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New Attractions Based On Recent Blockbusters Coming To Walt Disney World

ORLANDO, Fla. (KDKA) -- Walt Disney World has some additions and changes this summer, and some of them are based blockbuster hits such as "Frozen" and "Star Wars."

Jennifer Robertson and her family from Westmoreland County visit Disney World every year.

"There's a new attraction at least every time we come," said Robertson.

And there's quite bit new this year. KDKA's David Highfield got a sneak peek of what's about to open soon.

Frozen Ever After

Let's begin with the phenomenon that is "Frozen." Kids love the movie about a fearless princess who sets off to find her sister.

So, Disney is opening "Frozen Ever After" next month, a boat ride that takes you on a journey.

"It's going to take you inside the wintry world of Arendelle where you can really experience 'Frozen,'" said Jessica Jackson of Walt Disney World. "So, you'll go up to Queen Elsa's ice palace and you'll come down into the village area."

It'll be at the Norway Pavilion at World Showcase in Epcot. In addition to the ride, there will also be Anna and Elsa's summer place called the Royal Sommerhus, where visitors can experience a meet-and-greet with the characters.

Soarin'

Also in Epcot, the ride Soarin' has been revamped.

It used to fly visitors over images of just California, but starting mid-June, it'll take you around the world.

Disney Springs

One of the biggest transformations is happening at Downtown Disney. In fact, it's not even called that anymore.

"It's such a different experience from what it had been, that it felt like the name change just made sense," said Darcy Clark of Walt Disney World.

It's now "Disney Springs," and it has doubled in size with new restaurants and shops opening this summer.

There's a bar already open named after Indiana Jones' pilot friend Jock Lindsey. They serve a drink called Reggie's Revenge, which is named after Lindsey's pet snake.

Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto has opened a cool new restaurant with a sleek design, and among the new shops, a place called Ganachery where you can watch them make chocolate!

If you love classic cars and getting out on the water at the same time, you might want to ride in something called an Amphicar. Available at the Boathouse Restaurant, you begin with a plunge into the water that might remind you of the Log Jammer. While there's a fee to ride of $125 for a car of three people, the best thing about Disney Springs is that unlike the parks, admission is free!

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Star Wars Fireworks

Hollywood Studios is where "Star Wars Land," a 14-acre park, will eventually open.

But this summer, you can catch a new and improved Star Wars fireworks show, which they say will include the biggest fireworks they've ever had at Hollywood Studios.

They also promise flame bursts and Star Wars film moments projected on buildings.

Animal Kingdom Opens at Night

Finally, Animal Kingdom will be open at night starting Memorial Day weekend.

The Tree of Life in the park will become a tree of light with a mesmerizing display.

"It truly will come to life," said Brian Rodrigues of Walt Disney World. "You'll see some of the animal carvings pop out and kind of move."

They'll also have nighttime safaris. You're able to see the animals because they've created just enough light to make it feel like a perpetual sunset.

One of the most impressive displays will be the "Rivers of Light" show. Illuminated floating animal barges pass by, water dances up out of giant flowers, and images are projected onto walls of water.

In addition to "Star Wars Land," which is off in the future, Disney also has plans for a "Toy Story Land" which will also be built at Hollywood Studios.

There will also be an area called "The World of Avatar," which will be at Animal Kingdom and should open sometime next year.

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