Visiting Downtown Disney This Summer? Here's What's Closing
Seven businesses that have been staples of Anaheim's Downtown Disney will be demolished in July to make way for a new 700-room hotel. Most of the businesses were built when Downtown Disney first opened in 2001. This will be the largest renovation of the entertainment district that was created to accommodate the expanding park.
Experts say the demolition will mark a turning point for the park because the destination will switch from attracting local residents to tourists who are willing to spend money on a large, "four-diamond hotel," according to The OC Register. The hotel, which currently has no name, will occupy 17 acres in Downtown Disney. There's been no confirmation regarding whether the businesses that will be demolished will be relocated, although some are speculating that several businesses might be moved within the new hotel grounds.
The following businesses will be demolished:
- AMC 12 Theatres
- Rainforest Cafe
- ESPN Zone
- Earl of Sandwich
- Alamo Rent-a-Car
- Starbucks (west side location)
- Disney Vacation Club and Walt Disney Travel will continue to operate in other resort locations.
All of the businesses are set to close by June 30, but some might close earlier. Disney hasn't received final approval on the hotel construction from the city of Anaheim yet. The hotel is expected to have a monorail stop and a new restaurant that offers views of the Disneyland fireworks.
Officials said employees of the closing businesses were notified Tuesday.
H/T: The OC Register
