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Disney World Reallocates Resources to Prepare for Park Transformations

Disney World is saying goodbye to two of its iconic attractions this year: MuppetVision 3D and It’s Tough to Be a Bug. These closures mark the end of a nostalgic chapter for many visitors, but they also signal fresh beginnings with new, exciting experiences on the way.

At Disney’s Animal Kingdom, It’s Tough to Be a Bug has been entertaining guests since the park’s opening day. Nestled inside the park’s iconic Tree of Life, the show brought the world of insects to life with 3D effects and interactive surprises, all hosted by Flik from Pixar’s A Bug’s Life. However, Disney has announced that the attraction will permanently close on March 17, 2025, making way for Zootopia: Better Zoogether!, a new show featuring beloved characters like Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde.

animal kingdom's tree of life walt disney world disney park disconvery island it's tough to be a bug replaced with zootopia show disney imagineers tree of life theater
Credit: Michael Gray/Flickr

In preparation for the closure, guests have noticed a curious change: the show’s signature black bug-themed 3D glasses have been swapped out for the purple glasses usually reserved for MuppetVision 3D. This shift suggests that Disney is no longer producing new bug-themed glasses, and a Cast Member confirmed that they are unlikely to return. There’s also speculation that these purple glasses may be reused for the upcoming Zootopia attraction, providing a sustainable solution while ushering in the new experience.

Muppetvision 3D
Credit: Disney Dining

Over in Disney’s Hollywood Studios, MuppetVision 3D is also on the chopping block. This long-loved 3D spectacle, featuring Kermit the Frog and the rest of the Muppet crew, has delighted fans for years with its quirky humor and playful antics. Disney has officially announced that MuppetVision 3D will permanently close on June 8, 2025. The reuse of its signature glasses at other attractions hints at Disney’s efforts to cut costs, especially given the numerous closures happening across Disney World right now.

rock 'n' roller coaster starring aerosmith at hollywood studios
Credit: Disney

Big Thunder Mountain is currently closed for refurbishment, Test Track is undergoing updates, DinoLand has shut down to make way for a new land, and the Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith will be rethemed to feature the Muppets. These widespread changes indicate Disney is tightening its budget while preparing for a new wave of attractions.

Though it’s tough to say goodbye to these cherished attractions, Disney’s updates promise exciting new adventures ahead. Fans have a limited time to experience these shows one last time before they become part of Disney’s rich history.

Andrew Boardwine

A frequent visitor of Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando Resort, Andrew will likely be found freefalling on Twilight Zone Tower of Terror or enjoying Pirates of the Caribbean. Over at Universal, he'll be taking in the thrills of the Jurassic World Velocicoaster and Revenge of the Mummy

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