Anyone who attended the recent D23 Expo at Disneyland is now aware of what Floridians have been speculating about for months. Beginning now, and not expected to be completed until 2013, Disneyworld's Fantasyland is receiving an official facelift. Above, is just one part of several concept art pieces that were released to show what Disney has in store. This is definitely the biggest overhaul that Disney World has ever seen:
Above are the blueprints for the changes. They will be doubling the size of this "land" by adding several new structures that will house each of the main princesses i.e. Belle, Cinderella, Aurora, Ariel are going to have their own house or castle in their area. You will be able to interact with the princesses in a way never before seen at a Disney Park. Go dancing with Cinderella, listen to a story read by Belle, attend Aurora's Birthday Party. They will also be unveiling a new "dark ride" for the Little Mermaid herself, Ariel. There will be new restaurants opening, "Gaston's Tavern" and another Beauty and the Beast themed restaurant. Tinkerbell and her fairy friends will also be able to call a new Pixie Hollow home where they will be able to interact with guests. Dumbo will get into the act where they will create a new "Big Top" home for the beloved attraction as well as doubling its size.
Disney also announced that with these changes will also come smaller changes. "Toontown" will become a part of Fantasyland and everything will be changed, of the exception of Goofy's "Barnstormer" roller coaster.
Star Tours will be receiving a much needed update, though I wish they could preserve the original story line. With the update we will be zipping through a pod race in 3d, instead of the current story that we are going "light speed to Endor".
So what does it all mean?
Disney has always tried to find ways to improve itself. I think Disney executives recognized a need for a Fantasyland overhaul, mostly due to the comparison with Disneyland's sister Fantasyland. It is bigger and better, and everyone knows it.
No one will miss Toontown. I myself have gone years without visiting and am none the worse for it. I do wonder though...where will Mickey go? Meeting Mickey is a pastime that everyone should enjoy when they visit the Magic Kingdom, and with them getting rid of his current home, literally (Mickey currently resides in the Judge's Tent in his "house's" backyard), where will he go? Rumors are that he will be moving to the Exposition Hall in the front of the park. While this may be a good place for it, it could prove disastrous to have such a prominent figure right as you walk into the park. Lines could get long if they don't do it right.
Should be interesting!
See the original pictures in more detail here: http://http://www.orlandosentinel.com/travel/orl-disney-world-new-fantasyland-plans-page,0,2321880.htmlpage
