What's up with these closed EPCOT locations?

[las3888]

We are just back from EPCOT and I remember reading something a long time ago about these closings, but can't recall seeing anything recently. I'm sure it's been discussed a thousand times here, but just wondering what is up with the Wonders of Life pavilion in EPCOT. It's obviously closed...just wondering if there is talk of anybody new moving in or what? Also, the former restaurant that is in future world next to EPCOT...can't recall the name. It seems that restaurant has been closed for years. There was a sign about some kind of food demonstration...my guess was it was used during Food and Wine, but is there talk of anything new opening there anytime soon?

TIA...

 

[Eeyore's Pal]

I believe the story of the Wonders of Life is the original sponsor, Met Life, pulled out when Disney (e.g. Eisner the Evil) asked them to pay for a multi-million dollar refurbishment that was long overdue. Supposedly Disney was in pursuit of a new sponsor who was willing to come in with the millions in hand to pay for the still-needed refurbishment. But no takers so far. Which is really too bad, because the pavilion is the home to many fantastic attractions and wonderful shows. We have had the good fortune to catch a couple of seasonal openings. Cranium Command is one of our family favorites!

The Odyssey restaurant is used for all kinds of special purposes. In addition to the F&W festival, there are special dinners available during F&G, corporate events, wedding receptions, etc. I have not heard any rumor of it re-opening as a regular TS restaurant.

 

[Evil Princess]

We are just back from EPCOT and I remember reading something a long time ago about these closings, but can't recall seeing anything recently. I'm sure it's been discussed a thousand times here, but just wondering what is up with the Wonders of Life pavilion in EPCOT. It's obviously closed...just wondering if there is talk of anybody new moving in or what? Also, the former restaurant that is in future world next to EPCOT...can't recall the name. It seems that restaurant has been closed for years. There was a sign about some kind of food demonstration...my guess was it was used during Food and Wine, but is there talk of anything new opening there anytime soon?

TIA...

WOL was used as the Food and Wine Festival center this year. It housed areas for wine tastings, a wine cellar, wine bar, and merchandise area. I've heard conflicting reports about the fate of the attractions inside. However, up until last Christmas even, it has been open seasonally during the Holidays. They painted over the Body Wars mural on the wall and took down signage for the other attractions.

The Odyssey restaurant formerly housed from what I can remember when I was younger, a dinner show with characters. Now it's used for special events, including Food and Wine festival. I don't believe that anything is going to open in there soon, it is used often enough for special events and it has been like that for awhile now.

 

[flyinglizard]

The correct spelling of Eisner is...

EI$NER...

 

[DOOM1001]

From what I hear Wonders of Life will NOT be opening seasonally anymore.I think Disney should be working on also removing Universe of Energy and creating a major pavillion with another E-ticket type attraction.

 

[las3888]

I feel like if they aren't replacing WOL and The Odyssey with something constant, it makes me feel too much like a dying mall atmosphere. It would be really nice if they could find some new things to put in these prime locations.

 

[amyhughes]

The correct spelling of Eisner is...

EI$NER...

True.

 

[TDC Nala]

They have enough special events in the Odyssey to continue using it the way they're using it. I think some of the Grand Gathering events are presented there now, also. It's not like it is only used for food & wine.