Fans Mourn the End of MuppetVision 3D at Disney World

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Experiencing the closure of a cherished theme park feature, such as MuppetVision 3D at Walt Disney World, can stir deep emotions. Despite the constant arrival of fresh attractions, it’s undeniable that things eventually come to an end. As the day of closure for this beloved Disney’s Hollywood Studios attraction approached, fans took a heartfelt farewell. Reading the emotional responses on closing day might even make your eyes moist with nostalgia.

The MuppetVision 3D Closure Led To A Lot Of Feelings From Fans

I’ve been contemplating this situation since the rumors of MuppetVision 3D closing in 2024 became factual in January of this year. The final performances for this attraction, which opened in 1991, were officially closed to the public on June 7th. There’s a reported cast member-only event scheduled for June 10th, as per WDW Magic.

The shutdown, paving the way for the construction of Monsters Inc. Land instead of the current Muppet Courtyard, has stirred a sense of shared melancholy and nostalgia among visitors. On the attraction’s closing day, Disney enthusiasts, Muppet admirers, and others who appreciated the charm of MuppetVision 3D gathered together, leading to heartfelt reactions, such as this one from park blog Laughing Place:

Kermit telling us to “come see us again sometime” hits differently today. 😢 #MuppetVision3D

In another tweet, user @BBindman pointed out an interesting fact: Last May marked a significant milestone for this classic attraction. Attached was a vibrant artwork displaying the Muppets Courtyard as a detailed map, and the caption read: “A grand celebration for this vintage charm!

Happy 34th Birthday Muppetvision 3D! I’m sorry your party is so lame. #muppetvision3d #jimhenson

After over three decades in operation, one might expect MuppetVision 3D to have grown stale for some. Given that there are those who advocate for closing the Carousel of Progress permanently, it’s understandable if this idea doesn’t shock anyone. Nevertheless, user @DisneyOnParade has shared reasons why it appears this attraction still resonates strongly with its dedicated fanbase:

Or, in a shorter version:
Despite being over 3 decades old, some might think MuppetVision 3D is past its prime. With the Carousel of Progress having vocal advocates for its permanent closure, this isn’t surprising. However, user @DisneyOnParade explains why it seems this attraction remains popular among its devoted fanbase.

Every viewing of #MuppetVision3D was a joyous affair, brimming with laughter, water spritzes, bubbles, and catchy “butt bops” that you just couldn’t help but find amusing. It never failed to delight and served as Jim Hanson’s final masterpiece before his untimely passing. It will be deeply missed.

Instead of dwelling on our disappointment over MuppetVision 3D, as many fellow fans might do, channel your feelings into ensuring that this iconic landmark continues to exist, somehow or somewhere.

Fans Haven’t Given Up Hope On Preserving MuppetVision 3D

Despite the fact that MuppetVision 3D is now closed, many enthusiasts remain optimistic about its potential return within Disney’s cherished theme parks, along with continued success for the Muppets franchise overall.

  • “Build a new Muppet Theater for MippetVision 3-D where that Villains show is. The re-theme of Rock N Roller Coaster is overdue, but @TheMuppets deserve so much better from @WaltDisneyWorld @DisneyParks @WaltDisneyCo. I will miss #MuppetVision3D so much… 😔 #TheMuppets – @SirEricBrown
  • “If only there was a theater somewhere they could announce the Muppets were coming back to.” – @ParkJourney\
  • “RIP MuppetVision 3D (1991-2025) A classic that didn’t deserve to die too soon. If @DisneyPlus can release the film for preservations sake (alongside Magic Journeys, Captain EO, Honey I Shrunk The Audience, and It’s Tough to be a Bug), I would very much appreciate it. – @ThemePark_Nerdo

The argument made in the final point gains even stronger support, given that @ParkJourney shared images from Disney California Adventure’s Sunset Showcase Theater, where Mickey’s PhilharMagic 3D is currently shown. This corresponds perfectly with what Danielle Bruncati and others have been suggesting about a possible move of MuppetVision 3D to California.

In my opinion, resurrecting the 3D film on the West Coast, which hasn’t been seen since its closure in 2014, seems a wiser decision than keeping it locked away in a warehouse. Some enthusiasts have even advocated for the preservation of Jim Henson’s last Muppet show in the Library of Congress. I’d prefer that to the Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster makeover that will feature the Muppets again at Hollywood Studios, but we’ll have to watch and wait for further developments.

As a movie enthusiast, I can confidently say that for just $10.99 a month (or $19.99 ad-free), the Disney+/Hulu Bundle is an absolute game-changer. This deal gives you direct access to the whimsical world of the Muppets, with a plethora of films, specials, and even original series on Disney+. Plus, with the vast libraries of Star Wars and Marvel at your fingertips, who knows what hilarious Muppet parodies await us fans! Don’t miss out on this fantastic offer. Check it out now!

Sure, the new roller coaster sounds exciting, but I strongly believe it won’t be as inclusive as a 3D cinema might be. It’s easy to feel disheartened in such situations.

After discovering that Heather Henson, Jim’s daughter, was the final visitor to enter the MuppetVision 3D theater, you might encounter videos such as this heartfelt tribute from a fan during the last show. In an instant, it feels comforting:

– Then you learn about how Heather Henson, Jim’s Daughter, was the last member of the public to walk into the MuppetVision 3D theater, and then you see videos like this fan tribute on closing night; and suddenly, it’s ok. (Original)
– You discover that Heather Henson, Jim’s daughter, was the final spectator to enter the MuppetVision 3D theater, followed by watching a touching fan tribute video from the closing night. In an instant, it feels soothing:

– After finding out that Heather Henson, Jim’s daughter, was the last person to enter the MuppetVision 3D theater before it closed, you may come across videos like this emotional tribute on its final day; and all of a sudden, it seems alright.

@themeparkpatchnotes ♬ original sound – Theme Park Patch Notes

The era of MuppetVision 3D has come to an end, which is unfortunate for all Muppets enthusiasts. Yet, this could be the perfect moment to envision a fresh dream – one that surpasses Sam the Eagle’s salute to various countries (particularly the United States), in scale and grandeur. As long as we, the fans, remain dedicated and optimistic, better days are ahead of us. Here’s hoping it won’t be too long until Kermit, Miss Piggy, and their Muppet friends make a comeback; it seems like an overly lengthy refurbishment for a Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster!

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2025-06-09 19:41