A Sad Day in Disney World: Unfortunately, a Fan-Favorite Attraction Has Closed Down Permanently

It’s a sad day when we lose something at Walt Disney World Resort, especially something so popular among guests.

As a long-time Disney World fan, nothing hits quite like the excitement of seeing my favorite attractions and shows whenever I visit the parks.

But recently, it feels like the magic has been dimming as several beloved experiences are either closing down or have already taken their final bow. Each trip feels like a countdown to saying goodbye to another cherished attraction, and while I know Disney constantly evolves, it’s hard to let go.

The most recent closure, of course, was the shutdown of the Disney Dreams That Soar drone show at Disney Springs. This visually stunning display of lights, music, and precision drones became a fan favorite in no time.

Running only for a few months this past summer, the show captured the imaginations of both regular visitors and first-timers alike. But now, it’s been packed away, potentially for good. As much as I try to stay hopeful, the fact that Disney hasn’t announced any plans for the show’s return feels like another loss in a growing list of permanent closures.

One fan recently shared a final photo of the show, which gave guests a chance to enjoy some of that “Disney magic” in the middle of their shopping and dining rather than in a theme park.

I can’t believe the last drone show was yesterday. 🥺
byu/LilliaBaltimore inWaltDisneyWorld

More Disney World attractions set to close permanently

The sadness doesn’t stop there.

Rivers of America, which has been around since Magic Kingdom’s early days, has seen its fair share of closures for refurbishment over the years, but Disney has confirmed that it is on the chopping block for something new altogether. This relaxing steamboat ride, offering a scenic loop around Tom Sawyer Island, is one of those hidden gems that I’ve always loved for its tranquility.

It’s far from the flashy headliners like Space Mountain or Big Thunder Mountain, but it’s a piece of the Disney park’s history that’s hard to imagine being replaced.

Then, of course, there’s Tom Sawyer Island itself. Rumors have been swirling for years about its eventual closure, and now we have confirmation that it will be closing down permanently.

Both of these areas will be cemented over to make way for a Cars-themed land. A Disney Villains land is also coming to Magic Kingdom, which is something that I am excited about.

Over at Animal Kingdom, the news doesn’t get any better. Dinoland USA once a bustling, prehistoric-themed area, has already started to fade away with the closure of attractions like Primeval Whirl.

Over at Animal Kingdom, significant changes have already been confirmed. While it was hard to say goodbye to DinoLand U.S.A., Disney has officially announced that it will be replaced by new lands themed around Encanto and Indiana Jones.

For fans of DinoLand U.S.A., this marks the end of an era, but there’s undeniable excitement surrounding the possibilities of these new additions. Seeing how Disney will bring the magic of Encanto and the adventure of Indiana Jones to life in the park is exciting, even though it means letting go of a section that’s been a part of Animal Kingdom since it opened.

Additionally, the beloved It’s Tough to Be a Bug show inside the iconic Tree of Life will officially close to make way for a Zootopia-themed attraction.

While It’s Tough to Be a Bug was known for its quirky humor and immersive 3D experience, the new Zootopia addition promises to bring fresh energy to Animal Kingdom. Fans of Zootopia will no doubt be thrilled, but I can’t help feeling a pang of nostalgia for a show that’s been such a memorable part of my visits to the park.

All of these closures come as Disney undergoes significant changes, most of which aim to refresh and revitalize the parks. As much as I understand the need for new attractions, it’s hard not to feel like a piece of Disney magic disappears every time something I’ve loved for years is replaced.

Sure, the parks have to evolve to keep things fresh for the next generation of visitors, but what about those of us who have grown up with these attractions?

And Disney Dreams That Soar at Disney Springs, specifically, felt like a show with so much more potential. The drone technology was a breathtaking, innovative spectacle that didn’t require the typical fireworks and pyrotechnics. The fact that it quietly wrapped up its run with no real fanfare leaves me, and likely many other fans, wondering why such a successful show didn’t get more time to shine.

What do you want to see from Walt Disney World in the future? Let us know in the comments!