Some of Walt Disney World’s most beloved attractions have been around for decades, but their age is becoming increasingly difficult to ignore.
While Disney continues introducing new rides and experiences, several older attractions are dealing with outdated technology, aging special effects, and features that don’t always work as intended.
For longtime visitors, these issues raise an important question: Which classic Disney World attraction could be next to close for a major refurbishment?
Disney has already announced improvements for several familiar experiences, and four attractions stand out as possible candidates for future shutdowns.
Disney World Is Giving Its Older Attractions Some Attention
Walt Disney World has spent years updating its attraction lineup, but not every project involves building something entirely new.
At Magic Kingdom, Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress closed in July 2026 for an extensive refurbishment, with plans to introduce updated scenes and a Walt Disney Audio-Animatronic figure.
Other attractions have received technological improvements designed to make them more enjoyable for modern audiences.
However, plenty of older experiences could still use some attention.
1. Space Mountain
Space Mountain has thrilled Magic Kingdom visitors since 1975, but the legendary roller coaster isn’t exactly known for offering the smoothest ride.
Guests frequently complain about its rough turns, sudden jolts, and aging ride vehicles.
While those features have become part of the attraction’s identity, they also make Space Mountain feel considerably older than newer Disney coasters.
The ride’s lighting, audio, and special effects could benefit from modernization.
A major refurbishment could allow Disney to address mechanical components, improve ride comfort, and introduce updated effects without completely changing the experience.
Although rumors have circulated about a possible extended closure, Disney hasn’t officially announced a major refurbishment.
2. “it’s a small world”
Another Magic Kingdom classic that could benefit from extensive improvements is “it’s a small world.”
The Fantasyland attraction opened in 1971 and continues welcoming guests aboard boats for a journey through colorful international scenes.
However, maintaining hundreds of moving figures isn’t easy.
Over the years, guests have reported malfunctioning Audio-Animatronics, aging decorations, and lighting problems.
Some figures occasionally stop moving, while portions of the scenery show signs of wear.
A lengthy refurbishment could give Disney the opportunity to restore the attraction’s familiar scenes, repair aging components, and improve its overall appearance.
For many fans, preserving the original experience is more important than introducing major storyline changes.
3. Spaceship Earth
EPCOT’s iconic Spaceship Earth is already preparing for a significant transformation.
The attraction opened in 1982 and has undergone multiple updates throughout its history.
However, its current version includes technology and scenes that no longer feel particularly futuristic.
Disney confirmed plans in August 2026 to update the attraction’s storyline, bringing its exploration of human communication into the internet age and beyond.
The company hasn’t announced when Spaceship Earth will close for those improvements.
Depending on the extent of the work, guests could eventually face an extended shutdown.
4. Journey Into Imagination With Figment
Few EPCOT attractions have generated as many refurbishment requests as Journey Into Imagination With Figment.
The current experience debuted in 2002, replacing earlier versions that many longtime Disney fans still remember fondly.
Although Figment remains popular, visitors have criticized the attraction’s aging effects, dated scenes, and relatively simple storyline.
Disney has confirmed that Dreamfinder will return alongside Figment in a future update.
However, the company hasn’t revealed exactly what those changes will involve or when the attraction might close.
A major overhaul could give Disney the opportunity to restore some of the imagination and elaborate storytelling that made the original attraction so popular.
What’s Next for Disney World’s Classic Rides?
Disney hasn’t announced closure dates for all four attractions, and some potential projects remain speculative.
However, the resort’s ongoing investment in older experiences suggests additional refurbishments are possible.
Space Mountain and “it’s a small world” could benefit from mechanical and cosmetic improvements, while Spaceship Earth and Journey Into Imagination With Figment already have announced changes awaiting further details.
For longtime Disney fans, the hope is that future projects will preserve what makes these attractions special while addressing the problems that have developed over time.
After all, improving a classic doesn’t necessarily mean replacing everything guests love about it.
