Two Walt Disney World Attractions Closing Soon

Stitch’s Great Escape and Shark Reef Will Soon Join the List of Retired Disney Attractions

Disney parks are definitely cleaning house this year. From the closure of many attractions at Disney’s Hollywood Studios Park to the end of the Twilight Tower of Terror at California Adventure, many attractions are closing to make way for new experiences.

Now there are two more attractions saying good bye to park guests.

Shark Reef

One of the most unique experiences of any water park is the Shark Reef at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon. The aquatic attraction allowed visitors to swim among unique sea life in a safe and controlled environment. The Shark Reef debut at park opening back in 1989. Since then thousands of visitors have snorkeled with stingrays, bonnethead sharks, leopard sharks and colorful tropical fish. Reports claim the closure is due to costly maintenance fees. It’s a shame to lose this one-of-a-kind attraction, that allowed so many of us to have the opportunity to swim through a school of tropical fish, and view sharks and stingrays up close. Shark Reef fans can experience a similar experience at Disney’s Aulani resort, minus the sharks and stingrays. Check out the video for Walt Disney World’s Shark Reef.

Miss Fortune Falls

The Shark Reef attraction will be replaced by a family water slide called Miss Fortune Falls. The attraction will open in 2017. According to the Disney Parks website, “the attraction brings to life the story of Captain Mary Oceaneer, a treasure-hunting heroine who was stranded by a rogue storm.” The attraction will take guests on a journey through the Captain’s past before dropping into a white water adventure. The attraction lasts 2 minutes, which is the longest ride time of any Disney water park.

Stitch’s Great Escape

Disney announced this week that Stitch’s Great Escape would no longer be open daily as of October 2nd. The attraction, which is located in the Magic Kingdom Park, will be open seasonally based on park attendance. The attraction will be open from November 19th – 26th, and from December 17th – January 2nd.

Stitch’s Great Escape opened in 2004, as a prequel to the 2002 animated feature “Lilo & Stitch”. The ride stars Experiment 626 otherwise known as Stitch as he escapes from his imprisonment. Guests are appointed as security recruits, and prepare for a close encounter with the mischievous 626. Chat room rumors claim the show will soon be replaced by a Wreck it Ralph experience.

Watch video of Stitch’s Great Escape.