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Tag Archives: Walt Disney World

January 2

January 2, 1996 – The World of Motion Pavilion Closes

“It’s fun to be free, to be on the move, to go anywhere with ever a care to.”

On January 2, 1996, the World of Motion Pavilion in Epcot’s Future World officially closed. Sponsored by General Motors, the pavilion provided guests a look at the history of automobiles, with a section called the Transcenter serving as a look at the future of cars. The attraction was replaced by the new General Motors attraction Test Track, which began soft openings in December, 1998.

December 31

December 31, 1992 – The Club 8TRAX Opens in Walt Disney World’s Pleasure Island

“Those looking to return to the disco era of spinning balls, lighted dance floors and groovy atmosphere will definitely want to check out 8TRAX.”

On December 31, 1992, the club 8TRAX opened in Walt Disney World’s Pleasure Island area of Downtown Disney. Replacing the former club Cage, it was a 1970s-themed club, featuring music from that era playing until midnight, with lighted dance floors and dancers accompanying the music. The club closed on September 27, 2008.

December 29

December 29, 2013 – Downton Abbey Actress Elizabeth McGovern Visits Walt Disney World

Downton at Disney?”

On December 29, 2013, Walt Disney World caught Downton Abbey fever when actress Elizabeth McGovern, who plays Cora Crawley, visited the parks. McGovern notably visited Epcot and took a photo with several cast members from the United Kingdom Pavilion, spoofing the iconic cast photo in front of Highclere Castle, with the pavilion’s landscape subbing for the castle. On hand for the photo was Goofy, dressed in top hat and tails, while McGovern posed in a casual outfit.

December 28

December 28, 1972 – Walt Disney World’s Airport Closes

“Shawnee Airlines now serving Sarasota, Miami, Tampa and Walt Disney World”

On December 28, 1972, Walt Disney World’s personal STOLport (Short Take-Off and Landing) airport, also known as Lake Buena Vista Airport, closed permanently. The airport had opened in 1971 to be a private airfield for the park, shuttling guests and cast members between the park and the two nearby airports: Orlando International Airport and Tampa International Airport. When the airport closed, it was considered a failed experiment by Disney; it was closed thanks to low customer participation and rising debt.

December 26

December 26, 1989 – The World Traveler Shop Opens in Epcot

“This shop at International Gateway is your passport to Epcot and Disney souvenirs plus cold beverages for your voyage.”

On December 26, 1989, the merchandise stop The World Traveler opened in Walt Disney World’s Epcot Park. Located at the International Gateway near the World Showcase, this shop provides the first bit of merchandise to travelers taking the ferry to get to Epcot from certain Walt Disney World resorts. The shop provides a variety of merchandise ranging from pins to housewares. It also provides cold drinks for guests to take with them in the park, especially on hot Florida days.

December 19

December 19, 2012 – Splitsville Luxury Lanes Opens in Downtown Disney

“Enjoy an upscale new spin on a classic American pastime at this modern take on a bowling alley.”

On December 19, 2012, the bowling alley Splitsville Luxury Lanes opened in Downtown Disney, on the West Side. Now a part of Disney Springs, this two-story deluxe bowling alley includes 30 bowling lanes, five bars, and a restaurant that features a variety of upscale dishes, including sushi and filet sliders, designed by celebrity chef Tim Cushman. Splitsville also features live music and dancing, along with billiards. It replaced the former Ridemakerz area of the Virgin Megastore.

December 16

December 16, 2015 – The Jungle Navigation Co. Ltd. Skipper Canteen Opens in Walt Disney World

“Hungry for adventure? Savor the tropical cuisine of this exotic outpost.”

On December 16, 2015, the restaurant Jungle Navigation Co. Ltd. Skipper Canteen opened in Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom Park. Replacing the Adventureland Veranda, this restaurant brings the punny humor of the Jungle Cruise to dining, including small details to bring the feel of the attraction to every room. The cuisine features flavors from Asia, South America, and Africa, featuring dishes such as shiriki noodle salad; “A Lot at Steak” salad; and Kungaloosh!, and African-inspired dessert cake.

December 15

December 15, 2015 – The Ganachery Opens in Disney Springs

“…a jewel box of a shop that showcases the beauty of chocolate with an experience much like a wine tasting.”

On December 15, 2015, the gourmet chocolatier The Ganachery opened in Walt Disney World’s Disney Springs area. The store sells chocolate with Disney’s own special recipe for ganache, and sells it with a Disney flair, thanks to some help from the Walt Disney Imagineers. There are a variety of specialty treats, including crispy chocolate pearls, handmade chocolate truffles, and bars with flavors to match Disney Parks or Disney characters.

December 8

December 8, 2011 – Disney Vacation Club Announces Disney’s Grand Floridan Villas

“We continually look for ways to expand Disney Vacation Club by creating resort experiences that our members will love.” – Senior Vice President and General Manager of Disney Vacation Club, Claire Bilby

On December 8, 2011, the Walt Disney Company released an official press release confirming the rumor of the addition to Walt Disney World’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. The addition of around 147 villas to Walt Disney World’s flagship hotel was part of the Disney Vacation Club’s continued growth, and was estimated to open in late 2013. This was the 12th addition to the lineup of Disney Vacation Club properties.

December 6

December 6, 2012 – The After Market Shop Opens in Epcot

“After your wild ride, slow down and rubberneck tons of Test Track merchandise: toy cars, pit crew caps, pins and more.”

On December 6, 2012, the After Market Shop opened in Epcot, in the exit area of the Test Track attraction. The new name for the gift shop in the Inside Track exhibit area, the area sells Chevrolet-themed items, such as attire and model cars. The store was part of the refurbishment that was done on the Test Track attraction, and has since been renamed the Test Track SIMporium.