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Credit: rickpilot_2000, FlickrThe year 2025 has ushered in a series of significant transformations at Walt Disney World Resort, marked by numerous attraction closures, both temporary and permanent.
These changes, while paving the way for new and enhanced experiences, have left many guests navigating a landscape of nostalgia and anticipation.
Winter Summerland Miniature Golf: A Seasonal Closure
Among the notable closures is the Winter Summerland Miniature Golf, a whimsical retreat that has delighted guests with its festive charm. Scheduled for phased refurbishment from April 28 to June 16, 2025, both the Winter and Summer courses will undergo updates. Disney plans to refurbish them sequentially, ensuring that one course remains open for guests during the renovation period.
Winter Summerland offers two 18-hole courses:
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Summer Course: Designed for those who enjoy the Florida sun, featuring a tropical Christmas setting.
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Winter Course: Catering to fans of the North Pole, with snowy landscapes and festive decorations.
These courses provide a unique blend of holiday spirit and mini-golf fun, making them a favorite among visitors. The upcoming refurbishments are anticipated to introduce fresh designs and interactive elements, enhancing the overall experience.
A Look at Other Disney World Closures and Transformations in 2025
Disney World is undergoing significant changes, with several attractions closing to make way for new experiences. Here’s a curated list of notable closures and transformations:
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Magic Kingdom:
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Big Thunder Mountain Railroad: This beloved coaster closed on January 6, 2025, for a year-long refurbishment. The updates aim to introduce new magical enhancements, potentially incorporating special effects reminiscent of its Disneyland counterpart.
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Liberty Belle Riverboat, Rivers of America, and Tom Sawyer Island: The iconic riverboat, Rivers of America, and Tom Sawyer Island are slated to cease operations at some point this year to accommodate the park’s expansion, which will introduce Cars-themed attractions and a Disney Villains land, but a closing date hasn’t been announced as of yet.
- Hall of Presidents: The Liberty Square attraction is currently undergoing refurbishment as Disney does every year following a Presidential Election. Donald Trump’s re-election will see his animatronic take the spot of the acting president.
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Disney’s Hollywood Studios:
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Muppet*Vision 3D: After years of entertaining guests, this attraction is set to close permanently on June 7, 2025. The closure is part of a broader plan to introduce a Monsters, Inc.-themed land in the Muppets Courtyard area.
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Voyage of the Little Mermaid: This live show has been permanently closed since March 15, 2020, with plans for a new Little Mermaid-themed musical adventure to debut at some point this year.
- Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith: While Disney has not announced a closing date, the company has confirmed that The Muppets will take over Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster. Obviously, this will take place after Muppet*Vision 3D closes permanently, but it’s unclear how long Disney will wait before beginning the refurbishment and transformation.
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Disney’s Animal Kingdom:
- DinoLand U.S.A.: Significant portions of this area began closing already, to pave the way for a new Tropical Americas-themed land. The transformation will introduce attractions inspired by Encanto and Indiana Jones, with completion expected by 2027. Right now, DINOSAUR is still alive, but the attraction will — at some point — close permanently.
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EPCOT:
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Test Track: Temporarily closed for refurbishment, Test Track is expected to reopen in summer 2025 with updated features and enhanced ride experiences.
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Gran Fiesta Tour Starring The Three Caballeros: Located in the Mexico Pavilion, this attraction has been closed since early January, undergoing refurbishment. It is expected to reopen on Saturday, March 15, which will hopefully be the case.
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Anticipated New Experiences
Amidst these closures, Disney is introducing several new attractions and experiences:
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Monsters, Inc. Land: Replacing the Muppets Courtyard, this area will feature attractions and entertainment themed around the beloved Monsters, Inc. franchise.
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Zootopia-Themed Show: In Disney’s Animal Kingdom, the “It’s Tough to Be a Bug!” show will be replaced by a new Zootopia-themed 4D film titled “Zootopia: Better Zoogether,” opening in winter 2025.
Navigating Your 2025 Disney World Visit
For guests planning a visit to Disney World in 2025, it’s essential to stay informed about these changes. Regularly check Disney’s official website and park maps for the latest updates on attraction statuses and new openings. While some closures may be disappointing, the promise of new and enhanced experiences offers exciting opportunities for exploration and enjoyment.
In conclusion, 2025 marks a transformative year for Disney World, with a blend of fond farewells and exciting new beginnings. As the resort evolves, guests can look forward to a reimagined landscape that continues to capture the magic and wonder that Disney is renowned for.