September 1972 – February 1973
LOCATION
Bear Country – The Golden Bear Lodge overlooked the Rivers of America on the western side, across the waterway from Fort Wilderness. Today, this space is a similarly themed restaurant: the Hungry Bear.
EXPERIENCE
Details:
- Service Type – quick service
- Seating – adjacent two-story patio
- Entertainment – none
Once Frontierland started construction for Big Thunder Mountain, Bear Country took over as the park’s quiet land. One of the most popular spots in the land was the sweeping waterfront restaurant, with stunning views of the Rivers of America. Diners ordered at the windows built into a rustic cabin, and enjoyed meals beneath the hanging lanterns.
CLOSURE
The Golden Bear Lodge didn’t really close so much as rebrand, with a slightly expanded menu and a new name. However, this rebrand didn’t happen for about 4 years. During that time, I haven’t been able to find any information on how the space was used – so perhaps it was vacant? (If you have any info, please let me know!). The Golden Bear finally made its transition into the Hungry Bear in 1977.
TRIVIA
The lower level of the Golden Bear Lodge also served as the loading area for the Mike Fink Keel Boats.