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Studio Backlot Tour

This is the weekly news, rumors and refurbishments update for Walt Disney World for the week of September 14, 2014.

Here are the three biggest updates from around the resort for the past seven days…

1. The Studio Backlot Tour at Disney’s Hollywood Studios is closing for good next week

That’s right, the Studio Backlot Tour’s final day of operation will be September 27, 2014. No announcement about a replacement has been made, but that area of the park is a prime location for the rumored Pixar Place expansion.

Studio Backlot Tour

Last week we mentioned the possibility of expanding Toy Story Midway Mania and next's week closure of the Backlot Tour could lead to much more. Just don’t expect bulldozers anytime soon.

Wandering Oaken’s Trading Post will be relocated to the former American Film Institute Showcase (that closed last month) and last throughout the holiday season. If construction on any new attractions is to begin, it probably won’t be until 2015. Closing the Backlot Tour right before fiscal 2015 is probably a cost savings effort by Disney and will give them time to possibly relocate all of the backstage artifacts and equipment.

There is also no mention of closing Lights, Motors, Action! Extreme Stunt Show in the foreseeable future, but that could certainly change at any moment.

Closing one of the park’s original and iconic attractions certainly gives credence to the rumors that more than just Star Wars is being planned for Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

2. Two more updates on Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort this week

First, the new sign for the resort was unveiled this week. It now features the new name, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, as opposed to Disney’s Polynesian Resort. Image Credit: Tikiman

Polynesian Sign

Second, the temporary check-in location is now operational. When you enter the resort from the main entrance, the check-in will be to your left instead of to your right.

The old check-in desk is now walled off for refurbishment. No date has been given as to when that work will be completed, but I wouldn’t expect it to be finished until 2015.

 
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