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Credit: DisneyFall is usually one of the best times to visit Walt Disney World—cooler temps, festive treats, and thinner crowds. But in 2025, guests are walking into a whole new world. If you’re planning a trip anytime between September and December, be warned: there are a lot of changes coming your way. Some are exciting. Some are nostalgic goodbyes. And a few might completely shift how you plan your vacation.
Let’s break down 10 of the biggest changes happening at Disney World this fall.
1. A Brand-New Nighttime Parade Arrives at Magic Kingdom
Kicking off the season with a bit of sparkle, Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away officially launches on July 20 and will be dazzling guests through the fall. This nighttime parade is unlike anything we’ve seen before, featuring state-of-the-art floats themed to Encanto, Moana, Coco, and Wish.
It’s all led by Whimsy—a glowing, animated train float that’s become an instant fan favorite. And in classic Disney fashion, Jiminy Cricket even makes a hand-drawn appearance to bring the magic full circle.
2. Test Track 3.0 Opens at EPCOT
After months of teasing, the newly updated Test Track will open to the public on July 22. The ride has been completely reimagined—not just visually, but musically and thematically as well. Fans can expect nods to EPCOT’s past, like World of Motion, along with a sleeker, more immersive experience. It’s still all about designing your vehicle, but this version leans heavier into storytelling and innovation.
3. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Remains Closed
One of Magic Kingdom’s cornerstone rides, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, will remain closed for the rest of 2025. Disney is in the middle of a major reimagining of Frontierland, and unfortunately, Thunder Mountain is caught in the middle of that transformation. If it’s a must-do on your list, you’ll have to wait until at least 2026.
4. Frontierland Is Being Replaced—Sort Of
Speaking of Frontierland, parts of it have already started to disappear. As of July 7, Rivers of America, Tom Sawyer Island, and the Liberty Belle Riverboat are all permanently closed. Disney is clearing space for not one but two new themed areas: Piston Peak National Park (inspired by the Cars universe) and a much-anticipated Villains land. This marks one of the biggest thematic shifts Magic Kingdom has ever seen.
5. Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin Shuts Down
Say goodbye to zapping those aliens—at least for now. Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin will close on August 4 for a complete overhaul. While Disney hasn’t shared exactly what’s coming next, there are rumors that a new interactive experience may be on the way. Whatever it is, it won’t reopen until sometime in 2026.
6. Animal Kingdom Welcomes Zootopia
Over at Animal Kingdom, the beloved It’s Tough to Be a Bug! has officially been replaced. Coming this winter, the Zootopia: Better Together show will debut inside the Tree of Life. With the sequel Zootopia 2 releasing later this year, the timing couldn’t be better. Expect immersive visuals, character appearances, and a completely new storyline that ties into the upcoming film.
7. Spaceship Earth Closing for Refurbishment
Just when EPCOT seemed to be done with construction, Spaceship Earth is getting some attention. Disney announced that the ride will close on August 25 for a “multi-month” refurbishment. While no reopening date has been shared, many speculate it could remain closed well into 2026.
8. Hollywood Studios Gets a Monster Makeover
MuppetVision 3D and its surrounding courtyard have officially closed. In their place? A new Monsters, Inc. land that will include a door-themed coaster and an unnamed attraction. While fans were sad to say goodbye to the Muppets in that space, they’ll live on in a different way—taking over Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster when it gets rethemed in 2026. That version will star the Muppets in a brand-new musical adventure.
9. Skyliner Closure Announced for Early 2026
It’s not a fall closure, but if you’re booking ahead into next year, take note: the Disney Skyliner will shut down from January 25 through January 31 for scheduled maintenance. That’s just one week, but for those staying at Skyliner resorts like Pop Century or Art of Animation, it could impact your transportation plans.
10. Water Park Switch-Up on the Horizon
This fall, Disney’s water park schedule is doing its usual seasonal flip. Typhoon Lagoon will likely close for refurbishment starting September 8, while Blizzard Beach is set to reopen in early November. If you’re planning a splashy day, double-check the dates to make sure your preferred water park is open.
All in all, Disney World in fall 2025 is a place in transition. From fresh nighttime entertainment to massive construction projects reshaping entire lands, it’s a season of change—but also one full of exciting new beginnings.
If you’re heading down this fall, just remember to plan ahead, check those closure lists, and pack a little patience. The magic’s still there—it just might be under a few construction walls