There are numerous ride closures planned in May for both Disneyland and Disney World. Some of these ride closures are for planned ride overhauls to update older attractions, and some closures are planned for routine maintenance.
Some of these ride closures at Disneyland and Disney World have extended into other summer months so it’s helpful to keep track of what is expected to be closing soon. It is also important to note that any dates listed here are subject to change, and there is always the possibility of more attractions closing for changes or general refurbishment. Mickey Visit brings you the latest Disney news and planning resources, including major menu changes with new special events announced at Disneyland and a new Disney Cruise Line port expanding near Disneyland.
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Disneyland Ride Closures for May 2026
Disneyland’s ride closures include some popular attractions closed in May. Many do not have confirmed reopening dates.
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The Disneyland Monorail and Roger Rabbit’s Car Toon Spin have been closed since March 30. Both these attractions are scheduled to reopen on May 1.
On May 4, both Pirates of the Caribbean and Blue Bayou Restaurant will close for refurbishment. Blue Bayou Restaurant will reopen on May 21. However, Pirates of the Caribbean will remain closed a bit longer. Disney has shared with us that Pirates of the Caribbean’s refurbishment is expected to last around a month, but no specific reopening date has been announced yet.
Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters closed on April 13 and currently has no set reopening date. That being said, Toy Story 5 releases in theaters on June 19, 2026. It is hard to imagine Disney not operating a major attraction themed to a flagship franchise’s new movie during the film’s release window.
Inside Out Emotional Whirlwind is still currently closed with no set reopening date. Silly Symphony Swings closed on April 27, and it also has no set reopening date.
Disney World Ride Closures for May 2026
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad has been closed since January 6, 2025, for an extensive refurbishment, which includes a new track, new ride vehicles, and a brand new Rainbow Caverns scene beside the initial lift hill. This iconic attraction at Magic Kingdom reopens on May 4.
At EPCOT, the Palais du Cinema in the France pavilion is currently closed for refurbishment. Both of the rotating shows in this World Showcase pavilion, Impressions de France and Beauty & the Beast Sing-Along, are currently unavailable. They will reopen on the same day the pavilion does on May 10.
Typhoon Lagoon closed on February 15 for its annual refurbishment and will be back in operation on May 12. In the meantime, Blizzard Beach is open for guests who would like to visit one of the waterparks at Disney World. Read more about the water park operating schedule for the summer.
Soarin’ Across the World will close on May 14 at EPCOT to switch to its new overlay as Soarin’ Across America. The attraction will reopen as Soarin’ Across America on May 26.
Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith closed on March 2, 2026, to become Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring the Muppets. The track layout and general storyline will remain the same, but the set design and theming will be centered around the Muppets and The Electric Mayhem. The new version of the roller coaster will open on May 26.
Rafiki’s Planet Watch at Animal Kingdom — and all the other attractions that go along with it — closed on February 23 to make room for a new Bluey-themed experience, and is set to reopen on May 26.
Vacation Fun – An Original Animated Short with Mickey & Minnie closed for refurbishment on April 29 at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. No reopening date has been revealed yet.
The previous Animation Courtyard area in Hollywood Studios is closed for its reimagining into The Walt Disney Studios, which will reopen later this summer. The new area will introduce Olaf Draws!, indoor experiences inside the Magic of Disney Animation, and Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live!
Cinderella Castle is still undergoing its painting project to repaint the colors of the castle back to its classic blue, gray, and white color scheme. The moat around the castle has been drained to allow cranes to be brought in to reach higher sections of the castle. The cranes are being lowered or removed from view by noon each day so they don’t interfere too much with guest photos. According to reports on social media, it looks like this project is close to completion.
The Walt Disney World Railroad is currently operating under a modified route that excludes the Frontierland station, with the train operating in “shuttle mode” between Main Street station and Fantasyland station. The train will remain in this “shuttle mode” for the next few years while work continues on Piston Peak, the new Cars-inspired land, and Villains Land.
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