Visiting Walt Disney World in 2019 was a pretty exciting experience. Between different events, attractions, transportation and hotel openings, there was something new for everyone to enjoy at the parks. Here’s a recap of 2019 at WDW and some exciting things to come in 2020.

2019 in Review:

1. Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge

The highly anticipated Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge opened at the Walt Disney World Resort at the end of August. With such high demand to visit Batuu, guests were flocking to Disney’s Hollywood Studios to see the famous Millenium Falcon. And the excitement for Galaxy’s Edge wasn’t over. In December of 2019, Disney opened the 2nd ride in Batuu, Rise of the Resistance. If you haven’t visited Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, I highly recommend you do so.

Down to the smallest details, Disney has created a themed land where you almost forget that your in Florida and think you’ve been transported to Batuu. And pro tip- whether you want to drink it or not, buy a soda because they are pretty awesome. 

2. Disney Skyliner

“Welcome Aboard the Disney Skyliner.” Introduced in September of 2019, the Disney Skyliner offered guests a new way to travel the skies at WDW. The Skyliner allows guests to travel between Epcot, Caribbean Beach, Disney’s Riviera Resort and Hollywood Studios. If you haven’t tried it already, be sure to hop aboard at the closest spot and get a unique view of WDW from your Skyliner car. 

3. Disney’s Riviera Resort

DVC Members Rejoice! A new resort just opened at Walt Disney World, the Riviera Resort. Inspired by Walt and Lily Disney’s travels around Europe, the Riviera Resort gives guests a taste of the French Riviera and Italy.

Officially opened in December of 2019, guests can now book their stay at this popular resort. Plus, one of the perks include easy access to Epcot thanks to the new Skyliner. This resort also introduced a new restaurant, Topolino’s Terrace, which features a character breakfast and signature dinner. 

4. EPCOT Forever

In September 2019, we said farewell to Illuminations: Reflections of Earth, the ever popular, 20 year old fireworks show at Epcot. But we also welcomed a new show, Epcot Forever. Celebrating Epcot past, Epcot Forever takes you on a blast from the past with the soundtrack of popular Epcot rides. While Epcot Forever won’t be the permanent show in this park, it is here to stay for a while so be sure to check it out if you are visiting in 2020. 

5. Makeover at Hollywood Studios

Disney’s Hollywood Studios is in the process of getting a makeover, which started in 2019. To celebrate its 30th Anniversary, Hollywood Studios launched a new logo for the occasion. The sleek design features characters from the parks themed areas, Mickey, BB8 and Woody. Keep in mind, Hollywood Studios is home to Toy Story Land, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and coming soon, the Runaway Railway, which is a Mickey and Minnie themed ride situated in the Chinese Theater, former home of the Great Movie Ride.

6. Tomorrowland Sign Update

Tomorrowland also got a sign makeover. The popular sign that welcomes guests into the area got a sleek new makeover with more modern font and design. These makeovers are all part of the updates coming to WDW in anticipation of it’s 50th anniversary coming in 2021. 

A Sneak Peak at 2020:

1. EPCOT

Honestly it’s hard to even sum up the upgrades and overhaul that’s happening at Epcot. Between the removal of Club Cool, relocation of Starbucks, updates to Spaceship Earth, the changing of the entrance to Epcot and the removal of the Liberty Inn, there’s lots of new things coming to this loved park. Plus, EPCOT is getting some new rides! In the France Pavilion, guests can get shrunk down to the size of Remy on the new Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure ride. Also coming to the France Pavilion is the Beauty and the Beast Sing-A-Long. 

2. Hollywood Studios

As I mentioned, Hollywood Studios is in the process of getting a refresh. This means new lands and new rides. Opening in 2020 is Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway. This ride is the first EVER based around Mickey & Minnie. Hop on board the Runaway Railway to see Mickey and Minnie cuteness in action. Also coming to Hollywood Studios is Roundup Rodeo BBQ in Toy Story Land. 

3. Magic Kingdom

Disney’s Magic Kingdom isn’t being left out of the fun either! Look for refurbishments at some popular attractions such as the Jungle Cruise and Big Thunder Mountain. Also in the works is Tron, which will open in 2021, but be on the look out for construction.

You will notice that the only park not mentioned here is Disney’s Animal Kingdom. As of right now, there is no planned updates for Animal Kingdom. Of course, as we near the 50th Anniversary of WDW in 2021, this may change.

4. Around the Parks

In 2020, there will be some new additions to the buses. In 2019, WDW introduced new bus designs as well as a limited number of buses with wifi, etc. In 2020, there will be park to park buses, USB charging stations on  buses as well as more of those super cool new bus designs. Disney will also introduce a new app for vacation planning, the Disney Genie App, so be sure to be on the look out for that.

Did you visit WDW in 2019? What was your favorite moment? And what are you most excited to see open or experience at WDW in 2020? Let me know in the comments below! 

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