- Mar 13, 2024
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If you’re going to Magic Kingdom soon, you might notice some differences.
Magic Kingdom
Of course, the park has recently reopened two rides after major refurbishments, and there are some big construction projects going on in Frontierland and beyond, but there are quite a few little changes as well! Let’s chat about the small updates the Magic Kingdom has made recently that you’ll want to know before your trip.
First up on our list — the height requirement has changed for Big Thunder Mountain Railroad! The ride recently reopened after being closed for more than a year, and while it was closed, the entire track was replaced. That means we‘ve got a smoother ride than ever, and Disney dropped the height requirement to ride.
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
Previously, the height requirement was 40 inches, and now it’s down to 38 inches. If you decide to hop on this attraction, also be on the lookout for the new backstory in the queue, the added rainbow caverns scene, and more special effects throughout.
Heading over to The Friar’s Nook in Fantasyland, a beloved snack has disappeared! After a couple years of being on the menu, the Mac & Cheese Hand Pie has been removed. We were big fans of this one — a great blend of cheesy, carby goodness.
https://www.disneyfoodblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/2024-Magical Guides-mk-fantasyland-friars-nook-mac-and-cheese-hand-pie-4-700x525.jpg
Friar’s Nook Mac & Cheese Hand Pie
Now, you’ll find the Barbecue Pork Tot Bowl in its place. This is topped with cheddar, pickles, and cilantro, and it’s not too shabby! If you’re looking for a heartier savory snack, it could hit the spot.
While construction is ongoing in Frontierland and beyond, the Frontierland station of the Walt Disney World Railroad has been closed. This means that instead of going around the park and stopping at three stations, the train is doing a shuttle service between the Fantasyland station and the Main Street, U.S.A. stations.
Walt Disney World Railroad
So, if you hop on the train in Storybook Circus, you’ll ride one way to Main Street. If you hop on the train at the front of the park, you’ll actually ride backwards to Storybook Circus…wild, right?! We’re glad they’re keeping the train open during construction for Piston Peak and Villains Land — we just got it back after it was closed during TRON Lightcycle / Run construction for YEARS.
The other big ride change that hit Magic Kingdom recently was the update of Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin. And while the ride changes were pretty major (new blasters, updated vehicles, new interactive targets), the little thing that changed along with them is the way you achieve Galactic Hero status.
https://www.disneyfoodblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Magical Guides-Buzz-Lightyear-Space-Ranger-Spin-Attraction-Tomorrowland-Magic-Kingdom-Photo-Mar-21-2026-9-27-08-AM-3672-x-2066-1-700x394.jpg
Buzz
For those who don’t know, Galactic Hero is the rank you earn by scoring 999,999 on this ride! To hit Galactic Hero, start by aiming for targets that are flashing white — they’re worth more. But to level up on that, clusters of targets that are flashing rainbow colors give even MORE points and may unlock a rapid-fire bonus round. And nowadays, target values can change, so try to hit as many as possible in quick succession.
Last but not least, we’ve got to mention the new treat at Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe. Recently added to the menu is the Peanut Butter and Jelly Brownie for $5.99. It’s topped with a white chocolate rocket ship, and it is HEAVY on the peanut butter (which you know we do not mind one bit).
Delish!
There’s not a ton of jelly flavor, but the whole thing is really nostalgic — like an Uncrustable meets a Cosmic Brownie. We would 100% order this again and it’s a must-try for peanut butter lovers.
That’s a wrap on some of the little changes in Magic Kingdom these days. We’ll be in the parks keeping you in the loop with any updates, so subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for the latest.
When is your next visit to Magic Kingdom? Let us know in the comments!
Magic Kingdom
Of course, the park has recently reopened two rides after major refurbishments, and there are some big construction projects going on in Frontierland and beyond, but there are quite a few little changes as well! Let’s chat about the small updates the Magic Kingdom has made recently that you’ll want to know before your trip.
Height Requirement Change at Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
First up on our list — the height requirement has changed for Big Thunder Mountain Railroad! The ride recently reopened after being closed for more than a year, and while it was closed, the entire track was replaced. That means we‘ve got a smoother ride than ever, and Disney dropped the height requirement to ride.
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
Previously, the height requirement was 40 inches, and now it’s down to 38 inches. If you decide to hop on this attraction, also be on the lookout for the new backstory in the queue, the added rainbow caverns scene, and more special effects throughout.
Mac & Cheese Hand Pie Is Gone
Heading over to The Friar’s Nook in Fantasyland, a beloved snack has disappeared! After a couple years of being on the menu, the Mac & Cheese Hand Pie has been removed. We were big fans of this one — a great blend of cheesy, carby goodness.
https://www.disneyfoodblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/2024-Magical Guides-mk-fantasyland-friars-nook-mac-and-cheese-hand-pie-4-700x525.jpg
Friar’s Nook Mac & Cheese Hand Pie
Now, you’ll find the Barbecue Pork Tot Bowl in its place. This is topped with cheddar, pickles, and cilantro, and it’s not too shabby! If you’re looking for a heartier savory snack, it could hit the spot.
Missing Frontierland Train Station
While construction is ongoing in Frontierland and beyond, the Frontierland station of the Walt Disney World Railroad has been closed. This means that instead of going around the park and stopping at three stations, the train is doing a shuttle service between the Fantasyland station and the Main Street, U.S.A. stations.
Walt Disney World Railroad
So, if you hop on the train in Storybook Circus, you’ll ride one way to Main Street. If you hop on the train at the front of the park, you’ll actually ride backwards to Storybook Circus…wild, right?! We’re glad they’re keeping the train open during construction for Piston Peak and Villains Land — we just got it back after it was closed during TRON Lightcycle / Run construction for YEARS.
New Galactic Hero Strategies
The other big ride change that hit Magic Kingdom recently was the update of Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin. And while the ride changes were pretty major (new blasters, updated vehicles, new interactive targets), the little thing that changed along with them is the way you achieve Galactic Hero status.
https://www.disneyfoodblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Magical Guides-Buzz-Lightyear-Space-Ranger-Spin-Attraction-Tomorrowland-Magic-Kingdom-Photo-Mar-21-2026-9-27-08-AM-3672-x-2066-1-700x394.jpg
Buzz
For those who don’t know, Galactic Hero is the rank you earn by scoring 999,999 on this ride! To hit Galactic Hero, start by aiming for targets that are flashing white — they’re worth more. But to level up on that, clusters of targets that are flashing rainbow colors give even MORE points and may unlock a rapid-fire bonus round. And nowadays, target values can change, so try to hit as many as possible in quick succession.
New Treat at Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe
Last but not least, we’ve got to mention the new treat at Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe. Recently added to the menu is the Peanut Butter and Jelly Brownie for $5.99. It’s topped with a white chocolate rocket ship, and it is HEAVY on the peanut butter (which you know we do not mind one bit).
Delish!
There’s not a ton of jelly flavor, but the whole thing is really nostalgic — like an Uncrustable meets a Cosmic Brownie. We would 100% order this again and it’s a must-try for peanut butter lovers.
That’s a wrap on some of the little changes in Magic Kingdom these days. We’ll be in the parks keeping you in the loop with any updates, so subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for the latest.
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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!
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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When is your next visit to Magic Kingdom? Let us know in the comments!
