Big things are happening at Magic Kingdom, and we’re giving you the rundown!
We’ve already seen some massive changes at Magic Kingdom, and more are on the horizon. The new Piston Peak Cars-themed area is already being constructed after the park officially closed the Rivers of America, Liberty Square Riverboat, and Tom Sawyer Island, as well as converting the Walt Disney World Railroad into “shuttle mode.” However, a few different projects are already in the works that will change existing attractions forever.
Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin
Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin is currently closed for a pretty big makeover.
This ride will look VERY different when it reopens. The ride vehicles are getting a redesign with a sleeker look featuring colors inspired by Star Command, in addition to getting onboard video monitors that track your score in real time.
The blasters are also going from a fixed position to movable — now featuring an always-on laser for aim assistance. Each vehicle will have two different blaster colors to make finding your shot easier. Blasters will also include lighting, sound, and vibration feedback, adding to the interactivity of the ride.
The attraction’s targets are getting a touch-up as well to include new lighting effects.
You’ll also get to meet “Buddy,” a brand-new support-bot whose job is to hype you up, run last-minute system checks on your Star Cruiser, and help you warm up your blaster skills before heading out to battle Emperor Zurg.
Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin will reopen sometime in 2026.
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad has been closed since early January 2025 and is set to reopen next year. During the long closure, Disney World has included some seriously-needed maintenance and ride improvements.
Disney confirmed the newest iteration has received a NEW TRACK and will feature some new effects.
A new effect will happen “when the trains rattle their way underground to spectacular natural caverns full of phosphorescent pools,” illuminating stalagmites and stalactites to reveal the Rainbow Caverns — something that was considered in the original concept art.
Additionally, the exterior of the ride is getting a slight makeover to fit more in line with the Piston Peak area, which will complement it in Frontierland.
Carousel of Progress
It was recently announced at Destination D23 that Carousel of Progress is getting an update!
The attraction will close to include a brand new intro featuring Walt Disney himself — not unlike the one that debuted recently in Disneyland.
The new introductory scene will have Walt speak to guests before heading out on your adventure with the American family through the decades.
Disney added, “There are still plenty of additional details to be revealed, including what John, Sarah, and the rest of the family are up to.”
Folks worried about a complete reimagining can rest assured, however, as “Imagineers love this attraction and the heart of it will stay the same while introducing the Carousel of Progress to an entirely new generation of fans, showing them that a great big, beautiful tomorrow is just a dream away.”
TRON Lightcycle / Run
Of note, TRON Lightcycle / Run recently received a Tron: Ares lighting overlay that’s turned the blue lighting red. You can also hear some new music from Nine Inch Nails (who worked on the film’s soundtrack), including “As Alive as You Need Me to Be”.
An end date to this overlay has yet to be announced.
We can hardly wait until all these ride changes debut! In the meantime, stay tuned right here at AllEars for the latest Disney World coverage!
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Which ride are you most excited to experience in its updated form? Let us know in the comments!
Took 50 years, but they are finally adding Walt to COP! A nice tribute to the last attraction he was directly associated with