Cool Kids' Summer 2026 at Walt Disney World: New Experiences, Family Fun, and Summer Savings

January 5, 2026 by Lisa Giombetti

Summer has a certain kind of sparkle at Walt Disney World. The days feel longer, the parks stay glowing well into the evening, and there is an unmistakable sense that anything can happen. In 2026, that feeling is turned all the way up as Cool Kids’ Summer returns from May 26 through September 8, 2026, bringing playful energy, fresh entertainment, and limited-time experiences designed especially for families.

This is the season when Disney leans into fun that feels lighthearted and interactive. Think more dancing, more characters, more chances for kids to jump right into the magic, and more room in the day to enjoy it all at an easy pace.

Across the parks, familiar favorites get a summer refresh while brand-new experiences make their debut. Over at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Bluey and Bingo are heading to Conservation Station, turning a ride on the Wildlife Express Train into a full-on adventure. Once you arrive, little ones can play interactive games inspired by Bluey episodes, meet Bluey and Bingo themselves, and even learn about animals native to Australia. It is cheerful, hands-on, and tailor-made for younger guests.

Magic Kingdom turns up the fun as Toy Story pals roll into the Diamond Horseshoe for a summer-only western roundup. Jessie’s Roundup invites kids to craft, dance, and yodel along with Jessie, Woody, and friends in a high-energy revue that feels equal parts playful and nostalgic. Just a few lands away, Space Rangers are getting called back into action on a refreshed Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin, complete with updated ride vehicles and new hand-held blasters that make saving the galaxy feel even more exciting.

At EPCOT, CommuniCore Hall becomes GoofyCore for Cool Kids’ Summer, where silly games, dancing, and kid-approved chaos take center stage. Goofy, DJ Dance Pants, and the Goof Troop bring the laughs with interactive activities that encourage kids to move, play, and just be kids. EPCOT also welcomes a brand-new Soarin’ experience later in the summer. Soarin’ Across America debuts by Memorial Day, offering a sweeping journey across the United States in honor of the nation’s 250th birthday.

Hollywood Studios brings its own brand of summer energy, blending high-energy entertainment with beloved characters. Younger guests can sing and dance along during the debut of Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live!, a brand-new stage show where Mickey and Minnie take the party on the road to find their friends. Thrill-seekers will find even more to love as Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets races back into the spotlight, pairing high-speed fun with Electric Mayhem tunes and classic Muppets humor. Beginning May 22, the Millennium Falcon launches guests into a new adventure as Din Djarin and Grogu take over Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run, allowing crews to help decide which planets their mission will visit.

Back at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Zootopia: Better Zoogether! continues the fun, bringing Judy Hopps, Nick Wilde, and friends together in a lively 4D celebration filled with music, laughter, and colorful surprises. It is one of those experiences that feels especially perfect on a summer afternoon.

The magic does not stop when you leave the parks. Guests staying at Disney Resorts Collection hotels enjoy daily 30-minute early theme park entry, and during Cool Kids’ Summer, that time includes extra surprises like character appearances across all four theme parks. Select resorts, including Disney’s Pop Century Resort, Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, and Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside, also feature additional family-focused activities and scheduled character visits throughout the summer. These join the resort favorites families already love, like movies under the stars and poolside games.

Summer fun pairs beautifully with summer savings, and 2026 brings some of the most appealing offers of the year.

Guests who purchase a select 4-night, 4-day (or longer) Walt Disney Travel Company room and ticket package can receive two free room nights and two free theme park days, giving families at least six days to enjoy the parks and their resort.

  • Valid for most nights May 26 through September 15, 2026
  • Booking window: January 6 through February 15, 2026

Additional offers include savings of up to 30 percent on select Disney Resort hotels for stays most nights May 1 through October 4, 2026, with offer details available beginning January 6, 2026.

Guests staying at a Disney Resorts Collection hotel between May 26 and September 8, 2026 can also enjoy free admission to one Walt Disney World water park on their check-in day. With both Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach open, families can choose the splash-filled day that fits their vibe.

Looking ahead to 2026, families can also take advantage of a particularly delicious perk. Kids ages 3 to 9 receive a free dining plan when you purchase a qualifying Disney Resort hotel package that includes a dining plan for guests ages 10 and up. It is an easy way to simplify meals and add even more value to your vacation.

Cool Kids’ Summer is all about leaning into joy, embracing a little silliness, and creating memories that feel unmistakably Disney. With seasonal entertainment, refreshed attractions, resort-exclusive perks, and strong summer offers, it is a season designed for families to slow down, play more, and soak up every magical moment.

Be Our Guest Vacations is here to help you turn all of that summer magic into a perfectly planned vacation, at no additional cost. From matching your family with the right resort and offer to helping you plan park days that flow smoothly and leave room for fun, we take care of the details so you can focus on making memories.

Reach out to Be Our Guest Vacations to start planning your Cool Kids’ Summer at Walt Disney World and get ready for a summer filled with laughter, characters, and unforgettable Disney moments.