It’s the end of an era for a major Cartoon Network landmark as it has officially shut down after six years. Cartoon Network, like much of television, has been going through a lot of changes over the course of the last few years as viewing habits and audiences are shifting away from traditional television. But it’s also been a tough time for children’s media as a whole as it has often been the first on the chopping block for these larger companies hoping to change their strategies in the wake of these shifts.
The Cartoon Network Hotel first opened during what turned out to be a tumultuous time. Opening in January 2020, shortly before having to close due to the global COVID-19 pandemic, the Cartoon Network Hotel was able to successful keep its doors open otherwise in the years since. But as of January 1st this year, the hotel has now officially closed and those behind it have officially said their goodbyes in an emotional social media post shared with fans on Instagram. You can check it out below.
Cartoon Network Hotel Closes After Six Years
“As we wrap up this chapter of the Cartoon Network Hotel, we want to say a heartfelt thank you to every guest who stayed, laughed, splashed, explored, and made this place feel truly magical,” the statement reads. “The mathematical memories and smiles you shared with us will always mean the world. Thank you for being part of our adventure.” But while this is the end of the Cartoon Network Hotel, the facility itself will remain open with an entirely different branding that is now in effect as of later this Spring when it re-opens as a Dutch Wonderland.
Announcing its closure in the Fall of last year, Dutch Wonderland’s General Manager, Megan Hartman, confirmed that this change will take full effect in March, “When our team sat down to make plans for the Dutch Wonderland Inn, we focused on how we could bring the magic of our park to life while also providing overnight accommodations for our guests. The newly renovated Inn brings pieces of our beloved park, Pennsylvania Dutch Country, and the characters our visitors know and love together to create a unique experience for families looking to extend their visit to the Lancaster region.”
What Does This Mean for Cartoon Network?
Courtesy of HBO Max
Cartoon Network itself continues to change as fans have seen in the last few years, but the Hotel’s closure doesn’t seem like a sign of doom for the channel itself. The hotel used the branding of the network, but likely struggled due to the global pandemic and operation costs likely just continued to increase in the years since. But for the channel itself, it seems to also be experimenting with its audience.
Cartoon Network has been expanding Adult Swim’s side of the schedule in the last year, and there have been fewer originals seen from the network. But when it comes to Adult Swim, it’s got plenty of originals in development and planned for release through the year. So while the channel is shifting in the wake of changing demographics and viewing habits, it’s trying its best to still offer the same creative spirit fans have come to love.
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