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The Orlando Changelog

What is changing around Orlando, from theme parks and restaurants to roads, housing and local rules. Each change is checked against its sources before it is posted, and each has its own page below.

At a glance Every change The posts Follow it

At a glance

39 changes logged in the Orlando area in the last 30 days. 10 coming up; next: Spirit Christmas plans to open in Winter Garden on Oct. 15, in the former Forever 21, Oct 15, 2026.

Covering the Orlando area.

Every change

39 changes logged.

EffectiveKindCategoryChangeBefore → afterPlaceStatus
Coming upRoads, transit and the airportLYNX proposes bus cuts and route changes for Dec. 13; the board votes Oct. 22Current LYNX service, including the Link 701 Orange Technical College Shuttle, Link 407 FastLink on S.R. 417, and Saturday service on Link 1. now: Proposed: Link 701 ends, Link 407 becomes local Link 607/607A with two Lake Nona trips a day, Link 1 loses Saturday service, several routes lose early or late trips, and Links 48 and 49 gain Saturday service. Not final until the board votes.LYNX bus routes in Orange, Osceola and Seminole countiesAnnounced, not final
Coming upRoads, transit and the airportFrontier plans Orlando nonstops to Bogotá, Medellín and Cartagena from DecemberOrlando to Bogotá and Medellín on Avianca (and LATAM to Bogotá); no nonstop to Cartagena. now: Frontier adds Medellín and Bogotá, and Orlando's only nonstop to Cartagena, pending government approval.Orlando International Airport (MCO)Upcoming
Coming upEvents, venues and sportsThe Florida Classic plays Camping World Stadium on Nov. 21 at an adjusted capacity during the stadium's renovationThe Classic's usual home, with what the Daytona Beach News-Journal calls the traditional 60,219-seat capacity. now: Saturday, Nov. 21, 2026, 3:30 p.m. ET, at Camping World Stadium at an adjusted capacity, with portions of the venue expected to be impacted by construction; the sources read give no capacity figure.Camping World Stadium, OrlandoUpcoming
Coming upTheme parks and attractionsUniversal Orlando's holiday season runs November 14, 2026 to January 3, 2027The season's dates were announced in August 2026; the season begins November 14, 2026. now: Holidays at Universal Orlando from November 14, 2026 through January 3, 2027, in three parks, included in theme park admission.Universal Orlando Resort: Universal Studios Florida, Universal Islands of Adventure and Universal Epic UniverseUpcoming
the season runs November 14, 2026 through January 3, 2027, by Universal's guide and WFTV; the dates were announced in August 2026
Closing soonTheme parks and attractionsUniversal Studios Florida closes Animal Actors On Location! for good; last shows November 2Animal Actors On Location!, a live animal show at Universal Studios Florida. now: The show closes permanently: last shows Monday, November 2, 2026; gone from Tuesday, November 3. No replacement announced.Universal Studios Florida, OrlandoUpcoming
Coming upLocal rules and feesOUC adds a $5 to $15 DemandLevel charge from the November 2026 bill, pending state reviewCurrent OUC electric rates, without the DemandLevel charge. now: Proposed: a monthly DemandLevel charge of $5, $10 or $15 (Orlando homes) set by the highest 15-minute draw, with a 12.5% lower non-fuel energy rate and an unchanged fuel charge; pending Florida PSC approval.Orlando Utilities Commission (OUC) electric service, Orlando and St. CloudAnnounced, not final
Coming upRoads, transit and the airportTAP Air Portugal schedules Orlando–Lisbon nonstop from October 29No nonstop between Orlando and Lisbon; the airport lists the route as an "Unserved Route". now: TAP Air Portugal nonstop Orlando–Lisbon three times a week (Mondays, Thursdays, Saturdays), scheduled from October 29, subject to government approval.Orlando International Airport (MCO)Upcoming
Closing soonTheme parks and attractionsUniversal's Volcano Bay closes for maintenance October 26; planned reopening now on or before April 1, 2027Volcano Bay open; a maintenance closure from October 26, 2026 listed with a planned reopening on or before March 24, 2027. now: Maintenance closure from October 26, 2026, with an updated planned reopening on or before April 1, 2027; dates subject to change.Universal Volcano Bay, Universal Orlando ResortUpcoming
Coming upEvents, venues and sportsOrlando Magic add $20 'Monthly Steals' tickets and a $2-to-$7 value menu at Kia Center for 2026-27No $20 Monthly Steals ticket program or Fan Favorites Value Menu announced for Magic home games. now: $20 Monthly Steals tickets for every home game (text-alert subscribers; limited, random seats, non-transferable), a $2-to-$7 value menu at two stands, and $15 merchandise deals.Kia Center, downtown OrlandoUpcoming
Opening soonShoppingSpirit Christmas plans to open in Winter Garden on Oct. 15, in the former Forever 21The former Forever 21 space at Winter Garden Village. now: Spirit Christmas, a seasonal store, planned to open October 15, 2026; no closing date published yet.3049 Daniels Road, Suite 220C, Winter Garden Village, Winter Garden, FL 34787Upcoming
Opening soonShoppingBuild-A-Bear's three-story Workshop at ICON Park is scheduled to open in NovemberFox 35 reported the groundbreaking on August 1, 2025, with the store set to open in 2026. now: A three-story Build-A-Bear Workshop at ICON Park, scheduled to open in November 2026.Build-A-Bear Workshop, ICON Park, OrlandoUpcoming
month only: the opening is scheduled for November 2026, by Build-A-Bear Workshop's release of October 5, 2026; the company says grand opening details are to come
OpeningParks, outdoors and communityOrange County Library System opens its Horizon West Branch on October 10A branch under construction; the area served by the Horizon West Book Drop in the Hamlin Town Center. now: A 20,000 square-foot branch library, grand opening October 10, 2026 at 10 a.m.; regular hours not yet published.Horizon West Branch, 4657 Hamlin Groves Trail, Winter Garden, FL 34787In effect
ChangedRoads, transit and the airportOrlando International Airport's Experience MCO Visitor Pass now allows entry from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.Entry timeslots between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.; exit by 8:00 p.m. now: Entry between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.; exit all terminals by 8:00 p.m.Orlando International Airport (MCO), post-security areas of Terminals A, B and CIn effect
OpeningShoppingPrincess Polly opens its Orlando store at The Mall at MilleniaNo Princess Polly store in Orlando; the brand's Florida store was in Miami, at Dadeland Mall. now: A Princess Polly store at The Mall at Millenia, upper level near Macy's, Space L205.The Mall at Millenia, 4200 Conroy Rd, Orlando: upper level near Macy's, Space L205In effect
ChangedTheme parks and attractionsWalt Disney World raises all four Annual Pass prices on Oct. 6, 2026; Incredi-Pass now $1,749Incredi-Pass $1,629; Sorcerer $1,099; Pirate $869; Pixie Dust $489. now: Incredi-Pass $1,749; Sorcerer $1,139; Pirate $909; Pixie Dust $499.Walt Disney World ResortIn effect
Opening soonShoppingToys“R”Us is coming to Oviedo Mall this fall as a year-round storeNo Toys“R”Us store at Oviedo Mall. now: A year-round Toys“R”Us store at Oviedo Mall, expected this fall; the mall has hinted at early October; no date announced.Oviedo Mall, OviedoAnnounced, not final
OpeningRoads, transit and the airportAllegiant starts nonstop flights between Orlando Sanford and Trenton, New JerseyNo nonstop Allegiant flights between Orlando Sanford and Trenton, New Jersey. now: Allegiant flies Orlando Sanford (SFB) to Trenton-Mercer (TTN) nonstop, twice weekly according to Simple Flying.Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB), SanfordIn effect
ChangedLocal rules and feesDowntown Orlando city parking rates rise and meters go digital-only on October 1On-street $1 an hour, paid 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.; city garages $2 an hour, $15 daily maximum; about 1,000 physical meters. now: On-street $2/$2/$3/$4 for hours one to four, increasing to a six-hour maximum, paid 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday-Saturday; garages $2 an hour for four hours, then $3, $20 daily maximum; digital payment only.City of Orlando parking facilities, downtown OrlandoIn effect
OpeningRestaurants and barsHurly-Burly, a lounge with live music, opens in the former Jellyrolls building at Disney's BoardWalk on Oct. 1Jellyrolls, the BoardWalk's dueling piano bar, closed; its building stood empty. now: Hurly-Burly, a lounge with family trivia and games until 9:00 PM and live music for guests 21 and older after, open 4:00 PM to 1:00 AM.Disney's BoardWalk, 2101 Epcot Resort Blvd., Lake Buena VistaIn effect
ChangedRoads, transit and the airportMCO's Gate Link tram to Gates 100-129 now runs on its first rebuilt trackThe Gate Link trams to Gates 100-129 (Airside 2) ran on the system placed into service in 2000. now: One rebuilt track to Gates 100-129 carries passengers with new vehicles while crews rebuild the second track.Orlando International Airport (MCO), Gate Link to Gates 100-129In effect
the first of two tracks to Gates 100-129; the second track and Gates 70-99 follow, on the airport's posted schedule
OpeningParks, outdoors and communityWekiwa Springs State Park's four new glamping tents are open for reservationsAnnounced in July 2026 as coming this fall, with no opening date, nightly rates or reservation date given. now: Four tents open in the park's campground, with reservations open through the operator, Wekiwa Springs Adventures.Wekiwa Springs State Park campgroundIn effect
reported open on October 1, 2026; the sources read give no separate opening day
ChangedLocal rules and feesWinter Garden's standard garbage cart rises to $26.61 a month from October 1$24.87 a month for the 95-gallon residential cart (fiscal year 2026). now: $26.61 a month for the 95-gallon cart; a new 65-gallon cart at $24.87 a month; the adopted schedule rises each fiscal year to $30.09 for the 95-gallon cart in fiscal year 2031.City of Winter GardenIn effect
ChangedHousing and developmentConstruction begins on the RoseArts District on the former Lake Orlando golf courseThe closed Lake Orlando golf course, approved for redevelopment as the RoseArts District in December 2021. now: Construction underway on Phase 1: about 1,600 apartments in four buildings, 160 designated affordable; the first building about 30 months from the September 30, 2026 groundbreaking, per the developer.Former Lake Orlando Golf Course, Rosemont, OrlandoIn effect
ChangedHousing and developmentApartment List puts Orlando's median rent at $1,522, down 1.5% year over yearBy Apartment List's measure, Orlando's median rent was 1.5% higher 12 months earlier (the report gives the change, not last year's dollar figure). now: A median rent of $1,522 across all bedroom sizes ($1,297 for a 1-bedroom, $1,612 for a 2-bedroom), down 0.4% over September and 1.5% over 12 months, in Apartment List's October 2026 report.OrlandoIn effect
OpeningEvents, venues and sportsHamilton plays the Dr. Phillips Center from Sept. 29 to Oct. 18Not playing in Orlando; the Broadway in Orlando page lists the run as upcoming. now: 24 performances, Tuesday, Sept. 29 at 7:30 p.m. through Sunday, Oct. 18, 2026; $10 digital lottery for every performance.Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, 445 S Magnolia Ave, OrlandoIn effect
OpeningRestaurants and barsBojangles is back in St. Cloud, licensed and listed open at 4490 13th StreetAnnounced in spring 2025 as coming to 4490 13th St; GottaGoOrlando reported the chain had a restaurant before at 4100 13th St, St Cloud. now: Licensed by the state on September 28, 2026 (active, expires April 1, 2027) and listed on Bojangles' store page with online ordering.4490 13th Street, St. CloudIn effect
the state licence and licensing-inspection date; no public opening day is stated in the sources read
ClosingTheme parks and attractionsWalt Disney World Railroad at Magic Kingdom closes for refurbishment on Sept. 28Running as a two-station train between Main Street, U.S.A. and the Fantasyland station. now: Closed for refurbishment; Disney's page says it is expected to reopen in November 2026.Walt Disney World Railroad, Magic Kingdom, Walt Disney WorldIn effect
OpeningParks, outdoors and communityOrange County starts a Green PLACE Hiking Spree: 40 trails, Sept. 26, 2026 to April 22, 2027No Green PLACE Hiking Spree. now: A hiking spree on 40 Green PLACE trails through April 22, 2027, with rewards at 3, 10 and 15 trails, plus free monthly guided hikes from September through April.Orange County's Green PLACE conservation propertiesIn effect
OpeningEvents, venues and sportsOrlando Science Center opens "Extreme Sports: Beyond Human Limits", on view until January 3No Extreme Sports exhibit at the Orlando Science Center. now: "Extreme Sports: Beyond Human Limits" in the Traveling Exhibit Hall, Level 2, open until January 3, 2027, included with general admission and free for members.Orlando Science Center, Traveling Exhibit Hall – Level 2In effect
OpeningRestaurants and barsFive Guys opens at Universal CityWalk Orlando on Sept. 25The former Burger King Whopper Bar space, closed in April. now: Five Guys Burgers & Fries, open, with breakfast until 11 a.m.Universal CityWalk Orlando, upper level, 6000 Universal Blvd., OrlandoIn effect
OpeningRestaurants and barsReeves Sports Bar soft-opens at 50 E. Central Blvd. in downtown OrlandoThe former Swiggs space at 50 E. Central Blvd. now: Reeves Sports Bar, soft-opened; grand opening date not announced; hours not published.50 E. Central Blvd., downtown Orlando (the former Swiggs space)In effect
ClosingLocal rules and feesColonial Promenade's hair salon leaves; its last open shop is on 30 days' noticeTwo businesses still open in the plaza: Emporium 7 (a hair salon) and Aerus Electrolux. now: Emporium 7 has left; Aerus Electrolux has a 30-day notice and GOAA is helping it find a new location.Colonial Promenade Shopping Center, East Colonial Drive, Orlando (at the entrance to Orlando Executive Airport)In effect
OpeningHousing and developmentThe Beacon at Creative Village, 115 income-restricted apartments, opens downtownConcordRENTS began pre-leasing in May 2026 for an early fall 2026 opening. now: Open and welcoming residents; units listed as available now.670 West Amelia Street, Orlando (Creative Village)In effect
OpeningTheme parks and attractionsHollywood Studios opens The Magic of Disney AnimationNo Magic of Disney Animation at Hollywood Studios. now: The Magic of Disney Animation is open in Animation Courtyard, with four experiences.Disney's Hollywood Studios, Walt Disney WorldIn effect
ClosingRestaurants and barsPapa Llama on Curry Ford Road has closedPapa Llama, a Peruvian restaurant, served at 2840 Curry Ford Road. now: Closed. The owners gave no reason and announced no new location.2840 Curry Ford Road, OrlandoIn effect
ChangedParks, outdoors and communitySeminole County finishes $103,000 of improvements at Overlook Park in OviedoThe park's earlier boardwalk and parking lot, before the improvements. now: A rebuilt 210-foot boardwalk with improved accessibility, a new bench and trash receptacles, and ADA parking-lot improvements.Overlook Park, 1988 Spring Ave., OviedoIn effect
OpeningParks, outdoors and communityWatermark Park, a new county park in Horizon West, has openedOrange County Parks and Recreation broke ground on the park on July 30, 2025. now: Open Sunday to Saturday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. in summer and 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. in winter.9940 Seidel Road, Winter Garden (Horizon West)In effect
OpeningShoppingCartier opens a new boutique at The Mall at MilleniaNot yet open: Cartier's store page announced its grand opening for Sunday, August 30. now: Open Monday to Saturday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.; phone +1 321-281-6201.The Mall at Millenia, 4200 Conroy Rd, Space K-288, OrlandoIn effect
Coming upHousing and developmentGreystar files plans for 377 apartments at Turkey Lake Road and Central Florida ParkwayA nearly 60-acre site, more than two-thirds water or wetlands, within the Sand Lake Groves planned development. now: Proposed: Lakeshore at Sand Lake, 377 apartments in four five-story buildings on a 17.84-acre development site, if approved.Turkey Lake Road and Central Florida Parkway, west of I-4, along Big Sand Lake (Orange County)Announced, not final

The posts: one per change

October 2026

Coming up Theme parks and attractions

Universal Orlando's holiday season runs November 14, 2026 to January 3, 2027

Universal Orlando's holidays run November 14, 2026 through January 3, 2027 at Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure and Epic Universe, included in theme park admission. WFTV reported that Epic Universe adds…

BeforeThe season's dates were announced in August 2026; the season begins November 14, 2026.
NowHolidays at Universal Orlando from November 14, 2026 through January 3, 2027, in three parks, included in theme park admission.

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Opening soon Shopping

Build-A-Bear's three-story Workshop at ICON Park is scheduled to open in November

Build-A-Bear Workshop says its three-story Workshop at Orlando's ICON Park, which it calls the brand's largest, is scheduled to open in November 2026, with grand opening details still to come.

BeforeFox 35 reported the groundbreaking on August 1, 2025, with the store set to open in 2026.
NowA three-story Build-A-Bear Workshop at ICON Park, scheduled to open in November 2026.

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Changed Roads, transit and the airport

MCO's Gate Link tram to Gates 100-129 now runs on its first rebuilt track

Since October 1, 2026, the Gate Link tram to Gates 100-129 at Orlando International Airport has run on a rebuilt track with new vehicles. The second track to those gates is being rebuilt now, and the work moves to Gates…

BeforeThe Gate Link trams to Gates 100-129 (Airside 2) ran on the system placed into service in 2000.
NowOne rebuilt track to Gates 100-129 carries passengers with new vehicles while crews rebuild the second track.

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Opening Parks, outdoors and community

Wekiwa Springs State Park's four new glamping tents are open for reservations

Four glamping tents with a queen bed, a twin futon and air conditioning have opened in the campground at Wekiwa Springs State Park, and the operator's page says reservations are open now. Rates listed on October 1 were…

BeforeAnnounced in July 2026 as coming this fall, with no opening date, nightly rates or reservation date given.
NowFour tents open in the park's campground, with reservations open through the operator, Wekiwa Springs Adventures.

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Coming up Events, venues and sports

The Florida Classic plays Camping World Stadium on Nov. 21 at an adjusted capacity during the stadium's renovation

The 2026 Florida Blue Florida Classic, Bethune-Cookman vs. Florida A&M, is set for Saturday, Nov. 21, 2026 at 3:30 p.m. ET at Camping World Stadium, where the organisers are prepared to host it at an adjusted capacity…

BeforeThe Classic's usual home, with what the Daytona Beach News-Journal calls the traditional 60,219-seat capacity.
NowSaturday, Nov. 21, 2026, 3:30 p.m. ET, at Camping World Stadium at an adjusted capacity, with portions of the venue expected to be impacted by construction; the sources read give no capacity figure.

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Changed Housing and development

Apartment List puts Orlando's median rent at $1,522, down 1.5% year over year

Apartment List's October 2026 Rent Report, dated September 29, puts Orlando's median rent at $1,522, down 0.4% over September and 1.5% over the past 12 months; Zumper also reports a drop, while Zillow's rent index has…

BeforeBy Apartment List's measure, Orlando's median rent was 1.5% higher 12 months earlier (the report gives the change, not last year's dollar figure).
NowA median rent of $1,522 across all bedroom sizes ($1,297 for a 1-bedroom, $1,612 for a 2-bedroom), down 0.4% over September and 1.5% over 12 months, in Apartment List's October 2026 report.

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Opening Restaurants and bars

Bojangles is back in St. Cloud, licensed and listed open at 4490 13th Street

Florida issued Bojangles a restaurant licence for 4490 13th Street in St. Cloud on September 28, 2026, after a licensing inspection, and the chain's own store page lists the store with online ordering; a 2025 report…

BeforeAnnounced in spring 2025 as coming to 4490 13th St; GottaGoOrlando reported the chain had a restaurant before at 4100 13th St, St Cloud.
NowLicensed by the state on September 28, 2026 (active, expires April 1, 2027) and listed on Bojangles' store page with online ordering.

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Changed Local rules and fees

Winter Garden's standard garbage cart rises to $26.61 a month from October 1

Winter Garden's monthly rate for the standard 95-gallon garbage cart went from $24.87 to $26.61 on October 1, 2026, after the City Commission approved Resolution 26-07 5-0 on September 29; a new 65-gallon cart costs…

Before$24.87 a month for the 95-gallon residential cart (fiscal year 2026).
Now$26.61 a month for the 95-gallon cart; a new 65-gallon cart at $24.87 a month; the adopted schedule rises each fiscal year to $30.09 for the 95-gallon cart in fiscal year 2031.

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Changed Roads, transit and the airport

Orlando International Airport's Experience MCO Visitor Pass now allows entry from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Orlando International Airport's Experience MCO Visitor Pass, which lets people without a plane ticket go past security, now allows entry from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., up from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; visitors must still leave all…

BeforeEntry timeslots between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.; exit by 8:00 p.m.
NowEntry between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.; exit all terminals by 8:00 p.m.

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Opening Shopping

Princess Polly opens its Orlando store at The Mall at Millenia

Princess Polly's Orlando store is open at The Mall at Millenia, upper level near Macy's (Space L205); the mall's 'now open' post went up Oct. 5, 2026, by the page's own publishing data.

BeforeNo Princess Polly store in Orlando; the brand's Florida store was in Miami, at Dadeland Mall.
NowA Princess Polly store at The Mall at Millenia, upper level near Macy's, Space L205.

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Opening Restaurants and bars

Hurly-Burly, a lounge with live music, opens in the former Jellyrolls building at Disney's BoardWalk on Oct. 1

Hurly-Burly opened at Disney's BoardWalk on October 1, 2026, in the building that was Jellyrolls. It is open 4:00 PM to 1:00 AM, families until 9:00 PM and 21 and older after. There are no reservations, but an app…

BeforeJellyrolls, the BoardWalk's dueling piano bar, closed; its building stood empty.
NowHurly-Burly, a lounge with family trivia and games until 9:00 PM and live music for guests 21 and older after, open 4:00 PM to 1:00 AM.

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Opening Parks, outdoors and community

Orange County starts a Green PLACE Hiking Spree: 40 trails, Sept. 26, 2026 to April 22, 2027

Orange County's Green PLACE Hiking Spree runs from Sept. 26, 2026, to April 22, 2027, on 40 trails on county conservation lands, with rewards for hiking 3, 10 or 15 trails; completion forms are due May 1, 2027.

BeforeNo Green PLACE Hiking Spree.
NowA hiking spree on 40 Green PLACE trails through April 22, 2027, with rewards at 3, 10 and 15 trails, plus free monthly guided hikes from September through April.

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Closing soon Theme parks and attractions

Universal Studios Florida closes Animal Actors On Location! for good; last shows November 2

Universal Studios Florida is permanently closing Animal Actors On Location!: the last shows are Monday, November 2, 2026, and the show is gone from Tuesday, November 3. Universal has not said what replaces it.

BeforeAnimal Actors On Location!, a live animal show at Universal Studios Florida.
NowThe show closes permanently: last shows Monday, November 2, 2026; gone from Tuesday, November 3. No replacement announced.

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Coming up Events, venues and sports

Orlando Magic add $20 'Monthly Steals' tickets and a $2-to-$7 value menu at Kia Center for 2026-27

For the 2026-27 season the Orlando Magic offer $20 Monthly Steals tickets for every home game to fans signed up for team text alerts, a Fan Favorites Value Menu priced between $2 and $7 at two Kia Center stands, and $15…

BeforeNo $20 Monthly Steals ticket program or Fan Favorites Value Menu announced for Magic home games.
Now$20 Monthly Steals tickets for every home game (text-alert subscribers; limited, random seats, non-transferable), a $2-to-$7 value menu at two stands, and $15 merchandise deals.

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Opening soon Shopping

Toys“R”Us is coming to Oviedo Mall this fall as a year-round store

Oviedo Mall announced on September 30, 2026 that Toys“R”Us will open a year-round store there this fall, ahead of the holidays; the mall has hinted at early October, and no opening date has been announced.

BeforeNo Toys“R”Us store at Oviedo Mall.
NowA year-round Toys“R”Us store at Oviedo Mall, expected this fall; the mall has hinted at early October; no date announced.

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Opening Roads, transit and the airport

Allegiant starts nonstop flights between Orlando Sanford and Trenton, New Jersey

Allegiant's new nonstop route between Orlando Sanford International Airport and Trenton-Mercer Airport in New Jersey began October 2, 2026, the airline said, and flights were operating in both directions on October 5,…

BeforeNo nonstop Allegiant flights between Orlando Sanford and Trenton, New Jersey.
NowAllegiant flies Orlando Sanford (SFB) to Trenton-Mercer (TTN) nonstop, twice weekly according to Simple Flying.

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Changed Housing and development

Construction begins on the RoseArts District on the former Lake Orlando golf course

The developer broke ground on Phase 1 of the RoseArts District with Mayor Buddy Dyer on Wednesday, September 30, 2026: about 1,600 apartments, 160 of them designated affordable, on the former Lake Orlando golf course in…

BeforeThe closed Lake Orlando golf course, approved for redevelopment as the RoseArts District in December 2021.
NowConstruction underway on Phase 1: about 1,600 apartments in four buildings, 160 designated affordable; the first building about 30 months from the September 30, 2026 groundbreaking, per the developer.

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Opening Parks, outdoors and community

Orange County Library System opens its Horizon West Branch on October 10

The Orange County Library System's new Horizon West Branch, at 4657 Hamlin Groves Trail, Winter Garden, has its grand opening at 10 a.m. on Saturday, October 10, 2026; regular hours have not been published yet.

BeforeA branch under construction; the area served by the Horizon West Book Drop in the Hamlin Town Center.
NowA 20,000 square-foot branch library, grand opening October 10, 2026 at 10 a.m.; regular hours not yet published.

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Changed Local rules and fees

Downtown Orlando city parking rates rise and meters go digital-only on October 1

Since October 1, 2026, City of Orlando downtown parking costs $2 an hour for the first two hours on the street, paid hours run to 8 p.m., garages top out at $20 a day, and payment is digital only; the free PARKDTO code…

BeforeOn-street $1 an hour, paid 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.; city garages $2 an hour, $15 daily maximum; about 1,000 physical meters.
NowOn-street $2/$2/$3/$4 for hours one to four, increasing to a six-hour maximum, paid 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday-Saturday; garages $2 an hour for four hours, then $3, $20 daily maximum; digital payment only.

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Opening Restaurants and bars

Reeves Sports Bar soft-opens at 50 E. Central Blvd. in downtown Orlando

Reeves Sports Bar soft-opened on Thursday, September 24, 2026, at 50 E. Central Blvd. in downtown Orlando, in the former Swiggs space next to Casey's on Central; a grand opening date has not been announced.

BeforeThe former Swiggs space at 50 E. Central Blvd.
NowReeves Sports Bar, soft-opened; grand opening date not announced; hours not published.

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Closing soon Theme parks and attractions

Universal's Volcano Bay closes for maintenance October 26; planned reopening now on or before April 1, 2027

Universal Volcano Bay is scheduled to begin a maintenance closure on October 26, 2026, with an updated planned reopening on or before April 1, 2027, about a week later than the March 24 date first listed; Universal says…

BeforeVolcano Bay open; a maintenance closure from October 26, 2026 listed with a planned reopening on or before March 24, 2027.
NowMaintenance closure from October 26, 2026, with an updated planned reopening on or before April 1, 2027; dates subject to change.

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Opening Events, venues and sports

Orlando Science Center opens "Extreme Sports: Beyond Human Limits", on view until January 3

The Orlando Science Center's traveling exhibit "Extreme Sports: Beyond Human Limits" opened on September 26, 2026 and runs until January 3, 2027; it is included with general admission and free for members.

BeforeNo Extreme Sports exhibit at the Orlando Science Center.
Now"Extreme Sports: Beyond Human Limits" in the Traveling Exhibit Hall, Level 2, open until January 3, 2027, included with general admission and free for members.

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September 2026

Coming up Roads, transit and the airport

TAP Air Portugal schedules Orlando–Lisbon nonstop from October 29

TAP Air Portugal is scheduled to start nonstop flights between Orlando International and Lisbon on October 29, 2026, three times a week on Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays; Orlando's airport lists it as a new route,…

BeforeNo nonstop between Orlando and Lisbon; the airport lists the route as an "Unserved Route".
NowTAP Air Portugal nonstop Orlando–Lisbon three times a week (Mondays, Thursdays, Saturdays), scheduled from October 29, subject to government approval.

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Opening soon Shopping

Spirit Christmas plans to open in Winter Garden on Oct. 15, in the former Forever 21

Spirit Christmas, the seasonal store from the company behind Spirit Halloween, lists a Winter Garden store at 3049 Daniels Road, Suite 220C, in the former Forever 21 space at Winter Garden Village, with a planned…

BeforeThe former Forever 21 space at Winter Garden Village.
NowSpirit Christmas, a seasonal store, planned to open October 15, 2026; no closing date published yet.

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Coming up Housing and development

Greystar files plans for 377 apartments at Turkey Lake Road and Central Florida Parkway

Greystar submitted a development plan to Orange County on August 21, 2026 for Lakeshore at Sand Lake, 377 apartments in four five-story buildings along Big Sand Lake at Turkey Lake Road and Central Florida Parkway; it…

BeforeA nearly 60-acre site, more than two-thirds water or wetlands, within the Sand Lake Groves planned development.
NowProposed: Lakeshore at Sand Lake, 377 apartments in four five-story buildings on a 17.84-acre development site, if approved.

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Coming up Roads, transit and the airport

LYNX proposes bus cuts and route changes for Dec. 13; the board votes Oct. 22

LYNX proposes to end the Link 701 shuttle, cut trips on Links 1, 10, 56, 102 and 426, reroute and renumber Link 407, and add Saturday service on Links 48 and 49 from December 13, 2026, if its board approves on October…

BeforeCurrent LYNX service, including the Link 701 Orange Technical College Shuttle, Link 407 FastLink on S.R. 417, and Saturday service on Link 1.
NowProposed: Link 701 ends, Link 407 becomes local Link 607/607A with two Lake Nona trips a day, Link 1 loses Saturday service, several routes lose early or late trips, and Links 48 and 49 gain Saturday service. Not final until the board votes.

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Coming up Local rules and fees

OUC adds a $5 to $15 DemandLevel charge from the November 2026 bill, pending state review

OUC's board adopted electric rates that add a monthly DemandLevel charge ($5, $10 or $15 for Orlando homes, set by the highest 15-minute power draw of the month before) and cut the non-fuel energy rate 12.5% while the…

BeforeCurrent OUC electric rates, without the DemandLevel charge.
NowProposed: a monthly DemandLevel charge of $5, $10 or $15 (Orlando homes) set by the highest 15-minute draw, with a 12.5% lower non-fuel energy rate and an unchanged fuel charge; pending Florida PSC approval.

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Opening Restaurants and bars

Five Guys opens at Universal CityWalk Orlando on Sept. 25

Five Guys opened at Universal CityWalk Orlando on September 25, 2026, as the chain's 2,000th store, in the upper-level space the Burger King Whopper Bar left; breakfast is served until 11 a.m.

BeforeThe former Burger King Whopper Bar space, closed in April.
NowFive Guys Burgers & Fries, open, with breakfast until 11 a.m.

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Changed Parks, outdoors and community

Seminole County finishes $103,000 of improvements at Overlook Park in Oviedo

Seminole County has completed $103,000 of work at Overlook Park, 1988 Spring Ave. in Oviedo: a rebuilt 210-foot boardwalk, a new bench and trash receptacles, and ADA parking-lot improvements, the first project finished…

BeforeThe park's earlier boardwalk and parking lot, before the improvements.
NowA rebuilt 210-foot boardwalk with improved accessibility, a new bench and trash receptacles, and ADA parking-lot improvements.

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Opening Events, venues and sports

Hamilton plays the Dr. Phillips Center from Sept. 29 to Oct. 18

Hamilton opens a three-week run at the Dr. Phillips Center, 445 S Magnolia Ave, on Tuesday, Sept. 29, 2026 at 7:30 p.m., with 24 performances through Sunday, Oct. 18; a $10 digital lottery covers every performance.

BeforeNot playing in Orlando; the Broadway in Orlando page lists the run as upcoming.
Now24 performances, Tuesday, Sept. 29 at 7:30 p.m. through Sunday, Oct. 18, 2026; $10 digital lottery for every performance.

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Closing Theme parks and attractions

Walt Disney World Railroad at Magic Kingdom closes for refurbishment on Sept. 28

The Walt Disney World Railroad at Magic Kingdom closed for refurbishment on September 28, 2026; Disney's page says it is expected to reopen in November 2026, and it will still run only between two stations until the…

BeforeRunning as a two-station train between Main Street, U.S.A. and the Fantasyland station.
NowClosed for refurbishment; Disney's page says it is expected to reopen in November 2026.

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Opening Shopping

Cartier opens a new boutique at The Mall at Millenia

Cartier opened a boutique at The Mall at Millenia, 4200 Conroy Road, Space K-288, with a grand opening on Sunday, August 30, 2026; it is the only Orlando store on Cartier's own list, and the mall's website does not list…

BeforeNot yet open: Cartier's store page announced its grand opening for Sunday, August 30.
NowOpen Monday to Saturday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.; phone +1 321-281-6201.

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Opening Housing and development

The Beacon at Creative Village, 115 income-restricted apartments, opens downtown

The Beacon at Creative Village, 115 income-restricted studio, one- and two-bedroom apartments at 670 West Amelia Street in downtown Orlando, was open and welcoming residents as of September 15, 2026.

BeforeConcordRENTS began pre-leasing in May 2026 for an early fall 2026 opening.
NowOpen and welcoming residents; units listed as available now.

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Opening Parks, outdoors and community

Watermark Park, a new county park in Horizon West, has opened

Orange County's Watermark Park, a 5.69-acre neighborhood park at 9940 Seidel Road in Winter Garden, opened on August 31, 2026, across from Panther Lake Elementary School; it was planned as a walk-up park with no parking…

BeforeOrange County Parks and Recreation broke ground on the park on July 30, 2025.
NowOpen Sunday to Saturday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. in summer and 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. in winter.

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Coming up Roads, transit and the airport

Frontier plans Orlando nonstops to Bogotá, Medellín and Cartagena from December

Frontier Airlines plans nonstop flights from Orlando International to Medellín (Dec. 10), Bogotá (Dec. 14) and Cartagena (Dec. 19), pending government approval; Cartagena is a route no airline flies from Orlando today.

BeforeOrlando to Bogotá and Medellín on Avianca (and LATAM to Bogotá); no nonstop to Cartagena.
NowFrontier adds Medellín and Bogotá, and Orlando's only nonstop to Cartagena, pending government approval.

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Closing Local rules and fees

Colonial Promenade's hair salon leaves; its last open shop is on 30 days' notice

The airport authority's board approved ending Emporium 7's lease at the Colonial Promenade Shopping Center on East Colonial Drive, with the salon to be out by September 18; Aerus Electrolux, the last business still open…

BeforeTwo businesses still open in the plaza: Emporium 7 (a hair salon) and Aerus Electrolux.
NowEmporium 7 has left; Aerus Electrolux has a 30-day notice and GOAA is helping it find a new location.

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Opening Theme parks and attractions

Hollywood Studios opens The Magic of Disney Animation

Disney's Hollywood Studios opened The Magic of Disney Animation on September 14: four animation experiences, including an Olaf drawing class, in the reimagined Animation Courtyard.

BeforeNo Magic of Disney Animation at Hollywood Studios.
NowThe Magic of Disney Animation is open in Animation Courtyard, with four experiences.

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Closing Restaurants and bars

Papa Llama on Curry Ford Road has closed

Papa Llama, the Peruvian restaurant at 2840 Curry Ford Road that held a Michelin star in 2024 and 2025, has closed, its owners said on September 4.

BeforePapa Llama, a Peruvian restaurant, served at 2840 Curry Ford Road.
NowClosed. The owners gave no reason and announced no new location.

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Monthly roundups: October 2026 · September 2026