I Got a First Look at Disney’s Ride Makeovers—And There’s a Big Surprise

Disney World has been teasing updates to some of its most beloved attractions for months, but until now, details have been scarce — leaving fans guessing what’s to come. That changed at Disney’s recent Play n Preview event, where Walt Disney World executives finally unveiled a slate of major updates rolling out through 2025 and 2026. I even got to see some of the changes in real life as part of the showcase.

Here’s everything you need to know about the upgrades coming to Disney World’s classic rides:

Zootopia: Better Zoogether at Animal Kingdom’s Tree of Life

Debuting November 7, 2025, this new 4D show will take over the former It’s Tough to Be a Bug theater inside the Tree of Life. The immersive experience is themed around a “Zoogether Day” watch party, complete with CarrotVision 3D glasses and even a new scent effect (with executives promising no more of the poking bugs from the old show!). Expect appearances from Judy Hopps, Nick Wilde, and a full Gazelle concert featuring the hit song Try Everything.

Timed to coincide with the release of Zootopia 2 in late November, the attraction will also include meet-and-greets with Judy and Nick in Discovery Island.

Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin Gets a Glow-Up

This interactive Magic Kingdom ride has been closed for refurbishment, and now we know why. The star cruisers (i.e., the ride vehicles) are completely new, and the blasters can now be detached from the vehicle for easier aiming. Even better, targets light up when you hit them, giving players instant feedback. The refreshed attraction is set to reopen in 2026.

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Adds Rainbow Caverns

The coaster in Magic Kingdom’s Frontierland is getting updates to keep it in “tip-top shape” and a brand-new scene. The upcoming Rainbow Caverns section will include glowing phosphorescent pools and shimmering cave walls — an upgrade that will keep it feeling fresh and new while still sticking to its Gold Rush theme. While a specific date was not given for its reopening, we do know that it’ll be sometime in 2026.

Animation Courtyard Reimagined as Walt Disney Studios

At Hollywood Studios, the area in the Animation Courtyard that currently houses Star Wars: Launch Bay will be transformed into The Magic of Disney Animation, inspired by the short Once Upon a Studio where characters jump out of their drawings. Guests will see portraits coming to life and can participate in interactive drawing experiences.

A New Mission on Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run

This rider-participation Star Wars ride at Hollywood Studios is getting a fresh storyline in May 2026, just in time for the upcoming Mandalorian movie. This time, the flight crew’s destination is chosen by the Engineer role, which was once the least exciting job for riders (compared to Pilot and Gunner). Now, it’s looking like this could be the most in-demand role for the interactive ride.

Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets

We’ve known that this roller coaster would be re-themed for The Muppets, but new details reveal the storyline that riders will experience. The concept: Scooter’s uncle has purchased G-Force Records, and it’s now up to Scooter to get Electric Mayhem — plus the VIP riders — across Hollywood in time for their big concert. You’ll ride in a Muppet-style limousine ride when this reimagined coaster opens sometime in 2026.

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