In a delightful twist for Magic Kingdom visitors, the classic Under the Sea–Journey of The Little Mermaid attraction reopened earlier than expected, offering fans a surprise return to Ariel’s world beneath the waves.
Originally slated to close for refurbishment from July 21 through July 25 and reopen on July 26, the ride became available once again late in the evening on July 25. WDWMagic reported, “Under the Sea–Journey of The Little Mermaid at Magic Kingdom appears to have reopened ahead of its scheduled [July 26] return. As of 7 p.m. on July 25, the attraction is listed with posted wait times in the My Disney Experience app, indicating that it is available to guests.”
The attraction’s updated hours for July 26 list operations beginning at 8:30 a.m. for Early Theme Park Entry guests and continuing from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. for all parkgoers, giving everyone a chance to experience the refreshed ride.
Magic Kingdom boasts a wide array of attractions drawn from both original Disney creations and familiar stories. Guests can enjoy rides based on classics like Winnie the Pooh and Alice in Wonderland, immerse themselves in the high-tech thrills of TRON Lightcycle / Run, or dive into newly imagined adventures such as Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, inspired by The Princess and the Frog.
Longtime fans of Disney parks continue to celebrate the enduring popularity of original favorites like Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and Pirates of the Caribbean, while also embracing the magic of seeing their favorite characters come to life in detailed, immersive settings.
As the sun sets, the excitement doesn’t end. Guests sticking around until 11 p.m. can enjoy the Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away Parade, which brings a wave of lights, music, and character moments to Main Street, U.S.A. The parade, which runs at 9 p.m. and 11 p.m. nightly, has quickly become a must-see addition for evening visitors, rekindling memories of nighttime spectacles from the past.
Were you among the lucky few to catch this early reopening? Let us know in the comments below—we’d love to hear your story!
