New Orlando Spring Break Attractions for 2024: Theme Park Highlights

Encuentra la versión en español de este contenido aquí

From innovative theme park rides to cultural experiences, Orlando offers a diverse array of new and exciting adventures for visitors seeking fun and discovery. Enjoy the new Orlando Spring Break attractions for this year in the most popular Theme Park.

Embark on an exhilarating journey through Orlando’s spring break attractions in 2024, filled with excitement and discovery.

Overview of Orlando’s Theme Park Attractions During Spring Break

Spring break in Orlando is a bustling time, marked by an influx of visitors eager to experience the array of attractions the city has to offer. Known as a premier destination for families and travel enthusiasts, Orlando’s theme parks are at the heart of its spring break allure.

Theme Park Highlights

Orlando’s theme parks, such as Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld Orlando, and LEGOLAND Florida Resort, are particularly popular. Each park boasts a variety of new rides, shows, and events that are specially designed to captivate and thrill visitors of all ages. For instance, Disney’s Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World Resort offers a blend of Hollywood magic and Disney charm, promising an unforgettable experience for its visitors.

Beyond Theme Parks: Diverse Attractions

However, Orlando’s appeal extends beyond its famous theme parks. The city is home to numerous shopping districts, dining experiences, and entertainment venues. Places like ICON Park and Universal CityWalk offer a rich mix of retail, dining, and entertainment options, catering to a wide range of preferences and interests. For those seeking a more relaxed experience, the serene beauty of Leu Gardens provides a tranquil escape from the bustling theme park atmosphere.

Unique Experiences

For a truly unique Orlando experience, visitors can indulge in activities like hot air balloon rides, which offer breathtaking views of the city and its surrounding landscapes. The Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts is another notable attraction, hosting a variety of family-friendly shows including musicians, comedians, and magicians.

Seasonal Events and Festivals

Spring in Orlando is also a time for special events and festivals. The International Flower and Garden Festival at Epcot is a highlight, featuring stunning floral displays and character topiaries. For families looking to add an educational twist to their vacation, the Orlando Science Center and the Orlando Museum of Art offer spring break camps that combine fun with learning.

Natural Beauty and Outdoor Activities

Orlando’s natural beauty is not to be overlooked. The Winter Park Chain of Lakes offers water-based activities like kayaking and paddleboarding, ideal for families who love outdoor adventures. The picturesque Bok Tower Gardens, Wekiwa Springs State Park, and Lake Louisa State Park are perfect for those looking to connect with nature and enjoy activities like hiking, swimming, and wildlife watching.

Exciting New Rides and Shows in Orlando Theme Parks for Spring Break

Orlando theme parks are set to introduce a host of new attractions in 2024, making your spring break adventure even more thrilling. Here’s what to look forward to:

Aquatica Orlando

• Tassie’s Underwater Twist: A unique waterslide experience that immerses riders in an underwater journey, simulating a dive through Australia’s Shark Bay seagrass meadow.

SeaWorld Orlando

• Penguin Trek: An indoor/outdoor launch coaster that promises an immersive experience, blending the thrill of a roller coaster with the enchantment of a penguin habitat.

LEGOLAND Florida Resort

• LEGO Ferrari Build & Race: This attraction allows guests to build and test their own LEGO Ferrari car on obstacle-laden tracks, including a life-sized LEGO Ferrari display.

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

• Phoenix Rising: A family-friendly coaster with suspended seats, soaring over the park’s Serengeti Plain and reaching speeds up to 44 mph.

Adventure Island

• Castaway Falls: A new play area for kids, featuring slides, a multi-level water jungle gym, and interactive elements, perfect for family fun.

Magic Kingdom

• Country Bear Jamboree revamp: The iconic show is getting a Nashville-style update, blending classic Disney songs with country genres.
• Tiana’s Bayou Adventure: Transforming the classic Splash Mountain into a musical log flume ride inspired by “The Princess and the Frog.”

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

• The Little Mermaid: A Musical Adventure: A revamped stage show telling Ariel’s story with new set pieces, effects, and musical twists.

Universal Orlando

• DreamWorks Land: An immersive area featuring characters and themes from popular DreamWorks animations like Shrek, Trolls, and Kung Fu Panda.

These attractions, among others, are set to elevate the Orlando theme park experience, offering a blend of excitement, creativity, and family-friendly fun. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or looking for immersive experiences, the new additions in 2024 cater to a wide range of preferences, ensuring an unforgettable spring break in Orlando.

For more details and updates on these attractions, you can visit the official websites of Aquatica Orlando, SeaWorld Orlando, LEGOLAND Florida Resort, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, Adventure Island, Magic Kingdom, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Universal Orlando​​​​​​.

Family-Friendly Activities Beyond the Rides in Orlando Theme Parks

Orlando’s theme parks offer a wide array of family-friendly activities that go beyond the thrilling rides. These activities are designed to engage families with diverse interests, ensuring that everyone in the group, from toddlers to grandparents, can find something enjoyable to do.

1. WonderWorks Orlando

• WonderWorks Orlando is a unique attraction that blends education and entertainment, offering over 100 hands-on science exhibits. It features a range of activities including laser tag, a ropes course, and a 6D motion ride, all within a space-themed environment. This location is perfect for families looking to add an educational twist to their fun-filled day.

2. Museum of Illusions

• Located at International Drive Icon Park, the Museum of Illusions is an exciting destination for families. It offers interactive and mind-bending exhibits that are not only fun but also provide great photo opportunities. This museum is known for its optical illusions that come alive through walk-through displays, encouraging visitors to think creatively.

3. Madame Tussauds

• The Madame Tussauds Wax Museum in Orlando brings you up close with life-like wax sculptures of celebrities from various fields. It’s an ideal spot for families to have fun posing with their favorite stars and superheroes. The museum’s detailed figures are organized in themed sections for an immersive experience.

4. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

• For Harry Potter fans, this part of Universal Studios Florida is a must-visit. It beautifully recreates the magical world of Hogwarts, complete with the streets of Diagon Alley and the Hogwarts castle. The area offers a chance to step into the fantasy world of the famous series, with experiences like a journey through the skies of Hogwarts.

5. Blue Man Group Show

• The Blue Man Group Show, part of Universal Studio’s lineup, is an energetic and family-friendly show that combines comedy, theater, and music. This vibrant performance is known for its interactive and colorful presentations, making it an entertaining choice for families.

6. Kelly Park

• Kelly Park offers a natural retreat with activities like camping, hiking, swimming, and tubing. Its lush green landscape and clear waters provide a serene environment, perfect for families looking to enjoy nature.

7. Orlando Watersports Complex

• For adventure-loving families, the Orlando Watersports Complex is a great spot to enjoy activities like wakeboarding, paddleboarding, and playing on floating inflatables. It’s a fun way to experience water sports, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced enthusiast.

8. Crayola Experience

• The Crayola Experience is an imaginative and colorful world where children can unleash their creativity. It offers various interactive and artistic activities, making it a delightful place for young ones to explore and express their artistic talents.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Crayola Experience Easton (@visitcrayola)

In addition to these attractions, Orlando offers many other activities suitable for families, ensuring that every visit is filled with memorable experiences. From interactive museums to natural parks, the city caters to a wide range of interests and age groups, making it an ideal destination for family vacations​​​​​​.

Dining and Shopping Experiences in Orlando Theme Parks (2024)

Orlando’s theme parks in 2024 continue to expand their dining and shopping experiences, offering visitors a diverse range of options that cater to various tastes and preferences.

Theme Park Dining Highlights

1. Epcot at Walt Disney World Resort introduces Journey of Water, inspired by Moana. This attraction provides an immersive experience allowing guests to interact with water in various playful ways, reflecting the lifecycle of water from rain to clouds.
2. Disney’s Hollywood Studios plans to debut a new, reimagined theatrical production – The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure. This promises an innovative blend of storytelling, music, and stagecraft.
3. Magic Kingdom Park will see the transformation of Splash Mountain into Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, inspired by the beloved film. This ride is expected to bring an engaging musical journey that complements the film’s narrative.
4. Universal Studios Florida is set to open DreamWorks Land, where guests can interact with characters from popular movies like “Shrek,” “Trolls,” and “Kung Fu Panda”.
5. Aquatica Orlando introduces Tassie’s Underwater Twist, a waterslide that promises an enthralling ride through a simulated Shark Bay seagrass meadow.
6. SeaWorld Orlando debuts Penguin Trek, an indoor/outdoor launch coaster offering a unique experience that ends in the park’s penguin habitat.
7. LEGOLAND Florida Resort will launch LEGO Ferrari Build & Race, a hands-on experience where guests can build and test their own LEGO Ferrari cars.

Orlando’s Expanding Culinary Scene

1. EET at Disney Springs, an Indian-inspired restaurant by Food Network’s Maneet Chauhan, offers traditional Indian flavors with a modern twist.
2. Summer House on the Lake at Disney Springs, serves California-inspired cuisine with sustainable ingredients, waterside views, and a variety of cookies and Rosé.
3. Arcade Monsters, the latest video-game bar and restaurant on International Drive, offers classic arcade games alongside a menu of bar food.
4. Flûtes Champagne Bar in Winter Park, a French-inspired champagne bar, celebrates the art of champagne-making.
5. Stadium Club at Caribe Royale Orlando Resort, a sports-themed facility, will feature sports simulators, bars, and private event areas.

Unique Dining Options Beyond the Parks

1. Black Rooster Taqueria in Orlando’s Mills 50® District, a MICHELIN Recommended farm-to-taco concept offering fresh, sustainable food.
2. Boca Winter Park, a restaurant on Park Avenue, is known for its diverse menu including lobster wontons and ginger encrusted salmon.
3. Chayote Barrio Kitchen in Winter Park, an upscale Latin restaurant by Chef Mario Pagan, serves dishes like Chilean sea bass.
4. EDOBOY in Mills 50® District, offers a unique standing sushi bar experience with fresh, high-quality fish.
5. The Glass Knife in Winter Park, a bakery renowned for its beautiful pastries and savory options like cheddar biscuits and avocado toast.
6. JUJU in The Milk District®, another MICHELIN Recommended restaurant, offers dry-aged fish and a kappo bar experience.
7. Market To Table in Winter Garden, known for modern American cuisine with classical influences, offers dishes like truffle gnocchi.
8. The Nauti Lobstah in Apopka, serves fresh Maine lobster in various styles including Connecticut-style lobster rolls.
9. Park Pizza & Brewing Company in Lake Nona, popular for pizza, wings, and a variety of craft beers.
10. Prato in Winter Park, a MICHELIN Recommended Italian restaurant, offers elegant dining with a focus on seasonal ingredients.

Shopping Experiences

Orlando’s shopping scene complements its dining experiences, offering visitors a range of options from theme park souvenirs to boutique finds. Disney Springs and Universal CityWalk are notable destinations for both dining and shopping, providing a mix of entertainment, retail, and culinary delights.

These dining and shopping experiences reflect Orlando’s evolution into a diverse culinary destination and a hub for unique and enjoyable shopping experiences, beyond just theme park attractions​​​​​​.

Special Events and Seasonal Celebrations in Orlando Theme Parks (2024)

Orlando’s theme parks are renowned for their vibrant special events and seasonal celebrations. In 2024, visitors can expect a plethora of exciting events throughout the year, especially at Walt Disney World.

EPCOT Festivals

• Epcot International Festival of the Arts (Jan 12 – Feb 19, 2024): Celebrates visual, performing, and culinary arts.
• Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival (Feb 28 – May 27, 2024): Showcases beautiful garden spaces and fresh cuisines.
• Epcot International Food and Wine Festival (Jul 25 – Nov 16, 2024, Tentative): Offers a culinary tour of global cuisines and beverages.
• Epcot International Festival of the Holidays (Nov 29 – Dec 25, 2024, Tentative): Features holiday traditions from around the world.

Magic Kingdom Events

• Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party (Aug 9 – Oct 31, 2024, Tentative): A family-friendly Halloween celebration.
• Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party (Nov 6 – Dec 20, 2024, Tentative): Brings the magic of Christmas to the Magic Kingdom.

Other Seasonal Events at Disney World

• Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon (Early Nov 2024): A themed run through the parks, culminating in an exclusive party at Epcot.
• Holiday Happenings & Events (Mid Nov 2024 – Early Jan 2025): The resort transforms with holiday decorations, parades, and special dining experiences.
• Candlelight Processional (Late Nov – Dec 30, 2024): A Christmas story narrated by a celebrity, accompanied by a choir and orchestra at EPCOT.
• Disney Jollywood Nights (Early Nov – Late Dec 2024): A holiday-themed event at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

Additional Celebrations

• Annual Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic (Mid-Nov 2024): A culinary showcase at the Swan and Dolphin hotels.
• New Year’s Eve Celebrations (Dec 31, 2024): Various parks offer special events to ring in the New Year.

Each event at Disney World uniquely contributes to the park’s atmosphere, offering something special for visitors of all ages. These celebrations are not just limited to theme parks but extend to various resorts and locations within the Walt Disney World area. It’s advisable to plan your visit around these events for an enhanced experience, but also be mindful of the extra crowds they may attract​​​​.

When planning your visit to Orlando’s theme parks in 2024, consider these tips to enhance your experience:

1. Be Aware of Surge Pricing: Ticket prices for theme parks like Disney World can vary depending on the day. It’s advisable to check the calendar for cheaper days to visit and plan your trip accordingly.
2. Hotel Deals: Don’t pay the full price for hotel rooms. Look out for ongoing deals at Disney World, especially for specific groups like Annual Passholders and Florida residents. You can also use hotel points at some Disney Springs hotels.
3. Dining Reservations: You can make dining reservations 60 days in advance. If you’re staying at a Disney World hotel, you can book for the length of your stay 60 days out from your first day. Reservations at popular spots like ‘Ohana or California Grill can go fast, so be prepared.
4. Food Priorities: If you plan to visit EPCOT during a festival and want to try festival foods, consider skipping a dining reservation at a table service restaurant in the park. Be mindful of the changes to the dining reservations policy for more flexibility.
5. Airport Transportation: Since Disney’s Magical Express service was discontinued, you’ll need to decide on your transportation to and from the airport. Options include renting a car, using a bus service like Mears Connect, or calling a rideshare.
6. My Disney Experience App: Familiarize yourself with the My Disney Experience app. It’s essential for checking wait times, using Genie and Genie+, Mobile Order, virtual queues, and more.
7. Park Pass Reservations: Most guests with date-based park tickets will no longer need to make park pass reservations starting January 9th, 2024. However, if your tickets are not date-based, such as Annual Passholders, you’ll still need to make reservations.
8. Events and Crowd Levels: Be aware of major events like runDisney weekends and cheer competitions that can lead to increased crowds. Plan your trip dates accordingly.
9. New Attractions: Consider the opening dates of new attractions like Tiana’s Bayou Adventure in Magic Kingdom’s Frontierland. Planning your visit after these attractions open can enhance your experience.

Exploring Orlando beyond its famous theme parks reveals a diverse array of attractions suitable for all interests. Here’s a curated list of activities and sights to enjoy:

1. Madame Tussauds Orlando: This world-renowned wax museum features lifelike figures of celebrities, offering a unique experience for visitors.
2. The Wheel at ICON Park: For a panoramic view of the city, take a ride on this 400-foot Ferris wheel.
3. The Escape Game Orlando: Test your problem-solving skills in an immersive escape room experience.
4. House of Blues Orlando: Enjoy live music performances in a venue known for its vibrant atmosphere.
5. Lake Eola Park: This picturesque urban park in downtown Orlando is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a swan-shaped paddleboat ride.
6. The Florida Mall: Indulge in retail therapy at one of Central Florida’s largest shopping centers.
7. Winter Park: A charming area known for its scenic boat tours, beautiful gardens, and fine dining.
8. Kennedy Space Center: A must-visit for space enthusiasts, offering insights into the history and future of space exploration.
9. Kelly Park and Rock Springs: Reconnect with nature by floating down the natural lazy river or swimming in crystal-clear springs.
10. Orlando Improv Comedy Club: Spend an evening filled with laughter at this popular comedy venue.
11. Orlando Museum of Art: Explore a diverse collection of artworks, including local and international artists.
12. Chocolate Museum & Cafe: A delight for chocolate lovers, featuring the history of chocolate and delicious gourmet treats.
13. Audubon Park Garden District: A vibrant neighborhood with unique shops, cafes, and a community garden.
14. Disney Springs: Offers shopping, dining, and entertainment without the need for a theme park visit.
15. Harry P. Leu Gardens’ Butterfly Garden: Immerse yourself in nature and observe a variety of butterflies and other wildlife.
16. Orange County Convention Center: Hosts a variety of exciting events and conventions throughout the year.
17. Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens: An ideal destination for families, featuring exotic animals and interactive exhibits.
18. Orlando City Stadium: Catch a soccer game and experience the thrill of live sports.
19. Tibet-Butler Nature Preserve: A serene park offering walking trails, picnic areas, and wildlife viewing.
20. International Drive: A bustling tourist corridor filled with shops, restaurants, and attractions like ICON Park and the Orlando StarFlyer.

These attractions offer a break from the typical theme park experience and provide a glimpse into the diverse entertainment options available in Orlando. Whether you’re interested in art, nature, sports, shopping, or just looking for a unique experience, Orlando has something to cater to every taste​​​​​​.

Exploring Orlando beyond its theme parks offers a wealth of diverse attractions catering to various interests. Here’s a continuation of the list of activities and sights to enjoy:

21. Orlando Science Center: An interactive museum with four floors of exhibits and demonstrations, including the NatureWorks exhibit, where visitors can interact with live animals native to Florida’s ecosystem.
22. Gatorland: A 110-acre wildlife preserve and theme park offering close encounters with alligators, crocodiles, birds, wild cats, and the opportunity to zipline over live gators.
23. Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures: Experience the headwaters of the Florida Everglades on an airboat ride, guided by knowledgeable captains.
24. The Amway Center: Hosts the NBA’s Orlando Magic, concerts, and other events, providing a lively entertainment option in the heart of the city.
25. Orlando City Soccer Game: Cheer on Orlando City SC in Major League Soccer at their outdoor stadium.
26. Madame Tussauds Orlando: Features lifelike wax figures of celebrities, offering photo opportunities with famous personalities.
27. Harry P. Leu Gardens: A botanical garden in the city with flowers, butterflies, scavenger hunts, holiday light displays, and rotating exhibits.
28. Gideon’s Bakehouse: Known for their half-pound cookies, this bakery offers a sweet treat in East End Market with the option for pre-order and pick-up.
29. Winter Park: A historic neighborhood with shopping and dining on the main street, hosting a large farmers market and offering the Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour.
30. Kennedy Space Center: An hour away from Orlando, it offers an educational day about America’s space program, including a bus tour past the launch pad and exhibits like the Space Shuttle Atlantis.
31. The Wheel at Icon Park: A 400-foot observation wheel offering views of the downtown skyline and theme park fireworks.
32. Sea Life Orlando Aquarium: Home to thousands of creatures and 250 species, the aquarium offers interactive experiences with turtles, sharks, rays, seahorses, and more.
33. Orlando Hot Air Balloons: Experience Orlando from the sky in a hot air balloon, providing breathtaking views and a unique perspective of the city.
34. Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts: Hosts a variety of performances ranging from Broadway shows to concerts and dance performances.
35. The Morse Museum: Houses the world’s most comprehensive collection of works by Louis Comfort Tiffany, including jewelry, pottery, paintings, and art glass.
36. Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive: A self-guided driving tour offering a chance to see a variety of bird species, alligators, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.

These attractions provide a rich array of experiences beyond the thrill of theme parks, showcasing Orlando’s cultural, natural, and recreational diversity​​​​​​.

For a safe and convenient trip to Orlando’s theme parks in 2024, consider the following tips:

1. Safety in the City: Orlando is generally a safe destination for tourists, thanks to extensive security measures at theme parks and resorts. However, some neighborhoods on the west side of downtown Orlando, like Pine Hills and Malibu Groves, have higher crime rates and are best avoided by tourists. The tourist areas, such as International Drive and Celebration, are generally safe. Hotels within the Universal Studios and Walt Disney World resorts are among the safest accommodations in the city​​.
2. Mosquito and Wildlife Safety: Orlando is proactive in mosquito control, with robust efforts in the tourist corridors. For wildlife, avoid feeding or harassing animals, especially alligators and bears. Be cautious near fresh or brackish water and adhere to all signage about water access​​.
3. Driving Safety: If you’re driving, Florida law requires the use of safety belts for all front seat passengers and for all passengers under the age of 18. Children aged 3 and under must be in a federally approved child-restraint seat. Remember to follow Florida’s Move Over law, which requires drivers to move over a lane for stopped law enforcement and emergency vehicles​​.
4. Health and Safety: Orlando’s businesses, health experts, and local governments collaborate to ensure health and safety for visitors. Orlando Health, as Visit Orlando’s Official Health and Wellness Partner, provides health-related benefits and medical services for travelers. This includes access to health-related options and valuable health information​​.
5. Changes in Theme Park Policies: In 2024, Walt Disney World will see major changes, such as the return of the Disney Dining Plan, which allows guests at Disney hotels to pay for meals in advance. Additionally, Park Pass reservations will no longer be necessary for date-based tickets, and park hopping will be allowed for guests with appropriate tickets or annual passes​​.

By staying informed about these aspects and planning accordingly, you can enjoy a memorable and safe experience in Orlando’s theme parks and the surrounding areas.

As you plan your 2024 Orlando spring break trip, remember that the city offers much more than just theme parks. From serene nature preserves to dynamic cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone. Keep safety and convenience in mind to make your visit smooth and enjoyable. Whether exploring the magic of Disney or discovering Orlando’s hidden treasures, each moment promises to be a blend of adventure and relaxation, creating memories that will last a lifetime.