Disney Confirms Overhauls for Four Classic Disney World Attractions in 2026

The company signals a cross‑park pivot to franchise storytelling through confirmed, permanent rethemes.

Overview

Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster at Disney’s Hollywood Studios will close on March 2, 2026, ending the Aerosmith version with a confirmed Muppets retheme.
Disney has permanently closed DINOSAUR and is replacing DinoLand U.S.A. with a Tropical Americas land featuring Encanto and Indiana Jones, with Indiana Jones reusing the DINOSAUR ride system.
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad remains closed and is slated to return in spring 2026 with a refreshed storyline, updated lighting, enhanced special effects, and a new Rainbow Caverns scene.
Carousel of Progress will add Walt Disney to the start of the show, and a February 5, 2026 permit for new fire alarm and protection systems indicates preparatory work for broader changes.
Disney frames these moves as long‑term investments that modernize guest experiences through recognizable IP while retaining some ride hardware to speed transformation.