Sometimes good things must come to an end. At Disney World, this is especially true.
Disney World offerings such as attractions close temporarily all the time, whether it be due to refurbishment or inclement weather. Sometimes things close for seasonal overlays. Change at the Disney Parks is inevitable. However, on occasion, restaurants, attractions, shops, and hotels don’t just close temporarily — they close permanently.
This year, we saw a few big-time closures throughout Disney World. Let’s look at what was confirmed to be permanently closed in Disney World in 2023!
Splash Mountain
Let’s start with the big one. Splash Mountain, the longtime popular log flume attraction at Magic Kingdom, permanently closed on January 23rd, 2023.
Fans of log rides and great Disney animated movies need not worry, however, as it is being replaced by Tiana’s Bayou Adventure in late 2024.
Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser
Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser didn’t have a long shelf life. The immersive Star Wars-themed hotel opened in March 2022 and offered guests a 2-night voyage on the Halycon, of which they would only disembark to go on excursions to Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
So why did it close? Each person cost $2,000 or more, limiting practical lodging and Disney executives stated that it “didn’t perform.” The final voyage took place on September 30th, 2023.
Harmonious
Often controversial for its barges in World Showcase Lagoon, Harmonious at EPCOT ended its run on April 2nd, 2023.
The nighttime spectacular was replaced by the temporary return of EPCOT Forever, which in turn will be replaced by Luminous: The Symphony of Us, on December 5th.
Some Disney Springs Shops
In 2023 we saw a few Disney Springs shops and restaurants permanently close. Let’s get into them.
Sosa Family Cigars permanently closed earlier this year on January 3rd, 2023. Once located on the West Side of Disney Springs, this shop used to feature over 80 cigar brands, including some rare ones.
The UGG Store in Disney Springs closed for good a couple months after on March 16th, 2023. A new Lululemon location replaced the space and recently opened this fall.
Eco-friendly shoe store Melissa Clube quietly closed its doors in May of this year. Claiming the “original jelly since ’79”, this shop sold jelly shoes and other accessories made from recyclable materials.
Tokyo Dining in EPCOT
This one was kind of surprising. Tokyo Dining in EPCOT’s Japan Pavillion closed earlier this year, in what was expected to be a refurbishment. It ended up being a permanent closure.
However, in August 2023, EPCOT opened Shiki Sai: Sushi Izakaya in its place. Here, you can still get high-quality Japanese cuisine while learning about Japanese culture and history. Check out our full review!
12 Major Changes Coming to Disney World in 2024
We’ll continue to keep you in the know regarding any possible Disney World closures, and stay tuned right here at DFB for all the latest Disney news!
3 Ride Closures to Expect in Disney World in 2024
Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe!
WE KNOW DISNEY.
YOU CAN, TOO.
![](https://www.disneyfoodblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/DFBGuide-ShortCode-Image-1.png)
Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.
Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!
Which permanent closure caught you off guard the most? Let us know!
TRENDING NOW
Our latest roundup of ALDI finds is here!
There is one thing we really wish Disney World would enforce!
This Rock and Roll Hall of Fame band recently took a visit to Disney World...
It's harder to get Lightning Lanes for some rides in Disney World.
We are providing you with everything you need to know about the new Lightning Lane...
We know what every Disney fan will be doing this August!
We're super excited for this new Disney World hotel perk coming in 2025...but there's one...
These 5-STAR bags are perfect options for a Walt Disney World trip!
We've got some HOT Disney merchandise deals online right now!
Another major streaming company has teamed up with Disney to bring consumers a massive streaming...
We asked our readers what food trends they need ELIMINATED from Disney World, and we...
Big holiday news! Breakfast with Santa is coming BACK this year at this Disney Springs...
Disney has been doing some sneaky things -- we think we know why, but it...
We've got to talk about the things that the Disney World Skyliner Desperately needs!
A celebrity couple just visited Disney World with their family!
This EPCOT spot used to be a definite skip, but I recommend it now!
We've got some bad news if you're planning on visiting Universal Orlando soon!
I was BAMBOOZLED into purchasing a TV dinner in Disney's Animal Kingdom.
We've tasted some phenomenal treats around Disney World lately including a chocolate choux and flavored...
It seems like we've been holding our breath ever since Disney's announcement to retheme an...