Hey Howdy HAA everyone!
It’s London, host of the HAA Disney Podcast and founder of Happily Adventures After. Welcome back to HAA Disney Top 10, your go-to series for what’s trending, transforming, and totally worth your time at Walt Disney World. This week, we are diving into the Top 10 Ride Refurbs and New Additions to Walt Disney World we are excited about in 2026!!
If 2026 has made anything clear, it’s this: Disney is deep in its refresh + reimagine era.
From reworked classics to brand-new experiences, this year feels like a turning point; where nostalgia meets innovation in a really intentional way. And if you’re planning a Disney trip (or even thinking about it), these updates matter.
So today, we’re counting down the Top 10 ride refurbishments and new additions at Walt Disney World we’re most excited about in 2026, and why they deserve a spot on your radar.
#1 – Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin (Major Refurb – Magic Kingdom)
We’ve said it before… and we’re saying it again:
👉 They fixed it.
The 2026 update completely transformed this Tomorrowland classic:
- Handheld blasters (finally)
- Fully reactive targets
- Updated scenes and animatronics
This isn’t just a refresh! It’s a full modernization that brings the ride back into must-do territory at Magic Kingdom. It still feels nostalgic, but now it actually plays like a 2026 attraction.
#2 – Bluey’s Wild World (NEW – Animal Kingdom)
This might be one of the biggest family-focused wins Disney has had in years.
Opening May 26, 2026 at Conservation Station, this experience goes beyond a simple character meet:
- Interactive play zones
- Dance experiences
- Meet-and-greets with Bluey and Bingo
- Animal-themed learning woven throughout
It’s immersive, it’s intentional, and it’s exactly the kind of offering Animal Kingdom needed for younger guests.
#3 – Big Thunder Mountain Railroad (Refurb Reopen – Magic Kingdom)
After an extended closure, Big Thunder is set to return in 2026 with subtle, but important, enhancements:
- Smoother ride experience
- Refreshed track and effects
- Small “plus-ups” that elevate the story
This is one of those attractions where even minor updates can make a major difference. Expect it to feel familiar, but better!
#4 – Soarin’ Update: Across America (EPCOT)
Opening May 26, 2026, this update reimagines the Soarin’ experience with a focus on the United States.
At first glance, it may seem like a smaller change—but don’t underestimate it:
- Updated visuals
- Improved transitions
- A more cohesive storytelling flow
If Disney nails the execution, this could quietly become one of EPCOT’s strongest comeback experiences.
#5 – Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Refurb (Hollywood Studios)
This one is loud, fast, and long overdue for a glow-up, and 2026 is delivering.
Expected updates include:
- Enhanced ride systems
- Smoother launch experience
- Updated lighting and on-ride effects
- New pre-show refresh
Here’s the Best Part! The Muppets may be stepping into the spotlight as part of this refresh.
The Muppet are bringing the energy into this high-intensity coaster experience to add a fresh, playful twist that could make the ride feel completely new again. while still keeping its iconic thrill.
Disney isn’t replacing it… they’re evolving it! They’re blending classic coaster energy with new storytelling potential for the next generation of guests.
#6 – Jessie’s Roundup: A Rip-Roarin’ Revue (Magic Kingdom)
Running from May 26 to September 8, 2026, this limited-time show brings something Magic Kingdom has been missing: live, interactive entertainment with energy.
Located inside The Diamond Horseshoe, the experience includes:
- Singing and dancing
- Crafts and interactive moments
- Appearances from Jessie, Woody, and Bullseye
It’s also notable as the first live stage show in this space in over 20 years, making it both nostalgic and new at the same time.
#7 – Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run Update (Hollywood Studios)
A quieter update, but one that matters.
With new elements inspired by The Mandalorian, this refresh adds:
- Updated mission scenarios
- New story layers
- Increased re-ride value
This is exactly how Disney keeps attractions relevant without fully rebuilding them—and it works.
#8 – GoofyCore (Returning – EPCOT)
Inside CommuniCore Hall, GoofyCore brings playful chaos back to EPCOT in the best way:
- Interactive games
- Dance spaces
- Kid-focused programming
It’s part play space, part character experience—and a reminder that EPCOT is continuing to rebalance education with fun.
#9 – Tropical Americas Land (In Progress – Animal Kingdom)
This is one of the biggest long-term transformations happening right now.
Replacing DinoLand U.S.A., this new land is expected to include:
- An Encanto-themed attraction
- An Indiana Jones experience
- A fully reimagined environment
It’s not open yet but it’s already reshaping the future of Animal Kingdom.
#10 – Cars Expansion (Magic Kingdom – In Development)
This is the big-picture project that’s quietly making waves.
The upcoming Cars-themed area (often referred to as “Piston Peak”) is expected to bring:
- New attractions
- A fully immersive land
- Major expansion to Magic Kingdom
It’s also already impacting the park, with changes and closures beginning to make room for what’s coming next.
Honourable Mention – Animation Courtyard Reimagined (Hollywood Studios)
Animation Courtyard is getting a much-needed refresh, reopening May 26, 2026 as part of a reimagined Walt Disney Studios–inspired space.
With updated theming, new character experiences, and the upcoming Magic of Disney Animation addition, this area is finally becoming a more intentional, story-driven part of the park again.
👉 Not a headline ride, but a meaningful upgrade that brings Hollywood Studios back to its animation roots.
Final Thoughts (HAA Disney Take)
What stands out about 2026 isn’t just what’s new, it’s how Disney is evolving.
This year is about:
- Refreshing classics instead of replacing them
- Introducing IP that resonates with families (hello, Bluey 🐾)
- Laying the groundwork for the next era of Disney Parks
That’s what makes it an EXCITING year!
HAA Disney Top 10 – Ride Refurbs & New Attractions (2026 Guide)
(Timestamp: 18:45–42:10)
If you haven’t visited Walt Disney World in a few years, 2026 might be the perfect time to return.
You’re getting:
- The nostalgia of classic attractions
- Meaningful upgrades that improve the experience
- A preview of where Disney is heading next
From major ride refurbishments to brand-new experiences, this is a year that feels both familiar and forward-looking, and that’s a powerful combination.
At HAA Disney, we’re calling it now:
2026 is one of the most exciting Walt Disney World planning years we’ve seen in a long time.
Have a blessed and wonderful day,
London
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