The EPCOT Monorail Has Reopened and Other WDW Park News
The Walt Disney World monorail is running at full strength again. Also, some attractions will have quick refurbs this week, and fireworks times are changing. So we’ve got several important park updates to cover today.
The EPCOT Monorail System Is Back
Last year, EPCOT reopened on July 15th, only without one of its most essential amenities. Unfortunately, the EPCOT monorail line didn’t return with the park.
Instead, it remained offline for more than a year as Disney officials didn’t deem it necessary. In their defense, park traffic was so low that buses could more than handle the overflow transportation demand.
Of course, that statement has changed in recent weeks. Over the past six weeks, Disney theme parks have ramped up attendance to satisfy summer vacationers.
Ergo, the absence of the EPCOT monorail system struck some as a glaring omission. Thankfully, Disney addressed the matter over the weekend.
Courtesy of Disney Tourist Blog
On Sunday, July 18th, the EPCOT monorail line once again transported guests to and from the Magic Kingdom area.
This news impacts any DVC members staying in Magic Kingdom resorts, even those at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge.
However, the change particularly impacts monorail resort guests. Life just got a lot easier if you’re staying at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa or Disney’s Contemporary Resort.
For guests at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, that monorail station remains unavailable for now. Still, it should reopen at some point soon, presumably within three months.
More than anything, the absence of the EPCOT monorail made us all appreciate it quite a bit more, didn’t it?
Magic Kingdom and EPCOT Park Updates
Are you visiting Walt Disney World this month? If so, you should know about two lightning-fast renovations in play at Magic Kingdom.
Courtesy of Disney Tourist Blog
It’s a Small World will close briefly, shutting down on July 27th and then reopening on July 30th.
This attraction has suffered several noticeable glitches recently. In fact, one YouTube user even compiled a list:
Still, that’s not the only Magic Kingdom attraction that needs some work.
Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin will close on Tuesday (July 20th) and stay down until July 23rd. So, you may notice a couple of hiccups if you’ll be at Magic Kingdom over the next 10 days.
Speaking of Magic Kingdom, I’m not going to give it any extra oxygen, but there was this guy. Most criminals get caught because they’re morons.
The other significant Walt Disney World park story involves fireworks presentations. Disney will alter the times for its EPCOT and Magic Kingdom shows.
Starting on August 2nd, EPCOT Forever will move to a 9 p.m. start on Mondays-Thursdays. It’ll remain at 10 p.m. on Fridays-Sundays, though.
Courtesy of Disney Tourist Blog
At Magic Kingdom, Happily Ever After will switch on August 10th. On that date, the show will move up from its current 9:15 p.m. start time to 8:45 p.m.
Please adjust your plans accordingly. If you had dinner reservations lined up for the old times, I’m genuinely sorry. I’ve been there and can relate.
Disney Park Miscellany
Those of you visiting Disney’s BoardWalk Villas in early August will like this update. Atlantic Dance Hall will return on August 6th! Yes, you can finally dance at Disney again!
The other news that may apply to your next visit involves California Grill. The promised breakfast has debuted there! As a reminder, it features your favorite menu options from The Wave… of American Flavors.
Better yet, the prices are much more in line with The Wave than California Grill. So, you can start your day at the top of the Contemporary without paying a fortune for the privilege.
Also, the $19 bottomless mimosa remains an option with The Wave menu.
In more general Disney vacation news, the Disney Dream set sail on a test cruise the other day. If all goes well – and it’ll be all over the news if it doesn’t – Disney Cruise Line may return to entertaining guests again.
Courtesy of Disney Tourist Blog
Finally, I don’t want to stick my head in the lion’s mouth here. Alas, the Mayor of Orange County, Florida, has recommended that guests wear face coverings indoors again. You do you.
Access all available Disney Vacation Club resale listings, or learn more about buying and selling with DVC Resale Market.
Comments