2026 Walt Disney World Refurbishments & Reopenings: What’s Closed, What’s New, and What’s Coming Next
- Jennifer Rannazzisi
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
By Jennifer Rannazzisi
If you’re planning a Walt Disney World vacation in 2026, this is one year you’ll want to plan strategically. Disney is in the middle of a major transformation, with classic attractions getting long‑overdue upgrades, headline‑making re‑themes, and entirely new lands officially confirmed for the near future.
Some rides will be temporarily unavailable, but the payoff? Smoother rides, better tech, beloved attractions refreshed, and exciting new experiences on the horizon.
Below is your expert, easy‑to‑understand guide to 2026 Walt Disney World refurbishments and reopenings, plus a look ahead at what’s coming next—so you can decide when (and how) to plan your trip like a pro.
🏰 Magic Kingdom Reopenings (Spring 2026)
Magic Kingdom is seeing some of the biggest wins in 2026, with two fan‑favorite attractions returning better than ever!
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad (Reopening Spring 2026)
After closing in early 2025, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is returning with one of the most extensive refurbishments in the attraction’s history.
What’s New:
Complete track replacement
Updated effects throughout the ride
A brand‑new opening scene that enhances the story of the runaway mine train
This isn’t just routine maintenance—expect smoother rides, sharper visuals, and a refreshed experience that still honors the original classic.
Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin (Reopening Spring 2026)
Status:
Closed since August 2025, this Tomorrowland favorite is getting a much‑needed modernization.
What’s New:
New ride vehicles
Enhanced handheld blasters (goodbye unreliable aim!)
Improved interactive targets
A brand‑new ride scene added to the experience
This update should make gameplay more responsive and competitive—great news for families and repeat riders.
Frozen Ever After (Reopening February 2026)
Frozen Ever After will close briefly in January 2026 for a short but impactful refurbishment.
What’s New:
Installation of next‑generation Audio‑Animatronics
Figures inspired by the advanced technology used in World of Frozen at Hong Kong Disneyland
Expect even more lifelike Anna, Elsa, and friends when the attraction reopens.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios (Summer 2026)
Hollywood Studios is getting one of the most talked‑about changes Disney has announced in years!
Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets (Opening Summer 2026)
One of the biggest surprises in recent Disney announcements, Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster is getting a full re‑theme.
The Re‑Theme:
The coaster will now star Kermit, Miss Piggy, and the entire Muppet gang
A brand‑new storyline, music, and visuals
Same thrilling launch and ride system—completely new creative overlay
Opening Timeline: Summer 2026
This marks a major shift for Hollywood Studios and gives the Muppets a bold new presence in the park.
EPCOT Reopenings (2026)
EPCOT fans—this one’s for you.
Soarin’ Across America
As part of a company‑wide celebration, EPCOT’s Soarin’ attraction is getting a familiar (and very popular) update.
What’s Changing:
Soarin’ Around the World will be replaced by Soarin’ Across America
Guests will once again soar over iconic U.S. landmarks
This version has long been requested by fans and is expected to be a nostalgic highlight of 2026 visits.
🗺️ Beyond 2026: Confirmed New Lands You’ll Want to Watch
While these projects won’t open in 2026, they are fully confirmed and will dramatically reshape Walt Disney World in the years immediately following.
Magic Kingdom’s Villains Land
This long‑rumored project is officially happening.
Location: Beyond Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
What’s Confirmed:
Two major attractions
Dining and shopping locations
Creative consultation from Disney Legend and animator Andreas Deja
Villains teased as inspiration include Maleficent, Queen of Hearts, Jafar, and Hades
Opening Timeline: Disney has not announced a specific date, but stated projects will begin coming to life within five years of the 2024 announcement—suggesting a potential opening around 2029–2030 at the earliest.
Animal Kingdom’s Tropical Americas
Replacing: DinoLand U.S.A.
Status: Confirmed
Disney’s Animal Kingdom is preparing for a massive transformation inspired by Central and South American culture, architecture, and storytelling.
DinoLand Closure
DINOSAUR and Restaurantosaurus will have their final day of operation on February 1, 2026
Attractions Confirmed
The new Tropical Americas land will include:
Indiana Jones Adventure (a re‑theme of the existing DINOSAUR ride system)
An all‑new trackless Encanto attraction, set inside the Madrigal Casita
A working carousel, inspired by a woodcarver’s favorite Disney animals
Opening Timeline: 2027
✨ Should You Visit Walt Disney World in 2026?
So… is 2026 a good year to go to Disney World? In many ways, yes!
2026 is a transitional—but exciting—year at Walt Disney World. Guests can expect:
Classic attractionshttp://visit.As reopening with meaningful upgrades
A major headliner re‑theme debuting at Hollywood Studios
The final opportunity to experience DinoLand U.S.A. before its transformation
If you’re flexible with timing, planning your trip around spring or summer 2026 could mean experiencing multiple refreshed attractions in a single visit. As always, refurbishment timelines can shift, but this lineup signals a bold and exciting future for Walt Disney World.
Thinking about planning a 2026 trip or deciding the best time to go? I’m happy to help you map it out! Send me an email to Jennifer@ifyoucandreamittravel.com