It’s a sad day in Orlando. After almost 35 years, Muppet*Vision 3D will be shuttering its doors for good. The attraction, along with the rest of the Muppets Courtyard, will be repurposed for the upcoming Monsters Inc.-themed land in Walt Disney World’s Hollywood Studios.
The closing of the Muppets Courtyard – which will happen at an undetermined date in 2025 – also means the end of the PizzeRizzo restaurant, Gonzo’s Royal Flush bathrooms, and the Muppet-themed Stage 1 Company Store. The surrounding displays, including the iconic Miss Piggy fountain, will be removed as well, though we have been told that Disney is investigating options for a new location for the statue.
The classic attraction was one of the final productions Jim Henson worked on, and it was a testament to his reputation and life’s work that it remained for such an incredibly long time. So of course, while we’re sad to see it go, we’re so happy we had as much time with it as we did.
Our contacts at Disney have told us that they are investigating options to keep the attraction alive in another format. If it’s possible, this may not be the last we see of Muppet*Vision 3D.
But all is not lost! With this dour news comes an exciting announcement. Coming soon (date TBD), the Rockin’ Roller Coaster – also at Disney World’s Hollywood Studios – will be ditching Aerosmith and re-theming with the Muppets. As you can see in the teaser art, we expect a highlight on the Electric Mayhem, with appearances by Kermit, Miss Piggy, and the rest of the Muppet gang.
We have also been told that since the current Rockin’ Roller Coaster attraction exits into its own gift shop, we can expect this to be the new home of Muppet merchandise, which has been severely lacking in recent years, even in the Muppets Courtyard.
Stay tuned to ToughPigs as we learn more about the end of the Muppets Courtyard and the new beginnings of the Muppets’ Rockin’ Roller Coaster!
Click here to say goodbye to a legacy on the ToughPigs Discord!
by Joe Hennes – Joe@ToughPigs.com
