Orlando Announces New Experiences for 2024

Image: The Orlando Science Center (Photo via Visit Orlando)

by Noreen Kompanik
Last updated: 12:25 PM ET, Fri January 5, 2024

Orlando, the theme park capital of the world has announced a myriad of new experiences for new and returning visitors in 2024.

?“Year after year, Orlando sets itself apart as a travel destination with new experiences and unforgettable adventures to spark the imagination,” said Casandra Matej, president and CEO of Visit Orlando. “Whether visitors are seeking new thrills, immersive entertainment or foodie-focused exploration, a whole new Orlando is ready to welcome you in 2024.”?

Theme Park Attractions

Journey of Water, inspired by Moana opened in October at Epcot at Walt Disney World Resort.
The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure, will debut at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure will replace Splash Mountain at Magic Kingdom Park.
DreamWorks Land will debut at Universal Studios Florida.
Aquatica Orlando will introduce Tassie’s Underwater Twist, an awe-inspiring waterslide journey through Australia's Shark Bay seagrass meadow.
SeaWorld Orlando launches Penguin Trek, an immersive indoor/outdoor launch coaster.
LEGOLAND Florida Resort will feature LEGO Ferrari Build & Race. ?

Venue Expansions and Openings

Judson’s Live debuts on Feb. 6 at Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts.
AREA15 Orlando is heading to the heart of Orlando’s tourism corridor.
Orlando Science Center opens its newest exhibit, “Life,” featuring three distinctive habitats. ?

New Accommodations and Renovations

The Alfond Inn, a boutique hotel in the heart of the historic Winter Park, completed an extensive renovation.
Evermore Orlando Resort, opening on January 1, is Orlando’s first beach-like property with an 8-acre Crystal Lagoon and a 20-acre sandy beach.
Conrad Orlando, the destination’s first Hilton luxury brand, opens on January 9. ?
Aloft Orlando Lake Nona, the closest hotel to the world-class USTA (United States Tennis Association) National Campus opened in January.
Villatel Orlando Resort in the iconic International Drive area began a phased opening in late 2023.
Waldorf Astoria Orlando is completing a multi-phase transformation and redesign.

Dining and Nightlife

EET, the only Indian-inspired restaurant in Disney Springs has opened.
Summer House on the Lake, a lakeside eatery, also opened at Disney Springs.
Arcade Monsters unveiled its fifth location of the video-game bar and restaurant in Orlando’s International Drive area. ?
Fl?tes Champagne Bar, a French-inspired champagne bar debuts in Winter Park.
Stadium Club, a new sports-themed facility located at Caribe Royale Orlando Resort launches in January.
Bar Kada, by Michael Collantes, chef and owner of Michelin-starred Soseki, will open in February. ?
Moso Nori, the new concept by James Beard Award finalist and Michelin-recognized chef
Henry Moso is anticipating a summer opening in Winter Park.
BANDBOX Orlando, the spirit-free speakeasy in Orlando’s Ivanhoe Village district, will expand in the new year. ?
Natsu Omakase, an exclusive 10-seat sushi omakase venue, opened in downtown Orlando.
Chuck Lager America’s Tavern is opening its eighth location, and fourth in Florida, from Top Chef alumnus, Fabio Viviani.
Pointe Orlando, a playground for adults with or without kids, will debut a trio of new indoor/outdoor entertainment spaces.
Mid Drive Dive, a locally owned midcentury-inspired bar and restaurant will open in the heart of Orlando’s College Park neighborhood.
The Cake Bake Shop Bakery by Gwendolyn Rogers is coming to Disney’s BoardWalk.
Crush Yard Pickleball Club & Restaurant, a new entertainment complex backed by NFL stars such as Rob Gronkowski, is expected to open in Kissimmee in 2024. ?