Walt Disney World had a great year in 2017. From the opening of Pandora – World of Avatar, bringing 2 new attractions and more, to new retail locations at Disney Springs and more. There were some closings and those will be missed, however most have new attractions replacing the space. As we look forward to what the Future at Disney World brings, look back at the 20 Openings & Closings of 2017 at Walt Disney World.
1. Planet Hollywood Observatory At Disney Springs (Opened)
Planet Hollywood Observatory re-opened at Disney Springs early 2017 with a new menu for lunch and dinner, a new outdoor terrace and a 4,500 square foot video wall. Come see the movie memorabilia, have a classic burger or a re-imaged burger or sandwich by Chef Guy Fieri. Watch a Video Today.
2. Geyser Point Bar & Grill at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Resort (Opened)
The new restaurant bar & grill fits in perfectly with the rustic theme of Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Resort. Guests enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner and a quick-service walk-up window adjacent to the bar. Kids menu is an all day option. Or enjoy an adult drink with and appetizer and water views.
3. Bon Voyage Breakfast At Trattoria Al Forno (Opened)
The Bon Voyage Breakfast at Trattoria al Forno on Disney’s Boardwalk is a character dining experience which began on April 2, 2017. Guests have the chance to meet with princess and princes such as – Rapunzel and Flynn Rider + Ariel and Prince Eric.
4. New Meet & Greet BB8 (Opened)
Now meet with BB8, in addition to Kylo Ren and Chewbacca, at Star Wars Launch Bay in Hollywood Studios.
5. Miss Adventure Falls At Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon (Opened)
Discover the treasures collected by Captain Mary. Captain Mary’s bird pirate, Duncan, still lives inside the shipwreck and continues to search for treasure, watch for him to sing and talk on this family raft ride. Watch a Video.
6. Happily Ever After/ Wishes (New/Closed)
This one is both a gain and a loss. A new nighttime spectacular premiered at Magic Kingdom in 2017, Happily Ever After Fireworks Show replaced Wishes.
7. Rivers Of Light At Animal Kingdom (Opened)
Rivers of Light opened at Animal Kingdom early 2017, and is a nighttime show featuring water and lights.
8. Pandora – World of Avatar At Animal Kingdom (Opened)
Pandora – World of Avatar is a whole new land for guests to explore in Disney’s Animal Kingdom. This land brings 2 new rides: Flight of Avatar & Na’vi River Journey. Plus 2 new restaurants, Pongu Pongu & Satuli Canteen.
9. Mobile Ordering (Started in 2017)
2017 brought the introduction of Mobile Ordering. Allow guests to pre-order and pre-pay at select participating Quick Service restaurants of Disney World & Disney Springs. Skip the line and order from the My Disney Experience App.
10. DisneyQuest (Closed)
DisneyQuest was a large indoor space with interactive video games and more. It closed in 2017, to make way for a NBA Experience.
11. Wolfgang Puck Grand Café At Disney Springs (Closed)
Wolfgang Puck Grand Café closed its doors on August 1, 2017, to prepare for a Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill opening 2018.
12. The Great Movie Ride (Closed)
The Great Movie Ride was located in the Chinese Theatre at Hollywood Studios. The slow boat ride took guests through 12 scenes from classic movies including Wizard of Oz. Now closed, to make way for Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway.
13. Jawas At Hollywood Studios (Closed)
Guests have enjoyed interacting with the Jawas for years at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. They met guests at Star Wars Launch Bay for pictures and even trading small items. However, we are sad to say that the Jawas are no longer at Hollywood Studios.
14. Muppets Courtyard (Closed)
Muppets Courtyard have been re-imagined to become Grand Avenue with vintage buildings and warehouses. This area draws inspiration from downtown Los Angeles of today.
15. One Man’s Dream (Opened)
One Man’s Dream has been renamed to Walt Disney Presents at Hollywood Studios. Many of the original aspects remain, such as the storyboards and sketches. However, this will also be a place for guests to find out new attractions and get a sneak peak.
16. BaseLine Tap House At Hollywood Studios (Opened)
BaseLine Tap House is located on Grand Avenue. This area is inspired by Downtown Los Angeles. Stop by for cocktails, wines on draft, craft ales, lagers and cider. Try the beer flights, with many possible combinations to customize your choice. Or go for a soda or gourmet lemonade (non-alcoholic), both on tap. Small appetizers also served.
17. Disney Springs Retailers (Opened)
2017 brought new retailers to Disney Springs including: Bowes Signature Soy Candles, Swings N’ Things, Savannah Bee, rinse bath & body co., Coach and Ever After Jewelry Co. & Accessories.
18. Flights Of Wonder At Animal Kingdom (Closed)
Flights of Wonder started at Disney’s Animal Kingdom in 1998, when the park itself opened. This educational show displayed various exotic birds. This show ended on December 31, 2017, to make way for Up! A Great Bird Adventure.
19. The SpectacuLAB At Epcot (Opened)
The SpectacuLAB, presented by Murata, is an interactive science show. Watch the SpectacuLAB scientists demonstrate experiments. Gain knowledge of our technology today and more in a fun way. You may be even be picked to be part of this interactive show!
20. “La Nouba” By Cirque Du Soleil At Disney Springs (Closed)
After nearly 20 years at Disney Springs, “La Nouba” by Cirque Du Soleil had its final performance on December 31, 2017. However the show will still go on, sometime in the future, Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group and Walt Disney Parks and Resorts are working on a new collaboration.T he new show will be inspired by the animation of Disney and created by Cirque du Soleil.
Learn more about the Walt Disney World Parks including attractions, secrets, tips and more. Plus my friends at Destinations in Florida can help you plan your perfect Walt Disney World vacation.