Walt Disney World has announced a sweeping set of new attractions, refreshed experiences, and summer deals for 2026, covering all four parks and resorts. The announcements span Cool KIDS’ SUMMER, running May 26 through September 8, along with some openings before and after that window.
Here’s a rundown of everything revealed today.
Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin Returns April 8
The Magic Kingdom favorite reopens April 8 with a full overhaul. You’ll find new interactive targets, hand-held blasters, updated lighting and sound, and a new character named Buddy to guide you through target practice. Disney PhotoPass will now capture your score and rank for the first time. [Full details →]
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Reopens in Early May
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad wraps up its refurbishment and reopens in early May. Disney says finishing touches are in progress and the attraction will return with new magic following an all-over refresh. [Full details →]
Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets – This Summer
Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster is being transformed into a Muppets-themed ride powered by The Electric Mayhem. Disney’s official line is summer 2026, though the internal target remains around Memorial Day weekend. Work moved fast — the preshow transformation began before the Aerosmith version even closed, and exterior work started the same night the attraction shut down. [Full details →]
The Walt Disney Studios Courtyard Opens May 26
Hollywood Studios gets a new outdoor courtyard called “The Walt Disney Studios,” opening May 26. Later in the summer, The Magic of Disney Animation arrives with a “Drawn to Wonderland” playground, character meet-and-greets in “Off the Page!”, and an Olaf drawing class led by pre-recorded Disney Animation artists. [Full details →]
Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live! Opens May 26
A new stage show based on Disney Jr.’s Mickey Mouse Clubhouse+ series opens at Hollywood Studios on May 26 and stays beyond the summer. Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, Daisy, and Pluto will be on hand for original songs, dancing, and interactive fun. [Full details →]
The Mandalorian and Grogu on Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run – May 22
Starting May 22 at Galaxy’s Edge, Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run gets a new storyline with The Mandalorian and Grogu. You’ll chase ex-Imperial officers and, for the first time, choose which planets the Falcon visits. Engineers can now communicate directly with Grogu during the mission. [Full details →]
Soarin’ Across America at EPCOT – May 26
Soarin’ gets a new film starting May 26, timed to America’s 250th anniversary. The updated ride takes you across natural landmarks like the Grand Canyon and through iconic cityscapes, set to a new orchestration of the classic Soarin’ theme. [Full details →]
Bluey’s Wild World at Animal Kingdom – May 26
Bluey and Bingo head to Conservation Station starting May 26, with games pulled from the show, character meet-and-greets, and a look at Australian animals at “Jumping Junction.” This one stays beyond Cool KIDS’ SUMMER. [Full details →]
New Limited-Time Summer Experiences
Several experiences are exclusive to the Cool KIDS’ SUMMER window:
- Jessie’s Roundup: A Rip-Roarin’ Revue at Magic Kingdom’s Diamond Horseshoe – a Toy Story stage show with Jessie, Woody, Bullseye, and more
- GoofyCore at EPCOT – a party at CommuniCore Hall with DJ sets, games, and playground-style activities
- Disney Springs Dance Party – on select nights in the Marketplace, themed to the new Descendants and Camp Rock films coming to Disney+
- Disney Friends at the Water Parks – Goofy at Blizzard Beach, Stitch at Typhoon Lagoon
- Disney H2O Glow After Hours returns to Typhoon Lagoon June 2-Sept. 5 on select nights
Early Entry Surprises and Resort Perks
Guests staying at Disney Resort hotels get 30 minutes of early park entry each day. This summer, Disney is adding early morning character appearances across all four parks as an extra perk.
Four resorts – Pop Century, Art of Animation, Caribbean Beach, and Port Orleans Riverside – will host scheduled character visits and family-focused amenities including bottle warmers, infant bathtubs, diaper disposals, nightlights, and a library from Disney Publishing. Select nights will include a pajama party with story time.
Summer Ticket and Hotel Deals
Disney is also rolling out several deals:
- 4-Day, 4-Park Magic Ticket – from $109/day (total from $436 plus tax), valid May 26-Oct. 3, 2026
- Free Disney Dining Plan – with a qualifying 4-night Walt Disney Travel Company package; book March 12-April 30, 2026; valid for select arrival nights June 28-Dec. 21, 2026
- Hotel Discounts – up to 30% off for most guests (5 nights+, arrivals July 30-Oct. 3); up to 35% for Florida residents; up to 40% for Annual Passholders (4 nights+)
- Free Water Park on Check-In Day – for Disney Resort hotel guests May 26-Sept. 8, 2026
- Full details
Get Walt Disney World News Delivered to Your Inbox
