FULLY UPDATED — Disneyland Resort Project & Rumor Tracker!

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DISNEYLAND PARK PROJECTS

Refreshed Fan-Favorite Entertainment Returns

Project Status:  Upcoming.

Project Timeline: Announced at D23 2026. Debuting 2027.

Project Description:  At D23 2026, Disney Experiences Chairman Thomas Mazolum announced fan-favorite entertainment options in both theme parks would return in 2027, some refreshed with new enhancements. 

• • • Magic Happens Parade — Disneyland:  The award-winning parade will return to Disneyland’s Main Street, U.S.A. in early 2027.
    • Remember… Dreams Come True Fireworks — Disneyland:  The popular fireworks spectacular from Disneyland’s 50th Anniversary Celebration will return with new projection effects along the Rivers of America, at “it’s a small world,” and along Main Street, U.S.A.  The show will be additionally refreshed with new lighting and special effects.
    • Original World of Color nighttime spectacular — Disney California Adventure:  The original version of the show will return, refreshed with new effects and a never-before-seen scene.

For more information on this D23 announcement, see the full story here:

D23 2026: Fan-favorite entertainment returning to Disneyland!

 

Pirates of the Caribbean Queue Expansion  |  New Orleans Square

Project Status:  Unknown.

Project Timeline: Unknown. 

Project Description: Dusty Sage spoke with Imagineer Kim Irvine at a recent press event about the disruptive overflow line for Pirates of the Caribbean, which frequently snakes through the middle of the land. When asked if Pirates of the Caribbean might get a queue redesign Kim Irvine told him “That’s next.”  The plans could have included the permanent removal of the Royal Street Veranda takeout window and the Port Royal retail space for expanded Pirates of the Caribbean queue.  Kim Irvine retired in June 2025, leaving the project’s future unclear.  Since spring 2025, the Port Orleans retail space has been converted into a temporary seating area during busy seasons and back into retail during slower periods.  The continued use of this space as a flex space during busy sessions is likely to continue, but a permanent conversion into queue space for Pirates seems less likely at this time. 

New Dragon for Fantasmic!  |  Frontierland

Project Status:  Rumored.

Expected Completion Date:  Unknown.

Project Timeline:  The iconic dragon from Disneyland’s “Fantasmic!” show caught fire in April 2023 and was subsequently removed.  The show has, unfortunately, operated without a dragon since reopening in May 2024.  Rumors began circulating again prior to D23 2026 that Disney would soon announce a new dragon animatronic for the show.  

Project Description:  The project would include the construction and installation of a new dragon animatronic for the show’s climactic finale battle.  The previous dragon animatronic towered 45 feet over Mickey Mouse, as it lit the Rivers of America on fire during the nighttime spectacular’s thrilling finale. 

More information: Death of a Dragon – Coverage of the Fall of Murphy

Fantasyland Attraction Enhancements  |  Fantasyland

Project Status:  Rumored.

Expected Opening Date:  Unknown.

Project Timeline:  Fantasyland has been receiving major enhancements to its various attractions since Alice in Wonderland in 2014.  Peter Pan, Snow White, Matterhorn Bobsleds, Dumbo the Flying Elephant, and Storybook Land have all received notable updates since then.  Enhancements or replacements for remaining attractions are rumored to be in development.  

Project Description:  Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride and Pinocchio’s Daring Journey are the two remaining Fantasyland dark rides that have not received major enhancement packages.  The two dark rides could receive enhancements or be removed and replaced entirely in coming years.  Additional enhancements to Storybook Land Canal Boats are also possible, following the last major additions of Arendelle from “Frozen” in 2014 and Rapunzel’s Tower from “Tangled” in 2025.

New Matterhorn  |  Fantasyland

Project Status:  Rumored.

Expected Opening Date:  Unknown.

Project Timeline:  A rebuild or complete replacement of the Matterhorn Bobsleds could bring the original attraction to a close before its 70th anniversary.  This project could get tied into the larger New Tomorrowland project once that gets underway.

Project Description:   The existing Matterhorn Bobsleds attraction is a massive, aging structure that requires twice a year refurbishments and extensive maintenance.   The attraction could see a major retrofitting and rebuilding project, bringing the attraction in the existing mountain up to modern standards.  Alternate options could include a complete rebuild of the entire mountain itself, or the permanent closure of the Matterhorn alongside removal the Motorboat Cruise dock area and Submarine Voyage for an all-new land or mini-land.

Electric Autopia Vehicles  |  Tomorrowland

Project Status:  In progress.

Expected Opening Date:  Early 2027.

Project Timeline:  Disneyland confirmed in May 2026 that it would implement all-new electric ride vehicles at Autopia by early 2027.  

Project Description:   Disneyland is required to replace the gasoline-powered Autopia vehicles by early 2027 due to an agreement with the California Air Resources Board.  Disney confirmed that ride vehicle prototypes were in testing.   It is unclear how this project could affect or be impacted by long-term plans for New Tomorrowland or New Matterhorn projects. 

New Tomorrowland  |  Tomorrowland

Project Status:  Announced at D23 2026.

Expected Opening Date:  Unknown.

Project Timeline:  A new Tomorrowland project has been long-rumored to be in active development at Walt Disney Imagineering.  Rumors have circulated prior to the 2022, 2024, and 2026 D23 Expo events.  The project was finally confirmed and announced by Disney during D23 2026’s Disney Experiences Showcase where Disney Experiences Chairman Thomas Mazolum made the surprise announcement to repturous applause.

Project Description:   A significant re-imagining of Tomorrowland with updated aesthetics, enhanced attractions, major new E-Ticket attractions, and returning classics.  While officially announced at D23 2026 by Disney Experiences Chairman Thomas Mazolum, the announcement was vague with no concrete details or timeframe.  Mazolum said New Tomorrowland would “honor the legacy of the original land while reimagining its future.”  He also said the project would feature “new attractions, more open spaces, and new places for Disneyland guests to dream about the future.”  The New Tomorrowland project is being overseen by Imagineer Emily “Emo” O’Brien, who has been overseeing the new Space Mountain project at Tokyo Disneyland.

• • • • Reimagined gateway to Tomorrowland:  Announced in 2019 — As part of the New Tomorrowland project, a re-imagined gateway to the land is expected.  Plans for a new entry to the land were announced in 2019 and partially constructed but have since been stalled, despite construction walls with concept art remaining up. MiceChat rumors suggest the previously-announced gateway may have been scrapped and a new, plussed entry to the land could be in the works as part of a larger New Tomorrowland project, possibly involving nostalgic elements original to the land, such as the Clock of the World.
      • Reimagined Space Mountain:  Rumored — Space Mountain is expected to be getting major updates and upgrades as part of a larger New Tomorrowland project.  Space Mountain last received a major overhaul in 2005, as part of Disneyland’s 50th Anniversary.  The project included a complete rebuild of the track and brand new show and audio.  It has since received temporary overlays including Rockin’ Space Mountain (2007), Space Mountain Ghost Galaxy (2009-2018), and Hyperspace Mountain (2015-2022).  The attraction got multiple lighting effects refreshed and repaired during a 2024 refurbishment.  Rumors of a major Tokyo Disneyland-style all-new Space Mountain coming to Disneyland have also circulated.
      • Return of the PeopleMover:  Rumored — Unsubstantiated rumors have long hinted that a PeopleMover-type transportation system could be returning as part of a New Tomorrowland project. And, contrary to popular belief, the track wasn’t irreprably damaged by the Rocket Rods. 
      • New E-Ticket Attraction to replace Carousel Theater: Rumored — The area  occupied by the aging and underutilized Carousel Theater (Innoventions, Star Wars Launch Bay) is expected to eventually become home to a major new E-Ticket attraction.  The Carousel building no longer rotates and has long failed to draw sustained crowds during its time as Innoventions and Star Wars Launch Bay.   An all-new E-Ticket attraction would include the removal of the Carousel Theater building. This new attraction could also take over the space currently occupied by the Alien Pizza Planet restaurant (former Mission to Mars building).  
      • Larger North Tomorrowland Redevelopment:  Rumored —  Much more ambitious versions of New Tomorrowland proposals would include a complete redevelopment of the northern half of Tomorrowland.  This could include major rebuilds of existing attractions/facilities and/or all-new attractions replacing existing attractions and facilities.  The attractions and facilities that could be affected include the Autopia, Submarine Voyage, Matterhorn Bobsleds, Carousel Theater, and Alien Pizza Planet.  

For more on the Tomorrowland project, see our D23 announcement coverage: 

D23 2026: BREAKING – NEW Tomorrowland announced for Disneyland!!!

New Living Characters in Batuu  |  Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge

Project Status:  Previewed at D23 2026.

Expected Opening Date:  Unknown.

Project Timeline:  Disney previewed two major new “living character” creations at D23 2026’s Imagineering: Horizons pavilion.  While Imagineers said while there were no immediate plans for adding these living characters to the parks, there were strong hints that they could be added later on.

Project Description:   Two new Audio-Animatronics “living character” features were showcased at D23 2026.  These installations, or versions of them, could be replicated inside Disneyland’s Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.  Imagineers indicated this could be in the works.

• • • • Anzellan Workshop:  The Anzellan workshop featuerd three Anzellan alien creatures working on a droid head and with other machinery.  The Anzellans would interact and talk with each other while each working at their respeective work stations. 
      • Hugo’s Sweets & Fizz:  Hugo, an alien street vendor, is asleep in his snack truck while hovering droids transporting soft drinks interact with a curious Grogu.  This could lend itself to either being atmosphere for the land or lead to an interactive outdoor vending cart for park guests to purchase drinks from. 

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For more photos of upcoming projects and potential new magic, check out our article on D23 2026’s Imagineering: Horizons pavilion:

D23 2026: Walt Disney Imagineering shows off new Horizons for the parks

Avengers Campus Expansion   /  Avengers Campus

Project Status:  In progress and under construction.  

Expected Opening Date:  Announced to officially open in 2028.

Project Timeline:  Disney announced the major E-Ticket attraction for Avengers Campus at the 2019 D23 Expo.  In March 2022, Disney CEO Bob Chapek said the attraction was in a “holding pattern” due to “cash flow” issues related to the extended park closures.  At D23 Expo 2022, Disney officially announced a new attraction for Avengers Campus, which would feature a new concept and ride system than the previously-announced attraction. At D23 2024, the Imagineering Behind the Dreams pavilion featured a display that included a rendering of King Thanos and a model of the attraction’s ride vehicle.  It was revealed in D23 2024’s Disney Experiences Showcase that Avengers Campus would receive a fourth attraction, Stark Flight Lab, alongside the  E-Ticket, Avengers: Infinity Defense.  In June 2026, Disney announced it had selected the test-and-adjust team of Cast Members that will work with Walt Disney Imagineering to test the attraction prior to opening.    At D23 2026, Disney announced the Avengers Campus expansion would open in 2028, with the walkway connecting Avengers Campus to Cars Land “reopening soon.”

Project Description: 

• • • Avengers: Infinity Defense — E-Ticket attraction: At D23 Expo 2022, Marvel Studio head Kevin Feige and Disney Parks Chairman Josh D’Amaro announced plans for a new E-Ticket attraction that will take riders into the Marvel multiverse.  “Every character from every when” will be present, according to Feige.  Riders will join up with a multiverse of heroes to defeat a new villain, King Thanos. At Destination D23 in Orlando, FL, in September 2023, Disney officially shared new concept art of the attraction’s ride vehicle. The ride vehicle was described as a “world-jumping vehicle” that features “features a design that combines elements of Tony Stark’s time-suits with Xandarian jump points and Wakandan technology.”  In an Instagram post, Walt Disney Imagineering noted more information about the “physical worlds of this epic attraction” will be revealed later.  The post said Imagineers are bringing the attraction to life with “a blend of large-scale built environments and immersive media.”  At D23 2024, Disney announced the attraction’s official name will be “Avengers: Infinity Defense.”  The attraction will take guests on a multiversal mission to defeat King Thanos and will be joined with familiar faces from the MCU. Riders will visit locations such as Wakanda, Asgard, and New York City while on the attraction.  At D23 2026, it was announced that actors from Marvel Cinematic Universe will reprise their roles for the attration inluding Imah Vehlani (Ms. Marvel), Robert Downey Jr. (Tony Stark/Iron Man), Chris Hemsworth (Thor), Anthony Mackie (Captain America), and Jeremy Renner (Hawkeye).
    • Stark Flight Lab attraction: Announced at D23 2024, the new attraction will welcome guests into a Stark testing facility to try out new flight equipment.  Guests will test out new Gyrokinetic P.O.D.s and encounter different MCU characters on every ride.  Robert Downey Jr. will reprise his role as Iron Man for both attractions coming to the land. At D23 2026, it was announced that actors from Marvel Cinematic Universe will reprise their roles for the attration inluding Robert Downey Jr. (Tony Stark/Iron Man), Anthony Mackie (Captain America), and Brie Larson (Captain Marvel).
    • New beverage kiosk:  In late 2025, Disney filed a permit for a new beverage kiosk as part of the larger Avengers Campus expansion project.  The kiosk will feature a 402 square foot covered service counter along with a 140 square foot walk-in cooler.   As of early August 2026, Disney has not yet shared any official details on this beverage vending location.

For the latest on the Avengers Campus expansion project, see our D23 coverage:

D23 2026: Thrilling new details for upcoming Avengers attractions around the world

 

AVATAR Experience  /  Hollywood Land

Project Status:  Delayed.  Disney announced delays for this project during D23 2026.

Expected Opening Date:  Unkown.

Project Timeline:  In development and approval limbo for over a decade, a major overhaul for the Hollywood Studios portion of Hollywood Land has long been expected but repeatedly stalled. On February 8, 2023, Disney CEO Bob Iger announced a new “AVATAR experience” would be coming to the Disneyland Resort soon.  On March 7, D23 published an article with quotes from AVATAR: The Way of Water cast members reacting to the news of the expansion.  The article noted the announcement was “a long time coming, since Walt Disney Imagineers have been working to imagine more ways to bring Avatar stories and characters to life since 2017.”   In November 2023, during the “Imagineering Lunch & Learn” event at IAAPA, a Disney Imagineer said the AVATAR project was going into Disney California Adventure but Disney quickly walked back the statement, saying no official statement on the new AVATAR experience had been made.  At a state of the resort meeting in Anaheim with new Disneyland President Thomas Mazlum, it was confirmed that that the Monster’s Inc. Mike & Sully to the Rescue ride in the Hollywood Backlot area of California Adventure would close in early 2026 to make way for a new AVATAR-themed land.  In February 2026, Disneyland announced it was delaying the closure of the Monster’s Inc. attraction into 2027.  Disneyland said the decision was made with families with children in mind, considering the limited family-friendly options in Disney California Adventure.  Disney said the delayed closure would not affect the opening timeline for AVATAR.  These schedule changes sparked rumors that the Avatar project was in trouble and might be canceled or replaced with a clone of Zootopia from Shanghai Disneyland.  During an August 2026 earnings call, Disney confirmed the AVATAR project was still planned.  At D23 2026, Disney announced the New Tomorrowland project and later told media that the focus would shift to New Tomorrowland after Avengers Campus and Coco open at Disney California Adventure, delaying Avatar indefinitely.  Disney’s official word is that the project is delayed until after Tomorrowland is completed and has not yet officially been canceled.

Project Description:  The project would encompass the redevelopment of a large portion of Hollywood Land, if not the entire land. Various rumored proposals for the space have been made over the years, including a Monsters Inc.-themed Monstropolis area, an extension of the Marvel-themed Avengers Campus, and more.  With Bob Iger’s 2023 announcement of AVATAR coming to the Disneyland Resort, rumors and official-then-not-official announcements have been made indicating the AVATAR experience will be added to Disney California Adventure, likely taking over what is currently Hollywood Land.   A March 7, 2023 D23 article includes a quote from an AVATAR movie cast member that describes the project as an “expansion,” which D23 did not correct or change.  The concept art depicts at least one attraction, which appears to be a next-generation boat ride.  Rumors and speculation suggest the attraction could utilize the ride system from Shanghai Disneyland’s Pirates of the Caribbean attraction.  At D23 2024, Disney revealed additional concept art for the new land and signature attraction.  New concept art strongly suggested utilizing the Pirates ride system from Shanghai.  An Imagineering desk featuring sculpted iterations of the rock work being designed for the new land was displayed in the Imagineering pavilion as well.  At D23 2026, a new model of the attraction area and entrance was displayed alongside a maquette of the ride vehicle.  Disney Imagineers confirmed the attraction would utilize the Shanghai Disneyland Pirates of the Caribbean boat ride system.  

More information:  MiceChat coverage of Avatar-themed experience coming to Disneyland Resort

Coco boat ride attraction  /  Pixar Pier

Project Status:  Under construction. 

Expected Opening Date:  Unknown.

Project Timeline:  Disney announced the first-ever “Coco“-themed attraction would be coming to Disney California Adventure during the Disney Experiences Showcase at D23 2024. Initial site work began backstage on the far west side of Pixar Pier at the start of 2026, with major construction beginning in late-May 2026. 

Project Description:  The all-new boat ride attraction was announced with minimal details at D23 2024. Additional details on what the attraction will entail were released at D23 2026.  The all-new attraction will take place approximately one year after the events of the film “Coco.”  It will feature a queue themed as a “casa museo” dedicated to Miguel’s great-great grandfather Hector.  The on-ride experience will lean heavily into the music and feelings of the original film.  Guests will go on a journey with Miguel as he recounts his memories of the Land of the Dead.  The attraction entrance will be located between Inside Out Emotional Whirlwind and the Paradise Gardens area.  The nearby Paradise Gardens dining patio is transformed into the Plaza De La Familia every holiday season. 

D23 2026: New details revealed for Coco ride at Disney California Adventure

Steakhouse 55 restaurant revival  /  Disneyland Hotel

Project Status:  Rumored.

Expected Opening Date:  Unknown.

Project Timeline:  With the success of the Broken Spell Lounge at Disneyland Hotel, there are rumors that the adjoining but long-shuttered Steakhouse 55 fine dining restaurant could return in a new form. 

DOWNTOWN DISNEY & BEYOND PROJECTS

Downtown Disney Re-Imagining and Expansion

Project Status:  In progress.

Expected Opening Date:  Various dates.

Project Timeline:  Closures in Downtown Disney’s west side initially got underway in 2018 when Disney planned to build a major new luxury hotel on much of the space occupied by the west end of the shopping district.  That hotel was eventually canceled following disputes between Disney and the City of Anaheim over tax breaks related to the hotel’s construction.  

The shuttered venues, including AMC Theater, Rainforest Cafe, and ESPN Zone remained in limbo for some time.  The closed Earl of Sandwich and Starbucks locations temporarily reopened after the hotel project was canceled.  A portion of Rainforest Cafe reopened as the Star Wars Trading Post in February 2021 and currently remains open.  ESPN Zone has been used for pop-up events, exhibits, merchandise events, and other various backstage uses.  

Demolition of the AMC Theater got underway in February 2022, with a new outdoor stage and lawn opening on a portion of the former AMC Theater site on November 10, 2023.  The stage features a “soaring sculptural tower” by contemporary artist Nikkolas Smith.  An all-new guest entry and security checkpoint opened on the back portion of the former AMC Theater site on May 31, 2024.  Additionally, an all-new Din Tai Fung restaurant was also built on a portion of the former AMC site.  The Chinese dumpling restaurant soft opened in late June 2024 and officially opened July 1.  Another major addition on the former AMC Theater site, the new Parkside Market food court, is still under active construction as of August 2024.

Elsewhere in Downtown Disney, the long-standing Tortilla Jo’s restaurant closed on March 31, 2024 to make way for two new dining concepts.  In early May 2024, the new Paseo, Centrico, and Tiendita family of contemporary Mexican restaurants opened. These locations replaced the long-standing Catal and Uva Bar restaurants.  The all-new Earl of Sandwich and Gordon Ramsay at the Carnaby opened in July 2026.

Downtown Disney will continue its evolution throughout 2026 and 2027 with the construction and opening of new dining locations including Porto’s Bakery and Arthur & Sons Steak and Bourbon. 

Project Description:  Major changes continue to transform the entirety of the Downtown Disney District.  These changes include shop expansions, relocations, new dining offerings, and a major expansion of the shopping district’s west side.  The reimagined west end of Downtown Disney is designed in the Southern California mid-century modern style and features new shopping, dining, a lawn, and a new performance stage.  Popular offerings including a return of Earl of Sandwich, the addition of Din Tai Fung, a quick service food court with a rooftop bar, and more will be part of the reimagined complex.  

Downtown Disney projects 

• • • • All-New Earl of Sandwich and Gordon Ramsay at the Carnaby:  NOW OPEN! — Earl of Sandwich returned in February 2023 in the former La Brea Bakery location. A new sit-down “Earl of Sandwich Tavern” version of the restaurant also opened in the same location, with a new menu featuring salads, sandwiches, prime rib, and more at higher price points.  On January 22, 2024 Disney confirmed an “all-new, two-story” location featuring “a quick-service Earl of Sandwich shop on the ground level and a table-service gastropub upstairs” was in the works for Downtown Disney.  Disney did not specify a location. Earl of Sandwich opened a temporary pop-up location near the Star Wars Trading Post in early August 2024, after several months of delays.  As of early August 2024, the temporary location in the former La Brea Bakery building remains open.  On August 30, 2024, Disney announced the existing Earl of Sandwich location in the former La Brea Bakery would close in 2025 to make room for Porto’s (we have since learned the final day of operation will be July 25, 2025).  The August announcement also included concept art for the new two-story Earl of Sandwich location, which will include a table-service pub upstairs called The Carnaby Tavern and be theme to the 1960s “British Invasion.”   It was announced in October 2025 that celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay would  be attached to the new Carnaby Tavern.   The all-new Earl of Sandwich and Gordon Ramsay at the Carnaby restaurant officially opened in July 2026.

        

        

        

        

        

        

      • Porto’s Bakery & Cafe: New construction — Porto’s is a Southern California chain of bakery-cafes serving Cuban-American pastries and cuisine.  The original La Brea Bakery building was demolished in January 2026 along with two existing Disneyland ticket booths.  Site work and excavation took place throughout the spring and summer 2026.

        

        

         

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      • Arthur & Sons Steak and Bourbon and Pearl’s Roadside Barbecue restaurants:  New construction — The long-running Tortilla Jo’s restaurant closed March 31. In early April 2024, Disney announced two new dining concepts would be built on the site of the former Tortilla Jo’s; a table-service steakhouse and a quick-service barbecue restaurant, both by Michelin-starred chef Joe Isidori.  The Tortilla Jo’s building remained shuttered until demolition began in February 2025.  The project was stalled for quite some time but as of August 2026, ground-level construction was underway.

        

        

        

        

More information:  MiceChat Downtown Disney expansion and news coverage

DisneylandForward & Third Theme Park

Project Status:  Some elements in progress.   

Expected Opening Date:  Various.

Project Timeline:  Disney announced DisneylandForward in March 2022.  On May 7, 2024, the City of Anaheim unanimously approved Disney’s plans for a $1.9 billion, 10-year investment in the form of DisneylandForward.  

Project Description:  DisneylandForward is a large-scale proposal by Disney to re-imagine the Disneyland Resort’s property zoning for future theme park, hotel, dining, and shopping experiences as well as a major parking structure. As available expansion space has become increasingly limited, Disney had to work with the City of Anaheim to rewrite the way the Resort property is zoned.  With city approval in May 2024, the DisneylandForward proposal allows the company to more freely utilize their property and maximize its potential.  The project is expected to be realized in the following three phases:

• • • • New Eastern Gateway — In progress:  A major reimagining of the Harbor Blvd.-facing Eastern Gateway with transform the arrival experience for guests entering Disneyland from Harbor Blvd.  This project is currently underway, with preliminary construction on the new parking structure and in the eastern esplanade expected to begin in mid-to-late-August 2026.  The Eastern Gateway project will include:
        • Removal of existing transportation hub: The AVATAR project inside Disney California Adventure will utilize space currently occupied by the Harbor Blvd. transportation hub.  The new parking structure, pedestrian bridge, and security gateway will need to be built first, allowing the Toy Story lot to close for future development and making the buses unnecessary. The removal of the buses will also help the Disneyland Resort meet its environmental targets.
        • Redevelopment of Eastern Esplanade:  With the removal of the existing transportation hub and expansion of the California Adventure park boundaries, a new Eastern Esplanade area will need to be built for arriving guests to pass through. 
        • New parking structure with transportation hub and security screening zone:   The new parking structure with a connected transportation and security screening area will be constructed on the site of the former Pumbaa parking lot as well as some nearby office buildings.  Guests parking at the new structure will pass through a new security screening zone before crossing the new bridge over Harbor Blvd. Permits suggest the new parking structure will begin construction in Fall 2026, with the pedestrian bridge and additional elements to follow.
        • New pedestrian bridge over Harbor Boulevard:  A new pedestrian bridge over Harbor Blvd., which was previously blocked in 2016 by the City of Anaheim and later approved in 2024 as part of the DisneylandForward project, will connect the parking structure, security, and transportation hub to the existing Disneyland Resort theme parks, Downtown Disney, and hotels.  A secondary security screening zone for foot traffic coming in on foot from Harbor Blvd. will be built as part of the bridge complex.  Original concept art showed an open-air bridge with trees and landscaped portions.  Updated concept art released in August 2026 showed the removal of tress and landscaping on the bridge in favor of a partial-shade covering along the length of the bridge. 

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      • Toy Story Parking Lot redevelopment:  A new multi-use shopping, dining, entertainment, and hotel complex targeted toward convention visitors would be built where the existing Toy Story parking lot is currently located. This project could start construction after the new east-side parking structure is complete.

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      • Third Theme Park: Although the initial DisneylandForward description simply mentioned attraction expansions for the Disneyland Resort theme parks, Disney has told local residents it is working with local community groups, businesses, and the city on a framework for a third theme park.  This third park would be built on the land that runs on the far west end of the resort, surrounding the Disneyland Hotel and Paradise Pier Hotel. Unlike the previously canceled hotel and parking structure projects, Disney is spending a significant amount of time and money to build community support for this project.

Disney showcased projects such as Shanghai Disneyland’s upcoming Zootopia land and Tokyo DisneySea’s Fantasy Springs attractions as possibilities for expansion under the DisneylandForward project banner. These attractions as well as entirely new concepts could be built. DisneylandForward encompasses more than just expansion on the Resort’s west side, it spans the entire resort area as everything has now been rezoned to allow mixed-use development. Meaning, some of what Disneyland has proposed to residents, such as a new Frozen land, could be built almost anywhere in the resort. We won’t need to wait for a 3rd park to see the expansion benefits of DisneylandForward.  

More information:  MiceChat coverage of DisneylandForward

Let us know your thoughts!

So that’s what’s in the works at the Disneyland Resort! Which D23 2026 announcement was your favorite?  Which projects are you most looking forward to, which are you not thrilled with, and what projects do you hope to see added to this tracker in the future?  Let us know in the comments section below! And don’t forget to bookmark this article as we will update it with the latest announcements, rumors, and project updates!  

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• For more D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event coverage here on MiceChat, visit our D23 landing page

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Previous Project Tracker Updates:

Updated September 2, 2026:  Added new concept art pieces to the AVATAR Experience and Eastern Gateway section of the DisneylandForward entry. 

Updated August 17, 2026:  Updates to multiple entries following D23 2026 announcements, including New Tomorrowland, New Matterhorn, AVATAR experience, Coco attraction, and Avengers Campus expansion.  Two new entries added for Star Wars Living Characters and Returning Fan-Favorite Entertainment. 

Updated August 1, 2026:  General housekeeping.  Significant revisions were made to nearly every entry in the Project Tracker in preparation for D23 2026.  Addition of new entries for a new Fantasmic! dragon, New Matterhorn, and Electric Autopia Vehicles were added, along with a significant expansion of the New Tomorrowland entry. 

Updated July 29, 2026:  General housekeeping.  Removal of many completed/opened projects, including: “Walt Disney: A Magical Life” show, Critter Country transformation into Bayou Country, New Mission for Millennium Falcon attraction, Disneyland & Grand Californian new lounges, Parkside Market – Disney Wonderful World of Sweets, Avengers Reserve, D-Lander Shop, Nectar Bath Treats.  Some additional edits were made.  Major edits and revision are coming soon. 

Updated Friday, June 6, 2025: Confirmations for several previous rumors (Parking structure, Avatar, Nectar, and Funko), removal of completed projects (Haunted Mansion expansion, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure), and expansion of rumors for Pirates of the Caribbean, Bayou Country, and Tomorrowland.

Updated Sunday, August 12:  General housekeeping including some minor corrections.  Updated Hungry Bear food photos to Critter Country entry. 

Updated Sunday, August 11:  Added entries for “Walt Disney: A Magical Life” show, Updated Tiana’s Bayou Adventure entry. Updated Critter Country transformation entry.  Added entry for New Mission on Millennium Falcon.  Updated New Tomorrowland entry.  Converted Avengers E-Ticket entry to Avengers Campus expansion entry and updated info.   Updated AVATAR-themed expansion entry.  Added new entry for Coco-themed boat ride.

Updated Thursday, August 8:  Added photos of the Avengers Multiverse attraction display from D23 2024’s Imagineering Behind the Dreams pavilion. 

Updated Thursday, August 8:  Major refresh and relaunch of the entire Disneyland Resort Project Tracker. The Project Tracker update included the removal of many completed projects, clean-up and updates to all on-going projects, and more.

August 6, 2024:  Complete overhaul of all entries, including removal of all now-completed projects, updating and clean-up of ongoing projects, and general refresh of entire article.

January 15th, 2024: General housekeeping, including: 

• Removal of a Whinnie the Pooh attraction retheme which does not seem likely to happen at this point.  
• Confirmation of Star Tours new destinations.

January 9, 2023:  General housekeeping, including:

• Removal of entries for now-completed projects including:  Adventureland Treehouse, Indiana Jones Adventure enhancements, Tiana’s Palace Restaurant, Avengers Vault store, Disney Vacation Club Tower at Disneyland Hotel, MagicBand+ and Hey Disney, subsections of Downtown Disney reimagining, etc.
• Updating of in-progress entries including Downtown Disney Re-Imagining, Pixar Place Hotel, etc.

September 12, 2023:  General housekeeping, the addition of two new entries, and refreshing the following entries:

• New entry added for Expanded Haunted Mansion grounds, including new queue, reworked plaza area, and new gift shop. 
• New entry added for Updated Star Tours scenes featuring Ahsoka 
• Tiana’s Palace Restaurant entry updated to reflect the rethemed restaurant is officially open.
• Adventureland Treehouse entry updated with new opening timeline. 
• San Fransokyo Square entry updated to reflect the rethemed food court is officially open. 
• Avengers Vault retail shop entry updated with opening timeline, official store logo graphic, and additional information. 
• Avengers Multiverse E-Ticket entry updated with new ride vehicle concept art. 
• Removed Rogers: The Musical entry, now that the show’s limited run has ended.

June 22, 2023:  General housekeeping and refreshing of entries throughout the Project Tracker. Over the last several weeks we made several notable updates including:  

• Rogers: The Musical entry updated with closure date for limited engagement show.
• San Fransokyo Square entry updated with new details and phased opening timeline. 
• Tiana’s Bayou Adventure entry updated following closure of Splash Mountain.
• Downtown Disney Reimagining entry updated with new info about “The Alley.”
• Pixar Place Hotel entry updated with new concept art of dining, pool area, and lobby. 
• Disney Vacation Club Tower at Disneyland Hotel entry updated with new concept art for pool area.

April 19, 2023: Added Clyde’s Hot Chicken and Tortilla Jo’s to Downtown Disney Re-Imagining and Expansion entry along with some general housekeeping of the main Downtown Disney entry. 

April 17, 2023: General housekeeping, including: Removed Mickey’s Toontown entry now that project is complete and open; updated Tiana’s Bayou Adventure entry with new concept art and closing date for Splash Mountain; updated Rogers: The Musical entry with opening date and new concept art;  updated Downtown Disney Re-Imagining and Expansion entry with Catal and Uva Bar closures, removed Disney Home and WonderGround Gallery now that those projects have reopened with only backstage/cosmetic changes, added Sprinkles to Downtown Disney retail projects.

March 30, 2023:  General housekeeping.  Changed status of Mickey’s Toontown project, updated opening date and added new images for Disney Vacation Club Star View Station entry, added entry for Avengers HQ retail shop

March 9, 2023:  New entry added for an AVATAR Experience at Disneyland Resort. The entry has been added to the Downtown Disney & Beyond category, for lack of a better place to put it.  This entry will be relocated as more information is released. Plus, we’ve made recent updates to Mickey’s Toontown, Rogers: The Musical, Tiana’s Palace Restaurant, San Fransokyo Square and more.

March 7, 2023:  Added new entry for AVATAR Experience to Downtown Disney & Beyond category, for lack of a better place to put it.  This entry will be relocated as more information is released.

March 6, 2023:  The Villas at the Disneyland Hotel (Disney Vacation Club) entry updated with additional concept renderings and official opening date.   Mickey’s Toontown entry was updated with Cafe Daisy and Good Boy Market information and photos of new food offerings.

February 25, 2023:  Project Tracker was updated with various small additions in multiple entries, additional concept art, and general housekeeping.  Notable changes included updated entries for Mickey’s Toontown, San Fransokyo Square, Rogers: The Musical at the Hyperion Theater, and The Villas at the Disneyland Hotel (Disney Vacation Club).