Last month we shared that refurbishment walls had been put up around the iconic Sleeping Beauty Castle in Disneyland.
We already knew that Sleeping Beauty Castle would maintain its classic color scheme of warm pink and bright blue while it underwent some needed repair work. But Disney has revealed that the Castle will also receive a subtle sprinkling of “pixie dust.”
The Castle refurbishments are part of Project Stardust which will involve “a number of enhancements” to the entire Disneyland Resort — and in particular Disneyland park– in an effort to “continue to deliver a world-class guest experience.” These will involve beautification of the park to maximizing the comfort level for guests. This is intended to result in greater enjoyment of the classic Disneyland experience while simultaneously preparing the park for “its next phase of significant growth, starting with Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, where tradition meets a new frontier.”
Parts of the project which are underway or already completed include curbs on Main Street U.S.A. enhanced with slow inclines to improve guest access upon entering the park, new brickwork, and a full replacement of the horse-drawn streetcar track. In Fantasyland, queues have been reconfigured for Matterhorn Bobsleds, “it’s a small world” and Dumbo the Flying Elephant. The recent addition of The Tropical Hideaway is also a part of the efforts, welcoming guests “to a brand new area that was previously underutilized.”
Additional work includes the adjustment of planters and outdoor vending cart placements to create more walking room and more efficient stroller parking. More overall seating will be added around the park, too.
To cap off this discussion of Project Stardust, Disney has shared a video about the work being done on Sleeping Beauty Castle. Note that Disney Imagineer Kim Irvine shares that during the refurb, guests will be able to take pictures in front Herb Ryman’s first rendering of Sleeping Beauty Castle.
Jo says
Hi AJ and the team. Can I ask when the construction walls to the castle will come down? I dont think i saw a date. Thanks for your help.
DFB Sarah says
Jo, the only official line is “spring 2019”, but we’ll keep you updated!