Additions, Upgrades, and Changes to Walt Disney World in 2023

Based on the sci-fi movie, “TRON: Legacy” is set to open on April 4 in the Tomorrowland section of the flagship Florida park. Disney said that it will be one of the fastest rides throughout all of its global network of theme parks. While April 4 is the official opening day, the ride will likely offer previews to annual pass holders and Disney vacation club members in the days leading up to the grand opening.

Free Self-Parking for Disney Resort Guests

Disney announced that it is bringing back complimentary self-parking for guests at its resort hotels. While this had been a perk in the past, recent cost-cutting measures had led to charges for even overnight guests. Disney said that company officials decided to bring back the free parking after listening to guest feedback. The change went into effect on January 10.

Photo Downloads with Purchase of Genie+

Disney is upgrading its Genie+ service to also include free digital downloads of various Disney PhotoPass pictures. These pictures are taken of guests at over one dozen of the most popular rides at the parks. Included in this list are attractions such as Test Track, Space Mountain, Slinky Dog Dash, Expedition Everest, and more. Disney officials said that this addition of digital downloads at no charge will enhance the value of the existing Genie+ service.

Park Reservation Requirements Eased for Annual Passholders

Starting shortly, annual pass holders to Walt Disney World will be able to visit the parks after 2 pm without needing an existing park reservation. This will apply to all days and parks with the exception of the Magic Kingdom on Saturdays and Sundays.

Disney said this relaxation of the reservation requirements will make it easier for local pass holders to visit the parks with greater spontaneity. In addition to this perk, pass holders will also receive one complimentary Cinderella Castle Mural of Memories experience in addition to access to the Disney PhotoPass lenses.

Roundup Rodeo BBQ Coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios

After months of delays, it appears as if the Roundup Rodeo BBQ will finally open this spring in Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The full-service restaurant is coming to Toy Story Land, building on the theme of the popular movie franchise. The western themed restaurant is set to open on March 23.

Disney recently released the menu for this much-anticipated family-friendly restaurant. The menu will be served family style offering a host of favorites that will appeal to a variety of taste buds. Your meal will start with homemade cheddar biscuits with pepper jelly along with three different fresh salad options. The star of the show will undoubtedly be the meat platter, featuring smoked ribs, beef brisket, barbecue chicken, and spiced pork sausage. This meat will be served alongside your choice of four side dishes, including loaded potato barrels, macaroni and cheese, baked beans, potato salad, veggie slaw, fried pickles, roasted vegetables, and corn on the cob. Diners will finish off their meal with a choice of dessert. There are also a number of options for vegetarian guests.

Disney Springs Welcomes Summer House on the Lake Restaurant

In other major restaurant news, Disney Springs will welcome Summer House on the Lake in the coming months. Summer House is owned and operated by the Lettuce Entertain You group with locations in Chicago and North Bethesda, Maryland. As the name implies, the concept is designed to make diners feel as if they are vacationing at their California summer house.

The menu is inspired by the cuisine and fresh ingredients of California. The full-service restaurant will boast an extensive wine list and handcrafted cocktails. The Disney Springs location will also feature an in-house bakery. While no opening date has been announced, it was announced that it will open for business by the end of the year.

World Celebration Neighborhood to Open in EPCOT

EPCOT has undergone a massive transformation over the last few years with the addition of popular attractions such as the Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind roller coaster and Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure. The next big attraction will be the completion of the World Celebration neighborhood, slated to open in late 2023.

This hub will be split across a variety of different gardens that invite visitors to come and explore. The neighborhood will also serve as the home for the park’s famous food and drink festivals. Guess will find the Dreamers Point area in this area of the park, featuring a new Walt Disney statue.

Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana Walking Trail

Also at EPCOT, visitors will be able to enjoy the new Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana attraction. Like the World Celebration neighborhood, this attraction is scheduled to open to the public late in the year. The educational space will feature an exploration trail that invites guests to learn about the connection between water and Earth. Disney said that the attraction will appeal to visitors of all ages.

This is the just the start of the upgrades and changes coming to Walt Disney World this year. You will not want to miss all of the magic happening around the parks in 2023.

Did you find this content useful? Feel free to bookmark or to post to your timeline for reference later.