Walt Disney World's Spaceship Earth Set to Close for Extended Maintenance

Disney World has announced the extended closure of the iconic Epcot attraction, Spaceship Earth, for routine maintenance. The ride, which has been open since 1982, takes guests on a journey through the history of human communication. The closure is considered a necessary upkeep project and is not a sweeping overhaul. Disney fans can expect beloved rides and attractions to close periodically for updates.

EPCOT's iconic Spaceship Earth attraction has officially closed for a multi-month refurbishment, marking the beginning of a routine maintenance project for the park's signature attraction. The closure, which began on August 25, 2025, is part of Disney's ongoing efforts to keep its attractions safe and up-to-date.

The refurbishment of Spaceship Earth, which has been open since 1982, is expected to focus on ride system updates and general maintenance. While the exact timeline for the project is not yet specified, it is anticipated that the attraction will reopen later this year, possibly around Thanksgiving, given the park's busiest time of the year is the Festival of the Holidays.

The GEO-82 Lounge, located within the attraction, will remain open during the refurbishment period, providing guests with a place to enjoy a drink or snack while they wait for the attraction to reopen. This is a welcome addition to the park, as it allows guests to still enjoy a portion of the Spaceship Earth experience despite the closure.

This closure is part of a broader trend of ride refurbishments at Walt Disney World, with several other attractions also slated for maintenance and updates. Disney has been increasingly focusing on preventative maintenance and ride refurbishments, following a period of reduced upkeep during the off-season. This is a necessary step to ensure the safety and longevity of the park's attractions.

The closure of Spaceship Earth is not expected to significantly impact the park's overall attendance or revenue. While some guests may be disappointed by the closure, many will still have plenty of other attractions and experiences to enjoy at EPCOT. Additionally, the refurbishment of Spaceship Earth is a necessary investment in the park's future, ensuring that the attraction remains a popular and beloved part of the guest experience.

In summary, the closure of Spaceship Earth for refurbishment is a routine maintenance project that is part of Disney's ongoing efforts to keep its attractions safe and up-to-date. While the closure may be disappointing for some guests, it is a necessary step to ensure the long-term success and popularity of the attraction.

References:
[1] https://www.wdwmagic.com/attractions/spaceship-earth/news/25aug2025-spaceship-earth-now-closed-for-refurbishment-at-epcot.htm
[2] https://www.laughingplace.com/disney-parks/spaceship-earth-2025-refurb-at-epcot/
[3] https://www.disneytouristblog.com/disney-world-refurbishments/