With the arrival of Disney’s new CEO Josh Amaro, comes even more amazing experiences in the parks. As such, even as an avid Disney Parks traveler, you’re sure to see some new things at the parks this year, next year and in the years ahead! With plans for construction across the parks, and even more cruise ships, there is no shortage of Disney News.
In this post, we’re chatting all the New Disney World Attractions on the way. And will be adding all the announcements from the D23 Expo too. From the new Pirates of the Caribbean Lounge to Monsters Inc. Land at Hollywood Studios and the Villains Land at Magic Kingdom there are plenty of things coming soon to Disney World. In fact, be sure to Check out the Disney World 2027 Events Calendar and Schedule to help keep track of it all.
NOTE: There have been updates to Disney Transporation Rules at Walt Disney World in 2026 that you should be aware of if you’re visiting Disney Springs.
You can count on new shows, restaurants, rides, and lands to look forward to. Or, if you’re traveling far and wide, you can catch up on the New Disneyland Attractions and New Disney Cruise Ships too. Here’s the list, so far, of new attractions at Disney World with details, construction and opening dates. Updated regularly.
Coming to Disney World in 2026
New in 2026 is a variety of ride updates, the new Cinderella castle repainting, and new experiences across the parks, boardwalk and Disney Springs. Here is the running list of everything coming to Walt Disney World this year.
Hurly-Burly | Disney’s Boardwalk – Late 2026
Replacing the Atlantic Dance Hall on Walt Disney World’s Boardwalk, the Hurly Burly Lounge functions as a daytime Disney activity space featuring trivia, games, and family friendly activities. A great way to get out of the heat on hot days if you’re in the area. In the evenings, this psace transforms to a Nightclub, complete with cocktails and small plates, with a dance floor in full swing.
Basin | Disney’s Boardwalk – Late 2026
If you’re looking for a reason to live the good life, head to Basin for scented soaps, and all things pampering. Joining the shops at the Disney Boardwalk Basin opens in Late 2026.
The Magic of Disney Animation | Hollywood Studios – September 14, 2026
Coming in 2026, this new experience takes over the Star Wars Launch Bay area. Featuring the iconic Sorcerer Mickey Hat this “studio lot” is filled with animation magic. From interactive artwork, to animation classes, experiences and more. This area features a “Drawn to Wonderland” playground filled with an oversized flower garden with musical instruments, a Mad Tea Party playset and a Tulgey Wood exploration area too. Plus, there are a series of “Off the Page” areas featuring Disney Character Photo Ops, all inspired by different film and style techniques.
As the courtyard is also home to the Little Mermaid show, there is plenty to do here. Plan to see all your favorite Disney characters, and a little bit of Disney Animation Magic.
Six Ravens | Disney Springs – July 2026
Head to Disney Springs for coffin shaped sandwiches (think Hot Pockets but for medieval times) at Six Ravens, coming this summer. This new foodie location is just across from Paradiso 37 in Disney Springs. Created by Gideon’s Bakehouse, you can count on the macabre features, and folklore that accompanies the original.
Level 99 | Disney Springs – July 2026
This entertainment space features 60 themed challenge rooms, duels, art hunts, and a 2-story bar. Perfect for nights out and parties of all kinds. You can also grab Detroit-style pizzas during your visit.
New Cinderella Castle Paint Refresh | Magic Kingdom – June 2026
Returning to its original gray, blue and cream look, Cinderella’s Castle is done with the rose gold pink paint of years past and is returning to its roots. A classic castle look there are bits of gold accent and an overall elegant Cinderella vibe.
Muppets Rock N Roller Coaster | Hollywood Studios – May 26, 2026
Replacing the Aerosmith Rock n Roller Coaster, the Muppets band, The Electric Mayhem, is all set up for a Rock n Roller Coaster of their own. With the elimination of Muppets 3-D, and PizzaRizzo over in the Muppets Courtyard, to make way for Monsters Inc. Land, the Muppets are setting up shop, or studio, in the far corner of the park.
Taking over the Rock n Roller Coaster building, you can expect to find all sort of new music, props and mayhem aboard your classic car. The Electric Mayhem are headlining their biggest Hollywood concert ever! But the band is nowhere to be found!
Across town at G-Force Records, we’re treated to a VIP tour of the legendary rock and roll recording studio. Things might look a little different around this Hollywood institution, as the label has recently come under new management – The Muppets. Adding their own style to the studio and coaster, the iconic Car at the Entrance, Guitar and Ride all get a makeover. While you’re there, check out the FOOD booth by the Swedish Chef, for all sorts of new snacks and drinks at Hollywood Studios.
Disney Jr. Clubhouse Live! | Hollywood Studios – May 26, 2026
Head to Hollywood Studios for a 20-minute show filled with song, dance, and Mickey and Minnie too! Debuting summer 2026, this show promises to bring all you know and love from Disney Jr. onstage. Perfect for little ones, and a chance to shake the sillies out.
Bluey and Bingo at Disney Animal Kingdom – May 26, 2026
Over at the Conservation Station, via a train ride from the Africa area of the park, you can head to the wild outback of Australia with Bluey and friends. As Cool Kids Summer debuts on May 26, 2026, we’re expecting Bluey to be part of the action, through summer and beyond.
Jessie’s Roundup at Magic Kingdom | May 26, 2026
Cool Kids Summer runs from May 26 to September 8, 2026, and brings with it a new temporary attraction at the Diamond Horseshoe Restaurant. This new experience takes place in the restaurant, offering character experiences with Jessie and Woody, dancing, and crafts. Led by cast members of course.
Soarin’ Across America at EPCOT | May 25, 2026
Celebrating the 250th anniversary of America, Disney is sharing a whole new Soarin’ experience across the U.S.A and for a limited time only, starting Memorial Day. Check out everything happening at Disney World for the 250th.
Mandalorian and Grogu at Millennium Falcon | Hollywood Studios – May 22, 2026
A brand new story featuring Mando and Grogu is coming to Millennium Falcon Smugglers Ride at both Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Disneyland. Just in time for The Mandalorian and Grogu film to hit the big screens. Join this inseparable pair for the latest adventure in a galaxy far far away, featuring explosive scenes familiar as part of the Epic Games experiences. This is a permanent replacement of the Millennium Falcon storyline.
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Refurbishment | Magic Kingdom – May 3, 2026
The Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Rollercoaster at Disney World is currently undergoing a mountain-top to cavern-deep refurbishment. This Glow Up includes even more magic with spectacular natural caverns full of phosphorescent pools, and shining stalagmites (the ones on the floor) and stalactites (the ones on the ceiling). These Rainbow Caverns certainly are beautiful, but a deep rumbling in the mountains will imply guests aren’t welcome!
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad promises new special effects and fingers crossed for a smoother ride upon its return! Check out our Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and GOAT Shirt collections in the shop.
Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin | Magic Kingdom – April 8, 2026
Back with interactive targets, new blasters and more fun to the game, of taking down the bad guys in space, Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin has leveled up. Check out the new experience if you’re headed to the parks this year.
Grand Floridian Refurbishment | January 2026
Over the last couple years, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort has undergone a number of changes. From the Mary Poppins Returns refresh at Citricos Lounge to the updated Garden View Tea Room complete with prix fixe tea service pricing and updated everything. The renovation included refreshed rooms and a new paint job in the lobby. Check out our Grand Floridian Resort Review for all the details.
Coming to Disney World in 2027
2027 promises to be one of Disney World’s biggest years yet! With several construction projects completing, we are set to see new rides, lands and experiences across the parks. Here’s everything coming to Walt Disney World in 2027.
New Carousel of Progress Scene with Walt Disney | Magic Kingdom – 2027
Coming soon to the Carousel of Progress in Magic Kingdom, an introductory scene is in the works, with Walt Disney himself. This new scene is still being developed. In addition we will also get an update to the closing scene of the multigenerational future family, complete with robot. The Carousel of progress closes in July 2026, and will reopen sometime in 2027.
Disney Lakeshore Lodge Resort | Summer 2027
New to the Disney Resorts at Walt Disney World, the Disney Lakeshore Lodge, joins the Magic Kingdom area resorts, taking up residence between the Fort Wilderness Campgrounds and Disney’s Wilderness Lodge. The Wetlands area is tucked away in the trees on the edge of Bay Lake this resort features design elements from Bambi, Pocahontas and Brother Bear. the Lakeshore Lodge features a variety of water themed spaces, included the Heron Shores, Otter Springs and Daydream River, being the first Disney Resort to include a Lazy River feature. Also included at this resort is a giant waterslide at Lakeside Lagoon and whirlpool spa at the Perspective Pond. Honoring Disney’s River Country, this resort pays homage to the waterpark hisotry of the area with a vareity of local fauna, flora and plaques sharing the story. Bus transportation, as well as Boat transportation to Magic Kingdom Park are avaialble and as a Disney Deluxe Resort, offers DVC spaces, as well as new one- and two-bedroom Lake Houses along the waterfront.
Monstropolis | Hollywood Studios – Opening 2027
Head to Monstropolis, the world of Monster’s Inc. and make way for extra laughs, jokes and doors a brand new ride! Monster Inc. Land features the Monsters Inc. Factory filled with laughs, and doors leading to new places. This Land includes One Major Attraction, and Character Meet and Greets as well as Dining, Shopping and a NEW Theater Show too. This lands main ride featuring the first ever suspended coaster in Disney Park. So jump into a seat and get ready to be transported like the doors, as they zip around the building. This land replaces the Muppet Courtyard at Hollywood Studios which is closing on June 7th.
Piston Peak National Park | Magic Kingdom – Opening 2027
Also heading to Magic Kingdom, in a re-imagined area of Frontierland, Cars Land joins the gold miners from Big Thunder Mountain, the princess in the Bayou, and country singing bears. Adding a little more of the wild west to Magic Kingdom, Radiator Springs will include Two New Attractions. One includes a race across the landscape, and the other is a more family friendly attraction. Officially titled the Piston Peak National Park, you can expect geysers, wild west storefronts and a wilderness landscape.
Encanto Ride | Animal Kingdom – Opening 2027
The first ever Encanto themed ride is coming to Animal Kingdom. Featuring drawers, floors, and doors, this one takes place inside the Casita as Antonio Madrigal has just received his special gift- the ability to speak to animals. Promising magic and a chance to see the Madrigal family members along the way, this rainforest filled ride features Disney animatronics, and a familiar soundtrack.
Indiana Jones Ride | Animal Kingdom – Opening 2027
In the Pueblo Esperanza Tropical Americas area of Animal Kingdom, you can also veer off on your own adventure with Indiana Jones! Discovering a perfectly preserved Mayan Temple, you can join Indy on his next exploration to seek out the mythical creature that lives within. Taking over the Dinosaur Ride, this version is different than the Indiana Jones ride Disneyland.
Tropical Americas Land | Animal Kingdom Park – Opening 2027
Set to replace the DinoLand area of Animal Kingdom is Pueblo Esperanza. Taking over an 11 acre space in the park, this new land is set to focus on the tropical Americas region of the planet, highlighting not only Encanto, but also wildlife, and ecosystems in that area. Featuring a very lived in and ancient feel, this area will include a large hacienda housing the Quick Service Restaurant. A large fountain acts as the center of the area featuring Storytellers, and a Carousel Ride with favorite animals from Disney stories. There are also Two Major Attractions in the new Pueblo Esperanza area featuring Indiana Jones and Encanto.
Coming to Disney World in 2028
Everything coming to Walt Disney World in 2028.
Disney Villains Land | Magic Kingdom – Opening 2028
Get ready for all things dastardly! A brand new Villains Themed Land at Magic Kingdom is on the way. And we couldn’t be more thrilled that this is finally coming to the parks! And even though it’s just a “land”, we’re getting major Dark Universe Vibes from this one. All things dark, creepy and absolutely sinister are sure to play a part in this new area of the park.
The style of the Villains’ land Architecture will take from Art Nouveau stylings, adding to the creepy, curly spaces on the way. Coined “conjured architecture” by the Disney Imagineers developing the land there are surprises planned for ever crevice.
This new space will include Two Major Disney Villains Attractions, Dining and Shopping experiences. Villains included to be featured in the land include, Queen of Hearts (Alice in Wonderland); Jafar (Aladdin); Lady Tremaine (Cinderella); Yzma (The Emperor’s New Groove); Cruella de Vil (101 Dalmatians); Captain Hook (Peter Pan); Gaston (Beauty and the Beast); Mother Gothel (Tangled); Ursula (The Little Mermaid); Hades (Hercules); Chernabog (Fantasia); and both versions of the Evil Queen (Snow White and the Seven Dwarves) and Maleficent (Sleeping Beauty). Opening TBD 2028
New Attractions at Disney World in 2025
2025 at Disney World features a variety of new experiences as well as ride updates and the debut of a brand new nighttime parade, Starlight.
Zootopia “Better Zoogether!” Show and Meet n Greet | Animal Kingdom – November 7, 2025
You can head to Animal Kingdom for a meet and greet with Judy Hopps & Nick Wilde and a brand new Zootopia 4-D show in the Tree of Life.
The Beak and Barrel Lounge | Magic Kingdom – August 29, 2025
There’s a brand new Pirates of the Caribbean lounge coming to Adventureland at Magic Kingdom Park. Extending the Pirates of the Caribbean story with a bit of a rambunctious pirate atmosphere you can grab a variety of drinks and small plates, approved by Jack Sparrow himself. Established by Captain Meridian “Merry” Goldwyn, and her talkative parrot, Rummy, this bar is set to host swashbucklers, treasure seekers and scoundrels.
Test Track 2.0 | Epcot – July 22, 2025
In development with Chevrolet, Disney is re-imagining Test Track in the EPCOT World Discovery Area. This fan-favorite ride at Disney World is set to incorporate a variety of inspirations. A queue with six distinct exhibits, featuring vehicles that push the envelope of design. Test Track features the opportunity to build your own “car” and then race it around the track. New show scenes, and technology to connect everyone is part of the experience.
Disney Starlight Parade | Magic Kingdom- July 20, 2025
Finally a new nighttime parade over at Magic Kingdom! We’ve been lamenting the loss of the Electrical Street Parade for some time, and this one promises to be extra sparkly and magical. The Blue Fairy leads the parade featuring Disney characters from Peter Pan, Encanto, Frozen and more. Read all about the Starlight Parade at Disney World.
Geo-82 Spaceship Earth Lounge at Epcot | June 4, 2025
This BRAND NEW Lounge space at EPCOT is Inspired by the stories of Spaceship Earth, and takes on the geometric sphere iconic to Epcot. Perfect for families and adults, this new Disney Lounge includes refreshments and appetizers, loads of lounge seating and views of the lagoon and nighttime show.
The Little Mermaid A Musical Adventure | Hollywood Studios – May 27, 2025
This re-imagined Little Mermaid show brings all your favorite songs to the stage. Along with new sets, new special effects and an almost neon glow! Featuring favorite songs and scenes like Kiss the Girl, Part of your World and Under the Sea, you can find this musical extravaganza at Hollywood Studios, in the Animation Courtyard Theater.
Unfairly Ever After | Hollywood Studios – May 27, 2025
This new Disney Villains Show is all about Unfairly Ever After! Featuring all the best villains at once, at Hollywood Studios, this one proves to be dastardly. Head to the realm of the Magic Mirror, or rather just Sunset Showcase on Sunset Boulevard in Hollywood Studios. Featuring Cruella de Vil, Captain Hook and Maleficent, and more, you can expect big musical numbers, and a bunch of evil happenings on stage.
McKim’s Mile House DVC Lounge | Magic Kingdom – March 18, 2025
Located in Frontierland at the Magic Kingdom Park, you can head to a space, reserved specifically for DVC members. Perfect to get out of the hot Florida sun, and take a break.
New Attractions at Disney World in 2024
2024 at Disney World saw the return of all day Park Hopping, Disney Dining Plans and an end to Park Pass Reservations.
- Island Tower at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows | Polynesian Resort – December 17, 2024
- Country Bear Musical Jamboree Reimagining | Magic Kingdom – July 17, 2024
- The Cabins at Fort Wilderness Reimagining | Fort Wilderness Resort – July 1, 2024
- Tiana’s Bayou Adventure | Magic Kingdom – June 28, 2024
- World Celebration | EPCOT – June 10, 2024
- Star Tours – New Stories| Hollywood Studios – April 5, 2024
New Attractions at Disney World in 2023
In 2023, everyone’s favorite fireworks show, Happily Ever After returned to Walt Disney World. And with that came whimsical additions to the parks like the Hatbox Ghost and Mirabel. 2023 also marked the 100th Anniversary of the Walt Disney Company, which led to park wide celebrations for more than a year.
- Luminous: The Symphony of Us | EPCOT – December 5, 2023
- World Celebration Gardens | EPCOT – December 5, 2023
- Hatbox Ghost | Haunted Mansion – November 30, 2023
- Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana | EPCOT – October 16, 2023
- Mirabel Meet & Greet | Magic Kingdom – September 15, 2023
- Figment Meet & Greet | EPCOT – September 10, 2023
- Moana Meet & Greet | Animal Kingdom – April 22, 2023
- Tron Lightcycle / Run | Magic Kingdom – April 4, 2023
- EPCOT Forever | EPCOT Nighttime Show – April 3, 2023, to December 4, 2023
- Roundup Rodeo BBQ Toy Story Land | Hollywood Studios – March 23, 2023
New Attractions at Disney World in 2022
Fantasmic! returns to Hollywood Studios and the EPCOT entrance construction completes. Festival of Fantasy Parade at Magic Kingdom returns. Hoop dee doo musical revue at Fort wilderness Resort re-opens. 2022 also saw the opening of the Star Wars Galactic Starcruiser Hotel, which lasted for 18 months and closed in September of 2023.
- DuckTales World Showcase Adventure | EPCOT – December 16, 2022
- Finding Nemo: The Big Blue… and Beyond Reimagining | Animal Kingdom – June 13, 2022
- Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind | EPCOT – May 27, 2022
- Connections Café and Eatery | EPCOT – April 27, 2022
- Star Wars Galactic Starcruiser Hotel | March 1, 2022- September 30, 2023
- Mickey’s Royal Friendship Faire | Magic Kingdom – February 25, 2022
- Disney Adventure Friends Cavalcade | Magic Kingdom – February 11, 2022
New Attractions at Disney World in 2021
In 2021 Walt Disney World reopened with 50th Anniversary Plans that were larger than life. On a mission to create 50 before 50, Disney Parks revealed new experiences, rides, games, and restaurants to honor the 50th Anniversary of Walt Disney World. And with the reopening of WDW post pandemic came Lightning Lane Reservations and Disney Genie+ replacing the legacy fastpass service in the parks.
- Cinderella Castle Makeover to Rose Gold| Magic Kingdom – 2021
- Drawn to Life – Cirque du Soleil | Disney Springs – November 18, 2021
- The Walt Disney World Swan Reserve | Resort – November 3, 2021
- La Crêperie de Paris | EPCOT – October 1, 2021
- Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure | EPCOT – October 1, 2021
- Harmonious | EPCOT – October 1, 2021 – April 2, 2023
- Disney KiteTails | Animal Kingdom – October 1, 2021 – September 27, 2022
- Disney Enchantment | Magic Kingdom – October 1, 2021 – April 2, 2023
- Space 220 Restaurant and Lounge | EPCOT – September 20, 2021
New Attractions at Disney World in 2020
The beginning of 2020 at Disney World was in full swing when everything shut down for the pandemic. As such, only a few things were completed, while other projects go pushed until late 2021 in time for the 50th.
- Mickey Shorts Theater | Hollywood Studios – March 4, 2020
- Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway | Hollywood Studios – March 4, 2020
- Regal Eagle Smokehouse: Craft Drafts & Barbecue | EPCOT – February 19, 2020
- Canada Far and Wide | EPCOT – January 17, 2020
- Awesome Planet | EPCOT – January 17, 2020
- Beauty and the Beast Sing-Along | EPCOT – January 17, 2020
Everything Coming to Walt Disney World
There you have it! Everything coming to Walt Disney World Parks. We’ll be tracking it all here, so stay tuned for opening dates and details!
Rochelle Mariah is a writer, designer and photographer. Determined to make Planning a DIY Disney Vacation easier she makes lots of lists and drinks lots of coffee. When not designing apparel at Polka Dot Pixie Shop, she’s reading, writing and planning the holidays. She has been traveling to Disney destinations since 2010.
