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Hundreds Flee Disney Parks, Sending Resort Hotel Into Chaos

A busy Wednesday evening at Disney’s Pop Century Resort turned chaotic as hundreds of guests returned from the Disney theme parks, creating overcrowding and long lines at the Value Resort hotel’s food court.

Pop Century, one of Walt Disney World Resort’s Value Resort hotels, is a fan favorite for its affordability and proximity to the Disney Skyliner, which offers convenient transportation to EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

Known for its retro-themed decor and oversized character statues, Disney’s Pop Century Resort is currently undergoing widespread construction to ensure it can be a home away from home for years to come. However, ongoing refurbishments may have contributed to significant delays in the food court on Wednesday evening.

 

A Packed Evening

On Wednesday, January 22, guests flooded back to Disney’s Pop Century Resort after spending the day at Magic Kingdom Park, EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park. A Disney Dining team member observed an overcrowded scene at the Everything POP Shopping & Dining area, the hotel’s Quick Service dining location and gift shop combo.

People stand in a long line at at the food court at Disney's Pop Century Resort.
Credit: Jess Colopy, Disney Dining

The food court, undergoing refurbishments, struggled to keep up with demand. Lines stretched past the food court entrance, with at least 30 guests waiting at each of the three food stalls. One queue even extended into the grab-and-go area, creating a bottleneck for those looking for quick snacks and beverages.

People line up inside a colorful food court with bright circular lights on the ceiling. Digital menus are displayed above the counter, and various snacks and drinks are available. The space is busy with visitors, including families and children.
Credit: Jess Colopy, Disney Dining

An Inside the Magic team member spotted a manager running between the queues, assisting Disney cast members and trying to keep guests satisfied. Almost all checkout lines were open, which helped reduce wait times for purchasing food once it was ready.

The Impact of Refurbishments at Disney’s Pop Century Resort

A brightly colored and modern fast food restaurant interior, reminiscent of Disney World, featuring a curved counter with vibrant lights above, booths with square-patterned upholstery, orange and yellow seats, and a ceiling with circular designs. The counter displays a variety of menu options.
Credit: Disney

Disney’s Pop Century Resort has been undergoing updates to its dining and shopping spaces in recent months. The hotel’s oversized Baloo statue and parts of the gift shop are still undergoing refurbishment, and construction walls still surround areas of the Everything POP food court, including its former ice cream stand.

It’s unclear if the ongoing construction caused delays on Wednesday evening.

How long have you waited for food at Walt Disney World Resort? Let Disney Dining know in the comments!

Jess Colopy

Jess Colopy is a Disney College Program alum and kid-at-heart. When she’s not furiously typing in a coffee shop, you can find her on the hunt for the newest Stitch pin.

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