Disney World Quietly Shuts Down Fan-Favorite Rides, You Won’t Believe What’s Replacing Them

Disney’s Pop Century Resort, one of Walt Disney World’s most popular and budget-friendly properties, is getting a fresh new look this summer — starting with a major update to its lobby. From now through early October 2025, guests will witness a “retro-inspired refresh” of the resort’s entryway, the latest in a series of enhancements designed to modernize the Value resort while preserving its iconic mid-century flair.

The announcement was quietly made via the official Pop Century Resort webpage, stating:

“From July 21 through early October, the lobby at Disney’s Pop Century Resort will be getting a retro-inspired refresh. The lobby will remain open during construction and all amenities will still be available. Guests may hear or see maintenance in the area until work is complete.”

Though Disney has not yet released concept art or full design details, many fans are speculating that the refreshed lobby will mirror the recent remodel of Everything POP Shopping & Dining, which introduced sleeker displays, updated colors, and a new dedicated coffee bar.

A Resort with Nostalgic Charm and Modern Perks

Opened in 2003, Pop Century is part of Disney’s “Value Resort” category — a favorite for families, young adults, and Annual Passholders seeking affordable accommodations without sacrificing access or atmosphere. Themed to celebrate American pop culture from the 1950s through the 1990s, each section of the hotel immerses guests in oversized retro iconography — from yo-yos and Rubik’s Cubes to mood rings and rollerblades. The property features 2,880 rooms across three decades-themed areas, spread around multiple pools, courtyards, and photo-ready décor.

Despite its Value label, Pop Century stands out thanks to its direct access to the Disney Skyliner, a game-changer for guests wanting to easily reach EPCOT or Disney’s Hollywood Studios without relying on bus transportation. Its Skyliner station is shared with neighboring Art of Animation Resort, giving guests two thematically rich destinations within walking distance.

Not Just the Lobby: A Resort-Wide Refresh

The lobby renovation is just one part of a much larger resort-wide update. Refurbishment of guest rooms began earlier this year in March 2025, with completion anticipated by mid-February 2026. The updated rooms are expected to keep the clean, efficient design introduced in the last major remodel — think Murphy beds, hard flooring, and updated lighting — while possibly incorporating even more tech and functional upgrades.

In tandem with the room updates, Everything POP saw its own significant overhaul, and even outdoor amenities are getting attention. Last month, crews were spotted working on the Hippy Dippy Pool gate, suggesting a phased approach to upgrading both guest-facing and behind-the-scenes infrastructure.

Construction with Minimal Disruption

Despite ongoing work, Disney assures guests that all resort amenities — including dining, shopping, check-in, and transportation — will remain available during construction. The lobby will stay open throughout the refresh, though guests may notice the sights and sounds of progress during their stay.

Why Pop Century Remains a Guest Favorite

Even amid construction, Pop Century continues to book solidly thanks to its unbeatable combination of affordability, efficiency, and fun. It offers a prime location with speedy Skyliner access, whimsical theming for nostalgic travelers and kids alike, and pricing that often comes in significantly lower than Disney’s Moderate or Deluxe resorts. For many visitors, Pop Century is the perfect launchpad for full days in the parks and relaxing evenings poolside.

As Disney gradually modernizes its Value offerings, guests can expect even more comfort and style to match the convenience they’ve come to expect. With its refreshed lobby on the horizon and room renovations already underway, Pop Century is clearly gearing up for its next era — one that honors its retro roots while delivering 21st-century upgrades.

Upcoming Closures

Planning a Walt Disney World vacation for late 2025 or early 2026? You might want to double-check your must-do list. A wave of refurbishments, closures, and brand-new construction projects are reshaping the theme parks and resorts across the entire property—and if you’re not paying attention, your favorite ride or even your resort pool might be temporarily off-limits.

Below, we break down all the major closures across Disney’s four theme parks, water parks, hotels, and transportation systems so you can plan smarter.

Magic Kingdom Closures and Refurbishments

Magic Kingdom is experiencing one of its largest construction waves in years. As of July 7, 2025, Tom Sawyer Island and the Liberty Square Riverboat are officially shuttered, making space for the upcoming Cars Land expansion in Frontierland. The Frontierland Train Station is also closed as a result, meaning the Walt Disney World Railroad is currently operating in “shuttle mode,” only traveling between Fantasyland and Main Street, U.S.A.

Other changes include:

• Big Thunder Mountain Railroad: Closed since January 5, 2025, reopening in 2026.

• Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin: Closing August 2025 for a major refresh, reopening in 2026.

• Astro Orbiter: Closed from January through summer 2025.

• Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away (NEW nighttime parade): Opening July 20, 2025.

• Pirates of the Caribbean Tavern: Opening late 2025.

• Cars Land and Villains Land: Construction begins in 2025, with opening dates TBA.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios Refurbishments

Hollywood Studios is preparing for an identity shift. A new Monsters, Inc. land is officially under construction, replacing the Muppets Courtyard.

Here’s what else is changing:

• Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster: Will be rethemed to The Muppets. Closure expected late 2025 or early 2026.

• Animation Courtyard: Closing September 25, 2025, for refurbishment (excluding The Little Mermaid show).

• Disney Jr. Play and Dance!: Also closing September 25, 2025. A new show will debut in 2026.

• Magic of Disney Animation: Opening 2026 in the former Star Wars Launch Bay location.

Animal Kingdom Changes: DinoLand Out, Tropical Americas In

Major transformation is underway at Animal Kingdom. Following the permanent closure of It’s Tough to Be a Bug on March 17, 2025, the theater will reopen in winter 2025 with Zootopia: Better Zoogether.

Additional changes include:

• DINOSAUR: Closing permanently in 2026, replaced by a new Indiana Jones attraction in 2027.

• Dino-Rama: Closed since January 13, 2025 (including TriceraTop Spin and Fossil Fun Games).

• The Boneyard: Closing September 2, 2025.

• Kali River Rapids: Closed for seasonal maintenance from January 6 through March 13, 2025.

EPCOT Updates and Refurbishments

Though much of EPCOT’s overhaul is complete, a few key updates remain:

• Test Track: Closed for reimagining, reopening July 22, 2025.

• ¡Celebración Encanto!: Now extended through winter 2025.

• GEO-82 Lounge: New adult lounge opened June 4, 2025, in the World Celebration area.

Water Park Status

Both of Disney’s water parks will operate simultaneously this summer:

• Blizzard Beach: Reopened May 21, 2025.

• Typhoon Lagoon: Reopened May 1, 2025 after a winter refurbishment.

Disney Resort Refurbishments

Expect construction impacts at several hotels in 2025:

• Beach Club Resort & Villas: Pool areas closed January–June 2025.

• BoardWalk Inn and Villas: Lobby and rooms undergoing renovation.

• Bay Lake Tower at Contemporary Resort: Room refurbishments through September 2025.

• Grand Floridian Resort & Spa: Ongoing lobby and room refresh, plus no gingerbread house in 2025.

• Grand Floridian Convention Center: Closed summer–fall 2025.

Transportation Closures

• Disney Skyliner: Closed for routine maintenance from January 25 to January 31, 2026.

Walt Disney World’s transformation isn’t slowing down. While that means some closures may disappoint guests, it also means exciting new lands, experiences, and refreshed resorts are on the way. As always, check the Disney World calendar and refurbishment alerts before finalizing your itinerary.