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Major Disney Park Closures Announced for 2025: What You Need to Know

Walt Disney World has confirmed that Jellyrolls, the iconic dueling piano bar located at Disney’s BoardWalk Resort, will be closing its doors in 2025. This marks the latest in a series of closures that have affected the area, continuing Disney’s transformation of the resort. Jellyrolls, which has been a staple for nearly three decades, is now set to make way for an uncertain future.

At dusk, the blue wooden exterior of JELLYROLLS on Walt Disney World Resort's Boardwalk glows with a neon lollipop sign. Nearby, whispers circulate about a woman arrested earlier in the evening, adding an unexpected twist to the vibrant scene under its striped awning.
Credit: Jellyrolls Instagram

A Legendary Venue Bids Farewell

Since its opening nearly 30 years ago, Jellyrolls has become an essential part of Disney’s nightlife scene, offering interactive entertainment that captivated both guests and locals. Known for its live dueling piano performances, Jellyrolls quickly became a hotspot for Disney visitors looking for lively, adult-oriented fun. The venue’s blend of crowd participation and classic tunes made it a go-to for both Disney fans and convention-goers seeking a vibrant nightlife experience.

Despite its longstanding popularity, Jellyrolls will soon cease operations at the end of its current run. The announcement of the closure was made via a social media post that announced its final days.

The Jellyrolls closing annoucement can be seen in the below Instagram post, “After nearly thirty years on Disney’s Boardwalk, Jellyrolls is making a move! Come celebrate with us into the spring season and keep your eyes on our social media for exciting new updates!”

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Jellyrolls (@jellyrollsorlando)

The Impact of the $20+ Cover Charge

One distinguishing factor about Jellyrolls has always been its $20 cover charge, a fee that sets it apart from most other entertainment offerings at Walt Disney World. While other venues on property, including bars and lounges, offer free entry, Jellyrolls has historically required guests to pay for access to its live entertainment. This cover charge has been one of the few instances on Disney property where guests have had to pay to enter.

While the fee was considered standard for many patrons, it did contribute to a more niche crowd, limiting accessibility for some guests who might otherwise have stopped by. Still, the cover charge did not deter its loyal following, with many regulars considering the price to be a worthy trade-off for the lively atmosphere and exceptional performances.

Closing Amid BoardWalk Resort Changes

Jellyrolls Disney BoardWalk
Credit: Jellyrolls Istagram

Jellyrolls’ closure comes amidst an ongoing transformation of Disney’s BoardWalk Resort. The area has undergone significant changes in recent years, with several other longstanding venues closing their doors as part of a broader reimagining of the space. Notably, Big River Grille & Brewing Works, Ample Hills Creamery, and ESPN Club have all permanently closed in recent years. These closures highlight a broader trend at the BoardWalk, as Disney seeks to redefine the experience for guests.

The closure of Jellyrolls is another sign of the resort’s evolving entertainment landscape. Though the venue has been cherished by many for its live performances and unique ambiance, it’s clear that Disney is adapting the BoardWalk area to fit new entertainment needs and priorities. While new developments like the Cake Bake Shop restaurant have brought fresh options to the area, the loss of Jellyrolls leaves a notable gap in the resort’s nightlife offerings.

Jellyrolls’ Legacy and Loyal Following

Though Jellyrolls is set to close its doors, its legacy will remain with Disney fans. For decades, the venue has been a favorite for guests seeking fun after dark. Disney visitors, especially those from outside the U.S., flocked to the bar to enjoy the music, camaraderie, and entertainment. The venue’s dueling piano performances made it a must-visit location, with guests often finding themselves singing along and even making requests for their favorite songs.

Over the years, Jellyrolls cultivated a loyal following of fans who returned time and again to enjoy the showmanship of the talented pianists. Many of these regulars are now lamenting the closure, as it marks the end of an era at Disney’s BoardWalk.

What’s Next for the BoardWalk?

Interior of Jellyrolls
Credit: Disney

While the closure of Jellyrolls is a sad moment for many, Disney has yet to announce any plans for a replacement. The space Jellyrolls occupies has long been a sought-after venue on the BoardWalk, and whether Disney plans to reimagine it as part of the ongoing resort updates remains unclear. While the Cake Bake Shop and other new dining options have brought new excitement to the BoardWalk area, it’s uncertain whether Disney will introduce an entertainment venue in the same vein as Jellyrolls in the near future.

For now, Jellyrolls will continue to operate until April 2025, and guests who wish to experience the venue one last time are encouraged to visit before its official closing. As the final days of Jellyrolls wind down, it’s clear that the venue will be sorely missed by Disney visitors and locals alike who cherished the nightly dueling piano performances and vibrant atmosphere.

Though its closure is a sign of the changing times at Walt Disney World Resort, it also reflects a broader trend at the BoardWalk Resort, where longstanding venues are being phased out to make room for newer offerings that better fit today’s guest expectations. Jellyrolls may be closing, but the memories of its performances and the lively atmosphere it provided will remain a part of Disney’s history for years to come.

More 2025 Disney World Shut-Downs

As 2025 unfolds, Walt Disney World Resort is undergoing several significant changes, with multiple closures and refurbishments scheduled across the parks, resorts, and other areas. These adjustments are part of a larger effort by Disney to enhance and evolve the guest experience, but they will impact several attractions, entertainment options, and accommodations during the year. Here’s a breakdown of what guests can expect from these closures and what’s still available to enjoy at the resort.

Magic Kingdom: Temporary Ride Closures and Permanent Shutdowns

Magic Kingdom will see a number of closures in 2025, particularly in Frontierland and Tomorrowland:

  • Big Thunder Mountain Railroad: This fan-favorite rollercoaster is undergoing refurbishment until 2026, so guests will have to wait a while to experience this iconic ride.
  • Astro Orbiter: Scheduled to close from January through summer 2025 for updates.
  • Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin: Although no official closure dates are set, this attraction will likely undergo some updates during the year.
  • Frontierland Shootin’ Arcade: This classic experience is permanently closing in 2025.
  • Liberty Square Riverboat: This beloved boat ride will also be closing permanently.
  • Tom Sawyer Island: Set for permanent closure at the end of 2025.
  • Walt Disney World Railroad: Expect temporary closures as construction progresses nearby.

With these closures, up to 20% of Magic Kingdom’s attractions may be temporarily unavailable. However, the park’s iconic experiences like Pirates of the Caribbean, Haunted Mansion, and newer favorites like Seven Dwarfs Mine Train will continue to provide guests with magical memories.

EPCOT: Ongoing Transformations and Ride Downtime

EPCOT’s multi-year overhaul continues, meaning a few attractions will be temporarily unavailable in 2025:

  • Test Track: Completely reimagining this attraction, Test Track will be closed until late summer 2025.
  • Gran Fiesta Tour Starring The Three Caballeros: This classic boat ride will be closed from January 6 to March 15, 2025.
  • Spaceship Earth: While unconfirmed, rumors suggest this iconic ride may undergo maintenance closures throughout the year.

Despite these closures, EPCOT remains a must-visit park, with its seasonal festivals, such as the Festival of the Arts and Food & Wine Festival, continuing to attract guests year-round. Popular attractions like Soarin’ Around the World, Frozen Ever After, and Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure will be available for guests to enjoy.

Hollywood Studios: Entertainment Adjustments and Thrill Rides

Disney’s Hollywood Studios will face a few closures in 2025 as it continues to focus on its movie-themed experiences:

  • Jedi Training Academy: This interactive experience has ended permanently.
  • Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy: Closed to make room for a new Villains-themed show.
  • Voyage of the Little Mermaid: Reopening in summer 2025, this stage show will be reimagined.

While these closures will affect around 8% of the park’s offerings, Hollywood Studios still offers plenty to enjoy, including Rise of the Resistance, Tower of Terror, and Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway. Additionally, Galaxy’s Edge and Toy Story Land remain top attractions for guests.

Animal Kingdom: Major Reimaginings and Temporary Closures

Animal Kingdom is experiencing its largest transformation since the opening of Pandora – The World of Avatar, with several notable attractions closing or being reimagined:

  • It’s Tough to Be a Bug: Closing for a Zootopia-themed show by the end of 2025.
  • Kali River Rapids: Closed from January to March 2025 for regular maintenance.
  • The Boneyard: Expected to close in 2026.
  • TriceraTop Spin: Permanently closed as of January 2025.

Animal Kingdom, with fewer attractions than other parks, will see a significant reduction in ride availability—approximately 25% of its attractions will be impacted. However, Expedition Everest and Avatar: Flight of Passage will continue to draw guests, while the park’s animal trails and shows like Feathered Friends in Flight provide additional entertainment.

Disney Resort Closures and Refurbishments

In addition to the theme park changes, several Disney World resort areas will undergo refurbishments:

  • Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort: The Fantasia Pool will be closed from January to April 2025.
  • Beach Club Resort & Villas: Stormalong Bay and Shipwreck Pool will be closed from January to June 2025.
  • Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa: Refurbishments will occur throughout 2025, including work on the lobby and guest rooms. The Grand Floridian Convention Center will be unavailable from summer to fall 2025.
  • Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort: The Island Tower opened in December 2024 and will remain operational.
  • Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort: The Fuentes del Morro Feature Pool will be closed for part of January 2025, and Sebastian’s Bistro will be closed from March 24 through the end of March 2025.

These refurbishments will cause some inconvenience for guests staying at the affected resorts, but many of Disney World’s most popular accommodations will remain open, offering guests plenty of options for their stay.

Transportation Disruptions

In addition to the theme parks and resorts, Disney World’s transportation system will experience some downtime:

  • Blizzard Beach Water Park: Closed for the season, leaving only Typhoon Lagoon available for water-based fun.
  • Skyliner Gondolas: Expected to undergo a two-week phased closure, affecting transportation between resorts and parks.
  • Typhoon Lagoon: Closed through spring 2025.

For guests using the Skyliner or relying on water parks, these closures may affect travel plans and leisure activities.

Overall Impact of 2025 Closures

In total, Disney World Resort will experience significant disruptions in 2025, with roughly 20-25% of its attractions, resorts, and transportation services impacted by closures or refurbishments. While some of these closures may be disappointing, they represent a larger effort by Disney to refresh its offerings and improve the guest experience in the long run.

Guests planning their visit to Disney World should stay informed about these changes, adjust expectations, and make the most of the open attractions. Even with some areas temporarily unavailable, Disney’s world-class attractions, dining, and immersive experiences will continue to provide plenty of magic for visitors.

Alessia Dunn

Orlando theme park lover who loves thrills and theming, with a side of entertainment. You can often catch me at Disney or Universal sipping a cocktail, or crying during Happily Ever After or Fantasmic.

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