Magic Kingdom is undergoing one of the most extensive refurbishment phases in recent memory, with several high-profile attractions currently closed or surrounded by construction walls. While Disney’s constant updates help improve the guest experience in the long run, these changes are impacting park visits right now—especially for those arriving during the busiest seasons of the year.
For guests planning a trip, navigating Magic Kingdom’s evolving landscape will require some adjustments. From missing classic rides to longer wait times elsewhere in the park, here’s what you need to know about the current state of construction at Magic Kingdom and how it might affect your vacation.
Major Construction Projects in Magic Kingdom
Walt Disney World Railroad Station Refurbishment
Disney has started work on the Magic Kingdom train station at the park’s entrance with little warning. Although the Walt Disney World Railroad is still running, construction walls and scrim now cover the iconic Main Street station. Guests arriving at the park will immediately notice the work in progress, though Disney has not yet announced when this project will be completed.
Astro Orbiter’s Temporary Removal
Tomorrowland has lost one of its signature elements—the Astro Orbiter planets. The ride officially closed for refurbishment on January 13, 2025, and will remain shuttered until summer 2025. Without the towering planets in motion, Tomorrowland’s skyline appears noticeably emptier, affecting the land’s overall energy and atmosphere.
Pirates of the Caribbean Lounge Under Construction
Disney is currently constructing a new lounge near Pirates of the Caribbean, set to debut in 2025. While the attraction itself remains open, guests waiting in line will likely hear the ongoing construction noise, which has somewhat disrupted the immersive experience.
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad’s Year-Long Closure
Frontierland looks very different right now, as Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is undergoing a major refurbishment that started on January 6, 2025. This update includes replacing parts of the track, modifying the tower, and enhancing the final scene. A large crane now dominates the area, and the ride is not expected to reopen until sometime in 2026.
How This Will Impact Your Visit
With Big Thunder Mountain and Astro Orbiter out of commission, guests are flocking to other attractions, causing congestion in different parts of the park. Tiana’s Bayou Adventure and the Haunted Mansion are absorbing more visitors in Frontierland, while Space Mountain and Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin are seeing heavier crowds in Tomorrowland.
Construction Walls Throughout the Park
One of the biggest changes guests will notice is the sheer number of construction barriers. The entrance to Magic Kingdom now features scrim-covered structures, while Frontierland and Tomorrowland are also dotted with signs of ongoing work.
For longtime Disney fans, construction and closures are a part of the theme park experience. But for first-time visitors, the number of ongoing refurbishments might make the park feel incomplete, especially if their must-do attractions are unavailable.
Due to closures and rehabs, in May, for something fresh and new, try universal epic!!!! Clean, and brand new!