"On the Chopping Block," More Permanent Shutdowns Could Be Coming To Disney World

As frequent visitors at Walt Disney World Resort, we’ve all witnessed many changes over the years, but the latest announcements mark some of the most significant transformations the parks have seen in a long time.

A large geodesic sphere with a triangular pattern, lit up with vibrant blue and purple lights against a twilight sky. The sphere is elevated on angled supports, surrounded by trees and greenery at its base. — Credit: Disney

Disney’s continuous evolution keeps the magic alive, but it also means saying goodbye to some beloved attractions, and you can’t keep from being a little upset when you see classic attractions close down for good.

We already said goodbye to Splash Mountain in Magic Kingdom, but that’s just the beginning for Walt Disney World.

Attractions set to close permanently in Walt Disney World

A scenic view of an amusement park in Magic Kingdom featuring a wooden dock and charming buildings beside a shimmering body of water. In the background, a rocky, mountain-like structure towers under a bright blue sky scattered with clouds. Visitors are visible strolling around, enjoying the day. — Credit: Inside the Magic

DinoLand U.S.A., U.S.A. (Animal Kingdom): DinoLand U.S.A. has been a quirky, fun part of Animal Kingdom since the park’s inception in 1998. It offered a mix of carnival games, rides, and a dinosaur-themed backdrop that many families enjoyed. However, this area is set to undergo a significant transformation.

Disney has announced that DinoLand U.S.A. will be replaced by a new land inspired by the Tropical Americas. This new area will introduce attractions based on Encanto and Indiana Jones, bringing a fresh cultural vibrancy to the Disney World park.

It’s Tough to Be a Bug (Animal Kingdom): Nestled inside the Tree of Life, It’s Tough to Be a Bug has been a staple of Animal Kingdom, providing guests with a 4D experience that’s both entertaining and educational. However, the attraction is set to close to make way for a new show themed around Zootopia.

This new addition will likely appeal to younger guests who are more familiar with the characters and storylines from the movie, ensuring that Animal Kingdom remains a relevant and exciting destination for families.

The Tree of Life at Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park in front of a clear blue sky. — Credit: Brittany DiCologero, Inside the Magic

Rivers of America and Tom Sawyer Island (Magic Kingdom): Perhaps the most surprising and controversial change is the decision to replace the Rivers of America and Tom Sawyer Island at Magic Kingdom.

These classic attractions, which have been part of the Disney park since it opened in 1971, will be transformed into a new Cars-themed land. The river, home to the Liberty Square Riverboat and a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the park, will be paved over to make way for two new attractions: a high-speed rally race through rugged terrains and a family-friendly ride featuring characters from the Cars franchise.

This transformation is part of a broader effort to modernize Frontierland, but that doesn’t mean that all fans are happy about it.

What classic Disney World attractions could be next on the chopping block?

Tomorrowland Speedway at the Magic Kingdom — Credit: Brittany DiCologero

With these major changes underway, it’s natural to speculate about what attractions might be next on Disney’s list for a revamp or complete overhaul.

Here are three that could be due for a significant update:

Tomorrowland Speedway (Magic Kingdom)

This ride sparks more nostalgia than futuristic vibes. It has long been rumored that a possible update could involve replacing the current cars or introducing a futuristic, autonomous driving experience, but it remains open currently.

Whether or not you agree with it is one thing, but there’s no doubt that the Tomorrowland Speedway is one of the next attractions to go.

Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith (Disney’s Hollywood Studios)

While this ride remains popular, its connection to Aerosmith—a band that might not resonate as strongly with younger generations—could lead to a reimagining. Recent controversies surrounding Steven Tyler, the band’s lead singer, have also sparked rumors that Disney might want to distance itself from the current theme.

A new music-based IP or a completely different concept could breathe new life into this beloved roller coaster, ensuring it continues to draw crowds for years to come.

There are rumors that Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster could be closing to make way for the Monsters Inc.-themed land coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios, but this hasn’t been confirmed. It also should be noted that Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy is being transformed into a Disney Villains show.

Rock 'n' Roller Coaster exterior — Credit: Inside the Magic

Mission: SPACE (EPCOT)

This attraction was groundbreaking when it first opened, offering guests a simulated trip to Mars. However, when EPCOT undergoes its next major transformation, Mission: SPACE could be next in line for an update.

The ride’s popularity has waned in recent years, and a reimagining could introduce new technology or tie into a current space-themed IP, keeping it fresh and exciting for guests.

Whether or not you’re excited or sad about these changes is one thing, but there’s no doubting that Walt Disney World Resort has major updates in mind for the next decade, and that will absolutely mean more permanent closures in the future.

What do you think will be the next attraction to go at Walt Disney World? Let Inside the Magic know in the comments!