The Tropical After-Hours Event Makes a Grand Return
After an eight-year hiatus, Discovery Cove in Orlando is bringing back one of its most unique experiences. Paradise Nights is officially returning for the 2026 season, offering guests a chance to experience the park’s lush, tropical atmosphere long after the daytime crowds have departed. This isn’t just a simple reopening, though; the event has been completely reimagined with a heavy focus on high-end dining, atmospheric entertainment, and exclusive animal encounters.
Running on select nights from June 5 through August 8, 2026, Paradise Nights is a separately ticketed event that transforms the park into an island-inspired evening retreat. While Discovery Cove is famous for its all-inclusive daytime snorkeling and dolphin swims, this evening event offers a different kind of magic, focusing on relaxation and sensory experiences under the stars.
Dining, Drinks, and Island Rhythms
The evening kicks off with check-in at 5:30 p.m. at the Discovery Cove Reception Center. Guests can enjoy a happy hour at the Blue Bamboo Bar starting around 6:00 p.m., where beer and wine are included for those 21 and older. One of the best perks for those looking to maximize their time is that if you already have a daytime admission for the same date, you don’t have to leave the park. You can simply transition from your day of swimming to the evening festivities starting at 5:00 p.m.
The main event takes place at Laguna Grill, where an open-air dinner features a menu of island-inspired cuisine and signature cocktails. While you eat, a live dinner show takes center stage. The production is divided into four themed acts representing Earth, Air, Water, and Fire. It’s designed as a sensory journey that uses music and movement to tell a story, replacing the dolphin-centric presentations of years past.
The Exclusive Sloth Encounter
Perhaps the biggest news for the 2026 return is the Paradise Nights Sloth Encounter. This is a premium add-on experience that is extremely limited. Only 10 guests per night can book this encounter, which includes priority check-in and a behind-the-scenes meeting with one of the park’s slowest and most charming residents. At a price point of $59 per guest, it’s a rare opportunity for animal lovers to get an up-close look at these fascinating creatures in a quiet, intimate setting.
Planning Your Paradise Night
If you’re planning a trip to Orlando this summer, there are a few technical details to keep in mind. Unlike the daytime experience, the waterways are closed during Paradise Nights. This means there is no swimming, snorkeling, or entering the water during the event. The dolphins and other marine life are given their evening downtime, so you won’t see them performing or interacting with guests.
- Admission Prices: Adult tickets start at $117, while children ages 3 to 9 start at $70. Infants are free.
- Parking: Complimentary parking is included with your event ticket.
- Capacity: The event is capacity-controlled to maintain a relaxed atmosphere, so advance reservations are strongly recommended.
- Upgrades: While standard beer and wine are included, a separate evening Premium Drink Package is available for purchase if you want upgraded spirits.
For those who love the aesthetic of Discovery Cove but prefer a night of cocktails and live performance over a day of snorkeling, Paradise Nights offers a sophisticated way to spend a summer evening. It represents a shift toward more curated, atmospheric experiences that highlight the natural beauty of the park without the need for a wetsuit.
Disclaimer: This information is gathered from various online sources and news outlets. While we strive for accuracy, Disney plans and policies can change rapidly. We recommend double-checking official Disney sources for the most up-to-date information before making final travel plans.