Guests visiting Disney’s Magic Kingdom will notice some major updates at the Emporium, the iconic gift shop along Main Street, U.S.A. Construction walls have been put up in the store’s northern section, taking up roughly 20-25% of the space. The renovation impacts the Youth and Plush area and stretches toward Casey’s Corner, closing off a well-used pathway many guests take to avoid the crowds on Main Street. With makeshift queues outlined in red tape, Disney is also encouraging visitors to use mobile checkout via the My Disney Experience app to avoid longer waits. The new layout, however, has led to a more cramped shopping experience, especially during parades and evening fireworks.
For park-goers, these construction walls have made navigating the park trickier. The Emporium isn’t just a shopping spot—it’s often used as a shortcut to bypass heavy crowds. With this option closed, more guests are funneled onto Main Street, making it more congested during key events like parades and fireworks shows. Guests looking to grab souvenirs on their way out may also face delays due to the reduced space and higher crowd levels at the registers.
This renovation is part of broader changes happening at Magic Kingdom in 2025. Attractions like Astro Orbiter in Tomorrowland are closed for major refurbishment, with visible construction equipment hinting at long-term updates. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is also temporarily shut down for maintenance, causing longer wait times at nearby attractions such as Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. These closures have forced many guests to adjust their plans, as several must-see experiences are unavailable.
With popular attractions out of commission, park visitors will need to adjust their strategies. Blocked pathways around key areas like Main Street can slow down navigation, making it crucial to use tools like the My Disney Experience app to check wait times and find less crowded routes. Mobile ordering is also a time-saver, especially during peak hours. Booking dining reservations in advance is strongly recommended to avoid long lines at quick-service spots that remain open.
Although these updates may feel inconvenient, Disney has reassured guests that they are part of a long-term effort to improve the overall guest experience. Magic Kingdom is preparing for exciting new attractions and refreshed experiences. For now, though, flexibility and planning will help guests make the most of their visit, even amid construction. With the right approach, visitors can still have a memorable day filled with magic and adventure.
