As we look ahead to 2025, Disney World is gearing up for a series of changes that will reshape some of its most iconic attractions.
With several major closures planned across Magic Kingdom, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, EPCOT, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom, here’s what to expect in the coming year.
Magic Kingdom Updates
Magic Kingdom will see one of its most famous attractions, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, close for refurbishment on January 6, 2025. Known for its thrilling wild-west theme and winding roller coaster track, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad has been a staple of Frontierland for years. The refurbishment will last throughout 2025, with the ride expected to reopen in 2026. While details about the updates are still under wraps, Disney has hinted at “a little bit of new magic” being added to the experience.
In addition to this temporary closure, Magic Kingdom will also say goodbye to Tom Sawyer Island and the Liberty Square Riverboat. These classic attractions are set to close permanently in 2025 to make room for a new Cars-themed expansion in Frontierland. The new area is expected to bring a fresh energy to the park, but for fans of these slower-paced, nostalgic experiences, their closure marks the end of an era.
Hollywood Studios Transformations
Over at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, the popular Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy has already closed its doors as of October 2024. This show, beloved by fans of Pixar’s Cars, will be replaced by a brand-new Disney Villains stage show set to debut in the summer of 2025. The new show promises to highlight some of Disney’s most infamous villains in a thrilling live performance that’s sure to be a hit with guests of all ages.
In addition to the new Villains show, The Little Mermaid: A Musical Adventure will also make its debut in summer 2025. Originally slated to open in late 2024, the production faced delays but is now set to replace the former Voyage of the Little Mermaid attraction. Fans of Ariel and her undersea adventures can look forward to a fresh take on the beloved story.
Animal Kingdom Changes
Big changes are also in store for Disney’s Animal Kingdom. The Dino-Rama area, including TriceraTop Spin and Fossil Fun Games, will close permanently on January 13, 2025. This is part of a larger transformation as the area is reimagined into a new Tropical Americas-themed land, which will feature attractions based on Encanto and Indiana Jones. The first phase of construction will begin as soon as these closures take effect, with the new land expected to open in 2027.
Additionally, the It’s Tough to Be a Bug! attraction will close in 2025 to be transformed into Zootopia: Better Zoogether, a new 4D experience based on the hit film Zootopia. The new show is expected to open in winter 2025, bringing with it a vibrant, bustling metropolis of animals that promises to delight guests of all ages.
EPCOT’s Exciting Refurbishments
At EPCOT, Test Track will remain closed throughout much of 2025 as it undergoes a complete reimagining. Originally shuttered in mid-2024, the updated attraction is expected to pay homage to the original World of Motion ride, while still offering the high-speed thrills that have made Test Track a guest favorite. Disney has hinted at new interactive elements and sleek futuristic designs that will make the ride even more exciting when it reopens later in 2025.
What’s Next?
While 2025 will bring some notable closures, these changes are all part of Disney’s broader plan to continually update and enhance its parks. Whether it’s the much-anticipated debut of new attractions or the return of fan favorites with fresh updates, there’s plenty to look forward to. Stay tuned for more updates as Disney prepares for another magical year.