Disney World is gearing up for massive changes in 2025, and while these updates promise exciting new attractions, the parks may feel more crowded and chaotic than ever. Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, and Hollywood Studios are all entering major construction phases, leaving guests to navigate closures, rerouted paths, and limited attractions. Combine that with the typical peak times, and 2025 could be a tricky year to visit.
Animal Kingdom will be one of the first parks to kick off its transformation. DinoLand U.S.A. closes in January to make way for the highly anticipated Tropical Americas land. This area will include an Encanto-themed ride inside the Madrigal family’s Casita and an all-new Indiana Jones attraction with a fresh story. On Discovery Island, the Tree of Life Theater will house a new Zootopia experience called Better Zoogether! by the end of 2025. While these changes sound incredible, the closures will make the park feel smaller, leading to congestion and longer waits during already busy times like spring break and the winter holidays.
Hollywood Studios isn’t being left out of the construction frenzy. The Muppets Courtyard is being replaced by a Monsters, Inc.-themed land, and Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster will be rethemed into a Muppets ride. These updates will make Hollywood Studios even more appealing when they’re done, but during the transition, the park will feel extra crowded. Hollywood Studios already struggles with bottlenecks, and with closures and construction walls adding to the chaos, it’ll be a challenge to navigate, especially during peak summer months.
Magic Kingdom is facing some of the most significant changes. Tom Sawyer Island and the Rivers of America will be replaced by a Cars-themed area, while Big Thunder Mountain Railroad closes for a year-long refurbishment. Beyond Big Thunder, a new Villains Land is on the way, which is sure to attract massive crowds once complete. Meanwhile, Astro Orbiter will also undergo refurbishment starting in January. With so many closures and construction projects, navigating the park will be tough, especially during busier times like Thanksgiving week and the lead-up to Christmas.
Disney World typically sees its busiest periods during spring break, summer vacation, and the winter holiday season. In 2025, these times are likely to feel even more packed due to limited attractions in the affected parks. Guests visiting during these peak periods will need to plan ahead to manage their expectations and make the most of their trip. EPCOT, which isn’t facing major disruptions, could be a great option for those looking to avoid the chaos.
While 2025 may bring challenges for guests, the changes happening across Disney World will ultimately lead to even more magical experiences in the years to come. In the meantime, patience and careful planning will be key for those venturing into the parks during this transitional year.
