Credit: Inside The MagicIf you plan to visit the Walt Disney World Resort parks over the next few months, you might want to plan and prepare for rides to be closed.
Disney World Parks to Experience Significant Closures Next Month: What You Need To Know
Refurbishments and ride closures for maintenance are an established part of the experience at Walt Disney World, a tradition since the resort’s inception over 50 years ago. It’s a rare occasion to visit the “Most Magical Place on Earth” when every attraction is fully operational. Thus, being aware of scheduled closures beforehand can significantly enhance the visitor experience upon arrival.
Among the closures, one of the most notable for many guests, mainly those nostalgic for classic Disney rides, is Peter Pan’s Flight. This iconic dark ride in Fantasyland consistently ranks among the Magic Kingdom’s most popular attractions, often with one of the most extended wait times in the park.
Scheduled to close from July 8 until August 21, Disney has not disclosed specific reasons for the downtime, but a construction permit filed by Disney Imagineering in May suggests visible enhancements. InterAmerica Stage, Inc., renowned for stage rigging and machinery, is listed as the contractor, indicating work on guest-facing elements of the ride.
Over at EPCOT, Test Track shut its doors for refurbishment on June 17, with an indefinite closure period extending beyond August. Disney has teased concept art revealing substantial changes, including a redesigned outdoor facade and new show scenes, potentially incorporating elements from Test Track’s predecessor, World of Motion. While a reopening date in spring 2025 has been projected, it remains unconfirmed by Disney.
Meanwhile, The Voyage of the Little Mermaid live show has remained closed since the COVID-19 pandemic forced Walt Disney World to shut down in 2020. In 2023, Disney confirmed the original show would not return, announcing a new iteration featuring innovative set pieces, advanced effects, and a fresh design reflecting Ariel’s perspective.
Scheduled to debut in fall 2024, the revamped show will blend motion capture, puppetry, and live performances, featuring beloved songs like “Part of Your World,” “Poor Unfortunate Souls,” and “Kiss the Girl.”
Adding to the mix of closures, a substantial rumor looms over Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. Disney filed a construction permit on June 14, 2024, indicating general construction work slated to continue until August 8, 2025. Coastal Steel Inc., known for its expertise in steel erection for roller coasters and ride systems, is listed as the contractor. While Disney has not confirmed any plans, speculation suggests a potential closure around August.
Awareness of these scheduled closures is crucial for visitors planning vacations to Walt Disney World. While disruptions are inevitable, staying informed allows guests to adjust their itineraries and expectations, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable experience at the theme parks.
Every Disney World park, including Animal Kingdom, has a list of rides that will shut down. Your Walt Disney World tickets were not cheap, so make them count; don’t get blindsided by crowds, Lightning Lane prices, and attraction closures.
The scheduled refurbishments and closures at Walt Disney World, including iconic attractions like Peter Pan’s Flight and Test Track, impact guests by potentially limiting their choices and altering their park experience. Here’s how guests can plan accordingly. Check Disney’s official announcements and website for the latest information on ride closures and refurbishments.
Adjust your park schedule if a favorite ride or show is closed during your planned visit. Prioritize open attractions or explore other areas of the park that may have shorter wait times due to closures elsewhere. Recognize that refurbishments can sometimes extend beyond initial estimates. Ensure you know everything you need about your upcoming Disney Park and Disney Springs vacation to enjoy this Orlando Disney experience.
Take advantage of shows, dining experiences, character meet-and-greets, and other entertainment options unaffected by closures. This ensures you still have a complete and enjoyable day at the park. By staying informed and flexible, guests can navigate planned closures and refurbishments effectively, maximizing their enjoyment of Walt Disney World while accommodating necessary maintenance and improvements.