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Walt Disney World Resort’s Magic Kingdom will lose one iconic location this coming January–here’s the latest on Big Thunder Mountain Railroad’s transformation.
Credit: Ed Aguila, Inside the Magic
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad: A Wild Transformation Ahead at Walt Disney World
Disney’s Magic Kingdom Park has been a beacon of classic Disney charm for generations, anchored by its iconic attractions like Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. Now, as part of an ambitious transformation wave across Walt Disney World Resort, Disney has announced the indefinite closure of this historic coaster will begin in early 2025, with a planned reopening in 2026. The move is part of a larger evolution that will see major updates across the resort’s parks and potentially lead to Disney’s biggest expansion in years.
Disney chairman Josh D’Amaro revealed the exciting changes coming to the parks back in 2022, with concepts unveiled at various D23 events. The goal? To seemingly rejuvenate Disney’s offerings as its 50-year-old Florida resort faces competition from Universal’s Epic Universe, a new contender in Central Florida’s theme park race. Though Disney has yet to announce the long-anticipated “fifth gate,” Magic Kingdom will soon see fresh experiences, including an expansion beyond Big Thunder Mountain.
Credit: Disney
The Big Thunder Mountain Update
Disney’s official website states that Big Thunder Mountain Railroad will “temporarily close for refurbishment on January 6, 2025,” with reopening slated for sometime in 2026. The exact nature of the refurbishment remains undisclosed, but speculation suggests updates akin to those seen at Disneyland Resort, where Big Thunder received a track overhaul, projection mapping, and updated effects over a decade ago.
Early construction signals are already visible at the Big Thunder site, with cranes and green construction scrims hinting at an extensive overhaul, per WDWMagic. This refurbishment kicks off Magic Kingdom Park’s grand-scale transformation, blending classic Disney nostalgia with cutting-edge experiences that are designed to resonate with both longtime fans and new audiences.
Credit: Disney
Transforming Frontierland: Cars and Villains
Magic Kingdom’s Frontierland will undergo a complete makeover as Disney integrates new IP-based attractions. The Cars franchise is set to replace the Rivers of America and Tom Sawyer Island, adding a family-friendly, Cars-themed land to the area. This transition follows the 2024 debut of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, which replaced Splash Mountain earlier this year.
But that’s not all—the future holds even bigger surprises. “Beyond Big Thunder,” Disney will introduce an all-new land featuring beloved Disney Villains. While details are still under wraps, fans are buzzing about the prospect of Disney’s most famous antagonists getting their own themed attractions and experiences. Though Disney is keeping mum on specifics, it’s clear that the company is betting big on the Villains’ undeniable appeal.
Credit: Disney
An Evolution with Growing Pains
These exciting updates come amid ongoing debate about Disney’s rising prices, which has led some fans to question whether the magic is still accessible. Recent controversies around costs, including the high price of the Lightning Lane Premier Pass and premium dining experiences at the BoardWalk’s Cake Bake Shop, have made headlines. Addressing earlier concerns, D’Amaro emphasized Disney’s commitment to balancing nostalgia with innovation for future generations at this year’s INBOUND festival.
As Disney’s evolution continues, fans may have mixed emotions. Whether thrilled or hesitant, guests are invited to share their thoughts as Disney crafts a new chapter for Magic Kingdom Park’s legacy.
How do you feel about these changes? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
