Goofy Experience Debuts at Walt Disney World Resort

As 2025 unfolds, the transformation of Walt Disney World Resort continues at full momentum. From colorful new offerings to long-anticipated closures, each shift reflects Disney’s commitment to storytelling and innovation.

At EPCOT, one fan-favorite has made a quiet but welcome return to its full schedule. After several months of limited hours, The Seas with Nemo & Friends resumed its regular 9:00 p.m. closing time on May 27—just days after the historic opening of all six Disney parks on a single day.

Previously, the attraction had been closing early since January 17, 2025. While the change was never publicly explained, “the reduced hours were listed on the Walt Disney World calendar through May 26.”

In the background, the area saw subtle updates. Expanded walkways, escalator maintenance, and enhanced training for dive-certified cast members—especially those aiding guests with disabilities—pointed to operational improvements. These efforts culminated in the quiet return of DiveQuest and the reintroduction of the beloved manatees to the SeaBase Aquarium.

Meanwhile, a temporary closure has brought playful energy to another corner of EPCOT. CommuniCore Hall shut down on May 12 to usher in GoofyCore, a limited-time interactive play space that opened shortly thereafter as part of Disney’s “Cool Kid Summer” celebration.

With activities like “Loopy Limbo,” “Parachutes ‘n’ Pipsqueaks,” and high-energy DJ dance parties, the activation is “a zany, high-energy transformation of the CommuniCore space” that puts the spotlight on Goofy’s signature silliness. Guests can experience GoofyCore through September 1, 2025.

WDWMAGIC premiered an exclusive first look at the new space, highlighting its bright design, playful atmosphere, and sensory-rich spaces aimed at younger parkgoers.

While GoofyCore brings laughter indoors, CommuniCore Plaza continues to host its lineup of meet-and-greets and live performances, ensuring that EPCOT remains both festive and flexible throughout the summer season.

Elsewhere in the resort, change is unfolding on a larger scale. At Disney’s Animal Kingdom, the transformation of DinoLand U.S.A. is officially underway. Longstanding attractions like TriceraTop Spin, Fossil Fun Games, Chester & Hester’s Dinosaur Treasures, and It’s Tough to be a Bug! have now closed.

Some of these closures pave the way for a new themed land—Pueblo Esperanza—anchored in stories from Encanto and Indiana Jones. This lush new environment promises to celebrate the Tropical Americas with an immersive approach that blends beloved characters with real-world inspiration. Disney has yet to provide an opening date, though speculation continues to grow.

Back at Magic Kingdom, another classic is also seeing dramatic change. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad closed on January 13 for a major refurbishment set to last over a year. The large-scale project is clearly visible throughout Frontierland and ties into a broader reimagining teased at last year’s D23 Expo.

In a bold new move, the Cars franchise is making its way into Frontierland’s Old West setting. While fans have voiced mixed opinions on the blend of Pixar’s high-speed storytelling and rugged canyons, the update reflects Disney’s continued evolution. Alongside it comes a new addition that has captivated many: an entire land devoted to Disney Villains.

From aquatic realms to high-octane races and enchanted jungles, Walt Disney World’s ongoing metamorphosis balances fan-favorite nostalgia with new stories ready to be discovered.

Are you excited to check out GoofyCore? Let us know in the comments down below!