This summer, Disney World feels like a construction zone with sections blocked off and major attractions closed for refurbishments, yet they’re still charging full price. While summer 2026 won’t be the ideal Disney experience, it’s not a total disaster. Disney is opening new attractions, upgrading existing ones, and offering promotional deals that add value. Just be prepared for what to expect before you book.
The Cool Kids Summer Deal Is Back
Disney brought back the Cool Kids Summer promotion running May 26 through September 8, 2026. Resort hotel guests get free water park tickets on check-in day for everyone in their party, assuming your actual check-in date falls within that promotional window. Check in May 25, and you’re out of luck, but that’s a whole separate issue.
Select Disney hotels including Art of Animation, Caribbean Beach, Pop Century, and Port Orleans Riverside will have scheduled character appearances throughout the summer. There’s also a package deal where you get two free room nights and park days when you book select 4-night, 4-day or longer packages for visits between May 26 and September 15.
Magic Kingdom Is Finally Reopening Major Attractions
Despite construction in Frontierland for Piston Peak and Villains Land, Magic Kingdom is welcoming back two major attractions. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad reopens with upgraded track sections and a new Rainbow Caverns sequence, enhancing the guest experience. Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin returns with new ride vehicles, improved blasters, and an updated opening.
These attractions have been closed for a while, so their return will boost park capacity and guest activities. Additionally, Jessie’s Roundup at the Diamond Horseshoe will offer a Toy Story-themed show where guests can craft and dance with Jessie and Woody, appealing to fans of participatory experiences.
EPCOT’s Updates Are Pretty Solid
Soarin’ is getting a brand new film for America’s 250th birthday in July. The update features an airborne adventure across the United States, celebrating American landmarks and spirit. For people who’ve ridden Soarin’ Over California and Soarin’ Around the World multiple times, having a fresh film is actually a big deal.
GoofyCore returns to CommuniCore Hall with interactive games featuring Goofy. Kids can play Goofy Says, Balloon Bonanza, and Parachutes ‘n’ Pipsqueaks, which are basically kid-friendly activities designed to give families with young children something to do in air conditioning.
Hollywood Studios Is Where the Real Action Happens
Hollywood Studios is set for major changes this summer. Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run will introduce a new mission featuring the Mandalorian and Grogu, coinciding with the May 22 release of their film.
The Aerosmith Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster will close in March and reopen later in the summer as Muppets Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster, shifting to Disney-owned IP and eliminating the need for music licensing negotiations.
Additionally, the reimagined Walt Disney Studios area will debut in the former Animation Courtyard, featuring an updated Magic of Disney Animation experience, a Mary Blair-themed play area, and a new interactive Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse show for young children. This marks a significant overhaul of a long-neglected section of the park.
Bluey Comes to Animal Kingdom
The massively popular Bluey franchise finally comes to Disney World through character appearances at Conservation Station in Animal Kingdom. Bluey and Bingo will meet guests while highlighting animals native to Australia. It’s a smart thematic connection and gives families another character experience beyond the usual Mickey and friends rotation.
The Bottom Line on Summer 2026
Is Disney World going to be operating at 100% capacity this summer? Absolutely not. Will you see construction walls and encounter closures? Without question. Is Disney still charging full price despite all this? You bet they are, and it’s frustrating.
But the attraction reopenings, new shows, character experiences, and promotional packages create a summer that’s different but potentially still worthwhile if you plan strategically and take advantage of the deals. Just go in with realistic expectations about what you’re actually getting for your money.
