TBM Staff - Mumbai
This summer, Kissimmee is buzzing with exciting new attractions, events and accommodations that promise to deliver unparalleled fun and entertainment. Celebrate the season with thrilling new experiences at Universal Orlando’s DreamWorks Land and the mesmerising CineSational nighttime show, or dive into the enchanting world of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at Walt Disney World Resort. Enjoy immersive adventures at Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures’ new Metaverse park, savor culinary delights at Wine Bar George, and experience SeaWorld’s dynamic XCELERATION: Cirque Show Extreme. With innovative new openings and expansions, Kissimmee remains the ultimate destination for family fun, making this summer the perfect time to explore all the incredible new offerings.
Attractions
Universal Orlando Resort Reveals Exciting Collection of Experiences Debuting This Summer
Universal Orlando Resort will debut a collection of new, must-see experiences that offer exciting entertainment for the whole family from day to night. The lineup of summertime adventures includes the June 14 grand opening of DreamWorks Land – the vibrant new themed environment inspired by beloved characters from DreamWorks Animation’s Shrek, Trolls and Kung Fu Panda, CineSational: A Symphonic Spectacular – a riveting new nighttime lagoon show and Hogwarts Always – an all-new castle projection show in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade. On July 3, guests will enjoy the debut of Universal’s largest daytime parade, Universal Mega Movie Parade.
SeaWorld Orlando Celebrates 60 Years
The all-new XCELERATION: Cirque Show Extreme invites guests on an electrifying journey as BMX bikers defy gravity, dancers pulse to the beat of an infectious soundtrack, and stunt performers blur the boundaries between sport and art with their twists, flips and spins. The Antarctica Realm is now open and transports visitors to the polar ice to explore fresh food at the revamped Expedition Cafe, themed drink options at the new South Pole Sips and souvenirs at the new Glacial Supply. The first family coaster, Penguin Trek, will open soon to top off this incredible land.
Drawn to Life by Cirque du Soleil and Disney Opens “Page to Stage Signature Experience”
The Page to Stage Signature Experience offers guests an intimate behind-the-scenes look at the show. Following the performance, Page to Stage guests will meet with some of the show’s talented artists for photos and Q&A. Guests will then embark on a backstage – and under-the-stage – tour of Drawn to Life, with the opportunity to get an up-close look at some of the show’s intricate costumes and one-of-a-kind props.
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Opens June 28 at Walt Disney World Resort
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure invites guests to join beloved characters Princess Tiana, Mama Odie, Louis and all-new friends on a thrilling adventure, all set against the music and excitement of a New Orleans celebration. This new attraction will feature dozens of Audio-Animatronics figures, a foot-tapping soundtrack and a celebration where everyone’s welcome.
Disney Dreams that Soar Presented by AT&T
A new nighttime drone show is at Disney Springs. Running from May 24 to September 2, the skies come alive with larger-than-life images of classic Disney characters through the use of 800 state-of-the-art drones choreographed with iconic quotes from fan-favorite films such as Disney’s “Peter Pan,” “Dumbo,” “Wall-E,” “Big Hero 6,” “Star Wars” and more.
Discovery Cove Opens Three New Animal Encounters
Discovery Cove recently announced the opening of three all-new animal encounters: Flamingo Point habitat, Shark Interaction program and Ultimate Animal Experience. Flamingo Point is a vibrant and spacious habitat within Discovery Cove’s lush landscapes, where guests can observe these graceful creatures up close while learning from the park’s expert aviculturists. The Shark Interaction program allows guests to step into the shark habitat for a feeding and training session alongside Discovery Cove’s expert Aquarists and more than 20 resident sharks. The Ultimate Animal Experience is an exclusive half-day experience including an enhanced interaction with dolphins, a private photo session with two dolphins, a behind-the-scenes tour of all Discovery Cove support areas, a pre-opening snorkel tour of The Grand Reef, a guided tour of the Explorer’s Aviary, an Otter Enrichment session in the Freshwater Oasis and special meet-and-greets with tropical birds and small mammals.
LEGOLAND Florida Resort Welcomes New Characters and Dance Parties
The park introduces exciting new characters like LEGOLAND Girl and Boy. Also, don’t miss meeting the Park’s new bright red LEGO DUPLO bunny, Hopsy, who is joining the park in character form for the first time. Geared for preschoolers, Hopsy debuts at her new exclusive show, Playtime with Hopsy, teaching little ones how to play using their imagination. In addition, shimmy your way through park-wide dance parties with LEGO characters, including an exciting new show filled with high-energy party music, singing and dancing called Party. Play. Fun!
Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures Becomes First Adventure Park in The Metaverse
Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures, a leading Central Florida nature-based attraction celebrating its 30th anniversary, launched a brand-new Virtual Reality Experience in the Metaverse. This immersive virtual reality experience allows visitors to actually walk through the park, experience the Butterfly Enclosure, Gemstone Mining and Educational Talks, and learn more about the attraction while seated in an airboat. To join the Metaverse, install the Engage app on a VR headset, computer or mobile device.
Toxic Blast is Now Open at Dezerland Park
At Toxic Blast, families and friends can team up or battle against each other in a thrilling, black-light combat experience — the first of its kind on International Drive. Guests will gear up with their state-of-the-art gel blaster, a hopper full of “gellets” and colored masks as they enter the immersive, black-light arena for a 45-minute adrenaline-pumping adventure.
Eagles Edge Now Open at Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate
Eagles Edge is the brand-new Toptracer driving range at Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate. It now offers brunch on Saturdays and Sundays from 11:00 – 3:00 p.m., featuring bottomless bloody marys and mimosas.
Accommodations
Rentyl Resorts and Davidson Hospitality Group Partnered on a First-of-its-Kind Condominium Project with Embassy Suites
Embassy Suites by Hilton Orlando Sunset Walk is a five-building condominium project being developed by Sunset Walk Residences. Rentyl and Davidson will be responsible for the units’ on-site management, sales, marketing, revenue and call center management. The project totals 317 units with options for studio, one- or two-bedroom condos ranging from 514 to 1,252 square feet. The first two buildings are scheduled to open this summer, with the remaining three to open by the end of the year.
Plus Vacation Homes Adds Five More Themed Properties in Osceola County
As the Vacation Home Capital of the World, Kissimmee is proud to continue to grow our database of Vacation Homes throughout the area. Each house brings something unique to the destination, and Plus Vacation Homes has added five more properties in Osceola County. Whether you want superheroes, wizards, princesses, space or game characters, Plus Vacation Homes has a house that fits your interests.
Food & Beverage
Caribbean Moonshine Debuts Distillery and Premium Bottling Tour
Discover the secrets behind their exceptional premium rum products and their deep-rooted connection to the rich history of the Caribbean and Florida spirits trade. Visitors can indulge their senses as they sample the unique flavors and explore the state-of-the-art bottling facility at the distillery. Immerse yourself in the bottling room, where you’ll have the unique opportunity to bottle your moonshine and personalise it with a custom engraving—a keepsake to treasure forever.
Jeff’s Bagel Run Opens in Celebration, FL
A family-owned “always boiled, never toasted” bagel restaurant began after the pandemic. Jeff and Danielle Perera relocated to Central Florida and found themselves searching for the authentic New York bagel. Once a delivery shop from Perara home to their first brick-and-mortar in Ocoee, Florida, the Perera’s are excited to announce their fifth store in Celebration.
New Menu Items this summer
Wine Bar George -The summer menu at Wine Bar George features new items such as Black Mussels, fried gnocchi, New Zealand Lamb Chops, the Endless Vacation cocktail, a Profiterole for dessert and more. The to-go window, The Basket, also has new items, including a Millionaire’s Shortbread treat and the Wake Up Call, their take on an Espresso Martini.
Hot N’ Juicy – The menu now offers lightly battered and fried whole shrimp.
Cowboy Chicken – The new menu ushers in Summer with Limited-Time Strawberry Sensations. The popular strawberry pecan chicken salad, watermelon cucumber side salad, strawberry shortcake, and refreshing beverages return for a limited time through September 1.
Events and Performances
Dr. Phillips Performing Arts Center
The Dr. Phillips Performing Arts Center is abuzz with activity, offering a vibrant lineup of shows from June to September that promises enjoyment for all ages. This season kicks off with the talented local musician Joseph Jevanni & iNtensity on June 11 and July 9, following their three consecutive sold-out performances at Judson’s, leading to the addition of a second show. On July 11, jazz enthusiasts can look forward to the Michael Feinberg Trio, featuring the excellent jazz bassist alongside pianist Tal Cohen. Rising saxophone star Ryan Devlin, an Orlando native now making waves across the US, will take the stage on July 14. Bassel & The Supernaturals will bring their neo-soul sound and poignant message about the Syrian refugee crisis on July 18. The month concludes with the Grammy-winning Brazilian vocalist Luciana Souza performing intimate duo shows with guitarist Chico Pinheiro on July 19 and 20.
Orlando City and Orlando Pride Soccer
This summer, Orlando will host a series of events celebrating its LGBTQ+ community, honoring military personnel, and engaging in vibrant cultural festivities. The festivities begin with “Pride in Our City” at INTER&Co Stadium, commemorating the eighth anniversary of the Pulse shooting. Soccer fans can enjoy matches, including Orlando Pride vs. Utah Royals on June 21 and Orlando City SC vs. Chicago Fire on June 22. Military Appreciation Night, Orlando City vs. Nashville SC, on August 31, will honor local veterans and active-duty military members. Midway through summer, “Halfway to Carnival” will bring the spirit of Rio de Janeiro to Orlando. Soccer continues with Orlando City SC hosting CF Montreal on July 26 and Atletico de San Luis on August 4 in the Leagues Cup 2024, and the Orlando Pride playing in the NWSL X Liga MX Femenil Summer Cup, hosting CF Monterrey Femenil on July 28 and Racing Louisville on August
Country Giant Luke Combs Closes Out County Thunder Florida
Country Thunder Florida returns to Osceola Heritage Park on October 18-20, featuring electrifying performances from Luke Combs, Bailey Zimmerman, Jon Pardi, and more. The stellar, three-day lineup also includes Nate Smith, Russell Dickerson, Mitchell Tenpenny, Priscilla Block, ERNEST, Niko Moon, Restless Road, Dallas Smith, Emily Ann Roberts, Clayton Mullen, Calder Allen, Annie Bosko, and Alana Springsteen.
What’s Next
Universal Epic Universe 2025
In 2025, Universal Orlando Resort will unveil its next game-changer for theme park entertainment with the debut of its most ambitious theme park yet: Universal Epic Universe. Epic Universe will present an unmatched level of theme park immersion and innovation, transporting guests to expansive worlds featuring more than 50 awe-inspiring attractions, entertainment, dining and shopping experiences that come together to create an unforgettable adventure that is nothing short of epic.
Everest Place is Scheduled to Open in 2026
Construction is underway at Everest Place, where Teramir Group is building a mixed-use resort district at the US 192 interchange with SR 429. Everest Place will debut North America’s first Mysk Hotel and bring a Nickelodeon Resort Hotel back to the Central Florida market.
Nickelodeon Resort Hotel Scheduled to Open in 2026
Lion Star, Everest Place, and Paramount have joined forces to bring an exciting new experience to Kissimmee: Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Orlando. Boasting over 400 hotel rooms and condo units combined, Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Orlando will showcase uniquely themed accommodations, including suites inspired by iconic characters and ensuring epic experiences. The family-friendly resort mixes luxury amenities with FUN for both the young and the young at heart. Guests can interact with Nickelodeon’s globally beloved franchises, including SpongeBob SquarePants, PAW Patrol, Dora and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.
