Browsing Tag

Cool Kids Summer

Cool KIDS’ SUMMER Snacks at Disney World: Every Treat Under $10 (2026)

Foodie Guide, General By June 5, 2026 Tags: , , , , No Comments

Looking for budget-friendly bites this season? Cool KIDS’ SUMMER snacks at Disney World are here now, and the lineup is full of playful treats. Even better, every featured sip, sweet, and savory snack below stays under $10. So whether you are dancing with Jessie and her Toy Story pals at Magic Kingdom or making a splash with Stitch at Typhoon Lagoon, these stops keep everyone happy.

Cool KIDS’ SUMMER is running now across all four theme parks, the water parks, and Disney Springs. Here are the limited-time treats worth tracking down.

Favorite Stroller Fan

Cool KIDS’ SUMMER Drinks at Disney World

First, the drinks. The lineup leans bright, fruity, and very photo-friendly. So if you are visiting Magic Kingdom, start in Tomorrowland.

  • Zurg Overload Shake at Auntie Gravity’s Galactic Goodies is a vanilla shake with cherry coating, marshmallow whipped cream, sprinkles, and a chocolate piece.
  • Space Ranger Float, also at Auntie Gravity’s Galactic Goodies, swirls DOLE Whip Lime and vanilla soft-serve with Sprite and green apple pearls.

Next, head to Disney’s Animal Kingdom. There, you will find two refreshing options that taste like summer in a cup.

  • Bluey’s Berry Lemonade at Eight Spoon Café and Pizzafari is a Frozen Minute Maid Lemonade packed with blueberry, blackberry, strawberry, and raspberry.
  • Wackadoo Fruit Freeze at Pizzafari is a frozen twist on Bluey’s fruit salad. It uses Simply Fruit Punch and comes garnished with fruit salad.

Heading to EPCOT instead? Then stop by GRAB-N-GOOF for the Goofy’s Gone Fishing drink. It is a blue raspberry lemonade loaded with strawberry fruit juice-filled pearls. Plus, you get your choice of fish or shark gummy candies.

Cool Kids Summer Drink Under $10 Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

New Sweet Snacks for Cool KIDS’ SUMMER

Next up, dessert. If your crew prefers something sweet, two new cakes deliver big on color and fun.

  • Fairy Bread Cake at Pizzafari is an Australian-inspired vanilla birthday cake. The kitchen dips it in white chocolate, coats it in rainbow sprinkles, and serves it with raspberry dipping sauce.
  • Gawrsh! Worms Everywhere Cake at GRAB-N-GOOF stacks chocolate cake, chocolate ganache, cookies and cream pieces, and gummy candy.

Cool Kids Summer Cake Under $10 Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Savory Cool KIDS’ SUMMER Snacks

Not everyone wants sugar all day. So Disney built in a couple of savory picks too.

  • Chicken Goof-ups pair Just Bare Lightly Breaded Chicken Breast Bites with fried cheese curds and Goofy Sauce.
  • Goof Troop Mac Snack serves up fried macaroni and cheese with marinara for dipping.

Better yet, both are easy to share. As a result, they stretch your snack budget across a hungry group.

Cool Kids Summer Snack Under $10 Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Familiar Favorites for Picky Eaters

Traveling with a selective eater? Then you are covered. Kitchens across Walt Disney World offer kid-friendly staples like chicken strips, pizza, macaroni and cheese, fries, and fruit. To map out the easiest stops, grab a Cool KIDS’ SUMMER map in the parks. It lists the go-to bites throughout your day.

Plan Your Cool KIDS’ SUMMER Snack Stops

The treats span Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom. So a little planning goes a long way. First, group your snack stops by park. Then build a few of these picks into your touring plan. Because each item stays under $10, you can sample several without blowing your dining budget.

Cool Kids Summer Treat Cards Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Frequently Asked Questions

When is Cool KIDS’ SUMMER at Disney World?

Cool KIDS’ SUMMER is running now at Walt Disney World Resort. The seasonal celebration includes limited-time snacks, character experiences, and family entertainment across all four theme parks, the water parks, and Disney Springs. Find our complete guide to Cool Kids Summer here.

Where can you find Cool KIDS’ SUMMER snacks?

You can find Cool KIDS’ SUMMER snacks at several quick-service spots. These include Auntie Gravity’s Galactic Goodies in Magic Kingdom, Eight Spoon Café and Pizzafari at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and GRAB-N-GOOF at EPCOT.

Are the Cool KIDS’ SUMMER snacks really under $10?

Yes. The featured Cool KIDS’ SUMMER sips, sweets, and savory bites all stay under $10. As a result, they offer an affordable way to enjoy limited-time treats during your Disney World visit.

Do you need a reservation for Cool KIDS’ SUMMER snacks?

No. Quick-service and walk-up locations sell these limited-time snacks, so you do not need a dining reservation to grab one. They are available while the Cool KIDS’ SUMMER season runs.

How long are the Cool KIDS’ SUMMER treats available?

The treats are limited-time offerings tied to the Cool KIDS’ SUMMER season. Because they can sell out or change, it is smart to check current availability when you arrive.

Never Miss a Hard-to-Get Disney Dining Reservation

Snacks are easy. The sit-down restaurants that fill up months in advance, however, are a different story. So let MouseDining do the watching for you. Set up a free reservation alert at MouseDining.com, and we will notify you the moment a table opens at your must-do Walt Disney World restaurant. That way, you can focus on the fun while we track the hard-to-get spots.

Share:

Bluey at Disney’s Animal Kingdom: Everything Families Need to Know

News, Special Events By June 3, 2026 Tags: , , No Comments

Bluey at Disney’s Animal Kingdom: Everything Families Need to Know

If your kids are obsessed with Bluey, your next trip just got a whole lot more exciting. Bluey at Disney’s Animal Kingdom is officially here, and Bluey’s Wild World is now open at Conservation Station as part of Cool KIDS’ SUMMER at Walt Disney World Resort. This is the first time EVER that Bluey has been at Walt Disney World! Think interactive play, real Australian animals, themed food and drinks, and Bluey and Bingo joining your family for games in one of the most unique settings at any Disney park. Here is everything you need to know before you go.

What Is Bluey’s Wild World at Conservation Station?

Bluey’s Wild World is a new immersive experience at Conservation Station inside Disney’s Animal Kingdom. It is built around the world of the Australian animated series Bluey, which if you know, you KNOW. If you don’t know, it follows a six-year-old Blue Heeler puppy and her family through imaginative, everyday adventures. The show has become one of the most beloved kids’ programs in the world, and this experience brings that energy into the park with familiar games, music, and characters.

Conservation Station is located in the Rafiki’s Planet Watch area of the park, which means you will need to take the Wildlife Express Train to get there. Find the train station near Harambe Market in Africa.

The experience opened May 26, 2026, and Disney has confirmed it will stick around beyond the summer. This is not a limited-time summer-only activation, though in the same breath, there is no announced end date, so it will not last forever.

How to Get Into Bluey’s Wild World

Good news if you have been holding off: Bluey’s Wild World no longer uses a virtual queue. The experience opened May 26, 2026 with a virtual queue as the only way in, and that system stayed in place through June 1. Starting June 2, 2026, Disney switched Bluey’s Wild World to a standby queue, so you can now walk up and wait in a traditional line.

There is no Lightning Lane option, and you do not need to grab a boarding group in the My Disney Experience app anymore. Disney has noted that the virtual queue could return for Bluey’s Wild World if demand requires it, so it is worth checking the My Disney Experience app or the official Walt Disney World site before you go.

To reach Bluey’s Wild World, Jumping Junction, and the Animal Care experiences, you still need to ride the Wildlife Express Train. Find the train station near Harambe Market in Africa, then join the standby line once you arrive at Conservation Station.

Bluey and Bingo: What to Expect Inside

This is not a traditional Disney character meet and greet. If you are picturing a line, a posed photo, and an autograph, this is something completely different. Bluey’s Wild World is a group play experience where Bluey and Bingo arrive and lead the whole crowd through activities together. Think of it less like meeting a character and more like joining in on one of the Heeler family’s famous games.

Familiar music from the show plays throughout, and guests get to participate in some of the family’s most iconic activities, including Keepy Uppy and the transformative Magic Asparagus game that Bluey fans will instantly recognize. The grand finale is a shower of bubbles with Bluey and Bingo, which is exactly the kind of joyful, everyone-at-once moment that little ones will be talking about for the rest of the trip.

Because the whole group experiences it together, there is no waiting in a character line and no individual photo opportunity built into the experience itself. The Magic Shots from Disney PhotoPass (covered below) are how you get a Bluey-and-Bingo photo to take home.

Bluey and Bingo New at Walt Disney World Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

See Real Australian Animals at Jumping Junction

One of the most exciting additions tied to the Bluey experience is Jumping Junction, a brand new habitat where you can see kangaroos and wallabies. These animals are native to Australia, Bluey’s home country, which makes the connection feel genuinely thoughtful rather than just themed decor.

A few fun facts worth knowing before your visit:

  • Kangaroos and wallabies are both marsupials, meaning their babies (called joeys) continue developing in their mother’s pouch after birth.
  • You can tell them apart by size. Kangaroos are significantly larger, while wallabies are roughly half as big.
  • Both animals live in groups called a mob.

You reach Jumping Junction the same way as the rest of Conservation Station, by riding the Wildlife Express Train and joining the standby line once you arrive.

Animal Care Experiences at Conservation Station

Conservation Station has long offered behind-the-scenes animal care content, and that continues alongside the Bluey activation. Here is what you can explore:

  • The Veterinary Treatment Room, where you can look inside the space where animals receive medical care and sometimes observe procedures in progress.
  • The Animal Nutrition Window, where you can see how Disney’s expert nutrition team prepares meals for the park’s animal residents.
  • The Amphibian, Reptile and Invertebrate Windows, featuring frogs, lizards, and some of the smallest species in the park.
  • The Science Center, where Disney’s Animals, Science and Environment team shares what they are currently working on.

These areas give the experience real depth beyond the characters, especially if your kids are drawn to animals as much as they are to Bluey.

Pssst…. speaking of animal care, who is watching yours while you’re gone?

Rover ad

We love using Rover for taking care of our furry family members while we’re gone. We are pretty sure Bandit and Chilli would approve. #affiliate

Bluey-Themed Food and Drinks at Animal Kingdom

This is where things get really fun for families who love a themed snack moment. Disney has rolled out a lineup of Bluey-inspired food and beverages at several locations across the park, and they are worth building into your day.

Pizzafari on Discovery Island

Pizzafari is serving up several Bluey-themed items that lean into Australian food culture:

  • Fairy Bread Cake: a Vanilla Birthday Cake dipped in White Chocolate and Rainbow Sprinkles, served with a Raspberry Dipping Sauce. Fairy bread is a beloved Australian party treat, and this is Disney’s elevated take on the classic.
  • Wackadoo Fruit Freeze: a frozen drink made with Simply Fruit Punch and garnished with Fruit Salad, inspired by Bluey’s love of fruit salad in the show.
  • Bluey’s Berry Lemonade: Frozen Minute Maid Lemonade blended with Blueberry, Blackberry, and Raspberry flavors. This drink is also available at Eight Spoon Café.
  • Bluey Sipper: a super-sized souvenir cup sold with a fountain beverage. Limited to two per person per transaction, while supplies last.

Bluey at Disney's Animal Kingdom Fairy Toast

Photo credit: Disney Parks Blog

Isle of Java on Discovery Island

Isle of Java is serving Pretzel’s Pretzels: soft mini pretzels with homemade cheese and blueberry-mustard dipping sauces. The blueberry-mustard combo is a clever nod to Bluey’s blue coloring and a genuinely fun snack to share.

For a broader look at what Animal Kingdom has to offer on the food front, the MouseDining Animal Kingdom dining guide covers the full park from snacks to signature dining.

Bluey Merchandise at Animal Kingdom

If your family wants to bring a piece of the experience home, Bluey merchandise is available in two spots: Island Mercantile on Discovery Island and at Conservation Station itself. The current collection includes:

  • Bluey (and sometimes Bingo) t-shirts, hoodies and rain jackets for adults and children
  • Water bottles, bags, toys and more
  • Bluey and Bingo Create Your Own plush, arriving later this summer
  • Bluey and Bingo plush headbands, also arriving later this summer

Conservation Station also stocks select baby care products including diapers, wipes, sunscreen, over-the-counter medications, and formula.

Disney's Animal Kingdom Bluey Merchandise Photo credit: Disney Parks Blog

PSSSSTTT….You can find Bluey merch from home on the Disney Store!

Bluey at Disney Store

Bluey Magic Shots from Disney PhotoPass

Disney PhotoPass photographers are stationed at two locations to offer Bluey-themed Magic Shots: at the entrance to Disney’s Animal Kingdom and along the Discovery River pathway between Africa and Asia. Three different Magic Shots are available:

  • Janet and Rita, the beloved granny alter-egos that Bluey and Bingo play in the show, shuffling into your photo
  • A butterfly Keepy Uppy shot featuring Flappy and Bluey
  • A Dance Mode Magic Shot with Bluey and Bingo

Since Bluey’s Wild World is a group play experience rather than a character photo opportunity, these Magic Shots are your best bet for getting a Bluey and Bingo keepsake image from your visit.

Bluey Magic Shot at Disney's Animal Kingdom Photo credit: Disney Parks Blog

Tips for Planning Your Visit

  • Visit early in the day or on a weekday if you can, especially in early June before peak summer crowds build. The standby line tends to be shortest first thing in the morning.
  • Download the My Disney Experience app before your trip to check wait times and confirm whether a virtual queue has returned.
  • Pizzafari and Isle of Java are counter service locations on Discovery Island, making them easy stops before or after your time at Conservation Station.
  • The Wildlife Express Train is the only way to reach Conservation Station, Bluey’s Wild World, and Jumping Junction. It departs near Harambe Market in Africa.
  • If you have an Annual Pass, check out the V.I.PASSHOLDER Summer Days discounts, which include significant savings at Animal Kingdom restaurants like Tiffins and Tusker House through July 31, 2026.

Do You Need a Dining Reservation for This Experience?

The Bluey food and drink items at Pizzafari, Isle of Java, and Eight Spoon Café are all counter service, meaning no reservation is required. You order, pay, and enjoy. These are among the most accessible stops in the park, which makes it easy to work them into any day.

If you want to pair your Bluey visit with a sit-down meal at Animal Kingdom, Tiffins and Tusker House are the top dining options in the park. Both require advance reservations and fill up quickly, especially in summer. Use MouseDining to set up alerts for your preferred dates so you can get notified the moment a reservation opens up.

FAQ: Bluey at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

When does Bluey’s Wild World open at Animal Kingdom?

Bluey’s Wild World at Conservation Station opens on May 26, 2026.

How long will Bluey be at Animal Kingdom?

Disney has confirmed the experience will be available beyond the summer of 2026, so it is not a limited-time event. But at the same time, we don’t know when it will end.

Do you need a reservation for Bluey’s Wild World?

You do not need a dining-style reservation, and as of June 2, 2026, you no longer need a virtual queue either. Bluey’s Wild World now uses a standby line, so you can ride the Wildlife Express Train to Conservation Station and join the queue when you arrive.

Where is Conservation Station at Animal Kingdom?

Conservation Station is in the Rafiki’s Planet Watch area of the park. You access it by taking the Wildlife Express Train, which departs near Harambe Market in Africa.

Is Bluey food available without joining the virtual queue?

Yes. The Bluey-themed food and drinks at Pizzafari, Isle of Java, and Eight Spoon Café are counter service locations on Discovery Island. You do not need a virtual queue boarding group to purchase food and beverages there.

What Bluey food is available at Animal Kingdom?

The current lineup includes Fairy Bread Cake, Wackadoo Fruit Freeze, Bluey’s Berry Lemonade, the Bluey Sipper, and Pretzel’s Pretzels with blueberry-mustard dipping sauce.

Where can I buy Bluey merchandise at Animal Kingdom?

Bluey merchandise is available at Island Mercantile on Discovery Island and at Conservation Station.

Can I meet Bluey and Bingo at Animal Kingdom?

Bluey and Bingo are part of Bluey’s Wild World at Conservation Station, but this is not a traditional character meet and greet. Rather than waiting in a line for a posed photo, the whole group plays together with Bluey and Bingo as part of a shared experience. You will need a virtual queue boarding group to access it. If you want a photo keepsake with the characters, the Disney PhotoPass Magic Shots are the way to go.

Does Bluey’s Wild World still use a virtual queue?

Bluey’s Wild World used a virtual queue from its May 26, 2026 opening through June 1, 2026. Starting June 2, 2026, it moved to a standby line and no longer requires a boarding group. Disney has said the virtual queue could return if demand calls for it, so check the My Disney Experience app before your visit.

Start Planning Your Trip

Bluey at Animal Kingdom is exactly the kind of experience that makes a Walt Disney World trip feel genuinely special for little ones. Between the interactive play, real Australian animals, themed snacks, and character fun, it covers everything families are looking for in one area of the park.

Dining is one of the easiest parts of the trip to lock in ahead of time, and it makes a real difference in how smoothly your day goes. Head to MouseDining to set dining alerts for Animal Kingdom restaurants and make sure your family’s table is waiting when you arrive.

Share:

Everything Happening at Walt Disney World on May 26, 2026

General By May 25, 2026 Tags: , , , , No Comments

Everything Happening at Walt Disney World on May 26, 2026

May 26, 2026 is one of the biggest single days Walt Disney World has seen in years. It marks the official launch of Cool Kids’ Summer, the debut of several new and reimagined attractions, a brand-new character experience, a refreshed ride film, and a wave of themed food and drinks across all four parks. If you have a trip planned for this date, or you are trying to decide whether to visit, here is everything confirmed for May 26 at Walt Disney World.

Why May 26, 2026 Is a Big Deal

Disney has stacked an unusually large number of openings on a single day. Cool Kids’ Summer runs May 26 – September 8, 2026, and May 26 is the official kickoff. That means new experiences, themed entertainment, and resort perks all go live at once. The day also falls right after Memorial Day weekend, which brings higher crowds than the rest of May. If you can visit in the days or weeks that follow, you will get to experience everything new with gradually fewer crowds.

Rock n Roller Coaster New at Walt Disney World Photo credit: Disney Parks Blog

New Attractions and Experiences Opening May 26

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets

Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster closed in March 2026 for a full re-theme and reopens May 26 as Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets. The new version drops guests into G-Force Records, where The Electric Mayhem is running late for their own concert. The ride features a new soundtrack with Dr. Teeth and the Electric Mayhem alongside celebrity guests. Annual Passholder previews run May 21 – 23 via virtual queue in the My Disney Experience app, with DVC Member Priority Access on May 24. Soft openings before May 26 are possible, so check the app if you are in the parks that week.

FØØD by Swedish Chef

Opening alongside Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets, FØØD by Swedish Chef is a new Muppets-themed snack kiosk in the ride’s courtyard. No reservation is needed. For the full menu and tips on visiting, see our complete FØØD by Swedish Chef guide.

Walt Disney Studios Courtyard

The outdoor area formerly known as Animation Courtyard reopens May 26 as the Walt Disney Studios Courtyard. It is home to The Little Mermaid: A Musical Adventure (opened summer 2025), the new Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live!, and later this summer, The Magic of Disney Animation.

Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live!

This brand-new stage show opens May 26 in the Walt Disney Studios Courtyard. Inspired by the Disney Jr. series Mickey Mouse Clubhouse+, it follows Mickey and Minnie as they set out to find Goofy, Daisy, and Pluto. The show runs approximately 20 minutes and continues beyond the Cool Kids’ Summer season.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

EPCOT

Soarin’ Across America

Soarin’ Around the World closed May 13 and reopens May 26 as Soarin’ Across America, an all-new film that takes guests on an airborne journey across the United States as part of the America 250th anniversary celebration. This is a limited-time experience.

EPCOT International Flower and Garden Festival

The 2026 EPCOT International Flower and Garden Festival runs March 4 – June 1, 2026, making May 26 one of the final days of the festival. All Outdoor Kitchen food booths, character topiaries, and the Garden Rocks Concert Series are still running, included with regular EPCOT admission. Note that May 26 is a Tuesday, so Outdoor Kitchen booths open at 11:30 AM rather than 11:00 AM, and booths are cashless. For the full Outdoor Kitchen menus and what is worth ordering, our 2026 Flower and Garden Festival foodie guide has everything you need.

Epcot Food & Wine Festival 2026

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Bluey’s Wild World at Conservation Station

Bluey and Bingo make their Walt Disney World debut May 26 at Conservation Station, accessible only via the Wildlife Express Train from near Harambe Market. The experience includes interactive games from the show, dancing, photo opportunities, and a bubble shower finale. Jumping Junction, a new outdoor habitat with kangaroos and wallabies, replaces the former Affection Section petting area. Bluey’s Wild World uses a virtual queue at opening, with joining windows at 7:00 AM and 10:00 AM. The 10:00 AM window requires you to already be inside Animal Kingdom. The experience is confirmed to stay well beyond summer.

Several Bluey-themed food and drink items also debut May 26 at locations around the park. For the full snack lineup and where to find each item, check out our Animal Kingdom dining guide.

Bluey at Disney's Animal Kingdom Header

Cool Kids’ Summer Entertainment Launching May 26

In addition to the new attractions above, Cool Kids’ Summer brings limited-time entertainment across the parks starting May 26.

  • Magic Kingdom: Jessie’s Roundup: A Rip-Roarin’ Revue at the Diamond Horseshoe in Frontierland, a Toy Story-themed show featuring Jessie, Woody, Bullseye, and friends; a Cool Kids’ Summer exclusive
  • EPCOT: GoofyCore at CommuniCore Hall, where Goofy, DJ Dance Pants, and the Goof Troop host interactive dance-and-play activities
  • Animal Kingdom: Bluey’s Wild World at Conservation Station (see above)
  • Hollywood Studios: Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live! (see above)

For a full breakdown of everything Cool Kids’ Summer includes across all four parks and resort hotels, see our complete Cool Kids’ Summer guide.

Attractions Already Open Worth Knowing About

Not everything new to the parks opened on May 26. A few updated experiences are already running.

  • Big Thunder Mountain Railroad (Magic Kingdom): reopened May 3 with a new track, refreshed trains, a lowered height requirement of 38 inches, and new scenes including the glowing Rainbow Caverns
  • Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin (Magic Kingdom): reopened April 8 with updated ride vehicles, new interactive targets with always-on laser blasters, and a new character named Buddy who walks guests through training before the mission
  • Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run (Hollywood Studios): as of May 22, a new mission featuring The Mandalorian and Grogu is live, with the crew now controlling which planets the ship visits

Disney Springs on May 26

Cool Kids’ Summer activities at Disney Springs also launch around May 26, including the DescenDANCE Party x Camp Rock Jam at the AdventHealth Waterside Stage on select Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday evenings, Polynesian-inspired entertainment at the Marketplace Splash Pad, and Mickey and Minnie Cookie Art with edible watercolor paints at Amorette’s Patisserie. Cirque du Soleil’s Drawn to Life is offering a complimentary child ticket (ages 2 – 12) with the purchase of an adult ticket for performances May 27 – September 20, 2026.

Resort Perks Starting May 26

Guests staying at Disney Resorts Collection hotels May 26 – September 8, 2026 receive free admission to one Walt Disney World water park on their check-in day, valid at either Typhoon Lagoon or Blizzard Beach. The perk applies only on check-in day. Select family-focused resort hotels also offer additional Cool Kids’ Summer programming including scheduled character visits, Disney Publishing reading libraries, poolside DJ dance parties, and campfire sing-alongs on select nights.

DVC Welcome Home Week 2026 Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Ticket and Dining Options

The 4-Day, 4-Park Magic Ticket is available for visits May 26 – October 3, 2026. It covers one day at each of the four theme parks, does not include Park Hopper, and must be used within 7 days of first use.

Annual Passholders visiting on or around May 26 can take advantage of V.I.PASSHOLDER Summer Days dining discounts of up to 40% at select table-service restaurants Monday through Thursday through July 31, 2026. See our Passholder dining discounts guide for the full restaurant list.

DVC members can look ahead to Welcome Home Weeks running July 22 – August 26, 2026. Full details are in our DVC Welcome Home Weeks guide.

With opening-day crowds across multiple parks, table-service dining reservations will be harder to secure than a typical late-May weekday. Set alerts at Mousedining.com to get notified the moment a reservation opens or a cancellation appears.

Crowd Expectations

May 26 is a Tuesday, but it is the single biggest opening day Disney has planned for 2026. Expect high crowds at every new or updated attraction, particularly Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets and Bluey’s Wild World, both of which are expected to use virtual queues on opening day. If you have flexibility, visiting Wednesday or Thursday of that same week may offer a better experience with gradually declining crowds.

Tips for May 26

  • Download the My Disney Experience app before you arrive; you will need it for virtual queues at both Bluey’s Wild World and potentially Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets
  • Join the Bluey virtual queue at 7:00 AM for the best chance at securing a spot; you do not need to be inside Animal Kingdom yet for the first window
  • EPCOT Flower and Garden Outdoor Kitchen booths open at 11:30 AM on Tuesdays; plan your World Showcase time accordingly
  • Outdoor Kitchen booths are cashless; bring a card or load a Disney Gift Card wristlet in advance
  • If Hollywood Studios is your priority, arrive before park opening and head straight to Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets
  • Resort hotel guests receive a free water park ticket on check-in day; if May 26 is your arrival date, plan accordingly
  • Set dining alerts at Mousedining.com now for any table-service meals you want on or around this date

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cool Kids’ Summer at Walt Disney World?

Cool Kids’ Summer is Disney’s seasonal celebration running May 26 – September 8, 2026. It includes new and reimagined attractions, themed entertainment across all four parks, limited-time character experiences, and resort perks. It is included with regular theme park admission and is not a separately ticketed event.

Does Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets have a height requirement?

Yes. Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster maintains its 48-inch height requirement.

How do you get into Bluey’s Wild World at Animal Kingdom?

Bluey’s Wild World uses a virtual queue at opening. Joining windows are at 7:00 AM (no need to be inside the park) and 10:00 AM (must be inside Animal Kingdom). Valid park admission and an Animal Kingdom reservation are required for both windows. A standby line is expected to be introduced at a later date.

Is the EPCOT Flower and Garden Festival still running on May 26?

Yes. The 2026 EPCOT International Flower and Garden Festival runs March 4 – June 1, 2026. May 26 is one of the final days of the festival and all Outdoor Kitchens and festival activities are still operating.

Do I need a dining reservation for May 26?

Quick-service locations and snack kiosks like FØØD by Swedish Chef do not require a reservation. For any table-service restaurant, advance dining reservations are strongly recommended given opening-day crowds. Set alerts at Mousedining.com to find availability.

Share:

Everything New at Walt Disney World This Summer: Your Complete Guide to Cool Kids Summer 2026

General, News By May 5, 2026 Tags: , , , No Comments

If you are wondering what’s new at Walt Disney World this summer, the answer is: a lot. From May 26 – September 8, 2026, Disney’s Cool Kids Summer celebration brings reimagined rides, brand-new shows, and beloved character experiences to all four parks. Whether your family loves Toy Story, Bluey, Star Wars, or the Muppets, there is something wonderful waiting for you.

Here is everything you need to know, park by park.

Magic Kingdom: Two Fan Favorites Return Better Than Ever

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is back. The attraction reopened on May 3, 2026, after a full reimagining that includes a brand-new track, refreshed trains, and stunning new on-ride scenes.

The highlight is the new Rainbow Caverns. Early in the ride, guests plunge underground into a glowing cavern. Phosphorescent pools illuminate shimmering stalactites and stalagmites, and over 2,000 bats fill the scene above. A deep rumble builds the suspense before the real adventure begins.

Riders will also find refreshed Audio-Animatronics, restored effects, new gold props, and a breathtaking final lift that pays off the legend of Barnabas T. Bullion. The town of Tumbleweed has been lovingly updated too. The new track makes for a noticeably smoother ride from start to finish.

The best news for families: the height requirement has been lowered from 40 inches to 38 inches. Little ones who have been waiting to ride can finally join the adventure this summer.

What's new at Walt Disney World this summer Big Thunder Mountain Railroad

Photo credit: Disney Parks Blog

Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin

Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin reopened on April 8, 2026, with meaningful upgrades across the board. This is a true reimagining of a ride that had been largely unchanged since 1998.

The biggest change: the blasters are now fully handheld. They feature an always-on laser sight, haptic feedback when you hit a target, and color-coded LED lighting so each rider can track their own shots. The ride vehicles are all new as well.

Before the mission begins, guests meet Buddy, a new support robot created by Walt Disney Imagineering and Pixar. Buddy walks Space Rangers through blaster calibration and a quick training round. It is a fun touch that helps younger guests feel ready to take on Emperor Zurg.

The space battle scene near the end has been completely reworked. For the first time, Buzz Lightyear himself appears in the sequence. Your ride photo now shows your score, rank, mission location, and full stats. Veteran Space Rangers will find the new target system, which shifts point values in real time, adds a fresh challenge to every ride.

Buzz Lightyear What's New at Walt Disney World

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Jessie’s Roundup: A Rip-Roarin’ Revue at the Diamond Horseshoe

Opening May 26 at the Diamond Horseshoe in Frontierland, Jessie’s Roundup is a joyful Toy Story show featuring Jessie, Woody, Bullseye, and friends. The high-energy western experience includes singing, dancing, games, and interactive fun for the whole family. The timing feels perfect with Toy Story 5 on the horizon.

EPCOT: A Brand-New Film and a Beloved Experience Returns

Soarin Across America

EPCOT’s beloved Soarin attraction has an all-new film. Soarin Across America opens May 26, replacing Soarin Around the World. The new film celebrates America’s 250th birthday with a sweeping flight over dozens of stunning American landscapes. The classic Soarin score has been reimagined for the journey, and Patrick Warburton returns. This overlay is limited time, so this summer is the moment to fly.

GoofyCore at CommuniCore Hall

GoofyCore returns to CommuniCore Hall for its second Cool Kids Summer. Led by Goofy and DJ Dance Pants, the indoor space features group games, dancing, and plenty of laughs. The comfortable seating and air conditioning make it a wonderful way to play together during warm Florida afternoons. Kids tend to talk about this one long after the trip ends.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios: The Most New Experiences of Any Park This Summer

Rock n Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets

The Muppets have taken over Sunset Boulevard. Rock n Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets opens May 26. The Electric Mayhem is headlining the biggest concert of their careers, and guests help them get there on time aboard Muppets Labs’ L.I.M.O. (Lengthy Immediate Motion Object).

The soundtrack features The Electric Mayhem alongside Def Leppard, Kelly Clarkson, Jennifer Hudson, and Questlove. Songs include Born to Be Wild, Love Rollercoaster, Rock! Rock! (Till You Drop), and Walking on Sunshine. Celebrity cameos appear throughout the queue and post-show. This high-thrill coaster is intense and you must be 48 inches or taller to ride.

Rock n Roller Coaster New at Walt Disney World

Photo credit: Disney Parks Blog

New Mando and Grogu Mission on Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run

Starting May 22, the Millennium Falcon has a brand-new mission. Din Djarin and Grogu lead guests on a chase to track down ex-Imperial officers. Pilots can now choose which planets the ship visits, and engineers can communicate directly with Grogu during the flight. Star Wars fans who have ridden before will find this mission brings real new energy to the experience.

Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live

Opening May 26 in the newly reimagined Walt Disney Studios courtyard, this brand-new stage show is inspired by Mickey Mouse Clubhouse+. Mickey and Minnie are throwing a party, but their friends have not arrived yet. The 20-minute show follows the gang on a fun adventure to find Goofy, Daisy, and Pluto. It is made for young Disney fans and will continue beyond the Cool Kids Summer season.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

The Walt Disney Studios Courtyard and The Magic of Disney Animation

Opening May 26, the reimagined Walt Disney Studios courtyard is a lush gathering space home to Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live and The Little Mermaid: A Musical Adventure. Later this summer, The Magic of Disney Animation joins the lineup. It will feature a Drawn to Wonderland play area, character meet-and-greets in Off the Page, and Olaf Draws, where guests learn to draw from legendary Disney Animation artists. Hollywood Studios truly has something for every age this season.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom: Bluey and Bingo Have Arrived

Bluey’s Wild World

Bluey and Bingo have made their Walt Disney World debut. Opening May 26, Bluey’s Wild World at Conservation Station is one of the most anticipated new experiences of the season. After riding the Wildlife Express Train, families arrive at Conservation Station to play games from the show, dance with Bluey and Bingo, and discover animals native to Australia. The experience fits beautifully into Animal Kingdom’s spirit of wonder. It is staying well beyond summer, so any family visiting Walt Disney World in 2026 can enjoy it.

Bluey and Bingo New at Walt Disney World

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Resort-Wide Magic All Summer Long

Cool Kids Summer goes beyond the parks. Guests staying at Disney Resorts Collection hotels receive free admission to one Disney water park on their check-in day. Both Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach are open all summer.

At select resort hotels, families enjoy Disney Publishing reading libraries, poolside DJ dance parties, pajama party story time, and campfire sing-alongs. All Disney Resort hotel guests also enjoy early theme park entry each morning, with special character experiences available during that window this summer.

Disney Springs joins the fun too, with DJ dance parties, a splash pad, themed photo opportunities, and summer activities on select dates.

Key Dates at a Glance

Plan Your Walt Disney World Summer Vacation

Now you know what’s new at Walt Disney World this summer, the only thing left is to book your trip. Every park has something fresh and exciting waiting for your family, and the 4-Day, 4-Park Magic Ticket starting at $399 + tax total is a wonderful way to experience it all.

Your Disney travel agent can help you choose the best dates, find the right resort, and handle every detail so all you have to do is enjoy the magic.

Contact your favorite Disney travel agent today and start planning your Walt Disney World summer vacation!

Share: