DisWorldGuide

2026 is set to be another year of big changes at Walt Disney World. Several iconic attractions are getting a new lease on life, exciting new experiences are opening – and some beloved classics are saying goodbye. Here’s everything you need to know about the attraction changes coming your way.

Frozen Ever After Gets a Technological Upgrade

In February 2026, the popular Frozen Ever After attraction returns to EPCOT with brand-new Audio-Animatronic figures of Anna, Elsa, and Kristoff. These figures use the latest technology from Hong Kong Disneyland, delivering more natural movements and expressions. The upgrade will take place after the EPCOT Festival of the Arts, which runs from January 16 to February 23, and Disney has confirmed the reopening will be toward the end of February.

Soarin’ Across America – A Tribute to the USA

EPCOT will feature a temporary update: Soarin’ Across America. Starting Memorial Day weekend, May 25, 2026, guests can soar over iconic American landscapes in celebration of the United States’ 250th anniversary. This special version will replace Soarin’ Around the World until Labor Day in September and showcase breathtaking views of the Grand Canyon, Golden Gate Bridge, and other national landmarks. For Soarin’ fans, this is a unique opportunity that lasts only a few months.

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Adds New Magic

The Magic Kingdom classic closed on January 6, 2025, for its most extensive refurbishment ever and has been unavailable for nearly a year. When it reopens in spring 2026, guests will experience new effects, enhanced sound and lighting, and a reimagined Rainbow Caverns sequence for a more dramatic and mysterious feel. Disney has confirmed the reopening will occur sometime between March and May, making this a major event for fans of classic coasters.

Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin Gets More Interactive

The Tomorrowland attraction will relaunch with new ride vehicles, handheld blasters, and updated targets for a more dynamic and competitive experience. The classic shooting game now features technology that makes the scoring system more accurate and interactive. The upgrade is happening alongside Big Thunder’s refurbishment, with reopening scheduled for spring 2026.

Goodbye Aerosmith – Hello Muppets!

Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster at Disney’s Hollywood Studios will bid farewell to Aerosmith in spring 2026 and reopen with a Muppets theme in summer 2026, featuring brand-new music, humor, and set design. The new version promises a high-energy ride with Kermit, Miss Piggy, and the rest of the gang.

Millennium Falcon Gets a New Mission with The Mandalorian

Star Wars fans can look forward to a new storyline in Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run. Starting May 22, 2026, Grogu and The Mandalorian will join the mission, adding a fresh twist to the popular Galaxy’s Edge attraction. This permanent update launches during Memorial Day weekend, giving fans another reason to visit Hollywood Studios and Batuu.

Dinosaur Closes – Indiana Jones Takes Over

One of Animal Kingdom’s most iconic attractions, Dinosaur, will close on February 2, 2026, with its final ride on February 1. It will be replaced by a brand-new Indiana Jones Adventure, taking guests into a mysterious Mayan temple in the upcoming Tropical Americas land. The attraction won’t open until 2027, but construction begins immediately after closure. This marks one of the biggest thematic changes in the park’s history.

New Attraction: The Magic of Disney Animation

Later in the summer, The Magic of Disney Animation will open at Hollywood Studios. This interactive experience replaces Launch Bay and offers character meet-and-greets, creative activities, and a play area inspired by Mary Blair. Disney has confirmed the opening will occur sometime between July and August, making it a key addition to the park’s family-friendly offerings.

Walt Disney World is entering an exciting period with extensive upgrades and new attractions that will delight both regular guests and first-time visitors. From classic favorites like Frozen Ever After to brand-new shows based on Zootopia, there’s plenty to look forward to in the coming months.

At EPCOT, the popular attraction Frozen Ever After is getting a major upgrade. Elsa, Anna, and Kristoff will soon feature brand-new Audio-Animatronics with three-dimensional faces—a significant improvement over the current projection-based technology. This will create a more realistic and lifelike experience, following the trend seen in the parks in Hong Kong and Paris.

Also at EPCOT, Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure will be enhanced. The attraction will temporarily close from November 10 to 13, 2025, to implement sharper digital imagery in 2D format, along with improvements to the queue area featuring new props and lighting. The reopening is scheduled for November 14. These changes aim to deliver a more seamless and visually impressive experience—without the need for 3D glasses.

In Disney’s Animal Kingdom, a brand-new show premiered on November 7: Zootopia: Better Zoogether!. Guests can enjoy a 4D performance at the Tree of Life Theater, where they’ll receive special “Carrot Vision” glasses. The show features spectacular scenes from various biomes, including ice-skating and drone displays, as well as a new animatronic figure of Benjamin Clawhauser. Additionally, Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde will greet guests in new costumes inspired by the upcoming film Zootopia 2.

After a maintenance period, Spaceship Earth returned to operation on October 25, 2025. The attraction has undergone several upgrades, including improvements to the ride system, updated video screens, repaired lighting, and adjustments to scenes and animatronics. This ensures that the iconic journey through human history continues with a refreshed touch.

Disney has also announced that the iconic Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith will soon close for a major re-theme featuring The Muppets. The Aerosmith version will remain through 2025 but will go out of operation in early 2026, with a planned reopening in summer 2026. The new version, titled Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets, will feature an entirely new storyline centered around the band Electric Mayhem, complete with psychedelic visual effects, a revamped pre-show, and Audio-Animatronics of beloved characters like Kermit, Miss Piggy, Scooter, and penguin sound engineers.

Finally, Disney has confirmed a big change for Soarin’. Starting summer 2026, the attraction will showcase Soarin’ Across America, a new film experience that takes guests on a journey over iconic American landscapes and cities. This update is part of the celebration of the United States’ 250th anniversary and will include special effects such as scents and air currents to make the flight even more immersive.

Disney World has announced that the popular Soarin’ attraction at EPCOT is getting a major update. The new version, “Soarin’ Across America,” will take guests on a spectacular flight over iconic landscapes and cities in the United States – in celebration of the nation’s 250th anniversary.

Soarin’, one of EPCOT’s most beloved attractions, is receiving a new film and thematic upgrade. The upcoming version, “Soarin’ Across America,” will replace the current “Soarin’ Around the World” and is set to debut in the summer of 2026. The update marks a tribute to the United States’ 250th anniversary and will take visitors on a visual journey from coast to coast, showcasing breathtaking footage of the country’s most iconic natural and urban landmarks.

According to Walt Disney Imagineering, the film crew has already begun shooting in various locations across the U.S. Using advanced technology such as helicopter rigs, custom camera lenses, and heavy-duty drones, they are capturing everything from majestic mountain ranges to bustling cities. The goal is to create a seamless and emotional flight experience that reflects the diversity and beauty of the American landscape. Creative executive Tom Fitzgerald stated that the anniversary provided the perfect opportunity to “book a new flight” for Soarin’, aiming to convey the spirit of the nation to today’s guests and future generations.

The attraction will continue to use its signature glider system, scent effects, and orchestral score that have made Soarin’ a favorite among park visitors since its debut. In addition, Disney recently introduced new costumes for the attraction’s cast members, signaling that Soarin’ is entering a new era. The new uniforms combine modern design with practical features and have already been praised for their comfort and style.

With the launch of “Soarin’ Across America” at both EPCOT and Disney California Adventure, Disney is showing its commitment to refreshing classic attractions while celebrating important historical milestones. For fans of Soarin’, this means a new and exciting journey awaits – this time across the homeland of the United States.

The popular family attraction in EPCOT’s France Pavilion will undergo significant changes. From November 10 to 13, 2025, the attraction will be temporarily closed to replace the current 3D experience with sharper, enhanced 2D projection—and to upgrade both technology and theming with new props and lighting details.

Disney recently announced an exciting upgrade to the beloved attraction Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure in EPCOT’s France Pavilion. From November 10 to 13, 2025, the attraction will be temporarily closed for a comprehensive technological overhaul. The current 3D experience, which requires glasses, will be replaced with a new 2D projection promising sharper and more comfortable visuals. This move follows similar upgrades at Disneyland Paris and responds to guest feedback requesting a more accessible and comfortable experience.

By removing the need for 3D glasses, Disney reduces the risk of discomfort some guests experience with 3D effects, while improving visual quality through modern digital technology. Disney stated that the goal is to create a more natural and seamless experience, allowing guests to immerse themselves in Remy’s world without distractions. In addition to the visual upgrade, new props and improved lighting are planned for both the queue area and inside the attraction. These enhancements aim to strengthen the theming and deliver a more vibrant atmosphere that reflects the French culinary charm the attraction is known for.

Although the closure period is short, the change marks an important step in Disney’s strategy to modernize experiences and align them with today’s technological standards. When Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure reopens on November 13, guests can look forward to a refreshed and improved journey through Gusteau’s kitchen and the rooftops of Paris—now with sharper visuals, more details, and an experience that feels both more comfortable and more magical than ever before.

Nearly a decade after its debut, EPCOT’s beloved Frozen Ever After attraction is getting a major technological refresh. Anna, Elsa, and Kristoff will soon look more lifelike than ever, thanks to cutting-edge animatronic technology inspired by Hong Kong Disneyland.

Disney has announced that Frozen Ever After in EPCOT will undergo a significant update in early 2026. The focus is on the attraction’s most iconic characters—Anna, Elsa, and Kristoff—who will receive brand-new Audio-Animatronics featuring physically sculpted faces. This marks the end of the projection-based facial technology that has been in use since the ride opened in 2016.

When the attraction debuted nearly ten years ago, it was groundbreaking: introducing fully electric animatronics and combining advanced motors with 3D printing. However, projection faces often drew criticism for misalignment and dim expressions that broke the illusion. Now, Disney is moving toward a more film-accurate experience, using technology that has already wowed guests at World of Frozen in Hong Kong Disneyland.

The new figures will feature more natural movements, improved lighting, and detailed facial features for a seamless transition from animation to reality. According to Walt Disney Imagineering, this is “a full circle of innovation,” where technology that began with Frozen Ever After returns in a far more advanced form.

Disney has not confirmed whether the ride will close during the upgrade, but changes are expected to be completed by early 2026—just in time for the attraction’s 10th anniversary. For fans, this means the journey through Arendelle will soon be even more magical, setting a new standard for realism in Disney parks worldwide.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios continues its Muppets revolution following the closure of Muppet*Vision 3D earlier this year. Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster, one of the park’s wildest attractions, is set to bid farewell to Aerosmith and make way for the Muppets’ Electric Mayhem band—and the changes are coming faster than anticipated.

In a recent announcement, Disney confirmed that Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets will open as early as summer 2026, giving fans a precise timeline for the takeover. The attraction is expected to remain open with Aerosmith throughout 2025, closing in early 2026 to install the new elements—a much shorter transformation than previously assumed. New poster art showcases Dr. Teeth, Animal, and the gang in full rock mode, while the queue becomes a backstage scene featuring Audio-Animatronics figures, with Scooter as the band manager for the first time. The story revolves around “stealing back” the band’s gear to make it to the concert on time, with remixes of Muppets classics like “Can You Picture That?” and the same thrilling coaster experience with a 60 mph launch.

The original Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster opened on July 29, 1999, as Disney’s first inverted coaster, featuring Aerosmith hits and a high-energy concert vibe that has drawn millions. Now, the focus shifts to family-friendly nostalgia, with the iconic red guitar outside receiving a psychedelic Muppets redesign. We’re looking forward to summer 2026!

Walt Disney World is constantly evolving, and over the next few years, the park will undergo a major transformation, with significant updates that will shape the guest experience for years to come. Here’s a summary of the most important news from the past few weeks.

DINOSAUR closing

One of the most impactful changes is the confirmed closure of the DINOSAUR attraction and the entire DinoLand U.S.A. area in Animal Kingdom. Disney has announced that the last day for guests to experience DINOSAUR will be February 1, 2026, and the entire area will permanently close the following day, February 2, 2026. This paves the way for the new themed land “Tropical Americas,” which will include an Indiana Jones attraction replacing DINOSAUR, and the park’s first Encanto experience.

Disney Villians

At the same time, Disney has revealed more details about Magic Kingdom’s brand-new area dedicated to Disney villains. “Villains Land,” announced during D23 in August 2024, will feature two major attractions, restaurants, and shops in a dramatic and dark setting inspired by Art Nouveau architecture from Paris and Barcelona. The design team has introduced the concept of “Conjured Architecture” to describe the magical and enchanted aesthetic that will define the area. Villains Land will be located behind Big Thunder Mountain and will replace areas such as Tom Sawyer Island and parts of Rivers of America. The land will feature villains from Disney films like Maleficent, Jafar, Scar, Ursula, and Gaston, and will explore their “evil ambitions” through attractions and interactive experiences. Although Disney has not yet revealed details about the two main attractions, concept art hints at a roller coaster inspired by Maleficent’s dragon form, as well as an interactive experience that may involve magical duels or dark labyrinths. Additionally, the area will include themed dining experiences and shops with villain-inspired merchandise, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the dark side of the Disney universe.

Cinderella Castle repaint

In a more nostalgic turn, Disney has announced that Cinderella Castle in Magic Kingdom will be repainted in its classic color palette—gray, blue, and cream—restoring the castle to its original appearance from 1971. The decision was announced during Destination D23 on August 31, 2025, but a specific date for when this will happen has not yet been set.

In Magic Kingdom, TRON Lightcycle / Run has also received a major update. A temporary “Tron: Ares” overlay was launched on September 15, 2025, featuring new visual effects and a new soundtrack composed by Nine Inch Nails, tying the attraction to the upcoming film “Tron: Ares.”

Spaceship Earth in EPCOT has received a visual makeover in connection with the Food and Wine Festival 2025, which began on August 28 and runs until November 22. Each evening after sunset, a light and music show inspired by “Be Our Guest” from Beauty and the Beast is presented, and this year also includes music from the film “Wish.”

Zootopia: Better Zoogether opening soon

Finally, over in Animal Kingdom, a new attraction is set to open on November 7, 2025: “Zootopia: Better Zoogether!”—a 4D show experience in the Tree of Life Theater. The new attraction will take guests on a celebration called Zoogether Day, where residents from all biomes in Zootopia gather for music, dance, and humor. The show includes special appearances from beloved characters like Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde, and concludes with an epic musical finale celebrating community and diversity. The show features exciting elements such as ice dancing from Tundratown and a drone show from Little Rodentia. The attraction replaces “It’s Tough to Be a Bug,” a long-running 3D show experience that had been part of Animal Kingdom since the park’s opening in 1998. The show, based on the Pixar film “A Bug’s Life,” closed in March 2025 after nearly three decades of operation.

Starting in mid-September 2025, TRON Lightcycle / Run at Magic Kingdom will receive an exciting new overlay inspired by the upcoming film Tron: Ares. Featuring red light trails, new music from Nine Inch Nails, and thematic updates, the attraction will offer a fresh experience.

TRON Lightcycle / Run, one of the most popular attractions at Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World, is set to undergo an exciting update. Disney recently announced a temporary “overlay” inspired by the upcoming film Tron: Ares, which will transform the look and feel of the high-speed roller coaster. This change begins on September 15, 2025, and will be available for a limited time only. The same overlay will also be implemented at the corresponding attraction in Shanghai Disneyland starting September 16.

The most noticeable change is a new color palette, replacing the iconic blue light grid with vibrant red light trails. This shift creates a more intense and “fiery” atmosphere, aligning with the theme of Tron: Ares. Additionally, the attraction will feature new music from the band Nine Inch Nails, contributing to a more dramatic and modern soundscape. Disney has also announced new PhotoPass photo and video themes.

Since its opening In 2023, the attraction has been celebrated for its thrilling Lightcycle experience, where guests are “digitized” into a virtual world inspired by the Tron universe. The new overlay builds on this foundation, offering a fresh take that celebrates the upcoming film. Tron: Ares, set to premiere later in 2025, explores new facets of the digital world, and the overlay aims to give park guests a taste of its story.

For guests planning a visit to Magic Kingdom this fall, this presents a unique opportunity to experience the attraction in a new light. Disney has indicated that these changes won’t last forever, so it’s wise to check it out as soon as possible.

This summer, Disney World has undergone several significant changes and launches, especially in Magic Kingdom and EPCOT. From new attractions and parades to seasonal events and updates.

Disney Starlight

The new nighttime parade, Disney Starlight, was launched in Magic Kingdom in July. It premiered a few days earlier than announced and came as a complete surprise to both visitors and fans. The parade was first spotted by guests who happened to be in the park during its debut and is now a regular part of the evening program. It has received glowing reviews for its visual splendor, music, and use of lights and special effects. Many describe it as one of the most atmospheric experiences in the park in years. Social media has been flooded with photos and videos. Currently, you can see Disney Starlight twice each evening, before and after the fireworks. Note that on nights with special events, such as Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, the parade will not be shown.

Piston Peak National Park

Two classic attractions in Magic Kingdom – Tom Sawyer Island and Rivers of America – are now permanently closed as part of the development of a new themed land based on the Cars movies. The area, named Piston Peak National Park, will include new attractions featuring characters from the Cars franchise. In July, the water in Rivers of America was drained overnight, and the area was closed off for construction. Disney has confirmed that the Walt Disney World Railroad will remain operational during construction, but with certain adjustments. The changes have sparked strong reactions among fans – some mourn the loss of nostalgic attractions, while others express excitement about the new content and the opportunity for more modern and immersive experiences.

Test Track 3.0

Test Track in EPCOT has undergone a major upgrade and reopened a few days earlier than planned this summer. The new version, often referred to as Test Track 3.0, features improved technology, a new pre-show, and a more interactive driving experience. The design is inspired by futuristic concepts and sustainable transportation. Alongside the reopening, changes were also made to the Multi Pass system in EPCOT: Test Track is now placed in Lightning Lane Group 1, along with Frozen Ever After and Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure. Soarin’ has been moved down to Group 2. This affects which three attractions you can select Lightning Lane access for in advance of your visit. Read more about Lightning Lane HERE.

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party 2025

The Halloween season is officially underway at Magic Kingdom with the return of Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. This separately ticketed event kicked off on August 15 and runs on select nights through October 31. Tickets range from $119 to $229 and allow early park entry at 4:00 PM, with the party running from 7:00 PM to midnight 

This year’s highlights include the dazzling Disney’s Not-So-Spooky Spectacular fireworks, the fan-favorite Boo-to-You Halloween Parade, and the Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular stage show. New for 2025 is the ZOM-BEATZ BASH dance party inspired by ZOMBIES 4, and the chance to meet Mickey and Minnie together at Town Square Theater. Guests can also enjoy trick-or-treating, themed food and drinks, and rare character encounters.

Event Dates:
August: 15, 17, 19, 22, 24, 26, 29
September: 2, 5, 7, 9, 12, 14, 16, 19, 21, 23, 25, 26, 28, 30
October: 2, 3, 5, 7, 9, 10, 13, 14, 16, 17, 19, 23, 24, 26, 28, 30, 31

Christmas Party

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party returns to Magic Kingdom in 2025, with events on select nights from November 7 to December 21. Disney opened ticket sales in July, and several dates quickly sold out. The event includes parades, fireworks, character meet-and-greets, exclusive treats, and snowfall on Main Street USA. Prices have increased compared to previous years, and Disney has introduced new premium add-ons that offer access to special seating areas and dessert buffets. Reactions have been mixed – many look forward to the event as a cherished holiday tradition, while others express concern about pricing and availability.

Festival of the Holidays

The EPCOT Festival of the Holidays is also confirmed for December 2025. The festival features cultural celebrations, musical performances, and special menus from around the world, including the Candlelight Processional, Holiday Storytellers, and Gingerbread Exhibits. Disney has announced several new additions to this year’s program, including a new light installation in World Showcase and extended hours for select pavilions. The festival has become a key part of Disney’s holiday offerings and attracts a wide audience eager to experience Christmas in a global way. Many guests have already begun planning their visits, and Disney expects high attendance on weekends throughout December.

Jollywood Nights

Jollywood Nights returns to Hollywood Studios with a glamorous blend of vintage holiday charm and modern entertainment. This separately ticketed event features exclusive shows like Disney Holidays in Hollywood and The Nightmare Before Christmas Sing-Along, along with rare character encounters, themed treats, and shorter wait times for popular attractions. New highlights this year include Holiday Fiesta en la Calle with Miguel from Coco and the dazzling ice-skating show Glisten!.

Event Dates for 2025:
November 8, 11, 16, 18, 22, 23, 29
December 2, 4, 6, 7, 11, 13, 14, 18, 20, 21, 22

Walt Disney World is entering a transformational period that will elevate the park experience to new heights in the coming years. Guests can look forward to a futuristic upgrade of Test Track at EPCOT, a chaotic new Muppets-themed roller coaster at Hollywood Studios, and a revitalized Astro Orbiter at Magic Kingdom. At the same time, the parks are preparing updates for Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin and Spaceship Earth. These changes are an exciting blend of innovation, nostalgia, and new storytelling that will shape the future of Disney’s parks.

Test Track 3.0 Accelerates into EPCOT

The highly anticipated Test Track 3.0 officially opens on July 22, 2025, at EPCOT, marking a new era for this high-speed attraction. Developed in collaboration with Chevrolet and inspired by the original World of Motion from 1982, the upgraded version offers a mix of nostalgia and futuristic innovation. The attraction includes six new showrooms, a new musical score, and over 29,000 light points simulating how autonomous vehicles “see” the world through advanced sensors and cameras. The queue area features new interactive elements, and the narrative focuses on the future of mobility and sustainable solutions. Previews for select guests, including Cast Members, Annual Passholders, and Disney Vacation Club members, begin in mid-July, offering an exclusive glimpse of this reimagined attraction that promises to combine excitement with learning in true EPCOT fashion.

Preview Dates:

• Cast Members: June 27 – July 10, 2025 (ongoing)
• DVC Members: July 12, 2025
• Annual Passholders: July 13–16 and July 18–19, 2025

Spaceship Earth Pauses for Technological Upgrade

EPCOT’s iconic Spaceship Earth will close for routine maintenance starting August 25, 2025, with a planned reopening by the end of the year. The attraction, a park cornerstone since 1982, will undergo technological upgrades, including improvements to projection systems and audio equipment, as well as possible new scenic elements. Building permits suggest Disney aims to modernize this classic journey through the history of human communication, last updated in 2007. Although the downtime is described as routine, the scope of the work suggests guests can expect a more polished and immersive experience when it reopens. This temporary closure comes as EPCOT continues its extensive transformation, with Spaceship Earth remaining a central symbol of the park’s focus on innovation.

Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin Closing for Major Upgrade

Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin in Tomorrowland, Magic Kingdom, will close on August 4, 2025, for a major overhaul, with a planned reopening in 2026. Since its debut in 1998, this interactive shooting attraction has been a guest favorite, but it’s now set for a significant refresh. Disney has confirmed the upgrade will include new ride vehicles, enhanced interactive targets, a new character named “Buddy” – a friendly robot who assists guests on their mission – and an entirely new scene. Building permits also suggest changes to the facade and interior, and there’s speculation the attraction may be rethemed to a newer Pixar film. While the new name hasn’t been confirmed, Disney promises these changes will modernize the experience and make it one of the most advanced shooting attractions in the world.

Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Replaces Aerosmith with The Muppets

In 2026, Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster starring Aerosmith at Hollywood Studios will permanently close to make way for a new Muppets-themed attraction, expected to open in 2027. When the roller coaster reopens, it will feature new music, visual effects, and a chaotic narrative in which The Muppets attempt to produce a rock concert. This marks the end of the Aerosmith theme, which has defined the ride since its 1999 debut. While many fans are sad to see Aerosmith go, others are excited to see how The Muppets’ humor and charm will transform this high-speed experience into something truly unique.

Astro Orbiter Shines Again After Refurbishment

Astro Orbiter in Tomorrowland, Magic Kingdom, reopened on June 27, 2025, after an extensive refurbishment that began in January. The attraction, which has been soaring guests high above Tomorrowland since 1974, now features new planets, upgraded spacecraft, enhanced lighting, and technical improvements to the elevator system. This is the most significant upgrade since 2009, and guests report smoother operation and shorter wait times. The refreshed attraction retains its retro-futuristic charm but with a polished presentation that enhances Tomorrowland’s thematic appeal. The reopening comes just in time for the summer season, giving guests a chance to experience this classic ride in a new light.

The Boneyard Closes to Make Way for Tropical Americas

The Boneyard, the popular dinosaur-themed play area in DinoLand U.S.A. at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, will permanently close on September 2, 2025, to make way for the new Tropical Americas area. Since opening in 1998, this interactive play zone has been a favorite for young children, but it must now make room for Disney’s plans to transform DinoLand into a new themed section opening in 2027. Building permits indicate the dismantling of existing structures and preparations for new development, including a new play area with an unconfirmed theme. This closure is part of a broader reimagining of Animal Kingdom, which also includes a new Indiana Jones attraction.

Walt Disney World Railroad Limited to Shuttle Mode

Starting July 7, 2025, the Walt Disney World Railroad at Magic Kingdom will operate in a limited “shuttle mode” between Main Street and Fantasyland, as Frontierland Station temporarily closes due to construction of the new Piston Peak and Villains Land areas. This change prevents a full loop around the park. Building permits suggest upgrades to tracks and stations, which may improve future operations. Disney has not confirmed when full service will resume, but the limitations are expected to last through 2026. This temporary change reflects the extensive redevelopment of Frontierland and the area beyond Big Thunder Mountain.