This week at Walt Disney World, Toy Story Land gets its first expansion, Disney’s Animal Kingdom gets a permanent closure plus Kermit stops by EPCOT!
Outside Walt Disney World, Iron Gwazi sets its opening date at Busch Gardens Tampa and a new Universal Monsters store gets ready to open at Revenge of the Mummy’s former gift shop.
1. Toy Story Land expanding with new shop and restaurant
Toy Story Land is getting its first expansion with the addition of a new shop and restaurant. Jessie’s Trading Post will be a new store in the land that will focus on merchandise themed to the Toy Story franchise. No location has been announced for this new shop, but we know it will open later this year. Roundup Rodeo BBQ, which was delayed back in 2020, will also be opening this year, offering guests a much-needed second dining location in this area.
2. More character greetings return to EPCOT
Additional character meet and greets are now available at EPCOT with Donald Duck now once again meeting guests in the Mexico pavilion, and Vanellope from Wreck-It Ralph and Joy from Inside Out once again meeting guests at ImageWorks. These character meet and greets will be available intermittently throughout the day so make sure to check the times guide to ensure you are able to see your favorite.
3. New stroller designs debut at the theme parks
Disney has redesigned their rental strollers, which now feature new Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse-themed designs. Both single strollers and double strollers remain available.
4. Out of the Wild gift shop closing permanently at Rafiki’s Planet Watch
The Out of the Wild gift shop at Rafiki’s Planet Watch in Disney’s Animal Kingdom is permanently closing this month. It will be replaced by a seating area and vending machines,
5. Kermit stops by EPCOT to perform with the JAMMitors
Disney Parks has released a video of the JAMMitors of EPCOT performing in front of Spaceship Earth with Kermit the frog. You can check out this video on Twitter here.
6. Viva Gaia returns to Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Musical favorite Viva Gaia returned to Disney’s Animal Kingdom this week, once again filling Discovery Island with high energy music throughout the day.
7. Iron Gwazi opening date announced
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay announced this week that Iron Gwazi will open on Friday March 11, 2022. The park has announced that Pass holders and Fun Card holders will be among the first to ride, and will be sending out emails for those interested in an early preview of this exciting new ride.
8. Universal Monsters tribute store coming to Universal Studios Florida
The Revenge of the Mummy’s exit gift shop is being transformed into a temporary Universal Classic Monsters tribute store that will be open during the refurbishment of this attraction this summer. When this ride reopens it will be turned back into a refreshed Sahara Traders once again.
