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EVERYONE REMAIN CALM! It’s happening — Epic Universe is officially OPEN to the public! Epic Universe We’ve been spending as much time here as we possibly can, making sure we know all the ins and outs of this park so you’re prepared ahead of your first visit. And, of course, we’re BACK on the park’s first day of regular operation to see just how everything is going. So, let’s check it out! If you’re hungry, you can stop by the grand Mead Hall, Spit Fyre Grill, or the racing-themed Hooligan’s Grog & Gruel food stand. Throughout your day on the Isle of Berk, be on the lookout for characters! You can meet Hiccup and the beloved Toothless at Haddock Paddock, but we also spotted some other friends wandering the area. Hiccups Wing Gliders Finally, there’s the epic live show called The Untrainable Dragon. This show is based on the Untrainable show in Universal Beijing Resort. From the set to the characters, this is truly an incredible show. Dark Universe Dark Universe draws on Universal’s rich history with horror. There are plenty of monsters and spooky vibes to really set the mood, so be prepared for a wild time. This land is home to two attractions, including the MAJOR new ride Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment. Dark Universe The land’s second attraction is a spinning family coaster inspired by The Wolf Man. It’s called Curse of the Werewolf, and you’re gonna want to RACE to escape the werewolves before you become one. Das Stakehouse All that screaming can really work up your appetite! Luckily, there are plenty of places to eat, like Das Stakehaus, The Burning Blade Tavern, and De Lacey’s Cottage. And, if you have time, we highly recommend you stop by for a monster character meet-and-greet while you’re here! You can also check out a Universal Horror Monster Makeup experience! Each of the team members there has a costume that looks like a lab coat, just like Dr. Frankenstein would wear. ©Universal We’ll be updating this article throughout the day as we explore more of the first day of Epic Universe, so make sure you check back here for more! In the meantime, stay tuned to DFB for the latest theme park news. Read more: DFB's complete guide to Universal’s Epic Universe >> Are you planning on visiting Epic Universe at Universal Orlando? Tell us in the comments. The post Come With Us to EPIC UNIVERSE on OPENING DAY first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article
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Read complete coverage from the Orlando Sentinel of Universal Orlando’s new theme park Epic Universe. See the latest photos, news and updated ride, show and food reviews for the new park that will feature lands called Super Nintendo World, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, Dark Universe (featuring classic monsters) and Celestial Park, an opening act that includes rides, restaurants and other attractions. The park officially opens to the public on May 22, 2025. See complete coverage at OrlandoSentinel.com/epic View the full article
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We’ve been talking about this for YEARS, but the day has finally come. Universal Orlando’s newest park, Epic Universe, has opened its gates and welcomed guests for its grand opening. Epic Universe Epic Universe was previously in technical rehearsal, but today is the first official day. Because technical rehearsals were available for everyone, what do opening day crowds look like in the park? Technical rehearsals were at a limited capacity, but let’s take a look at what a FULL Epic Universe looks like. Welcome to the first day of Epic Universe! Flocks of people fled to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter — Ministry of Magic, most likely to ride one of the most anticipated rides for the park: Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry. This was the crowd just to get into the portal! Crowds to Ministry of Magic The queue was expected to be 150 minutes for the attraction and that was only at 8:30 AM. The ride doesn’t open till 9 AM! How to Train Your Dragon — Isle of Berk was filled with dragon lovers of all ages ready to get on incredible attractions and meet Toothless. Here’s the queue to enter the land. We appreciated how Team Members were handing out free bottles of water! Packed! Despite this crazy queue, we were able to ride Dragon Racer’s Rally with no wait. It took us eight minutes to walk through the queue, but then we were on our own, learning how to fly. We’re not joking when we say May 22nd has been marked in our calendars for months now. A new theme park has officially opened in Orlando, and we’re glad to welcome Epic Universe into our theme park family. Keep following DFB for all the theme park news you love! We’ll be updating this post throughout the day with more crowds and details! COMPLETE GUIDE TO BUYING EPIC UNIVERSE TICKETS Read more: DFB's complete guide to Universal’s Epic Universe >> Are you planning on going to Epic Universe soon? Tell us what you’re most looking forward to in the comments. The post You Won't Believe the CROWDS on the Sold Out Opening Day of Epic Universe! first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article
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Fireworks explode as part of the Universal Epic Universe grand opening ceremonies at the new theme park in Orlando on Wednesday, May 21, 2025. Thousands of invited guests and celebrities watched the spectacular fireworks and drones show. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel) Fireworks launch over Universal Epic Wednesday, May 21, 2025, on the eve of the theme park’s grand opening to the public, Thursday. Universal Epic is the first major new theme park in the US in more than 20 years. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)Fireworks explode as part of the Universal Epic Universe grand opening ceremonies at the new theme park in Orlando on Wednesday, May 21, 2025. Thousands of invited guests and celebrities watched the spectacular fireworks and drones show. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)Fireworks explode as part of the Universal Epic Universe grand opening ceremonies at the new theme park in Orlando on Wednesday, May 21, 2025. Thousands of invited guests and celebrities watched the spectacular fireworks and drones show. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)Fireworks launch over Universal Epic Wednesday, May 21, 2025, on the eve of the theme park’s grand opening to the public, Thursday. Universal Epic is the first major new theme park in the US in more than 20 years. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)Fireworks explode as part of the Universal Epic Universe grand opening ceremonies at the new theme park in Orlando on Wednesday, May 21, 2025. Thousands of invited guests and celebrities watched the spectacular fireworks and drones show. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)Fireworks explode as part of the Universal Epic Universe grand opening ceremonies at the new theme park in Orlando on Wednesday, May 21, 2025. Thousands of invited guests and celebrities watched the spectacular fireworks and drones show. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)Fireworks explode as part of the Universal Epic Universe grand opening ceremonies at the new theme park in Orlando on Wednesday, May 21, 2025. Thousands of invited guests and celebrities watched the spectacular fireworks and drones show. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)Fireworks explode as part of the Universal Epic Universe grand opening ceremonies at the new theme park in Orlando on Wednesday, May 21, 2025. Thousands of invited guests and celebrities watched the spectacular fireworks and drones show. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)Fireworks explode as part of the Universal Epic Universe grand opening ceremonies at the new theme park in Orlando on Wednesday, May 21, 2025. Thousands of invited guests and celebrities watched the spectacular fireworks and drones show. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)The sun sets over the Universal Helios Grand Hotel and Universal Epic Wednesday, May 21, 2025, on the eve of the theme park’s grand opening to the public, Thursday. Universal Epic is the first new major theme park in the US in more than 20 years. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)Fireworks launch over Universal Epic Wednesday, May 21, 2025, on the eve of the theme park’s grand opening to the public, Thursday. Universal Epic is the first major new theme park in the US in more than 20 years. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)Show Caption1 of 12Fireworks explode as part of the Universal Epic Universe grand opening ceremonies at the new theme park in Orlando on Wednesday, May 21, 2025. Thousands of invited guests and celebrities watched the spectacular fireworks and drones show. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel) Expand View the full article
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• Where: Epic Universe is about 2.5 miles southeast of Universal Orlando’s original theme parks, near the Orange County Convention Center. The entrance is off Epic Boulevard, which is accessed from Destination Parkway or South Kirkman Road. The official address is 1001 Epic Blvd. The Kirkman Road extension has opened for traffic, so if traveling from downtown Orlando, westbound on Interstate 4, take Exit 75B for Kirkman. There are new directional road signs in place for Epic Universe. The new route is a bit curvy and elevated at points, but follow those signs to Epic Boulevard and the theme park’s parking lot, which will be on the left. If traveling from the southwest, going eastbound on I-4, exit onto State Road 528 and then take Exit 2 to go northbound on Universal Boulevard. Turn right onto Destination Parkway, then left onto Epic Boulevard, skirting a roundabout and then a right turn to the entrance of the parking lot. • Parking: Epic Universe has its own parking lot; there is no parking garage there. Parking is $32. Prime self-parking is $50-$60. • Key times for opening day: The main parking lot (including ride-share drop-off) opens at 6 a.m.; shuttle bus service from Universal Orlando hotels to Epic Universe also begins at 6 a.m.; turnstiles at the front entrance and inside the entrance for Helios Grand Hotel guests open at 7 a.m. There will be a “brief celebratory moment” at 8 a.m. near the park entrance. Operating hours are 9 a.m. to 10 p.m., daily through June 1. • Future operating hours: From June 2 through June 17, Epic’s hours will be 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. For the remainder of June, the schedule varies by day but opens at either 9 or 10 a.m., then closes at either 9 or 10 p.m. (These times are subject to change). • Security: Bag screening occurs just before the main entrance. Among the prohibited items in the park are explosives, weapons, alcohol, marijuana or any item containing cannabis or related paraphernalia, power-driven or radio frequency-controlled devices, outside food or beverages, glass, coolers, suitcases, bags with wheels and folding chairs. Everyone must travel through a metal detector, too. (The system is similar to Universal Orlando’s mega-garage.) An effect makes it appear as though guests are traveling through a green tube at the entrance of Super Nintendo World at Universal Epic Universe, welcoming them during a media preview event on May 20. (Rich Pope/Orlando Sentinel)• Tickets: Prices for one-day admission to Epic for the rest of the year vary daily and range from $139 (for four days in September) to $199 (from Christmas Eve through New Year’s Eve). The first available date posted for a one-day ticket is May 26. Universal Orlando offers multiday passes with other theme parks and Volcano Bay water park that may bring down price-per-day rates. • App: The official Universal Orlando app can be used to facilitate purchases, dining reservations, maps, show schedules, wait times and more. More on Epic Universe Epic Universe Ride Guide: New park rides ranked from tame to super scary Peeking into the portals (and just beyond) of Epic Universe Epic Universe: Frequently asked questions (plus answers) Power-Up Bands get games going in Super Nintendo World Epic Universe timeline: From dragons to butterbeer, here’s how theme park evolved An Epic movie guide: What to watch before visiting Universal’s new park Epic Universe: Say hello to new Helios Grand, theme park neighbor Epic Universe survival guide: What to pack for the new park Epic Universe: Exec blends arts, engineering in theme park roles Epic Universe preview: An early walk (and rides) in the park . View the full article
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A warm climate and lush environment were early draws for the Florida tourism industry. The arrival of railroads, leisure travel and air-conditioning jump-started the Sunshine State ahead of the 1971 arrival of Walt Disney World. A lot of travel stops have come and gone over the decades. Here is a brief look at Central Florida’s attractions, through the years. • 1878: Glass-bottom boats are introduced at Silver Springs in Marion County. • January 1936: Pope Sr. establishes Cypress Gardens, the state’s first theme park, in Winter Haven. It eventually is known for Southern belles, film settings and for being the “water ski capital of the world.” Pope Sr. (from left), daughter Adrienne, wife Julie and son Pope Jr. take to the water in a Cypress Gardens photo, likely from the 1950s. (Orlando Sentinel file)• Dec. 1949: Owen Godwin Sr. opens Gatorland as a roadside attraction on South Orlando Blossom Trail. Original name: Florida Wildlife Institute, which was changed to Snake Village and Alligator Farm before landing on Gatorland in 1954. • Nov. 15, 1965: After months of secret land purchases and speculation, Walt Disney announces, from a downtown Orlando hotel, plans to build in Florida. Construction began in 1968. • Oct. 1, 1971: Magic Kingdom theme park opens alongside the Contemporary Resort Hotel, followed by the Polynesian Village Resort. Tourists mingle with characters at Magic Kingdom on opening day of Walt Disney World on Oct. 1, 1971. (Orlando Sentinel file)• Dec. 15, 1973: SeaWorld Orlando theme park opens about 7 miles southeast of Magic Kingdom. • Feb. 21, 1974: Circus World, which eventually features coasters named the Hurricane and Zoomerang, opens in Davenport. The attraction closed in 1986. • July 1974: Church Street Station, a collection of bars, opens in downtown Orlando and thrives into the 1980s. Co-founder Bob Snow sold the property in 1989. • March 1975: Lake Buena Vista Shopping Village opens at Walt Disney World. It expands and goes through several names including Walt Disney World Village, Disney Village Marketplace, Downtown Disney and Disney Springs. • June 20, 1976: River Country, Disney’s first water park, opens near Fort Wilderness. (It closed in late 2001.) A swimmer makes his way across the cool waters of River Country at Walt Disney World's Fort Wilderness Resort in February 1989. (Orlando Sentinel file)• March 13, 1977: SeaWorld mastermind George Millay creates Wet ‘n Wild, a water park on International Drive. In 1998, Universal bought the attraction, which shut down in 2017. (Universal’s Endless Summer Resort is on the site now.) • Oct. 1, 1982: Walt Disney World introduces Epcot, its second theme park, a variation on Walt Disney’s original Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow concept. • April 1987: Boardwalk and Baseball amusement park opens on the former Circus World site. It closed in 1990. • February 1988: Arabian Knights dinner show opens in Kissimmee. It closed after a 25-year run. Longtime Disney star Annette Funicello kisses her old pal Mickey Mouse on opening day of Disney-MGM Studios in 1989. (Orlando Sentinel file)• May 1, 1989: Disney-MGM Studios theme park opens, with Disney CEO Michael Eisner edging out the arrival of Universal Studios Florida. It ushers in Eisner’s expansion plan known as the Disney Decade. • May 1, 1989: Pleasure Island entertainment district opens at Disney World, adding several nightclubs to the resort’s lineup. • June 1, 1989: Typhoon Lagoon water park opens at Disney World. • June 7, 1990: Universal Studios Florida theme park debuts. • Nov. 8, 1991: Terror on Church Street, a year-round haunt, opens. The original closed in 1999, but another owner has a two-year run of Terror on the third floor of Church Street Exchange. • July 1992: Ripley’s Believe It Or Not museum, built to look like it’s falling into a sinkhole, opens on International Drive. • 1993: Ripley Entertainment Inc. moves headquarters from Toronto to Orlando. • Late 1993: Florida Splendid China, an attraction with one-tenth scale replicas, opens near Kissimmee. It operated for 10 years. (Now on the site: Margaritaville Resort homes and condos.) Plunging straight down the side of Mt. Gushmore at Blizzard Beach gives Walt Disney World Resort guests the spine-tingling thrills of skiing up north. (Courtesy Walt Disney Co.)• April 1, 1995: Blizzard Beach water park opens at Disney World. • March 1998: WonderWorks, the upside-down-looking attraction, opens on International Drive. • April 22, 1998: Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park opens with celebrities such as Stevie Wonder and Jane Goodall on hand. • December 1998: Cirque du Soleil debuts its “La Nouba” show at Downtown Disney. It ran through 2017. Crowds gather at the entrance of Universal's Islands of Adventure during the park's opening to the public on May 28, 1999. (Orlando Sentinel file)• May 28, 1999: Universal Orlando opens Islands of Adventure park and Universal CityWalk, a shopping and dining area, adjacent to Universal Studios. • July 1, 2000: Discovery Cove, SeaWorld’s day resort with marine animals and water activities, debuts. • February 2001: Holy Land Experience, a Christian attraction with Bible-related activities and shows, opens near Conroy Road and Interstate 4. Trinity Broadcasting Network purchased it in 2007. The attraction closed in 2020. • June 2003: Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede dinner show opens near Interstate 4. It operated for five years. • June 2006: Blue Man Group moves into the theater at Universal CityWalk. It closed with the 2020 pandemic shutdown. In 2024, another Blue Man show is announced for a new space at Icon Park. • 2008: Disney-MGM Studios’ name changes to Disney’s Hollywood Studios. • Sept. 27, 2008: Pleasure Island nightclubs are closed as the area is absorbed into an area eventually known as Disney Springs. Loggerhead Lane floats guests down a lazy river past exotic birds and exotic fish. SeaWorld's new water park, Aquatica, opened to the public March 1, 2008. (Julie Fletcher/Orlando Sentinel)• March 1, 2008: SeaWorld introduces Aquatica water park. • June 18, 2010: The first Wizarding World of Harry Potter opens at Islands of Adventure with Daniel Radcliffe and other actors participating in festivities. • Oct. 15, 2011: Legoland Florida opens in Winter Haven on the former grounds of Cypress Gardens. • July 8, 2014: Diagon Alley, the second installment of a Wizarding World of Harry Potter, opens at Universal Studios. The Hogwarts Express attraction connects the attractions in two different theme parks. Team members welcome cheering fans into a confetti-filled Diagon Alley during the grand opening at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter expansion, at Universal Studios Florida, in Orlando on July 8, 2014. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)• April 29, 2015: Orlando Eye, a 400-foot observation wheel, debuts on International Drive next to Madame Tussauds Orlando and Sea Life Orlando Aquarium. • September 2016: The International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions announces it will move its headquarters from Alexandria, Virginia, to Orlando, and it extends its contract for the IAAPA Expo to be held at Orange County Convention Center through 2030. • May 25, 2017: Volcano Bay water park opens at Universal Orlando. • Aug. 29, 2019: Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge realm debuts at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. • Nov. 2021: “Drawn to Life,” a new Cirque du Soleil show, opens at Disney Springs. • May 19, 2022: Peppa Pig Theme Park, aimed at preschoolers, opens next door to Legoland Florida in Winter Haven. The park entrance is shown during a media preview for Peppa Pig Theme Park on Feb. 16, 2022 (Ricardo Ramirez Buxeda/Orlando Sentinel)• March 2024: The COVID-19 pandemic leads to Central Florida attractions closing down for three or four months. • May 22, 2025: Epic Universe becomes Orlando’s first new theme park in more than 25 years. View the full article
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Actor Warwick Davis, who played Professor Filius Flitwick in the “Harry Potter” film series, talks with members of the media on the “Celestial Carpet” as part of the Universal Epic Universe grand opening ceremonies at the new theme park on Wednesday, May 21, 2025. Many celebrities, movie stars, dignitaries and other VIPs were introduced during the event. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)Actress Nico Parker and actor Mason Thames, stars of the upcoming “How to Train Your Dragon” live action film, arrive on the “Celestial Carpet” as part of the Universal Epic Universe grand opening ceremonies at the new theme park on Wednesday, May 21, 2025. Many celebrities, movie stars, dignitaries and other VIPs were introduced during the event. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)Mark Woodbury, chairman and chief executive officer of Universal Destinations & Experiences, arrives on the “Celestial Carpet” as part of the Universal Epic Universe grand opening ceremonies at the new theme park on Wednesday, May 21, 2025. Many celebrities, movie stars, dignitaries and other VIPs were introduced during the event. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)Actors Oliver and James Phelps, who played the Weasley twins in the “Harry Potter” film series, arrive on the “Celestial Carpet” event as part of the Universal Epic Universe grand opening ceremonies at the new theme park on Wednesday, May 21, 2025. Many celebrities, movie stars, dignitaries and other VIPs were introduced during the event. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)Mark Woodbury, chairman and chief executive officer of Universal Destinations & Experiences, interacts with guests on the “Celestial Carpet” as part of the Universal Epic Universe grand opening ceremonies at the new theme park on Wednesday, May 21, 2025. Many celebrities, movie stars, dignitaries and other VIPs were introduced during the event. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)“Saturday Night Live” cast member Bowen Yang has some fun on the “Celestial Carpet” as part of the Universal Epic Universe grand opening ceremonies at the new theme park on Wednesday, May 21, 2025. Many celebrities, movie stars, dignitaries and other VIPs were introduced during the event. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)Shigeru Miyamoto, Nintendo representative director and fellow, walks the “Celestial Carpet” as part of the Universal Epic Universe grand opening ceremonies at the new theme park on Wednesday, May 21, 2025. Many celebrities, movie stars, dignitaries and other VIPs were introduced during the event. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)Gothic fashion designer Micheline Pitt, who contributed to Dark Universe at Universal Epic Universe, arrives on the “Celestial Carpet” as part of the Universal Epic Universe grand opening ceremonies at the new theme park on Wednesday, May 21, 2025. Many celebrities, movie stars, dignitaries and other VIPs were introduced during the event. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)Howie Mandel, best known for his roles as a judge on “America's Got Talent “since 2010 and as the host of the game show “Deal or No Deal,” answers questions one the “Celestial Carpet” as part of the Universal Epic Universe grand opening ceremonies at the new theme park on Wednesday, May 21, 2025. Many celebrities, movie stars, dignitaries and other VIPs were introduced during the event. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins arrives on the “Celestial Carpet” as part of the Universal Epic Universe grand opening ceremonies at the new theme park on Wednesday, May 21, 2025. Many celebrities, movie stars, dignitaries and other VIPs were introduced during the event. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)Dancer and actor Frankie Grande models a Power-Up Band on the “Celestial Carpet” as part of the Universal Epic Universe grand opening ceremonies at the new theme park on Wednesday, May 21, 2025. Many celebrities, movie stars, dignitaries and other VIPs were introduced during the event. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)Danny Elfman, composer for Dark Universe interacts with guests on the “Celestial Carpet” as part of the Universal Epic Universe grand opening ceremonies at the new theme park on Wednesday, May 21, 2025. Many celebrities, movie stars, dignitaries and other VIPs were introduced during the event. Elfman has composed scores for over 100 feature films including "Beetlejuice," "Men in Black," "The Wolfman" and more. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)Tasha Ghouri, a British model, dancer and television personality, arrives on the “Celestial Carpet” as part of the Universals Epic Universe grand opening ceremonies at the new theme park on Wednesday, May 21, 2025. Many celebrities, movie stars, dignitaries and other VIPs were introduced during the event. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)“The Real Housewives of Miami” star Guerdy Abraira arrives on the “Celestial Carpet” as part of the Universal Epic Universe grand opening ceremonies at the new theme park on Wednesday, May 21, 2025. Many celebrities, movie stars, dignitaries and other VIPs were introduced during the event. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)Dean DeBlois, writer, director and producer of all “How to Train Your Dragon” movies and the upcoming live action film, interacts with the media during a “Celestial Carpet” event as part of the Universal Epic Universe grand opening ceremonies at the new theme park on Wednesday, May 21, 2025. Many celebrities, movie stars, dignitaries and other VIPs were introduced during the event. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)Mark "Crash" McCreery, center, who contributed designs for the monsters in Monster’s Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment in Dark Universe at Universal Epic Universe, walks the “Celestial Carpet” as part of the Epic Universe grand opening ceremonies at the new theme park on Wednesday, May 21, 2025. Many celebrities, movie stars, dignitaries and other VIPs were introduced during the event. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)Rick Baker, special make-up effects creator known for his groundbreaking work in films like “An American Werewolf in London,” “Men in Black”, and “Planet of the Apes,” talks with guests on the “Celestial Carpet” as part of the Universal Epic Universe grand opening ceremonies at the new theme park on Wednesday, May 21, 2025. Many celebrities, movie stars, dignitaries and other VIPs were introduced during the event. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)VIPs arrive during on the “Celestial Carpet” as part of the Universal Epic Universe grand opening ceremonies at the new theme park on Wednesday, May 21, 2025. Many celebrities, movie stars, dignitaries and other VIPs were introduced during the event. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)Karen Irwin, president and COO of Universal Orlando Resort, talks to members of the media during a “Celestial Carpet” event as part of the Universal Epic Universe grand opening ceremonies at the new theme park on Wednesday, May 21, 2025. Many celebrities, movie stars, dignitaries and other VIPs were introduced during the event. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)Mark Woodbury, chairman and chief executive officer of Universal Destinations & Experiences, interacts with guests on the “Celestial Carpet” as part of the Universal Epic Universe grand opening ceremonies at the new theme park on Wednesday, May 21, 2025. Many celebrities, movie stars, dignitaries and other VIPs were introduced during the event. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)Show Caption1 of 20Actor Warwick Davis, who played Professor Filius Flitwick in the “Harry Potter” film series, talks with members of the media on the “Celestial Carpet” as part of the Universal Epic Universe grand opening ceremonies at the new theme park on Wednesday, May 21, 2025. Many celebrities, movie stars, dignitaries and other VIPs were introduced during the event. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)Expand View the full article
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When the portals of Epic Universe theme park officially open Thursday morning, Universal Orlando will welcome a new era of attractions technology. Central Florida’s first big theme park debut since 1999 was designed with modern features to align with the expectations of today’s consumers. There’s fresh tech on multiple fronts. Sometimes it’s obvious — such as lockers activated by facial recognition — but sometimes it’s invisible to park visitors. “There’s a strong expectation that if you’re going to walk into a world based upon Nintendo games, that you’re going to be able to interact with the environment as well,” said Peter Weishar, director and professor of UCF’s themed-experience program. New Power-Up Bands, wearable technology activated in Epic’s Super Nintendo World, and the updated iteration of wands for its Wizarding of Harry Potter land propel that trend, he said. “That’s definitely a new way of engaging a guest and making them feel like they have a degree of agency over what they’re seeing,” Weishar said. Epic Universe also has themed lands called How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk and Dark Universe, which showcases classic Universal characters such as Dracula, Wolf-Man and the Mummy. Frankenstein Manor houses a signature ride within Dark Universe. Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment features a slew of animatronic figures with close-up encounters for passengers. (Patrick Connolly/Orlando Sentinel)‘It’s not easy’ The buzzy attraction within Dark Universe is named Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment. Riders glide through a dark and stormy revenge-driven storyline, encountering lurking animatronics from multiple directions at a rapid pace. “I don’t think there’s a more ambitious collection of technology being stuffed into one building than in that attraction,” said Jeff Polk, general manager and executive vice president for Epic Universe, during previews for the park. “We have more high-level animated figures that are interacting directly with the ride vehicle, with a fairly complex ride system, with video, with other effects put in place in there, than we have ever combined into one space,” he said. “Doing that is not easy. I can tell you, it’s not easy,” Polk said. Orlando’s theme parks regularly updated their ride systems and introduced innovative inventions in new attractions over the years. Epic Universe will be the first to open with only 21st-century technologies. UCF’s Weishar points to Mine-Cart Madness, an Epic roller coaster in the Donkey Kong Land within Super Nintendo World. The design of the ride creates the illusion of broken rails and carts flying across the gaps. “As with most innovation, it’s an incorporation of some existing technologies coupled with a few new different ideas,” Weishar said. And he labeled the park’s Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry ride a game-changer. Passengers watch a rollicking chase scene involving movie characters and an elaborate system of lifts. “You’ve seen pieces of it done before, but never at that scale, never at that quality,” Weishar said. “Once you’ve gone on that, there’s going to be an expectation of seeing something of that quality in the future, especially on new rides,” he said. Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge is an interactive ride within Super Nintendo World at Universal Epic Universe. (Patrick Connolly/Orlando Sentinel)Things change quickly Development is happening rapidly, said Dennis Speigel, founder of International Theme Park Services. “Technology has risen to a level in the world of theme parks that we couldn’t have imagined 10, 15 years ago even,” Speigel said. “It’s allowing us to do things that we just now can dazzle the guests with and it’s a combination of CGI, AR, VR.” Epic’s ride called Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge debuted at Universal Studios Japan in 2021 and at Universal Studios Hollywood in California in 2023. The Orlando version is already an upgrade. “Even in the short time between the introduction of the rides in the other parks, this version has faster computers, higher resolution, faster frame rate and new technology,” Weishar said. Lights and fountains put on shows in the Celestial Park section of Epic Universe theme park. (Patrick Connolly/Orlando Sentinel)Lights and camera action In Epic’s Celestial Park, an introductory area of the new park, there are prancing water fountain and a lagoon at the foot of the Helios Grand Hotel. “This park has 7 million independent color-changing, programmable LED lights in Celestial Park alone,” Polk said. “Those are things you can and can’t see,” he said. “The technology of the lights, people don’t think about that, but it’s really complicated.” There’s elaborate wiring — and water — to consider. “It’s amazing stuff that we’ve never attempted before,” Polk said. Smartphones and mobile ordering, which are becoming increasingly common in real, non-park life, are integrated into Epic Universe, particularly in its restaurants. For years, attractions designers plotted to pry people away from their devices, Weishar said. “Then they came to the realization of, you know, people aren’t going to do that right now,” he said. “How do we integrate the experience in the park with the phone that you’re already carrying in your hand? … To use it to help you figure out what’s the next ride you’re going to go on, where you’re going to eat, to help navigate the park.” The morphing preferences of consumers also affected some designs of the new park. Epic’s ticket booths for on-site purchases are off to the right side rather than standing guard before the entrance. “We’re really trying to push into the world of mobile ticket,” Polk said. The ticketing area may be repurposed. “That building could be something else,” Polk said. “That ultimately is us trying to think through where you want to be in the future, versus just saying, ‘OK, we’ll just carbon copy what we do today because that’s what everybody does.’” The dueling Stardust Racers coaster takes guests for a head-to-head romp at Epic Universe. (Patrick Connolly/Orlando Sentinel)Face the future Epic will use facial recognition for opening lockers and express lines with a goal of extending those capabilities. “I don’t think it’s there totally yet, but I think it will, within the next five years, be a constant, beginning at the front gate and being utilized through the attractions,” Speigel said. Universal’s goal is to make attractions “friction-free,” Polk said. “We’re really focused on, how can we take friction out of the guest experience, so that as they’re making their plans at home, getting on the internet, getting on the phone, getting here, coming in the gate, getting into the park, that the technology disappears into the background and they’re just enjoying themselves,” Polk said. Modern technology could alter how parks update — or replace — existing attractions, Speigel said. “Something we’ve been working on for a long time is evolving the software and planning for the software improvements and extensions, kind of like what the cell phone has done and the Tesla automobile,” he said. “Let’s leave room in the program that we can put that in there, I think we’ll see that rather than tearing down the ride or just rebuilding a new ride,” he said. And technology may start following folks home after their park experiences, Speigel said. “You’ll be able to do connecting with whoever your park is — Disney, Universal, whoever. It’ll happen through the computers at home as well,” he said. “I think that facial recognition is just where the world is going. That’s going to be our fingerprint for tomorrow, I believe.” Mine-Cart Madness at Super Nintendo World takes guests on a fast-paced ride through Donkey Kong Country at Universal Epic Universe. (Rich Pope/Orlando Sentinel)Expect bumps along the way, experts say. “Every time you go out of the gate and you swing on new technology, there are always things you didn’t expect and things that you’ve got to adapt to,” Polk said. “We’re seeing rapid increases in technology and effects and innovation, but I think that’s always been there, and there’s always been leaps forward to create new experiences. I think it’s wonderful to be quite honest with you,” Weishar said. “What’s going to happen, and what’s already happening is, is the competition — Disney is gearing up for major expansions at Disney World as their answer to some of the things we’re seeing at Epic, and Universal isn’t stopping their momentum either,” he said. Email me at dbevil@orlandosentinel.com. BlueSky: @themeparksdb. Threads account: @dbevil. X account: @themeparks. Subscribe to the Theme Park Rangers newsletter at orlandosentinel.com/newsletters. More on Epic Universe Epic Universe Ride Guide: New park rides ranked from tame to super scary Peeking into the portals (and just beyond) of Epic Universe Epic Universe: Frequently asked questions (plus answers) Power-Up Bands get games going in Super Nintendo World Epic Universe timeline: From dragons to butterbeer, here’s how theme park evolved An Epic movie guide: What to watch before visiting Universal’s new park Epic Universe: Say hello to new Helios Grand, theme park neighbor Epic Universe survival guide: What to pack for the new park Epic Universe: Exec blends arts, engineering in theme park roles Epic Universe preview: An early walk (and rides) in the park View the full article
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THE DAY IS HERE! Epic Universe Epic Universe, Universal Orlando’s newest park, is officially open to the public, and to celebrate, they had a grand opening ceremony. We’re not trying to be dramatic when we say this ceremony was EPIC (now that the park is open, get ready for ALL the epic puns). Welcome to Epic Universe! This is the “blue” carpet where different guests arrived. Welcome! Everyone is here to celebrate this brand-new theme park. It’s packed! Crowds! Each of the lands had its own special ceremony. For How to Train Your Dragon — Isle of Berk, an actual Viking ship came in with an ice sculpture! A Viking Ship! The boat was filled with real fish and lobster. Epic Universe is not messing around. This is crazy! This grand opening felt like a long time coming, and we can officially welcome Epic Universe to the theme park family. We’re so ready to explore, eat all the food, ride the rides, and share all the details so you can have the best trip ever. Make sure you’re following DFB so you get all the information and plan for your first visit. We’re going to continue to update this article throughout May 21st to bring you FULL coverage on this epic ceremony. COMPLETE GUIDE TO BUYING EPIC UNIVERSE TICKETS Read more: DFB's complete guide to Universal’s Epic Universe >> Are you excited that Epic Universe is officially open? Tell us what you’re looking forward to in the comments! Disclosure: In nearly all circumstances, Disney Food Blog writers and photographers pay full price for their own travel, hotel, food, beverage, and event tickets. We do this because it’s important to us as journalists to ensure not only that we give you unbiased opinions, but also that you can trust us to do so since we’re paying our own way. On rare occasions, when we are invited by a company to attend a preview as media, and when we choose to accept that invitation, we will always make you, our readers, aware of that situation. Today, we were invited by Universal Orlando to attend their media preview of Epic Universe Grand Opening. Note that when we attend events as media we are 1) Not required to review that event/food on any of our channels, and 2) Not required to review that event/food favorably. You can always count on DFB to give you a 100% unbiased and honest review of any event that we attend, food that we eat, or beverage that we drink. You can see more in our Disclosure Policy. Thank you for reading. — AJ The post We're LIVE from Universal's Epic Universe Grand Opening Celebration first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article
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The post Disney Foodie Finds: New Disneyland 70th Food & Snacks appeared first on Disney Parks Blog. View the full article
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We know a lot of folks want to vacation in Disney World or at Universal Orlando (to see Epic Universe, of course), but cruising is also a popular travel activity for a lot of folks. Disney Wish Whether you’re planning a Disney Cruise or a cruise with another company, though, there are some new costs you’ll need to be aware of. We previously told you about a proposed Hawaii tax that could mean your cruise costs more. According to Fox News, Mexico is getting ready to add a tax for all cruisers that will go into effect on July 1st. That’s right, if you’re planning a cruise that goes to Mexico, it’s going to cost you more. Back in December, Mexico voted to add a $42 immigration levy tax for every passenger on cruise ships that dock in the country. This new law was supposed to go into effect on January 1st, but it was pushed back due to criticism. However, as of July 1st, you will have to pay the additional cost. Disney Magic Cruise Ship The good news is that the new cost is only $5 per passenger. According to the the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA): “On behalf of the FCCA and our member cruise lines – representing over 95% of cruise capacity in the Caribbean and Latin America – we thank the Federal Government of Mexico for working with us to reach an ‘in transit fee’ agreement.” Disney Treasure Cruise Ship However, there is a catch because that tax will go up to $10 per passenger on August 1st, 2026 and then $15 on July 1st, 2027 through July 2028. So you’ll want to keep that in mind if you book a cruise that includes a stop in Mexico. Stay tuned to DFB for more. I’m a Former Disney World Cast Member. Here Are 5 Things I Wish You Knew Before Going on a Disney Cruise What You Need to Know About Disney Cruise Line Learn All About Disney Cruise Line and Its Various Ships Explore Disney’s Mega Cruise Ship – The Wish A Full List of What You CAN’T Bring on a Disney Cruise These Are the BEST Times to Book Your Disney Cruise The Best Ways to SAVE SPACE in Your Tiny Cruise Cabin 10 Things You NEED on Your Next Cruise (That You Won’t Think to Pack!) What It’s Like to Live on a Cruise Ship for 6 Months Join the DFB Newsletter To Get All the Latest Disney News Delivered Right to Your Inbox! Click here to Subscribe What do you think about this additional fee? Let us know in the comments! The post Well, That Next Cruise Could Be More Expensive...Here's Why first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article
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One of the BEST pieces of Universal Orlando advice I ever got was to get the refillable soda mug. Universal Unlimited soda refills? Coca-Cola Freestyle machines? Delicious unique beverages? Seriously, the perks of Universal’s system are SO MUCH BETTER than Disney’s. But if you’ve never tried the refillable mugs at either resort, we’re breaking down the differences between Disney World’s refillable mug options and Universal Orlando’s. Disney World’s Refillable Mugs Starting things out at Disney World, the most common place to get a refillable mug is at your resort hotel. Every resort on property sells them, and if you get the Disney Dining Plan added to your vacation package, each person with the Dining Plan will get a refillable mug included for the length of your stay. Disney Refillable Mugs But here’s the kicker — these mugs can ONLY be refilled at your resort. You can’t take these into the parks and get free soda refills throughout the day like you can at your hotel. And sometimes, the soda fountains at your resort will have limited hours, like if they’re located inside a food court. Refillable mug and drink Station at Drop Off Pool Bar at Disney’s Pop Century Disney World doesn’t offer a refillable mug option in the theme parks, however, there IS typically a refillable mug you can buy exclusively for your day at the water parks. These can be very helpful for a day when you’re spending a lot of time in the sun. Water Park Refillable Mug If you decide to get the refillable mug for your resort, you’ll be paying $22.99 for a hotel stay of up to 14 days. (That is, unless you get it included with the Dining Plan.) If you refill the mug in the mornings and evenings and you’re staying for a few days, you can definitely get your money’s worth. However, it’s still not quite as nice as Universal Orlando’s system. Universal Orlando Refillable Mugs Over at Universal Orlando, you can purchase refillable mugs that can be used at all four parks (including Volcano Bay and the new Epic Universe). Purchasing one of these cups will cost you $17.99 plus tax, while purchasing multiple at a time will give you a discount on each (if you buy two, they’re $15.99 plus tax each, and if you purchase 3-6 they’re $13.99 each plus tax). Fill up at Freestyle machines These cups can be refilled at Coca-Cola Freestyle machines all around the park — found at many snack stands and at several quick service restaurants. And even if you don’t see a Freestyle machine, you can often get a refill at any snack stand with a regular soda fountain. After your first day of use is over, you can reactivate your souvenir cup for $10.99 on a future visit (I’ve personally had one for YEARS that I keep reactivating each visit!). My ol’ reliable refillable mug! Universal also has a few other refillable cup/souvenir cup options, including a classic cup that you can pay to refill each time, but the Coca-Cola Freestyle mug reigns supreme, in my opinion. And at the new park, Epic Universe, you can even try unique novelty sodas in Celestial Park, Dark Universe, and Isle of Berk. Freestyle Machines So ultimately, I believe that the Universal Orlando program is a much better deal than Disney’s! I love that I’ve been able to use my same mug for years and possibly save hundreds on sodas at this point. It’s a great way to stay hydrated while in the parks, which is extra valuable in the summer. And if you’re heading to Universal’s NEW park Epic Universe soon, make sure to check out our video below for the list of best eats! Click Here to Learn More About Disney’s Refillable Mug Rules! Read more: DFB's complete guide to Universal’s Epic Universe >> Have you ever used a refillable mug in Disney World or Universal Orlando? Tell us in the comments! The post I'm a Card-Carrying Member of the Soda Goblin Gang. Universal's Refillable Mug Is SO MUCH BETTER than Disney for People Like Me. first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article
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Walt Disney World kicked off the summer by hosting the 2025 Special Olympics Florida State Summer Games at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. 2,300 athletes from across the state competed in sports like basketball, soccer, track & field and cycling. “We’re honored to work with Special Olympics to host such an important event for Florida athletes,” said Tajiana Ancora-Brown, Director of External Affairs at Disney World. “The impact of Special Olympics is real and it’s extremely evident at the State Summer Games. Whether the participants are earning a medal, beating a personal record or making new friends, you can see how transformative this experience can be.” Sports have the power to change lives and help athletes discover new strengths and abilities. That’s why Disney and Special Olympics Florida have teamed up for more than 15 years to host both the State Summer Games and the State Fall Classic at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. “We are so grateful to our friends at Walt Disney World for creating such an incredible experience for our athletes participating in the State Summer Games,” said Special Olympics Florida President and CEO Sherry Wheelock. “Competing at such a remarkable venue and being cheered on by hundreds of VoluntEARS at the Opening Ceremonies, encouraged and energized our athletes, giving them the motivation they needed for a truly unforgettable Summer Games experience.” Each year, Disney VoluntEARS look forward to supporting the incredibly talented Special Olympics athletes. This year, nearly 1,000 Disney VoluntEARS were involved in the State Summer Games, cheering on athletes from the stands and helping out during individual sporting events. This summer, Disney VoluntEARS will create magic by lending a helping hand to nonprofits like Special Olympics throughout our community. The State Summer Games are just the start — it’s shaping up to be the best summer ever for our Central Florida community! Be sure to keep an eye out for some fun surprises all season long. The post Disney and Special Olympics Florida Team Up for Summer Games appeared first on Disney Experiences. View the full article
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Ok, but seriously, this might be our favorite Loungefly yet! Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure A brand-new Loungefly featuring your favorite rat from Dinsey Pixar’s Ratatouille just released online — and EVERYONE is talking about it! You need to take a look at it, the bag even has a unique one-of-a-kind feature. DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Get this Ratatouille Loungefly Bag ©BoxLunch Take a look at this Loungefly Disney Pixar Ratatouille Remy Charcuterie Strawberry & Grape Scented Mini Backpack, it’s one of the most unique bags we’ve ever seen! The bag has a gingham body, the front of this bag is accented with applique grapes, strawberries, apples, and bread. The front pocket is shaped like a cheese wheel, and it includes a moveable applique of Remy himself! ©BoxLunch The bag also has nice gingham printed straps with the matching interior. It’s a beautiful fleur de lis pattern, it really gives the bag a French look! ©BoxLunch Guess what else? This bag LITERALLY smells of strawberries and grapes to fully immerse you. Yes, it’s a scented bag. So you’ll be looking stylish, and be smelling good. We just picture picking this thing up, giving it a nice sniff, and then entering that scene when Remy tries two foods together at one time with his eyes closed. ©BoxLunch If this isn’t the perfect bag to carry your essentials around the park, we don’t what would be. Also, we’re all thinking it right? This is literally the PERFECT park bag for EPCOT’s Food & Wine Festival! View online We’re always on the hunt for the latest and greatest Disney souvenirs and essentials, so don’t forget to stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for more! Shop for More Disney Essentials on Our Amazon StorefrontThe post This New Disney Loungefly Is Going VIRAL Online…and We Can See Why first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article
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Okay, if Zootopia is one of your favorite Disney movies, this is a great time to be alive because Zootopia is getting a lot of love right now. ©Disney A new Zootopia-themed land opened in Shanghai Disney Resort last year, with a REALLY cool new ride. Disney’s Animal Kingdom in Disney World is getting a new Zootopia show, Zootopia Better Zoogether! which is expected to open later this year. AND…even better, Zootopia 2 is set to arrive in theaters in November. It’s Zootopia fever, y’all! Well, we’ve got some exciting news about the movie sequel: Disney just dropped the first teaser trailer for it today. In Zootopia 2, Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde, voiced by Ginnifer Goodwin and Jason Bateman respectively, find themselves face to face with a mysterious snake (his name is Gary and he’s voiced by Ke Huy Quan) who arrives in Zootopia and turns the city upside down. Judy and Nick will have to go undercover to crack the case of Gary the snake to new parts of the city, which will test their friendship in many ways. Check out the trailer below: As you can see, some familiar faces will be joining Judy and Nick on their adventure, but there are a few new faces in Zootopia, too, including the quokka therapist, Dr. Fuzzby, voiced by Quinta Brunson. ©Disney Zootopia 2 arrives in theaters on November 26th, so mark those calendars and get ready to return to the city of Zootopia! Stay tuned to DFB for more. Learn More About Zootopia: Better Zoogether! — A Show in the Tree of Life at Disney World’s Animal Kingdom Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW What do you think? Will you be catching Zootopia 2 in theaters? Let us know in the comments! The post It's Happening! We've Got The FIRST Trailer for Disney's "Zootopia 2" first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article
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We love our Disney merchandise, but don’t always love the price tag that comes with it. That’s why we search and search for the best pieces of merch so you can get the Disney magic on a budget. Sleeping Beauty Target released two Disney Princess items, and little ones are going to be obsessed with them (and we adults are, too!). DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. You’re going to need this Pop-Up Hair Brush & Mirror Set! ©Target It comes with a comb, mirror, and compact brush decorated with different Disney Princesses. Kids will love this for pretend play or to put in their tiny purses. SHOP ON TARGET To match, you’ll want the Swirl Balm and Tin. ©Target This is a four-pack of Disney Princess lip balm in their tin container. Little ones will love the different colors and their safe and non-toxic water-based formula. We would add these to a kid’s play makeup set to add a little bit of lip gloss in a safe, stain-free way. SHOP ON TARGET You can’t beat the prices on these, with both being $4.99. They’re easy to gift to princess lovers, and you might want to snag a lip balm for yourself. Keep following Disney Food Blog for more of our favorite merch finds. Looking for more? Check out our Amazon Storefront with more Disney favorites.The post The Best Disney Find From Target first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article
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If you’re staying at a Disney World Resort, listen UP! Typhoon Lagoon This free hotel perk just got 2x better, and you’ll want to make sure you’re taking advantage of it to make the most of your Disney World vacation. On your check-in day at a Disney World Resort, you get free entry to the water parks, Typhoon Lagoon, and Blizzard Beach. We know what you’re thinking: ” Yeah, DFB, we already know that we have access to the water parks. ” But did you know that both water parks haven’t been open at the same time since 2019? Summit Plummet at Blizzard Beach This is a monumental day in Disney history because we waited years before we could ask, ” Do you want to go to Typhoon Lagoon or Blizzard Beach?” Typhoon Lagoon Previously, one park remained open while the other was closed, and they would switch, never having any overlap. Both parks will be open at the same time until September 7th, 2025, and we couldn’t be happier to make double the splash. Blizzard Beach Disney World Resort guests receive a complimentary water park entry only on the day of their check-in for all guests registered in the room. Don’t worry about those little ones under 3 years old; they can come in with the rest of the group. Our perfect check-in day would be walking into our resort, being welcomed home, dropping off our bags, and heading to the water parks for the afternoon. After coming back to our rooms all ready, we’d unpack and rest before exploring Disney Springs. We’d grab dinner and walk around while picking up a few new pairs of ears and trying some more snacks, of course (come on, we are Disney Food Blog after all!). Then we’d tuck ourselves into bed dreaming about our magical out next park day will be. Disney Springs Maybe our perfect check-in day doesn’t always happen, but don’t forget to take advantage of that free perk. It’s a great way to kick off your trip and feel ready to start summer vacation. Typhoon Lagoon Now that you have two choices, which park do you pick? While both parks are fun and have options for the whole family, some might be better for your group. Blizzard Beach has a few more spaces designated for kids who aren’t quite ready to head down the huge slides. They even have Tike’s Peak, which is for kids under 48 inches to make a splash! Tike’s Peak in Blizzard Beach Older guests might enjoy the bigger slides that Typhoon Lagoon has to offer, like Crush ‘n’ Gusher and Miss Adventure Falls. You can even hang out after hours with the H20 Glow Nights! It’s an additional ticket filled with music, snacks, and ample time to hit the water slides. H2O Glow After Hours event Now we get to ask you: Where are you going first? Typhoon Lagoon or Blizzard Beach? Tell us your favorite in the comments, and keep following Disney Food Blog for more Disney news! EVERY DISNEY WORLD HOTEL PERK REVEALED FOR 2026 DON'T DO IT ALONE! Our favorite people over at Small World Vacations are ready to help you save time, headaches, and best of all, money, when you book your Disney trip or cruise. Their agents compare current offers to find the best deal for you -- they've literally saved their guests millions of dollars since 1996. Plus, their services are 100% FREE FOR YOU! (They're DFB's recommended travel agency, and you can see why here!) So book that trip now, then sit back and enjoy planning your Disney World Trip with a DFB-approved expert! Click here for a no obligation price quote today, and let them know DFB sent you GET MORE INFO The post This FREE Disney World Hotel Perk Just Got 2x BETTER first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article
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Universal has been thinking BIG when it comes to theme parks, and it’s also thinking outside the box, or rather, outside Hollywood and Orlando for new theme parks. Sure, there’s Epic Universe, but that’s not the only thing Universal is working on. ©Universal Not only is there a horror experience coming to Las Vegas in August, but an all-new Universal theme park is coming to Texas in 2026, Universal Kids Resort. Now, Universal has dropped some details about the new theme park, but we recently drove by the new resort location and got some photos of its construction progress. Universal Kids Resort will be a first-of-its kind theme park designed for families with young kids. It will have lands themed around franchises kids love, including Shrek, Puss in Boots, Trolls, Gabby’s Dollhouse, SpongeBob SquarePants, Minions, and Jurassic World. The resort will also feature a 300-room hotel that will have a dedicated entrance into the theme park. Here’s the concept art of that hotel. ©Universal Well, we drove through Frisco, Texas, the home of Universal Kids Resort, to check out construction progress and saw that Universal has made a lot of progress in building that hotel. Here’s what it looks like now. Universal Kids Resort hotel Here’s a closer look at the construction. As you can see, most of the basic structure of the hotel has already been built. Closer look Universal previously dropped some details about rides in the park. Shrek’s swamp will be the backdrop of a playground, while SpongeBob and friends will show kids around their neighborhood under the sea. The Minions will offer some water-soaked fun, while kids can learn new facts about the dinosaurs in Jurassic Park. Trolls will be hosting a music festival. ©Universal | Kids Resort Stay tuned to DFB for more. FULL LOOK INSIDE the How To Train Your Dragon Kids Suite at Universal’s Helios Grand Hotel Read more: DFB's complete guide to Universal’s Epic Universe >> What do you think? Will you be visiting Universal Kids Resort when it opens? Let us know in the comments! The post We've Got a Construction Update on Universal's NEW Texas Theme Park first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article
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Something BIG…no, something EPIC…is happening at Universal Orlando. Epic Universe is opening TOMORROW, May 22nd, and ahead of that opening, the park is having a HUGE opening ceremony. Epic Universe Now, we’ve already spent some time visiting Epic Universe and checking out all five lands, but we’re at the opening ceremony today where Universal is going ALL out to introduce its brand new theme park to the world. However, we didn’t expect to see what we saw at the ceremony because Universal brought in some surprise celebrities to welcome Epic Universe to the world! And, y’all — WE WERE THERE. So at the opening ceremony, Universal brought in some celebrities through some of the portals that lead to those lands. So, of COURSE, we saw some Victoria Frankenstein and her monsters come through the Dark Universe portal… Victoria Frankenstein and her monsters …while Princess Peach, Mario, Luigi, and Donkey Kong popped out of the Super Nintendo World portal. Okay, so THAT was expected. Super Nintendo World HOWEVER, when the big intro for The Wizarding World of Harry Potter — Ministry of Magic portal happened, three ACTUAL celebrities came out to greet the crowd. Yep, that’s James and Oliver Phelps (aka the Weasley twins in the Harry Potter movies) and Warwick Davis (Professor Flitwick in the Harry Potter movies, although you probably also know him from Willow and Star Wars and a million other things). James and Oliver Phelps with Warwick Davis Yep, they were right there IN THE FLESH to celebrate the opening of Epic Universe with us. SO…well…again…EPIC, right? Now, we’ll be at the official opening tomorrow, reporting in on the crowds, wait times, and everything else. You’ll want to make sure to stay tuned to DFB for more! Read more: DFB's complete guide to Universal’s Epic Universe >> Will you be visiting Epic Universe this summer? Let us know in the comments! The post See Which SURPRISE Celebrities Turned Up For The Grand Opening of Epic Universe first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article
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Are you planning on taking a Disney Cruise anytime soon? Boarding the Disney Wish The Disney Wish will be setting sail to Bahamian destinations throughout 2025 and 2026. Disney just released there FULL three-night and four-night itineraries for the Disney Wish, and we’re giving you all information you need to know! From Nassau, to Disney Castaway Cay, to Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, you’re not going to want to miss these Disney sea vacations. Before we get into the itineraries, just be aware that itineraries are always subject to change. All the itineraries in 2025 through September 2026 are set to sail out of Port Canaveral in Florida. Alright, let’s take a look at what’s in store for the Disney Wish for the next year and a bit! Captain Mickey For 2025 and 2026 there are two types of three-night itineraries for the Wish — the Nassau and Castaway Cay, and the Castaway Cay and a Day at Sea. Disney Wish’s four-night itineraries will include Lookout Cay. Nassau and Castaway Cay This three-night itinerary takes you from Port Canaveral to Nassau, to Castaway Cay, and then back to Port Canaveral. The Wish will be filled with adventures and activities of all kinds. Explore the many wonders of the ship — oh, and Queen Elsa has invited you to Anna’s engagement party! Day two will take you on to journey through the gorgeous city of Nassau, or you can soak in the sun on the soft beaches. The day will end with a “Pirate’s Rockin’ Parlay Party”, and of course, Captain Redd will be there! She’s exclusive to the Disney Wish and Disney Treasure ships — you’ll only ever find her at sea! On day three, you’ll get to visit Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island! There you will enjoy gorgeous beaches and water sports. Once you board the ship, experience “Worlds of Marvel” during dinner. The next morning, the ship will head back to Port Canaveral. Elsa and Anna 2025 3-Night Nassau & Castaway Cay Itinerary Dates May 23 – 26, 2025 May 30 – June 2, 2025 June 6 – 9, 2025 June 13 – 16, 2025 June 20 – 23, 2025 June 27 – 30, 2025 July 4 – 7, 2025 Som July 11 – 14, 2025 July 18 – 21, 2025 July 25 – 28, 2025 Aug 8 – 11, 2025 Aug. 15 – 18, 2025 Aug. 22 – 25, 2025 Aug. 29 – Sept 1, 2025 Sept. 5 – 8, 2025 Sept. 12 – 15, 2025 Sept. 19 – 22, 2025 Sept. 26 – 29, 2025 Oct. 3 – 6, 2025 Oct. 10 – 13, 2025 Oct. 17 – 20, 2025 Oct. 24 – 27, 2025 Oct. 31 – Nov. 3, 2025 Nov. 7 – 10, 2025 Nov. 14 – 17, 2025 Nov. 21 – 24, 2025 Nov. 28 – Dec. 1, 2025 Dec. 5 – 8, 2025 Dec. 12 – 15, 2025 Dec. 19 – 22, 2025 Dec. 26 – 29, 2025 = Halloween on the High Seas | = Very Merrytime Cruise Black Panther 2026 3-Night Nassau & Castaway Cay Itinerary Dates Only dates through September 2026 have been announced. Jan. 2 – 5 Jan. 9 – 12 Jan. 16 – 19 Jan. 23 – 26 Jan. 30 – Feb. 2 Feb. 6 – 9 Feb. 13 – 16 Feb. 20 – 23 Feb. 27 – March 2 March 6 – 9 March 13 – 16 March 20 – 23 March 27 – 30 April 3 – 6 April 10 – 13 April 17 – 20 April 24 – 27 May 1 – 4 May 8 – 11 May 15 – 18 May 22 – 25 May 29 – June 1 June 5 – 8 June 12 – 15 June 26 – 29 July 3 – 6 July 10 – 13 July 17 – 20 July 24 – 27 Aug. 7 – 10 Aug. 14 – 17, Aug. 21 – 24 Aug. 28 – 31 Sept. 4 – 7 Sept. 11 – 14 Sept. 18 – 21 Sept. 25 – 28 Goofy at Castaway Cay Castaway Cay and Day at Sea This three-night itinerary will also take you to Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay. Giving your first day the best type of beach relaxation. You can also adventure through the island’s trails before coming back to the Disney Wish. Once you’re back on board, you’ll be able to experience pirate festivities. Day three is where this itinerary really becomes different than the other option, as you spend the full day at sea. Spend time relaxing at the pool, ride the AquaMouse, and meet your favorite Disney characters — the day is in your hands! Pool deck 2025 3-Night Castaway Cay and At Sea Itinerary Date Aug. 1 – 4, 2025 2026 3-Night Castaway Cay and At Sea Itinerary Dates Only dates through September 2026 have been announced. June 19 – 22 July 31 – Aug. 3 Disney Cruise ship Nassau, Castaway Cay, and a Day at Sea (4-Night) This four-night cruise takes all the destinations from the two three-night cruises, and rolls them into one vacation. Sailing out of Port Canaveral — each day will lead you to a new destination where you’ll get to experience activities, adventures, and relaxation at its peak! Disney’s Private Island Castaway Cay 2025 4-Night Nassau, Castaway Cay, and Day at Sea Itinerary Dates May 19 – 23 May 26 – 30 June 2 – 6 June 9 – 13 June 16 – 20 June 23 – 27 June 30 – July 4 July 7 – 11 July 14 – 18 July 21 – 25 July 28 – Aug. 1 Aug. 4 – 8 Aug. 11 – 15 Aug. 18 – 22 Aug. 25 – 29 Sept. 1 – 5 Sept. 8 – 12 Sept. 15 – 19 Sept. 22 – 26 Sept. 29 – Oct. 3 Oct. 13 – 17 Oct. 20 – 24 Oct. 27 – 31 Nov. 10 – 14 Nov. 17 – 21 Dec. 1 – 5 Dec. 22 – 26 = Halloween on the High Seas | = Very Merrytime Cruise Castaway Cay 2026 4-Night Nassau, Castaway Cay, and Day at Sea Itinerary Dates Only dates through September 2026 have been announced. Jan. 12 – 16 Jan. 26 – 30 Feb. 9 – 13 Feb. 23 – 27 March 9 – 13 April 6 – 10 April 20 – 24 May 4 – 8 May 18 – 22 June 1 – 5 June 15 – 19 June 29 – July 3 July 13 – 17 July 27 – 31 Aug. 10 – 14 Aug. 24 – 28 Sept. 7 – 11 Sept. 21 – 25 Mickey on Castaway Cay Nassau, Lookout Cay, and a Day at Sea (4-Night) Unlike the other itineraries, this one will take you to Lookout Cay! Disney offers only a few 4-night itineraries for guests to see both Nassau and Lookout Cay with the Disney Wish in 2025. One of them is a special “Halloween on the High Seas” sailing. There are only two Nassau & Lookout Cay dates announced for 2026. So, if you’re wanting both these destinations, we wouldn’t wait too long to explore getting these itineraries! Lookout Cay 2025 4-Night Nassau, Lookout Cay, and Day at Sea Itinerary Dates Oct. 6 – 10 Nov. 3 – 7 Dec. 29, 2025 – Jan. 2, 2026 = Halloween on the High Seas 2026 4-Night Nassau, Lookout Cay, and Day at Sea Itinerary Dates Jan. 5 – 9 July 20 – 24 Lookout Cay is gorgeous! Castaway Cay, Lookout Cay, and a Day at Sea (4-Night “Double Dip”) A “double-dip itinerary” is a Disney Cruise Line sailing that showcases all the things that Disney has to offer. These special sailings will take you ONLY to Disney’s island destinations, Castaway Cay and Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point. Entertainment at Lookout Cay! 2025 4-Night Castaway Cay, Lookout Cay, and Day at Sea Itinerary Dates = Very Merrytime Cruise Nov. 24 – 28 Dec. 8 – 12 Dec. 15 – 19 2026 4-Night Castaway Cay, Lookout Cay, and Day at Sea Itinerary Dates Only dates through September 2026 have been announced. Jan. 19 – 23 Feb. 2 – 6 Feb. 16 – 20 March 2 – 6 March 16 – 20 March 23 – 27 March 30 – April 3 April 13 – 17 April 27 – May 1 May 11 – 15 May 25 – 29 June 8 – 12 June 22 – 26 July 6 – 10 Aug. 3 – 7 Aug. 17 – 21 Aug. 31 – Sept. 4 Sept. 14 – 18 Sept. 28 – Oct. 2 Disney Wish You’ll have a lot of dates to choose from, and different itineraries to explore for the Disney Wish. Hopefully, this can help you plan ahead for your Disney Cruise vacation. We’re going to keep an eye out for 2026 Halloween on the High Seas and Very Merrytime itineraries. For more on the latest Disney news and updates, be sure to follow us at the Disney Food Blog. What You Need to Know About Disney Cruise Line Learn All About Disney Cruise Line and Its Various Ships Explore Disney’s Mega Cruise Ship – The Wish A Full List of What You CAN’T Bring on a Disney Cruise These Are the BEST Times to Book Your Disney Cruise The Best Ways to SAVE SPACE in Your Tiny Cruise Cabin 10 Things You NEED on Your Next Cruise (That You Won’t Think to Pack!) What It’s Like to Live on a Cruise Ship for 6 Months Join the DFB Newsletter To Get All the Latest Disney News Delivered Right to Your Inbox! Click here to Subscribe Are you going to set sail with the Disney Wish this year? Let us know in the comments! The post JUST ANNOUNCED: 2025-2026 Disney Wish Itineraries first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article
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Toys face a new threat today: technology. New digital games, social media apps, and streaming services have managed to capture the attention of little ones, but what does this mean for toys like the Slinky Dog or Mr. Potato Head? Enter Disney and Pixar’s newest animal sequel: Toy Story 5. Yep — we’re up to FIVE. There’s a new character coming to the world of Toy Story, and it’s set to be voiced by *drumroll, please*… Howdy! Conan O’Brien! He will play Smartypants in Toy Story 5! Here’s what we know so far about this new casting announcement. The new movie is set to be released in theaters on June 19th, 2026. Disney teased that the film will follow the toys as they find their jobs to be harder than ever as they compete with electronics. The film is directed by Oscar-winning filmmaker Andrew Stanton, who shared, “Through the experiences of these toys, we’ve learned about loyalty and belonging and friendship, and these characters give a perspective about growing up and navigating life.” Toys must compete with electronics in ‘Toy Story 5’ Tim Allen, the voice of Buzz Lightyear, previously spoke about the new movie as well, explaining that the movie will largely focus on Jessie. According to Variety, he said, “I can tell you that it’s a lot about Jessie,” adding, “Tom [Hanks] and I do — Woody and I — do realign. And there’s an unbelievable opening scene with Buzz Lightyear. I can give you that, but I can’t give you much more.” ©Disney We can’t wait to see what happens! And who is this mysterious new Smartypants character? In the meantime, we’re always on the lookout for the latest Disney news, so stay tuned for more. Disney Shares EXCLUSIVE LOOK at ‘Elio’ Movie Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Who is your favorite Toy Story character? Let us know in the comments! The post NEWS: NEW Character CONFIRMED for ‘Toy Story 5’ first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article
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We’re getting our FIRST LOOK at Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After coming to Disney World soon! ©Disney Now that we know when we can expect to catch a showing of this upcoming show, Disney’s been staying mum on further details about this villainous new show. If your craving for a bite of evil just can’t be subdued for a few more days, we got a sneak preview of the show and we’re giving you a FIRST LOOK. In the upcoming show, the Magic Mirror summons you to help him decide who’s been the most unfairly treated. Disney’s already teased that we’ll likely see fan-favorites such as Cruella de Vil, Captain Hook, and Maleficent step into the spotlight to make their case about why they’ve been treated the most unfairly over the years and this is your chance to finally hear the story straight from some of Disney’s most infamous baddies themselves. Magic Mirror This show uses a combination of live actors, as well as LED screens that literally bring the stage to life. Everythiing about the show feels really alive. Of course, you can’t have the Magic Mirror without the Evil Queen. Magic Mirror on the wall… The stage eventually cracks and breaks to reveal even more villains. It’s breaking! We see the silhouette of Ursula from The Little Mermaid Ursula! Around the stage, other silhouettes appear of some of Disney’s most wicked evildoers. More villains One of the hosts of the show is Cruella de Vil…she’s delightfully campy. Cruella Captain Hook serves as another host of the show. Captain Hook Maleficent also takes to the stage to tell her side of the story. Maleficent You’ll see plenty of other villains pleading their cases, too, including Hades… Hades …Jafar, and more! Jafar We also loved the music. The songs are the classic villains songs you know and love, but they’re new arrangements, so you get something familiar and new. Plus there’s an original song, too! We particularly loved hearing Maleficent singing a minor key arrangement of Once Upon A Dream. So what did we think? It’s a SUPER fun show and everything in it is MAGIC. Although we have to say the beginning was a bit confusing because the story moves so fast, but at the same time, we were also on the edge of our seat through the whole thing. This will greatly please fans of Disney villains. We loved it! But wait, there’s plenty more Disney news where this came from! Be sure to check back with us at Disney Food Blog as we bring you along for the show’s opening day, crowds, and more. 2 Disney Rides That Will Be Closed in Magic Kingdom For the Rest of 2025 Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Will you be one of the first to see this new show in Disney’s Hollywood Studios? Tell us what you’re looking forward to most in the comments below! The post We Just Saw Disney's BRAND-NEW Villains Show and We Have THOUGHTS first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article
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Even though we’re already sweating through our clothes and setting heat records, June is when summer actually begins! Cinderella Castle Disney World is constantly changing, and that’s why we’re in the parks every day. It’s to let YOU know so you can have the best and least stressful vacation possible! Now, if you’ve got a trip coming up in June (or you just love to keep up with Disney news), listen up — we’ve rounded up all of the major changes hitting the parks! Heading to Disney World soon? Be sure to check out our planning worksheets. You can click the image below to get our list and make sure you don’t forget a thing! We’ve seen this iconic duo in their holiday best at Jollywood Nights in the past, but we can’t wait to spend all 104 days of summer vacation with them! Disney has not confirmed their meet and greet location or how long they’ll be around just yet, but enjoy it while it lasts! We Reviewed 6 Snacks Under $9 in EPCOT (and the Results Were Shocking) Say goodbye to the EPCOT Flower & Garden Festival We have a soft spot for every EPCOT festival, so it’s always hard to say goodbye! But in June, it’s out with the old and in with the new — the EPCOT Flower & Garden Festival officially closes after June 2nd. We’re obsessed with Flower and Garden! From food crawls to live entertainment to Disney character topiaries to butterfly gardens, this festival offers SO much to do in EPCOT…and that’s on top of the set things to do in the park! Stop by to grab your favorite snacks before it’s too late. In the meantime, we’ll be looking forward to the EPCOT Food & Wine Festival, which kicks off on August 28th and runs through November 22nd! See everything from this year’s EPCOT Flower & Garden Festival The Adults-Only EPCOT Lounge Opens Even though you’ll have missed the festival, adults still have an exciting new reason to go to EPCOT. That’s the grand opening of GEO-82 on June 4th! ©Disney This is an adults-only lounge with drinks, bites, and incredible views. You can visit the lounge during the day with a reservation, or you can book the $179 fireworks package. We can’t wait to give this spot a try and, as always, we’ll let you know our thoughts as soon as we do! FIRST LOOK: Menu Items Revealed for NEW Spaceship Earth Lounge Permanent closures EVERYWHERE Okay, it’s not actually happening everywhere, but there are quite a few to pay attention to in June! Starting in Disney’s Hollywood Studios, June 7th is the last day to experience Muppet*Vision 3D and PizzeRizzo. Muppet*Vision 3D While PizzeRizzo was our favorite restaurant to hate, it had one of the best secret spots to catch a break from the crowds. Don’t worry, puffy pizza lovers — you can still find it over at Catalina Eddie’s. Pizza from PizzeRizzo The closure that hurts the most has to be Muppet*Vision 3D. It opened in 1991 and is one of the last projects Jim Henson, the creator of the Muppets, worked on before his death. Disney said the attraction will be preserved somehow, so you know we’ll be on the lookout for that. We’ll also be looking for announcements about Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster since Disney revealed the Muppets will be taking over that thrill ride! Animal goofing off in Muppet*Vision 3D That’s not all! At the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort, Shula’s Steak House will also be shutting its doors forever when it closes on June 14th. The restaurant will be transformed into a celebrity chef restaurant called Bourbon Steak by Michael Mina. Shula’s Steak House Anyone visiting in early June has some time to say farewell to these restaurants and Muppet*Vision 3D. After a special Cast Member-exclusive event on June 10th, Muppets Courtyard will start its transformation into the Monsters, Inc. Land. Learn all about that below! Everything We Know About Monsters, Inc. Land Coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios If you’re booking a trip to Disney World soon, we’ve got a hack for you! Check out our friends over at Small World Vacations to help you plan the perfect trip — you won’t regret it! DON'T DO IT ALONE! Our favorite people over at Small World Vacations are ready to help you save time, headaches, and best of all, money, when you book your Disney trip or cruise. Their agents compare current offers to find the best deal for you -- they've literally saved their guests millions of dollars since 1996. Plus, their services are 100% FREE FOR YOU! (They're DFB's recommended travel agency, and you can see why here!) So book that trip now, then sit back and enjoy planning your Disney World Trip with a DFB-approved expert! Click here for a no obligation price quote today, and let them know DFB sent you GET MORE INFO Those are some of the major changes coming to Disney World in June! Disney World will continue to change and update, and DFB will be here to keep you in the loop! Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Are you visiting Disney World in June? What are you looking forward to? Let us know in the comments! The post 4 Major Changes Coming to Disney World in June first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article