It’s hard to think of a Disney character more chaotic, loveable, and surprisingly resilient than Stitch. Even though his main attraction at Magic Kingdom—Stitch’s Great Escape—shut down years ago and the building was later gutted, fans never really let him go. And thanks to the massive success of the new live-action Lilo & Stitch (2025), it feels like Disney might finally be getting the message.
The numbers don’t lie. Disney’s latest remake didn’t just do well—it shattered records. With over $183 million in domestic ticket sales during Memorial Day weekend and $341 million globally, Lilo & Stitch (2025) made history. It even knocked Top Gun: Maverick out of its Memorial Day weekend throne. What’s more surprising? The crowd wasn’t just families. A majority of ticket buyers were Millennials and Gen Zers who grew up with Stitch. Nostalgia is driving this revival—and Disney would be wise to embrace it.
So, why is Stitch still absent from Disney World in a meaningful way?
Tomorrowland’s Makeover Could Be Stitch’s Opportunity
Let’s talk timing. Tomorrowland is already in a state of transformation. TRON Lightcycle / Run opened in 2023 and gave the area a much-needed jolt of energy. Astro Orbiter is currently under refurbishment, and Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin is headed for a lengthy overhaul soon. Disney’s clearly in a mood to rethink this land—and that opens the door wide for something new.
Or rather… something familiar but reimagined.
This could be the perfect chance for Stitch to make his comeback—just not in the exact same format as before. Stitch’s Great Escape didn’t exactly win over fans. Some loved the quirky chaos, others found it underwhelming. But the character? He’s always had staying power.
A New Ride, A New Vision
A reimagined Stitch attraction wouldn’t need to reuse the same old formula. Instead of a theater-in-the-round with shoulder restraints and chili dog burps, imagine something more immersive. Think simulator ride through a high-tech alien prison with Stitch causing mischief. Or a dark ride that takes guests from the shores of Hawaii to outer space on one of his zany adventures. It could even be a new-style musical show packed with heart and humor.
The “ohana” message that defines Lilo & Stitch could be brought to life in a way that’s fresh, fun, and accessible to all ages.
Universal’s Epic Universe Raises the Stakes
Disney has competition now more than ever. Universal’s Epic Universe just opened with jaw-dropping lands themed to How to Train Your Dragon, Harry Potter, and more. It’s bold, IP-driven, and immersive—three things Disney used to be known for leading. Stitch represents a piece of IP that Disney owns and that already has a passionate, loyal fanbase. It makes no sense for Disney to let that go to waste.
Reintroducing Stitch into Tomorrowland wouldn’t just check a nostalgia box—it would show that Disney is listening. That they know what fans are excited about. That they’re willing to bring back what works while evolving it for today’s audience.
Stitch Deserves More Than a Meet-and-Greet
Right now, Stitch occasionally pops up for meet-and-greets and merchandise, but that’s not enough. He deserves more than a photo op. He deserves an attraction that embraces his energy, taps into fan nostalgia, and helps revitalize a section of the park already in flux.
The success of the new Lilo & Stitch movie proves there’s still fuel in this tank. And let’s be honest—if Disney can give Figment his own ride, Stitch certainly qualifies for a second shot.
Whether it’s a brand-new ride, a high-tech show, or an experience that captures the humor and heart of the character, Stitch has earned his spot back in the spotlight.
So here’s hoping that somewhere deep in Disney’s Imagineering vault, someone’s sketching out a plan. Because this moment? It feels like Stitch just saved his ride.
