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Live-Action Ariel Meet-and-Greet Relocates Amid Ongoing Hollywood Studios Construction

Ongoing Construction at Hollywood Studios

Hollywood Studios is currently experiencing significant construction projects, altering the landscape of one of Disney’s most visited parks. The ongoing upgrades include various new attractions and the complete transformation of existing spaces. As construction walls become a familiar sight, visitors are left navigating the changes, having a mix of excitement and curiosity about the upcoming developments.

Crowds of people walk toward the entrance of Disney’s Hollywood Studios, with the "Star Wars Launch Bay" sign visible above the doors. Greenery and lampposts line the walkway under a blue sky with scattered clouds.
Credit: Theme Park Tourist, Flickr

The impact on park attractions has been substantial, with many classic experiences either temporarily unavailable or permanently gone. The construction noise and detours have affected visitor experiences, as guests adapt to new routes around the park’s construction zones. As the project progresses, the park prepares for a future that promises to be more engaging and enriching for visitors.

Relocation of Ariel Meet-and-Greet

One notable change due to the ongoing construction includes the relocation of the live-action Ariel meet-and-greet. The beloved character will temporarily move from Walt Disney Presents to a new location at Echo Lake. Disney has announced that this transition will take place starting October 28. While the new space at Echo Lake is anticipated to provide an enjoyable experience for guests, many are left wondering how long this relocation will last and whether Ariel will return to her previous spot within Walt Disney Presents.

live-action little mermaid (halle bailey) in the water, watching the ship
Credit: Disney

Previously, the Walt Disney Presents area featured Mike and Sully from Monsters, Inc., who will soon be relocated to the new Monstropolis area. The change in location raises questions about whether guests will miss the live-action Ariel in her iconic setting. With excitement surrounding Ariel’s new meet-and-greet experience, visitors hope this change is temporary.

Changes in Hollywood Studios

The changes at Hollywood Studios are not limited to just the Ariel meet-and-greet. The park is undergoing plans to upgrade various attractions and introduce new experiences for guests. The Animation Courtyard has seen significant closures, impacting several attractions in Disney’s effort to refresh the park. Many fans eagerly await the completion of these renovations, especially the transformation into the new Monstropolis area dedicated to the beloved Monsters, Inc. franchise.

Aerial view of a theme park plaza at dusk, featuring a central open area with trees, pathways, people walking, and large buildings surrounding the plaza, including one with a blue sorcerer hat and the Star Wars Launch Bay nearby.
Credit: Disney

As work progresses, the anticipation for updated attractions and enhancements builds among guests. The overall environment may feel different, but the promise of new experiences is exciting for many visitors.

Future of Meet-and-Greet Experiences

Looking ahead, the future of meet-and-greet experiences at Hollywood Studios continues to spark interest. Many guests wonder if Ariel will return to her original location at Walt Disney Presents once construction wraps up. Guest feedback has been pivotal in the ongoing discussions about character experiences, indicating that visitors deeply value these interactions.

Eric and Princess Ariel (Halle Bailey) in new live action 'The Little Mermaid'
Credit: Disney

With Ariel’s temporary move to a different location, guests have also voiced their preferences for future meet-and-greet experiences. There is a growing consensus for including a broader range of characters, especially from newer films, alongside the classic favorites.

Overall, the ongoing construction and subsequent relocations at Hollywood Studios highlight the balance between progress and visitor experience. While the changes may initially disrupt familiar routines, the ultimate goal is to enhance the park’s magic for future generations, making it a more exciting destination filled with diverse character encounters and attractions.

Author

  • Rick Lye

    Rick is an avid Disney fan. He first went to Disney World in 1986 with his parents and has been hooked ever since. Rick is married to another Disney fan and is in the process of turning his two children into fans as well. When he is not creating new Disney adventures, he loves to watch the New York Yankees and hang out with his dog, Buster. In the fall, you will catch him cheering for his beloved NY Giants.

Rick Lye

Rick is an avid Disney fan. He first went to Disney World in 1986 with his parents and has been hooked ever since. Rick is married to another Disney fan and is in the process of turning his two children into fans as well. When he is not creating new Disney adventures, he loves to watch the New York Yankees and hang out with his dog, Buster. In the fall, you will catch him cheering for his beloved NY Giants.

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