Updating coverage of Walt Disney World’s 2026 closures, four key attractions—including Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster, and Wildlife Express Train—will be unavailable in April 2026 across Magic Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom. New details confirm reopening timelines from early April to summer, with recent soft openings and retheming previews.
Following the February announcement of six major 2026 closures (see prior coverage), Walt Disney World has provided specifics on four attractions affected through April 2026.
In Magic Kingdom’s Tomorrowland, Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin—closed since August 2025—underwent soft openings April 1-7 for select guests to test upgrades like enhanced targets and new audio-animatronic Buddy. It officially reopens April 8, ahead of the previously expected spring timeline.
Frontierland’s Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, shuttered since January 2025, remains closed past April for track replacements, new vehicles, and added Rainbow Caverns scenes (stalagmites, glowing pools, bats) with a mining-resistance storyline. Reopening is slated for spring 2026, likely post-April.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios’ Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith permanently closed March 2, 2026, for retheming to The Muppets (from Muppets Mayhem) as Sunset Showcase. Expect a summer 2026 debut with unchanged thrills.
At Animal Kingdom, the Wildlife Express Train—closed since February as part of Rafiki’s Planet Watch transformations—reopens May 26 with a Bluey-inspired Australian outback, featuring Bluey/Bingo interactions and Jumping Junction petting zoo.
These updates refine earlier projections, helping trip planners navigate April visits amid ongoing park evolutions.
