Walt Disney World Resort is preparing guests for a season of change, with multiple attractions, rides, and resort amenities scheduled to close from April through August 2026. Families planning their trips will need to adjust expectations as renovations and reimaginings temporarily reshape the parks.
Major theme park attractions going dark
Magic Kingdom’s Big Thunder Mountain Railroad remains closed until May 3, 2026, for track replacements and enhancements, affecting visitors who hoped to ride the iconic coaster during spring break.
Hollywood Studios is also seeing major changes. Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster, previously starring Aerosmith, is being completely reimagined as Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster featuring the Muppets. The ride’s launch mechanism remains, but the pre-show experience is entirely new, with an anticipated summer 2026 opening.
At Animal Kingdom, DinoLand U.S.A., including the DINOSAUR dark ride, closed permanently on February 2, 2026. The land will be replaced by Tropical Americas, expected to debut in 2027 with new Encanto and Indiana Jones attractions.
Water parks and seasonal closures
Typhoon Lagoon was closed seasonally in February 2026 and will reopen on May 26 for the summer season. Blizzard Beach remains open through summer, allowing both water parks to operate simultaneously from late May through early September.
Rafiki’s Planet Watch is closed until May 25, 2026, for the launch of Bluey’s Wild World. Visitors will see the Wildlife Express Train and Conservation Station reopen alongside the new summer experience.
Resort pools and amenities
More than 14 pools across Disney properties will close temporarily for maintenance, affecting families staying at resort hotels. Pop Century’s kiddie pool deck will remain closed from April 13 through late April. Contemporary Bay Cove Pool closures will continue until early May, and Old Key West’s South Point Pool is out of service through late April. Beach Club’s Tidal Pool is unavailable from mid-January until early May.
Seasonal updates and new experiences
EPCOT attractions will see updates as well. Soarin’ Around the World closes on May 14, 2026, to reopen as Soarin’ Across America on May 26 with new footage celebrating U.S. landmarks. Frozen Ever After has reopened with upgraded animatronics, including improved versions of Anna, Elsa, and Kristoff. Some areas, like Impressions de France and the Beauty and the Beast Sing-Along, remain closed for refurbishment until early May.
Planning tips for visitors
Guests are advised to prioritize attractions reopening in late May, including Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin, which officially reopens on May 25, 2026. Visiting after May 26 ensures access to major new experiences, such as the Walt Disney Studios Lot, Bluey’s Wild World, and Soarin’ Across America. Flexibility and realistic expectations will help families enjoy Disney magic despite temporary setbacks.
Source: Art Threat
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