(A caretaker at the Alaska SeaLife Center tends to Ukiaq (“Uki”), an orphaned Pacific walrus calf, before her transfer to SeaWorld Orlando. Photo courtesy Alaska SeaLife Center.)
Universal’s Epic Universe animatronics, SeaWorld’s rescued walrus, and IAAPA’s new exhibits headline Orlando’s evolving attractions, with Disney, MCO, and Swan and Dolphin expansion plans on the horizon
by Exhibit City News Staff
Orlando’s attractions landscape is expanding, with Universal’s Epic Universe, IAAPA’s new exhibits, and SeaWorld’s rescued walrus debuting alongside significant upgrades at Disney’s Swan and Dolphin, Orlando International Airport, and other key venues.
Outcon Orlando Postponed to June 2025 Due to Hurricane Impact and Event Conflicts
The Center Orlando has postponed its inaugural OutCon event, originally scheduled for November 2–3, to June 27–28, 2025. The new pop culture convention, focused on LGBTQ+ inclusion across comics, movies, TV, and gaming, was delayed due to hurricane disruptions affecting vendors and entertainers. Additionally, the rescheduled Spooky Empire convention now overlaps with OutCon’s original dates. OutCon will still take place at the Central Florida Fairgrounds during Pride Month next year.
Orlando International Airport to Build $2.2 Billion Rental Car Facility, Easing Parking and Traffic Congestion
Orlando International Airport (MCO) has announced a $2.2 billion Consolidated Rental Car facility, designed to improve rental operations and open 5,000 parking spaces in existing garages. Part of the airport’s 2024-2029 Capital Improvement Program, the project aims to reduce curbside congestion and enhance road safety. With several supporting projects underway, the facility is expected to be completed by 2032. Additionally, GOAA recently partnered with United Airlines to establish a $300 million Maintenance Repair Overhaul complex at MCO.
Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Announces $275 Million Meeting Space Expansion in Orlando
Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin hotels will expand their meeting facilities by 120,000 square feet, enhancing the Dolphin’s event space with a new two-story annex featuring a 41,000-square-foot ballroom. Set for completion by late summer 2026, the $275 million project includes upgrades to the Swan’s current meeting areas and remodeled guest rooms. This expansion follows the recent addition of the Swan Reserve hotel, increasing the complex’s appeal for large groups near Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
IAAPA Expo Introduces Drone Shows, Halloween Market, and Hall of Fame Celebration
The IAAPA Expo returns to the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando from November 18–21, introducing new experiences like a drone show, “Haunting Grounds” Halloween market, and the Legends Hall of Fame celebration. Additional highlights include a Women in the Industry networking lunch, a Digital Signage Innovation Lab, and an oversized Monopoly game on the Expo floor. This year’s sold-out event will host over 1,100 exhibitors and expects 40,000 attendees from across the amusement industry.
SeaWorld Orlando Welcomes Rescued Walrus Calf “Uki” from Alaska SeaLife Center
A rare orphaned Pacific walrus calf named Ukiaq (“Uki”) has found a new home at SeaWorld Orlando after life-saving rehabilitation at the Alaska SeaLife Center. Rescued from the beaches of Utqiagvik, Alaska, the young walrus is under 24/7 care from SeaWorld’s specialists, who aim to prepare her for an eventual public debut. Uki’s journey from rescue to recovery highlights the importance of collaboration in marine animal conservation and SeaWorld’s commitment to wildlife rehabilitation and education.
Diplomat Beach Resort Undergoes Renovation and Rebranding to Join Signia by Hilton Collection
The Diplomat Beach Resort in Hollywood, Florida, is undergoing extensive renovations as it transitions to Signia by Hilton property. Upgrades include revamped public spaces, a modernized lobby, an enhanced pool deck, and a new Club Signia with Atlantic Ocean views. With more than 200,000 square feet of event space, the rebranded resort aims to attract premium groups and global travelers. The rebranding follows an $835 million acquisition by UBS Asset Management and Trinity Real Estate Investments.
Universal Orlando Unveils Monster Animatronics for Epic Universe’s Dark Universe Attraction
Universal Orlando has revealed new details about Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment, the highly anticipated attraction in Epic Universe’s Dark Universe, which opens on May 22, 2025. This immersive ride will feature 14 life-like animatronics of iconic Universal monsters, including Frankenstein’s Monster, Dracula, and the Wolf Man. Using advanced robotics, the attraction takes guests into the catacombs of Frankenstein Manor, where they’ll face off against a horde of enraged monsters.
