Walt Disney once said that Disneyland would “never be finished” and that the theme park would continually evolve with changing technology and cultural norms. Following in Disneyland Resort’s footsteps, Walt Disney World Resort has never stopped upgrading its attractions and experiences over the past five decades. Check out these endangered experiences at Magic Kingdom Park, EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park before they’re gone for good!
1. Muppet*Vision 3D – A Final Curtain Call
Location: Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Closing Date: June 7, 2025
Since 1991, Muppet*Vision 3D has delighted guests of all ages with its hilarious antics and impressive 3D technology. However, Disney has confirmed that this beloved attraction–one of Jim Henson’s final works–will officially close on June 7, 2025.
The closure is part of a larger redesign of the Grand Avenue area. The Muppets will make way for a new themed area inspired by Pixar’s Monsters, Inc. (2001).
2. Rock’ n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith – Rock This Way One Last Time
Location: Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Closing Date: Unknown
Already missing The Muppets at Disney’s Hollywood Studios? You won’t be for long! Walt Disney Imagineering has announced that Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith will soon close to make way for a Muppets Mayhem retheme.
Walt Disney World Resort hasn’t announced an exact closing date for the roller coaster, but the transformation is expected to begin soon. Make sure to plan a visit if you want to experience the original 1999 attraction!
3. DINOSAUR – A Journey to the Past Will Soon Be History
Location: Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park
Closing Date: Early 2026
For 27 years, DINOSAUR has taken Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park guests on a thrilling ride back to the late Cretaceous period. It’s an exhilarating adventure through prehistoric times, filled with stunning animatronics and unforgettable thrills. However, the days of this prehistoric adventure are numbered.
Disney has confirmed that DINOSAUR will soon be reimagined into an Indiana Jones attraction as part of the reimagining of DinoLand U.S.A. into a new Tropical Americas-themed land. The new land, Pueblo Esperanza, will also feature two attractions inspired by Encanto (2021). It’s expected to open sometime in 2027.
4. The Liberty Square Riverboat and Tom Sawyer Island – Frontierland Reimagined
Location: Magic Kingdom Park
Closing Date: Unknown
At D23 Expo 2024, Chairman of Disney Experiences Josh D’Amaro announced two major changes coming to Magic Kingdom Park. First, a Disney Villains land will take over the empty space “beyond Big Thunder Mountain,” expanding the footprint of the original Central Florida Disney park.
Unfortunately, the other expansion requires saying goodbye to an original part of the Magic Kingdom. Two all-new Cars (2006) attractions will join Frontierland, replacing Tom Sawyer Island and much of the Rivers of America.
Walt Disney World Resort hasn’t announced a closing date for Tom Sawyer Island or the Liberty Square Riverboat, but early construction permits have been filed. These original Magic Kingdom Park attractions will likely close after the year-long Big Thunder Mountain Railroad refurbishment finishes in early 2026.
What’s Next for Walt Disney World Resort’s Endangered Attractions?
Although it’s always sad to see classic attractions go, Disney Parks fans can rest assured that something new and exciting is always on the horizon. As these beloved attractions close, Walt Disney World Resort is preparing to replace them with fresh, innovative experiences that will continue to delight guests.
The Monsters, Inc. area, Indiana Jones-themed attraction, new Cars rides, and other additions will keep the magic alive for future generations.
Don’t Miss Out on These Magical Moments
Walt Disney World Resort is where dreams come true, but sometimes, those dreams must evolve. These endangered attractions listed here are just a few examples of how Disney is constantly changing to meet the needs and interests of its guests. If you want to experience Muppet*Vision 3D, DINOSAUR, the Rivers of America and Tom Sawyer Island, or Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith in their current form, now is the time to visit.
Whether you’re a lifelong Disney Parks fan or a first-time visitor, these attractions provide a glimpse into the magic of Disney’s past. Don’t miss your chance to enjoy them before they disappear for good.
Which of these Walt Disney World Resort attractions are you most sad to see go? Share your thoughts with Disney Dining in the comments!
