A major milestone is just around the corner at Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Central Florida. Beginning May 21, Disney World will officially operate all six of its parks simultaneously for the first time since 2019. That includes Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and both of the resort’s water parks—Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon.
Disney confirmed the return to full operations in a recent statement: “For the first time since 2019, Disney World will have all 6 of our parks—all 4 theme parks and 2 water parks—open at the same time,” the company shared. “From May 21 through September 7, Disney World guests can enjoy the tropical shipwreck oasis of Typhoon Lagoon and the frosty fun of Blizzard Beach water park.”
This update follows a short closure for Blizzard Beach, which ended its season on April 30 after commemorating its 30th anniversary. Typhoon Lagoon reopened on May 1, and now both locations will welcome guests again for a summer season packed with aquatic adventure.
The expansion back to full capacity comes at a time when Central Florida’s theme park scene is preparing for a shift. Just a day after Disney’s six-park milestone, Universal Orlando Resort will open its much-anticipated third gate, Universal Epic Universe, on May 22. The debut promises to reshape local tourism in major ways.
Despite that looming competition, Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D’Amaro remains confident. “We’re always on the offensive… We’re constantly investing for the long term, fortifying each one of our theme parks,” D’Amaro said at the MoffettNathanson Media, Internet & Communications Conference, per Variety. “If something is built new in central Florida, like Epic Universe, that tourist is going to have to visit the Magic Kingdom.”
Speaking of Magic Kingdom, Disney recently announced the return of its beloved Halloween offering. Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party kicks off on August 15 and runs through October 31, with dates and pricing now revealed. Guests can enjoy exclusive entertainment like the Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular, Disney’s Boo-To-You Parade, and a host of character encounters and candy stops.
Meanwhile, Disney continues to address guest feedback about the overall cost of a Disney vacation. Prices for park tickets, food, and accommodations have steadily risen in recent years, especially with the introduction of paid services like the Lightning Lane Single, Multi, and Premier Passes (formerly known as Genie+ and Individual Lightning Lane Selections).
CEO Bob Iger recently weighed in, saying that Disney’s offerings provide value that surpasses other high-ticket experiences like concerts and sporting events. Josh D’Amaro echoed that at the same MoffettNathanson event.
“How do we create experiences, and pricing structures and optionality, to invite as many families as possible into these experiences? That’s my mission,” he said, via WDWMagic. “There are very few places in the world where you can have a 10, 12, 16-hour experience. Attractions, Broadway-style entertainment, food, fireworks, character meet-and-greets—it’s all there.”
D’Amaro also pointed out that ticket pricing at Disneyland Resort has remained consistent over the past six or seven years, and Value Resorts at Walt Disney World still provide affordable lodging options.
Since the pandemic began in 2020, theme parks across Florida—including Disney and Universal—have adapted dramatically to meet evolving guest expectations. From new tech and mobile conveniences to staggered water park operations, the resort landscape has transformed. With this summer’s full park slate, Disney is aiming to provide the broadest experience possible for every guest walking through those iconic gates.
How do you feel about this next chapter for Walt Disney World Resort? Let us know in the comments down below!
