Disney World Refurbishments 2026: Every Closure, Opening, and Update You Need to Know
Disney World refurbishments and closures are a necessary part of ensuring the parks are always at their best. Whether it’s routine maintenance, the exciting reimagining of attractions, or the addition of brand-new rides, these updates are inevitable. For many visitors, the refurbishment schedule plays a significant role in choosing vacation dates, because nobody wants to discover that their favorite attraction is closed during their dream Disney trip!
Disney attractions can sometimes close unexpectedly, but the good news is that the schedule for routine maintenance and reimaginings is fairly reliable. This applies not only to the parks but also to Disney Resorts and transportation. So, here’s what you need to know about the current Disney World refurbishment and closure schedule for 2026.
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Planning a Disney World vacation in 2026? Be sure to check out our guide to all that the Walt Disney World Resort has to offer this year!
Please note that this list could change at any time. Always check Disney’s official calendar before you travel!
Magic Kingdom
Now Open: TRON Lightcycle Run
The highly anticipated TRON Lightcycle Run coaster, inspired by Shanghai Disneyland’s attraction, debuted at Magic Kingdom in April 2023. This exhilarating ride offers an adrenaline-pumping race on sleek, two-wheeled Lightcycles, and the surrounding Tomorrowland area was revamped to match the immersive theme. While the ride is rather short, it is honestly one of my family’s favorite rides in Magic Kingdom. The takeoff will take your breath away!
Now Open: Tiana’s Bayou Adventure
Splash Mountain closed in early 2023 to make way for this all-new attraction. Set in the enchanting bayous of Louisiana, visitors accompany Princess Tiana on a musical adventure as she launches her new venture, Tiana’s Foods. We just rode this on our most recent trip and honestly… it is so cute! The theming is beautiful, and the music will be stuck in your head for days.
And fair warning: I’m pretty sure you get more wet on this one than you ever did on Splash Mountain! Whether that’s by design or just my imagination, I’m not sure, but we were soaked. Come prepared!
Now Open: Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad has officially reopened as of May 3, 2026, following an extended refurbishment focused on track replacement and ride enhancements. If you’ve been waiting to ride, the wait is over!
Now Open: Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin
Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin is back open! This fan-favorite interactive shooter lets you blast targets alongside Buzz on a mission to save the universe. Fair warning: the competition gets fierce in a family group, and someone is always going to be insufferably proud of their score.
Pete’s Silly Sideshow – Closed for refurbishment (reopening date TBD)
This is currently the only project that qualifies as a purely routine refurbishment at Magic Kingdom. The circus tents are being repaired or replaced, and the character meet-and-greets normally held inside have temporarily moved outdoors in Storybook Circus.
Cinderella Castle Repainting
The Cinderella Castle makeover is fully underway! The project restores the icon to a more classic color palette, bringing back its pre-50th Anniversary look with soft grays, creams, blues, and touches of gold. During construction, the “Let the Magic Begin” welcome show is running in audio-only form, and Mickey’s Magical Friendship Faire is experiencing minor adjustments.
Carousel of Progress – Closing for reimagining (2026 or 2027, date TBD)
Disney has filed permits for work on Carousel of Progress, suggesting preliminary prep is underway. A closure is expected at some point, though Disney hasn’t confirmed a specific timeline yet.
Rivers of America, Liberty Square Riverboat, and Tom Sawyer Island
These classic experiences have been permanently closed to make way for construction on the new Cars-themed area in Frontierland. (More on that below!)
Walt Disney World Railroad
The train is operating in “shuttle mode” for the next several years due to ongoing construction in Frontierland, with the Frontierland Station now closed.
Piston Peak National Park (Cars-Themed Area, Coming 2029+)
So many changes are coming to Magic Kingdom in the not-so-far-off future! Disney is transforming a section of Frontierland into an all-new Cars-themed area called Piston Peak National Park. The new land will include two attractions: a thrilling rally race through the mountains (navigating trails, geysers, and mudholes!) and a family-friendly experience for younger racers. Construction has begun following the closure of several classic attractions, but an opening is not expected until at least 2029.
New Villains Area (Coming 2029 or 2030+)
Disney has confirmed a new land dedicated to beloved Disney Villains, located beyond Big Thunder Mountain. This section will include two attractions plus exclusive dining and shopping. Preparations are already underway, though Disney has not released a specific timeline. Most expect this won’t open until 2029 or 2030 at the earliest.
EPCOT
Now Open: Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind
This wildly popular “omnicoaster” features vehicles that rotate to face the action as you zip through the attraction, and we can personally confirm that it lives up to every bit of the hype. We rode it on our most recent trip, and it was genuinely unlike any coaster we had ever been on. The rotating seats are disorienting in the best possible way, and the whole experience feels completely immersive from start to finish. That said, if you’re prone to motion sickness, the spinning screens can be a lot, so ride at your own risk!
Now Open: Test Track
Test Track has reopened following an extensive transformation with Chevrolet, giving this beloved attraction another exciting evolution.
Now Open: Frozen Ever After (with Enhancements!)
Frozen Ever After recently reopened following a major enhancement that upgraded the Audio Animatronics of Kristoff, Anna, and Elsa. The ride looks fantastic and is definitely worth a visit!
Beauty and the Beast Sing-Along – Reopening May 10, 2026
This film experience inside the Palais du Cinéma in the France pavilion has been temporarily closed for a theater refurbishment. It is expected to return on May 10, 2026.
Impressions de France – Reopening May 10, 2026
This classic French film presentation is also temporarily unavailable while the Palais du Cinéma receives some TLC. Like Beauty and the Beast Sing-Along, it is expected to reopen on May 10, 2026.
Soarin’ Around the World – Closing May 14, 2026
Soarin’ Across America – Debuting May 26, 2026
In honor of America’s 250th anniversary, Soarin’ is getting a brand-new film! Soarin’ Across America will showcase a bi-coastal journey across the United States, from the Grand Canyon to iconic city skylines and everything in between. The attraction will be closed from May 14 through May 25, with the new experience debuting May 26.
Hollywood Studios
Now Open: Villains Unfairly Ever After Show
This brand-new show has debuted and is already winning over crowds!
Now Open: The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure
“Voyage of the Little Mermaid” is permanently closed and has been replaced with a fully reimagined live production called “The Little Mermaid: A Musical Adventure,” featuring beloved songs and characters from the classic film.
Vacation Fun with Mickey and Minnie – Closed as of April 29, 2026 (reopening “later” in 2026)
This indoor attraction closed on April 29, 2026, with a vague “later this year” reopening date. No reason has been given for the closure, though it may be related to seasonal scheduling.
Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run – A New Mission – Debuts May 22, 2026
A brand-new mission is coming to Smugglers Run starting May 22, 2026, giving returning guests a fresh experience aboard the Millennium Falcon.
Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring the Muppets – Opens May 26, 2026
Aerosmith has retired, and The Muppets are moving right along to Sunset Boulevard! The reimagined coaster featuring The Muppets is set to open on May 26, 2026, bringing a completely new theme to the high-speed attraction.
Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live! – Debuts May 26, 2026
This new dance party experience is designed especially for younger guests and opens in time for Cool Kids’ Summer on May 26, 2026.
The Walt Disney Studios Lot – Opens May 26, 2026
Animation Courtyard is permanently closed and is being reimagined as The Walt Disney Studios Lot. The new area will open in phases throughout Summer 2026. Two attractions, Little Mermaid: A Musical Adventure and Walt Disney Presents, will remain open throughout construction.
Animation Academy: Olaf Draws! – Debuts later in Summer 2026
This new Animation Academy experience will teach guests to draw Olaf. Expect it to open sometime after late June 2026.
The Magic of Disney Animation – Opens later in Summer 2026
In a full-circle moment, The Magic of Disney Animation returns to its original name and location! The former Star Wars Launch Bay (which was originally The Magic of Disney Animation) has permanently closed and is being transformed back into an updated animation experience. Look for this to open later in Summer 2026.
Star Wars Launch Bay – Permanently closed
The former Star Wars Launch Bay has officially closed. The space is being transformed back into The Magic of Disney Animation.
New Monstropolis Area (Coming Eventually…)
MuppetVision 3D, PizzeRizzo, and Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano have all permanently closed to make way for construction on a new Monsters, Inc. area. This land will feature a suspended roller coaster inspired by the iconic doors chase scene. A new (unannounced) show will take over the MuppetVision 3D theater, and new restaurants will replace the ones that closed. No opening date has been announced.
Animal Kingdom
Now Open: Zootopia: Better Zoogether
This brand-new 4D show featuring characters from the Zootopia movies has replaced It’s Tough to Be a Bug and is now open!
Affection Section – Reopening May 26, 2026 (as “Jumping Junction”)
Affection Section has been temporarily closed as part of the Rafiki’s Planet Watch shutdown ahead of the Bluey’s Wild World debut. It will reopen on May 26 with the new name Jumping Junction.
Animation Experience at Conservation Station – Permanently closed
The Animation Experience has permanently closed to make way for changes tied to the upcoming Bluey transformation of Rafiki’s Planet Watch.
Bluey’s Wild World – Opens May 26, 2026
The brand-new Bluey experience at Rafiki’s Planet Watch is set to debut on May 26, 2026, coinciding with the start of Cool Kids’ Summer. Most of Rafiki’s Planet Watch is expected to reopen at that time.
Conservation Station – Reopening May 26, 2026
Temporarily closed as part of the broader Rafiki’s Planet Watch shutdown, Conservation Station is expected to reopen when the Bluey’s Wild World experience debuts.
Wildlife Express Train – Reopening May 26, 2026
The train to Rafiki’s Planet Watch is temporarily out of service and is expected to resume when the area reopens on May 26.
DINOSAUR – Permanently closed
DINOSAUR has permanently closed as the first step in the Tropical Americas transformation of Dinoland U.S.A.
2027: Tropical Americas (Replacing Dinoland U.S.A.)
The entire Dinoland U.S.A. area is being transformed into a “Tropical Americas” land inspired by Encanto and the Indiana Jones franchise. TriceraTop Spin and The Boneyard have permanently closed, and DINOSAUR is now extinct as well. Construction is underway, and the new land will feature an Encanto dark ride and a reimagined Indiana Jones Adventure. The target opening is 2027.
Disney World Refurbishments Outside the Parks
Disney Skyliner – Closed January 24 through January 30, 2027
The Skyliner will undergo its annual routine refurbishment during this window. Complimentary bus service will be provided for guests at all connected resorts. We strongly recommend planning around this closure if you’re staying at a Skyliner resort in late January 2027.
Typhoon Lagoon – Reopening by May 26, 2026 (possibly May 12)
Walt Disney World has confirmed that Typhoon Lagoon will reopen for summer by May 26, 2026, and may open as early as May 12. Both water parks are expected to be open simultaneously from May 26 through September 8, 2026.
Blizzard Beach Water Park – Now open for summer
Blizzard Beach has officially reopened for the summer season!
Disney World Resort Updates & Closures
Disney’s Pop Century Resort
Pop Century is in great shape after completing its year-long room refurbishment! Just a small note: the kiddie pool deck is closed for routine maintenance through late April 2026. The Hippy Dippy Pool and all other amenities remain open.
Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort
Beginning in late May 2026, guest rooms at All-Star Movies will undergo a planned soft goods refurbishment (flooring, décor, furnishings, linens) through the end of January 2027. Guests may see or hear construction during daytime hours. This is expected to be the first phase of a multi-year soft goods refurbishment across all of the All-Star Resorts.
Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside
Room refurbishments are underway through August 2027, with Magnolia Bend (including the Royal Rooms) being completed first, followed by Alligator Bayou. We actually stayed in the newly refurbished rooms on our most recent visit and were really impressed! Everything felt so fresh and well done, and we loved the new color scheme. If you’re booking spring 2026 and beyond, requesting Magnolia Bend may help you avoid the second phase of construction noise. All amenities remain available throughout.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
Room refurbishments are happening in phases: Kidani Village through May 2026, followed by Jambo House from May 2026 through January 2027. All amenities remain open, though daytime construction may be noticeable.
Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort
The Turf Club Bar and Grill and Turf Club Lounge are undergoing refurbishment through mid-September 2026. The lounge is closed through early August 2026, followed by the patio in mid-August, and then the restaurant itself from mid-August through mid-September 2026. Disney Springs is a short walk away for dining alternatives! Also, the tennis and basketball courts are closed for refurbishment and expected to reopen in June 2026.
Disney’s Beach Club Resort
Exterior work continues through late 2026, impacting views and some walkways. The Tidal leisure pool is closed through early May 2026.
Disney’s BoardWalk Inn
Refurbishment work is happening throughout 2026 (Disney has not yet detailed the full scope of the project). From January through April 2027, the Luna Park Pool, Luna Park Crazy Play Area, and Leaping Horse Libations will close for routine maintenance. The Villas Pool and the Inn Pool will remain open.
Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Multi-phase refurbishments continue through late 2027, including Bay Lake Tower and the main atrium. The Bay Cove Pool at Bay Lake Tower is closed through early May 2026, and the Skyway Bridge connecting Bay Lake Tower and the main tower is closed on weekdays through May 1, 2026. The Bay Lake Pool and main feature pool remain open.
Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground
New DVC Cabins have fully replaced the original cabins. Construction near the Meadow Swimmin’ Pool continues through mid-2026, though the pool itself remains open. Next door, Disney Lakeshore Lodge (formerly Reflections) is under active construction and is now 10 stories tall, so expect that to be visible from the Fort Wilderness area.
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa
Enhancements continue through early 2027, now including porte-cochère work. The lobby overhaul (including the new Birdcage Bar in place of the aviary) is now complete. Note that Grand Floridian Cafe will temporarily close from mid-July through October 2026 for a refresh. Brunch will move to Cítricos during that time.
Disney’s Old Key West Resort
The South Point Pool, spa, BBQ area, and playground are closed for routine maintenance through late April 2026. The Sandcastle Pool and the resort’s other leisure pools remain open.
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
The Island Tower is now open! Construction continues through 2026, primarily focused on entrance reconfiguration and roadway work. Also, from May 11 through June 5, 2026, the boat dock will be closed for routine maintenance, suspending boat transportation to and from the resort during that time. Plan for extra travel time if you’re staying at the Poly during that window, as the monorail will be handling more guests than usual.
Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
Exterior refurbishment continues through late 2026 and possibly into 2027. All amenities remain open, though some views may be affected. Construction on Disney Lakeshore Lodge nearby is also visible and occasionally audible, especially from Boulder Ridge.
Disney’s Yacht Club Resort
Exterior maintenance continues through late 2026. The Admiral Pool is closed through early May 2026. Crew’s Cup Lounge closes from February through May 2026, and Yachtsman Steakhouse will close from May through August 2026 for refurbishment.
Art of Animation, Pop Century, Caribbean Beach, and Riviera Resorts (Skyliner Reminder)
Remember that the Disney Skyliner will be closed January 24 through January 30, 2027. If you’re planning to stay at a Skyliner resort during this time, buses will be offered as an alternative. We recommend planning around this closure if at all possible.
*Be sure to view Disney’s interactive park hours calendar for more detailed information about your specific travel dates.
Disney World Planning Guides
Magic in the Planning offers numerous guides to help you get started in your Disney World vacation planning! Here are some to get you started!
Walt Disney World Resort Guides:
- Disney Value Resort Hotels
- Disney Moderate Resort Hotels
- Disney Deluxe Resort Hotels
- Disney Deluxe Villas
Walt Disney World Dining Guides:
Walt Disney World Attraction Guides:
- Attraction Guide for Magic Kingdom
- Attraction Guide for Epcot
- Attraction Guide for Hollywood Studios
- Attraction Guide for Animal Kingdom
Planning your first Walt Disney World vacation? Be sure to visit my step-by-step guide to get started!
