Credit: Inside the MagicIf you’re heading to Walt Disney World this October, you’ll want to be fully informed about the latest attraction, resort, and pool closures happening around the property. With refurbishments, permanent shutdowns, and massive overhauls across the parks and resorts, guests could find themselves caught off guard if they don’t check the latest updates. Luckily, we’ve compiled everything you need to know to ensure your trip is nothing short of magical—even with a few “Pardon Our Pixie Dust” signs in the way.
Pool Closures at Disney World Resorts
Nothing says “vacation” like a relaxing day by the pool—but several Disney Resort hotel pools are temporarily unavailable this fall. Here’s what to know:
Old Key West Resort — Miller’s Road Pool Closure
Starting September 29th through late November, the Miller’s Road Leisure Pool at Disney’s Old Key West Resort is closed for scheduled maintenance. Thankfully, the resort has three other pools still open, including the Sandcastle Pool, and the leisure pools at Old Turtle Pond and South Point. So, while this closure is inconvenient, you’ll still have plenty of options for a refreshing swim.
All-Star Movies — Fantasia Kiddie Pool
The Fantasia kiddie pool has been closed since September 8th, with a reopening date expected in late October. Disney hasn’t confirmed an exact return date yet. In the meantime, guests at All-Star Movies Resort can still enjoy the Fantasia Feature Pool and Duck Pond Pool, and even visit the kiddie pools at All-Star Music and All-Star Sports.
Animal Kingdom Lodge — Samawati Springs Pool Slide
At Kidani Village, the Samawati Springs Pool Slide is closed for maintenance starting September 8th. The pool itself remains open, and guests looking for a splash of adventure can still enjoy the slide at Uzima Springs Pool over at Jambo House. Expect some construction noise and minor visual disruptions in the area.
What’s Closed in the Parks: October 4–11, 2025
Let’s break down what you can expect across all four theme parks and beyond.
EPCOT
Spaceship Earth
One of EPCOT’s most iconic rides, Spaceship Earth, has been closed for routine refurbishment since August 25th. While no major changes are expected, the closure includes the Project Tomorrow post-show area. Disney hasn’t set a reopening date, but it is expected to return later in the year—hopefully before the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival wraps up.
Magic Kingdom
Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin
This fan-favorite Tomorrowland attraction closed on August 4th and won’t reopen until 2026. But there’s a silver lining—Buzz is getting a major upgrade. Expect new ride vehicles, enhanced gameplay (hello, handheld blasters!), reactive targets, and even a new ride scene featuring a fresh character. Early tests have impressed Cast Members and fans alike.
Liberty Square Riverboat & Tom Sawyer Island
These beloved classics are permanently closed as of July 7th, making way for a brand-new land: Piston Peak National Park, inspired by Disney’s Planes: Fire & Rescue. Construction is already underway, and the area is set to feature two all-new attractions with a beautiful National Park aesthetic.
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
“The Wildest Ride in the Wilderness” is currently closed for a major refurbishment and won’t return until sometime in 2026. When it does, expect stunning new scenes like the Rainbow Caverns, complete with glowing stalactites and stalagmites. Ride testing has begun, so stay tuned!
Tortuga Tavern
This seasonal dining location is currently closed. Shrubs and construction walls were recently removed, but there’s no official reopening date. We’ll keep our eyes peeled!
Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Kali River Rapids
If you’re planning to ride this wet-and-wild attraction, you’re out of luck until December 2025. This annual closure typically coincides with cooler months and focuses on maintenance and touch-ups.
DinoLand U.S.A. Transformation
Major changes are happening here. The area is being transformed into Pueblo Esperanza, themed to the Tropical Americas. Here’s what’s already closed:
-
TriceraTop Spin
-
Fossil Fun Games
-
Chester & Hester’s Dinosaur Treasures
-
The Boneyard (closed permanently as of September 2nd)
Remaining open—for now—are DINOSAUR, Restaurantosaurus, and a few snack stands. The rest of the land will officially close by February 2nd, 2026.
It’s Tough to Be a Bug
This long-running 3D show has been permanently replaced by Zootopia: Better Zoogether!, debuting November 7th, 2025. Expect a new stage show with characters like Heidi Howler and immersive elements celebrating Zoogether Day.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Animation Courtyard
Closed on September 25th, this area is being reimagined as Walt Disney Studios, a tribute to Disney’s animation legacy. New offerings include:
-
The Magic of Disney Animation (taking over Star Wars Launch Bay)
-
Drawn to Wonderland (an indoor play space)
-
A refreshed Disney Jr. Play and Dance! show
Muppets Courtyard Closures
MuppetVision 3D, PizzeRizzo, and Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano are now closed. This entire area is being transformed into a new Monsters, Inc. land. But don’t worry—The Muppets will be back in 2026 with a brand-new experience replacing Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster.
Water Parks & Mini Golf
Blizzard Beach
Closed again as of September 8th for seasonal refurbishment. Fortunately, Typhoon Lagoon remains open for those looking to cool off.
Fantasia Gardens & Fairways Mini Golf
The Fantasia Fairways course is closed for refurbishment through November 7th. The Fantasia Gardens course remains open, but tee times are not available—walk-ups only. Don’t forget Winter Summerland still offers two more courses!
Disney Resorts & Entertainment
Jellyrolls — Disney’s BoardWalk
A longtime favorite, Jellyrolls closed permanently on April 19th, 2025. The popular piano bar hinted that it may “make a move” to a new location in the future, but no details have been confirmed.
While closures at Disney World are never fun, they’re often a sign of exciting things to come. Whether it’s thrilling new attractions, upgraded ride experiences, or much-needed maintenance, Disney continues to evolve—and we’re here to help you navigate every twist and turn.
As always, keep checking back with Inside the Magic for the latest updates, sneak peeks, and tips to make the most of your Disney vacation—even when construction zones and refurbishments are part of the magic.