Orlando 2021: Fresh Rides, Dining, and Stays to Explore
Explore fresh reasons to visit Orlando in 2021—brand‑new rides, restaurants, and accommodations across the city and its theme parks.
Orlando, recently named the top trending U.S. destination for 2021 by Sojern, offers an evolving lineup of attractions that make it the ideal getaway this year. From exhilarating new theme‑park experiences to inventive dining and luxurious stays, the city’s “Theme Park Capital of the World” continues to expand its appeal.
Below are the latest highlights that make Orlando a must‑visit in 2021.
Walt Disney World has coined a new term, “EARidescence,” to describe the 50th‑anniversary celebration, featuring golden bunting and a crest at Cinderella Castle in Magic Kingdom® Park. The festivities also include special nighttime shows at all four Disney parks, such as the Tree of Life at Disney’s Animal Kingdom®, Hollywood Tower Hotel at Disney’s Hollywood Studios®, and Spaceship Earth at EPCOT®. In addition, new versions of Mickey and Minnie, along with other surprises, will be unveiled throughout the season.
Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance
Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, the most ambitious immersive attraction to date at Disney’s Hollywood Studios®, transports guests into a Resistance transport captured by an Imperial Star Destroyer. Expect high‑energy action and cinematic storytelling when you visit.
New Experiences Beyond Orlando’s Theme Parks
Discover additional attractions, restaurants, resorts, and more that opened in 2021.
New Places to Eat in Orlando
Over the past year, Orlando has welcomed several high‑profile dining venues that may still be new to you. Here are the standout additions.
Ole Red
Located in ICON Park®, Ole Red is headed by country superstar Blake Shelton. The restaurant blends southern hospitality, quality cuisine, and live country music.
Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill
Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill at Disney Springs® showcases the chef’s signature Mediterranean‑inspired dishes within a California‑inspired ambience.
Knife & Spoon
Chef John Tesar’s new concept, Knife & Spoon, debuted at The Ritz‑Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes. Tesar, a James Beard Award semifinalist and Top Chef contestant, brings fresh culinary creativity.
The Hampton Social
Part of Pointe Orlando on International Drive, The Hampton Social delivers a lively day‑to‑night dining experience with exceptional food, cocktails, and live music—Florida’s first location of the celebrated Chicago original.
City Works Eatery & Pour House
New to Disney Springs, City Works offers a sports‑themed restaurant and bar featuring unique menu items and 90 draft craft beers.
Fish & Chips
Gordon Ramsay brings his take on classic English street food to ICON Park.
New Hotels & Resorts in Orlando
With over 450 accommodations—including hotels, resorts, vacation homes, and condos—Orlando provides endless options. 2021 brings even more choices, complementing the 2020 openings such as JW Marriott Orlando Bonnet Creek Resort & Spa and Tru by Hilton Orlando Convention Center.
Universal’s Endless Summer Resort — Dockside Inn & Suites
Universal Orlando Resort’s 2,050‑room Endless Summer Resort, Dockside Inn & Suites, opened in December 2020 and pairs with its sister hotel, Surfside Inn & Suites.
AC Hotel by Marriott Orlando
Situated in downtown Orlando, AC Hotel offers 180 modern rooms with a sleek European design, plus a SkyBar Rooftop Terrace that delivers 360‑degree city views and innovative mixology.
Walt Disney World Swan Reserve
Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort plans to open the Swan Reserve this summer. The 14‑story, 349‑room tower will feature rooftop‑terraced meeting rooms, a restaurant, a full‑service health club, and a 90‑foot pool.
These are some of the top new reasons to visit Orlando in 2021, and the city continues to add fresh rides, resorts, and dining experiences each year. For more updates, check our blog or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, and Pinterest.
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