Hi Teena,
Your vacation is just around the corner and you're smart to plan ahead!
Ariel's Grotto is indeed now closed to make way for the Fantasyland expansion. Exciting news though, Ariel will be included as part of the Fantasyland expansion in the
Under the Sea ~ Journey of the Little Mermaid attraction. Although no specific dates are given for the opening of the attraction, the new parts of Fantasyland are scheduled to open in phases beginning in late 2012.
For now, Ariel is currently appearing in her human form for meet & greets at the Magic Kingdom. Look for her in the Adventureland Veranda Gazebo. Be sure to check your
Times Guide when you enter the park for appearance times.
Although you can't "meet" her, Ariel can also be seen in the
Celebrate a Dream Come True Parade held most afternoons in the Magic Kingdom. You can also see Ariel in
The Voyage of the Little Mermaid &
Fantasmic! at Disney's Hollywood Studios.
Ariel has also been known to appear at
Cinderella's Royal Table at the Magic Kingdom & the
Akershus Royal Banquet Hall in the Norway Pavilion in Epcot. There are no guarantees which princesses will appear - it varies - but these are dining experiences all little princesses love.
Wishing you minnie magical memories :-) Allison