Magic Kingdom Classic Showing Visible Signs of Deterioration, Disney Update May Be Needed

Magic Kingdom has no shortage of major projects happening around the park, but one Fantasyland classic may need Disney’s attention for a very different reason.

“it’s a small world” is beginning to show some noticeable signs of wear.

Disney has not announced a refurbishment for the attraction, and there is currently no indication that a closure is planned. However, several maintenance issues have become visible throughout the experience, from the queue and exterior facade to individual figures.

For an attraction that relies so heavily on its colorful presentation, those smaller problems can add up quickly.

Guests Can See Problems Before Boarding

Some of the most noticeable issues appear around the queue.

Wrinkled material remains near the bottom of the attraction’s white-and-gold mural. Marks are also visible on portions of the white bridge, while grime has collected underneath one of the gold-colored beams.

Those might sound like small details, but guests have plenty of time to notice them while waiting.

More deterioration becomes visible once riders reach the water.

Dark staining can be seen along portions of the facade near the waterline. Some of the white exterior material is also peeling away from its base.

Several bulbs on one of the arches have burned out, adding another maintenance issue to the growing list.

The attraction remains open and operational, but its appearance could clearly use some attention.

Some Figures Need Attention Too

The concerns aren’t limited to paint and exterior surfaces.

Some of the toy soldier dolls connected to the attraction’s famous exterior clock are also showing signs that they could use additional care.

Inside the attraction, two familiar figures have reportedly been missing for an extended period. The Irish dancer and flamenco dancer dolls have both been absent.

Disney regularly maintains individual figures throughout its attractions, so a missing doll doesn’t necessarily signal that something major is happening.

Combined with the other visible issues, however, their absence becomes another example of an attraction that may be ready for some extra attention.

Could Disney Eventually Refurbish “it’s a small world”?

Disney hasn’t announced anything yet.

There is no confirmed refurbishment, closure date, or major update coming to “it’s a small world” at Magic Kingdom.

Still, that doesn’t mean the attraction couldn’t eventually receive some work.

In fact, Disney wouldn’t necessarily need to dramatically change the ride. A refurbishment focused on cleaning, repainting, repairing damaged surfaces, restoring lighting, and returning missing figures could make a considerable difference.

“it’s a small world” remains a classic because of its familiar look and atmosphere. Updating the attraction doesn’t have to mean replacing what people love about it.

Sometimes, a classic simply needs to be restored.

With Magic Kingdom continuing to evolve, Disney may eventually have to decide when it’s time to give this Fantasyland favorite that kind of attention.