A sense of nostalgia and surprise often fills the air at Disneyland, where changes to the park are always met with curiosity and excitement. Fans of the iconic attractions are familiar with the familiar ebb and flow of new experiences and occasional closures.
Recently, a transformation has taken place in one of Disneyland’s most beloved areas, leaving visitors both puzzled and intrigued.
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When it comes to Disney, guests expect the unexpected, and while Disneyland has always provided magic, surprise, and delight, sometimes those moments come in the form of sudden changes. Visitors to New Orleans Square recently experienced one such surprise when the original Haunted Mansion gift shop unexpectedly closed its doors and was replaced with something entirely new—a seating area.
Let’s take a closer look at this unexpected change, how Disneyland fans are reacting, and what it could mean for the future of New Orleans Square and the Disneyland Resort as a whole.
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The Haunted Mansion Gift Shop: A Disneyland Staple
For many years, the Haunted Mansion gift shop in New Orleans Square has been a must-visit destination for fans of the beloved attraction. This store was home to all things Haunted Mansion—from ghostly souvenirs and Nightmare Before Christmas (1993) merchandise to fun and spooky collectibles that fans could take home after their visit.
It was a place where guests could immerse themselves in the eerie atmosphere of the ride and find unique items related to their experience.
However, on May 2, Disneyland visitors were stunned to find that the Haunted Mansion gift shop was no longer there. The shop, which had been a popular stop for guests seeking souvenirs, was suddenly closed without any advance notice. In its place, Disneyland made the decision to introduce a new seating area—a much-needed addition in this part of the park.
A Surprising Change: More Seating for Royal Street Veranda
While the sudden change from a merchandise spot to a seating area was a surprise, it was not an unwelcome one.
In December, Madame Leota’s Somewhere Beyond shop opened right outside the exit to the Haunted Mansion. This made the original store location somewhat redundant, and many wondered what Disney would do with the space.
The addition of seating in the high-traffic area next to Royal Street Veranda makes a lot of sense. The Veranda, which serves up delicious food items like Cajun Chicken Salad Sandwiches and New Orleans-inspired Sno-Balls, has always been a popular spot for guests looking to enjoy a quick bite. However, the seating in the area has long been limited, especially during busy times.
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With the former Haunted Mansion gift shop now transformed into a seating area, guests are able to sit down and enjoy their meals in comfort without the stress of searching for an open bench. This change was likely driven by the growing need for more seating, especially as Disneyland prepares for the 70th anniversary celebrations and expects more visitors during the summer months.
The new seating area features benches, tables, and even bar-style seating that allows guests to relax and unwind. This addition has been welcomed by many, as it provides much-needed comfort and alleviates one of the common frustrations visitors face—finding a place to sit.
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As word of the seating area replacement spread, social media reactions were swift. One such reaction came from Critter Club HQ, who took to X (formerly Twitter) to share their excitement about the new development:
“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
This tweet encapsulates the positive reaction from guests, who have been thrilled by the added seating. Royal Street Veranda is one of Disneyland’s most popular spots for grabbing a quick meal, and the new seating has made the experience more comfortable.
While some fans were disappointed by the loss of the Haunted Mansion gift shop, many recognized the practicality of adding more seating, especially with the 70th anniversary celebrations fast approaching.
As Disneyland prepares to welcome more guests for the 70th anniversary, it’s clear that this change was made with the goal of improving comfort and convenience for visitors. Whether it’s adding more seating, updating rides, or introducing new experiences, Disneyland’s ability to adapt to the needs of its guests is what makes it a beloved destination.
What are your thoughts on the Haunted Mansion gift shop closure and the addition of the seating area? Do you think this change improves the overall Disneyland experience, or do you miss the shop and its unique merchandise? Share your thoughts in the comments below—Disney fans are always eager to discuss the latest updates and changes to the parks, and we’d love to hear what you think about this unexpected development!
