UPDATED July 15, 2026

2026 is a year of major change at Walt Disney World, as massive years-long construction projects continue to reshape the future of the resort. However, that doesn’t mean nothing new is coming in 2026.

While some of the larger projects won’t be finished and open to guests until calendar turns 2027 — and beyond — there are major changes CONFIRMED to be coming to Disney World THIS YEAR!

Walt Disney Studios Lot — Currently Opening in Phases 

A brand new area is now open in Disney’s Hollywood Studios: get ready to step into The Walt Disney Studios as it has started opening in phases as of May 26, 2026! The area previously known as Animation Courtyard has been reimagined into The Walt Disney Studios as a “special nod to the legendary Walt Disney Studios Lot” in Burbank, California.

But ultimately here, Disney Animation characters will “leap off the screen and into our world” at The Magic of Disney Animation, which will be part of the larger “Walt Disney Studios Lot” reimagining. The building that previously housed Star Wars: Launch Bay is turning into “The Magic of Disney Animation,” which is inspired by Walt Disney Animation Studios and the Roy E. Disney Animation Building.

The Magic of Animation will open on September 14, 2026. But the outdoor courtyard is open for guests to enjoy now.  

Additionally, a fresh version of “Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live!” officially debuted in the area on May 26th, 2026. 

La Poutinerie — NOW OPEN

The spot previously known as Refreshment Port has become La Poutinerie, and it opened in EPCOT on July 1, 2026 (which just so happens to be Canada Day!). 

Located closest to the Canada Pavilion in EPCOT’s World Showcase, La Poutinerie is sponsored by Air Canada, and delivers “a Canadian classic with a twist.” Traditional Poutine — Québec: L’authentique — remains on the menu, and it is joined by a Montréal version, Viande Fumée which tops French fries with cheese curds, smoked meat, pickles, and mustard gravy. A selection of Canadian beers and a non-alcoholic Spiced Apple Slushy are also on offer.

Level99 — NOW OPEN!

LEVEL99 is NOW OPEN in Disney World’s shopping, dining, and entertainment district, Disney Springs, as of June 29th, 2026!

LEVEL99 is an interactive, social entertainment experience. More specifically, it is a destination for “real-world, challenge-based, social entertainment” for adults featuring physical and mental challenges set in artistic environments. Check out everything you need to know about LEVEL99 here!

Smugglers Run with Mando & Grogu Updates – NOW OPEN!

In conjunction with the release of the new Star Wars Mandalorian & Grogu feature film on May 22nd, Millennium Falcon Smuggler’s Run has welcomed the addition of new missions based on the titular character and his youngling Grogu (Baby Yoda, to those of you unfamiliar with the Galaxy Far, Far Away).

As part of the new experience, “the crew will be in control of their own destination, leading to potential adventures on Bespin, the wreckage of the second Death Star around Endor, or the just-announced bustling city-planet, Coruscant.” In addition, another new gameplay addition allows the engineer positions to communicate with Grogu, making them much more “important” to the ride’s overall story and narrative.

Take a FIRST LOOK at Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run Changes in Disney World

Rock ‘n Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets — NOW OPEN!

Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith was an E-Ticket attraction in Disney World’s Hollywood Studios from the moment it opened on July 29, 1999. But this indoor roller coaster has been entirely rethemed… It’s time for Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets, which opened on May 26, 2026!

The Muppets have moved to Sunset Boulevard and taken over what was Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith. The Muppets are the star of the show on Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster and have teamed up with some of “music’s biggest stars for a rockin’ music festival.”

We Just Rode Disney’s NEW Rock ‘n ‘Roller Coaster Starring the Muppets, and We Have SO Much To Tell You

FØØD by Swedish Chef  — NOW OPEN!

FØØD by Swedish Chef opened right along with Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster!

The beloved Swedish Chef has taken over a fan-favorite snack truck in the Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster courtyard, so if you’re strolling by and suddenly hear “Bork, bork, bork,” you know who’s in the kitchen, serving a menu of all-new snacks and sips. 

Soarin’ Over America – NOW OPEN!

In celebration of America’s 250th birthday, EPCOT’s Soarin’ Around the World has received an “all-new airborne adventure across the US, honoring the heart and spirit of the nation.” The new Soarin’ Across America officially debuted on May 26th, 2026.

This “limited-time itinerary” temporarily replaces Soarin’ Around the World. 

We Just Rode The NEW Soarin’ Across America in Disney World, And We’re Sharing ALL The Details

Bluey’s Wild World – NOW OPEN!

Bluey’s Wild World opened on May 26th, taking over what used to be Rafiki’s Planet Watch.

The experience features dance parties and interactive play with Bluey and Bingo, and a new miniature zoo with Australian animals!

Disney Springs Shopping

The Vans Store is now open at Disney Springs as of July 2nd! It’s new flagship location of the iconic skate shoe brand.

It’s located in Disney Springs’ Town Center, right between the Harley-Davidson and Levi’s stores.

In addition to these confirmed dates, more Disney World projects are confirmed to open sometime this year, including:

• Six Ravens: A new concept from the company behind Gideon’s Bakehouse, is also coming to Disney Springs this summer. According to owner Steve Lewis, the locations will be focused on savory offerings, specializing in “Coffyns.”  Described as an “old school hand pie”, the fluffy yeast bread pastry will be “filled with flavors created not only by the talented minds in Gideon’s kitchen but also by some of your favorite Orlando culinary superstars.” Six Ravens will also serve savory potatoes, local draft beer, and, obviously, “some tasty desserts.”
• Hurly-Burly: Disney’s BoardWalk plays hosts to several shops and restaurants, and late 2026 will see the addition of a new lounge called Hurly-Burly! The spot will welcome guests for “fun-filled afternoons and glamorous evenings inside a historic seaside theatre with a vibrant BoardWalk story that spans over a century.” During the afternoon, family-friendly activities like trivia and other games will be led by a host, but at night, the location will welcome only guests over to 21-and-over, when it will become a live music venue where you can unwind with classic, coastal-inspired cocktails and tasty light bites, while enjoying a variety of musical entertainment.
• Additional BoardWalk Updates: Also coming are Basin on the BoardWalk presenting an updated shopping experience and a new Quick Service restaurant, so stay tuned for more details!

2026 will see a slew of major openings at Walt Disney World, including some long-awaited ride refurbishments. Stay tuned to DFB for more on the resort’s evolution.

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Are you heading to Disney World this year? Let us know in the comments below.