Tag Archives: planning

Disney Food, Epcot, Memory Keeping

Plan Your Visit to EPCOT’s Fall Food & Wine Festival

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This is a must-attend festival which happens late summer into the Fall.

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Each country in World Showcase, along with many “pop-up” countries scattered around the lagoon, features scrumptious bites! There is nothing better than wandering around the WORLD, tasting the flavors of all the different countries.

This past Fall, I had the pleasure of spending several days doing just that. Wandering around World Showcase and sampling many different sweet and savory treats from around the world.

The Sweet Potato Casserole fries from the Fry Basket were a sweet dessert. Yum! The Pumpkin Ravioli were another favorite.

Churro Sundae
Grand Marnier Orange Slush

Honestly, I could just wander Food & Wine for days on end. The lines moved quickly, even if they were long, and we always managed to find a table or trash can to perch on to eat.

Have you been to EPCOT’s Food & Wine Festival? If not, let’s get you there. The Fall is the perfect time to visit. The weather is tolerable and the crowds are better than Spring and Summer.

I’ve got the perfect base for a great Food & Wine Festival-focused trip! Just a few steps away on the Boardwalk, at the lovely, recently renovated Boardwalk Inn.

Disney Resorts, Memory Keeping

Top Dining Options on EPCOT’s Boardwalk You Can’t Miss

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Let’s take a walk on the Boardwalk. This area at EPCOT is, and always has been, one of my favorite places to wander.

On a recent trip, I stayed at Disney’s Boardwalk Inn Resort and was able to spend a good amount of time exploring the Boardwalk.

The Boardwalk comes alive at night with a barbershop quartet and magicians, jugglers, and a very lively ice cream shop with incdredibly delish creamy delights.

One of the main complaints I hear about The Boardwalk Inn is the lack of easy dining options. Which is strange, because honestly, there are tons of dining options, and it’s not a long walk to 4 other resorts with dining options and all the countries of World Showcase.

The Inn itself has a wonderful little grab-and-go coffee shop off the lobby. They even had a very yummy specialty coffee drink à la Starbucks style. Breakfast goodies like croissants, muffins, and yogurt.

Iced Frappe on the back porch overlooking boardwalk

One of my favorite restaurants on the boardwalk has always been Trattoria Al Forno, and it’s a great option for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Full review here. Right next door is AbracadaBar with curious concoctions with names like Hoodunit’s Punch and The Conjurita!

Quick service options include Pizza by the slice, Blue Ribbon Corn Dogs, Boardwalk Joe’s Marvelous Margaritas, and Boardwalk Ice Cream!

The Cake Bake Shop Restaurant by Gwendolyn Rogers offers a bakery as well. And along with Trattoria Al Forno, Flying Fish is another table service option.

I really enjoyed my time strolling the boardwalk. The margarita was delicious, the quartet sang Barbara Ann by the Beach Boys and then looked for a Barbara and found me. I was only the second Barbara they had ever actually had in the crowd. The Thundering Surf Peanut Butter and Chocolate Sundae was divine! Definately make time for an evening on the Boardwalk next time you are at Disney World. Better yet, stay right there!

Memory Keeping

Top 3 Disney World Splurges

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After Hours Parties

Of course, there are the ever-popular Halloween and Christmas parties as well.

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party

Join some of your favorite Disney Characters for an evening of spirited fun at this spooktacular celebration.

Get your favorite costume ready and make your plans to live it up—collecting candies, sweets, and delightful treats—all while Magic Kingdom park thrills and chills you with electrifying entertainment and eerily fun activities.

Like the Halloween party, the party starts at 7pm, but your special ticket allows you to enter the park at 4pm to get a head start on activities.

  • Set your sights on a group of sinister sisters as they bewitch and bedazzle the residents of Magic Kingdom park at the Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular.
  • Don’t miss Disney’s Not So Spooky Spectacular*—a wickedly wild fireworks display featuring some of your favorite Disney Characters.
  • Collect a bag full of candy as you roam the trick-or-treat trails in search of some of your favorite sweets.

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party

When Mickey celebrates the season, Magic Kingdom park lights up with excitement for Guests of all ages. Cinderella Castle shimmers. Joyful music fills the air. Disney Characters don their most festive attire. Favorite attractions take on a holiday theme. And enchanting surprises lie around almost every turn!

  • Christmas fun awaits as Mickey invites his pals over for an unforgettable party.
  • Queen Elsa transforms Cinderella Castle.
  • Holiday parade brimming with joy and magic!
  • Look to the sky as your host—Minnie Mouse—presents a dazzling fireworks show full of festive cheer.
  • Bring home a Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party memory with a piece of official merchandise from shops across the park.

Wild Africa Trek

Be awestruck viewing wild animals in their natural habitat on the 3-hour Wild Africa Trek. Discover animals of nearly every variety living in the Safi River Valley—an amazing environment that resembles their home in Africa.

Walk along a grassland path, cross a rope bridge and ride in a rugged safari vehicle over an open savanna—with a chance to view African creatures including towering giraffes, powerful rhinos, hippos, and crocodiles.

Along your journey, your knowledgeable guide will share insights about the majestic animals you’re viewing as well as the general operation of Disney’s Animal Kingdom park and details about the park’s dedication to animal conservation.

And as if your safari weren’t enough, you’ll receive complimentary photo services as well. Enjoy the animals of the Harambe Reserve while a trained photographer captures all the action and excitement throughout your adventure. At the end of your expedition, you’ll receive a photo code that you can use to access and download images taken during your Wild Africa Trek experience. Two gourmet snack breaks are also included.

Animal Kingdom

Trekking Through Animal Kingdom

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Animal Kingdom is a theme park in Walt Disney World that is themed around the natural world and its creatures. As such, there are many animal trails that guests can explore to see a wide variety of animals up close and learn more about them. Here are some of the most popular animal trails at Animal Kingdom:

These animal trails provide guests with a unique opportunity to see animals up close and learn about their habitats and behaviors. Visitors are encouraged to take their time exploring each trail and to observe the animals from a safe distance to ensure their well-being.

Maharajah Jungle Trek: This trail takes guests through the ruins of an ancient palace in the forests of Asia, where they can see tigers, bats, birds, and other animals native to the region.

Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail: This trail leads guests through lush African forests where they can see gorillas, hippos, birds, and other African wildlife.

Discovery Island Trails: These trails wind through the center of the park around the Tree of Life and offer guests the chance to see a variety of animals, including flamingos, kangaroos, and lemurs.

Oasis Exhibits: These exhibits are located at the park’s entrance and showcase a variety of animals, including giant anteaters, wallabies, and sloths.

So many animals! Plan to spend some time enjoying these animal treks, this is what Animal Kingdom is all about.

Hollywood Studios, Memory Keeping

Say Hello: Character Meet and Greets at Hollywood Studios

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f you’re a fan of movies, television shows, and popular culture, you’ll definitely want to visit Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World in Florida. This theme park is dedicated to the magic of Hollywood and features attractions, shows, and experiences that allow you to step into some of your favorite films and TV shows. But one of the highlights of Hollywood Studios is the chance to meet and interact with some of the most beloved characters from the world of entertainment. Here are some of the characters you can meet at Hollywood Studios.

Mickey Mouse and Friends: No trip to a Disney theme park is complete without meeting the mouse that started it all. You can meet Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, and other classic characters at the park, either at scheduled meet-and-greets or in impromptu encounters around the park.

Star Wars Characters: If you’re a fan of the Star Wars franchise, you’ll be thrilled to meet some of the iconic characters from the movies. You can pose for a photo with Chewbacca, meet BB-8, or even come face-to-face with the intimidating Darth Vader or Kylo Ren.

Toy Story Characters: Round up the gang and get those batteries charged! Shake the snakes out of your boots and say howdy to Sheriff Woody. Yodel a hello to Jessie the Cowgirl. Remember to greet Buzz Lightyear with your best Space Ranger salute—he’s always looking for a few good toys. Throughout the day, be on the lookout for the Green Army Drum Corps!

Disney Junior Characters: If you’re traveling with little ones, they’ll love the chance to meet some of their favorite characters from Disney Junior shows. You can meet Doc McStuffins, Vampirina, and Fancy Nancy, among others at Animation Courtyard.

These are just a few of the characters you can meet at Hollywood Studios. Whether you’re a fan of classic Disney movies, Star Wars, Marvel, or more, there’s sure to be a character that will make your visit to the park unforgettable. Be sure to check the schedule and plan your day to make sure you don’t miss any of these exciting character encounters!

Animal Kingdom, Memory Keeping

Say Hello: Character Meet and Greets at Animal Kingdom

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If you’re planning a trip to Walt Disney World’s Animal Kingdom, you’re in for a treat. Not only is the park home to a variety of exotic animals and breathtaking rides, but you’ll also have the chance to meet some of your favorite Disney characters in a setting that’s truly unique.

Here are some of the characters you can meet at Animal Kingdom:

Mickey & Minnie: Join the globetrotting couple at the Adventurers Outpost as they prepare themselves for their next grand expedition. Peruse exotic mementos they’ve collected on their trips around the world before posing for a postcard-perfect picture with the pair. 

Pocahontas – This beloved Disney princess can be found near the Tree of Life, where she’ll be happy to pose for photos and sign autographs.

Donald Duck – This feathered friend is a favorite of many visitors to Animal Kingdom. You can find him near DinoLand U.S.A., where he’ll be happy to take photos and sign autographs.

Kevin: Meet Kevin at the Character Landing by Flame Tree Barbeque

Dug and Russell – Fans of the movie “Up” won’t want to miss the chance to meet these two lovable characters. You can find them near the park’s entrance, and they’re always happy to make new friends.

Meeting these characters is a great way to add some extra magic to your visit to Animal Kingdom. Make sure to bring your camera and autograph book, and get ready to create some unforgettable memories.

Disneyland

Transformation of Pixar Pier

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In addition to the newly reimagined Incredicoaster and all-new Lamplight Lounge, you will discover new experiences – both big and small – throughout the newly reimagined Pixar Pier.

In 2019, Jessie the yodeling cowgirl will invite you for a rootin’ tootin’ spin on Jessie’s Critter Carousel. Inspired by Jessie’s wilderness friends in the “Woody’s Roundup” television show from “Toy Story 2,” this newly reimagined attraction is a classic boardwalk carousel with a whimsical spin. Saddle up on one of 56 adorable friends, choosing from a turtle, snake, buzzard, armadillo, bunny, deer, raccoon, ram, skunk and two cozy logs inhabited by a family of owls.

And when Pixar Pier opens June 23, 2018 at Disney California Adventure® Park, you will find transformation around every corner.

Just past Lamplight Lounge, you will find Adorable Snowman Frosted Treats. Inspired by the lovable and not-at-all-abominable monster from “Monsters, Inc.,” this will be your go-to for frozen treats.

In the “Toy Story” neighborhood of Pixar Pier, big appetites and small fries alike will love the Poultry Palace. This giant fun meal inspired by Pixar’s short, “Toy Story Toon: Small Fry,” even comes with a Fun Meal Zurg!

You can also stop by Señor Buzz Churros, where Buzz has switched into Spanish mode to offer this quintessential Disneyland Resort treat.

Further down Pixar Pier, Angry Dogs will be serving up some hot items – which is the perfect place for Anger from “Inside Out.” The more he burns with rage, the hotter the dogs get!

It’s the perfect time to come discover these and many more newly themed experiences throughout Pixar Pier at Disney California Adventure Park!

Magic Kingdom

TICKETS ON SALE FOR MICKEY’S NOT-SO-SCARY HALLOWEEN PARTY AND MICKEY’S VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS PARTY AT MAGIC KINGDOM PARK

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This year, Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party will transform Magic Kingdom Park for a sweet 34 nights.

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Dates

August 17, 24, 28, 31

September 3, 7, 9, 11, 14, 16, 18, 21, 23, 25, 28, 30

October 2, 4, 5, 8, 9, 11, 12, 14, 16, 18, 19, 21, 23, 25, 26, 28, 30, 31

Returning treats include the Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular stage show in front of Cinderella Castle featuring the mischievous Sanderson sisters from the hit Disney film “Hocus Pocus,” Mickey’s “Boo-to-You” Halloween Parade and “Happy HalloWishes,” the fall spectacular led by the infamous Disney villains!

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party tickets start at $75 in advance or $85 at the gate, if available.

When the seasons change, Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party will transform the Magic Kingdom Park into a winter wonderland for the most magical 22 days of the year!

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Dates

November 8, 9, 12, 13, 15, 16, 25, 27, 29, 30

December 2, 4, 6, 7, 9, 11, 13, 14, 16, 18, 20, 21

Returning favorites for the holidays include Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade; “Holiday Wishes,” fireworks spectacular; “A Frozen Holiday Wish,” featuring Queen Elsa using her incredible powers to present a gift to everyone in the kingdom—transforming Cinderella Castle into a sparkling, icy centerpiece for the celebration; and the jubilant show, “Mickey’s Most Merriest Celebration.”*

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party tickets start at $95 in advance or $105 at the gate, if available.

News

PIXAR PLAY ZONE AT DISNEY’S CONTEMPORARY RESORT

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Starting April 13 and available nightly, kids, ages 4-12, will be transported to a world full of excitement and adventure with their favorite characters from Disney•Pixar’s “Toy Story” and “The Incredibles!” While the kids play, parents will be able to enjoy their own getaway throughout Walt Disney World Resort.

In Bonnie’s Play Room, children will find a variety of toys. Around the corner, the Living Room will be the center for most of the action, starting with Space Ranger Training where a Space Ranger will teach kids what it takes to become a Jr. Space Ranger of Star Command, including how to identify enemies, like Zurg, and finally, the call of the Space Ranger, “To infinity and beyond!” Then, Woody and Jessie will show them the ropes of the Wild West during Woody’s Roundup – complete with a sing along for a rootin’ tootin’ good time!

Next to the Living Room will be the Radiator Springs Racetrack where youngsters will be able to build their own racecars and take turns sending them down a soapbox derby racetrack for Piston Cup Derby Races.

Finally, they will learn some sweet dance moves during the Incredible Dance Party with Mr. Incredible and Mrs. Incredible – complete with a party host.

The evening will also include arcade games, dinner and dessert!

The nightly getaway for kids, ages 4-12, will open doors for check-in at 5 p.m. The experience will begin at the welcome desk, a stop at the “Monsters, Inc.” handwashing station, then Boo’s Closet Door, where youngsters will be able to store any belongings before taking a couple of steps into an action-packed evening of Pixar fun. Programming will run from 6-10:30 p.m. for a fee of $65 per child (plus tax). Children must be fully toilet-trained. Parents will be required to be physically present to check children in and out of the experience.

Current Deals

AN INCREDIBLE SUMMER AWAITS – SAVE UP TO 25% ON ROOMS AT SELECT WALT DISNEY WORLD RESORT HOTELS

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Save up to 25% on rooms at select Disney Resort hotels for stays most nights June 11-Aug. 1, 2018 when they book by May 22, 2018. Plus, discover other savings for stays most nights May 28-Jun. 10, 2018 and Aug. 2-30, 2018.

Staying in the middle of the magic will help make a Walt Disney World Resort vacation even more super—especially when there are new and exciting experiences debuting at all 4 parks.

With this offer, you can save on rooms at select Disney Resort hotels for stays most nights June 11 through August 1, 2018:

• Save up to 25% on rooms, when you book by May 22, 2018.

• Save up to 20% on rooms, when you book by August 1, 2018.

Ask about great rates for stays most nights May 28 through June 10 and August 2 through August 30, 2018.

This special offer is valid for the Disney Resort hotels listed below. View the chart to explore savings within each Resort Category.

Resort Category

Resort Savings

Select Disney Deluxe Villas

Save up to 25% for stays most nights
6/11/18 to 8/1/18

Book now through 5/22/18

Book 5/23/18 to 8/1/18

Disney’s BoardWalk Villas

Disney’s Old Key West Resort

Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Jambo House

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village

25%

20%

Disney’s Beach Club Villas

Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

Copper Creek Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows – Studios only

15%

10%

Select Disney Deluxe Resorts

Save up to 25% for stays most nights
6/11/18 to 8/1/18

Book now through 5/22/18

Book 5/23/18 to 8/1/18

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

Disney’s BoardWalk Inn

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

Disney’s Yacht Club Resort

25%

20%

Disney’s Beach Club Resort

Disney’s Contemporary Resort

Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

15%

10%

Select Disney Moderate Resorts

Save up to 20% for stays most nights
6/11/18 to 8/1/18

Book now through 5/22/18

Book 5/23/18 to 8/1/18

Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort

Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort

20%

15%

Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter

Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside

10%

10%

The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort

20%

20%

Select Disney Value Resorts

Save up to 20% for stays most nights
6/11/18 to 8/1/18

Book now through 5/22/18

Book 5/23/18 to 8/1/18

Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort

Disney’s All-Star Music Resort

Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort

Disney’s Art of Animation Resort – Family Suites only

Disney’s Pop Century Resort

20%

15%

The number of rooms allocated for this offer is limited. Savings based on the non-discounted price for the same room. Length of stay requirements may apply.

See Important Details.

Note: Moderate and Deluxe suites may be available at a lesser discount.

Important Details:

• The number of rooms allocated for this offer is limited.

• Savings based on the non-discounted price for the same room.

• Additional per adult charges may apply if more than 2 adults per room at Disney Value, Moderate and Deluxe Resorts.

• Cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion.

• Advance reservations required.

• Offer excludes the following room types: campsites, 3-bedroom villas, Cabins at Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, The Little Mermaid Standard Rooms at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort and Bungalows at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalow

The number of rooms allocated for the offer is limited. Length-of-stay requirements may apply. Additional per-adult charges may apply if more than two adults per room at Disney Value, Moderate and Deluxe Resorts. Cannot be combined with any other discounts or promotions. Advance reservations required. Offer excludes 3-bedroom villas, campsites, Cabins at Disney’s Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, Bungalows at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows and Disney’s Art of Animation Resort—The Little Mermaid standard rooms. 25% savings based on the non-discounted price of the same room for select Disney Deluxe and Deluxe Villa Resorts. Lower savings may be available at other select Disney Resort hotels.