Disney World Confirms Massive July Closures: What You Need to Know Before Your Next Trip
A summer trip to Walt Disney World will look a little different in July. Disney has confirmed that several experiences and locations around the resort will temporarily close, including one Magic Kingdom attraction that has entertained guests for generations. The good news is that the resort isn’t slowing down. New attractions, refreshed experiences, and additional offerings have already debuted, with even more on the way before summer ends. If you’re planning a visit in the weeks ahead, here’s what to know before you arrive.
Disney Has Been Adding Plenty of New Experiences
Before the latest round of closures begins, Walt Disney World has already welcomed several notable additions across its four theme parks.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom recently introduced Bluey’s Wild World, giving families another reason to explore the park with one of television’s most popular characters.
Meanwhile, EPCOT has debuted Soarin’ Across America in celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, replacing Soarin’ Around the World for a limited time.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios has been especially busy. Guests can now experience Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring the Muppets following the attraction’s complete transformation. At the same time, Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run now offers updated missions that continue the Star Wars adventure.
The park has also reopened the Walt Disney Studios Courtyard, giving guests another area to enjoy as construction continues on several future projects.
Magic Kingdom has welcomed back Big Thunder Mountain Railroad after its lengthy refurbishment, adding another major attraction back to the lineup just before one of the park’s most recognizable classics prepares to close.
While these additions have generated plenty of excitement, Disney’s July refurbishment schedule means visitors should still expect a few changes.
A Couple of Popular Shops Will Be Unavailable
Several retail locations are also preparing for temporary closures.
At EPCOT, La Signature in the France Pavilion will close beginning June 29 for an extended refurbishment expected to continue into late 2026. The shop is well known for its collection of Guerlain fragrances and cosmetics, as well as personalized beauty consultations.
Guests interested in those products won’t have to look far during the closure. Disney says Guerlain merchandise will remain available nearby at Plume Et Palette until La Signature returns.
Magic Kingdom visitors will also notice that Big Top Souvenirs remains closed in Storybook Circus. The merchandise location has been unavailable since February and is expected to stay behind construction walls throughout July. Disney still expects the shop to reopen later this year, although it has not shared a specific date.
These closures won’t dramatically change most vacations, but guests planning to visit either location should keep them in mind.
One Classic Attraction Is About To Change Forever
The biggest closure of the month belongs to Carousel of Progress.
Disney announced plans for a major refurbishment in 2025, initially revealing only that a Walt Disney Audio-Animatronic would be added to the attraction’s introduction. Since then, the company has shared a much broader vision for the project.
Rather than refreshing only a few scenes, Imagineers are rebuilding the attraction around a new timeline that will feature the 1960s, the 1980s, the turn of the millennium, and an optimistic look at the future. Disney says the updated presentation will keep the attraction meaningful for modern audiences while preserving the hopeful spirit that has defined it for decades.
The attraction is expected to reopen in 2027, making July 6 the final day for guests to experience the current version. Anyone hoping to see the classic presentation one more time may want to make it a priority before work begins.
More Openings Are Right Around the Corner
Even with several closures on the way, Disney continues to add new experiences.
Pete’s Silly Sideshow is scheduled to reopen on Saturday, June 27, operating from 10:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m. on its first day back. The Fantasyland meet-and-greet once again gives guests the chance to visit circus-themed versions of favorite Disney characters.
Just a few days later, EPCOT will debut La Poutinerie inside the Canada Pavilion. Opening July 1, the new quick-service location, sponsored by Air Canada, will serve authentic Canadian poutine along with specialty beverages during lunch and dinner.
Another Big Addition Is Still on the Horizon
Disney’s Hollywood Studios also continues preparing for the arrival of Magic of Disney Animation.
The new experience will include Off the Page, themed spaces inspired by Disney Animation departments; Olaf Draws, where guests can learn to sketch alongside an Olaf Audio-Animatronic; and Drawn to Wonderland, an indoor playground inspired by Mary Blair’s original concept art for Alice in Wonderland.
Disney has only confirmed a late summer 2026 opening. While a late July debut remains possible, the current timeline points more toward a mid-to-late August opening.
Planning Ahead Will Pay Off
July will be a busy month at Walt Disney World. Guests will encounter temporary closures, major refurbishments, and ongoing construction. They’ll also discover new attractions, dining locations, and entertainment across the resort.
Whether you’re visiting next week or later this summer, review what’s opening before you arrive. Knowing what’s temporarily unavailable can help you make the most of your Disney vacation.
