Planning a 2026 Walt Disney World trip? You’ll want to know about a few major ride changes that could shake up your must-do list!
2025 has already brought big changes to Walt Disney World, from brand-new shows to the debut of a nighttime parade. But as we look ahead to 2026, even more significant transformations are on the horizon, with several rides set to undergo permanent changes.
Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster
Disney’s Hollywood Studios will bid farewell to Aerosmith and backstage passes, with Kermit and the gang moving in soon. This will be the first-ever ride to feature the Muppets! The reimagined coaster looks to mostly feature the Electric Mayhem band, but we’re still awaiting further details.
The Muppets’ move to Sunset Boulevard follows the closure of Muppet*Vision 3D, which is making way for a new Monsters, Inc.-themed land. On Muppet*Vision’s final day, Disney announced the reimagined Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster will be opening in 2026.
Star Wars Launch Bay > Walt Disney Studios
Just a few hundred steps over from Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster, we arrive at DHS’ Animation Courtyard, where The Magic of Disney Animation is set to return in 2026, replacing Star Wars Launch Bay.
The reimagined space will be home to various interactive animation experiences; including a short film, the return of the ever-popular Animation Academy, and an indoor play space themed to Alice in Wonderland.
The Animation Courtyard will become known as The Walt Disney Studios, still housing “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure,” and a fresh Disney Jr. show.
Star Wars Launch Bay will close on September 25th — meaning September 24th is the last day to meet Darth Vader and check out film props inside!
Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin
Over in Magic Kingdom, Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin is scheduled to close next month (August 2025) for updates and is set to reopen in 2026 with several enhancements. The ride will feature new interactive targets that light up when hit, upgraded ride vehicles, and handheld blasters equipped with always-on lasers in two colors, allowing us space cadets to aim and shoot more effectively.
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
Also in Magic Kingdom, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is currently undergoing an extensive refurbishment, including track upgrades, and is planned to reopen in spring 2026. While Disney has yet to share what all of the enhancements include, they’ve said to expect “a little bit of new magic” once it reopens…
DINOSAUR
At Disney’s Animal Kingdom, DINOSAUR will close in 2026 to make way for a new Indiana Jones-themed ride. This upcoming attraction will be part of the Tropical Americas land, set to open in 2027, and will offer a fresh adventure featuring Indiana Jones exploring a Mayan temple, distinct from the existing Indiana Jones Adventure at Disneyland. Extinction is imminent — go visit the dinos while you can this year!
I hope this helps your 2025 or 2026 trip planning a little better! Which attraction change are you most looking forward to?
