Disney’s BoardWalk Resort has always held a special place in my heart—it’s my Disney Vacation Club (DVC) home, and I’ve loved watching it evolve. Recently, significant changes have reshaped the BoardWalk, and the transformation is far from over.
With new dining options like The Cake Bake Shop by Gwendolyn Rogers now open in the former ESPN Club location, attention has shifted to the opposite end of the BoardWalk, where even more updates are in store.
Farewell to the ESPN Club
For years, the ESPN Club was a staple of Disney’s BoardWalk, offering a lively atmosphere, great food, and wall-to-wall sports coverage. Whether stopping in for a burger and a game or soaking in the electric energy during major sporting events, it was a go-to destination for sports fans.
Its closure felt like the end of an era, and while The Cake Bake Shop brings a fresh and elegant dining experience, it’s hard not to miss the unique character and energy that the ESPN Club provided. Walking past its former location, I can’t help but feel nostalgic for the packed game days, the enthusiastic crowds, and the atmosphere that made it a one-of-a-kind spot at Walt Disney World.
Jellyrolls is on the way Out!
One of the most significant announcements comes from Jellyrolls, the iconic dueling piano bar. After nearly 30 years of singalongs and late-night fun, Jellyrolls confirmed via Instagram that it will leave its current location in spring 2025. While its future at Walt Disney World remains uncertain, many fans hope it will find a new home elsewhere on the property.
The Screen Door General Store Under Construction
The Screen Door General Store is currently undergoing renovations, adding to the list of changes coming to the BoardWalk. This longtime shopping staple offers everything from Disney souvenirs to groceries for DVC guests.
The Screen Door is part of a larger retail space that includes Disney’s Character Carnival and Thimbles & Threads, all of which share the same internal footprint but have separate entrances. To keep the store operational during the renovation, a temporary construction wall now separates The Screen Door from the rest of the shop, allowing work to continue. At the same time, Disney’s Character Carnival and Thimbles & Threads remain open.
While Disney hasn’t revealed what updates are in store, this phased approach suggests carefully refreshing the entire space. As Disney continues to enhance the BoardWalk experience, we could see a revamped layout, new merchandise, or even an expanded selection. Renovations began from left to right, meaning The Screen Door is the first to change before work potentially extends further into the shared retail space.
Big River Brewery is already Closed.
Big River Grille & Brewing Works has quietly closed, leaving its space vacant. With Disney’s recent push to reimagine dining experiences at the BoardWalk—like transforming the former ESPN Club into The Cake Bake Shop—this closure raises questions about what’s next for the location.
One possibility is expanding an existing eatery, while another could be introducing a brand-new dining concept. Given the restaurant’s proximity to the DVC Vacation Preview Center and Jellyrolls, it’s also worth considering whether plans might extend into these neighboring spaces.
As Disney continues reshaping the BoardWalk, we’ll watch this spot closely to see what’s in store.
Rumors Swirl Around the Dance Hall
Speculation is growing that the BoardWalk Dance Hall could be the next space to be reimagined. While Disney hasn’t confirmed its fate, rumors suggest that the venue may be repurposed—or, more accurately, transformed into a brand-new entertainment experience.
Given the BoardWalk’s long-standing reputation as a lively nightlife destination. It will be interesting to see how Disney evolves this space while maintaining the area’s signature energy and charm. Whether it remains a dance hall or takes on a completely new identity, this is one transformation to watch closely.
What’s Next for Disney’s BoardWalk?
With Jellyrolls moving, new dining options are emerging. Rumors of more changes ahead, Disney’s BoardWalk is in the middle of a significant refresh. As my DVC home, I’m excited to see how these updates enhance the experience while maintaining the BoardWalk’s nostalgic charm.
One question lingers—could the BoardWalk use a sports bar? With the ESPN Club gone, there’s certainly a gap in casual, sports-centric dining at Walt Disney World. A lively venue where fans can gather to watch the big game seems like a natural fit for the BoardWalk’s vibrant atmosphere.
But wait… isn’t that exactly what we had before? 🤔
As Disney continues reimagining this iconic resort area, one can’t help but wonder if a fresh take on a sports-themed lounge or restaurant might find its way back.
Stay tuned to SamsDisneyDiary for the latest updates on Disney’s BoardWalk and beyond!
JellyRolls’ official Instagram page confirms they will be leaving the Boardwalk.
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I would think, with the bevy of hotel rooms and conference facilities in the vicinity that dinning and adult establishments lacking in the rest of the world would be a welcome addition and with locals also.
I agree with you Brad. Lots of conferences happening in that vicinity, and not every conference attendee has a park pass. Typically the host company provides a park pass for the last day of the event.
[…] The closure of Jellyrolls marks another significant change for Disney’s BoardWalk, which has recently seen the departure and refurbishment of several long-term establishments. Disney has made no official announcement regarding any of the recent changes and current refurbishment happening at the Boardwalk. Including the closure of Big River Brewery and Referb happening at the screen door. We recently shared our here Big Changes in Store for Disney’s Boardwalk in 2025. […]