Walt Disney World has always gone through waves of refurbishments, but this late-October stretch feels particularly heavy. A total of eight major attractions are down right now, plus several smaller experiences and resort amenities. It’s a lot to juggle if you’re heading to the parks soon — and it’s changing how guests plan their visits.
Magic Kingdom: Three Heavy-Hitters Down
Magic Kingdom guests are feeling the closures the most. Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin has been offline since early August for an extended refurbishment, and there’s no reopening date just yet. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is in the middle of a lengthy refurbishment that’s expected to last well into next year. Rivers of America has officially closed permanently, meaning Tom Sawyer Island and the Liberty Belle Riverboat are now part of Magic Kingdom history. The area will soon take on a new life with the Piston Peak Cars-themed area and a Disney Villains expansion nearby.
Animal Kingdom: A Park in Transition
Animal Kingdom is also feeling the effects of change. Kali River Rapids is down for its annual seasonal refurbishment. It’s Tough to Be a Bug! and TriceraTop Spin are gone for good as the park transitions away from DinoLand U.S.A. to the Tropical Americas project. This shift has been a long time coming, and these closures are part of a much larger transformation.
Hollywood Studios and EPCOT Join the List
Hollywood Studios is losing Vacation Fun – An Original Animated Short with Mickey & Minnie on October 20. While it’s not the park’s top attraction, it’s a reliable option for cooling off and enjoying a lighthearted show. EPCOT’s Spaceship Earth is technically in soft opening, but it’s still officially listed as closed. Its official reopening is set for October 25, but guests may catch intermittent previews before then.
The “Smaller” Closures That Still Matter
On top of the big rides, Tortuga Tavern remains closed in Magic Kingdom. Animal Kingdom’s Boneyard is down, and Dino-Bite Snacks and Trilo-Bites will shut their doors later this week. These little closures can sneak up on guests, especially those relying on certain dining or snack spots.
Resort Refurbishments Round Out the List
Even the resorts aren’t exempt. Saratoga Springs’ Paddock Pool, Old Key West’s leisure pool, and All-Star Movies’ Fantasia kiddie pool are all closed. The Samawati Springs pool slide at Animal Kingdom Lodge is also unavailable.
Late October is often a transitional time at Walt Disney World, but this many closures at once is a lot, even for this season. With refurbishments, overhauls, and permanent closures layered together, it’s more important than ever to check the My Disney Experience app before heading out for the day. A little planning can make a big difference during weeks like this.
