“Cool Kids Summer” 2026: New Rides, Free Water Park Entry, and Big Discounts. Walt Disney World has announced what’s coming with the return of Cool KIDS’ SUMMER in 2026! Starting May 26 and running through September 8, Disney World will debut several new character meet-and-greets, ride updates, and a list of travel deals designed to make a Disney vacation more affordable for families.
While we know some of the plans coming to Walt Disney World in 2026, this is the first major reveal for Cool Kids Summer 2026! It looks like it will be filled with so much to do for the whole family. In 2025, we had a blast covering the Animation Courtyard Character meet and greets, hanging with Goofy at Goofycore Hall, and dancing with Stitch at the Magic Kingdom.
Disney parks just posted to social media: “Make your summer plans accordingly 🗓️ Here’s a look at what’s coming to @WaltDisneyWorld this summer ✨😎”
Disney is leaning heavily into its popular franchises this summer with several temporary and permanent additions:
Bluey at Animal Kingdom: For the first time, Bluey and Bingo will appear at the Conservation Station. Kids can play games from the show and see animals native to Australia.
The Muppets take over Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster: The famous coaster at Hollywood Studios is getting a revamp featuring Dr. Teeth and The Electric Mayhem.
Star Wars Updates: A new mission featuring The Mandalorian and Grogu is coming to the Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run ride.
Soarin’ Across America: EPCOT will debut a new version of its flight simulator to celebrate the U.S. 250th birthday, featuring landmarks from across the country.
Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live: A new stage show for younger children is launching at Hollywood Studios.
Ways to Save This Summer: Disney is releasing a series of offers on January 6, 2026, to help families manage costs. Here are the main ways to save:
The “Add Free Days” Deal: If you book a 4-night, 4-day room and ticket package, you can get two extra nights and two extra park days for free. This deal applies to most nights from May 26 to September 15 but must be booked by February 15.
Free Water Park Entry: Guests staying at a Disney Resort hotel between May 26 and September 8 receive complimentary admission to either Typhoon Lagoon or Blizzard Beach on their check-in day.
Dining and Room Discounts
- Kids Eat Free: Children ages 3 to 9 get a free dining plan when adults on the same reservation purchase one.
- Hotel Savings: General guests can save up to 30% on rooms. Florida residents can save up to 35%, and Annual Passholders can get up to 40% off.
If you stay on-property at hotels like Pop Century or Art of Animation, there are extra perks this summer. Characters will be visiting these specific resorts more often, and the “Early Theme Park Entry” (the 30-minute head start in the mornings) will now include character appearances inside the parks.
