Marne-la-Vallée, Friday, 22 August 2025.
Disney is set to transform Disneyland Paris with two groundbreaking new attractions, marking a significant €2 billion expansion of Walt Disney Studios Park. The centerpiece is a massive Lion King water ride featuring an impressive 52-foot drop, promising an immersive musical journey through the Pride Lands. Complementing this will be a family-friendly Up-themed carousel offering panoramic park views. Scheduled to begin construction in autumn 2025, these attractions are part of an ambitious plan to reimagine over 90% of the park’s offerings and nearly double its footprint by 2026, signaling Disney’s commitment to continuous innovation and storytelling.
Expansion Overview
Disneyland Paris is embarking on a massive €2 billion expansion project that will transform Walt Disney Studios Park into Disney Adventure World by 2026 [1]. The ambitious plan will reimagine more than 90% of the park’s offerings since its debut in 2002, effectively doubling the park’s footprint [1]. Natacha Rafalski, president of Disneyland Paris, emphasized the company’s commitment to reinventing the park with a fresh creative vision [1].
Lion King Attraction Details
The centerpiece of the expansion is a spectacular Lion King-themed water ride that promises an immersive musical adventure through the Pride Lands [1]. This attraction will be one of the park’s largest, featuring three distinct slopes and a dramatic 52-foot (15.8m) drop that is sure to thrill visitors [1]. The ride will anchor a fully immersive Lion King-themed land, creating a comprehensive narrative experience [1].
Up-Themed Carousel Experience
Complementing the Lion King attraction, Disney will introduce a family-friendly Up-themed spinning carousel ride [1]. This unique attraction will offer guests a bird’s-eye view of the park, providing a whimsical and panoramic experience inspired by the beloved Pixar film [1].
Expansion Timeline
Construction of both attractions is scheduled to begin in autumn 2025 [1]. The expansion will include the opening of Adventure Way, Adventure Bay, and World of Frozen in 2026 [1]. Additionally, the resort’s 1,010-room Disney Sequoia Lodge is currently undergoing a significant renovation project [1].
Bronnen