2026 & 2027 Disney World Refurbishment Schedule & Ride Closures

Nothing is worse than spending hours upon hours planning your trip to Walt Disney World, only to find out your favorite attraction is under refurbishment. That’s why we created this 2026 & 2027 Disney World Refurbishments and Closure schedule, which will help you know what’s open and what’s closed.

In this post, we will look at all 4 theme parks at Walt Disney World (Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom) and let you know the refurbishment calendar and which rides are closed in each park.

Why does Disney do refurbishments to rides?

As much as we don’t like them, attraction refurbishments are necessary from time to time. With the millions of people that ride these attractions each year, eventually, they break down and need fixing.

Some of the Disney World ride closures could last a few days, and sometimes they last for months. It all depends on the type of work being done. In the long run, it’s best for these attractions and if they didn’t close from time to time, their lifespan would be much shorter.

So while it’s never fun when you can’t ride certain attractions, they are unavoidable.

Disney’s Magic Kingdom is the centerpiece of Walt Disney World, and there have been numerous refurbishments both big and small over the last few years.

Disney would like to touch up a lot of the older attractions before the festivities begin, but it’s unclear how much is in the budget for big refurbishments. It’s likely we’ll just see a lot of small improvements.

Refurbishments:

• Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress (Closed 7/6/26 – Late Spring 2027) – This classic attraction is getting a major update with a new Walt Disney opening scene and four refreshed family scenes.
• Big Thunder Mountain Railroad (NOW OPEN) – The attraction reopened in early May 2026 after its largest refurbishment yet, with major work on the ride system, trains, and other essential components.
• Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin (NOW OPEN) – The attraction reopened April 8, 2026 after a major overhaul with updated ride vehicles, handheld blasters, interactive targets, new set elements, and a new opening scene featuring Buddy.
• Cinderella Castle (Refurbishment from 1/28/26 – TBD) – The castle is getting a refreshed color scheme inspired by its original 1971 appearance. The attraction area remains open, but cranes and modified entertainment times are possible during the work.
• Diamond Horseshoe (Closed 5/16/26 – 10/4/26) – The location is scheduled to reopen October 4 as a limited-time dining pop-up.
• Haunted Mansion (Work started 1/20/26 – TBD) – Exterior and interactive queue work is underway, but the attraction remains open during the project.
• Tiana’s Bayou Adventure (Closing 11/2/26 – TBD) – The attraction will close for refurbishment along with Critter Co-Op and Tiana’s Bayou General. Disney has not announced the scope or reopening date.
• Walt Disney World Railroad (Closed 9/28/26 – 10/29/26) – The railroad will close temporarily, then is expected to return to its modified shuttle route. The date for a return to the full loop remains unannounced.

Coming Soon:

• Piston Peak National Park – (Opening Date TBD) – This new Cars-themed area will include Cars Ridge Run Rally and Miss Fritter’s Daredevil Spin-Along.
• Villains Land – (Opening Date TBD) – This major expansion will include a Maleficent roller coaster and the Magic Mirror Realm dark ride, along with dining and shopping.

EPCOT

EPCOT does not currently have many attraction closures with firm dates, but Disney has announced two major future projects that could affect upcoming trips.

Have patience, especially when visiting EPCOT park, since attraction and restaurant statuses can change before your vacation.

Refurbishments:

• CommuniCore Hall (Closed 5/21/26 – 9/8/26) – CommuniCore Hall at EPCOT has temporarily closed so Disney can use the space for GoofyCore, a limited-time Cool Kids’ Summer experience running through September 8, 2026. The Goofy-themed takeover will feature Goofy’s Game Machine, DJ Dance Pants, the Goof Troop, and kid-friendly activities like Goofy Says, Balloon Bonanza, and Parachutes ’n’ Pipsqueaks. Goofy will also appear during the experience.
• Coral Reef Restaurant (Closed 9/8/26 – Later in 2026) – The restaurant is temporarily closing, but Disney has not announced an exact reopening date or post-closure changes.
• La Poutinerie (NOW OPEN) – La Poutinerie is now open at EPCOT’s Canada Pavilion, replacing the former Refreshment Port with a more Canadian-focused quick-service spot. The new location serves poutine as its main draw, and also includes Canadian beer options. It gives the Canada Pavilion a more fitting snack stop built around one of the country’s most recognizable comfort foods.
• La Signature (Closed 6/29/26 – Later in 2026) – The France pavilion shop is temporarily closed for refurbishment, with Guerlain merchandise available at Plume Et Palette during the work.
• Soarin’ Across America (NOW OPEN) – The new film debuted May 26, 2026 after replacing Soarin’ Around the World.

Coming Soon:

• Spaceship Earth (Closure and Reopening Dates TBD) – Disney has announced a major reimagining focused on human connection, but has not announced when the attraction will close.
• Journey Into Imagination (Timeline TBD) – Dreamfinder and Figment are returning as part of a new Imagination project, but Disney has not announced its exact scope or dates.

Hollywood Studios

Hollywood Studios has several active projects, including the Muppets coaster transformation and construction on the new Monstropolis area.

Refurbishments:

• Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live! (NOW OPEN) – The new show and reimagined Walt Disney Studios courtyard opened May 26, 2026.
• Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets (NOW OPEN) – The reimagined Muppets version debuted May 26, 2026 after replacing the former Aerosmith theme.
• Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run – Mandalorian Update (NOW OPEN) – The new mission featuring The Mandalorian and Grogu debuted May 22, 2026, with new destinations and more interactive roles.
• The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror (Exterior Work Started July 2026 – TBD) – Extensive scaffolding surrounds portions of the Hollywood Tower Hotel, but the attraction remains open during the exterior refurbishment.
• The Hollywood Brown Derby Lounge Patio (Closed July 2026 – TBD) – The original patio is closed for exterior work, while temporary patio service is available near the former Starring Rolls Bakery location.
• Vacation Fun – An Original Animated Short with Mickey & Minnie (NOW OPEN) – Mickey Shorts Theater reopened after its temporary 2026 operational closure.

There are very few refurbishments with announced dates at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, but major construction is underway for Pueblo Esperanza.

Refurbishments:

• Bluey’s Wild World / Conservation Station (NOW OPEN) – Conservation Station and the Wildlife Express Train reopened May 26, 2026 with the new Bluey and Bingo experience, and Affection Section is now Jumping Junction.
• Expedition Everest Yeti Repair (Closure and Reopening Dates TBD) – Disney has confirmed that the Yeti will finally be fixed, but has not announced when the attraction will close or how long the work will take.

Coming Soon:

• Pueblo Esperanza – Tropical Americas (Expected in 2027) – The new land is replacing DinoLand U.S.A., but Disney has not announced whether every component will open at the same time.
• Indiana Jones and the Myth of the Jade Serpent – (Opening Date TBD) – This new Indiana Jones attraction will replace DINOSAUR and use the existing ride system with a new Maya temple storyline.
• Antonio’s Fiesta de Encanto – (Opening Date TBD) – This new Encanto attraction will take guests inside Casita and has no height requirement.
• El Carrusel de los Animalitos – (Opening Date TBD) – This new carousel will feature 22 hand-carved animals inspired by Disney and Pixar stories.

Water Parks

Disney’s water parks operate seasonally, and their refurbishment schedules can change because of maintenance and weather. Disney opened both parks simultaneously during part of 2026, but Typhoon Lagoon is scheduled to close again in September.

Blizzard Beach (OPEN)

• Seasonal Operations – Blizzard Beach is expected to remain available when Typhoon Lagoon begins its seasonal closure, but later operating dates should be checked before your trip.

Typhoon Lagoon

• Annual Refurbishment (Closing 9/9/26 – Reopening TBD) – Typhoon Lagoon is scheduled to begin its seasonal refurbishment on September 9, 2026. Disney has not yet announced a reopening date.

General Disney World Water Park Refurbishment Info

• The water parks frequently rotate seasonal refurbishment periods so that one park remains available, but exact dates should always be checked before visiting.

Here is the current list of Walt Disney World Resort Hotel Refurbishments:

Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort

• Reimagined Guest Rooms (Late May 2026 – January 2027) – Guest-room work is scheduled to continue through January 2027, though resort amenities remain available.

Disney’s All-Star Music Resort

• No current refurbishments

Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort

• No current refurbishments

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge Resort

• Jambo House Guest Rooms (May 2026 – January 2027) – Guest rooms are being reimagined in phases while the resort remains open.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas

• Lobby Refurbishment (8/17/26 – Early November 2026) – Work is moving through the lobby and nearby facilities in phases, with temporary check-in and access changes during parts of the project.
• Re-Imagined Guest Rooms (Closed October 2025 through January 2027) – This is a multi-months-long refurbishment to all guest rooms in Kidani Village. All resort amenities will remain available to guests during this time.

Disney’s Art of Animation Resort

• Guest Room Refurbishment (Current phases TBD; larger project June 2027 – October 2028) – Light room updates are progressing by section, with a larger resort room project scheduled to begin in 2027.

Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort

• Resort-Wide Refurbishment (Work happening from September 2024 through Late 2027) – Work includes guest rooms, common areas, exterior sections, the skyway bridge, pool areas, and elevator landings.

Disney’s Beach Club Resort

• Exterior Maintenance (Early Summer 2025 – 2027) – Exterior work continues through 2027 and may affect views or walking routes, though the resort remains open.
• Tidal Leisure Pool (Closed Mid January – Late 2026) – This pool area is undergoing regular maintenance. The Stormalong Bay Pool area will remain open during this refurbishment.

Disney’s Beach Club Villas

• No current refurbishments

Disney’s Boardwalk Inn

• Village Green Courtyard (Closed 8/10/26 – 9/4/26) – Activities normally held on the Village Green have been temporarily relocated during the work.
• Luna Park Pool Area (Closing 1/11/27 – April 2027) – Luna Park Pool, the Luna Park Crazy Play Area, and Leaping Horse Libations will close, while the Villas Pool and Inn Pool remain available.
• Hurly-Burly (Opening 10/1/26) – This new BoardWalk lounge replaces Jellyrolls and will offer all-ages activities in the afternoon and live music for guests 21 and older at night.
• Resort-Wide Refurbishment (Work happening from November 2025 through Late 2026) – Disney is in the middle of a massive refurbishment to the resort.

Disney’s Boardwalk Villas

• Re-Imagined Guest Rooms (NOW OPEN) – The renovation to all the DVC Villas at the BoardWalk Inn is now complete.

Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

• No current refurbishments

Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground

• Meadow Swimmin’ Pool and Reception Outpost Enhancements (NOW OPEN) – The expanded pool and refreshed Reception Outpost were completed by July 2026. The pool added zero-entry access and more deck space while keeping its waterslide.
• Big Pine Trail Work (Through Mid-October 2026) – Sidewalk work and temporary detours may create alternate walking routes, but dining, recreation, and other amenities remain available.

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

• Resort-Wide Upgrades (Ongoing – Early 2027) – Work continues in select areas, including the porte cochere, and guests may encounter daytime noise or alternate walking routes.
• Grand Floridian Café (Closed 7/20/26 – October 2026) – This popular table service restaurant has closed for an extensive refurbishment including an interior refresh and possible menu changes.
• Porte Cochere (Closed February 2026 – Early 2027) – This main arrival area is part of the ongoing renovations around the resort.

The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

• No current refurbishments

Disney’s Old Key West Resort

• Sassagoula River Cruise (Unavailable Beginning 7/20/26 – TBD) – Boat service is unavailable during route work.
• Hospitality House and Lake Buena Vista Golf Course (Through Fall 2026) – Exterior and golf-course work may affect parts of the resort area through October.

Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

• Resort and Transportation Work (Through Early 2027) – Exterior, roadway, bus-route, and Monorail beam work may affect some resort views and transportation routes.
• Trader Sam’s Tiki Terrace (Closed – Late October 2026) – The outdoor terrace is temporarily closed during Grand Ceremonial House work, while Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto remains open.

Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows

• Resort and Transportation Work (Through Early 2027) – Exterior, roadway, bus-route, and Monorail beam work may affect some resort views and transportation routes.

Disney’s Pop Century Resort

• No current refurbishments

Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter

• No current refurbishments

Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside

• Alligator Bayou Guest Rooms Update (Late Summer 2026 – August 2027) – Broader guest-room work is continuing in phases through August 2027.

Disney’s Riviera Resort

• No current refurbishments

Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa

• The Turf Club Bar & Grill (Closed – Late September 2026) – The Turf Club Lounge reopened August 31, but the restaurant remains closed while the project continues.
• Tennis Courts (Closed Late August – November 2026) – Both clay courts are closed for resurfacing, with no exact reopening date announced.

Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

• Guest Room Refurbishment (July 2027 – September 2027) – A resort room project is scheduled for summer 2027; exact room locations and guest impacts should be confirmed closer to the work.

Disney’s Yacht Club Resort

• No current refurbishments

Disney Springs

• LEVEL99 (NOW OPEN) – This new West Side entertainment venue opened June 29, 2026 with more than 60 interactive challenge rooms and duels.
• Ghirardelli Soda Fountain (7/3/26 – Spring 2027) – Ghirardelli Soda Fountain & Chocolate Shop is temporarily moving while its original location at Disney Springs undergoes a major remodel. During the work, Ghirardelli will operate out of the former CrazyShake by Black Tap space in Town Center. Disney has not confirmed exact closure or reopening dates yet, but the remodeled original location is expected to return in spring 2027.
• Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill (Closing Permanently 9/13/26) – The restaurant is scheduled to close permanently, and Disney has not announced a replacement.

Permanent Ride Closures

While some attractions close only temporarily, others sadly close permanently. This happens when the ride is no longer deemed popular enough or Disney has other plans for that space, perhaps bringing in a new attraction in its place.

Here is a list of the permanent closures in Disney World in the recent past:

Magic Kingdom

• Disney Enchantment – (Closed 4/2/23)
• Frontierland Shootin’ Arcade – (Closed 6/23/24)
• Liberty Square Riverboat – (Closed 7/7/25)
• The Pirates League – (Closed 3/15/20)
• The Muppets Present…Great Moments in American History – (Closed 1/1/20)
• Splash Mountain – (Closed 1/23/23)
• Stitch’s Great Escape – (Closed 1/6/18)
• Tom Sawyer Island (Closed 7/7/25)
• Wishes – (Closed 5/11/17)

EPCOT

• Agent P’s World Showcase Adventure – (Closed 2/17/20)
• The Circle of Life – (Closed 2/4/18)
• Disney Harmonious (Closed on 4/2/23)
• Ellen’s Energy Adventure – (Closed 8/13/17)
• EPCOT Forever – (Closed 9/28/21 and again 12/4/23)
• Illuminations: Reflections of Earth – (Closed 9/30/19)
• Mariachi Cobre Presents… The Story of Coco – (Closed 6/2/20)

Hollywood Studios

• The Disney Society Orchestra and Friends – (Closed 10/4/20)
• Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy (Closed 10/7/24)
• Muppet*Vision 3D (Closed 6/7/25)
• Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith (Closed 3/2/26)
• Star Wars: A Galaxy Far, Far Away – (Closed 2/23/20)
• Star Wars Launch Bay – (Closed 9/25/25)
• The Great Movie Ride – (Closed 8/13/17)
• The Voyage of the Little Mermaid – (Closed 3/16/20)
• Wonderful World of Animation – (Closed 5/13/20)

Animal Kingdom

• The Boneyard (Closed 9/2/25)
• Dinosaur – (Closed 2/1/26)
• Finding Nemo – The Musical (Closed 3/16/20)
• It’s Tough to Be a Bug (Closed 3/16/25)
• Primeval Whirl – (Closed 3/16/20)
• Rivers of Light: We Are One – (Closed 3/16/20)
• TriceraTop Spin (Closed 1/12/25)

Resorts/Experiences

• Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser – (Closed 9/30/23)

Disney World Seasonal Closures

Some closures in Disney World are seasonal, meaning similar work happens on those rides around the same time each year. Some of this is weather-based, like water parks for example, that are less likely to be popular during the winter.

Here is a list of seasonal refurbishments in Disney World. These are general patterns, and the exact dates can change from year to year:

• Jungle Cruise – Usually closes briefly in the fall to install the Jingle Cruise overlay and again after the holidays to remove it.
• Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park – Often closes for seasonal maintenance when Typhoon Lagoon is operating.
• Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park – Often closes for seasonal maintenance when Blizzard Beach is operating.
• Kali River Rapids – Can close during the winter for general maintenance and seasonal refurbishment.

What Season Does Disney Do Refurbishments?

Disney tends to do more refurbishments and ride closures in the “off-season” and when there are fewer people in the parks.

January and February are popular months for tuning up rides after the holiday season. This is especially true for water attractions like Kali River Rapids and the water parks.

September is another popular month for refurbishments in Disney World since many families are back in school. That makes it a practical time to work on attractions that need maintenance.

While going to Disney World during the holidays or another busy season is more crowded, you are also less likely to find your favorite attraction closed for a routine refurbishment at that time, which is a definite advantage.

Rumored Refurbishments

There are always rumors about which Disney World attractions could be updated next, but several of the biggest longtime rumors are now confirmed projects.

Spaceship Earth, Journey Into Imagination, Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster, Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress, and the Expedition Everest Yeti are no longer rumors. They are listed in the park sections above with the information Disney has confirmed so far.

Older rumors involving attractions such as Swiss Family Treehouse, Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room, and Astro Orbiter are not included in the current refurbishment schedule because Disney has not announced new work. We’ll add them back if a credible new development appears.

Your Thoughts

I want to know what you think about the current list of ride closures and attraction refurbishments at Disney World…

• Which ride are you most disappointed to see close?
• Which rides need refurbishing the most?

Let us know in the comments section below!

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