Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin closing this summer for major overhaul!

Starting August 4, 2025, Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin in Tomorrowland at Magic Kingdom will shut down temporarily to undergo a significant refurbishment, with a scheduled reopening in 2026.

What’s Changing?

Disney Imagineering is giving this beloved attraction a comprehensive refresh:

• New Intro Scene & Character

  
  

  A fresh pre-flight scene will introduce Buddy, a friendly support-bot created by WDI and Pixar. Buddy will help Space Rangers perform system checks and practice with interactive target features before launching into battle.

• Upgraded Ride Vehicles

  
  

  Guests will be guided aboard redesigned Star Cruisers inspired by Buzz Lightyear and Star Command. Each vehicle will feature upgraded video monitors for real-time scoring and enhanced interactivity.

• Handheld Blasters

  
  

  Instead of fixed guns, riders will use new handheld blasters that offer always-on lasers, dual-color shot differentiation, and light, sound, and haptic feedback—making targeting more intuitive for all ages.

• Interactive Targets & Gameplay Enhancements

  
  

  The static “Z” targets will now animate and light up when hit, greatly enhancing engagement. These new mechanics open possibilities for more immersive gameplay, currently undergoing internal playtests.

  
  

Why Now?

Originally opened back in November 1998, Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin has remained largely unchanged in terms of core mechanics, especially when compared to versions in Disneyland or Shanghai. With the release of Toy Story 5 and Disney’s broader push to refresh Tomorrowland, this overhaul aims to modernize one of the park’s most enduring and frequently cited attractions.

Final Thoughts

This overhaul promises to rejuvenate the ride with better tech, more interactivity, and deeper immersion bringing Buzz’s mission into the 21st century. Fans of the original might notice the shift, but as many have pointed out, this update was “overdue”.

If you’re planning a summer trip, be sure to ride before August 4th! And if you’re a competitive sharpshooter, may the Galactic Hero on your final “old-style” ride be out of this world.