In a bit of an unprecedented move, the lobby of an attraction has reopened while the main attraction remains closed for refurbishment. Actually, it’s somewhat unclear if the Hall of Presidents is actually closed for refurbishment or for another reason – there is no signage at the attraction that suggests that it is closed for refurbishment. Guests are walking in, fully expecting to watch the show. We made it out to Magic Kingdom today to try and learn more.
Hall of Presidents Lobby Reopens, Show Remains Dark
The doors to the Hall of Presidents are now open, and any signage mentioning the refurbishment has been removed. That said, there are no showtimes posted outside of the attraction, and Cast Members are verbally advising guests that the attraction is still under refurbishment. The Hall of Presidents webpage says that the attraction is closed for refurbishment and will reopen later this year.
It is interesting that the building has presumably been turned back over to park operations, perhaps indicating the end of the work that Walt Disney Imagineering has to do on the attraction. There are no abnormal barricades that would indicate ongoing construction or work. In fact, we’ve seen Cast Members utilizing backstage doors, and even maintenance Cast Members are present – perhaps indicating that Imagineers have moved out.
Walt Disney World has not returned multiple requests for comment on the status of the attraction. During the 2020 election cycle, Disney confirmed the future status of the attraction on the day that it closed. Walt Disney World has made no such statements this election cycle, allowing speculation about the future of the attraction to take root in the fan community.
Now, with the reopening of just the lobby and not the show, questions remain. While it is wonderful that the lobby is open to guests, especially as a place to escape the summer heat, I’m not sure I can remember a time when the “queue” for a ride reopened while the attraction remained closed. Yes, the Hall of Presidents is a rather unique case and not a normal queue/attraction setup, but still, it is interesting that the show remains closed while the building is open to guests.
Hopefully, Walt Disney World either returns a request for comment or otherwise makes a statement. Of course, Disney could just very quietly reopen the attraction as well at any point. In fact, that may be the best route to take if they’re going to reinstall Donald Trump given the state of politics in America.
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