All Activity

If you’re into nonsense, shenanigans, or malarkey, boy do I have a story for you! Welcome back to Tiny Train Town! I’m the unofficial official mayor of the Tiny Train Town in EPCOT’s Germany Pavilion, and those little guys who live there get themselves into some serious trouble on the weekly. We love to report on their happenings and share them with our followers, and today I have an all-new update for you! Starting out our report this week, there was an unfortunate train incident with one of the new dining cars that have begun traversing the town. One such train fell off the tracks after taking a sharp curve. After our investigation, it was determined that every passenger who boarded the train sat on the right side of the car that day. Come on guys, it’s basic physics — you have to balance your weight on either side of the car when you board! *shakes head disapprovingly* Also, what were you guys doing, filling up tables with strangers when there were plenty of empty tables on the opposite side of the car? Do you know no social etiquette at all?! Just like on planes, not everyone wants to spend their entire commute conversing with someone they’ve never met. Tsk, tsk. Not AGAIN! Our next order of business is to welcome the town’s newest resident, Doreen! Doreen has just entered retirement after a 40-year career as a secretary at a law office. She moved here from America (it may just be two pavilions away, but it’s a long trek when you’re this tiny) and she’s excited to live a quiet and cozy life with her five cats and three pet geese. Who’s going to tell her that life here isn’t exactly quiet? Nose goes! Everyone say “Hi Doreen!” Of course, perhaps the most exciting news we’ve had about our village in a while is that there’s a NEW ICE CREAM STAND. Yep, that’s right! The center of town was once the hub of crime and villainy and now it’s a hub for tasty treats and fun live entertainment. The villagers have been taking well to the new food booths for the Food & Wine Festival, and I know they’re going to be simply delighted by what the holiday season has to offer in the coming months. More sweet treats, perhaps?! I scream, you scream! And you know by now as a Disney fan that there’s pretty much NO place in Disney World that goes without construction projects. They seem to touch every corner of the property, and now they’re here in Tiny Train Town, too! I’ve been supervising these guys for a couple of weeks and they haven’t made much progress so far. At this rate, whatever they’re working on is going to take longer to build than TRON Lightcycle / Run. Construction?! Thanks for coming along with me to Tiny Train Town! If you’re interested in more fun details in Disney World, check out the video below to see details that people miss during their Disney World visits. * 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. For more fun from all the Disney parks, subscribe to our newsletter! See More Tiny Train Town Adventures 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 ever visited Tiny Train Town in EPCOT? Tell us in the comments! View the full article

For Alexandra, a safari wasn’t just a trip. It was her ultimate wish. And with support from Make-A-Wish and National Geographic Expeditions, it became a reality. Alexandra’s Journey For as long as she can remember, Alexandra has been fascinated by wildlife and the natural world. Inspiration came from many places, including conservationist Jane Goodall, whom she met as a child and has admired ever since. As her passion for this work grew, she began putting it into action, securing an internship in Alaska the summer before her senior year of high school, where she planted native trees, removed invasive plants, and helped develop environmental education programs for kids. Alexandra was diagnosed with cancer and during her treatment in the hospital, her care team approached her with an opportunity to have a wish granted by Make-A-Wish, sparking an adventure of a lifetime. When asked what her heartfelt wish was, the answer came easily. She wanted to see wildlife up close and conservation efforts at work. The excitement only grew when Alexandra learned her safari would be granted on a National Geographic Journey with G Adventures trip in Africa. For someone who grew up reading National Geographic magazines and learning from the National Geographic Explorers, it felt full circle. “When I was little, I used to look at the Nat Geo Explorers and think, ‘Oh my gosh, I want to do that’… Whenever I read the magazines, I would always look at the pictures and think how gorgeous the world is and how important it is to protect all the natural resources and wildlife,” Alexandra remembers. “Yeah, I think it (National Geographic) really gave me a deep appreciation for the world and all of its natural resources.” An Unforgettable Adventure On the trip, Alexandra saw the lessons she had studied in the classroom demonstrated in real life. From learning alongside local guides and conservationists to watching wildlife in its natural habitat, Alexandra witnessed conservation efforts at scale and making an impact. Among the many unforgettable moments from Alexandra’s trip, one memory stood out. “We waited by this watering hole, and all the elephants came walking toward us. For about 30 minutes, they were playing in the water, splashing each other, and rolling around in the mud,” she recalled. “They were so close. It was unbelievable.” “It’s been kind of crazy going from laying in a hospital bed to being in Africa,” Alexandra added. Just as memorable as the wildlife and scenery were the connections Alexandra formed along the way. “Every single person that we met was just the kindest person you will ever meet,” she shared. “Everyone was just so friendly and so open to learning about our lives and so willing to share about their lives.” Alexandra shared that her and her mom made friends with so many people that they hope to stay in touch with forever, including their field guide, Uncle Philly, who they hope to visit again one day when they return to Africa. The Lasting Impact of a Wish Alexandra’s wish was more than an unforgettable journey. It was an opportunity to see her passion for conservation in a new way and to imagine where it could take her next. “This experience confirmed that I’m meant to do wildlife and environmental conservation,” revealed Alexandra. “I think that’s my life’s purpose, no doubt.” It’s the kind of next generation passion and purpose that Disney and National Geographic are committed to nurturing. A portion of all National Geographic Expedition trips are donated back to the National Geographic Society to fund a variety of research and conservation projects. It’s the same spirit championed by the Disney Conservation Fund, which helps inspire young people to connect with nature, take action for wildlife, and become the next generation of conservation leaders. Since 1995, the fund has supported 600 nonprofit organizations working to protect more than 1,000 species of wildlife across half the countries in the world and all five oceans. And with Alexandra, these values are already taking root. Alexandra is entering her senior year in high school with dreams to study environmental science and biology in college and the goal of becoming a wildlife biologist. She wants to conduct field research that can help inform policies protecting nature and wildlife, and later pursue her Ph.D. For more than 45 years, Disney and Make-A-Wish have worked together to create moments of joy and hope for children and families, granting more than 175,000 wishes around the world. To learn more about Disney’s longstanding work with Make-A-Wish, visit wish.org/Disney. READ MORE Yellowstone with Max Lowe and National Geographic Expeditions READ MORE Disney World Hosts Princess Celebration for Wish Kids READ MORE Top Five Experiences in New Nat Geo Expeditions Southern Africa The post Safari Wish Brings Wish Kid Alexandra’s Conservation Goals to New Heights appeared first on Disney Parks Blog. View the full article

Pin trading is one of those Disney World traditions that sounds simple, but suddenly it’s been making waves in the Disney community, and fans have a lot to say about it. Pin trading at EPCOT You put on a lanyard, spot a pin you love, make a trade, and walk away with a tiny souvenir and a good story. But spend a few minutes around the traders in Disney World, and you’ll see it isn’t always that simple anymore. So I read 150 comments on pin trading videos and posts to find out how fans really feel about it. It turns out the pins aren’t the problem. First, a little background. EPCOT is the main pin trading hub in Disney World, and large groups of traders gather in the covered breezeway between Connections Cafe and Creations Shop, spreading binders and pin sets across the benches. Some fans call it pin squatting. That breezeway is also one of the best shady places to sit at the front of the park, so things get crowded fast. Trading at the breezeway Disneyland dealt with the same issue and changed its rules back in May, banning pins from being displayed on benches, chairs, and tables. Disney World hasn’t made that change, and we recently asked whether EPCOT could be next. So the debate here is still wide open. New rules The frustrated fans did not hold back. “I love pin trading, but you won’t catch me here LOL these people have made this a competitive sport,” one commenter wrote. Another missed the way the area used to feel: “I remember being able to sit out there with my coffee in the morning. Too bad Disney turned it into a cheap swap meet…” And one person went all the way: “Pin trading should be banned if you are over the age of 12.” It can get crowded! That swap meet comparison showed up closer to home, too. DFB reader Matt told us he wants pin trading banned in the EPCOT breezeway and said it now has the feel of a flea market. His bottom line? “Pin trading should be a hobby, not an income stream.” That lines up with a recent TikTok from @abigailfaithfoster, who said a trader refused to trade with her until each of her pins had been looked up on eBay for its price. Pin trading at EPCOT Here’s what surprised me, though. Some of the harshest words came from people who love the hobby. After Disneyland cracked down on its own bench traders, one fan wrote, “Those bench squatters were giving us all a bad name.” Pin Trading in EPCOT Another fan reacting to the traders said: “The scammer pin traders have really ruined it for everyone.” That same person added that they always trade with kids in line, even when the pin they’re giving up is worth more, because seeing a kid’s face light up is what pin trading is supposed to be about. These fans aren’t mad at pin trading. They’re mad at what some traders have done to it. Showing off our pins And plenty of fans have had nothing but good experiences. “Most of the traders are SO nice, and 90% of the experiences I’ve had have been positive,” one commenter shared. Another agreed: “I’ve never had a bad experience; they’ve all been nice to me…” DFB reader Essie has been trading since it started back in 1999 and 2000, and she told us she’s had many nice experiences and met many nice people and Cast Members along the way. And as we’ve pointed out before, there are traders who will make a trade that doesn’t benefit them just to help someone complete a mystery set. Pin trading board Then there’s the middle ground. “I don’t Pin Trade, but I don’t have a problem with Pin Traders,” one fan wrote, which might be the calmest take on the internet. Another summed up the whole debate in one line: “There is certainly a love/hate relationship here with the pin trading culture.” So how do fans really feel about pin trading in Disney World? After 150 comments, here’s where I landed: people still love pin trading. What frustrates them is the squatting, the benches they can’t sit on, and the feeling that a fun hobby has turned into a business for some. At the same time, a lot of fans think the big trading scene is part of the fun and say most traders are kind. Pin trading Disney World hasn’t changed its rules, but with Disneyland already cracking down, it’s something we’re watching closely. If the breezeway isn’t your scene, you can always trade with Cast Members and the pin boards around the parks. We’ll keep an eye out for any changes, so stay tuned to DFB for the latest! H3 Video 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 How do you feel about pin trading? Tell us in the comments! View the full article

We’ve shelled out the BIG bucks at The Cake Bake Shop in Disney World, and people love to ask us…is it worth it?! The Cake Bake Shop Bakery! This restaurant is known for having high prices, but the vibes are simply stunning. If it’s out of the budget to do a full meal here, we like to recommend stopping by the bakery next door to grab a few of their sweet treats. They may be pricey, but there’s also a chance that you could find the BEST treat of your vacation here. And we’ve got a new contender! We stopped by The Cake Bake Shop Bakery to try out the returning Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Roll Cake for $22 a slice! It’s rather massive — six layers of pumpkin ginger ckae with cinnamon sugar, cream cheese filling, vanilla buttercream, crystallized ginger, and a little white chocolate pumpkin on top. We had this one last year (minus the little pumpkin) and it was so spectacular we knew we had to come back and snag it again. She’s a beaut! Unfortunately, the little pumpkin pal on top of the cake came rolling around inside the to-go box instead of on top, but we were able to reattach him for photos (poor lil fella!). But let us tell you…that cake was YUMMY. It’s moist, thick, and lightly spiced with a consistency that reminded us of pumpkin bread. There are pieces of ginger scattered throughout that add little bursts of spice and really level up the flavors. Our slice! Overall it’s incredibly autumnal in flavor with cinnamon and the crystallized ginger coming through most prominently. That cinnamon, paired with the cream cheese filling, creates the cinnamon roll flavor. It’s really the best of both worlds in that regard. Like pumpkin bread and a cinnamon roll had a ginger-spiced baby! Look at those layers! The cream cheese and the vanilla buttercream help balance out the spices so it’s not too overpowering, but if you love a warm and cozy fall treat, this will be right up your alley. It’s quite rich and very shareable. Also, it’s on the regular menu (not listed as the monthly flavor) so we’re hoping it stays around for a little while. The pumpkin and the frosting on top. This wouldn’t be for you if you dislike strongly spiced treats or the punchiness of ginger, but we have a feeling it’s going to be fairly popular with everyone else. This bakery has a wide variety of treats in general, so it’s high on our must-try list during your visit. A bite of the cake. Heading to Disney World soon or wanting to plan a trip? Check out our YouTube video on the ultimate 5-day itinerary for your trip. For more snack reviews from around Disney World, subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media. See Our Thoughts on Some of the BEST Snacks We’ve Eaten Recently! 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 try this new cake slice? Tell us in the comments! View the full article

Depending on where you want to stay at the hotel, there is a perfect room for every guest traveling to Disney World. Looking to be closest to the lobby? There’s a room for that. How about farthest away from the elevators? They’ve got that, too! And if you’d like to be a short walk away from the pool? Don’t worry — there’s a room for everything! Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort We recently stopped by Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa to see which rooms are the best, so you don’t have to! Come check it out so you know which rooms to request on your next visit! Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is located on Seven Seas Lagoon and is just a monorail or boat ride, or a short walk away from the Magic Kingdom. This resort is one of Disney’s Deluxe resorts, offering great views of and close proximity to the park, signature dining locations, and special perks for guests, like Extended Evening Hours. Grand Floridian Resort & Spa The main building is home to a lot of these dining locations, including Grand Floridian Cafe, 1900 Park Fare, Citricos, Victoria & Albert’s, and more! This is also where you’ll find the quick-service dining location, the lounges, the gift shops, and the transportation to the parks and Disney Springs. If staying as close to these locations as possible, you’ll want to request rooms 4201 to 4209, 4301 to 4330, and 4401 to 4430. The suites located in this area are room numbers 4001 to 4008 and 4021 to 4030. Main Building Map If you’re looking for a little more quiet (since the lobby can be quite loud), but still want quick access to the main building, rooms 8119 and 8121 are a great option! This room is located directly across from the entrance to the main building, and the quiet pool is located just outside! In terms of transportation, it’s most closely located to the boat launch. Room 8119 Both of these rooms are located on the ground floor and have a great view of the Magic Kingdom! They also have small balconies that jut out from the building, and since they are facing away from the hustle and bustle of the resort, it’s a little more private. Look at this view! Disney Vacation Club Members will likely be staying in the Big Pine Key building. The rooms most closely located to the main building and right across from the quiet pool are rooms 9119 and 9121. Staying here will also give you great views of the Polynesian Village Resort. Room 9119 Guest rooms 6101 to 6424 will be located in the Sugar Loaf building. While these rooms aren’t a far walk from the main building or the quiet pool, the views aren’t as good as the other rooms above. You’ll likely be seeing the marina, another building of the resort, or the quiet pool. If views don’t matter to you, request these rooms, but if you’re hoping for views of the Magic Kingdom or the Polynesian Resort across Seven Seas Lagoon, we’d recommend requesting other rooms. Sugar Loaf Building Rooms 5141, 5144, and 5145 are a bit of a longer walk from the main building but have close access to the quiet pool and great views of the Magic Kingdom. These are located at the end of the hallway on the first floor. Room 5141 A short walk past the building with these rooms is the Conch Key building. This building offers a conveniently short walk to the Magic Kingdom boat launch and quiet pool. Rooms 7127, 7130, and 7131 offer views of Magic Kingdom directly across the water. These rooms are also located at the end of the hallway, but for this view, the extra few steps to the main building are worth it! Room 7131 The Disney Vacation Club Villas offer their own arrival area, so you can easily drive up, drop off your luggage, and head to your room almost immediately. No need for long walks when it comes to your check-in and check-out days. This building is reasonably close to the main building and is adjacent to the main pool. It’s also directly across the water from the Magic Kingdom. Grand Floridian Villas Room 1101 looks out toward Seven Seas Lagoon while rooms 1102 and 1104 face toward the Polynesian Resort. Although it’s directly across the water from the Magic Kingdom, staying in these rooms won’t guarantee a view of the park, as the island in the middle of Seven Seas Lagoon may block the view. Room 1101 If you’re looking to request these rooms, you have a couple of options: You can call ahead and ask a Cast Member to put a note in, but we’ve found the best way to do it is at the front desk when you arrive at the hotel. Remember, your request is NOT guaranteed, and even if it does get granted, you may need to wait a bit longer for the room to be ready. But it doesn’t hurt to ask! Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa If you’re booking a Disney World vacation soon and are staying at the Grand Floridian, keep these room numbers in mind so you have an idea of where you’ll be located! Stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for more Disney World news, updates, tips, and tricks. Disney Announces Plan to Solve a Growing Hotel Problem If you’re looking for the Disney World hotels that are the best value for your money, be sure to check out the video below to see which are a WASTE of money! 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 stayed at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa? Let us know in the comments below! View the full article

If you love video games (and even if you don’t), you’ve probably spent some time with Disney video games like Kingdom Hearts (which is so popular, it’s getting an animated series), Epic Mickey, Dreamlight Valley, and more. ©Epic Games Well, Disney has partnered with Epic Games on a new shooter with characters from Marvel and Star Wars, but that game has been delayed. As a result, according to Bloomberg, Epic Games is urging the development team to use AI to complete it. Although there aren’t a lot of other details available about the new game, it had been scheduled for a release in March 2027. However, that date has been pushed back, with no new date announced. Granted, this often happens with video game development, but Epic Games is now reportedly putting pressure on its developers to use an “AI first” production model by using tools such as Anthropic’s Claude. An internal message sent to staff reportedly said that developers should use “no more hand-written code.” The game’s director added that all art for the game would be generated with AI. Dreamlight Valley ©Disney The use of generative AI in games has already become a source of controversy for both developers and gamers. Both groups have loudly criticized content created with AI and argue that AI content is lower quality. In general, both groups also believe it’s bad for the video game industry as a whole. According to The Washington Post, protests over AI usage in games have even resulted in canceled projects, as well as rescinded awards. ©Amazon Epic Games, which is also the company behind Fortnite, posted to its website earlier this year that it had laid off more than 1,000 employees. Many in the industry argue that what’s needed to develop a game and deliver it on time requires more staff and less AI, though. If development on this game continues using AI, the game itself could face serious backlash from the other developers, critics, and consumers. We’ll keep an eye on the situation and post updates, so stay tuned to DFB for more. Are You Smarter Than a 1990 Disney Video Game? Do you have questions about Disney World? Well, we’re answering them!  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 the use of AI in this video game’s development? Share your thoughts in the comments! View the full article

When we think of lounges in Disney World, there’s one that almost always lands at the very top of our list, and just the thought of it has us craving the menu for days on end. Nomad Lounge in Disney’s Animal Kingdom Nomad Lounge in Disney’s Animal Kingdom is one of the lounges we recommend time and time again, and each time we visit, we find ourselves drawn towards the idea of delicious churros (yes, in Disney World, what a shocker) and the unique drinks you’ll discover at this spot. However, Disney recently announced a pretty big change coming to this lounge, and we know some of you have some questions about it. Don’t worry, we’re here to go over everything you need to know! It was just announced that Nomad Lounge will soon begin taking advance dining reservations for the first time ever, as a new Annual Passholder perk will be added to the lounge beginning on October 20th. This new perk will allow Annual Passholders to order two small plates and two beverages for just $49, which is a fantastic deal! Nomad Lounge With this change, though, come a lot of questions about how Nomad Lounge will function with these new reservations. We’ve got all the answers for you right here. Will Reservations Be Available For Non-Passholders? From what we understand from what Disney has released so far, the answer seems to be yes! While reservations will not be required for this spot, as the walk-up waitlist will still be available, they will be recommended. We’re expecting part of the lounge to potentially be seating for reservations only, but we won’t have clarification on that until those begin on November 8th. Nomad Lounge If you know you want to dine at this spot during your upcoming vacation, we do recommend looking to make a reservation, as we have a feeling this Annual Passholder offering is going to be very popular. Can Non-Passholders Take Advantage Of The Meal Deal? Unfortunately, no. If you’re not an Annual Passholder, you won’t be able to take advantage of the $49 deal for 2 small plates and 2 beverages. This deal is exclusively for Annual Passholders, who will need to prove their Passholder status by showing their Annual Pass. Annual Pass The regular menu, which features the same items, will still be available for all guests, so you don’t need to worry about certain drinks or food items not being available. You’ll just be paying the regular prices. Do I NEED A Reservation? Not at all! Again, while reservations are going to be recommended because of the expected popularity of this new Annual Passholder offering, not to mention that we’re in one of the busiest times of year in Disney World, they won’t be required. Nomad Lounge Do we recommend grabbing one? If you know you want to dine here, then yes, absolutely. But we’ve also had great luck with the walk-up waitlist here in the past, seeing as that was the only option for as long as this spot’s been open (up until this new offering, that is), so you may find yourself having some great luck. It can never hurt to check! What Items Are Available As Part Of The $49 Deal? While Disney hasn’t yet released the full menu (which we’ll absolutely be sharing with you when this perk starts on October 20th!), we do know that the following items will be included in the deal: Chinese Five-Spice Glazed Chicken Wings Traveller’s Provisions (warm roasted Naan Bread with a trio of dips) Wild Mushroom Dumplings Leaping Lizard (alcoholic) Hibiscus Henna (nonalcoholic) Chinese Five-Spice Glazed Chicken Wings Disney has also mentioned that the Charcuterie, Cheese Board, and select beverages will NOT be part of the deal, but an exhaustive list hasn’t yet been released. We’ll be sure to update you the moment we have it! What About Before November 8th? While the $49 Passholder menu begins on October 20th, reservations for Nomad Lounge won’t open up until November 8th. You can officially start making reservations on October 28th for November 8th and beyond. Anyone wanting to experience the Passholder exclusive deal from October 20th-November 7th will need to walk up. Nomad Lounge lunch So, for anyone planning to snag a spot, we recommend getting to the lounge as early in the day as possible to get your name on that list. That’s the best chance you’ll have of making sure you can dine there during the day! Can I Use The New Annual Passholder Deal After Sitting Down To Eat? Let’s say you don’t know about the Annual Passholder deal until after you’ve just been seated, so you didn’t know about it when booking. Can you still use the deal? To our knowledge, the answer is yes, BUT you can’t combine it with the regular Annual Passholder discount at this lounge. Tropical Rainbow Cocktail It’s our understanding that, as long as you show your Annual Pass card physically or on the My Disney Experience App before you order, then yes, you can still take advantage of the $49 deal. However, we’ll be getting final confirmation on this when we dine here on October 20th, so be sure to stay tuned! Some Disney World restaurants offer Annual Passholder discounts, and it’s important to remember, though, that there is NOT a 10-20% discount at this spot, so the $49 deal will be the only one available. In the meantime, do you want to see what eating at Nomad Lounge is like? Check out our video below! We’ll be sure to keep you updated on all the latest Disney World news, so stay tuned to DFB! Two NEW Perks Announced For Disney World Annual Passholders 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 How do you feel about this change? Tell us in the comments! View the full article

Dollywood is trying something completely new this Halloween, and Disney fans may find the format VERY familiar. ©Dollywood For the first time ever, Dollywood is hosting a separately ticketed, after-hours Halloween event! It’s called Harvey’s Boo Bash, and the first party happens this week. And we have everything you need to know! Based on everything Dollywood has announced so far, this sounds much closer to Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Disney World than Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights. That is either excellent news or disappointing news, depending on how much you enjoy being chased through fog by someone holding a chainsaw. Harvey’s Boo Bash Is Brand New Harvey’s Boo Bash is Dollywood’s first-ever separately ticketed after-hours special event. It takes place on October 16th, 23rd, and 30th, 2026, after Dollywood’s regular Harvest Festival day ends. The exclusive party runs from 9 PM until midnight, although Boo Bash tickets currently allow guests to enter Dollywood beginning at 4 PM. ©Dollywood That means you can spend the afternoon enjoying Dollywood’s Harvest Festival and Great Pumpkin LumiNights before the park shifts into its exclusive Boo Bash festivities later that night. Only a limited number of tickets are being sold for each event, too, so you’ll want to grab them while you can! Think Candy and Characters, Not Chainsaws The biggest thing to know about Harvey’s Boo Bash is the tone. Dollywood is very clearly selling this as a family-friendly Halloween party. Guests will find candy-collecting stations, special character meet-and-greets, dance parties, exclusive snacks and merchandise, and access to select Dollywood rides after dark. Harvey and other Dollywood characters will also be dressed for the occasion. That makes this feel much closer to Disney World’s Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, where the emphasis is on trick-or-treating, characters, costumes, themed entertainment, and riding Magic Kingdom attractions after dark. ©Dollywood Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights lives at the other end of the Halloween spectrum. HHN currently features 10 haunted houses, scare zones, horror characters, and deliberately intense scares, and Universal warns that the event may be too intense for younger children and does not recommend it for kids under 13. Harvey’s Boo Bash? You get a candy bag; that’s a very different evening. You CAN Wear a Costume Here’s another major clue about the kind of Halloween party Dollywood is building. Guests can wear costumes during Harvey’s Boo Bash, but Dollywood has released a full set of costume guidelines guests must follow. That again puts the event closer to Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party territory than Halloween Horror Nights. Universal generally does not permit costumes or costume masks during regular Halloween Horror Nights event nights. @Marisharuthie So, if your ideal Halloween evening involves dressing up, collecting candy, and riding roller coasters after dark instead of wondering what is hiding behind the next wall, Dollywood appears to know exactly who it is talking to. There’s A LOT Included With Your Ticket Harvey’s Boo Bash tickets cost $129.99 plus tax for guests ages 4 and older, with a $5 discount available to eligible Gold and Diamond Passholders. Your admission includes more than just access to the event. Guests receive a complimentary candy bag for the treat trails, an exclusive commemorative cup with free soda refills, and complimentary themed kettle korn. There will also be special character experiences, dance parties, event-exclusive food and merchandise, and select rides operating during the party. Sign us up! NightFlight Expedition Dollywood has specifically confirmed that NightFlight Expedition, the park’s huge new 2026 attraction, will be available during Harvey’s Boo Bash. Limited attendance could also mean shorter waits for some of those attractions, although we’ll need to see how the first event actually operates before we know what the crowds look like. Great Pumpkin LumiNights Is Part of the Fun Harvey’s Boo Bash isn’t replacing Dollywood’s existing fall celebration. Dollywood’s Harvest Festival continues through October 31st, and after dark, Great Pumpkin LumiNights fills the park with more than 12,000 pumpkins, illuminated displays, and seasonal entertainment. During Boo Bash nights, guests attending the party will be able to keep enjoying that nighttime atmosphere after regular park guests leave. And this may be one of the event’s biggest strengths. The Wildwood Tree is all lit up! Dollywood already knows how to do cozy fall very well. Instead of turning the entire park into something aggressively scary after dark, Harvey’s Boo Bash seems designed to take the existing glowing-pumpkin atmosphere and add candy, characters, exclusive entertainment, and later ride time. Dollywood Is Entering a VERY Competitive Halloween Market Theme park Halloween events are BIG business. Disney has Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. Universal has Halloween Horror Nights. Dollywood has already built a popular fall season around Harvest Festival and Great Pumpkin LumiNights, but Harvey’s Boo Bash is the first time the park has turned that season into its own limited-capacity, separately ticketed nighttime party. Wildwood Grove The park is leaning into something that makes much more sense for the Dollywood audience: Characters, treats, fall decorations, music, nighttime rides, and Halloween fun that doesn’t require checking behind you every six seconds. Dollywood! Basically, if Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party and a Tennessee fall festival had a pumpkin-covered cousin, we may have just met it. Harvey’s Boo Bash officially kicks off October 16th, with additional events happening October 23rd and October 30th. Magic Kingdom in September We’ll be watching closely to see what Dollywood’s first-ever Halloween after-hours party actually looks like once guests get inside, so stay tuned to Disney Food Blog for more theme park news, updates, and everything you need to know before your next trip. The ULTIMATE Guide to Dollywood Read More About Dollywood News Something BRAND NEW Is Coming to Dollywood This WeekDo NOT Eat This Dollywood Souvenir, No Matter How Tempted You AreEverything Dollywood Gets Right That Disney World Gets WRONGYour Chance to Win a FREE Dollywood Trip Ends TOMORROWDollywood Is Offering a BIG Ticket and Hotel Deal This Fall DON'T DO IT ALONE! Our favorite people over at Small World Vacations are ready to help you save time, headaches, and best of all, money, when you book your Disney trip or cruise. Their agents compare current offers to find the best deal for you -- they've literally saved their guests millions of dollars since 1996. Plus, their services are 100% FREE FOR YOU! (They're DFB's recommended travel agency, and you can see why here!) So book that trip now, then sit back and enjoy planning your Disney World Trip with a DFB-approved expert! Click here for a no obligation price quote today, and let them know DFB sent you GET MORE INFO Will you be planning to visit Dollywood during this spooky season? Let us know in the comments below! View the full article

There are some wild Disney rumors swirling around on the internet right now, and we’re here to set the record straight! Magic Kingdom at Disney World We’re deep into the Disney side of the internet, so we see some truly out-there stories about the Disney parks, the Disney company, and everything in between. And when those rumors get spread? Everyone is misinformed and confused! So that’s why we’re here to set the record straight on some Disney rumors that are spreading across the internet this week. Facial Recognition Entrances in Disney World? Kicking off our list this week, there has been a rumor that Disney World will soon implement facial recognition technology and automatic gates at park entrances, much like Disneyland Resort. Disneyland introduced entrances with facial recognition technology in 2025 and more recently expanded the offering. Disneyland signage We’ve seen similar technology used at Universal Orlando, so it’s not out of the realm of possibility that it could come to Disney World in the future. When it was implemented in Disneyland, the goal was to decrease the amount of ticket scamming and to speed up the process of park entry. Disney World hasn’t made any announcements about it coming to the parks, but we’ll keep this on the radar just in case. See the New Rules Disneyland Is Enforcing Disney PhotoPass Using AI? Are PhotoPass photographers in Disney parks about to start using AI on your pictures? Well, this one comes into the realm of possibly. The rumor currently is Disney filed for a patent for technology that would remove unwanted people from the background of pictures using AI, and that much is TRUE. PhotoPass Studio Disney filed the patent on October 6th and the models in the patent show a computer-implemented method removing “obstructions” from the background by splitting the photo into segments. Now, Disney hasn’t officially announced where or how this technology would be implemented, but the patent DOES describe a scenario for use in a theme park, since many photo spots include large crowds in the background of pictures. The patent notes that current methods of editing crowds out of photos are time-consuming, and that this technology could speed up the process on the back end. Learn About Another AI-Related Disney Patent Here! Mobile Ordering at a Fan Favorite Restaurant? If you’ve been around DFB for a minute, you know we LOVE Nomad Lounge at Animal Kingdom, which is attached to Tiffins. This lounge space is laid back, relaxing, and has some of the best eats in the entire park. And now you can Mobile Order from here! Nomad Lounge Churros The option appeared on the Disney World app a few days ago, but now it’s officially live! So if you tried it in the past week or so and it didn’t work, no worries — this was NOT a rumor, it was just in development. Currently, the only item available for Mobile Order are the Churros…which, tbh, are Nomad Lounge’s standout menu item anyway. They’re served with vanilla crema and apple butter and they are gluten-free! Learn More About This Option Here! A Popular Bar Is Closing? And finally, we have to address the rumor that the beloved Rose & Crown Pub at EPCOT is closing. Folks absolutely LOVE this spot and it has a cult following of Disney Adults and Annual Passholders…so is it shutting down? Not permanently! Rose & Crown Starting on January 11th, 2027, Rose & Crown Dining Room and Pub will be closing TEMPORARILY for a refurbishment. These spaces are scheduled to reopen later in 2027, though no specific reopening date has been announced. We know this is a popular spot for folks to visit during their EPCOT trip, so we’ll be on the lookout for any alternate dining options available during the closure. Learn More About the Closure Here! If you want to know more about what’s ACTUALLY happening in Disney World, check out this video below where we answer some of your most pressing questions. Stay tuned to DFB for more news and updates! Subscribe to our newsletter to get the latest in your inbox. See Us Debunk More Rumors Here! Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Which of these Disney rumors have you heard? Tell us in the comments! View the full article

One of our favorite things to do after a Disney World trip is to look through all our photos, which gives us a chance to relive our Disney vacation. Some of the best photos, though, are those taken by Disney PhotoPass photographers. Now getting your PhotoPass photo downloads isn’t necessarily cheap (although it is included with Lightning Lane Multi Pass in Disneyland), but those photos are almost always nearly perfect. What if you could remove strangers from your PhotoPass photos? But you know what would make those photos even better? Well, it would be nice if strangers weren’t running around in the background of that almost perfect shot of you and your family in front of the castle. Well, what if we told you Disney was working on a way of fixing that problem? Disney just filed a new patent that could do just that: automatically remove strangers from the background of your PhotoPass photos. This would happen on the computer end of things, similar to how you can remove people from photos on many smartphones. Then that shot of you and your family in front of the castle would be perfect, right? PhotoPass Studio This technology would work like this: the image would be captured by a PhotoPass photographer. That photo goes into Disney’s photo system with both you and your family and strangers in the background. The system then breaks the photo down into certain segments, each representing an object or person. Then it determines depth, basically figuring out how far each segment is from the camera. ©U.S. Patent and Trademark Office Each segment gets a sort of score based on its depth. The system then determines where the focal point of the photo is (you and your family) and determines what’s part of that group. Everything outside of that (strangers in the background) is removed or replaced. The program is also able to determine people in strollers and wheelchairs, or even when those being photographed are posing behind others. ©U.S. Patent and Trademark Office The obvious use for this would be with PhotoPass photos, and with the amount of photos taken each day by photographers, manually removing strangers in the background just isn’t practical. However, if it can be done automatically with this new program, the process becomes more seamless and efficient without any additional manual work required. Photo Pass Cast Member! Of course, filing a patent isn’t the same as putting something to use, but it’s interesting to discover that this is a problem that Disney is aware of and is trying to actively solve. We’ll have to see if this one makes it to the parks. We’ll keep an eye out for updates, so stay tuned to DFB for more. The EASY Way to See Which Characters Have PhotoPass in Disney World Thinking about spending money on upgrades like Memory Maker in Disney World? Watch this before you click on “Buy.”  Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW What do you think of this potential PhotoPass upgrade? Let us know in the comments! View the full article

Oh ALDI, you’re getting us so excited for the holidays even though it’s still spooky season! ALDI has the best finds! Starting on October 21st, ALDI is going to be filled with holiday-themed kitchen items and candles. Believe it or not, November is just around the corner, so it really is the time to start getting ready for the holiday season. So, if you’re into Christmas baking, Christmas smells, and more, you need to check out these ALDI finds! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Christmas is starting early for ALDI shoppers, as on October 21st you’ll be able to grab tons of holiday kitchen items. Check out these Merry Moments double wall glasses. The glasses feature little Christmas icons, including a Christmas tree, a dog, a gift, a gingerbread man, and a bow. ©ALDI There are also these Merry Moments glasses, but they’re animal sippers! These are adorable, and the price they’re listed at is an absolute steal. You can choose between a pink bear, a green penguin, and a purple penguin. ©ALDI Get this Bear Cup! ©Amazon If you don’t have an ALDI near you, you can grab this Cute Bear Sucker Cup off of Amazon! This 20-ounce drinking cup has a lid and straw, and it’s made of high-quality heat-resistant glass. So, it’s perfect for holding your favorite holiday beverages. It’s available for 5% off! view ON AMAZON Who’s ready for some holiday baking? Starting October 21st, you’ll be able to grab things like Christmas-themed spoons, bowls, and plates. They’ll be great for making cookies and putting cookies out for holiday parties. ©ALDI There are also these Merry Moments bowl 2-packs, themed to candy canes, gingerbread, and Christmas trees. ©ALDI These Gingerbread Bowls are also great! ©Amazon No ALDI near you? There’s this 6-Piece Christmas Ramekins Ceramic Gingerbread Man Serving Bowl set on Amazon! These bowls are great for putting out candy, snacks, cookies, and dips for those holiday gatherings. They’re also super adorable and come at a great price. view ON AMAZON ghjgjhghj Some other holiday kitchen items coming to ALDI that we love include Christmas-themed measuring cups, measuring spoons, and cookie jars. ©ALDI We also love these cookie cooling racks, coming in all sorts of shapes, colors, and designs. ©ALDI We love this Milk & Cookies Mug ©Amazon This Milk & Cookies Mug on Amazon is going to be that Christmas item your kiddos love! You can’t forget to leave out milk and cookies for Santa, and this mug holds BOTH. You put the milk in the mug, and a cookie can slide in the slot at the bottom. We were surprised at how low the price was for this. view ON AMAZON The last things coming to ALDI that we couldn’t ignore are the holiday candles! If you’re as big a fan of Christmas smells as we are, you need to grab these. ©ALDI There are also Kirkton holiday candles coming to ALDI on October 21st, with the scents of gingerbread, peppermint, pine, and more. ©ALDI 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

Got plans on November 2nd? If not, you do now! And if you already have plans, CANCEL THEM! ©ABC To be honest, my evening plans often include cozying up on the couch to stream something on Disney+, whether it’s a show I’m binge-watching or a favorite movie I’m rewatching, but this fall, I’ve got important plans every Tuesday night. That’s right, folks, Dancing with the Stars is back, and coming soon is DISNEY NIGHT. It has become a Dancing with the Stars tradition each year to have a themed Disney Night somewhere midway through the competition. You see, the show is aired on Disney+ and ABC, so it would make sense that The Walt Disney Company wants to advertise all of its assets in one night. And even if you’re not caught up on the competition or rooting for one celeb in particular, Disney Night is an absolute TREAT for Disney fans. ©Disney This is one of the nights each year that Dancing with the Stars goes BIG budget. We’re talking full sets, over-the-top costumes, and special effects that don’t usually grace the ballroom floor. Throughout the night, the stars and their professional dancer partners will perform to hit songs from a variety of Disney movies (and sometimes TV shows). The production value is off the charts! ©Disney If you’re hoping to watch Disney Night on Dancing with the Stars for Season 35, you can tune in to ABC or Disney+ on November 2nd, 2026, at 8 PM EST. The show streams on Disney+ and Hulu the next day. Voting for the stars is open during the show and closes shortly after the final dance. To vote, you can text the first name of your favorite star to 21523 or vote on the ABC website. (Note: If you’re a West Coast resident, the show comes on at 8PM PT as well, so you’ll have to blind vote early, while it’s premiering live on the East Coast). ©Disney Of course, you know that our team here at DFB will be tuning in! This season, we’re running a Dancing with the Stars bracket on Bracketology, and friendships are on the line. We’re seriously competitive, y’all. As it currently stands, I’m in second place, but I’m ready to claw my way to the top and win this whole thing. I’m rooting HARD for Jackson Olson from the Savannah Bananas! (He also happens to be a big DFB fan.) ©Bracketology So let us know if you’re tuning in to Disney Night and who you’re rooting for this year! It’s a close race, and these eliminations are getting to be nail-biters. We can’t wait to watch our favorite Disney tunes in ballroom form! Learn More About Our Dancing With the Stars Bracket 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 watching Dancing with the Stars this year? Tell us in the comments! View the full article

Disney Armed Forces Salute and Universal Orlando Military Freedom Pass Eligibility Are Not the Same The Disney Armed Forces Salute and Universal Orlando Military Freedom Pass are two of the best military theme park discounts available, but they do not use exactly the same eligibility rules. Some military members qualify for both. Some groups qualify […] The post Who Qualifies for Disney Armed Forces Salute and the Universal Orlando Military Freedom Pass? appeared first on Military Disney Tips. View the full article

Just like there’s nothing more thrilling than driving in a speeding convertible, there’s no Universal roller coaster more thrilling than Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift. Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift in Universal Studios Hollywood While the ride is open at Universal Studios Hollywood, and we’ve ridden it over and over again, its Universal Studios Florida counterpart is still under construction. But we have an update, because we just got an amazing first look at the ride testing that just started! Universal Orlando is actively testing Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift in Universal Studios Florida. In a video by @bioreconstruct on X, formerly known as Twitter, we can see the track switch! When the switch is on the right, cars will ascend a 170-foot vertical spike. When the switch is on the left, cars will descend, then rise into a very tall inversion. Just press play to watch the video right here! Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift in Universal Studios Hollywood is 170 feet tall, so the spike in Orlando will be a similar height. Just look at how tall it is! Fast & Furious Hollywood Drift In addition to the roller coaster’s track, Universal is currently building service walkways fitted with access stairs to perform future maintenance. Thanks to @bioreconstruct, we got a great look at the rectangular steel frame (at the yellow arrow) where stairs will be installed in the future! If we’d ever have to hop off the ride from there, imagine how great a view you’d have of the track! ©bioreconstruct We’ll be sure to keep you updated on more Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift news, so stay tuned to Disney Food Blog for more! Everything You Can Do in Epic Universe AFTER It Closes 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 Hollywood Drift’s progress so far? Comment below! View the full article

Get ready for some big-time savings on some incredible Disney souvenirs! ©Amazon We’re always on the lookout for great Disney merch deals online at Amazon so that you don’t have to go through all the trouble of browsing for hours. Fortunately, there are tons of great savings right now, and we’re sharing some of the BIGGEST and BEST deals you’ll find this week! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. We’re constantly keeping track of all the latest Disney souvenir deals — and you can find all of these updated savings all in one place thanks to our Amazon storefront! VIEW OVER 100 DISNEY DEALS RIGHT NOW ON AMAZON Save nearly 50% on this Loungefly bag! ©Amazon The holiday season is quickly approaching, making it the ideal time to start your Christmas shopping. That’s why we recommend checking out the Loungefly Lilo and Stitch Holiday Tote Bag — which is currently 46% off on Amazon! This adorable bag features Stitch sitting beside a Christmas tree with presents all around. The sides feature holiday-themed plaid, and the back of the bag sports several holiday symbols, such as ornaments and snowflakes. ©Amazon This tote bag sports perforated faux leather, which allows it to double as a pin display! Enamel pins in the shape of ornaments are included, and you can even attach more pins, decorating the tree and the rest of the bag. BUY ON AMAZON — 46% OFF Play-Doh has never been more fun! ©Amazon You can save a whopping 55% on the Play-Doh Disney Junior Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Set right now! This set is PACKED with tons of goodies your kids will love — including four “page” playmats with colorful scenes that confine the mess to one space, a separate storage space in the back of the book, Mickey and Minnie rollers and cutters, a plastic knife, fun shape molds, and more! Of course, this set also includes Play-Doh, and you’ll get red, green, blue, and yellow 2-ounce cans. BUY ON AMAZON — 55% OFF Gear up for your next Disney trip with this discounted suitcase ©Amazon We always emphasize the essentials you should bring with you on a Disney vacation, but just as important is what you bring it in. Right now, you can save 41% on the Samsonite Freeform Hardside Carry-On Hardshell Suitcase! This small black suitcase works as a carry-on for most flights and comes equipped with spinning wheels, elastic straps, a divider, and a pouch that ensures everything stays neatly in place. If you’re looking for a secure carry-on option or want to travel light, this is a great option. But snag it fast — this is a limited-time deal! BUY ON AMAZON — 41% OFF This beloved LEGO set is currently on sale ©Amazon Right now, you can save 34% on the LEGO Frozen Elsa’s Ice Palace Set! This 630-piece set comes with a buildable three-level ice castle with a movable floor that opens the doors, a falling chandelier, two bedrooms, Elsa’s study with a desk, a balcony, a buildable sled, and more. It also includes figures of Elsa, Anna, Kristoff, Olaf, and a baby reindeer! BUY ON AMAZON — 34% OFF Rep Moana in style with these fun Crocs ©Amazon Currently, you can snag these Moana Classic Crocs Clogs on sale in a few different kids’ sizes! Featuring brilliant Moana and Polynesian-inspired imagery, these shoes come with Moana Jibbitz charms, as well as heel straps that read “Chose You” and “The Ocean.” BUY ON AMAZON Bring home a BB-8-themed Loungefly! ©Amazon The Loungefly Star Wars: The Force Awakens BB-8 Figural Crossbody Bag is currently 27% off on Amazon! Inspired by the cute, spherical droid from the sequel series, this Star Wars bag sports metallic and debossed details, an adjustable and detachable strap, and little 3D features like the eye camera and antennae. BUY ON AMAZON — 27% OFF Save money on this 2026 LEGO Advent calendar! ©Amazon Disney always comes out with great merch for the holidays, and this year it’s delivered the new LEGO Disney Princess Advent Calendar! On sale for 33% off, this 290-piece set offers 24 days of surprises — including toys like a piano, a gingerbread castle, a campfire and marshmallow, musical instruments, a fireplace with a wreath, and presents. It also comes with figures of Ariel, Sebastian, Cinderella, Gus, Moana, Pua, Mulan, and Mushu. But that’s not all! The calendar doubles as a game board, featuring a buildable spinner! BUY ON AMAZON — 33% OFF Great Disney souvenir deals pop up all the time, and you can keep it posted right here at DFB to stay in the loop! View the full article

We love it when Disney drops a new limited-time experience, but so does everyone else, because reservations have been HARD to snag for Disney’s new lounge in Magic Kingdom. The Diamond Horseshoe The Diamond Horseshoe lounge opened recently on October 4th, and reservations have been very difficult to find. But we think we might have just found a solution! On a recent visit to the lounge, we decided to ask a Cast Member for their advice on securing a spot in this popular new space. They told us that reservations are currently all booked up, but there was a good time of day to check out the walk-up list. The lounge has a bar space that is for walk-up guests; now there aren’t any chairs, just a spot at the bar, which is important to keep in mind. We love all the fall decor! Well, even the walk-up list can get popular, creating a long wait or even no availability. However, the Cast Member informed us that late at night was the best time to visit, and that the last three hours of the park day typically have some room at the bar. The Diamond Horseshoe Pop Up Lounge Now, this is not surprising in a park like Magic Kingdom where many guests are spending those last few hours in the park securing a spot for the Disney Starlight Parade and Happily Ever After Firework show. This typically means that rides, and now the Diamond Horseshoe Lounge, are far less busy. Happily Ever After So if you are not planning to view the evening entertainment, that could be the best time to visit this spot if you aren’t able to snag a reservation. Now, if you don’t want to visit the lounge in the evening, then make sure to keep checking the reservation page. Availability can shift as guests move through the lounge quicker than expected or even cancel their reservation. So, while it’s not a guarantee, there is always a chance a new reservation will pop up. Diamond Horseshoe Lounge We really enjoyed our time at the Diamond Horseshoe Lounge and think it’s a great place to relax and enjoy some great food and drinks on your Magic Kingdom day. We will continue to bring you all of the best Disney World tips and tricks, so stay tuned to Disney Food Blog so you never miss anything! REVIEW: We Ate EVERYTHING On The Menu At The NEW Diamond Horseshoe Lounge in Magic Kingdom! If you are planning a trip to Disney World, check out our Ultimate 5-Day Disney itinerary video right 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 visited this lounge? Let us know all your thoughts in the comments below! View the full article

There is no better time for this Disney World restaurant to have its grand opening than spooky season! Six Ravens Six Ravens is officially having its Grand Opening Congregation on Saturday, October 17th. Now, we know what you’re thinking. Yes, the brand-new snack spot has been open for a couple of months. However, its opening on August 3rd was part of a soft opening phase. This upcoming Saturday will be its official Grand Opening. It was recently announced that Six Ravens will host its Grand Opening Congregation this Saturday, October 17th, and everyone is invited! Any guest who shows up will claim a handsome collectible pin, gifted for FREE with any purchase. Also, a “regal crown awaits, ensuring your place among the kingdom’s elite.⁣” Coffyns at Six Ravens The grand celebration festivities will begin at 10 AM sharp. All of the special goodies and giveaways will only be available while supplies last. Six Ravens also noted on their Instagram to “Keep watch for more words to mark the day, but consider this your royal invitation to join the celebration, for together we shall Seek the Six!” Our box ready to go If you haven’t been to Six Ravens before, it’s a grab-and-go restaurant, similar to Gideon’s Bakehouse. So you’ll order inside and then grab your eats and head outside. The main item you can get here is the coffyns, which are handheld yeast rolls stuffed with different fillings. Coffyn was the original term for hand pies, which these are based on. A wrapped-up meal We’ve found ourselves at Six Ravens a few times, but we’ll definitely be showing up to the grand opening. We’re imagining it’s going to be busy, so you may want to go to Disney Springs earlier rather than later. Even though the restaurant has been open for a couple of months, it’s cool to see that it’s finally having a grand opening. Moreish Monk We’re always on top of all the latest Disney news and updates, so make sure to stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for more! NEW Virtual Queue Announced for Disney Springs Looking for more Disney World tips? Check out this video! 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 going to Six Ravens this weekend? Let us know in the comments! View the full article

Packing for Disney World can be super exciting, but it’s also pretty stressful. If you forget an important essential or find, you really can put a bit of a damper on your trip. ©BoxLunch But sometimes it’s more than just packing the perfect essential. Instead, it’s finding and bringing the perfect sweater that you’re going to wear for the post that actually ends up on your Insta feed or in your TikTok. Sometimes it’s finding the perfect outfit that makes you feel those magical feelings before you even step into the parks. Well, the good news is we have found just that. And you better snag them fast because they will sell out! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Protect your Disney Christmas Ornaments on the way home ©Amazon First up, we’ve got this 4-pack of ornament organizers from Amazon. If you know you’re going to be buying some special ornaments during your trip, you will want to make sure you have a safe way to get them home in your luggage. This is the perfect find to do just that!! view ON AMAZON This sweater vest is going to be popular with Disney fans! ©BoxLunch Need something to wear to your upcoming holiday party? We’re loving this new Mickey Mouse & Friends Holiday Scene Sweater Vest. It’s available from BoxLunch, and you could easily layer it with other festive colors. It’s available in seven different sizes for the whole family to match! This is a major panic buy because it will sell out!! view ON BOXLUNCH We love the festive Loungefly! ©BoxLunch It’s also time to start shopping for accessories for your upcoming Disney parks visits! This Minnie Mouse Candy Cane Loungefly would be the perfect bag for a visit to the holiday parties at Disney World, with its cute little candy-inspired designs. You can also order a matching wallet! view ON BOXLUNCH Or, you can grab this cozy sweater ©BoxLunch And finally, for those looking to be comfy and cozy this holiday season, snag the new Winnie the Pooh Women’s Turtleneck Sweater. It’s such an adorable vintage design, and the turtleneck collar adds a little extra flair without the bulk of wearing two shirts. view ON boxlunch 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

Okay, we did not think we could get any more excited about future Disney TV shows and movies until this most recent announcement… ©Disney That’s right, an Artemis Fowl Animated Series is officially in the works! Here is everything you need to know. Artemis Fowl is a best-selling book series written by Eoin Colfer. At New York City Comic Con, there was a “25 Years of Artemis Fowl” panel where Colfer officially announced this new show and that he would be an Executive Producer. Disney has shared that this new animated series will bring Colfer’s creative vision to life and “dig deeper into the characters and lore of the beloved book series that is celebrating its 25th anniversary of the first book.” ©EoinColfer.com Artemis Fowl is an adventure and fantasy series following 13-year-old genius Artemis Fowl as he uncovers a secret underground magical world and attempts to steal magic to save his mother, who is sick. Ben Juwono and Colleen Evanson will also act as Executive Producers alongside Colfer. ©Disney Books Ayo Davis, President, Disney Kids & Family, has shared, “For more than two decades, Eoin Colfer’s Artemis Fowl books have captivated readers around the world with unforgettable characters, imaginative world-building, and gripping adventures,” Ayo Davis, President, Disney Kids & Family, said. “Bringing this beloved franchise to life as an animated series allows us to introduce a new generation to Artemis’ world while honoring the longtime fans who have cherished these stories for years.” Artemis Fowl Movie ©Disney Now, you might remember that this is not the first adaptation of this beloved series. Back in 2020, an Artemis Fowl movie was released on Disney Plus. However, it was met with widespread criticism from fans who felt it varied too greatly from the original books. So, we are thrilled to see that a new adaptation is in the works with Eoin Colfer as an Executive Producer. ©Disney We will continue to bring you all the Disney TV and Movie news, so stay tuned to Disney Food Blog so you never miss anything! Disney Reveals NEW Details On ‘Hexed’ Movie If you want to check out even more recent Disney TV and Movie news, you can watch our video about all the announcements made during D32 right 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 What do you think of this news? Let us know all your thoughts in the comments below! View the full article

Lorcana is a super popular Disney-themed trading card game. Your favorite Disney heroes and villains are being attacked, and it’s up to you to save them! The game features iconic Disney characters like Mickey and Friends and princesses, but has expanded to include recent hits like Monsters, Inc. and Turning Red. Our Lorcana cards! Lorcana releases at World of Disney in Disney Springs have been super popular, with one drop’s standby line reaching a four-hour wait! In response to the trading card game’s popularity, Disney is implementing a virtual queue for this weekend’s Lorcana drop. On Friday, October 16th, 2026, a virtual queue will be in place for Disney Lorcana at World of Disney at Disney Springs. To get the new Lorcana drop, enter using the My Disney Experience app at 6 AM on October 16th. You must be within 45 miles of Disney Springs to join the virtual queue. If you’re already at Disney Springs, you’ll find multiple signboards with QR codes you can scan to go directly to the page. ©Disney You need to use the My Disney Experience app to join the queue, and a standby line will not be used. Each Guest may request to enter the virtual queue no more than once, using their own boarding pass, and you can’t join as part of a party. ©Disney Once your boarding group is called, you’ll have 60 minutes to return. Late arrivals might not be able to purchase the Lorcana drop. Additionally, joining the virtual queue does not guarantee the purchase of the featured Disney Lorcana merchandise as part of the event. There’s a purchase limit of 2 units of the featured item per guest, while supplies last. Lorcana cards This weekend’s new Lorcana drop includes the Disney Lorcana: Hyperia City set and the special Disney Lorcana Curator’s Collection: Beauty and the Beast Edition, alongside the I2I Foil Playmat on Friday, October 16th, 2026. We’ll be sure to keep you updated on more Lorcana events in Disney World, so stay tuned to Disney Food Blog for more! I Asked My Coworker For Lorcana Essentials, And She DELIVERED 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 the new virtual queue for Lorcana drops? Comment below with your thoughts! View the full article

There is nothing quite like finding your new favorite snack in Disney World, other than trying a snack and wondering to yourself, “No! Why did Disney even make this?” And when you’re planning which treats and snacks you want to try on your next trip, it can be difficult to know which side of the line an item will fall into. Key Lime Dream Which is why we make sure to review EVERY new snack, drink, and treat across Disney World so you know what’s actually worth your time and money on your next visit. And we recently tried an all-new Key Lime drink, and we are bringing you our full review. On our last visit to Magic Kingdom, we stopped by Pinocchio’s Village Haus in Fantasyland to grab the Key Lime Dream for $6.99. This is a frozen drink made with Minute Maid limeade and key lime, topped with sweet cream and graham cracker crumbs. Key Lime Dream The strongest flavor in this drink had to be the tartness from the Key Lime; there was also a bit of subtle vanilla in some sips from the sweet cream, but the tart lime really overpowers all the other flavors. The sweet cream turned into a thick, icy consistency as it froze into the slush, but it did not add much creaminess or flavor other than the hint of vanilla. The graham crackers seemed to be more of a visual element and did not add any taste or texture to the drink itself. Key Lime Dream We also noticed that this left our mouths feeling pretty dry after each sip, likely due to the tart flavors. Overall, this was a bold and fun tart lime frozen slushy. If you are looking for authentic key lime flavors, that is not what you are going to get here, but if you love limeade and frozen drinks, you would probably enjoy this one a lot! Key Lime Dream We will continue to bring you food reviews from all across Disney World, so stay tuned to Disney Food Blog so you never miss anything! REVIEW: How To Get Lower Prices At The Cake Bake Shop In Disney World! If you are planning a trip to Disney World and want to check out even more tips and tricks, you can view this video right 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 trying the Key Lime Dream next time you visit Magic Kingdom? Let us know in the comments! View the full article

Get out your wallets, Loungefly fans, because a fresh batch of Disney bags just landed online! ©Loungefly We’re always keeping an eye out for new Loungefly releases, and this week we spotted new arrivals at three of our favorite places to shop: Amazon, BoxLunch, and Target. There’s a deep-cut Disney villain, a pair of butterfly-covered beauties, and an edgy new look for Minnie in this bunch. Let’s take a look! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Get this Oliver and Company Loungefly here! ©Amazon New York City’s scrappiest crew is hitting the road! This Oliver and Company Taxi Scene Mini Backpack puts Oliver and the gang front and center as they cruise the streets of New York in a taxi. The faux leather bag is packed with texture, mixing appliqué, debossed, PVC, and printed details, and it even LIGHTS UP! It also comes with an enamel zipper charm, a sturdy top handle, adjustable shoulder straps, and a coordinating printed lining. view ON AMAZON This edgy Minnie Mouse Loungefly is on Amazon! ©Amazon Minnie is trading her polka dots for something with a little more edge! The Minnie Mouse Studs and Chains Mini Backpack is decked out in silver foil, braided trim, chain accents, and 3D metal studs. Up top, you’ll find a 3D bow sitting between two applique Minnie ears, and the inside is finished with a matching black-and-white lining. This one would look SO good with a rock ‘n’ roll Disneybound! View on Amazon We love this Little John Loungefly! ©Amazon Sherwood Forest’s most dramatic royal has his very own bag! The Robin Hood Prince John Cosplay Mini Backpack is designed to look like the pampered lion himself, complete with his jeweled crown, his signature pout, and a plush royal robe. Flip it around, and you’ll find a nod to one of his funniest moments on the back, with Prince John crying out for his mommy. Prince John merchandise is hard to come by, so this is a rare find for Robin Hood fans and villain collectors alike. view ON AMAZON Or, you can grab this bridal Loungefly backpack! ©BoxLunch Here comes the bride! Disney brides (and anyone who loves a little shimmer) will want a closer look at the Minnie Mouse Iridescent Wedding Bow Mini Backpack, a BoxLunch exclusive. The bridal-inspired bag has an iridescent finish that catches the light, and Minnie’s signature bow is the star of the design. It would be a sweet pick for a bridal shower, a bachelorette trip to the parks, or a Disney honeymoon. view ON boxlunch Don’t forget this stunning, beautiful Cinderella backpack! ©BoxLunch Cinderella fans, this next one is pretty dreamy. The Cinderella Butterflies Mini Backpack is another BoxLunch exclusive, and it pairs the classic princess with a flutter of butterflies. If you’re a Cinderella fan looking for something softer and more garden-inspired than the usual castle-and-carriage designs, this is the one. view ON boxlunch We love this Eeorye Loungefly! ©BoxLunch Thanks for noticing him! Everyone’s favorite gloomy donkey gets a cheerful makeover on the Winnie the Pooh Eeyore Butterflies Mini Backpack, a BoxLunch exclusive that surrounds Eeyore with butterflies. It also makes a cute companion to the Cinderella Butterflies bag above if you and a friend want coordinating park bags. view ON boxlunch We love this Alice in Wonderland Loungefly! ©BoxLunch Ready to tumble down the rabbit hole? The Alice in Wonderland Patterned Mini Backpack is a BoxLunch exclusive covered in a Wonderland-inspired allover pattern. All-over prints are some of the easiest Loungeflys to wear with anything, so this one could go from an unbirthday party to an ordinary errand day without missing a beat. view ON boxlunch And finally, this Cinderella Cosplay Loungefly is at Target! ©Target Our last pick isn’t a brand-new design, but it IS new to Target! The Cinderella Cosplay Mini Backpack is modeled after Cinderella’s iconic ball gown, with a shimmery finish, faux leather trim, padded appliqués, and debossed details. The straps are trimmed with tulle for an extra ball-ready touch, and a glass slipper enamel charm hangs from the zipper. If you’ve been waiting for an easy way to grab this one, you can now add it to your cart on your next Target run. view ON target Loungefly bags have a habit of selling out fast, especially retailer exclusives, so we wouldn’t wait too long if one of these caught your eye. 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

A LOT is happening over in Disneyland as part of a $1.9 billion expansion project known as DisneylandForward. This includes adding a brand new Coco ride to Disney California Adventure, as well as a new Avatar-themed land and a reimagined Tomorrowland. Avengers Campus is also getting a huge expansion with two new rides. ©Disney However, another part of the project is a massive new parking structure on the resort’s east side that’s currently under construction on a former employee parking lot. Well, according to The Orange County Register, that project has actually been scaled back a bit. The new parking structure is set to offer 6,000 spaces and has been designed to handle the huge influx of visitors Disney expects in the theme parks over the next five years after all the expansions and other projects are completed. However, Disneyland recently revised its building permits for the parking garage. Initially, the garage was supposed to have eight levels, but the new permits have reduced it to seven levels, with its size decreasing by about 4%. ©Disney The garage will include 316 electric vehicle charging stations, which is more than what was previously submitted. The parking structure will also have 18 shade canopies. A pedestrian bridge is also being built over Harbor Boulevard to connect the garage to the theme park esplanade. Disney has not yet revealed a completion date for the project, but it’s expected to be ready by the time the new Avengers Campus expansion opens, as well as the L.A. Summer Olympics. Current Disneyland parking structure The new structure means that the existing Disneyland bus drop-off and pick-up area along Harbor Boulevard will be relocated to Disneyland’s former Manchester employee parking lot near the I-5 freeway. Construction is underway for both the garage and pedestrian bridge, and temporary walkways surrounded by construction walls are going up at the Disneyland entrance. We’ll keep an eye out for more Disneyland updates, so stay tuned to DFB for more. It Just Got a Little More COMPLICATED To Enter Disneyland Going to Disneyland soon? Save your money instead of blowing it on these money wasters:  DON'T DO IT ALONE! Our favorite people over at Small World Vacations are ready to help you save time, headaches, and best of all, money, when you book your Disney trip or cruise. Their agents compare current offers to find the best deal for you -- they've literally saved their guests millions of dollars since 1996. Plus, their services are 100% FREE FOR YOU! (They're DFB's recommended travel agency, and you can see why here!) So book that trip now, then sit back and enjoy planning your Disney World Trip with a DFB-approved expert! Click here for a no obligation price quote today, and let them know DFB sent you GET MORE INFO What do you think about this news? Let us know in the comments! View the full article

Disney World has a handful of spots that can turn a magical day into a hot, crowded MESS, and most people walk right into them. Disney World Of course, there are plenty of places you’ll WANT to be during your vacation. You’ll want to be on time for your dining reservations and your Lightning Lane return windows. You’ll probably want to be in front of Cinderella Castle at night for that perfect fireworks view. And of course, at some point, you’ll want to brave the gift shops to get that must-have souvenir. But there are also plenty of places you DON’T want to be in Disney World…and we’re sharing the details! The Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Queue at 2:20PM Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is a classic ride in Magic Kingdom, and in our opinion, it’s a must-do! But there’s probably one time that you should AVOID the line for Big Thunder — right after the parade. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Big Thunder is a great ride to check out DURING the Festival of Fantasy Parade because it’s pretty difficult to get to the back of Frontierland since the parade route blocks it off. So usually, the wait time drops for the popular coaster during the 2 PM parade. But as soon as it’s over and everyone sees that short wait time in the My Disney Experience app, they’ll rush over there. Big Thunder Mountain So avoid the line unless you want to wait much longer than expected! The smarter move is to already be on the Big Thunder side of the parade route before it gets roped off. Head back to Frontierland by about 1:45PM and hop in line while everyone else is staking out a curb. You’ll be walking off the ride right around the time the crowd shows up. If you miss that window, don’t chase it. Check back later in the afternoon or after dark instead. Disney World Magic Kingdom Lightning Lane Strategy for 2027 The Line for the Express Monorail at 9:30AM…or 9:45PM Most guests in Disney World aren’t waking up early enough to truly “rope drop” the parks (you know, get there BEFORE they open). In fact, we often see the largest swell of people arrive shortly after the parks open, which means that’s when you might find the longest lines at the entrance and especially the longest lines for the Express Monorail from the Transportation & Ticket Center (Magic Kingdom’s parking lot) to Magic Kingdom. Monorail line When that monorail line gets SUPER long around 9:30AM, you might even find that it’s faster to take the ferryboat or the Resort Monorail to get to the park instead. Generally, this rush of people will last until about mid-morning. Express Monorail station at Magic Kingdom The other time that the monorail line gets really excessive is right after the Happily Ever After fireworks end in the evening. Many people stay to watch the fireworks and then head back to the parking lot, so the transportation queue gets incredibly long. If you can avoid riding the monorail at either of those times, you’ll be a LOT less stressed! Magic Kingdom at night Here’s the good news: the park doesn’t close when the fireworks end. On fireworks nights this fall, Magic Kingdom has been staying open until 10PM or 11PM, so there’s no reason to join the stampede. Grab a snack, hop on a ride or two, or browse the Main Street shops, then stroll out once the crowd has thinned. On select nights, there’s even a second Disney Starlight parade, which is one more reason to stick around. 3 Reasons Staying at a Disney World Monorail Hotel Isn’t the Hack You Think It Is Starbucks or Joffrey’s at 10 AM First thing in the morning at the Disney World parks, you’ll get the rope drop crowds. Those are the people who are serious and dedicated to knocking out a few rides before the rest of the hordes arrive. Then a little later, you’ll get the guests who want to sleep in and not rush their morning. And unfortunately, those two groups of guests converge at all the Starbucks and Joffrey’s locations right around 10 AM. Starbucks line The latecomers snag coffee when they first arrive, and the rope droppers wait to get it until they’ve accomplished a few must-dos and the ride lines start to get long. That leaves you with lengthy queues for coffee from about 10 AM to early lunchtime. Don’t waste your time in line then! Iced Banana Bread Latte For reference, the in-park Starbucks spots are Main Street Bakery in Magic Kingdom, Connections Café in EPCOT, The Trolley Car Café in Hollywood Studios, and Creature Comforts in Animal Kingdom. All four sit in high-traffic spots near the front or center of their park, which is exactly why they get slammed when the late arrivals walk in. You also can’t order ahead through the Starbucks app at any of them, so there’s no skipping that line. Connections Cafe Another easy fix is to get your caffeine before you ever reach the park. Grab a cup at your hotel’s quick service spot or food court on the way to the bus, and you can walk right past that 10 AM line. And if you end up at Disney Springs later in your trip, the two Starbucks locations there DO take order-ahead through the Starbucks app. Hotel Coffee Crawl: Fans Have Been Talking About This Disney World Spot for Over 15 Years Toy Story Land in the Middle of the Afternoon There’s one spot that we pretty much always hate visiting in the middle of the afternoon, and that’s Toy Story Land! First of all, the land is at the back of the park, so it usually starts to get crowded around midday when Hollywood Studios visitors are halfway through their park lap. Your afternoon in Toy Story Land could look like this! In addition to that, we’re also convinced that it’s the absolute HOTTEST land in all of Disney World. Shade here is scarce, and that pavement makes things incredibly sweltering. The ride queues are mostly outdoors, and even the quick service spot only has outdoor tables. It’s an absolute nightmare in the summertime, so do yourself a favor and stop here in the morning or evening instead! Toy Story Mania If you DO end up here at 2PM, know where the relief is. The Toy Story Mania queue is indoors and air-conditioned, so it’s the best place in the land to wait out the heat. Roundup Rodeo BBQ is inside (and blissfully cool) as well, but it’s a table service restaurant, so you’ll want a reservation. And Mobile Order your Woody’s Lunch Box food so you’re not standing at the window in the sun. Roundup Rodeo Our favorite plan is to hit Toy Story Land first thing in the morning while it’s still cool, or to save it for after sunset. The whole land is strung with oversized lights and looks fantastic after dark, and the pavement has finally had a chance to cool off. Fans Have QUESTIONS About This Toy Story Land Change, and We’re Right There With Them The Hollywood Boulevard Restrooms at Rope Drop Another spot in Hollywood Studios that you should avoid? The restrooms at the start of Hollywood Boulevard during rope drop! Those bathrooms are located just after the park entrance, which means that after people wait in line to enter the park, they’re heading there first thing. Restrooms at the Hollywood Studios entrance They’re not excessively large either, so they can get a pretty long line if it starts to get crowded. Instead of using those, we recommend stopping at the bathrooms OUTSIDE the Hollywood Studios entrance, which are massive and often kept pretty clean. Restrooms outside of Hollywood Studios And if someone in your group realizes they need to go once you’re already inside, keep walking. There are more restrooms on Sunset Boulevard and throughout the rest of the park, and first thing in the morning, the farther you get from the front gate, the shorter the wait is likely to be. Will Disney World Finally Fix This Awkward Bathroom Problem in Its New Park Expansion?! World of Disney on a Saturday Night Heading to Disney Springs on Saturday night? Well, you and EVERYONE ELSE. Disney Springs gets really crowded on the weekends because visitors and locals head out to do some shopping and get a delicious dinner. So that means that on a Saturday night, World of Disney is probably the busiest you’ll see it. Crowds at World of Disney If you like shopping shoulder-to-shoulder with a bunch of strangers, be our guest. But personally, we prefer an emptier shopping experience, so we’ll be heading to World of Disney first thing in the morning instead! World of Disney If mornings don’t work for you, a weekday is your next best bet, since that’s when more visitors are in the parks, and more locals are at work. It also helps to walk in with a list. World of Disney is the biggest Disney store in all of Disney World, and it’s easy to lose an hour wandering from room to room when you’re inching along with a crowd. 7 NEW Restaurants Are Opening at Disney World in 2027 Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe at Lunchtime And finally, let’s talk about Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe. As one of the busiest quick-service restaurants in all of Disney World, this spot is bound to get crowded during any major mealtime. But there’s nothing quite like the lunch rush! Cosmic Ray’s Seating During the hours of 11-1 PM, it gets SO packed inside Cosmic Ray’s that it’s hard to walk past the registers and sometimes nearly impossible to find a table indoors. If you’d like to eat here, we suggest dining during an off-peak mealtime or later in the evening. Cosmic Ray’s If lunchtime is your only option, Mobile Order is your friend. Place your order in the My Disney Experience app before you get hungry, then let the app know when you’ve arrived and head to the pickup counter. You’ll still have to hunt for a table, but you’ll skip the lines at the registers. It also means you don’t have to figure out which of the three ordering bays serves the food you want. Food from Cosmic Ray’s On your next trip to Disney World, make sure to AVOID all of these crowded and chaotic places! We’ll keep you in the loop with the crowd trends and all the tips you need to successfully navigate the parks. Be sure to stay up to date on everything coming to Disney World in 2027 with DFB! Disney Is Opening New Rides in 2027. Here’s the Full List. Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW What’s the most crowded you’ve ever seen Disney World? Tell us in the comments! View the full article

I’ve eaten at every quick-service restaurant in the four Disney World parks, the resorts, and Disney Springs. That’s over a hundred and fifty dining spots! Katsura Grill Beef Udon Across those dining spots, I’ve tried hundreds of food items, and some were much better than others. But along the way, some food items and restaurants surprised me! Even though these spots aren’t exactly fan favorites, they’ve got menu items that I really love. Pinocchio Village Haus Starting off the list, I have a restaurant that fans love to hate: Pinocchio Village Haus. I know that most of the menu here is less-than-beloved, but I can’t hide it anymore… I’m OBSESSED with the Buffalo Chicken Flatbread! Loaded with chicken, ranch, a hint of buffalo spice, and cheese — what’s not to love?! Buffalo Chicken Flatbread I find this to be the best of the flatbreads on the menu here and honestly worth a visit. When going to the parks solo, I like to order one of these bad boys and head upstairs to the balcony seating to get a few minutes in the peace, quiet, and air conditioning. Not a bad solo lunch date! See Our Pinocchio Village Haus Review Here! Connections Eatery Okay, in a park full of interesting and fun cultural eats, Connections Eatery can get seriously overlooked at EPCOT. It’s the go-to spot for basic American fare, but there’s one dish that I think is a standout, and that’s the General Tso Chicken Salad. This is one of the better quick-service salads in Disney World, and it comes with a decent portion of chicken. General Tso Chicken Salad There’s a great mix of textures and flavors here, and this is my go-to meal for that mid-week vacation moment when you’re really craving a vegetable. This restaurant can get skipped in favor of dining in the World Showcase, but if you’re stopping by, this salad is my recommendation. See the Connections Eatery Review Here! Pizza al Taglio Tucked away in the back of the Italy Pavilion at EPCOT is Pizza al Taglio, a little dining window that’s only open seasonally. You’ll likely be able to stop by during the busier travel seasons of the year, but the hours are hit-and-miss. However, if you can find it open, there’s some delicious pizza to be had! So! Cheesy! The Pizza Pepperoni, in my personal opinion, is the best quick-service pizza in Disney World. The slices are thick and laden with chewy pepperonis with crispy edges. Cheesy, filling, and a great “snack around the world” stop to share. Check Out Our Review of the Pizza Window Here! Katsura Grill This next one shocked and surprised even me when I tried it for the first time, and now I love to shout it from the rooftops. We often tell folks to skip Katsura Grill in the Japan Pavilion because many of their food items are overpriced and they underdeliver. But man, there’s just something spectacular about their Beef Udon! A forkful of noodles I find myself keeping coming back whenever I am in the mood for something cozy and filling. The portion is big, and the flavors are rich and savory. Most of their noodle dishes here are pretty good, actually, so if you find yourself at this location, try ordering one of them instead of the sushi or chicken. See Our Katsura Grill Review Here! ABC Commissary We’ve been singing the praises of ABC Commissary here at DFB ever since the restaurant got a major menu overhaul post-pandemic. But there’s one dish on the menu there that seems to fly under the radar, and I have ordered it time and time again. Say hello to the Shrimp Tacos! Shrimp Tacos Perhaps my favorite thing about this entree is the mix of textures with the chewy shrimp, soft mango salsa, and the crunchy onions. I also love the blend of savory and sweet flavors with the hint of spiciness from the sauce they put on top. All in all, this is a step above your traditional theme park fare, and not enough people are talking about it! See Our Thoughts on ABC Commissary Here! Backlot Express Also nearby in Disney’s Hollywood Studios is Backlot Express. This restaurant gets raked over the COALS and is often thought of as one of the worst places to eat in the park. But when I want a basic (and pretty good) salad, I come here and order the Southwest Salad. Southwest Salad It’s topped with roasted corn and avocado, as well as a house-made avocado lime dressing, and that’s where they REALLY win me over (I’m a dressing girlie and you can win my heart easily if you have the right sauce). It’s not super groundbreaking, but salads can be very disappointing at Disney World’s quick-service restaurants, and this one hasn’t let me down yet. Check Out Our Latest Backlot Express Review Here! The Smiling Crocodile Last but not least, I must shout from the peak of Expedition Everest about my favorite food item in all of Animal Kingdom, the Pulled Chicken Cheese Arepas at The Smiling Crocodile. This snack stand may have limited hours, but it’s 100% worth it to schedule a visit here to grab these for lunch. Pulled Chicken Cheese Arepa The arepa is fluffy and lightly sweetened, and the chicken is juicy and plentiful. Add in the cheese and delicious sauce, and you have a recipe for absolute deliciousness. They’re served with a side of plantain chips. I’m really hoping they get a permanent menu spot when Tropical Americas opens! See My Thoughts on BOTH the Arepa Flavors Here! If you’re heading to Disney World soon and looking to have the most spectacular culinary time, it’s totally possible. We’ve dined at every restaurant on property (multiple times), and we’ve got years of experience tasting the snacks, entrees, and desserts on the menus. Check out the video below to see some of our picks for the best snacks to try! For more updates and food reviews from Disney World, subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media. 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 any of these items on your must-try list? Tell us in the comments! View the full article