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Disney World Quietly Closes Grand Floridian Resort Area, Gives No Reopening Date

Weeks after shutting down without explanation, the Alice in Wonderland (1951)-themed splash pad at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa remains closed, and Walt Disney World Resort still hasn’t said when guests can expect it back.

A Closure Disney World Never Announced

A Walt Disney World ferry boat in front of the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa.
Credit: Nicholas Fuentes, Unsplash

The aquatic play area went dark on August 12, closing suddenly with no formal announcement from Walt Disney World Resort. That silence stood out, given that Disney has acknowledged several other construction projects currently underway at Magic Kingdom Resort Area hotels.

In the weeks that followed, guests found the splash pad’s slides roped off and the oversized Mad Hatter’s hat-shaped bucket — the one that periodically dumps water on unsuspecting guests below — sealed in plastic wrap. No water ran through the area at all, and Disney’s official resort webpage offered nothing about the closure or a timeline for its return.

Signs of Progress at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

The pool at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa.
Credit: Michael Gray, Flickr

WDWNT provided an update on August 26, reporting that the Mad Hatter cap bucket has since been unwrapped and uncovered. Photos from the outlet show the current state of the space, though water is still not flowing through either the splash pad or the slides. A construction lift spotted at the scene indicates the unannounced project isn’t finished yet.

Decorative portraits of Alice, the White Rabbit, and the Mad Hatter that typically adorn the play structure were also found sitting on the ground nearby, apparently waiting to be returned to their places.

Still No Answers From Disney World

grand floridian lobby
Credit: Becky Burkett, Disney Dining

The Alice in Wonderland-themed splash pad remained closed as of this article’s finalization, and Walt Disney World Resort has yet to comment on the project or indicate when it might reopen.

Guests staying at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa can still use the hotel’s other pools and amenities, as well as Monorail and bus transportation. Anyone with questions about how the closure affects their visit should check with a Front Desk cast member.

Have you ever stayed at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa? Share your favorite memories with Disney Dining in the comments! 

Jess Colopy

Jess Colopy is a Disney College Program alum and kid-at-heart. When she’s not furiously typing in a coffee shop, you can find her on the hunt for the newest Stitch pin.

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