Big or small, changes are sweeping through the Walt Disney World Resort. While guests are still adjusting to the closure of Big Thunder Mountain and the transformation underway in DinoLand U.S.A., a more subtle shift has quietly arrived in Magic Kingdom’s futuristic corner: Cool Ship, the beloved snack kiosk, is now listed as indefinitely closed.
Tucked between popular attractions like Space Mountain, Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin, and the Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover, Cool Ship has long been a quick-stop favorite for guests craving popcorn, cotton candy, cinnamon nuts, or a classic Mickey Mouse ice cream bar. According to the official Walt Disney World Resort website, however, the kiosk is out of commission for the time being. “Cool Ship is temporarily closed for refurbishment and is expected to reopen later this year,” the webpage notes.
Right next to Cool Ship sits the Astro Orbiter, which also remains closed, but recent activity suggests positive momentum. The central post structure has officially returned to the attraction, pointing toward steady progress and an eventual reopening.
Even as these closures take place, Tomorrowland continues to look forward. Disney Experiences recently revealed that Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin will be receiving its own futuristic tune-up. The ride is set to close in August 2025 and reopen sometime the following year. Among the upgrades: refreshed ride vehicles and innovative targeting elements designed to enhance interactivity for guests of all ages.
“As guests get ready to board the ride, they will be greeted by a robot named ‘Buddy,’ who will help prepare them for their mission,” wrote Spectrum News 13. “Buddy will also provide guests the opportunity to hone their blaster aim while checking out some of the new, interactive target features, officials said.”
As Magic Kingdom retools its experiences, the changes reflect a broader trend across Central Florida’s theme parks. Over at Disney’s EPCOT, Test Track is receiving its own retheme, and operational changes continue to roll out property-wide. Meanwhile, Disney’s rival, Universal Orlando Resort, is on the verge of launching its biggest endeavor yet: the much-anticipated Epic Universe.
While speculation has swirled around the idea of Disney countering with a fifth gate at Walt Disney World, the company recently unveiled plans for something entirely different—its first resort in the Middle East. That doesn’t mean it’s ignoring its local competition, though. Disney Experiences chairman Josh D’Amaro shared his perspective: if visitors are heading to the new Universal park, they “have to” visit Magic Kingdom too.
Change may be the theme of the moment—but for longtime Disney fans, it’s also a chance to look forward to new memories, experiences, and stories waiting to be told.
How do you feel about the ongoing changes to the Walt Disney World Resort?
