This week at Walt Disney World, Disney Springs extends its hours, two long refurbishments kick off, plus entertainment gets big cuts at the resort. 

Outside Walt Disney World, Universal announces the VelociCoaster as well as new ticket/annual pass deals, plus Volcano Bay announces a four-month closure. 

1. Disney Springs extends opening hours

Though Disney Springs has been operating on a reduced schedule since its reopening back in June, the shopping and dining district has been slowly increasing both hours and capacity. Beginning October 9 2020, Disney Springs will move to a later 11:00 PM close on Friday and Saturdays, The current 10:00 PM close will stay in effect all other days. 

2. Tom Sawyer Island and Liberty Square Riverboat kick off refurbishments

The Liberty Square Riverboat and Tom Sawyer Island at the Magic Kingdom are both currently scheduled to close for refurbishment on October 5 and remain under refurbishment until at least early next year. We don't have any information about what it going to happen during these closures, but we'd guess that the Rivers of America are probably going to be drained as part of this closure, which is why both of these attractions are closing at the same time. 

3. Minnie Vans service reportedly not returning

One of the Walt Disney World services that did not return in July 2020 was the Minnie Vans service, and now it is being rumored that Disney will not be continuing with the agreement it has with Chevy in regards to leasing the cars that are used for this service. Disney has not released any statements about this program, so this is just a rumor for now, but if you're looking to get around Walt Disney World in the near future, you'll have to use Uber, Lyft, or another Walt Disney World transportation option.