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Update: Refurbishment Begins at Big Thunder Mountain Two Months Before Indefinite Closure

The Walt Disney World Resort is gearing up for one of the most transformative periods in its 50-year history, with an array of updates poised to reshape the guest experience on both land and sea. Disney’s latest plans, first teased in a 2022 announcement by Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D’Amaro, have steadily unfolded, hinting at a fresh wave of reimagination.

Magic Kingdom crowds at Disney World.
Credit: Inside the Magic

From the popular Encanto and Indiana Jones franchises making their way into Disney’s Animal Kingdom to a rumored fifth park gate in response to Universal’s Epic Universe, it’s clear the House of Mouse is charging ahead.

In a significant move, Magic Kingdom’s Big Thunder Mountain Railroad—a beloved, quintessential Frontierland attraction—is set for indefinite closure starting January 6, 2025. According to Disney’s official website, “Big Thunder Mountain Railroad will temporarily close for refurbishment on January 6, 2025… [and] reopen with a little bit of new magic in 2026.”

This ride, iconic for its Wild West theme and thrilling adventures, is about to undergo major changes, though Disney has yet to share exact details. Speculation among fans suggests a possible transformation akin to Disneyland’s Big Thunder update over a decade ago, where the ride saw improvements to its track and a reimagined ending with modernized projection mapping and lighting effects.

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
Credit: Disney

The closure marks the beginning of what could be the most ambitious expansion in Magic Kingdom’s history, known as the “Beyond Big Thunder” concept. Guests can expect the arrival of Disney Villains, which might be realized in a Dark Kingdom-style addition.

The Villains’ arrival has been eagerly anticipated by fans who have long awaited a “darker” attraction lineup in the parks. The plans are far from finalized, but early hints suggest that once Radiator Springs—a Cars-themed area—makes its debut in Frontierland, the new Disney Villains concept will soon follow.

Magic Kingdom’s transformation doesn’t stop there. Disney’s vision also includes converting DinoLand U.S.A. in Animal Kingdom into a Tropical Americas-themed land, renamed Pueblo Esperanza. Set to include attractions inspired by Encanto and Indiana Jones, this vibrant new area will begin taking shape in January 2025 as the first rides and merchandise locations in DinoLand begin to close.

Concept art of Encanto's Casita Madrigal at Disney World
Credit: Disney

A recent sighting reported by WDWMagic reveals that green scrims are already in place around parts of the ride, with small cranes visible on site. The setup hints at an extensive construction process to come.

Meanwhile, Frontierland as a whole is in the throes of change following the closure of Splash Mountain and its conversion to Tiana’s Bayou Adventure.

Yet, these developments are not without their share of controversy. With Disney’s new Lightning Lane Premier Pass and rising costs across the resort, guests are left wondering if these pricey expansions are meant for everyone or simply a more exclusive audience. The new Premier Pass, allowing faster access to popular rides, has received backlash due to its high cost, as have recent dining expenses at places like BoardWalk’s Cake Bake Shop.

Concept art for the Cars-themed expansion coming to Frontierland in the Magic Kingdom
Credit: Disney

As Josh D’Amaro recently remarked at Boston’s INBOUND Festival, Disney’s goal is to push forward, even if not every guest feels the changes align with their memories of the parks. His comments about being ready for the next generation of Disney park fans highlight the balancing act Disney must perform to honor its legacy while moving forward in response to changing times and guest expectations.

With Universal’s Epic Universe rising on the horizon and expected to open in May 2025, the competitive theme park landscape in Central Florida adds urgency to Disney’s expansive plans. Epic Universe, with its own lands dedicated to popular IPs like Harry Potter and Nintendo, aims to redefine the theme park experience, urging Disney to stay at the forefront of immersive entertainment.

Concept art for Epic Universe
Credit: Universal

As Walt Disney World embarks on this journey of evolution, the big question remains: Will these changes enhance the magic or alter it in ways longtime fans may not fully embrace? Only time will tell if Disney can successfully balance nostalgia with innovation, ushering in a new era without alienating the guests who have cherished these lands for generations.

How do you feel about all the changes happening at Walt Disney World Resort? Let Disney Dining know in the comments below!

Thomas Hitchen

When he’s not thinking about the Magic Kingdom, Thomas is usually reading a book, becoming desperately obsessed with fictional characters, or baking something delicious (his favorite is chocolate cake -- to bake and to eat). He's a dreamer and grew up on Mulan saving the world, Jim Hawkins soaring through the stars, and Padmé Amidala fighting a Nexu. At the Parks, he loves to ride Everest, stroll down Main Street with an overstuffed pin lanyard around his neck, and eat as many Mickey-shaped ice creams as possible. His favorite character is Han Solo (yes, he did shoot first), and his… More »

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