Seven Awesome Reasons to Visit Disney World in 2016

The coming years we will see a whole lot of new experiences coming to Walt Disney World. From the nearly complete re-imagination of Disney's Hollywood Studios featuring new Star Wars and Toy Story lands to Avatar coming to Disney's Animal Kingdom there is a lot to be excited about! 

The only downside of these amazing new lands is they will not be open for a few years. So, what is there to get excited about in 2016? Here are just a couple of awesome experiences and updates to get you to Disney World!

Disney Springs Comes into It's Own

​Downtown Disney has been completely updated with new dining, shopping, and entertainment options. It's now being called Disney Springs because it truly is a completely different area! Disney Springs is now a destination in and of itself, not just a quick run through as part of your Disney World vacation. In particular the new dining at Boathouse, Morimoto Asia, Jock Lindsey's Hangar Bar, STK Restaurant and The Edison will be amazing experiences.

​Soaring' in Epcot is Updated

One of my favorite rides at Disney World is Soarin' located inside The Land at Epcot. Soaring' came to Disney World in 2005 as part of the global Disneyland 50th Anniversary Celebration. The one problem with the ride-- the video footage was getting old and dated. Heck it was still running on film! Well, with the opening of Shanghai Disneyland in 2016 a new Soarin' Around the World film has been shot. It comes to Disney World this year, making this awesome ride even better

Star Wars Continues to Expand

While we are a few years away from the new land, Disney World is making sure we get our fill of Star Wars in the meantime. Star Wars Launch Bay opened earlier this month and offers the hardcore fan access to some great stuff. We also have enhanced character meets. Soon we will also get a Star Wars themed fireworks show at Disney's Hollywood Studios.

Animal Kingdom Adds Night Time Experiences

With the coming of Pandora- The Land of Avatar, Disney's Animal Kingdom will begin to transition from a half-day to full-day park. To get that transition going we will see a nighttime show called "Rivers of Light". It will combine live performers, floating lanterns, water screens and swirling animal imagery. Word is the show will take queues from the amazing World of Color at Disney's California Adventure. If so, I am REALLY excited!

In addition to the new Rivers of Light, Killamanjaroo Safari will also feature a new night time experience. Get ready to travel the African savanna at night!

Frozen Comes to Epcot

The Norway pavilion at Epcot will now feature two amazing Frozen experiences in 2016. First, the re-imagination of Maelstrom to a new ride Frozen Ever After will be complete. The experience will take guests into the kingdom of Arendelle through storytelling, new technology and music. The attraction will feature the "Winter in Summer Celebration," where Queen Elsa will create a winter-in-summer day for the entire kingdom.

​In addition to the new ride there will also be a new character experience. Guests will now be able to meet Anna and Elsa at their own permanent royal residence in Norway.

Amazing Sporting Events

Our family continues to be big fans of runDisney, which will feature four amazing events at Disney World in 2016. But that isn't all that is available. The Invictus Games for Wounded Warriors will take place May 8th- 12th. And of course there will continue to be great athletic competitions for our kids throughout the year. Disney World and the ESPN Wide World of Sports really do know how to put on great events!

Special Events Year Round

Disney World does a great job of putting on AMAZING events throughout the year. My personal favorite is the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival every fall. This event features specialty food and drinks from around the world. It really is an awesome experience... And one where I love to leave the kids at home!

There is also the Epcot Flower & Garden Festival in the spring and the amazing Candlelight Processional during the holidays. The Magic Kingdom will continue to feature Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween and Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party.

This upcoming year will offer so many amazing experiences! Contact our team today to plan an amazing Walt Disney World vacation!

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About the Author

Jennifer Whitney, Owner and Travel Advisor
Jenn has a passion for travel. She loves helping families create amazing memories while exploring the world.  From fun family road trips through the mountains of California, to climbing Machu Pichu, conquering Disney Parks, and even sailing the seas, she has either been there or helped a family get there! Jenn is an Accredited Cruise Counselor, Hawaii Destination Specialist, Certified Sandals Specialist and graduate of the Disney College of Knowledge. She also holds a Bachelors Degree in Business Administration from the University of North Texas.