Disney fans who love character interactions are about to find Ariel in a brand-new location at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The Little Mermaid meet and greet has officially moved from Walt Disney Presents to a new home along Echo Lake, right across from 50’s Prime Time Café.
Starting October 28, guests will be able to meet Ariel in her new spot daily between 9 a.m. and 8 p.m. The move is being described as temporary, though Disney hasn’t given a timeline for when (or if) she’ll return to her original location.
A Bigger Stage for Ariel
Ariel’s original meet and greet was a bit of a hidden gem. Tucked inside Walt Disney Presents, the space offered a quiet atmosphere and often had surprisingly short wait times. Many guests loved that little pocket of the park, where they could chat with Ariel without a long line snaking around them.
The new Echo Lake location is a completely different story. This area sees much heavier foot traffic and is surrounded by restaurants, shows, and holiday décor. It’s an upgrade in visibility for sure, and for families who might have missed her before, it’s a welcome change.
Perfect Timing with the Holidays
This relocation isn’t happening in a vacuum. It arrives just as Disney Jollywood Nights gears up for the holiday season. Echo Lake is a centerpiece during the festivities, decked out in retro holiday decorations, twinkling lights, and a towering Christmas tree. Putting Ariel there makes a lot of sense—it’s picturesque and perfectly timed.
Guests hoping for a festive photo opportunity with Ariel will now have one of the most scenic backdrops in the park. And because of the longer park hours and steady flow of people, more visitors will likely get a chance to meet her than ever before.
A Character With Staying Power
Ariel’s presence at the park is a reminder of how enduring some Disney princesses are. While newer characters come and go, Ariel has managed to hold her ground, charming guests for years. This new location might just give her an even bigger spotlight.
Whether she eventually returns to Walt Disney Presents or stays at Echo Lake long-term, it’s clear she’ll continue to be a must-meet character for many guests.
