Disney World has always been a place where nostalgia and new ideas live side by side, but lately, that balance has started to tilt.
Under Bob Iger’s leadership, the resort has leaned heavily into attractions built around Disney-owned stories and recognizable franchises. It’s a strategy that makes sense from a business standpoint—IP brings branding power, merchandise potential, and built-in fan bases—but it has also meant that several classic attractions have quietly disappeared.
With massive projects like Tropical Americas, a new Cars-inspired land, and Villains Land already reshaping the parks, it’s becoming clear that nothing “classic” is guaranteed to last. And now, as more changes are hinted at behind the scenes, fans are wondering if three long-loved attractions might be next.
Let’s take a closer look at the rides that could find themselves in the danger zone.
Twilight Zone Tower of Terror: A Masterpiece Without a Disney-Owned Story
Tower of Terror has been a staple of Disney’s Hollywood Studios since the ’90s. Its thrilling drop sequence, eerie Twilight Zone theming, and iconic silhouette make it one of the park’s most memorable experiences. But here’s the catch: the story behind the attraction isn’t Disney-owned.
As the park continues to shift toward big-budget IP—Marvel, Toy Story, Star Wars, Mickey & Minnie—the Tower stands out more each year. California already rethemed its version into Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT!, proving that Disney is comfortable altering the concept when the opportunity aligns with company goals.
If Iger wants every major attraction in Hollywood Studios tied to a Disney franchise, Tower of Terror may be the most logical next step. Fans won’t want to hear it, but the trend is hard to ignore.
The Enchanted Tiki Room: A Walt-Era Gem Losing Ground in Modern Disney
The Tiki Room is one of the last true holdovers from Walt Disney’s era. It’s charming, musical, a bit quirky—and completely disconnected from modern storytelling. It also occupies prime real estate in Adventureland, an area that could easily support something tied to newer films.
Disney has already shown a willingness to update or replace legacy attractions, even when they have deep historical roots. If Adventureland ever gets a broader refresh, the Tiki birds may not survive the process. The show may be beloved, but in an era ruled by synergy, entertainment history alone may not be enough.
Mission: SPACE: Impressive Tech, Uncertain Future
Mission: SPACE debuted with cutting-edge technology and a bold concept, but it has always struggled to maintain consistent crowds. With EPCOT transitioning into a more IP-forward park—Frozen, Guardians of the Galaxy, and new character-driven experiences—Mission: SPACE doesn’t quite fit the new mold.
A retheme here would be easier than anywhere else. Disney could plug in any number of franchise stories without altering the ride system itself. And since the attraction sits next to the very future-focused Space 220 restaurant, Disney might decide the whole area needs a unified identity.
A Changing Disney World, One Ride at a Time
If these attractions eventually disappear or dramatically transform, it won’t be because fans stopped caring. Disney is simply moving in a direction where big-name franchises drive the guest experience. Bob Iger has made it clear that the future of the parks will revolve around Disney’s biggest brands, not the classics that once defined the resort.
That doesn’t make the changes any easier for fans who grew up riding Tower of Terror or singing along with the Tiki birds, but it does explain why these three attractions suddenly feel more vulnerable than ever.
Disney World is evolving—and some of its most iconic experiences may soon evolve with it.
