No, "it’s a small world" is not becoming a walk-through attraction; it remains a classic "water-based dark ride" in all Disney parks globally. The rumor of it becoming a walk-through likely stems from temporary refurbishments or "holiday overlay" periods where the exterior queue is modified, or from confusion with other "walk-through" attractions like the Sleeping Beauty Castle Walkthrough. In 2026, the ride continues to use its traditional boat system to transport guests through various international scenes. In fact, Disney recently updated several versions of the ride (notably in Tokyo and Paris) to include more Disney characters and enhanced lighting, reaffirming their commitment to the boat-ride format. The physical infrastructure of the ride—specifically the massive water flumes and the "Seven Seaways" canal—would make a conversion to a walk-through functionally impossible without a total demolition and rebuild. The "happiest cruise that ever sailed" is intended to stay on the water for the foreseeable future.