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Incoming EPCOT Attraction? Disney Files Permit for Mysterious Project

Mickey Mouse in a tuxedo and Minnie Mouse in a red polka dot dress are posing cheerfully in front of a geometric structure resembling a globe. The word "NEW" is repeatedly printed in large letters in the background.
Credit: Disney Fanatic

Recently, it seemed like EPCOT was being neglected at Walt Disney World. But now, reports are flooding in regarding some mysterious new permits. Could EPCOT be receiving a new attraction? Here’s what we know…

Donald Duck, Mickey Mouse, and Goofy dressed in red, white, and blue colonial-style outfits standing in front of a building with a sign reading "American Adventure." The trio strikes a celebratory pose with decorations in the background.

Credit: Disney

Recent Mystery Project at Hotel du Canada

Disney has filed a permit for an undisclosed project at the Hotel du Canada in the EPCOT park at Disney World. This notice suggests significant construction activity; however, the specifics of the project remain unknown. The building contractor listed for this endeavor is Icarus Exhibits, a firm notable for its work on high-profile Disney attractions.

Icarus Exhibits has a strong portfolio, including recent projects like Tiana’s Bayou Adventure and Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. The scope of the work detailed in the permit indicates “Install set elements,” leading to speculation regarding the potential expansion or revamping of existing attractions.

The choice of Icarus Exhibits as the contractor hints at an ambitious, immersive project rather than a simple refurbishment.

Brightly colored mural featuring a monorail, a futuristic airplane, a small airship, and a friendly purple dragon holding a wand. The background displays vibrant geometric patterns and bold, angular shapes. A green, spiky ball and water fountains are in the lower section.

Credit: Disney

Upcoming EPCOT Developments

The D23 Expo recently showcased exciting new attractions slated for various Disney parks but notably excluded EPCOT from major announcements. Although Josh D’Amaro mentioned that a new lounge themed to Spaceship Earth is coming, excitement for EPCOT remains tepid compared to other parks.

The ongoing renovations to existing attractions, including the reimagined Test Track due in 2025, have not garnered as much enthusiasm among guests, some of whom have critiqued the recent changes as lacking in creativity and engagement.

Additionally, while EPCOT has undergone a transformation with the introduction of new themed areas, many visitors express concern over the lack of fresh rides or countries added to the World Showcase. The absence of significant new projects during a time when other parks are rapidly evolving has left EPCOT feeling somewhat neglected.

guests, family visiting epcot, spaceship earth

Credit: Disney

Potential for EPCOT Attraction & Expansion

Within EPCOT, the Canada Pavilion currently hosts popular offerings such as Le Cellier Steakhouse and the Canada Far and Wide movie experience.

Nevertheless, there is a considerable area that remains underutilized, particularly the space accessible between Canada and the Imagination Pavilion, providing an opportunity for new developments.

The permit filed for the Hotel du Canada creates speculation about an expansion that could integrate these areas, perhaps introducing new attractions that align with Canadian heritage or themes.

The anticipation centers on whether Disney may finally bring additional immersive experiences to this portion of the park, potentially enhancing the EPCOT landscape and its global offerings.

spaceship earth, epcot

Credit: Disney

The Future of EPCOT

As Disney continues to unveil attractions in its other parks, EPCOT’s stagnation draws concern and curiosity from industry watchers. While parks like Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom are receiving vast expansions, EPCOT currently seems to lag in significant updates, raising questions about its future.

This ongoing project at the Hotel du Canada could mark a turning point for EPCOT if it leads to new visitor experiences that enhance the overall park. Fans and industry experts are closely monitoring this development for any signs of future announcements, suggesting that the time may be ripe for Disney to invest in revitalizing EPCOT’s offerings.

As the company proceeds with its mysterious project, there remains a palpable anticipation among guests eager for fresh attractions and experiences in this storied Disney park.

What kind of attraction would you like to see in EPCOT? Tell Disney Dining about it in the comments below!

About Rick

Rick is an avid Disney fan. He first went to Disney World in 1986 with his parents and has been hooked ever since. Rick is married to another Disney fan and is in the process of turning his two children into fans as well. When he is not creating new Disney adventures, he loves to watch the New York Yankees and hang out with his dog, Buster. In the fall, you will catch him cheering for his beloved NY Giants.

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