Major Disney World Changes Coming in 2026: What You Need to Know

Hollywood Studios Transformation

• 🎬 Walt Disney Studios area will replace Animation Courtyard and Star Wars Launch Bay, bringing back the Magic of Disney Animation building.
• 🌟 The new area will feature character meet-and-greets across six animation departments and a new kid stage show, Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live.
• 🎩 A nod to the original Sorcerer's Hat will stand above the entrance to the Animation Building, honoring the MGM Studios icon.

D23 Fan Experience and Epcot Updates

• 🗓️ The D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Experience returns to Anaheim in August 2026, promising major announcements for parks and cruises.
• ❄️ Frozen Ever After in Epcot will temporarily close in January 2026 for refurbishment, reopening with updated Anna, Elsa, and Kristoff audio-animatronics.

Magic Kingdom and Disney Springs Revamps

• ⛰️ Big Thunder Mountain Railroad in Magic Kingdom will reopen in Spring 2026 with a new storyline, track, cars, and the return of the Rainbow Caverns.
• 🚀 Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin will also reopen in Spring 2026 with new blasters, a new character, and updated ride vehicles.
• 🕹️ The former Disney Quest building in Disney Springs will become Level 99, a large interactive arcade with escape room and obstacle course elements.

Attraction Overhauls and New Experiences

• 🎸 Rock 'n' Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith will close in March 2026 and reopen in Summer 2026 with a Muppets takeover.
• 🚗 Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run in Hollywood Studios will receive updates including new scenes with The Mandalorian and Grogu, and higher quality graphics.
• 🗺️ Soarin' Across America, a new limited-time overlay celebrating the US, will debut in Epcot by Memorial Day 2026.
• 🐾 Bluey and Bingo will meet fans at Animal Kingdom's Conservation Station in Summer 2026, coinciding with the return of Cool Kids Summer.

Hotel and Perk Updates

• 🏨 A new hotel, Lakeshore Lodge, is under construction near Wilderness Lodge, expected to open in 2027.
• 💧 The free water park perk for Disney World hotel guests will return in Summer 2026 but will be limited to the summer season only.
• ☕ The Garden View Lounge at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort will reopen in early 2026 with a new tea experience.