Walt Disney World had plenty of exciting news to share for January and February 2025. Thrill-seeking guests can look forward to a host of new attractions and experiences, including the “Zootopia: Better Zoogether 4D Show” in Animal Kingdom and the pirate-themed tavern in Magic Kingdom’s Adventureland. Don’t miss the interactive stage show with Disney villains or the reimagined “The Little Mermaid” in Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Many magical moments await in the year to come!
“Zootopia: Better Zoogether” will debut in Animal Kingdom in 2025. This 4D show will replace “It’s Tough to be a Bug!” in the Tree of Life theater. Guests will join Judy Hopps, Nick Wilde, and other characters on an adventure through the various biomes seen in the film. The show promises to blend humor and heart, offering an immersive experience that highlights the diverse environments of Zootopia.
“Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After” is set to debut in Disney’s Hollywood Studios in summer 2025. This stage show will feature iconic Disney villains like Cruella de Vil, Captain Hook, and Maleficent, who will present their cases to the Magic Mirror to prove who has been treated the most unfairly. The audience will play a role in deciding the outcome, making for an interactive and entertaining experience.
A new Pirates of the Caribbean-themed tavern will open in Adventureland at Magic Kingdom in late 2025. This immersive tavern will expand the lore of the classic attraction, providing a haven for pirates of all ages. Guests can expect a menu featuring pirate-themed food and drinks, along with thematic elements inspired by the beloved ride.
A new lounge inspired by Spaceship Earth will open in EPCOT in spring 2025. This lounge will feature a sleek design inspired by the iconic geodesic sphere and offer a relaxing atmosphere with views of the park’s fireworks. Guests can enjoy a selection of culinary creations and specialty drinks in this elegant setting.
“The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure” will replace “Voyage of the Little Mermaid” in Disney’s Hollywood Studios in summer 2025. This reimagined stage show will follow Ariel’s journey to become part of the human world, featuring beloved songs like “Part of Your World” and “Under the Sea.” The production will include stunning set pieces and cutting-edge effects to bring Ariel’s story to life.
The “Forces of Nature” show in EPCOT’s World Celebration Gardens has been extended through June 2025. This acrobatic show, which debuted in April 2024, features performances themed to the elements of nature and has been well-received by guests.
MuppetVision 3D in Disney’s Hollywood Studios will close permanently in 2025. The attraction, which has been a staple of the park since 1991, will be replaced by a new experience that has yet to be announced.
Both Tiana’s Bayou Adventure in Magic Kingdom and Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind in EPCOT have discontinued their virtual queue systems. Both attractions will now use traditional standby lines, allowing guests to experience these popular rides without needing to secure a virtual boarding group.
Dinoland USA in Animal Kingdom began its permanent closure on January 13, 2025. This area, which has been part of the park since its opening, is being transformed into a new land called Tropical Americas. The new area will feature new attractions, restaurants, and experiences that reflect the culture and nature of the tropical regions of the Americas.
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, one of the most iconic attractions in Magic Kingdom, closed for a major refurbishment on January 6, 2025. This refurbishment is expected to last for a year, with no specific reopening date announced yet. The goal is to enhance both safety and guest experience, with upgrades to technical systems and theming.
Astro Orbiter in Magic Kingdom closed for refurbishment on January 13, 2025. This classic attraction, which offers guests an exciting ride high above Tomorrowland, is expected to be closed through the summer. The refurbishment includes both technical upgrades and aesthetic improvements to ensure a better guest experience.
Gran Fiesta Tour Starring The Three Caballeros in EPCOT closed for refurbishment on January 6, 2025. This boat ride, which takes guests on a journey through Mexico with Donald Duck and his friends, is expected to reopen on March 15, 2025. The refurbishment includes upgrades to both technical systems and theming to enhance the experience.
The Hall of Presidents in Magic Kingdom closed for updates on January 20, 2025. This attraction, which features all the U.S. presidents in an impressive animatronic presentation, will receive updates that include new technological improvements and possibly the addition of the newest president. There is no announced reopening date yet.