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Superheroic, with a side of schlock Marvel's 'Guardians' adds a little more snark to the studio's collection Like the '70s cassette mix tape so dear to its hero, "Guardians of the Galaxy" scavenges all sorts of "greatest hits" precedents, from "Iron Man" on down, to come up with its own summertime fling. It's looser, scruffier and more overtly comic than the average Marvel action fantasy. And despite the usual load of violence, not all of it properly handled, the film owes its relative buoyancy above all to Chris Pratt as the wisecracking space rogue at the helm. View the full article

The Disney chefs love to tinker in the kitchen, and especially enjoy creating new tastes for guests with allergies. One of our favorite new tastes is the gluten-free naan bread at Sanaa at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge—you won’t find it on the menu, but when guests with gluten allergies ask to speak to the chef, it’s one of the options for Indian-style bread service (for those fabulous chutneys and sauces), open-faced naan sandwiches at lunch and the kid’s meal cheese pizza. “Chef Jonathan Dove has a great passion for creating items to accommodate special diet needs, as his wife has a gluten allergy,” says Chef David Njorge. Creating a gluten-free naan became a priority, and Chef Jonathan worked with Chef Amanda Lauder to come up with their delicious version of the classic Indian flatbread. “As culinary cast members, we leave our legacy daily in the way we interact with our guests and our fellow cast members, go above and beyond, and sprinkle pixie dust,” says Chef David. A couple more new gluten-free menu items we’ve recently discovered: the angel food cake with seasonal fruit compote at Captain’s Grille at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort (which is always on the menu, not a special order), and the hot beignets at Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory at Disney’s Port Orleans French Quarter Resort. At Sassagoula they fry the beignets separately, so it’s a rare opportunity for guests with celiac disease or gluten allergies to have those hot, fresh little squares of fried dough. And if you’re too far away for a hot order from Disney’s Port Orleans Resort, here’s the recipe so you can try at home. Gluten-Free Beignets Makes 20 beignets Ingredients 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons warm water (100°F)1 1/2 teaspoons dry active yeast 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons apple juice1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce3 tablespoons sugar2 1/2 teaspoons powdered gluten-free egg replacer1/4 teaspoon salt1/2 teaspoon canola oilPinch ground cinnamon1 pound gluten-free pizza crust mixConfectioners’ sugar for finishingFor the beignets Combine warm water and yeast in a small bowl; set aside 5 minutes.Combine apple juice, applesauce, sugar, egg replacer, salt, oil, and cinnamon in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Mix until well combined.Add pizza crust mix, 1/4 cup at a time, until soft dough forms (you will not use all of mix). Turn dough out onto a work surface dusted with remaining pizza crust mix. Knead until dough is no longer sticky but still soft.Roll dough to 1/4-inch thickness, and cut into 2×3-inch pieces. Set aside at room temperature for 20 minutes.Pour enough oil into a deep-sided pot until it reaches 2 inches up sides; heat oil over medium heat to 350°F.Lightly press beignets to flatten slightly.Add a few beignets to oil; fry until golden brown on both sides, turning once.Remove from hot oil with a slotted spoon and place on a baking sheet lined with paper towels.Dust with a generous amount of confectioners’ sugar before serving.Chefs Add More Gluten-Free Goodies to Walt Disney World Menus by Pam Brandon: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Disney's Vero Beach Resort hosts the Sea Turtle Conservancy's annual “Tour de Turtles” event which allows sea turtle fans to follow the marathon migration of 12 sea turtles. Want to visit...From:Disney ParksViews:11124ratingsTime:03:43More inTravel & Events

This past weekend, Disney’s Vero Beach Resort hosted the Sea Turtle Conservancy’s annual “Tour de Turtles” event which allows sea turtle fans to follow the marathon migration of 12 sea turtles from their nesting beaches to their foraging grounds. This year, Olaf’s summer dream in the Academy Award winning Disney Animation Studios film “Frozen” inspired us to feature him in our event and name the turtles after his friends Anna and Elsa. The morning began as each loggerhead sea turtle was outfitted with a satellite transmitter. Now that the females have finished nesting for the season, it is time for them to head to their foraging grounds so that they can begin feasting on those tasty crustaceans. The transmitters allow us to track the path to Anna and Elsa’s favorite foraging grounds. As the “turtle safe” adhesive dried, guests had the opportunity to participate in various activities as they learned more about sea turtles and earned stamps for completed activities in their nature journal. Guests watched as Disney’s Animal Programs cast members conducted a nest inventory and counted the number of eggs in a recently hatched sea turtle nest; discovered ways they can help hatchlings including knocking down sand castles after they leave the beach, and realized how difficult it could be for a sea turtle to free itself if tangled in plastic debris. Each sea turtle involved in “Tour de Turtles” acts as an ambassador to raise awareness about a specific threat to sea turtles. Sea turtle ‘Anna’ (sponsored by Disney’s Animal Programs and Disney’s Vero Beach Resort) is swimming to raise awareness about light pollution. Many don’t realize that bright beachfront lighting from buildings and flashlights from people walking on the beach can deter nesting turtles, draw hatchlings inland and prevent them from safely reaching the ocean. It’s important to close your curtains to prevent light from shining on the beach or using sea turtle-friendly fixtures that shield the light from the beach and never use a flashlight during sea turtle nesting season at night! Sea turtle ‘Elsa’ (sponsored by the Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund) is focused on the troubling amount of plastic debris in oceans around the world. The debris breaks into small pieces that are eaten by sea turtles and other marine wildlife, which causes the animals severe digestive troubles. Over the years, the consumption of this plastic debris has caused the deaths of over 100 million marine animals and floating marine debris can also lead to turtles becoming entangled in plastic, fishing line, nets and more. You can help by picking up litter, purchasing reusable grocery bags, recycling, and not releasing balloons. Youth from the local Boys & Girls Club learned all about how scientists develop tracking devices to monitor sea turtle migration pattern in the ocean and had a front row seat to watch Anna and Elsa’s return to the ocean. Everyone wished Anna and Elsa well on their ocean journey and we look forward to their return when they are ready to lay more eggs in two years. Check out the gallery below for more photos from the event! GalleryWildlife Wednesday: On Your Mark, Get Set… Let Them Go! – Sea Turtles Set Off On Migratory Journey view allYou can cheer on Anna, Elsa and other turtles that are part of Tour de Turtles by logging on to http://www.tourdeturtles.org/. You can track the migration paths of 4 species of sea turtles and learn more about sea turtle conservation. For more from the “Wildlife Wednesday” series, check out the posts below: Wildlife Wednesday: It’s Lovely Weather To Book A Sleigh Ride Together With You at Walt Disney World! Wildlife Wednesday: The Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund Is Helping Preserve Hisssss-tory Wildlife Wednesday: When You Think of Elephants at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. . . Think Big! Wildlife Wednesday: Get Outside This Weekend by Participating in the Great American Backyard CampoutWildlife Wednesday: On Your Mark, Get Set… Let Them Go! – Sea Turtles Set Off On Migratory Journey by Anne Savage, Ph.D.: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

A national search is under way for the cutest video celebrating the Disney Side of pets – and I know Disney Parks Blog readers are up for the challenge. The popular Animal Planet America’s Cutest TV show is producing a special Disney Side edition for a Howl-O-Ween Pet-acular that’ll air later this year and they want to hear from you. Whether you dress your dog as a jungle cruise skipper or build a hamster-sized Splash Mountain, your pet could become bigger than the Astro Orbiter by appearing in Animal Planet’s Howl-O-Ween Pet-acular. It’s easy to share your pet’s Disney Side video. Just visit the Animal Planet entry page and add your clip. Here are a few tips: Hold your camera or phone horizontally instead of vertically.Film in the highest resolution possible and please don’t compress.No music, radio or TV in the background.Please include the pets face in the clip.After you’ve shared your video, watch America’s Cutest: The Disney Side Edition in October to find out if your pet’s Disney Side is one of America’s cutest. Also, let us know about your pet’s Disney Side in the comments. Show Your Pet’s Disney Side on Animal Planet’s ‘America’s Cutest’ by Thomas Smith: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Located in the heart of Orlando, FL Hilton Orlando is an ideal retreat for families, friends and couples. ‘Staycationers’ seeking an upscale resort vacation will appreciate the close proximity to Orlando’s main attractions: SeaWorld®, Universal Orlando® Resort, Walt Disney World® Resort, and International Drive. View the full article

Join us in welcoming back Guest Author Paul Kuconis! His latest review features dinner at The Wave… of American Flavors located at the Contemporary Resort in Walt Disney World. Learn About: The Wave…of American FlavorsDisney World RestaurantsWhen I think of Contemporary Resort-based restaurants, California Grill and Chef Mickey’s immediately come to mind. It’s hard to miss the glass dome sitting atop the Resort — ‘Oooh, there’s California Grill!’; and Chef Mickey is always in sight from the monorail. But there is a hidden gem neatly tucked away — The Wave…of American Flavors — and entering through the front door makes it easy to miss. We always arrive by boat from Disney’s Wilderness Lodge so we walk by it often. Well, we finally decided to stop ‘passing by’ and made reservations during our last visit. AtmosphereThe first thing I saw was a video marquee highlighting the culinary options presented inside. To me this presentation is very much in keeping with the ‘contemporary’ theme of the resort. OK, now I know what they serve, so let’s head inside. Video Marquee The entrance is rather neat. First, it establishes the stainless steel theme I noticed throughout my meal, and the tunnel takes me to a different place — that of sustainable and locally-sourced ingredients. Entrance to The Wave As we approached the reception desk, I noticed the earth tones in keeping with the sustainable theme. Also, the wall partition presents the wave theme. Reception Desk We had nice wall art to look at while we waited for our table. A very contemporary rendition, in keeping with the resort. Wall Art Even the ceiling features carry the wave theme with contemporary light fixtures. It all works well together as the earth tones carry throughout the restaurant. The Wave Themed Ceiling A nice touch, and a very subtle one, is the wave embroidered on the linen napkin. Themed Linen Napkin EatsAfter we sat down and perused the wine list, we decided on a bottle of Bonterra Chardonnay 2012. I enjoy a nice chardonnay and this wine fits the bill. It’s from Mendocino, one of California’s better known wine regions with predominant vineyard acreage in chardonnay. Bonterra Chardonnay 2012 A very nice wine. An initial impression of rich, buttery cream quickly turns to aromas of honey and lightly toasted almonds, followed by tropical aromas of pineapple, citrusy lemon and crème brulee. The wine is refreshing on the palate, with a minerality that is both bright and clean, drawing you into a vibrant tartness and lemon zest. Although that description sounds very complex, it’s not. Bottom line for me is, does it have a nice flavor? And yes, this one does! Notice the stainless steel wine cooler. A Nice Pour After we ordered we were served bread and butter — Multi grain bread with ground flax seeds and butter with Hawaiian sea salt. (Notice the stainless steel bread bowl.) The bread was nice and fresh and the butter was just soft enough to spread easily and allowed the salt to mix in giving each bite a nice crunch. The ground flax seeds provided a visual balance to the sea salt atop the butter. Nicely done! Bread and Butter I always look for menu offerings that I haven’t had before. The Sustainable Fish Taco fit the bill. To me, it also fit the theme of the restaurant, sustainable and locally sourced. I’ll try that! Sustainable Fish Taco Menu Item Oooh! Very nicely plated with a stainless steel taco tray! The fish used were Snapper and Swordfish and fit nicely with the Apple-Jicama slaw and a mild white sauce drizzle, topped with micro greens. The apples used were Pink Lady (a trademark and the variety is more correctly known as Cripps Pink). Cripps Pink apples are a cross between the Australian Lady Williams and the Golden Delicious. At any rate, this variety was new to me and had a very nice flavor and texture. The slaw and sauce complemented the mildness of the fish and made for a nice bite. Providing a contrast in textures; the crunch of the apple and jicama worked well against the smoothness of the fish. Sustainable Fish Taco Appetizer Yuzu Gelato was served providing a palette cleanser and a nice finisher. Yuzu a citrus fruit, originates in East Asia and looks like a very small grapefruit. The yuzu’s flavor is tart, closely resembling that of a grapefruit with hints of mandarin orange. A very nice way to end an awesome appetizer! OK, how can my entrée top my appetizer? A tough task indeed. I settled on the Dry-Rubbed Flat Iron Steak, medium rare. Flat iron steak, which comes from the shoulder of the steer, has a deep rich flavor and similar to (and substitutable with) skirt or flank steak. It is also known as a top blade steak. (I also wanted to experience the locally-sourced vegetables.) Dry-Rubbed Flat Iron Steak Menu Item Nicely plated! (As usual with most dishes prepared at Disney restaurants!) Dry-Rubbed Flat Iron Steak Perfectly grilled! Just look at the color and the juices. The dry rub had a nice hint of pepper. Not too much to overpower the steak, but enough to bring out the flavor. The citrus aioli with its tang added a nice complement to this cut of meat. The aioli also worked well with the frisee and strawberries — a nice mix of sweet, texture, and tang. The strawberries were unbelievably fresh and ripe and melted in my mouth. The potato leek gratin was extremely good. Grilled to My Specifications We decided on the Creamy Flight dessert sampler. With three desserts in one, how can you go wrong?! Creamy Flight Dessert Menu Item Left to right: Sticky Toffee Cheesecake with Butterscotch Sauce topped with Heath Bar crunchies; Lemon Crème Brulee with a Lemon-scented Biscotti; and Chocolate Truffle Mousse dusted with cocoa powder and topped with gold leaf. Notice the stainless steel plate; a nice theme carried from bread to dessert. Desserts Each dessert item was awesome. And rich. The contrasts in taste texture and visual appearance (plating) made this dessert a nice cap to a fine night out. OverallIn closing, do not let this restaurant go untried. Seek it out and enjoy! I did. Have you stopped by The Wave for a meal? Let us know your favorite dish! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com!Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our NewsletterFollow us on TwitterBecome a Facebook Fan Related posts: Review: Breakfast at The Wave… of American Flavors in Disney World’s Contemporary ResortReview: The Wave at Disney’s Contemporary ResortReview: New Breakfast Buffet at The Wave in Disney’s Contemporary Resort View the full article

Greetings from Circle D Ranch at the Disneyland Resort. Let’s meet two more of the lucky horses that live here. This is Finn. Finn is a Brabant draft horse. He’s 11 years old, weighs 1,590 lbs and stands 17.2 hands tall. Finn came to the Disneyland Resort from Oakley, Calif., and took to his new life here, as they say, “like a duck to water.” In the relatively short time Finn has been a part of the Circle D team, he has pulled the Horse Drawn Streetcar on Main Street, U.S.A., pulled the carriage for the Disney Villains at Mickey’s Halloween Party, and was the star of the Happy Lunar New Year Celebration this January for The Year of the Horse. Finn is a very calm horse, and he loves attention. This is Bug. Bug is also a Brabant draft horse. He’s 10 years old, weighs 1,555 lbs and stands 17 hands. Bug also came to Circle D from Oakley, Calif. In fact, Bug and Finn were a show team before they came to the Disneyland Resort. Although they look as if they could be brothers, Bug is shorter and bulkier than Finn. And despite being one of Circle D’s smallest horses, Bug easily outweighs many of the horses that are taller than him, because he is so muscular. You can find Bug at the Big Thunder Ranch petting farm. Look to see if he’s there the next time you’re at Disneyland park! Meet the Horses of the Disneyland Resort: Finn and Bug by Donna Fisk: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Guests of Aulani, Disney Vacation Club’s Hawaii resort, will now enjoy a little taste of the parks as they bask paradise! In a move that only seems logical, Aulani is now offering Dole Whip! Dole Whip in Now Available Self-Serve at The Lava Shack in Aulani! The cult favorite is available at The Lava Shack in Aulani. The poolside shop is your spot to stock up on beach and pool gear, but they also offer a selection of snacks, beverages, and frozen treats. This is also a great stop for grabbing a soda in your refillable souvenir mug. The Dole Whips at Aulani will be self-serve, similar to the set up that used to be at Captain Cook’s (you know…back when they weren’t under renovation) — perfect for seeing how tall you can make it! Guests can choose from Pineapple, Vanilla, or Pineapple-Vanilla Swirl. Whether you find yourself in Walt Disney World, Disneyland, or Aulani, there’s always someplace to grab your favorite pineapple soft serve! Will you be enjoying Dole Whip by the pool at Aulani anytime soon? Leave a comment and tell us about it! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com!Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our NewsletterFollow us on TwitterBecome a Facebook Fan Related posts: Snacks Series: Dole WhipNews! Dole Whip Arriving at Disney’s Animal KingdomNews! Souvenir Tiki Dole Whip Cups Available to Celebrate Disneyland’s 59th Birthday View the full article

Yes, it’s a little warm to crank up the oven, but in honor of National Lasagna Day, we’re proposing that you do just that and make a generous pan of this lasagna Bolognese from the chefs at the new Trattoria al Forno opening this fall at Disney’s BoardWalk. The leftovers are delish. “Trattoria al Forno is true Italian cooking,” says Chef Lenny DeGeorge, executive chef, Concept Development, Walt Disney Parks & Resorts. “We’ve challenged ourselves to come up with authentic recipes that will wow our guests – this restaurant is the next chapter in Disney dining.” It’s the attention to quality and detail that sets Trattoria al forno apart, says Chef Lenny. “We’ve got an authentic prosciutto slicer, we’re making cavatelli pasta in-house, pickling peppers, making mozzarella, and serving spectacular pizza pies,” he says. One of his favorite menu items is the charcuterie, with special cured meats such as hard salami with fennel pollen. DeGeorge grew up in an American-Italian family, but says it was a trip to Italy that forever changed his thoughts on cooking Italian. “Italian food isn’t about lots of ingredients, less is more,” says Chef Lenny. “True marinara is simply the best tomatoes, garlic, olive oil and time, lots of cooking time.” This is the recipe at Trattoria al forno, and they add a little house-made chicken stock to fortify the meat dishes. “I think Italians will approve,” says Chef Lenny. His lasagna recipe, below, is “moist, rich, and nothing like the Americanized version most of us grew up eating,” says Chef Lenny. Trattoria’s signature dishes like pasta carbonara will be made with fresh eggs, Romano cheese and guanciale (salt-cured pork cheeks), not the Americanized version with bacon, cream and peas. The chicken Parmesan is pounded paper thin, breaded and deep fried, with a side of long, flat ribbons of fresh tagliatelli pasta. “We’re paying more attention to our guests’ refined palates,” he says. Lasagna Bolognese from Trattoria al Forno at Disney’s BoardWalk Serves 8 to 10 Turkey Bolognese 1 tablespoon olive oil1 pound ground turkey1/2 cup diced onion6 cloves garlic, minced1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes1/4 cup tomato paste1 cup water1 tablespoon sugar1/4 teaspoon dried oregano1/4 teaspoon dried basil1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepperCoarse salt and freshly ground black pepper, to tasteAlfredo Sauce 1 1/2 quarts half and half6 cloves garlic, minced12 tablespoons water6 tablespoons cornstarch1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons Parmesan1 teaspoon coarse salt1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepperRicotta Filling 1 (32-ounce) container whole-milk ricotta1/4 cup shredded Parmesan3 eggs1 teaspoon coarse salt1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepperLasagna 1 box no-boil lasagna noodles2 cups shredded whole-milk mozzarella, divided 1 cup shredded Parmesan, dividedFor turkey Bolognese: Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add turkey, onion, and garlic and sauté, breaking up turkey, until turkey is cooked through.Drain any grease from pan and add crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Use water to rinse tomato can and add to pan, stirring well. Add sugar, oregano, basil and crushed red pepper, stirring well. Season to taste with salt and pepper.Simmer 30 minutes, covered, stirring often.For Alfredo sauce: Combine half and half and garlic in a large saucepan over high heat; bring to a boil. Dissolve cornstarch in water; whisk cornstarch mixture into boiling half-and-half, whisking constantly.Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer mixture 3 minutes, whisking frequently. Stir in Parmesan, salt, and pepper. For ricotta filling: Combine ricotta, Parmesan, eggs, salt, and pepper in a large bowl; stir until well combined.For lasagna: Preheat oven to 350°F.Ladle half of Alfredo sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch glass-baking dish. Top with 3 lasagna sheets. (Pasta will expand to cover filling.)Ladle half of turkey Bolognese on top. Top with 3 lasagna sheets. Gently spread half of ricotta filling over lasagna sheets and top with 1 cup shredded mozzarella. Top with 3 lasagna sheets.Top with remaining Bolognese and 3 more lasagna sheets. Spread with remaining ricotta mixture and top with 1 cup shredded mozzarella.Top with 3 lasagna sheets, remaining Alfredo sauce, and shredded Parmesan.Wrap pan tightly with a double layer of aluminum foil. Bake 1 hour, 15 minutes. Remove foil and bake 15 minutes more. Let rest at least 15 minutes before slicing.Click here to download our keepsake recipe card. A Perfect Recipe for National Lasagna Day July 29 by Pam Brandon: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Last month, I told you about the new clown duo that recently joined the cast of “La Nouba by Cirque du Soleil.” I hinted that something “behind-the-scenes and amazing” was coming. Today, I have more to share and I’m certain that the experience of “L’Experience” will not disappoint! First, L’Experience guests will have reserved seats in the “front and center” area of the theater, with incredible views of the onstage action. Upon arrival, they’ll be greeted by their personal Cirque Usher who will escort them to their seats. Souvenir popcorn and soft drinks are included, along with a gift bag full of popular Cirque du Soleil merchandise. (If you want to purchase more after the show, you’ll also get a 10% discount coupon for The Cirque Boutique.) All the “things” are wonderful, but to me, the most exciting part of this experience is the behind-the-scenes access: Have you dreamed of standing on the Cirque stage, looking out into the theater like the performers do? I did it. And. It. Was. Awesome.Ever wonder what the backstage areas look like? The theater was purpose-built for “La Nouba,“ and for the first time, guests will get a look behind the curtain (literally). I had the chance to take part in L’Experience and I now have an entirely new appreciation for what it takes to bring the show to life.Amazed by the array of costumes? (Me, too!) Guests will get an inside peek at the La Nouba costuming department; it’s one of the first stops on the tour. I was dazzled by the miles of fabric and endless sparkle of sequins.Starstruck by the talented Cirque performers? Guests will have the chance to meet one of them and get a personal keepsake photo. (I got to pose with one of the show’s most colorful characters, Green Bird, and I can’t wait for other fans to have a similar experience!) I may be biased, but for a special night out L’Experience really is the ultimate way to see La Nouba; it’s offered on Friday and Saturday for the 6 p.m. show. The cost is $250 per person and capacity is limited to keep the tours small and intimate. Ready to book? Call the Disney Reservation Center at 407-939-7328. A VIP ‘La Nouba’ Experience Debuts with ‘L’Experience’ at Walt Disney World Resort by Darcy Clark: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

I’m a pretty big peanut butter and pretzel fan. So what happens when you combine those two ingredients with an apple at the Disneyland Resort? We wanted to find out, so we challenged our Disneyland Resort Candy Makers to come up with the perfect recipe and here’s what they have to share with us. A tart apple dipped in smooth caramel and enrobed with sweet milk chocolate, adorned with crunchy and salty pretzel pieces and drizzled with creamy peanut butter and sweet milk chocolate. The Peanut Butter and Pretzel gourmet apple can be found during the month of August at the following Disneyland Resort locations: Disneyland park – Candy PalaceDisney California Adventure park – Trolley TreatsDowntown Disney District – Marceline’s ConfectioneryWill you try it? Treat Yourself to the Pretzels and Peanut Butter Gourmet Apple at the Disneyland Resort by Michelle Harker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

A week after the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror at Disney's Hollywood Studios celebrated two decades of operation , today marks the 15th anniversary of the opening of another popular attraction at the park. View the full article

“Frozen” fun has gone nautical! If you sailed with us recently, you may have seen these two royal sisters for the first time in forever together on a Disney ship. Princess Anna and Queen Elsa kicked off their Royal Tour of our ships and are surprising Disney cruisers with special appearances on select seven-night or longer voyages. I had the chance to meet Anna and Elsa on the Disney Wonder in Alaska, where this photo was taken, and for a moment I felt as if I’d been transported to Arendelle! Of course we can’t forget about Olaf, who has been relaxing in the summer sun at Castaway Cay since last winter. I bet he’s looking gorgeously tanned by now! Anna and Elsa’s Royal Tour with Disney Cruise Line by Jonathan Frontado: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

We thought Disney Parks Blog readers would enjoy a little something special for the 15th anniversary of the popular Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster starring Aerosmith. So today, we asked Disney artist Mike Britton to create a special new mobile/desktop wallpaper especially for the occasion. Be sure to check out the terms of use about using the wallpaper before you download it. Also, check out our growing gallery of special wallpapers with images for all of your favorite screens. Download a Special Disney Parks Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Wallpaper by Thomas Smith: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Today we’re celebrating the anniversary of one of my favorite attractions – Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith. The attraction originally opened its doors at Disney’s Hollywood Studios on July 29, 1999. In case you haven’t experienced it yet, the attraction lets you tour G-Force Records, the music studio where Aerosmith is holding a recording session. When the band heads out to a show, they invite you to travel to the show in a super-stretch limo that speeds from 0-57 mph in just 2.8 seconds. Better yet – each limo is equipped with an audio system consisting of 125 speakers, 24 sub-woofers and more than 32k watts of audio amplifier output power and each car broadcasts different Aerosmith songs. In honor of today’s anniversary, here are 15 fun facts about the attraction: The attraction’s grand opening on July 29, 1999 featured a dedication ceremony with Aerosmith.The giant electric guitar that serves as the attraction’s icon measures 40 feet tall.There are more than 900 speakers throughout the attraction.The attraction’s track measures 3,403 feet.Elements of the attraction were manufactured as far away as Netherlands and Germany.Aerosmith band members Steven Tyler and Joe Perry took part in re-recordings for the attraction. The entire band appears in the attraction’s preshow film.The band’s manager who appears in the preshow was played by actress Illeana Douglas.The DJ who is “broadcasting live” from the Aerosmith concert is classic rock DJ Uncle Joe Benson.The look of the super-stretch limo was influenced by the 1962-era Cadillac.Each super-stretch limo can fit 24 passengers.Each guest is surrounded by five speakers – four around the head and one subwoofer under the seat.Each vehicle features a different Aerosmith song or medley. Tracks are: “Nine Lives”; “Sweet Emotion”; a “Back in the Saddle”/”Dude Looks Like a Lady” medley; a “Love in an Elevator”/”Walk This Way” medley; and a “Young Lust”/”F.I.N.E.”/”Love in an Elevator” medley.Guests experience a g-force between 4-5 entering the first inversion on the track.The attraction was the first coaster at Walt Disney World Resort to feature multiple inversions.Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster opened at Walt Disney Studios Park (Paris) in 2002. There, it’s called “Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster avec Aerosmith.” Which is your favorite song to take a ride to? Tell us in the “Comments” section below. Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith Turns 15 at Walt Disney World Resort by Jennifer Fickley-Baker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

We’re back with another installment in The Best Thing I Ever Ate in Disney series! Snacks are a big deal around here. Heck, we plan entire events and crawls around them! And it’s clear Disney thinks snacking is where it’s at, too. We’re seeing more and more small plates restaurants open. Spots like Tutto Gusto, Spice Road Table, and The Hollywood Brown Derby Lounge cater to the grazing crowd. Today, we’re talking about some of our favorite snacks that we enjoy nearly every time we visit Walt Disney World or Disneyland. Dig out your stretchy pants, or plan to do an extra lap on the treadmill, and let’s do this! Cheshire Cake CupWho doesn’t love a ginormous cupcake? You know I’m a big fan of these edible works of art. But at the end of the day, I pretty much see them as frosting delivery systems. So you can imagine my delight when I got wind of Cake Cups at Magic Kingdom’s Cheshire Cafe! Layers of alternating cake and frosting make a parfait-style dessert that’s hard to resist. Cheshire Cake Cup at Cheshire Cafe I know, I know. I talk about these a lot. But I figure if there’s something I NEVER miss when I’m at the Magic Kingdom, I should take every opportunity to suggest it so you don’t miss it either. Frosting!! Two new, equally gorgeous varieties have recently made an appearance — White Rabbit and Queen of Hearts versions! Expanding the cake cup line? We are ALL IN. White Chocolate Rabbit and Queen of Hearts Strawberry Shortcake Cake Cups These are the closest snacks I’ve found to them just giving me a bowl of frosting and a spoon, soooooo, yeah. Dole WhipNext up is one of my favorite Disney snacks of all time, the classic Dole Whip. Oh, sure, you have your cult classics. Your Turkey Legs. Your Mickey Bars. And they’re great. But if there’s one snack I must have every time I’m at either Disneyland (umbrellas and cherries!!!!) or Walt Disney World, it’s some variety of Dole Whip. This creamy pineapple-flavored soft serve made news here on Disney Food Blog for a different reason last year, when we brought you word not of what it is — but what it isn’t! Seems that our favorite Disney chilly treat is now Vegan, Dairy Free, and Gluten Free! Dole Whip Float at Disneyland’s Tiki Juice Bar — My Favorite! So if you’re looking to indulge in a creamy, delicious snack, but you have reasons to watch what you eat — this is a great option! I personally go for a Dole Whip Float with straight Dole Whip every. Single. Time. But others really prefer to temper the puckery goodness of pineapple with a hint of vanilla, and opt for the Vanilla Swirl. Dole Whip at Captain Cook’s And remember, you can skip the long lines at Magic Kingdom’s Aloha Isle in Walt Disney World by heading to the Polynesian Resort for your Dole Whip fix instead! Waffle SandwichIt’s a snack. No, it’s a meal. Well, I suppose it depends on how many people are fighting for a share, and how hungry you are. Magic Kingdom is home to another one of my favorite places to score great snacks — Sleepy Hollow Refreshments. This cute little building with a fun backstory serves up several treats that are big enough to count as a meal. But some of the brightest menu stars are the Waffle Sandwiches. And you have so many options spanning all the meals in a day! If you swing by here for breakfast (or lunch, or dinner), one of my favorites is the Nutella and Fresh Fruit Waffle Sandwich. It’s huge. And supa yum. Nutella and Fruit Waffle Sandwich If you happen to visit a little later in the day, you can still get the Nutella version, but your Waffle Sandwich options expand to include more savory choices. I can’t get enough of the Sweet and Spicy Chicken Waffle. Sweet and Spicy Chicken Waffle Sandwich at Sleepy Hollow But the Swiss, Ham, and Prosciutto version has lots of fans, too! Swiss Ham and Proscuitto Waffle Sandwich Either way, bring help to eat these, or plan to count it as a meal. They’re delicious — and filling. Carrot Cake CookieI try. Really. I try to spend a day in Disney’s Hollywood Studios and not succumb to the temptation of a Carrot Cake Cookie from Writer’s Stop and Sweet Spells. But it just isn’t gonna happen, guys. Because every so often you need a break from cupcakes, right? I mean, I guess. Yes. Definitely. Stopping by the little unassuming coffee shop back between Tatooine and the Streets of America is also a nice way to slow down and escape the crowds for just a bit. And while you’re at it, you may as well get a serving of veggies. (Because Carrot Cake Cookies totally count.) Carrot Cake Cookie And the spicy, cakey cookies are the perfect excuse for consuming that incredible cream cheese frosting. Peanut Butter SandwichDon’t you love when a snack has a name like it’s a real food, but then it turns out to be a spectacular sweet? The Peanut Butter Sandwich fits that bill. This is basically an open face Peanut Butter Graham Cracker Sandwich, smothered in Chocolate and drizzled in more Chocolate. In other words, it’s salty-sweet perfection. Peanut Butter Sandwich in Disneyland And that Peanut Butter Filling isn’t just PB right out of the jar — it’s that yummy, sugary sweet version that’s just this side of Peanut Butter Fudge. Inside the Fabled Peanut Butter Sandwich And did I mention the Chocolate? Sadly you won’t find this one in Disney World anymore; it’s a Disneyland exclusive these days. Pick yours up at Candy Palace to Trolley Treats (and sometimes Pooh Corner). Cheesecake on a StickWhen is Cheesecake a Popsicle? When you put a stick in it and serve it frozen, that’s when. Ok, so I totally get that you may not think that Frozen Cheesecake on a Stick from the Gelato Bars Kiosk in Disneyland’s Downtown Disney sounds all that great. I mean, will it be so hard you can’t eat it? Will it make a mess? Would it still taste as rich and completely awesome as the regular stuff? No. No. And Yes. Seriously — I only found this amazing treat a little while back, and it’s already a tried and true favorite! It’s surprisingly soft — owing to lots of amazing butterfat, no doubt! — and the flavor is incredible. Disneyland’s Frozen Cheesecake on a Stick! I don’t know what kind of magic they’ve got happening here, but it’s definitely produced a keeper! Nudel Gratin at SommerfestHere’s another snack that borders on a meal. But since it could sorta be considered a side dish, it’s makin’ the list. Just when we didn’t think that Disney could make another incredible version of Macaroni and Cheese, they went and proved us wrong with the Nudel Gratin at Epcot’s Sommerfest. The extra, over-the-top, super cheesy baked version appeared on the menu at this Germany Pavilion counter service stop a while back, and it’s quickly become one of our favorite all-time dishes! Nudel Gratin at Sommerfest It’s filling and at less than $4, it’s an incredible bargain, too! Wanna make at home? No problem. Here’s the recipe. There are so many truly incredible snacks at Disney, but that wraps up my list of the Best of the Best…for this installment.  The best part of Disney is that they keep introducing new classics. Can’t wait till Volume III! So let’s hear from you now — what’s the Best Thing YOU Ever Ate in Disney when it comes to snacks? Don’t be shy — sound off in comments below! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com!Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our NewsletterFollow us on TwitterBecome a Facebook Fan Related posts: “The Best Thing I Ever Ate in Disney!”: Snacks and Drinks“The Best Thing I Ever Ate at Disney!”: Desserts“The Best Thing I Ever Ate in Disney!”: Appetizers & Sides View the full article

This Summer, Disneyland Resort has been taking over Mondays with a mission to help our guests and fans get happier! This time, we surprised 1500 guests with an extra hour in DCA at Paradise...From:Disney ParksViews:30132ratingsTime:01:00More inTravel & Events

I’ve enjoyed hearing from guests who are just as excited as me for the new Haunted Mansion products coming this fall to Disney Parks. As it turns out, Madame Leota and the 999 happy haunts from the Haunted Mansion attraction have also received your sympathetic vibrations. This fall, they are gathering to open a new merchandise destination in Liberty Square at Magic Kingdom Park in Florida. The new merchandise shop will be located in the current Yankee Trader shop, which will have its last day of operation on July 27, 2014. Inspired by Madame Leota, the new location will carry select items from the upcoming Haunted Mansion Authentic program including apparel, home goods, souvenirs, and more. Final arrangements are still being made, so I invite you to keep watching the Disney Parks Blog in the coming months. I can’t wait to share additional details about this new destination for all things Haunted Mansion. For more on merchandise inspired by the Haunted Mansion at Disney Parks, visit the links below: The Art of Haunted Mansion 45th Anniversary Collectibles at the Disneyland ResortFirst Look at New Haunted Mansion Merchandise Appearing This Fall at Disney ParksNew Haunted Mansion Merchandise Materializing This Fall at Disney ParksHaunted Mansion-Themed Merchandise Shop Opening This Fall in Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort by Steven Miller: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Today, we are back with another fun and wacky trip through Mitsukoshi Department Store in the Japan Pavilion of Epcot’s World Showcase. Mitsukoshi Department Store Seriously, I haven’t been to the actual country of Japan. (Yet.) But if the department stores there are half as awesome as Mitsukoshi is, then I’m booking the next flight. I mean, where else can you go to buy all things Hello Kitty; the coolest kimonos, chopsticks, and tea sets imaginable; plus monorail plates (I know. They’re bullet trains. Whatever.) — AND pearls?!? And don’t even get me started on the Pocky and Sake! (See what I just did there?) Plus a myriad of other fun eats. Well, we’re staying with the theme of animation on this trip, as we take another fun look at cool candy you can score in the Japan Pavilion. Pokémon, Mario, and Thomas & Friends Food FindsLet’s get the party started with everyone’s favorite little anime…dude — Pikachu from the world of Pokémon. Well, I mean, he’s in the front. But he has his buddies with him on this “Drink for Entertainment”. Pokemon Drink If you’d like to get some insight into what you’ll be ingesting, have a peek at the nutritional information and contents on the back. Although I don’t promise that either will be very illuminating. Pokemon Drink Nutrition The Pokémon Candy Packs give you several characters to choose from! (Forgive me. I’m soooo not up on Pokémon lore.) But ya gotta admit — these are pretty cute. Love Pikachu’s little fierce face! Pokemon Candy Pokémon is second in world wide popularity only to this next guy when it comes to the kingdom of gaming. He’s a little fella you might know as Mario. Now, we love him. But he’s especially fun in gummy form. (Isn’t everything?) And even better — he doesn’t contain peanuts. Random, yes. But good to know. Super Mario Gummies You can also get Mario Crunchy Candies. No, seriously — that’s what it’s called. They’re clearly all about texture (but the dispenser is kinda great, too). Mario Crunchy Candy Dispensers But call off the hunt for your Candy Souvenir Needs! Because what could be better than Pez? How about Klik?! You can choose from Mario or Yoshi, and the dispensers come with refills. Mario Candy Dispensers Straying away from gaming and straight into animation, we found another beloved character represented — this time, someone for the toddler set. Thomas & Friends, the beloved British animated series, must also have found popularity in Japan, judging from these cute Thomas-themed candies. Fans of the series can choose from tubes that resemble Thomas, Percy, or James from the series. Thomas and Friends Tube Candy At first, I thought they these little faces were actually the candy! But they’re just the decorative end of the tube. The actual candies are pill-sized, white, and have the different little faces stamped on them. Think of uncolored Sweet Tarts, and you’ll be on the right track. Check Out the Little Thomas Faces. Funny or a Little Creepy? But without a doubt, my favorite was the Thomas & Friends — what else?? — Pocky! If you’ve been around a bit, you know how much I love these Japanese cookie sticks, and some of my favorites are the chocolate-dipped ones! Thomas the Train Pocky. NOW We’re Talkin’! So there’s our latest little sojourn to and through Mitsukoshi! If you haven’t ever had the chance to meander through this corner of Epcot, really, I can’t encourage you enough to set aside time during your very next trip to make it happen! And if you need to bring home some fun and quirky souvenirs from your trip — well, you’re welcome. Which of today’s food finds from Mitsukoshi Department Store intrigues you the most? Leave a comment and let us know which you’ll go in search of during your next visit! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com!Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our NewsletterFollow us on TwitterBecome a Facebook Fan Related posts: Snack Series: Pocky in Epcot’s Japan PavilionGuest Review: Packaged Snacks at Mitsukoshi in Epcot’s Japan PavilionSpotted! “Monorail” Kids’ Plates in Epcot’s Japan View the full article

Ever wanted to “mush” your way through the snow-covered Wyoming wilderness or witness the erupting geysers at Yellowstone National Park? This summer heat might have you thinking of escaping to a “winter wonderland,” and with Adventures by Disney you can experience your own snow-filled family adventure to Jackson Hole and Yellowstone National Park during the winter holiday season. Take your family on this five-day, four-night journey through the natural beauty of the Wyoming landscape where you’ll enjoy an evening sleigh ride, dine inside a cozy tepee and watch the sunset over the Teton Mountains. View the wonders of the famed geyser Old Faithful and enjoy a night full of s’mores and storytelling! Spend a morning learning the art of “mushing” as you guide a team of sled dogs through the powdery terrain. Afterward, relax in the rejuvenating natural granite hot springs. And throughout your vacation, be on the lookout for some local residents that roam the area like bison, elks, bald eagles, coyotes, and even moose! With your Winter in Wyoming adventure, your two Adventure Guides will take care of all the planning, ensuring that you and your family make memories that will last a lifetime. To learn more about this incredible tour of Wyoming, visit AdventuresByDisney.com/WinterWyoming. Walking in a Wyoming Winter Wonderland with Adventures by Disney by Danielle Berman: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

The struggle between the folks of Frontierland and Rainbow Ridge has been unfolding in “Legends of Frontierland: Gold Rush!” for a few weeks now in Disneyland park, so my fellow Disney Parks Blog author, Tyler Slater, and I recently headed out to join the story ourselves. As Eagle Eye Erin, I was drawn toward the exciting people of Rainbow Ridge, but my more kind-hearted counterpart, Two Bit Tyler, joined the side of Frontierland. And he accused me of spyin’ – if you can believe it! See for yourself … Rainbow Ridge, the gold town that sits in the shadows of Big Thunder Mountain, has begun to dry up. The way the folks of Rainbow Ridge see it, why go west and build a whole new town when there is a perfectly good town right here in Frontierland? The goal of “Legends of Frontierland: Gold Rush!” is to buy land for your town – keep it for Frontierland or snag it up for Rainbow Ridge. You do this with “bits” and you earn bits by picking up jobs in town or making it on your own. The citizens with the most land at the end of the day win the town! Have you joined “Legends of Frontierland: Gold Rush!” at Disneyland park? What is your story? Tell us in the comments, and support your townsfolk with the hashtags #MyFrontierland and #MyRainbowRidge! Join the Story with ‘Legends of Frontierland: Gold Rush!’ at Disneyland Park by Erin Glover: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

The struggle between the folks of Frontierland and Rainbow Ridge has been unfolding in "Legends of Frontierland: Gold Rush!" at Disneyland park! Watch as Eagle Eye Erin, who is drawn toward...From:Disney ParksViews:180ratingsTime:02:24More inTravel & Events

Wondering what merchandise events are headed your way this August at Walt Disney World Resort? Take a look! July 30 – August 3: Looking for the opportunity to meet artist Greg McCullough? Greg will be appearing at Art of Disney in Downtown Disney Marketplace, July 30 – August 3 and again from August 20 – 24. Planning to visit Epcot, August 13 – 17? Great! Look for additional appearances by Greg at their Art of Disney, throughout the day. Learn more. August 7 - Meet Disney’s “Planes: Fire & Rescue” director/co-writer Bobs Gannaway from 3 – 4 p.m. at Once Upon A Toy in Downtown Disney Marketplace, as he signs some of the new “Planes: Fire & Rescue” merchandise available at Disney Parks. Learn more. August 7 – 11: Find the latest releases from Precious Moments doll designer and artist Linda Rick at Once Upon A Toy in Downtown Disney Marketplace. Learn more. August 14 – 17: Keep an eye out! Renowned artist David E. Doss will be appearing daily at Art of Disney in Downtown Disney Marketplace. Stop in and find a new piece of art to add to your collection! Learn more. August 14 – 17: It’s time for you to check out the latest releases from international artist Larry Dotson, who will be appearing throughout the day at Main Street Cinema in Magic Kingdom Park. Learn more. August 23: Keep an eye out for spellbinding commemorative T-shirts and more as part of the “Villains Unleashed” event at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Remember, a separate ticket is required to attend this event. If you are thinking of going, purchase tickets now at www.DisneyVillainsParty.com or by calling 407.939.1933. August 29: Be sure to pick up a copy of Tinker Bell: An Evolution, a full biography about everyone’s favorite fiery fairy by author Mindy Johnson. Mindy will appear at Art of Disney in Downtown Disney Marketplace from 3 – 4 p.m., alongside special guest and Disney Legend, Alice Davis. Tip: Also being released during the event is Marc Davis: Walt Disney’s Renaissance Man. Learn more. Here are a few other things to keep in mind. Artists Brian Blackmore and Greg McCullough will be appearing during Harambe Nights at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Learn more. It’s also your last chance to get your ticket to Disney Trade Celebration 2014 – Imagination Gala taking place at World ShowPlace in Epcot, September 5 – 7. A limited number of tickets are still available, so sign up for the Pin and Vinylmation Showcase Packages today! Tip: Keep watching www.DisneyParksMerchandise.com as we release details about this year’s Silent Auction lots. Learn more. There’s one last thing I couldn’t resist showing you. Here is a sneak peek at the next hand-painted Ink & Paint Cel debuting at the Animation Gallery in Disney’s Hollywood Studios on September 27, 2014. This limited release titled “Summertime Pals” is so cool, you won’t be able to resist it. Not able to make it to the event? Disney Event Services is taking pre-orders via www.disneyurl.com/CelPreOrder now through September 25, 2014 at 5 p.m. EDT. Learn more. Are you ready for these events and more? Walt Disney World Event Snapshot – August 2014 by Michelle Harker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

This photo of Swan Boats was snapped at Magic Kingdom Park in the 1970s. Sure looks like this swan is admiring Cinderella Castle. What’s on her mind? You tell us. Go ahead and “Caption This” image in our Comments section. Caption This: A Swan’s Song at Magic Kingdom Park by Jennifer Fickley-Baker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article