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Goodbye Walt, Hello Groot: New Marvel Version of “It’s a Small World” Debuts Tomorrow

Starting tomorrow, one Disney park will launch a highly anticipated overlay for its version of the classic “it’s a small world” ride: “it’s a small world with Groot.”

A Classic Reinvented

“it’s a small world” is one of Disney’s most iconic attractions, beloved for its vibrant visuals, culturally themed animatronics, and the Sherman Brothers’ unforgettable theme song.

Walt Disney with a model of "it's a small world"
Credit: Disney

Originally designed for the 1964 World’s Fair, the ride’s legacy has endured, with versions present in Disneyland, Magic Kingdom, Disneyland Paris, Hong Kong Disneyland, and Tokyo Disneyland. Each iteration maintains the ride’s core message of unity while incorporating unique regional touches.

However, Tokyo Disneyland is about to give the ride its biggest update ever.

The new overlay at Tokyo Disneyland pairs the ride’s whimsical style with Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy. Groot, the franchise’s endearing tree-like character, takes center stage as he journeys through various cultural scenes, joined by fellow Guardians and other Marvel heroes.

Cartoon versions of Marvel characters, including Baby Groot, in a poster for a new version of "it's a small world."
Credit: Tokyo Disney Resort

Inside the Marvel Makeover of “it’s a small world”

New footage and images have been released of the ride, revealing that guests can expect to see Groot in multiple forms, seamlessly designed in the Mary Blair-inspired aesthetic of the original ride.

Tokyo Disneyland “It’s a Small World with Groot”
Captain America (Sam Wilson), Drax, Star-Lord, Captain Marvel, and Thor appear in the Latin America area ☆

https://twitter.com/DtimesDeparture/status/1878974701134917746

He’s joined by characters like Captain Marvel, Star-Lord, Thor, Gamora, and others, appearing in culturally themed outfits across the ride’s different regions. A new musical mix accompanies the experience at the ride’s entrance, blending “it’s a small world” melodies with iconic Marvel tracks, including “The Avengers Theme” and “Agatha’s Theme.”

The overlay, running until June 30, 2025, has sparked mixed responses from diehard parkgoers. Some fans are excited about Tokyo Disneyland’s first significant Marvel attraction, while purists question the fusion of superheroes with a beloved classic.

It’s a Small World with Groot Marvel characters make their first appearance at Tokyo Disney Resort ☆

https://twitter.com/DtimesDeparture/status/1878964033984098466

We’ll admit that we were initially in the latter camp. However, after seeing the new footage, we’ll be the first to say that the overlay looks adorable. While we definitely wouldn’t want to ditch the OG version of the ride for good, we’re now firmly in the pro-temporary overlay camp.

Commemorative Additions and Broader Park Changes

To celebrate the overlay’s debut, Tokyo Disney Resort has also released an exclusive comic, it’s a small world with Groot: Take Off, available via the Tokyo Disney Resort app.

space mountain tokyo disney the final ignition
Credit: Tokyo Disney Resort

The overlay arrives amid broader changes at the resort. Tokyo Disneyland bid farewell to its versions of Space Mountain and Buzz Lightyear’s Astro Blasters in 2024, making way for a revamped roller coaster and the first Wreck-It Ralph (2012) ride at any Disney park worldwide. Meanwhile, Tokyo DisneySea introduced the expansive Fantasy Springs, featuring lands inspired by Frozen (2013), Tangled (2010), and Peter Pan (1953).

What’s your take on this bold reinterpretation of “it’s a small world”?

Chloe James

Chloë is a theme park addict and self-proclaimed novelty hunter. She's obsessed with all things Star Wars, loves roller coasters (but hates Pixar Pal-A-Round), and lives for Disney's next Muppets project.

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