The 7 BIG Updates from Walt Disney World This Week (February 11-17, 2019)

Sunday, February 17, 2019 - 04:34

This week at Walt Disney World, a surprising new addition is announced for Disney Springs, a cut comes to Norway, plus a new character is introduced at Disney's Animal Kingdom! A lengthy refurbishment for one of the most popular Walt Disney World attractions is also announced this week!

Programming note: Though we normally devote some time to Orlando-area parks outside Lake Buena Vista, there has been so much going on at Walt Disney World over the past seven days that we decided to forgo the “beyond” this week. You’ll hear about all the news from Universal Orlando Resort, Busch Gardens Tampa and SeaWorld Orlando in next week’s update!

1. Viking characters cut from Norway Pavilion

Though the Viking characters have been a fun part of the Norway pavilion for the past few years, with Frozen Ever After softening in popularity it looks like Disney is drawing down the entertainment budget in this area, and will be ending this character experience on March 30th, 2019. No replacement is currently planned.

2. Twilight Zone Tower of Terror refurbishment starying soon

The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror is one of the most beloved rides in all of Walt Disney World, and has been thrilling guests since the mid-1990s. However, though this attraction has continued to wow guests for the last 25 years, like any other ride, it needs a little TLC from time to time. And it looks like Disney is finally ready to give this attraction the attention it deserves (it hasn't had a major refurbishment since 2010!) in the very near future as a massive refurbishment is planned for this year that will be kicking off in just a few weeks. The refurbishment will be carried out in phases while the attraction remains open, so expect longer waits and limited FastPass+ availability while this refubishment is ongoing.

3. Ron Jon Surf Shop coming to Disney Springs

Image: Disney

The Ron Jon Surf Shop is a tourist mainstay, and now this iconic story is coming to Disney Springs. This 10,000-square-foot location will be in the Town Center area of Disney Springs, taking over the area that was most recently used to preview the new Kingdom Hearts game and the Disney Corner.

Amanda KondolojyView Profile

Managing editor of Theme Park Tourist and dark ride enthusiast. Amanda is a lifelong theme parks fan who lives just outside Orlando. When she’s not booking FastPass+ reservations, standing in a queue or eating the latest specialty cupcake, you can find her watching a Marvel movie, reading a book (probably by Neil Gaiman) or singing along to showtunes in her car. Contact: [email protected]