The Next Ride To Close Permanently at EPCOT

For a while, Disney fans have wondered when EPCOT would finally make another big move. With the other Disney World parks racing ahead with new lands, ride refurbishments, and fresh IP takeovers, EPCOT has quietly stayed the course—until now.

Significant changes are already in motion across Walt Disney World, and all signs suggest that EPCOT’s next transformation could involve saying goodbye to one of its most charming (but outdated) attractions.

Disney’s Other Parks Are Under Construction

Let’s take a look at what’s happening elsewhere.

Animal Kingdom is moving ahead with the newly announced Tropical Americas land. This reimagining replaces the long-fading DINOLAND U.S.A. and is expected to attract attractions such as Encanto and Indiana Jones. It’s a bold new vision for a park that needs fresh energy.

Hollywood Studios is undergoing a quiet identity shift of its own. Star Wars Launch Bay is closing to make way for an animation-focused area, while Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster is getting rethemed with a Muppets overlay. The rumors don’t stop there—whispers of a full Monsters, Inc. land, possibly anchored by a new family ride, have fans excitedly buzzing.

And over at Magic Kingdom, the transformation is even more dramatic. Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin shuts down this August for a massive refresh, and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad won’t be back until sometime in 2026. But the biggest shock? Disney has closed Rivers of America, Tom Sawyer Island, and the Liberty Belle riverboat to make room for a new Cars-themed land known as Piston Peak National Park. There’s even talk of a long-awaited Villains Land lurking just beyond the horizon.

So what about EPCOT?

EPCOT’s Recent Changes and New Struggles

To be fair, EPCOT has seen its share of updates. From the arrival of Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind to Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure and the Moana-inspired Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana, there’s been movement. And fans recently welcomed a brand-new nighttime spectacular, Luminous: The Symphony of Us.

The most recent change? Test Track reopened July 22, 2025, with an updated look and nods to the old World of Motion attraction. The visuals are sleek, the concept is clever, and the ride has been modernized for a new generation. There’s just one problem—it keeps breaking down.

Despite the glow-up, Test Track has already developed a reputation for inconsistent operation, frequent downtime, and frustrated guests waiting in line for hours just to be turned away. Hopefully, Disney will get these issues fixed asap.

Even so, EPCOT is finally showing signs of life beyond being a “festival park.” Disney has been adding touches of “magic between festivals” with more character sightings, small shows, and pop-up entertainment to keep the atmosphere lively year-round.

But with new energy comes tough decisions; many fans believe they already know what’s next.

A Likely Target

Gran Fiesta Tour Starring The Three Caballeros inside the Mexico Pavilion has quietly chugged along since 2007. The boat ride replaced the original El Rio del Tiempo, adding Donald Duck, José Carioca, and Panchito to inject some Disney flair into the cultural showcase. While nostalgic and fun for longtime fans, the attraction is starting to feel out of place—especially in a park rapidly embracing bold, modern storytelling.

The ride doesn’t showcase a currently popular Disney IP. Most guests under 10 barely recognize The Three Caballeros, and there’s little merchandising or media presence to keep them top of mind. Visually, the attraction hasn’t aged as gracefully as Disney would like, especially compared to the stunning detail, color, and animatronics in newer experiences like Frozen Ever After or Ratatouille.

That’s why so many people believe Coco is waiting in the wings—and why the subsequent permanent closure at EPCOT might just be inside that giant pyramid.

Why Coco Could Be the Future

Pixar’s Coco (2017) was both a commercial and a critical hit. It told the story of Miguel, a young aspiring musician who finds himself in the Land of the Dead and uncovers long-lost family secrets. With its bold colors, emotional storytelling, and cultural celebration, Coco has earned a permanent place in the hearts of Disney fans.

The Mexico Pavilion would be a natural fit for a Coco-themed boat ride. Fans have long dreamed of gliding past glowing marigolds, spirited skeletons, and a heartwarming finale set to “Remember Me.” It’s the kind of immersive, story-driven experience Disney has increasingly leaned into—and it would bring more foot traffic to the pavilion.

EPCOT’s Next Big Move

EPCOT may not have the same buzz right now as the other parks, but change is coming. Test Track’s rocky reopening, the push for in-between-festival fun, and the park’s slow embrace of newer IP all point toward a major shift. And Gran Fiesta Tour—as charming as it is—might be the next to say goodbye.

If Coco replaces it, it could mark a powerful new chapter for EPCOT that blends storytelling, culture, and emotional depth in a way few attractions can.

So don’t be surprised if, sometime soon, you hear a familiar guitar strum echoing from inside the Mexico Pavilion. EPCOT’s next significant change might be closer than we think.