What’s New in Kissimmee, Florida for 2026
Kissimmee continues to add new attractions, events, accommodation options, and dining experiences in 2026. Updates from local partners across Kissimmee and Central Florida highlight developments across tourism, culture, food, and transportation.
Attractions
SeaWorld Orlando plans to introduce SEAQuest: Legends of the Deep in 2026. The suspended family dark ride will take guests through underwater environments aboard a submersible, combining storytelling with educational themes focused on ocean life.
LEGOLAND Florida Resort is preparing to launch Galacticoaster in early 2026. The indoor, family-oriented, space-themed coaster represents a major investment for the resort and is designed for guests of all ages.
Walt Disney World will introduce several updates across its parks in 2026:
At Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster will reopen as Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets. The park will also debut The Magic of Disney Animation, a new family-focused experience inspired by Walt Disney Animation Studios and the short film Once Upon a Studio.
At Magic Kingdom Park, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad will return following updates to its track, effects, and storyline.
At Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, Zootopia: Better Together will open at the Tree of Life Theatre, replacing It’s Tough to Be a Bug! with a 4D show designed for families.
The Old Town Entertainment District will mark its 40th anniversary in 2026. Since opening in 1986, Old Town has been a long-standing entertainment area in Kissimmee, and the milestone will be marked with special events and themed programming.
Activities
The inaugural Florida Children’s Book Festival will take place from February 20–22, 2026, at Orlando Family Stage in partnership with Writer’s Block Bookstore. The festival will include readings, creative workshops, author interactions, character appearances, and panel discussions for families.
Opera Orlando will present its early 2026 MainStage season at Steinmetz Hall in the Dr Phillips Centre for the Performing Arts. The lineup includes Silent Night (February 6 and 8), The Merry Widow (April 24 and 26), and A Decade of Divas (May 16), marking the company’s 10th anniversary. Performances will feature English and Spanish surtitles.
Build-A-Bear Workshop is set to open a new multi-level flagship store at ICON Park in 2026, featuring the brand’s core experience along with new interactive elements.
Accommodations
The Etté Hotel has earned a MICHELIN Key for the second consecutive year, recognising its design-focused approach and guest experience.
The recently opened Kompose Boutique Resort offers accommodations near Central Florida’s theme parks, with amenities including a pool, lazy river, sauna, jacuzzi, sports courts, mini golf, fitness facilities, and an on-site bar.
Food and Beverage
Experience Kissimmee, in collaboration with Atlas Obscura, has launched the Latin Culinary Trail. The experience highlights 20 restaurants, cafés, and food trucks across Osceola County, with a focus on Hispanic and Latino culinary traditions. Participating venues include El Cilantrillo, La Mexicana Restaurant, Food Trucks Heaven, and Susana’s Café, supported by digital content such as videos, podcasts, and recipes.
Columbia Restaurant continues its long-standing presence in Florida, serving Spanish Cuban cuisine rooted in family recipes and regional influences.
Kilwins Celebration will introduce new Dubai-inspired chocolate offerings in 2026, expanding its range with pistachio-based and chocolate-dipped treats.
Transportation
A non-stop route between Orlando International Airport and Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport launched on October 26, 2025, with Iberia operating four weekly flights.
In February 2026, a new non-stop service between Orlando International Airport and Narita International Airport will begin, operated by ZIPAIR Tokyo, marking Florida’s first direct connection to the Asia-Pacific region.
These developments reflect ongoing additions across attractions, culture, dining, accommodation, and connectivity in Kissimmee and the surrounding Central Florida region for 2026.
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