The Alice in Wonderland-themed splash pad at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa has reopened after a refurbishment, and families looking to cool off have their water play area back. Most of the space looks familiar, but there is one notable change to how the Mad Hatter’s hat works. Here is a look at what the project involved and what else is being refreshed around the resort.
How Long the Splash Pad Was Closed
The splash pad had been closed since mid-August 2026 for its refurbishment. That gave crews time to handle the work before welcoming guests back to the whimsical, Wonderland-inspired play area.
For anyone planning a stay at the Grand Floridian, the reopening means the splash pad is once again an option for younger guests who want to run through the water on a warm Florida day.
What Changed During the Refurbishment
The main update involved the flooring, which was redone as part of the project. That type of work is common for water play areas, where surfaces take on heavy use and benefit from periodic attention.
Beyond the flooring, the overall look and layout of the space stayed close to what guests remember. The themed elements and playful design remain in place, so the splash pad still carries the same Alice in Wonderland charm it had before.
The Mad Hatter’s Hat No Longer Tips
The one noticeable difference is the giant Mad Hatter’s hat at the top of the structure. In the past, the hat would tip forward to spill water over guests below, acting as one of the splash pad’s interactive highlights.
After the refurbishment, that tipping motion is gone. The hat has been bolted in place, and water now spills out naturally because of the angle it sits at. The result is a steadier flow of water rather than the periodic dump guests may have been used to. It is a subtle shift, but a change worth knowing about if the tipping effect was part of the appeal for your family.
Other Refurbishment Work Around the Resort
The splash pad is not the only part of the Grand Floridian receiving attention. Work has also been underway on the bus walkway railing, which is being replaced as part of ongoing upkeep around the property.
In addition, the Grand Floridian Cafe has been going through its own multi-month refurbishment. Guests visiting the resort may notice these projects in progress, which is a reminder that Disney tends to rotate maintenance across different areas to keep the property in good shape over time.
Conclusion
The reopening of the Alice in Wonderland splash pad gives guests at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa their water play area back with fresh flooring and the same themed look families enjoy. The one adjustment to keep in mind is the Mad Hatter’s hat, which no longer tips and instead lets water spill out on its own. With additional work continuing on the bus walkway railing and the Grand Floridian Cafe, the resort remains an active spot for refreshes, so it is worth checking current status if any of these areas factor into your visit.
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.
