- Mar 13, 2024
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March in Disney World is shaping up to look a little different than usual.
Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster
If you’ve got a spring trip on the books, there are a few big ride closures you’ll want on your radar. Two major attractions at Magic Kingdom are still in the middle of lengthy refurbishment projects, and one iconic Hollywood Studios coaster is officially taking its final bow. Before you finalize those park plans, here’s what you need to know.
Let’s start in Frontierland. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is still down for a massive overhaul and will remain closed through March 2026, with reopening planned for later in the spring.
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
This isn’t your typical short refurb where crews freshen up some paint and call it a day. The coaster originally closed back in January 2025, and Disney has confirmed it’s getting substantial track work along with some added magic when it returns in 2026. Frontierland is in the middle of a major transformation, including construction tied to the upcoming Cars-inspired expansion and changes around the Rivers of America. Disney has also shared that updates in this area will help create smoother transitions between Frontierland, Liberty Square, and the future Villains-themed land.
Work continues on Big Thunder Mountain Railroad.
All of that means that if Big Thunder is a must-ride for your crew, you’ll need to adjust expectations. Frontierland may feel like a construction zone in certain spots, and one of Magic Kingdom’s most beloved coasters won’t be available. The upside is that projects on this scale usually mean a pretty impressive payoff once the ride reopens.
Tomorrowland is also missing a fan favorite. Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin remains closed through March 2026 as it undergoes a significant upgrade. The attraction shut down in August 2025, and Disney has shared a surprising amount of detail about what’s coming next. When it returns, it won’t just feel refreshed. It’s getting a serious tech boost.
It’s closed!
There’s a brand new character named Buddy joining the mission. This friendly robot, created by Walt Disney Imagineering in collaboration with Pixar Animation Studios, will appear in a new opening scene to help Space Rangers gear up for their adventure. Expect system checks, encouragement, and a little target practice before blasting off.
©Disney
The ride vehicles are also being redesigned with new colors inspired by Star Command, plus onboard screens that display real-time scores. Each cruiser will now feature handheld blasters instead of the mounted ones, which should make aiming a lot easier, especially for younger riders. The blasters include constant laser beams, sound effects, and vibration feedback, so you’ll actually know when you’ve hit something.
@wdwmagic on YouTube
And speaking of targets, the old stationary Z targets are being swapped out for interactive ones that light up and react when struck. Imagineers have already tested the new gameplay elements, which is usually a solid sign that progress is moving along. Still, if you’re visiting in March, you’ll have to wait to see it all in action.
Now for the big goodbye. Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith at Disney’s Hollywood Studios officially closes on March 2nd, 2026. That means March 1st is your final chance to ride the Aerosmith version.
Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith
The good news is that the coaster itself isn’t going anywhere. It’s getting a brand new theme, and the Muppets are taking over.
©Disney
The reimagined Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster will open in summer 2026 with a Muppets storyline centered around the Electric Mayhem band. Guests will score VIP passes to the band’s biggest concert ever, only to find them mid-jam session in the recording studio. Scooter needs your help getting everyone to the venue on time, so you’ll hop into a supercharged limo and rock out to some seriously groovy tracks along the way.
©Disney
Disney has teased a first-of-its-kind Muppet animatronic and updated set pieces, including a colorful makeover for the iconic guitar outside the building. G Force Records will also get a new look as part of the transformation.
©Disney
If you’re a fan of the current Aerosmith version, this is your last call. If you’re excited about the Muppets, the countdown to summer 2026 is officially on.
Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster area entrance on Sunset Boulevard
We’ll be watching for official reopening dates and additional details as Disney releases them. Stay tuned to Magical Guides for all the latest updates!
Which of these closures impacts your trip the most? Let us know in the comments below.
Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster
If you’ve got a spring trip on the books, there are a few big ride closures you’ll want on your radar. Two major attractions at Magic Kingdom are still in the middle of lengthy refurbishment projects, and one iconic Hollywood Studios coaster is officially taking its final bow. Before you finalize those park plans, here’s what you need to know.
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
Let’s start in Frontierland. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is still down for a massive overhaul and will remain closed through March 2026, with reopening planned for later in the spring.
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
This isn’t your typical short refurb where crews freshen up some paint and call it a day. The coaster originally closed back in January 2025, and Disney has confirmed it’s getting substantial track work along with some added magic when it returns in 2026. Frontierland is in the middle of a major transformation, including construction tied to the upcoming Cars-inspired expansion and changes around the Rivers of America. Disney has also shared that updates in this area will help create smoother transitions between Frontierland, Liberty Square, and the future Villains-themed land.
Work continues on Big Thunder Mountain Railroad.
All of that means that if Big Thunder is a must-ride for your crew, you’ll need to adjust expectations. Frontierland may feel like a construction zone in certain spots, and one of Magic Kingdom’s most beloved coasters won’t be available. The upside is that projects on this scale usually mean a pretty impressive payoff once the ride reopens.
Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin
Tomorrowland is also missing a fan favorite. Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin remains closed through March 2026 as it undergoes a significant upgrade. The attraction shut down in August 2025, and Disney has shared a surprising amount of detail about what’s coming next. When it returns, it won’t just feel refreshed. It’s getting a serious tech boost.
It’s closed!
There’s a brand new character named Buddy joining the mission. This friendly robot, created by Walt Disney Imagineering in collaboration with Pixar Animation Studios, will appear in a new opening scene to help Space Rangers gear up for their adventure. Expect system checks, encouragement, and a little target practice before blasting off.
©Disney
The ride vehicles are also being redesigned with new colors inspired by Star Command, plus onboard screens that display real-time scores. Each cruiser will now feature handheld blasters instead of the mounted ones, which should make aiming a lot easier, especially for younger riders. The blasters include constant laser beams, sound effects, and vibration feedback, so you’ll actually know when you’ve hit something.
@wdwmagic on YouTube
And speaking of targets, the old stationary Z targets are being swapped out for interactive ones that light up and react when struck. Imagineers have already tested the new gameplay elements, which is usually a solid sign that progress is moving along. Still, if you’re visiting in March, you’ll have to wait to see it all in action.
Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith
Now for the big goodbye. Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith at Disney’s Hollywood Studios officially closes on March 2nd, 2026. That means March 1st is your final chance to ride the Aerosmith version.
Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith
The good news is that the coaster itself isn’t going anywhere. It’s getting a brand new theme, and the Muppets are taking over.
©Disney
The reimagined Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster will open in summer 2026 with a Muppets storyline centered around the Electric Mayhem band. Guests will score VIP passes to the band’s biggest concert ever, only to find them mid-jam session in the recording studio. Scooter needs your help getting everyone to the venue on time, so you’ll hop into a supercharged limo and rock out to some seriously groovy tracks along the way.
©Disney
Disney has teased a first-of-its-kind Muppet animatronic and updated set pieces, including a colorful makeover for the iconic guitar outside the building. G Force Records will also get a new look as part of the transformation.
©Disney
If you’re a fan of the current Aerosmith version, this is your last call. If you’re excited about the Muppets, the countdown to summer 2026 is officially on.
Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster area entrance on Sunset Boulevard
We’ll be watching for official reopening dates and additional details as Disney releases them. Stay tuned to Magical Guides for all the latest updates!
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Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!
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Which of these closures impacts your trip the most? Let us know in the comments below.
