Disney announces new attractions, lodging

Walt Disney World Resort has announced a number of new attractions, events and resort lodging options for the upcoming summer season.

Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa will see the return of "treehouse lodging;" a series of 60 three-bedroom villas held 10 feet above the ground on beams and pedestals. The feature is a returning concept as the structures were in place at Disney from 1975 to 2002. In addition to new, elevated lodging, the resort will also be outfitted with a tethered balloon capable of lifting 30 guests 300 feet over Downtown Disney.

The second new lodging option available this year is the phased introduction of the Kidani Village vacation villas - replete with thatched roofs - at Disney's Animal Kingdom Villas. Part of this phased opening includes the conversion of rooms at Jambo House.

One of the new attractions introduced this year is the 72-foot-diameter Aerophile that whisks guests away on a six-minute flight over Downtown Disney. The introduction of Aerophile is one part of the restructuring of the food, retail and entertainment center at Downtown Disney into a more family-friendly venue.

Disney's Hollywood Studios will again welcome throngs of Storm Troopers through its gates when Star wars Weekends opens Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from May 22 through June 14. The event will feature Storm Trooper parades led by notable characters of the "Star Wars" franchise as well as autograph sessions with the characters of the six-part series.

Finally, Disney's Hall of Presidents will reopen in July with the addition of President Obama and some enhancements to the aging attraction.