In the current year, several extraordinary destinations remain unexplored due to various reasons. The aftermath of the coronavirus pandemic, financial challenges, and individual decisions to conclude operations have affected many tourist attractions. Here is a compilation of some renowned cultural landmarks, either temporarily or permanently closed:
Noma, Copenhagen: After two decades of culinary excellence, Noma, widely regarded as the world’s best restaurant, is concluding its gastronomic journey. Founder Rene Redzepi plans to transform it into a full-time food laboratory focusing on e-commerce and pop-up dining experiences.
Splash Mountain, Florida and California: The iconic Disney World attraction has taken its final plunge after thrilling theme park-goers for three decades. The ride is undergoing a transformation and will be renamed Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, featuring characters from The Princess and the Frog.
Phantom of the Opera, Broadway: Broadway’s longest-running show, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Phantom of the Opera, has ended its impressive 35-year run in New York City. Despite financial challenges, the show turned a profit after the decision to close was announced.
Star Wars: Galactic Cruiser, Florida: Disney’s Star Wars-themed hotel closed after a little over 18 months of operations in Florida. Despite its innovative immersive experience, factors like high cost and limited appeal contributed to its closure.
Pergamon Museum, Berlin: Berlin’s most visited museum, part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Museum Island complex, is closed for extensive renovations. The restoration will address structural issues and create new exhibition halls, with a reopening expected in 2037.
Caesars Palace Dubai: The popular resort on Bluewaters Island, including Gordon Ramsay’s Hell’s Kitchen restaurant, has officially closed. In its place, the Banyan Tree Dubai has opened, offering a rejuvenated experience.
Elephant Trunk Rock, Taiwan: Taiwan’s beloved Elephant Trunk Rock collapsed into the sea, raising concerns about other geological formations. Despite being cordoned off since 2010, it remained a cherished photo spot.
Bollywood Parks Dubai: The theme park celebrating Bollywood announced its permanent closure after seven years of operation. The Raj Mahal theatre, a notable attraction, remains open for private events.
Cheim & Read, New York: The renowned gallery closed after nearly three decades, known for exhibiting influential modern and contemporary artists. Longtime director Maria Bueno is set to launch a fine art dealership.
Moles, Bath: A notable venue in Bath, hosting acts like Ed Sheeran and Blur, closed due to the cost of living crisis, soaring rental rates, and increased operational expenses.
Sycamore Gap, Northumberland: The 300-year-old Sycamore Gap tree, a landmark near Hadrian’s Wall, was illegally felled, prompting a police investigation.
Le Gavroche, London: Chef Michel Roux Jr. closed the celebrated two Michelin-starred restaurant in Mayfair after 56 years. The restaurant’s legacy will live on through planned pop-ups in the UK and abroad.
Ain Dubai: The world’s tallest Ferris wheel, Ain Dubai, located on Bluewaters Island, remains closed for enhancements with no set reopening date.
Katy Perry: Play, Las Vegas: Katy Perry’s Las Vegas residency concluded at Resorts World Las Vegas after bringing in hundreds of thousands of spectators and millions of dollars. The show, Katy Perry: Play, featured a vibrant blend of entertainment.
These closures represent a mix of challenges faced by cultural landmarks, from financial difficulties to the need for transformation and renovations.
