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Credit: Kaleb Tapp, UnsplashThere are many exciting things happening at Walt Disney World, with new rides, attractions, and expansion on the horizon. However, several rides and attractions will close soon, leaving guests with slightly more limited options. Make sure you are aware of these eight upcoming Walt Disney World closures.
Magic Kingdom
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Big Thunder Mountain Railroad closed for its hefty refurbishment back on January 6, 2025. The classic western-themed roller coaster is not set to return until sometime in 2026. Disney has promised Big Thunder Mountain Railroad will feature “new magic” once the ride returns. While unconfirmed, it’s rumored that the coaster will feature an enhanced final lift hill, complete with new effects that match other versions of the ride.
Under the Sea – Journey of the Little Mermaid will close on July 21 for a brief refurbishment. The Little Mermaid-themed dark ride will return just a few days later on July 26.
Buzz Lightyear Space Ranger Spin will also close at the Magic Kingdom later this summer. The classic arcade-style ride will close on August 4 for a beefy refurbishment and overhaul. This refurbishment is expected to last through 2026, and the attraction will receive all kinds of upgrades, including new blasters and an additional scene.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom
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Moving on to Disney’s Animal Kingdom, several attractions will close soon. On September 2, The Boneyard will permanently close. This prehistoric-themed playground has been a popular spot for younger guests for years, but will close as part of a total rework of DinoLand U.S.A. Half of this land closed in January, with the second half set to close in 2026. The Boneyard acts as the midpoint of this project.
The second phase of this closure will include DINOSAUR, DinoLand’s big “E-ticket” thrill ride.
EPCOT
EPCOT has one major closure on the horizon. Earlier this year, Disney confirmed Spaceship Earth will close for refurbishment on August 25. This refurbishment isn’t expected to be anything major, as Spaceship Earth is scheduled to return sometime this year.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios
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Disney’s Hollywood Studios also has one major closure looming in the distance. Disney confirmed earlier this year that Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith will be closing permanently in 2026. An exact date has not yet been shared, but fans don’t have much longer to take a high-speed adventure with Aerosmith for much longer.
The coaster itself isn’t going anywhere, but Aerosmith is getting the boot. The band will be replaced by the Muppets, who will take riders on an exciting new musical journey.
Disney Skyliner
The Disney Skyliner will close on January 25, 2026, for its regular refurbishment. This closure will only last a few days, with the Skyliner reopening on January 31.
Are you visiting Walt Disney World soon? What is your favorite Disney attraction?