As a seasoned Disney theme park enthusiast, I’ve experienced nearly every ride across Disneyland and Walt Disney World. You know, those essential attractions you can’t miss and those you’re content to skip. Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin in Magic Kingdom has often fallen into the latter category for me. However, an exciting update is about to change that!
The original ride—where you journey along a track blasting aliens for the high score—has shown its age, particularly in comparison to newer, more advanced attractions. But Disney World has announced that Buzz Lightyear Space Ranger Spin will be closing in August for significant upgrades, reopening in 2026.
These updates are thrilling! Expect brand new ride vehicles equipped with handheld blasters, similar to Disneyland’s Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters. Also, a new video monitor will keep score, enhancing the competitive experience. A fresh scene and a new robot character named Buddy will guide visitors through a tutorial sequence. Targets will light up when hit, adding a satisfying visual confirmation of success.
These enhancements are just what Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin needed. Initially crammed into an unsuitable space, the ride will now boast improvements seen in its international counterparts, plus some exclusive additions. This revamp will undoubtedly elevate the ride to new heights, rivaling other shooting attractions like Toy Story Midway Mania and Web-Slingers: A Spider-Man Adventure.
I’m genuinely excited to give Buzz Lightyear Space Ranger Spin another spin (pun intended) once these updates are complete. Will it become a “must-ride” for me? Time will tell, but it certainly won’t be one I’ll skip anymore.
What do you think about these changes? Share your thoughts in the comments and don’t forget to share this story with fellow Disney fans!
Source: Dirk Libbey
