For years, fans have wondered if Journey Into Imagination with Figment would ever get a much-needed update. The attraction, while beloved for its iconic purple dragon, has felt outdated for a long time.
Now, Disney has filed a permit for electrical work on the ride, sparking speculation that this could be the first step toward a refurbishment.
A Disney World Ride with a Complicated History
Journey Into Imagination originally opened in 1983 and was a favorite among guests for its imaginative storyline featuring the Dreamfinder and Figment. The ride celebrated creativity and innovation, offering a whimsical adventure through the world of imagination.
However, Disney made a controversial decision in 1999 to overhaul the attraction, removing Dreamfinder and giving Figment only a minor presence. The backlash was immediate. Fans were so disappointed that Disney reworked the ride again in 2002, bringing Figment back in a bigger role. But even with those adjustments, many fans believe the attraction never returned to its former glory.
Despite ongoing rumors of a complete refurbishment, Disney has largely left the ride alone—until now.
New Permit Hints at Possible Changes
A newly filed Disney permit shows that electrical work is planned for Journey Into Imagination with Figment. The work, set to be completed by early 2025, is being handled by MMR Constructors, Inc.
While this permit does not confirm a full-scale refurbishment, it does indicate that Disney is investing in some form of improvements. Even minor electrical updates could mean enhancements to lighting, animatronics, or ride effects.
Could This Be a Sign of More Updates?
The timing of this work is interesting. EPCOT has been undergoing major transformations, with attractions like Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind and new lands replacing older areas of the park. Journey Into Imagination has remained unchanged for years, making it one of the few attractions still untouched by EPCOT’s modernization.
Figment remains one of EPCOT’s most beloved icons, and his popularity has only grown, especially with the introduction of his meet-and-greet in 2023. If Disney is making upgrades now, it’s possible they are laying the groundwork for something bigger.
For now, fans will have to wait and see. Electrical updates may not be the major refurbishment many have been hoping for, but they could be a step in the right direction. Figment isn’t going anywhere, and this permit could be the first sign that his ride is finally getting some much-needed attention.
