Disney World Shares the Refurbishment Timeline For THREE Major Attractions
If you have been reading along here at MickeyBlog this year, you know that 2025 has been a time of change at Walt Disney World.
Over the last 11 months, we have watched as work began on Tropical Americas at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, the Rivers of America and Tom Sawyer Island close to prepare for Piston Peak, and the Muppets were evicted from Hollywood Studios to make way for Monstropolis.
Photo: Disney
In addition to the new lands under development, Disney has either begun or announced refurbishments for numerous fan-favorite attractions, including Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Frozen Ever After, and Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin.
Now that Disney World is looking ahead to 2026, we have more information to share about when the fan-favorite attractions will reopen!
Frozen Ever After
Just a few months ago, Disney announced that updated Audio-Animatronics would soon debut at EPCOT’s Frozen Ever After.
Photo: Disney
Inspired by the figures used in Hong Kong Disneyland’s World of Frozen, the new Animatronics will do away with rear-projected faces for a more traditional look.
Photo: Disney
Fans will have the opportunity to see the upgraded Frozen Ever After animatronics in February 2026!
Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin
In the Spring of 2026, guests will once again be able to sign up with Star Command and face off with the Evil Emperor Zurg when Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin reopens in Magic Kingdom.
Photo: Disney
The updated attraction will see the iconic Star Cruisers sport a refreshed color scheme, an updated video monitor, and real-time scoring displays.
Additionally, the gameplay experience will be upgraded. Blasters will now be removable, feature an always-on laser, and include enhanced lighting, sound effects, and haptics to help guests better track their aim.
Finally, Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin will debut a new scene along with an all-new character.
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
Last, but certainly not least, we have Big Thunder Mountain Railroad.
Photo: Disney
After a year-long refurbishment, the attraction will reopen next spring with a track replacement, rockwork refresh, and a new show scene.
When Thunder Mountain reopens, riders will travel through a new Rainbow Caverns scene.
Photo: Disney
“After you arrive at the legendary Big Thunder Mining Company, descend into an active mine shaft and board your runaway train. As you enter the cavern, the engine speeds up along the rickety track. Dodge exploding dynamite and falling boulders as you swoop around turns, drop into canyons, and dart through the town of Tumbleweed,” the attraction’s new synopsis reads.
“Your rip-roaring adventure proves that some legends are true. You’re sure to have a real blast!”
Check Back With MickeyBlog
As Walt Disney World prepares for another exciting year of magic, memories, and more, there is a lot to look forward to.
Magic Kingdom
So, be sure to check back with MickeyBlog. We will continue to update you on all the news coming out of The Most Magical Place on Earth.
