Disney Parks Get Massive Upgrades: New Rides, Lands, and Summer Savings for 2026 and Beyond
Summer has arrived, and Disneyland is still celebrating its 70th anniversary, marking seven decades since the original park opened in 1955. But the big news isn't just the party hats—three new rides are under construction in California, along with a sprawling Avatar-themed land. Over in Florida, Walt Disney World is building four new lands, including one devoted to classic villains and another to Pixar characters. Here's what's coming this summer and beyond.
At Disneyland, the 70th anniversary runs through Aug. 9, 2026, with the Paint the Night parade, fireworks, and special character outfits. Starting May 26, the Rock 'n' Roller Coaster reopens with a Muppets makeover, replacing the former Aerosmith theme. The old MuppetVision 3D space at Hollywood Studios is being turned into Monstropolis, featuring Disney's first suspended roller coaster. That project won't be done for a year or two.
On July 2, Soarin' Across America debuts at both California Adventure and Epcot, celebrating the nation's 250th birthday with scents and scenes from U.S. landmarks. Juneteenth brings a new HBCU-inspired festival to Downtown Disney, and Bluey now has a permanent stage show and play area at Fantasyland Theatre.
In Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge, Luke, Leia, and Han Solo have joined the roaming characters, and new Mandalorian missions have been added to the Millennium Falcon ride. For families watching their budgets, Disneyland is offering $50 kids' tickets through Sept. 7, and a new Magic Key pass for California residents. Disney World's Cool Kids' Summer deal gives two free nights and park days with a hotel package, plus free water park entry and dining plans for kids.
California Adventure turns 25 this year, with special food, merchandise, and a temporary return of Soarin' Over California. The park is also getting a Coco dark ride, two new Avengers Campus attractions (Stark Flight Lab and Avengers Infinity Defense), and a major expansion that includes the Avatar boat ride based on The Way of Water. Construction starts this fall on a new parking structure and pedestrian bridge.
At Disney World, Villains Land is taking shape near Big Thunder Mountain, inspired by Gothic architecture from Paris and Barcelona. Two major rides are planned, but no opening date yet. The new Cars-themed Piston Peak area will feature a rally race through a Rocky Mountain-inspired landscape, expected by 2027 or 2028. Animal Kingdom's Tropical Americas Land, with an Encanto ride and an Indiana Jones adventure, is slated for 2027.
Disney Cruise Line is also expanding, with the Disney Believe launching in late 2027, featuring themes from Encanto, Frozen, and Moana. Other new ships are expected before 2031. In the meantime, Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin has reopened with new blasters, Big Thunder Mountain is back after refurbishment, and you can even book a wedding at the Haunted Mansion starting this July—just don't expect a midnight ceremony.