It’s been a hot minute, but we’re back! And just like us, it seems like life at Walt Disney World has been getting a little… unwieldy. If you’ve been following the news, you’re aware that the parks are in a massive state of flux. From emotional goodbyes to beloved attractions to thrilling new announcements, there’s a lot to break down.
In our latest podcast episode, we sat down to discuss all the changes, and to be honest, our feelings are all over the place. So let’s get into it.
A Bittersweet Farewell at Hollywood Studios
First, the one that hit us both: Muppet Vision 3D has closed its doors. We’re sad to see it go, but we understand the bigger picture. The problem with Hollywood Studios right now is a logistical one. As we discussed, “when they shut down Streets of America for Toy Story Land and Galaxy’s Edge, it created a traffic flow problem. It was bad urban planning.” This left the Muppets area feeling isolated and disconnected.
We’ll miss our 3D shenanigans with Kermit and the gang. On the bright side, at least we know the iconic Miss Piggy fountain and the rats are being kept safely in storage!
The Great Magic Kingdom Shake-Up
Over at Magic Kingdom, the changes are even more dramatic. The big news that’s dividing the fan community is the permanent closure of Tom Sawyer Island and the Liberty Square Riverboat.
Now, I’ll be honest (this is Caraspeaking), in all my 50+ trips to Disney World, I have never once set foot on Tom Sawyer Island. There are just so many other things to do! However, we know it holds a nostalgic place in many hearts. However, the reality is that Magic Kingdom has a significant crowd control issue. The park needs more capacity-eating attractions, and a massive plot of land in the middle of the park is valuable real estate. This closure paves the way for the new Villains and Cars-themed lands that are desperately needed to help spread out the crowds.
Speaking of which, while TRON Lightcycle / Run is a visual marvel, it’s not the crowd-eater the park needed. The ride is fantastic but short, and the mostly uncovered queue is a real challenge in the Florida heat.
Good News on the Horizon!
It’s not all closures! We are incredibly excited that Magic Kingdom is finally getting a new night parade! “Disney Starlight Dream the Night” is set to debut on July 20th, and we can’t wait to see it. It’s been far too long since a regular nighttime parade graced Main Street, U.S.A.
Over at Epcot, Test Track is scheduled to reopen soon with a fresh, new look inspired by the classic World of Motion. We’re also gearing up for the Food & Wine Festival, which kicks off on August 28th. The “Eat to the Beat” concert series lineup looks great (hello, Boyz II Men!), and we’re thrilled to see the Muppet Labs booth returning!
Change is the Only Constant
As Walt Disney famously said, the parks will never be completed. They will continue to grow as long as there is imagination left in the world. It’s hard to see some things go, but it’s all part of the process of innovation. We need more things to do at Magic Kingdom, and these changes, while sometimes painful, are necessary to keep the magic alive for generations to come.
(But if they ever touch Carousel of Progress or the PeopleMover, we riot. Those are the rules.)
What are your thoughts on all the changes? Let us know in the comments below!
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