Disney ParksNews

Updates Given on Locations at Disney World That Still Haven’t Reopened From the Pandemic

Disney World has seen plenty of changes over the years, with new attractions and restaurants constantly being added. But while some locations evolve, others disappear without much explanation. Several Disney World dining spots remain closed years after the pandemic, and it’s unclear if they will ever return.

Guests visit Tomorrowland in the Magic Kingdom during Hurricane Milton at Disney World.
Credit: Jamie S., Disney Fanatic

Tomorrowland Terrace in Magic Kingdom has not operated as a quick-service location for years. Instead, it now serves exclusively as a venue for firework dessert parties. With no sign of it reopening for regular dining, it’s likely to remain just an event space. Many guests have expressed frustration over its continued closure, particularly because it provides one of the best views of Cinderella Castle. While Disney has made no official statement about its future, it seems increasingly unlikely that the location will return to daily operations anytime soon.

Over in EPCOT’s Morocco Pavilion, Restaurant Marrakesh is still shut down. Once home to an immersive dining experience featuring Moroccan cuisine and live entertainment, the space has since been used as a lounge for Annual Passholders and festival guests. With Disney now fully controlling the pavilion, its future remains uncertain. Many speculate that Disney may be planning a complete overhaul of the location, rather than bringing back the restaurant in its original form. The lack of updates has left many fans disappointed, as it was one of the most unique cultural dining experiences in the park.

A stunning nighttime view of Epcot's Spaceship Earth at Walt Disney World, featuring the iconic geodesic sphere illuminated with purple and orange lights. Palm trees surround the structure, and the sky above is clear and dark.
Credit: Disney

Another location that hasn’t reopened is the Garden View Tea Room at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. Known for its afternoon tea service, it has remained closed despite the resort’s ongoing refurbishments. There have been no announcements about its return, leading to speculation that it may not be coming back. The Grand Floridian has been undergoing significant updates, and many fans hope that this iconic experience will return, but the absence of any official news raises doubts. The Tea Room was once considered one of the resort’s signature experiences, and its prolonged closure is disappointing for longtime Disney guests.

The only confirmed permanent closure on this list is Big River Grille & Brewing Works at Disney’s BoardWalk. The microbrewery and restaurant shut its doors in January 2024, but no replacement has been announced. Disney has made several changes to the BoardWalk in recent years, and the absence of any news about a new dining option in this space has left guests wondering what’s next. Given the popularity of the BoardWalk, it is likely that Disney has something planned, but the lack of an announcement suggests that fans will have to wait a bit longer to see what comes next.

Beach Club vs. Boardwalk
Credit: Disney

While Disney World is always evolving, these prolonged closures suggest that some locations may never return. Whether they will be repurposed or fade into Disney history remains to be seen, but for now, fans can only wait and see what’s next. Disney has been known to surprise guests with unexpected reopenings or transformations, so while these locations remain closed, there is always the chance that they could come back in a new and improved form. Until then, they remain reminders of a changing Disney landscape.

Andrew Boardwine

A frequent visitor of Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando Resort, Andrew will likely be found freefalling on Twilight Zone Tower of Terror or enjoying Pirates of the Caribbean. Over at Universal, he'll be taking in the thrills of the Jurassic World Velocicoaster and Revenge of the Mummy

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Related Articles