Transformations in Magic Kingdom
In 2025, Magic Kingdom will undergo significant changes as it prepares to welcome two new lands themed around Cars and Disney Villains. Fans’ excitement quickly turned to concern as beloved attractions were announced for closure to accommodate these newcomers.
Among the most notable closures are the removal of Rivers of America, Liberty Belle, and Tom Sawyer Island. Although these attractions weren’t among the most frequently visited, their aesthetic contribution and nostalgic value were significant. Disney executives justified the closures by citing the high maintenance costs of slower rides, emphasizing the focus on E-ticket attractions that can draw larger crowds.
The decisions sparked debate among Disney fans, some of whom hoped to see these attractions maintained. The reaction to the changes showcased a division within the community, with some welcoming innovation, while others lamented the loss of tradition. For now, Frontierland sits in a state of transition, with construction likely to dominate the landscape for the foreseeable future.
Changes at Hollywood Studios
Hollywood Studios is also set for a transformation as it gears up for a Monsters, Inc. themed land. The announcement was met with initial enthusiasm, but this quickly turned bittersweet as it was revealed that beloved attractions, such as Muppet Vision 3D and the Muppet Courtyard, would be sacrificed.
The closures extend to notable dining experiences, including Mama Melrose Italian Restaurant and PizzeRizzo, which have also been shuttered to pave the way for the new development. Just like in Magic Kingdom, construction walls quickly replaced old favorites, leading to a landscape of uncertainty.
A substantial area of Hollywood Studios will be under construction until 2027 or longer. The continuous changes indicate Disney’s commitment to refreshing its offerings, even as nostalgia weighs heavily on some fans.
Shifts in Animal Kingdom
While Magic Kingdom and Hollywood Studios face backlash over recent closures, changes at Animal Kingdom have garnered relatively minor criticism. This could stem from a consensus that the park needed more rides, as the existing attractions’ themes didn’t always align with the park’s mission.
Closed attractions include Fossil Fun Games, Chester & Hester’s DINOSAUR Treasures, and TriceraTop Spin, with the Boneyard expected to follow suit later this year. The iconic DINOSAUR ride will remain open throughout 2025, with plans to close in early 2026 as Disney prepares to open a new Indiana Jones ride and Tropical Americas Land.
Fans seem to have accepted these changes more readily, reflecting a broader understanding that updating the park is essential for its growth. The transition appears smoother, with minimal outcry over the loss of the previous attractions.
Stability at EPCOT
Ironically, EPCOT stands out as a relatively stable park amid all the changes in Disney World. Even though the park has seen its fair share of construction delights, including the recent soft opening of Test Track 3.0, it has largely avoided any major attractions being closed this year.
EPCOT’s Spaceship Earth is scheduled for refurbishment later this month, but updates have focused on enhancements rather than removals. This resilience seems to indicate that EPCOT is strategically focusing on improving existing attractions rather than eliminating them.
With an upcoming earnings call and the D23 Expo on the horizon, there is speculation about the future of EPCOT. Fans are curious if any new announcements will signal more changes, and everyone is hopeful that no further beloved attractions will be sacrificed.
While Disney World is embracing significant transformations across its parks, they are doing so at a price. As attractions close to pave the way for the future, both fan excitement and concern coexist at the happiest place on Earth.
