food IS a theme park
UPDATED January 22, 2026
Big changes are on the horizon for Disney World, and 2026 is an exciting year.
Cinderella Castle
From long-awaited ride refurbishments to brand-new storylines and reimagined spaces, the parks and resorts are evolving in ways that promise fresh experiences for both first-time visitors and seasoned fans. Whether it’s a beloved classic getting a modern update or a brand-new twist on an iconic attraction, these openings are making 2026 a year Disney fans won’t want to miss.
We’ve eaten at every single Magic Kingdom restaurant, and we recently just had to make room at the top of our list for a new one!
The Beak and Barrel
The Beak and Barrel opened at Magic Kingdom in August, and it has become so popular that finding reservations for it has become difficult. This tavern is the first of its kind at Magic Kingdom, offering up cocktails, food, and more for all guests to enjoy — at least for 45 minutes. Let’s talk about how this spot has made its way into our hearts and towards the top of the list.
While Mickey pumpkins are up in both Disneyland and Disney World right now, we are looking ahead to what will be the hottest item this holiday season.
Sleeping Beauty Castle
We know that Disney fans love to collect merchandise from the parks, and one of those items they collect is popcorn buckets. We frequently see new popcorn buckets and sippers released in Disney parks with each season, and people will wait in LONG lines to purchase them. This holiday bucket will be no different when it arrives at Disneyland.
The Disney Skyliner has quickly become one of the most unique and scenic ways to travel around Disney World.
Skyliner
Gliding above the resorts and parks in colorful gondolas, guests can enjoy stunning views while getting from place to place in just minutes. For most riders, it’s a smooth and magical experience, but like any mode of transportation, it isn’t without its hiccups. Here are four “nightmare” Skyliner stories we’ve heard, along with some tips to help you feel prepared if the same happens to you.
You don’t want to get sunburned on your first day of your Disney World vacation and be forced to live with that choice for the rest of the week!
Disney World
I’ve been going to Disney World for decades, and I even went into the Disney parks every week for a year as part of my job. So you would think I would know all the ins and outs, but unfortunately for me, even seasoned Annual Passholders make mistakes. I’m going to tell you my tale in hopes that you avoid this painful experience.
UPDATED January 2, 2026
Heads up, friends! 2026 is bringing a lot of firsts for Disney World. So pack your bags and get ready to try new things!
Magic Kingdom
Disney World is staying busy and always looking ahead. We have new lands coming to multiple parks, attractions getting some major refurbishments, and I’m sure there will be some surprises too! With all of this excitement, there are several new things happening in Disney World in 2026, and you’ll want to know these to plan your next trip accordingly.
Disney World is in the process of some BIG changes, and this one has Disney fans happy.
Disney World
At Magic Kingdom, we are seeing huge transformations. Construction is underway for the new Cars-themed area, Piston Peak, and the new Villains land. Several rides are currently under refurbishment, including Big Thunder Mountain and Buzz Lightyear Space Ranger Spin. At Destination D23, we also got news that one of the most iconic pieces of this park will be seeing some updates in the future, and it has Disney fans talking about it!
Phones have become an essential part of the Disney World experience, far beyond snapping photos and videos.
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
Guests rely on them to check wait times, book Lightning Lane access, and even place mobile orders for food, making the park experience more convenient than ever. With so much of the day-to-day magic now happening through a screen, it’s no surprise that phone use on rides has become a hot topic among fans. Capturing memories mid-attraction is just one more way guests are integrating technology into their Disney adventures, but not everyone agrees it should be allowed.
Many Disney guests might be completely missing this MAJOR perk of Disney restaurants, but before you do it, there are a few things to know.
Steakhouse 71
Did you know that you can order to go from many of Disney’s most popular hotel restaurants? That’s right! No need to grab an Advanced Dining Reservation or wait around for a table! You can simply mobile order takeout using the MyDisney Experience App. But before you place your order, you’ll want to take note of these 6 things!
There is a lot changing in Disney’s Animal Kingdom right now.
Tree of Life in Disney’s Animal Kingdom
A brand-new show will be coming to the Tree of Life, Zootopia: Better Zoogether. However, the biggest change has been the phased closure of DinoLand U.S.A. to make way for a brand new land, Pueblo Esperanza. Now we’ve recently gotten word of when the rest of DinoLand will close for construction in early 2026, leaving many guests booking one more trip before the extinction of the area.
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