Walt Disney World has announced six significant closures of attractions and experiences in 2026, affecting visitors across its parks. These include temporary refurbishments, permanent shutdowns, and retheming projects set to reshape key areas. Guests planning trips should check updates to adjust their itineraries.
Walt Disney World is undergoing a transitional phase in 2026, with closures impacting all four parks. The changes range from multi-year refurbishments to permanent removals, signaling broader transformations in areas like Frontierland and Animal Kingdom.
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad in Magic Kingdom's Frontierland has been closed since January 6, 2025, for a major refurbishment. It is expected to reopen in spring 2026 with new elements, including a track update, new ride vehicles, and a Rainbow Caverns scene, alongside what Disney describes as “a little bit of new magic.” This closure ties into ongoing Frontierland developments, such as Piston Peak projects.
At Animal Kingdom, Rafiki’s Planet Watch, including Conservation Station, closes on February 23, 2026, to prepare for a Bluey-themed experience opening in summer 2026. The new attraction will feature interactive elements with Bluey and Bingo, such as dancing and “Keepy Uppy.” Meanwhile, DinoLand U.S.A. has permanently closed: DINOSAUR shut down on February 2, 2026, along with Restaurantosaurus. The 11-acre area will become Pueblo Esperanza, themed to Indiana Jones and Encanto, with multiple attractions, a quick-service restaurant, carousel, and central fountain, slated for 2027.
In Magic Kingdom's Tomorrowland, Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin has been closed since August 4, 2025, through spring 2026. Upgrades include a new character named Buddy, redesigned star cruisers with onboard video monitors, handheld blasters that vibrate and emit sound effects upon hitting targets, interactive targets, and a reworked opening scene.
Disney's Hollywood Studios sees Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith close on March 2, 2026, with March 1 as the last day for the current version. It will retheme to Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring the Muppets, reopening in summer 2026, featuring the Electric Mayhem storyline at G-Force Records, Scooter’s uncle J.P. Grosse, and a first-of-its-kind Muppet animatronic. The track, launch, and thrills remain unchanged.
Pete’s Silly Sideshow in Storybook Circus has been closed since January 4, 2026, with no reopening date through April 19. Characters continue meet-and-greets in the area, though the indoor location is unavailable.
These closures highlight Disney World's focus on rebuilding and repositioning, potentially altering crowd patterns and park layouts during 2026.
