Celebrating 30 Years of Sweetness at Disney Springs
It is hard to imagine a trip to the Marketplace at Disney Springs without the rich scent of chocolate wafting through the air. Since 1996, the Ghirardelli Soda Fountain & Chocolate Shop has been a cornerstone of the guest experience. Whether you are grabbing a free chocolate square while window shopping or sitting down for a massive sundae after dinner, this spot has stayed remarkably consistent for three decades. However, big changes are officially on the horizon.
Ghirardelli has announced that its iconic location will close for an extensive refurbishment starting later this summer. This is not just a quick paint job. The shop is preparing for a complete evolution to meet the needs of the modern Disney traveler while keeping the classic San Francisco charm that fans have loved since the Downtown Disney days.
The Temporary Move to Town Center
The good news for chocolate lovers is that you do not have to cross sundaes off your vacation checklist. To ensure the treats keep flowing, Ghirardelli is opening a temporary location in the Town Center area of Disney Springs. While the main Marketplace building is behind construction walls, this pop-up venue will serve the full menu, including the World Famous Hot Fudge Sundaes and their signature chocolate treats.
While the specific building in Town Center has not been named yet, shifting the chocolate operations to this newer neighborhood will likely change the flow of your afternoon. If you are used to ending your night near the Rainforest Cafe or World of Disney, you will now need to head toward the heart of the Springs to find your sugar fix. We expect this temporary spot to be popular, so be prepared for potential lines as guests adjust to the new layout.
What to Expect in Spring 2027
The primary goal of this lengthy refurbishment is to address two of the biggest hurdles at the current shop: seating and wait times. Disney Springs has grown exponentially since 1996, and the original floor plan often struggles to handle the evening crowds. According to Ghirardelli leadership, the updated space will feature:
- Increased Indoor Seating: More room to escape the Florida heat while enjoying your ice cream.
- Efficient Guest Checkout: A streamlined system designed to reduce wait times and get treats into hands faster.
- New Surprises: While details are thin, the team has teased new elements that will modernize the experience while honoring its 30 year legacy.
Planning Your Visit During Construction
If you are visiting Walt Disney World in late 2026, keep in mind that the Marketplace atmosphere will feel a bit different without the usual Ghirardelli buzz. Construction is expected to last through the busy holiday season, with the grand reopening scheduled for Spring 2027.
Our best advice? Check the Disney Springs digital maps or the My Disney Experience app as soon as you arrive. The temporary Town Center location will be your go-to hub for all things cocoa. If you find the temporary spot too crowded, consider other nearby sweets like Swirls on the Water for DOLE Whip creations or Salt & Straw for unique ice cream flavors. However, for that classic hot fudge experience, making the trek to Town Center will be well worth the steps.
Disclaimer: This information is gathered from various online sources and news outlets. While we strive for accuracy, Disney plans and policies can change rapidly. We recommend double-checking official Disney sources for the most up-to-date information before making final travel plans.