Disney’s BoardWalk is changing fast, and another venue appears headed for the history books. The Atlantic Dance Hall will likely close as the nearby Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort expands its convention facilities.
Why Atlantic Dance Hall Will Likely Close
The classic dance venue has stood on Disney’s BoardWalk for years, hosting both public dance nights and private events. However, its days may be numbered as the Swan and Dolphin’s massive expansion creates a new event space powerhouse.
Currently, Atlantic Dance Hall operates as a dance club only 20 hours per week. The venue opens Thursday through Sunday from 8:00 PM to 1:00 AM but often sees minimal attendance.
Disney visitors and locals can dance to hits from the 80s, 90s, and today under twinkling ceiling stars. Yet despite its art deco charm and free entry, the hall frequently sits underutilized on public nights.
Instead, the venue primarily serves as an event space for weddings and corporate functions. Its grand staircase, wooden dance floor, and gold railings make it popular for special occasions.
Dolphin’s Massive Convention Expansion
Meanwhile, the neighboring Swan and Dolphin Resort has begun work on a $275 million renovation and expansion project. This massive upgrade will add 120,000 square feet of new event space to the property. In the latest concept art released as part of the Swan and Dolphin expansion, the Atlantic Dance Hall is conveniently obscured by the Dolphin hotel.
The expansion includes a stunning 41,000-square-foot ballroom and 43,000 square feet of multi-purpose space. Once complete in late 2026, the Swan and Dolphin complex will boast nearly 470,000 square feet of meeting space.
This new convention space will easily replace the event capacity that Atlantic Dance Hall currently provides. The timing suggests a strategic shift in how Disney manages event venues in the area.
With nine ballrooms and over 166,000 square feet of contiguous space, the expanded Swan and Dolphin will meet the growing demand for large events. This expansion makes any contractual need for Disney to maintain nearby event space obsolete.
Part of a Larger BoardWalk Transformation
The likely Atlantic Dance Hall closure fits with Disney’s broader reimagining of the BoardWalk area. Nearly every part of this waterfront entertainment district has changed or will soon change.
Recent and Upcoming Changes:
- Jellyrolls piano bar closing April 19, 2025, after 30 years
- Big River Grille & Brewing Works already closed with no replacement announced
- ESPN Club replaced by The Cake Bake Shop
- Boardwalk Bakery transformed into Boardwalk Deli
- Blue Ribbon Corn Dogs added as a new quick-service option
- Screen Door General Store recently reopened with a fresh new look
- Character Carnival shop now closed for refurbishment
These changes show Disney’s desire to refresh the entire BoardWalk experience. While some closures have upset longtime fans, the company continues pushing forward with modernization plans.
What’s Next for the Space?
If Atlantic Dance Hall closes, the prime waterfront location offers many possibilities. Disney could expand dining options, create a new retail experience, or develop a different entertainment venue.
The company has shown interest in more relaxed lounge spaces with the upcoming Spaceship Earth Lounge and Pirates of the Caribbean Tavern. A similar concept might work well in this location.
For now, visitors can still enjoy Atlantic Dance Hall’s art deco atmosphere and waterfront views. But like many Disney venues before it, change appears on the horizon as the Boardwalk continues its transformation.
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