Planning Your Theme Park Adventures for 2026: What’s in Store?

As the summer season of 2025 concludes, excitement builds for the upcoming Halloween festivities at theme parks like Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Disneyland in California. These parks have kicked off their Halloween events, with others preparing to join in the fun. However, let’s look ahead to what fans can expect in 2026—a year that, despite some challenges, promises to be full of adventure and exploration within the theme park industry.

Lack of Major New Attractions in Major Parks

In the United States, the major theme parks have not lined up significant new attractions for 2026. Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Disneyland are taking a breather this year, with the most anticipated new construction coming from Universal Studios Hollywood. Here, the Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift coaster is expected to open in early 2026, offering an adrenaline rush for fans of the film franchise. For those looking for thrills at Knott’s Berry Farm, the opening of the revamped Montezooma is uncertain and may slide into the following year, while SeaWorld San Diego is refreshing its Shark Encounter, catering to wildlife enthusiasts.

Exciting Updates from Smaller Parks

While the major parks may not have new constructions planned, smaller parks are gearing up with some intriguing projects. SeaWorld San Antonio will welcome a family inverted coaster from Bolliger & Mabillard, and the Legoland parks in California and Florida are set to introduce their Lego Galaxy roller coasters. The highlights do not end here; Six Flags Over Texas is building a new B&M dive coaster that promises more thrills for park-goers. It’s evident that smaller parks are rising to the occasion, providing unique attractions to entice visitors, especially families with younger children.

Universal’s Expansion Continues

In an exciting move for fans, Universal Studios will open Universal Kids Resort outside Dallas in 2026, marking the company’s venture into more family-focused experiences. This expansion further solidifies Universal’s commitment to evolving its offerings in response to family needs. However, beyond this announcement and the new coaster, the theme park landscape shows limited promise in terms of new attractions, making it crucial for fans to think creatively about their travel plans, possibly exploring lesser-known parks nearby.

Challenges Facing Theme Parks in 2026

Despite the relatively sparse lineup for new attractions, the industry is grappling with external challenges, such as rising costs and ongoing impacts from reduced international travel to the U.S. With these economic pressures, the theme park industry in 2026 may see a downturn unless new projects are announced soon. Fans may need to adjust their travel expectations, opting to rediscover familiar parks or explore hidden gems that they have not visited in years, leveraging their local or regional parks for fun experiences.

What to Expect from Disney and Universal

While 2026 may not be brimming with new attractions, there are still some developments worth noting at major resorts. Walt Disney World will introduce a rebranded Animation Courtyard at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, as well as potentially revamping the iconic Carousel of Progress. Meanwhile, Universal Orlando is crossing its fingers for success with its Epic Universe, which is projected to open soon, although its long-term plans for the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit replacement have been pushed back to at least 2027.

On the West Coast, Disneyland will commence construction on a new Avatar ride next year, alongside a new parking garage that will ease congestion for visitors. The expansion of Avengers Campus is also making headway, adding to the allure of the park in the coming years.

Ideal Opportunities for Exploration

With a lineup that may not inspire extensive travel in 2026, it’s time for fans to consider exploring lesser-known parks across the United States or international options that have yet to be fully explored. Now is the opportune moment to create memories at hidden gems that may not have received attention in the past. Whether it’s a local amusement park or an international theme park known for unique experiences, the opportunities are limitless for adventurous travelers.

Adventuring beyond the traditional headliners can introduce you to new experiences that could leave lasting impressions. Start planning your next visit today and even scout hidden gems that may surprise you with their charm and excitement.

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