Disney World Makes Permanent Update to Hollywood Studios Park Area
The Darkroom at Disney’s Hollywood Studios has settled into a new layout following a recent reconfiguration, with one checkout counter now back in place, though a second station appears to be gone for good. Here’s everything we know about this change at the third Walt Disney World Resort theme park.
Checkout Counter Returns to The Darkroom
On September 6, WDWNT reported that the shop’s wooden register counter had returned after Walt Disney World Resort recently reworked the store’s layout. Photos shared by the outlet show Disney cast members and theme park guests already using the checkout station as normal.
Designed with an Art Deco flair, the counter combines gray and black themes with finished wood, tying into the vintage camera-inspired aesthetic found throughout the shop. It’s positioned near the store’s main entrance along Hollywood Boulevard.
A Second Register Doesn’t Return to Disney’s Hollywood Studios
While one checkout station has been returned, a separate full-sized wooden register that once stood elsewhere in the lengthy gift shop remains missing. Its absence could mean longer wait times for guests hoping to purchase Disney Trading Pins, Mickey or Minnie Mouse ears, MagicBands, and other souvenirs sold throughout The Darkroom.
Walt Disney World Resort has not publicly addressed the recent layout changes, and there’s no indication yet whether the missing checkout station will return. That lack of commentary is typical for Disney, which rarely speaks publicly on smaller updates that don’t force closures or meaningfully affect the broader guest experience.
Guests seeking a wider selection of merchandise can find it just across Hollywood Boulevard at Mickey’s of Hollywood or at several other shops throughout Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Have you observed any other changes at Magic Kingdom Park, EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, or Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park? Share your story with Disney Dining in the comments!
