Disney unveils Dreamfinder comeback and major park upgrades at D23 event
At the D23 fan convention, Disney announced the return of Dreamfinder, a revamp of Tomorrowland, updates to several attractions and new lands slated for future openings across its parks.
Disney revealed a slate of new developments at its D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event in Anaheim on Aug. 15. The company confirmed that Dreamfinder, the original companion of Figment from the classic Journey into Imagination ride, will reappear alongside Figment in a refreshed attraction. The announcement was made by host Neil Patrick Harris, who appeared onstage in full Dreamfinder costume, prompting a strong reaction from the audience.
Disney also said it is reimagining Disneyland’s Tomorrowland to recapture the optimism of its original 1967 design, adding new attractions and more open spaces, though specific details remain undisclosed. In addition, the iconic Spaceship Earth at EPCOT will receive its first major overhaul in nearly two decades, shifting its narrative focus from human communication to human connection while preserving the ride’s original spirit.
Expedition Everest at Disney’s Animal Kingdom will receive a new, functional yeti figure, replacing the earlier “Disco Yeti” that never moved as intended. "I think people will be unbelievably excited about our focus on Tomorrowland here on the West Coast, but I think they will be equally as appreciative of something as simple as the yeti," said Disney Experiences Chairman Thomas Mazloum.
Other announcements included a 2027 opening of Monstropolis at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, a Villains Land at Magic Kingdom comparable in size to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, new Cars-themed rides at Magic Kingdom, and a reimagined Carousel of Progress featuring voices of Bryan Cranston and Jamie Lee Curtis. Additional attractions slated for future years span Disney California Adventure, Disneyland Paris, Tokyo Disney Resort, Hong Kong Disneyland and Shanghai Disneyland, covering new themed lands, audio-animatronic figures and updated nighttime shows.
The updates reflect Disney’s broader strategy of expanding and modernizing its theme-park portfolio while responding to long-standing fan requests.