Quite a few things have CHANGED in Disney World in 2023.
Magic Kingdom
We’ve seen old rides close while new ones open, the addition of more dining offerings, and the return of character offerings that were unavailable during the pandemic. But now, we’ve got another big change on the horizon — the closure of a classic Disney restaurant!
What’s Going On With Trail’s End?
If you’ve ever visited Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground, then you probably know about Trail’s End Restaurant. The table service spot has served homestyle food for ages, offering a buffet before the pandemic, but then switching to family-style feasts upon reopening.
Trail’s End Restaurant
In January 2023, Disney announced that Trail’s End would be closing for a refurbishment in the spring and that it would transform into a new dining experience. When it reopens, it will be “a marketplace concept with expanded quick service options.”
Breakfast at Trail’s End in 2021
At the time of publishing, Trail’s End doesn’t show hours past April 16th. Disney hasn’t confirmed a closing date, but this fits with the spring timeline. Trail’s End will reopen “later this year” so it’s likely that it will be closed for late spring and possibly summer vacations. If you want to check it out in its current form, make your reservations soon!
Where to Eat Instead
So if Trail’s End is closing, where else can you go for a similar experience? Well, we have a few recommendations that you might be interested in!
At the Same Resort
If you want to stay at Fort Wilderness, the other table service option is the Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue. This fan-favorite dinner show serves up barbecue including fried chicken, smoked BBQ pork ribs, seasonal vegetables, and salad, as well as some yummy sides and a delicious strawberry shortcake.
Hoop-Dee-Doo
It’s on the pricier end of the table service options at Disney World since it’s dinner with a show, but it’s truly a hootin’ and hollerin’ good time. Also, since it’s a show, there are only a select number of showtimes each evening.
Options Next Door
If you’re willing to venture outside of Fort Wilderness, you could go next door to Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Resort. There are multiple table service options at this hotel, from the rowdy and entertaining Whispering Canyon to a character meal with Snow White at Artist Point!
Whispering Canyon Cafe
If you’re interested in some small plates and drinks, you could head to one of two lounges — there’s Territory Lounge in the main building and Geyser Point down by the water. Both have some delicious options on the menu!
Geyser Point Bar & Grill
There’s typically a bus that runs between Fort Wilderness and Wilderness Lodge, so it’s not too much of a hassle to get over there, even on your resort day!
For Homestyle Food
Finally, we’ve got a few options to mention if you want some homestyle food and are willing to traverse Disney property! One of our favorites is Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ at Disney Springs, where you’ll find some delicious fried chicken, a moonshine bar, and plenty of comfort food.
Homecomin’
Garden Grill at EPCOT also serves fresh homestyle cooking, including items on the menu that are made from ingredients grown in the greenhouses at The Land Pavilion. The meal is served family-style like Trail’s End currently is, but you get the added bonus of a character meal with Mickey, Pluto, Chip, and Dale!
Mickey Mouse at Garden Grill
Last but not least, there’s a new option coming to Disney World that you might be interested in! Roundup Rodeo BBQ opens at Hollywood Studios on March 23rd, and will feature barbecue and foods you would find at a picnic on the family-style menu.
A preview of the Roundup Rodeo BBQ menu ©Disney
So there you go — plenty of places to eat while Trail’s End is closed. Maybe you’ll find a new favorite spot! We’ll make sure to keep you updated with any more restaurant news from Disney World, so stay tuned to DFB for the latest.
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I can’t understand why they would close this great place. Will P & J’s be open during this time? Other than the food trucks, is Wilderness Lodge the only other option for eating out?
Close Trails End and substitute Hoop De Do ??? That is NOt a Viable Option
The last time we did Hoop de do it was Not on par with previous showings, just not as funny! and at twice the cost……Shirly You Jest !