Your Guide to What’s New at Walt Disney World in 2026 & 2027
If you’ve been waiting for the perfect time to plan your next Walt Disney World trip, 2026 and 2027 are shaping up to be two of the most exciting years yet! With beloved rides getting fresh upgrades, brand-new lands opening, and even a new deluxe resort on the horizon, there’s a lot of magic to look forward to. Here’s a breakdown of the biggest updates you won’t want to miss.
What’s New at Walt Disney World for 2026
Magic Kingdom
- Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin closes in August 2025 and will reopen in 2026 with updated vehicles, new animatronics, enhanced targets, and better blasters.
- Big Thunder Mountain Railroad will return in spring 2026 after a major refurbishment with smoother tracks and new magical effects.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios
- Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster will be reimagined with a brand-new Muppets theme in 2026, bringing humour and music to the high-speed thrills.
- The former Star Wars Launch Bay area is being transformed into The Walt Disney Studios, which will include The Magic of Disney Animation, Animation Academy, a whimsical Alice in Wonderland play area, and Disney Jr. shows.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom
- DinoLand U.S.A. and DINOSAUR will close permanently in February 2026 to make way for the new Tropical Americas expansion.
Special Events & Dining
- Cool Kid Summer returns in 2026 with dance parties, character meet-and-greets, and interactive family fun.
- The Beak and Barrel, a Pirates of the Caribbean–themed lounge, opened in August 2025 and will be a must-visit in 2026.
- Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away, Magic Kingdom’s new nighttime parade that debuted in 2025, will continue delighting guests.
Booking Perks
Planning a 2026 trip comes with benefits:
- Free Disney Dining and Drinks plans when you book your holiday package with Charter Travel
- Free water park access on check-in day.
- Complimentary parking, early entry, early dining reservations, and extended evening hours for Deluxe Resort and Villa guests.
What’s New at Walt Disney World for 2027
Disney’s Animal Kingdom – Tropical Americas
Said to be opening late 2027, this colourful new land will feature:
- An Encanto–themed dark ride exploring Antonio’s rainforest adventure inside Casita.
- A reimagined Indiana Jones ride set in a Mayan temple.
- A carousel with hand-carved Disney characters.
- A sprawling quick-service hacienda restaurant.
- A new play area replacing The Boneyard.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios – Monsters, Inc. Land
While timing is still being finalised, the Monsters, Inc. land is expected around 2027–2028, with 2027 a strong possibility. It will include Disney’s first-ever suspended roller coaster.
Magic Kingdom Expansions
- Villains Land is under construction beyond Big Thunder Mountain, promising attractions, dining, and shopping themed to Disney’s most iconic villains. No confirmed date yet, but work is progressing.
- Piston Peak National Park (Cars Land) construction began in 2025. While opening is expected later, 2027 may showcase significant progress toward this massive expansion.
Resorts – Disney Lakeshore Lodge
This brand-new deluxe resort will open in 2027 between Wilderness Lodge and Fort Wilderness. Expect around 900 rooms, waterfront cabins, and a lakeside Princess and the Frog–themed restaurant.
Final Thoughts
Between updated classics like Buzz Lightyear and Big Thunder in 2026, and massive expansions like Tropical Americas and Disney Lakeshore Lodge in 2027, Walt Disney World is entering an incredible new era. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a foodie, or a family looking for unforgettable experiences, these two years promise to deliver the magic in a big way.
If you’ve been waiting for the right moment to plan your next Disney adventure, 2026–2027 might just be the sweet spot.
