Credit: Jaimie Michaels, FlickrRide closures have become a familiar part of planning a theme park vacation, especially at Walt Disney World, where attractions range from cutting-edge technology to decades-old classics that require constant upkeep. While many closures are announced far in advance, even short, one-day refurbishments can disrupt carefully planned itineraries, particularly when they involve beloved characters.
This February, Magic Kingdom guests will temporarily lose access to one of the park’s most iconic Disney Princess attractions. For families with Little Mermaid fans, this is one closure you will want to plan around.
Under the Sea – Journey of the Little Mermaid Will Be Closed
Disney has confirmed that Under the Sea – Journey of the Little Mermaid will be unavailable at Magic Kingdom on February 12, 2026, for a brief refurbishment. According to the attraction’s operating calendar, the ride will reopen after its closure, but guests visiting that date will not be able to experience it.
Located in Fantasyland, the attraction takes guests through Ariel’s story using animatronics, immersive sets, and music from the animated film, with Scuttle narrating the journey. Since opening, it has been a staple for families, young children, and Disney Princess fans looking for a calm, visually rich ride experience.
While Disney has not shared details about the maintenance being performed, one-day closures are typically used for routine work such as lighting updates, ride vehicle inspections, and animatronic maintenance.
Why Ariel’s Absence at Magic Kingdom Matters
Under the Sea – Journey of the Little Mermaid is not just another Fantasyland dark ride. It plays an important role in crowd flow, acting as a high-capacity attraction that absorbs guests throughout the day. When it closes, nearby rides often see increased wait times, especially Peter Pan’s Flight and Seven Dwarfs Mine Train.
More importantly, this attraction represents one of the few permanent Disney Princess rides at Magic Kingdom. While guests can meet princesses throughout the park, Ariel’s ride offers a full storytelling experience that many families consider essential, particularly for first-time visitors.
For guests traveling with Little Mermaid fans, losing this ride for the day can feel like losing a core piece of the Magic Kingdom experience.
A Brief History of The Little Mermaid in Disney Parks
Ariel’s presence in Disney Parks dates back decades. The animated film The Little Mermaid debuted in 1989 and is widely credited with launching the Disney Renaissance era, revitalizing Disney animation, and paving the way for films like Beauty and the Beast and The Lion King.
In the parks, Ariel first appeared primarily through stage shows and character meet-and-greets. Disney-MGM Studios, now Hollywood Studios, debuted Voyage of the Little Mermaid in 1992, a live stage production that ran for years and became a fan favorite.
Magic Kingdom did not receive a dedicated Little Mermaid ride until 2012, when Under the Sea – Journey of the Little Mermaid opened as part of the New Fantasyland expansion. The attraction was a major addition, marking the first time Ariel had a permanent, story-driven ride in a U.S. Disney park.
Since then, it has remained one of Fantasyland’s most family-friendly attractions and a consistent favorite for younger guests.
Consider Skipping Magic Kingdom on February 12
If Ariel is high on your must-do list, February 12 may not be the best day to visit Magic Kingdom. Guests who have only one day in the park or are visiting for a short trip should strongly consider rearranging their itinerary.
Instead, February 12 could be a great day to visit Disney’s Hollywood Studios, where Little Mermaid fans still have solid alternatives.
Where You Can Still Experience The Little Mermaid
Hollywood Studios offers guests the chance to meet live-action Ariel, providing a different but equally memorable experience. The park is also home to The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure, a stage show that retells Ariel’s story using performers, large-scale visuals, and music from the film.
For some guests, this theatrical version offers more emotional impact than the ride itself, making it a worthwhile substitute while the Magic Kingdom attraction is unavailable.
A Larger Trend of Temporary Closures
This one-day refurbishment is part of a broader trend guests have noticed across Disney and Universal parks. Attractions are being maintained more frequently, sometimes with minimal notice, as parks balance heavy attendance with aging infrastructure.
While these closures are necessary, they highlight how important it is for guests to check park calendars before finalizing plans, especially when specific characters or rides are non-negotiable priorities.
Plan Ahead to Avoid Disappointment at Magic Kingdom
Guests visiting Walt Disney World in February should double-check attraction availability and strategically plan their park days. If Under the Sea – Journey of the Little Mermaid is a must-do, choosing a different Magic Kingdom date is the safest option.
With thoughtful planning, guests can still enjoy Ariel’s story elsewhere in the resort and avoid the disappointment of arriving at Fantasyland only to find this beloved Disney Princess ride temporarily unavailable.
For Little Mermaid fans, skipping Magic Kingdom on February 12 may be the smartest move of the trip.