food IS a theme park
Summer, summer, summer. That’s the only thing going through my head right now as I wait for winter to pass and summer to come back. While I’m ready for the warmer weather, I’m mostly excited for everything coming to Disney World this summer.
©Disney
You can go to Disney World at any time throughout the year, but here is me convincing you that you should go in summer 2026.
The Magic Kingdom’s Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is just months away from reopening after a long refurbishment, and that has us excited… and a bit concerned!
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
The Magic Kingdom’s long-tenured E-Ticket has been closed since January 2025 for a massive refurbishment project. According to Disney, the attraction is scheduled to reopen in Spring 2026 with “new magic” including a fully refurbished track and a new sequence inspired by the Rainbow Caverns of Disneyland’s Mine Train Through Nature’s Wonderland. All sounds good, right? Well…
As the Magic Kingdom prepares to turn 55 in October of 2026, the park is set to have a game-changing year that will see not one, not two, but three classic attractions updated for a new generation of guests, all while two massive new lands rise at the back of the park.
Walt Disney — A Magical Life
Over the course of my 30+ years visiting Disney theme parks, I’ve seen the Magic Kingdom transform a great deal. However, few years match 2025, which saw the closure of the entire Rivers of America. With that iconic opening day area closed, what will 2026 bring? Well, let’s find out.
UPDATED May 8, 2026
Big changes are on the horizon for Disney World, and 2026 is an exciting year.
Magic Kingdom’s Cinderella Castle
From long-awaited ride refurbishments to brand-new storylines and reimagined spaces, the parks and resorts are evolving in ways that promise fresh experiences for both first-time visitors and seasoned fans. Whether it’s a beloved classic getting a modern update or a brand-new twist on an iconic attraction, these openings are making 2026 a year Disney fans won’t want to miss.
A beloved Magic Kingdom attraction is getting a much-needed upgrade!
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad was closed in early January 2025 for a lengthy refurbishment and still remains closed today. While the ride isn’t slated to reopen until some point in 2026, Disney recently revealed some MAJOR upgrades that you can see and experience once “the wildest ride in the wilderness” is back up and running!
Disney has a lot on the horizon for its theme parks, cruise line, and more! From new lands in Disney World like Pueblo Esperanza and Piston Peak National Park, to new cruise ships joining the Disney Cruise Line fleet, there is a lot to look forward to in the coming years.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios
But what will be the biggest changes for Disney in 2026? We turned to the experts, and we are predicting what changes will be the most impactful in 2026. Let’s dive in!
It’s that time again!
©The Walt Disney Company
Each week, we dive into the biggest breaking news from the Walt Disney Company so we have a full recap of what’s going on within the Disney world. (Get it? Disney World?) This week had tons of fun surprises, so let’s dive right in!
Disneyland’s “Wildest Ride in the Wilderness” may soon fall temporarily silent.
Big Thunder Mountain at Disneyland
While Disney has yet to make an official announcement, a look at the Disneyland park calendar indicates that the Frontierland staple, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, will be closing for refurbishment early next month.
Even more CLOSURES are going to hit Disney World in July. Shocking, I know!
Cinderella Castle
If you’re planning a trip to Disney World this summer, you should be aware of what’s going on around the parks in July. Construction and refurbishments continue to be on the way at Disney World, and July is going to be no different. Take a look at everything that will be closed in July of 2025!
Magic Kingdom is changing big time!
Cinderella Castle
A new Villains Land is in development, Cars Land is about to begin construction, and a few of our favorite attractions are getting some TLC! Big Thunder Mountain has been closed for months, and we are FINALLY getting a look at the updates coming to the classic attraction. Let’s check out this wild ride!
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