What's new at Disney World this summer

Disney World is a bucket list destination for families with petite princesses and junior Jedi Knights.

If you're planning a visit, here are a few of the rides, shows and restaurants debuting this summer at the four Disney World parks - the Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Animal Kingdom and Hollywood Studios.

I got a sneak preview during a recent media visit to the parks.

Let It Go … to Epcot

The overwhelming popularity of the hit movie, "Frozen" and its stars, Queen Elsa and Princess Anna takes over Epcot with the opening of Frozen Ever After. The ride at - where else? - Epcot's Norway Pavilion, is set in area that has been transformed into a rural Norwegian village.

This is a boat ride through familiar scenes from the movie, including Arendelle, Troll Valley, Elsa's Ice Palace and the ice-blue world of the North Mountain. The original cast came back to voice the new attraction, although some of the lyrics have been altered to fit the ride.

After you disembark, you can meet Anna and Elsa in their new Royal Sommerhus. Inspired by a Norwegian countryside cabin, this is Anna and Elsa's summer home.

Also coming to Epcot: Soarin' goes global.

The Soarin' ride, which debuted at Disneyland and originally "flew" riders only over California, now will take them around the world, flying over international landmarks such as the Great Wall of China and the Opera House in Sydney Australia.

The updated ride includes new sights, sounds and smells. Even better, a third theater was opened, which should mean shorter wait times - a big plus to anyone who has ever had to wait in line with kids.

'Star Wars; at Hollywood Studios

Disney is famous for its epic fireworks show, but the company has outdone itself with "Symphony in the Stars." Set to the iconic John Williams score from the "Star Wars" movies, this thrilling show includes state-of-the-art special effects that allow viewers to gaze at the twin suns of Tatooine, push through a field of battle droids, navigate through an asteroid field, race down the trench of the Death Star and deliver the final blow to destroy Starkiller Base.

Other "Star Wars" features at Hollywood Studios include a new live stage show that celebrates iconic moments from the movies and a chance to choose "Dark Side" or "Light Side" for a photo with the cuddly Chewbacca or the sinister Kylo Ren.

TravelingMom Tip: If you have a Chase Visa card, you can have an exclusive photo experience with Kylo Ren from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Launch Bay. Ask a Disney Cast Member (Disney's name for employees) for the exact location.

Also at Hollywood Studios: The Toy Story Mania ride, one of Hollywood Studio's most popular attractions, gets a third track this summer. That should help with the lines!

Nighttime at Animal Kingdom

The early-closing and underappreciated Animal Kingdom is upping its game this summer with later hours. The park will remain dimly lit - so it feels like nighttime in Africa or Asia - which adds to the ambience.

The most-anticipated new nighttime feature is the "Rivers of Light." This is Animal Kingdom's answer to the fireworks shows at the other three parks, but with a uniquely mystical, Animal Kingdom vibe. The spectacular musical light and water show is designed around the ancient belief that when animals die, their spirits dance in the sky and become beautiful rivers of light.

Animal Kingdom's Tree of Life, the centerpiece of the park, becomes the backdrop for a dramatic light show, complete with fireflies and light images of animal spirits coming to life.

Two terrific Animal Kingdom rides - Expedition Everest (one of Disney World's best roller coasters) and Kali River Rapids - feel completely different and somehow much more intense in the dark.

Finally, the park's Kilimanjaro Safari ride, which can feel a bit tame during the day when many of the animals are resting in the hot Florida sunshine, becomes a not-to-be-missed experience after dark. The areas remain dark, but the animals come to life. You'll see active hippos, giraffes that walk up to the vehicles, and maybe catch a glimpse of the new African wild dogs and hyenas.

TravelingMom tip: Sit on the left side of the safari vehicle for the best viewing.

A new princess at the Magic Kingdom

Princess Elena, Disney's first Latina princess, will debut in August. She is the 16-year-old star of a new animated series set to debut on the Disney Channel this summer. According to Disney, "The series follows the story of Elena, who saves her kingdom from an evil sorceress and must now learn to rule with the support of her appointed Grand Council and some magical friends by her side."

Also at Magic Kingdom: The Jungle Navigation Co. Ltd. Skipper Canteen is opening just steps from the popular Jungle Cruise attraction in Adventureland. The full-service restaurant serves dishes inspired by Asian, South American and African cuisine. The restaurant decor revolves around the story of the granddaughter of Jungle Navigation Co. Ltd. founder Dr. Albert Falls, whom you may remember from Jungle Cruise lore as the waterfall's namesake. Jungle Skipper Canteen accepts the Disney Dining Plan.

TravelingMom tip: Make reservations for lunch or dinner and asked to be seated at the butterfly table.

• For more Disney tips, including information on the most affordable times to visit and 13 things that a free at Disney World, visit TravelingMom.com.