Disneyland is no stranger to change. The park is constantly evolving, with new attractions, shops, and dining experiences added regularly. However, not all changes are welcomed with open arms. Recently, Disney made a move that has left many guests feeling disappointed—transforming a newly added seating area back into a retail space.
For many visitors, the decision has raised questions about whether Disney is prioritizing merchandise over guest comfort in one of its busiest sections.
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The recent decision to reopen Port Royal Curios and Curiosities in New Orleans Square has sparked a great deal of debate, particularly among guests who were fond of the store’s brief transformation into a seating area. While some are pleased to see the return of a beloved retail spot, others feel that Disney’s focus on increasing merchandise offerings comes at the cost of important guest amenities like seating.
Port Royal Curios, previously a merchandise location dedicated to Haunted Mansion and Nightmare Before Christmas (1993) goods, was closed earlier this year. In an unexpected twist, the store’s closure paved the way for a temporary but much-appreciated seating area, which added extra space for guests visiting nearby Royal Street Veranda.
The former Haunted Mansion shop in Port Royal has transformed (nearly overnight) into a jazz club!
Much needed as it adds plenty of seating for Royal Street Veranda.
The former Haunted Mansion shop in Port Royal has transformed (nearly overnight) into a jazz club!
Much needed as it adds plenty of seating for Royal Street Veranda. pic.twitter.com/fQYn1gxRAZ
— Critter Club HQ (@CritterClubHQ) May 2, 2025
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The seating area, which offered the much-needed luxury of air conditioning, became a refuge for parkgoers seeking relief from the summer heat. It quickly gained popularity as a place to relax and recharge, with many appreciating the comfort it provided.
But that comfort was short-lived.
On May 2nd, Disney decided to turn the seating area back into a retail location, reopening Port Royal Curios with a new assortment of merchandise, including an expanded collection of Nightmare Before Christmas products.
Port Royal Curios and Curiosities Reopens as a retail Location at Disneyland
Just like that, this location has returned to being a retail shop after being converted into an extra seating location for nearby quick service dining options. The shop is loaded with lots of new merchandise too! Swipe through for pictures and videos of this returned retail shop. What do you think?
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This decision has left many fans feeling that Disney’s focus on increasing its retail footprint has overshadowed the need for more guest spaces. While some are thrilled to see the return of the store, others are upset by the loss of the seating area that had provided a much-needed respite in an otherwise crowded park.
For those who frequented the seating area, its sudden disappearance felt like a significant loss.
Booooo the seating was so useful in that spot 🥲
Well that was short lived. The seating was great with the air conditioning. Nice break from the heat
We dont need MORE gift shops selling the same merch. The seating was nice
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Now that the store is back, fans of these products are excited to shop once again in the space that once offered such beloved items. But the reopening has led some to ask: Is there really a need for another retail store in Disneyland? As more and more merchandise stores open in the park, the question of whether Disneyland’s retail offerings are becoming excessive looms larger.
What’s clear from the reactions is that Disney is facing a balancing act. On the one hand, there is the desire to offer guests as much Disney merchandise as possible. On the other, there is the need to create spaces where guests can relax and enjoy the atmosphere without feeling constantly surrounded by crowds and retail displays.
The seating area was a small but important example of the latter, and its loss has led many to wonder if more attention should be paid to providing guests with spaces to rest and unwind.
While the shift back to retail at Port Royal Curios may be seen as a win by some, it’s also become a flashpoint for a larger debate about Disneyland’s priorities. Should the park focus more on enhancing its merchandise selection, or should it work to provide more seating and relaxation areas for guests? It’s a debate that continues to simmer as fans share their thoughts online, voicing both frustration and support in equal measure.
As the debate continues, Disney fans are encouraged to share their thoughts and join the conversation. Do you think the reopening of Port Royal Curios was the right decision, or should Disney have kept the seating area in place? We want to hear your thoughts—let us know in the comments below!
