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IPW 2026: Disney Destinations Unveils Major Park Expansions and Introduces the New Muppets Roller Coaster
Disney Destinations arrived at IPW 2026 with major announcements for Walt Disney World Resort and Disney Cruise Line, confirming a strong expansion of immersive experiences, new themed lands, and attractions inspired by some of Disney and Pixar’s most successful franchises.
Speaking with ABC MUNDIAL, Regina Osuna, Commercial Manager for Disney Destinations in the Mexico and Colombia markets, highlighted that one of the biggest attractions this season is the debut of the newly reimagined “Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets” at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
“Just yesterday, we celebrated the opening of Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets,” Osuna explained during the presentation held as part of IPW 2026. The classic roller coaster, previously themed around Aerosmith, has been completely redesigned to feature the iconic Muppets characters and the Electric Mayhem band in an experience filled with music, humor, and nostalgia.
The launch of the new version represents one of Disney’s strongest bets for Summer 2026 under the “Cool Kids Summer” initiative, designed to deliver new family-oriented experiences across the Orlando parks.
Hollywood Studios Adds Villains, The Little Mermaid, and Monsters Inc.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios is also undergoing a major transformation. This summer, two new live shows will debut: “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure” and “Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After,” the first permanent show entirely dedicated to Disney villains.
In addition, the future “Monstropolis” expansion inspired by Monsters, Inc. is currently under construction. The new land will feature an innovative suspended roller coaster based on the famous flying doors sequence starring Sulley and Mike Wazowski.
Encanto Will Receive Its First Major Attraction in Orlando
Another major addition is coming to Disney’s Animal Kingdom with “Tropical Americas,” a new themed land inspired by Latin America and especially by the hit film Encanto.
The expansion will include the first attraction inspired by the Madrigal family, allowing guests to explore “La Casita,” enjoy regional cuisine, and experience a new Indiana Jones attraction — a franchise that until now only had a presence at Disneyland California.
Magic Kingdom Prepares Two New Themed Lands
Disney also confirmed major developments for Magic Kingdom. Among the highlights are a completely new land dedicated to Disney villains, featuring attractions, restaurants, and themed shops, as well as “Piston Peak,” a new area inspired by the Cars franchise.
Meanwhile, EPCOT will continue focusing on its popular seasonal festivals, all included with regular park admission.
Disney Cruise Line Continues Expanding in Latin America
In the cruise segment, Regina Osuna highlighted the strong growth of Disney Cruise Line in Latin America, particularly in markets such as Mexico and Colombia.
The cruise line currently operates eight themed ships, divided between classic vessels and the new generation launched with the Disney Wish.
Among the newest additions are:
- Disney Wish, inspired by classic Disney stories and princesses.
- Disney Treasure, featuring an adventure theme inspired by Agrabah and Aladdin.
- Disney Destiny, launched at the end of 2025 and centered on heroes and villains.
The executive also previewed the future Disney Adventure, scheduled to debut by the end of 2027, although itineraries have not yet been confirmed.
Disney Cruise Line continues expanding itineraries from Florida, Alaska, and Europe, while promoting its “Land and Sea” concept, which combines theme park vacations with cruises departing from Port Canaveral.
According to Osuna, the growth of the segment reflects the strong emotional connection Latin American audiences have with Disney stories and characters, allowing the park experience to extend “to the high seas.”
For travel agencies and tour operators, Disney also maintains an exclusive training platform and marketing tools for industry professionals working with select authorized operators.