In Character Shop Reopens in Disney’s Animation Courtyard at Hollywood Studios

In Character Shop Reopens at Disney’s Hollywood Studios Just in Time for Ariel’s Return

After a long hiatus, a familiar storefront in Animation Courtyard has finally flipped its fins back open! The In Character shop at Disney’s Hollywood Studios officially reopened to guests on Sunday, May 25, 2025, marking the first time it’s welcomed visitors since it quietly closed back in 2019.

Once a go-to spot for character-themed souvenirs, the shop originally shuttered due to heat issues (Florida sun, we see you!) and never reopened—until now. Its comeback just so happens to line up perfectly with the debut of “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure,” opening May 27 in the former “Voyage of the Little Mermaid” theater right next door.

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A Splash of Mermaid Magic

While the old In Character signage is long gone, the shop still appears under that name in the My Disney Experience app and on the Walt Disney World website, listed with hours from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. The space itself has gotten a light refresh, with decor and merchandise fit for fans of Ariel and beyond.

Inside, you’ll find:

• The Little Mermaid merchandise – from plush Flounders to Ariel tees and sea-sational accessories
• Disney Princess gear – a dream come true for royal shoppers of all ages
• Mickey & Friends items – because what’s a Disney shop without the Fab Five?

A lovely touch? The checkout area features framed artwork of Ariel, with Flounder and Sebastian playfully worked into the counter design. It’s a small shop, but it’s making a big splash in time for summer.

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Perfect Timing for a Princess Comeback

This reopening couldn’t be better timed. In just a couple of days, “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure” will debut in the adjacent theater, offering guests an all-new under-the-sea experience. And right across the park, the villainous new stage show “Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After” will also make its debut on May 27. It’s safe to say Animation Courtyard is getting its groove back—and we’re here for it.

So if you’re heading to Disney’s Hollywood Studios soon, don’t swim past this newly reopened gem. Whether you’re hunting for princess merch or just looking to cool off with some indoor browsing, In Character is back—and it’s better than ever.

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