6 Things Disney World Is Doing for the First Time in 2026

It’s hard to believe 2025 is almost over, but 2026 is bringing a lot of firsts for Disney World. So pack your bags and get ready to try new things!

Magic Kingdom

Disney World is staying busy and always looking ahead. We have new lands coming to multiple parks, attractions getting some major refurbishments, and I’m sure there will be some surprises too! With all of this excitement, there are 6 new things happening in Disney World in 2026, and you’ll want to know these to plan your next trip accordingly.

1. First Alice in Wonderland Playground

In a delightful departure for Disney’s Hollywood Studios, 2026 marks the first-ever Alice in Wonderland-themed playground. As part of the wider Animation Courtyard transformation, the new indoor zone, “Drawn to Wonderland”, will transport guests into Mary Blair’s iconic concept art. Expect oversized musical flower gardens, a Mad Tea Party playset, and a Tulgey Wood exploration area, all nestled within “The Magic of Disney Animation,” a reimagined space that also invites guests to bring characters to life and even learn to draw themselves.

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The building that currently houses Star Wars: Launch Bay will be turned into “The Magic of Disney Animation,” which is inspired by Walt Disney Animation Studios and the Roy E. Disney Animation Building. While no official opening date has been released yet, this transformation is slated for 2026. Animation Courtyard in Disney’s Hollywood Studios will close on September 25th, 2025. This includes a permanent closure for Star Wars Launch Bay as well as a closure of Disney Jr. Play and Dance to make way for “a fresh Disney Jr. show,” according to Disney.

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2. First Time Closing DinoLand for Good

For the first time ever, DinoLand U.S.A. at Animal Kingdom is set to close permanently in early 2026. Restaruantosaurus and DINOSAUR, the attraction, will be closing on February 2nd to make way for the new Pueblo Esperanza, the Tropical Americas themed land opening in 2027. Disney shared that the final day to experience DINOSAUR, The Dino Institute Shop, Restaurantosaurus, and Restaurantosaurus Lounge is February 1st. The Tropical Americas expansion, featuring an Indiana Jones attraction and an Encanto-inspired experience, is set to open around 2027.

Dinosaur

3. First Time You’ll Want to Be an Engineer on Smugglers Run

In honor of the release of The Mandalorian and Grogu movie on May 22nd, 2026, Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run will offer NEW experiences for those who ride it, beginning on that same date. Also, for the first time ever, you and your crew get to be in control of the destination as the engineer! It will fall to the Engineer on board to choose where to go throughout the journey, where passengers will team up with the Mandalorian, Grogu, and Hondo.

Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

4. First Hand-held Blasters for Space Ranger

Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin at Magic Kingdom is undergoing a major upgrade targeting 2026. The ride vehicles will also have new blasters. These will be handheld, meaning that you’ll be able to aim and shoot easily. The new blasters will now include an always-on laser and come in two different colors, one for each guest in the vehicle. In addition, the static targets found in the attraction previously will be upgraded with new technology that will allow them to react and light up when hit. No more guessing if you hit the target you are aiming for!

All The Changes Confirmed for Buzz Lightyear Space Ranger Spin!

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5. First East Coast Walt Animatronic

In a heartfelt nod to Disney heritage, the Carousel of Progress at Magic Kingdom will soon feature an Audio-Animatronic figure of Walt Disney, debuting in a brand-new introduction scene. This addition marks the first time that the classic attraction will include Walt himself, right here on the East Coast, a milestone years in the making. The announcement was made at the recent Destination D23 event, but Disney has not yet disclosed when this update will debut.

Carousel of Progress Is CHANGING at Magic Kingdom

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6. First Muppets Ride

Disney is reimagining Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster into a Muppets-themed ride, making 2026 the first year that a full-scale Muppets ride experience will hit Disney World. The new story goes that The Electric Mayhem is headlining at their biggest Hollywood concert ever. There’s one big problem: the band is nowhere to be found! In G-Force Records, we’re treated to a VIP tour of the recording studio, which is currently under new management by The Muppets. The ride is set to open in 2026, although no official date has been announced.