New at Disney World in 2019

Disney is constantly adding new things at the Walt Disney World Resort every year. It can be hard to keep up with the latest openings and what to expect on your next trip to the Walt Disney World Resort. Trust me it has almost become a second full-time job with all the new Disney announcements lately. Since the average family visits every three years, we have included 2018 as well as 2019 items on our list of what is new at Disney World in 2019.

If you already know you want to visit in 2019 keep checking back, as we are constantly updating this list as Disney World makes announcements on new opening dates and new additions to the resort! Or join our private Facebook group and get your Disney vacation planning questions answered today! Also, subscribe to our YouTube channel to get notifications when we upload new Disney World content.

Attractions

Star Wars Galaxy Edge (Late Fall 2019)

The most anticipated event of 2019 at Disney World is the opening of Star Wars Land at Hollywood Studios. Here in Florida Star Wars Galaxy's Edge is set to open to travelers August 29th. Two attractions are coming with the brand new area. One ride puts you at the controls of the Millennium Falcon, and the other you will be in a battle of the First Order and the Resistance. For more details read Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge.

Mickey & Minnie’s Surprise Celebration (Jan 2019)

The Magic Kingdom with be getting an all-new “Move It! Shake It! MousekeDance It! Street Party.” Several times daily, this colorful procession will parade up Main Street, U.S.A. toward Cinderella Castle. And don't be afraid to join in the energetic dance party.

Singing hosts will keep things hopping with modern remixes of favorite “Mickey Mouse Club” melodies and more. Joining Mickey and Minnie in all the fun will be a bevy of beloved Disney characters, including Donald Duck, Daisy Duck, Goofy, Pluto, Max, Chip ’n Dale, and others.

Hakuna Matata Time Dance Party (Jan. 2019)

Each day to September 30th, you will feel the love during the Hakuna Matata Time Dance Party. This is a raucous celebration where young adventurers will let their inner animals roam free on the dance floor. Timon and Rafiki will engage everyone in entertaining dances and games inspired by “The Lion King,” as wildly talented musicians provide the perfect soundtrack in a World Beat style.

Also, you can picture yourself in scenes from the film via new three-dimensional photo opportunities at the park. These backdrops will allow you to re-create iconic “Lion King” moments ideal for sharing on social media platforms.

Pixar Place Reimagined (Jan. 2019)

Beginning January 18th, Pixar Place will transform into a Municiberg city block from Pixar’s Incredibles films. Guests will meet super suit designer Edna Mode and see some of her greatest creations. They will look for clues to the whereabouts of the youngest Incredible, the mischievous and multi-powered Jack-Jack. And at the end of the block, guests will celebrate the heroic deeds of Mr. Incredible, Mrs. Incredible, and Frozone, who will make appearances throughout the day during a party featuring lively music, dancing, interactive games and lots more Super fun.

Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy (March 2019)

Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy will speed into Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This new show experience will welcome guests to the world of Pixar’s Cars films, bringing them face to face with racing legend Lightning McQueen. As the next generation of rookie racers, guests will learn from Lightning’s years of experience on the track. This will be the untold story of Lightning McQueen … as told by Lightning McQueen!

Disney Skyliner

The transportation system will connect Disney’s Art of Animation, Pop Century and Caribbean Beach resorts, and other locations with Disney’s Hollywood Studios and the International Gateway at Epcot. And many of the gondolas with Disney Skyliner will feature favorite Disney characters. For more details on the Disney Skyliner read our in-depth article here.

Epcot Forever (October 2019)

There will be a limited-time experience Epcot fans will love, called “Epcot Forever,” which will debut in fall 2019 and will feature classic Epcot tunes. “Epcot Forever” will begin with a spark of imagination that swells into an epic spectacle of fireworks, music, lighting, lasers, and special effects kites.

France “Beauty and the Beast” Sing-Along

In addition to “Impressions de France,” a brand new “Beauty and the Beast” sing-along with open in the France pavilion at Epcot. The show was created by Don Hahn, producer of the animated and live-action “Beauty and the Beast” films. Plus we also heard the Canada pavilion is in the process of updating the existing O Canada! 360-degree show!

Toy Story Land (June 30, 2018)

This is the most highly anticipated addition to Disney World in 2018. In Toy Story Land, explore the world of Andy’s backyard with your favorite Toy Story characters, including Woody and Buzz. There are two new themed attractions in Toy Story Land. Slinky Dog Dash is a family coaster attraction, entirely outdoors so you can see what you are in for - FUN! Alien Swirling Saucers twirls and spins you around as you try to become the chosen one for the claw. You will now enter Toy Story Midway Mania from Toy Story Land. Also, don't miss the new quick service food location, Woody's Lunchbox.

Pandora the World of Avatar

The new World of Avatar is home to two new attractions. First, is the family friendly Na’vi River Journey, a river ride through a bioluminescent rainforest. And second, the Avatar Flight of Passage excursion will offer the jaw-dropping experience of riding on a Banshee over the world of Pandora. This new land opened on May 27, 2017.

See our reviews:

• What to Expect @ Pandora The World of Avatar
• What to Expect @ Flight of Passage
• Accomplish Everything in Pandora
• Satu'li Canteen Dining review

Pandora Utility Suit (April 22, 2018)

Pandora Conservation Initiative, or PCI, pilot walking around in his Utility Suit in Pandora, The World of Avatar at Disney's Animal Kingdom. This interactive character has lots of fun talking with guests on Pandora.

UP! A Great Bird Adventure (April 2018)

Beginning just in time for the 20th anniversary of Disney’s Animal Kingdom, this new show will offer guests the chance to see Senior Wilderness Explorer Russell and his friend Dug as they discover species of birds from around the world. Their newest adventure will be found at the Caravan Theater in Anandapur village, former home of Flights of Wonder. There will be “UP” close encounters each day with amazing winged creatures!

 

New Food Locations at Disney World

Takumi-Tei (Summer 2019)

There is a new Signature table-service restaurant coming to the World Showcase at Epcot! A new addition to the Japan pavilion will provide a signature dining experience inspired by the natural beauty of Japan. The design of this new dining experience celebrates the relationship between Japanese craftsmanship and the natural world. The food is inspired by the wonderful collaboration between nature and Takumi, the artisan. The upscale dinner menu will highlight wagyu beef in a sublime setting. If you are ready for a splurge Takumi-Tei will offer a multi-course tasting menu featuring traditional tea service. Signature cocktails and premium sake will be available along with a wine and craft beer menu.

City Works Eatery & Pour House

If you are a huge fan of craft beer and classic American food, the new City Works Eatery & Pour House is perfect for you! The new restaurant will open on the West Side next summer. The restaurant and bar will offer plenty of high-def TVs including a 165-inch screen, perfect for viewing your favorite live sporting events.

Like the seven existing locations across the country, the Disney Springs space will offer 80 beers on tap including rare, limited supply, special tappings from local breweries and others from around the world. If barley and hops aren’t for you, a curated selection of popular wines will be available as well, ready to pair with bar bites, shareables, burgers, and more.

Roundup Rodeo BBQ

There’s a brand-new table-service restaurant coming to Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Using three cardboard boxes cut and taped together, Andy has created a new rodeo arena using some of his favorite toys, games, and playsets. And while some pieces are definitely western-themed, what makes this rodeo special is the broad assortment of toys that have been brought together to create a fun, colorful mashup-atmosphere that only a child could create. 

Storybook Dining at Artist Point

Storybook Dining at Artist Point you will venture into an Enchanted Forest-like setting inspired by Walt Disney’s “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.” There, you’ll enjoy a delicious meal of fantastic fare with visits from Snow White, Dopey and Grumpy. Delightful music and activities will help bring the classic fairytale to life, and you’ll even have an opportunity for an encounter with The Queen.

This immersive character dinner takes place amidst the rustic elegance and exceptional dining that Artist Point is known for. You’ll enjoy a uniquely themed prix fixe menu, including shared starters, a choice of individual plated entrees and ‘sweet spells’ to finish the meal. Read our review of Storybook Dining at Artist Point.

Sebastian’s Bistro

After a multi-year renovation, Caribbean Beach has opened Sebastian’s Bistro. This restaurant is a Caribbean-inspired table-service restaurant featuring warm island hospitality and waterfront views. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a tropical beachfront home offering tantalizing Latin and Caribbean flavors. Highlights include a skirt steak “chimichurri,” sautéed shrimp and tamales, a crispy avocado-and-bacon burger and much more. For a full review read Sebastian's Bistro Dinner Review.

4R Cantina Barbacoa Food Truck

This food truck is a new edition to Disney Springs. You can find it right next to the World of Disney Store. The must-have here is the giant Taco Cone pictured on the left. For our full review read 4 Rivers Cantina Barbacoa Food Truck Review.

Edison - Disney Springs

The Edison opened early January 2018, the Edison features exceptional classic American food, artisanal craft cocktails, and unparalleled live entertainment. It is an Industrial Gothic themed restaurant. While there enjoy the multiple themed areas, such as the Lab performance space, The Ember Parlour, Telegraph Lounge, The Patent Office, Th