With the end of 2016 fast-approaching, it’s time to look ahead to the new year.
Several new attractions are slated to debut at the theme parks in 2017.
From a brand new world at Disney’s Animal Kingdom to a new water park at Universal Orlando, Central Florida is gearing up for another big year.
Here’s a list of the most-anticipated new attractions coming to Orlando in 2017.
Pandora: The World of Avatar – Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Disney is building a whole new “world” at Animal Kingdom. Pandora: The World of Avatar, modeled after the 2009 movie, will take guests to the land of the Na’vi. Pandora will feature restaurants, gift shops and two new attractions: Na’vi River Journey and Avatar Flight of Passage. Pandora: The World of Avatar is expected to open summer 2017.
Volcano Bay – Universal Orlando
Universal Orlando’s new water park will feature 18 attractions centered around a large volcano. The 28-acre-park will have four distinct areas with Polynesian influences. Restaurants will also be located inside the park. One of the most exciting features coming to Volcano Bay is the TapuTapu device, which Universal says will help eliminate long lines. Volcano Bay is expected to open early summer 2017.
Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon – Universal Orlando
Jimmy Fallon will lead riders on a wild adventure through the streets of New York City. The attraction is based on his popular “Tonight Show” and will feature a briefing in Studio 6B, music from The Roots and a little late-night talk show history. “Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon” is slated to open in the spring.
Kraken VR roller coaster – SeaWorld Orlando
SeaWorld Orlando plans to update its Kraken roller coaster into a virtual reality thrill ride. When the revamped attraction opens, riders will be taken on a deep sea mission alongside sea creatures, all while wearing “uniquely-designed” headsets. Once it opens, Kraken VR will be the only VR coaster experience in Florida.
Miss Fortune Falls – Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon
Miss Fortune Falls will be a new family-style raft ride. Disney is touting it as lengthiest ride at either of its water parks. The ride is slated to open spring 2017.
Lego Ninjago World - Legoland Florida Resort
The Ninjago-themed land will feature a dark ride that allows riders to use karate-chop gestures to shoot fireballs at ninja warriors. The rest of the land will have games, a restaurant and a retail store. It's expected to open January 2017.