A surge of theme park excitement is on its way.
Orlando, Florida, continues to be the ultimate battleground of the theme parks, and as 2025 approaches, the rivalry between Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort is intensifying. Both industry titans are making bold moves, but which one will come out on top?
Universal Orlando is making headlines with the upcoming launch of Universal Epic Universe in May 2025. As the resort’s third theme park, it promises to be a game-changer, solidifying Universal’s presence as a dominant force in the theme park wars. Meanwhile, Disney isn’t unveiling a brand-new park, but it is doubling down on major changes within its existing ones.
At Magic Kingdom, Frontierland is undergoing a significant transformation, with Pixar’s Cars franchise stepping in—a move that has sparked mixed reactions from fans. Meanwhile, Disney’s Animal Kingdom is also in the middle of an overhaul, as Encanto and Indiana Jones prepare to replace the former DinoLand U.S.A.
However, some Disney enthusiasts remain skeptical, especially as Universal’s expansion barrels ahead at full speed. The question remains: Is Disney keeping up?
With significant renovations and operational shifts at Walt Disney World, some visitors may decide to hold off on their trips. Still, Central Florida remains a tourism powerhouse, and Universal Epic Universe is shaping up to be the biggest attraction of the year.
“We know many travelers are locking in their first vacation of the year, and it’s clear they’re after warmer weather and major entertainment options with Florida, Las Vegas and Puerto Rico topping the list for our Guests’ most searched spring break destinations,” said Rana Ghosh, Senior Vice President and Chief Transformation Officer at Spirit Airlines (via PR Newswire). “Spring break is a great time to choose to fly in style and enjoy the value and enhanced experience that Spirit’s new travel options offer.”
According to Spirit’s data, Orlando took the top spot as the most searched destination, followed by Fort Lauderdale, Las Vegas, Miami, and San Juan.
Spirit’s insights are just one indicator of the massive tourism wave heading to Orlando. Last year, Orlando International Airport (MCO) shattered records during spring break, setting a new benchmark for passengers moving through the airport.
“Orlando International Airport hit a new passenger record with 102,064 departing passengers,” a press release confirmed. “That does not include arrivals, which would logically double that number to 204,128 total passengers – the most the airport has ever seen in a single day.”
Not every visitor is headed to Walt Disney World Resort, but with Disney’s immense influence on Orlando tourism, a sizable portion will certainly make their way to The Most Magical Place on Earth. Spring break marks the first major visitor surge following the busy holiday season, making it one of the most crowded times of the year for the parks.
With such high travel volumes, a recent appointment by Governor Ron DeSantis aims to streamline the airport experience.
“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,” Click Orlando reported. “He is the vice president of corporate planning and development with Rosen Hotels and is one of the few on the board with a strong background in hospitality.”
Giordano has made it clear that “creating memorable experiences is at the heart of what we do in Central Florida,” and his role will directly impact those traveling to destinations like Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando Resort.
According to Florida Review, the busiest period of the spring break travel season is expected to be from March 1 to March 23.
Are you planning to visit Orlando’s theme parks this spring break? Let us know in the comments below!
