Our recent research for a project in Orlando, Florida revealed some exciting new hospitality-related developments happening in the area. These developments will have an impact on tourism, employment, and the general economy in Orlando and the surrounding areas in 2025 and beyond.

• Universal Epic Universe Opens to Major Buzz
  Universal’s highly anticipated Epic Universe opened in May 2025, adding a massive new theme park to Orlando’s lineup. Spanning over 100 acres with 50 rides and attractions, the park features five immersive worlds: Celestial Park, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Super Nintendo World, How to Train Your Dragon, and Dark Universe. With an estimated $7 billion investment, Epic Universe is expected to generate thousands of jobs and fuel a surge in new hotel, retail, and dining development along International Drive.

• Disney Continues to Innovate with New Attractions and Experiences
  Disney’s theme parks rolled out exciting updates in 2025, bringing fan-favorite stories to life in fresh ways. Hollywood Studios introduced two new stage shows based on The Little Mermaid and Disney Villains. At EPCOT, guests can now enjoy a reimagined Test Track, developed in partnership with General Motors, along with a new lounge inspired by Spaceship Earth. Meanwhile, Magic Kingdom launched its first nighttime parade since 2016—Disney Starlight—and debuted a Pirates of the Caribbean-themed lounge.

• Orange County Convention Center Expanding in a Big Way
  A major $560 million expansion is on the horizon for the Orange County Convention Center. Slated to begin in 2026, the project will add a 100,000-square-foot ballroom capable of hosting up to 10,000 guests. Upon completion in 2029, the center will boast a total of 2.3 million square feet of meeting and event space—solidifying its place among the largest convention centers in the country.

• SeaWorld Adds Arctic-Themed Adventure
  SeaWorld Orlando launched Expedition Odyssey in spring 2025, a thrilling new attraction that immerses guests in a simulated journey through the Arctic Ocean. Building on the success of the Penguin Trek coaster, this experience complements SeaWorld’s live exhibits featuring Arctic animals like beluga whales and walruses, offering a blend of entertainment and education.

• Fun Spot America Introduces New Thrills
  Fun Spot America, the family-friendly amusement park on International Drive, added two new rides in 2025: the spinning Tea Cups and the thrilling MACH FUN flight simulator. These additions enhance the park’s lineup of attractions for guests of all ages. Fun Spot’s Kissimmee location also expanded, debuting a new inverted pendulum ride this year.

• Major Multi-Sport Complex Coming to Ocoee
  A game-changing sports and entertainment complex is planned for a 159-acre site in Ocoee, just northwest of Orlando. The Dynasty Ocoee will feature 17 multi-sport fields and 350,000 square feet of retail, dining, hotel, and entertainment space. Currently in the planning phase, the project is expected to be completed within the next two to three years and promises to be a major draw for the region.