Disney has been moving fast lately, and it’s getting harder to ignore. The parks still feel familiar, but the constant construction and rumor cycle make it feel like Disney is quietly preparing for something bigger.
And 2026 might be the year when those changes finally start becoming impossible to miss.
A lot of Disney’s major expansion projects are already in motion, but many still feel like unfinished puzzles. Fans know the direction Disney is heading, but there are still major details missing.
The Next Big Turning Point
It’s hard not to assume Disney is saving major reveals for D23 this year.
We’ve seen concept art and heard the names of the land, but Disney hasn’t offered firm timelines or detailed updates that fans are waiting for. That usually means they’re holding back until the biggest stage possible.
Coco Has Huge Potential, But We Still Know Very Little
Disney’s first Coco ride was announced at D23 2024, and construction to expand Disney California Adventure and install the ride began in 2026.
But beyond that announcement, Disney hasn’t said much.
Fans still don’t know what the surrounding area will look like, what kind of ride experience Disney is building, or what kind of special effects will make it stand out. Considering how emotional and visually stunning Coco is, expectations are already sky-high.
Spider-Man—Disney’s Next Big Coaster Moment
Another project that could get attention is Disney Adventure World and the Spider-Man Roller Coaster being built for Shanghai Disneyland.
Disney’s international parks have become some of its most ambitious playgrounds. If Disney drops a major progress update at D23, this coaster could easily become one of the most talked-about projects of the year.
EPCOT’s Silence Feels Like a Setup
EPCOT has been unusually quiet on the expansion front, which feels suspicious.
Yes, the park has already gone through major changes, but EPCOT also has a long history of surprise announcements. If Disney wants to keep EPCOT from feeling “finished,” it may need to tease something new sooner rather than later.
Avatar Is Coming, But Disney Keeps Holding Back Details
Disney first confirmed that an Avatar-themed land was coming to Disney California Adventure at D23 in 2024. The land will differ from Animal Kingdom’s Pandora and will pull inspiration from Avatar: The Way of Water (2022) and future Avatar films.
Disney confirmed the land will include a thrilling boat-style adventure through the oceans of Pandora. In 2025, we learned it will replace much of the Hollywood Land backlot area, including Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue!, which is expected to close in early 2026.
But Disney still hasn’t shared a land name, ride name, or projected opening window. D23 feels like the obvious moment for Disney to finally reveal what this land will really look like.
Avengers Campus Is Getting Bigger Fast
Avengers Campus in Disney California Adventure is doubling in size with two new attractions. Construction has been underway for around a year, and the progress has been noticeable.
Disney already confirmed Avengers Infinity Defense and Stark Flight Lab. Now, fans want timelines, and D23 would be the perfect time for Disney to finally provide them.
Disneyland Might Be Due for Something Big
Disneyland Park flew under the radar in 2025 compared to Disney California Adventure’s expansion momentum.
That’s why it wouldn’t be surprising if Disney uses D23 to tease a major addition for the original park. Even a small hint could create huge hype.
Disney World Still Has the Biggest Mystery Timelines
Disney World has major projects on the way, but the resort still lacks clear timelines.
Between Tropical Americas at Animal Kingdom, Piston Peak and Villains Land at Magic Kingdom, and Monstropolis coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios, the next few years could completely reshape the resort.
If Disney finally provides projected dates and ride details at D23, it could change how fans plan their trips for 2026 and beyond.
The Future of Disney's Theme Parks
Disney has too many major projects in motion for 2026 to feel quiet.
Now, fans just need Disney to start filling in the missing details. If D23 delivers, the next era of the parks could feel closer than ever.
