In 2025, numerous theme parks and attractions closed permanently, highlighting challenges in the industry and a shift towards replacing older rides with new IP-driven experiences.
Theme Parks First. Everything Else Next.
In 2025, numerous theme parks and attractions closed permanently, highlighting challenges in the industry and a shift towards replacing older rides with new IP-driven experiences.
The immersive Star Wars hotel, Galactic Starcruiser, at Walt Disney World closed in September 2023 due to high costs and low demand. It offered a unique experience but faced criticism for its pricing and room sizes. The space will now be converted into Walt Disney Imagineering offices for future park expansions.
This week’s theme park updates feature new attractions and expansions, including a Monsters, Inc.-themed area at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, the upcoming World of Frozen at Disneyland Paris, and the construction of Qatar’s Land of Legends park. Additionally, Universal Studios Japan is set to open Donkey Kong Country.
Disney plans to invest $60 billion over the next decade in their Parks, Experiences and Products division, nearly double the amount spent in the last 10 years. CEO Bob Iger announced the move, stating the company is mindful of financial growth and shareholder value. The proposed investment includes fresh ideas, such as the creation of new lands themed on Frozen, Coco, and Black Panther. Chairman Josh D’Amaro emphasized the company’s ambitious growth strategy backed by a proven record and land resources for further expansion.
This article contains a series of predictions for the D23 Parks, Experiences and Products panel, focusing on U.S. Disney parks. Predictions include a revamp of the Disney Genie, the possible return of ‘Happily Ever After’, the launch of Tron, a re-opening schedule for Walt Disney World Railroad, and many potential updates, re-themes, and overhauls across various parks. Additional “wild card” predictions are also given, speculating on larger changes and new attractions.
Last year Disney debuted Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge to both Disneyland in California and Disney’s Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World in Florida. Here are