Disney World is always evolving, which is part of its charm. But with big changes comes…well, big disruptions. As we look ahead to 2025, it’s clear that Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, and Hollywood Studios are bracing for some major overhauls. While these updates are exciting for the future, they’re bound to make the parks a little tricky to navigate in the short term. So, what’s in store? Let’s break it down.

Crowds on Main Street, U.S.A. in Walt Disney World Resort
Credit: s.yume, Flickr

Animal Kingdom is set to undergo some significant transformations starting in January 2025. DinoLand U.S.A. will officially close its doors, making room for the highly anticipated Tropical Americas land. This new area promises an Encanto-themed ride centered around the Madrigal family’s magical Casita and an all-new Indiana Jones attraction with an original storyline.

Dinoland U.S.A sign at Disney's Animal Kingdom in Walt Disney World Resort
Credit: Ed Aguila, Inside the Magic

Over at Discovery Island, the Tree of Life Theater will debut a new Zootopia experience, Better Zoogether! by the end of the year. While the updates are exciting, the closures mean a significant portion of the park will be off-limits, leading to crowded walkways and longer lines in the remaining areas.

The Muppets and Jim Henson on the set of Muppet*Vision 3D
Credit: Jim Henson Company, Instagram

Hollywood Studios is also set to go through big changes. The Muppets Courtyard will be replaced by a Monsters, Inc.-themed land, and Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster is being reimagined as a Muppets-themed attraction. For a park that’s already known for its bottlenecks, the construction will likely make navigating the area even more challenging. Guests should prepare for rerouted pathways and more congestion as the projects get underway.

Magic Kingdom is facing perhaps the biggest wave of construction. Tom Sawyer Island and the Rivers of America are set to close permanently to make way for a Cars-themed area. Beyond Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Disney is planning to bring Villains Land to life, which will surely become a must-visit spot when it’s complete.

A fantastical landscape with a castle on a rocky cliff, reminiscent of Disney's Magic Kingdom, surrounded by jagged mountains and waterfalls. The sky is a mix of pink and purple hues, as mysterious glowing lights illuminate the scene, while birds fly overhead.
Credit: Disney

However, these projects come with lengthy closures. Big Thunder Mountain will be down for over a year starting in January, and the Astro Orbiter will also undergo a months-long refurbishment. With so much construction happening simultaneously, parts of the park will feel tighter than ever, especially in Frontierland and Liberty Square.

If you’re thinking of visiting Disney World in 2025, it’s going to take some extra planning to make the most of your trip. EPCOT might be your best bet for a less chaotic experience, as it isn’t facing the same level of construction. Alternatively, consider keeping your visit shorter since fewer attractions will be available. While 2025 may bring some logistical challenges, these updates are setting the stage for an even more exciting future at Disney World. Pack some patience, plan ahead, and get ready for the magic that lies ahead!

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