The Big Wave of Openings is Here
It has been an incredible week at Walt Disney World. With the official debut of Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring the Muppets and the premiere of Soarin’ Across America at EPCOT, the resort feels like it is entering a brand-new era. However, even with these massive additions, many families arriving this summer will find that some of their favorite classic spots are still behind construction walls. If you are planning a trip for the second half of 2026, here is exactly what is still closed and how it impacts your day.
Magic Kingdom: The Frontierland Transformation
While Big Thunder Mountain Railroad recently reopened after its major track replacement, the area surrounding it remains a massive construction site. The Rivers of America and Tom Sawyer Island are permanently closed as crews work on the new Piston Peak area and the highly anticipated Villains Land. This has changed how the park functions in a few key ways:
- Walt Disney World Railroad: The train is currently operating in shuttle mode. You can travel between Main Street, U.S.A. and Storybook Circus, but the Frontierland station remains closed due to the surrounding construction.
- Liberty Square Riverboat: This classic attraction is permanently gone to make way for the Cars-themed expansion.
- Tomorrowland Terrace: This location continues its long-term closure, though it is still used for fireworks dessert parties in the evenings.
Animal Kingdom: The End of an Era
The biggest change for 2026 travelers is at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. As of February, DinoLand U.S.A. is officially extinct. The DINOSAUR attraction, Restaurantosaurus, and the Boneyard are all closed to make way for Tropical Americas, which is scheduled to open in 2027.
Currently, the entire back section of the park is behind walls as Imagineers transform the Dino Institute into a new Indiana Jones experience and build the first-ever Encanto ride. If you are visiting this summer, keep in mind that the Wildlife Express Train and Rafiki’s Planet Watch are also undergoing a temporary closure to prepare for the debut of the Bluey meet-and-greet experience later this season.
Hollywood Studios and EPCOT Updates
At Disney’s Hollywood Studios, the Animation Courtyard is the current focal point for construction. While The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure is open, large portions of the courtyard are closed as the area transitions into the new Walt Disney Studios themed land.
Over at EPCOT, things are looking much more complete. With Test Track 3.0 and Soarin’ Across America both operational, the main closures are limited to minor refurbishments. Impressions de France in the France pavilion recently reopened, and most of the construction walls in the center of the park have finally been removed.
Hotel Refurbishments to Watch
If you are booking a stay for late 2026, be aware of two major room projects starting this month. Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort has begun a phased room refurbishment that will last through early 2027. Similarly, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge – Jambo House is starting its own room refresh project. While the amenities at these resorts remain open, you may encounter construction noise during daytime hours.
Disclaimer: This information is gathered from various online sources and news outlets. While we strive for accuracy, Disney plans and policies can change rapidly. We recommend double-checking official Disney sources for the most up-to-date information before making final travel plans.