ALL FLORIDA STUFF REPORT
ORLANDO, Fla. — Orlando’s tourism and dining landscape continues to grow in 2026 with new attractions, restaurants, entertainment venues and resort experiences opening across Central Florida. From major theme-park additions to new destinations along International Drive, residents and visitors have even more places to explore this year.
New Attractions & Experiences
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Reopens at Magic Kingdom
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad reopened at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom in May 2026 following an extensive refurbishment and the addition of new enhancements to the popular attraction.
Blue Man Group Debuts at ICON Park
Blue Man Group opened its new Orlando home at ICON Park on May 1, 2026, bringing its signature combination of music, comedy and visual entertainment back to the area.
New Restaurants
Jack in the Box Returns to Orlando
Jack in the Box opened a new Orlando restaurant at 5324 South John Young Parkway in June 2026, marking the fast-food chain’s return to the area. The restaurant is known for burgers, tacos, breakfast items and late-night dining.
CAVA Opens at Vineland Pointe
Mediterranean fast-casual restaurant CAVA opened a new location at Vineland Pointe on March 20, 2026. The restaurant serves customizable bowls and pitas featuring fresh vegetables, grains, proteins, dips and Mediterranean-inspired flavors.
Vines by H Opens on Restaurant Row
Vines by H opened in February 2026 following a complete renovation of the former Vines Grille & Wine Bar location. The updated Dr. Phillips restaurant features modern American cuisine with Mediterranean and European influences, along with a wine program, cigar lounge and live entertainment.
New Retail
Barnes & Noble Opens New Lake Nona Store
Barnes & Noble opened a new bookstore in Lake Nona on June 10, 2026. The new location gives southeast Orlando residents another destination for books, gifts, educational products and community events.
Homesense Opens at Lake Nona West
Homesense opened a new 25,000-square-foot store at Lake Nona West in May 2026. The home furnishings retailer offers furniture, lighting, rugs, décor, kitchenware and other home accessories at discounted prices.
Target Opens at Lake Nona West
A new Target opened at 6065 Lake Nona Boulevard in July 2026, serving as the anchor retailer for the new Lake Nona West shopping center. The store includes pickup and delivery services, a CVS Pharmacy and a Starbucks Café.
Coming Soon
SEAQuest: Legends of the Deep Coming to SeaWorld Orlando
SeaWorld Orlando is preparing to debut SEAQuest: Legends of the Deep, the world's first suspended dark ride. The family attraction will take guests on an immersive underwater adventure through ocean environments and is scheduled to open in 2026.
PopStroke Coming to International Drive
Tiger Woods' PopStroke is coming to International Drive with two 18-hole putting courses, casual dining, outdoor games and family-friendly entertainment. The new venue is expected to become one of Orlando's newest entertainment destinations in 2026.
Society Park Planned for International Drive
A new entertainment destination called Society Park is planned for the former Wyndham property on International Drive. The project will feature restaurants, shopping, a spa, padel courts and entertainment venues, creating another exciting addition to Orlando's tourism corridor.
Looking Ahead
Orlando continues to welcome new restaurants, retailers, attractions and entertainment destinations across Central Florida. As additional openings are announced throughout downtown Orlando, Lake Nona, International Drive, the theme park district and surrounding communities, All Florida Stuff will continue bringing you the latest updates through our What’s New in Florida series.
Know about a new business, restaurant, attraction, hotel or development opening in the Orlando area? We’d love to hear from you. Contact All Florida Stuff and you may be featured in an upcoming All Florida Stuff Report.
