The D23 2017 expo was this past weekend and Disney had some major Park announcements. Including updates to the new Toy Story land and Star Wars land at Hollywood Studios. A new transportation system that connects resorts to the Parks and even a new Space themed restaurant. Lets take a closer look!
- The highly anticipated Star Wars themed land is due to open in 2019. They have named this new area Star Wars: Galaxy’s edge. This area is set to look like a trading post on the edge of wild space. Bringing 2 new rides and 2 new dining venues, 1 being a cantina. One of the new rides will give riders the sense they are flying the Millennium Falcon. There will also be an outdoor market place which may offer new character greetings. There was also the announcement for a Star Wars themed resort that will immerse guest into the Star Wars realm. Stay tuned for more info.
- Toy Story Land in Hollywood studio is set to open summer of 2018. Guest will feel like they have shrunk to to the size of a toy in Andy’s room. With 2 new rides a slinky dog coaster and alien spinning saucers (think tea cup ride).
- The Great movie ride is closing August 13th to begin construction on a new Mickey and Minnie themed ride. Named Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway guests will be transported into a cartoon short and promises a new catchy song to go along with it. For those who love searching for hidden Mickeys in the parks this ride is rumored to have plenty!
- Over at Epcot a new ride is coming to the France pavilion. No official name yet, but we do know that it will feature everyone’s favorite little chef Remy from the Ratatouille movie.
- Guardians of the Galaxy themed ride will be taking over where Ellen’s World of energy is currently home. No word on what this ride will feature but rumors are indicating it may be a roller coaster. Ellen’s World of Energy will close August 13th and the new ride is set to open sometime 2021.
- Tomorrowland speedway is closing to make room for new Tron inspired ride near Space Mountain in the Magic Kingdom. This coaster-style ride will be just like the popular one found at Disney’s Shanghai resort. Expected to open in 2021.
A new space themed restaurant is coming to Epcots future world. Located next the the Mission:Space ride. Guests will enjoy their meal with views that make it appear they are dining in space.- A new live entertainment theater will be making its way to Magic Kingdoms Main street USA. The building will be based on the iconic Willis Wood Theater in Kansas City. No official opening date however we can assume it will be with most new updates coming in time for 2021 50 year anniversary.
- New DVC property named Disney’s Riviera resort will be constructed near Epcot on land that used to be part of the Caribbean beach resort. It will be one of the resorts that will connect to the parks via the new Skyliner system. It will feature a rooftop restaurant with views of both Epcot and Hollywood Studios. This resort is set to open fall 2019.
Riviera resort concept art
Finally, two new forms of transportation coming to Walt Disney world!
- The Minnie van will be similar to Uber and provide point-t0-point transportation through out Disney world. Minnie Van will cost $20 per vehicle per trip and is set to begin July 2017 at Disney’s BoardWalk and Yacht Club Resorts. They will roll out more locations throughout Walt Disney World in the future.
- Disney Skyliner a gondola type ride will connect resorts with 2 Disney World theme parks. This system will connect Pop Century, Art of Animation, Caribbean Beach and future DVC Riviera resorts to Disney’s Hollywood studios and the International Gateway (back entrance) at Epcot theme parks. This gondola system will transport guests above the Walt Disney World resort and give riders a unique look overhead.
There are so many awesome updates coming to Disney World. Many of these are intended to open around Disney Worlds 50th anniversary in 2021. I am excited that Epcot will be getting more rides; I would like to see more around world showcase. I am really looking forward to the gondola system since right now the resorts we usually stay at, Pop and AoA, only offer bus transportation to the parks. I will update on these as more information is available!