The Countdown to Summer 2026 is On
If you’re heading to Walt Disney World this May, you’re visiting at a historic turning point for the resort. May 2026 marks the bridge between massive multi-year construction projects and the official kickoff of the Cool Kids’ Summer celebration on May 26th. While some fan-favorites are returning with brand-new looks, others are taking their final bow or undergoing brief transitions to get ready for the crowds.
Knowing what’s closed is just as important as knowing what’s open when you’re trying to maximize your Lightning Lane Multi Pass selections. Here is the full breakdown of what you can expect during your May visit to the Most Magical Place on Earth.
Magic Kingdom: The Return of the Wildest Ride
The biggest news for Magic Kingdom fans is the long-awaited return of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. After being closed since early 2025 for a total track replacement and infrastructure overhaul, the coaster is officially scheduled to reopen on May 3, 2026. This isn’t just a maintenance project; Disney has added “new magic” to the experience, including a stunning sequence inspired by the legendary Rainbow Caverns. Even better for families, reports indicate the height requirement has been adjusted to 38 inches, making it accessible to more little ones than ever before.
However, you should keep in mind that Tom Sawyer Island and the Liberty Square Riverboat remain permanently closed as construction ramps up on the new Cars-themed area and Villains Land. Additionally, Cinderella Castle is currently undergoing a massive repainting project to restore its original 1971 color palette. While the castle remains a beautiful backdrop, don’t be surprised if you see some scaffolding or minor stage show adjustments throughout the month.
EPCOT: A Birthday Celebration for the U.S.A.
At EPCOT, the big story is Soarin’. To celebrate the United States Semiquincentennial (the 250th birthday of the nation), the attraction is transitioning from “Soarin’ Around the World” to a limited-time Soarin’ Across America overlay. To make this change happen, the ride will be closed from May 14th through May 25th. It will officially debut its new flight path on May 26th.
If you’re looking for the high-speed thrills of Test Track 3.0, the good news is that the reimagined ride is now fully operational after its grand reopening. It’s currently one of the top-tier choices for your Lightning Lane planning, so make sure to prioritize it in the My Disney Experience app.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios: Muppets and Mandalorians
Hollywood Studios is seeing the most dramatic changes this month. The legendary Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster has officially shed its Aerosmith skin and will reopen on May 26th starring The Muppets. This reimagined high-speed coaster will feature a soundtrack by Dr. Teeth and the Electric Mayhem, bringing a more whimsical vibe to the Sunset Boulevard area.
For Star Wars fans, Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run will debut an all-new mission featuring The Mandalorian and Grogu on May 22nd. This update is expected to draw massive crowds, so you’ll want to keep an eye on wait times during the final week of the month. Meanwhile, the Animation Courtyard remains closed as it transforms into the new “Walt Disney Studios” land, though a phased reopening of the outdoor walkways is expected on May 26th.
Animal Kingdom: The End of the Dino Era
In Disney’s Animal Kingdom, the landscape has changed forever. DINOSAUR and the rest of DinoLand U.S.A. are now permanently closed to make way for the upcoming Tropical Americas land. Construction walls are up, and the area is currently a hive of activity as Imagineers work on the future home of Indiana Jones and Encanto attractions.
The bright spot for May is over at Rafiki’s Planet Watch. The entire area, including the Wildlife Express Train, is scheduled to reopen on May 26th as Bluey’s Wild World. This rethemed space will feature character interactions and interactive games for younger guests, making it a must-visit during the summer kickoff.
Planning Pro-Tips for May 2026
- Target the Mid-Month: If you want to ride Big Thunder but avoid the massive “Cool Kids’ Summer” crowds, aim for the week of May 10th. You’ll miss the May 26th openings, but the park will be much quieter.
- Lightning Lane Strategy: With the debut of the Muppet coaster and the new Mandalorian mission on Smugglers Run, these two attractions will likely be the first to run out of Lightning Lane availability. Book these as early as your window allows.
- Check Park Hours: Be aware that Magic Kingdom has an early closure scheduled for May 13, 2026 (closing at 5:30 PM) for a private event. Plan your dining reservations accordingly!
May is a month of transitions, but with a little bit of planning, you can navigate these closures like a pro. Whether you’re excited for the return of the Rainbow Caverns or ready to fly with Grogu, there’s still plenty of magic to be found.
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.