Fans of Ariel from Disney’s The Little Mermaid will be pleased to know that her meet and greet is returning to its original location at Walt Disney Presents in Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This move marks the end of her temporary stay at Echo Lake and brings her back to a more immersive and themed setting. Here’s everything you need to know about this change.
Ariel’s Return to Walt Disney Presents
Starting January 12, 2026, Ariel will once again greet guests at her original location in Walt Disney Presents. This space is designed to resemble the terrace of Prince Eric’s seaside castle, providing a more fitting backdrop for the character. The meet and greet will be available daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, according to the official Walt Disney World website.
Temporary Relocation to Echo Lake
Ariel’s meet and greet was temporarily moved to Echo Lake near 50’s Prime Time Café on October 28, 2025, to accommodate holiday meet and greets at Walt Disney Presents. While the Echo Lake location provided a convenient spot for guests, it lacked the detailed theming of her original space. The setup included potted plants and a wooden treasure chest, which offered a simple but less immersive experience.
Themed Setting at Walt Disney Presents
The return to Walt Disney Presents brings back the charm of Ariel’s original meet and greet location. Styled to reflect Prince Eric’s castle, the space enhances the storytelling and provides a more engaging experience for guests. This location has also hosted other popular exhibits, including a preview center for upcoming Walt Disney World projects and a temporary display of Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour costumes.
Ariel’s History at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Ariel from the live-action adaptation of The Little Mermaid has been meeting guests at Disney’s Hollywood Studios since May 26, 2023, coinciding with the film’s release. Directed by Rob Marshall, the live-action film brought a fresh take on the beloved animated classic. Ariel’s meet and greet has been a popular attraction, offering fans the chance to interact with the character in a themed environment.
Wrapping Up
The return of Ariel’s meet and greet to Walt Disney Presents is a welcome change for fans and visitors to Disney’s Hollywood Studios. With its immersive theming and convenient location, this experience is sure to delight guests of all ages. Be sure to plan your visit to meet Ariel and enjoy the magic of The Little Mermaid at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Written by
Rachel Van Norman
Contributing Writer
Rachel fell deeply in love with all things Disney as a little girl. Now as a wife and a mother herself, she shares this Disney obsession with her son and everyone around her. From her love of princesses to eating all the Disney food, Rachel spends her time radiating Disney magic and keeping everyone up to date on Disney news.
