When Disney announces major projects these days, familiar characters and movie franchises are usually part of the conversation. Across Walt Disney World, intellectual property has become central to the development of new attractions and lands.
Some franchises already have major projects on the way, while others remain near the top of fans' wish lists. Together, they offer a glimpse at where Disney World could be headed in the years ahead.
Villains Land Is No Longer Just a Dream
For a long time, a villains-themed land felt like one of those ideas fans talked about more than Disney did.
That's no longer the case.
Disney has officially confirmed Villains Land for Magic Kingdom, giving classic Disney villains a dedicated home inside the park. The new area will sit beyond Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and feature two major attractions, along with shopping and dining.
Although Disney hasn't revealed everything yet, the artwork released so far suggests a bold new environment filled with darker themes and larger-than-life villain imagery.
Many fans believe the land could open around 2030, though Disney has not announced a timeline.
Coco Remains One of EPCOT's Most Requested Additions
Not every popular idea has become reality.
One franchise that fans continue discussing is Coco (2017). The movie already has a small presence in EPCOT's Mexico Pavilion, but many guests would like Disney to go much further.
Rumors about replacing Gran Fiesta Tour Starring The Three Caballeros with a Coco attraction have circulated for years. Disney has never confirmed those rumors, yet they continue to resurface.
Part of the appeal comes from how naturally the story fits the pavilion. Fans often point to the pyramid itself as the perfect setting for a journey through Miguel's adventure in the Land of the Dead.
For now, though, the idea remains fan speculation.
Monsters, Inc. Is Getting the Spotlight
One Pixar franchise is no longer waiting for its turn.
Disney has announced plans for a Monstropolis-themed land at Disney's Hollywood Studios, dramatically expanding the presence of Monsters, Inc. (2001) at Walt Disney World.
The project includes a suspended roller coaster based on the memorable door vault chase from the movie. Disney has also confirmed the arrival of Harryhausen's restaurant as part of the land.
Combined with additional themed experiences, the project promises to bring guests directly into the world of Monstropolis.
For many Pixar fans, it's one of the most exciting developments currently planned for the resort.
Marvel Fans Continue Waiting
Marvel remains a unique situation at Walt Disney World.
Despite Disney owning the brand, the Florida parks still lack the type of Marvel footprint seen at Disneyland Resort's Avengers Campus.
Universal Orlando Resort's existing Marvel agreement continues to complicate matters, limiting what Disney can do with many of its most recognizable superheroes.
That hasn't prevented fans from imagining future possibilities. A Spider-Man coaster, expanded Marvel encounters, and interactive training experiences are frequently mentioned as potential additions.
While Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind has given Marvel a major presence at EPCOT, many guests continue hoping Disney eventually finds ways to do more.
The Franchise Era Is Here
Villains Land and Monstropolis prove that Disney's plans are increasingly centered on major franchises.
At the same time, the continued popularity of discussions about Coco and Marvel shows there is no shortage of ideas for what could come next.
As Disney continues reshaping Walt Disney World, familiar stories and characters are likely to remain at the center of many future expansions. Fans may not know exactly what's coming next, but they certainly have their favorites in mind.
