Walt Disney World does a great job with their ride refurbishments on property. From making sure that they receive proper care and maintenance, to ensuring that the ride always runs as smoothly as possible. It can be disappointing to some guests to see that their favorite ride is closed. However, it is an integral and important part of keeping Disney as amazing as it is. Here is a look at some current and upcoming refurbishments.
Space Mountain – Scheduled April 22′
According to some recent permits filed, Space Mountain in Walt Disney World is scheduled to be refurbished in April 2022. Disney is allotting up to $15 million for the refurb. While it doesn’t specify the length of time or exactly what will be updated, it will be interesting to see whether it’s routine maintenance work or if something will be changed. Since the beloved coaster is now 50 years old, I suspect it is just some good old TLC. For years, many have speculated whether it would be updated to mirror the Disneyland version of Space Mountain, which seats two per row instead of one per row.
Walt Disney World Railroad – December 18′ to ?
The Walt Disney World Railroad has been under refurbishment due to the construction of Magic Kingdom’s newest roller coaster, Tron: Lightcycle Run. The WDW Railroad closed in December 2018 and hasn’t had a definite finish date. Since some of the railroad tracks had to be torn up and rebuilt elsewhere due to the Tron construction, the opening date will most likely coincide with the completion of the Tron coaster. In mid-March 2022, the Railroad was seen doing some test runs. Here’s to hoping we will see an opening date soon!
Expedition Everest – January 21′ to April 22′
Expedition Everest is in the process of a very lengthy refurbishment. Originally set to reopen by mid-April 2022, it has now been extended through the end of April. According to Disney, the refurbishment was scheduled to do some much needed maintenance on the 16-year-old ride. The lengthy refurbishment also had fans wondering if the “Disco Yeti” would be repaired. When the ride first opened back in 2006, it featured a large animatronic Yeti that would swoop down over the riders. Unfortunately, a few months after the ride opened, the animatronic Yeti broke, and Disney was forced to improvise, thus “Disco Yeti” was born. We certainly are excited to see if anything has changed on Expedition Everest!
Overall
Ride refurbishments are a necessity to keep the rides and parks running smoothly. It is always exciting to get back on a ride that was under refurbishment for so long – it almost makes it feel extra special. Whether a ride closes for some routine maintenance or a complete overhaul, it is always interesting to see how Disney works their magic. Which Walt Disney World ride would you like to see refurbished and why?
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