3 Big Problems Hurting Magic Kingdom Right Now

Magic Kingdom is supposed to be the most magical place on Earth… but right now, it’s got some not-so-magical issues.

Lots of changes!

There are some closures and changes happening that could seriously impact your trip — especially if you’re visiting with little ones or you’ve got your heart set on certain rides. A few iconic attractions are shutting down for years, and some are gone for good. So if you’re heading to Magic Kingdom soon, here are the biggest problems you’ll want to know about ahead of time.

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Closed Until 2026

Let’s start with the big one — literally. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is officially closed for a long refurbishment and isn’t expected to reopen until 2026. That’s a long time without one of the park’s most iconic rides.

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad construction June 2025

This is especially rough because BTMR is a major part of the Frontierland lineup. Without it, the area feels a little… empty. It also means more pressure on rides like Tiana’s Bayou Adventure and Haunted Mansion nearby and in turn an increase those wait times.

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad

If you were planning your ride strategy around Big Thunder, you’ll need to pivot. And if this was one of your all-time favorites? We’re right there with you — it’s a tough loss.

Dumbo’s Playground Is Closed Until “Later” in 2025

Dumbo the Flying Elephant is still running, don’t worry — but the attached playground (also known as the air-conditioned waiting area that’s perfect for parents and an absolute lifesaver for kids) is closed until “later” in 2025.

Dumbo the Flying Elephant

If you’ve been to Magic Kingdom with little ones, you know how huge this is. That playground has always been a clutch spot to cool down and burn off some energy without waiting in a traditional line. Now, the standby line is… just a regular standby line. In the heat. With no play area.

Trust us — you’ll want to get into that tent

It’s one of those “small” closures that ends up making a big impact on families. If you’re traveling with younger kids, you’re going to want to plan some alternate cool-down breaks nearby — Casey Jr. Splash ‘N’ Soak Station is still around, and you might want to lean on it more than usual.

Tom Sawyer Island and Liberty Square Riverboat Are Gone for Good

It’s official: Tom Sawyer Island and the Liberty Square Riverboat both permanently closed on July 6th, 2025.

Tom Sawyer Island is now CLOSED

We know they weren’t necessarily on every guest’s must-do list, but this is a major change to the park’s layout — and to its sense of history. Tom Sawyer Island was one of those places where you could slow down, let kids explore at their own pace, and escape the crowds a bit. And the riverboat added a classic, scenic experience you really can’t get anywhere else in the park.

Liberty Square Riverboat

Now that they’re both gone, Liberty Square feels just a little emptier. Plus, it’s one less option when you’re looking for a quiet break during a busy park day.

Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin Is Closing Soon — And For Awhile

This one isn’t closed yet, but it’s coming up fast — Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin is officially closing on August 4th, and it’s not coming back until sometime in 2026.

Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin

Buzz has been a staple of Tomorrowland for over 20 years. It’s not just a fun shooter game — it’s also one of the most consistently family-friendly rides in the park. No height requirement, decent capacity, and a relatively comfortable queue (compared to others) made it a go-to for groups with mixed ages.

©Disney

With this closure, Magic Kingdom is losing another attraction that helped absorb crowds and gave families a more interactive experience. And let’s be real — even if you’ve ridden it a million times, you still low-key try to beat your old high score every time.

So What Does All This Mean for Your Trip?

Magic Kingdom is still packed with attractions, shows, and characters — but there’s no denying these closures are going to affect how the park feels for the next year or so. You’re looking at fewer options, more pressure on remaining rides, and fewer quiet zones to take a breather.

Cinderella Castle

If you’ve got a trip coming up, this is the time to adjust your expectations and your game plan. Have a few backups in mind. Take more breaks where you can. And keep checking in with us — we’ll keep you updated on every change as it happens.

We’ll be on the lookout for more ride closures and other updates you need to know about from Disney World. In the meantime, make sure you stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for the latest Disney news and more.

See More Disney World Ride Closures HERE

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