5 HUGE Things Coming to Walt Disney World in 2026

You might be wondering if you should AVOID Disney World in 2026 with all the construction going on, but don’t cancel your trip just yet!

We know it seems like there is a plethora of construction walls up right now (and there is!), but there are also a few exciting things opening in 2026 that you can be among the first to experience. Let’s dive in and see the biggest things that are coming to Disney World soon.

The Magic of Disney Animation

First on the list is a major overhaul coming to Animation Courtyard in Hollywood Studios. Star Wars: Launch Bay and Disney Jr. Play ‘n’ Dance recently closed to make way for The Magic of Disney Animation and a new Disney Jr. dance show.

We’ve seen several editions of the Disney Jr. show over the years, but The Magic of Disney Animation is the announcement that has fans reeling. This change will harken back to the animation studio days of MGM Studios, where you’ll be able to attend a character drawing class and check out interactive animation-inspired exhibits.

The courtyard itself will get a new life with characters and an Alice in Wonderland-themed playground for little ones. And the best part? The animation building will be topped with the Sorcerer Mickey hat!

Get the Lowdown on the New Attraction Here!

Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets

It has been revealed that Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster starring Aerosmith will remain open in Hollywood Studios through 2025, but Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster starring The Muppets will open sometime in 2026. This new version of the ride will feature a pre-show with beloved characters, and the ride soundtrack will be provided by Dr. Teeth and the Electric Mayhem.

The coaster will see the Muppets “teaming up with some of music’s biggest stars for a rockin’ music festival.” We can’t wait to learn more!

See More Details About the Ride Here!

Updated Big Thunder Mountain Railroad

Another ride that’s opening with updates in 2026 is Big Thunder Mountain Railroad in Magic Kingdom. This coaster has been closed for nearly all of 2025 and is getting some changes, like new lighting, a smoother track, and a revamped plot.

But one of the biggest updates is that we’ll be getting the addition of the Rainbow Caverns! These will be “spectacular natural caverns full of phosphorescent pools, shimmering and illuminating iridescent stalagmites and stalactites.”

See Everything That’s Changing for This Ride Here!

Updated Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run

Also getting updates is Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run. It was announced a while back that the ride would get scenes inspired by The Mandalorian. Yep, we’ll be able to see Din Djarin and Grogu on the ride!

These new scenes will premiere on May 22nd, 2026, which is the same day that The Mandalorian and Grogu film premieres in theaters. The ride additions are inspired by the movie and will feature you accompanying Mando and Grogu on dangerous and thrilling missions!

See More Details About the New Scenes Here!

Updated Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin

Last but not least, we’re heading back to Magic Kingdom for changes to Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin. This shooter-style attraction has been closed for a few months now to get several updates. When it reopens in 2026, we’ll have new ride vehicles, an interactive scoring system, and handheld blasters!

There’s also going to be a new ride scene at the beginning where you learn how to work the blasters and play the game. We can’t wait to try and achieve Galactic Hero with the new system!

See All the Updates the Ride Is Getting Here!

If you’re on the fence about visiting in 2026, some of these new attractions might be tempting enough to warrant a vacation! We are still awaiting more opening timeline information for these projects, so subscribe to our newsletter to stay on top of all the exciting details!