Minions, Moana, & Mario 🏎
New in 2023 at Universal & Disney
Coming soon to a theme park near you
It's a new year and time to look forward to fresh adventures in store at the US theme parks. Major new attractions and entirely new lands will open on both coasts, along with the return of some re-imagined classic favorites.
What's launching before your vacation? Take a look at the details below.
"Disneyland will never be completed. It will continue to grow as long as there is imagination left in the world." ~ Walt Disney
Here's what's opening in 2023
Universal Orlando
Minion Land - opens summer 2023 in Universal Studios Florida
Gru & his minions are taking over the front of Orlando's Universal Studios park. A new attraction and restaurant open this summer near the Minion Mayhem ride. Located in the former Shrek location, the new attraction is called Villan-con Minion Blast, and it features an interactive blaster and a lot of destruction.
The restaurant will be called the Minion Cafe, and may be similar to Hollywood's Minion Cafe - details are yet to be released.
Disney World
Tron Lightcycle Run roller coaster - opens spring 2023 in Magic Kingdom
After years of construction, the much-anticipated Tron coaster will finally open in Magic Kingdom this spring. Already a huge hit at Shanghai Disney, this high-speed headliner coaster is sure to be the most popular ride in the Kingdom during 2023.
Disney World Railroad - now reopened in Magic Kingdom
After several years' closure, Magic Kingdom's classic steam train is completely refurbished and back in action.
Moana: Journey of Water - opening late 2023 in Epcot
Part of a grand overhaul of Epcot's former "Future World" (now known as World Nature, World Celebration, and World Discovery), Moana: Journey of Water is an interactive exploration trail through a lush water landscape. This attraction will bring a welcome addition of green to an otherwise heavily-paved park. Here's a quick preview from the construction site that recently aired on GMA.
Disneyland
Mickey & Minnie's Runaway Railway - opening January 27th in Disneyland
This madcap attraction takes riders into Mickey & Minnie's cartoon universe. Fun for the whole family, it's a West Coast edition of the top-rated ride from Orlando's Hollywood Studios park. This new ride will be the jewel in the new Toontown land, which officially opens in March.
Toontown - opening March 8 in Disneyland
The classic kids land has been completely overhauled with grassy spaces and even a fountain to play in. Donald's boat and Goofy's House feature new experiences, and you can once again meet Minnie and Mickey in their 'toony homes. Fans of Roger Rabbit's CarToon Spin will be glad to see that attraction returning as well.
Adventureland Treehouse - opening later in 2023 in Disneyland
Tarzan has left his treehouse to a new family, moving in sometime in 2023. The new theming is expected to throw-back towards the original Swiss Family Robinson. Watch for more details later this year.
Disney 100 Years of Magic Celebration - begins January 27th in Disneyland and California Adventure
2023 commemorates 100 years of Disney animation. As the platinum anniversary, the parks - including the castle - will be decked out in shiny platinum accents. A new fireworks show will debut in Disneyland, and California Adventure's World of Color nighttime show gets new theming too. You bet there's also special merch for sale.
Paradise Pier Hotel will become Pixar Place Hotel - 2023
Renovations are already partially completed for the overhaul of Paradise Pier Hotel. New theming includes Pixar references throughout the hotel, including that iconic lamp in the lobby and a Finding Nemo splashpad out back. A direct entrance into California Adventure, just for hotel guests, is already open.
Universal Studios Hollywood
Super Nintendo World - opening February 17th in Universal Studios Hollywood
Gamers, I may have buried the lead here. Super Nintendo World is a massively anticipated new land opening next month at Universal Studios Hollywood.
The headliner attraction is Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge, which is basically like driving through the actual video game. Universal has thrown every kind of ride technology at this, and by all accounts it's something guests will want to ride over and over. Here's a great spoiler-free preview from Disney Tourist Blog.
Much like the Wizarding World of Harry Potter or Galaxy's Edge, Super Nintendo World is its own attraction. It's also it's own game. Wearable power-up bands allow guests to interact with elements throughout the land. You'll also find highly themed shopping at the 1-Up Factory Store, and dining at Toadstool Cafe.
This new land will surely bring the crowds to Universal Hollywood. Be sure to use my rope drop tips, know how to ride single, and consider Express Pass if you're visiting in 2023, especially early in the year.
Wondering which coast to visit next?
Get a complete comparison of Universal Orlando vs Universal Hollywood on Go Informed Podcast episode 73, and in this detailed post on my website.
Find out how the destinations compare in terms of:
Thrill rides
Unique experiences
Wizarding World of Harry Potter
Tickets & Express Pass
Where to stay
How easy it is to do Disney too
Plus lot more helpful insights & tips
Read the post here, or listen on your favorite podcast app, including: