Walt Disney World is experiencing one of the biggest eras of transformation in decades. From major ride reboots to adding new lands, each park is evolving—and EPCOT, which was long thought to be trailing behind, is suddenly on the radar. The next devastating closure might not be in Magic Kingdom or Animal Kingdom.
All signs point toward World Showcase, where one classic ride could soon become history.
Bold Projects Across the Resort
Before we zero in on EPCOT, reviewing the whirlwind of changes happening elsewhere is worth examining.
Animal Kingdom is officially ditching DinoLand U.S.A. and going all-in on Tropical Americas, a land inspired by Central and South American landscapes. Disney has confirmed that Encanto and Indiana Jones will anchor this new area. It’s a major thematic shift that breathes new life into what’s long been considered a stale park corner.
Over at Hollywood Studios, things are being reshuffled, too. Star Wars Launch Bay is closing to make room for an animation-themed area. Meanwhile, Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster is getting a complete Muppets makeover—yes, we're serious. There’s also a growing buzz about a Monsters, Inc. land with an all-new ride to match the comedy vibe.
Magic Kingdom is arguably seeing the most significant shake-up. Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin is closing in August for a much-needed refresh. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad went down earlier this year and won’t return until 2026.
But the shocker? Rivers of America, Tom Sawyer Island, and the Liberty Belle riverboat have all been closed off. Why? To make way for a Cars-themed area called Piston Peak National Park. On top of that, there are rumors that a Villains Land may finally be in the works just beyond Big Thunder.
All of that momentum means EPCOT can’t sit still forever.
EPCOT’s Modern Touches… and Issues
To EPCOT’s credit, it hasn’t been completely dormant. It welcomed Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, and Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana. A new nighttime show, Luminous: The Symphony of Us, now lights up the skies. Disney has finally been adding year-round magic instead of only focusing on festivals.
The latest change? Test Track reopened on July 22, 2025. It features new visuals and a more futuristic theme that pays tribute to World of Motion. Sounds like a win, right? Well… not quite.
Guests have already experienced frequent breakdowns. Despite the visual overhaul, the track system still causes issues. The ride shuts down for extended periods, and long lines often lead to disappointment. It’s proof that shiny updates aren’t enough if the ride's bones don’t hold up. Fans hope Disney will get this under control soon, though.
With EPCOT trying to position itself as a character-rich, emotionally immersive park, one attraction feels increasingly like it’s on borrowed time.
Outdated, Overlooked, and On the Way Out?
Gran Fiesta Tour Starring The Three Caballeros replaced El Rio del Tiempo in 2007. It stars Donald Duck, José Carioca, and Panchito in a lighthearted search-and-rescue story. The ride is set against beautiful scenes of Mexico and blends traditional visuals with animated characters. For a long time, it worked.
But now? The attraction feels dated. The screens are a bit fuzzy. The storyline doesn’t resonate with most kids, who don’t even know who The Three Caballeros are. It doesn’t generate long wait times or sell merchandise. And in a park filled with Frozen, Ratatouille, and Guardians of the Galaxy, it simply doesn’t fit Disney’s current direction.
That’s why many fans believe this ride is next to go.
Why Coco Could Be the Perfect Fit
It’s no secret that Coco (2017) was a massive success. Pixar’s emotional film tells the story of Miguel, a young boy who accidentally travels to the Land of the Dead and discovers the truth about his family’s legacy. The movie celebrates Mexican traditions, features unforgettable music, and dazzles with color and culture.
Disney fans have begged for Coco to take over the Mexico Pavilion for years. A boat ride through glowing marigolds, dancing skeletons, and shimmering bridges would be a stunning upgrade. And with “Remember Me” playing in the background? It could rival Frozen Ever After in both emotion and visual spectacle.
More importantly, Coco brings modern relevance and global appeal to a part of EPCOT that is currently coasting on nostalgia.
A New Era for the Mexico Pavilion?
EPCOT has made slow and steady progress toward a more character-driven park, but it’s not done yet. With Gran Fiesta Tour feeling increasingly out of place and Coco waiting in the wings, the writing may already be on the wall—or the pyramid, in this case.
If Miguel and company take over, it’ll mark the end of an old-school EPCOT favorite. But it could also launch a new fan-favorite attraction rooted in culture, heart, and timeless storytelling.
The following big change at EPCOT might not come with fireworks or a big press release. It might go quietly, with a final float through a fading ride that’s about to make way for something unforgettable.
