
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is taking direct action that will impact thousands of Walt Disney World Resort vacations by introducing a new development at one of Central Florida’s top destinations.
Central Florida is buzzing with activity as 2025 unfolds, bringing with it major shifts in the region’s theme park landscape. With both Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort making significant moves, this year could redefine the industry.
For the two theme park giants, 2025 signals the start of something new. Universal is taking the spotlight with the highly anticipated opening of its third theme park gate, Universal Epic Universe, slated for May 2025. Meanwhile, Disney fans are left waiting for the next big thing, as no new theme park gates are planned this year. However, Disney is focusing on enhancing two beloved lands instead.
Over the next few months and years, Walt Disney World will revamp parts of Magic Kingdom and Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Magic Kingdom’s Frontierland will see the addition of Pixar’s Cars, while Encanto and Indiana Jones will bring fresh energy to the former DinoLand U.S.A. at Animal Kingdom. Some Disney fans have expressed disappointment, feeling that Disney isn’t keeping up with Universal’s ambitious expansion efforts.
Due to various refurbishments and operational adjustments across the resort, some visitors may decide to delay their trips to Walt Disney World. However, Central Florida will remain a bustling tourist hub, with many travelers eager to experience Universal Epic Universe.
For those making their way to Florida, Governor Ron DeSantis is set to change how they travel through Orlando International Airport (MCO), the region’s primary travel hub.
Click Orlando reports, “Dan Giordano, recently appointed to the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) by Gov. Ron DeSantis, plans to leverage his hospitality expertise to create a more welcoming environment for travelers.” Giordano, vice president of corporate planning and development at Rosen Hotels, is among the few board members with deep experience in hospitality, they explain.
A recent MCO press release highlighted Giordano’s enthusiasm for the role. “Creating memorable experiences is at the heart of what we do in Central Florida,” he said. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to join the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority Board and to support the bold initiatives underway to seamlessly connect Central Florida and the world through exceptional experiences, collaboration, and creativity.”
In addition to personnel changes, MCO has announced a $650 million investment in a major overhaul of its baggage system, aimed at improving efficiency and enhancing the travel experience for millions of passengers each year, according to Click Orlando.
Since many of those passengers are heading to Disney, DeSantis’ focus on airport improvements will directly affect their experience. As Click Orlando noted, Giordano emphasized making travel easier: “When people arrive, it can be hectic, especially in this destination with children and conventioneers,” he said. “We want to make it easy, accessible, friendly, fun, and exciting.”
In other news, earlier this week, as the U.S. inaugurated its 47th President, Donald Trump, Walt Disney World followed DeSantis’ directive to fly the American flag at full-staff. Later, the flags were lowered again to honor the passing of former President Jimmy Carter.
What do you think about these changes at Orlando International Airport? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!