Returning guests

Returning to Disney World

If it has been five, ten or twenty years since your last Walt Disney World trip, here is what is genuinely different — from paid Lightning Lane to whole new lands.

Verified changes: 168Verified changes
Earliest year: 2015Earliest year
Current through: 2026Current through

The short answer

Since 2015, 168 verified changes have been recorded at Walt Disney World for returning visitors: 35 openings, 22 closures and 111 replacements, rethemes or operational changes. The additions include Walt Disney World Railroad, Luminous, CommuniCore Hall and Journey of Water. The losses include Tom Sawyer Island, Rivers of America, Dino-Rama and Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular. The most recent entry is Big Thunder Mountain Railroad (Refurbished, 2026-01).

Added: 35 openings and new lands
Gone: 22 closures
Reworked: 111 replacements and updates

168 shown

CategorySort

CHANGEDOctober 19, 2021

FastPass+

Resort-wide • planning

The free advance ride booking system ended permanently.

Then: Free 60-day advance ride reservations
Now: Discontinued

Source · Walt Disney World

NEWOpened May 27, 2022

Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind

EPCOT • attraction

One of the largest indoor roller coasters anywhere and EPCOT's headline attraction.

Now: Open in World Discovery

Source · Walt Disney World

NEWOpened August 29, 2019

Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge

Hollywood Studios • land

An entire Star Wars planet added to the park.

Now: 14-acre land with two attractions

Source · Walt Disney World

NEWOpened April 4, 2023

TRON Lightcycle / Run

Magic Kingdom • attraction

A high-speed indoor coaster in Tomorrowland and the biggest Magic Kingdom addition in years.

Now: Open in Tomorrowland

Source · Walt Disney World

GONEClosed January 23, 2023

Splash Mountain

Magic Kingdom • attraction

The log flume closed for good and was rebuilt as Tiana's Bayou Adventure.

Then: Open since 1992
Now: Closed and rethemed

Source · Walt Disney World

CHANGEDOctober 19, 2021

Genie+

Resort-wide • planning

Skip-the-line access became a paid daily add-on.

Then: FastPass+ (free)
Now: Paid per-day service

Source · Walt Disney World

NEWOpened May 27, 2017

Pandora – The World of Avatar

Animal Kingdom • land

A fully immersive Avatar land with floating mountains.

Now: Open with two attractions

Source · Walt Disney World

NEWOpened December 5, 2019

Rise of the Resistance

Hollywood Studios • attraction

Widely considered one of the most ambitious theme park attractions ever built.

Now: Open in Galaxy's Edge

Source · Walt Disney World

CHANGEDJuly 24, 2024

Lightning Lane Multi Pass

Resort-wide • planning

Paid line-skipping was rebranded and moved to advance booking.

Then: Genie+ same-day only
Now: Advance booking up to 7 days out

Source · Walt Disney World

REPLACEDJune 28, 2024

Tiana's Bayou Adventure

Magic Kingdom • attraction

The former Splash Mountain reopened with an all-new Princess and the Frog story.

Then: Splash Mountain
Now: Open in Frontierland

Source · Walt Disney World

NEWOpened June 30, 2018

Toy Story Land

Hollywood Studios • land

A new land built around backyard-scale Toy Story theming.

Now: Open with Slinky Dog Dash

Source · Walt Disney World

NEWOpened May 27, 2017

Avatar Flight of Passage

Animal Kingdom • attraction

A flying simulator that still draws some of the longest waits at Walt Disney World.

Now: Open in Pandora

Source · Walt Disney World

NEWOpened October 2021

EPCOT

EPCOT • land

The park's entire layout and naming was restructured.

Then: Future World and World Showcase
Now: World Celebration, Discovery, Nature, Showcase

Source · Walt Disney World

CHANGEDSeptember 29, 2019

Disney Skyliner

Resort-wide • transportation

Gondolas now connect EPCOT and Hollywood Studios with four resort areas.

Now: Gondola network in service

Source · Walt Disney World

CHANGED2022

Disney's Magical Express

Resort-wide • transportation

Complimentary airport bus service ended; guests now arrange their own transport.

Then: Free airport transfers
Now: Discontinued

Source · Walt Disney World

NEWOpened March 4, 2020

Mickey & Minnie's Runaway Railway

Hollywood Studios • attraction

The first ride-through attraction starring Mickey Mouse.

Then: The Great Movie Ride
Now: Open in the Chinese Theatre

Source · Walt Disney World

NEWOpened October 2021

Remy's Ratatouille Adventure

EPCOT • attraction

A trackless family dark ride added to World Showcase.

Now: Open in the France pavilion

Source · Walt Disney World

CHANGEDJanuary 9, 2024

Disney Park Pass

Resort-wide • planning

Park reservations were dropped for most standard tickets.

Then: A park reservation was needed alongside a ticket
Now: Most date-based tickets no longer need a park reservation

Source · Walt Disney World

NEWOpened June 30, 2018

Slinky Dog Dash

Hollywood Studios • attraction

A family coaster that quickly became one of the hardest rides to book.

Now: Open in Toy Story Land

Source · Walt Disney World

GONEClosed July 7, 2025

Rivers of America

Magic Kingdom • attraction

The riverboat, island and rafts stopped operating permanently.

Then: Riverboat and Tom Sawyer Island
Now: Closed for the Cars expansion

Source · Parkstalgia Research

CHANGEDOctober 19, 2021

Lightning Lane Single Pass

Resort-wide • planning

Top attractions require a separate per-ride purchase.

Now: Per-ride paid access

Source · Walt Disney World

GONEClosed August 13, 2017

The Great Movie Ride

Hollywood Studios • attraction

The park's original centrepiece attraction was retired.

Then: Open since 1989
Now: Replaced

Source · Walt Disney World

CHANGEDJuly 11, 2020

My Disney Experience

Resort-wide • planning

My Disney Experience became central to managing a Walt Disney World vacation, including mobile ordering, Lightning Lane purchases, dining reservations, planning and MagicMobile entry.

Then: A convenience app most guests could largely do without
Now: Central to most of the day: mobile ordering, Lightning Lane, reservations and MagicMobile entry

Source · Walt Disney World

CHANGED2022

Airport Transportation

Resort-wide • transportation

Airport transfers are no longer free for resort guests.

Then: Free Magical Express motorcoach
Now: Mears Connect, Sunshine Flyer or rideshare

Source · Parkstalgia Research

CHANGEDOctober 2021

Resort guest perks

Resort-wide • planning

Morning Extra Magic Hours ended; Deluxe guests get select evening hours.

Then: Extra Magic Hours
Now: 30-minute Early Entry for all resort guests

Source · Walt Disney World

CHANGEDDecember 2020

Virtual Queue

Resort-wide • planning

Some new attractions require joining a virtual queue at set times.

Then: Standby only
Now: App-based boarding groups

Source · Walt Disney World

NEWOpened August 29, 2019

Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run

Hollywood Studios • attraction

The Falcon flight simulator opened with Galaxy's Edge.

Now: Interactive cockpit simulator

Source · Parkstalgia Research

GONEClosed August 13, 2017

Universe of Energy

EPCOT • attraction

The pavilion was cleared to build Cosmic Rewind.

Then: Open since 1996
Now: Demolished for Guardians

Source · Walt Disney World

NEWOpened December 16, 2023

Walt Disney World Railroad

Magic Kingdom • attraction

The steam train circle tour returned after a five-year closure.

Then: Closed since 2018 for TRON construction
Now: Running again around the park

Source · Parkstalgia Research

REPLACEDMay 27, 2022

Wonders of Xandar Pavilion

EPCOT • land

The energy pavilion was gutted and rebuilt for the Guardians coaster.

Then: Universe of Energy pavilion
Now: Wonders of Xandar with Cosmic Rewind

Source · Parkstalgia Research

CHANGEDJuly 11, 2020

Advance Dining Reservations

Resort-wide • planning

The booking window shortened dramatically.

Then: 180 days in advance
Now: 60 days in advance

Source · Walt Disney World

GONEClosed September 30, 2019

IllumiNations

EPCOT • entertainment

The long-running lagoon show ended after 20 years.

Then: Nightly since 1999
Now: Retired

Source · Walt Disney World

REPLACEDJune 21, 2016

Frozen Ever After

EPCOT • attraction

Norway's boat ride became a Frozen attraction.

Then: Maelstrom
Now: Frozen Ever After

Source · Walt Disney World

CHANGEDJanuary 9, 2024

Disney Dining Plan

Resort-wide • planning

The Dining Plan came back with revised inclusions.

Then: Suspended since 2020
Now: Available again

Source · Walt Disney World

CHANGEDOctober 2021

EPCOT Entrance

EPCOT • land

The main entrance was demolished and rebuilt with a new fountain and pathways.

Then: Leave a Legacy monoliths
Now: Open fountain plaza

Source · Walt Disney World

NEWOpened May 27, 2017

Na'vi River Journey

Animal Kingdom • attraction

A gentle boat ride through a bioluminescent rainforest.

Now: Open in Pandora

Source · Walt Disney World

GONEClosed July 7, 2025

Tom Sawyer Island

Magic Kingdom • attraction

Tom Sawyer Island closed with Rivers of America.

Then: Raft-access play island
Now: Closed

Source · Parkstalgia Research

CHANGEDJuly 24, 2024

Lightning Lane Booking Window

Resort-wide • planning

You now plan Lightning Lane selections before arriving instead of at 7am each day.

Then: Same-day 7am purchase only
Now: Book up to 7 days ahead on-site

Source · Parkstalgia Research

UPDATEDJuly 22, 2025

Test Track

EPCOT • attraction

Test Track closed for a long rebuild and returned with a new look.

Then: 2012 Chevrolet design
Now: New retro-futurist design

Source · Walt Disney World

CHANGEDSeptember 2022

MagicBand+

Resort-wide • planning

Bands became an optional purchase with new interactive features.

Then: Free MagicBands for resort guests
Now: Purchase-only MagicBand+

Source · Walt Disney World

GONEClosed January 14, 2025

Dino-Rama

Animal Kingdom • land

The carnival midway area is gone.

Then: Carnival games and Triceratop Spin
Now: Closed for Tropical Americas

Source · Parkstalgia Research

GONEClosed 2025

DINOSAUR

Animal Kingdom • attraction

The dark ride closed to be reimagined.

Then: Open since 1998
Now: Closed for Indiana Jones retheme

Source · Walt Disney World

NEWOpened September 20, 2021

Space 220

EPCOT • dining

A table-service restaurant simulating dining in orbit.

Now: Open near Mission: SPACE

Source · Walt Disney World

CHANGEDJuly 16, 2021

Jungle Cruise

Magic Kingdom • attraction

Several scenes were rebuilt and outdated depictions of native peoples were removed.

Then: Original 1971 scene lineup with dated depictions
Now: New storyline with stranded skippers

Source · Parkstalgia Research

CHANGED2021

Park Hopper

Resort-wide • planning

Hopping rules tightened and then loosened again.

Then: Hop any time
Now: Hop after 2pm, then any time from 2023

Source · Walt Disney World

CHANGEDJuly 24, 2024

Lightning Lane Single Pass

Resort-wide • planning

The paid per-ride skip was renamed and rebooked through a new flow.

Then: Individual Lightning Lane
Now: Lightning Lane Single Pass

Source · Parkstalgia Research

CHANGEDJuly 17, 2024

Country Bear Jamboree

Magic Kingdom • entertainment

The classic show was reworked with country-music arrangements of Disney songs.

Then: Original 1971 show
Now: New song list and refreshed bears

Source · Walt Disney World

NEWOpened December 5, 2023

CommuniCore Hall

EPCOT • land

A new event and festival venue replaced dormant Innoventions buildings.

Then: Wonders of Life / Innoventions area
Now: New festival and event space

Source · Walt Disney World

CHANGEDSeptember 8, 2021

Annual Passes

Resort-wide • planning

Pass tiers, pricing and sales availability changed substantially.

Then: Legacy pass tiers
Now: Four new Florida-weighted tiers

Source · Walt Disney World

TEMPORARILY CLOSEDClosed 2026

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad

Magic Kingdom • attraction

The mine train closes for a lengthy rehab tied to the Cars project.

Then: Open daily
Now: Closed for extended track work

Source · Parkstalgia Research

GONEClosed 2025

Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular

Hollywood Studios • entertainment

The stunt show ended its decades-long run.

Then: Long-running stunt show
Now: Closed for the Monsters Inc. project

Source · Parkstalgia Research

GONEClosed September 30, 2023

Galactic Starcruiser

Hollywood Studios • resort

The immersive Star Wars hotel ran for only about 18 months.

Then: Two-night immersive hotel
Now: Permanently closed

Source · Walt Disney World

CHANGEDApril 3, 2023

Happily Ever After

Magic Kingdom • entertainment

The fireworks line-up swapped back after a two-year run of Enchantment.

Then: Disney Enchantment
Now: Happily Ever After nightly

Source · Walt Disney World

REPLACEDApril 2, 2023

Harmonious

EPCOT • entertainment

EPCOT cycled through two nighttime shows in three years.

Then: Harmonious
Now: Luminous: The Symphony of Us

Source · Walt Disney World

NEWOpened December 5, 2023

Luminous

EPCOT • entertainment

EPCOT's current nighttime spectacular.

Now: Nightly lagoon show

Source · Walt Disney World

CHANGEDOctober 30, 2024

Lightning Lane Premier Pass

Resort-wide • planning

A high-priced pass covering one ride per Lightning Lane attraction launched.

Now: All-in-one paid skip pass

Source · Parkstalgia Research

REPLACEDDecember 5, 2023

EPCOT Nighttime Show

EPCOT • entertainment

EPCOT went through Epcot Forever and Harmonious before settling on Luminous.

Then: Illuminations
Now: Luminous: The Symphony of Us

Source · Parkstalgia Research

CHANGEDOctober 2021

Early Theme Park Entry

Resort-wide • planning

All Disney resort guests get 30 minutes early entry every day.

Then: Extra Magic Hours at select parks
Now: 30 minutes early at every park daily

Source · Parkstalgia Research

CHANGEDAugust 2020

Cinderella Castle

Magic Kingdom • land

The castle received a bold new colour scheme that remains today.

Then: Pink and grey palette
Now: Blue, gold and deeper pink

Source · Walt Disney World

GONEClosed September 2019

Innoventions

EPCOT • land

The old Innoventions pavilions were torn down for the new World Celebration.

Then: Two large exhibit buildings flanking the fountain
Now: Open plaza and CommuniCore Hall

Source · Parkstalgia Research

CHANGEDMarch 19, 2018

Pirates of the Caribbean

Magic Kingdom • attraction

The bride auction scene was replaced with Redd, a female pirate directing the sale of stolen goods.

Then: The 'take a wench for a bride' auction scene
Now: Redd the pirate leads a plunder auction

Source · Parkstalgia Research

CHANGED2022

Mears Connect

Resort-wide • transportation

A paid alternative launched as the airport option.

Then: Magical Express
Now: Paid third-party shuttle

Source · Mears Transportation

NEWOpened August 29, 2019

Oga's Cantina

Hollywood Studios • dining

A reservation-only cantina in Black Spire Outpost.

Now: Open in Galaxy's Edge

Source · Walt Disney World

NEWOpened October 16, 2023

Journey of Water

EPCOT • attraction

A walk-through interactive water trail.

Now: Open in World Nature

Source · Walt Disney World

CHANGEDApril 4, 2023

Virtual Queue

Resort-wide • planning

New attractions often require a virtual queue join at set times.

Then: Standby lines only
Now: 7am and 1pm virtual queue drops

Source · Parkstalgia Research

CHANGEDJuly 11, 2020

Mobile Order

Magic Kingdom • dining

Quick service across the park moved to app-based ordering windows.

Then: Walk-up ordering
Now: Mobile order strongly preferred

Source · Walt Disney World

CHANGEDJanuary 10, 2023

Overnight resort parking

Resort-wide • resort

Disney reversed the overnight self-parking fee for resort guests.

Then: Nightly parking charge
Now: Standard parking included again

Source · Walt Disney World

CHANGED2022

Theme Park Tickets

Resort-wide • planning

Ticket cost now depends heavily on which dates you choose.

Then: Flat multi-day pricing
Now: Date-based tiers by day

Source · Parkstalgia Research

GONEClosed July 10, 2020

Primeval Whirl

Animal Kingdom • attraction

The DinoLand spinning coaster was demolished.

Then: Seasonal operation
Now: Removed

Source · Walt Disney World

GONEClosed March 15, 2020

Voyage of the Little Mermaid

Hollywood Studios • entertainment

The Little Mermaid stage show never reopened.

Then: Daily puppet and live show
Now: Closed permanently

Source · Parkstalgia Research

NEWOpened March 23, 2023

Roundup Rodeo BBQ

Hollywood Studios • dining

Toy Story Land's first table-service restaurant.

Now: Open in Toy Story Land

Source · Walt Disney World

CHANGEDJune 2021

Cosmic Ray's Starlight Cafe

Magic Kingdom • dining

Mobile ordering became the primary way most guests order quick service at Magic Kingdom, and some locations lean on it heavily at busy times.

Then: Walk-up ordering at registers
Now: Mobile ordering is the main path at peak times; walk-up availability varies by location

Source · Parkstalgia Research

GONEClosed March 15, 2020

Rivers of Light

Animal Kingdom • entertainment

The nighttime water show did not return after 2020.

Then: Nightly show
Now: Retired

Source · Walt Disney World

CHANGEDDecember 16, 2019

Disney's Riviera Resort

Resort-wide • resort

A new Deluxe Villa resort connected by gondola.

Now: Open on the Skyliner line

Source · Walt Disney World

GONEClosed January 6, 2018

Stitch's Great Escape

Magic Kingdom • attraction

The Tomorrowland theatre attraction stopped operating and never returned.

Then: Seasonal operation
Now: Permanently closed

Source · Walt Disney World

GONEClosed October 9, 2016

Main Street Electrical Parade

Magic Kingdom • entertainment

The lighted parade left Walt Disney World.

Then: Nightly parade
Now: Moved to Disneyland then retired

Source · Parkstalgia Research

GONEClosed March 17, 2024

It's Tough to be a Bug!

Animal Kingdom • attraction

The 4D show ended its run inside the Tree of Life.

Then: Open since 1998
Now: Closed

Source · Walt Disney World

CHANGEDAugust 2023

After Hours Ticketed Events

Magic Kingdom • planning

Separately ticketed party nights cost far more than most returning guests remember.

Then: Around $100 per adult
Now: $150+ on peak nights

Source · Parkstalgia Research

CHANGED2022

EPCOT Festivals

EPCOT • entertainment

Festival kiosks are now up almost any week you visit.

Then: Two main festivals a year
Now: Four festivals covering most of the calendar

Source · Parkstalgia Research

CHANGEDOctober 2021

Extended Evening Theme Park Hours

Resort-wide • planning

Late-night extra hours are now a deluxe-resort perk.

Then: Evening Extra Magic Hours for all resort guests
Now: Deluxe and Villa guests only

Source · Parkstalgia Research

CHANGEDMarch 7, 2021

Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach

Resort-wide • planning

Disney now alternates which water park is open.

Then: Both water parks open year-round
Now: One park open at a time on rotation

Source · Parkstalgia Research

CHANGED2021

MagicBands

Resort-wide • resort

Resort stays no longer include a complimentary MagicBand.

Then: Free band with each resort stay
Now: Purchase or use the app

Source · Parkstalgia Research

CHANGEDNovember 3, 2022

Fantasmic!

Hollywood Studios • entertainment

The nighttime show came back with updated content.

Then: Suspended
Now: Running with new scenes

Source · Walt Disney World

CHANGEDMarch 9, 2022

Festival of Fantasy Parade

Magic Kingdom • entertainment

The daytime parade came back after a long suspension.

Then: Suspended
Now: Running daily

Source · Walt Disney World

CHANGEDJuly 9, 2019

Gran Destino Tower

Resort-wide • resort

A new tower and Toledo restaurant were added.

Now: 15-storey tower open

Source · Walt Disney World

NEWOpened May 27, 2017

Satu'li Canteen

Animal Kingdom • dining

A build-your-own bowl quick service widely rated among the best at WDW.

Now: Open in Pandora

Source · Walt Disney World

CHANGEDDecember 17, 2024

Polynesian Island Tower

Resort-wide • resort

A new villa tower opened at the Polynesian Village.

Now: New tower open

Source · Walt Disney World

GONEClosed August 2019

Leave a Legacy

EPCOT • land

The entrance plaza monoliths were moved to make way for the new entrance.

Then: Stone monoliths with guest photos
Now: Relocated outside the gates

Source · Parkstalgia Research

NEWOpened July 5, 2022

Connections Cafe

EPCOT • dining

A rebuilt quick-service location replaced the Electric Umbrella.

Then: Electric Umbrella
Now: Open in World Celebration

Source · Walt Disney World

CHANGED2022

Hard-to-Book Dining

Resort-wide • planning

Popular restaurants now book out the moment the window opens.

Then: Walk-ups common
Now: Reservations gone within minutes

Source · Parkstalgia Research

CHANGEDJuly 2021

Resort housekeeping

Resort-wide • resort

Housekeeping frequency changed after 2020 and was only partly restored.

Then: Daily full service
Now: Light service every other day

Source · Walt Disney World

GONEClosed March 15, 2020

The Diamond Horseshoe

Magic Kingdom • dining

The Diamond Horseshoe has been used for limited and seasonal service rather than a regular daily schedule.

Then: Seasonal table service in Liberty Square
Now: Closed except for rare private use

Source · Parkstalgia Research

NEWOpened August 29, 2019

Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo

Hollywood Studios • dining

New Star Wars themed dining arrived with the land.

Now: Galaxy's Edge quick service

Source · Parkstalgia Research

GONEClosed March 15, 2020

Electric Umbrella

EPCOT • dining

A longtime Future World quick-service spot never reopened.

Then: Main quick service
Now: Closed

Source · Walt Disney World

CHANGEDMay 2016

Kilimanjaro Safaris

Animal Kingdom • attraction

The chase ending was removed and night safaris were added.

Then: Poacher chase finale
Now: Straight wildlife tour with night version

Source · Parkstalgia Research

UPDATEDMay 2024

Space Mountain

Magic Kingdom • attraction

The coaster received an extended refurbishment with updated effects.

Then: Original track finish
Now: Refreshed track and effects

Source · Walt Disney World

CHANGEDJanuary 10, 2023

Resort Overnight Parking

Resort-wide • resort

Overnight self-parking fees were dropped.

Then: $15-25 per night
Now: Free again for resort guests

Source · Parkstalgia Research

CHANGED2023

Theme Park Tickets

Resort-wide • planning

Unused date-based tickets keep value but require paying the difference.

Then: Flexible unused ticket value
Now: Date-based tickets expire and need upgrades

Source · Parkstalgia Research

CHANGEDJune 2022

Main Street Bakery

Magic Kingdom • dining

Espresso drinks and Starbucks pastries replaced most of the original bakery items.

Then: Limited bakery counter
Now: Full Starbucks food and drink menu

Source · Parkstalgia Research

CHANGEDOctober 19, 2021

Disney Genie

Resort-wide • planning

A free planning assistant was added alongside the paid Genie+.

Now: Free itinerary suggestions in the app

Source · Parkstalgia Research

GONEClosed October 2020

Resort Restaurants

Resort-wide • dining

Restaurants such as Captain's Grille and others did not return.

Then: Full resort dining lineup
Now: Several closed for good

Source · Parkstalgia Research

CHANGEDJuly 11, 2020

Resort Check-In

Resort-wide • resort

Most guests skip the front desk entirely.

Then: Front desk check-in
Now: Online check-in with room-ready text

Source · Parkstalgia Research

CHANGEDJune 30, 2018

Toy Story Mania!

Hollywood Studios • attraction

The queue and entrance moved when Toy Story Land opened.

Then: Entrance through Pixar Place
Now: Entrance now inside Toy Story Land

Source · Parkstalgia Research

CHANGEDAugust 13, 2017

Mission: SPACE

EPCOT • attraction

The less-intense side became a gentle tour around Earth.

Then: Orbit Earth training mission
Now: Earth orbit flyover for the mild side

Source · Parkstalgia Research

CHANGEDMay 27, 2016

Animal Kingdom Evening Operations

Animal Kingdom • planning

Animal Kingdom now regularly stays open after dark.

Then: Park closed at dusk
Now: Regular evening hours

Source · Parkstalgia Research

NEWOpened December 16, 2015

Jungle Navigation Co. Ltd. Skipper Canteen

Magic Kingdom • dining

A table-service restaurant themed to the Jungle Cruise skippers.

Now: Table service in Adventureland

Source · Parkstalgia Research

CHANGEDMay 2022

Star Tours – The Adventures Continue

Hollywood Studios • attraction

New planets and characters were added to the ride's rotation.

Then: Original random scene set
Now: New destinations from recent films

Source · Parkstalgia Research

CHANGED2022

Cinderella Castle

Magic Kingdom • land

The bold anniversary paint job was toned back down.

Then: Blue and gold 50th anniversary paint
Now: Softer pink and blue palette restored

Source · Parkstalgia Research

CHANGEDSeptember 8, 2021

Memory Maker / parking

Resort-wide • planning

Passholder benefits were restructured by tier.

Then: Bundled perks
Now: Tier-dependent perks

Source · Walt Disney World

REPLACEDJune 13, 2022

Finding Nemo: The Big Blue... and Beyond!

Animal Kingdom • entertainment

The musical returned in a shorter, restaged form.

Then: Finding Nemo – The Musical
Now: Shorter reimagined version

Source · Parkstalgia Research

NEWOpened October 2021

La Crêperie de Paris

EPCOT • dining

The France pavilion expansion added a new creperie.

Now: Crêperie in the France expansion

Source · Parkstalgia Research

CHANGEDOctober 2021

Main Street Confectionery

Magic Kingdom • dining

The candy shop was gutted and rebuilt with a visible candy kitchen.

Then: Original candy shop
Now: Rebuilt with open kitchen and new treats

Source · Parkstalgia Research

REPLACEDJuly 2, 2021

Creations Shop

EPCOT • dining

EPCOT's main store was rebuilt and renamed.

Then: MouseGear main merchandise store
Now: Creations Shop

Source · Parkstalgia Research

NEWOpened December 16, 2019

Topolino's Terrace

Resort-wide • dining

The Riviera brought a well-reviewed rooftop restaurant.

Now: Rooftop signature dining and breakfast

Source · Parkstalgia Research

UPDATEDAugust 2024

Rock 'n' Roller Coaster

Hollywood Studios • attraction

A long refurbishment restored effects and lighting.

Then: Original soundtrack and preshow
Now: Refurbished with restored effects

Source · Parkstalgia Research

CHANGEDJuly 2024

Fort Wilderness Cabins

Resort-wide • resort

The cabins were replaced with new units.

Then: Original cabins
Now: New cabins

Source · Walt Disney World

CHANGED2024

Tony's Town Square Restaurant

Magic Kingdom • dining

Menu and decor were refreshed with a heavier Lady and the Tramp story.

Then: Classic Italian-American menu
Now: Refreshed menu and Lady and the Tramp theming

Source · Parkstalgia Research

CHANGED2023

Memory Maker

Resort-wide • planning

Photo package pricing rose and single-day options changed.

Then: $169 advance purchase
Now: $210 with new options

Source · Parkstalgia Research

CHANGEDJune 2022

World Showcase Dining

EPCOT • dining

Most World Showcase restaurants reworked menus and raised prices post-2020.

Then: Legacy menus
Now: Reworked and higher-priced menus

Source · Parkstalgia Research

CHANGED2022

Swiss Family Treehouse

Magic Kingdom • attraction

Recorded as operating on a limited or seasonal schedule at times; hours are posted day-of.

Then: Open all day
Now: Frequently closed or seasonal

Source · Parkstalgia Research

CHANGED2022

Deluxe Resort Rooms

Resort-wide • resort

Several deluxe resorts completed full room refreshes.

Then: Older room decor
Now: Modern refurbished rooms with new theming

Source · Parkstalgia Research

NEWOpened October 2021

Character Cavalcades

Magic Kingdom • entertainment

Mini-parades introduced in 2020 stayed as a permanent daily offering.

Then: Scheduled character meets only
Now: Short cavalcades roll down Main Street daily

Source · Parkstalgia Research

REPLACEDOctober 2021

Steakhouse 71

Resort-wide • dining

The Contemporary's restaurant was rethemed to 1971.

Then: The Wave... of American Flavors
Now: Steakhouse 71

Source · Parkstalgia Research

CHANGEDAugust 18, 2021

Club Cool

EPCOT • dining

The free international soda tasting moved and swapped several flavours.

Then: Inside Innoventions West
Now: New location near Creations Shop

Source · Parkstalgia Research

CHANGEDAugust 2021

Cinderella's Royal Table

Magic Kingdom • dining

Castle dining moved to a single fixed price.

Then: Per-item plus character photos
Now: Fixed price per person

Source · Parkstalgia Research

CHANGEDJuly 2021

Main Street Vehicles (horse trolley reduced)

Magic Kingdom • attraction

Main Street vehicle offerings were scaled back after the 2020 closure period.

Then: Full vehicle line-up
Now: Reduced operation

Source · Walt Disney World

CHANGEDMarch 2021

Disney MagicMobile

Resort-wide • planning

You can enter parks and rooms with your phone.

Then: MagicBand or ticket card
Now: Phone or watch pass

Source · Parkstalgia Research

CHANGEDJune 2020

Reflections – A Disney Lakeside Lodge

Resort-wide • resort

The planned lakeside resort was cancelled.

Then: Under construction near Fort Wilderness
Now: Cancelled

Source · Parkstalgia Research

REPLACEDFebruary 18, 2020

Regal Eagle Smokehouse

EPCOT • dining

The American pavilion's restaurant became a barbecue spot.

Then: Liberty Inn
Now: Barbecue quick service

Source · Parkstalgia Research

CHANGED2020

Expedition Everest

Animal Kingdom • attraction

The yeti figure remains in a stationary lighting effect.

Then: Fully animated yeti
Now: Strobe-lit 'disco yeti'

Source · Parkstalgia Research

NEWOpened March 31, 2019

Lightning McQueen's Racing Academy

Hollywood Studios • entertainment

A short show experience on Sunset Boulevard.

Now: Open on Sunset Boulevard

Source · Walt Disney World

CHANGED2019

Resort Bus Service

Resort-wide • transportation

You can see bus arrival estimates in the app.

Then: No arrival information
Now: Live bus arrival times in the app

Source · Parkstalgia Research

NEWOpened December 16, 2018

Storybook Dining at Artist Point

Resort-wide • dining

The Wilderness Lodge signature became a character meal.

Then: Artist Point signature dining
Now: Snow White character dinner

Source · Parkstalgia Research

NEWOpened May 27, 2017

Pandora at Night

Animal Kingdom • entertainment

Pandora's night lighting became a reason to stay late.

Now: Glowing plants after dark

Source · Parkstalgia Research

NEWOpened May 27, 2016

Nomad Lounge

Animal Kingdom • dining

The lounge opened with Pandora-era expansion and is now a favourite.

Now: Lounge beside Tiffins

Source · Parkstalgia Research

NEWOpened May 27, 2016

Tree of Life Awakenings

Animal Kingdom • entertainment

Night-time projections on the Tree of Life began with evening hours.

Now: Projection vignettes after dark

Source · Parkstalgia Research

CHANGEDMarch 2023

Festival of Fantasy Parade

Magic Kingdom • entertainment

Parade times move seasonally and are posted day-of in the app.

Then: Single afternoon showing
Now: Times vary and second showings are rare

Source · Parkstalgia Research

CHANGED2023

Theme Park Parking

Resort-wide • planning

Daily standard parking rose to $30.

Then: $25 standard parking
Now: $30 standard parking

Source · Parkstalgia Research

CHANGEDOctober 2021

Enchanted Tiki Room

Magic Kingdom • entertainment

The show returned closer to its original format.

Then: Shortened version
Now: Longer classic version

Source · Walt Disney World

CHANGED2021

Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Cafe

Magic Kingdom • dining

The self-serve toppings bar has not been part of the regular service since 2020.

Then: Full toppings bar
Now: Pre-portioned toppings

Source · Parkstalgia Research

CHANGEDJanuary 17, 2020

Canada Far and Wide

EPCOT • entertainment

The Canada pavilion film was replaced with a newly shot version narrated by Catherine O'Hara and Eugene Levy.

Then: O Canada!
Now: Canada Far and Wide

Source · Parkstalgia Research

NEWOpened May 2019

Wonderful World of Animation

Hollywood Studios • entertainment

A nightly projection show was added to the park.

Now: Projection show on the Chinese Theatre

Source · Parkstalgia Research

REPLACEDApril 22, 2018

UP! A Great Bird Adventure

Animal Kingdom • entertainment

The classic bird show was rethemed around Up.

Then: Flights of Wonder
Now: Russell and Dug host the bird show

Source · Parkstalgia Research

UPDATEDJune 2022

Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover

Magic Kingdom • attraction

Both classics were down for extended periods and returned refreshed.

Then: Continuous operation
Now: Reopened after long closures

Source · Parkstalgia Research

CHANGED2022

The Hollywood Brown Derby

Hollywood Studios • dining

The signature restaurant trimmed the menu and raised prices.

Then: Classic signature menu
Now: Reduced menu and higher prices

Source · Parkstalgia Research

CHANGEDJuly 15, 2021

Garden Grill Restaurant

EPCOT • dining

Character dining returned in stages with different service styles.

Then: Full family-style character meal
Now: Returned with modified service

Source · Parkstalgia Research

CHANGEDOctober 2020

Star Wars Launch Bay

Hollywood Studios • entertainment

Several legacy Star Wars offerings were scaled back after Galaxy's Edge.

Then: Full offerings
Now: Reduced

Source · Walt Disney World

CHANGED2024

Restaurantosaurus

Animal Kingdom • dining

Dining in DinoLand is winding down for the new land.

Then: Full quick service in DinoLand
Now: Limited operation ahead of Tropical Americas

Source · Parkstalgia Research

CHANGED2022

Sunshine Seasons

EPCOT • dining

The food court in The Land got new stations and dishes.

Then: Original station menu
Now: Reworked stations and menu

Source · Parkstalgia Research

CHANGEDOctober 2021

Spaceship Earth

EPCOT • attraction

The exit area games and sponsor exhibits were scaled back.

Then: Project Tomorrow with sponsor branding
Now: Reduced post-show

Source · Parkstalgia Research

CHANGED2021

Disney PhotoPass

Resort-wide • planning

Ride and character photos appear in the app automatically.

Then: Card-based PhotoPass
Now: Linked to app account and MagicBand+

Source · Parkstalgia Research

CHANGED2021

Walt Disney World Monorail

Resort-wide • transportation

Monorail hours are more tightly tied to park hours.

Then: Extended late-night service
Now: Hours tied to park closing

Source · Parkstalgia Research

CHANGEDMarch 15, 2020

Minnie Van Service

Resort-wide • transportation

The point-to-point car service was cut and only partly returned.

Then: Lyft-operated Minnie Vans
Now: Limited return

Source · Parkstalgia Research

NEWOpened January 17, 2020

Awesome Planet

EPCOT • attraction

A new film replaced Circle of Life in The Land pavilion.

Now: New Earth-focused film

Source · Parkstalgia Research

CHANGEDDecember 16, 2019

Disney Vacation Club

Resort-wide • resort

Several new DVC properties opened since 2019.

Then: Existing DVC portfolio
Now: Riviera, Island Tower and Cabins added

Source · Parkstalgia Research

NEWOpened April 18, 2018

BaseLine Tap House

Hollywood Studios • dining

Grand Avenue's rebuild added new small dining spots.

Now: Beer and snacks on Grand Avenue

Source · Parkstalgia Research

GONEClosed March 15, 2020

Tomorrowland Arcade

Magic Kingdom • attraction

The arcade at the Space Mountain exit did not reopen.

Then: Video arcade at Space Mountain exit
Now: Closed

Source · Parkstalgia Research

CHANGED2023

Festival Center

EPCOT • planning

Festival seminars and events now happen in the new CommuniCore Hall.

Then: Festival Center in Odyssey
Now: Events moved to CommuniCore Hall

Source · Parkstalgia Research

CHANGEDMarch 2022

Main Street U.S.A. dining

Magic Kingdom • dining

Several Main Street quick-service menus were rebuilt post-2020.

Then: Legacy menus
Now: Refreshed menus

Source · Walt Disney World

CHANGEDFebruary 2022

Sunshine Flyer

Resort-wide • transportation

A competing airport bus launched after Magical Express and later stopped.

Now: Alternative airport motorcoach then discontinued

Source · Parkstalgia Research

CHANGEDOctober 2021

Enchanted Tales with Belle

Magic Kingdom • entertainment

The storytelling experience returned in a slightly reworked form.

Then: Full interactive storytelling
Now: Modified version with distancing-era changes

Source · Parkstalgia Research

CHANGEDJune 2021

Rafiki's Planet Watch

Animal Kingdom • attraction

The train-accessed area returned with a modified experience.

Then: Closed since 2019
Now: Reopened with adjusted programming

Source · Parkstalgia Research

CHANGED2019

Disney Springs

Resort-wide • transportation

Parking garages with live space counts changed how you arrive.

Then: Limited surface parking
Now: Multiple garages with space counters

Source · Parkstalgia Research

REPLACEDSeptember 2018

Disney Junior Play & Dance

Hollywood Studios • entertainment

The seated puppet show became a standing dance party.

Then: Disney Junior Live on Stage
Now: Interactive dance party

Source · Parkstalgia Research

CHANGEDJune 2021

Coral Reef Restaurant

EPCOT • dining

Operating hours were reduced after reopening.

Then: Daily lunch and dinner
Now: Dinner-focused operation

Source · Walt Disney World

CHANGED2024

Journey Into Imagination With Figment

EPCOT • attraction

One of the few EPCOT attractions untouched by the overhaul.

Then: Original 2002 version
Now: Still running, refurbishment rumoured

Source · Parkstalgia Research

CHANGEDAugust 2021

Studios table service

Hollywood Studios • dining

Table-service menus across the park were rebuilt.

Then: Legacy menus
Now: Reworked menus and pricing

Source · Walt Disney World

CHANGED2019

Sunset Showcase Theater

Hollywood Studios • entertainment

The theatre hosts seasonal shows rather than one permanent attraction.

Then: Lightning McQueen and seasonal use
Now: Rotating limited-time offerings

Source · Parkstalgia Research

Coming next

Officially announced or under construction — not open to guests yet, and not counted in the totals above.

ANNOUNCEDExpected 2026

Tree of Life theatre

Animal Kingdom • entertainment

The long-running bug show was replaced.

Announced November 2025 · not open to guests yet

Source · Walt Disney World

COMINGOpening date not announced

Tomorrowland Speedway

Magic Kingdom • attraction

Disney announced that Tomorrowland Speedway will close. No replacement has been officially confirmed.

Announced October 2025 · not open to guests yet

Source · Walt Disney World

ANNOUNCEDOpening date not announced

Muppet*Vision 3D

Hollywood Studios • attraction

Muppet*Vision is being retired to make way for a new land.

Announced June 2025 · not open to guests yet

Source · Parkstalgia Research

COMINGExpected 2027

Tropical Americas

Animal Kingdom • land

DinoLand is becoming a Latin America-themed area.

Announced January 2025 · not open to guests yet

Source · Parkstalgia Research

COMINGExpected 2027

DinoLand U.S.A.

Animal Kingdom • land

The land is being rebuilt around Encanto and Indiana Jones.

Announced November 2024 · not open to guests yet

Source · Walt Disney World

COMINGExpected 2027

Monstropolis

Hollywood Studios • land

Disney announced that the Grand Avenue area will become a Monsters, Inc. land. It is not open to guests.

Announced August 2024 · not open to guests yet

Source · Parkstalgia Research

ANNOUNCEDOpening date not announced

Magic Kingdom Villains Land

Magic Kingdom • land

Disney announced a villains-themed land in development for Magic Kingdom. No opening date has been announced.

Announced August 2024 · not open to guests yet

Source · Parkstalgia Research

COMINGOpening date not announced

Piston Peak National Park

Magic Kingdom • land

Disney announced a Cars-themed area, Piston Peak National Park, for the Frontierland area now occupied by Rivers of America and Tom Sawyer Island. It is not open to guests.

Announced August 2024 · not open to guests yet

Source · Parkstalgia Research

ANNOUNCEDOpening date not announced

Wondrous China

EPCOT • attraction

Disney previously announced Wondrous China as a replacement for Reflections of China, but the new film has not opened and no current opening date has been announced.

Next · not open to guests yet

Source · Parkstalgia Research

Year by year

A one-line summary of every year we have verified records for.

2026 changed Big Thunder Mountain Railroad.
2025 lost Tom Sawyer Island, Rivers of America, Dino-Rama, Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular and DINOSAUR; changed Test Track.
2024 lost It's Tough to be a Bug!; changed Polynesian Island Tower, Lightning Lane Premier Pass, Rock 'n' Roller Coaster, Lightning Lane Multi Pass and Lightning Lane Booking Window.
2023 opened Walt Disney World Railroad, Luminous, CommuniCore Hall, Journey of Water and TRON Lightcycle / Run; lost Galactic Starcruiser and Splash Mountain; changed EPCOT Nighttime Show, After Hours Ticketed Events, Virtual Queue, Happily Ever After and Harmonious.
2022 opened Connections Cafe and Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind; changed Fantasmic!, MagicBand+, Finding Nemo: The Big Blue... and Beyond!, Main Street Bakery and World Showcase Dining.
2021 opened Character Cavalcades, EPCOT, La Crêperie de Paris, Remy's Ratatouille Adventure and Space 220; changed Lightning Lane Single Pass, FastPass+, Genie+, Disney Genie and Enchanted Tiki Room.
2020 opened Mickey & Minnie's Runaway Railway and Awesome Planet; lost Resort Restaurants, Primeval Whirl, Tomorrowland Arcade, Voyage of the Little Mermaid and The Diamond Horseshoe; changed Virtual Queue, Star Wars Launch Bay, Cinderella Castle, Resort Check-In and Advance Dining Reservations.
2019 opened Topolino's Terrace, Rise of the Resistance, Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run, Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo and Oga's Cantina; lost IllumiNations, Innoventions and Leave a Legacy; changed Disney's Riviera Resort, Disney Vacation Club, Disney Skyliner, Gran Destino Tower and Resort Bus Service.
2018 opened Storybook Dining at Artist Point, Slinky Dog Dash, Toy Story Land and BaseLine Tap House; lost Stitch's Great Escape; changed Disney Junior Play & Dance, Toy Story Mania!, UP! A Great Bird Adventure and Pirates of the Caribbean.
2017 opened Pandora at Night, Satu'li Canteen, Na'vi River Journey, Avatar Flight of Passage and Pandora – The World of Avatar; lost The Great Movie Ride and Universe of Energy; changed Mission: SPACE.
2016 opened Nomad Lounge and Tree of Life Awakenings; lost Main Street Electrical Parade; changed Frozen Ever After, Animal Kingdom Evening Operations and Kilimanjaro Safaris.
2015 opened Jungle Navigation Co. Ltd. Skipper Canteen.

Common questions

What has changed at Walt Disney World for returning visitors?

What is new at Walt Disney World for returning visitors?

35 additions are recorded, including Walt Disney World Railroad, Luminous, CommuniCore Hall, Journey of Water, TRON Lightcycle / Run and Roundup Rodeo BBQ.

What is gone at Walt Disney World for returning visitors?

22 closures are recorded, including Tom Sawyer Island, Rivers of America, Dino-Rama, Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular, DINOSAUR and It's Tough to be a Bug!.

What is the biggest change at Walt Disney World for returning visitors?

FastPass+ discontinued. The free advance ride booking system ended permanently. October 19, 2021.

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