This is the weekly news, rumors and refurbishments update for Walt Disney World for the week of September 14, 2014.
Here are the three biggest updates from around the resort for the past seven days…
1. The Studio Backlot Tour at Disney’s Hollywood Studios is closing for good next week
That’s right, the Studio Backlot Tour’s final day of operation will be September 27, 2014. No announcement about a replacement has been made, but that area of the park is a prime location for the rumored Pixar Place expansion.
Last week we mentioned the possibility of expanding Toy Story Midway Mania and next’s week closure of the Backlot Tour could lead to much more. Just don’t expect bulldozers anytime soon.
Wandering Oaken’s Trading Post will be relocated to the former American Film Institute Showcase (that closed last month) and last throughout the holiday season. If construction on any new attractions is to begin, it probably won’t be until 2015. Closing the Backlot Tour right before fiscal 2015 is probably a cost savings effort by Disney and will give them time to possibly relocate all of the backstage artifacts and equipment.
There is also no mention of closing Lights, Motors, Action! Extreme Stunt Show in the foreseeable future, but that could certainly change at any moment.
Closing one of the park’s original and iconic attractions certainly gives credence to the rumors that more than just Star Wars is being planned for Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
2. Two more updates on Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort this week
First, the new sign for the resort was unveiled this week. It now features the new name, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, as opposed to Disney’s Polynesian Resort. Image Credit: Tikiman
Second, the temporary check-in location is now operational. When you enter the resort from the main entrance, the check-in will be to your left instead of to your right.
The old check-in desk is now walled off for refurbishment. No date has been given as to when that work will be completed, but I wouldn’t expect it to be finished until 2015.
3. The Seven Dwarfs Mine Train now offers rider photos and videos
Thanks to MyMagic+, the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train at the Magic Kingdom now has the ability to send photo and video mementos.
Just like the Tower of Terror video mementos released last month, the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train has the same requirements. A guest must have purchased the Memory Maker package and have a MagicBand linked to their account (you also have to be wearing it). The MagicBand is required because there is no physical pickup location. The long-range radio frequency scanners in your MagicBand will automatically send your photos and videos to your my Disney Experience account. It might take up to 24-hour for the video to appear on your account.
If you are staying off-site and don’t wish to purchase a MagicBand for everyone in your family, you don’t have to. One person in your family could be wearing the MagicBand and any Friends and Family Connections made on My Disney Experience can view the photos and video.
