NEWS: Complete List of WDW Updates & Enhancements Revealed at Destination D23

Walt Disney World is experiencing an era of expansion and transformation, with many new attractions and experiences in development across all four theme parks. From reimagined classics to brand-new lands, guests will soon be able to immerse themselves in their favorite stories in all-new, exciting ways.

At Destination D23: A Journey Around the Worlds of Disney, Walt Disney Imagineers, Disney Legends and other special guests took center stage in a series of engaging panels to reveal even more exciting enhancements. These additional projects highlight The Walt Disney Company’s commitment to innovation, storytelling and creating memorable experiences for guests visiting The Most Magical Place on Earth. Learn more below!

1 – New Color Palette Announced for Cinderella Castle

Since debuting in 1971, Cinderella Castle has undergone several significant updates to enhance its magical appeal, including its current color palette, which was revealed during the Walt Disney World 50^th Anniversary Celebration. Announced during Destination D23, the iconic centerpiece of Magic Kingdom Park is set to undergo another enchanting update, transforming its appearance with vibrant new colors and renewed charm.

Walt Disney Imagineers have studied the various overlays and tonal compositions used over the years and have created a new color palette inspired by the Castle’s original and classic appearance. The updated colors will include shades of gray, cream, blue, and hints of gold to enhance its architecture.

For over 50 years, the colors on the 189-foot landmark have been carefully chosen to reflect Florida’s sunshine, blending rich blues, warm hues and radiant golds. The finishes have been thoughtfully selected to ensure they remain vibrant and deep over time.

Additional details will be announced as the design and painting process details are finalized.

2 – Walt Disney Audio-Animatronics Figure Coming to Carousel of Progress

The beloved attraction, created by Walt Disney himself, Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress, is getting an exciting update! A new Audio-Animatronics figure of Walt Disney will welcome Magic Kingdom guests and introduce the show in a newly created scene. More details will be shared as the carousel continues to spin, showing a new generation of enchanted time-travelers that a great big, beautiful tomorrow is just a dream away.

Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress, which debuted at the 1964 New York World’s Fair, quickly gained worldwide popularity with millions of visitors. The iconic attraction has since logged more performances than any other show in American theater history and has operated at Magic Kingdom as a tribute to the original since 1975. 

3 – “Tron: Ares” Overlay Coming to Magic Kingdom

Attention Users: Get ready to experience the Grid in a whole new light! TRON Lightcycle / Run presented by Enterprise at Magic Kingdom Park will feature an exciting new overlay inspired by the upcoming Walt Disney Studios film, “Tron: Ares.” The update features the addition of striking red colors from the latest “Tron” sequel, releasing in theaters on Oct. 10, along with a custom soundtrack composed by the industrial rock band Nine Inch Nails.

For a limited time, starting Sept. 15, guests entering the digital frontier will be transported into a “Tron: Ares”-themed version of the high-speed, adrenaline-filled ride that transforms reality into a video game world as riders weave through twisting tunnels of bright red and orange light trails, set to the pulsating sounds of Nine Inch Nails.

4 – Architectural Inspirations for Villains-Themed Land at Magic Kingdom

To gather ideas for the upcoming Villains-themed land at Magic Kingdom Park, Walt Disney Imagineers recently visited various global destinations to experience their sights, sounds, and stories firsthand. Looking back at the influences that brought some of Disney’s most infamous villains to life onscreen, Imagineers traveled to Paris, France, and Barcelona. There, they met with local experts and explored cultural landmarks.

Understanding that great stories often stem from real-world inspiration, the team studied Art Nouveau architecture design and the unique form, scale, and color that define this style, which flourished in the late 1800s. Through partnerships with local professors, along with art and architectural historians, Imagineers received a firsthand look at the architectural aesthetics that will serve as the overall design inspiration for the land.

After recognizing similarities between the fluid, organic look of animated Villains and Art Nouveau, the Walt Disney Imagineering team coined the term “Conjured Architecture,” describing their blend of historical and fantastical elements, which will be featured in a Villains-inspired land for Walt Disney World guests to experience.

5 – Destination D23

These were just some of the announcements made at Destination D23: A Journey Around the Worlds of Disney presented by Lug, a highly anticipated one-of-a-kind fan event that brought together the biggest Disney fans on August 29, 30, and 31, 2025 at Walt Disney World. The event offered fans access to more of what they love about Disney with three packed days of sneak peeks and behind the scenes moments, historic look backs, special performances, shopping, surprises, and more. Learn more about the news out of Destination D23 2025 by visiting our Instagram Story below.

Click here to view our Instagram Story for Destination D23 – Day 1

Click here to view our Instagram Story for Destination D23 – Day 2

Click here to view our Instagram Story for Destination D23 – Day 3