Disney World might be called “The Most Magical Place on Earth,” but right now it’s also one of the busiest construction sites in Florida. From ride closures to resort refurbishments, guests visiting this fall and winter are running into plenty of “pardon our pixie dust” signs.
Magic Kingdom’s Ongoing Makeover
If you’re headed to Magic Kingdom soon, be prepared for detours. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad has been closed since January for a major overhaul that won’t wrap up until 2026. It’s getting a brand-new track and some glowing cave effects that sound incredible—but fans will need patience.
Meanwhile, Rivers of America, Tom Sawyer Island, and the Liberty Square Riverboat are all gone for good. That area is being completely reimagined into a Cars-themed expansion called Piston Peak, which will eventually bring two new rides. Until then, the west side of the park feels oddly quiet and full of construction walls.
Even smaller attractions aren’t safe from downtime. Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin is closed until next year for upgrades, Mickey’s PhilharMagic is briefly dark for maintenance, and Tortuga Tavern hasn’t reopened since last Christmas season.
EPCOT and Animal Kingdom See Shifts Too
At EPCOT, Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure is temporarily closed for tech updates, pushing families toward Frozen Ever After and Soarin’, which now have noticeably longer waits.
Animal Kingdom is where the biggest transformations are happening. DinoLand U.S.A. is closing piece by piece as it evolves into Pueblo Esperanza, a new Tropical Americas–themed land. The Boneyard, TriceraTop Spin, and several snack stands have already shut down. Harambe Market and Kali River Rapids are also closed for refurbishments.
Hollywood Studios Clears the Stage
Over at Hollywood Studios, Muppets Courtyard has officially closed to make way for a Monsters, Inc. land that will feature Disney’s first inverted coaster. Nearby, Animation Courtyard is under construction too, turning into a space called Walt Disney Studios where animated characters will “come to life.” Until that’s ready, families will notice fewer kid-friendly attractions and meet-and-greets.
Resort and Water Park Updates
Disney’s hotels are in renovation mode as well. Bay Lake Tower, Port Orleans Riverside, and Kidani Village are all under construction through 2026. Expect some noise and blocked-off areas during the day, but amenities remain open.
Blizzard Beach is also closed again for refurbishment, leaving Typhoon Lagoon as the only operating water park.
What Guests Should Know
For those visiting soon, planning ahead is essential. Check the My Disney Experience app before each park day, use Lightning Lane selections wisely, and set realistic expectations. It might not be the smoothest time to visit, but all this work means even bigger magic is coming soon.
