Disneyland Resort as we know it could be a distant memory in the next 10+ years as Disney gears up for its largest expansion of the resort since it opened in 1955. This expansion plan is known as Disneyland Forward and brings more theme park experiences, shopping, dining, resort options, and even parking structures to the resort. And, as you might expect, that means there are a lot of changes to Disneyland coming!

The Anaheim City Council approved the plans back in 2024, and now we’re seeing construction kick into high gear. So, if you’re planning a trip soon, here’s everything you need to know about what’s new, what’s changing, and what’s closing at Disneyland Resort in 2025, 2026, and beyond!

Key 2026 Dates

Table of Contents

Early 2026

Early Entry Ending for Disneyland Hotel Guests (January 5th, 2026)

Previously, guests staying at the Disneyland Hotel, Pixar Place Hotel, or Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa could enter one of the theme parks 30 minutes before the general public with Early Theme Park Entry. However, this perk ended at the beginning of the year.

As of January 5, 2026, this benefit has been replaced with a single Lightning Lane Multi Pass entry per guest, per stay. This can be used on any Lightning Lane Multi Pass attraction (like Space Mountain, Indiana Jones Adventure, or Haunted Mansion), but cannot be used on Lightning Lane Single Pass attractions like Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance or Radiator Springs Racers.

To access your complimentary Lightning Lane, be sure to complete your Online Check-In via the Disneyland app before arrival. The pass becomes available as early as 7AM on your arrival day and can be used at any point during your visit.

Pixar Place Hotel Entrance Closes (January 5th, 2026)

The dedicated entrance from Pixar Place Hotel into Disney California Adventure has permanently closed as of January 5th, 2026. This entrance provided convenient access for hotel guests just steps from their room, directly into the park near Hollywood Land.

Going forward, Pixar Place Hotel guests can use the Grand Californian Hotel entrance to access the park instead. You’ll find a gate to the Grand Californian across the street from Pixar Place Hotel, and all you have to do is walk through the hotel’s lobby to enter DCA near Grizzly River Run.

New Explore Key Replaces Enchant Key (January 13th, 2026)

Disneyland has shaken up its Magic Key annual passholder program by adding a new tier and eliminating another. As of January 13th, 2026, the Explore Key has replaced the Enchant Key and features fewer summer blockout dates. Current Enchant Key holders can continue using their passes until expiration, then choose to renew into the Explore Key or select a different pass type.

Rise of the Resistance Refurbishment (January 20th, 2026- TBD)

Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance (which is widely considered the most popular ride at Disneyland) is temporarily closing for the first time since it opened in 2020 for a scheduled refurbishment. The closure begins January 20th, with no return date announced just yet.

Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue! Closing Permanently (Early 2026)

It’s just about time to say goodbye to a fan-favorite Hollywood Land dark ride! Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue! is permanently closing in early 2026 to make way for Disneyland’s upcoming projects, including a new Avatar-themed experience. Disney hasn’t announced the exact closing date, but it’s expected sometime in January, February, or March.

Napa Rose Refurbishment (February 6th, 2026)

Located inside Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, the award-winning Napa Rose restaurant is getting a new, updated look and menu! The restaurant’s new interior will feature an expanded counter to watch the master chefs in action, enhanced seating on the outdoor patio with two new fireplaces, and an updated design inspired by “modern Californian luxury.” Plus, the outdoor patio is getting a refresh, too!

Napa Rose closed for refurbishment in spring 2025 and is expected to reopen on February 6th, 2026, with a brand-new menu. But don’t worry, the fan-favorite Smiling Tiger Salad and extensive wine selection won’t be going anywhere. Reservations can be made 60 days in advance and open for bookings beginning January 27th.

Multiple Ride Closures & Refurbishments (Throughout Early 2026)

Along with the permanent closure of Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue!, several other attractions are closing for refurbishment in early 2026 at both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure. This includes:

• Haunted Mansion: Closed January 12th-22nd
• “it’s a small world”: Closed starting January 26th, reopening TBD
• Grizzly River Run: Closed starting January 5th, reopening TBD
• Incredicoaster: Closed January 5th through February 5th
• Inside Out Emotional Whirlwind: Closed January 5th-22nd
• Jungle Cruise: Closed starting February 17th, reopening TBD

Spring 2026

Bluey’s Best Day Ever! (March 22nd, 2026)

Bluey is coming to Disneyland! Beginning March 22nd, 2026, “Bluey’s Best Day Ever!” will transform the Fantasyland Theatre into an immersive celebration of the fan-favorite Disney+ series.

Set on the grounds of Bluey’s school, the experience features Bluey, Bingo, and more putting on musical performances and playing games with park-goers throughout the day. This is the first time Bluey will have a dedicated experience at Disneyland, and it’s expected to continue throughout the year.

Hyperspace Mountain Returns (April 28th, 2026)

The fan-favorite Star Wars overlay of Space Mountain comes back to Disneyland Park on April 28th, 2026. Hyperspace Mountain transforms the classic roller coaster into a galactic battle, complete with Rebel X-wings, Imperial TIE fighters, laser blasts, and a John Williams soundtrack.

The overlay will run for a limited time, though Disney hasn’t announced an end date. It typically coincides with Star Wars celebrations around May the 4th.

Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Timeline Expanding (April 29th, 2026)

There’s more to get excited about in Disneyland if you’re a Star Wars fan! In the biggest update since the land opened in 2019, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland Park is expanding its timeline to add the characters and storyline from the original trilogy. This means that, beginning April 29th, 2026, you’ll be able to find Darth Vader roaming with Imperial stormtroopers. Plus, Han Solo, Chewbacca, Luke Skywalker, and Princess Leia will appear throughout Black Spire Outpost. And, even the music will get a bit of an update, with John Williams’ iconic film scores playing throughout the land.

Note that this expansion is only for Disneyland’s Galaxy’s Edge, with no current plans for Walt Disney World.

New Mission Coming To Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run (May 22nd, 2026)

The Mandalorian and Baby Yoda are taking over Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge in both Disneyland and Disney World with brand new missions and ways to control your own adventure.

Beginning May 22nd, 2026, the ride will feature a brand new storyline where Hondo Ohnaka sends guests on a mission to learn more about a deal “going down on Tatooine between ex-Imperial officers and a band of pirates.” With a generous bounty as motivation, you’ll team up with Grogu and Mando onboard the Millennium Falcon. Your journey will start with a visit to Tatooine, and then crews get to choose their next destination – Bespin, Endor, or Coruscant. Additionally, the updates will include a new role for the Engineers – communicating with and caring for Grogu!

Summer 2026

Soarin’ Across America (Memorial Day Weekend)

Disney California Adventure’s Soarin’ is getting set to fly over a brand new set of monuments in 2026 as Disney presents, Soarin’ Across America! To honor America’s 250th birthday, the scenes of Soarin’ Over California will be replaced with scenes from some of America’s “natural beauty and iconic cityscapes.” According to Disney, there will be a total of more than a dozen new locations to soar over!

This limited-time change will be coming to both EPCOT at Walt Disney World and Disney California Adventure Park at Disneyland by Memorial Day Weekend.

70th Anniversary Celebration Ends (August 9th, 2026)

Disneyland’s historic 70th Anniversary Celebration, which began May 16th, 2025, will officially end on August 9th, 2026. Until then, you can enjoy the full slate of anniversary entertainment, including:

• World of Color Happiness!: The all-new nighttime spectacular at Disney California Adventure is inspired by Walt Disney’s iconic “To all who come to this happy place…welcome!”
• Paint the Night Parade: The fan-favorite nighttime parade featuring more than a million LED lights takes to the streets nightly to Disneyland Park
• Wondrous Journeys Fireworks Show: The fan-favorite nighttime spectacular is back in Disneyland Park every night throughout the celebrations
• The Celebrate Happy Cavalcade: Mickey and friends make their way through the park to the 70th anniversary theme song in a small cavalcade at Disneyland Park multiple times a day
• Projection Shows: Special projection moments at Carthay Circle Restaurant and “it’s a small world”
• Tapestry of Happiness: Special entertainment and décor throughout both parks

Fall & Winter 2026

Grand Californian Hotel New Club Lounge (TBD 2026)

A new two-story club-level concierge lounge is coming to Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa. Located on the 5th and 6th floors overlooking the Great Hall lobby, the lounge is inspired by classic California Craftsman design and draws inspiration from giant sequoias, continuing the forest theme found in the lobby below.

The lounge is expected to open sometime in 2026. This is in addition to the already-opened High Key Club at the Disneyland Hotel.

Grand Californian Guest Room Renovations (TBD 2025-2026)

Starting in 2025 and continuing through 2026, Disney is refreshing all guest rooms at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, including the Disney Vacation Club Villas. The new design features a color palette with accents inspired by California wildflower blooms often found in Impressionistic plein air paintings from the Arts and Crafts period, according to Disney.

Other Disneyland Changes Coming in 2027 & Beyond

New Gastropub Coming to Downtown Disney (TBD)

Downtown Disney is getting a brand new British-themed gastropub called Gordon Ramsay at The Carnaby! Like the name suggests, world-famous chef, Gordon Ramsay is working with the creators of Earl of Sandwich to bring good food and the energy of the ’60s to Disneyland.

The gastropub will have a full menu of classic British fare, and, while the restaurant will offer traditional food service during the day, it will come alive on select nights with live music. An opening date or timeline have not yet been announced, so stay tuned!

Avengers Campus Expansion (Under Construction, Opening TBD)

When Avengers Campus first opened in Disney California Adventure, one attraction was still in the works as part of the changes to Disneyland. And, it’s set to open soon…ish! Construction began in 2025 on Avengers Infinity Defense. The new thrill ride will invite you into the iconic lands from the Marvel franchise as you team up with The Avengers to defeat King Thanos.

But, that’s not the only new attraction coming to Avengers Campus! Disney is also building a thrill ride inspired by Tony Stark called Stark Flight Lab. You’ll board a two-person pod for a simulated flight to help test Stark’s latest invention. Construction also began on this project in 2025. So, it will still be a few years before it’s completed.

Coco Ride (Under Construction, Opening TBD)

Fans of Pixar’s Coco will finally be able to step into the Land of the Dead on a new ride in Disney California Adventure! The boat ride-through attraction will feature music from the film along with Miguel and other characters.

An opening timeline has not been revealed, though Disney has confirmed that construction began in fall 2025. The attraction will be located near Paradise Gardens Park and Pixar Pier in areas that are mostly backstage currently, so the day-to-day operations of the park shouldn’t be impacted much.

Avatar Experience (TBD)

A new Avatar experience is currently in the works as one of the most anticipated changes to Disneyland! The new area is inspired by Avatar: The Way of Water and other upcoming Avatar films. It will feature new and unique experiences that aren’t available in any other Disney Park.

Disney hasn’t revealed much about their plans. However, according to concept art, it looks like it may feature a new boat ride-through attraction. Construction is expected to begin in early 2026 with the closure of Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue!

New Parking Structure and Transportation Hub Coming to Resort Area (TBD)

Finding parking at Disneyland Resort is about to get easier! Disney has revealed that plans are underway for a brand new parking structure and transportation hub on the east side of the resort that will bring approximately 6,000 new parking spots for guests. The hub will also include a shuttle and rideshare area, a security screening area, and dedicated access for traffic off of Disney Way. There will also be a walking bridge that will take you over Harbor Boulevard to an all-new “esplanade arrival experience.”

Disney filed construction permits in late 2025 for this project. This is a key piece of the Disneyland Forward expansion plan that must be completed before many other projects can move forward.

What Opened in 2025

Downtown Disney Expansion

Downtown Disney recently underwent a major multi-year-long expansion and renovation. Now you can find at least 6 new restaurants and 3 new bars/lounges. Plus, some updates to long-standing stores and restaurants like Jazz Kitchen Coastal Grill & Patio (which was refurbished and has a new menu) and Marceline’s Confectionery (which has expanded).

And, to top it all off, the Parkside Market has expanded to include a new lawn area and stage, AND there are two brand new shops to check out, including a spot to get all the Marvel merchandise you can want. Learn more about all the new locations here!

First-Ever Walt Disney Animatronic Coming to Disneyland Park

The first-ever Walt Disney audio-animatronic is now in Disneyland Park! It debuted as part of a new limited-time show, “Walt Disney – A Magical Life” inside the Main Street Opera House on July 17th, 2025. According to Disney, this is their most advanced animatronic to date, so be sure to stop by to see the show on your next visit!

The show currently plays in rotation with “Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln.”

New Tangled Scene Added To Storybook Land Canal Boats

Calling all Tangled fans! The beloved Storybook Land Canal Boats attraction at Disneyland Park now features a new miniature of Rapunzel’s Tower! In the new scene you’ll also see multiple “wanted” posters seeking out Flynn Rider just past the miniature tower. And, depending on when you ride, you’ll either hear “When Will My Life Begin?” (during the daytime) or “I See the Light” (after sunset) as you float by.

You can see it yourself now!

Two New Pixar Place Hotel Suites

The Paradise Pier Hotel officially got a Pixar-themed makeover in 2024 and is now Pixar Place Hotel. This is the first fully Pixar-themed hotel in the U.S. and brings a bunch of your favorite characters to life. In fact, you can even meet some of the characters inside the hotel, like Bing Bong from Inside Out and Joe from Soul.

The hotel features three new restaurants, a Finding Nemo-themed splash pad and pool, and Wall-E themed shop. Plus, there’s even a Monsters University-themed fitness center.

The room designs feature concept art from Pixar movies and the iconic Pixar Ball. And, up on the concierge level, guests can enjoy the new lounge, known as the Creators Club. This is where concierge guests can enjoy free snacks and drinks throughout the day. Plus, if you really want to go all-out on your vacation, Pixar Place Hotel has two new 2-bedroom suites that opened in summer 2025. One is themed to Coco and the other is themed to The Incredibles.

The Coco Suite features Oaxacan-style architecture that is inspired by the Rivera family hacienda from the movie. Whereas, the Incredibles suite has a “mid-century design with a ‘spy-fi’ twist,” according to Disney.

High Key Club at Disneyland Hotel

Disneyland Hotel has opened a brand new concierge lounge, High Key Club. According to Disney, the design celebrates the “music and sounds of Disneyland park circa 1955,” and pays tribute to the “mid-century modern aesthetic of the era.”

The High Key Club is double the size of the hotel’s previous club-level lounge and features a view of Disneyland Park’s nightly fireworks show.

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