Walt Disney World is set to kick off 2025 with a mix of changes and extended hours, giving guests more time to experience the magic while the parks prepare for significant updates. Despite several closures for renovations, Magic Kingdom and Disney’s Animal Kingdom will offer longer operating hours throughout January, making the most of the post-holiday season.
At Magic Kingdom, park hours have been extended on multiple days. On January 12 and 13, the park will close at 10 p.m., an hour later than originally planned. Even more time is available on January 17 and 18, with the park staying open until 11 p.m. Early risers will also benefit on January 17, when hotel guests can enjoy early entry beginning at 7:30 a.m. Combined, these changes provide a full day of fun and adventure.
Animal Kingdom is also extending its hours, giving guests additional time to explore the park’s immersive lands. On January 5, closing time has been pushed to 8 p.m., while January 6 follows the same schedule with operating hours from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Later in the month, January 17 and 18 feature extended closing times at 7 p.m., offering even more opportunities to enjoy Pandora’s nighttime glow or catch a final glimpse of the animals before dusk.
These updates come during a pivotal period for Walt Disney World, as the resort embarks on major transformations. Magic Kingdom is gearing up for the addition of a Disney Villains-themed area, while Animal Kingdom’s DinoLand U.S.A. will transform into the Tropical Americas, featuring attractions based on Encanto and Indiana Jones. While these updates are exciting, they come with temporary closures of iconic attractions.
Several rides will be unavailable during this transition. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad at Magic Kingdom will close on January 5 for an overhaul expected to last over a year. Astro Orbiter in Tomorrowland will also shut down for refurbishment starting January 13, with reopening plans set for summer 2025. At Animal Kingdom, Kali River Rapids will close from January 6 to March, while the TriceraTop Spin ride will be permanently retired on January 12.
The extended hours provide a bright spot for January visitors, allowing more time to enjoy the attractions that remain open. Whether it’s catching the nighttime fireworks at Magic Kingdom or soaking in the serene atmosphere of Animal Kingdom, there’s plenty to look forward to during this transitional period.
For the most up-to-date information, checking the Disney World app is essential. With these schedule enhancements and exciting changes on the horizon, January 2025 promises a mix of nostalgia and new beginnings for Disney fans.
