Walt Disney World is no stranger to growth and expansion, and it seems that they have big plans in store for the future. The company has recently announced plans for what they are calling the “largest expansion ever” at Disney World’s Magic Kingdom park. This expansion will go beyond the existing attractions, such as the popular Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, and will be about the same size as the impressive Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge, spanning 14 acres in total.
While the details of this expansion are still shrouded in mystery, with Disney remaining tight-lipped about the theme and timeline, excitement is building among fans and enthusiasts. The project, known as “Beyond Big Thunder,” is currently in the early stages of development, with Disney reportedly seeking permits to move forward. Disney’s CEO, Bob Iger, has hinted at more substantial announcements to come, leaving many to speculate about what surprises Disney may have in store for visitors at D23 this August.
In line with their ambitious plans for expansion, Disney announced a staggering $60 billion investment in its parks, cruises, and other experiences over the next decade. A significant portion of this – $42 billion – will be dedicated to new attractions, with the remaining $18 billion earmarked for technology and maintenance to support these expansions.
Disney’s move to enhance Magic Kingdom comes at a crucial time, as their rival, Universal Orlando Resort, revealed plans to open a third park, Epic Universe, in 2025. This new park will feature exciting attractions, including a new Harry Potter area and Super Nintendo World. The competition between Disney and Universal continues to heat up, with both companies striving to offer visitors unforgettable experiences and cutting-edge attractions.
While Disney fans eagerly await more details about the Magic Kingdom expansion, there are plenty of other new experiences to look forward to in the near future. The iconic Splash Mountain ride at Disney World has been decommissioned and is set to reopen as Tiana’s Bayou Adventure later this year. Disney recently unveiled the official animatronics for this ride, giving fans a glimpse of what’s to come.
In addition to the changes at Magic Kingdom, other attractions across Walt Disney World are also undergoing transformations. The beloved Rock N’ Rollercoaster featuring Aerosmith at Hollywood Studios is currently closed for refurbishment, while the Test Track ride at Epcot will shut down in June for a reimagining by Disney’s Imagineers. These updates and enhancements are part of Disney’s ongoing efforts to keep their parks fresh and exciting for visitors.
As Walt Disney World continues to evolve and grow, one thing remains certain – the magic and wonder that have defined the Disney experience for generations will continue to captivate visitors for years to come. Stay tuned for more updates and announcements as Disney’s plans for expansion unfold.
Leave a Reply