Changes happen seemingly every day at Disney World.

While some of these changes are temporary (like new EPCOT festivals and seasonal decorations in the parks), some changes are permanent. Restaurants, shops, rides, and hotels permanently close from time to time, and in 2023, there were definitely quite a few closures.

This post highlights 9 of the permanent closures that hit Disney World in 2023. Let’s go!

Splash Mountain

This beloved Magic Kingdom attraction closed for good on January 23rd, 2023. 

This ride closure is to make way for Tiana’s Bayou Advenure, which is set to open in late 2024.

Star Wars Galactic Starcruiser

This immersive Star Wars hotel is where visitors can stay and go on a 2-night “voyage” on the Halcyon. However, back in May, Disney announced that the hotel would close permanently.

The final voyage will take place from September 28th to 30th, 2023.

Sosa Family Cigars Shop

On January 3rd, 2023, Sosa Family Cigars in Disney Springs permanently closed its doors. 

Currently, the spot remains empty. We’re curious to see what will take its place!

UGG Store

The UGG Store in Disney Springs closed permanently on March 16th, 2023. 

Soon, the space will be taken over by Lululemon!

Melissa Clube

Melissa Clube, a shoe store in Disney Springs, quietly closed its doors in May of 2023. 

The space has yet to be taken over by something new.

Tokyo Dining in EPCOT

Earlier this year, Tokyo Dining closed. At the time, we didn’t realize it would close permanently — just for refurbishment.

However, we later learned that the restaurant would soon be transformed into Shiki Sai: Sushi Izakaya, which just opened. You can read our full review of the new spot here!

Harmonious 

For Disney World’s 50th Anniversary Celebration, guests could experience Harmonious as the featured nighttime spectacular in EPCOT.

Harmonious ended on April 2nd, 2023 to make way for the temporary return of EPCOT Forever.

Enchantment

Similar to Harmonious, Enchantment was the featured nighttime spectacular in Magic Kingdom. 

Enchantment also ended on April 2nd, 2023. It’s been replaced by the return of Happily Ever After.

Trail’s End Table Service

Trail’s End Restaurant at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground closed for refurbishment in April of 2023. 

However, the restaurant re-opened in July 2023 and instead of being a table service restaurant like before, it’s now a quick service eatery!

Well, there you have it! We’ll continue to keep you updated with more Disney news — closures included! Make sure to follow along for more.

Looking for things OPENING soon at Disney World? Click here!

 

Which of these closures are you the most sad about? Let us know in the comments!