Latest News from Walt Disney World: Magical News #7

Posted on July 4, 2025 by admin

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.