As the festive season winds down at Disney World, you might expect shorter lines and a more relaxed vibe at Magic Kingdom. But one iconic attraction is defying expectations, with wait times predicted to stay sky-high. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, known for its thrills and charm, is closing on January 6, 2025, for a major refurbishment that will keep it shuttered until sometime in 2026.
This news has sent fans scrambling to get one last ride in before the gates close. As one of Disney’s cornerstone attractions, Big Thunder Mountain holds a special place in the hearts of guests, making its temporary closure all the more bittersweet. What’s even more intriguing is Disney’s promise to add new “magical touches” to the ride, sparking curiosity about how these changes will enhance—or alter—the beloved experience.
Adding to the mystery is a towering crane looming near the attraction. While Disney hasn’t confirmed its purpose, speculation ranges from routine maintenance to groundwork for a long-rumored Villains Land. Whatever the reason, the sight is hard to ignore and adds another layer of excitement to the park’s evolving landscape.
More Closures Coming in 2025
Big Thunder Mountain isn’t the only Magic Kingdom attraction preparing for a lengthy downtime. Over in Tomorrowland, Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin is also slated for a refurbishment starting mid-year. The updates aim to improve the ride’s interactivity, but its absence will undoubtedly shift crowds to other Tomorrowland favorites like Space Mountain.
EPCOT is also undergoing significant changes. Journey into Imagination with Figment is set for updates in late 2025, while Spaceship Earth finally begins its long-awaited transformation into a more dynamic storytelling experience. These closures, combined with ongoing construction in the World Celebration neighborhood, will make EPCOT an ever-changing destination.
At Disney’s Hollywood Studios, the stage show Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular will go dark for several months, sparking speculation about potential updates or replacements. Meanwhile, over at Animal Kingdom, Dinosaur will officially close to make way for a brand-new land inspired by Encanto and Indiana Jones.
Planning Ahead
With so many closures on the horizon, 2025 is shaping up to be a year of transition for Disney World. Guests will need to strategize more than ever to make the most of their visits. Consider prioritizing attractions that might not be available during your trip and using Lighting Lane to save time on popular rides.
While these closures may disrupt plans in the short term, they’re part of Disney’s ongoing efforts to create new experiences for guests. The parks are always changing, and while that requires patience, it also means there’s something exciting waiting just around the corner.
