February 2026 brings major changes to Walt Disney World, from permanent ride closures to exciting reopenings. Here’s everything you need to know before your next visit.
The Biggest Change: DINOSAUR Says Goodbye Forever
Mark your calendar: February 2nd, 2026 – that’s when DINOSAUR at Disney’s Animal Kingdom closes its doors forever. After nearly 28 years of thrilling guests with its time-traveling adventure, this classic attraction is making way for an all-new Indiana Jones experience as part of Animal Kingdom’s massive “Tropical Americas” expansion.
If you’ve been putting off that final ride with the Carnotaurus, you literally have days left. DINOSAUR has been a staple since the park opened in 1998, but Disney is transforming Dinoland U.S.A. into something entirely new. The Indiana Jones attraction will bring the beloved adventurer to Florida for the first time, though Disney hasn’t revealed an opening timeline yet.
Pro tip: Expect massive crowds for DINOSAUR’s final days. Plan accordingly and consider purchasing Lightning Lane if available.
Cool Kids’ Summer Makes a Triumphant Return
Great news for families: Disney officially confirmed that Cool Kids’ Summer will return in 2026! This popular seasonal offering brings kid-focused entertainment, special character experiences, and limited-time fun across all four parks.
While Disney hasn’t dropped the full lineup yet, we do know about one exciting addition: Jessie’s Roundup is coming to the Diamond Horseshoe in Magic Kingdom. Guests will be able to “craft, dance, and yodel their hearts out” with Jessie, Woody, and other Toy Story favorites.
This announcement signals Disney’s commitment to family entertainment during peak summer season, which could mean busier parks but more magical experiences for the little ones.
Garden View Tea Room Returns with an Alice in Wonderland Twist
After being closed since 2020, the Garden View Tea Room at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is finally reopening on March 19th, 2026. But it’s not just coming back – it’s getting a complete Alice in Wonderland makeover.
The reimagined experience will feature:
- New Alice in Wonderland theming from Walt Disney Animation Studios
- A refreshed design that complements the Grand Floridian’s updated lobby
- A brand-new menu with signature cocktails and delicacies like the Orange-Cranberry Scone
This reopening marks another step in Disney’s post-pandemic recovery, bringing back beloved experiences with enhanced theming and dining options.
Gideon’s Bakehouse Expansion: Six Ravens Opens This Year
Those infamous Gideon’s Bakehouse lines at Disney Springs might finally get shorter! The popular bakery announced a major expansion with Six Ravens, opening mid-2026 on The Landing at Disney Springs.
This new fast-casual location will offer:
- Hand-pie-like sandwiches called “coffyns”
- Housemade yeast rolls with locally-inspired fillings
- Partnership with The Polite Pig (another Disney Springs favorite)
Six Ravens represents a smart business move – giving guests more Gideon’s options while reducing wait times at the original location. Win-win!
Major Restaurant Changes Across Disney World
February brings several significant restaurant updates that could impact your dining plans:
‘Ohana Construction Impact
‘Ohana at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort announced that views of the Seven Seas Lagoon will be partially or completely blocked during ongoing resort construction. The famous character breakfast and dinner will continue, but the scenic lagoon views that make ‘Ohana special may be compromised.
Yacht and Beach Club Closures
Two popular restaurants at the Yacht and Beach Club Resorts are closing for refurbishments:
- Crew’s Cup Lounge: Closes February 23rd, 2026, reopening in May 2026
- Yachtsman Steakhouse: Closes May 2026, reopening by August 2026
If you have reservations at either location, Disney will be reaching out about alternative arrangements.
Construction Updates: What’s Still Down
Planning a February visit? Here’s what major attractions remain closed:
Magic Kingdom
- Big Thunder Mountain Railroad: Still closed after more than a year of track replacement and upgrades, including a new Rainbow Caverns scene. Expected to reopen Spring 2026.
- Buzz Lightyear Space Ranger Spin: Currently getting a major refresh with new blasters, new ride vehicles, and a new robot character named Buddy.
EPCOT
- Frozen Ever After: Closed in late January for character upgrades, replacing older “screen-face” animatronics with more realistic versions. Should reopen later in February.
Looking Ahead: March Changes to Know About
Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster at Disney’s Hollywood Studios is closing for good on March 2nd, 2026. The Aerosmith-themed coaster will be completely reimagined with a Muppets theme, reopening sometime this summer as part of the major Hollywood Studios reshuffling.
This closure is directly connected to MuppetVision 3D’s closure – Disney is moving the Muppets to a new home while making way for Monsters, Inc. land in the former Muppets Courtyard area.
Water Park Switch
Typhoon Lagoon closes February 14th for its annual maintenance period, while Blizzard Beach reopens to take its place. This annual rotation ensures Disney World always has one water park operating while the other receives necessary upkeep.
Indiana Jones Stunt Show Update
Following a Cast Member incident involving the famous 400-pound boulder scene, the Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular continues operating with modifications. The boulder scene remains excluded until Disney’s safety team deems it ready to return.
The show still delivers thrills, but longtime fans will notice Indy jumping to safety instead of being chased by the iconic boulder. Disney hasn’t announced when (or if) the boulder scene will return.
New Discounts and Offers
Disney dropped several new discount offers for 2026, including:
- Up to 30% off select hotel stays
- Florida Resident deals
- Annual Passholder discounts
- Free days added to 4-night, 4-day vacation packages
These deals make February an attractive time to visit, especially with several major attractions closed for refurbishment.
What This Means for Your February Visit
February 2026 is clearly a transition month at Disney World. While you’ll miss out on some classic experiences (goodbye, DINOSAUR!), you’ll also witness the resort’s evolution toward its next chapter.
Our recommendations:
- Book that DINOSAUR ride ASAP if you haven’t experienced it
- Consider the Grand Floridian for your March visit when the Tea Room reopens
- Plan around construction impacts, especially at Magic Kingdom
- Take advantage of new discounts if you’re flexible with dates
- Expect crowds for final attraction experiences
Disney World is constantly changing, but these February updates represent some of the most significant shifts we’ve seen in years. Whether you’re saying goodbye to beloved classics or hello to new experiences, there’s never been a more exciting time to be a Disney fan.
Keep checking back as Disney continues announcing more details about upcoming attractions, restaurant reopenings, and summer entertainment offerings. February might be about endings, but it’s also setting the stage for an incredible 2026 at the Most Magical Place on Earth.
Planning a Disney World trip? Check our [wait times tool] and [Magic Key availability tracker] for the most up-to-date park information.
