The question on everyone’s mind: Is it still worth the trip? That’s the honest dilemma facing Disney World guests in 2025. For some, the answer is a resounding yes. For others, the sweeping changes happening across all four parks—and beyond—have them second-guessing their long-anticipated vacations. And it’s not hard to see why.
As of late June 2025, Walt Disney World is in the middle of a major transformation. Some fans are calling it a bold step into the future. Others? A complete identity crisis.
The Magic Kingdom Is Barely Recognizable
If you’ve been to Disney World before, chances are the Magic Kingdom held a special place in your heart. But the classic charm is getting a serious makeover.
For starters, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is completely closed for a major refurbishment that won’t wrap until 2026. Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin is also going down this August for a long-term overhaul. And it’s not just temporary maintenance—we’re talking full-blown reimaginings that will last months or more.
Meanwhile, July 6 marks the final day for Tom Sawyer Island, Liberty Square Riverboat, and access to the Walt Disney World Railroad’s full loop, as Disney prepares to transform the area into Piston Peak National Park, inspired by Cars. That’s not just a ride update—that’s a major land overhaul. And it’s leading many fans to question if the Disney they grew up loving is slowly vanishing.
Even the beloved Hall of Presidents remains closed with no reopening date in sight. And while there’s excitement building around the new nighttime Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away parade launching July 20, the overall feel right now is… chaotic.
Animal Kingdom Is Saying Goodbye to an Entire Land
Over at Animal Kingdom, the classic Dinoland U.S.A. is being phased out. It’s Tough to Be a Bug is already gone. TriceraTop Spin is gone. The Boneyard closes this September. And while DINOSAUR is safe through the end of the year, it’s expected to close soon after to make room for the new Indiana Jones Adventure as part of the Tropical Americas expansion.
Fans who love the park’s calm, nature-inspired areas may find it jarring. Disney is clearly shifting toward big-budget IPs like Encanto and Zootopia, with the latter expected to debut in a new Tree of Life show just in time for Thanksgiving crowds.
Hollywood Studios Is Feeling the IP Squeeze
In Hollywood Studios, things aren’t any less complicated. Muppet*Vision 3D is gone. PizzeRizzo and Mama Melrose’s are gone. Those closures are part of the shift to Monstropolis, which will include a Monsters Inc.-themed coaster and a new show to replace the Muppets.
Even Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster—a longtime anchor of Sunset Boulevard—is being rebranded. In 2026, it will reopen as Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring the Muppets.
The mix of nostalgia and modern IP is turning the park into something totally different than what many longtime fans remember. Whether that’s good or bad? Depends on who you ask.
Even the Water Parks and Skyliner Aren’t Immune
Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon are both open—for now. But that ends on September 8, when one of the two will shut down again for seasonal maintenance. Disney hasn’t said which yet.
And the Skyliner? That’s going offline from January 25–31, 2026. For guests booking at Pop Century or Art of Animation (paying a premium for Skyliner access), that could be a serious inconvenience.
So… Is It Still Worth Going?
That’s the big question. If you love seeing Disney evolve and don’t mind missing a few classics, there’s still plenty of magic. EPCOT’s Test Track reopens on July 22, and new lands are coming fast. But if your family has been dreaming of specific attractions—say, the Liberty Square Riverboat or Tom Sawyer Island—you’re going to be disappointed.
Our advice? Check and double-check what’s open before booking. Disney World isn’t frozen in time—it’s changing fast. Whether that change fits your vision of the perfect trip is up to you.
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