Credit: DisneySomething has clearly shifted at Walt Disney World. The parks are still lively, but the constant, overwhelming crowd levels many guests once associated with summer vacations have softened. Disney has noticed—and it isn’t sitting still. Instead, the company is loading summer 2026 with a long list of reasons to visit, stacking deals, experiences, and entertainment across every corner of the resort.
This isn’t a quiet adjustment. It’s a full summer strategy designed to make skipping Disney feel like missing out.
Disney Turns Summer 2026 Into a Season-Long Event
The foundation of Disney’s plan is the return of Cool KIDS’ SUMMER, running from May 26 through September 8, 2026. Rather than treating summer as business as usual, Disney is framing it as a destination-wide celebration. Attractions are refreshed, new experiences are introduced, and limited-time activities appear across all four theme parks.
Disney is also encouraging guests to extend their days beyond the parks, tying in theatrical releases that can be caught at Disney Springs. Internally, this summer is being positioned as something bigger—a complete Disney experience that stretches from morning to night.
1. A Longer Vacation Without Paying More
One of the most attention-grabbing offers gives guests extra time without extra cost. When you book a qualifying four-night, four-day (or longer) Walt Disney Travel Company room and ticket package, Disney adds two more hotel nights and park days.
That turns a standard trip into nearly a whole week, giving families room to slow down, enjoy resort days, and avoid the rushed feeling that often comes with shorter visits.
2. Up to 30% Off Select Disney Resort Hotels
Disney is also offering broad hotel discounts, with savings of up to 30% at select Disney Resort hotels for stays from May 1 through October 33, 2026.
This deal alone lowers the barrier for summer travel and makes on-property stays more accessible during peak vacation months.
3. Florida Resident Discounts Up to 35%
Florida residents receive an even bigger incentive. Locals can save up to 35% on select Disney Resort hotel rooms during the summer season.
These discounts make quick getaways and last-minute trips far more appealing for guests who live close enough to take advantage of them.
4. Annual Passholder Discounts Up to 40%
Annual Passholders get the deepest savings of all, with discounts reaching up to 40% on select resort rooms.
This move encourages Passholders to turn park visits into overnight stays while rewarding loyalty at the same time.
5. Free Water Park Admission on Check-In Day
Guests staying at Disney Resorts Collection hotels between May 26 and September 8, 2026, receive complimentary admission to a Disney water park on their arrival day.
Both Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach will be open during this period, allowing families to choose the park that best suits their vibe and energy level.
6. Free Dining for Kids
Dining costs add up quickly, and Disney is addressing that head-on. In 2026, kids ages 3 to 9 can receive a complimentary dining plan when adults purchase a qualifying package that includes a dining plan and a Disney Resort hotel stay.
It’s a budget-friendly perk that also simplifies planning and daily decision-making.
7. Bluey Arrives at Animal Kingdom
Beginning summer 2026, Bluey and Bingo head to Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Families can dance, play games inspired by the show, take photos with the characters, and learn about animals native to Australia.
It’s an interactive experience that fits naturally with Animal Kingdom’s conservation theme.
8. Toy Story Takes Over the Diamond Horseshoe
At Magic Kingdom, Cool KIDS’ SUMMER brings Jessie’s Roundup to the Diamond Horseshoe. Jessie, Woody, and friends host a western-style experience filled with crafts, dancing, singing, and high-energy family fun.
This gives families another indoor option that doesn’t revolve around ride queues.
9. Goofy Takes Over EPCOT
EPCOT leans fully into playful energy with Goofy’s Game Machine at CommuniCore Hall. Guests can join Goofy, the Goof Troop, and DJ Dance Pants for silly, kid-friendly games like Goofy Says, balloon challenges, and parachute-style play.
It’s EPCOT at its most relaxed and family-forward.
10. A New Mickey & Minnie Stage Show at Hollywood Studios
Disney’s Hollywood Studios debuts a new stage production inspired by Mickey Mouse Clubhouse. Mickey and Minnie lead families through interactive songs, dancing, and storytelling as they search for their missing friends.
It’s upbeat, interactive, and designed with younger guests in mind.
11. Buzz Lightyear and Big Thunder Mountain Reopen
Spring 2026 brings the return of Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin with upgraded blasters, new characters, and improved gameplay that makes friendly competition even more fun.
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad also reopens with new effects and a refreshed storyline, offering a fresh take on one of Magic Kingdom’s most beloved attractions.
12. A Mandalorian Mission Joins Smugglers Run
Starting May 22, guests at Hollywood Studios can experience a new mission aboard Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run featuring Din Djarin and Grogu.
For the first time, riders will have control over which planets their ship visits, making each flight feel more personalized and unique.
13. Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster Gets a Muppets Makeover
The reimagined Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster races into Hollywood Studios this summer, powered by Electric Mayhem and the chaotic fun of The Muppets.
It blends high-speed thrills with humor in a way that Disney hopes will appeal across generations.
14. Soarin’ Across America Returns
Soarin’ receives an all-new flight experience celebrating the United States in honor of its 250th birthday. The updated attraction launches by Memorial Day and showcases the country’s landscapes from coast to coast.
15. Character Moments During Early Theme Park Entry
Disney Resort hotel guests will find special surprises during the daily 30-minute early theme park entry period. Characters will appear across all four parks, giving early risers exclusive moments before the day officially begins.
16. Extra Family Fun at Select Disney Resorts
For summer only, guests staying at Disney’s Pop Century Resort, Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, and Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside will enjoy additional kid-focused activities and scheduled character visits.
These enhancements build on existing offerings, such as movies under the stars and poolside games.
17. A Brand-New Land Opens at Hollywood Studios
Closing out summer 2026 is the debut of The Magic of Disney Animation at Hollywood Studios. The reimagined Animation Courtyard will feature interactive animation experiences, character meet-and-greets, and spaces inspired by the animation process itself.
Yes—a brand-new land is coming.
Disney Isn’t Holding Back This Summer
Summer 2026 isn’t about subtle changes. Between deep discounts, returning attractions, brand-new entertainment, and even a new land, Disney is making a clear statement. If guests are deciding where to spend their summer vacation, Walt Disney World wants to make that decision as easy as possible.