- Mar 13, 2024
- 1,774
- 35
A whirlwind of Disney news just dropped, and if you blinked, you might have missed it! From free food deals to revamped rides and affordable hotel stays for Disney+ subscribers, Disney World is shaking things up. Whether you're off to explore from the UK, a dedicated villain enthusiast, or just want to enjoy a drink in a vintage birdcage setting, there's a lot that could alter your Disney World plans. Here’s the scoop on the seven major updates Disney just unveiled.
Here's what's buzzing:
1. **FREE Dining Plan Returns... with a Twist**
Yes, the free Disney Dining Plan is back! But there's a catch: it's exclusive to UK and Ireland visitors booking vacations for 2026. If that includes you, you're in for a big treat with meals, drinks (including alcohol for 21+), and access to over 170 dining spots at Disney.
2. **Disney+ Subscriber Hotel Deals**
Disney+ subscribers, rejoice! Special summer hotel rates start at just $99 per night at select resorts between June 29th and July 31st, 2025. If you're a subscriber, you’ll want to act fast—this offer’s somewhat limited and applies to select properties.
3. **Test Track Makeover**
Disney Imagineering is giving Test Track a sleek new vibe with darker, more stylish ride vehicles and updated interiors. There’s no specific debut date yet, but expect it by late summer.
4. **Skyliner Closure Set for January 2026**
The Skyliner will close for maintenance from January 25th to 31st, 2026. If this impacts your travel plans, Disney will offer bus transportation, but anticipate longer wait times.
5. **Villains at Hollywood Studios**
Coming May 27th, 2025, Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After will debut at Hollywood Studios. Maleficent, Captain Hook, Cruella De Vil, and others take the stage to present their side. Who gets your vote for being unfairly treated?
6. **New Bar at Grand Floridian**
A stylish new lobby bar inspired by the Victorian birdcage decor is opening at the Grand Floridian. The bar will feature beautiful details and a relaxed vibe with live piano music—a must for cocktail enthusiasts.
7. **Farewell to Shula’s, Hello Bourbon Steak**
Shula’s Steak House is set to close, making room for Bourbon Steak by Michael Mina. If you love a luxe dining experience, this will be a fabulous new addition, with a renowned chef at the helm.
These updates are quite the mixed bag! Disney's certainly gearing up for big changes in 2025 and 2026. What are your thoughts on these new developments? Are there any announcements you're particularly excited or surprised about? Share your opinion below!
Here's what's buzzing:
1. **FREE Dining Plan Returns... with a Twist**
Yes, the free Disney Dining Plan is back! But there's a catch: it's exclusive to UK and Ireland visitors booking vacations for 2026. If that includes you, you're in for a big treat with meals, drinks (including alcohol for 21+), and access to over 170 dining spots at Disney.
2. **Disney+ Subscriber Hotel Deals**
Disney+ subscribers, rejoice! Special summer hotel rates start at just $99 per night at select resorts between June 29th and July 31st, 2025. If you're a subscriber, you’ll want to act fast—this offer’s somewhat limited and applies to select properties.
3. **Test Track Makeover**
Disney Imagineering is giving Test Track a sleek new vibe with darker, more stylish ride vehicles and updated interiors. There’s no specific debut date yet, but expect it by late summer.
4. **Skyliner Closure Set for January 2026**
The Skyliner will close for maintenance from January 25th to 31st, 2026. If this impacts your travel plans, Disney will offer bus transportation, but anticipate longer wait times.
5. **Villains at Hollywood Studios**
Coming May 27th, 2025, Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After will debut at Hollywood Studios. Maleficent, Captain Hook, Cruella De Vil, and others take the stage to present their side. Who gets your vote for being unfairly treated?
6. **New Bar at Grand Floridian**
A stylish new lobby bar inspired by the Victorian birdcage decor is opening at the Grand Floridian. The bar will feature beautiful details and a relaxed vibe with live piano music—a must for cocktail enthusiasts.
7. **Farewell to Shula’s, Hello Bourbon Steak**
Shula’s Steak House is set to close, making room for Bourbon Steak by Michael Mina. If you love a luxe dining experience, this will be a fabulous new addition, with a renowned chef at the helm.
These updates are quite the mixed bag! Disney's certainly gearing up for big changes in 2025 and 2026. What are your thoughts on these new developments? Are there any announcements you're particularly excited or surprised about? Share your opinion below!
