15 Changes Coming to Walt Disney World in 2025 and Beyond
In the spirit of Walt Disney’s drive to keep moving forward and keep things fresh, Walt Disney World is always changing and growing. Many exciting projects that will bring guests deeper into the stories they love, including Monsters, Inc., Cars, Indiana Jones, Encanto, and the classic Disney Villains, are coming to the resort in the years to come. While we expect more announcements on future endeavors, here are the 15 changes that we know about coming to Walt Disney World in the rest of 2025 and beyond.
2025
1 – “Tron: Ares” Overlay Coming to Magic Kingdom
Attention Users: Get ready to experience the Grid in a whole new light! TRON Lightcycle / Run presented by Enterprise at Magic Kingdom Park will feature an exciting new overlay inspired by the upcoming Walt Disney Studios film, “Tron: Ares.” The update features the addition of striking red colors from the latest “Tron” sequel, releasing in theaters on October 10, along with a custom soundtrack composed by the industrial rock band Nine Inch Nails.
For a limited time, starting September 15, guests entering the digital frontier will be transported into a “Tron: Ares”-themed version of the high-speed, adrenaline-filled ride that transforms reality into a video game world as riders weave through twisting tunnels of bright red and orange light trails, set to the pulsating sounds of Nine Inch Nails.
2 – November 7 – “Zootopia: Better Zoogether!”
On November 7, The Tree of Life Theater at Disney’s Animal Kingdom will debut an all-new 4D production, “Zootopia: Better Zoogether!” Families can join their favorite herd from the hit Walt Disney Animation Studios movie, including Judy Hopps, Nick Wilde, and more, for an exhilarating new wild story. A new meet and greet with Judy and Nick is also coming.
2026
We’re confident more announcements will be made about 2026. The following is what we know so far.
3 – February 1, 2026 – Last Chance for Dinosaur & DinoLand, USA
DinoLand, USA, is on its way out to make way for a new Tropical-Americas-themed land at Disney’s Animal Kingdom (see #11). However, construction will begin in phases. The first wave of closures occurred on January 13, 2025. TriceraTop Spin, Fossil Fun Games, and Chester & Hester’s Dinosaur Treasures are now permanently closed. The Boneyard will closed on September 2, 2025. However, DINOSAUR Restaurantosaurus, and Trilo-Bites, and Donald’s Dino-Bash will remain open through February 1, 2026. DinoLand, USA will close forever on February 2, 2026.
4 – Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin Update
Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin is getting an update! The popular attraction at Magic Kingdom closed in August 2025, so Disney Imagineers can update the ride with a new show scene, updated ride vehicles, and gameplay enhancements. We’re super excited for these updates!
5 – New Magic Coming to Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
Looking ahead to 2026 at Magic Kingdom Park, the caverns and peaks of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad will once again echo with the delighted sounds of thrill-seeking guests and the thunder of speeding train cars. Reinvesting in the beloved attraction, the familiar loops and drops of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad will be refreshed for guests new and old to enjoy for years to come in addition to an infusion of new magic. Newly released renderings reveal some of the fresh experiences coming to the iconic mountain, including a journey through the spectacular natural phenomena of the Rainbow Caverns … which may not be as welcoming as they first appear.
6 – New Adventures in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Mando and Grogu have a new adventure on the horizon coming to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. Join the Mandalorian and his youngling on brand-new adventures coming to Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run in celebration of the new Star Wars film “The Mandalorian and Grogu” coming to theaters in 2026.
7 – New Animation Attraction at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
A brand-new animated adventure is coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios in 2026. “The Magic of Disney Animation,” will debut in the building that currently houses Star Wars: Launch Bay. Drawing inspiration from the legendary Walt Disney Animation Studios in Burbank, California, and the Emmy award-winning and heartwarming short film “Once Upon a Studio,” guests will step into a whimsical twist on the real-life studio building, but this time, when the animators are away, the characters come out to play! Topped with Mickey’s iconic Sorcerer Hat, the space will invite guests to explore different studio departments brought to life by Disney characters.
In addition to the new offerings, the exteriors of several existing buildings will be reimagined with design elements inspired by buildings found in Burbank. To prepare for the transformation, Animation Courtyard, Star Wars: Launch Bay and Disney Jr. Play and Dance! will close beginning September 25, 2025. Guests can continue to enjoy “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure”and Walt Disney Presents while the transformation is completed.
8 – Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Re-themed to Muppets
Get ready to rock, Muppets style! In 2026, The Muppets will take over Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in a fast-paced, music-filled adventure with rock tune remixes, backstage chaos and plenty of laughs. Disney has confirmed that the current version of the ride will be available through 2025. We expect a closure in early 2026 to make way for the new version.
2027
Two projects have been announced that will open in 2027.
9 – New DVC Resort – Disney Lakeshore Lodge
Projected to open in 2027, this proposed new Disney Vacation Club property will be located alongside the shores of Bay Lake at Walt Disney World Resort. The resort will be inspired by the majesty of nature and its enduring influence on Disney artists. The proposed Disney Lakeshore Lodge will be located within the same footprint of the previously announced Reflections – A Disney Lakeside Lodge resort. Additional information will be released later.
10 – Tropical Americas at Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Tropical Americas at Disney’s Animal Kingdom will feature two new signature attractions – a thrilling adventure following the heroic Indiana Jones into an ancient Maya temple and a journey through the Casita Madrigal from “Encanto” following Antonio’s story on the day after he received his magical gift. It will also feature a beautiful carousel featuring animals from many favorite Disney stories, perfect for young families to enjoy. Tropical Americas is set to open in 2027.
Click here to learn more about Tropical Americas Coming to Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
Unknown Dates – TBD
11 – New Color Palette Announced for Cinderella Castle
Since debuting in 1971, Cinderella Castle has undergone several significant updates to enhance its magical appeal, including its current color palette, which was revealed during the Walt Disney World 50th Anniversary Celebration. Announced during Destination D23, the iconic centerpiece of Magic Kingdom Park is set to undergo another enchanting update, transforming its appearance with vibrant new colors and renewed charm.
Walt Disney Imagineers have studied the various overlays and tonal compositions used over the years and have created a new color palette inspired by the Castle’s original and classic appearance. The updated colors will include shades of gray, cream, blue, and hints of gold to enhance its architecture.
For over 50 years, the colors on the 189-foot landmark have been carefully chosen to reflect Florida’s sunshine, blending rich blues, warm hues and radiant golds. The finishes have been thoughtfully selected to ensure they remain vibrant and deep over time. Additional details will be announced as the design and painting process details are finalized.
12 – Walt Disney Audio-Animatronics Figure Coming to Carousel of Progress
The beloved attraction, created by Walt Disney himself, Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress, is getting an exciting update! A new Audio-Animatronics figure of Walt Disney will welcome Magic Kingdom guests and introduce the show in a newly created scene. More details will be shared as the carousel continues to spin, showing a new generation of enchanted time-travelers that a great big, beautiful tomorrow is just a dream away.
Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress, which debuted at the 1964 New York World’s Fair, quickly gained worldwide popularity with millions of visitors. The iconic attraction has since logged more performances than any other show in American theater history and has operated at Magic Kingdom as a tribute to the original since 1975.
13 – Monsters, Inc. Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Construction is set to begin in 2025 on the first full land dedicated to Monsters, Inc., coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Florida. The land will feature the first suspended coaster ever in a Disney park, where guests can experience what it’s like to zoom through the door vault in the factory, just like Mike and Sulley. Disney has confirmed that the new land will be at the current Muppet Courtyard.
Click here to learn more about the Monsters, Inc. land coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
14 – Cars at the Magic Kingdom
Westward Ho! Piston Peak National Park coming to Frontierland will be part of the largest expansion in Magic Kingdom history, inviting guests to step into a breathtaking “wheelderness” inspired by Disney and Pixar’s “Cars” universe. This new area will bring the spirit of America’s national parks to life with towering trees, snowcapped mountains, breathtaking waterfalls, roaring rivers, impressive geysers, and action-packed attractions for all ages—creating an unforgettable adventure for every explorer. Two all-new attractions will take guests into the wilderness beyond Radiator Springs – a thrilling off-road rally race and a family-friendly attraction even the youngest racers will love.
Click here to learn more about the Cars expansion in Frontierland in Magic Kingdom!
15 – Villains Land at the Magic Kingdom
Work is already underway on a new land dedicated to Disney Villains coming to the Magic Kingdom – complete with two attractions, dining, and shopping – where happily ever after may feel like just a distant dream. It will be a fearless new vision of what a Disney experience can be on a grand scale that only Disney can deliver. Disney has confirmed that the Villains land will be “beyond” Big Thunder Mountain.
Click here to learn more about the Villains land coming to Magic Kingdom.
For a no obligation, FREE Quote on a Disney vacation package, please contact our travel partner Magical Vacation Planner at 407-442-0227 (407-442-0215 for Spanish). You can also request a FREE quote online by Clicking HERE.