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After 53 Years, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort Closes Florida Location

A significant change has come to Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, one of Walt Disney World’s most iconic Deluxe Resort hotels. The resort’s popular BouTiki store, which offers everything from tropical trinkets to Hawaiian shirts and Disney-themed merchandise, is temporarily adjusting operations for a major refurbishment.

On June 2, construction crews started work on BouTiki, a large merchandise location located on the first floor of the Great Ceremonial House of Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. This refurbishment will significantly impact guest access to souvenirs, with half of the store being closed off for the next few weeks. Half of the shop will remain open with limited merchandise offerings.

Lava Pool Polynesian Village Resort
Credit: Disney

“Please be aware that maintenance may be seen and heard in the area until the work is complete at the end of June,” reads an official notice from Walt Disney World Resort’s website.

Despite the closure, guests hoping to continue their souvenir shopping experience during this time are not without options. Moana Mercantile, another store located on the second floor of the Great Ceremonial House, will remain open and unaffected by the construction work. There, visitors can still find Disney merchandise without the interruptions that are taking place at BouTiki.

Colorful tiki statue in the foreground of BouTiki at Disney's Polynesian Village Resort
Credit: Disney

The refurbishment is part of a series of updates at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, which first opened its doors in 1971. Over the years, the resort has undergone several changes, including the addition of the Disney Vacation Club (DVC) tower and some controversial renovations to the lobby in 2014. Despite these changes, the resort remains one of the most sought-after destinations at Walt Disney World Resort, offering high-demand dining experiences like ‘Ohana and Trader Sam’s.

While the closure of BouTiki may be inconvenient for some Walt Disney World Resort guests, it is only temporary. The store is expected to reopen once the work is completed by the end of June.

Have you spotted any other construction projects around Magic Kingdom Park, EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, or Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park? Let Disney Fanatic know in the comments! 

Jess Colopy

Jess Colopy is a Disney College Program alum and kid-at-heart. When she’s not furiously typing in a coffee shop, you can find her on the hunt for the newest Stitch pin.

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