One of the most important parts of planning your Walt Disney World vacation is knowing what will be open — and what won’t. Disney is constantly updating, refurbishing, and refreshing its attractions, which means closures are part of the magic behind the scenes. If you’re heading to Orlando this week, there are a few key closures you’ll want to be aware of so you can adjust your plans and avoid disappointment.
Among the biggest changes this week is the temporary draining of the Rivers of America in Magic Kingdom. This means that the Liberty Belle Riverboat is out of operation for now. In addition, Tom Sawyer Island is closed as part of the massive Frontierland transformation that’s already underway. While this may limit a few classic experiences, it also means new adventures are on the horizon, with Disney preparing a Cars-themed expansion in the area.
Over at EPCOT, several attractions are undergoing scheduled refurbishments. It’s always a good idea to check the My Disney Experience app in the morning, as smaller shows and exhibits may close temporarily throughout the week for updates. Families looking forward to Journey Into Imagination with Figment or Living with the Land should double-check their schedules, as these rides occasionally see downtime around festival prep.
If you’re visiting Disney’s Animal Kingdom, note that some animal trails and smaller shows rotate in and out of operation. While the headline rides like Expedition Everest and Avatar Flight of Passage remain open, don’t be surprised if certain smaller experiences are unavailable during your trip.
Hollywood Studios guests should know that while the major headliners are operating, live shows such as Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular and Beauty and the Beast – Live on Stage often go dark for brief refurbishments. If one of these is a must-see for your family, be sure to confirm performance times on the day of your visit.
The best planning tip? Always have a flexible schedule. While it can be disappointing to find an attraction closed, Disney offers so many experiences that you can easily pivot. If the Liberty Belle is closed, take a spin on the Haunted Mansion nearby. If a show is dark at Hollywood Studios, enjoy an extra ride on Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway instead. Building in that flexibility makes your trip feel more relaxed and ensures you don’t lose out on the fun.
Checking the official Disney website or the My Disney Experience app the night before your park day is the smartest way to keep on top of closures. That way, you can set the right expectations for your family and make sure everyone gets to experience their top must-dos.
While closures are a normal part of keeping Disney fresh, knowing about them ahead of time helps you plan like a pro. And remember, when something is closed, it usually means something exciting is coming soon!
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