MDV Weekend Round up

Several things happened this week in Disney news, some news was good, some made Disney fans a little upset.  

Hollywood studios has shut the doors on many attractions in the past year, this week they confirmed the biggest list of closures to date.  These closures will take place in the Streets of America area of the park.  The entire area may be walled off by the first of April.

Some of the closures I expected to happen but was very surprised they were going to remove yet another park icon.
 
1.  The Earful Tower
​

Closure date: unknown
When the Sorrcer's Hat was constructed in the park, this was the first iconic landmark that Disney's Hollywood Studios had.  When it the hat was brought down, this tower was back in the "lime light" but it was short lived. 

Disney hasn't confirmed when it will come down, they just stated earlier this year.  

2.  Light's Motors Action Stunt Show
​​

I knew this attraction would be closing but I have to say I am sad to see it go.  Disney officially released this week that they will end the 11 year run of this show on April 2nd.

3.  Honey I Shrunk the Kids Movie Set 
​

This has been a fixture to Hollywood Studios for 25 years, although it wasn't one that drew a huge crowd, it was a great place to take your little ones a let them run off some of their extra energy and a place for parents to sit down and relax a bit.  This will close it's doors forever on April 2nd. 

4. Watto's Grotto

This was your go to place for Star Wars merchandise.  I don't think it will be the end of this shop, just closing the doors on April 2nd to possible open back up when the new part of the park is finished.

5.  Youse Guys Moychindice

This little gem was hidden in the Streets of America, it may not have been your favorite place to go for your favorite Disney merchandise but it fit in with the theme of the area.  

6.  Studio Catering Company

This was located in the back area of the park, closing with the rest of the Streets of America locations.  I enjoyed many quick service meals here, it was a nice place to grab something yummy to eat and rest a bit.  

7.  Monster's Meet and Greet

​

This closing makes me extremely sad, I love Sully and Mike.  There is a rumor that Disney may be building a new character hub in the middle of the park, I am hoping they will bring back these adorable monsters. 

Looks like April 2nd is the end of these attractions, and I wonder how it will affect the crowds there during the peak times in the parks, but I know the outcome will be amazing.  I can't wait to see the new Star Wars Land and Toy Story Land.  There hasn't been an opening date released for these new additions but they will be a welcome addition to the park. 

​BIG news for Star Wars Fans

Every day at Disney Parks, you  can step into exciting Star Wars experiences such as Star Tours: The Adventures Continue, Jedi Training: Trials of the Temple and Star Wars Launch Bay, where they can come face to face with some of the greatest heroes and villains of the saga. Soon, a visit to Star Wars Launch Bay at either Disneyland® Park or Disney’s Hollywood Studios® will transport you  to the Star Wars galaxy for an encounter with Kylo Ren on the bridge of his First Order Star Destroyer.
As seen in Star Wars: The Force Awakens, Kylo Ren is a dark warrior with a mysterious past. Ren is strong with the Force and serves as a leader of the First Order, seeking to destroy the New Republic, the Resistance and the legacy of the Jedi.
Star Wars Launch Bay was designed to showcase a variety of Star Wars characters over time. In addition to Kylo Ren, youmay also come across a garrison of First Order Stormtroopers or the heroic Wookiee, Chewbacca, holed up in a secret Resistance base.
The portal from Star Wars Launch Bay to Kylo Ren’s Star Destroyer opens in February atDisneyland Park and at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

So many changes, but it will be worth it when it is all finished!  We stay on top of all Disney news, make sure you follow us to stay on top of all things Disney.  

Lissy
lissy@gomdv.com