Credit: DisneyIf Disney Springs is the epicenter of dining, shopping, and entertainment at Walt Disney World, then the closure of a fan-favorite spot is sure to make a ripple. Vivoli il Gelato, known for its authentic Italian gelato, recently announced it would close its main Disney Springs location temporarily for renovations.
While fans of the creamy, artisanal gelato may be disappointed, there are still ways to indulge at Disney Springs until Vivoli reopens.
In a post on Vivoli’s Instagram, the gelato shop confirmed the closure of its primary storefront, but the silver lining is that gelato carts located near the store’s original spot and by the LEGO Store will remain open. Guests can still grab a cone, cup, or sorbetto while renovations are underway, so no need to skip your gelato fix entirely!
Vivoli Orlando shared the news on Instagram:
“Exciting things are on their way!! Our main store in @disneysprings is closed for renovation. Don’t worry though! You can still get our #gelato and #sorbetto from the Carts that are located near the entrance of the store and by the Lego Store. #Renovation #VivoliOrlando”
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Disney Springs Dining: A Culinary Wonderland
Disney Springs has developed into a full-fledged culinary destination, hosting a variety of unique eateries with diverse offerings. Here are some highlights that locals and visitors alike rave about:
- The BOATHOUSE
This upscale waterfront restaurant offers an array of seafood dishes, including the famous Lobster Roll and the decadent Baked Crab-Stuffed Lobster. The restaurant’s ambiance, complete with Amphicar boat tours, makes it a must-visit. - Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’
Known for its Southern comfort food, this spot is a popular stop for its Fried Chicken and Shine Cake, a moist pineapple-banana cake served with whiskey caramel and a moonshine glaze. - Morimoto Asia
Led by Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto, this Pan-Asian spot is famous for its Peking Duck and Orange Chicken, both beautifully presented with Asian-inspired flavors. - Wine Bar George
This wine lover’s paradise offers small plates like Crispy Mac & Cheese Bites, as well as family-style entrees. The Frosé and Dole Whip Frozcato are popular adult slushie options, making it a refreshing stop in any season. - Gideon’s Bakehouse
While not a traditional dining location, Gideon’s has earned a cult following for its half-pound cookies and rich cakes, such as the popular Peanut Butter Cold Brew Cookie and the signature Coffee Cake Cookie, which sells out quickly most mornings.
Sweet Treat Spots at Disney Springs
For those with a sweet tooth, Disney Springs is practically a dessert paradise. Even with Vivoli il Gelato temporarily out of commission, here are some other dessert options worth exploring:
- Amorette’s Patisserie
Known for its intricate pastries and cakes, Amorette’s is a great spot for treats like the Mickey Dome Cake or the Éclair. The attention to detail in their presentation makes this a popular stop for sweet lovers and Instagrammers alike. - Salt & Straw
This artisanal ice cream shop serves unique, rotating flavors with unexpected ingredients. Their limited-edition flavors change monthly, ranging from Olive Oil Ice Cream to Salted, Malted Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough. - Ghirardelli Soda Fountain & Chocolate Shop
Here, guests can enjoy classic sundaes, milkshakes, and chocolate samples. Favorites include the Gold Rush Caramel Sundae, which combines vanilla ice cream with caramel and sea salt, topped with a hefty drizzle of chocolate sauce.
With all of these options, Disney Springs remains a go-to destination for sweet treats, even in Vivoli’s absence.
Recent Disney Springs Closures and Changes
Vivoli’s temporary closure isn’t the only change to hit Disney Springs recently.
The Star Wars Trading Post at Disney Springs has officially closed its doors as of October 24, marking the end of one of two Star Wars-themed retail locations in the area. The other shop, the Star Wars Galactic Outpost, is located on the West Side of Disney Springs.
Both venues offered a variety of merchandise inspired by the iconic franchise, including items that could also be found at the popular Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge in Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
In an interesting development, it appears that the annual Santa Claus meet-and-greet will be held inside the now-closed Trading Post instead of its previous location at Once Upon a Toy, where it was featured last year.
This festive experience is expected to begin around mid-November, with guests likely needing to join a virtual queue for access. Virtual queues are currently in use for several attractions throughout Walt Disney World, such as Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind in EPCOT and Tiana’s Bayou Adventure in Magic Kingdom, as well as popular spots like Gideon’s Bakehouse at Disney Springs.
For guests looking to buy Star Wars merchandise, they will now be directed to the Once Upon a Toy store, which also resides within Disney Springs. Meanwhile, Star Wars fans visiting Hollywood Studios can still explore a plethora of merchandise at the Black Spire Outpost in Galaxy’s Edge, which remains the ultimate destination for all things Star Wars.
As Disney Springs and the wider Disney World property continue to evolve, closures and renovations are par for the course as Disney refreshes its offerings for guests. And while some beloved locations may disappear temporarily or permanently, the constant influx of new dining experiences and updates ensures that there’s always something fresh and exciting for guests to enjoy.
For fans missing Vivoli’s gelato during its renovation, the remaining gelato carts should suffice to satisfy cravings, and Disney Springs’ many dining options can help fill the void. Whether it’s indulging in one of Gideon’s famous cookies, exploring Amorette’s pastries, or enjoying a refreshing scoop from Salt & Straw, Disney Springs has plenty to offer for every palate.