Magic Kingdom has never been one to sit still, but what’s happening now feels bigger than the usual updates. We’re not just talking about seasonal overlays or the occasional new snack cart. No—this is the start of a true transformation. And interestingly, it all begins with pirates.
Just recently, Walt Disney Imagineering filed a permit for signage installation at 4873B Caribbean Way. That may seem like a small bureaucratic detail to the average guest, but for longtime Disney watchers, it’s one of the clearest signs yet that the long-promised Pirates of the Caribbean tavern is moving forward. Not only is this bar real—it’s now under active development.
Expected to open in late 2025, this tavern will be the first themed lounge space ever located inside Magic Kingdom. Disney gave fans a sneak peek earlier this year, revealing concept art that shows dark woods, flickering lanterns, barrels of rum, and immersive nods to the Pirates universe we all know and love. The lounge will be located near the old Pirates League and just around the corner from the attraction’s gift shop, which is also undergoing its own refurb.
For decades, Adventureland has felt a little like a grab bag—jungle cruises, pirate adventures, flying carpets, and a Swiss Family Treehouse all packed into one area. But now, Disney seems to be tightening the focus and leaning into its strongest asset in this land: Pirates of the Caribbean.
The tavern is just one part of this vision. With the signage permit in place and construction already in progress, this project could be the first domino in what becomes a far more unified and story-driven Adventureland. Think Oga’s Cantina in Galaxy’s Edge, but with sea shanties and hidden treasure maps.
Beyond the Lagoon: Even Bigger Magic Kingdom Changes Are Coming
While the pirate bar may be stealing the spotlight in Adventureland, it’s just the beginning of something far bigger for Magic Kingdom. Over in Frontierland, Disney has confirmed the largest park expansion in Magic Kingdom history is coming soon—and it includes not one, but two major new lands.
First up, a Cars-themed expansion will transform the Rivers of America and Tom Sawyer Island into a high-speed rally race. Imagine dodging geysers, climbing steep mountain trails, and racing alongside Lightning McQueen and Mater in a way that feels brand new—different from anything we’ve seen in Radiator Springs.
Even more buzzworthy, Disney is building a land themed entirely around Disney Villains. Located just beyond Big Thunder Mountain, this multi-acre addition will feature at least two large-scale attractions, along with shopping and dining spaces pulled straight from the world of Maleficent, Jafar, Ursula, and more. For years, fans have begged for a villains-themed land—and now it’s happening.
And let’s not forget that a brand-new nighttime parade is coming to Main Street, U.S.A. in 2025. Between that, the lounge additions, and what’s in development for EPCOT and Animal Kingdom, Disney is clearly gearing up for a new era.
A New Era for Adventureland
The upcoming tavern isn’t just a fun idea—it represents a shift in what Adventureland can be. By extending the story of the Pirates ride into a living, breathing space, Disney is giving guests a reason to linger longer and immerse deeper. And with rumors of themed entertainment, interactive elements, and exclusive cocktails, this won’t just be a bar—it’ll be an experience.
It may have started with a permit for signage, but the overhaul is very real. Adventureland, and Magic Kingdom as a whole, are about to look very different. And if this is just the first course, we can’t wait to see what else is on the menu.
