If you’ve visited Disney World in the last couple of years, you’ve probably noticed construction walls popping up more often. But the newest round of changes is something else entirely. In just a short window, three major attractions—each with a strong fan following—are either closing forever or being transformed beyond recognition.
One of the most surprising developments is the retheme of Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster. Soon, the familiar Aerosmith soundtrack and backstage recording‑studio storyline will be replaced with the Muppets in a brand‑new adventure. The Electric Mayhem will take over the space as part of a musical misadventure that sends riders zooming across Hollywood to get the band to their big show. The reimagined coaster will reopen in summer 2026, marking a complete shift in tone from the attraction that launched in 1999. Even the giant guitar outside is receiving a bold, colorful redesign to match its new hosts.
Meanwhile, over at Animal Kingdom, Disney is preparing to say goodbye to an entire land. DINOSAUR and all of DinoLand U.S.A. will close on February 2, 2026. Disney is replacing the land with the Tropical Americas project, which will introduce an Encanto ride, a new Indiana Jones attraction, lush environments, and expanded dining. While many guests are excited to see Animal Kingdom finally receive new rides, others are sad to lose DINOSAUR, especially since it has earned a reputation for its intense, unpredictable journey and memorable pre-show characters.
Magic Kingdom is also participating in this era of change, but in a gentler way. Carousel of Progress isn’t closing, yet the attraction is undergoing meaningful updates that will change its identity. A new Audio‑Animatronic figure of Walt Disney will greet guests before they enter the rotating theater, and Imagineers are refreshing the show’s finale to better reflect modern life. The goal is to honor the spirit of Walt’s original attraction while making it resonate with today’s audiences.
Together, these shifts show just how quickly Disney World is evolving. Some attractions will return with new energy, while others will disappear entirely to make room for fresh stories. It’s an exciting moment, but also a sentimental one—because each of these rides carries years of memories for the millions who experienced them. And now, they’re preparing to step aside for what Disney has planned next.
