One of Disney Springs' most recognizable storefronts is starting to look dramatically different. The changes becoming visible above the construction walls this week signal that the Ghirardelli renovation is moving into a more substantial phase.
The Iconic Sign at Disney Springs Is Gone
WDWNT reported on July 23 that the illuminated Ghirardelli Soda Fountain & Chocolate Shop sign had been removed from its longtime location in the Marketplace neighborhood at Disney Springs. The outlet shared a photo of the building's current state, showing construction walls that have surrounded the storefront since the shop closed for refurbishment in early July.
The sign's disappearance is one of the first changes guests can actually see from the guest-facing side of the barriers — and it's not the only visible alteration. Paneling has been stripped from at least one exterior wall and from around stained-glass windows, exposing plain back sheathing beneath. An overhang directly below where the illuminated sign once hung has also been torn down, though the support poles for both the sign and the overhang remain standing. Some awnings appear to have been removed as well, barely visible above the construction wall line.
Not everything has changed yet. Harlequin-print paneling and a wooden Ghirardelli sign remain intact at the front of the building, suggesting the exterior work is progressing in stages rather than all at once.
Whether the iconic illuminated sign is being removed for refurbishment and will eventually return, or is being replaced entirely with something new, hasn't been confirmed.
What's Coming When It Reopens
Ghirardelli has confirmed that the overhauled Marketplace location will bring meaningful improvements when it reopens in 2027, including expanded indoor seating and reduced wait times. In the meantime, a temporary Ghirardelli location has opened in the former Sprinkles Cupcakes storefront in Disney Springs' Town Center neighborhood, keeping the chocolate and sundae cravings of Walt Disney World Resort guests covered during the renovation period.
Have you visited the temporary Ghirardelli location at Disney Springs? Disney Fanatic would love to hear about it in the comments!
