Tortuga Tavern, the Adventureland quick-service dining location at Magic Kingdom, is currently undergoing refurbishment. This seasonal restaurant has been closed to guests for some time, but the recent appearance of construction activity suggests that changes may be on the horizon.
Recent Developments at Tortuga Tavern
Tortuga Tavern has been closed since last summer, and while Disney briefly posted operating hours for the location suggesting a reopening earlier this year, guests later discovered this was an error. The restaurant remains closed, but new construction activity in the area points to possible changes ahead.
Disney has yet to announce specifics about the refurbishment, leaving the scope of the project uncertain. For now, construction shrubs, Disney’s mobile alternative to full construction walls, surround parts of the restaurant. A closer look shows wrapped columns, which could indicate work on the flooring or efforts to protect the surrounding structure during renovations.
Around the Construction Site
While the main construction area is closed off, there are still glimpses of Tortuga Tavern’s features. On the Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Cafe side of the construction zone, some outdoor seating remains accessible, along with a small courtyard. These shaded areas have long been a favorite quiet spot for park visitors taking a break from the bustling crowds of Adventureland.
While no major updates or visible changes have been observed yet, small details – like protected columns and cleared seating areas – may signal more substantial work coming soon.
Rumored Uses and Future of Tortuga Tavern
The future of Tortuga Tavern has been a popular topic among Disney fans. Some earlier speculation tied the location to the Pirates of the Caribbean Tavern project, but Disney clarified that the pirate-themed bar is taking over another nearby space once occupied by the Pirates League.
Without an official statement from Disney, visitors are left to wonder if Tortuga Tavern’s refurbishment could be tied to its current seasonal schedule or even a larger reimagining of the space. While no announcements have been made, it’s clear that Disney is preparing the location for something new—or simply giving it necessary updates ahead of its eventual reopening.
Conclusion
While the specifics of these updates remain unclear, this restaurant’s central location and themed design make it an important part of Adventureland. Keep an eye out for updates as Disney works to reshape the space, whether it reopens as the Tortuga Tavern guests know or something entirely new.
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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.
