Disney World Turns Its Attention To Georgia in Major Move

Disney’s been shaking things up in a surprising and bold way this summer—and one of those shifts carries a direct Georgia connection. Changes are popping up everywhere—from rides to seasonal offerings—and the “Peach State” is getting swept up in the magic, too. From closures of longtime favorites to massive resort discounts and holiday event shakeups, the company is clearly steering in a new direction.

Let’s examine what’s shifting across Walt Disney World and the shocking new change coming to Georgia.

What’s Changing Around the Parks

You might’ve heard that Disney shut down MuppetVision 3D in June of this year, marking the end of a Henson-era classic that has entertained guests since the park’s early days. A few nearby eateries, like PizzeRizzo and Mama Melrose’s, are also permanently closed, adding fuel to the speculation. All signs now point to something major coming to that area of Hollywood Studios.

Disney has confirmed plans for a Monsters, Inc.-themed land—so get ready to walk through Monstropolis in the upcoming years, complete with new attractions, immersive theming, and character meet-and-greets.

That isn’t even the only shake-up. Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster is expected to close in early 2026 and reopen with a complete Muppets-themed makeover—a surprising twist no one saw coming. Big Thunder Mountain is closed for refurbishment until sometime in 2026. The same is true for Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin, which has shut down for a significant overhaul in Tomorrowland.

At EPCOT, Spaceship Earth is also currently closed for maintenance. While Disney hasn’t announced an exact reopening date, signs point to a potential comeback near the end of 2025—possibly with updated narration, effects, and ride technology.

Holiday Shake-Ups

When it comes to the holidays, Disney doesn’t always keep things static. This year, for instance, fans of the Grand Floridian’s iconic gingerbread house (a tradition since 1999) had to say “not this year,” as the lobby is undergoing renovations. That beloved display is on pause—but good news: other gingerbread designs are still spreading the cheer across resort lobbies.

And then there’s the ripple effect of changing attractions. Not having your favorite seasonal staple can make the atmosphere feel… different. But Disney’s still hustling hard elsewhere across the celebration spectrum.

Discounts Galore—Countless Ways to Save

Disney’s also rolling out a hefty discount lineup—17 offers and counting—to help guests chase the magic affordably:

• Up to 20% off rooms this holiday, plus a $50–$100 dining & shopping promo card with qualifying tickets

• Military and Youth Group rates

• Disney+ subscriber and Annual Passholder deals—some letting you save up to 40% on rooms

Disney is giving Annual Passholders a solid reason to book a holiday getaway this year. From October 12 through December 25, 2025, Passholders can save up to 30% on select Disney Resort rooms. Just remember it’s only valid Sunday through Thursday nights, and you’ll need an active pass to qualify.

Disney’s broadly dialing up the savings game—but one of those deals specifically champions Georgia…

Something Massive Is Brewing Between Disney and Georgia

Here’s where things get interesting: Georgia residents score exclusive holiday room rates starting at just $129 per night (plus tax) at Disney’s All‑Star Sports Resort, for stays most nights between Nov 16–29 and Dec 12–25, 2025.

And that’s just the starting point. Other steeply discounted rates include:

• $199/night (plus tax) for Preferred Rooms at Port Orleans Riverside
• $299/night for Lion King Family Suites at Art of Animation
• $319/night for Deluxe Studios at Saratoga Springs
• $429/night for Savanna View rooms at Animal Kingdom Lodge
• $449/night for Resort View rooms at BoardWalk Inn

In addition to the sweet pricing, staying at a Disney Resorts Collection hotel means you can enjoy Early Theme Park Entry—you can slip into the parks 30 minutes early for select attractions, shops, and dining.

So yeah—Disney is turning the attention of its holiday offers toward Georgia and saying, “Hey, come spend the season with us.”

Why Georgia?

Disney may offer these discounts to Georgia residents for a few key reasons. With several popular attractions closed for refurbishment and the holidays looking slightly different this year, Disney could be trying to boost bookings by targeting nearby states. Georgia is close enough for a quick trip, making it the perfect market to tap into—especially for families looking for a festive getaway that doesn’t require expensive airfare or long travel days.

By sweetening the deal with exclusive offers, Disney keeps resort rooms full and encourages regional guests to visit—even without all the usual holiday frills. Plus, Georgia, one of the Southeast’s largest states, provides an enormous opportunity for Disney to attract repeat visitors who may be more likely to return throughout the year.

This Might Just Be the Beginning

That said, Disney is tweaking the experience in meaningful ways—closing old favorites, rolling out new lands, shaking up holiday staples, and layering on discounts. Crucially, Georgia is front and center in those holiday savings.

I’m left wondering: what’s next? Could we see Atlanta‑based pop‑ups or partnerships? Maybe a Georgia Resident ticket add‑on or special ride previews? Or even Lightning Lane perks tied to Georgia proof-of-residency? Disney’s shown it’s willing to tailor moves to specific markets—so it seems plausible.

So stay tuned—because Disney’s paying attention, and Georgia’s feeling the spark.