Orlando is an epic family destination that keeps raising the bar with new venues, new rides, new restaurants and new hotels. Check out what’s happening in 2020 in this family entertainment capital.
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Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Galaxy’s Edge | Photo by David Roark, courtesy of Walt Disney World
This new Disney World addition technically opened in December of 2019, but the buzz is just beginning. The new Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is in a galaxy far, far away, in Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Ride in the Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run and you’ll feel like you’re actually in a Star Wars movie. Build your own droid and custom lightsaber and taste the curious concoctions in Olga’s Cantina like green milk or galactic cocktails. With Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, you’ll find yourselves front and center in your own Star Wars battle. Live the adventure like never before!
Cirque du Soleil at Disney Springs
In March, the highly anticipated Cirque Du Soleil show will open at Disney Springs. Named “Drawn to Life,” this dazzling show blends the imagination of Disney with Cirque’s innovative performances. Like all Cirque du Soleil shows, you can expect to see high-flying acrobats, fabulous choreography and music…all come to life.
Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure at Wizarding World of Harry Potter
Get ready to ride this steel roller coaster in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter—Hogsmeade at Universal Orlando’s Islands of Adventure. Roar into the Forbidden Forest in search of new Harry Potter adventure as you fly by the really cool animatronics. Sit in the motorcycle or sidecar and prepare for a surprise that will make you want to immediately get back in line again!
NBA Experience at Disney Springs
Pretend you’re a star at the NBA Experience.
Go pro at the NBA Experience at Disney Springs. Inspired by contemporary sports arenas, this two-story basketball mecca offers 13 experiences to challenge your skills. The attraction combines the magic of Disney with the non-stop excitement of the NBA as you slam dunk your way into an immersive world of b-ball thrills. How many baskets can you score in 15 seconds? Head to this popular on-court experience and find out. Coming soon is City Works Eatery and Pour House, just a jump shot away from the NBA Experience. Chow down on classic American cuisine with a massive selection of craft brews and catch all the action while watching your favorite game!
The Bourne Stuntacular at Universal Studios
Just when you thought Jason Bourne from the blockbuster films couldn’t offer any more thrills comes a new live-action stunt show at Universal Studios. The Bourne Stuntacular follows Jason Bourne across the globe as dangerous characters pursue him. This new action-packed show features death-defying chase scenes, leaps and fistfights with live action creating a completely immersive experience.
Island H20 Live at Margaritaville’s new Waterpark
Racers compete at Island H20 Live | Photo: Courtesy of Margaritaville Resorts
Opened recently is the Orlando area’s newest waterpark, Island H20 Live. The thrill-packed park takes the WOW factor to new heights by integrating technology with refreshing fun, plus social media. Slide, tube, raft, wave pool or plunge your way into the water for new thrills, while your wrist band captures all the action!
Stay
Universal’s Endless Summer Resort | Photo: Courtesy of Universal Studios, Orlando.
At Universal’s Endless Summer Resort, sister property Surfside Inn and Suites is currently open, while Dockside Inn and Suites is set to open in March. Combined they boast three pools, two food courts and multiple poolside bars. The upscale, JW Marriott Orlando Bonnet Creek Resort & Spa is slated to open soon and will feature 516 guestrooms, a spa, a resort pool with splash pad, specialty restaurants, and a rooftop terrace with views of the theme park fireworks. Making its debut in the fall is the Aloft-Element Hotel, featuring an urban look, vibrant decor and tech-savvy spaces. Element offers extended-stays with emphasis on the community experience.
Mira Temkin
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