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Disney World Shuts Down Multiple Locations, One Confirmed Permanent

Walt Disney World is known for its ever-evolving landscape, constantly adding new attractions, dining options, and entertainment experiences.

But what happens when certain locations simply never return? Since the 2020 pandemic-related closure, most of the parks have reopened fully, yet some spots remain shuttered with no reopening date in sight. Four locations, in particular, seem to be stuck in limbo, leaving fans wondering if they will ever return.

Tomorrowland Terrace in Magic Kingdom has long been a peculiar case. Even before the pandemic, this quick-service spot was only open seasonally, primarily during peak times. These days, it is exclusively used for firework dessert parties, making it unlikely that regular guests will be able to dine there again anytime soon. While not officially marked as permanently closed, its absence from daily operations is telling.

The Cinderella castle featuring blue and gold accents stands prominently in the center of Disney World. Fireworks are bursting in the sky above the castle. Various costumed characters are gathered at the forefront, with a bright blue sky and fluffy white clouds in the background.
Credit: Disney

Restaurant Marrakesh in EPCOT’s Morocco Pavilion also remains locked up. Once known for its lively entertainment and Moroccan cuisine, the restaurant’s closure coincided with Disney taking full control of the pavilion from its previous Moroccan owners. Since then, the space has been used as a lounge for Annual Passholders and festival guests, but it has not resumed dining service. The uncertainty surrounding its future makes it unclear if it will ever return as a traditional restaurant.

Spaceship Earth glowing at nighttime in the background of World Celebration Gardens
Credit: Disney

Over at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, the charming Garden View Tea Room remains closed as well. Despite the resort undergoing major refurbishments, the tea room has yet to be included in any reopening announcements. Its elegant afternoon tea service was a favorite among guests, and its continued closure raises speculation about whether it will be brought back or replaced by something new.

Exterior view of Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
Credit: Disney

Finally, the only confirmed permanent closure on this list is Big River Grille & Brewing Works at Disney’s BoardWalk. This microbrewery and casual eatery closed suddenly in January 2024, leaving guests to wonder what might replace it. More than a year later, there is still no word on its successor, adding to the ongoing transformations happening along the BoardWalk.

Disney World is constantly changing, and while these locations may eventually reopen in some form, their prolonged closures indicate that the parks might be moving in a different direction. Whether these spaces see a second life or fade into Disney history remains to be seen.

Andrew Boardwine

A frequent visitor of Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando Resort, Andrew will likely be found freefalling on Twilight Zone Tower of Terror or enjoying Pirates of the Caribbean. Over at Universal, he'll be taking in the thrills of the Jurassic World Velocicoaster and Revenge of the Mummy

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