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Hey friends (and foes, I suppose), it’s time for your favorite part of the week! Let’s take a visit to the village! That’s right, I’m taking you along with me to the Tiny Train Town in the Germany Pavilion at EPCOT! This little village is known for its heinous crimes and ridiculous nonsense, and I’m here as Madam Mayor today to unravel this week’s mysteries. Let’s go! Starting out this week’s update, welcome our town’s newest residents! This is Mike and Hannah, and they just moved to the area. They purchased a house in the mountains, and they are entirely naive to the misadventures of Tiny Train Town. I think they’re going to figure things out preeeetty quickly. New residents! Speaking of everything going on. Do you guys remember that snoopy photographer from last week? Well, she was found knocked unconscious in a ditch this week! Her camera was confiscated and there were hundreds of surveillance pictures from around the town. Who does she work for? Well, I’ve got the local police force on the issue to find out. Is that…the photographer?! And if you read that report from last week, you may also recall that many farm animals had been harmed by poison blow darts. I’ve found the ONE farm left in town whose livestock remain unimpacted. The farmer here has been taken into police custody as well, and he’s suspect #1 in this mystery. (And yes, I know the pig looks like he has been hit, but he’s just laying in the sun…I promise!) These animals are okay! In other news, there was a break-in at the wedding chapel this week! Guests of a wedding arrived onsite to find that the door had been broken in, and the entire place had been looted. The bride’s parents fainted on the spot! After all, they did pay thousands for this wedding, just for it to be RUINED. A break-in! Wow, busy week here in town! I’ll be back with more updates soon, but until then, subscribe to our newsletter for the latest. * The anarchy within is mostly created by natural occurrences, like giant squirrels, wind, rain, and relatively godzilla-sized lizards who frequent the town; but we find it fun and entertaining to make up fictional stories about what COULD be happening. We are grateful to the folks who create and maintain this Tiny Train Town for Disney World, as it’s one of our favorite parts of EPCOT and always has been. See More Tiny Train Town Misadventures 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 Have you been to Tiny Train Town recently? Tell us in the comments! View the full article

We recently took a trip to Dollywood, and we were seriously impressed with some of the things that this park offers! Welcome to Dollywood! From incredible food to unique souvenirs and well-themed attractions, Dollywood should definitely be on your to-do list if you’re planning a trip to the Smoky Mountains. And if you’re a Disney fan, there’s something Dollywood has that we’re SHOCKED Disney hasn’t implemented yet. If you’re traveling to any theme park with small children, you’re probably looking into height requirements for rides before your visit. It can be tricky to know what your child will be able to ride, and you want to do your best to avoid any last-minute disappointment. At Disney World and Disneyland, children are measured at each ride’s entrance to see if they meet the minimum height, and if they’re cutting it close, they may be measured a second time right before boarding. Height requirement at TRON Lightcycle / Run But Dollywood? They’ve found a way to IMPROVE the height requirement system. Near the front of the park (immediately to the left after you go through the turnstiles), there’s a spot called the Ride Measuring Center. Here, you can get your child measured when you first arrive, and they’ll be given a color-coded wristband. That wristband will correspond with height requirement charts for rides around the park, so it’ll be easy for your child to know which attractions they can experience. Dollywood entrance There are seven different “tiers” of height requirements in the park, ranging from the lowest at 36 inches tall to the highest at 55 inches tall (that’s for Drop Line, which also has a maximum weight requirement). But the good news is that there are actually 11 different child-friendly attractions without height requirements around Dollywood — that’s a lot for your littles to do! The Wildwood Grove and Country Fair areas of the park are particularly kid-friendly. Wildwood Grove If you don’t want to take the time to stop by the Ride Measuring Center at the beginning of the day, you can still get your child measured at each ride instead. Getting the wristband is just an easier way to avoid measuring all day long and possibly experiencing extra disappointment. Dollywood tickets We’re a little surprised that Disney hasn’t done something similar to this yet. Of course, the logistical problem would be finding a way to pull this off without causing backups and long lines in the morning when everyone is arriving at the parks. Maybe multiple stations around the park? Or a way to pre-measure at the resorts? It could be useful! Height requirement at Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind We’ll keep you updated with more fun tips and adventures from Dollywood and beyond, so stay tuned to DFB for the latest! Dollywood Has Quietly Become the Next Big Theme Park Food Destination 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 Dollywood’s height requirement system? Tell us in the comments! View the full article

It’s become pretty clear that the future of Marvel seems to lie with more movies than TV shows, despite the fact that many Marvel TV shows have been successful with both audiences and critics alike. Sure, they all haven’t been as good as WandaVision, Moon Knight, Agatha All Along, or Loki, but without Marvel’s interest in doing TV shows, we wouldn’t have those incredible series. ©Disney Earlier this year, Wonder Man premiered on Disney+ and quickly became one of the most discussed Marvel TV shows during its season 1 run. The first season garnered critical and audience praise and gained a 91% score on Rotten Tomatoes. Disney eventually announced a second season for the series. Well, Disney has changed its mind, and according to Variety, season 2 of Wonder Man is no longer on the table. Yes, although Disney had renewed Wonder Man for a second season, it is now being reported that plans for a second season of Wonder Man have been scrapped. Sources have reported that the writers’ room for season 2 of the series never opened, and the writers working on the show have been released to go work on other projects. ©Disney Wonder Man stars Yahya Abdul Mateen II as Simon Williams, an actor struggling to make it in Hollywood, albeit with a secret: he has superpowers. With the help of his acting mentor, Trevor Slattery (Ben Kingsley), he tries to navigate the world of Hollywood without giving away his secret, especially after being offered a role in a movie about Wonder Man, a superhero. ©Disney The series won over critics and audiences alike and even scored an Emmy nomination for Abdul-Mateen for outstanding lead actor in a comedy series, which made him the only live-action actor to get an Emmy nod for both Marvel and DC roles (he also starred in HBO’s Watchmen). The series also made an appearance in the Nielsen streaming top 10 chart the week it released, but it left the top 10 the following week. ©Disney However, that doesn’t mean we won’t ever see Simon Williams and Trevor Slattery again. Reportedly, some of the characters featured in the series could still appear in other Marvel projects later on down the line. For those of us who were big fans of the show, though, this cancellation is still disappointing, and it seems to show that Disney has lost interest in creating more Marvel TV shows. We’ll keep an eye out for more Disney+ news, so stay tuned to DFB for more. Marvel Should Stick To TV Shows – Hear Me Out 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 about this news? Let us know in the comments! View the full article

When Disney says it’s spooky season…IT’S SPOOKY SEASON! Headless Horeseman We’re gearing up for all things Halloween in the Disney parks, but there’s going to be plenty of eerie fun for those at home as well. Disney just teased a new Villains-themed merchandise collection, and we’re counting down the minutes until it releases! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. We’re hyped for this year’s Halloween merch, as Disney has teased collections with tons of variety this go around! They’ve got an entire pink collection, items covered in Mickey pumpkins, and now, this Villains line. The Villains collection launches on Disney Store on August 3rd. If you’re hoping to shop some seasonal Disney-inspired items before then, you can check out our Amazon storefront, where we’ve gathered some of our Halloween faves that are already online. SHOP HALLOWEEN DISNEY ITEMS ON AMAZON HERE! Even though the merchandise doesn’t land online for a few more days, we’ve got a sneak peek to share with you! Starting out the group is this Disney Villains Dress, which features favorite female villains like Ursula, Maleficent, Cruella de Vil, and The Evil Queen. Outfit of choice for a Halloween party, anyone? ©Disney Spirit Jerseys are often a popular choice for the fall season, and this Villains Spirit Jersey is bound to be among the favorites. The letters are each themed to a different villain. ©Disney The Headless Horseman is an icon of Halloween season in the Disney parks, and for those who want to pay homage, we love this Headless Horseman Jersey! It has 49 on the back, which is the year that The Legend of Sleepy Hollow premiered. ©Disney Speaking of iconcs, this Maleficent Jersey is styled in a similar fashion, with the year that Sleeping Beauty came out on the back. Try this for a fun, sporty look! ©Disney Need some new accessories? Two new wristlets were teased, including this design featuring The Evil Queen… ©Disney …and this one that has Maleficent! She’s having a MOMENT in this year’s collection. ©Disney To go along with the Maleficent items, there are two new mugs. This Maleficent Mug features her inside the castle turret with faux stone detailing. ©Disney The other Maleficent Mug shows the Mistress of All Evil in her dragon form, as well as her human one. It features those classic green flames. ©Disney Lastly, there are some collectibles coming to this merchandise lineup. The Headless Horseman figurine is a must-have for anyone who wants those spooky vibes in a library, office, or living room. ©Disney Then, to honor The Little Mermaid, you can get this Vanessa collectible doll showcasing her in her dress and matching hooded cape. She even has the shell with Ariel’s voice inside! ©Disney That’s a wrap on the sneak peek of the merchandise! Click the link below to see more Disney Halloween finds on Amazon. SHOP DISNEY FINDS ON AMAZON HERE! We’ll keep you in the loop with any more new merchandise, so stay tuned to DFB. View the full article

Bob Gurr, Garrett Watts and Yvette Nicole Brown have been summoned. But mostly BOB!! 🎃👻 #DisneyEatsView the full article

We’re LOVING these new Disney souvenirs! Birthday Ears The Disney Store is constantly dropping new souvenirs online, and new Minnie/Mickey ears especially grab our attention. From simple, yet elegant styles to sequined beauties, this latest batch of Disney ears is special, and we think many Disney fans will be more than happy! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. This first pair is PERFECT for Disney birthday trips ©Disney The Minnie Mouse ”Happy Birthday” Ear Headband features shiny padded ears with a shiny iridescent ombre coating, as well as a detachable organza bow filled with sparkling sequins. This headband is also topped with a die-cut ”Happy Birthday” vinyl charm! SHOP ONLINE AT THE DISNEY STORE This next headband features a timeless look ©Disney You can also grab the Lavender Mickey Mouse Ear Headband! These ears are a metallic lavender color in the classic design and also sport a coordinating non-slip velour inner design that ensures a comfortable and secure fit. SHOP ONLINE AT THE DISNEY STORE We’re OBSESSED with this Daisy Duck headband! ©Disney The new Daisy Duck Headband includes appliqué felt daisies on the ears, as well as a padded sequin bow on a purple background. Best of all, Daisy’s embroidered signature is featured on the side of the headband! SHOP ONLINE AT THE DISNEY STORE This last headband is designed to look like cotton candy ©Disney Finally, check out the new Minnie Mouse Sequin Cotton Candy Ear Headband! This new souvenir is inspired by the popular sweet treat and is covered with sparkling sequins. These ears are praised for their durability and eye-catching design! SHOP ONLINE AT THE DISNEY STORE We’ll continue to keep an eye out for new Disney souvenir releases, so stay tuned right here at DFB for the latest finds! View the full article

If you’ve spent time in Disney World, you already know that the sky can be a perfect, cloudless blue at 1 PM and absolutely dumping rain by 1:15. Rain at Magic Kingdom Florida storms don’t really give you a warning window, and if you aren’t prepared, you could be sprinting for the nearest gift shop with your kids, your snacks, and all your things, trying to stay dry. If you’re heading to Disney World, especially during the notoriously rainy months, having the right rain gear isn’t optional. DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. For years, I thought I had my system figured out. I’d pack an umbrella, feel very prepared, and call it a day. Florida rain doesn’t always fall gently — it comes sideways, in gusts, with wind that seems specifically designed to turn your umbrella inside out. I’ve had more than one umbrella snap or bend mid-storm, leaving me holding a useless umbrella while still getting completely soaked. Umbrellas also don’t do you any favors in crowded queues or walkways, where you’re constantly bumping into other guests or trying not to poke someone in the eye while you navigate through Magic Kingdom. rainy day So I switched strategies and started wearing a rain jacket instead. But I quickly ran into a different problem: my rain jacket kept my top half reasonably dry, but that was about it. That’s when a few people on our team mentioned they’d all quietly switched to the same thing: a Frogg Togg poncho. I’ll admit I was skeptical — I’ve never really been a poncho person, and I pictured something bulky, crinkly, and about as flattering as a garbage bag. But enough of my coworkers swore by this exact one that I finally gave in and ordered the FROGG TOGGS Ultra-Lite2 Waterproof Breathable Poncho for our next trip. Storms in EPCOT! Get our favorite Disney World poncho here! Frogg Toggs Poncho The first thing that surprised me was the material. It’s made from a lightweight, non-woven polypropylene fabric with fully welded seams, which sounds like a small detail until you’re standing in an actual downpour and realize water genuinely isn’t getting through anywhere — not through the seams, not through the hood, nowhere. It’s fully waterproof, not just water-resistant, which is a distinction I didn’t fully appreciate until I compared it to my old rain jacket. Frogg Toggs Poncho Despite covering so much of your body, it weighs next to nothing — it’s only about 9 ounces. You genuinely forget it’s in your bag until you need it. It has an adjustable hood with cord locks, so you can cinch it down in wind instead of having your hood blow back off your head, and side snaps that let you adjust the fit a bit rather than just flapping open in a breeze. Frogg Toggs Poncho My favorite detail, though, might be the stuff sack it comes with. The whole poncho packs down into its own little pouch about the size of a fist, so when the rain stops (which, this being Florida, it inevitably will — often within the hour), you can wring it out, stuff it back in its pouch, and toss it in your bag without it soaking everything else you’re carrying. FROGG TOGGS Poncho One more thing worth mentioning: Frogg Togg makes this same poncho in kids’ sizes, too. I ended up grabbing one for my toddler, half-expecting a fight to get it on her, and instead she loved wearing it. If you’re traveling with little ones, it’s worth grabbing one for them as well so the whole family can keep moving through a storm instead of ducking under an awning waiting it out. view ON AMAZON If you’re the type of Disney World visitor who has been burned by a broken umbrella or a rain jacket that only did half its job, this poncho is worth adding to your park bag. It’s cheap, it packs down to almost nothing, and it actually keeps you dry — which, at the end of the day, is really all you’re asking a piece of rain gear to do. We’re always on the hunt for the latest and greatest Disney souvenirs and essentials, so don’t forget to stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for more! View the full article

It’s nearly Halloween season in Disney World, and we are SO excited! Time to celebrate! Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party kicks off on August 7th, and we’ll be there to check out the entertainment, shop the merchandise, and of course, eat lots of treats. But this year, several snacks are returning to Not-So-Scary from past years, and we’re telling you which ones to prioritize! For this list, there are five locations around the park we’re going to encourage you to prioritize, based on the snacks we’ve loved in the past. Of course, there are also a BUNCH of new snacks in 2026 that we haven’t tried yet, so make sure to check back in on the first night of the party to see which of those you should add to your list! If you want the full breakdown of Halloween season in Disney World, our Halloween guidebook will be your best friend. Casey’s Corner Starting our list at Casey’s Corner, we NEED to chat about the loaded fries and corn dog nuggets here! This spot has both the Chipotle Barbecue Pork and Street Corn French Fries and the Chipotle Barbecue Pork and Street Corn Mini Corn Dogs. Fries and Corn Dog Nuggets They’re topped with fire-roasted corn, queso fresco, jalapeño ranch, and cilantro, and they were some of our favorite savory treats at this restaurant in the past two years. If you like loaded fries or love the Casey’s Corner corn dog nuggets, these are a must-try! See Our Review of These Snacks Here! The Lunching Pad Honestly, we’re a little surprised The Lunching Pad made this list, because it’s not known for being a hotspot of awesome eats, but they have two returning treats that we have historically enjoyed. First there’s the Jalapeño Popper Hot Dog, which is topped with queso fundido, pickled and fried jalapeños, bacon, and onions. Jalapeño Popper Dog But now, you can snag the Creepy Kimchi Hot Dog here as well — last year, it was at Sleepy Hollow as a corn dog version, and we loved it then. It’s topped with sriracha cream cheese, kimchi, and Hades relish. This is a great place to come and grab eats if you’re in need of something filling and meal-like. See Our Review of the Creepy Kimchi Corn Dog From Last Year! The Friar’s Nook One place that always seems to pop off for Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is The Friar’s Nook. They have several of our beloved year-after-year treats, including the Not-So-Poison Apple Doughnuts which are rolled in apple cider sugar and drizzled with caramel sauce, and the Buffalo Chicken Hand Pie. It’s buffalo chicken and mozzarella wrapped in a flaky dough topped with blue cheese crumbles and buffalo-ranch Not-So-Poison Apple Doughnuts Their menu also now includes the Bowl of Bones (pork wings fried with jalapeños and tossed in barbecue sauce made with Coca-Cola Cherry), which were originally on the menu at Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn & Cafe. And last year, Friar’s Nook added the Haunting Jalapeño Tots, which are tots topped with plant-based black bean chili, cheddar sauce, and jalapeño sauce. Seriously, you guys, SO many good options. Read Our Review of the Wings Here! Sleepy Hollow Refreshments Okay, we’ve been chatting a lot about savory snacks, so it’s time for a sweet treat! One of our go-to holiday party faves are the loaded funnel cakes at Sleepy Hollow Refreshments. For this year’s party, you’ll find the Pumpkin-spiced Funnel Cake Sundae on the menu yet again. Pumpkin-spiced Funnel Cake Sundae This beauty is a pumpkin funnel cake topped with pumpkin gelato, whipped cream, pumpkin-spiced caramel, candy pumpkins, and sprinkles. It’s sweet and pumpkin-forward, and totally shareable! See Our Funnel Cake Review Here! Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn & Cafe Finally, we’re going to recommend you head to Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn & Cafe in Frontierland for a combination of sweet and savory snacks. The Pumpkin Patch Mini Churros are rolled in orange sugar and served with pumpkin cheesecake dip, and they’re absolutely to-die for! Pumpkin Patch Mini Churros And then the Buzzard Wings were another favorite of ours last year. Whole chicken wings tossed with grilled onions, jalapeños, and lime. Both items worthy of your precious party time! See Our Review of These Items Here! All the Other Returning Items Now, we present to you, the full list of returning snacks (besides the ones mentioned above) for Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party in 2026! Aloha Isle Refreshments DOLE Whip Mango and Chamoy Float — DOLE Whip Mango, DOLE Pineapple Juice, chamoy, and chili-lime seasoning (Available during regular park hours and Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party) DOLE Whip Mango Chamoy Float Auntie Gravity’s Galactic Goodies Cauldron Cold Brew — Joffrey’s Cold Brew Coffee with pumpkin-spiced foam and Halloween sprinkles (Non-alcoholic) (Available during regular park hours and Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party) Candy Bowl Sundae — Vanilla soft-serve topped with chocolate cone dip, SNICKERS bar pieces, TWIX cookie bar pieces, and M&M’S Milk Chocolate Candies Halloween Blend Candy Bowl Sundae Casey’s Corner Chipotle Barbecue Pork and Street Corn Hot Dog — All-beef hot dog topped with fire-roasted corn, queso fresco, jalapeño ranch, and cilantro ©Disney Main Street Bakery Mickey Cinnamon Roll — with white icing and Halloween sprinkles Mickey-shaped Cheesecake — Pumpkin cheesecake with graham cracker crust and white chocolate whipped ganache The Mickey Shaped Cheesecake! Plaza Ice Cream Parlor Pumpkin Sundae — Pumpkin gelato with pumpkin-spiced caramel sauce, pumpkin brittle, and Halloween sprinkles (Available during regular park hours and Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party) So pumpkiny! The Plaza Restaurant Skull Meatloaf — Caribbean-style glazed meatloaf served with loaded mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables (Available during regular park hours and Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party; reservations recommended) Goblins and Ghoulies — Captain Morgan Original Spiced Rum, Disaronno Originale Liqueur, apple cider, and pomegranate juice (Available during regular park hours and Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party; reservations recommended) So weird but so fun The Lunching Pad Ghoulish Blue Raspberry Slushy — Fanta Blue Raspberry Slushy with black vanilla drizzle (Non-alcoholic) (Available during regular park hours and Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party) Ghoulish Blue Raspberry Slushy Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe Sweet-and-Spicy Chicken Strips — with Korean barbecue sauce and topped with black sesame seeds, crispy garlic, and green onions served with french fries Minnie Witch Hat — Sugar cookie topped with strawberry-banana mousse, chocolate, and buttercream Oogie Boogie Slushy — Frozen apple cider topped with cinnamon whipped cream and sour gummy candy (Non-alcoholic) Not a Poisoned Apple Slushy (now the Oogie Boogie Slushy) Storybook Treats Ursula Cone — Wild berry soft-serve with candy coral and citrus cotton candy in a black vanilla cone Ursula Cone Be Our Guest Restaurant The Forbidden Rose — “The Grey Stuff,” black buttercream, and black rose petal Castle Fog — Empress 1908 Gin, Bols Blackberry Liqueur, lemon juice, and cane syrup Forbidden Rose ©Disney Cinderella’s Royal Table Pumpkin Spice Margarita — Lalo Blanco Tequila, RumChata Cream Liqueur, pumpkin spice syrup, and oat milk with a sprinkle of crushed cinnamon-sugar graham crackers Beef Short Rib èn Croute — Fall vegetables and roasted beet demi-glace Creepy Cheesecake — Pumpkin cheesecake, spiced oranges, orange curd, and chocolate crumbs Supernatural Shrimp — Avocado mousse, tomato horseradish sauce, rice cracker, and wasabi peas Violet Specter — Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Chambord Liqueur, lemon juice, and Sprite, garnished with mint and a Luxardo cherry Seating at Cinderella’s Royal Table Pinocchio Village Haus Undead Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Strips — with garlic-Parmesan sauce, parsley, and served with french fries Scary Ghost Slushy — Blue raspberry slushy with marshmallow foam and a marshmallow ghost (Non-alcoholic) Phantasmal Fried Pumpkin Ravioli — served with black garlic aïoli and a side Caesar salad Undead Garlic Parmesan Chicken Strips Liberty Square Market Magic Portion Slushy — Fanta Blue Raspberry slushy with yuzu. Changes color from blue to green when you stir (Non-alcoholic) (Available during regular park hours and Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party) The Magic Potion Slushy Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn & Cafe Guava Lemonade Slushy — with cheesecake foam, Halloween sprinkles, and a sugar spider (Non-alcoholic) Golden Oak Outpost Cajun Crawfish and Sausage BOOtine — Waffle fries topped with cheese curds and Cajun crawfish-andouille sausage gravy Beignets from Beyond — Light, sweet, and fluffy beignets with powdered sugar and chocolate cookie pieces over cookies and cream cheese icing Hot Honey Lemonade — Minute Maid Premium Lemonade with hot honey and a chili-lime rim (Non-alcoholic) Cajun Crawfish and Sausage BOOtine That’s a wrap on our recommendations for what to eat at this year’s Halloween party! For more spooky fun, follow us on social media to see all the happenings when the party kicks off! See the Full List of Halloween Party Snacks and All the Reviews Here! IT'S SPOOK-TACULAR! Get ready for the spookiest season of the year at Disney World with our guide -- Halloween at Disney World: DFB's Spook-tacular Guide! From the thrills of Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party to the enchanting resort decorations that'll send shivers down your spine, our guide is packed with tips and tricks to help you squeeze every ounce of ghoulish fun out of your visit. Plus, we've got the inside scoop on all the limited-time-only bone-chilling activities happening across the parks! Get the Halloween at Disney World: DFB's Spook-tacular Guide to make your frightfully delightful adventure even more magical! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Halloween at Walt Disney World Get ALL the Info on Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Photos AND Reviews: ALL the Fall and Halloween Treats in Disney World! Join the DFB Newsletter To Get All the Latest Disney News Delivered Right to Your Inbox Click Here to Subscribe Which of these snacks would you order? Tell us in the comments! View the full article

Disney’s Animal Kingdom is such a unique park in that it’s not just a theme park with rides, but also an expansive sort of zoo that has all kinds of animals you can see and learn more about. And, really, it’s the animals that keep us coming back to visit the park because they’re just so cool to see, and you never know what they’ll do next. Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail Seriously, Disney’s Animal Kingdom is an animal lover’s dream! Well, if you happen to visit Animal Kingdom’s Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail in the future, you might notice that there’s been a new addition: a gorilla named Bakari! So let’s learn more about him! Bakari is a 21-year-old silverback western lowland gorilla who now calls Animal Kingdom his home. His moving in, though, is a little bittersweet. For nearly 30 years, the gorillas in Animal Kingdom were led by Gino, but Gino passed away last year and left the troop without a leader. Bakari has now moved in and is settling into his role as the gorillas’ new leader. According to Rachel, one of Disney’s animal care managers, “Bakari is the future of this family troop, and we’re looking forward to watching him grow into that role and hopefully help welcome new generations of gorillas for years to come.” ©Disney Of course, you can’t just quickly move a gorilla into an already settled group, so Disney’s animal care experts are working through a very carefully planned intro process to give everyone a chance to adjust, including Bakari. Bakari spent his previous time socializing with other males, but it’s in a gorilla male’s nature to eventually join a family troop like the one in Animal Kingdom. But it does take some time for everyone to learn to live together peacefully. ©Disney So what are the kinds of things that Bakari likes to do? Well, his caretakers see him as calm and easygoing, and a gorilla who is just taking a lot of quiet time to observe his surroundings. He also “loves to stretch out and lounge with his chin resting on his hand while taking in all the activity around him.” You can get a good look at Bakari yourself now that he’s been added to Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail and see him settling into his new home and interacting with other members of the current troop. ©Disney Welcome to Animal Kingdom, Bakari! May you have a long and beautiful future here! We’ll keep an eye out for more Disney World news, so stay tuned to DFB for more. 4 Changes Coming to Disney’s Animal Kingdom Next Month 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 about Bakari so far? Let us know in the comments! View the full article

Listen, not every Disney fan is a Loungefly person, and we totally respect your game. Stitch Loungefly Though Loungefly backpacks are popular, they’re not always practical — they may be too small or not shaped properly to fit your belongings (like, WHY aren’t the side pockets big enough for water bottles?!). So, if you’re a certified Loungefly hater (or just disliker), we’re sharing the best park bags for you! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Get the Lululemon belt bag! ©Amazon One of the most popular options out there is the Lululemon Belt Bags. These come in a few different colors but are one of the pricier belt bags/fanny packs you’ll see in the parks. They come with an adjustable crossbody strap and one main zipper pocket. While there is not a ton of storage, it’s a great bag for when you want to pack light and be mobile! view ON AMAZON This one’s the budget version! ©Amazon For a much cheaper option, get this WITROMAN Fanny Pack from Amazon. It can also be ordered in a variety of colors, and its features are very similar to the Lululemon belt bag, but it’s less than $10 on sale! It’s made of a waterproof fabric and has mesh pockets inside the zipper pocket for more organization. view ON AMAZON We love the sling bag style! ©Amazon Another bag style that’s pretty popular these days is sling bags, and this TANTOMI Sling Bag is the perfect way to carry your essentials around the park! It has more storage space than a belt bag, but it’s also lighter and less cumbersome than a backpack. This one has three different zipper pockets to keep your items nice and organized, and it comes in a bunch of different prints and colors. view ON AMAZON Or, you can grab this utilitarian design ©Amazon Another affordable sling bag is this Pritent Crossbody Bag, which has a more utilitarian design, though it comes in some fun prints. It has a convertible shoulder strap, is waterproof, and has nine pockets in total. That’s a lot of storage for such a small bag! Did we mention that the strap is padded? view ON AMAZON You won’t forget to hydrate with this one! ©Amazon We’re constantly telling our readers how important it is to hydrate in the parks and what a great idea it is to bring a refillable water bottle. However, with the fanny packs and sling bags, sometimes larger water bottles don’t fit! That’s where something like this Corkcicle Water Bottle Sling comes in. It’s shaped to hold your bottle but also has a few pockets so you can store small items like keys and cards. There isn’t a lot of storage, but you won’t have to carry your bottle in your hand all day! view ON AMAZON Or you could get a classic canvas tote! ©Amazon One type of bag that we see is popular with off-duty Cast Members (especially the Disney College Programmers) is the canvas tote bag, and this Disney Parks Inspired Canvas Tote Bag is perfect! It’s not super practical for riding a bunch of thrill rides because it has no zipper on top, but if you’re doing a partial day in the park and just want to carry a few key belongings, it’s a great choice. And can we get another round of applause for this print?! view ON AMAZON And finally, let’s talk Lug Bags! ©Amazon Lug bags have been all the rage the past few years, and this Lug Hopper SE Backpack is a great utility choice for the parks. It’s not too large, it’s very durable, and it has a ton of built-in storage and several zipper pockets. This is for the backpack fans who want a subtle Disney design, but don’t like the Loungefly backpacks! view ON AMAZON We’re always on the hunt for the latest and greatest Disney souvenirs and essentials, so don’t forget to stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for more! View the full article

When it comes to dining at Disney World, you’ve got SO many different options. From quick and easy to super upscale, and everything in between, Disney has options for whatever you’re looking to try. Which means it can be overwhelming to figure out where you should eat, which is why we are here to bring you reviews of all the restaurants across Disney World. Disney Springs We recently stopped by Jaleo by Chef José Andrés at Disney Springs, and now we’re bringing you our FULL review. Let’s find out if this spot is worth a stop on your next trip to the Most Magical Place on Earth! Atmosphere Jaleo is a signature dining experience in Disney Springs and features an extensive menu of tapas that showcase traditional and contemporary Spanish cuisine. It was created by Chef José Andrés, who was named one of Time Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in 2012 and 2018. Jaleo in Disney Springs This is the first Jaleo location in Florida and only the fifth location in the entire country. When you enter, you are immediately immersed in the atmosphere of the restaurant, filled with warm red and yellow tones that make the space feel both elevated and welcoming. Jaleo This restaurant is split into two stories, with a gorgeous red staircase taking you up to the second level. This restaurant is undeniably beautiful and extremely well decorated to create the perfect atmosphere to enjoy your meal. Host station and staircase But enough about the restaurant — what’s on the menu here?! Menu This menu is quite large, so we will be breaking it down for you in sections starting with the Main Menu! Here you can find the Chef’s Tasting Menus. Jaleo Main Menu You can also find Paella Y Arroces inspired by Chef José Andrés’ childhood. Jaleo Main Menu Next, you can find a selection of Large Plates that you can share with your group. Jaleo Main Menu There is also a wide selection of both Seafood and Meats. Jaleo Main Menu Next, there are also many selections of Cheeses as well as Cured Meats. Jaleo Main Menu There is also a selection of Chef Josés favorite small bites. Jaleo Main Menu And you can also find Soups & Salads. Jaleo Main Menu There is also the ¡Jamón Ibérico Experience! Which includes an authentic selection of chef-curated tapas. Jaleo Main Menu Moving on to the Dessert Menu. Jaleo Dessert Menu It also includes some After Dinner Sips, as well as coffee and tea. Jaleo Dessert Menu Lastly, we are moving on to the Drink Menu, with a selection of Sangria, cocktails, beer, and some non-alcoholic beverages to choose from. There were plenty of options for everyone! And now that we have gone over the menu, it’s time for the main event — the food! Drinks To drink, we picked up the Margarita Donostiarra for $18. This is made with Chile de Arbol-infused tequila, Del Maguey Vida mezcal, lime, laurel, piparra brine, and sherry salt. The drink itself tasted slightly watered down. Margarita Donostiarra The drink had a nice spicy burn, but the alcohol flavor was not super strong. The flavors of the drink were not very prominent overall; it was a decent Margarita but nothing amazing, and we would most likely recommend trying something else. Margarita Donostiarra Eats First up, we grabbed the Patatas bravas for $15. This is fried potatoes with spicy tomato sauce and alioli. These are so incredible, and we think this is a must-get dish. The potatoes were soft on the inside with a very slight crunch on the outside. Patatas Bravas The garlic aioli complemented the spiced tomato sauce very well. It also added a little creaminess to the acidity of the tomato sauce, which was a great balance. Overall, we really loved this dish. Patatas Bravas We also grabbed the Buñuleos de bacalao con alioli de miel for $15. This is made with fried cod and potato fritters with honey alioli. This dish is very similar to a conch fritter. These had a very crunchy outside, with a soft, fluffy interior. Buñuelos de bacalao The flavor was not overpoweringly fish-forward. The honey aioli dipping sauce was sweet but not overpowering and was very creamy. It didn’t taste exactly like honey, more like a slightly sweet dipping sauce that paired really well with the Buñuelos. Buñuelos de bacalao We also tried Pimientos del piquillo rellenos con queso Caña de cabra for $14. This is seared piquillo peppers filled with goat cheese. Pimientos del piquillo rellenos con queso Caña de cabra These were a unique dish that had a nice sweet kick. The goat cheese was pretty sour and complemented the peppers extremely well. Overall, these were very enjoyable, and we would grab this again on a future visit. Pimientos del piquillo rellenos con queso Caña de cabra Finally, for dessert, we tried the Flan al estilo tradicional de mamá Marisa con espuma de crema catalana for $12. This is a classic Spanish custard with ‘espuma’ of Catalan cream. Flan al estilo tradicional de mamá Marisa con espuma de crema catalana This is José Andrés’ mother’s recipe. The house-made whipped cream is made with orange zest and vanilla bean. This is very smooth with an amazing caramel flavor. Overall, this is an excellent Flan, and we would definitely recommend trying this unique and delicious dessert while at Jaleo. Flan al estilo tradicional de mamá Marisa con espuma de crema catalana Nosh or Not This Disney World restaurant is a must-visit if… You want to try lots of different options. Jaleo is a small plate and tapas restaurant, so you can try lots of different items and share with your whole table. Which is an amazing option if you and your party want to try many different dishes. You are looking for a spot with great atmosphere. This restaurant is gorgeous, and the design, colors, and decor really help to complement the meal and enhance your experience. You are looking for a unique dining experience. This spot has an extensive and unique menu that is very different from a lot of the other options around Disney, so if you are looking for something more interesting and unique, and want to try a menu full of specially crafted food, then this is the place for you You should skip this Disney World spot if… You have picky eaters in your party. As we have explained before, this menu is very interesting and unique and might not cater well to those who are picky or prefer more traditional theme park food. You want a quick meal. This is a sit-down signature experience; therefore, it will take much longer than a quick service meal, so if you don’t want to dedicate a large portion of time to a meal, then this might not be the place for you. You don’t care about specialty dining and specially crafted experiences. Both the menu and atmosphere of Jaleo are designed for those who love food and a luxurious and interesting meal. If specialty dining is not something you enjoy, then we would suggest trying a different Disney Springs spot. Overall We really enjoyed our time dining at Jaleo. While it is not our favorite dining location in all of Disney World, it is an incredible experience with amazing food. While the Margarita Donostiarra was not our favorite, we loved the Flan al estilo tradicional de mamá Marisa con espuma de crema catalana and the Patatas bravas. Overall, Jaleo is worth a stop next time you are visiting Disney Springs. Jaleo In the meantime, we’ll be on the lookout for more restaurant updates from Disney World and beyond. Make sure you stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for the latest Disney news and more! Every Disney World Change I’m Not Prepared For in 2026 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 Have you eaten at this Disney World restaurant before? Tell us in the comments! View the full article

Hey Universal fans, we know how you can win a FREE trip to Universal Studios Hollywood! Universal Studios Hollywood Universal Studios Hollywood is about to officially open Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift soon, and to celebrate the new ride, BoxLunch has announced a High Speed to Universal Hollywood Sweepstakes! We have all the details of the sweepstakes, including how to enter, so let’s race right into it. You and three guests now have the chance to win a theme park vacation to check out Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift, the first-ever outdoor high-speed roller coaster, as well as the rest of Universal Studios Hollywood. The ride opens this summer, so you need to enter the BoxLunch sweepstakes NOW! ©LA Times Entering the sweepstakes will not only give you access to the park, but you’ll also get some of BoxLunch’s exclusive Fast & Furious merchandise to wear on your trip. BoxLunch didn’t tease what type of merchandise, but knowing the brand’s history, we know it’s going to be nice. ©Universal Here are the following instructions to enter: Visit here or scan the in-store QR Code Complete the website entry form OR Follow @boxlunchgifts on Instagram Like the post Tag a friend and comment the keyword “Fast” below ©Universal There is no purchase necessary to enter to win. The sweepstakes are open to legal residents of the 50 United States and the District of Columbia (excluding Rhode Island) who are 18 years of age or older at the time of entry. They’ve already officially begun, and they will end on August 16th, 2026 at 11:59 PM PT. There is a limit of two entries per person! One entry can be done via the website entry form, and the other entry can be done via the Instagram post. ©Universal Universal Studios Hollywood recently had technical rehearsals for the brand-new roller coaster, which are so Universal can test the ride to make sure it continues to run smoothly after a full day of guests. It also allows Team Members to practice loading and unloading procedures and other parts. ©NBC Universal has yet to announce an official opening date. We recommend checking in with Team Members for the attraction or nearby areas to see what’s happening, since the ride is already operating for technical rehearsals. ©NBC Universal We’re really excited to try out this high-speed thrill ride when it opens. Make sure to enter the sweepstakes, because it’s an awesome opportunity to win a free trip for you and family and friends. For all the latest theme park news and updates, make sure to follow us at the Disney Food Blog! Universal Announces NEW Ozzy Osbourne House for Halloween Horror Nights Read more: DFB's complete guide to Universal’s Epic Universe >> Are you going to enter the sweepstakes? Let us know in the comments! View the full article

You may have already started planning your vacations for 2027, and if you’re hoping to take a cruise, you’re not alone! ©Carnival Cruises are great vacation options for groups who want to be together in one place, but want to do their trip in a way that offers a wide variety of activities and dining for different folks. And the cruise industry as a whole has been pretty popular the past few years, with new cruise ships being built left and right. But for those sailing with Carnival Cruise Line in 2027, we’ve got a warning. According to USA TODAY, Carnival Cruise Line has canceled nine cruise itineraries that were scheduled for 2027. All nine of the cruises take place on the Carnival Jubilee between August and December. The departure dates are as follows: August 15th, 21st, and 29th September 12th, 18th, and 26th November 27th December 5th and 11th ©Carnival An email has been sent out to those affected by these cancelations and their travel advisors. Carnival says that the cancelations were made due to “itinerary changes” but no additional information has been released. It’s not very common that we see itinerary cancelations in batches like this, except in the cases of ships being pulled to dry dock for refurbishment. ©Carnival This comes just a few months after Carnival canceled nearly a dozen cruises aboard the Carnival Firenze, which were scheduled to depart later this year. “Changes to itinerary plans” was also the reason cited in that situation. So if you’re planning on taking a Carnival Cruise soon, it may be a good idea to double-check your itinerary and make sure you’re not among the affected groups for these changes. We’ll let you know if any more saillings are added to the list. ©Carnival Stay tuned to DFB for the latest updates on cruise line news. Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for up-to-date coverage! 7 Things That Surprised Me on My Disney Cruise as a Former Cast Member 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 Do you have a cruise planned for 2027? Let us know in the comments! View the full article

If you want to take advantage of Disney World’s Early Theme Park Entry, you need to know this before booking your trip! Disney’s Riviera Resort Every day, Disney World resort guests have the advantage of starting their day 30 minutes before other guests. Early Theme Park Entry is available in every park and can give you a head start on your day before those lines start to get really long. If you do it right, you could already be done with a ride or two before others even enter a queue. However, where you stay for this perk might change the game. Disney World is expansive, and with that in mind, we can’t just give you a set list of hotels that are good and bad for Early Entry in general. Each hotel is closer to a specific park and further from another. Therefore, we’re letting you know two hotels you should skip and two hotels you should opt for instead for each of the four theme parks. So let’s get to it. Magic Kingdom Early Entry If You’re Doing Early Entry at Magic Kingdom… If you’re planning on starting your morning off at Magic Kingdom, there are some logistics that you’ll have to navigate to Early Entry here that you don’t have to at other parks. If you’re heading here via car or ride share, you’ll head to the Transportation and Ticket Center first. If you are arriving by Disney bus, boat, or monorail, you can head straight to Magic Kingdom. Early entry sign! AVOID Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge and Disney’s All Star Resorts Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge and the All Star Resorts are the furthest hotels away from Magic Kingdom. At about 8 miles away, your bus ride to Magic Kingdom could take about 20 minutes. With so many attractions to tackle at Magic Kingdom, you might want to stay somewhere that can give you a better advantage. Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge Stay at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Resort or a Monorail Resort The monorail resorts, Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, and Disney’s Grand Floridian & Spa Resort, are each connected directly to Magic Kingdom by the monorail system. They also offer a walking path directly to the park, which can be a very reliable way to get there if you don’t mind the extra steps. At Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Resort, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, and Disney’s Grand Floridian & Spa Resort, there are boats that can take you directly to the Magic Kingdom from these resorts. Disney’s Wilderness Lodge If You are Doing Early Entry at EPCOT… EPCOT is located along the Skyliner AND monorail routes, creating some complexities as to which hotels you should stay at versus those you should avoid if you want to take Early Entry at EPCOT is something you take very seriously. There are also some big headlining attractions at this park, and depending on where you enter from, yes, EPCOT has two entrances- you could either really help your chances of getting a head start, or really hurt them. Early Entry at EPCOT AVOID Wilderness Lodge and Disney’s All Star Resorts While Wilderness Lodge is a Magic Kingdom resort, it is NOT connected to the Monorail. Instead, you’ll take a Disney bus if you’re using Disney transportation to head to EPCOT. Disney’s All Star Resorts are positioned furthest away from EPCOT. Disney’s Coronado Springs Stay at a Boardwalk Area Resort or Disney’s Riviera Resort Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts, as well as Disney’s Boardwalk Inn Resort, are PRIME EPCOT locations. The International Gateway Entrance at EPCOT is located just a short stroll away from these hotels, and you won’t need much transportation (or any at all) to rope drop; these give you great access to rope dropping Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure. The same logic goes for staying at Disney’s Riviera Resort. The Riviera is on the Skyliner, and it will not make you transfer to a different route if you are heading to EPCOT. It has direct access to the park and will bring you right outside of the International Gateway, and you’ll be ready to start your morning off smoothly. Disney’s Riviera Resort If You’re Rope Dropping at Disney’s Hollywood Studios… Finally, Disney’s Hollywood Studios sits along the Skyliner route and is an incredibly popular park to start at thanks to its thrilling attractions. We find that you can knock out a few attractions here early in the morning with minimal wait times. Early Entry at Disney’s Hollywood Studios AVOID Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge and Disney’s Pop Century and Art of Animation Again, Animal Kingdom Lodge is pretty far from this park. If you are staying at that resort, you’ll have to take a Disney bus here. Now, this one might be controversial, but I would argue that staying at Disney’s Pop Century or Art of Animation Resort is a mistake. You might think because it’s on the Skyliner, it’s a great place to stay for Hollywood Studios; however, the lines to board in the morning can get LONG. You also have to get off at the Caribbean Beach station and switch to the Hollywood Studios route, taking up even more time! Skyliner Station at Disney’s Pop Century and Art of Animation Resorts Stay at a Boardwalk Area Resort or Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts, as well as Disney’s Boardwalk Inn Resort, are within walking distance to Hollywood Studios. There is also a boat that will run between these resorts and Hollywood Studios. Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort is on the Skyliner, and it will not make you transfer to a different route if you are heading to Hollywood Studios. It has direct access to the park. Caribbean Beach If You’re Rope Dropping at Disney’s Animal Kingdom… Disney’s Animal Kingdom isn’t along the monorail or Skyliner routes, making it one of the trickiest Disney Parks to rope drop using Disney World transportation, but it does give the most equal chance for all Disney resort guests. The park typically opens the earliest, and many guests love to start their days here to get things done before other parks even open. Early Entry crowd at Disney’s Animal Kingdom AVOID Old Key West and Monorail Resorts Disney’s Old Key West Resort is sandwiched between EPCOT and Disney Springs; while it’s not as far away as the Magic Kingdom resorts, it’s also not along any convenient transportation route. The monorail resorts are also some of the furthest hotels from Animal Kingdom in all of Disney World, making them ones to avoid if you’re planning on starting your days at Animal Kingdom. Disney’s Old Key West Stay at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge or All-Star Resorts We’ve talked about Animal Kingdom Lodge as a place not to stay, but if your priority is Animal Kingdom or just animals in general, THIS IS THE PLACE FOR YOU. Animal Kingdom Lodge is literally the closest you can get to Animal Kingdom via a very short bus ride. Disney’s All-Star Sports, Music, and Movies Resorts aren’t ideal for rope-dropping ANY of the Disney Parks; they are a bit closer to Animal Kingdom than most other resorts. The All-Star Resorts lack many of the amenities of other Disney hotels, BUT if you’re the type of person who wakes up early, gets up late, and spends the WHOLE day at the park, they may be the ideal resort for you All-Star Sports Disney World has a lot of hotel options, and each one has its pros and cons based on location. When in doubt, check the Disney World map for proximity and transportation options. For more Disney news and tips, follow us at DFB! 5 7AM Habits Expert Disney Fans Practice 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 park is your favorite to start your day in? Tell us in the comments below! View the full article

It’s summer, which means A LOT of families are taking vacations! School is out, the sun is out, and everyone just needs that break from work. There are an endless number of destinations to choose from — a weekend trip nearby, a tropical vacation on an island, a week-long stay at a theme park, a cruise — the list goes on and on! Disney Adventure Water Slides But what a lot of people don’t realize is there could be a barrier, even if you already had the trip booked in advance. Travel advisories are common to ensure every traveler’s safety, and one was recently issued for The Bahamas. On July 28th, 2026, the U.S. Department of State issued a Level 2 Travel Advisory for The Bahamas. A Level 2 Travel Advisory simply means “exercise increased caution.” The advisory was issued due to an increasing amount of crime in the area. ©US Department of State From the advisory, there has been an increased number of crimes, including armed robberies, burglaries, and sexual assaults. Most of these crimes occur in Nassau and Freeport on New Providence and Grand Bahama Islands. It’s also stated to be extremely cautious in the “Over the Hill” area in Nassau due to residents being killed by gangs. ©US Department of State The advisory also has information about jet skis, boating, and licenses, beach safety, and weapons and ammunition. It has been revealed that sexual assault has been committed by jet ski operators and on and near downtown Nassau beaches. Police also strictly enforce laws regarding firearms and ammunition, including small quantities in carry-on bags or luggage. Travelers carrying anything illegal can face arrest, jail time, and fines. ©US Department of State If you decide to travel to The Bahamas, the U.S. Department of State has provided some steps you can take to ensure your safety: Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy or consulate Review information on Crime Abroad and for Victims of Crime Review the Country Security Report Do not answer your door at your hotel or residence unless you know who it is Lock doors and windows and use other security features, especially on balcony doors Do not physically resist any robbery attempt Always check your personal belongings Follow local laws Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information Whether you’re a first-time or frequent traveler, use the International Travel Checklist Purchase travel insurance Rainbow Bridge ©Bahamas.com We’ll keep you updated if anything from this travel advisory changes. Read The Full Advisory 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 Are you travelling soon? Let us know in the comments below! View the full article

The MAGIC is officially back at Hollywood Studios this September. The Magic of Disney Animation in Walt Disney Studios On September 14th, the park will debut a new version of the opening day Magic of Disney Animation! First announced in 2025, this new take on the classic is replacing the Star Wars Launch Bay (which is a bit of “theme park inception” since the Launch Bay is what replaced the original Magic of Disney Animation over a decade ago). However, this isn’t just one singular attraction. Rather, it’s four distinct new experiences! These experiences will be set at the back of the newly renamed Walt Disney Studios Lot — based on the real Disney lot in Burbank, California — area of the park. ©Disney Like its predecessor, The Magic of Disney Animation will make its home in the buildings that once functioned as the park’s real, functioning animation studio. ©Disney The Once Upon A Studio Theater The Once Upon A Studio Theater will present the Emmy Award-winning short film Once Upon A Studio, upon which The Magic of Disney Animation is based. ©Disney In addition, the theater will also present “enhanced effects that add an extra layer of magic.” For instance, “you may spot characters popping up within the artwork along the theater walls, placing you right in the middle of this enchanting story.” The whole presentation sounds like it will truly feel like Disney’s animation studio is coming to life all around you. ©Disney Olaf Draws The Magic of Disney Animation will also host Olaf Draws, a class where YOU can learn how to draw iconic Disney animated characters in classes led by Olaf himself…with the help of some legendary Disney Animation artists who will help bring the class to life. ©Disney Olaf will be a brand-new Audio-Animatronic figure as he welcomes people into a new space, inspired by one of his most memorable moments from Once Upon A Studio, sitting at an animator’s desk, joyfully discovering the art of drawing. Josh Gad, the voice of Olaf, returned to record original dialogue for the experience. ©Carlye Wisel In Olaf Draws, each class features a different character, so you can return again and again! You may sketch any of the following in the class: Mickey Mouse, with Dan Abraham, director (Once Upon A Studio, Baymax!) Minnie Mouse, with Hyun Min Lee, animator (Frozen 2, The Princess and the Frog) Donald Duck, with Austin Traylor, animator (Once Upon A Studio, Moana 2) Genie, with Eric Goldberg, animator (Aladdin, Hercules) Moana, with Samantha Vilfort, story artist (Encanto, Zootopia 2) Stitch, with Fawn Veerasunthorn, director and head of story (Wish, Raya and the Last Dragon) Olaf, with Trent Correy, director (Once Upon A Studio, Frozen 3) Ursula, with Michael Woodside, animator (Big Hero 6, Encanto) Judy Hopps & Nick Wilde, with Byron Howard, director (Zootopia, Zootopia 2) ©Disney Disney Character Greetings at “Off the Page” In this experience, guests will meet beloved Disney characters across “six unique departments from the animation studio,” including Story, Layout, Hand-Drawn Animation, Computer Animation, Lighting, and Effects. ©Disney Though specific characters may vary, here are some examples of whom you may encounter, and where: Mulan in Story (posing in front of an oversized storyboard panel) Rapunzel in Layout (in “a setting inspired by the classic multiplane camera”) Chip n’ Dale in Hand-Drawn Animation Donald and Daisy in Computer Animation Goofy in Lighting Stitch in Effects ©Disney Drawn to Wonderland Playground Lastly, guests will be able to experience a whimsical indoor play area for the “youngest animators-to-be!” featuring an “oversized flower garden with musical instruments, a Mad Tea party playset, and a Tugley Wood exploration area.” ©Disney The whole playground is inspired by Disney Legend Mary Blair’s original concept art for Alice in Wonderland. Drawn to Wonderland Playground Concept Art ©Disney The Magic of Disney Animation — and its four distinct new attractions — is opening at Hollywood Studios on September 14th. We’ll be there, so be sure to stay tuned to DFB for full coverage of this new experience! Three 2027 Disney World Deadlines We Need To Warn You About 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 part of the Magic of Disney Animation are you most excited for? Let us know in the comments below. View the full article

Been dreaming of a Disney wedding? Well, now’s your chance to get a free showcase of what they’re like! Wedding Pavilion A wedding in a Disney destination is a big wish for many Disney Adults, but there are so many factors to consider — price, location, event size, and more. If you’re considering diving into the world of Disney Fairy Tale Weddings and you want to get a glimpse at what’s available, there’s a special event coming to Disneyland Resort soon. During D23 Day at Disneyland Resort on Thursday, August 13th, Disney Fairy Tale Weddings will be hosting a pop-up event at the Disneyland Hotel. Here, in the Rose Court Garden, you’ll be able to check out “inspiring floral & decor installations, unique entertainment & enchanting photo-ops.” ©Disney Disney Weddings at D23 Day will offer a way for you to see everything Disney Fairy Tale Weddings has to offer for your wedding ceremony or vow renewal. You’ll be able to chat with a member of the team to learn more about the options available — representatives will be on site from wedding destinations like Disney World, Aulani, Disney Cruise Line, and Disneyland Resort. The event is open to anyone attending D23 Day! ©Disney The event will take place from 10 AM to 6 PM and is treated as a “social hour” where you can come and go whenever you’d like. Pre-registration is available through the Disney Weddings website and is encouraged, but not required. You can check in at Rose Court Garden at Disneyland Hotel and explore the showcase across Adventure Lawn. ©Disney This is a great opportunity for anyone interested in Disney Fairy Tale Weddings or anyone who is just curious and wants to see what all Disney has to offer! We’ll keep you updated with any more details, so subscribe to our newsletter. 5 Huge Regrets Brides Had About Their Disney World Weddings 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 Would you ever have a Disney wedding? Tell us in the comments! View the full article

Disneyland Paris has been going through quite a few changes recently, and even more have just hit the resort! That beautiful castle! The brand-new Disney Adventure World just opened at Disneyland Paris, and we got the chance to check everything out! But those aren’t the only new changes that have just come to Europe’s only Disney resort, as a new cavalcade just debuted — and a refurbishment has been announced for a Disney Village staple. A brand new cavalcade debuted at Disney Adventure World in Disneyland Paris on July 24th — the Disney Princess Cavalcade! ©Disney The new entertainment offering celebrates the spirit of Moana, Rapunzel, Tiana, and Raya through spectacular floats, two original songs, and vibrant storytelling that we know and love from Disneyland Paris. ©Disney This is the first-ever cavalcade created for Disney Adventure World, and it was developed alongside the park’s transformation and expansion. The Disney Princess Cavalcade adds another layer of immersive entertainment to the growing list of experiences available at the newly transformed park. ©Disney In addition to this new cavalcade, a Disney Village — Disneyland Paris’ version of Downtown Disney — restaurant will be undergoing a lengthy refurbishment. The Italian fast-casual spot, Vapiano, will undergo a refurbishment in late 2026 to redesign and modernize its interior. The transformation will feature a more contemporary design and greater comfort for families. ©Disney Luckily, the restaurant will remain open throughout the renovation, which will be carried out in phases and is expected to be completed in early 2027. ©Disney We’ll be on the lookout for even more Disneyland Paris news you need to know about. In the meantime, make sure you stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for the latest Disney news and more! Check out more Disneyland Paris news at the links below! 2 BIG Changes Just Hit Disneyland ParisREVIEW: There’s Just ONE Reason We’re Obsessed With This Disney Restaurant (Hint: It’s NOT the Food)REVIEW: This Meal Didn’t Change Our Minds About Food at Disneyland ParisA Popular Disney Restaurant Is Getting A MAJOR Refurbishment And Will Be Closed Until 2027Disney Dropped NEW LOOK at This Hotel RefurbishmentOpening Timeline and Name Revealed for Disney’s FIRST-EVER ‘Up’ RideDFB Guide: The ULTIMATE Guide to Disneyland Paris — Plus BRAND NEW World of Frozen 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 Have you been to Disneyland Paris before? Let us know in the comments below! View the full article

You’ve got the Disney World park tickets. You’ve got the flights. You’ve got the itinerary started. Now all you need is the RIGHT Disney World resort, and you’ll be GOLDEN. But… WHICH Disney resorts are WORTH the money, and which ones are a total WASTE of it? We’re giving you the Disney World Hotel 411 TODAY, here on DFB Guide. Check out our new video: The Disney Hotels That Are a Waste of Money 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 video do you want to see from DFB next? Let us know in the comments! View the full article

Disney is working to make its parks even MORE technologically advanced in the coming years. Galaxy’s Edge We’ve seen groundbreaking animatronics and innovative rides, but the goal is to step up and do MORE before Disneyland Abu Dhabi opens down the line, as that park is going to be Disney’s most technologically-advanced yet. As part of that initiative, Disneyland Park will soon be getting snack carts operated by hovering droids! A little while back, we shared that Disney was working on a project to create snack carts with hovering droids that would be used for Star Wars areas in the future. These snack carts are inspired by a similar one featured in The Mandalorian and Grogu movie that released in theaters earlier this year, and were developed in conjunction with filmmaker Jon Favreau’s production department. ©Disney How do they work? Well, the droids hover over a stationary food truck as if it were a stage. Guests will be able to order several different soda options from a mobile app and then pick them up at the cart. Depending on what you order, the droids have programming to put on a little “show.” Bloomberg says, “If the guest only buys one drink, for example, the robot might act lonely.” A droid-themed drink cart in Galaxy’s Edge Disney’s team plans to showcase this new snack cart at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event on August 14th-16th, 2026. From there, they hope to potentially debut the cart in Disneyland Resort by the end of the year, likely in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. Droid on a drink cart in Galaxy’s Edge We can’t wait to see this technology in action and report back on exactly how it operates. We have a feeling this would be a rather popular addition to Star Wars spaces in the parks! Learn More About the Robotics Coming to Disney Parks 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 Would you visit a robotic snack cart? Tell us in the comments! View the full article

We got some BIG announcements in July, but one truly stood out! Kraft ranch dressing The summer months are HUGE for Disney. In July, San Diego Comic Con delivered some seismic news regarding the future of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and August will be PACKED with big reveals thanks to the D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event in Anaheim. Seriously — this 30-day stretch is heaven for Disney enthusiasts. However, we can’t stop thinking about one underrated food-related announcement from July! This is an exciting development, and we can’t wait to see what Disney and Kraft HEINZ cook up next! We’ll keep you posted on all the latest updates, so be sure to stay tuned right here at the Disney Food Blog to stay in the know! Marvel Just Dropped 4 MAJOR Announcements 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 kind of future Disney collaborations would YOU like to see? Share your thoughts in the comments below! View the full article

After nearly ten years of operation, a Georgia theme park is permanently closing. ©Fun Spot Atlanta Fun Spot America Atlanta will close its gates for good following its final day of operation on August 2nd, 2026. In the press release, Fun Spot America shared that since opening in 2017, “the park has welcomed millions of guests and created lasting memories for families throughout the region.” Fun Spot America CEO John Arie Jr. said, “This was an extremely difficult decision. Our Atlanta team has poured their hearts into serving our guests and creating a place where families could have fun together. We are deeply grateful for their dedication, and for the support we have received from the Fayetteville community.” ©Fun Spot Atlanta According to the press release, the company will be working closely with team members throughout the transition and will be providing support resources during this period. ©Fun Spot Atlanta Daily park operations will continue as normal from 10 AM to 10 PM through August 2nd, 2026. Those with Season Passes can continue to use them through the closure, and they will continue to be honored at Fun Spot America’s Orlando and Kissimmee locations, which will remain open. ©Fun Spot Atlanta Fun Spot America first opened in 1997 in Orlando, Florida, followed by a location in Kissimmee, Florida. The Atlanta park was their third location, which boasts Fun Spot’s largest four-story go-kart track, The Samson. Standing at 40 feet tall and 1,800 feet long, the track was Georgia’s first and only multi-level go-kart track. Atlanta is also home to a Ferris Wheel, Batting Cages, and more. We’ll be on the lookout for additional theme park closures you might need to know about and more. In the meantime, make sure you stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for the latest theme park news and beyond. This Theme Park Ranking Is Controversial, But One Disney World Spot Is Getting A Well-Deserved Shout Out 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 Have you ever been to Fun Spot Atlanta? Let us know in the comments below. View the full article

There’s a NEW restaurant coming to Disney’s BoardWalk, and we’re PUMPED. Let’s go to the BoardWalk! Disney announced a new dining and entertainment venue called Hurly-Burly will be opening at the BoardWalk in late 2026. This space will be family-friendly by day and ages 21+ at night, but what will it look like? Well, we’re breaking down the concept art to get more details! Disney hasn’t revealed very much information about Hurly-Burly so far. They’ve shared one piece of concept art when the dining spot was announced. In the afternoons, the space will have fun activities for the whole family, like host-led trivia and games. In the evenings, it will be exclusively open for the 21+ crowd as it turns into a live music venue and lounge. ©Disney From the concept art shared, we can see a piece of art on the wall that calls this space the Hurly-Burly Theatre. The “theatre” aspect may be part of the venue’s backstory. ©Disney Disney has said that the menu will feature “classic, coastal-inspired cocktails and tasty light bites.” Also in the concept art, there are a few drinks prominently pictured. One is a red beverage in a short glass with a fun garnish, while the other looks to be a bright purple concoction. Could these be some signature cocktails? ©Disney Another table shows a group of people with beverages that look more classic, along with a plate of sliders. Sliders are often a staple on lounge menus, so it wouldn’t be surprising if Hurly-Burly got some. There also seems to be a second appetizer that could be a charcuterie or dip of some kind. ©Disney In the center of the concept art, there’s a stage for performers, which has what looks to be a jazz band. Disney hasn’t shared the type of entertainment to expect outside of just “live music performances.” ©Disney One thing we’re noting in particular about this space is that there’s a broad mix of seating. Booths line the walls, while high-top tables are featured in the back. Near the stage, the tables are shorter with comfortable armchairs. Each table seems to have its own warm glow from small individual lamps. ©Disney We can’t wait to step inside Hurly-Burly later this year! We’ll keep our eyes peeled for more details, so subscribe to our newsletter for the latest! Get All the Hurly-Burly Info 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 Will you be visiting this lounge once it opens? Tell us in the comments! View the full article

There may not be as much as usual, but even these few items at ALDI are going to make our Disney World trips so much better! All-Star Movies Resort Starting on August 5th, ALDI is bringing in two items specifically that’ll make your next sleep in a Disney World hotel bed SO much more comfortable. So, if you’ve got a Disney World trip coming up and you’re staying on property, you may want to stop at ALDI to pick these up. Don’t have an ALDI near you? Amazon has some good stuff too! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Starting on August 5th, ALDI is going to have some pretty cheap satin pillowcases and eye masks, coming as a package deal. We think this could be kind of a nice way to bring some “luxury” to your Walt Disney World hotel room, especially if you are a satin pillowcase person. The cost to get a 2-pack of the satin pillowcase AND the eye mask is actually unbelieveable! ©ALDI If you’re someone who’s a little more worried about germs (hey, we get it), then maybe this Anti-Microbial Bed Pillow is for you! Again, it’ll be available on August 5th, and the price is too good to ignore. ©ALDI Get this Silk Sleep Mask ©Amazon If you don’t have an ALDI near you, you can grab this DROWSY Silk Sleep Mask off of Amazon! This is a face-hugging, padded mask to provide luxury sleep in total darkness. It’s pure silk to provide maximum comfort. This is perfect for those who have a little more trouble sleeping away from home. There are a few different color options to choose from. view ON AMAZON This Anti-Microbial Pillow is great! ©Amazon While way more expensive than the pillows at ALDI, the quality of this Anti-Microbial King Size Pillow is top notch! It has a crisp 100% cotton shell to keep dust and other allergens. It’s great for those who want to keep germs away, whether you don’t want to get sick, you have allergies, or you’re prone to breaking out. We think this is a great grab for Disney World stays. view ON AMAZON We’re always on the hunt for the latest and greatest Disney souvenirs and essentials, so don’t forget to stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for more! View the full article

This summer comes with extra fun when you decide to stay in the magic in the Disney Resorts Collection at Walt Disney World. As part of Cool KIDS’ SUMMER, four resorts are welcoming guests with special experiences and amenities designed to delight families with young children from the moment they check in. From epic pool parties to cozy nighttime sing-alongs, here’s how to make the most of your summer vacation at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, Disney’s Pop Century Resort, or Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside.* Enjoy Complimentary Water Park Admission on Check-In Day During Cool KIDS’ SUMMER, guests staying at any Disney Resort hotel can enjoy complimentary admission to a Disney water park on check-in day, with the ability to choose from Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park and Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park. From thrilling water slides to relaxing lazy rivers, Disney water parks combine immersive theming with family-friendly fun. Whether you’re looking to unwind after traveling or jump into high-energy attractions, this perk is a great way to kick off your summer getaway. Offer valid for arrivals May 26 through September 8, 2026. Learn more. Enjoy Family-Fun Recreation Around Your Resort Disney Resort hotels offer plenty of ways to jump right into the fun from day one of your Walt Disney World vacation. From lawn games like cornhole and Giant Connect 4 to evening favorites like campfires and Movies Under the Stars, there’s something for every member of the family. You can also enjoy trivia, interactive games, and other family-friendly activities led by Disney cast members throughout their stay. Let’s say you’re checking in at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside for a magical summer getaway. In addition to year-round recreation offerings like catch-and-release fishing and surrey bike rentals, you’ll find even more family fun as part of Cool KIDS’ SUMMER. The magic begins at check-in, so be sure to stop by the Front Desk and pick up a Cool KIDS’ SUMMER surprise for each of your little ones. They might even run into some of their favorite Disney characters in the lobby! Once you’ve settled into your room, head outside for one of the resort’s enhanced Cool KIDS’ SUMMER pool parties. Hosted by Disney recreation cast members, these daily celebrations feature interactive games and upbeat music. For a quiet way to spend the afternoon, stop by the resort’s Cool KIDS’ SUMMER lobby library provided by Disney Publishing, where young readers can discover stories featuring Disney Princesses, Super Heroes, and more. It’s the perfect place to relax, recharge, and enjoy some family time between adventures. As the day winds down, gather the family for a cozy Cool KIDS’ SUMMER pajama party. Join Disney recreation cast members for story time followed by an opportunity to create your own bedtime story. You may even spot a favorite Disney character stopping by to help bring the story to life. It’s a memorable way to end your first day and get ready for all the experiences that await tomorrow. Explore Walt Disney World Resort with Complimentary Transportation One of the best ways to start your vacation is exploring beyond your Disney Resort hotel, and Disney makes it easy with complimentary transportation modes across Walt Disney World. Disney Resort guests** can travel between Disney Resort hotels by bus, boat, or other transportation options like the Disney Skyliner and monorail at select resorts. From Riverside, set sail on the scenic Sassagoula River Cruise to Disney Springs for shopping, dining, and entertainment. From Disney’s Art of Animation Resort and Disney’s Pop Century Resort, soar through the sky on the Disney Skyliner and head to Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort to enjoy a family meal at Sebastian’s Bistro. Head to another Disney Resort hotel for dining, sightseeing, or simply exploring. Disney’s transportation network offers a convenient way to enhance your check-in day. Explore transportation options at Walt Disney World. Take in the Details that Make Each Resort Hotel Special Part of the magic of checking into your Disney Resort hotel is taking in the details. From the moment you arrive, every resort’s setting and atmosphere feel distinctly Disney. Every detail is thoughtfully designed to make you feel like you’ve stepped into another destination. At Disney’s Port Orleans Resort — Riverside, stroll beneath towering oak trees along the banks of the Sassagoula River, where a one-mile jogging trail offers a scenic way to explore more of the resort at your own pace. It’s an easy way to slow down, stretch your legs after traveling, and enjoy the quiet beauty of the Bayou.  If your Cool KIDS’ SUMMER vacation is taking you to Disney’s Pop Century Resort, you can look forward to larger-than-life icons celebrating the fads, toys, and trends that defined iconic decades in American pop culture. Towering yo-yos and colorful Rubik’s Cubes make it feel like you’re walking through time as you explore the resort. Over at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, swaying palm trees, white-sand beaches, and colorful island-inspired regions create a relaxing tropical escape. Wander along the waterfront, take in the picturesque views of Barefoot Bay or simply relax in a hammock underneath some palms. At Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, beloved Disney and Pixar stories leap off the screen and into the real world. As you explore the resort, you’ll find yourself immersed in scenes inspired by films like Finding Nemo, Cars, The Lion King, and The Little Mermaid. From towering character sculptures to colorful courtyards filled with storytelling details, every corner invites families to slow down and relive some of their favorite Disney movie moments. Take in your resort’s views, relax in one of the outdoor spaces, or simply admire the resort’s architecture and hidden storytelling elements. Each Resort hotel offers plenty of ways to ease into vacation mode on check-in day. Make Magical Memories with Disney cast members While there’s plenty to see and do around your Disney Resort hotel, some of the most memorable moments come from the Walt Disney World cast members who bring the experience to life. Throughout Cool KIDS’ SUMMER, cast members are helping create magical moments for families, both big and small. You might meet a recreation cast member leading a high-energy Cool KIDS’ SUMMER pool party, hosting a campfire or helping little ones create their own bedtime story during a cozy pajama party. Merchandise cast members are creating memories by surprising little ones with special pins from the kids-only trading boards available throughout Cool KIDS’ Summer. Over at select quick-service restaurants***, dining assistants are on hand to make mealtime a little easier for young families. That means grabbing an extra highchair, tracking down utensils or condiments, or simply stopping by the table to share a warm hello with your little ones. From sharing a smile to helping create unforgettable family memories, these special interactions are what make every moment at a Disney Resort hotel feel uniquely magical. With so much to discover just steps from your room, check-in day at Walt Disney World is a chance to explore, unwind, and start making unforgettable memories from the moment you arrive. *Additional Cool Kids’ SUMMER experiences and amenities are only available during Cool KIDS’ SUMMER at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, Disney’s Pop Century Resort, and Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside from now until Sept. 8, 2026. **Guests boarding Disney Resort hotel buses and the Sassagoula River Cruise from Disney Springs will be asked to show a valid Disney Resort hotel room key or a dining or experience reservation for the Resort they are visiting. Guests staying at a Disney Resort hotel may also use their MagicBand or the My Disney Experience app to verify their Resort hotel stay. ***Quick-Service dining assistants may be available during breakfast and dinner at quick-service restaurants at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, Disney’s Pop Century Resort, and Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside during Cool KIDS’ SUMMER, now through Sept. 8, 2026. Discover a Family’s First Visit to Disney World READ MORE Experience Fall at Walt Disney World Resort READ MORE These Cool KIDS’ SUMMER Snacks are All Under $10 READ MORE The post Ways to Enjoy Hotel Check-In Day During Cool KIDS’ SUMMER appeared first on Disney Parks Blog. View the full article