×
Get latest travel news
This summer, Disney World is inviting families to experience new and reimagined features across its parks, with Disney’s Hollywood Studios taking center stage. From updated attractions to exciting new family experiences, here’s what you can expect during your visit.
Beginning on May 22, 2026, guests can hop aboard the Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run for an all-new adventure alongside the beloved Mandalorian and Grogu. This updated storyline will add brand new video content and encourage guests to ride multiple times by presenting different cockpit roles and mission outcomes.
Advertisement
Advertisement
The Animation Courtyard is set to transform into a vibrant family hub known as “The Walt Disney Studios” courtyard, opening on May 26. This area will debut Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live!, an energetic show that blends live character appearances with screen segments and interactive physical effects such as bubbles and artificial snow. It’s a perfect way for families to cool off while engaging younger guests.
Over at the Magic Kingdom, Tomorrowland is also undergoing exciting updates. Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin, which reopened on April 8, 2026, after a significant refurbishment, now features revamped interactive gameplay. Guests will enjoy new handheld blasters with colour-coded lasers, redesigned ride vehicles, and enhanced targets that make scoring more intuitive.
These enhancements preserve the original storyline of combating Emperor Zurg while providing seasoned Disney-goers with fresh reasons to return and chase the coveted “Galactic Hero” rank. This refurbishment is part of a broader initiative aimed at revitalizing Tomorrowland with additional new attractions slated for the coming years.
One of Magic Kingdom’s most iconic rides, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, has also received a significant update. With a focus on enhancing storytelling, the refurbished ride now offers a smoother experience along with additional scenes and improved effects. Walt Disney Imagineering presents these enhancements as “additive,” enriching the narrative of the runaway mine train while maintaining the ride’s classic Disney feel.
The updates ensure that Big Thunder continues to resonate with multi-generational audiences, appealing to those who cherish classic Disney experiences while elevating the show quality to meet today’s standards. Together with other refreshed offerings, these changes reinforce Disney’s summer theme of highlighting new and reimagined adventures for all guests.
Another key highlight this summer is the unveiling of Soarin’ Across America at EPCOT, launching on May 26, 2026. This immersive experience replaces the previous Soarin’ Around the World for the special duration of the U.S. semiquincentennial celebrations. Guests can look forward to a breathtaking aerial journey across stunning American landscapes, exploring everything from coastal cliffs to iconic urban skylines in cities like New York and Los Angeles.
The attraction features a re-orchestrated version of the classic Soarin’ score, infusing regional musical influences into various scenes to celebrate the diversity of the destinations visited. As part of Disney’s strategy to keep guests coming back, they plan to rotate films periodically to enhance replay value.
From May 26 through September 8, 2026, Disney World will host the Cool Kids’ Summer campaign. This family-oriented program will feature themed entertainment, dance-driven activities, and special offers designed for younger guests and their families, with events spread throughout all four parks.
Families can take advantage of special ticket promotions, such as a 4-Day, 4-Park Magic Ticket starting at just $109 per day (plus tax), valid for visits up until October 3, 2026. Those staying at Disney Resort Collection hotels during this period will receive complimentary access to one of Walt Disney World’s water parks on their check-in day, subject to availability, making it a great time for families.
Supported by the Cool Kids’ Summer promotion, the parks will also showcase a range of experiences specially designed for children. At Magic Kingdom, Jessie’s Roundup: A Rip-Roarin’ Revue will bring the Diamond Horseshoe to life with Toy Story-themed music and fun activities. Meanwhile, EPCOT’s CommuniCore Hall will host GoofyCore, a lively party filled with dance and games.
In Disney’s Animal Kingdom, families can look forward to the opening of Bluey’s Wild World at Conservation Station on May 26. This interactive space will allow families to connect with sets inspired by the beloved Bluey series and enjoy themed play activities after a ride on the Wildlife Express Train. These offerings, along with the new Disney Jr. show at Hollywood Studios, provide exciting experiences tailored to the youngest visitors.
Apart from the attraction updates, Walt Disney World is highlighting the perks available to guests staying at on-site hotels. Families lodged in Disney Resorts Collection properties will enjoy 30 minutes of early access to the theme parks each day of their stay, which offers a head start on the busy summer attractions.
Additionally, guests can save up to 30% on select room rates when booking five nights or more within eligible dates, which can also be combined with select ticket offers. These savings, along with seasonal promotions like free dining plans for children and water park access upon arrival, make multi-day visits more affordable for families looking to balance their budgets while enjoying the magic of Disney World.
Source: The post Disney World Updates Classic Rides And Launches Family Experiences For Summer: All You Need To Know first appeared on www.travelandtourworld.com.
