'Sup! Welcome to Tad's toadally awesome list of what's coming to Walt Disney World Resort in 2026 and beyond! As the Frog Family’s resident thrill seeker, tech junkie and head frog videographer — thank you very much — I love to keep tabs on all of the attractions and experiences heading to the Disney theme parks, and I've been doing it for a few years. This year, we've got much to look forward to, so let's break it down!
If you're curious about all of the Disney World construction around the parks, you're at the right place. Be sure to bookmark this page because I add to it as new rides, shows and other hoppenings are announced! (Hop here to see what opened in 2025 and previous years.)
And of course, openings bring excited fans to the parks, so if you're wondering about the best times to visit Disney World, this post should help as you plan your trip, whether you want to be first in line or avoid the elevated crowds. You can also stay updated with closures by hopping over to our Disney World Refurbishments post.
What's Coming to Disney World in 2026 and Beyond
Resort-Wide
Cool KIDS' SUMMER— May 26 to Sept. 8, 2026 — Cool KIDS' SUMMER returns to Walt Disney World Resort from May 26 through Sept. 8, 2026, bringing even more family-friendly fun to the parks and resorts. Guests can find special activities across all four parks, including character appearances, dance parties, games and hands-on experiences for kids.
This year includes experiences such as Jessie's Roundup in Frontierland at Magic Kingdom, the return of GoofyCore at CommuniCore Hall in EPCOT and a new Bluey and Bingo experience at Conservation Station in Animal Kingdom (which will remain even after September). Select Disney Resort hotels will also have scheduled character visits, and resort guests can enjoy perks such as Early Theme Park Entry and complimentary water park admission on their check-in day during the summer celebration.
Magic Kingdom Park
Walt Disney's Carousel of Progress — 2027 — The beloved show is set to receive an update that will include a new Audio-Animatronic figure of Walt Disney himself (similar to the one found at Disneyland Park). The attraction will also feature new decades, taking guests through the 1960s, 1980s, the “new millennium” and "The Possible Future" final scene — a futuristic home with a robot assistant and even space travel. Carousel of Progress will temporarily close for refurbishment beginning July 6, 2026, with a reopening sometime in 2027.
New Villains Land — TBD — While there's not an exact timeline yet, plans are in active development for a dark and sinister land that will house our favorite Disney villains and include at least two major attractions, dining and shopping. Reminder: Just don't eat any apples while you're there!
Piston Peak National Park, new "Cars"-themed area as part of a Frontierland expansion — TBD — This land will replace Rivers of America and Tom Sawyer Island and include two new attractions. One attraction is set to be a thrilling race through the mountains, while the other will be a family-friendly ride. There is no known opening date — however, work began July 7, 2025. At The Future of World-Building at Disney panel at SXSW 2025, Disney revealed that they've been working with a motocross company to develop new ride vehicles and shared early sketches of race car personalities that will have their own names and numbers.
Disney's Animal Kingdom
Tropical Americas — 2027 — Tropical Americas is a brand-new land that will replace Dinoland, U.S.A., and will be home to two new attractions (see below!). Construction has started this year, with the area set to open in 2027. The village will feature a large central fountain, one of Disney World's biggest quick-service restaurants and a carousel with fan-favorite Disney animals. All of Dinoland, U.S.A. has closed, as of Feb. 2, 2026.
New "Encanto" attraction — 2027 — A new ride where you can step right into the Family Madrigal's Casita! The first-ever "Encanto" ride begins after Antonio receives his gift, transforming his room into a rainforest. Join him as he explores his new space, and you might even run into other family members along the way.
New "Indiana Jones" attraction — 2027 — This new ride will replace the Dinosaur attraction and features Indy in an entirely new storyline. Indiana Jones has heard rumors of a mythical creature that inhabits an ancient Mayan temple, so he's off to explore it and take riders along for the adventure.
For a limited time, you'll get a FREE $10 Disney Gift Card with the purchase of each eligible Walt Disney World® Resort Theme Park ticket purchase. Hop on this deal now while supplies last!
EPCOT
La Poutinerie — July 1, 2026 — Your favorite spot to get poutine is transforming into La Poutinerie, Hosted by Air Canada. Refreshment Port is currently closed for the update.
Disney's Hollywood Studios
The Magic of Disney Animation — Late Summer 2026 — "Oh, boy!" Star Wars: Launch Bay will soon transform into a place where dreamers of all ages can laugh, draw and explore animated new experiences. The story of this newly reimagined space — reminiscent of the iconic Roy E. Disney Animation Building in Burbank, California and topped with Mickey's iconic Sorcerer Hat — begins as the animators have temporarily stepped away from their desks and beloved characters have come to life and are ready to play! The Emmy Award-winning short film, "Once Upon A Studio," will inspire this upcoming family experience, where you'll be able to interact with silly takes on the iconic Disney Animation headquarters, including the many different studio departments.
New "Monsters, Inc." land — TBD — A new "Monsters, Inc."-themed land is in the works and will feature Disney Parks' first-ever suspended coaster. It will feature a vertical lift that hoists the ride vehicle into the air before sending you through the door vault and zooming through the monster factor. The land's story will pick up after the "Monsters, Inc." events and will also include dining, shopping and a new theater show. Work was scheduled to begin on this project in 2025, as it takes over the Grand Avenue section of the park. Melrose's Ristorante Italiano, Muppet*Vision 3D and PizzeRizzo are now closed, as of June 7, 2025.
Walt Disney World Resort Hotels
Reimagined Treehouse Villas at Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort — summer 2026 — This cozy DVC property is getting a refreshed look with new finishes, furniture and fixtures.
Disney's BoardWalk Entertainment District — late 2026 — Starting in late 2026, new experiences will debut at Disney's BoardWalk, including Hurly-Burly, a new lounge that will be family-friendly during the day and adults 21 and older at night. Basin will also open a new retail location, which will feature unique and personalized soap products. With more details to come, another addition will be a new quick-service restaurant.
Disney Lakeshore Lodge — summer 2027 — A new resort, inspired by the magic of nature, is coming to the Bay Lake area, between Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground and Disney's Wilderness Lodge. It will be home to the Wetlands, an outdoor recreation area with dry and wet play areas, including a zero-entry pool with a lazy river.
Disney Springs
Disney Springs Dance Party — Summer 2026 — On select nights in the Marketplace, guests can stop by for a dance party featuring music from "Descendants: Wicked Wonderland" and "Camp Rock 3." The event celebrates the new original movies coming to Disney+ this summer.
Level99 — June 29, 2026 — This interactive social gaming venue is making its way to Disney Springs West Side next year. Prepare to take on 60 themed challenge rooms, duels and art hunts that will test your mental and physical prowess. Don't froget to fuel up or wind down at the venue's 2-story bar. Tickets go on sale as of June 22, 2026.
Six Ravens — Summer 2026 — From the creators of Gideon's Bakehouse, Six Ravens will offer savory snacks, including "Coffyns," yeast rolls with meat fillings inspired by a medieval European pastry.
Kakigori Kool — Summer 2026 — As a new offering from Morimoto Asia, this snack cart will serve Japan's shaved ice dessert with fruity syrups and toppings, just outside the restaurant.
Ghirardelli Soda Fountain & Chocolate Shop — 2027 — This dessert shop will undergo renovations, including more indoor seating, a refreshed layout and even some surprises. In the meantime, there will be a temporary location in Town Center, opening later in summer 2026.
What's Opened Already in 2026
Frozen Ever After refresh — Reopened Feb. 12, 2026 — The Anna, Elsa and Kristoff Audio-Animatronics figures received new updates similar to the technological advancements seen in World of Frozen at Hong Kong Disneyland.
Garden View Lounge reopening — Reopened March 19, 2026 — With new touches from "Alice in Wonderland," the Garden View Lounge - Tea Experience at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa reopened this spring. For adults and kids alike, there are savory and sweet bites, in addition to a variety of premium tea blends.
Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin — Reopened April 8, 2026 — This classic Tomorrowland ride just got an upgrade! In 2026, the ride features a new show scene (including a new robot character named Buddy), updated ride vehicles, handheld blasters, interactive targets and a digital screen with unlimited high scores. Do you have what it takes to be a Galactic Hero? Find out more about the ride's updates and the latest tips in our post!
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad refurbishment — Reopened May 3, 2026 — This lengthy refurbishment began Jan. 6, 2025, and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad remained closed for more than a year. Now reopened, you'll learn just how wild the wilderness can get. As part of a mountain-top to cavern-deep renovation, when you next make your way underground on the runaway train, prepare to behold the sight of spectacular natural caverns full of phosphorescent pools and shimmering and illuminating iridescent stalagmites and stalactites. Be careful, though. While beautiful, the Rainbow Caverns aren't as friendly as they might appear. A menacing rumble from deep below the mountain might just mean we aren't so welcome ...
Bluey's Wild World — Opened May 26, 2026 — This summer and staying beyond, you'll find Bluey and her sister, Bingo, at Conservation Station where you'll be able to play some of your favorite games from Bluey episodes with them with a fun animal twist — like butterfly keepy uppy! Snap some pics and make some heartwarming memories with your Blue Heeler friends and then step outside to discover an experience with animals native to Bluey's home country of Australia. Wackadoo!
Soarin' Across America — Reopened May 26, 2026 — To celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States of America, everyone's favorite flight expanded its route. This immersive flight experience introduces new scenic vistas for a patriotic update. The official takeoff was on May 26, 2026.
New Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run story with Mando and Grogu — Opened May 22, 2026 — A new mission has come to a galaxy far, far away that features Mando and his youngling. "The Mandalorian and Grogu" film kicked off in theaters in May 2026. Disney Imagineers captured scenes for the ride on the movie set, and you might see familiar places, such as Bespin.
Rock 'n' Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets — Reopened May 26, 2026 — If you're a Muppets fan, don't stress! The Muppets aren't leaving Hollywood Studios — they just moved to Sunset Boulevard to take over Rock 'n' Roller Coaster, which became the first Disney ride to feature the Muppets. Scooter's uncle — real estate tycoon and owner of the Muppet Theatre — J.P. Grosse has acquired a new asset: G-Force Records. The new home of The Muppets and, consequently, Electric Mayhem, the legendary rock and roll recording studio, is the perfect place to make sweet Muppet music together.
On the night of their biggest Hollywood concert ever (which anyone who's anyone is attending), the groove-tastic rock group has been busy cranking out some tunes inside the studio with the help of the finest audio engineers in the biz — penguins, of course. Scooter (who will be imagined as an Audio-Animatronics figure for the first time) has been doing his best to get this show on the road (literally) and, with assistance from Muppet Labs ... and a very fast limousine ... they might just make it onstage in time! Get ready to twist, turn and scream through the iconic scenery and landmarks of Tinseltown (with a Muppet twist) as you jam out to the most iconic, rockin' hits played by the Electric Mayhem to keep the adrenaline pumping. Rock on!
Oh, and the hilariously big guitar out front? It's getting a new paint job! A vibrant, psychedelic new design will grace the bottom of the instrument (inspired by Fozzie's retouched Studebaker from "The Muppet Movie") and the piano motif at the base will feature a single golden key as a nod to Dr. Teeth himself!
The Walt Disney Studios Lot — Opened May 26, 2026 — Animation Courtyard has been sprinkled with pixie dust as the entire area is reimagined into The Walt Disney Studios, taking inspiration from several buildings in Burbank. The studio grounds will continue to house The Little Mermaid — A Musical Adventure, as well as the updated Disney Jr. show, but ks now be the perfect place to play, relax or snack on tasty treats under lush trees. You never know who you'll see playing in the branches, soaking up the sun or digging in the grass.
Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live! — Opened May 26, 2026 — Dance along with Mickey and Minnie as they embark on a road trip to find some of their best pals — Goofy, Daisy and Pluto, too — for the party! This upbeat celebration, debuting at Disney's Hollywood Studios, kicked off on May 26, 2026.
I hope you've enjoyed this look at what's coming to Disney World in 2026 and beyond. Make sure to come back to see what's been added as you get closer to your visit.
Related: Best Time To Visit Disney World
Stay cool!
