Since Walt Disney opened Disneyland in 1955, Disney has been the dominant force in theme park entertainment. But is the reign of the House of Mouse nearing its end?
A new generation of immersive, high-budget parks is rising from the U.S. to Asia and beyond. As the global theme park scene rapidly transforms, challengers are emerging, some poised to rival—perhaps even surpass—Disney’s long-standing legacy.
While Disney’s revenue dominance may remain unmatched, the upcoming decade promises a new wave of competition, reshaping how themed entertainment is delivered. Here’s a look at some of the most anticipated parks in development.
Epic Universe (2025)
Universal’s Epic Universe in Orlando will be Disney’s most formidable rival geographically. Slated to open in May 2025, the park promises four immersive lands filled with groundbreaking attractions.
A SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, bringing Mario and Donkey Kong to life, takes center stage, while a Viking-inspired How to Train Your Dragon area transports guests to Berk. The Dark Universe, an atmospheric zone with Universal Monsters like Dracula and Frankenstein, will add a thrilling edge. The park will also feature a new Wizarding World of Harry Potter land, inspired by the Ministry of Magic, where guests experience a tense day at Dolores Umbridge’s trial.
Mattel Adventure Park (2025)
Opening in Arizona in 2025, Mattel Adventure Park will immerse visitors in the worlds of iconic Mattel brands. Highlights include the Hot Wheels Bone Shaker ride and a dreamlike Barbie Beach House, making it a must-see for families and thrill-seekers alike.
Six Flags Qiddiya City (2025)
Set to open in 2025, Six Flags Qiddiya City in Saudi Arabia will offer record-breaking thrills. With attractions like the Falcon’s Flight roller coaster, the tallest and fastest in the world, it’s poised to raise the bar for thrill parks globally.
The park will feature 28 rides, including the Colossus wooden coaster and Iron Rattler, setting a new standard for entertainment in the Middle East and beyond.
Universal Kids Resort Frisco (2026)
A new concept from Universal, the Universal Kids Resort in Frisco, Texas, will open in 2026. This kid-focused resort promises a smaller, regional experience, with attractions inspired by franchises like Shrek and SpongeBob Squarepants. It’s likely to serve as a prototype for future small-scale parks.
American Heartland Theme Park and Resort (2029)
Slated for Oklahoma in 2029, the $2 billion American Heartland Theme Park will bring American culture to life across six themed lands.
Notably, it will feature a unique Charlotte’s Web barnyard adventure, a refreshing departure from Disney’s recent IP-focused projects.
Universal Great Britain (Unknown)
Universal has purchased land near London for a new park, with plans still ongoing.
If it moves forward, Universal Studios Great Britain could become a major addition to the European theme park landscape, potentially spotlighting UK franchises (by which we mean Harry Potter, duh).
Dragon Ball Theme Park (Unknown)
We may not know when, but Saudi Arabia’s Qiddiya development will soon include a Dragon Ball Theme Park.
With over 30 rides set in iconic Dragon Ball locations, this park promises to be a major draw for fans of the series, bringing the saga’s locations to life in thrilling new ways.
Which theme park are you most excited to experience?
