Walt Disney World has been busy. If it feels like every time you visit, something else is under construction—or gone entirely—you’re not imagining things.
In just the past couple of years, beloved attractions have disappeared, lands have been reimagined, and several long-standing IPs have been shown the door. Disney isn’t just refreshing things—they’re overhauling the identity of entire lands. While some of the replacements are exciting, the losses still sting, especially for those who grew up visiting these attractions.
Here are five classic experiences or IPs that Disney has recently retired or announced plans to phase out:
1. Muppet*Vision 3D
The Muppets have been part of Disney’s parks for decades, but their time at Hollywood Studios is winding down. MuppetVision 3D* is officially set to close in June 2025 to make way for a Monsters, Inc.-themed experience.
Jim Henson’s final project still holds a special place in the hearts of fans, filled with charm, clever jokes, and that iconic Muppet chaos. Losing it feels like the end of an era, especially for guests who loved the blend of humor and heart that only the Muppets could deliver.
2. Voyage of the Little Mermaid
Another emotional farewell has already happened at Hollywood Studios, where Voyage of the Little Mermaid is being replaced with a reimagined musical stage show. The original show debuted in the '90s and featured a mix of puppetry, blacklight effects, and live performance that felt both intimate and magical. The new version, coming later this year, promises more advanced effects—but fans of the original show are already feeling the loss.
3. Frontierland Shootin’ Arcade
It didn’t get as much attention as some of the bigger closures, but Frontierland Shootin’ Arcade quietly shut down in 2024 after more than 50 years of operation. The reason? Disney is turning the space into a Disney Vacation Club lounge. While that might be practical, it’s still tough to see one of the last remaining “classic” frontier-style experiences fade away, especially one that offered a break from the crowds and screens.
4. Tom Sawyer Island & Rivers of America
You might want to take one last raft ride while you still can. Disney announced plans to transform this entire area—including the Liberty Belle Riverboat—into a Cars-themed land. That means Tom Sawyer Island, one of the few remaining “explore at your own pace” attractions, is heading toward permanent retirement. This area offered shade, quiet, and just a bit of nostalgia from an era when Disney wasn't all about IPs.
5. DinoLand U.S.A.
DinoLand is going extinct—literally. Disney has confirmed that the entire land will be replaced by a new Tropical Americas-themed area anchored by Encanto and Indiana Jones. That means not just DINOSAUR, but also the Boneyard playground, carnival rides, and Chester & Hester's quirky theming are all on the way out. For fans of Animal Kingdom’s original vision, this is a tough one to swallow.
Go stand and wait by that riding cart over there until I get out of the vehicle. If anyone else doesn’t take it before we do.