Disney World's Buzz Lightyear Space Ranger Spin Reopens with Upgrades

The classic ride gets new blasters, animatronics, and targets ahead of Disney's 'Cool Kid Summer' event.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 1:30am

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Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin at Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom is set to reopen on April 8, 2026, with a host of technological upgrades. The ride will feature new blasters with haptic feedback and improved LED lighting, as well as a redesigned animatronic to help train riders. The refreshed attraction is just the start of Disney's plans for the coming year, which include the launch of 'Cool Kid Summer' on May 26 and the reopening of other classic rides like Big Thunder Mountain Railroad.

Why it matters

The Buzz Lightyear ride is a beloved classic at Disney World, and the upgrades are aimed at keeping the experience fresh and engaging for both longtime fans and new riders. The timing of the reopening also aligns with the upcoming release of Toy Story 5, further connecting the ride to the popular Pixar franchise.

The details

The updated Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin will feature several key changes, including new blasters that can be picked up and held, rather than being bolted to the ride vehicle. These blasters will have improved haptic feedback and LED lighting to make the targeting experience more immersive. The ride will also introduce entirely new targets that react with built-in LEDs and spinning elements. Additionally, the ride's on-board displays will be modernized, allowing riders to see their scores in real-time and check their Galactic Hero status.

  • Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin will reopen on April 8, 2026.
  • Disney's 'Cool Kid Summer' event will launch on May 26, 2026, and run through September 8.

The players

Kimberly Alison

Producer at Walt Disney Imagineering.

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What they’re saying

“It's exciting to take a classic attraction that's been a hit for almost 30 years and get to infuse today's technology — like our reactive targets, and blasters with haptics, lighting, and sound cues — to elevate the guest experience while still immersing super fans and new guests alike into a story we all know and love.”

— Kimberly Alison, Producer at Walt Disney Imagineering (TechRadar)

What’s next

The refreshed Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin ride is just the start of a larger transformation at Walt Disney World, with additional classic attractions like Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and Rock 'n' Roller Coaster also set to reopen in the coming months.

The takeaway

Disney is making significant investments to modernize and enhance its classic attractions, ensuring that beloved rides like Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin remain engaging and immersive for both longtime fans and new visitors. These upgrades, combined with the launch of 'Cool Kid Summer,' demonstrate Disney's commitment to providing a fresh and exciting experience for guests in the years ahead.