICHELIN Guide Florida, which awarded the city its first Two-Michelin-Star restaurant, Sorekara. In total, 59 restaurants were acknowledged, including nine with Michelin Stars.
Bourbon Steak, a modern American steakhouse by celebrity chef Michael Mina, will open mid-summer at the Walt Disney World Swan & Dolphin. Nearby, Corazon by Baires has debuted at Mango’s Tropical Cafe, serving Latin fusion dishes in a speakeasy setting.
Other notable newcomers include:
- Gyukatsu Rose at East End Market — an intimate Japanese counter experience from Sonny Nguyen.
- Live! at The Pointe Orlando — a high-energy dining and entertainment district with multiple venues.
- Nabe — a hidden hot pot spot behind an ice cream shop in Dr. Phillips.
- Saigon Snow, offering Vietnamese-style shaved ice at Mills Market.
- Sparrow Wine Bar & Lounge — opening this summer in downtown Orlando by acclaimed restaurateurs Jason and Sue Chin.
New & Renovated Accommodations
Families and luxury-seekers will find a variety of new lodging options this summer:
- Universal Helios Grand Hotel, connected to Epic Universe, features 500 rooms, a rooftop bar and direct park access.
- Universal’s Stella Nova and Terra Luna Resorts provide spaceship-inspired stays with resort amenities.
- Villatel Orlando Resort offers 270 themed villas and apartments by Marriott Bonvoy, with a water park and over 200,000 sq. ft. of amenities.
At Walt Disney World, the newly renovated cabins at Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground will open to the public, and the Island Tower at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows brings expansive villas and penthouses with views of the Magic Kingdom. Over at LEGOLAND Florida Resort, 20 newly themed rooms—including DUPLO, LEGO Friends and NINJAGO concepts—will be available starting this month.
For more information, visit visitorlando.com.
