May is usually a pretty sweet time to visit Disney World—spring break crowds have thinned out, the weather isn’t too brutal yet, and summer events are just getting started. But if you’re heading there this May, you’ll want to brace yourself for a few pretty big closures across the parks.
Rather than sprinkle closures across the calendar, Disney’s dealing with some hefty projects all at once. Here’s what you need to know before you pack those Minnie ears:
First up, Magic Kingdom is feeling the pinch the most. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is closed for a massive multi-year refurbishment that won’t wrap until sometime in 2026. Astro Orbiter is also shut down for a lengthy update and won’t spin again until summer. Meanwhile, Frontierland Shootin’ Arcade is permanently gone, and Hall of Presidents is closed for a refresh. Liberty Square’s Riverboat is still floating—for now—but will sail away for good later in the year.
Over at EPCOT, it’s all about Test Track. The popular thrill ride has been out of commission since 2024 and is staying that way until late summer or fall 2025. Sorry, Test Track fans—you’ll have to wait a little longer for those new ride upgrades.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios is in the middle of a big entertainment shuffle. Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy and Jedi Training Academy are gone for good. Plus, The Little Mermaid show area is closed for a reimagining until May 27. If you’re going earlier in the month, you’ll miss the grand debut of The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure and the new Villains Unfairly Ever After show.
And don’t forget about Animal Kingdom. It’s Tough to Be a Bug and TriceraTop Spin have both permanently closed as the park preps for its major Tropical Americas expansion. DINOSAUR is still running, but its days are clearly numbered.
Water Park fans should know that Blizzard Beach is closed for a quick refurbishment May 1-20. Luckily, Typhoon Lagoon is back open starting May 1, ready for all your lazy river dreams.
