Big Walt Disney World Attraction Changes Ahead

New and Revised Attractions Involving Frozen, Toy Story, Soarin’, Indiana Jones, & Star Wars

This morning, my article on MousePlanet.com supports the claim that Frozen is indeed coming to Maelstrom. My sources have indicated that this is indeed well underway. I’m not exactly sure as to when, or to what degree it will replace Maelstrom, but I’m certain that it is coming. Frozen is a great brand, and Disney is ready to build upon it in any way possible.

Maelstrom in Norway at Epcot. Photo by J. Jeff Kober.

Frozen’s success, as well as many other activities in the company, have led Bob Iger to proclaim this week that the organization delivered the highest quarter of any in the history of the Walt Disney Company. With that will come big new attractions, as well as changes to existing attractions to Walt Disney World, such as the one heading to Norway. But this isn’t the only development I’ve spoken of. Early on last month I first came forward with the notice that a new theater would be added to Soarin’ at Epcot. But pre-construction is moving forward.

I also noted early last month that there would be a third track added to Toy Story Midway Mania. While no other blogs other than Screamscape have really picked up on this, the truth is that development on that track addition is further along than I really thought it would be. Some have thought this to be impossible given the track design. One new insight that I have is that in inserting this new track, the area dedicated to guests with mobility challenges will be moved to a new location.

Ariel view of the boarding area for Guests with mobility challenges. Photo by J. Jeff Kober.

In yesterday’s conference call, Iger confirmed: “We’re also developing ideas and designs for a far greater Star Wars presence in our parks. We expect to provide details about this sometime next year.”

In preparation for this, I noted that comment not only acknowledged the announced departure of American Idol, but that Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular would also be finally going away. Again, other blogs have questioned whether this will happen or not. But I’ve had additional sources from both the front line and from management again acknowledge that this is indeed happening. Disney’s Hollywood Studios is making big changes soon.

Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular has been a favorite for many years. Photo by J. Jeff Kober.

By the way, the Q3 report was wonderfully timed to occur in the aftermath of the opening weekend for Guardians of the Galaxy. Noted Iger: “We are also thrilled with the spectacular performance of Guardians of the Galaxy, which holds great promise as a new franchise for our company and once again reinforces the tremendous value of Marvel.” Little notice was given to the fact that the movie was being promoted at Disney’s Hollywood Studios over the last month. But this was a small foothold in the possibility of Marvel moving into the parks in a big way. What are the possibilities of Guardians becoming a replacement for Stitch in Tomorrowland, or being a next door neighbor to the Star Wars addition to Disney’s Hollywood Studios? I have no insights or announcements there. But that would very cool.

Marvel has finally arrived at a Walt Disney World theme park. Photo by J. Jeff Kober.

Tomorrow, I’ll add more insight to the MyMagic+ program, which was a part of the conversation in the Question and Answer Session during the Q3 FY14Earnings Conference Call. There’s more to MyMagic+ than what has been showcased. We’ll show you what is on the way.