5 Disney World Rides Set for Shocking Overhauls, Fans Left Heartbroken

Disney is never shy about reimagining its parks, but right now the scale feels bigger than ever. The company is rolling out one of its largest waves of updates, complete with new lands, sweeping refurbishments, and rides that will never look the same again.

For fans, that means an exciting future filled with new stories, but also the bittersweet loss of longtime favorites.

Four New Lands on the Way

Animal Kingdom will welcome Tropical Americas, a land that mixes cultural themes with fresh attractions. At Hollywood Studios, Monsters Inc. Land will finally give Sulley and Mike the spotlight.

Meanwhile, Magic Kingdom is preparing for Piston Peak from Planes: Fire & Rescue, along with the long-awaited Villains Land. These expansions promise thrills but also require space, and that means some older attractions are being transformed beyond recognition.

It’s Tough to Be a Bug Retires

Since 1998, guests have braved creepy crawlies inside Animal Kingdom’s Tree of Life with It’s Tough to Be a Bug. The quirky 3D show delivered plenty of laughs and a few scares, but it’s being replaced with a Zootopia-themed experience.

Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde will step in to tell a new story, one that fits neatly into the park’s animal focus, even if fans will miss the stinger-in-the-seat gag.

Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster Hits a New Note

Hollywood Studios is saying goodbye to its rock-and-roll limo adventure. Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith will be rethemed with a Muppets storyline, bringing comedy and chaos to the high-speed thrills.

While not everyone is convinced the mix will work, the change ensures the Muppets have a bigger presence in the park, something many fans have wanted for years.

DINOSAUR Evolves

Animal Kingdom is also transforming its dark and bumpy DINOSAUR ride into an Indiana Jones adventure. The shift will swap prehistoric chases for whip-cracking action, creating an experience like never before.

It’s a major rebrand for a ride that, while fun, has long felt dated in both story and effects.

Muppet Vision 3D Closes

Another major shift at Hollywood Studios is the closure of Muppet Vision 3D, the last Muppet project Jim Henson worked on. The theater will now become part of the new Monsters Inc. Land, finally delivering a permanent space for Pixar’s lovable characters.

It’s a trade-off that leaves Muppet fans feeling bittersweet, but Monsters Inc. has long deserved a stronger role in the parks.

Big Thunder Mountain’s Overhaul

Magic Kingdom’s Big Thunder Mountain Railroad isn’t closing, but it is undergoing its boldest update yet. A refreshed storyline, redesigned caverns, and upgraded effects will bring new energy to the “wildest ride in the wilderness.”

It’s not just maintenance—it’s a reimagining that may change the way guests experience this cornerstone attraction.

Other Refurbishments Reshaping Disney

In addition to these five headline changes, Disney is implementing further updates. Spaceship Earth is preparing for long-awaited improvements.

Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin may soon receive a tech refresh. Smugglers Run at Hollywood Studios is adding a Mandalorian mission. And EPCOT’s Test Track 3.0 is already turning heads, boasting sleek theming and futuristic storytelling.

The Magic Moves Forward

Walt Disney World is entering a new era of growth and reinvention. While fans mourn the loss of some classics, newcomers will step into parks filled with fresh experiences and beloved characters.

Disney’s message is clear: the magic isn’t ending, it’s evolving, and the parks will never be the same again.