Adventureland won’t look the same for much longer. Disney is moving forward with plans to give this Magic Kingdom favorite a new vibe. While the transformation isn’t obvious yet, the early signs point to an overhaul that will make the land feel fresh, modern, and packed with new reasons to visit.
Walls aren’t up around every corner, but the momentum is building. Between scheduled updates and whispers of what’s next, Adventureland is headed into one of its most significant changes since the park opened.
Magic Kingdom’s Transformation Is in Full Swing
These updates aren’t happening in isolation—the entirety of Magic Kingdom is in the middle of a serious refresh.
-
Frontierland Construction – The land is shrinking slightly to accommodate new offerings.
-
Big Thunder Mountain Refurbishment – A major overhaul is underway, with its reopening not expected until 2026.
-
Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin Update – Closed since August 4 for a much-needed refurbishment.
-
Villains Land – A long-discussed project is moving forward, promising immersive spaces themed to Disney’s most famous baddies.
-
Piston Peak – Inspired by Planes: Fire & Rescue, this upcoming area could include waterfalls, interactive features, and possibly a water ride.
Disney is aiming for a park-wide refresh, with Adventureland positioned as a weighty part of the new era.
The Beak and Barrel Tavern Sets Sail
The first confirmed addition is the Beak and Barrel Tavern, a brand-new lounge inspired by Pirates of the Caribbean. Reservations have been delayed to August 18, and the doors officially swing open August 29.
Inside, guests can expect weathered wood, flickering lanterns, and pirate lore woven into every detail. This isn’t a full-service restaurant—it’s a place to sip tropical cocktails, enjoy island-inspired bites, and take in the atmosphere of a pirate hideaway. It’s a significant first for Adventureland, which has never had a dedicated bar space.
A Mysterious New Water Adventure
An immersive Moana-themed boat ride is one of the most talked-about possibilities for Adventureland’s future. The idea has Disney fans buzzing—especially since Moana has already proven popular at EPCOT’s Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana.
Imagine boarding a Polynesian-inspired canoe, traveling across glowing seas, meeting Maui, dodging Kakamora, and restoring the heart of Te Fiti. Advanced animatronics, water effects, and projection mapping could make the experience one of Disney’s most visually stunning rides yet.
Adding a Moana attraction would modernize Adventureland and draw new crowds, balancing guest flow across the park.
The Future of Adventureland
The Beak and Barrel Tavern is just the first wave of changes. With a possible new ride on the horizon and the entire park pushing toward a fresh era, Adventureland’s transformation is one to watch closely. Whether you’ve been exploring its jungle paths for years or planning your first visit, the next version of Adventureland will offer something you’ve never seen before.
