BIG things are happening in Magic Kingdom, and not just because it’s Easter weekend.
Magic Kingdom
Nope, Magic Kingdom is getting ready for a brand-new Villains-themed land and a Cars expansion in Frontierland. Meanwhile, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is getting QUITE the overhaul (more on that in a bit), and a new nighttime parade will be coming to the park this summer. We just visited Magic Kingdom, and in one day, we spotted three NEW things we need to tell you about.
Astro Orbiter
Over in Tomorrowland, Astro Orbiter has been closed since January, and it seems to be getting a major refurbishment. The ride has actually been dismantled, with pieces of it being taken to an undisclosed location for an update. When we visited most recently, the ride seemed to be getting a fresh paint job to refresh its look.
New paint
As far as we can tell, the new paint looks like it’s going to take the ride back to its 2014 glory. We previously saw a permit to “provide labor, material and/or electrical for construction” on April 10th, so the ride is getting closer to being put back together and reopening.
Some Magic Kingdom Rides Will Look a Bit More SPARKLY This Year 🤩
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad’s new track
As we mentioned, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is also currently closed for a massive refurbishment. Disney is replacing the track, and we got to see more new continuous sections of the new track, which are now visible. Let’s hope this means the Wildest Ride in the Wilderness will be a lot smoother when it reopens.
More new track!
So, when WILL Big Thunder Mountain Railroad reopen? Well, Disney hasn’t said, but a new permit suggests the timeline is spring 2026.
Character Surprise
We stumbled on the MOST delightful character surprise EVER around the hub. We spotted the White Rabbit, along with some flowers and butterflies from Alice in Wonderland. They were all around the hub, and it was MAGIC.
White Rabbit
We spoke with a Cast Member and were told that Disney World is considering doing more of these surprise appearances.
SO fun
We loved the spontaneity of it, so we’re hoping we run into more character surprises in all the parks.
The 7 Unspoken Rules Disney Adults NEED to Start Following When Meeting Characters
Don’t want to go through all of the stress of booking your Disney World trip alone? Reach out to our friends at Small World Vacations! Their experienced agents monitor your reservation for possible future savings, compare discounts and figure out which one works best for your travel party, dates, resort, and touring plans. And, they share expert tips and first-hand advice with you about your magical vacation.
In the meantime, we’re always on the lookout for the latest Disney news, so stay tuned for more.
What’s Changing at Big Thunder Mountain While It’s Closed for a Year in Disney World?
Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe!
WE KNOW DISNEY.
YOU CAN, TOO.
Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.
Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!
What do you think of these changes? Let us know in the comments!
Our handy (and portable!) ebook guides make sure you get the best deals and can plan a vacation of a lifetime.
TRENDING NOW
Prices have gone up at a Disney World restaurant.
We just got a TON of news about what to expect from Horizons: A Carousel...
4 major changes hit Disney World this week!
Amazon is currently running some great deals on Disney essentials!
The Beak and Barrel has new bar seating!
You'll need to keep your phone out of your hands on these rides.
There are some important rules you NEED to know before heading to Disney Springs!
Disney just added MORE closures to their list of refurbishments.
There are two words that Disney fans are DREADING from D23: Blue Sky!
We know when The Magic of Disney Animation will open!
MORE construction has landed in EPCOT, and we're feeling...some type of way.
This EPCOT store has transformed for the Halloween season!
Some of your Disney World holiday traditions might need to change with these three new...
If you ever need to cancel a Disney World vacation, you need to know these...
Flight attendants are tired of these things.
We've had some bizarre problems with Disney World security in the past, and we're sharing...
Here are six items you should leave at home before heading to Disney World.
Experienced passengers make sure NOT to do these things.
Let's talk about a couple permanent closures that will dramatically change the holiday events at...
A new store is now open at Disney Springs!