Current Disney World Ride Closures & Refurbishments: What to Know Before You Go

Planning a Walt Disney World trip often starts with excitement — but nothing throws off expectations faster than realizing a must-do attraction is temporarily closed.

Disney regularly schedules refurbishments to keep attractions running smoothly, update effects, and prepare for future seasons. These closures are normal, but they do impact how you should plan your park days, Lightning Lane selections, and overall expectations.

Below is a snapshot of notable Disney World ride closures and refurbishments, along with practical planning tips to help you adjust.

Last Updated: January 2026

Disney World refurbishment schedules can change with little notice. This post reflects what is publicly known at the time of writing. Always double-check the My Disney Experience app closer to your travel dates for the most current attraction status.

Update: Test Track has recently reopened following refurbishment and is currently operating.

Notable Ride Closures & Refurbishments

❄️ Frozen Ever After (EPCOT)

Frozen Ever After is scheduled to temporarily close for refurbishment beginning January 26, 2026. At this time, Disney has not announced a specific reopening date, though refurbishments for this attraction are often relatively short.

Disney typically uses these closures to perform maintenance and updates to ride systems and animatronics.

Planning tip:If Frozen Ever After is a must-do for your group:

• Avoid assuming it will be available for late January trips

• Check the My Disney Experience app frequently as your dates approach

• Plan alternate EPCOT priorities, especially if traveling with younger children

When Frozen Ever After is closed, nearby attractions in EPCOT’s Norway pavilion and World Showcase may see increased interest.

🏔️ Big Thunder Mountain Railroad (Magic Kingdom)

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is undergoing an extended refurbishment. Disney often uses longer closures on older attractions to complete track work, refresh effects, and improve reliability.

Planning tip: If Big Thunder is a must-do for your trip, consider:

• Shifting thrill priorities to attractions like Seven Dwarfs Mine Train or Space Mountain

• Adjusting Lightning Lane strategies accordingly

• Setting expectations for kids who may be anticipating this ride

  
  

🚀 Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance (Hollywood Studios)

Rise of the Resistance at Walt Disney World temporarily closed for refurbishment on January 20, 2026. At this time, Disney has not announced a specific reopening date.

Given the complexity of this attraction, refurbishments can vary in length and may be extended or adjusted without much notice.

Planning tip:If Rise of the Resistance is a must-do for your trip:

• Check the My Disney Experience app frequently as your dates approach

• Avoid planning an entire Hollywood Studios day around this single attraction

• Consider alternative headliners and experiences while it remains unavailable

When Rise of the Resistance is closed, demand for other attractions in Hollywood Studios often increases, which can affect wait times and Lightning Lane availability.

🚗 Test Track (EPCOT)

Test Track recently reopened following a refurbishment, with updates focused on refreshing ride elements and improving overall reliability.

While Disney did not make major structural changes to the attraction, refurbishments like this are typically aimed at enhancing guest experience and reducing downtime for a high-capacity ride.

Planning tip:With Test Track back open:

• EPCOT regains an important thrill option

• Lightning Lane demand for Test Track may increase, especially during peak seasons

• It can once again serve as a strong anchor attraction when planning your EPCOT day

If Test Track is a priority, it’s worth factoring it back into your Lightning Lane and touring strategy.

Why Ride Closures Matter More Than You Think

Ride refurbishments don’t just affect what you can ride — they affect:

• Lightning Lane availability

• Crowd flow within the park

• How much value you get from Genie+ / Lightning Lane purchases

• Overall pacing of your park days

For example, if a headliner attraction is closed:

• Nearby attractions may see longer waits

• Lightning Lane selections may disappear faster

• Certain parks may feel “lighter” on must-do options

This is why checking refurbishments is just as important as checking park hours.

How to Plan Around Closures

Here’s how we recommend handling ride closures during trip planning:

• ✔️ Check the My Disney Experience app regularly leading up to your trip

• ✔️ Build flexibility into your park days instead of locking into one rigid plan

• ✔️ Avoid stacking too many priorities in one park if a major ride is down

• ✔️ Use closures to your advantage — some parks feel less crowded when a headliner is unavailable

If you’re using Lightning Lane, closures should directly influence which attractions you prioritize and when you book them.

Final Thoughts

Ride refurbishments are a normal part of Disney World operations, but they don’t have to derail your trip. With a little awareness and flexibility, most families still have a fantastic experience — even when a favorite attraction is temporarily unavailable.

If you’re planning a trip and want help navigating current closures, Lightning Lane strategy, or park planning based on your dates, we’re always happy to help.