What’s New at Disney World in 2024, 2025, and Beyond

Upcoming Rides, Attractions, Refurbishments, and More!

Are you ready to learn about the latest developments at Disney World? We’ll take a closer look at the thrilling new rides, attractions, resort renovations, and more that Disney World has in store for its visitors. We’ll feature what’s already open, what’s under construction now, and what’s still to come.

As we explore what’s new at Disney World in 2024, 2025, and beyond, I’ll also share my family’s insights, expectations, and tips, which we’ve gained through our frequent visits to the park.

We can’t wait to experience all the amazing new features and upgrades first-hand, and we’re thrilled to share our enthusiasm with you. Come along with us as we journey into the future of Disney World and discover all the fantastic things that await. Let’s begin!

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In This Article:

New Rides and Attractions at Disney World (2024)

2024 brings plenty of new rides, attractions, resort offerings, and more to Walt Disney World Resort. They are as follows:

Tiana’s Bayou Adventure

• Opened: June 28, 2024
• Location: Magic Kingdom, Frontierland
• Experience: Musical, Cultural Exploration
• Description: An adventure through the bayous that promises to be as vibrant and soulful as the movie it’s inspired by.
• Who It’s Best For: All ages, especially families and fans of “The Princess and the Frog.”

Concept Art | Image © Disney

In the summer of 2024, Magic Kingdom introduced an exciting Magic Kingdom ride called Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. It replaces the recently closed Splash Mountain ride.

This new Disney World ride is set in the lush bayous of Louisiana and inspired by “The Princess and the Frog.” It promises to immerse guests in a world of music, culture, and Princess Tiana’s enduring spirit. The ride’s story picks up where the film’s “final kiss” left off and features powerful music from the movie (plus a brand new song).

As a family deeply fond of Tiana’s tale, we’re loving the chance to join Tiana and Louis on this musical adventure. My wife and I couldn’t wait to experience this new Disney ride for the first time with our children.

Country Bear Musical Jamboree

• Opened: July 17, 2024
• Location: Magic Kingdom, Frontierland
• Experience: Animatronic Stage Show, Musical Comedy
• Description: A refreshed version of this classic that’s sure to entertain with its blend of humor and new musical styles.
• Who It’s Best For: All ages, particularly those who appreciate Disney’s nostalgic charm.

Image © Disney

The original Country Bear Jamboree was a popular Frontierland attraction that had been entertaining guests for many years. New as of Summer 2024, the bears are performing a brand-new act featuring Disney songs reimagined in a variety of musical styles, from country to rockabilly and bluegrass. With the change comes a slightly new name… Country Bear Musical Jamboree.

My family has a special fondness for the original show, which we always made sure to see on every visit. We loved the quirky humor and catchy tunes, and we’re excited to experience these familiar characters in a new light with updated music that promises to be both fresh and nostalgic. It demonstrates Disney’s commitment to revitalizing its classic attractions for new generations.

New Scenes in Star Tours – The Adventures Continue

• Opened: April 5, 2024
• Location: Disney’s Hollywood Studios
• Experience: Simulator Ride, Space Adventure
• Description: Now featuring characters and stories from the latest Star Wars series.
• Who It’s Best For: Families, teens, and adults; a must-do for Star Wars fans.

The Star Tours attraction has been updated with new adventures featuring characters from “Ahsoka,” “Andor,” and “The Mandalorian.” This is great news for Star Wars fans, and my family loves visiting Star Wars destinations and attractions, so I’m excited to see these recent stories and characters included in the Star Tours experience. What’s exciting is that there are over 250 different adventures to experience, so every visit will be unique and exciting.

It’s worth noting that Star Wars: Galactic Spectacular and Jedi Training Academy: Trials of the Temple at Hollywood Studios have permanently closed.

Communicore Hall and Plaza

• Opened: June 10, 2024
• Location: EPCOT, World Celebration
• Experience: Festival Center, Interactive Exhibits
• Description: Designed as the new heart of EPCOT’s festivals, offering diverse experiences from food to art.
• Who It’s Best For: All ages, especially those who enjoy EPCOT’s festivals and culinary experiences.

Concept Art | Image © Disney

EPCOT has launched Communicore Hall and Plaza in its World Celebration neighborhood. As festival enthusiasts who have enjoyed everything from the Food and Wine Festival to the Festival of the Arts, we are particularly excited about this development. The idea of having a dedicated space that brings these beloved events into the heart of EPCOT is thrilling.

The establishment of an outdoor stage, a demonstration kitchen, and exhibition spaces suggests a year-round hub of creativity and culinary excellence. Our family’s tradition of exploring EPCOT’s festivals together is about to get even better, offering new ways to connect with cultures, cuisines, and art from around the world.

Mickey & Friends Meet-and-Greet

• Opened: June 10, 2024
• Location: EPCOT, Communicore Hall
• Experience: Character Interaction
• Description: A magical spot to meet Mickey and friends, promising unforgettable moments for the little ones.
• Who It’s Best For: Families with young children and Disney character enthusiasts.

Concept Art | Image © Disney

The new Mickey & Friends meet-and-greet location at Communicore Hall is now open. The space is dedicated to character interactions and is expected to offer one of the best character meet-and-greet experiences at Disney World.

We are thrilled about the new addition to Disney, and for us, it’s personal. During our son Ben’s last visit to the park, Mickey Mouse gave him a warm hug, which we captured in a video we shared with our family and friends. With the new meet-and-greet location, we look forward to creating even more magical moments for our family. We can’t wait to visit and add it to our list of must-see Epcot attractions.

¡Celebración Encanto! (Limited Time Only) at EPCOT

• Opened: June 10, 2024
• Closing Date: TBD
• Location: EPCOT’s Communicore Plaza Stage
• Experience: Live Entertainment
• Description: Live musical sing-along show inspired by Disney’s Encanto
• Who It’s Best For: All ages; fans of this heartfelt and lively film

Concept Art | Image © Disney

Get ready to talk about Bruno during this limited-time summer sing-along show. Multiple shows daily feature Mirabel, Bruno, and live performers in a show that encourages the audience to participate. The show was originally scheduled to close on September 6, 2024, but it has now been extended; the new closing date has not yet been announced.

Portraits of Courage: A Commander in Chief’s Tribute to America’s Warriors

• Opened: June 9, 2024
• Location: American Heritage Gallery, The American Adventure, EPCOT
• Experience: Museum Exhibit

Image © Disney / George W. Bush Presidential Center

This new exhibit brings together more than 60 full-color portraits painted by Former President George W. Bush of service members and veterans who have served the nation with honor since 9/11, and whom the President has come to know personally since leaving office. Each painting is accompanied by the inspiring story of the veteran depicted, written by the President.

The Cabins at Fort Wilderness

• Reopening Date: July 1, 2024 and beyond
• Location: Magic Kingdom Resort Area
• Experience: Cabin Stay, Nature Retreat
• Description: These upgraded cabins offer a unique way to experience Disney World, surrounded by the beauty of nature.
• Who It’s Best For: Adventure-loving families looking for a rustic getaway.

Concept Art | Image © Disney

The Cabins at Fort Wilderness offer a unique way to experience Disney World, surrounded by the beauty of nature. After undergoing a significant renovation and reclassification as a Disney Vacation Club property, these upgraded cabins are scheduled to reopen on July 1, 2024, with additional work underway on more units for a few months later. They promise an upgraded stay with a touch of rustic charm, making them ideal for families looking for a blend of comfort and adventure in a rustic setting.

Concept Art | Image © Disney

Our family has had the pleasure of staying at The Cabins at Fort Wilderness in the past, and we’re eager to experience the modern comforts and amenities that the upcoming renovations will bring.

New Disney Vacation Club Tower at Disney’s Polynesian Resort

• Opening Date: December 2024
• Location: Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
• Experience: Luxury Stay, Tropical Paradise
• Description: An expansion bringing new rooms and enhanced amenities to one of Disney’s most beloved resorts.
• Who It’s Best For: Families and couples seeking premium accommodations with a South Pacific flair.

Concept Art | Image © Disney

The Polynesian Resort is set to expand with the addition of a new Disney Vacation Club “Island Tower” in December 2024. This expansion will bring new rooms and enhanced amenities to one of Disney’s most beloved resorts. Families and couples seeking premium accommodations with a South Pacific flair will have even more reason to visit this tropical paradise.

The Polynesian Resort has always been one of my favorite Disney Deluxe Resorts, and I’m excitedly waiting to see how this expansion will turn out. With this expansion, we’ll have more opportunities to explore the lush landscapes and immersive theming of this resort. The thought of enjoying the fireworks from an infinity-edge pool overlooking the Magic Kingdom is a dream I can’t wait to see become a reality.

1900 Park Fare

• Reopened: April 10, 2024
• Location: Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa
• Experience: Character Dining

A long-missed character dining location, 1900 Park Fare had been shuttered since the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. The eagerly-anticipated reopening finally happened on April 10, 2024. With the reopening comes an updated menu and new characters. Instead of the former appearances by Mary Poppins and the like, the new offering includes visits from Aladdin, Cinderella, Mirabel, and Tiana.

Lightning Lanes 2024 Updates

• Effective Date: July 24, 2024 and October 30, 2024
• Location: All four theme parks
• Experience: Line-skipping technology

Image © Disney

The fairly-recent discontinuation of FastPass and its revamp into Genie+ has now given way to Lightning Lane Multi Pass, Lightning Lane Single Pass, and Lightning Lane Premier Pass. Initially, we were hesitant about the changes, but now we appreciate the flexibility and customization that these services offer. We strongly believe that Lightning Lane passes are worth the investment. With this service, we’ve spent less time waiting in lines, which is especially important when traveling with young children.

A July 2024 update to Lightning Lane allows Guests to pre-reserve rides several days before they even go to the park. I do enjoy knowing for certain, before I even leave home, that I’ll be able to experience a must-do ride. On the flip side, it does add yet another thing to have to keep track of in advance.

An October 2024 update adds the Premier Pass, allowing access to every Lightning Lane in the park. This ultra-pricey option lets you know you’ll be able to ride pretty much everything you want to.

There are a lot of important details to understand, so be sure to read our article on all the options, linked above.

Ending of Park Pass Reservations (for Most Tickets)

• Effective Date: January 9, 2024
• Location: All four theme parks
• Experience: Visit Disney World parks without needing to pre-reserve a spot

The discontinuation of the Park Pass reservation system for date-based tickets has been a welcome change in our planning process. The flexibility to visit the parks without the need for reservations has restored a sense of spontaneity to our trips, allowing us to decide on the fly which world to explore each day. A few ticket types still require reservations.

All-Day Park Hopping

• Effective Date: January 9, 2024
• Location: All four theme parks
• Experience: multi-park visits in the same day

The return of all-day Park Hopping has brought back the thrill of jumping from one park to another in a single day. Whether we start our morning in the enchantment of Magic Kingdom or end with the fireworks at EPCOT, this restored feature has multiplied the magic of our Disney vacations. In the past (since COVID but before January 2024), park hopping was limited to afternoon hours only.

Are you excited to experience these brand new attractions and enhancements?

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Coming Attractions at Disney World (2025 and Beyond)

2025 and beyond brings a massive list of construction projects to Walt Disney World, from new rides to entire new lands within the theme parks. Here’s what’s on the way.

Test Track (Reimagining)

• Reopening Date: Sometime in 2025
• Location: EPCOT
• Experience: Thrill Ride, Automotive Design
• Description: A reimagining that will blend cutting-edge technology with nostalgia from its predecessor, World of Motion.
• Who It’s Best For: Thrill-seekers, automotive enthusiasts, and fans of classic EPCOT attractions.

Concept Art | Image © Disney

Test Track is undergoing a reimagining that will blend cutting-edge technology with nostalgia from its predecessor, World of Motion. Our family is excited about this update as we’ve always enjoyed Test Track’s thrilling portrayal of automotive innovation.

Disney says the new version will “celebrate today’s innovation while highlighting the past, present, and future.” Among the updates will be an enhanced queue celebrating the vehicles and innovators that have put us in motion over the years. New show scenes will focus on how mobility technology connects everyone, followed by an outdoor joy ride.

The prior version of Test Track closed on June 17, 2024. An exact reopening date has not yet been announced, but Disney says it will happen sometime in 2025. A similar refresh in 2012 took almost eight months, which would lead us to estimate that the ride could reopen around January/February 2025. But that is not certain. It very well could take longer.

Zootopia: Better Zoogether!

• Opening Date: Winter 2025
• Location: Discovery Island / Tree of Life, Animal Kingdom
• Experience: 4-D Theater Show
• Description: A new animated theater show, housed within the base of the Tree of Life.
• Who It’s Best For: Families, fans of Zootopia, and guests seeking immersive entertainment.

Concept Art | Image © Disney

Animal Kingdom is a theme park that focuses on animal conservation. Recently, the park announced a new show based on the popular movie Zootopia. The show is expected to be both entertaining and educational, in line with the park’s mission.

Thanks to your CarrotVision 3D glasses and other special effects, you’ll feel like you’re right there with Judy Hopps, Nick Wilde, and other characters on an adventure through different biomes seen in the film.

Zootopia: Better Zoogether! replaces the current “It’s Tough to Be a Bug” show in Winter 2025 (exact date TBD) — and it’s a safe bet that the new show will be a bit less heebie-jeebie-inducing for little kids and squeamish adults versus the current offering. I’m excited to see what this new show has in store!

Disney Starlight (Nighttime Parade)

• Opening Date: Summer 2025
• Location: Magic Kingdom
• Experience: Nighttime light-up parade
• Description: Characters all aglow in a nighttime version of the famous Disney parades
• Who It’s Best For: All ages, those waiting for fireworks

Concept Art | Image © Disney

After nearly a decade without a light-up, nighttime parade, Magic Kingdom fans are eagerly anticipating the arrival of Disney Starlight.

Following in the footsteps of venerable offerings such as the Main Street Electrical Parade and SpectroMagic, this parade offers a fitting end to the day. The Blue Fairy brings the magic to life in this extravaganza featuring characters from Peter Pan, Encanto, Frozen, and more.

This new offering begins in summer 2025. I loved the prior nighttime parades and it’s so great to have one back at Magic Kingdom again!

The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure

• Opening Date: Summer 2025
• Location: Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Animation Courtyard
• Experience: Theatrical Performance, Musical
• Description: A spellbinding show that brings Ariel’s story to the stage with all the beloved songs and characters.
• Who It’s Best For: All ages, perfect for families and fans of Disney musicals.

Concept Art | Image © Disney

Our family is thrilled to learn that Disney’s Hollywood Studios will soon open “The Little Mermaid—A Musical Adventure”. As fans of Ariel’s undersea journey, we cannot wait to watch a new show that brings the beloved story and songs to life in a whole new way.

Our daughter, Ava, has grown up adoring the classic film and its music, and she is ecstatic at the opportunity to see “Part of Your World,” “Poor Unfortunate Souls,” and other iconic songs performed live.

The Disney brand excels at creating immersive, emotionally moving experiences, and I have no doubt that this new Disney stage show will capture the magic of Ariel’s world. I’m looking forward to experiencing the exciting Hollywood Studios attraction with my kids.

The new show was originally scheduled for Fall 2024, but it has now been delayed until Summer 2025.

New Disney Villains Live Show

• Opening Date: Summer 2025
• Location: Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Sunset Boulevard
• Experience: Live Stage Show
• Description: Your favorite Disney baddies in a stage spectacular
• Who It’s Best For: Families with kids old enough not to be too scared by villains

Cruella de Vil takes the stage (Concept Art) | Image © Disney

Sunset Boulevard at Disney’s Hollywood Studios will soon play host to Cruella de Vil, Captain Hook, and Maleficent. Each will have their turn breaking through the glass of the Magic Mirror to perform on stage. And you never know who else will pop up — villains tend to lurk in the shadows and appear when you least expect them!

The show is expected to open sometime in Summer 2025 in the Sunset Showcase (a theatre most recently occupied by Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy, which permanently closes October 7, 2024).

Pirates-Themed Tavern

• Opening Date: 2025
• Location: Adventureland, Magic Kingdom
• Experience: Dining Experience
• Description: A new tavern in Magic Kingdom offering a Pirates of the Caribbean-themed dining experience with themed meals and entertainment.
• Who It’s Best For: Pirate enthusiasts and anyone looking for themed dining.

Concept Art | Image © Disney

Pirates of all ages can drop into this new well-themed location for grogs and grub. The tavern is inspired by the popular Magic Kingdom ride and promises an immersive dining experience centered around the high seas.

Visitors can expect a fun atmosphere where they can enjoy tales of treasure while enjoying their meals. The new addition to Disney World’s dining options is sure to be a hit with visitors. I’m looking forward to stopping over for a refreshing beverage with my wife.

Exact opening date is TBD, but it will open sometime in 2025.

Spaceship Earth Lounge

• Opening Date: 2025
• Location: World Celebration, EPCOT
• Experience: Relaxation and drinks
• Description: A new lounge in the park’s flagship attraction.
• Who It’s Best For: Families looking for a brief respite from the park’s hustle and bustle.

Concept Art | Image © Disney

A relaxing lounge takes its spot inside the iconic Spaceship Earth at EPCOT in a space long-reserved only for VIPs and sponsors.

Enjoy cocktails and refreshments in a richly-colored environment, gazing upon the wonders of EPCOT through the windows. You’ll be able to see all the way through to World Showcase!

Exact opening date is TBD, but it will open sometime in 2025.

DVC Member Lounge (Magic Kingdom)

• Opening Date: Expected sometime in 2025
• Location: Frontierland, Magic Kingdom
• Experience: Lounge Space
• Description: A “pioneer-inspired” space for Disney Vacation Club Members to relax.
• Who It’s Best For: DVC Members.

Disney has confirmed that it will be replacing the Frontierland Shootin’ Arcade attraction with lounge space for Disney Vacation Club (timeshare) Members. The attraction’s last day of operation was June 23, 2024; an exact opening date for the new lounge has not yet been announced, but it’s believe to be due sometime in 2025.

New Mission on Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run

• Opening Date: 2026
• Location: Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, Hollywood Studios
• Experience: Flight Simulator
• Description: Play your part in a new adventure aboard the Millennium Falcon
• Who It’s Best For: Fans of the Star Wars universe

Concept Art | Image © Disney

Timed to coincide with the 2026 release of Lucasfilm’s The Mandalorian and Grogu, expect a brand new mission on the iconic Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run ride at Hollywood Studios.

The epic visuals for the new mission will be made using the same software and design team behind many of the virtual sets for The Mandalorian. Thanks to their graphical wizardry (plus some Imagineering know-how), you’ll feel like you’re flying right alongside Mando and Grogu on a daring mission.

Pueblo Esperanza / Tropical Americas (Dinoland Re-Theming)

• Opening Date: 2027
• Location: Animal Kingdom
• Experience: Entire Land with Attractions, Dining, and More
• Description: Replacing current buildings and rides with new experiences influenced by several Disney movies and a Tropical Americas theme
• Who It’s Best For: Families seeking a mix of entertaining rides and cultural experiences

Concept Art | Image © Disney

Dinoland USA at Disney’s Animal Kingdom is going the way of, well, the dinosaurs.

From Fall 2024 until 2027, construction will be underway in phases as the area transforms into a new 11-acre land themed to the Tropical Americas.

Expect multiple attractions (see below), along with a beautiful fountain and a giant hacienda that will be home to one of the largest Quick Service Restaurants at Disney World.

New Indiana Jones Attraction

• Opening Date: 2027
• Location: Tropical Americas / Pueblo Esperanza, Animal Kingdom
• Experience: Dark ride with extensive vehicle motion effects
• Description: Brand new adventure featuring Indiana Jones
• Who It’s Best For: Thrill Seekers

Concept Art | Image © Disney

The sunset of the Dinoland USA section of the park means that the DINOSAUR attraction will also be giving way to a new experience.

Animal Kingdom will be home to a new Indiana Jones attraction. And while the ride system should be roughly similar to the Indy attraction in California’s Disneyland (which is, itself, identical to DINOSAUR), the storyline and scenery for this new Disney World version is going to be completely new. We’ll follow Dr. Jones into a preserved Maya temple rife with rumors of a mythical creature deep within. Expect a pretty bumpy ride!

We do not yet have an exact opening date, but we believe it to be sometime in 2027.

New Encanto Attraction

• Opening Date: 2027
• Location: Pueblo Esperanza / Tropical Americas, Animal Kingdom
• Experience: Dark ride
• Description: Rainforest adventure
• Who It’s Best For: All ages

Concept Art | Image © Disney

Venture into the Madrigal family’s Casita for this family-friendly adventure. In the attraction’s story Antonio has just received his special gift: the ability to communicate with animals. We find his room transformed into a rainforest and we’re along for an enchanted ride as we explore.

We do not yet have an exact opening date, but we believe it to be sometime in 2027.

New Carousel Attraction

• Opening Date: 2027
• Location: Pueblo Esperanza / Tropical Americas, Animal Kingdom
• Experience: Merry-Go-Round
• Description: Ride on intricately-carved wooden animals
• Who It’s Best For: All ages, those with young children

Concept Art | Image © Disney

As part of the “history” of Pueblo Esperanza, we learn that a woodcarver has created a giant carousel featuring “his favorite animals from Disney stories.”

Close scrutiny of the concept art shows that in place of traditional carousel horses, there are famous Disney critters including Eeyore, Timon, Pumba, Kaa, Abu, Kevin, and more.

Disney promises this gentle ride will be “a new take on a classic attraction” especially geared toward young families.

We do not yet have an exact opening date, but we believe it to be sometime in 2027.

Monsters, Inc. Land

• Opening Date: TBD
• Location: Disney’s Hollywood Studios
• Experience: Themed area
• Description: Find yourself in the middle of Monstropolis
• Who It’s Best For: Fans of the movies Monsters, Inc. and Monsters University

Concept Art | Image © Disney

A new land is coming to Hollywood Studios, and it should be a scream (or a laugh).

The metropolis at the heart of the PIXAR film Monsters, Inc. comes to life with an entire themed area. Meet Sulley and Mike, stroll the streets in search of some monstrous treats, or visit the famed factory for a wild ride (see below).

Construction begins sometime in 2025, but it’s not yet clear when this new land will actually open. We also don’t yet know which existing area of the park (if any) this will replace.

New Monsters, Inc. Roller Coaster

• Opening Date: TBD
• Location: Monsters, Inc. Land, Disney’s Hollywood Studios
• Experience: Suspended roller coaster
• Description: Hurtle through the laugh factory in a ride inspired by the famous door scene
• Who It’s Best For: Thrill seekers and fans of the movies Monsters, Inc. and Monsters University

Concept Art | Image © Disney

As part of the new Monsters, Inc. land at Hollywood Studios, you’ll finally have a chance to relive one of the most iconic scenes of the movie. Whiz through the door vault on the first-ever suspended roller coaster in any of the Disney theme parks around the world.

Construction begins sometime in 2025, but it’s not yet clear when the coaster will actually open. This ride has been rumored to be in the works for more than 20 years(!) now, so you can bet I’m thrilled to see it finally coming into existence!

Two New Cars Attractions

• Opening Date: TBD
• Location: Frontierland, Magic Kingdom
• Experience: One thrill ride and one family-friendly ride
• Description: Two separate rides — one pulse-pounding and one serene — both themed to PIXAR’s Cars
• Who It’s Best For: Fans of the Cars movies

Concept Art | Image © Disney

Frontierland at Magic Kingdom continues to transform away from being strictly the old “wild wild west” and more into an area focusing on new horizons of all types. With that in mind comes news of two separate attractions themed to the Disney-PIXAR Cars motion pictures.

The first attraction will be a thrill ride featuring a rally race through the mountains, somewhat along the lines of California’s Radiator Springs Racers (but still quite different).

The second ride will be much more laid-back, geared towards smaller riders so the whole family can cruise together.

Construction begins in early 2025, but it’s not yet clear when these new rides will actually open. The new rides will be built on the space currently occupied by Tom Sawyer Island and Rivers of America (Liberty Square Riverboat), though we don’t yet know exactly when those classic attractions will close.

Concept Art | Image © Disney

Villains Land

• Opening Date: TBD
• Location: Magic Kingdom
• Experience: Major themed area with attractions, dining, shopping, and more
• Description: Face Disney’s formidable foes
• Who It’s Best For: Those who feel it’s “good to be bad” and enjoy the baddies in the Disney films

Concept Art | Image © Disney

Another decades-old rumor is finally coming to fruition: an entire land at Magic Kingdom dedicated solely to the bad guys.

Details are scant for now, but we’ve been promised two major attractions (and the concept art seems to indicate that one of them could be a big roller coaster). We also expect villainous dining, shopping, and much more. It very well may be the largest-ever expansion in Magic Kingdom’s history.

The timing of this project is just as mysterious as the villains at its heart; Disney has only said that “preparation is already underway.” No actual construction start date has been announced, nor do we know when the new land will open. The new land is being built in the space “beyond Big Thunder Mountain,” though it’s not yet clear if there will be any closures in the area to accommodate construction.

Updates to Big Thunder Mountain (Magic Kingdom)

• Opening Date: Sometime in 2026
• Location: Frontierland, Magic Kingdom
• Experience: Roller Coaster

Big Thunder Mountain will be closed for most of 2025 and at least some of 2026 for a major refurbishment project. The work is mainly expected to be maintenance-based (and is no doubt also due to major work getting under way nearby on the new Cars-themed attractions and a new Villains land) — but Disney also promises “a little bit of new magic” at Big Thunder as well.

And More?

Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D’Amaro promises that “over the next decade, we’re going to have more projects underway than at any point in our history.”

I’m frankly not surprised.

Universal fired a gigantic cannonball across Disney’s bow with their plans for the new Epic Universe theme park. Based on that park’s announcements and concept art, I feel that Universal’s Epic Universe will completely change the base level standard for themed entertainment in the Orlando area.

On one hand, Disney has claimed that all of their major launches over the past decade — Galaxy’s Edge, Pandora, TRON, and more — were all built in anticipation of the arrival of Epic Universe.

On the other hand, Disney certainly announced a lot of projects during August 2024’s D23 Expo. Let’s face it: Disney isn’t exactly known for leaving potential tourist dollars on the table. And their giant swath of announcements so far could be just the beginning. Will they respond with even more new lands? New and exciting ride systems? Maybe even a fifth theme park? It’s not clear.

But one thing’s for sure: we’re entering a period in which two gigantic companies with multi-billion dollar budgets are going to try to out-do one another. That’s fantastic news for those of us who love the parks.

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More Potential Projects at Disney World

In addition to the previously-mentioned “concrete” coming attractions, a few more are potentially in the works but aren’t yet fully scheduled or confirmed.

Here’s a look at some potential future attraction updates, along with information on their status.

Wondrous China at EPCOT

• Status: Unknown
• Experience: 360-Degree Film
• Description: An all-new film offering a panoramic journey through China’s landscapes and cultural landmarks.
• Who It’s Best For: Guests interested in cultural experiences and stunning visual storytelling.

Plans for a “Wondrous China” film update to the China pavilion (one of the countries in EPCOT’s World Showcase) have been circulating for a while, but Disney hasn’t announced an official opening date yet. The updated film promises an immersive journey into the heart of China’s rich culture and breathtaking landscapes through a seamless 360-degree format. As someone who is interested in learning about different cultures, I’m really looking forward to experiencing the beauty and diversity of China’s geography and heritage through this update.

Sadly, little progress has been reported thus far so we don’t know when/if the update will occur.

New “Play” Pavilion at EPCOT

• Status: Doubtful
• Experience: Interactive Exhibits
• Description: An interactive area with games and activities where guests can engage with Disney characters and stories.
• Who It’s Best For: Children and families looking for interactive play experiences.

EPCOT previously announced plans to build a new “Play” Pavilion that would be a hub of interactive fun and innovation. Built on the site of the former Wonders of Life pavilion, the Play pavilion would create an immersive city with activities and experiences centered around beloved Disney characters. My wife and I are excited about the possibility of using technology and play to provide our children with unique creative experiences.

That said, this pavilion’s future is admittedly doubtful. Very little progress (if any) has been shown. Further, Disney recently referred to the June 10th opening of Communicore Hall/Plaza and the Mickey & Friends meet-and-greet as the “finishing touches” of a “fully transformed EPCOT.”

Those words very well may imply this proposed pavilion could fall by the wayside, either temporarily or permanently.

Mary Poppins Attraction at EPCOT

• Status: Postponed/Doubtful
• Experience: Flat/Spinner Ride
• Description: A spinning teacups-style attraction, similar to Magic Kingdom’s Mad Tea Party
• Who It’s Best For: Fans of the classic film

Though announced in 2019 at the D23 Expo, there’s currently little real hope of this attraction coming to pass. The ride was announced for EPCOT’s U.K. pavilion with great fanfare; concept art was released, models were shown. And then, absolutely nothing happened. In 2022, Disney began referring to the ride as being “postponed.” Will it ever happen? We don’t know for sure, but it’s looking less and less likely that it will happen anytime soon.

Reflections – a Disney Lakeside Lodge

• Status: Likely Underway?

Disney announced in 2018 that construction would soon begin on “Reflections – a Disney Lakeside Lodge,” a Deluxe Villa resort near Fort Wilderness and Wilderness Lodge.

Those plans stagnated, especially following the pandemic closure of Disney World in 2020, and the project appeared to be off the books for the foreseeable future.

While nothing new has been officially announced, work is clearly underway again at the site. Cranes are in position, and new permits recently filed also seem to indicate that the plan is back on.

Spaceship Earth at EPCOT

• Status: Unknown

Disney has previously released concept art for a potential refresh of Disney’s Spaceship Earth. Not much else has been discussed, and it’s unclear when — or if — this project will proceed.

Practical Tips for Families

From our numerous trips, here are a few consolidated tips that have enhanced our Disney vacations:

• Stay Hydrated and Sun-Protected: Florida’s sun is no joke. Pack refillable water bottles and sunscreen to keep your family safe and comfortable. To prepare, see our Disney Packing List and Disney World Weather articles.
• Mobile Ordering is Your Friend: Use the Disney app to order meals ahead of time, avoiding long lines and hangry moments.
• Plan for Downtime: It’s tempting to go, go, go, but scheduled breaks can keep spirits high and prevent meltdowns—adults included.
• Use a Travel Planner: A top-notch Disney travel agency like The Vacationeer can prove invaluable for planning your trip to Disney World. Their services are free, and they will get you the best deal on the trip of your dreams.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best age for children to visit Disney World?

Any age can enjoy a visit to Disney World, but there’s something magical about experiencing it with young children. Disney World with toddlers is a unique and memorable experience, and the ages of 3-12 are often considered the best age range for Disney World. As parents, you get to see the wonder and excitement through their eyes, creating unforgettable memories for the whole family.

Can you use Lightning Lane for all new attractions?

Most new attractions offer Lane, but always check the app for the latest availability. Usually, the highest-demand attractions are reserved for Lightning Lane Single Pass (priced separately) rather than Lightning Lane Multi Pass (package deal pricing).

When is the best time to visit Disney World in 2024 and 2025?

The best time to go to Disney World in 2024 and 2025 depends on your preferences. For mild weather, visit from January to March or November to December. For lighter crowds, September, October, and early November are great options. Some months are also cheaper, like January, February, and early September. You can check out our Disney World Crowd Calendar and month-by-month guides to find the perfect time for your visit.

• Disney World in January
• Disney World in February
• Disney World in March
• Disney World in April
• Disney World in May
• Disney World in June
• Disney World in July
• Disney World in August
• Disney World in September
• Disney World in October
• Disney World in November
• Disney World in December

Conclusion on What’s New at Disney World

Reflecting on the new attractions, rides, and resort enhancements at Disney World has left me feeling incredibly excited. I can’t wait to experience all of the latest offerings firsthand with my family and create unforgettable memories together.

From Tiana’s Bayou Adventure to massive new lands, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. My daughter is especially looking forward to The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure, and so are her parents!

With so much to look forward to, we eagerly anticipate what the rest of 2024, 2025, and beyond will bring to Disney World.