Yesterday, the beloved fan-favorite MouseGear store at EPCOT closed its doors ahead of a lengthy refurbishment as the park’s transformation continues in stages. In an effort to provide guests with a temporary shopping solution, a makeshift MouseGear has now opened up across the breezeway at Innoventions East. We first saw signs go up for the store a few weeks ago, and with the closure of the original, this temporary space is now open for guests to grab their souvenirs and gifts.
Former MouseGear – Now Closed for Remodeling
Currently, signs are up along the former MouseGear indicating that it is now closed. Most of the windows are covered up in black plastic, and even some signage has already been removed. For reference as to how the store used to look like, check out our in-depth photo and video tour here.
After opening in 1999, the last time that MouseGear was remodeled was in 2011, with the addition of new signage, fixtures, and registers. While that remodel was done in stages, the store will be fully updated as part of EPCOT’s new look.
You might be wondering what’s next for the upcoming newly redesigned MouseGear store. Concept art for the remodeled MouseGear was revealed at this year’s D23 Expo. The store is to be slightly downsized, with the circular overhang (pictured in the first image of this post) to be blown out to return to the clean shape of the original CommuniCore/Innoventions structure. Display cases along the store exterior will also be swapped with plain windows to let in additional light. And off to the side, near the entrance by the Future World East breezeway… you might just see the return of a certain beloved refreshment station soon to come…
Future Club Cool Location
If you’ve been wondering where the location of the new Club Cool will be, look no further than within the recesses of the old MouseGear. This area, which is currently used as a FastPass+ kiosk area, will be transformed into the new Club Cool.
While currently covered with black plastic, the ceiling here still retained the same design as the original Centorium. Hopefully it’ll stay and give the space some retro EPCOT flair.
New Temporary MouseGear Store
Take a tour of the new temporary MouseGear below!
Some fixtures, like this “Head Gear” sign, have made their triumphant return.
Cast Members said these temporary registers will be replaced with permanent fixtures soon.
One of the store’s exits leads out to a dead end of construction walls and a walkway over to the nearby Joffrey’s on the way to Test Track.
For a walking tour of the new temporary MouseGear, check out our video below!
Club Cool – WOO-HOO!!! Long may it live!