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Credit: Patrick McGarvey, FlickrIf you’re planning a trip to Disney’s Hollywood Studios in 2026, brace yourself: Some big changes are on the horizon. While Disney continues its massive reimagining of the park, several fan-favorite attractions are set to close temporarily (or permanently) as part of the overhaul.
Here’s a look at the four major closures officially on the way and how they’ll reshape the park’s future.
Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster Retheme
One of Hollywood Studios’ most iconic thrill rides is gearing up for a complete identity change. The current Aerosmith version of Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster will officially shut down in early 2026 to make way for a brand-new theme centered around The Muppets.
The attraction won’t be torn down — the track and ride system are staying the same — but the story and visuals will get a full Muppet makeover featuring Dr. Teeth and the Electric Mayhem band.
Guests will soon find themselves on a high-speed journey to make it to a concert on time, guided by Scooter, Penguin sound engineers, and possibly a few secret Muppet cameos Disney hasn’t yet revealed. The updated version is slated to open by summer 2026, though no firm reopening date has been announced. Until then, fans are flocking to experience the Aerosmith version one last time.
Farewell to Muppets Courtyard
As the Muppets move to Sunset Boulevard, their longtime home — Muppets Courtyard — has officially closed to make way for a Monsters, Inc.-themed area. The land, which included the classic MuppetVision 3D* show (the last attraction Jim Henson worked on before his passing), closed on June 8, 2025, marking the end of an era.
The new area, expected to debut around 2027, will be called “Monstropolis” and will include Disney’s first-ever suspended coaster, allowing guests to “ride a door” through scenes inspired by the film’s laugh floor. While the Muppets’ departure is bittersweet, the Monsters, Inc. land promises vibrant new dining, shopping, and entertainment options — and could help revitalize a quieter corner of the park.
Animation Courtyard Transformation
The Animation Courtyard, another longtime section of Hollywood Studios, is also in the middle of a major transformation. Disney recently shut down most of the area to begin construction on the new Walt Disney Studios section of the park, leaving only The Little Mermaid: A Musical Adventure and Walt Disney Presents open during the project.
The refreshed area will include “The Magic of Disney Animation,” a whimsical “Drawn to Wonderland” playground, and an updated version of Disney Junior Play & Dance. The new expansion is currently scheduled to open in 2026, though no exact month has been confirmed. Until then, families with little ones will notice fewer kid-friendly attractions, as many of the Disney Junior meet-and-greets have been temporarily removed.
Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run Updates
Even Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge isn’t immune to change. Beginning May 22, 2026, Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run will introduce a brand-new storyline featuring The Mandalorian and Grogu. The update will bring fresh missions and visuals to the attraction, giving longtime fans a reason to hop aboard once more.
Disney hasn’t confirmed whether this update will require a temporary closure or if the changes will be tested overnight to minimize downtime. Still, visitors heading to the park in early 2026 should be prepared for possible short-term interruptions as Disney prepares for the update.
A Transitional Year for the Disney World Park
With these four closures — Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster, Muppets Courtyard, Animation Courtyard, and Smugglers Run — 2026 will be a transformative year for Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The park is evolving to include more Pixar, Star Wars, and Muppets representation while phasing out some of its older attractions and themes.
It’s a lot of change in a short amount of time, but Disney’s long-term goal is clear: to make Hollywood Studios more immersive and balanced for all ages. Fans might be losing a few favorites, but they’re also gaining new adventures that continue to push the boundaries of storytelling and technology.
So, if you’re visiting next year, plan carefully — because Hollywood Studios in 2026 will look very different from the park you remember.