New Attractions in Orlando FL - 2023 In-Depth Guide

February 27, 2023

Loyal theme park fans know the City Beautiful is chock full of world-class attractions and rides. Yet, you may be unaware of the bounty of amusement park madness coming your way in 2023.

From indomitable high-speed Orlando rides with Groot, Star-Lord, and Gamora, to plenty of toddler-themed farm fun with Peppa the Pig, Central Florida is stepping up their entertainment. Follow along as we spill the beans on all new Orlando attractions opening in 2023 and beyond!

Prepare yourself for refreshing days of H20-fueled antics at the Typhoon Lagoon water park. Or bundle up as you experience the arctic chill of SeaWorld’s Ice Breaker.

Whether you are craving the magic of Disney or holding out for even more epic Universal surprises, there has never been a better time to visit Orlando. 

Searching for "new attractions in Orlando 2023", "new attractions Orlando 2023", or "what's new in Orlando 2023"? If so, this is the ultimate guide to new rides in Orlando 2023 and Orlando attractions 2023 for you!

Orlando Hotels

Ready to pull the trigger on the most outstanding Orlando vacation yet? Stop the endless searching for O-town accommodations when you book any of our premier Orlando Hotels and Resorts. Discover the ideal lodgings from luxurious amenity-filled golf clubs to modern suites located right on International Drive.

There aren't any new hotels in Orlando at the moment, but the existing ones are more than enough to satisfy every traveler!

We continually have a number of diverse options to fit every budget and taste. Book stress-free knowing you are always guaranteed our lowest rates online. 

New Orlando Attractions at Walt Disney World Resort

We can always count on Walt to come through with thrilling new additions. 2023 and beyond promises to be a big year for Walt Disney World and includes the debut of many exciting new attractions, shows, and projects in Orlando.

Adrenaline junkies, Pixar lovers, and more will all be more than pleased with the new offerings at the Most Magical Place on Earth. The new rides at Disney World will have you planning your next magical adventure asap!

Epcot

Guardians of the Galaxy Cosmic Rewind - Now Open

Pondering when you’ll get to be reunited with your favorite intergalactic heroes? Impatient fans of the Marvel Universe won’t have to wait long as the highly anticipated Guardians of the Galaxy Cosmic Rewind is scheduled to open this summer. This is one of the hottest Epcot new rides ever!

This epic rollercoaster is already making waves as one of the world’s largest enclosed roller coasters. Another Disney first, Cosmic will contain a riveting reverse launch.

Riders will enjoy a fresh ride system and begin their journey by touring a futuristic ‘Galaxarium.’ Similar to what we call here on Earth a ‘planetarium’ this flashy exhibit will showcase the history behind our galaxy and the planet Xander.

Related Post: When is the Best Time of Year to Go to Disney World?

Learn all about the innovative space tech of Xander before the wiley Guardians appear and relay your mission. Pull out that walkman because Rocket, Groot, and Gamora need your help. Soar across the cosmos and save the galaxy while you jam out to some groovy tunes.

Cosmic Rewind promises to pack quite a punch, so make your plans now to experience the 360-degree action. 

Wide shot mockup of the Guardians of the Galaxy Cosmic Rewind ride at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida, USA

photo credit: Fairy Tale Concierge, Erika Brombacher-Travel Agent via Facebook

Main Entrance

Just like all of us, EPCOT too is a work in progress. Disney World park devotees may have noticed the ongoing construction of EPCOT’s main plaza. While we have no exact end date for the building, the park’s facelift promises to include new pathways, neighborhoods, green spaces, and a reimagined fountain. And of course, new Disney rides!

Related Post: Insider’s Guide to Drawn to Life by Cirque du Soleil

Additionally, it appears as if there will be an incredible reimagining of the area between Spaceship Earth and the World Showcase Promenade.

Magic Kingdom

Disney Festival of Fantasy Parade - Now Open

Parades have been one of the unique Disney experiences that were put on pause during the pandemic. Thankfully many of these magical marches of the Magic Kingdom are now returning.

The Disney Festival of Fantasy Parade debuted in March and features a welcome celebration of the Disney spirit and tales of Fantasyland. Check your entertainment schedule as you won’t want to miss this festival of pageantry, original music, and one-of-a-kind floats.

Keep your eyes peeled as lovable characters from Tangled, Peter Pan, and The Little Mermaid all promise to make an appearance. Add this to your must-experience Orlando new attractions 2023!

Disney Festival of Fantasy Parade Dragon breathing fire on a sunny with the castle in the background at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida, USA

photo credit: Walt Disney World via Facebook

Mickey's Magical Friendship Faire - Happening Now

Disney World is never one to skimp out on celebrations, and for the uninformed, their 50th birthday extravaganza is still going strong. Toast to another half-century of Disney magic with Mickey and friends when you swing by the Cinderella Castle for a re-crafted stage show.

Come be a part of the ‘World’s Most Magical Celebration when you witness the EARidescent fashions, flashy dancing, and splashy new songs of Mickey, Tiana, Olaf, Elsa, and more. This live entertainment spectacular contains dazzling effects and a brand new opening and finale. 

Disney Adventure Friends Cavalcade - Happening Now

While you may be scratching your head wondering, what’s a cavalcade? We guarantee you won't want to skip this mini-parade jam-packed with the most Disney characters to date.

Follow Baloo, Miguel, Merida, Moana, and more all the way from Frontierland through Liberty Square down Main Street, U.S.A. Sing, smile, and dance with glee all along this Magic Kingdom grand adventure. 

View looking down at a group of different Disney characters from Disney Adventure Friends Calvacades standing in front of Cinderellas Castle on a sunny at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida, USA

photo credit: Laurie Olivieri via Facebook

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Finding Nemo: The Big Blue ... and Beyond! - Now Open

Dive into your favorite Disney animation from the hit Pixar movie, when you travel under the sea on a brand new watery adventure. Finding Nemo: The Big Blue ... and Beyond is a fresh aquatic live stage experience starring Nemo, Dory, and every other pal with a fish friend from Dr. P. Sherman’s office.

Related Post: Which is Better: Universal Studios Orlando or Disney World?

Sit back and relax, as you let the waves of puppetry, signing, and other entertainment wash over you. Sing along to such boppy tunes as “In the Big Blue World” and “Go with the Flow”, as you soak in the lighting, sound, and other seaworthy special effects. 

Hollywood Studios

Fantasmic! - Now Open

Nothing beats the awe-inspiring entertainment of Disney after dark and we can’t wait to document the pyrotechnics, massive sets, and stunning effects of Hollywood Studios’ returning Fantasmic! This rousing performance features over 50 extraordinary performers, a 40-foot tall dragon, Disney Villains, and more.

Schedule the showstopper into your Disney World itinerary as this open-air nighttime musical will leave you grinning and singing along with Mickey, Aladdin, The Lion King, and more. 

photo credit: Fantasmic via Facebook

Roundup Rodeo BBQ - Now Open

Got a hankering for some finger-licking good grub post spin on the Slinky Dog Dash? Lasso up your fellow hungry ladies and lads as this year, Toy Story Land will be awarded the opening of a new table service restaurant, one of the best new restaurants in Orlando.

Related Post: The Most Iconic Rides at Disney World

The Roundup Rodeo BBQ will feature hearty western eats and will be designed to feel like a rodeo run by Andy’s toys. Little ones will love uncovering the toys, games, and playsets scattered throughout the arena.

Walt Disney World Resort Hotels 

Star Wars Galactic Starcruiser - Now Open

Dreaming of resting your head in a galaxy far, far away? Luckily you can skip the jump into hyperspace when you board your very own starcruiser right in Orlando. Check-in for a night of intergalactic cosplay aboard the Halcyon when you secure your Star Wars Galactic Starcruiser reservation

An immersive experience like you’ve never seen, the debut of the Starcruiser allows rabid fans to live, breathe, and sleep in the Star Wars universe. Join the Resistance, take up interplanetary smuggling, or refine your lightsaber skills. This two-night experience makes you the hero of your very own Star Wars saga.

Feast on exotic space cuisine, check out the planet Batuu, or opt to discover the inner workings of the ship in the Engineering room.

Typhoon Lagoon -  Reopened in Jan 2022

Slather on that sunscreen as the largest wave pool in North America is once again open for business. Typhoon Lagoon, one of Disney World’s two water parks, has been welcoming visitors since January. Marine creatures of all ages will be delighted to once again cruise through Castaway Creek and conquer the Crush ‘n’ Gusher water coaster.

Close up of a family riding Miss Adventure Falls with water falling on their heads on a sunny day at Typhoon Lagoon in Orlando, Florida, USA

photo credit: Epic Adventures Travel Co. via Facebook

Universal Orlando Resort

Move over Harry Potter! While nostalgic Nintendo lovers might have to hold off on pulling on their overalls and plumber caps, we are confident that Universal Orlando’s epic additions will be well worth the wait. Stop by the land of movie magic, Hogwarts, and Jurrasic thrills.  There’s plenty to keep you entertained in the meantime, including a new ride at Universal Orlando Resort.

Wide shot of the Hulk roller coaster at Universal Studios Islands of Adventure in Orlando, Florida, USA

photo credit: Universal Orlando Resort via Facebook

Universal’s Epic Universe - coming summer 2025

Look out for new Orlando rides in the coming years! Here's one of the most exciting Universal Studios Orlando new attractions to look forward to.

Mama Mia! A brand new Florida theme park is coming to Universal Orlando that will nearly double its size. Originally this fresh addition was supposed to premiere in 2023. However, due to COVID delays, Universal’s Epic Universe is now set to open in summer 2025.

While there’s still plenty of mystery regarding these themed lands, we do know it will be Universal’s most innovative and immersive experience yet. Furthermore, attractions and rides will be based on characters and settings from the Illumination, DreamWorks Animation and Nintendo worlds.

Wondering whats new in Orlando? Gamers of all ages will be able to wander through a plethora of entertainment centers, hotels, shops, and themed eateries.

Super Nintendo World at Universal's Epic Universe - coming summer 2025

There aren't any Universal Studios Orlando rides 2023, but you can look forward to one more in 2025.

Snatch those golden coins and rescue the fair Princess Peach when you embark on days of video game-inspired excitement at the new Super Nintendo World. Part of the new Universal Epic Universe, this themed land represents a partnership between Nintendo and Universal.

Come Summer 2025, guests can expect to play and pal around with Luigi, Mario, Wario, and more. These new Orlando attractions and rides will blur the lines between reality and video games, and allow guests to move through the park as players. Collect coins, compete against your friends, and enjoy the retro-flavored fun.

The world’s very first Super Nintendo World opened back in March 2021 at Universal Studios Japan.

SeaWorld Orlando

Equal parts aquarium and amusement park, SeaWorld Orlando is always a great idea. From up close and personal Orca encounters, to chumming around with Elmo and the Grouch at Sesame Street there are endless ways to soak in the wonders of the ocean.

For our fearless flyers who are looking to amp up their excitement, 2023 brings some wild rides to SeaWorld attractions.

Ice Breaker - Now Open

Brr, can you feel that chill? The awesome power of the Arctic is harnessed on this non-stop thrill ride featuring Florida’s steepest beyond vertical drop. USA Today named the Ice Breaker, ‘‘one of the most anticipated rides of 2022’’ and it’s not hard to see why. If you haven't experienced the Ice Breaker yet, you better add this to your new things to do in Orlando 2023!

Featuring insane vertical drops, twists, turns, and plenty of airtime launches, this icy ride will have you holding on for dear life. The Ice Breaker is SeaWorld's first multi-directional launch roller coaster and contains four launches.

Pack your climbing gear as you’ll need some protection from the steepest beyond-vertical drop, a 93 feet tall spike with a 100-degree angle. 

Close up photo of the new Ice Breaker roller coaster at SeaWorld Orlando on a sunny day in Orlando, Florida, USA

photo credit: SeaWorld Orlando via Facebook

LEGOLAND Florida Resort

Miniland creations, Bouncing Beatles, and Ninjago fireballs oh my! LEGOLAND Florida is always a brick-filled treat. Whether you are a veteran builder or brand new to the world of Emmet, Benny, and Unikitty we think you’ll be positively tickled pink by the park’s newest members at the new attractions in Florida.

Peppa Pig Theme Park - Now Open 

Oink, oink! There’s a new prime pig in town and she’s as cute as can be. Lovers of the ever-popular Nick Jr TV show will be in farm-filled heaven when they realize Peppa the Pig now lives at LEGOLAND. Peppa Pig Theme Park is one of the most awaited new rides Orlando for the little ones!

Tiny tots will adore kid-friendly attractions and rides like Daddy Pig’s rollercoaster and George’s Fort maze. This full-service theme park is home to a whole barnyard’s worth of characters, live shows, rides, themed play areas, and more.

However, while the Peppa Pig park will be operating as part of the LEGOLAND Florida Resort, guests will need to enter through a separate gate.

Pirate River Quest - Now Open

Set sail with a rowdy crew of LEGO® pirates on Captain’s orders to explore the murky waters and retrieve the lost treasure, stolen by a troop of mischievous monkeys.

This 20-minute adventure will take you through the uncharted waters of the legendary Cypress Gardens, where you will discover the secrets protecting its canals! We promise, this all-new story will unfold brick by brick into a family-friendly treasure hunt.

Wide shot of the very colorful Peppa Pig Theme Park with lots of banners and a balloon ride in Orlando, Florida, USA

photo credit: Peppa Pig Theme Park Florida via Facebook

ICON Park

Home to a massive Ferris Wheel, Madame Tussauds, and the SEA Life Aquarium, ICON Park is a heavy hitter worthy of a spot on any Orlando attractions bucket list.

Although they have not released any plans for new Orlando attractions in 2023. Don't miss out on experiencing searing views of Walt Disney World and Universal. And you can expect big thrills from ICON Park. 

ground view of The Wheel at ICON Park in Orlando, Florida, USABusch Gardens Tampa

Sizzling Serengeti safaris, refreshing Congo River Rapid rides, and the captivating Cheetah Run’s come together to make Busch Gardens Tampa a top-tier theme park destination. However, this gem of Tampa is home to so much more than wildlife.

Thrill-seekers have been hightailing it here for decades to partake in the exhilarating twists, turns, and inversions of Montu, Kumba, and more.

If iron pumps through your veins you’ll need to secure those reservations because Busch Gardens' latest rollicking ride brings the pain.

Iron Gwazi

Once a former wooden roller coaster, this beast of a ride has been transformed into a hybrid ride. Iron Gwazi is the mega mashup you’ve been missing. Featuring the nostalgia of a wooden coaster and the power of steel, this is one plunge you’ll never forget. Reaching soaring heights of over 200 feet, it is North America’s tallest and steepest hybrid coaster.

Roller coaster experts will be left dumbfounded by the ride’s three inversions, 91-degree drop, and a 180-degree stall. 

Close up of people upside down on Iron Gwazi, a new coaster at Busch Gardens Tampa on a sunny day in Tampa, Florida, USA

photo credit: Busch Gardens Tampa

The land of citrus and sun has long intrigued visitors from all over the world. While Central Florida is known for many scintillating attractions, there is nothing quite like the mecca of theme parks in this locale. From Walt Disney World to Universal Studios new rides, to LEGOLAND and beyond, there are new Orlando attractions for everyone to enjoy.

Fortunately, frequent visitors need not fret as these titans of festivity and fun have a multitude of magnificent surprises up their sleeves for 2023. Whether you seek to battle the First Order on Starcruiser or have been dreaming of Donkey Kong since 1992. The new Orlando attractions are injecting energy and excitement into the theme park landscape. 

Tell Us, Which New Orlando Attractions Will You Tackle First?

Leave us a comment below!


Avatar photo

Written By Isis Maya

A New York native, Isis-Maya spent most of her professional life working in TV production until a vacation whisked her away to Central America and her love o ...

Want to write for Tripster?

Have something to add? Post it here:

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

You may use these HTML tags and attributes:

<a href="" title=""> <abbr title=""> <acronym title=""> <b> <blockquote cite=""> <cite> <code> <del datetime=""> <em> <i> <q cite=""> <s> <strike> <strong>