Disney World is constantly evolving, and this post will serve as your all-in-one guide to Disney World updates for new lands, ride refurbishments, attraction openings, and exciting updates across the parks.
Whether you’re visiting Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Animal Kingdom, or Hollywood Studios, knowing what’s open and what’s coming soon will help you plan the most magical visit possible.
New Lands & Concept Art Announcements
Monsters, Inc. Land – Hollywood Studios
Disney has officially unveiled Monstropolis, the new Monsters, Inc.–themed land at Hollywood Studios.
Concept Highlights:
- Interactive, laughter-powered city with humans visiting Monstropolis.
- Trackless roller coaster featuring rotating carts for a unique experience.
- Many existing structures like Muppet*Vision 3D remain intact.
- New meet-and-greet opportunities and interactive spaces.
Opening Date: TBA (keep an eye here for updates).
Animal Kingdom – Tropical Americas Expansion (Pueblo Esperanza)
Disney is building a new themed-land inspired by vibrant Spanish flair and tropical rainforest landscapes.
Key Features:
- New Hacienda-style quick-service restaurant.
- Two major attractions: a colorful Encanto-themed ride and a lively carousel.
- DINOSAUR ride reimagined as an Indiana Jones adventure.
- New playground replacing Boneyard.
Opening: Expected 2027.
Closures: Boneyard Playground permanently closed Sept 2, 2025; other area closures expected end of 2025.
One of the biggest changes coming in January 2026 is the closure of DinoLand U.S.A. and the DINOSAUR attraction. After this month, guests will no longer be able to experience this area as it exists today, making January a last-chance visit for longtime fans.
Magic Kingdom – Future Themed Lands
Tom Sawyer Island & Rivers of America closed to make way for Cars Land and a Villains-themed land.
Construction is in early phases, but progress is already visible.
Ride Refurbishments & Upgrades
Magic Kingdom
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
- Closed for refurbishment until Spring of 2026.
- Updates include vibrant caverns with glowing stalagmites/stalactites.
Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin
- Closed for technology upgrades on Aug 4, 2025.
- Updates will include smoother ride and improved visuals. Set to reopen in Spring of 2026.
Hollywood Studios
Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster
- Reimagined with Muppet Mayhem theme featuring Dr. Teeth and the Electric Mayhem.
- Ride will reopen in 2026.
EPCOT
Spaceship Earth
- Closure: Temporarily closed on Aug 25, 2025.
- Upgrades: Enhanced visuals, refreshed scenes, and updated lighting effects to make the ride feel more immersive.
- Reopened: December 2025 and now offering a smoother, modernized experience while keeping the classic charm intact.
Test Track
- Closure: Previously closed for updates.
- Upgrades: New technology, refreshed ride systems, and updated vehicle design for a smoother, faster, and more thrilling experience.
- Reopened: 2025 and guests can now enjoy the updated track and new interactive elements.
- Our Experience: We recently rode Test Track after the updates, and it was incredible! The ride felt smoother, faster, and more exciting than before. Definitely a must-do for thrill seekers.
January 2026 brings exciting changes to EPCOT with the debut of another festival! The EPCOT International Festival of the Arts kicks off on January 16, 2026, and runs through February 23, 2026.
This festival is one of my favorites, and I’m so excited to see it return. With its vibrant blend of culinary creations, visual art, and live performances, the Festival of the Arts brings EPCOT to life in a truly magical way. It’s the perfect mix of creativity, flavor, and Disney storytelling, making it a must-visit for families and Disney fans alike.
Animal Kingdom
Zootopia: Better Zoogether
What’s New: Replaced It’s a Bug’s Life in the Tree of Life Theater. Debuted Nov 7, 2025. Features a 3D stage show and character meet-and-greets with Judy, Nick, and other favorites.
Our Experience: We recently saw Zootopia: Better Zoogether, and it was so much fun! The visuals are bright and lively, the story is engaging for all ages, and the meet-and-greet opportunities were a perfect way to interact with the characters. It’s a great break from the heat while still keeping the Disney magic alive.
Tips for Visitors: Arrive a bit early for the best seats, especially if you want a clear view of the Tree of Life projections.
New Guest Limits at Fort Wilderness Campsites
Starting January 1, 2026, Disney will introduce a new policy at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground.
Currently, campsites can accommodate up to 10 guests. Beginning in January, most campsites will be limited to 8 guests. This change applies to:
- Premium Campsites
- Premium Meadow Campsites
- Full Hook-Up Campsites
- Tent or Pop-Up Campsites
- Preferred Campsites
Cabins at Fort Wilderness will remain unchanged, continuing to accommodate up to 6 guests.
This update may make planning a little trickier for larger families or groups who love camping at Fort Wilderness. As more details are released regarding additional guests, possible extra charges, or policy adjustments, we’ll be sure to keep you updated.
It’s still one of our favorite resorts for its peaceful setting, unique dining, and fun activities, but this is an important change to keep in mind when booking.
Seasonal Updates
Magic Kingdom Parade Times: Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away Parade now at 8:30 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. as of Aug 31, 2025.
If you’re staying at a Disney Deluxe Resort, here’s some great news: Extended Evening Hours return in January 2026. Here are the Extended Evening Hours announced so far for January 2026:
- Thursday, January 1 – Animal Kingdom | 6 PM–8 PM
- Monday, January 5 – EPCOT | 9 PM–11 PM
- Wednesday, January 7 – Magic Kingdom | 9 PM–11 PM
- Monday, January 12 – EPCOT | 9 PM–11 PM
- Wednesday, January 14 – Magic Kingdom | 9 PM–11 PM
- Monday, January 19 – EPCOT | 9 PM–11 PM
- Wednesday, January 21 – Magic Kingdom | 9 PM–11 PM
- Monday, January 26 – Hollywood Studios | 9 PM–11 PM
Tips for Planning Your Visit
- Check this post before your trip — ride closures and new attractions change often.
- Consider alternate attractions if your favorites are temporarily closed.
- Use the official Disney World calendar to double-check dates.
- Bookmark this page for all future updates and continue to follow us at Budget the Magic.
