In August, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts announced that changes were being made to the ongoing Fantasyland expansion at the Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World.
Speculation is that these changes were made to accommodate for more attractions aimed at boys, rather than just the Princess set. And of course there’s added competition from the new Harry Potter-themed land at Universal Studios Islands of Adventure, though Disney Parks and Resorts Chairman Tom Staggs denies that the Wizarding World is a factor in the Fantasyland changes.
Staggs went on to say the final Fantasyland product is “not 100 percent done,” but already the rumor mill is churning with thoughts of what is on the chopping block vs. what is being kept for the expansion.
Everything Walt Disney World reports that the most credible rumor is that the Pixie Hollow meet-and-greets seem to be on the chopping block – and this jives with what Staggs told the media in August.
And just recently, the rumor mill churned yet again with thoughts that the Cinderella and Sleeping Beauty-themed interactive meet-and-greets were also getting the axe, with plans instead calling for a Snow White-themed roller coaster.
But it appears that the Little Mermaid-themed dark ride is still a go, with a $15 million permit obtained to build it. And here Progress City USA provides some video proof that along with the Little Mermaid ride, the Beauty and the Beast Be Our Guest table-service restaurant and the enhanced Dumbo ride are also still on the blueprints.
So assuming these rumors are credible, and that Disney is making an effort to appeal beyond the 3- to 8-year old Princess and Fairy set, do you think pulling away from meet-and-greets and moving toward more action rides is the right move? Leave a comment below.
