The Walt Disney Company (DIS) has managed to combine nostalgia and anticipation in a way that few other companies have.
Ford comes to mind, with its slate of Broncos, and so does McDonald's, which frequently brings back former favorite menu items while consistently adding new ones.
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But Disney is a master at walking this tightrope.
Whether you visit Disney theme parks once a year or once a decade, you'll find timeless attractions you remember from your childhood, some attractions that are brand new, and others that manage to be familiar yet have also been updated.
When Disney closes an attraction temporarily, visitors might be disappointed to miss out while they're visiting. But when an attraction closes permanently, there is usally an outcry.
Related: Disney World closing three iconic attractions permanently
Just this year Disney World closed some of its most iconic attractions, including Tom Sawyer Island and Rivers of America, which had been at the park since opening day. At Disneyland, the Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue! attraction will permanently close in early 2026.
In both cases, plenty of Disney fans took to social media to express their disappointment.
All that is to say, never fall too much in love with an attraction at a Disney theme park because not everything that gets real estate is destined to stay forever.
A beloved Disney Epcot attraction requires major maintenance
Of course, sometimes attractions are closed only for upkeep or updates, which is the case with Spaceship Earth.
Walt Disney World has officially announced the extended closure of this popular and signature Epcot attraction.
The attraction closed on August 25, 2025, according to the company.
Guests visiting the park now find planters blocking the entrance and signs indicating the ride is temporarily closed.
Related: Disney World shares expansion plan to take down Epic Universe
Spaceship Earth, with its iconic 18-story geodesic dome, is both a ride and a landmark that has been open since the day the park first welcomed guests in 1982. The “dark ride” takes guests on a journey through the history of human communication.
Disney filed a “general construction” permit for Spaceship Earth updates in July, and in early August, crews began working on the exterior panels of the structure.
This is considered a routine upkeep project rather than a sweeping overhaul, aiming to address necessary maintenance without altering the core experience.
How does the Spaceship Earth closure affect Epcot ambiance?
Even though guests can't go on the Spaceship Earth ride, they can visit GEO-82, the themed lounge inspired by the attraction.
Geo-82 is open during the downtime to keep guests intrigued. Guests can still enjoy specialty drinks that pay tribute to the ride until its reopening.
Disney has not provided an exact reopening date; the attraction is listed as closed and “planned to reopen later this year.”
Related: Disney cancels longtime perk because not enough people use it
Some Disney fans anticipate a reopening before the holiday season, possibly aligning with Epcot's International Festival of the Holidays, which begins on November 28.
“Disney needs to update Spaceship Earth, but closing it is a blow to Epcot, as it's in such a high-traffic location. Ideally, they will have it back open before the holiday season,” said TheStreet Co-editor in Chief Daniel Kline, a Florida resident.
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As Disney continues its maintenance efforts, fans will eagerly await the return of this beloved attraction.
For the latest updates on the refurbishment and reopening of Spaceship Earth, guests are encouraged to check the official Disney World website and the My Disney Experience app.
These platforms will provide the most current information on attraction status and operational hours.
(The Arena Group will earn a commission if you book a trip.)
Make a free appointment with TheStreet’s Travel Agent Partner, Postcard Travel, or email Amy Post at amypost@postcardtravelplanning.com or call or text her at 386-383-2472.
