Yellow “caution” tape and temporary barriers now block the World Discovery Playground at EPCOT as Walt Disney World Resort performs extensive renovations to the family play area near Test Track and Mission: SPACE.
The playground closed last month, but imagery from BlogMickey posted on February 18 reveals major construction underway behind rolling shrubs positioned to hide the work zone.
Flooring Replacement and Expansion at EPCOT Playground
Disney cast members are installing new weatherproof, padded flooring throughout the playground to improve safety for young theme park guests. Construction has also expanded the play area’s footprint significantly beyond its original boundaries.
A low wall now marks the perimeter of the enlarged space. New shade umbrellas visible above the barriers will provide increased sun protection when the attraction reopens.
BlogMickey shared images taken from above the caution tape showing the extent of changes to the seven-year-old playground, which opened in 2018 when the area was still called Future World – East.
Construction Timeline Unknown
Walt Disney World Resort has not announced a reopening date for the World Discovery Playground or disclosed additional planned improvements beyond what’s visible from outside the barriers.
The renovation represents the first major update since the playground debuted. Families with young children visiting EPCOT must find alternative rest areas elsewhere in the park while construction continues.
The project comes years after Disney canceled multiple EPCOT additions planned for Walt Disney World Resort’s 50th anniversary in 2021, including the Play! Pavilion, a Spaceship Earth overhaul, and a Mary Poppins (1964) attraction in the United Kingdom pavilion.
While the playground updates don’t revive those shelved projects, the expanded footprint and enhanced shade coverage address practical needs for families navigating the World Discovery neighborhood. The rolling shrubs and caution tape will remain until Disney completes the work and reopens the attraction to EPCOT guests.
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