Magic Kingdom Attractions: Hall of Presidents

A Patriotic Tribute to American History!

Step into the grandeur of the Hall of Presidents and prepare to be transported through time on a captivating journey through American history. Located in Liberty Square at the Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World, this iconic attraction pays homage to the leaders who have shaped the United States and celebrates the spirit of democracy.

The Hall of Presidents is not just an animatronic show; it’s an immersive experience that combines stunning audio-animatronics, captivating storytelling, and a profound sense of patriotism. As you enter the stately theater, you are surrounded by an aura of reverence and anticipation for the inspiring show about to unfold.

The heart of the attraction lies in the awe-inspiring display of audio-animatronic figures representing every U.S. President. Each figure is painstakingly crafted to resemble the real-life counterparts, complete with lifelike movements, gestures, and voices. From George Washington to Joe Biden, the presidents come to life on stage, sharing their wisdom and insights into the challenges and triumphs of their time.

The show itself is a dynamic blend of historical narration, stirring music, and impactful speeches, creating a profound connection between the audience and the leaders who have shaped the nation. It’s a celebration of the American spirit, reminding us of the resilience, determination, and ideals that have defined the United States throughout its history.

One of the highlights of the Hall of Presidents is the inclusion of a theatrical finale that brings together all the audio-animatronic figures on stage, creating a powerful and unified representation of America’s past and present leaders. This impactful scene serves as a reminder that despite political differences, there is a shared commitment to upholding the principles of democracy and striving for a better future.

The Hall of Presidents is not just an attraction for history buffs; it’s a testament to the enduring values that bind Americans together. It inspires a sense of pride and gratitude for the freedoms and opportunities we enjoy, while also reminding us of the ongoing work needed to build a more perfect union.

As you exit the theater, you’ll likely find yourself reflecting on the rich history and noble aspirations of the United States. The Hall of Presidents serves as a reminder that the American story is one of resilience, progress, and the continuous pursuit of a more inclusive and just society.

So, the next time you visit the Magic Kingdom, take a moment to visit the Hall of Presidents and immerse yourself in this patriotic tribute to American history. It’s an experience that will leave you with a deep appreciation for the leaders who have shaped the nation and a renewed sense of pride in the ideals and values that define the United States.

Reopening This Month At Walt Disney World

Via DisDining.com

August is going to be another step toward normal again, with more favorites returning. Here are the August, 2021 reopenings.

Entertainment

Wonderful World of Animation – Disney’s Hollywood Studios – reopening August 1: We don’t know when fireworks will return to Disney’s Hollywood Studios, but that doesn’t mean there won’t be an end of the night presentation. Wonderful World of Animation is a projection show that takes place on and around the Chinese Theater. You’ll enjoy decades worth of cinema in the 12 minute show. Many past guests have missed it because they were at Fantasmic. You don’t have that excuse right now.

Monsters, Inc. Laugh Floor – Magic Kingdom – reopening August 8: Humans will soon be able to enter the monster world once again! Monsters, Inc. Laugh Floor is a live show the relies heavily on audience participation. It’s a lot of fun and sure to put a smile on your face. If you know a good joke you can text it before you enter the theater and it might be part of the show!

Beauty and the Beast – Live on Stage – Disney’s Hollywood Studios – reopening August 15: A tale as old as time will soon delight young and old alike once again. Beauty and the Beast – Live on Stage is a high quality show that is faithful to the animated film that you know and love. At 25 minutes it’s condensed, but you’ll hear your favorite songs and see your favorite characters. The highlight is arguably the waltz between Belle and the Beast. This is one of the top shows that Walt Disney World fans have wanted to return, on August 15 they will get their wish.

Turtle Talk With Crush – EPCOT – reopening August 21: You’ll soon be able to enjoy a totally tubular time with everyone’s favorite turtle! Crush and the gang will be back entertaining and interacting with guests. Get your questions ready, because Crush wants to answer all of them! He’s been quiet for too long.

Hall of Presidents – Magic Kingdom – date unknown: Whenever a new US President is sworn in, the Hall of Presidents shuts down to install a new animatronic and update the soundtrack. Disney has not given an exact date for when the attraction will open again, but it has been confirmed that it will be sometime in August.

Restaurants

Pizzafari – Disney’s Animal Kingdom – reopening August 2: If you’re in the mood for individual sized pizza, Pizzafari is the place to go. The atmosphere is half the fun, with five themed rooms that you can dine in. Check the hours, because it looks like they will be limited; at least at first. Mobile Ordering is encouraged.

Columbia Harbour House – Magic Kingdom – reopening August 5: Enjoy a taste of New England at this popular quick service restaurant. You can start with Clam Chowder, and then move onto a Lobster Roll. You don’t have to want seafood to dine here. The Lighthouse Sandwich is a popular plant-based option. It’s so popular that when it was removed from the menu several years ago, there were a number of complaints and Disney decided to bring it back. Again, Mobile Ordering is encouraged.

Toledo – Tapas, Steak & Seafood – Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort – reopening August 5: Located in Gran Destino Tower, Toledo – Tapas, Steak & Seafood has the feel of a signature restaurant. It’s beautiful inside, and since you’re on the roof you can head outside and enjoy spectacular views. If you aren’t sure what to order, try the Chef’s Signature Dinner for Two. You won’t be disappointed.

Yachtsman Steakhouse – Disney’s Yacht Club Resort – reopening August 5: Many people say that the steak served at Yachtsman Steakhouse is the best at Walt Disney World. You can enjoy this signature restaurant again on August 5. Disney’s Yacht Club Resort is a quick walk from the International Gateway Entrance to EPCOT, so you can easily get away and then head back to the park for EPCOT Forever. There is a dress code at Yachtsman Steakhouse, so make sure you’ve checked it before you make your plans.

Atlantic Dance Hall – Disney’s BoardWalk – reopening August 6: Get ready to dance the night away! There is no food served at Atlantic Dance Hall, but there is a full bar. Videos from yesteryear and more recent are played. Atlantic Dance Hall is strictly for the 21 and up crowd. It may not be open nightly, before the closure it was open Tuesdays through Saturdays.

Resorts

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge – Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Jambo House, Reopening August 26: All of the Walt Disney World resort hotels will be open by the end of 2021. Next up is Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge and Jambo House. There are some aspects of the property that may not be operating, and all restaurants might not be open. Still, it’s a beautiful property and a wonderful place to stay. Spend some time watching the animals on the savannas. They’ve missed you.  

First Look at Joe Biden Added to Hall of Presidents

The Hall of Presidents has been an iconic attraction at Magic Kingdom park since 1971. Walt himself originally envisioned the beloved attraction years ago, and Disney continues to carry on the history of the United States leaders through storytelling and life-like animatronics. Now, Disney has provided an update as they have been hard at work preparing the attraction to reopen with the newly elected President, Joe Biden.

As shared by Disney: “For the past few months, work has been underway to add President Joe Biden to the stage as the 46th President of the United States. As Disney Imagineers are putting the final touches on the show, which will debut to guests in August, we’re sharing a behind-the-scenes look at the latest update. Just as Walt envisioned, creative teams have been busy programming an Audio-Animatronics replica of the President, pairing it with a delivery of the presidential oath of office recorded at the White House by President Biden himself just for the attraction.”

Audio-Animatronics replica of President Joe Biden at Hall of Presidents at Magic Kingdom Park

“Every detail comes together to create a realistic and symbolic glimpse into the office of the President through the years, from the carefully tailored clothing to the props, documents and furniture placed throughout the stage. Next time you visit, you may notice the table next to President Biden is adorned with a few special items, each with their own significance to the President—including peach blossoms to represent his home state of Delaware and a pair of aviators as a nod to his proclivity for the sunglasses.”

Special items significant to President Joe Biden in the Hall of Presidents at Magic Kingdom Park

Disney continues sharing, “And for those who are curious about what happens to presidents at The Hall of Presidents after their term has ended, the Audio-Animatronics figure of former President Donald J. Trump will take its place on stage among those who have previously served.”

Get ready to take your seat in the stunning Hall of Presidents theater beginning in August, as Disney continues to honor the story of the American presidency.

July 2021 Walt Disney World Refurbishments

Whether you’re visiting to see the fireworks return, enjoying the Fourth of July holiday, or ready to eat and sip your way through EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival, Disney is ready to invite you home. There are however a few refurbishments you’ll want to take note of as you prepare your days in the parks.

1. Walt Disney World Railroad (Magic Kingdom):

Sorry Disney fans, this one has been closed for a LONG time now, and we are missing it dearly. The railroad closed temporarily way back on December 3, 2018 and has remained closed since. The extended closure is due to the construction of the new attraction, Tron Lightcycle Power Run. Our best guess is that we won’t have a chance to take a ride on the railroad until Tron opens… which has yet to be announced… but is expected in 2022.

2. The Hall of Presidents (Magic Kingdom):

No surprise here as Disney is hard at work preparing Hall of Presidents for the 46th President, Joe Biden. For Trump’s Presidency, the attraction closed in January 2017 for refurbishment and reopened in December 2017. If history repeats itself, we are hoping to see Hall of Presidents reopen in December 2021.

3. Main Street Confectionery (Magic Kingdom):

Yes, this tasty shop filled with delightful treats closed on March 29, 2021 for a lengthy refurbishment. Currently, the refurbishment calendar has the Confectionery listed as under refurbishment through August 28, 2021. Note – August 28 is as far as Disney’s park hours are currently listed at the time of writing this article which is as far as the refurbishment calendar goes. This refurbishment could go longer once the calendar is updated. Get excited though because when it reopens Disney has said we will have a chance to customize our confections! In the meantime, there is a temporary shop set up in Main Street Cinema with Confectionery treats.

4. The Wave… of American Flavors (Disney’s Contemporary Resort):

The Wave… of American Flavors at Disney’s Contemporary Resort will be unavailable for the summer as Disney refurbishes the space in time for the 50th anniversary of Walt Disney World Resort. Reservations will be available through July 15. If you’re looking to enjoy this restaurant as is one last time, be sure to snag a reservation before July 15. The Disney rumor mill and speculations are hard at work with this refurbishment. Much of the speculations suggest Disney could make this a character dining restaurant with characters from The Incredibles. While we would absolutely love that, there is no confirmation from Disney.

5. Jungle Cruise (Magic Kingdom) – BUT it’s still open!

The Jungle Cruise attraction, at both Disneyland and Walt Disney World, are receiving new “experiences” which includes new adventures for us to cruise along to. While details of the enhancements have been revealed slowly, Disney has announced the work will be complete “this summer” at Walt Disney World. Thankfully, the attraction at Disney World has remained open throughout the refurbishment. The attraction is currently closed at Disneyland with a reopening date of July 16. Our hope is that Disney will be putting the final touches on Disney World’s Jungle Cruise around the same time.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios, EPCOT, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom are currently listed as being free from refurbishment closures (yay!). Keep in mind, refurbishments are listed to help us plan but it is not set in stone. Disney has been known to extend refurbishments, shorten them, and even close attractions and/or shops suddenly for refurb.

April 2021 Walt Disney World Refurbishments

Are you planning your most magical trip yet to Walt Disney World this April? Whether you’re coming for Spring Break, Easter, or simply to spend a little time surround by Pixie Dust, Disney is ready to invite you home. There are however a few refurbishments you’ll want to take note of as you prepare your days in the parks.

There are currently five closures listed beginning April 1, 2021 on the Walt Disney World refurbishment calendar.

1. Walt Disney World Railroad (Magic Kingdom):

Sorry Disney fans, this one has been closed for a LONG time now, and we are missing it dearly. The railroad closed temporarily way back on December 3, 2018 and has remained closed since. The extended closure is due to the construction of the new attraction, Tron Lightcycle Run. Our best guess is that we won’t have a chance to take a ride on the railroad until Tron opens… which has yet to be announced.

Disney Railroad

2. Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover (Magic Kingdom):

PeopleMover is listed on the refurbishment calendar through April 3, and then removed from the list beginning April 4. Unfortunately, we would say that while we hope it reopens on April 4, Disney has pushed this closure back time and time again as they continue to work on an unconfirmed maintenance issue.

People Mover

3. The Hall of Presidents (Magic Kingdom):

No surprise here as Disney is hard at work preparing Hall of Presidents for the 46th President, Joe Biden. For Trump’s Presidency, the attraction closed in January 2017 for refurbishment and reopened in December 2017. If history repeats itself, we are hoping to see Hall of Presidents reopen in December 2021.

Hall of Presidents

4. Main Street Confectionery (Magic Kingdom):

Yes, this tasty shop filled with delightful treats is scheduled to close on March 29, 2021 for a lengthy refurbishment. Currently, the refurbishment calendar has the Confectionery listed as under refurbishment through May 22, 2021.

5. Kali River Rapids (Disney’s Animal Kingdom):

Kali River Rapids closed on January 3 and has remained closed for refurbishment since. We are excited however as while Kali is removed from the closure list on April 2! Fingers crossed the refurbishment doesn’t get pushed back so we can once again enjoy a ride on the rapids.

Kali River Rapids

Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios are currently listed as being free from refurbishment closures. Keep in mind, refurbishments are listed to help us plan but it is not set in stone. Disney has been known to extend refurbishments, shorten them, and even close attractions and/or shops suddenly for refurb.