Parts of Walt Disney World are in the middle of one of big transition. The biggest in years. Across all four theme parks, attractions are closing, refurbishments are underway, and entire lands are preparing for the next era of storytelling. If you are visiting in early 2026, some classic experiences will be unavailable, while others are nearing permanent goodbyes. Several of these changes extend beyond February and into the spring season.
Here is a park-by-park breakdown of closures, refurbishments, and upcoming reopening’s that may impact Walt Disney World vacations in early 2026.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom: DINOSAUR’s Final Days
One of the most significant closures impacting early 2026 happens at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
DINOSAUR permanently closes on February 2, 2026. The opening-day attraction has been part of the park since 1998, but it is officially making way for a new Indiana Jones–themed attraction as part of the upcoming Tropical Americas expansion.
As part of their research, Imagineers are looking at some of the most biodiverse areas on the planet in the regions just north and south of the equator here in the Western Hemisphere – the northern part of South America, stretching up into Central America.
Other Dinoland U.S.A. experiences, including TriceraTop Spin, The Boneyard, Hester and Chesters have already closed as the multi-year transformation of this area has already begun.
If DINOSAUR is a must-do for you, February 1 is the last full day to ride.
Magic Kingdom: Construction Walls in Frontierland and Tomorrowland
Magic Kingdom has multiple high-profile attractions unavailable during early 2026.
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad remains closed as part of an extensive refurbishment. Disney is replacing track sections and adding a new scene inspired by the classic Rainbow Caverns. The attraction is not expected to reopen until spring 2026.
Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin
Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin is also closed for a major refresh. When it returns later in 2026, guests can expect new ride vehicles, updated blasters, and a new robot character named Buddy.
Walt Disney World Railroad
The Walt Disney World Railroad continues operating in shuttle mode. Trains currently run only between Main Street, U.S.A. and Fantasyland stations due to ongoing construction in Frontierland.
EPCOT: Frozen Ever After Refurbishment
In EPCOT’s Norway pavilion, Frozen Ever After is temporarily closed during early 2026.
The attraction went down in late January for a short refurbishment. Disney is upgrading its Audio-Animatronics, replacing older screen-face technology with more advanced figures similar to those found in Hong Kong Disneyland. The ride is expected to reopen sometime in February 2026.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios: A Major Change Is Coming Soon
While early 2026 remains relatively quiet at Hollywood Studios, a major closure is right around the corner.
Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith is scheduled to close permanently on March 2, 2026. The attraction will reopen later in the summer with a brand-new Muppets-themed experience.
Guests visiting in late winter may want to prioritize one last ride before the transition begins.
Water Parks: Seasonal Rotation Continues
Disney’s water parks follow a rotating schedule, and early 2026 is a transition period.
Typhoon Lagoon closes for its annual refurbishment on February 14, 2026.
At the same time, Blizzard Beach is scheduled to reopen, continuing Disney’s practice of operating one water park at a time during the cooler months.
Other Refurbishments to Know About
Several smaller closures and refurbishments may also affect early 2026 visits:
- The Disney Skyliner has scheduled maintenance in late January and early February on select dates.
- Pete’s Silly Sideshow in Magic Kingdom remains closed for refurbishment through at least mid-March.
- The Wilderness Lodge boat dock is closed for maintenance into early spring.
- Select Disney Springs locations, including Refreshment Port and the Lime Garage, are also under refurbishment.
Always check the My Disney Experience app for day-of operational changes.
What This Means for Early 2026 Walt Disney World Trips
Early 2026 is shaping up to be a season of goodbyes and anticipation. While several classic attractions are unavailable, crowd levels are typically manageable, weather is comfortable, and many headliner rides remain open.
Plan ahead, adjust expectations, and consider focusing on attractions that are not impacted by construction. Most importantly, take time to experience the last moments of attractions that are closing forever.
Sam’s Disney Diary Take
Disney World is clearly building toward its next decade. Early 2026 sits right in the middle of that transformation. While closures are never ideal, they also signal major investments in the future of the parks. If you plan smart, you can still have an incredible visit — and maybe say goodbye to a few legends along the way.
