Walt Disney World is preparing for one of its biggest summers in years as Disney officially launches its new Cool KIDS’ SUMMER celebration across all four theme parks. From brand-new stage shows and updated attractions to the debut of Bluey at Walt Disney World, Summer 2026 is packed with exciting additions designed especially for families.
At Axis Travel Group, a Gold EarMarked Authorized Disney Vacation Planner agency specializing in Disney destinations, the team is already helping families secure the best resorts, dining reservations, and park strategies to maximize these new experiences before crowds increase throughout the summer season.
“This is one of the most exciting summers Disney has introduced in years for families with kids,” said Natali Bohm, Owner of Axis Travel Group. “Disney is adding more interactive entertainment, more family-focused experiences, and major attraction updates across every park. Families who plan early are going to have the best experience.”
Here’s a complete breakdown of everything new coming to Walt Disney World this summer.
Magic Kingdom
Magic Kingdom is introducing several major updates and new entertainment offerings during Cool KIDS’ SUMMER.
Jessie’s Roundup: A Rip-Roarin’ Revue!
One of the biggest additions this summer is the all-new Toy Story-themed experience featuring Jessie, Woody, Bullseye, and friends. Families can participate in dancing, games, singalongs, and interactive fun designed for younger guests.
Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin Updates
Tomorrowland’s classic attraction has received several enhancements, including:
- Handheld blasters
- Easier laser targeting
- Interactive targets
- Updated PhotoPass ride photos
The updates make the attraction more interactive and accessible for younger riders.
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Reopens
Frontierland’s iconic coaster has reopened following a major refurbishment featuring:
- New track
- Smoother ride experience
- Updated show scenes
- Lower height requirements for children
The changes allow even more families to experience one of Magic Kingdom’s most beloved attractions together.
Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away Parade
Guests staying late can also enjoy the new nighttime parade lighting up Magic Kingdom this summer.
“Many families underestimate how much strategy goes into a Disney vacation now,” Bohm explained. “Knowing which park to prioritize, where to stay, and how to plan around entertainment schedules can completely change your experience.”
EPCOT
EPCOT continues its transformation with several new and returning experiences for families this summer.
GoofyCore Returns to CommuniCore Hall
GoofyCore returns as one of EPCOT’s most kid-friendly experiences with:
- DJ dance parties
- Interactive games
- Family activities
- Open-play entertainment zones
The experience is specifically designed for younger guests with no height restrictions and a flexible format.
Soarin’ Across America Debuts
Beginning May 26, EPCOT guests can experience the all-new Soarin’ Across America film featuring breathtaking landscapes, iconic cityscapes, immersive scents, and an updated musical score.
Frozen Ever After Enhancements
Disney has also updated Frozen Ever After with:
- Improved Audio-Animatronics
- Enhanced lighting
- Refreshed scenes
Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure Goes Fully 2D
Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure has permanently transitioned to a 2D experience, making the attraction more accessible for guests who experience motion sensitivity or difficulty with 3D attractions.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Hollywood Studios may be seeing the largest entertainment expansion of all four parks this summer.
Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live!
Debuting May 26, this all-new stage show inspired by Mickey Mouse Clubhouse+ features:
- Interactive audience participation
- Original songs
- Dancing and singalongs
- Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, Daisy, and Pluto
Disney has confirmed the show will continue beyond the summer season.
The Walt Disney Studios Lot Reimagining
The former Animation Courtyard area is being transformed into the Walt Disney Studios Lot with multiple new entertainment offerings and family spaces.
The Magic of Disney Animation Returns
Later this summer, Disney will reopen The Magic of Disney Animation featuring:
- Olaf-hosted experiences
- Interactive exhibits
- Character encounters
- A playground inspired by Mary Blair artwork
The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure
Hollywood Studios also debuts the refreshed Little Mermaid stage production this summer.
Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets
One of the most anticipated additions this summer is the reimagined Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster featuring The Muppets. The updated attraction includes:
- New storyline
- New soundtrack
- Updated queue
- Muppet Labs-themed elements
The attraction officially debuts May 26.
Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run
Beginning May 22, 2026, Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run at Disney’s Hollywood Studios will debut an exciting new adventure featuring Din Djarin and Grogu from The Mandalorian. Guests will experience updated missions, brand-new scenes, and enhanced interactive gameplay that allows crews to choose their own destination while piloting the Millennium Falcon to iconic Star Wars locations including Tatooine, Cloud City, and the wreckage of the second Death Star near Endor.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Animal Kingdom’s biggest addition this summer may become one of the most popular experiences across all of Walt Disney World.
Bluey Arrives at Walt Disney World
Bluey and Bingo officially make their Walt Disney World debut at Bluey’s Wild World inside Conservation Station. Families can:
- Meet Bluey and Bingo
- Participate in games and dancing
- Explore Australian animal experiences
- Enjoy themed activities inspired by the hit series
Disney expects this to be one of the resort’s most in-demand experiences all summer long.
Zootopia: Better Zoogether! 4D Show
Animal Kingdom is also debuting a new Zootopia-themed 4D show inside the Tree of Life Theater.
Tropical Americas Expansion In Full Swing
Construction continues on the future Tropical Americas expansion replacing DinoLand U.S.A., which will eventually feature Encanto and Indiana Jones attractions.
Why Families Book Disney Vacations with Axis Travel Group
As a Gold EarMarked Authorized Disney Vacation Planner, Axis Travel Group specializes in Disney destinations including:
- Walt Disney World
- Disneyland
- Disney Cruise Line
- Adventures by Disney
- Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa
Disney awards Gold EarMarked status only to agencies that demonstrate extensive Disney expertise, advanced training, consistent client satisfaction, and high levels of Disney vacation planning experience.
Axis Travel Group agents regularly visit Disney destinations firsthand to stay current on:
- Resort updates
- Attraction changes
- Dining experiences
- Lightning Lane strategies
- Seasonal events
- Park touring plans
“Our team doesn’t just book Disney vacations — we experience them ourselves so we can properly guide our clients,” Bohm said. “Disney planning has become incredibly detailed, and our job is to remove the stress so families can focus on making memories.”
Clients who book through Axis Travel Group receive:
- Personalized Disney vacation planning
- Resort and dining recommendations
- Expert park strategies
- Help securing dining reservations
- Ongoing support before and during travel
- Access to the latest Disney promotions
Start Planning Your Disney Vacation Today
With major new entertainment, attraction updates, and family experiences arriving across Walt Disney World this summer, demand is expected to be especially high throughout 2026.
Families interested in planning a Disney vacation are encouraged to start early to secure the best resorts, pricing, and availability.
Fill out the vacation quote form below this story to begin planning your Walt Disney World vacation, and one of our Axis Travel Group Disney specialists will contact you shortly to help create the perfect Disney getaway for your family.
Don’t Wait—Book Your Disney Vacation Today!