Walt Disney World is a place where magic and innovation come together to create unforgettable memories. Keeping this magic alive requires continuous upkeep and creative evolution. Regular refurbishments not only maintain the safety and quality of attractions but also breathe new life into the guest experience. These updates allow Disney to preserve classic rides while incorporating new technologies and storytelling techniques. As we head into 2025, Disney is preparing for a series of upgrades, renovations, and exciting new additions across its parks and resorts.
Here’s an overview of the projects and refurbishments shaping the future of Walt Disney World in the coming year.
Magic Kingdom: Honoring Tradition, Embracing Change
Magic Kingdom remains the crown jewel of Walt Disney World, and in 2025, it’s undergoing several key updates:
Refurbishments
- Big Thunder Mountain Railroad begins a significant, multi-year refurbishment on January 6, with work expected to last into 2026. This classic coaster is getting much-needed care to ensure it stays thrilling and safe for years to come.
- Astro Orbiter, the high-flying Tomorrowland spinner, will close for updates starting January 13, with a reopening slated for summer 2025.
- The Hall of Presidents, a cornerstone of Liberty Square, will temporarily close on January 20 for updates, reopening later in 2025.
Upcoming Projects
Big things are also on the horizon for Magic Kingdom:
- Pirates of the Caribbean Tavern, set to open in late 2025, will offer a unique dining experience inspired by the high seas.
- Frontierland is gearing up for a Cars-themed expansion, adding Pixar’s beloved franchise to the park’s lineup.
- The much-anticipated Villains Land project is set to kick off soon, introducing a darker, edgier side to the park’s offerings.
EPCOT: A Park in Transition
EPCOT continues its transformation into a park that celebrates the best of human achievement and imagination.
Refurbishments
- The Gran Fiesta Tour in the Mexico Pavilion will close for maintenance from January 6 to March 15.
New Attractions
- A sleek new Spaceship Earth Lounge will open in spring 2025, giving guests a futuristic and serene retreat.
- The reimagined Test Track 3.0 is set to debut in late summer, promising a fresh, high-speed adventure.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios: New Stories Take Center Stage
Hollywood Studios may not have any refurbishments planned for 2025, but it’s still buzzing with activity.
New Offerings
- The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure will open in summer 2025, bringing Ariel’s timeless story to life on stage.
- The Villains: Unfairly Ever After show also debuts in summer, putting Disney’s famous villains in the spotlight with a brand-new narrative.
- Construction is beginning on Monsters Inc. Land, an exciting new area based on the beloved Pixar films.
Animal Kingdom: Entering a New Era
Animal Kingdom will see some exciting changes as it evolves into its next phase of storytelling.
Refurbishments
- Kali River Rapids will undergo maintenance starting January 6, with no reopening date announced yet.
New Projects
- The transformation of DinoLand U.S.A. begins in January with phase one closures, paving the way for a significant overhaul.
- The Zootopia Show, set to replace It’s Tough to Be a Bug, will open in winter 2025, bringing the world of Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde to life in a theater setting.
- Looking ahead to 2026, the DINOSAUR attraction will close permanently, marking the end of an era and the start of something new.
Resorts: Enhancing the Guest Experience
Disney’s resorts are also getting attention in 2025, with several refurbishment projects aimed at improving comfort and aesthetics for guests.
- All-Star Movies Resort: The Fantasia Pool will close for maintenance from January through April, with alternative swimming options available.
- Beach Club Resort: Stormalong Bay and Shipwreck Pool will undergo updates from January through June.
- Bay Lake Tower at Contemporary Resort: Room refurbishments will continue throughout 2025, with some areas experiencing periodic closures.
- Copper Creek Villas & Cabins: Updates will run from mid-May through September.
- Grand Floridian Resort and Polynesian Village Resort: Multi-year enhancements will continue, with noticeable improvements on the horizon.
- Pop Century Resort: Refurbishments will focus on guest rooms, running from late March 2025 to February 2026.
A Glimpse Into the Future
Walt Disney World is a place that constantly reinvents itself to stay relevant and exciting. The refurbishments and projects planned for 2025 are proof of Disney’s commitment to offering guests experiences that blend timeless magic with fresh innovation. From updated attractions to brand-new lands, the future of Disney World is brighter than ever.
As the parks evolve, visitors can look forward to new adventures while cherishing the beloved classics that have made Disney World a global icon.
