The #1 Reason Disney Adults Are SKIPPING Magic Kingdom in 2026

We’re headed to Disney World in 2026! Are you? This year is bringing lots of changes to the parks, new deals, and fun events. From Cool Kid Summer to BOTH water parks being open once again to new experiences, we’re so excited to visit Disney World this year.

If you’re planning a visit to Disney World in 2026, do you plan on visiting all four theme parks and both water parks? Or are there some things and spots you think you’ll skip this year? We asked our readers over on Facebook if they’re skipping Magic Kingdom in 2026 and why, and the answer may be surprising!

The number one answer we got on our Facebook question of why you all are skipping Magic Kingdom in 2026 may be surprising, but we’ll get to that in a bit! There was one answer that stood out, but several of you gave varying responses.

Construction

Magic Kingdom is getting a new Villains Land and a new Cars area in Frontierland, and with these new additions comes a lot of construction. Construction walls are up, and several old experiences are down (either permanently or temporarily). Many of you shared that this is reason enough not to go to Magic Kingdom this year, but instead wait until these new things are open.

Our reader Laura shared, “Mostly I want to wait until the new lands open up and the walls come down.”

Gregory acknowledged the constructions by saying, “Half of it is closed, and it’s hard to get through to the other side.”

It’s definitely a building year for Magic Kingdom, so we don’t blame anyone for wanting to wait until the construction is done.

Cost

Magic Kingdom, being the most popular park at Disney World in general, is also the priciest park to visit. Disney often offers deals and discounts for the other parks, but rarely does so for Magic Kingdom. This seems like it will be turning some people away in 2026.

AllEars readers Sheri noted that her family has skipped Magic Kingdom the past few years since her kids are adults now and enjoy the other three parks more. She also noted, “Plus Disney has discount prices for Epcot, AK, and HS when you buy 3 day[s].”

MaryBeth simply stated, “I haven’t won the lottery.” Same, MaryBeth, same. Cost was a big reason for many people skipping Magic Kingdom this year. With the rising prices, along with the construction, many people shared they couldn’t afford it or didn’t want to.

Epic Universe

While this wasn’t the number one answer, it was definitely shared as a reason for skipping Magic Kingdom this year. Some Disney fans will be skipping Magic Kingdom in favor of Epic Universe at Universal Orlando Resort.

This new park has five new lands featuring people’s favorite entertainment franchises, such as Harry Potter, How to Train Your Dragon, Super Nintendo, and horror films. It’s a very cool park that many people are opting to check out over Magic Kingdom this year.

Rather Drink Around the World in EPCOT

Hats off to Joyce, who shared, “I am older. A senior. I want to drink around the World. Going to EPCOT this time.” We LOVE that, and we hope you have a great time in EPCOT!

While Magic Kingdom is classic and will always have a special place in our hearts, the other three parks have so much to offer, as well. They are absolutely worth checking out to enjoy the entertainment, food, drinks, and attractions.

Going on Cruises

There were a few readers who mentioned that they are skipping Magic Kingdom to vacation on a Disney cruise! Reader Carol is headed to the British Isles on the Disney Dream later this year, while Nanci is sailing away on the Disney Treasure this fall.

Disney cruises are a great alternative to a Disney World vacation. You can sail aboard one of the eight ships for experiences around the world. If you have small children or you want to avoid the construction at Magic Kingdom, this may be a great option!

The #1 Answer:

Disney Fans Can’t Stay Away from the Magic Kingdom

Even with all the construction, higher prices, and alternative options, the number one answer when asked why our readers are skipping Magic Kingdom in 2026 was, “I’m not.” So many of you can’t stay away from the magic that is the Magic Kingdom.

Jeanette said, “How could anyone?” Alicia already has two trips planned, and so many more readers said they are absolutely going in 2026.

“I’m skipping DOWN Main Street USA in April… is that what you mean? ☺️,” said Rebecca. Well, Rebecca, we’ll be there with you!

If you’re looking for a travel agent to help with your 2026 vacation, we recommend our friends at Mouse Fan Travel. They’re experts in the field with over 20 years of vacation planning experience, and they can help take a bunch of the stress out of the entire booking process for you!

In the meantime, we hope you enjoy your 2026 vacation, whether it’s at Magic Kingdom or not. But you can trust that we’ll be there all year long, bringing you the most up-to-date info!

Toy Story Characters Are Coming To a Magic Kingdom Restaurant!

Are you skipping Magic Kingdom in 2026? Let us know in the comments!

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