Visit Orlando has announced exciting new updates from The Theme Park Capital of the World at IPW in Chicago.
From 2024 visitation numbers to the first new theme park to open in 25 years and other major attractions, hotel and shopping options, Orlando continues to lead the way as one of the most dynamic travel destinations in the world.
Orlando Announces 75.3 million Visitors in 2024
Orlando welcomed more than 75.3 million visitors in 2024, a 5.9% increase over the previous year, maintaining its position as America’s most visited destination.
The destination’s growth is a testament to the uniqueness of Orlando; the city’s increasing global connectivity, with new and expanded airlift in nearly all of Orlando’s top international markets and the efforts of travel trade partners.
What’s New in Orlando for 2025
Orlando continues to raise the bar with major expansions and guest experiences for every type of traveller.
- At Universal Orlando Resort, the highly anticipated Universal Epic Universe opened on May 22, the first theme park to open in Orlando in 25 years. The all-new park features five fully immersive worlds including Celestial Park, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk and Dark Universe.
- SeaWorld Orlando debuted Expedition Odyssey, a groundbreaking flying theatre ride that transports guests across the Arctic using real-world footage. Summer Spectacular returns through Sept. 1, with new entertainment including a high-energy drone show and nightly fireworks.
- At Walt Disney World Resort, two new shows debut at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, including “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure” and “Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After.” On July 20, Magic Kingdom Park unveils “Disney Starlight, Dream the Night Away,” Disney World’s first new nighttime parade in nearly 10 years, featuring characters from Walt Disney Animation Studios films “Peter Pan,” “Encanto,” “Frozen” and more.
Shopping remains a top draw for international visitors, and Orlando continues to lead the way with a growing lineup of first-to-market luxury brands at its premier retail destinations.
Notable additions include Moncler, Dolce & Gabbana, and Valentino at Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets; Hollister and Greg Norman at Orlando International Premium Outlets; and Balenciaga, Tecovas and Alo Yoga debuting at The Mall at Millenia in 2025.
Orlando’s Booming Hotel Growth
Orlando, home to nearly 500 hotels and more than 132,000 rooms, continues to expand its impressive portfolio of accommodations. Within the past year, Orlando added 2,600 new hotel rooms.
Universal Orlando Resort introduced several new properties, including Universal Stella Nova Resort and Universal Terra Luna Resort. Additionally, Universal Helios Grand Hotel opened with 500 rooms and a dedicated entrance into Universal Epic Universe.
Designed for families and large groups, the new Villatel Orlando Resort on International Drive features spacious villas that sleep up to 26 guests and include immersive themed rooms that extend the magic beyond the parks.
Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin unveiled a sleek, modern redesign of all 756 rooms and suites in the Swan hotel as part of a $275 million renovation, while Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Orlando Resort & Suites completed a top-to-bottom refresh with a nearly $7 million investment.
MICHELIN Dining, Including Orlando’s First-Ever MICHELIN 2-Star Restaurant
Orlando’s evolving dining scene has been recognised with one of the world’s highest culinary honours.
Orlando now boasts 59 restaurants recognised by Michelin, including 9 MICHELIN Starred venues, 15 Bib Gourmands and 35 Recommended eateries.
Orlando Travel Academy and Trade Tools
The Orlando Travel Academy continues to grow as a leading resource for travel advisors, offering perks, up-to-date modules and tools to help agents sell the destination. New content and certification programs are available at OrlandoTravelAcademy.com.
Visit the Travel Pursuit News Hub for more exciting updates.
