Disney World’s 2025 Refurbishment Plan Reveals Big Park Changes

Disney World has officially released its 2025 refurbishment schedule, outlining major maintenance plans, attraction upgrades, and hotel improvements across its parks and resorts in Orlando, Florida. These refurbishments are part of Disney’s ongoing efforts to keep the “Most Magical Place on Earth” operating at top standards while enhancing guest experiences year after year.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Disney fan, it’s crucial to understand which attractions and amenities will be temporarily closed or upgraded during your travel window. Let’s take a closer look at the key updates, scheduled maintenance, and what guests can expect in 2025.

For the official refurbishment calendar, visit the Walt Disney World website.

Magic Kingdom: Iconic Rides Undergoing Maintenance

Magic Kingdom, home to Cinderella Castle and timeless rides, will see several refurbishments in 2025.

Among the most notable:

• Big Thunder Mountain Railroad: Scheduled to be closed from January 6 to March 31, 2025, for a full-track refurbishment and special effects upgrade
• Splash Mountain has now been permanently closed and replaced by Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, opening mid-2025
• Liberty Square Riverboat: Will not operate between May 1 and June 15 for mechanical repairs and dock updates

Additionally, minor updates and cosmetic enhancements are planned for Haunted Mansion and Peter Pan’s Flight, although these will not require closures longer than a few days.

For park updates, follow Disney Parks Blog.

EPCOT: Preparing for the Future

EPCOT continues its multi-year transformation with several exciting upgrades on the 2025 refurbishment list.

Key closures include:

• Spaceship Earth: Temporarily closing from July to November 2025 for a planned storyline enhancement and new lighting elements
• Living with the Land: Closed for two weeks in April 2025 for greenhouse maintenance and track upgrades
• Mission: SPACE and Test Track will remain open but will undergo overnight maintenance that may affect early morning availability

In addition, ongoing work on the new World Celebration neighborhood will lead to some temporary rerouting of guest walkways. This area is expected to fully open by late 2025.

Keep an eye on WDW News Today for EPCOT updates and expansion details.

Hollywood Studios: Limited Disruptions

Disney’s Hollywood Studios will experience fewer closures in 2025 compared to other parks. However, some key changes are planned:

• Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith: Under refurbishment from February through May 2025, possibly receiving a theming overhaul
• Fantasmic! night show will be on hiatus during August and September due to stage and lighting updates
• Star Tours will receive minor updates as part of the park’s integration with newer Star Wars content, although these will not result in a full closure

The park’s most popular attractions, like Rise of the Resistance and Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, will remain unaffected.

For daily park alerts, consult Inside the Magic.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom: Nature Meets Technology

Animal Kingdom will experience modest refurbishments in 2025, focusing mostly on routine upkeep:

• Kali River Rapids will be closed from January through early March for annual maintenance
• It’s Tough to Be a Bug! will go dark for most of May, as the theater undergoes seating and AV system upgrades
• The Tree of Life nighttime projection show may be unavailable during select spring weeks due to tech reconfiguration

Animal Kingdom’s new land rumors, inspired by Zootopia or Moana, are still speculative and not part of the 2025 confirmed schedule.

More details on Animal Kingdom closures can be found at WDW Info.

Disney Hotels: Resort Refurbishment Timeline

Disney’s resort hotels are also part of the 2025 refresh initiative, with the following projects planned:

• Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort: Ongoing villa expansion will continue through Summer 2025. Expect construction noise during daytime hours
• Disney’s Contemporary Resort: Room refurbishments scheduled floor by floor from March to July
• All-Star Music Resort: Pool area and food court closed from April to June for full upgrades

Guests are advised to check refurbishment alerts before booking accommodations. MouseSavers frequently updates with resort maintenance details and discounts.

Tips for Planning Around Refurbishments

If you’re planning a Disney World trip in 2025, here are some tips to help avoid inconvenience:

1. Check daily updates on Disney’s official refurbishment calendar
2. Use the My Disney Experience App to see real-time attraction availability
3. Consider Park Hopper tickets to switch parks if certain rides are closed
4. Book dining reservations at resorts or attractions not affected by construction

Being flexible and well-informed can make all the difference in keeping the magic alive during your vacation.

Final Thoughts: New Magic Coming in 2025

While some attractions will be temporarily unavailable, Disney World’s refurbishment schedule for 2025 proves that the company is investing heavily in guest experiences, technology, and storytelling. Whether it’s improved hotel amenities, updated ride effects, or entirely new adventures like Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, there’s plenty to be excited about.

Keep this guide handy and continue to check Disney’s Official Refurbishment Schedule for changes, especially if your visit is months ahead.

For those who love Disney, 2025 may bring temporary closures—but it’s also shaping up to be one of the most transformative years for the parks yet.

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