Disney Parks

Disney World Unveils New Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom Expansions

Guests have the chance to explore Disney World's upcoming projects.

Illustrated map of Piston Peak National Park area in Frontierland at Magic Kingdom
Credit: Disney

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Walt Disney World is witnessing a transformative year in 2025. New experiences are now open for visitors, all promising to elevate the magic of the beloved theme park. This year has marked significant developments, with expansions and updates mainly focused around the new lands of Monstropolis from “Monsters, Inc.” and Piston Peak inspired by “Cars.” In addition to these attractions, there are considerable refurbishments and upgrades throughout the parks, enhancing the overall visitor experience.

Ongoing construction and operational changes create a buzz of excitement and anticipation among guests. Lines of construction walls have appeared across various parks, including Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom, signaling that big changes are on the horizon.

Guests can now take the opportunity to experience a preview of these projects at Walt Disney Presents, located within Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Here, artworks and concept displays give a glimpse of what the future holds for the park, with a focus on these new thrilling additions.

Monstropolis is officially open and generates a whirlwind of excitement for fans of Pixar. The new land brings beloved characters and scenes to life, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the vibrant universe of “Monsters, Inc.” One of the standout features is a suspended roller coaster that promises exhilarating twists and turns, embodying the whimsical spirit of the film while delivering a heart-pounding adventure.

Piston Peak represents another exciting addition to the Disney World landscape, derived from the popular “Cars” franchise. Inspired by the beauty of national parks, it offers guests a picturesque setting reminiscent of Radiator Springs. As visitors stroll through Piston Peak, they will encounter beloved characters from the “Cars” series, brilliantly integrated into various attractions and experiences throughout the area.

In contrast to the speedy thrills of Monstropolis, Piston Peak delivers a more tranquil ambiance, perfect for family-friendly fun. Guests can immerse themselves in interactive exhibits and enjoy breathtaking views that resonate with the enchanting landscapes showcased in the films.

Notable Closures in 2025

Tom Sawyer in black and white with Harper's Mill in bright red.
Credit: Matt Correia, Flickr

Related: The Truth About Why Families Are Abandoning Disney’s 2026 Tickets

While change heralds excitement, it also brings sadness as several iconic attractions bid farewell. The closure of Tom Sawyer Island at Magic Kingdom has stirred emotions among long-time visitors, as it was one of the unique spots that encouraged exploration and adventure. This interactive playground provided a quaint escape for families and friends, marking the end of an era.

In addition to Tom Sawyer Island, the cherished Muppet*Vision 3D entertainment experience is officially gone, making way for the new Monstropolis land. Longtime fans lament the loss of these beloved attractions but acknowledge the need for fresh experiences within Disney World.

As the projects unfold, Disney has set a completion timeline that extends until 2027 for all major attractions and expansions currently underway. Fans waiting eagerly for the full realization of both Monstropolis and Piston Peak can take solace in knowing that the future is bright for Disney World, with a progressive trajectory aimed at enhancing every guest's experience.

Luke Dammann

When at Disney world, Luke will probably be found eating with his favorite animatronic, Sonny Eclipse at Cosmic Ray's Starlight Cafe. When not at Disney World, Luke will probably be found defending Cosmic Ray's Starlight Cafe to people who claim "there are better restaurants"

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