Walt Disney World 2026: New Attractions, Major Upgrades, and Farewell to Classic Favorites

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.