Disney Springs has seen some pretty decent crowds over the past few weeks as locals return to this shopping and entertainment district, and guest levels are only expected to increase as the theme parks get ready to open in just two weeks. However, as things continue to evolve at Disney Springs, there are a few changes guests visiting this area might want to know about.
1. Uniqlo now closed indefinitely
Image: Disney
Uniqlo has closed at Disney Springs, without any prior announcement, and according to the official website, this location will remain shuttered indefinitely. Though there has been no confirmation, we’d guess this closure is due to the growing number of COVID-19 cases in Florida, which has also closed Apple Stores and other retailers in the area.
2. All bars currently closed to comply with new Florida regulations
Florida’s Department of Business and Professional Regulation has banned all on-site alcohol consumption at bars as of June 26, 2020, which has forced several Disney Springs watering holes to close indefinitely, including Jock Lindsey’s Hanger Bar and the Dockside Margaritas. We don’t know right now when these locations might open, but sit down establishments that include a restaurant, including Wine Bar George, are able to continue operating for now.
3. Everglazed Donuts & Cold Brew coming soon to Disney Springs
A new eatery named Everglazed Donuts & Cold Brew, will be coming soon to an undisclosed spot at Disney Springs. No details have been released about the new eatery, though based on the name we can guess what will be served at this new location. A “coming soon” page has been set up at everglazed.com but only features a logo as of right now.
4. Gideon’s Bakehouse opening later this year
Disney has announced that later this year Gideon’s Bakehouse will be opening a new location at Disney Springs. This local favorite is best known for small-batch, handmade, almost half-pound cookies with unique flavors like Peanut Butter Crisp, Cookies & Cream and my absolute favorite, Pistachio Toffee Dark Chocolate. This new location will bring an expanded menu of cookie and cake slices to Disney Springs, plus add its own line of unique iced coffees, like the Original Peanut Butter Iced Coffee.
New security screening technology now being used
Walt Disney World is now using security scanning technology to screen guests at Disney Springs. Guests who visit the Lime Garage will now be able to walk through a new contact-less body scanner, powered by Evolv Technology, and can automatically screen groups of people as they walk through without slowing or stopping. You can see this new technology in action in the video above.
According to the manufacturer, this automated system uses proprietary technology to differentiate weapons from personal items, and is the fastest weapons-screening system on the market, consistently screening 60 people every minute for firearms and other contraband items.
Though we don’t know for sure, we’d guess that this new technology will be used at the Walt Disney World theme parks when they reopen next month.
