News Summary
Disneyland Resort is set to transform with the approval of ‘DisneylandForward,’ a proposal enabling new attractions and dining options. Highlights include the development of an Avatar-themed land and a new Coco ride at Disney California Adventure, alongside plans for a transportation hub and possibly a third park. These expansions promise to enhance visitor experience while solidifying Disneyland’s position in the competitive theme park landscape.
Anaheim, California – Disneyland Resort is moving ahead with significant expansion plans, following the approval of “DisneylandForward,” a rezoning proposal that allows for larger-scale developments. This transformative initiative will utilize land that was previously unavailable for construction, enabling new attractions, dining, and entertainment options.
The approved zoning changes herald the development of a new “Avatar”-themed land alongside a new “Coco” ride at Disney California Adventure. Plans also include a new transportation hub designed to enhance visitor experience and manage increased foot traffic effectively.
One of the most exciting aspects of these plans is the potential for a new theme park, as indicated in concept renderings. This could also include additional hotel facilities, retail spaces, and diverse dining and entertainment options. To further improve accessibility, a new pedestrian bridge is set to span Harbor Boulevard, linking this transportation hub directly to guests.
While Disneyland has hinted at the possibility of a third park, no formal plans have yet been released. This speculation coincides with the fierce competition Disneyland faces from Universal Studios, especially following the successful launch of Universal’s Epic Universe.
The expansion project promises an extensive upgrade to the resort, featuring six new attractions, two new lands for Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom, and an expansion of the Avengers Campus at Disney California Adventure. These projects are crucial as Disneyland anticipates an influx of visitors in the coming years.
In addition to new attractions, the Disneyland Resort will close the “Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue!” ride in early 2026 to make way for the new Avatar area. Construction of a new parking structure, which will accommodate approximately 6,000 vehicles, is expected to begin in fall 2026.
The upcoming transportation hub will streamline traffic flow, boasting shuttle and rideshare areas, security screening, and dedicated access off Disney Way. This new infrastructure is a key element of Disneyland’s strategy to enhance visitor convenience and improve overall park experience.
Disneyland Resort plays a vital role in the local economy, generating $16.1 billion and supporting around 102,000 jobs. The resort also contributes $279 million in tax revenue for Anaheim, underscoring its economic significance in the region. The expansion plans are seen as essential for maintaining Disneyland’s competitive edge and ensuring future growth in tourism.
Details about these ambitious projects are expected to be unveiled during the D23 Expo in 2026, which will be held in Anaheim. This event could serve as a critical platform for announcing Disney’s third park, with a focus on engaging local residents and dedicated fans.
Observers note that, while Disney is making substantial investments in these expansions, the scope may not fully match Universal’s own expansive projects across the entertainment landscape. Disney is treading carefully, making sure to gauge the success of the new initiatives before committing to additional expansions. The company aims to balance growth while monitoring consumer response in a highly competitive market.
In conclusion, Disneyland Resort’s recent expansion plans position it to adapt to increasing competition and visitor demand, signaling a new era of investment and development for the iconic entertainment destination.
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Additional Resources
- SFGate: Disneyland Third Theme Park
- Wikipedia: Disneyland Resort
- Local 12: Disneyland Expansion Plans
- Google Search: Disneyland expansion news
- Spectrum News 1: Disneyland Expansion Plans
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Disneyland
- OC Register: Disneyland Buys Parade Warehouse
- Google News: Disneyland expansion Anaheim
- Disney Parks Blog: Future Expansion Plans
- Google Scholar: Disneyland expansion
Author: Anaheim Staff Writer
Anaheim Staff Writer The Anaheim Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREAnaheim.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Anaheim, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as major conventions at the Anaheim Convention Center, including NAMM and VidCon, exciting games at Angel Stadium and Honda Center, and developments at Disneyland Resort Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Anaheim Chamber of Commerce and Visit Anaheim, plus leading businesses in hospitality, entertainment, and innovation that power the local economy As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECostaMesa.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERESantaAna.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
