Today in Disney history, Discovery Island ceased operations, a few months after closing to visitors in April 1999. Disney's original Discovery Island closed in 1999, but a version of the concept continues on thanks to Disney's Animal Kingdom.
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Although Disney never officially stated its reasons for closing the park, poor attendance and high maintenance costs, combined with the newer and bigger Disney's Animal Kingdom being opened a year before, are the most likely causes. Since its closing, the island has sat largely abandoned, with no signs of development.
After Disney's death in 1966, the EPCOT concept was abandoned, as the company was uncertain about the feasibility of operating a city. In the 1970s, WED Enterprises began developing a second theme park for the resort to supplement Magic Kingdom as that park's popularity grew.
The island is still largely undeveloped as only 55 of the 1,000 acres (4.0 km2) are being used. Castaway Cay has approximately 140 Disney Cruise Line permanent residents who keep the island running daily.
The first time Walt Disney World closed was in 1999 for Hurricane Floyd. In 2001, the park's closed for a day due to the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Since then, the park had also closed for short times due to other hurricanes that rolled through the state.
For certain sailings, you also get access to Disney's private island, Castaway Cay. But soon, Disney Cruise Line will introduce its SECOND private island, Lighthouse Point — and we've got a first look at it!
The island has remained closed to the public since 1999. Additionally, Walt Disney World has banned all outings to the park — in fact, you're not allowed to get within 50 feet of its shoreline — and legal action may be taken if you're found trespassing.
Post Disney Depression is a real thing.It's that blue, miserable, nothing-will-ever-be-magical-again feeling you get after you leave a Disney park or cruise (or, if you're really hardcore, a particularly emotional Disney movie). Colors seem more dull. Food tastes less delicious.
Disney is working to build a residential community in Rancho Mirage so fans can come home to Disney magic every day. In an interview for LA Times Today, reporter Jaimie Ding told host Lisa McRee what's in store in the new Storyliving community.