Potential Imagination Pavilion Update? New Permit Just Filed

Hey Disney vacationers! As we all eagerly count down to the 2024 D23 Expo in August, there’s already a buzz building around what might be in store for our beloved EPCOT, especially around a potential Imagination Pavilion update. While Disney has teased us with updates about DinoLand USA and Beyond Big Thunder Mountain, a recent permit filing hints at something potentially exciting for the Imagination Pavilion. Let’s dive into what we know and speculate a bit about what could be coming!

A Permit Sparks Imagination

Earlier this month, Disney filed a permit for some intriguing work at the Imagination Pavilion, nestled at 1990 Avenue of the Stars. This isn’t just any routine update; the permit mentions “general construction” and is spearheaded by Poli Construction LLC, a name most recently seen in the update to Trails End Restaurant at Disney World.

But here’s the kicker: the permit lists an expiration date of November 28, 2025. Why is this important? Well, typically, permits have a blank expiration that defaults to one year from the filing date. However, this 19-month timeframe suggests we might be looking at a more extensive project than usual.

What Could This Mean?

While the details of the work remain under wraps, the permit’s specific mention of an extended deadline is a clue that we could be seeing a significant overhaul. The Imagination Pavilion, home to the beloved Journey into Imagination ride, the DVC Lounge, the Disney and Pixar Short Film Festival, and the ImageWorks post-show area, could be in for some exciting changes.

Speculating on Possible Changes

Given the scope of the permit, it’s possible Disney is planning a major revamp of the entire pavilion. Could we see a new ride? An expansion of the existing attractions? Or perhaps a completely new concept designed to draw in even more visitors to this iconic part of the park?

The last major project by Poli Construction involved a dining area, so there’s also a chance that part of the pavilion could be transformed into a new restaurant or dining experience, enhancing the EPCOT experience by merging imagination with culinary delights. While this would be a shocking announcement, it is possibility.

However, the mostly likely change would be updates to either the DVC Lounge or Journey into Imagination. For years, its been rumored that Journey into Imagination would be updated. There’s even been confirmation of Disney executives and Imagineers evaluating the space for something “new”. According to Jim Hill of the Disney Dish podcast, an Imagination Pavilion update, was one of the last things cut from the last EPCOT update. An update that brought us, Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, World Celebration, Journey of Water inspired by Moana, Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind and more.

Jim Hill went on to say the Imagination Pavilion update was moved to a “Phase 2”. It does beg the question, has Disney World started the Phase 2 of the EPCOT transformation? With the recent announcement of the reimagining of Test Track, it is a possibility.

What We Know for Sure

As of now, Disney has not officially announced any plans for the Imagination Pavilion, and without confirmation, all we have are educated guesses and hopeful speculation. However, the specifics of the permit—especially the extended expiration date—definitely raise some eyebrows and imaginations.

Stay Tuned!

For all Disney fans, the prospect of an updated Imagination Pavilion is undeniably thrilling. As we approach the D23 Expo, stay tuned for any announcements or hints that Disney might drop our way. The future of EPCOT’s Imagination Pavilion looks bright, and we can’t wait to see what’s in store!

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Meet the Author: Nate Bishop

I’m a die-hard Disney fan with 38 years of visits under my belt, having stepped into Disney World 120+ times. Proud to be a Disney Annual Passholder, a Vacation Club member since ’92, a Castaway Club Member, and a runDisney enthusiast. Oh, and I’ve graduated from the Disney College of Knowledge. Need Disney insights or planning tips? I’m your guy!