Last Updated on May 28, 2026 by Kimberly Stroh
It’s shaping up to be an exciting summer, with plenty of Walt Disney World openings to add to your family’s vacation itinerary. Coined the Cool Kids’ Summer, Disney Parks offers re-imagined beloved rides, new ways to hang out with characters, and new attractions. There’s something fresh at all four theme parks, and this is your guide to what’s new for summer 2026, so your My Disney Experience plans are ready.
Photo credit: Disney Parks
Jessie from Toy Story Is At The Magic Kingdom
The Diamond Horseshoe has always been a destination for fabulous shows at the Magic Kingdom, and now kids are in for a rootin’ tootin’ good time this summer. With the upcoming release of Toy Story 5, fans will love seeing Jessie, Woody, Bullseye, and more Toy Story pals in this energized roundup featuring songs, dance, games, and other playful activities.
Find The Diamond Horseshoe in Frontierland, inside the Magic Kingdom. It’s one of my favorite lands in the park, and where I made my custom Frontierland cowgirl hat. Speaking of Frontierland, head over to Big Thunder Mountain Railroad to ride the newly refurbished coaster that’s open again for summer.
Animal Kingdom Adds Bluey and Bingo From Disney Junior
As a mom of three, I love Bluey, and we’ve been watching it on Disney Junior for years. Now, families can meet Bluey and Bingo at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Guests can play and dance with Bluey and Bingo at the Conservation Station. Of all the Walt Disney World openings for summer, our kids are most excited about this one.
Be sure to check My Disney Experience to learn more about the activities at the Conservation Station, because Bluey and Bingo are just one attraction. Guests can also see how Cast Members work to protect wildlife around the globe and provide expert care for the animals.
To visit Conservation Station, you must take the Wildlife Express Train. Guests need to join a virtual queue to board the Wildlife Express Train to experience Bluey’s Wild World at Conservation Station, Jumping Junction, and Animal Care at Conservation Station.
Epcot Offers a Re-Imagined Classic Ride For America’s 250th
The summer’s biggest highlight at Epcot is the newly reimagined Soarin’, now titled Soarin’ Across America for the 250th anniversary of the United States. According to Disney Parks, this immersive new flight experience will take guests on a breathtaking journey from coast to coast, highlighting some of the country’s natural beauty and iconic cityscapes. So far, it’s received positive reviews. Our family is most excited about this addition to Epcot!
While you’re in Epcot, head over to Communicore Hall to hang out with Goofy for GoofyCore. It’s a party packed with laughter, movement, and just the right amount of silliness. From the moment the music starts, kids can jump into DJ-led dancing where wiggly moves, freestyle fun, and big belly laughs are all part of the routine. Beyond the dance floor, families can dive into interactive games with playful, topsy-turvy twists.
Interactive shows like GoofyCore are ideal just before naptime when you need to get that last bit of energy out! That’s always our game plan before the perfect stroller park nap.
Hollywood Studios Receives a Glow-Up & The Muppets Arrive
From Star Wars to The Muppets, there are so many reasons to visit Hollywood Studios. Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets just debuted at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Featuring high‑speed thrills, zany comedy, and an electrifying soundtrack, the attraction delivers a newly reimagined experience that feels fresh. The Muppets are a cult classic that we’ve cherished for generations, and I can’t wait to experience the newly re-imagined coaster.
And for guests who were always stuck as the engineer on Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run (ahem, me as a boy mom), will appreciate the all-new mission with enhanced gameplay. The update introduces expanded gameplay, new destinations across the galaxy, and appearances from the fan-favorite duo, the Mandalorian and Grogu. This debut coincides with the premiere of Lucasfilm’s new film, “Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu,” highlighting Disney’s use of cutting-edge technology and the unique collaboration between creative teams.
Lastly, the iconic Sorcerer Mickey hat is back at Hollywood Studios for summer Walt Disney World openings! Find this photo spot at the newly reimagined Animation Courtyard. The courtyard is home to “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure” and “Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live!” If you’ve got little ones who are fans of the original Fab 5, don’t miss the chance to sing and dance with them at “Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live!”