Several attractions are closing soon at Walt Disney World. Make sure you know what’s going on before your next trip!
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Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, the iconic roller coaster known for its thrilling twists and turns through a wild western landscape, is undergoing significant refurbishment. The ride closed back on January 6, 2025, and is not expected to reopen until 2026.
Disney has teased that guests can look forward to “new magic” being added to the attraction, which may include enhancements to the final lift hill as well as new special effects that align with versions of the coaster found in other Disney parks.
Another beloved attraction, Buzz Lightyear Space Ranger Spin, will temporarily close on August 4 for an extensive refurbishment expected to last until 2026. Guests can look forward to an upgraded experience that promises new blasters and additional scenes, enhancing the interactive experience for all space rangers who come to save the universe.
Under the Sea – Journey of the Little Mermaid will experience a brief closure from July 21 to July 26 for some routine maintenance. While this will only be a short downtime, it might affect those who have this enchanting ride at the top of their must-do list during their visit.
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At Disney’s Animal Kingdom, The Boneyard, a popular playground for younger guests, is set to close permanently on September 2. This closure is part of a broader rework of DinoLand U.S.A., which has already seen a portion shut down since January. Families looking for a place for their little ones to play will need to seek alternative options within the park as this beloved area transitions into something new.
The next phase of the DinoLand project will see the closure of the DINOSAUR ride, a thrilling journey through prehistoric times, slated to occur in 2026. While details about what will replace the existing attractions remain scarce, the changes mark a significant revamp in one of the park’s key areas.
EPCOT will also see the closure of its iconic ride, Spaceship Earth, starting August 25. The ride is anticipated to reopen later this year, promising to maintain its relevance for guests exploring the innovative and culturally rich world of EPCOT.
At Disney’s Hollywood Studios, one of the most widely recognized attractions, Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith, is set to close permanently in 2026. Fans of the high-speed thrill ride should prepare for bittersweet farewells as it gears up for a transformation. As the rock band departs, the beloved ride will feature a new theme featuring the Muppets in an exciting musical adventure.
The Disney Skyliner, a favorite mode of transportation that offers breathtaking aerial views of the parks, will undergo scheduled maintenance from January 25 to January 31, 2026. This brief closure is essential to ensure the safety and reliability of the service that many guests appreciate. Riders can look forward to the Skyliner’s return, continuing to enjoy the scenic journey between Disney’s resorts and parks.
