Disney World’s Sneaky Surprise: Unveils New Attraction Without Warning

A surprise new addition has been unveiled for Disney Springs.

Related: First-of-Its-Kind DVC Resort Opening at Disney World This Year

Disney announced today on Instagram that Walt Disney World Resort’s onsite shopping and dining district debuted at Gateway to Discovery this morning (March 2, 2024).

This will act as a DVC Welcome Home Center at Disney Springs. Gateway to Discovery “serves as an interactive portal” to explore DVC vacation destinations.

The center sits on the former site of the jewelry store Alex & Ani (which permanently closed in January, just under three years after the brand filed for bankruptcy), in the Town Center area of Disney Springs near Frontera Cocina. Later this spring, it will also welcome a space for members and guests on the second floor of the building (AKA a brand-new Disney Vacation Club lounge).

Reactions to the announcement were mostly positive. However, some fans and DVC Members pointed out that they would have preferred more lounges in the parks themselves.

“I’d rather see more lounges in the parks, because I rarely have the time to go to Disney Springs,” wrote one Instagram user. “Shopping and eating at DS isn’t on my radar when park time (rides, shows, fireworks, food and themed gift shops) are magical!!!!! I also love to spend time hotel hopping. When I have any downtime, I’d rather relax at my DVC hotel pools.”

“Very exciting, but need some in the other parks – like the Disneyland one, it’s AMAZING!!” wrote another user, while one asked, “How about more lounges and perks in the parks ??”

Related: Disney Vacation Club Exclusive Cruises Coming in 2024

Some guests also called for Disney Vacation Club to solidify the existence of the existing Disney Vacation Club Member lounges. “EXCELLENT! Now a dedicated lounge in EVERY Disney park! And PLEASE just announce that the Epcot DVC lounge is PERMANENT, so we don’t have to wonder if it is ever going away!

Where would you like to see Disney add a Disney Vacation Club lounge next? Let us know in the comments!

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