Disney is no stranger to big changes, and 2026 is already shaping up to be another year of massive shifts across the parks and resorts.

From attractions being re-themed to entire lands closing, from new ships on the seas to price changes that will impact your vacation budget, there’s a lot to track. To help you plan ahead, we’ve rounded up the 20 biggest Disney changes that are officially confirmed for 2026 — and broken down exactly how each one will impact your trip.

1. A Muppets Rollercoaster Takeover

Hollywood Studios fans already know that Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster has been long overdue for a change, and now it’s official. In 2026, the ride will reopen as a brand-new Muppets-themed rollercoaster.

The re-theme will swap out Aerosmith’s rock concert storyline for a full-on Muppets music festival, complete with appearances from Kermit, Miss Piggy, Gonzo, and even celebrity guest stars. Instead of speeding to a concert backstage, you’ll find yourself racing through a chaotic mash-up of musical genres, Muppets-style.

What this means for your trip: Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster will be closing at some point in 2026 (most likely early 2026), so that they will have enough time to prepare for the ride to re-open in late 2026 (by our best guess). Expect long wait times and likely a Lightning Lane Multi Pass option when it debuts. If you’re a fan of the original Aerosmith theme, make sure to get a last ride in before the end of 2025 or early 2026 at the latest.

2. “Kitty Has To Go Home” — Monsters, Inc. Ride Closure

Over at Disney California Adventure, Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue will close permanently in early 2026. The entire Hollywood Backlot area is being cleared out to make way for a new Avatar Land inspired by the film sequels.

This means one of DCA’s most family-friendly dark rides will disappear. While it’s a tough goodbye for fans of Monstropolis, the trade-off is an ambitious new land that will bring new technology and immersive environments.

What this means for your trip: If Monsters, Inc. is a must-do for your family, you’ll want to ride it before the end of 2025. Once construction begins, that entire section of the park will be walled off, so expect fewer attractions in that corner for a few years.

3. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Returns

At Magic Kingdom, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad has been down for an extended refurbishment throughout 2025. Disney has confirmed that the coaster will reopen in 2026 with updated track work, refreshed effects, and new ride vehicles.

While Disney hasn’t revealed all the details, the company has hinted at “a little bit of new magic.” This could mean updated story elements or enhanced effects similar to what Disneyland Paris received in its Thunder Mountain upgrade.

What this means for your trip: Frontierland will feel complete again in 2026 once this major coaster reopens. Expect heavy crowds during reopening weeks, especially since this is one of the park’s most popular rides.

4. New Mission for Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run

Hollywood Studios’ Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run is getting its first big storyline update since opening. To tie in with the May 2026 release of The Mandalorian and Grogu, the attraction will feature brand-new missions and destinations.

For the first time, guests will be able to choose which planet they want to visit — including Bespin, Tatooine, and others. The new missions will also feature appearances from Din Djarin and Grogu, and the engineer role will get an interactive upgrade where players “talk” to Grogu during the ride.

What this means for your trip: If you’ve flown the Falcon before, this update will make the ride worth revisiting in 2026. Expect a surge of interest, so Lightning Lane availability will likely book fast.

5. Goodbye Dinoland, Hello Pueblo Esperanza

At Animal Kingdom, 2026 will mark the official closure of Dinoland U.S.A. The land will be re-themed into Pueblo Esperanza, a new Tropical Americas area featuring Encanto and Indiana Jones.

The Dinosaur ride will close at some point in 2026 to be transformed into an Indiana Jones adventure, while new Encanto-themed experiences will take over Chester & Hester’s section. This marks the end of an era for DinoLand, which has been shrinking for years.

What this means for your trip: 2026 will be a transition year. Construction walls will dominate this part of the park, so expect limited offerings until Pueblo Esperanza fully opens. Plan to spend more time in Pandora or Africa during your visit.

6. A Temporary Skyliner Closure

The Disney Skyliner gondola system will undergo maintenance from January 25th–31st, 2026. This means no direct access between EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, and the Skyliner resorts during that week.

Disney will provide bus transportation instead, but travel times will be longer and buses will be more crowded than usual.

What this means for your trip: If you’re staying at Pop Century, Art of Animation, Caribbean Beach, or Riviera Resort during this week, be prepared to adjust your transportation plans.

7. Big Hotel Refurbishments Continue

Several Disney World hotels will still be in various stages of refurbishment in 2026:

• Bay Lake Tower refurbishments continue through July 2026.
• Polynesian Villas are getting updated through spring 2026.
• Pop Century room refurbishments should wrap up by mid-February 2026.

What this means for your trip: Construction noise, limited amenities, and blocked-off areas may affect your stay. If these resorts are on your list, check the timing carefully before booking.

8. Pool Closures at Select Resorts

Two major resort pools will also be closed during part of 2026:

• Surfboard Bay Pool at All-Star Sports will be closed from January–April 2026.
• Bay Cove Pool at Bay Lake Tower will be closed January–May 2026.

What this means for your trip: Guests will still have access to alternate pools at each resort, but the main feature pools will be unavailable. If a big themed pool is important to your trip, consider booking elsewhere during these months.

9. Disneyland Paris Becomes Disney Adventure World

Walt Disney Studios Park in Paris will officially transform into Disney Adventure World in 2026. This massive project includes:

• A Lion King flume ride
• An Up-themed swinging attraction
• A Rapunzel spinner ride
• A brand-new Frozen land with a major E-ticket attraction

What this means for your trip: If you’re visiting Disneyland Paris, this will be the park’s biggest expansion since it opened. However, expect high demand and crowds when it debuts.

10. Ticket Price Increases

Disney has confirmed that ticket prices will rise in 2026, with more dates falling at the higher $169 level. Dining Plan prices will also see a small bump. What this means for your trip: Budget a little extra for your vacation. If you’re on the fence, consider locking in a 2025 package before the new rates take effect.

11. Kids Eat Free Deal

To offset the rising costs, Disney is bringing back a Kids Eat Free promotion for 2026. Children ages 3–9 will get free dining when booked as part of a vacation package. What this means for your trip: Families with young kids will save the most here. Availability is limited, so it’s best to book early if you want to use this offer.

12. Zootopia Show at Animal Kingdom

Animal Kingdom’s Tree of Life Theater will officially debut Zootopia: Better Zoogether on November 7th, 2025. This brand-new show will highlight the biomes from the movie — like the snowy tundra, the desert, and of course, the city of Zootopia — as guests learn more about animals in a playful, immersive way.

While the attraction technically opens at the end of 2025, it’s going to be one of the freshest changes heading into 2026, which means crowds will still be high well into the new year. If you’re planning a 2026 trip, expect longer wait times for this one, especially during holiday weekends.

13. Beak and Barrel Pirate Pub

As of August 29th, 2025, Adventureland’s newest lounge, The Beak and Barrel, is officially open and ready to welcome guests into the world of Pirates of the Caribbean.

This lively pirate-themed tavern, established by the legendary Captain Meridian “Merry” Goldwyn and her first mate Rummy, features immersive spaces like The Mess, with long tables and a skull-adorned bar, the intimate Captain’s Quarters filled with pirate lore and hand-carved booths, and the adventurous Mapmaker’s Room, accessible through a cannon-blasted wall. Guests can enjoy family-friendly eats like Island Provisions and Cook’s Corn Griddle Cakes, as well as signature cocktails and specialty drinks for adults, including the Plunderer’s Punch served in a souvenir pirate skull mug.

Even heading into 2026, Beak & Barrel remains a must-visit spot for Magic Kingdom guests thanks to its combination of immersive storytelling, interactive surprises, and unique themed drinks and merchandise. Whether you’re grabbing a refreshing cocktail, exploring pirate-inspired rooms, or snagging Rummy-themed souvenirs, it’s a lounge experience that brings the Pirates of the Caribbean world to life and keeps guests coming back for new adventures in Adventureland.

14. Two New Disney Cruise Ships

The Disney Destiny and Disney Adventure ships will both be sailing by 2026. The Destiny will feature a heroes-and-villains theme, while the Adventure will sail out of Singapore with attractions like an Iron Man roller coaster.

What this means for your trip: Cruise fans will have two entirely new ships to explore, expanding itineraries in both the Caribbean and Asia.

15. Free Water Park Days Return

Summer 2026 will bring back the free water park day perk for Disney resort guests. On your check-in day, you’ll be able to visit Blizzard Beach or Typhoon Lagoon at no extra cost.

What this means for your trip: If you’re staying during summer, plan to arrive early enough to take advantage of the free entry.

16. Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin Refurb

Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin closes in late 2025 for updates and will reopen in 2026 with new blasters, upgraded interactive targets, and a new robot sidekick named Buddy.

What this means for your trip: Expect the ride to feel much fresher and more interactive in 2026, especially for younger guests.

17. Anniversary Celebrations End

Two major anniversaries will wrap up in 2026:

• Disneyland’s 70th anniversary
• Hong Kong Disneyland’s 20th anniversary

What this means for your trip: If you want the limited-time parades, shows, or merchandise tied to these milestones, you’ll need to visit before summer 2026.

18. After Hours Returns to Magic Kingdom

Disney has confirmed that After Hours events will return in 2026. These limited-capacity, late-night events offer short waits, free snacks, and cooler nighttime weather.

What this means for your trip: If avoiding crowds is a priority, After Hours tickets can be worth the splurge.

19. New Disney Cruise Destinations

In 2026, the Disney Magic will sail new Alaskan itineraries, and the Disney Dream will add Sardinia, Italy to its Mediterranean cruises.

What this means for your trip: Cruise fans will have new destinations to explore without needing brand-new ships.

20. More Cruise-Themed Parties

Finally, Disney Cruise Line will expand its themed days at sea. Marvel Day at Sea will sail from Galveston, Texas, in January 2026, and Pixar Day at Sea will return on select Fantasy sailings.

What this means for your trip: These themed days offer exclusive entertainment, menus, and meet-and-greets. If you’re a fan of either franchise, booking around these dates makes your cruise extra special.

The Bottom Line

From massive park overhauls to cruise line expansions, Disney has already locked in 20 major changes for 2026. Whether it’s saying goodbye to long-loved rides or welcoming brand-new lands, it’s clear that next year will be another transition-heavy season for Disney fans. The key takeaway? Plan ahead. Double-check ride closures, hotel refurbishments, and pricing changes when booking your 2026 vacation. That way, you can avoid surprises and make the most of all the new experiences waiting for you.

Until then, keep it right here at DFB for the latest Disney news!

Every Disney World Change I’m Not Prepared For in 2026

What 2026 Disney change are you most excited about — or most nervous for? Let us know in the comments.

The post 20 Big Changes Disney Has Already Announced for 2026 first appeared on the disney food blog.