As Closures Begin, Disney World Park Relocates Beloved Family Attractions

Exciting transformations are underway at Disney’s Hollywood Studios as a popular corner of the park prepares for a Pixar-powered evolution. Grand Avenue, the current home to fan-favorite experiences, is set to become Monstropolis, a vibrant reimagining based on the beloved Monsters, Inc. franchise.

When completed, this new area will feature a first-of-its-kind roller coaster inspired by the thrilling door scene from the 2001 film. However, with any big change, some familiar favorites must say goodbye.

Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano will serve its final meal on May 11, while PizzeRizzo and the iconic Muppet*Vision 3D attraction will both close on June 8. Although fans may feel nostalgic about parting with the Muppets, the characters won’t be gone for good.

According to Disney, “We know so many of you share our love for The Muppets and know their energy will be a perfect fit for this coaster,” referencing the upcoming reimagining of the Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith. “Plus, as the first Disney ride ever to feature The Muppets, there’s sure to be laughter, screams and new tunes for this attraction for fans to enjoy throughout the adventure and plenty of Muppets-themed merchandise on Sunset Boulevard!”

Behind the scenes, Disney Experiences reportedly plans to preserve Muppet*Vision 3D through a dedicated recording, ensuring this fan-favorite experience is remembered for generations.

While construction on Monstropolis continues, Cool Kid Summer is just around the corner. Starting May 27 through September 1, Disney Parks Blog announced a new seasonal offering filled with engaging surprises: “Get ready to dance, play, and chill because Cool Kid Summer is taking over Walt Disney World Resort.” With DJ-led dance parties, creative activities, and surprise character greetings, it’s a celebration for guests of all ages.

“Jump into energetic fun at Animation Courtyard, where games and crafts will keep kids moving and creating all day long,” the post reads. “From magicians and jump rope performers to surprise character appearances, you never know what delightful moment is waiting around the corner!”

As part of this event, an indoor DJ dance party with Mickey Mouse and Disney Junior friends will welcome little ones to a lively new space. This means a few logistical changes: the usual outdoor meet-and-greets with Disney Junior characters in Animation Courtyard are temporarily closed and surrounded by shrubbery, according to reports.

Guests can now find Vampirina, Doc McStuffins, and Fancy Nancy at Echo Lake, starting 12:30 p.m. daily. Fancy Nancy greets fans near the Indiana Jones Stunt Spectacular, Doc McStuffins is by Dinosaur Gertie’s Ice Cream of Extinction, and Vampirina is stationed near the 50’s Prime Time Cafe.

The same day Cool Kid Summer kicks off, May 27, will also bring the debut of two brand-new shows: The Little Mermaid—A Musical Adventure and Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After, the latter of which will take over the space formerly occupied by Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy.

And though some may wonder about the park’s future direction, classics like The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror and the ever-popular Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge continue to draw crowds, cementing Disney’s Hollywood Studios as a place where storytelling evolves—but magic always stays.

How do you feel about the upcoming evolution of Disney’s Hollywood Studios? Let us know in the comments down below!