Disney and Universal Shut Out of USA Today’s 2026 Best Theme Park List
In a plot twist worthy of a theme park ride itself, two of the biggest names in the industry did not make the cut. USA Today has released its 2026 Best Theme Park rankings, and neither Disney nor Universal landed a spot in the top ten.
The list, curated by a panel of experts and voted on by readers, focused on parks that deliver a mix of thrills, family attractions, dining, and entertainment. While that sounds like a description straight out of a Disney or Universal brochure, this year’s winners leaned heavily toward regional favorites and coaster-heavy destinations.
Taking the top spot for 2026 is Silver Dollar City, followed by Knoebels and Lost Island Themepark. Rounding out the list are Kennywood, SeaWorld Orlando, Kings Island, Busch Gardens Williamsburg, Holiday World, Cedar Point, and Hersheypark.
Yes, you read that right. No Magic Kingdom. No Disneyland. No Universal Studios Florida or Islands of Adventure. Not even a wizarding world cameo.
This is not the first time Disney and Universal have been missing from the rankings, but it has been a while. The last Disney park to crack the top ten was Magic Kingdom back in 2021, landing at number nine. Before that, both Magic Kingdom and Disneyland Park appeared on the 2017 list. Universal parks have had an even longer dry spell, with no appearances dating back to at least 2014.
So what gives? Lists like these often favor parks known for intense coaster lineups and regional charm, which can resonate strongly with voters. Meanwhile, Disney and Universal tend to dominate in immersive storytelling and overall resort experiences, categories that may not always translate into a simple ranked list. In short, while this list ranks ‘Theme Parks’, the winners tend to lean more heavily into the amusement park category
Still, it is a surprising omission considering the global popularity and innovation coming out of both resorts, especially with new expansions and experiences continuing to roll out.
Whether you agree with the rankings or think Mickey and Minions were snubbed, one thing is certain… this list is going to spark some serious theme park debates.
New Construction Photos Reveal Major Progress at Disney’s Lakeshore Lodge Along Bay Lake
If you have been cruising past Bay Lake lately, you may have noticed something rising from the shoreline that feels equal parts rustic retreat and modern Disney magic. New construction photos show that Disney’s Lakeshore Lodge is quickly transforming from a construction zone into what looks like a future fan-favorite resort.
From across the water, the scale of the project is becoming crystal clear. Multiple multi-story buildings are now fully framed, with exterior work well underway. Balconies are installed across several wings, and fresh paint and paneling are giving the resort its earthy, lodge-inspired color palette. It is starting to look less like scaffolding and more like a place where you will want to sip coffee while watching the sunrise over Bay Lake.
One of the most eye-catching developments is along the waterfront itself. Distinct A-frame structures are taking shape, adding a bold architectural touch that leans into that Pacific Northwest wilderness vibe Disney is clearly aiming for. These structures appear to be part of a lakeside dining or recreation area, and they are already bringing serious “hidden gem resort restaurant” energy.
Elsewhere around the site, crews are hard at work on what looks like a large central building, possibly the main lobby or dining hub. Steel framing and roofing elements are now visible, and the footprint suggests a spacious, open-concept design that will likely serve as the heart of the resort.
The surrounding landscape is also starting to come together. Shoreline work is progressing, with barriers in place along the water and early groundwork hinting at future pathways, seating areas, and scenic viewing spots. While it is still very much an active construction zone, you can already start to imagine the finished product blending seamlessly into the natural beauty of Bay Lake.
This project has come a long way in a relatively short time, and with vertical construction moving quickly across multiple buildings, Lakeshore Lodge is firmly in its “now you can really see it” era.
No official opening date has been announced yet, other than “Summer 2027”, but based on the pace of progress, this resort is steadily paddling its way toward becoming Disney’s next must-stay destination.
Guest Arrested and Banned After Alleged Cast Member Assault at EPCOT
A Walt Disney World guest was arrested and permanently banned from Disney World property after allegedly assaulting a Cast Member during an incident involving Mirabel from Encanto at EPCOT.
The incident reportedly happened on April 21, 2026, while Diego Rodriguez was visiting EPCOT with a female guest and a child. According to reports, Rodriguez attempted to cut in line multiple times during an opportunity involving Mirabel. A Cast Member repeatedly told him that cutting the line was not allowed.
Things escalated when the child reportedly tried to run toward Mirabel and was stopped by the attendant. The female guest also attempted to have Mirabel sign an autograph book, but the group was told Mirabel was only taking photos at that time.
Reports say the female guest waved the autograph book in Mirabel’s face before Rodriguez allegedly grabbed an attendant’s arm and shook her. He also reportedly yelled at both the Cast Member and Mirabel, including asking why others could take photos but his group could not.
Other Cast Members stepped in, and police were called to the scene. Rodriguez was arrested on battery charges and later permanently banned from all Walt Disney World properties.
Mirabel does not currently have a traditional meet and greet at EPCOT, but she does appear as part of the ¡Celebración Encanto! entertainment offering in the park.
While Disney magic can make for some emotional moments, this is a reminder that Cast Members are there to keep experiences safe, organized, and enjoyable for everyone. A little patience goes a long way, especially when visiting the most magical place on Earth.
Everybody Wants This: A Runway Ready Roundup of The Devil Wears Prada 2 Essentials
Gird your loins, fashionistas! After what feels like an eternity of wearing lumpy cerulean sweaters, The Devil Wears Prada 2 is finally strutting into theaters on May 1, 2026. We are more than ready to channel our inner Miranda, Andy, and Emily once again. To celebrate the return of fashion’s most iconic and intimidating characters, a wave of new merch is hitting the shelves, proving that cerulean isn’t just a color, it’s a lifestyle.
If you’ve ever looked in your closet and thought, there’s nothing here, Walmart, Old Navy, and Lulus are here to fix that. Walmart’sScoop collection is serving up bold tailoring and statement pieces that make high-fashion vibes actually affordable. Meanwhile, Lulushas dropped a limited-edition capsule of glamorous dresses that are total nods to the first film’s most unforgettable moments. For something more low-key, Old Navy has the playful stuff: think graphic tees with your favorite quotes and, yes, that iconic blue sweater for the fans who live for the nostalgia.
Chic Collectibles
For those of us who need a little Runway energy on our desks, the new Funko Pop!bobbleheads are a must-have, featuring Miranda, Andy, and Emily in their classic original looks. If dolls are more your speed, the Disney ILY 4EVER line has released two stunning collector dolls inspired by Miranda and Andy’s signature styles. And honestly? The Fisher-Price Little People Collectorset is the cutest thing we’ve ever seen, mini versions of Miranda (complete with a tiny Runway magazine), Nigel, Emily, and Andy. Even Miranda might find them… not entirely disappointing.
Alluring Accessories
Infusing a little movie magic into your daily routine is easier than ever. You can cozy up in Primark’sRunway-inspired pajamas or grab Old Navy’s “That’s All” tote for your morning commute. To stay hydrated while navigating your own high-pressure office, Simple Modern released a 40 oz insulated tumbler decked out in bold red polka dots. You can even finish the look with Diff Eyewear sunglasses or a “That’s All” charm bracelet from Little Words Project.
Bold Beauty Products
Finally, you can get that groundbreaking look with some heavy-hitting beauty collabs. Tweezerman has outfitted its precision tools with stiletto and NYC skyline iconography, while Tangle Teezer gave their detangler a fierce red metallic makeover. To keep every hair in place, TRESemmé launched the A-List Collection, featuring the “Runway Ready” Lacquer Shine Spray and the “That’s All” Dry Texturizing Spray. It’s the perfect way to ensure your style stays flawless from your first coffee run to the after-party.
Update your look, grab your collectibles, and get ready because everybody wants this. That’s all.
Anthony Mackie and MrBeast Join Forces for Wishes Assemble at Disneyland
The Disneyland Resort recently served as the ultimate headquarters for the historic “Wishes Assemble” event, a groundbreaking collaboration with Make-A-Wish that brought Avengers-inspired dreams to life. In a first-of-its-kind experience, nearly 40 wish kids were “recruited” into the ranks of Earth’s Mightiest Heroes, spending a high-octane day alongside Marvel stars Anthony Mackie and Paul Bettany, as well as digital superstar MrBeast.
In a powerful celebration of a 45-year partnership, nearly 40 Make-A-Wish families were “recruited” to the Disneyland Resort for this historic assembly. The event served as the cornerstone of Disney Week of Wishes, honoring over four decades of a shared mission between The Walt Disney Company and the Make-A-Wish Foundation to bring hope and happiness to children when they need it most.
The Wishes Assemble festivities kicked off with a creative twist as wish kids attended a professional comic book art lesson to master the art of drawing Spider-Man. The room was filled with excitement when Anthony Mackie, the MCU’s Captain America, made a heroic surprise entrance! Mackie didn’t arrive empty-handed, gifting each child their very own Hasbro Captain America action figure.
The highlight of the morning was a heartwarming one-on-one encounter between Mackie and 9-year-old Coen, whose ultimate wish was to meet his favorite Super Hero. The duo took their mission to the next level by heading over to California Adventure to ride Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! together, proving that even a Captain needs a little help from the Guardians now and then.
Throughout the day, the Wishes Assemble event transformed the Disneyland Resort into a playground of personalized heroics. Digital icon MrBeast brought his high-energy style to the park, leading a high-stakes scavenger hunt before welcoming families to his signature Beast Games. Meanwhile, NASA engineer turned creator Mark Rober turned the roof of Avengers Headquarters into a laboratory for an epic, hands-on egg drop experiment that blended science with Super Hero training.
The park was packed with interactive zones designed by the world’s top creators:
The Dude Perfect Fan Zone: Kids tackled themed trick-shot stations and competitive challenges.
Gaming Headquarters: PrestonPlayz and Clix hosted private sessions of Fortnite and Minecraft before joining the kids to battle Spider-Bots on WEB SLINGERS: A Spider-Man Adventure.
Spooky Storytime: Sam & Colby teamed up with the chaotic Agatha Harkness for a series of mysterious tales.
YouTube Creator Corner: In a special collaboration, YouTube and MrBeast’s team hosted a lounge where kids could design their own viral thumbnails and receive a custom memento award.
The day culminated in a private, after-hours celebration at Avengers Campus, topped off by a surprise appearance from Paul Bettany (Vision). To ensure the magic followed them home, Disney Consumer Products and partners like LEGO, Hasbro, Funko, and Corkcicle showered families with curated gear. From hotel room surprises to custom attire and action figures, every detail was designed to help these new “recruits” continue their adventures through imagination long after leaving the resort.
Interactive Devil Wears Prada 2 Pop-Up Arrives at Disney Springs
In celebration of the theatrical release of The Devil Wears Prada 2 on May 1st, Disney Springs has debuted a collection of high-fashion displays and an interactive “Fashion Emergency” experience that is a must-see for fans of Miranda Priestly and the crew at Runway.
Located inside the lobby of the AMC DINE-IN Disney Springs 24, this interactive kiosk is the star of the show. Designed to look like a high-end vending machine, it is completely free for guests to use!
After interacting with the screen and selecting your specific “fashion emergency,” the machine dispenses a gift to help save your look. Lucky guests have reported receiving everything from L’Oreal Paris mascara and hair products to stylish accessories and even copies of Runway magazine.
When: Now through May 3rd
Hours: 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM daily (while supplies last)
The AMC lobby hasn’t just added a kiosk; it’s had a total makeover. Guests are greeted by a red carpet entrance flanked by massive The Devil Wears Prada 2 banners and themed photo backdrops. It is the perfect spot to strike a pose and prove you aren’t just wearing a “lumpy blue sweater.”
The fashion doesn’t stop at the theater! If you wander over to the Town Center area, you’ll find a massive promotional display featuring the film’s iconic imagery: a giant, glossy red high-heeled pump with the signature pitchfork heel. It is a larger-than-life photo op that you truly can’t miss.
Starting today, April 30th, Disney is upping the stakes. A limited number of guests (32 per day across all participating national locations) will have the chance to receive a Golden Ticket from the vending machine. This ticket grants access to an exclusive Glow Up Station for an on-site professional styling experience!
Summary of Event Details
Location: Disney Springs (AMC 24 Lobby & Town Center)
Dates: Available now through May 3, 2026.
Film Release:The Devil Wears Prada 2 hits theaters everywhere May 1, 2026.
Whether you’re a fashionista or just looking for some fun freebies, these displays are a great addition to a Disney Springs afternoon. Just make sure you walk fast—we know how Miranda feels about being kept waiting!
Bob Iger Receives Inaugural Make-A-Wish Lifetime Achievement Award
During the star-studded Wishes Assemble event at Disneyland Resort this week, former Disney CEO Bob Iger was presented with the historic, first-ever WishMaker Lifetime Achievement Award. This prestigious honor recognizes Iger’s immense personal and professional dedication to the Make-A-Wish mission, celebrating a career-long commitment to bringing hope and magic to children and families when they need it most.
Although he recently transitioned from the CEO role to serve as a Senior Advisor and Board Member, Bob Iger’s impact on the Make-A-Wish mission remains monumental. Under his leadership, Disney facilitated over 110,000 life-changing wishes, and that momentum has only grown, with the company providing $30 million in support in 2025 alone. Leslie Motter, President and CEO of Make-A-Wish America, presented Iger with the award in recognition of these “extraordinary contributions.”
The torch has now passed to current Disney CEO Josh D’Amaro, who serves on the Make-A-Wish board and holds a deep personal connection to the cause as the uncle of a wish child.
“Disney spreading joy when it’s needed most… that’s always been part of our DNA,” D’Amaro shared. “I’ve seen firsthand how powerful a wish can be.”
The award ceremony was a highlight of the ongoing Disney Week of Wishes, a celebration filled with magical moments across the parks:
Star-Studded Support: The Wishes Assemble event at Disneyland featured appearances by Marvel star Anthony Mackie and digital pioneer MrBeast.
Artistic Takeover: Disney social media profiles are currently featuring icons hand-drawn by wish kids.
Special Spaces: Walt Disney World recently unveiled its beautifully reimagined Wish Lounge, providing a peaceful retreat for families.
Heroic Encounters: D’Amaro personally greeted a wish child who fulfilled a dream of visiting Disney Animation to meet legendary animator Eric Goldberg.
Ravensburger is excited to reveal a third entry for the Disney Lorcana Collector’s Guide line coming to North America and Europe, Disney Lorcana Collector’s Guide Sets 9-13, set for launch on November 1, 2026. Players can further explore the world’s secrets with a fresh standalone book: Disney Lorcana – Quest of Wonders: An Illumineer’s Lorebook, arriving September 1, 2026.
For enthusiasts who have organized their decks using the Disney Lorcana Collector’s Guides for Sets 1-4 and 5-8, the debut of this latest volume ensures their archives remain perfectly up to date. Packed with vibrant illustrations and deep narrative lore, these guides enable collectors to seamlessly log every specific card variant found within the sets.
“The Disney Lorcana Collector’s Guide series continues detailing the excellent work that artists, designers and writers at Ravensburger did for the sets starting with Fabled through Attack of the Vine! releasing in Q3 2026,” said Shane Hartley, Vice President of Creative for the Disney Lorcana TCG at Ravensburger. “Being able to release this guide a few months after the conclusion of the story arc in Attack of the Vine! makes it a perfect companion for all the Disney Lorcana Illumineers out there.”
Intended to present a distinctive reading experience presented with diary entries, notes and other ephemera, Disney Lorcana – Quest of Wonders: An Illumineer’s Lorebook brings the fantastic realm of Disney Lorcana to life in a whole new way.
“I can’t wait for fans to see what my team has cooked up alongside Disney forQuest of Wonders: An Illumineer’s Lorebook,” said Hartley. “It’s going to be eye-opening for fans that have been following along with the story of Disney Lorcana TCG since the First Chapter and hopefully entice all lovers of Disney characters to dive into the realm of Lorcana.”
Quest of Wonders: An Illumineer’s Lorebook is a unique work immersing fans in a book straight from the realm of Lorcana. In Disney Lorcana, Illumineers use magical ink to cast glimmers of Disney characters from story stars, fragments of stories everyone loves. Quest ofWonders opens with Shanzay, an Illumineer from our world, coming across an old lorebook. Who did it belong to? Why was it hidden? The search for answers promises fascinating revelations for players, collectors, and fans of Disney Lorcana TCG and Disney.
More information about both of these books will be coming out before they release fall 2026! Visit DisneyLorcana.com for more updates.
Universal Orlando Unveils Blockbuster Summer Lineup with JAWS, Spielberg, Minions & More
Universal Orlando Resort is rolling out the red carpet for summer, and this lineup is ready for its close-up. From May 23 through August 10, guests can step into a slate of limited-time movie-inspired experiences across the resort, including Spielberg-themed exhibits, new JAWS photo ops, Illumination’s Minions & Monsters offerings, returning nighttime spectaculars, CityWalk entertainment, hotel activities, and special ticket deals.
At Universal Studios Florida, guests can explore Spielberg Summer Blockbusters, a limited-time exhibit celebrating the legendary filmmaker behind some of cinema’s most beloved films. The exhibit will include props and behind-the-scenes stories tied to iconic Spielberg projects, along with a look at Universal Pictures’ upcoming release Disclosure Day, which arrives in theaters June 12.
Things are also getting a little sharky this summer with new JAWS-inspired experiences at Universal Studios Florida. Guests will be able to strike their best Amity Island pose with a series of interactive photo ops inspired by the classic thriller. The celebration will also include specialty “bites” and drinks, plus a new parks-exclusive merchandise collection featuring limited-release apparel, accessories, and more. Sounds like summer just got a bigger boat.
Illumination fans will also have plenty to go bananas over with new Minions & Monsters experiences inspired by the upcoming film. Guests can check out interactive photo ops featuring two new Minions from the movie, Henry and James, along with special menu items at Minion Cafe. New treats include Irene’s Creamsicle Cheesecake Fold Over and Monster Marshmallow Lemonade. Parks-exclusive merchandise will also be available, including Minions & Monsters blind box collectible figures and a shoulder pal of Goomi, one of the film’s new characters.
Over at Universal CityWalk, the Summer Movie Series will bring classic Universal films back to the big screen on select dates from June 20 through August 26 at Universal Cinemark. The lineup includes favorites like Back to the Future, JAWS, E.T. – The Extra-Terrestrial, and more. A movie ticket is required.
Several fan-favorite seasonal offerings are also returning this summer. Universal Mega Movie Parade will once again bring films like E.T., Back to the Future, JAWS, Ghostbusters, Jurassic World, Minions, Sing, Trolls, and Kung Fu Panda to life with more than a dozen floats, nearly 100 performers, and special effects. CineSational: A Symphonic Spectacular will return to Universal Studios Florida with a nighttime lagoon show packed with iconic movie music and cinematic moments. Over at Islands of Adventure, Hogwarts Always returns to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade on May 30, lighting up Hogwarts castle with a projection show celebrating a school year at Hogwarts.
The summer fun does not stop inside the parks. Guests staying at Universal Orlando hotels will find larger-than-life sand sculptures across all 11 hotels, inspired by popular characters and stories. Summer-themed beverages will also be available for purchase throughout the hotel portfolio. Hotel guests can also enjoy exclusive character meet-and-greets inside Universal Studios Florida every Saturday and Sunday from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Universal CityWalk will have its own summer slate as well. From June 11 through July 19, guests can watch major soccer games at NBC Sports Grill & Brew, complete with specialty food and beverage offerings, live entertainment, and more. Red Coconut Club will host Re(d)tro Nights on select nights from May 8 through July 18, bringing an 80s and 90s overlay with arcade games, photo ops, and a DJ spinning throwback hits. CityWalk will also host a Summer Music Series every Saturday night from June 20 through August 15, featuring themed genre experiences like Broadway, Legends of Rock, EDM, and more.
Universal Orlando will also celebrate Independence Day with resort-wide festivities on July 4, including character meet-and-greets, live DJs, entertainment, and special pyrotechnics.
To help guests plan a summer getaway, Universal is offering several special deals. Florida residents can take advantage of a Buy a Day, Get a 2nd Day Free offer on a 1-Day Park-to-Park Ticket, giving them two days of access to Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure for the price of one day. Florida residents can also save up to 25% on stays at participating Universal Orlando Resort hotels.
U.S., Canadian, and Latin American residents can also get extra park time with a Buy a 3-Day Base or Park-to-Park Ticket, Get 2 Days Free offer. This deal gives guests five days of access to Universal Studios Florida, Universal Islands of Adventure, and Universal Epic Universe for the price of a 3-day ticket.
Universal Orlando Annual and Seasonal Passholders can save up to 30% at participating Universal Orlando hotels this summer. Passholders can also enjoy in-park perks like a dedicated viewing area for the Universal Mega Movie Parade, exclusive food and beverage items, and more.
With JAWS, Spielberg, Minions, Hogwarts, movie nights, parades, pyrotechnics, and plenty of summer snacks in the mix, Universal Orlando is turning the season into one big blockbuster. Cue the popcorn, because this summer is ready to roll.
New Details and Visuals Revealed for the Upcoming Lakeshore Lodge DVC Property
Disney has officially pulled back the curtain on the aesthetic for the upcoming Lakeshore Lodge. This new Disney Vacation Club expansion at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground is designed to celebrate the great outdoors while providing the high-end amenities DVC members expect. The newly released concept art showcases a structure that feels both grand and perfectly at home among the towering pines and cypress trees of Bay Lake.
The artwork reveals a multi-story lodge featuring heavy timber accents, expansive glass windows, and stone masonry that mirrors the classic “National Park” style seen at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge. However, Lakeshore Lodge appears to lean into a more contemporary “mountain modern” aesthetic, with clean lines and open-air spaces designed to maximize views of the water.
The Pool and Outdoor Spaces
One of the most striking details in the new concept art is the pool area. It features a zero-entry design and is surrounded by lush landscaping that maintains the “wild” feel of the campground. The lodge itself appears to wrap around the pool deck, creating a private oasis for guests. There are also hints of outdoor fire pits and lounge areas that will likely become prime spots for watching the Electrical Water Pageant.
Dining with a View
While specific restaurant names haven’t been confirmed yet, the visuals suggest a prominent lakeside dining location. The art depicts an airy, light-filled restaurant with outdoor seating right on the edge of Bay Lake. This would provide a much-needed sit-down dining option for the Fort Wilderness area, offering a more refined atmosphere compared to the nearby Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue.
A Seamless Integration
What stands out most about the Lakeshore Lodge design is how it integrates with the existing infrastructure of Fort Wilderness. Disney is clearly making an effort to ensure the lodge doesn’t feel like an “intrusion” on the campground, but rather an evolution. The use of natural materials and earth-toned palettes ensures the building complements the surrounding cabins and campsites.
Looking Ahead
While an official opening date has yet to be announced, the arrival of this concept art suggests that the project is moving forward at a steady pace. For fans of the Fort, this represents a major upgrade to the resort’s footprint and a new way to experience the magic of the woods.
Retro Vibes With The New Epcot Spirit Jersey and Dreamfinder Tee!
If you’ve been feeling like your wardrobe is missing a little bit of one little spark, EPCOT just dropped two new pieces of merch that are absolute must-haves for the nostalgic fan and the modern park-hopper alike. Whether you’re a ride-or-die Figment fan or you just really love snacking around the World Showcase, these new arrivals are calling your name.
First up, we’ve got a total throwback for the EPCOT purists. This Dreamfinder T-shirt comes in a perfect neutral tan that makes the vintage-style artwork really pop. It features a cartoon-style Dreamfinder reaching right out of a navy and brown scrollwork frame, surrounded by those iconic sparks of imagination.
The details here are a love letter to 1983: you’ve got the Dream Machine silhouette with “1983” stamped across the balloon, and “Dreamfinder” written in a super cool steampunk font across the bottom banner. It even works in “Journey Into Imagination” and “EPCOT Center” into the frame, giving it that authentic retro-future vibe. The back is plain, keeping all the magic front and center.
If you prefer something a bit heavier for those rare chilly Florida nights, the new EPCOT Spirit Jersey is a navy blue dream. The front is sleek and simple with the EPCOT logo in bright blue puffy ink on the chest, but the back is where the real party starts. The “EPCOT” wordmark across the shoulders is an absolute Easter egg hunt of park icons:
E: Dory and Nemo hanging out under the sea.
P: Remy rocking a chef’s hat in front of a cheese Eiffel Tower.
C: A Star Blaster from Cosmic Rewind blasting through a portal.
O: Spaceship Earth surrounded by the World Showcase pavilion icons.
T: More pavilion icons on top, with our favorite purple dragon, Figment, holding down the bottom.
These are available at the park now! The Dreamfinder tee is a steal at $32.99, while the Spirit Jersey sits at the standard $79.99. Better grab them before they fly off the shelves!
Necropsy Reports Reveal Disturbing Details Behind Dozens of Sloth Deaths Tied to Failed Orlando Attraction
A deeper look into the tragic story surrounding the now-defunct Sloth World attraction in Orlando is shedding new light on what went wrong and why so many animals didn’t survive. According to newly reviewed necropsy reports and inspection documents obtained by Fox 35 Orlando, at least 52 sloths died while under the care of Sloth World, painting a troubling picture of transport conditions, diet concerns, and overall health management.
The sloths, which were imported from South America in multiple shipments between late 2024 and 2025, faced a variety of challenges almost immediately upon arrival. Early reports indicate that many of the initial deaths were linked to cold stress and illness, particularly among sloths transported in December 2024. Later shipments told an equally grim story, with some animals arriving already deceased and others described as severely underweight and in poor condition.
Veterinary findings from necropsy reports highlight a range of contributing factors. Several sloths reportedly suffered from gastrointestinal issues, dehydration, lethargy, and malnutrition. In multiple cases, vitamin deficiencies were noted, particularly among sloths that died more recently. One especially concerning detail involved diet, as at least 10 sloths were reportedly fed brown rice, something experts say should never be part of a sloth’s nutritional intake due to their highly specialized digestive systems.
Stress also appears to have played a significant role. Sloths are extremely sensitive to environmental changes, and even minor disruptions to diet or habitat can have severe consequences. Combined with the challenges of international transport and inconsistent care conditions, many of the animals were unable to recover.
Some of the individual cases underscore just how varied and heartbreaking the circumstances were. One sloth experienced worsening gastrointestinal distress before passing just days after arrival. Others died weeks or months later after ongoing health struggles. In one instance, two sloths died following a fight, adding yet another layer to the complex issues surrounding their care.
Following the closure of Sloth World, 13 surviving sloths were transferred to the Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens, where they are now receiving specialized care. Many arrived dehydrated and underweight, with several initially in critical condition. While most have shown improvement, one sloth named Bandit remains in serious condition and is being closely monitored by veterinary teams.
Zoo officials emphasize that sloths require highly specific care, particularly when it comes to diet and gut health. Their unique digestive systems rely on a delicate balance of microorganisms, and any disruption can quickly lead to severe illness. The surviving animals will remain in quarantine for at least 30 days before plans are made to relocate them to accredited facilities.
The findings continue to raise serious questions about the planning and execution of Sloth World, which ultimately never opened to the public and has since moved toward bankruptcy. As more details emerge, the situation serves as a stark reminder of the complexities involved in caring for exotic animals and the importance of proper preparation, oversight, and expertise.
