Disney World Announces Summer Opening Dates for New and Refreshed Attractions
In a series of sweeping announcements, Disney World has laid out a roadmap for a summer of transformation, signaling a season where classic favorites are recharged and entirely new stories find a home within the parks. From the heights of the American wilderness to the farthest reaches of the outer rim, the resort is preparing for a staggered rollout of experiences.
The Recharging of Tomorrowland
The journey begins on April 8 at Magic Kingdom’s Tomorrowland. Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin is receiving its most significant tactical upgrade to date. While the mission to defeat Emperor Zurg remains, the tools of the trade have evolved. Recruits will now be greeted by Buddy, a Star Command support bot designed to hone their skills with pre-flight target practice.
The star cruisers themselves have been overhauled with handheld blasters featuring always-on lasers and enhanced haptic feedback, making the battle for the galaxy feel more visceral than ever. For the first time, returning Rangers will see their competitive rank and final score immortalized on their Disney PhotoPass memories—official proof for those claiming the title of Galactic Hero.
New Adventures in Hollywood Studios
Hollywood Studios is perhaps the most active hub of this summer’s evolution. Starting May 22, the cockpit of the Millennium Falcon becomes a classroom for the Force. In a new mission for Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run, pilots will join The Mandalorian and Grogu on a high-stakes chase. This update introduces a first for the attraction: the ability for guests to select their own planetary destinations and engage in direct, real-time communication with Grogu.
May 26: A Super-Sized Debut Day
The start of the Cool KIDS’ SUMMER on May 26 marks a major milestone for the resort, with several high-profile experiences opening simultaneously:
- EPCOT: Debuting Soarin’ Across America, a new voyage celebrating the U.S. 250th anniversary with aerial views of the Grand Canyon and iconic cityscapes.
- Disney’s Animal Kingdom: Bluey and Bingo arrive at Conservation Station for “Bluey’s Wild World,” featuring games, photos, and a new “Jumping Junction” animal encounter.
- Disney’s Hollywood Studios: The premiere of Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live! and the opening of The Walt Disney Studios outdoor courtyard.
Limited-Time Summer Exclusives
As part of “Cool KIDS’ SUMMER” events therfe will be some special events running exclusively through the season:
- Jessie’s Roundup: A high-energy revue at Magic Kingdom’s Diamond Horseshoe.
- GoofyCore: A DJ-led dance party and “maximum silliness” zone at EPCOT’s CommuniCore Hall.
- Disney Springs: Nightly dance parties featuring music from Descendants: Wicked Wonderland and Camp Rock 3.
- Water Parks: Meet-and-greets with “laid-back” Goofy at Blizzard Beach and Stitch at Typhoon Lagoon. Disney H2O Glow After Hours also returns to Typhoon Lagoon on select nights starting June 2.
Planned Openings But No Dates Announced
Also opening in the next few months are two major attractions getting major renovation and a brand nex experience:
- Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is slated to emerge from its refurbishment in early May with a fresh polish and “new magic” hidden along its winding tracks.
- The legendary Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster is being tuned to a different frequency as it reopens with the high-speed hijinks of The Muppets and the soulful rock of The Electric Mayhem.
- The Magic of Disney Animation will open late summer. This newly reimagined space in Hollywood Studios Animation Courtyard will feature the “Drawn to Wonderland” playground and “Olaf Draws,” an interactive class where guests of all ages learn the art of animation from legendary Disney artists.