Disney reveals new rides, attractions, and updates at D23 fan convention

Disney has unveiled a series of updates for Walt Disney World at its D23 fan convention, including new rides, themed lands, and updates to beloved attractions. EPCOT At EPCOT, Disney announced a revamp of the classic "Journey Into Imagination" ride, which originally opened in 1983. The updated version will bring back Dreamfinder, one of the park's earliest original characters, alongside his purple dragon companion, Figment. Additionally, EPCOT's "Spaceship Earth," which has not been updated in nearly 20 years, will undergo a transformation with a new theme centered on innovation through human connection. Both projects are still in the early stages, and no completion dates have been announced. Magic Kingdom In Magic Kingdom, Disney confirmed the official name of its new "Villains Land." The area promises to be as large as Galaxy's Edge and will feature two new rides: a rollercoaster inspired by Maleficent and a journey through the Evil Queen's catacombs, led by her magic mirror. Construction on Villains Land is already underway. Nearby, two "Cars"-themed rides are also in development for the Piston Peak area. The attractions, titled "Cars Ridge Run Rally" and "Miss Fritter's Daredevil Spin Along," are currently under construction. Magic Kingdom will also see an updated version of the "Carousel of Progress," set to open in late spring 2027. The updated attraction will now span from the 1960s to the present day and beyond, with award-winning actors Jamie Lee Curtis and Bryan Cranston providing the voices for the animatronic parents. Animal Kingdom At Animal Kingdom, Disney announced plans to repair the Yeti animatronic on the Expedition Everest ride, which has been non-functional for nearly 20 years. The park will also debut its first-ever "Encanto" ride, "Antonio's Festival de Encanto," in 2027. Disney said the ride will have no height requirements, making it suitable for the whole family. Animal Kingdom's new "Tropical Americas" land is set to open next year. The area will feature a new ride titled "Indiana Jones and the Legend of the Jade Serpent," where guests will join Harrison Ford's character on an adventure through a Mayan temple, encountering a giant serpent. Hollywood Studios At Hollywood Studios, Disney announced that the new "Monsters, Inc."-themed area, Monstropolis, will officially open next year. The area will include a new stage show titled "Welcome to Monstropolis" and the iconic restaurant from the movie. Disney's first-ever suspended coaster, which will lift riders 40 feet into the air before launching them, is also set to open in Monstropolis at a later date. DOWNLOAD the free Gulf Coast News app for your latest news and alerts on breaking news, weather, sports, entertainment, and more on your phone or tablet. And check out the Very Local Gulf Coast app to stream news, entertainment and original programming on your TV