Everything Coming to and Closing at Walt Disney World in 2026

Walt Disney World Update for 2026

2026 is shaping up to be a year of massive transition for Walt Disney World. From the “extinction” of beloved prehistoric adventures to the long-awaited arrival of the Muppets and Bluey, the resort is balancing nostalgia with cutting-edge updates.

Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a family traveler, here is everything you need to know about the closures and grand openings coming to the parks in 2026.

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Magic Kingdom

Cinderella Castle’s Classic Return

After five years of sporting the pink-and-blue “Earidescent” look from the 50th Anniversary, the park’s icon is going back to its roots.

• A full repaint to restore the classic light gray walls and cerulean turrets.
• Timeline: Work begins in January 2026 and is expected to conclude by late 2026. While the castle will remain visible, expect some scaffolding and “grayed out” sections during the process.

Major Reopenings in Tomorrowland and Frontierland

• Big Thunder Mountain Railroad: Following a massive year-long overhaul, the “Wildest Ride in the Wilderness” returns in Spring 2026.

• Highlights include a completely rebuilt track and a stunning transformation of the Rainbow Caverns opening scene.

• Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin: Reopening in Spring 2026, this classic is getting its most significant tech upgrade ever. Expect new handheld blasters, interactive targets, and Buddy, a new robot character who anchors a fresh opening scene.

An update to Carousel of Progress featuring a Walt Disney Audio-Animatronic has been confirmed, but a specific 2026 timeframe for its temporary closure remains unannounced.

Piston Peak National Park (Cars area) & Villains Land: Both massive projects remain under heavy construction. Disney has not announced an opening year for either, and it is highly unlikely they will open in 2026.

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EPCOT

Frozen Ever After (Refurbishment)

• Dates: Closed January 26, 2026, through February 2026.
• The Change: The projected “face” animatronics are being replaced with high-tech physical faces, similar to the figures seen in Hong Kong Disneyland’s World of Frozen.

Soarin’ Across America

In honor of the United States’ 250th anniversary, a limited-time overlay titled Soarin’ Across America will debut around Memorial Day (May 25, 2026). This version will celebrate iconic American landmarks, from the Grand Canyon to the New York City skyline.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

The Muppets Take Over Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster

The Aerosmith era officially ends on March 1, 2026.

• The New Vibe: Reopening in Summer 2026, the ride becomes Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets.
• The Story: Join Dr. Teeth and The Electric Mayhem in a high-speed limo dash through Muppet-inspired scenery to make it to their next gig.

Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run – New Mission

Coinciding with the theatrical release of The Mandalorian & Grogu, a new mission debuts on May 22, 2026. Guests will visit Tatooine, Bespin, and the remnants of the Death Star.

Animation Courtyard Reimagining

The area reopens in Late Summer 2026 as the Walt Disney Studios Lot.

• The Magic of Disney Animation: A revival of the classic walkthrough experience where characters “come to life” after the animatronics leave. Includes 6 character meet-and-greets and a Mary Blair-inspired Alice in Wonderland playground.

• Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live!: A high-energy stage show replacing the Disney Junior Dance Party.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

The End of DinoLand U.S.A.

February 1, 2026, is the final day to experience DINOSAUR and Restaurantosaurus.

• What’s Next: The land will become the Tropical Americas, set to open in 2027.

• New Dining: Harambe Market will reopen as the park’s primary burger-and-fries destination once Restaurantosaurus closes.

• Bluey’s Arrival: Families can play and dance with Bluey and Bingo starting in Summer 2026, featuring games from the show and animals native to Australia.

Disney Springs

For the adult crowd, LEVEL99 will open in the former NBA Experience building in 2026. This social gaming complex will feature over 60 challenge rooms and “duels.”

Whether you’re visiting to say a final goodbye to the dinosaurs or to catch the Muppet’s roller coaster debut, 2026 will be an exciting year of transformation! While massive projects like Villains Land remain on the horizon, the mix of restored classics and fresh overlays ensures there is plenty to explore. It is a year of “out with the old, in with the new,” serving as a bridge to the next generation of Walt Disney World magic.

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