Walt Disney World has been busy making changes in 2026, and some of its most popular attractions are almost unrecognizable compared to previous years.
From new characters and upgraded technology to permanent closures, Disney has made several major adjustments across its four theme parks.
Some attractions have reopened after lengthy refurbishments, while others have disappeared to make room for new experiences.
Here are nine major ride changes Disney World has made in 2026, including a few that could surprise longtime visitors.
Magic Kingdom Welcomes Back Popular Attractions
Magic Kingdom has experienced several major updates this year, beginning with the return of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad.
The Frontierland roller coaster closed in January 2025 for an extensive refurbishment before reopening in 2026.
Disney updated the attraction’s tracks and trains while preserving its classic runaway mine train adventure. The company also lowered the minimum height requirement from 40 inches to 38 inches, allowing more families to experience the ride together.
Meanwhile, Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin reopened in April with several noticeable upgrades.
The Tomorrowland attraction now features handheld blasters, redesigned targets, updated ride vehicles, and a new robot character named Buddy.
Disney also expanded the scoring system, allowing guests to earn more than the previous maximum of 999,999 points.
However, not every Magic Kingdom attraction has returned.
Carousel of Progress closed in 2026 for a major transformation that will introduce updated scenes and a Walt Disney animatronic in the preshow.
The historic attraction is expected to reopen in spring 2027.
Hollywood Studios Introduces New Characters and Experiences
Disney’s Hollywood Studios also experienced some significant changes this year.
Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith officially became a thing of the past when Disney replaced the original version with Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring the Muppets.
The updated attraction opened in May, featuring Dr. Teeth and the Electric Mayhem, new theming, and a completely different soundtrack.
Although the roller coaster’s physical layout remains familiar, the experience now focuses on the Muppets instead of Aerosmith.
Elsewhere, Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run received a new mission featuring Din Djarin and Grogu.
The updated Star Wars attraction takes guests to new destinations, including Coruscant and Bespin, while giving engineers additional opportunities to participate in the adventure.
EPCOT Receives Several Major Upgrades
EPCOT has also introduced multiple attraction changes in 2026.
Frozen Ever After reopened with updated animatronics of Anna, Elsa, and Kristoff, replacing the original projection-based facial technology.
Meanwhile, Soarin’ Across America debuted as part of America’s 250th anniversary celebration.
The new film takes guests over famous American landmarks, including the Grand Canyon, Mount Rushmore, and New York Harbor.
These additions help create smoother transitions between the ride’s physical sets and animated scenes.
Animal Kingdom Says Goodbye to a Classic
Perhaps one of the biggest changes happened at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
DINOSAUR permanently closed in February 2026 after entertaining guests since the park opened in 1998.
Disney is transforming the former attraction into Indiana Jones and the Myth of the Jade Serpent as part of the Tropical Americas expansion.
The new adventure will feature a mysterious temple, dangerous creatures, and an Indiana Jones animatronic modeled after Harrison Ford.
With nine major attraction changes already underway or completed, 2026 has become a significant year for Disney World.
And with more expansions planned for 2027 and beyond, guests can expect even more changes during future visits.
