After a lengthy absence, a missing Cinderella statue has returned to Walt Disney World Resort. The popular photo op that once graced the entrance to the World of Disney store at Disney Springs has been missing for days, leaving many visitors wondering whether it would ever be restored. Now, the iconic statue is back, reinstated for public viewing at its familiar location.
Disney Dining first reported the removal of the Cinderella statue seven days ago. The Aurora statue, located at the opposite entrance to the World of Disney, remained untouched despite both statues having undergone refurbishment in late 2024.
Shortly after the Cinderella statue’s disappearance, Mr. Potato Head, another popular character statue, was removed from its place outside Once Upon A Toy at Disney Springs. The timing of these removals, paired with some other exterior changes to the World of Disney store, led fans to question whether Walt Disney World Resort was taking away the remnants of the nostalgic aesthetic at Disney Springs.
World of Disney underwent a significant remodel in 2017-2018, which replaced much of the store’s vintage Disney theming with a more minimalist, modern style. The Cinderella and Aurora statues were among the last remnants of the store’s earlier, nostalgic look. Their absence raised concerns that the charm and vintage feel of World of Disney was being phased out entirely.
However, fans’ worries were put to rest on July 22, when Cinderella was reinstated in front of World of Disney for all to enjoy. @Attractions shared the exciting news on X (formerly Twitter):
She’s back!
She’s back! https://t.co/HDd8d9ixvV pic.twitter.com/OZp9hxC6wC
— Attractions Magazine (@Attractions) July 22, 2025
While Cinderella has returned, Mr. Potato Head has yet to reappear. If the Toy Story statue follows the same timeline as Cinderella, it’s expected to be restored soon, possibly within the next week. Whether the Aurora and Buzz Lightyear statues will undergo similar refurbishments remains uncertain.
Has your family ever taken a photo with the Cinderella statue at Disney Springs? Share your memories with Disney Dining in the comments!
