Disney fans have spent the last several weeks trying to solve one of the newest mysteries at Walt Disney World.
Two vacant locations at Disney's BoardWalk have quietly appeared in public records under the names “Project Amazon” and “Project Bubbles,” sparking speculation about what could eventually replace longtime businesses that have closed near EPCOT.
Now, Disney has added another clue.
A newly filed permit from Walt Disney Imagineering suggests work is continuing behind the scenes, even though Disney has yet to publicly announce what is coming to either location.
Another Piece of the Puzzle
The newest development comes from a Notice of Commencement filed by Walt Disney Imagineering for a BoardWalk-area address. The permit lists Design Communications Ltd. as the contractor and describes the work as signage installation.
While signage permits may not sound particularly exciting on their own, they often represent a project moving into later stages of development. Signage typically appears much closer to opening than demolition or infrastructure work, making this filing noteworthy for fans tracking the future of the BoardWalk district.
The permit does not specifically mention Project Amazon or Project Bubbles, but it arrives as both projects continue moving through the approval process.
What Are Project Amazon and Project Bubbles?
That's the question Disney still isn't answering.
Project Amazon is tied to the former Big River Grille & Brewing Works location. The restaurant closed in January 2024 after operating at BoardWalk for more than two decades.
Project Bubbles is associated with the former Promenade Fine Art Gallery, which closed in late 2025.
Both spaces remain vacant, and Disney has not announced any replacement tenants, restaurants, stores, or entertainment offerings.
That silence has only fueled fan speculation.
Some observers believe the project names are simply references to the buildings' former occupants. Big River's connection to waterways makes “Amazon” a logical placeholder name, while “Bubbles” could reference the gallery's marine-themed artwork.
If that's true, the names may provide no clues whatsoever about what Disney actually has planned.
Why BoardWalk Matters
The BoardWalk area occupies one of the most valuable pieces of real estate at Walt Disney World.
Located within walking distance of EPCOT and Disney's Hollywood Studios, the district serves guests staying at Disney's BoardWalk Inn, Disney's Yacht Club Resort, Disney's Beach Club Resort, and the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin hotels.
For years, the area was known for its combination of restaurants, nightlife, entertainment, and unique shopping experiences.
However, several closures over the past few years have left noticeable gaps along the waterfront.
Big River Grille closed. Promenade Fine Art Gallery closed. Jellyrolls also departed in 2025, leaving another large vacancy that is currently undergoing interior demolition.
As a result, many guests feel the BoardWalk is overdue for new additions.
Could Announcements Be Coming Soon?
That's the question Disney fans are now asking.
While a signage permit doesn't guarantee an immediate reveal, it does indicate that Imagineering is actively working on projects connected to the area.
Disney has spent the last several years refreshing resort dining, entertainment, and retail offerings throughout Walt Disney World. New restaurants, lounges, and guest experiences have become an increasingly important part of vacation planning, especially around EPCOT's resort area.
The BoardWalk's location makes it an ideal place for Disney to introduce something entirely new.
For now, however, the company remains silent.
The only certainty is that work continues behind the scenes.
And with another permit now on the books, the mystery surrounding Project Amazon and Project Bubbles may not stay a mystery forever.
