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How To Train Your Dragon: Isle of Berk at Epic Universe has literally blown us away with its incredible theming, its characters, rides, and shows. We adopted a baby dragon! But even with as much as we’ve already covered, we still had one more experience that’s exclusive to this neck of Universal’s Epic Universe. If you’ve fallen in love with the baby dragons roaming around Epic Universe, there’s only one place to head when you’re ready to take one home with you! Throughout all of the Isle of Berk you’ll find several shops to explore but none quite like Toothless’ Treasures. This merchandise store can be found between the meet and greet for Hiccup and Toothless and the Untrainable Dragon show. Toothless and Hiccup! Inside you’ll walk in to a whole trove of treasures Toothless, Hiccup, and the Vikings of Berk have collected for you to claim but there’s one particular section of this store set up for you to take home your very own dragon, too! ©bioreconstruct Congratulations, you’re ready to adopt a dragon! Here’s what we learned from our experience. If you’re worried about getting the exact dragon you’re hoping for, fear not, as the color of the egg will coordinate to the hatching dragon within so you’re saved by selecting the corresponding color of the dragon egg you’re looking to hatch (the Team Members assisting with the adoption are also happy to help you out with this selection, too). During our experience, we found that a popular choice has been a tiny Toothless, which will correspond to a light green egg; however, we chose a Lightfury in a blue egg for this adoption. Dragon eggs for adoption For the adoption ceremony, you’ll be asked to raise a hand and recite, “I promise to take care of this dragon like a true Viking.” After you’ve completed the oath, the Viking Team Member will tip your dragon’s egg upside down (because, fun fact– ALL dragons are born upside down), and you’ll give it a warm welcome with a roaring Viking cheer! There may also be a triumphant drum beating as well for dramatic effect. Afterwards, your new baby dragon will emerge from its hatched egg (assisted by the Team Member) and handed over to you for its first cuddles. While you’re enjoying your new baby, the Team Member is busy at work preparing your hatched egg pieces into a carrying case for your dragon to sit in and take in all of Berk as you venture around. They’re also happy to announce your new dragon’s name to everyone around after you name it! Meet Luna! This was such a cute and interactive way to “buy” a new souvenir at Epic Universe. Each dragon egg to hatch will cost you $21 before tax and is compatible with eligible Annual Passholder discounts. The Team Members (er, Vikings) in the shop also went out of their way to really get into the adoption process, which helped make adopting a baby dragon less awkward for a solo adult, so we know kids are going to absolutely love this as a whole experience. Back of the egg With 5 total dragons to collect, this proves to be a great repeatable experience and makes it an ideal option for someone with multiple kids looking to adopt one for each (that won’t be fought over as soon as you hit the hotel room or car). We’ll be uncovering lots of tips, tricks, and hidden secrets around Universal’s Epic Universe even before it officially opens, so be sure to stay tuned with us at DFB for all the latest! Check Out the EXCLUSIVE Epic Universe Entrance at Universal’s Helios Grand Hotel Read more: DFB's complete guide to Universal’s Epic Universe >> Do you have plans to adopt a dragon while visiting Epic Universe? Tell us why or why not in the comments below! The post I Don't Want To Sound Too Dramatic, But This Epic Universe Souvenir Changed My Life first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Summer is coming up fast, and we found the perfect Disney souvenir for the upcoming season in Disneyland and Disney World! Sleeping Beauty Castle We love all sorts of Disney souvenirs, but some that sell particularly well are Starbucks x Disney collaborations. Disney fans love to have their Disney Starbucks tumblers! You’ll usually find them at the parks, or sometimes online. If you’re a big fan of the Disney x Starbucks tumblers, we came across an extra special summer one at China Closet in Disneyland! Main Street Take a look at this beachy Starbucks Tumbler! It looks like the perfect souvenir to carry around during your Disney day, or bring to the beach (hey if you’re at either Disneyland or Disney World, you’ll have a beach somewhat close by). You can see the Tumbler features Mickey and Minnie ready to have a summer bash! Mickey is riding a surfboard and Minnie is enjoying an ice cream treat. Look at this Tumbler! We love some of the Hawaiian type decorations around the tumbler. The palm trees, the flowers, they really bring it together! The tumbler also has some beach balls printed on it — and speaking of beach balls, we love the Mickey beach ball on the straw. The gradient color design gives the tumbler a cool ocean sunrise look! Starbucks you’ve done it again! The Tumbler is available for $44.99, your usual price for a Starbucks Tumbler. We went to see if these were available online at the Disney Store, but unfortunately, they are not out online just yet. However, we did find a tumbler at Big Top Souvenirs, over in Magic Kingdom. So as of right now, you will need to go to the park to get these exclusive Disney summer Starbucks tumblers! Summer Starbucks Tumbler at Magic Kingdom! Be on the lookout for these, we’re sure they are going to go FAST! Here at DFB, we love to find all the best Disney souvenirs and merchandise, especially when it’s mixed with Starbucks. So make sure you stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for more! Want to Learn More About Disneyland? Check Out the Links Below! DFB Disneyland Restaurants Guide Disney Genie and How to Use it in Disneyland What You Need to Know About the Theme Park Reservation System for Disneyland and Disney California Adventure Closures and Construction at Disneyland Learn All About Disneyland Park See What Marvelous Stuff You’ll Find at Avengers Campus in Disney California Adventure Learn About Pixar Pier in Disney California Adventure Get All the Details About the Disneyland Mobile App Everything You Need to Know About Mobile Order in Disneyland Learn More About Disneyland’s Magic Key Program Full Details About the Holiday Season in Disneyland Full Details About Halloween Time at Disneyland Get Some STRANGE Tips for Disneyland Click HERE to Check Out Lots of Other DFB Posts About Disneyland Join the DFB Newsletter To Get All the Latest Disney News Delivered Right to Your Inbox! Click here to Subscribe Will you be getting this Starbucks tumbler? Let us know in the comments! The post Starbucks Just Dropped a NEW Disney Tumbler first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

It’s never too early to start planning your next Disney World vacation, even if it’s not until next year! Riviera Resort 2026 could be the best year to visit Disney World yet, with new shows debuting soon and a new nighttime parade in full swing by then. If you’ve found yourself struggling to make a decision on where you should call “home” during your trip, we’re giving you nine reasons why a Disney World hotel could make sense for you. So you’ve decided you’re going to visit Disney World (maybe again) in 2026, lucky you! We’re right beside you, cheering loudly as you excitedly count down the days until your trip is here. Magic Kingdom But, before you arrive, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind for 2026, and they’ve become big time, money, and exhaustion savers that Disney’s actually built into the trip for you! Let’s break down the perks you’ll enjoy of staying at a Disney World hotel in 2026. Free Dining Plan (for kids) Disney World’s ever-popular free dining plan has just been confirmed to return for 2026! A meal at Tiffins This popular perk will apply to kids ages 3 to 9 when purchasing a dining plan as part of their package or hotel stay for the other members of their party (ages 10 and up). Cheeseburger Pod Kid’s Meal from Satu’li Canteen The best part about this offer is that it CAN be combined with other special offers your hotel stay or package may be eligible for through Disney World. So don’t be afraid to take advantage of other deals Disney World may roll out later for 2026. Early Theme Park Entry Continuing through 2026, Disney World hotel guests will enjoy more time in the parks with 30 minutes of Early Theme Park Entry every day, at Magic Kingdom, Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and EPCOT. Early Entry This means that just by staying at a Disney World hotel during your vacation, you’ll already have a head start in the parks to knock out some of your favorite rides and attractions. Extended Evening Hours Additionally, Disney World hotel guests staying at a deluxe or deluxe villa hotel will also continue to have access to Extended Evening Hours at select theme parks on certain days. Tree of Life This perk was one that hotel guests seemed to use to their advantage when day visitors had cleared out for the evening to ride popular rides with typically higher wait times over again, and with minimal wait times! Complimentary Transportation & Parking Complimentary theme park transportation via monorail, boat, bus, and Disney Skyliner  is all included when you choose to stay at any of the Disney World hotels. Skyliner Disney World hotel guests who prefer to drive themselves around Disney World will also enjoy free standard parking at hotels, theme parks, and water parks . Early Access To Key Disney World Add-Ons Early access to Advance Dining Reservations is also another returning perk. While everyone (including day visitors) can make advance dining reservations at 60 days out from the day of dining, Disney World hotel guests are able to make reservations beginning 60 days out from the day of check-in and up to 10 days out through their hotel stay. Hollywood Brown Derby spread Purchases for Disney World’s Lightning Lane Multi Pass and Single Pass to help you skip the standby line for your entire stay will continue to be available to Disney World hotel guests as early as 7 days in advance of your first day’s visit. Day visitors not staying at a Disney World hotel will be able to make purchases as early as 3 days in advance of their visit. Lightning Lane As special events happen seasonally around Disney World, another returning perk will return for 2026. Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Those looking to get a jump start on securing tickets for these events, like Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party and Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, will be eligible for advance purchase at the beginning of sales for these events, which tend to sell out quickly! Free Water Park Ticket Anyone staying at a Disney World hotel will also continue one of the newest perks to hit the scene. On check-in day, each person on the hotel reservation will be treated to a free water park ticket (subject to availability). Blizzard Beach Since you’ll likely see this ticket electronically linked to you, you’ll want to make sure your hotel reservation is linked in your My Disney Experience app in advance! We think this is a huge perk for those looking for something to do on check-in day that is easy to pop into at practically any part of the day and isn’t too stressful of an activity right off the bat for vacation. Bookings for Disney World vacations in 2026 start April 22nd, 2025, for travel dates through October 2026. Disney has noted that if your 2026 Disney World trip falls sometime in November and December, bookings for those two months will become available at a later date. However, if you find that you still can’t quite hold off that long for a visit, Disney World is currently running several special offers available now for 2025 that include discounted hotel stays, theme park tickets, and, of course, hotel and ticket package offers. Stay tuned with us at DFB for all the latest Disney news, updates, changes, and more as you continue planning your upcoming Disney World vacations! What’s in AJ’s Disney World Bag? The ONE Thing That Surprised Us the Most  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 What other perks will you be taking advantage of during your visit to Disney World in 2026? Leave them for us in the comments below! The post 9 (!!!) Disney World Hotel Perks Are Coming BACK in 2026 first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

With all four theme parks and the many resorts on Disney World property, ESPN Wide World of Sports is often unrecognized. Mickey at ESPN Wide World of Sports The Wide World of Sports isn’t really a stop guests make when visiting Disney World. ESPN is a place for athletes and fans of all ages, accommodating 70 different sports. The complex features a 9,500-seat stadium, a one-of-a-kind indoor arena, 2 field houses, multiple professional-level fields, and more. Having this place at Disney World just gives you an even better experience both on and off the field. When it comes to food, Wide World of Sports has some great options. They offer sit down meals, quick services and concessions, and even team meals. They have lots of competition run out of there, so they need to make sure they got top notch eats for both athletes and fans! ESPN Grill It was just announced that there are some changes coming for the food! Levy, the market leading hospitality company at sports and entertainment venues, will be taking over as Food and Beverage operator at ESPN Wide World of Sports. ESPN Wide World of Sports at Walt Disney World Levy will become the new food and beverage operator at ESPN at the beginning this summer, revamping the menus and dining experiences crafted by Levy chefs! They will also be bringing a new dining concept, and freshly-prepared grab-and-go offerings ESPN Wide World of Sports Grill later in the year. ESPN Wide World of Sports “ESPN Wide World of Sports is an iconic venue, one that so many have grown up either visiting or having seen on TV,” said the CEO of Levy, Andy Lansing. “We’re excited to play a role in the next chapter of this special place as we build on our longstanding relationship with Disney Experiences to create a winning experience for all guests – competitors, coaches and spectators.”. Main Dining Area Levy has been serving guests at over 300 venues — including major stadiums, arenas, ballparks, college sports venues, as well as music and live entertainment venues. Levy is the team behind hospitality at iconic events such as the Kentucky Derby, Super Bowls, All-Star Games, the US Open Tennis Championships, and the College World Series — even music festivals like Coachella and Stagecoach. Levy has made its mark at Disney World, running two award-winning restaurants located in Disney Springs – Paddlefish and Terralina Crafted Italian. Paddlefish Levy will be a great addition to ESPN Wide World of Sports’ food and beverage — their resume speaks for itself! We’re excited for them to take over operation in the summer, and we’ll have to go check out what they’ll be offering. For more of the latest Disney news and updates, make sure to stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog! Need Disney Restaurant Advice? We’ve Got EVERYTHING You Need to Know The ONLY Disney Dining Planning Tool You’ll Need Is Here – Get the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining! See Our Complete Disney World Restaurants Guide The Best Magic Kingdom Restaurants The Best EPCOT Restaurant Restaurants The Best Hollywood Studios Restaurants The Best Animal Kingdom Restaurants The Best Disney Springs Restaurants Check Out Dozens of Disney Dining Tips and Tools Learn All About Tipping at Disney Restaurants How to Use Mobile Order in Disney World Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the latest Disney food news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! Have you been to ESPN Wide World of Sports? Let us know in the comments! The post NEW Dining Options and MORE Are Coming to an Underrated Disney World Spot first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Get ready for Stitch to take over your life in the most adorable and mischievous way possible, right in time for the release of the all-new live action reimagining of Disney’s 2002 animated classic, “Lilo & Stitch,” opening in theaters exclusively on May 23, 2025. Whether you’ve been a long-time fan of the lovable blue alien or are just discovering his chaos for the first time, there’s something for everyone with the robust lineup of new Disney’s “Lilo & Stitch” products. Fans can be immersed in the fun and mayhem of “Lilo & Stitch” with an assortment of classic Stitch and live action products to choose from. From toys and apparel to homeware and pet gear for the bad dog in your life, Stitch has officially crashed and is here to stay! Stitch Lives Rent Free… In Your Playroom! Ready to unleash some fun and trouble? Stitch has got your playtime covered with a robust lineup of toys that’ll make any adventure an unforgettable one. Just Play’s brand-new product assortment features a variety of toys and plush that amplifies his lovable yet mischievous personality. The film’s vibrant storytelling and Stitch’s fluffy characteristics are brought to life in a new way. Just Play Many Moods Stitch Just Play Giant Plush Stitch Just Play Movie Time Stitch Blind Boxes Just Play Large Plush Stitch – Coming Soon Just Play Stitch Vinyl Figure Plus, check out these new additions to the toy aisle. Lego Lilo’s House Jada Surfer Stitch RC Jakks Pacific ILY 4ever Tote-ILY Stitch Inspired Doll Cra-Z-Art Slimy Studios Out of This World Fashion Stitch is here to add a touch of his mischievous spirit to your closet with new apparel. Fans of all ages can select from a wide array of collaborations curated to their personal styles. Whether you are Parks bound or headed to the theaters to watch “Lilo & Stitch” on the silver screen, Stitch-inspired collections at Gap, Adidas, Macy’s and more are nothing short of out of this world! Gap x Disney Stitch Kids Apparel Disney x Adidas Stitch Collection Walmart Stitch Girls Swimsuit Carter’s Baby Disney Lilo & Stitch 2-Piece Set Macy’s Juniors’ Retro Ohana Stitch T-Shirt Disney Store Stitch Spirit Jersey Spend Time with Your ‘Ohana at Home If you think Stitch’s chaos is best suited for the outside world, think again! From a waffle maker perfect for breakfast with your ‘ohana to cozy blankets and kids’ books, these home essentials bring his playful spirit into every corner of your space. Select Brands Lilo & Stitch 4″ Mini Waffle Maker Go-Gurt Disney Stitch Kids Fat Free Yogurt Tubes FHI Heat Stitch Unbrush & Mini Dryer Travel Set – Coming April 23 Jay Franco Disney Lilo & Stitch Twin Comforter Set Stitch Look & Find: Where’s Stitch? Treats for Your “Bad Dog” Even the most mischievous pets deserve a little Stitch-inspired fun! Dress them up in adorable Sassy Woof accessories, let them snooze in the coziest Jazwares pet bed, or transform them into Experiment 626 himself with an adorable Rubies costume. Sassy Woof Disney’s Stitch Dog Four Piece Bundle Jazwares Disney Stitch Pet Bed Rubies Disney Stitch Pet Costume Gear Up for a Galactic Adventure Enjoy outdoor fun with your little ones with gear that’s perfect for sunny days and active play. From splashing around in a Stitch-themed swimsuit to blowing bubbles with the Little Kids Bubble Machine or relaxing with Swimways floaties, these essentials make every adventure more fun. Swimways Stitch Splash Mat Little Kids Disney Stitch No Spill Bubble Machine eKids Stitch Toy Walkie Talkies for Kids Now is the perfect time to celebrate all things Stitch and let him bring his love of chaos into your world with even more product coming in May and June! So go ahead, embrace the mischief, and let Stitch take over your life—because life is always more fun when nobody gets left behind or forgotten! Disney’s “Lilo & Stitch” CRASHES into theaters May 23, 2025. Disney Store Japan Plush and Keychains Coming to DisneyStore.com READ MORE Star Wars May the 4th Be With You 2025 Collection Reveal READ MORE To Infinity and Beyond: Discover New Pixar Merchandise and Treats READ MORE The post Let Stitch Crash Your Life with All-New Products Across Categories appeared first on Disney Parks Blog. View the full article

Packing for Disney can be a hassle! Disney World Our team goes to Disney World every day, but our fearless leader has been the expert on Disney for 15 years! We finally asked AJ what’s in her Disney park bag, and we were so surprised by her must-haves! We’re spilling her secrets here. DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Don’t forget to try out an Amazon Prime trial for free, right here! Have you ever wondered what AJ’s must-haves are when she’s in Disney World? Well, we’re peeling back the curtain (or we guess opening the zipper) to show you her necessities that help her get through any Disney day. Let’s dive into her bag! Carmex Lip Balm ©Amazon Nothing ruins a Disney day quite like chapped lips! This set of Carmex doesn’t just keep your lips from cracking, it also keeps them from burning. This lip balm has SPF 15 to help protect you from the harsh Orlando sun, as well as cold, wind, and dry weather. Get Your Own Carmex Here Apple AirPod Pros ©Amazon AJ has done a lot of solo Disney days, and nothing helps with that quite like a pair of Apple AirPods. They’re great for listening to music or podcasts while waiting in long lines and can help drown out some of the noise caused by crowds if you find that overwhelming. Get Your Own Apple AirPods Here INIU Portable Charger INIU Portable Charger Every Disney World expert needs a good portable charger, and AJ is no different. This one is light, easy to throw in a bag, and charges phones 2 times faster than other chargers. Normally, AJ is packing 2 of these to bring with her. Get Your Own INIU Portable Charger Here Travel Umbrella UV Umbrella Sometimes it feels like you can’t find an ounce of shade in Disney World, so AJ brings her own! This mini travel umbrella offers UV protection to help save our skin from the sun. It also never hurts to have an umbrella to save you from those flash rainstorms that hit Disney in the summer. It’s a multi-use product! Get Your Own Travel Umbrella Here Mickey Mouse Hat ©Amazon Continuing with the sun protection theme, AJ always has a Disney baseball hat with her. It protects your face and scalp from the harsh sun and random rain that you’ll experience in Disney World. Plus, it doesn’t hurt that this embroidered Mickey is super cute. Get Your Own Mickey Mouse Hat Here Eco-Friendly Drinking Straws ©Amazon If you aren’t a fan of the paper drinking straws, you’re just like AJ! She always carries these compostable, eco-friendly straws with her so her straws won’t disintegrate into her slushies and frozen drinks. It’s still good for the environment but less troublesome. Get Your Own Eco-Friendly Straws Here Reusable Travel Utensils ©Amazon Speaking of being eco-friendly, AJ brings her own utensils to the park! These are good for the environment, but they’re also super helpful on festival days! Have you ever searched for a table, in the sun, for far too long and finally snag one, only to realize you didn’t grab a fork? We have to. These solve that problem! Get Your Own Travel Utensils Here Portable Chopsticks ©Amazon What are portable utensils without some chopsticks? AJ said, and we quote, “I hate eating Asian noodles without them.” We totally get it! These make EPCOT just even better and will be adding them to our reporter bags ASAP. Get Your Own Portable Chopsticks Here Bicycle Playing Cards The cards! Another thing to help pass time in lines or while you wait for shows to start are Bicycle playing cards! There are tons of different designs, and they’re great for families to play all together. It even helps you take a break from your phone, which we could also use every now and then. Get Your Own Bicycle Playing Cards Here Kindle ©Amazon Another awesome way to pass time in long lines is by bringing your Kindle! AJ is a huge fan of hers because it’s small and light, making it easy to toss in a bag. It also means you can carry hundreds of books at once without all the extra weight. It’s perfect for any travel. Get Your Own Kindle Here Touchland Hand Sanitizer ©Amazon Disney World can be sticky and germy, especially if you’ve got a kiddo who loves Dole Whip. (Or you’re an adult who loves Dole Whip.) Touchland hand sanitizer is a favorite of ours because it fits easily in all of our bags. AJ says hand sanitizer is a necessity, so we’ve got our set of three ready to go. Get Your Own Touchland Hand Sanitizer Here MiO Water Enhancer ©Amazon It’s well known that you need to drink water when you’re in Disney World, but if you’re anything like AJ, you want a little flavor in your drinks! Our only hydration can’t come from Lapu Lapus alone, so adding a bit of flavor makes getting our necessary water easier. This variety pack will give you tons of tasty drinks all day long. Get Your Own MiO Water Enhancers Here Sunglasses ©Amazon Finally, AJ’s last necessity is a good pair of sunglasses. The sun is Disney’s real biggest villain, so bringing protection for your eyes can make you the hero of the day! It also will cost you a lot less to buy them ahead of time rather than in the park. Get Your Own Sunglasses Here So there you have it, a glimpse into AJ’s park bag! Making sure you’re prepared before heading to the parks can make your Disney days even better. As always, keep following DFB for more park bag necessities. Shop for more on our Amazon Storefront! The post What's in AJ's Disney World Bag? The ONE Thing That Surprised Us the Most first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

When it comes to dining at Epic Universe, you’ve got a TON of options. But where can you go when you’re in between wanting something quick and easy while still wanting to hide away from the rest of the world for a while? Le Goblet Noir We recently stopped by Le Goblet Noir to see what magic they’ve been cookin’ up, and now we’re bringing you our FULL review. Is it worth a stop on your next trip to Universal’s newest park? Find out here! Atmosphere Located inside the third Harry Potter-themed land at Universal Orlando, The Ministry of Magic joins Hogsmeade (located in Universal’s Islands of Adventure) and Diagon Alley (located in Universal Studios) as a unique land, adding another chapter to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter — Ministry of Magic Place Cachée is a marketplace and is part of 1920s Wizarding Paris inside The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic. As you find yourself lurking about dark corners, with just a little luck, you’ll find Le Gobelet Noir located “In the shadowy corners of Place Cachée, where international Dark witches and wizards gather to escape the prying eyes of the Paris Ministry and have a hearty meal over hushed conversation.” Le Goblet Noir As you walk through the entrance of the restaurant, you’ll enter a large sitting room filled with minimal decor, like brooms and a spacious fireplace with strange writing above it. A keen eye may have noticed that just above Le Gobelet Noir sits the home of Nicolas Flamel. He’s a famous alchemist known for creating the Philosopher’s (Sorcerer’s) Stone Harry seeks out in the first book and film. Entrance After turning a sharp corner, you’ll find yourself winding down the slim hallway and exiting out into an ordering station where wizardry Team Members will be happy to assist in placing your order if you’d like some assistance. Ordering station Otherwise, you’ll be directed into Le Goblet Noir’s many dining rooms inside, where you’ll find magic and mystery around every corner — including Mobile Ordering right from your table! Welcome in! It’s set up truly like you might expect from a 1920s tavern with bottles lining the walls… Dining room …high ceilings with ample bench seating all around… More dining space ..and a few photos lining the walls of other wonders you’ll find throughout the Parisian marketplace. But, keep a watchful eye out for the Deathly Hallows and the puppets from the Tale of the Three Brothers because you just might find them where you least expect. Frames line the top of the walls But enough about the restaurant — what’s on the menu here?! Menu The menu here is unique to the Wizarding World, just like the new world. It’s immersively themed to dishes you would find within the restaurant from the films and books, starting off with a few soup and salad options… ©Universal …handheld sandwiches… ©Universal …entree dishes and platters… ©Universal …as well as a dessert and specialty beverage. ©Universal But, fear not, there are several other familiar Wizarding World beverage options served here, too! ©Universal And now, onto the main event — the food! Eats First up, we grabbed the Warm-Shaved Beef Sandwich for $17.99. This dish is made of shaved corned beef, butterkäse, and German mustard, served between two hearty multi-grain bread slices with a choice of house salad or tavern frites. Warm-Shaved Beef Sandwich Honestly, this sandwich wasn’t half bad. In fact, it was much thicker than we anticipated and tasted equally as good as we had hoped. Several layers of shaved corned beef really gave it a heftier yet salty taste to the sandwich, but even with the meat shaved, there was a LOT of it, which made the sandwich nice and thick to bite into. This was interesting because when we heard “shaved” in the name, we prepared ourselves for a very thin portion of meat and were pleasantly surprised. Half of the sandwich The accompaniments of butterkäse and German mustard gave it a nice zing to the flavor, which accented the salty taste in the meat and set the tone for the entire sandwich. The multi-grain bread slices were definitely the right choice to pair with such a hearty sandwich and came lightly toasted on the outside, making a nice crunch as we bit down into it. The staked sandwich halves For our choice of side, we opted for the tavern fries, which weren’t anything special for the meal. They were a solid side for a sandwich, being that they were lightly tossed in salt and thicker-cut fries, but we’ve had these fries at several places around Epic Universe, so they’re not hard to come by. Tavern Fries This restaurant scored some bonus points with us by serving up our sandwich platter with a side of ketchup to go along with our fries, too! Spot of ketchup for the fries We also grabbed the Alchemist’s Platter for $27.99. This platter contains smoked sausage, potato & cheese pierogies, marinated beets, pickled egg, caramelized onions, warm pretzel, German mustard, and cheese fondue. Alchemist’s Platter This platter is MASSIVE, and we immediately saw how easily it could be split between multiple people at a sitting. But, be warned that it’s also a very heavy meal at that, and we caution you in advance if you’re pairing up this platter alongside a hefty dish like we did with the sandwich. If you’re a big fan of Polish and German food, you’ll probably love this platter even more than most diners will. The first place our eyes were pulled to on the platter was the pretzel bread. It was served warm to the touch and broke open with ease… Inside of the pretzel bread loaf …but when dipped into the cheese fondue, WOW was it something! It probably comes as no surprise that we’re huge fans of the cheese AND the bread on this one, but it was perfect. The bread was soft and tasted just like a pretzel with the light salt crystals on the shinier outer coat, and the cheese fondue had several spices to it, which gave it great flavor (almost like a gravy) and completely enveloped all of the bread’s pores as we dipped each piece in. If you don’t enjoy anything else on this platter, this is the safest bet for the picky eater. With cheese fondue Moving away from the cheese and bread, our eyes took notice of the pickled eggs… Pickled eggs …beets, pickles, sausages, German mustard, and caramelized onions. Other accompaniments These things were almost like a charcuterie of side accompaniments. While everything was nearby each other, that didn’t mean that your intended bites of what you were picking off the platter would include something you didn’t want, AND we loved how easily you could customize how much or how little of each you could grab. While none of these blew us away within the platter, they did have great flavor and added to the overall vibe of the platter and paired well together both in how they tasted and aesthetically. Cheese fondue The cheese pierogies were another interesting note to this platter. It’s also another safe choice for a picky eater because the outside was easy to bite into, and the cheese on the inside mimicked a whipped consistency like mashed potatoes. Cheese pierogies Between the pierogies and the pretzel bread, and the cheese fondue, they were all highlights enough to make us completely stuffed from this platter alone! Drinks To drink, we picked up the Le Breuvage Sombre du Gobelet Noir for $7. This is a deliciously dark brew drink conjuring unique flavors of mixed fruit and topped with the eyes of Plimpies (which are better known as yogurt-popping pearls). Le Breuvage Sombre du Gobelet Noir WOW — this drink was not at all what we were expecting in the best way! It’s a non-alcoholic drink, but it’s very dark and mysterious (almost a black tint) to look at, and your kids or mocktail fans will probably flock to this one. It’s got notes of a deeper blue raspberry flavor to it, kind of like when a slushy of the same flavor melts, just not as sour. It’s definitely packing a sweeter tone to the drink overall, and you’ll only detect a hint of extra flavor to it when the yogurt-popping pearls burst in your mouth as you catch them in your sip. Not too shabby of a taste for the eyes of Plimpies if we do say so ourselves! Nosh or Not This Epic Universe restaurant is a must-visit if… You’re a HUGE Fantastic Beasts fan. This is Grindelwald’s hangout spot after all, so keep a close eye out for some dark magic hidden within the restaurant’s walls. You’re looking for a different non-alcoholic wizarding drink. For those looking for something outside of the Butterbeer staple inside the Ministry of Magic, this is a solid option to seek out. You’re dining with a large group. There are several rooms within the restaurant which is almost hidden within the Ministry of Magic’s world. If you’re dining with a larger group or family, this could be a great option to accommodate you all together or split up into smaller groups if you prefer to experience several dining rooms at once. You should skip this Epic Universe spot if… You’re looking for something that’s more grab-and-go friendly. While this is a quick-service restaurant, you’ll mostly be enjoying dishes and platters here meant for you to sit a spell. If the name of the game is to keep going for you, you probably won’t enjoy the restaurant to its full potential. The theming just isn’t your style. If the thought of dining somewhere hidden and a bit more dimly lit isn’t quite your choice of restaurant, we could see you skipping this one. You’re looking to eat the BEST of what Epic Universe has to offer with limited time. We could totally see folks skipping this restaurant in favor of some of the others we’ve raved about already, too. If you’re ok with saving this spot for a repeat visit, we wouldn’t blame you. Overall All in all, don’t come here expecting to walk away hungry! While the platter could feed multiple people, we wouldn’t recommend trying to tackle it solo, AND such a filling dish as a combined meal. The namesake specialty drink is also a must-do for someone who’s looking for something mysterious that answers the calling of the establishment and those looking for a fun non-alcoholic around the Wizarding World of The Ministry of Magic. Our whole feast! In the meantime, we’ll be on the lookout for more restaurant updates from Epic Universe and beyond. Make sure you stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for the latest Universal news and more! REVIEW: Come With Us to the NEW Atlantic Restaurant in Celestial Park at Epic Universe Read more: DFB's complete guide to Universal’s Epic Universe >> Have you eaten at this Universal restaurant yet? Tell us what you grabbed and all about your visit in the comments! The post REVIEW: We Tried the NEW Le Goblet Noir Restaurant at Universal's Epic Universe first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

If you need to refrain from booking another Disney World trip, this post is dangerous territory. That’s because we’re going over some super exciting changes coming to the parks! EPCOT While Epic Universe opens on May 22nd (and it completely blew our minds), there are some things all Disney fans should know before visiting in May 2025. So let’s get into it, shall we? 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! Here’s an overview of what you can look forward to in May at Disney World! May 4th: Star Wars Day Happy May the Fourth to all who celebrate! Star Wars fans celebrate their fandom on May 4th each year, and one park in particular gets extra busy. If you guessed Disney’s Hollywood Studios, you’d be correct! Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge This park is home to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, and this is where fans love to gather to celebrate. Be on the lookout for special merchandise that’s available that day only, limited-time treats, and herds of Star Wars fans around the Millennium Falcon. At night, watch out for all of their lightsabers to ignite! Lighting up the night with lightsabers If you’re an Annual Passholder, unfortunately, Hollywood Studios Park Pass Reservations are full, but keep checking back until then. You can also make a reservation for a different park and park hop later in the day! Hollywood Studios’ 4 Most Unexpected Rules Starting May 14th: V.I.Passholder Days Annual Passholders already get a set of perks, including special park entrances, exclusive discounts, and merchandise. But during V.I.Passholder Days, which runs from May 14th to July 31st, even more perks are available! Disney World Annual Pass As of writing, the events and perks have not been revealed. However, in 2024, Passholders got to enjoy an exclusive lounge in EPCOT, a new free magnet, special snacks and photo opportunities, extra discounts on food and merchandise, and more. It didn’t stop there — Passholders also got a discount on the Disney Store online! Stay tuned for more details because we’ll share them as soon as they are announced. 4 Annual Passholder Perks We’re Begging Disney to Give Us in 2025 May 21st: EPCOT Closes Early You might want to avoid EPCOT (or make sure you have a ticket you can park hop with) on May 21st. That’s because EPCOT will be closing early for a private event that begins at 7:30 PM. The private event is a buy-out for the SAP Sapphire & ASUG Annual Conference Orlando. EPCOT The park will open at 9 AM as usual in the morning (with Early Entry for hotel guests at 8:30 AM) and it will close at 5:30 PM. If you have a one-park ticket for the 21st, we recommend using it at a different park. Time is money, people! 4 Shortcuts That Will Save You 15+ Minutes in EPCOT May 27th: 2 NEW Shows Open in Hollywood Studios Hollywood Studios is not only getting one new show in May…they’re getting TWO. In Animation Courtyard, you can see the new The Little Mermaid — A Musical Adventure! This is a revamp of The Little Mermaid show that was in the same theater before. While the show will have many upgrades, you’ll still hear the classics, including “Part of Your World,” “Under the Sea,” “Poor Unfortunate Souls,” and “Kiss the Girl”! The Little Mermaid: A Musical Adventure To see Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After, you’ll want to walk allllll the way down Sunset Boulevard and past Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster. The show is playing where Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy was until last year, and its headliners are Captain Hook, Cruella de Vil, and Maleficent. Which villain has been treated the most unfairly? Well, that’s up to you! ©Disney Check the My Disney Experience app on the day of your visit to see showtimes. Hooray for more live entertainment in this park! So Are We Just Going to Ignore the Hollywood Studios Ride Elephant in the Room?? 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 May! 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 May? What are you looking forward to? Let us know in the comments! The post 4 Major Changes Coming to Disney World in May first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

A Delta Flight carrying 200 people caught fire on April 21st, 2025. Orlando International Airport The plane was located at Orlando International Airport, and no initial injuries were reported. Delta has addressed the incident, saying, “We appreciate our customers’ cooperation and apologize for the experience. Nothing is more important than safety, and Delta teams will work to get our customers to their final destinations as soon as possible.” After the evacuation, the passengers were brought into the terminal where they were given food and drinks. The airline promised to provide another plane to get those on board to their destination. Orlando International Airport, also known as MCO, released a statement saying, “The fire was contained and is out. Some passengers were evacuated via an emergency slide.” MCO Airport No other reports have been released at this time. Be sure to keep following DFB for more travel news and updates. You’ll Never Guess Which Airline Was Voted #1 for 2025 Travel Updates, Tips, and Tricks Complete Guide to Booking the CHEAPEST Flight to Disney World What to Do if Your Flight to Disney World Is Canceled Our Best Tips For Flying Through the Orlando International Airport Step-by-Step Guide: How to Get to Disney World From the Orlando Airport You’re SLEEPING on These Packing Hacks Air Travel Tips That’ll Change Your Life 8 Catastrophic Travel Mistakes and How to Solve Them The Airline with the MOST Flight Delays and Cancellations This Small Change Will Save You From Lost Luggage The Best Disney Luggage for 2023 21 Things a Former Flight Attendant Needs You To Know 7 Highest-Rated Travel Items on Amazon Join the DFB Newsletter to Get All the Latest Disney News Delivered Right to Your Inbox! Click Here to Subscribe What airline do you prefer? Tell us in the comments! The post NEWS: Delta Air Lines Plane Catches Fire at Orlando Airport first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Big things are happening at Universal Orlando, but could it still be in some trouble? Universal Orlando Epic Universe is FINALLY being unveiled to the theme park-going world, and carrying a ton of momentum as we get deeper into 2025. Unfortunately, some unforeseen circumstances could derail that momentum and create cause for concern for Universal and the theme park industry, in general. By all accounts — including our own — Epic Universe is going to be a smashing success. The Universal Orlando Resort is already packed with amazing attractions and experiences that draw tourists from all over the world, and adding this new element is setting Universal up for one of its best theme park revenue years ever. Still, there are a few factors that could cause crowds at Universal to be lower than expected. Epic Universe A major deterrent to visiting Universal is cost and financial hardships. According to the Los Angeles Times, trade tensions and the uncertainty of the tariff fallout will likely slow tourism this year — and “stock analysts warn that Walt Disney Co.’s theme parks could take a hit.” If the Disney Parks are expected to take a hit, Universal will probably be in the same boat. The Times noted that theme park attendance in the U.S. often correlates to American economic health, which makes plenty of sense as families who feel more comfortable with their financial situation are way more likely to travel than those who are experiencing a financial crisis. Gringotts According to the Times report, “Overall international travel to the U.S. is expected to decrease by 5% this year, with a 15% decline from Canada, according to Tourism Economics, a Philadelphia-based travel data company.” If Disney is expected to struggle, then the rest of the theme park industry — Universal included — will probably experience even worse woes. Even though Universal is expected to make a bigger dent in Disney’s theme park stranglehold on the industry, Disney will still have more visitors in 2025 and is a safe bet to remain king of the hill. Unfortunately for Universal Orlando, if theme park tourism is more limited in 2025, there’s a significant chance park goers are still visiting Disney over Universal, further leading to concerns that attendance could be lighter than anticipated. Universal’s Islands of Adventure Another issue Universal faces — albeit one that’s very unlikely to happen — is that guests are biding their time until Epic Universe is easier to access. Opening to the general public on May 22nd, 2025, Epic Universe is one of — if not the most — anticipated new American theme parks of the 21st century. Right now, getting tickets is more complicated than getting tickets to Islands of Adventure, Universal Studios Florida, and Volcano Bay, and the demand will likely see crowds build up at Epic Universe, creating long wait times and heavy foot traffic (which often leads to overstimulation). As such, folks may wait to do their big Universal vacation until 2026 when the hype dies down at least a little bit. In the meantime, if all the attendance is mostly allocated at Epic Universe, it’s possible the other parks are neglected a bit. Universal Studios Florida Lagoon With ALL of that said, it’s almost impossible that Universal Orlando doesn’t draw in big crowds this year. Epic Universe is going to be a humungous draw, and a recession likely still wouldn’t stop the resort from succeeding at this rate. It’s likely that people will purchase vacation packages with Epic Universe included and visit the other parks as well, maintaining healthy attendance numbers at the non-Epic Universe theme parks. Overall, Universal has set itself up for a great year and it’s hard to envision a scenario where the resort isn’t able to pack the parks. A look inside Dark Universe We’ll continue to monitor the health of Universal Orlando and the theme park industry altogether, so stay tuned right here at DFB for all the latest updates. How Tariffs Could Affect Disney World Prices Read more: DFB's complete guide to Universal’s Epic Universe >> Let us know what YOU think Universal Orlando’s attendance will look like in 2025 in the comments below! The post Why Universal Could Be Empty in 2025 first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Choose Your Path Savi’s Workshop – Handbuilt Lightsabers will soon debut a brand-new hilt theme called “Reclaimed and Reforged” at Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort This new, limited-time offering will be available on Planet Batuu starting May 4, 2025, while supplies last Guests will be able to build their own lightsabers from scraps that have been scavenged by different pirates throughout the galaxy and made their way to Batuu As just discussed at the Walt Disney Imagineering panel at Star Wars Celebration Japan, guests will soon be able to chart a new path inside Savi’s Workshop – Handbuilt Lightsabers at Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort for a limited time beginning May 4, 2025! Reclaim and Reforge New Savi’s Workshop Lightsabers The remains of ancient battles, crashed ships and other abandoned pieces of scrap can be found all over the galaxy. To most people it may look like junk, but to the resourceful Jedi, it may just be the key to constructing a new lightsaber. In the new hilt theme titled “Reclaimed and Reforged,” guests will be able to build their own lightsabers from scraps that have been scavenged from the distant reaches of the galaxy’s outer rim and have made their way to Batuu. When brought together, they form something entirely new — yet forever bound to the mysteries of the past. Each guest’s story begins the moment they meet one of Savi’s Gatherers outside his workshop, where they will choose one available hilt theme for their experience. While “Reclaimed and Reforged” is only available for a limited time, guests can still choose from four other themes year-round inside Savi’s Workshop: Peace and Justice Power and Control Elemental Nature Protection and Defense Next, guests will enter the workshop and begin to assemble their hilt, where parts will be provided based on their theme and identifiable cloisonné pin. Above, guests can see a few parts available from “Reclaimed and Reforged”, where each box of parts includes: 1 hilt 4 sleeves (pick 2) 2 emitters (pick 1) 2 pommel caps (pick 1) 2 sets of activation plates and switches (pick 1 set) Once the hilt is completed and any unused parts are returned to Savi’s inventory, it will finally be time to connect the hilt to a lightsaber blade! Whether the chosen kyber crystal makes your blade ignite red, blue, green or violet is up to you – will you follow the ways of the Jedi, or harness the dark side of the Force like the Sith? Ready to transform these scattered and reclaimed parts into elegant tools that symbolize the balance of the Force? Purchase is required and advanced reservations are highly encouraged for this experience at both Walt Disney World and Disneyland, and the experience area is limited to the builder and two guests, where at least one person in the party must be age 14 or older. Explore Batuu and Show Off in Even More Star Wars Spirit In the panel, Imagineers also discussed how interactive experiences expand beyond attractions inside Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, such as in the land’s merchandise and food and beverage. Check out this life-size MSE droid that guests can remote control, or even the classic refreshment orbs with Aurebesh writing that can be purchased throughout the land on both coasts. Every creative decision is made with care in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge to ensure an immersive experience for all guests, whether guests are constructing their very own droid inside Droid Depot or shopping for a rotating collection of mysterious galactic artifacts inside Dok-Ondar’s Den of Antiquities. Plus, our panel moderator, Ashley Eckstein (the voice of Ahsoka Tano in Star Wars: The Clone Wars and Star Wars Rebels), has brought some of her influence from the Star Wars galaxy to Disney Experiences! Items from Her Universe, the groundbreaking fangirl fashion company featuring dresses, tees, jackets and more, are now available at Disneyland Resort and coming soon to Walt Disney World Resort and Disney Store. Fly the New “Mandalorian” Adventure on the Millennium Falcon Next May Starting May 22, 2026, at Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort, a new and interactive adventure is also coming to Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run that will allow guests to control the iconic ship like never before. For the first time ever, the crew will be in control of their own story alongside Din Djarin and Grogu, leading to potential adventures on Bespin, the wreckage of the second Death Star around Endor or the just-announced bustling city-planet, Coruscant. For even more details on this daring flight before jumping into hyperspace, get updates here on the Disney Parks Blog and follow along with @DisneyParks socials for the latest news on all things Star Wars coming to Disney Experiences. The Mandalorian, Grogu, and New Crew Controls Coming Soon READ MORE Star Wars May the 4th Be With You 2025 Collection Reveal READ MORE 2025 Guide to Season of the Force at Disneyland Park READ MORE The post New Savi’s Workshop Lightsaber Offering and More appeared first on Disney Parks Blog. View the full article

There is so much changing in Disney World! Magic Kingdom The parks are getting a big facelift, the Disney Dining Plan is returning in 2026, and even the resorts are seeing some major updates. With all of the changes, Disney has now confirmed that one hotel perk is returning, so grab your bathing suits and let’s dive in! If you’re headed to Disney World in Summer 2026, be sure to pack your bathing suits! Disney has confirmed that Free Water Park Entry is returning as a Disney hotel perk. Typhoon Lagoon This hotel perk allows any guest staying on Disney property free entry into one of Disney’s two water parks on the day you check in to your hotel. This perk automatically connects to you and your party, who are linked to your room reservation, and can be great to kill time before your room is ready. This perk is subject to availability, so if the parks are closed for weather or hit capacity, you might be out of luck. Typhoon Lagoon! Tickets are nontransferable, so it’s use ’em or lose ’em! Disney has two water parks, Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon! Typically, these water parks rotate, which is open throughout the year; however, in 2025, both parks will be open simultaneously for the first time in 6 years! They won’t be open together forever, but we are excited to have both as an option soon. Blizzard Beach This hotel perk was originally expected to end on December 31st, 2025, so we’re excited to see it back next year. In 2025, this perk was available all year, so switching to only summer availability is a big change. Disney hasn’t shared what those dates are just yet, so be sure to keep your eyes peeled for that information. Blizzard Beach In 2026, Free Disney Dining for Kids is also returning as a Disney hotel perk, so there is quite a bit to look forward to! While we’re excited for new perks, we aren’t trying to wish our lives away! This summer has lots of offers too, with fun new additions like Cool Kid Summer. Character zones, dance parties, and more will be coming to the parks for kids to enjoy all summer long. Goofy! If you’re looking to plan for this summer or next, consider Small World Vacations! They have tons of Disney knowledge to help take the stress out of your vacation planning. They’re free of charge and make your vacation even more magical! We can’t wait for the summer to get here so we can start enjoying our vacations ASAP! Throw your bathing suits in your suitcase, and be sure to keep following DFB for all of your Disney news and updates. 4 Disney World Perks That Are Returning in 2025 Want More Details About Disney World’s Hotels? Ranking of ALL of Disney World’s Hotels The “I’m So Tired; Just Tell Me What To Do” Guide To Choosing the Perfect Disney World Hotel 13 Critical Things You’re FORGETTING About When Booking a Disney World Hotel 8 Gadgets You Need for Your Disney World Hotel Room The Surprising Things You Won’t Find in Your Disney World Hotel Room The Secret Way to Stay in Disney World’s Hotels for LESS! What's New at the Disney World Hotels All About Disney World's Resort Hotel Refillable Mugs Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the latest Disney World hotel news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! Are you excited to see this perk return? Tell us in the comments! The post NEWS: A Disney Hotel Perk Is RETURNING In 2026 first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

It feels like the whole Orlando area (and quite possibly the whole world) is excited for Epic Universe to open May 22nd at Universal Orlando. The project was announced in 2019 and would be the first theme park to open in Orlando in over 25 years. Epic Universe Epic Universe is a massive project in the area, covering about 750 acres, five differently themed lands, and three brand-new hotels. Not only will this give guests an incredible theme park experience, but it will also significantly boost the Orlando economy. This brand-new theme park is planned to create over 17,500 jobs across the United States within its first year of opening. From construction and park design to every Team Member within the park for operations, Universal has created new jobs within the Orlando area. Live Musicians in the Ministry of Magic Not only within the park but in Florida, Epic Universe is projected to bring in $2 billion for the state overall. When people visit Orlando, they stay in hotels, try restaurants, rent cars, shop, and bring in a lot of revenue. About 50% of the total sales tax collected in Orange County in 2023 came from Orlando visitors. Mario Motors While Disney and Universal are competitors, they also benefit when one theme park does well. If people plan to visit the brand-new Epic Universe, it’s likely they’ll also spend a few days at Disney World, and vice versa. Disney World Between 2019, when Epic Universe was announced, and 2023, Universal Orlando brought in a $44 billion economic impact, according to the University of Central Florida’s Institute for Economic Forecasting. According to the same report, it predicted that Epic Universe has already created an $11 billion economic impact in the United States. Universal Helios Grand Hotel In 2023, Universal Orlando created 94,000 jobs nationwide, with about 65,000 of those jobs generated to construct Epic Universe. Of course, as Epic Universe continues to generate large amounts of revenue, which in turn supports other theme parks, more expansions and experiences within the theme park industry will continue to grow, and Orlando will continue to grow bigger and bigger. Isle of Berk Epic Universe has created a great economic impact on Orlando, and we’re so thrilled it’s here! Keep following Disney Food Blog for more Universal and Disney news. We Went Inside Epic Universe for the First Time! Read Everything About It! Read more: DFB's complete guide to Universal’s Epic Universe >> Are you excited about Epic Universe opening in May? Tell us your thoughts in the comments. The post Epic Universe Projected To Generate Over Billion for Florida first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

If you’re a Disney fan and a Starbucks regular, this might be the collab of your dreams. Disney x Starbucks Tumblers Disney x Starbucks mugs and tumblers are kind of a big deal — they’re fun, collectible, and the perfect little souvenir to remind you of the parks (while you sip your third cold brew of the day). You don’t even need a park ticket to snag these right now. Yep, they’re available online, and we’ve rounded up every single one that’s currently up for grabs. Let’s take a look! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Walt Disney World Starbucks Mug ©Disney Here’s a look at the other side: ©Disney This one’s perfect for anyone who loves “The Most Magical Place on Earth.” It’s a big ceramic mug with raised, dimensional artwork featuring iconic WDW landmarks like Cinderella Castle, Spaceship Earth, Tree of Life, the Hollywood Tower Hotel, and Figment. It’s colorful, sturdy, and very collectible. Get it here! Disneyland Starbucks Mug ©Disney Here’s a look at the other side: ©Disney The Disneyland version brings all the nostalgic vibes. This mug includes Sleeping Beauty Castle, Mr. Toad, Madame Leota, Carthay Circle, The Jungle Cruise, and the Yeti. Same raised, dimensional style as the WDW version — but repping “The Happiest Place on Earth.” A total must-have for Disneyland diehards. Get it here! Magic Kingdom Starbucks Travel Tumbler with Mystery Pin Blind Pack – 2-Pc. ©Disney This travel tumbler has clear walls, “sticker” style graphics inspired by Magic Kingdom attractions, and it comes with a blind pack of two mystery pins (randomly selected from a set of eight). It’s a fun combo — drink your coffee, collect your pins, and relive your park day. Get it here! EPCOT Starbucks Travel Tumbler with Mystery Pin Blind Pack – 2-Pc. ©Disney EPCOT fans, this one’s for you. The tumbler features graphics based on EPCOT attractions, and yep — it also includes a mystery pin pack. Great for anyone who loves Future World, World Showcase snacks, or just appreciates a good themed tumbler. Get it here! Disney’s Hollywood Studios Starbucks Travel Tumbler with Mystery Pin Blind Pack – 2-Pc. ©Disney This one’s decked out in graphics inspired by Disney’s Hollywood Studios. If you’re into movies, Star Wars, or adrenaline-pumping rides, this is the one to grab. And of course, it comes with two surprise pins from a limited set. Get it here! Disney’s Animal Kingdom Starbucks Travel Tumbler with Mystery Pin Blind Pack – 2-Pc. ©Disney From Expedition Everest to Kilimanjaro Safaris, this tumbler channels all the Animal Kingdom energy. Nature-themed graphics, mystery pins included, and it’s perfect for your next iced coffee — whether you’re in the parks or just at your desk wishing you were. Get it here! Disneyland Starbucks Travel Tumbler with Mystery Pin Blind Pack – 2-Pc. ©Disney This one covers Disneyland Park with fun “sticker” graphics that Disney adults will definitely appreciate. You’ll also get two mystery pins, so you can start (or add to) your pin collection without ever leaving your house. Get it here! Disney California Adventure Starbucks Travel Tumbler with Mystery Pin Blind Pack – 2-Pc. ©Disney Representing DCA, this tumbler is perfect for fans of Pixar Pier, Avengers Campus, and Soarin’. It’s stylish, practical, and comes with two randomly selected pins from the same eight-pin set as the others. Get it here! Walt Disney World Logo Starbucks Travel Tumbler – Tinker Bell Green ©Disney This tumbler sparkles — literally. It’s a vibrant green (inspired by Tink’s outfit), with a golden foil Walt Disney World logo and iridescent glitter inside. The twist-tight lid and sipper straw make it great for on-the-go. It’s flashy in the best way. Get it here! Disneyland Logo Starbucks Travel Tumbler – Tinker Bell Green ©Disney Same sparkly style as the WDW version, but this one reps Disneyland. If Tinker Bell is your girl or you just love a bold, glittery moment, this one’s worth adding to your collection. The golden Disneyland logo pops against the green. Get it here! Minnie Mouse Stainless Steel Starbucks Tumbler with Straw – Disneyland ©Disney This one’s all about Minnie’s classic style — red satin metallic finish, polka dots, bows, and Minnie’s face all over. It’s stainless steel, so it keeps drinks cool, and her signature on the lid is a nice touch. A cute and functional souvenir from Disneyland. Get it here! Minnie Mouse Stainless Steel Starbucks Tumbler with Straw – Walt Disney World ©Disney The WDW version of the Minnie Mouse tumbler is just as stylish, with the same red satin finish and allover Minnie print. If you love Minnie and want a tumbler that stands out (and keeps your drinks cold), this is it. Get it here! In the meantime, we’re always on the lookout for the latest deals on Disney products, so stay tuned for more. Looking for more Disney Essentials? Check out our Amazon Storefront!The post All the Disney x Starbucks Mugs You Can Get Online Right Now first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

When guests visit Disneyland Resort, they are transported to different lands – lands of tomorrow and fantasy, of rustic country roads and weathered space metropolises. Ref Aguayo, an ager/grainer cast member, would tell you that the magic in the details and stories behind each and every structure in these lands are what makes this transportation possible. His brush strokes are visible across Disneyland Resort, including passing his craft down to his children, who are also cast members and have now left their own artistic marks. Ref in his early years as an ager/grainer at Disneyland Resort. Ref’s Esteemed Role as Disneyland’s Ager/Grainer Ref’s journey as a Disneyland cast member began in 1975 and is as unique as the role he now holds. Following along in his father-in-law Frank’s footsteps, he started as a custodial cast member, and later applied for an apprenticeship as an ager/grainer, which would become his lifelong career. During his nearly three-year apprenticeship, Ref learned everything he needed to know about this unique and widely unknown craft. Ager/grainers are skilled painters who specialize in creating the appearance of aged, weathered or wood grained surfaces on props, sets and buildings. After remaining on as an ager/grainer for 16 years, Ref focused on freelancing, continuing honing his craft and teaching his children. Always eager students, Gilbert, Frank and Nat helped their father with various freelance projects – which included projects at Disneyland Resort. Years later, when Cars Land was being built at Disney California Adventure park, Ref excitedly returned to Disneyland Resort as a full-time ager/grainer and helped to paint the world of Radiator Springs to life – or rather, into a rusty, weathered town in the rural American countryside. Ref cites this as his favorite project to date. Another unique project he enjoyed was working on the Enchanted Storybook Castle at Shanghai Disney Resort. Ref left his mark on the Enchanted Storybook Castle, like the hidden Mickey above on a weathered stone archway. Ref’s sons, Gilbert and Frank, continue to learn from their father while painting pieces sent for upkeep. Ref’s daughter, Nat, is also a cast member and works on the asset management team. Although on a different team, she has worked with her brothers and father on multiple occasions. A family project – Ref painted and repurposed Big Thunder Mountain Railroad vehicles into these benches, while Nat wrote the sign and organized installation of the benches in a backstage area for cast members to enjoy. Ref and His Family Continue a Disney Legacy Ref and his children credit Ref’s father-in-law, Frank Garcia, as the originator of the Aguayo family’s passion for Disneyland Resort. Frank began his Disney journey as a custodial cast member in 1960 and was the one who encouraged Ref to apply. They remember stories Frank told over the years, including seeing Walt Disney walking through the park and of the inspirational work Frank later did while on the upholstery team. Ref remembers projects he got to work on alongside Frank and the upholstery team, like the canvas tents that shade guests throughout the Jungle Cruise queue, which were painted by Ref’s team and constructed by Frank’s team. Gifts Frank received that his family still cherishes include a painting from his former upholstery team of Frank looking out from inside Sleeping Beauty Castle and a personalized brick in the esplanade between Disneyland park and Disney California Adventure park. To pay homage to Frank Garcia, the Aguayo family often visits a brick with his name that is embedded in the esplanade between Disneyland park and Disney California Adventure park. They believe Frank would be proud to see how many family members continue the tradition of working as cast members – which, aside from Ref and his three children, has included four other family members who worked across various departments. The Aguayo family is already training the next generation of agers/grainers, with Ref’s six-year-old grandchild showing an interest in the art. The Aguayo family has certainly left their mark on the Disneyland Resort, and through their art and passion for restoration, their legacy will live on. Guide to the 70th Anniversary at Disneyland Resort READ MORE New Show, Character and More Entertainment Coming to Disneyland READ MORE Meet Hank: Today’s Longest Serving Disney Cast Member  READ MORE The post A Cast Member’s Family Legacy at Disneyland Resort appeared first on Disney Parks Blog. View the full article

What BRAND NEW Hollywood Studios experiences do you need to prioritize? How can you skip over the longest line in the park WITHOUT paying? Hollywood Studios And where can you track down this park’s most SECRETIVE locations? We’re giving you the TOP 10 MUST DOS for Hollywood Studios THIS YEAR, only on DFB Guide. Check out our video below: 10 MUST-DOS in Hollywood Studios This Year  Are you a DFB Video subscriber? If you hit the button below, you can subscribe to our channel and catch up on ALL of our latest episodes! And stay tuned for more theme park news! 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 of this video? Tell us in the comments. The post DFB Video: 10 MUST-DOS in Hollywood Studios This Year first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Disney Loungeflys have to be among the top when it comes to the most popular Disney souvenirs! So many Disney bags! Whenever you’re at Disney World, one thing you’re guaranteed to see is a lot of Disney Loungeflys! It’s the perfect Disney souvenir for fans. Loungefly has many things in it’s inventory — from Mickey ears, to crossbody bags, to their famous and most popular item, mini backpacks. We just found a brand-new Loungefly mini backpack, and had to share it with you — because it is ADORABLE! Fans love using Loungefly to express their fandom, there’s literally a bag for almost every Disney movie, character, or thing you can think of. Marvel, Star Wars, Pixar, Disney Animation, Disney Parks — you name it, they probably have a Loungefly bag for it! Loungefly is continuously dropping new items and new collections, which is great for Loungefly collectors! Loungefly Bags We recently went to the Star Traders shop in Magic Kingdom, and found a brand-new ‘Disney Pets’ Loungefly mini backpack! Star Traders is a shop located in Tomorrowland, and often has great souvenirs and clothing. So, we were excited when we found this new item! So much merch! Introducing this Disney cats and dogs Loungefly mini backpack, featuring some of your favorite Disney pets! Look at this! How cute is this bag! You can see the bag features some of Disney’s most iconic cats and dogs. Of course, the bag has to have the classic, Pluto the dog. It looks like the bag also features Trustee from the Disney animated classic, Lady and the Tramp, as well as Percy, from Pocahontas. Oh, and we can’t forget about the adorable girl herself, Lady! We love this bag! The bag also features some cats, for all the cat lovers out there. We can see Mochi from Disney’s Big Hero 6, little Figaro from Disney’s Pinocchio, and the adorable Marie from Aristocats! Disney pets Loungefly We love the design of this bag — from the Disney pets pattern print, to the mix of colors. The Disney pets are designed in a unique and cute style. We love the dark gray flap pouch with hearts on it! This bag will fit all your Disney day essentials, and you’ll be able to flaunt your favorite Disney pets! The mini backpack is $80, and we’re sure there are going to be a lot of Disney fans with this. Disney Loungefly bags are the best! We love finding new Disney Loungefly at the park, and we’d say this is a must-grab Disney item! Make sure to follow us at the Disney Food Blog, we’re always on the lookout for brand-new Disney merch and souvenirs. Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! Are you going to be getting this new Disney Loungefly bag? Let us know in the comments! The post Everyone Will Be Running To Magic Kingdom For This NEW Loungefly Bag first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Shut them down, shut them down TODAY. Turf Club Spread There are hundreds of restaurants in Disney World, and while many of them are pretty spectacular, some spots just need to be put out of their misery already. Today, we’re rounding up the list of Disney World HOTEL restaurants that we think should be closed, replaced, or boarded up, never to be spoken of again! Outer Rim First up, we’ve got Outer Rim, which is a lounge/bar at Disney’s Contemporary Resort. It’s located on the fourth-floor concourse, but it’s definitely not living up to its potential, if you ask us! The decor is pretty plain, even though the name implies a fun space theme. Outer Rim Our main complaint here, though, is the menu. There are no food items available, and the drink selection is fairly basic and not any more exciting than other Disney World bars. With such a prime location, this could be a hotspot in the evenings if Disney spruced up the decor and added some small plates to the menu. These Are the Best Value Disney World Lounges for 2025! Turf Club Bar & Grill One of the most heavily disliked restaurants in Disney World is Turf Club Bar & Grill, located at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort. This equestrian-themed spot has a pretty basic menu with American fare, from seafood to steak to burgers, as well as some simple appetizers and desserts. Turf Club Bar & Grill The problem is that we’ve had some VERY mixed experiences here. In the course of one meal, we’ve had courses alternate between fairly yummy and abysmal, so it’s incredibly unpredictable overall. You may enjoy your meal or you may find it too salty, overcooked, or lacking in general flavor. Also, the theme is not nearly as immersive or fun as other spots at Deluxe Resorts. Check Out Our Review of Turf Club Here! Yacht & Beach Club Quick Service And lastly, we’re lumping two restaurants together because they’re VERY similar. Beach Club Marketplace and The Market at Ale & Compass are the quick service spots at Beach Club and Yacht Club, respectively, and they’re rather disappointing when compared to other quick service spots at Deluxe Resorts. Beach Club Marketplace Both of these restaurants are located INSIDE resort gift shops, and they serve limited options, mostly centered around refrigerated or pre-made food — you won’t be getting hot French fries here! Neither spot has much seating available, either. When compared to the awesome quick service options you can find at the Grand Floridian or the Polynesian Village Resorts, these just fall short. The whole dining room at the Market at Ale & Compass There are SO many great places to dine around the Disney World hotels, it was actually a challenge to create this list. If you’re looking for delicious food in Disney World, we often recommend resort dining, and most of the spots are pretty stellar. To see which hotel restaurants you SHOULD try, check out our video below. Stay tuned to DFB for more restaurant reviews and Disney World dining tips! Check Out the Best and Worst Disney Hotel Restaurants Here! 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 Which Disney World hotel restaurants do you avoid? Tell us in the comments! The post 3 Disney World Hotel Restaurants That Need to Be Boarded Up and Never Spoken Of Again first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Walt Disney World is rolling out a hotel-kids dining plan offer for 2026, and reservations for next year can be made as of Tuesday, the resort has announced. Visitors who stay at more than 25 Disney hotels will get a free dining plan for the kids. As usual, Disney defines kids as ages 3 to 9. As always with the Disney Dining Plan, everyone in the party (age 10 and older) must participate in the program to get the kids plan. Pricing varies with dates and length of stay. This plan may be used in conjunction with other offers that may appear for 2026, Disney says. The Disney Dining Plan is a prepaid program for on-property meals and snacks at select locations. Disney World is currently offering a kids half-price ticket for theme park visits between May 27 and Sept. 20 with certain hotel stays. This year, Disney is throwing in water-park admission on check-in day for its hotel guests, and that will power will be in place for summer 2026, too. Other continuing benefits for an on-property stay include early theme park entry, free parking, early access to dining and Lightning Lane reservations. 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. View the full article

We’ll be totally honest…we’ve definitely shed our fair share of tears in Disney World. Cinderella Castle From sobbing on Main Street, U.S.A. during Happily Ever After to crying tears of sadness when it’s unfortunately time to head back home, we’re no strangers to breaking out the waterworks in the parks. And if you’re in need of a good cry and looking for a place in Magic Kingdom to let it loose, we’re sharing our best spots to cry in the park. Hall of Presidents First up, we’ve got the Hall of Presidents as a solid option. Twenty minutes in the dark with air conditioning and comfortable seats? It sounds like the perfect place to sob quietly in the back row! No one will hear you over the sound of a bald eagle screaming. (That doesn’t really happen, but those are kind of the vibes of this show.) The Hall of Presidents If you’ve got some feelings to let out, then it’s hard to find a better place to do that than a comfy, quiet theater show. Which brings us to our second choice. Carousel of Progress Carousel of Progress is also a great option for many of the same reasons as Hall of Presidents. The show is dark, lasts about 20 minutes, and the seats are comfy. It’s often hailed as a favorite spot for naptime, so why not add it to the list for shedding tears as well? Carousel of Progress The bonus here is that the theme song is super catchy, and you’ll probably feel a lot better by the time this show is over. That through-the-century charm gets us every time! Pinocchio Village Haus Balcony Did you know there’s upstairs seating in Pinocchio Village Haus? The restaurant has a balcony area that spans both indoors and outdoors, and the tables aren’t usually too packed. Pop a squat down in the back corner and you’ll have the perfect location to let those tears loose. Upstairs at Pinocchio The benefit to doing your sobbing here is that you can enjoy a snack while you cry. Grab a flatbread and drown your sorrows in carbs and cheese. Storybook Circus Tent Tucked away in the back of Storybook Circus is a large tent with plenty of seating, outlets for charging your phone, and plenty of shade. It’s a great spot to relax and take a break, and it’s usually not too crowded — making it an excellent location to have a good cry. Inside the Storybook Circus tent Plop down in one of those comfy chairs or take a seat at a picnic table and just enjoy yourself a 20-minute break to release your emotions. Parents often sit back here with their crying toddlers and babies, so you might not be the only one shedding some tears. Various Bathrooms And of course, we have the favorite crying location for many people on our team — the good ol’ bathrooms. Sometimes, when a Disney World vacation is overstimulating or you’re just having one of those days, the bathroom stall is the first place where you get a moment to yourself. Fantasyland Bathrooms If you’re hoping to get in a good sob sesh, it might be a good idea to find a quieter restroom where there are fewer people coming in and out. And of course, it’s probably good courtesy to not keep people waiting if there’s a line out the door. Tangled bathrooms in Fantasyland Hopefully, the only tears you’ll be crying during your vacation are happy ones! People often forget how stressful and overwhelming vacations can be, especially when there are so many details to plan (like in Disney World). But if you keep following here at DFB, we’ll give you all the tips to help keep your trip as stress-free as possible. Check out our video below to see why Disney World could be empty in 2025! Stay tuned to DFB for more news, updates, and anecdotes from Disney World. Click Here to See the Best Places to Cry in EPCOT! 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’s your go-to cry spot in Disney World? Tell us in the comments! The post This Is the Best Place to Cry in Magic Kingdom first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

BIG news, Disney fans! We have a NEW reason for you to book a trip to Disney World, and (spoiler alert) you can save some serious money thanks to this big announcement. Magic Kingdom Don’t worry — we won’t keep you in suspense. Ready to plan a new trip to Disney World? Check out the HUGE news that Disney just dropped! Free Disney Dining is BACK! Disney just announced that Free Disney Dining for kids is coming in 2026! Um…WHAT?! That’s HUGE! Magic Kingdom Starting on April 22nd, 2025, guests can start booking their 2026 vacations, and throughout 2026, kids can dine for free! When staying at one of the Disney World resorts, you can qualify for a free Disney dining package for kids aged 3-9 when you purchase a dining plan with your vacation package for other members of your party. Get ready to eat! This deal can be combined with other select special offers, so you can get even more savings! We can’t wait to dig in this summer on all of our favorite eats. This offer can be booked beginning on April 22nd and will be available for vacations through October 2026. Bookings for November and December 2026 will become available at a later date. Click here to learn about Disney’s free dining plan offer Don’t want to go through all of the stress of booking your Disney World trip alone? Reach out to our friends at Small World Vacations! Their experienced agents monitor your reservation for possible future savings, compare discounts, and figure out which one works best for your travel party, dates, resort, and touring plans. And, they share expert tips and first-hand advice with you about your magical vacation. There are tons of other deals right now for your Disney vacation! Starting on the 29th of April, 2025, United Kingdom and Ireland residents can get a FREE Dining Plan when they stay at a Disney World Resort hotel. The Hotel and Ticket package must be booked by November 5th, 2025. This deal is good for most stays throughout 2026, from January 7th to December 19th, 2026. Find complete details on the 2025 Free Dining Offer for UK and Ireland residents HERE. Disney is offering hotel and ticket packages that can save you up to $200 per night! This Stay, Play, and Save deal may be applied to stays at select Disney World resort hotels for 3-night, 2-day room and ticket packages. You can get these savings for packages from February 26th through June 30th, 2025, for rooms and tickets. Get more details HERE. This summer, you can save up to 30% on select Disney Resort hotel rooms when you stay longer for visits from August 1st through October 11th, 2025. Find more information HERE. Annual Passholders can score up to 40% off rooms for stays from June 1st to July 31st, 2025, or 35% off rooms from May 1st to May 31st, 2025. Find the details here. Annual Passholders and Florida Residents can save up to 30% off stays at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort. Disney World guests can save up to 25% on rooms for stays most nights from February 23rd to April 30th, 2025. Get all of the info HERE. In 2025, Disney World guests can save up to 30% on certain rooms at Disney World hotels when you stay 5 consecutive nights or longer. Staying less than 5 nights? There are other savings available for shorter stays! This offer is valid for most nights from May 1st to September 30th, 2025, and you can find complete information here. Check out more Disney Deals and Discounts As you can see, there are some SWEET deals out there right now! We’ll be sure to keep you updated on all the latest deals, so sign up for our newsletter below to have the news delivered straight to your inbox. In the meantime, we’re always on the lookout for the latest Disney news, so stay tuned for more. REVIEW: We Found Table Service Quality at Quick Service Prices at This Disney World Hotel Restaurant 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 planning a trip to Disney World this year? Let us know in the comments! The post BREAKING: Kids Eat FREE At Disney World in 2026 first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

These Disney restaurants are getting a makeover for 2025! Hi Mickey! It may look pretty different the next time you dine at a Disney resort! We’re looking at restaurants at BOTH Disney World and the Disneyland Resort that are going through changes — both significant and minor. We’ll be zeroing in on restaurants that have just opened or reopened, will be closing for refurbishment, or will be sadly closing permanently, so buckle up and check out these 14 restaurants that are changing in 2025! These restaurants are all changing to varying degrees, but we’ll let you know what to expect and when to expect it. So, without further ado, let’s jump right in! Disney World Pirates of the Caribbean Tavern — Magic Kingdom The new Pirates of the Caribbean Tavern in Adventureland is an upcoming lounge set to open later in 2025. ©Disney Disney is teasing that the lounge will offer a “first-of-its-kind experience [that] will extend the story of Pirates of the Caribbean.” Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano — Disney’s Hollywood Studios Disney’s Hollywood Studios is making way for a new Monsters, Inc. Land and putting it where the current Muppets Courtyard is located. With that comes some inevitable closures. Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano in the Grand Avenue section of the park is closing permanently on May 11th, 2025, with the last days to experience the restaurant on May 10th. PizzaRizzo — Disney’s Hollywood Studios PizzaRizzo in Muppets Courtyard will also be a Monsters, Inc. Land casualty, as it is set to close permanently, as well, to make way for the new land. PizzaRizzo You can visit for the final time on June 7th, 2025, as it is set to close forever the very next day on June 8th. GEO-82 Lounge — EPCOT Spaceship Earth is getting its own lounge in EPCOT and we can’t wait! ©Disney Located behind the attraction, GEO-82 “is a nostalgic nod to Spaceship Earth—which opened in 1982. At GEO-82, you’ll be immersed in the storied history and enduring legacy of this timeless EPCOT icon,” per Disney. This adults-only lounge will serve “global flavors” in classic cocktails and small plates and is set to open in the late spring. Cake Bake Shop — Disney’s BoardWalk Inn Already opened at the BoardWalk, The Cake Bake Shop and Bakery are still fairly new additions to Disney World, and have made waves due to their fancy quality (and high prices). The Cake Bake Shop The Cake Bake Shop restaurant by Gwendolyn Rogers serves sweet and savory menus for breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a table service setting. Hurricane Hanna’s Waterside Bar & Grill — Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts are getting a lengthy pool refurbishment with Stormalong Bay’s closure in 2025, which means a poolside bar will also be closed. Hurricane Hanna’s Hurricane Hanna’s Waterside Bar & Grill will be closed from January 2025 through June 2025 for routine maintenance, but the nearby Beaches & Cream Soda Shop will remain open. Sebastian’s Bistro — Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort Sebastian’s Bistro is a popular all-you-can-enjoy restaurant at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort that recently underwent a minor refurbishment. Sebastian’s Bistro After a week-long closure in March, the restaurant reopened with updated floors. Everything Pop Shopping and Dining — Disney’s Pop Century Resort Disney’s Pop Century Resort was frustrating for the longest time because its food court — Everything Pop Shopping and Dining — was closed for the longest time after delays. Everything POP! After an 8-month closure, the food court FINALLY reopened in April 2025 with a brand-new window that offers coffee, cocktails, ice cream treats, and more! Whispering Canyon Cafe — Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Routine maintenance is common for rides and restaurants alike, and this restaurant at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge is no exception. Whispering Canyon Whispering Canyon Cafe is a rowdy family restaurant offering plenty of fun, jokes, all-you-care-to-enjoy skillets, and Western fare. Unfortunately, it will experience a brief refurbishment from May 12th through May 21st, 2025. Disneyland Resort Jolly Holiday Bakery — Disneyland Park Disneyland had a longtime fan-favorite restaurant down for the count for quite some time, but it’s reopened with some changes! Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe The Jolly Holiday Bakery reopened on March 22nd, 2025 after a lengthy refurbishment with some tasty new menu offerings! Hungry Bear Barbecue Jamboree — Disneyland Park Staying at Disneyland Park, the Hungry Bear Restaurant got a makeover in 2024 and now has a new theme and menu! Hungry Bear Barbecue Jamboree Now themed after the Country Bears and renamed Hungry Bear Barbecue Jamboree, this popular restaurant serves delicious barbecue cuisine — a big improvement over its previous standard theme park fare — in a throwback setting. Napa Rose — Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa One of the most upscale restaurants at Disneyland, Napa Rose at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa is undergoing a lengthy remodel in 2025. Napa Rose This iconic restaurant will be closed until the fall of 2025. When it reopens, it “will have a rustic elegance and will be a tapestry of California’s storied history of wine and winemaking, using natural textures such as reclaimed French oak flooring and columns (a type of wood used to make wine barrels), hand-pinged artisan metals, leathers, deep colors of cabernet, and an eye-catching chandelier inspired by California’s Mission grapevines,” per Disney. ©Disney We’re constantly keeping up with all the latest Disney dining updates, so stay tuned right here at the Disney Food Blog to stay in the know! Disney’s Iconic Napa Rose Restaurant Announces Multi-Month CLOSURE 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 any of these restaurant closures affect your next Disney trip? Let us know in the comments! The post 11 Disney Restaurants Will Have ALL NEW Looks in 2025 first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Eat, Stay, and Play in 2026 Walt Disney World vacation bookings for 2026 will become available starting April 22. As a special offering for 2026, guests staying at a Disney Resort hotel will get a free dining plan for their kids (ages 3-9) when purchasing a dining plan with their package for others in their party (ages 10 and up). Disney Resort hotel guests may continue to enjoy early theme park entry, complimentary transportation, free parking, early access to dining reservations, and other perks. Looking ahead to everything you can do with your family during a Walt Disney World vacation next year? Well, you’re in luck, because beginning April 22, guests can start booking their 2026 vacations to Disney World with plenty of convenient and flexible options to choose from. It’s never too early to start thinking about your next trip, and 2026 is going to be a fantastic year to visit — especially for kids! How to Get Free Disney World Dining Plan for Kids (Ages 3-9) in 2026  Throughout all of 2026, guests staying at one of our more than 25 Disney Resort hotels will get a free dining plan for their kids (ages 3 to 9) when purchasing a dining plan as part of their package for the other members of their party (ages 10 and up). Dining plans can help you maximize your stay with added peace of mind, letting you enjoy some of the many dining locations we offer from meals to snacks and kid-friendly favorites.  The kids free dining plan offering can be combined with other select special offers, meaning you may still be eligible to take advantage of other deals we later roll out for 2026. 2026 Disney World Resort Perks  There’s nothing like a visit to Disney World. With so many attractions, entertainment offerings, dining, shopping and more across our four theme parks and beyond, staying at a Disney Resort hotel means being right inside the magic. With everything we offer, Walt Disney World remains the place to be for an ultimate multi-day vacation, a special occasion, or a day full of rides, food, and fun.  Get More Time at the Theme Parks  Continuing through 2026, Disney Resort hotel guests can enjoy more time in our theme parks with 30 minutes of early theme park entry every day, at every park.* That means getting a head start in the parks to check out some of your favorite attractions. Guests of our Disney Deluxe Resorts or Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts will also continue to have access to extended evening hours at select theme parks on certain days.   *Valid theme park admission required for entry.  Enjoy Free Transportation, Parking, and More  Disney Resort hotel guests continue to get access to other offerings and special perks that make vacation planning easier. Complimentary theme park transportation via monorail, boat, bus, and Disney Skyliner   Free standard parking at hotels, theme parks, and water parks   Early access to dining reservations and Lightning Lane for your entire stay, as well as advanced access to purchase tickets to select special events.   Coming back in summer 2026, Disney Resort hotel guests can get free water park admission on their check-in day (subject to availability). Additional details, including specific dates, will be shared at a later time.   Get Even More Magic at Your Disney Resort  Whether you’re taking a day off from the theme parks or simply want to relax at your hotel, there’s no shortage of activities all from the convenience of your hotel.   Guests can enjoy resort activities, themed pools, character dining, and surprise character visits. When you stay at a Disney Resort hotel, you’re staying as close as you can to the magic with everything you need. That includes the outstanding guest service and hospitality provided by our cast members. You can book your 2026 Disney World vacation starting April 22 for travel dates through October 2026. Please note that bookings for November and December 2026 will become available at a later date. Want to visit sooner? There are special offers available now for 2025 Disney Resort hotel stays and theme park tickets, including ways to save and enjoy limited-time fun this summer!   The post Free Disney World Dining Plan Offering for Kids Coming in 2026 appeared first on Disney Parks Blog. View the full article

We are huge fans of Epic Universe, and it hasn’t even officially opened yet! Portal Entrance to Super Nintendo World Universal’s newest theme park officially opens on May 22nd, 2025, but we have gotten to head inside a few times thanks to previews for Cast Members and Annual Passholders. Now, after exploring the theme park a few times, we have a bit of a chaotic take on Super Nintendo World. See what you need to be aware of before heading into the video game world! We are in awe of Epic Universe! There is so much to see, do, and eat at Universal’s newest theme park. One thing we weren’t prepared for? How chaotic Super Nintendo World can be! SUPER NINTENDO WORLD This world takes you into your favorite videos like Mario Kart and Donkey Kong Country! We have really enjoyed the attractions, and we were pumped to meet characters like Mario, Luigi, and Princess Peach. This is, unfortunately, where things got a little wonky. Mario and Luigi! If we’re being really transparent, Super Nintendo World is overstimulating! Meeting the characters felt a bit intimidating for us, and the entire process felt more hectic than we’re used to. Compared to Disney character meet and greets, they cut off the line very early into the meet and greet time. They were still organized but there were a ton of Team Members trying to get the process to run as smoothly and quickly as possible. In short, it was chaotic. Princess Peach! It almost felt like we were meeting real celebrities (Mario and Luigi are real celebrities, but you know what we mean)! The entire meet and greet seemed like there were maybe too many cooks in the kitchen, making it overwhelming and quick. In addition to meeting Princess Peach and the plumber brothers, you can also spot Toad and Donkey Kong in the land. Donkey Kong Country We still really enjoyed this land in the new park, but it’s definitely something to be aware of! Because the park is still in previews, the way they handle character meet and greets could change once the park officially opens. If planning sounds overwhelming, too, let someone else do it for you! Small World Vacations is our long-time trusted travel partner, and for good reason! They take the stress out of planning, letting you enjoy your vacation even more! Best of all? They’re free of charge! Super Nintendo isn’t the only land where characters are going to see some long lines! You can also find characters in Dark Universe, Isle of Berk, and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Toothless and Hiccup! We can’t wait to see what the crowds, lines, and wait times will look like once the park officially opens on May 22nd. As always, be sure to keep following DFB for more Universal news and updates. Read More About Universal’s Epic Universe Read more: DFB's complete guide to Universal’s Epic Universe >> What land are you most excited to see in Epic Universe? Tell us in the comments! The post "It Was Over Stimulating!" The One Thing You NEED To Know Before Going To Super Nintendo World first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

The Walt Disney Company is constantly changing! ©The Walt Disney Company There are theme park changes, new Disney Cruise Ships, and more. It’s a lot to keep up with, so we’re doing our weekly news round-up so you can find all of the biggest changes in one place. Let’s dive into this week’s updates! There is so much happening in the world of the Disney company, with most of this week’s changes happening in Disney World! Before we head to the theme parks, we’re going out to sea with major updates from Disney’s newest cruise ship, The Disney Destiny. ©Disney This week, we got a major preview of the Disney Destiny, and we’re honestly still recovering from all of the new info! Disney showed up the new merchandise coming to the ship, including new Spirit Jerseys, Minnie Ears, Loungefly backpacks, pins, Pandora charms, and so, so much more. New Disney Destiny merch! We also got to try a few bites and sips heading to the new ship, including items from Pride Lands: Fest of the Lion King, De Vil’s Piano Lounge, and The Sanctum. We were definitely wowed by the bites we checked out, but you can see all of our thoughts here! The preview for De Vil’s! We also got to see more about the brand new Disney Hercules musical headed to the ship. The concept art and the singing left us speechless and even more excited for the new show than we were already! ©Disney Not only did we get to learn more about the Broadway-style musical, but we also found out that “Shooting Star” will be making its theatrical debut! Alan Menken and David Zippel originally wrote the song for the movie, but it didn’t make it into the final cut. We even got to check out the artwork that guests will find in their staterooms, inspired by Fantasia, Mulan, Brave, and Hercules. ©Disney There was so much to see and do during this preview! We can’t wait to see more of this ship once it sets sail in November 20th, 2025. 3 Surprising Takeaways From Our First Look at Disney’s New Cruise Ship Over in Disney World, we got another sneak peek at the brand new Villains show coming to Hollywood Studios! The new show is called Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After and features Captain Hook, Maleficent, and Cruella de Vil as the main baddies. ©Disney During this week’s sneak peek, we got to hear a bit of a brand-new song that was written for the show, and we couldn’t be more excited! Disney also gave us a behind-the-scenes look at how the song was created. During the video they released, it was also revealed that the Magic Mirror will even have its own song during the show. You can see the full behind-the-scenes video here! The show opens on May 27th, 2025. We can’t wait to see which villain will convince us that they were truly treated the most unfairly of all! See more about the new show here! Finally, we’re ending on a bit of a bittersweet note because Jellyrolls has officially closed its doors. The famous Dueling Piano Bar was located at Disney’s Boardwalk Inn and Resort for 30 years before it closed on April 19th, 2025. Jellyrolls The bar hosted a final farewell on its last night, where all current Jellyrolls players performed throughout the night! We are super sad to see this incredible late-night spot close however, they have hinted that this closure isn’t permanent. According to an Instagram post, the bar stated that it will be “making a move,” which means it might reopen outside of Disney World. Jellyrolls We are so sad to see such a staple gone, but can’t wait to see if it reopens somewhere nearby! Read More About Jellyrolls Here So there you have it! The big three of the week. Be sure to keep following DFB for more Disney news and updates! The post Disney Made 3 Game-Changing Announcements This Week first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article