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The Mandalorian and Grogu officially moved into Disney World today at Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run. To celebrate, Disney just released new food items at Hollywood Studios, which we ran at lightspeed to try! Grogu Cookies Whether you’re looking for something sweet, savory, or straight up out of this world, there’s a new Star Wars snack with your name on it! Starting with the entrees, the Sweet-and-Spicy Puffer Pig Pasta is $15.99 at Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo. These are flat noodles with pork belly, bok choy, sweet-and-spicy soy sauce, and a hard-boiled egg. Sweet-and-Spicy Puffer Pig Pasta This is advertised as sweet-and-spicy, but we got ten times more spicy than sweet from the soy sauce. The Puffer Pig pork belly was soft and tender without being fatty. The vegetables are pickled red onion, bok choy, and shredded carrots, which were super crunchy and added a contrasting texture to the soft noodles. This was also very filling for the size! Sweet-and-Spicy Puffer Pig Pasta The Grogu Cookies are $6.29 at Kat Saka’s Kettle. This has three white chocolate-dipped macaron cookies with pineapple cream. If they look familiar, it’s because they’re Grogu’s favorite snack in The Mandalorian TV show! Grogu Cookies We were super excited to try these, but the white chocolate on the bottom melted almost instantly. It became a very messy snack under the hot Florida sun. These are your standard macarons; they have a satisfying crunch with a chewy interior. The white chocolate was the strongest flavor and not too sweet. The pineapple cream filling tasted very mild; it was just a small hint of an indiscernible fruity flavor. Grogu Cookies In addition, three menu items are returning to Oga’s Cantina. First up is Oga’s Obsession for $8.50. This is Minute Maid Premium Lemonade, cotton candy flavor, and blueberry fruit juice-filled pearls with a bursting dried fruit mixture and gummy candy frogs. This treat is sweet, and the flavors of blueberry and lemonade are nice and strong. The hard pop-rock-like candy added a fun texture to the treat as well. The popping boba balls also added a very interesting texture to the mix. A lot is going on, but we like it! Oga’s Obsession The alcoholic version is the Rodian Ration for $17. This is Tito’s Handmade Vodka, DeKuyper Pucker Sour Apple Schnapps Liqueur, green apple, and Sprite with fruit juice-filled pearls and gummy candy frogs. We thought this treat was really fun, and a lot was going on between the jello, juicy boba balls, and crunchy pop rocks exploding in our mouths! It was definitely tart from the apple liqueur, and the vodka came through as well. It wasn’t overly strong, but we could definitely taste the vodka. Rodian Ration We’re so glad that The Mandalorian and Grogu brought new snacks with them. Stay tuned to Disney Food Blog for more Disney World food reviews! FIRST LOOK at Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run Changes in Disney World 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 are you most excited to try? Comment below! View the full article

We love heading to Hollywood Studios for some movie magic, and while the thrilling rides and yummy food are amazing, we have a hot take. Hollywood Studios is the best park for character meet-and-greets! Hollywood Studios has the best meet-and-greets! Whether you want to visit Mickey Mouse, Olaf, or Chewbacca, Hollywood Studios has a character meet-and-greet for everyone. When we were at the park yesterday, we discovered a brand-new character meet-and-greet that Disney didn’t even announce! We were strolling through Commisary Lane in Hollywood Studios to find this brand-new sign. It’s not even technically a sign, it’s just painted on the wall! To find this hidden meet-and-greet, enter Commisary Lane by the Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant, and it will be on the right beside Red Carpet Dreams, the spot where you can meet Mickey and Minnie Mouse. The new sign! Here, you can meet Bitsy, one of the four fearless felines of the SuperKitties! Today, you can meet Bitsy at 10:30 AM, 11:30 AM, 12:30 PM, 1:30 PM, and 2:30 PM. These times are subject to change, so check your My Disney Experience app for updated times when you visit. It’s Bitsy! In addition, you can meet Disney Jr. royalty, Sofia the First! Sofia has fewer meet-and-greet times than Bitsy, meeting at the same spot at only 11 AM, 12 PM, 1 PM, and 2 PM. We weren’t even able to meet her because she comes out so little. Again, these times can vary by day, so check your My Disney Experience app for updated times! We missed Sofia! We haven’t been able to meet Disney Jr. characters since the Animation Courtyard closed last September, and while the land is reopening this month as The Walt Disney Studios, Disney Jr. character meet-and-greets aren’t on the lineup. You used to be able to meet Sofia the First, Doc McStuffins, Vampirina, Fancy Nancy, and Pluto before the closure. Disney announced that once The Walt Disney Studios opens on May 26th, the lineup will be Donald and Daisy, Chip and Dale, Goofy, Stitch, Mulan, and Rapunzel. We’re hoping this is now a permanent addition to Hollywood Studios for little ones to meet their favorite TV show characters! Pluto at the former Animation Courtyard We’re so excited to see Disney Jr. characters back at Hollywood Studios. Stay tuned to Disney Food Blog for more Disney World news! You Can Meet 2 NEW Characters in Disney’s Hollywood Studios Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW What’s your favorite character meet-and-greet? Comment below! View the full article

If you’re looking to save some serious money on your next Disney World vacation, you might consider this ticket deal that comes with a catch. Theme Park Ticket Disney World has a TON of discounts for the summer. From discounted hotel stays to free dining for kids, there are a lot of ways to save on your next vacatoin. You can now get cheaper tickets if you visit the theme parks later in the day. We’re breaking down all the details of the ticket deal and who should take advantage of it. Afternoon Ticket Details The afternoon ticket is a discounted ticket that will allow guests to visit parks after 2 PM. It covers all four parks, so you can pick one with your ticket (yes, you can use it to go to Magic Kingdom!). You can get a discount on a 2-day or 3-day ticket, with admission to one park per day after 2 PM, valid for dates from May 26th through July 29th. Disney’s Animal Kingdom Pricing for the tickets depends on the start day, but a 2-day ticket will run anywhere from $118 per day to $156 per day. The cheapest dates are from mid-July through the end of that month. A 3-day ticket will run anywhere from $116 per day to $154 per day, with late July offering the lowest prices. This is a discount of around $30 to $50 per day from the standard all-day ticket. EPCOT Is This Deal Right For You? If You are a Disney World Local The afternoon ticket is a great option for locals who live near Disney World, but are not Annual Passholders. If you want to come to the park after work to grab dinner or ride a few of your favorite attractions, this would be a great deal for you. Tower of Terror If You Have Young Kids Disney parents, if you know that your kids will get burned out on 13 hours at a Disney park, the afternoon ticket might be perfect for you! Disney World can be overstimulating for little ones, and add in the heat of the summer — you might have grumpy kids before it’s even noon. If you want a slow start to your Disney day with your kids by the pool or enjoying a character breakfast, then hitting the parks, this ticket gives you that flexibility. “it’s a small world” If You are In Town, But Not For Disney Say you are in the Orlando area for a work trip or visiting family or friends, and you just want to pop over to Disney World. This is a great deal if you aren’t looking to do a full Disney World trip, but instead are just in the area and want to take advantage of a few free evenings. EPCOT If You are a Night Owl If you are someone who wants to sleep in and leave the rope drop chaos to everyone else, this ticket might be for you. During the evening, wait times can drop as well. If you want to purchase Lightning Lane Multi Pass with the afternoon ticket, you could stack your Lightning Lanes for the evening. You could enjoy lower wait times, cooler temperatures, and the nighttime shows like Fantasmic! or Happily Ever After. Happily Ever After Don’t want to go through all of the stress of booking your Disney World trip alone? Reach out to our friends at Small World Vacations! Their experienced agents monitor your reservation for possible future savings, compare discounts, and figure out which one works best for your travel party, dates, resort, and touring plans. And, they share expert tips and first-hand advice with you about your magical vacation. We have also outlined 5 reasons you shouldn’t buy this deal and you can read that here! We’ll keep an eye out for more Disney World discounts and deals, and help you decide which ones are for you, so stay tuned to DFB for more. 5 Reasons You SHOULDN’T Buy Disney World’s Afternoon Ticket Deal 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 consider purchasing this afternoon ticket deal? Tell us in the comments below. View the full article

Disney appears to be asking military guests whether they would purchase the new Disney Celebrates America Military Salute Ticket again if it were offered in the future. This is the ticket that some people incorrectly call the Disney Military Annual Pass. This is interesting — and potentially very important — because while Disney routinely surveys […] The post Disney Is Surveying Guests About the New “Disney Celebrates America” Military Ticket appeared first on Military Disney Tips. View the full article

With Disney World and Universal Studios, alongside it being the center of the Sunshine State, it’s no secret as to why the Orlando airport is one of the top 10 busiest airports in the United States. Orlando International Airport The Airport is massive and has tons of domestic and international flights, so many people come in and out of Orlando. Now, the international flight lineup is getting bigger, as it was just announced that there will be an all-new international non-stop flight being added at MCO! The agents at Small World Vacations know how to save money on your Disney Vacation! When you book your trip with Small World Vacations, their experienced agents monitor your reservation for possible future savings. They also compare discounts and figure out which one works best for your travel party, dates, resort, and touring plans. And they share expert tips and first-hand advice with you about your magical vacation. It was just announced that ZIPAIR will be offering non-stop flights between the Orlando International Airport and Tokyo’s Narita International Airport. This isn’t the first time we’ve seen this flight at MCO, so it’s exciting to see it come back! ©ZipAir Tokyo The Japanese airline has offered this same flight back in February and March, which was actually the very first non-stop flight from Florida to the Asia Pacific region at the time. The flight was extremely popular when it was in Orlando. It was so much easier to travel to Asia with ZIPAIR, plus Tokyo is such a hotspot for travelers. So, the offer is coming back. Where are you flying next? There are currently three open passenger charter flights scheduled for August 8th, 13th, and 18th. You’ll be able to make bookings when they are open in mid-June. Airplane travel According to the Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority, Lance Lyttle, “The return of service is an exciting milestone and another sign that Orlando continues to strengthen its position as a truly global gateway.” Be considerate! This is a HUGE deal, as this is a part of over 30 years of efforts to establish regular flights between Orlando and Tokyo, and we’ve now seen this offering twice. Who knows what the future holds at MCO, but maybe we will eventually see consistent non-stop flights between Orlando and Tokyo in the future! Air Travel For more travel news and updates, make sure to follow us at the Disney Food Blog! TSA Announces MAJOR Change 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 using ZIPAIR this summer? Let us know in the comments! View the full article

EPCOT is about to do one of its classic seasonal costume changes, and this time, it means the flowers, food booths, topiaries, and springtime snacks are all packing their tiny festival suitcases. Flower and Garden Topiaries The 2026 EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival ends on June 1st, which means you have just a few days left to get your final festival lap in before EPCOT starts shifting toward its next big food-focused era. And look, EPCOT is always going to be EPCOT. Spaceship Earth will still be standing there like a giant golf ball with secrets. Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind will still be launching people into emotional disco orbit. But the Flower & Garden Festival? That’s seasonal. Once it’s gone, a LOT changes fast. So if you’ve been casually telling yourself, “I’ll get around to it,” this is your polite but urgent shove toward the International Gateway. The Festival Ends June 1st The EPCOT Flower & Garden Festival is one of the prettiest events Disney World does all year, and yes, we mean that in the most dramatic way possible. This is the festival that gives us character topiaries, colorful gardens, spring-exclusive merchandise, Garden Rocks concerts, and a whole bunch of Outdoor Kitchens that make it socially acceptable to build lunch out of four snacks and a drink shaped emotionally like sunshine. EPCOT Flower and Garden Festival But on June 1st, the festival officially ends. That means the Outdoor Kitchens will close, the specialty festival menus will disappear, Garden Rocks will wrap up, and those limited-time snacks you’ve been eyeing may go back into the Disney vault where lost snacks go to haunt us. Not every single flower in EPCOT will vanish at midnight, obviously. This is not Cinderella’s pumpkin situation. But the festival experience as we know it? That’s ending. What You Need to Do Before It’s Gone First, stop trying to eat everything. That way lies regret, a drained gift card, and the very specific feeling of being bullied by a tiny compostable fork. Instead, prioritize. Pick the dishes you actually care about. Choose the booths that are worth your time. Make a loose plan before you walk into EPCOT and suddenly decide that you, personally, need to investigate every sauce on property. This is where our DFB Festival Guides come in handy. The Flower & Garden Festival can be gorgeous and chaotic at the same time, which is basically EPCOT’s love language. Our DFB Guide to the EPCOT Flower & Garden Festival helps you figure out what’s worth your money, what you can skip, where the booths are, what the menus look like, where the topiaries are hiding, and how to avoid zig-zagging across the park like a confused bumblebee. Because yes, you can wander aimlessly and hope for the best. But we prefer snacks with a strategy. Our Best of the Fest Picks We’ve eaten our way through the 2026 Flower & Garden Festival, which sounds glamorous until you remember that “eating everything” at EPCOT is both a dream and a full-body athletic event. So, if you’re making one last trip before the festival ends, these are some of the dishes and drinks we think deserve a spot on your shortlist. Tuna Poke Bowl at Nectar This was one of our favorite new dishes of the festival, and it actually works as a real lunch. Not a “three bites and a prayer” lunch. A real one. The Tuna Poke Bowl comes with edamame, avocado, mango, pickled red onions, seaweed salad, furikake, and umami sauce over sticky rice. It’s fresh, bright, filling, and one of those festival dishes that feels like it understood the assignment without needing to announce it loudly. Tuna poke bowl If you’re trying to avoid the “I ate dessert for lunch and now I see through time” problem, this is a smart pick. Read our full review of Nectar DOLE Whip Peach at Swirled Showcase You already know we’re not going to ignore a DOLE Whip situation. We are professionals. The Peach DOLE Whip was light, refreshing, and not too sweet, which is exactly what you want when Florida has decided to turn the humidity dial to “soup.” The peach flavor tasted natural, and frankly, we would not object if Disney decided to keep this one around all year. Peach Dole Whip at Swirled Showcase We are not above begging. We have done worse for snacks. Read our full review of Swirled Showcase Cinnamon Beignets at The Citrus Blossom These were a festival win for anyone who likes their dessert with a little citrusy drama. The Cinnamon Beignets are tossed with lemon sugar and lemon glaze, then served with a honey mead-blueberry compote. They’re doughy, shareable, and the lemon gives them enough brightness to keep the whole thing from feeling too heavy. Cinnamon Beignets This is the kind of dessert you buy “for the table,” then immediately start monitoring everyone’s fork activity like a theme park snack accountant. Read our full review of The Citrus Blossom Garden Vegetable Flatbread at Trowel & Trellis Trowel & Trellis had a very good year, and the Garden Vegetable Flatbread is part of the reason why. This flatbread comes with Boursin Garlic & Fine Herbs cheese, roasted vegetables, and arugula salad. It’s creamy, fresh, and a better value than we expected from a festival booth, which is always a delightful little plot twist. Garden Vegetable Flatbread It’s also a great option if you want something savory but not nap-inducing. EPCOT snacks should support your day, not send you face-first into a bench near The Seas. Read our full review of Trowel & Trellis Trio of Dips and Chips at Yacht Grub Sometimes the answer is chips and dip. We don’t make the rules. We simply respect the salty architecture. The Trio of Dips and Chips brings housemade potato chips with whipped feta dip and candied lemon, caramelized onion dip with caviar, and pimento cheese with pickles. Each dip brings something different, and the chips have the crunch we want from a festival snack. Trio of Dips and Chips This is a strong sharing option, assuming you are traveling with people who can behave around dip. Not everyone can. Know your group. Read our full review of Yacht Grub Liquid Nitrogen Honey-Mascarpone Cheesecake at Swirled Showcase This one has been on our radar for a while, and the liquid nitrogen upgrade made it even more fun. The Honey-Mascarpone Cheesecake comes topped with fresh honey, granulated honey, and honey mead-blueberry compote. It’s pretty, it’s creamy, it’s festival-y in the best way, and it gives you the kind of texture moment that makes standing in a booth line feel justified. Liquid Nitrogen Honey-Mascarpone Cheesecake A snack with a little science? Fine. EPCOT, you win this round. Read our full review of Swirled Showcase Tarte Aux Oignons Caramélisés at Fleur de Lys This caramelized onion tart is one of those dishes that sounds simple until you taste it and realize someone in the France booth was not here to play. It’s made with caramelized onions on a flaky pastry crust and topped with bacon. The texture works, the flavors are balanced, and the bacon brings just enough salt and richness to make it feel complete. This is not the flashiest dish at the festival, but it is one of the ones we’d tell you not to overlook. Read our review of Fleur de Lys Grilled Street Corn on the Cob at Beach Grub If you want something that tastes fresh, smoky, and summery, the Grilled Street Corn on the Cob is a strong bet. This plant-based dish is covered in garlic spread and plant-based “cheese,” then grilled right there at the booth. The char adds a lot, the seasoning does its job, and it’s one of those returning items that keeps proving why it made the comeback roster. Grilled Street Corn on the Cob Also, yes, it is messy. Festival corn does not care about your plans. Read our full review of Beach Grub Frozen Desert Violet Lemonade at Pineapple Promenade Some festival drinks become popular because they’re pretty. Some become popular because they taste good. Frozen Desert Violet Lemonade pulled off both, which feels greedy but effective. It’s tart, refreshing, and a perfect hot-day EPCOT drink. Kids love it. Adults love it. Phones love photographing it. Everyone wins. Thirsty? If you still haven’t had this one, now is the time. The clock is ticking, and the lemonade is purple. Read our full review on Pineapple Promenade Don’t Forget the Kids’ Pick The Orange-Lemon Smoothie at The Citrus Blossom is another fun pick, especially because it comes in the Orange Bird sipper. It has that nostalgic orange sherbet flavor, and the souvenir factor makes it a big hit for younger festival fans. Orange-Lemon Smoothie Served in a Souvenir Orange Bird Sipper Also, Orange Bird remains one of Disney’s most charming little citrus gremlins, and we say that with respect. Read our full review of The Citrus Blossom Our Best Booth of the Fest This year, our Best Booth of the Fest went to Trowel & Trellis. That booth gave us the Garden Vegetable Flatbread, those sticky ribs we think about way too often, and a dessert that looked and tasted like it belonged at Flower & Garden. The whole booth felt fresh, thoughtful, and worth the stop. The spread If you only have time for a few booths before the festival ends, Trowel & Trellis should be high on your list. Read our full review of Trowel and Trellis Last-Minute Festival Tips Go earlier in the day if you can. Many festival booths tend to get busier as the afternoon goes on, especially when locals and park hoppers start joining the snack parade. Jardin de Fiestas Outdoor Kitchen 2026 Use a Disney gift card if you’re trying to stick to a budget. It’s dangerously easy to nickel-and-dime yourself into a full theme park dinner bill when every snack feels “small.” A loaded gift card helps keep the math from sneaking up behind you wearing Mickey ears. Flower and Garden Gift Card! Check booth locations before you start eating. The fastest way to lose time is to grab one snack in World Showcase, realize your next must-try is near World Discovery, then begin your accidental half-marathon in the sun. EPCOT Flower and Garden Festival And please, hydrate. Festival sipping is fun. Becoming one with the pavement near Canada is not. Don’t Waste Your Final Festival Day The DFB Guide to the EPCOT Flower & Garden Festival is built for exactly this kind of situation. You’re short on time, there are too many booths, and you need someone to tell you what’s actually worth your snack money. Inside the guide, you’ll find full booth menus, photos, Best of the Fest picks, booth crawls, event schedules, topiary locations, festival merchandise details, hidden extras, and budget tips to help you make the most of your day. Basically, it’s the difference between “I had a great festival day” and “I blacked out near a topiary and bought three desserts I don’t remember.” And Next Up: Food & Wine Once Flower & Garden wraps up, EPCOT won’t be festival-free forever. The 2026 EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival kicks off on August 27th and runs through November 21st. That means another giant wave of booths, menus, snacks, drinks, entertainment, and limited-time offerings is headed our way soon. And yes, we’ll be all over it. 2025 EPCOT Food and Wine Festival Our DFB Guide to the EPCOT Food & Wine Festival will be available to help you plan for EPCOT’s next festival, and if you’ve ever tried to tackle Food & Wine without a plan, you already know that the festival can turn into a delicious little maze with receipts. Food & Wine is one of EPCOT’s biggest events of the year, and when those menus drop, you’ll want a guide that helps you figure out what’s new, what’s returning, what’s worth the hype, and what you can safely skip without snack remorse. The Final Bloom The EPCOT Flower & Garden Festival is almost over, and once it’s gone, many of these foods, drinks, topiaries, concerts, and festival extras will disappear with it. So if you want one more Peach DOLE Whip, one more Violet Lemonade, one more lap around the Outdoor Kitchens, or one more excuse to call a flatbread “research,” now is the time. Limoncello-Basil Sparkling Cocktail We’ll keep bringing you all the updates, reviews, menus, tips, and festival intel you need for EPCOT’s seasonal chaos, from the final days of Flower & Garden to the first bites of Food & Wine. Until then, go eat the snack. Take the picture. Buy the Orange Bird thing if your heart demands it. The flowers are leaving soon. The fork is in your court. More Details About the 2026 Flower & Garden Festival5 MAJOR Changes Are Coming to EPCOT in 9 Days!Forget The Rides — THIS Is What I’m Rope Dropping In EPCOTDisney Fans Are Racing to EPCOT for This Viral $7 China Pavilion Snack7 Important Rules To Avoid Wasting Money at EPCOT’s Flower & Garden FestivalHow To Get a Secret (And FREE) DOLE Whip in EPCOT! This NEW Map Shows What EPCOT Looks Like During the 2026 Flower and Garden Festival DON’T WASTE A BITE AT FLOWER & GARDEN The EPCOT Flower & Garden Festival is gorgeous — and overwhelming. Our DFB Guide shows you exactly what’s worth your time, money, and stomach space (and what to skip). Inside the guide: Full booth menus with photos + our Best of the Fest picks Smart booth crawls so you’re not zig-zagging the park Complete event schedules in one place Topiary locations, festival exclusive merch, and hidden extras Budget tips to help you prioritize the must-haves GET THE FLOWER & GARDEN GUIDE Have you done everything you’ve wanted to do at the Flower & Garden Festival? What’s still on your list to experience? Let us know in the comments below! View the full article

It’s hard to believe it’s been a whole year since Epic Universe first opened its doors at Universal Orlando, but it has!!! Now, we’ve been exploring Epic Universe during that whole time, and we’ve taken you with us as much as we could. Epic Universe Now, it’s no secret that you can get some pretty…well…epic souvenirs at Epic Universe, but to celebrate the park’s first anniversary, Universal is about to drop some more SWEET merchandise...and we’ve got your first look. The new Epic Universe collections feature all kinds of fun souvenirs, including new clothing, original music on vinyl and streaming, and SO much more. You’ll even be able to grab some of these new items online, while the rest will be available at Universal. Now let’s take a look at these new collections, which will focus on each land in Epic Universe! Epic Universe First up, you can now grab new Celestial Park gear, including a spirit jersey with the Chronos park entrance, a Lug Epic Universe crossbody bag, and an exclusive vinyl with the Celestial Park soundtrack. You will also be able to pre-order a statue of the Chronos with coins celebrating each world. Celestial Park’s original character, Captain Caco, who is now meeting with fans, will also get a Lug crossbody bag with a matching coin purse bag. ©Universal Celebrate SUPER NINTENDO WORLD with brand new gear, too, inspired by Mount Beanpole with Mario, including the first ever SUPER NINTENDO WORLD spirit jersey, a tumbler with a Mount Beanpole flag straw topper, a backpack, and a tote. You’ll also be able to grab a limited edition Gold Power-Up Band. ©Universal New Wizarding World of Harry Potter — Ministry of Magic merchandise is available, too! You’ll be able to grab collectible glass wands inspired by Harry Potter characters, as well as new clothing and accessories featuring the Mooncalf as seen in Place Cachée later this summer. You’ll also be able to grab new interactive wands for Voldemort, Sirius Black, and Luna Lovegood. ©Universal New souvenirs are also coming to represent How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk. You’ll find new clothing and accessories inspired by Toothless and his dragon friends, including a gold accented Toothless Loungefly bag and headband, along with hatching eggs with plushes of your favorite dragons. You can also grab the physical edition of How to Train Your Dragon — Isle of Berk soundtrack. ©Universal Represent Dark Universe with a new Darkmoor Monster Makeup experience with MORE customization options, including temporary tattoos and cosplay-inspired clothes at Pretorius’ Scientific Oddities. This summer will also see the release of a Frankenstein Manor Loungefly bag and Darkmoor-themed clothes and accessories. Many of these souvenirs are available RIGHT NOW for a limited time at retail locations in Epic Universe, although some are also now available on Universal’s online shop. We’ll keep an eye out for more Epic Universe news, so stay tuned to DFB for more. I’ve Been on Every Ride at Epic Universe, and I’m Sharing My 3 Favorite Tips 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 of the new merchandise? Let us know your thoughts in the comments! View the full article

For many guests, waking up early and arriving at their Disney World park of choice is a huge part of their vacation. However, there’s a lot more to Disney World at 9:00 AM than simply showing up. Adventureland rope drop crowds. Luckily, we’ve got experts to tell us how they approach 9:00 AM at Disney World! They’re Already on Ride #2 or #3 Guests staying at Walt Disney World resort hotels have access to Early Entry, a 30-minute period where they can enter each of Walt Disney World’s theme parks before the official opening every day of their stay (including check-in and check-out days), so they have a chance to head to select in-demand attractions a half an hour before. That means they can normally knock out a ride or two before non-hotel guests enter the hotel each day. Early Entry at Disney’s Hollywood Studios Attractions currently available for Early Entry include: Magic Kingdom Park “it’s a small world” Astro Orbiter Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin Dumbo the Flying Elephant Mad Tea Party Peter Pan’s Flight Prince Charming Regal Carrousel Seven Dwarfs Mine Train Space Mountain The Barnstormer The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh Tomorrowland Speedway Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover Under the Sea ~ Journey of The Little Mermaid Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress Space Mountain in Tomorrowland EPCOT Frozen Ever After Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind Mission: SPACE Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure Soarin’ Spaceship Earth Test Track The Seas with Nemo & Friends Frozen Ever After Disney’s Hollywood Studios Alien Swirling Saucers Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets – Opening May 26th Slinky Dog Dash Star Tours – The Adventures Continue Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror Toy Story Mania! Slinky Dog Dash in Toy Story Land Animal Kingdom Avatar Flight of Passage Expedition Everest Na’vi River Journey Zootopia: Better Zoogether! ©DIsney They Make Sure They’re in the Right Corral Experts who don’t have Early Entry access OR who want to specifically rope drop an attraction unavailable during Early Entry, they make sure they’re lining up in the right “corral” in the right spot to get to their ride of choice. So, for example, a guest who wants to rope drop Big Thunder Mountain Railroad should be in the corral closest to the Magic Kingdom’s Frontierland. Bright and early at Magic Kingdom They’ve Finished Breakfast While day guests are just shuffling into the park, some experts are already finishing up breakfast at popular restaurants like Cinderella’s Royal Table or Crystal Palace. That’s because many popular Disney World restaurants are actually taking reservations for about 8:00 AM. As explained by PlanDisney, when guests with an early reservation arrive at the park, they should “look for a dedicated entrance line marked for guests with early dining reservations. Cast Members will be stationed there to check your reservation details, so have your confirmation number handy or show it on your My Disney Experience app.” From there, they can enter the park and make their way to their restaurant while taking in the park’s early morning ambiance. Cinderella’s Royal Table is the only place you can dine with views like this! They Enjoy Summer House Grab and Go If these experts are at Disney Springs, they know to head over to Summer House on the Lake to pick up some grab-and-go options, which include Summer House Cinnamon Rolls, a breakfast taco, fresh fruit, a yogurt and granola parfait, and a bacon, egg, and cheese sandwich. Grab and go breakfast When you’re planning the early mornings of your Walt Disney World vacation, keep these expert practices in mind! Stay tuned to DFB for more tips on visiting the “Most Magical Place on Earth.” The Most Popular Ride in Hollywood Studios You Should SKIP (and What You Should Ride Instead) Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW What’s your usual morning routine at Disney World? Let us know in the comments below. View the full article

If you’re in California, heading there soon, or live in the area, there’s something you need to know that could affect your trip drastically. Disneyland On Thursday, May 21st, a hazmat incident occurred in Garden Grove, California, located just five miles from Knott’s Berry Farm and seven miles from Disneyland. While both parks remain open at this time, this is a developing situation, and things can change on a dime. Here’s what you need to know right now. According to The Orange County Register, a hazmat incident at GKN Aerospace on Western Avenue in Garden Grove occurred on Thursday, May 21st, and then began to worsen on Friday, May 22nd. The crisis involves a malfunctioning chemical tank threatening to explode and release a toxic cloud, which would affect hundreds of thousands of people in the area and surrounding miles, which would include Knott’s Berry Farm and Disneyland. Between Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Currently, the situation has forced 40,000 people to evacuate in an impact zone, which includes parts of Garden Grove, Anaheim, Cypress, Stanton, and Westminster. When speaking about the situation, a Knott’s Berry Farm employee spokesperson said, “The safety and well-being of our guests and team members is a cornerstone of our business. We are working closely with our partners at the Orange County Fire Authority to actively monitor the situation. At this time, the park has not been impacted.” ©Knott’s Berry Farm Disneyland officials have also stated that the Disneyland Resort is actively monitoring the situation, taking guidance from local authorities, and supporting any and all Cast Members impacted by the evacuation order. The most recent update on the situation, as of 9:30 AM ET on Saturday, May 23rd, is that Orange County Fire Authority crews have stabilized the tank’s temperature in hopes of buying time to avoid a disaster. More Recent Disneyland Resort News NEWS: Disneyland Monitors Nearby Hazmat CrisisCONFIRMED: Mobile Ordering CHANGE Hits Iconic Disney RestaurantJust Wait Till You See Baby Grogu On The NEW Smugglers Run In DisneylandDisneyland’s Park Hopping Policy Changes June 9thI Go to Disneyland Every Day and This Lunch Is My New Obsession We’ll be sure to keep you updated on this situation as we continue to hear more, so stay tuned to DFB. NEWS: Disney Hit With $5 Million Lawsuit Over Facial Recognition Technology 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 View the full article

Full Resort & Room Tour: Disney's Pop Century Resort | Walt Disney WorldView the full article

For real life 💙🧡 A look at Bluey's Wild World at Conservation Station at Disney's Animal Kingdom 👀View the full article

I’m back to talk about the best food in Disney World! Nomad Lounge at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Recently, I went to Animal Kingdom for a tour of the best food around the park, and while I’ve already spilled all of my thoughts on the snacks (you can check that out right here), that was just the beginning. Sit back, relax, and maybe grab a snack — we’re talking Nomad Lounge and Tiffins! It’s no secret that here at DFB, we love Nomad Lounge. In fact, we ranked it as our #1 restaurant in ALL of Disney World! Seriously, it’s that good. And while we do really enjoy Tiffins, too, Nomad Lounge gives us the opportunity to try some small bites that come STRAIGHT from the Tiffins kitchen, while also sipping on some of the best handcrafted cocktails Disney resort-wide. We love Nomad Lounge! If you’re trying to choose between the two, here’s the quick breakdown: Tiffins is the full sit-down signature restaurant — think adventurous, globally inspired dishes, a longer meal, and a more upscale atmosphere. Nomad Lounge, on the other hand, is Tiffins’ laid-back sibling. It’s more about small plates, cocktails, and snagging a cozy seat to relax without committing to a full dining experience. You’ll find some overlap in menu items and flavors, but Nomad is ideal if you want the vibe (and maybe those famous churros) without the full signature restaurant price tag or time commitment. Nomad Lounge I tried two drinks on my visit to Nomad Lounge — the non-alcoholic Lychee Ginger Lemonade and the alcoholic cocktail called The Pachyderm and The Pollinator. Two different but necessary beverages The lemonade is made with Minute Maid Premium Lemonade with flavors of lychee, pomegranate, and ginger beer. It may scare some people away with the lychee and ginger flavors in the description, but actually, this is a mildly flavored drink. You get a slight kick from the ginger, and it may taste different than anything you’ve tried before, but the lemonade adds some familiarity. For $6.59, it’s worth a try! Lychee Ginger Lemonade is unique and refreshing! The Pachyderm and The Pollinator is made with Bayab African Rose Gin, honey, lemon, lavender bitters, and soda water. This is one of the lightest and most refreshing cocktails I’ve ever tasted. The Rose Gin is floral, but doesn’t taste like you just put perfume in your mouth. The lemon and lavender are already two light flavors, so they really brighten up the drink. The coolest part is that the color is meant to look like an elephant’s skin! Wow, this might be my new favorite cocktail in Disney World As delicious as the drink is, the story behind it is even better. This is inspired by The Elephants and Bees Project, which created a solution to keep elephants from raiding farmers’ crops. Researchers discovered that elephants are genuinely afraid of African bees, so they developed beehive fences that keep up to 80% of elephants at bay. Pretty neat, huh? You may hear about this project on Kilimanjaro Safaris, too! The drinks are a pull in their own right, but we can’t help but gush over the food here. I got a look at the Charcuterie and Cheese Board, which is the chef’s selection of assorted meats, cheeses, and accompaniments for $23. This and a cocktail on the patio? Yes, please. You know, The Traveler’s Provisions (AKA the naan and dip trio we talk about ALL of the time) had to be included when showcasing the best of Nomad Lounge. It’s described as “a collection of flavors gathered from distant bazaars and remote outposts” and includes a trio of dips: roasted garlic hummus, roasted eggplant and beetroot spread, roasted red pepper and walnut muhammara. Did you drool reading that, or was it just me? Travel the world through dips and bread! The naan is nice and soft, making it the perfect vessel for these dips. The garlic is prominent in the first dip…but isn’t that what you want from a garlic dip? If you don’t need a mint after a garlic-forward dish, it wasn’t done right. The eggplant and beetroot spread will shock you! Even if you mostly ordered this to eat the naan bread (and I don’t blame you for that), the flavors are light and not too earthy. Finally, the red pepper and walnut muhammara dip is the spiciest of the trio, but it really stands out for the flavor! The spices transport you somewhere else, so much so that you’ll forget you’re in a theme park. The walnuts add a crunch, which makes for an interesting texture. For $18, this shareable snack will not disappoint you. A close-up Next up, it was time for the Chinese Five-Spice Glazed Chicken Wings ($16). Y’all. For some reason, I didn’t expect these to blow me away — after all, they are “just” chicken wings. Boy, was I wrong! The skin was so crispy, and the chicken was juicy and easy to bite. The sauce flavor rotates, but this Chinese Five-Spice Glaze had just the right kick to it. Can the chefs at Nomad Lounge bottle this up and sell it? Please!! For me? I NEED this wing glaze in my everyday life The Grilled Beef Kefta is another newer dish we recently tried during our review back in April. This is a Middle Eastern-inspired beef skewer, harissa hummus, herb-honey yogurt, and pickled red onions, on top of roasted garlic naan. This has everything going for it — a hearty, spiced meat (albeit a tad on the salty side), the tangy red onions, a soft honey yogurt sauce, and a pillow-y naan. I’d spend the $17 for this again and again. YUM I don’t know about you, but I love it when I can eat my veggies and not even know that I am eating vegetables. That’s exactly what the Wild Mushroom Dumplings do! This plant-based dish is made with dim sum sauce, chili crunch, and roasted mushrooms for $14. Some mushroom dishes don’t appeal to the masses because of an overly-earthy taste…but these dumplings do NOT pose that problem. The dumplings are packed with the roasted mushroom filling, which is seasoned beautifully. This was another instance of spiced, but not spicy. However, that chili crunch on the outside adds a bit of heat! This is just one of the dishes that will surprise veggie haters! Last but certainly not least, it’s the famous Churros! Who knew $11 could change your life? You’ll never want a standard Disney churro after trying these. The churros have a crunch on the outside, but are oh-so soft on the inside. Although the churros are covered in cinnamon sugar, the vanilla sauce adds a sweetness that isn’t over the top. There are no words to describe how amazing these are. Still hungry? I hope so, because now it’s time for a meal at Tiffins, which is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year! A tiffin! At Tiffins! When you visit Tiffins, your jaw will drop at the level of detail in this place. It’s basically a museum! Joan Hartwig, who is the Executive Creative Director of Walt Disney Imagineering and worked alongside Joe Rohde on the creation of Animal Kingdom (!!), gave us a tour of the restaurant. There are endless details to admire, but I loved looking through the photos of the Imagineers’ trip to Africa! Hartwig even recalled jumping out of their safari truck so she could take a photo of the ridges in the dirt. It’s all in the details, people!!! Joan Hartwig explaining the backstory to these photos Once you get settled in, it’s time to order an appetizer. We tried the Korean Barbecue Pork Belly Bao Buns first, which are topped with pickled cucumber, green papaya slaw, and cilantro for $16. These were AMAZING. The pork belly is super tender and melts in your mouth without any of the overly fatty texture pork belly can sometimes have. The bao was soft and fluffy, while the pickled cucumber and green papaya slaw added the perfect bright, acidic balance to the rich pork. Plus, the Korean barbecue glaze was flavorful without overpowering the dish. Bao Buns My fellow veggie haters — I see you, and I need you to trust me. The Gobi Manchurian is a MUST-order at Tiffins. For $11, you can share (or not) a pile of crispy-fried cauliflower with manchurian sauce and green onion. The cauliflower was crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and coated in a tangy sauce that wasn’t overly spicy. Honestly, the crunch reminded us of those extra crispy fried chicken batter pieces in the best way possible. You’ll be shocked by this dish While you can order a whole-fried fish if you’re feeling brave, I opted for the Butter Chicken, which costs $43. This was rich, comforting, and packed with flavor, just like you want butter chicken to be. The chicken was super tender and sitting in a smooth, creamy sauce with warm spices. It also came with a crispy samosa and seasonal veggies like peas, squash, and pickled red onion that added such a fresh balance to the dish. Now THIS is a meal For dessert, you can’t go wrong here! The African Pot de Crème ($13) was one of the most complex items I ate all day! The chocolate pot de crème was smooth, creamy, and more milk-chocolate leaning than dark chocolate. The Ethiopian coffee flavor, crunchy chocolate cookie, pistachio, and bright pineapple pieces gave it so many fun textures and flavors together. Since it has more complex flavors, it may not be a crowd-pleaser with kids. If you’re worried about that, you should check out… The chef recommended cracking the chocolate cookie on top…and they were right! …this stunning Caramel Flan ($14)! This was a surprise favorite at my table. It’s made with cardamom-scented caramel and vanilla chantilly, and somehow, it’s even better than it sounds. This super silky flan had a deep caramel flavor with hints of cardamom, and the spoon literally glided through it like butter. Sleeper hit! Tiffins isn’t the most affordable restaurant by any means, but for a special occasion? It doesn’t get much better than this in Disney World. Or, if you’re a huge Animal Kingdom fanatic, you’ll want to set aside some of the dining budget to go here. The decor will blow your mind! If you just want a taste of Tiffins without the commitment, Nomad Lounge is a no-brainer. All you have to do is join the Walk-Up Waitlist on the My Disney Experience app, and it will notify you when they are ready for you. Relax, and take in one of the BEST views in Disney World! Tiffins You know we’re eating in Disney World every single day here at Disney Food Blog, so stay tuned if you want to keep up with it all! The Only 3 Disney World Restaurant Reviews You Need to Read in 2026 Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Disclosure: In nearly all circumstances, Disney Food Blog writers and photographers pay full price for their own travel, hotel, food, beverage, and event tickets. We do this because it’s important to us as journalists to ensure not only that we give you unbiased opinions, but also that you can trust us to do so since we’re paying our own way. On rare occasions, when we are invited by a company to attend a preview as media, and when we choose to accept that invitation, we will always make you, our readers, aware of that situation. Recently, we were invited by Disney World to attend a media event for Tiffins 10th anniversary. Note that when we attend events as media we are 1) Not required to review that event/food on any of our channels, and 2) Not required to review that event/food favorably. You can always count on DFB to give you a 100% unbiased and honest review of any event that we attend, food that we eat, or beverage that we drink. You can see more in our Disclosure Policy. Thank you for reading. — AJ View the full article

There’s a TSA rule that a lot of travelers still don’t know about, and it directly affects how you pack for your Disney World trip. FuelRods Portable chargers and power banks containing lithium-ion batteries are required to go in your carry-on bag. They’re actually prohibited in checked luggage entirely. So if you’ve been tossing your power bank in your checked bag without a second thought, it’s time to rethink that habit. The even better news is that keeping one in your carry-on is exactly where it belongs anyway, because your phone will absolutely need it before your first park day is over. DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Your portable charger can’t go in your checked luggage anymore. That’s the reality Disney World travelers need to know before heading to the airport this summer. According to the TSA, portable chargers and power banks containing lithium-ion batteries are only allowed in carry-on bags and are prohibited in checked luggage. ©TSA That rule can catch a lot of travelers off guard, especially families rushing through Orlando International Airport on their way to Disney World. If your portable charger accidentally ends up in your checked suitcase, you could be dealing with delays, bag searches, or even losing the charger entirely before your vacation officially starts. The good news is that this is also one of the smartest things you can keep with you during a Disney trip anyway. Between mobile ordering, checking wait times, taking photos, and navigating the parks, your phone battery gets absolutely drained during a full Disney day. Here are a couple of portable chargers we keep recommending over and over again. The Swap That Might Save Your Whole Day Swapping out for free Picture this: you’re deep in the Magic Kingdom, your phone is at 8%, and you still have three hours until your dinner reservation. That’s where the FuelRod USB-C Portable Charger Kit earns its place in your bag. What makes the FuelRod different from a typical power bank is its swap system. When your rod runs out of juice, you can exchange it for a fully charged one at any FuelRod kiosk, and there are kiosks inside Disney World itself. No waiting around for a recharge. Just swap and go. It comes fully charged right out of the box, fits in a pocket, and the updated version packs over 20% more power than the original. The USB-C compatibility also means faster charging speeds, and the four-light LED indicator lets you know exactly how much battery you have left. It’s genuinely one of the smartest travel tools out there for park days. Grab the two-pack and split it with your travel partner. It’s a game-changer. view ON AMAZON The Tiny One That Punches Way Above Its Weight If you’d rather have a power bank that doesn’t require kiosk hunting, the INIU 45W Fast Charging Portable Charger is the one to know about. It’s built on what INIU calls TinyCell high-density battery technology, which makes it 40% smaller and 36% lighter than most 10,000mAh power banks on the market. That’s a lot of power in a surprisingly small package, and it charges fast. INIU Portable Charger We’re talking a boost from 20% to 76% on an iPhone 17 Pro Max in just 30 minutes. It’s TSA-compliant, so it goes right in your carry-on with no issues, and the detachable braided USB-C cable is a thoughtful touch since a damaged cable doesn’t mean a ruined power bank. It comes with a three-year warranty and has been trusted by over 38 million users, which is the kind of track record that actually means something. Take a look at this one before your next park day. view ON AMAZON Portable chargers have officially become one of those Disney World essentials you can’t afford to forget, especially since the fact that TSA rules require them to stay in your carry-on luggage. Packing the right way can help you avoid airport headaches and keep your phone alive through those long park days. 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

We saw the coolest Disney Parks hack during a recent visit, and we just HAD to share it with you! This is a game-changer! Carrying around all those refillable mugs and water bottles can be a pain during a long Disney day. That’s why we’re on the lookout for any essentials that will make traveling with these bulky items easier. During a recent park visit, we came across a really nifty item that you can grab RIGHT NOW on Amazon, and it works for more things than advertised! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. This shoe holder works wonders during a Disney vacation ©Amazon This Shoe Organizer 2-Pack is great for keeping shoes and essentials organized at home or while on vacation, but it also doubles as a stroller attachment that can hold mugs and water bottles! This mesh organizer comes with hooks that can be attached to doors, but they can also lock onto strollers, giving you tons of extra carrying capacity. This creative hack will forever change the way we do a Disney day! BUY ON AMAZON This next essential helps you stay hands-free ©Amazon If you’re using a refillable mug at Disney World and don’t want to worry about carrying it all day, check out the Dining Plan Refillable Mug Holder Sling! This sling is designed to hold the Disney Dining Plan refillable mugs and is adjustable, allowing you to refill your mug without removing it from the holder. Never worry about having a free hand or losing the mug ever again! BUY ON AMAZON What are some of your favorite Disney Parks hacks? Let us know in the comments, and continue to follow us here at DFB for more Disney vacation packing tips and essential item finds! View the full article

It’s certainly no secret that traveling is ROUGH right now, especially with rising airfare costs, gas prices, dwindling benefits, and a whole lot more. Disney Adventure Even in such a volatile travel space, there’s a reason people continue to book Disney vacations — whether that’s at Disney World, Disneyland, the international parks, or even the Disney Cruise Line. No matter what unexpected hiccup might happen, we find that booking travel with Disney is a safe bet — here’s why. Traveling is seriously hectic right now. Between airlines like Spirit shutting down, increased baggage fees due to rising fuel costs, increasing gas prices, and more, there are plenty of things that can go wrong or make your trip more stressful than it needs to be. Since travelers’ complaints frequently make the news, we wanted to dive into problems you could encounter on a cruise and how Disney Cruise Line typically handles them. The Disney Wish! Worrying about what might go wrong on your vacation is never fun, but knowing that Disney will have your back in any number of scenarios is what keeps people coming back, trip after trip, year after year. Disney Cruise Line This is especially true as the Atlantic Hurricane Season approaches, which can impact the Disney Cruise Line more than other Disney vacations. If you’re setting sail from June 1st to November 30th, there’s a possibility that your cruise itinerary could be impacted — or maybe even canceled altogether. August and September are typically the peak months for cruise activity in the Caribbean, with 40% of tropical cyclones occurring during these months. Quiet Cove In rare situations when guest safety is a concern and a cruise must be canceled, Disney will offer passengers a full refund — without making them jump through hoops to get it. If a hurricane causes your Disney Cruise to be extended or rerouted for safety reasons, you will not be charged extra for the additional time, as the situation is out of your control. Disney Wish! The official policy of Disney Cruise Line, if it cancels a sailing or delays it by more than three days, says: “If Disney Cruise Line cancels your cruise or delays your cruise for more than three calendar days, and you do not accept an alternative cruise or choose not to travel on a delayed cruise, you may request a refund or a cruise credit by emailing Disney Cruise Line at Caserequest@disneycruise.com. Requests must be made within 90 days of the original scheduled sail date and must include a copy of the cruise confirmation, proof and amount of payment, and cancellation or delay notice. All documentation should clearly display the vessel and scheduled date of sailing. If a cruise reservation is cancelled or delayed by Disney Cruise Line prior to commencement of the cruise, Disney Cruise Line shall have no responsibility beyond the refund of monies paid related to the cruise that was cancelled or delayed by Disney Cruise Line without offset for cancellation fees imposed by Disney Cruise Line.” The Disney Adventure Recently, the Disney Adventure canceled a sailing due to mechanical issues before the ship left port, while passengers had already embarked and were on the cruise ship. In this situation, Disney gave guests a full refund and provided them with a credit for 50% off their next cruise. Disney also provided transportation and lodging at 5-star hotels, along with an additional stipend to spend at the hotels for food and other necessities. In addition, Disney continued to provide meals while guests on board were waiting to be transported to their hotels. We were surprised by the online comments we saw. There was lots of praise for how Disney handled the situation, even from folks whose vacations had been impacted. Disney Adventure This was a rare case, but it’s confirmation of why Disney’s customer service is legendary. Disney Cruise Line has been recognized as the best cruise operator on Newsweek’s ‘America’s Best Customer Service’ List for the eighth year in a row, along with being ranked #1 overall among large-ship cruise brands for customer service by Cruise Critic consumer rankings. Disney Adventure If you’re thinking about booking a Disney vacation — especially a cruise — know that things can go wrong — that’s just part of travel. But we keep coming back to Disney because we know that in the rare instance it happens to us, we’ll be taken care of. We’ll be on the lookout for the latest Disney Cruise Line updates you need to know about. In the meantime, make sure you stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for even more Disney news! Check out more Disney Cruise Line updates at the links below! Traveling Is ROUGH…But There’s a Reason People Can’t Stop Booking Disney Cruises5 Splurges That Are Always Worth It on Disney Cruise LineWhy We Should Expect To See More International Disney Cruise Ships in the FutureYou’re Going To Want To Book a Disney Cruise After Reading ThisI’m a Former Disney World Cast Member. Here Are 6 Things I Wish You Knew Before Going on a Disney Cruise Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Have you been on a Disney Cruise? Let us know in the comments below. View the full article

It’s kinda’ wild how Disney World has just been opening up things early ahead of their official opening dates, but we’re not complaining! Walt Disney Studios So May 26th is a HUGE day in Disney World, with a lot of things scheduled to open on that day, which could be why they’re opening a little earlier just to prevent some sheer chaos. So we’ve already seen Soarin’ Across America open early in EPCOT, but before that, The Walt Disney Studios opened up its new courtyard, and we were STUNNED. There are so many great details in this new land, and we’re going to point them out for you. Animation Courtyard closed in September 2025 to be transformed into The Walt Disney Studios, an area that would be inspired by Walt Disney Studios in Burbank, California. But the idea here is that Disney’s animated characters will “leap off the screen and into our world.” The Walt Disney Studios Courtyard And that’s exactly what you’ll discover walking through the area, with all the little details that are a nod to the Burbank Walt Disney Studios lot and Disney’s characters. For example, you’ll find an homage to Pluto’s Corner, which is a replica of Pluto’s Corner at the Burbank lot, complete with a street sign and a fire hydrant. Pluto’s Corner! The street sign is even nearly identical to the one in Burbank. We love this There’s even a replica of the entrance sign you’ll find if you visit Disney’s Burbank headquarters. The Walt Disney Studios The fencing in the area has little Mickeys all over it. This is similar to the fence you’d see at the Burbank offices! Mickey fence You’ll also find movie posters and signs indicating stages, as if this were a real working studio (and yes, we remember there really WAS a real working animation studio here!). Movie posters and stage numbers However, it’s the sprinkling of characters throughout the courtyard that really gives this space, well, REAL character. Also, we love that Lucifer from Cinderella gets to hang out in the courtyard. You’ll find him behind the seating area with the benches. Lucifer Be sure to look all around you because you don’t know where these characters will pop up. Oh, hi, Zazu! Zazu Look up and you’ll see some pretty famous mice that AREN’T Mickey. Jaq, Gus Gus, and Timothy Pua and Thumper are just hanging out on the grass. Pua and Thumper Abu is peeking out from The Studio Store sign. Abu You never know who you’ll see. We found Zootopia’s Mrs. Big hanging out with Sir Hiss from Robin Hood. Mrs. Big and Sir Hiss You’ll also want to take time to look at the handprints of some pretty famous Disney characters, like Quasimodo. Handprints all over! We love all the details Disney managed to squeeze into this area, and it’s such a big improvement over what used to be here. We’re excited to see the rest of the area open later! We’ll keep an eye out for more updates in Disney World, so stay tuned to DFB for more. This NEW Addition Will Make Disney World’s Walt Disney Studios Even BETTER 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 Walt Disney Studios so far? Let us know in the comments! View the full article

Heads up, Amazon shoppers, there are HUGE deals to be had this weekend. Our favorite sling bag! Specifically, some of our favorite Disney World travel essentials are discounted steeply, most around $10.00! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. EVANCary Sling — Less Than $10! Our favorite sling bag! Let’s begin with this sling, which is on sale for just about $8.00. This sling bag is made of high-quality water-resistant nylon and features several pockets and a sling crossbody strap, making it perfect for a park trip. We love this sling bag because there is truly SO much room for essentials, the price is amazing, and the quality is shocking for that price! Crossbody bag SHOP ON SALE HERE Sukeen Cooling Towels — 21% OFF The 4-pack of cooling towels These Sukeen cooling towels are a must-have in the summer in Disney World! To activate the towel, all you’ll need to do is “soak it with water, wring it out, and shake it several times. If you don’t want to carry a small fan around all day, this is another great way to find cooling relief in the seriously daunting Disney World summer heat! SHOP ON SALE HERE Flat Plug Power Strip — Only $12! Flat Plug Power Strip This flat power strip features 3 outlets, 2 USB-A ports, and 2 USB-C ports, which can charge up to 7 devices at the same time. This makes it perfect for a Disney hotel room, where outlet space is often at a premium, especially on family vacations. SHOP ON SALE HERE Silicone Straws — 33% OFF Silicone straw set Some guests may give you a second glance for breaking out your own silicone straws at the park, but it’ll be worth it when the paper straws Disney provides begin disintegrating. This set of 12 reusable straws comes with 4 pouches to store them in and includes cleaning brushes, and we really like having these to avoid that yucky feeling! SHOP ON SALE HERE If you need any of these essentials for your next Disney World trip, make sure to get to Amazon ASAP as these sale prices are NOT going to last long. Stay tuned to DFB for more major sale finds! View the full article

At this year’s Telly and Shorty Awards, Disney Experiences was recognized for standout work across video and digital storytelling, many of which you may have seen in the past year across social media, Disney+, YouTube, and more. From emotional documentaries like Disneyland Handcrafted to high-impact collaborations with Kylie Kelce and Dude Perfect, these award-winning projects reflect a wide range of creativity and a consistent push for innovation that continues to live at the heart of Disney Parks. In total, Disney Experiences earned 10 awards at the Telly Awards (including three gold wins) and two honors at the Shorty Awards. Read on to see how these standout projects came to life and discover how these stories, series, and collaborations are continuing to connect with dedicated Disney fans around the world. Disney Experiences at the Telly, Shorty, and Webby Awards: What are the Telly Awards? Disney Experience Telly Award Winners What are the Shorty Awards? Disney Experiences Shorty Award Winners Disney Experiences at the Webby Awards and Beyond What Are the Telly Awards? Based in New York City, the Telly Awards are the premier honors recognizing video and television across all screens, attracting more than 13,000 entries globally each year. Celebrating excellence in digital storytelling, the awards highlight creative work spanning brands, creators, and entertainment leaders across platforms. Winners are selected by The Telly Awards Judging Council, a panel of industry experts representing top advertising agencies, production companies, and major television networks. Honoring how creators, producers, and brands “capture the original” inspiration behind their work by taking advantage of today’s ever-changing media landscape, these winners have been celebrated across gold, bronze, and silver categories. With ten total awards in hand this year, keep reading to see what Disney Experiences was able to secure during this year’s 47th annual Telly Awards! Disney Experiences Telly Award Winners 3-Time Winner: 1.) Gold – Craft, Best Sound and Sound Design 2.) Gold – Craft, Best Use of Archival Footage 3.) Silver – Best Documentary, Long Form Disneyland Handcrafted Eager to step back in time and experience an intimate, first-hand look at the trials and tribulations behind the rapid construction of Disneyland leading up to its opening day in July 1955? Disneyland Handcrafted honors the thoughtfulness and care that was put into the development of Walt’s original park, reminding so many of us that our love for the parks often dates back to the original vision of Disneyland as guided by the revolutionary spirit of Walt Disney. Showcasing the persistence, effort, and dedication required to build The Happiest Place on Earth, Disneyland Handcrafted explores the days leading up to the opening of Disneyland in 1955, revealing the external pressure of tight deadlines and the hands-on work required to bring Walt’s vision to life. Bringing the development and construction of the Jungle Cruise, the Mark Twain Riverboat, and so many original Disneyland icons to life, you can explore how much hard work was put into the creation of the park through rare archival footage and insightful soundbites. During the creation of the film, director Leslie Iwerks searched through over 50 hours of raw construction footage of Disneyland in its earliest days, uncovering authentic outtakes that had once been resting at the Walt Disney Film Archives for years. After combing through binder after binder of 16mm film reels, Leslie and her team were able to produce high-res scans of every reel without a timecode, helping to restore once-forgotten shots of early Disneyland onto a hard drive and bringing to life on screen. Because much of the archival footage had no recorded production audio, every footstep, hammer strike, and ambient background sound had to be painstakingly re-created from scratch. To help bring the film to life, the legendary team at Skywalker Sound reconstructed the soundscape through sound design, mixing and foley artistry, immersing audiences in the sights and sounds of Disneyland’s creation. The documentary film attracted a ton of buzz from longtime Disney Parks fans leading up to its highly-anticipated debut – take a look at what director Leslie Iwerks, cast members, and Walt Disney Imagineers had to say about the film at a special-advanced screening in January. Winner: Gold – Best Video Podcast Not Gonna Lie with Kylie Kelce, “My Disney Spectacular” from Walt Disney World This special episode of Not Gonna Lie with Kylie Kelce (recorded with the sunny, iconic backdrop of Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom looming in the distance) combined the show’s candid, conversational tone with Disney World experiences for a unique video podcast format. Featuring the family’s own Disney expert in Donna Kelce and some of her memorable Disney tips from over the years (and yes, great call on the caramel apples, Donna), the episode captured the details that consistently shape a memorable Disney day on every single vacation to Central Florida and beyond. Winner: Bronze – Best Creator/Brand Partnership Dude Perfect: Going to Every Disney Park in 75 Hours Fueled by a passion for the parks, this collaboration with Dude Perfect brought fans along for a fast-paced journey across Disney Parks around the world (and around the clock), all in just under 75 hours. Blending humor, competition, and immersive storytelling, the partnership highlighted the global footprint of Disney Parks through the lens of one of YouTube’s most recognizable creator groups, engaging audiences in a fresh and dynamic way. Winner: Silver – Best Education and Discovery Series Imagineer That! Series If you’ve ever been inspired to become a future Walt Disney Imagineer or learn more about the history and magic behind some of your favorite classic Disney Parks attractions, Imagineer That! is certainly for you. Guided by the monumental return of the lovable and nostalgic Tom Morrow 2.0, the creativity and curiosity behind Walt Disney Imagineering is truly on full display in this behind-the-scenes series. If you’ve ever wondered why rollercoasters tend to feel faster in the dark (looking at you, Space Mountain and Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind) or how Imagineers think up new rides years in advance, this series is for you. Winner: Silver – Best Science and Technology Video We Call It Imagineering: NEW Robotic Olaf Revealed! Inside Disney Imagineering R&D Join Walt Disney Imagineering as we invite you into the Research & Development labs. Technology, innovation, and creativity blend together to set the stage for the future of Disney Parks inside this exciting episode, featuring a look at the imaginative BDX droids in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, a first look at the brand-new, next-generation robotic Olaf featured in World of Frozen at Disney Adventure World in Paris, and more. Winner: Bronze – Best Unscripted Video Disney Unscripted: Installing 20 Disney World Christmas Trees in ONE Night Ever wondered how Disney Holiday Services cast members can install dozens of Christmas trees across the parks and resorts with such remarkably efficient ease? In this exclusive behind-the-scenes look, discover how Walt Disney World transforms into a joyful winter wonderland seemingly overnight in this ultimate peek behind the holiday curtain. In this episode, you’ll learn more about the massive overnight installation process, discover insider details of Disney’s holiday decor strategy, uncover fun facts about Disney’s holiday traditions, and witness jolly time-lapse footage of these iconic Christmas trees being placed at parks around the world. Winner: Silver – Best Holiday and Seasonal Social Video Magic Kingdom Holiday Tree Installation Featured on @DisneyParks on Instagram leading into last year’s holiday season at Disney World, watch how Disney Holiday Services cast members were able to deck the halls of Main Street, U.S.A., at Magic Kingdom park from the prior night’s close to the next morning’s opening. Winner: Bronze – Best Workplace Culture Social Video The Most Complimented Walt Disney World Cast Member Receives Legacy Award (TikTok) For the past 15 years, a certain cast member at Disney’s Hollywood Studios has brought an extra-warm smile, a welcoming wave, and the charming skill to make guests feel like they are the true stars of the show day in and day out at Walt Disney World. Finally honored to receive his iconic blue name tag as part of his recognition for The Walt Disney Legacy Award, listen as Willie tells us about how he felt when his core PhotoPass team surprised him with an award ceremony truly meant for a superstar. Want to learn more about Willie’s time at Walt Disney World and the impact he continues to make on passionate guests and fellow cast members? Read more on the Disney Parks Blog! What Are the Shorty Awards? Honoring the most creative and innovative work in digital and social media from brands, agencies, nonprofits, and content creators around the world, the Shorty Awards recognize excellence in content that simply breaks through the noise. Judged by the Real Time Academy, the yearly competition celebrates standout ideas across the digital space, shining a bright spotlight on the work redefining what’s possible in the digital space. Categories include design, industry, podcast, video, campaign, and more, and nominees can be recognized as a winner, gold, silver, bronze, or audience honor for their work. Disney Experiences Shorty Award Winners Winner: Audience Honors in Brand Partnership and Travel & Tourism Not Gonna Lie with Kylie Kelce, “My Disney Spectacular” from Walt Disney World We’re not gonna lie — this one feels extra magical. Disney Experiences is honored to be recognized as a winner at the 18th Annual Shorty Awards for the partnership with Not Gonna Lie with Kylie Kelce and the “My Disney Spectacular” episode, filmed at Walt Disney World Resort. This collaboration also resulted in additional wins at the Webby Awards and Telly Awards, marking a strong accomplishment in this unique partnership. From the beginning, the vision for this collaboration was simple: share Disney Parks as families genuinely experience them. Rather than a scripted or traditional approach, My Disney Spectacular unfolds naturally within Kylie Kelce’s world. It’s an episode that’s honest, relatable, and centered on modern family life. Filmed on location at Walt Disney World, the episode captures both the big emotions and the little in-between moments that define a Disney day. From the joy of seeing a child’s face light up to the real-life adventure of navigating the parks with little ones, it’s a story many families will recognize. Disney Experiences at the Webby Awards and Beyond Recent recognition from the Webby Awards, Telly Awards, and Shorty Awards continues to highlight the impactful focus across Disney Experiences on creating meaningful, engaging content for Disney fans across platforms. Key collaborations, short-form and long-form video series, in-depth storytelling series, and so much more continue to reflect the breadth of creative work, connecting with fan bases in new and evolving ways. Disney Experiences Takes Home Two Webby Awards READ MORE Go Behind the Scenes in Imagineering Video Series READ MORE Walt Disney Imagineering Debuts Next-Generation Robotic Character READ MORE The post Disney Experiences Earns Recognition at the Telly and Shorty Awards appeared first on Disney Parks Blog. View the full article

Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets officially opens on Tuesday, May 26th at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, but thanks to Cast Member previews and Annual Passholder previews, a few exclusive groups have been able to ride early. Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets So many of our followers have asked us if the ride is smoother than the Aerosmith version. After all, The Muppets are a family-friendly brand, and Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster is one of the most intense roller coasters in Disney Parks. Since we’ve been on the ride already, we’re finally answering that question! Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets uses the exact same track and ride vehicles as the former Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith. Disney has confirmed that the track didn’t change at all, but we still saw some people online saying they thought the new track was smoother than the Aerosmith version! Ready to rock! One of our team members said that the ride felt exactly the same as the previous version, but a few people disagreed. While it’s the exact same track as the Aerosmith version, we noticed that the first four rows are a smoother experience than the middle and back rows. The front rows feel just as fast, but it rattles you around a bit less, which makes it feel smoother! Unloading station If you struggled riding Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith, then the Muppets version of the ride is exactly the same. But for a less intense experience, ask to sit in rows one through four when you board the ride! One of our team members rode in both the front row and back row, and the front row was significantly less shaky. A L.I.M.O. To ride Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets yourself, it opens at Hollywood Studios on Tuesday, May 26th. Stay tuned to Disney Food Blog for more Disney World news! Why You’ll Have To Ride Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets Over And Over Again 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 ridden Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets? Comment below! View the full article

Memorial Day weekend has arrived, and with it, we’re spotting a lot of great sales on Disney souvenirs and Disney essentials. ©BaubleBar Now, we’ve been scouring the entire Internet to make sure you know about all the best deals, and we think this one we just found is one of our favorites: you can save some serious $$$ right now on Disney jewelry and accessories on BaubleBar. Don’t know what to get? We’ve got some suggestions! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Get the Mickey Birthstone Pisa Bracelet ©BaubleBar We love the subtle Mickey head on this bracelet, which also features your birthstone. Choose the stone that matches your birthstone or choose multiple stones and wear multiple bracelets — at this price, you can buy several! get at baublebar Buy the Valentine’s Day Friends Forever Bag ©BaubleBar You don’t have to wait until Valentine’s Day to celebrate your friends. This bag charm lets you celebrate them year-round. It features Mickey, Minnie, Daisy, and Donald. get at baublebar Get the Minnie Donut Ears ©BaubleBar If you love Minnie Mouse and donuts (and, seriously, who doesn’t?), you can celebrate that love with these super fun ears with sparkly donuts on them and a sparkly bow. get at baublebar Wanting to see EVERYTHING that’s on sale? Shop the whole sale below! SHOP THE SALE 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

Disney’s Boardwalk Resort is the former home of the popular dueling piano bar Jellyrolls, which suddenly closed in April 2025. Earlier this month, Disney started working on the building! Jellyrolls We went to check out the progress recently, and Jellyrolls now looks pretty unrecognizable. While the signature striped paint job is still intact, the rest of the building has been gutted! Earlier this month, construction walls were put up around the building, and the interior was gutted. When we were on the boat from Hollywood Studios to EPCOT, we saw that Jellyrolls now looks completely different! We had to stop by and get a closer look. Jellyrolls The ground floor on the left side of the building has been completely opened up. While we weren’t able to see inside, the ground floor is now covered in clear plastic wrap behind the construction wall. There are also two massive cutouts in the wall covered by black tarps. Jellyrolls When we got a closer look, there’s also an uncovered cutout along the length of the wall between the two covered rectangular cutouts. Plus, a cut was made in the wall, but not removed above the open section on the ground floor. It looks like more of the wall might be coming down soon! Jellyrolls Disney hasn’t confirmed what new space will take over Jellyrolls. There are dozens of rumors circulating online, ranging from a sports bar to a jazz club, but regardless of what moves in, it looks like this space might have an outdoor patio overlooking Crescent Lake. BoardWalk Signs on the construction walls read “Pittsburgh Paints,” the official paint company of Walt Disney World and Disneyland since 2022. They’ve done painting, finishing, and coating on dozens of Disney World projects, notably Main Street, U.S.A., Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, and Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway. BoardWalk Resort We’ll be sure to keep you updated on any more Jellyrolls progress. Stay tuned to Disney Food Blog for more Disney World news! A Definitive Ranking of EVERY Disney World Hotel! 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 hope takes over Jellyrolls? Comment below! View the full article

After countless hours of research (and by research, we of course mean riding every attraction over and over), these are the three Epic Universe tips at the top of our list! Isle of Berk at Epic Universe Universal Orlando Resort’s Epic Universe officially opened in May 2025, with five themed lands throughout the park: Celestial Park, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, and Dark Universe. In the year since the grand opening, we’ve been testing and re-testing all of the ride tips and tricks from around the park to see which ones are the best of the best! We’ve picked up TONS of tips from our time at Epic Universe, from cool Easter eggs to must-try snacks. But, with so many things to cover, it can be tough to tell which are the most essential tips to help you get the most out of the attractions. That’s why we’re cutting through the noise and sharing our three FAVORITE tips for the rides at Epic Universe! Get in Line for Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry at the Right Time Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry is probably THE most popular ride at Epic Universe, and that means the wait times for it can get out of control! Queue for standby line at Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry In the attraction, you travel by the Floo Network from wizarding Paris in the 1920s to the British Ministry of Magic set in the 1990s for the trial of Dolores Umbridge. It’s a seriously impressive and immersive attraction, so we’re all for adding it to your Epic Universe bucket list — as long as you’re strategic about when you get in line! Battle at the Ministry Since this is THE ride for so many guests, people tend to make a beeline to this one first thing in the morning. Even during Early Park Admission (a benefit that allows Universal Hotel Guests to enter the park an hour early on select days), we’ve seen Battle at the Ministry skyrocket only MINUTES after park opening, becoming a 2+ hour wait almost immediately. Since you’re not likely to make it to the queue before the wait time is already stacked up, we suggest prioritizing other rides around the park that take a little longer to accumulate a crowd. Métro-Floo On the other hand, you also don’t want to wait too long to get in line, because Battle at the Ministry has the tendency to close early if the line’s still super long and threatening to cut into the park’s closing time. We’ve seen the line close 10 minutes before park closing…. But we’ve also seen it close HOURS before park closing. So it’s also important not to try to push it off for too long, or count on being able to hop in line right before the park closes! The Office of Professor Delores Umbridge Truthfully, you’re unlikely to have a short wait for this ride at any time of the day. But the closest thing to a “sweet spot” is to hop in line for Battle at the Ministry 3-4 hours before the park closes, instead of waiting until the last second when the whole thing becomes more of a gamble. Use Your Early Park Admission Perk Wisely Let’s talk a little more about Early Park Admission. As we mentioned above, this is a perk that allows Universal Hotel Guests to enter the park up to an hour before the official opening time. This perk is only available at select parks each day, so be sure to check the calendar before your trip to see which days you can get Early Park Admission for Epic Universe! Epic Universe Another BIG heads up — not all of the attractions are open during Early Park Admission! With that in mind, what you should prioritize during Early Park Admission all comes down to what’s open AND what’s at the top of your must-do list. Portal Entrance to Isle of Berk Even though you should always adjust to fit your own priorities, if we were to suggest where to start, we’d choose to head to Isle of Berk (the How to Train Your Dragon-themed land) first during Early Park Admission. That will give you the chance to knock out THREE rides in the same area, starting with Hiccup’s Wing Glider family coaster first. Hiccup’s Wing Gliders If nothing in Isle of Berk speaks to you, Super Nintendo World is a solid second choice, especially if you make a beeline to Mine Cart Madness first. Just keep in mind, if you go that route, you will be starting your Epic Universe day in a rather…. overstimulating environment. And if you haven’t had your coffee yet, that could be too much for you early in the morning! Mine-Cart Madness Early Park Admission can be a HUGE perk at Epic Universe since the ride lines tend to get long throughout the day. Just remember to consider which rides are actually open and what your personal must-dos are before you make your game plan! Strategize for the Crowds As you’ve might have noticed, our top ride tips are centered around getting the most out of your time in the park without spending hours upon hours in a single line. And there’s a reason for that! Epic Universe is operating at full capacity, and we’ve definitely felt the brunt of the crowds during just about every trip to the park. Epic Universe only has a total of 11 rides at this point (not counting other attractions like shows, character meets, etc.), so even when everything is up and running, the lines can get loooong. Wizarding World of Harry Potter Unless you happen to get SUPER lucky (like really, realllllly lucky), the crowds are pretty much inevitable. That means, if maximizing the number of rides you get to experience is at the top of your priority list, you’ll need to go into Epic Universe with a game plan to get it done. Don’t worry, we’ll walk you through the planning step-by-step! Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment Step One: Study all the details about the park and start by choosing your top 5 must-do priorities. That way, you don’t miss anything essential, and everything else on top of that is icing on the cake! You can even pick up our FREE Epic Universe Ultimate Guide to make your study session easy! Stardust Racers Step Two: Weigh the pros and cons of making the splurge to purchase Epic Universe Express Passes. They can be pricey, but if you’re visiting during a super busy season (like spring break/an extended holiday/Christmastime), the investment might be worth it in the end. Universal Orlando Express Pass Step Three: If you’re staying at one of the Universal Orlando hotels, check which days Early Park Admission is offered for Epic Universe, and plan to take full advantage of that one-hour head start. Dragon Racer’s Rally Step Four: Consider using single rider lines in some situations. Most of the rides in Epic Universe have a single rider line option, including Stardust Racers, Curse of the Werewolf, Monsters Unchained, Hiccup’s Wing Gliders, Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge, Mine Cart Madness, and Battle at the Ministry. Sometimes, choosing the single rider line can help you cut down on your wait time, but it’s not always a guarantee. For reference, in one experience at Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge, we only waited 30 minutes in the single rider line, compared to the projected 2-hour wait of the regular queue. BUT, we also had an experience at Mine Cart Madness where our wait in the single rider line was almost the exact same as the regular standby line. It’s a bit of a gamble since it might not end up saving you much time (or any!), but it’s worth considering if you don’t mind being split up from the rest of your group during the ride! Curse of the Werewolf Step Five: Plan to see shows in the afternoon when ride lines are typically at their peak. The Untrainable Dragon Step Six: Many ride lines will drop drastically during the last hour or so of the day. This is a great time to knock out popular rides inside Super Nintendo World and Isle of Berk that you didn’t get to tackle first thing in the morning. Mario Kart Bowser’s Challenge Even though the crowds will almost certainly be there, strategizing your ride game plan can make it WAY more likely that you’ll still get to do at least the top priorities on your list! We constantly test and re-test ALL of the popular ride hacks, tips, and tricks at Universal and Disney World to see which ones still hold up, so stay tuned to make sure you’ve got the latest info you need for your next vacation! The BEST Things To Eat in Epic Universe (From Someone Who Reviews Theme Park Food for a Living) Read more: DFB's complete guide to Universal’s Epic Universe >> View the full article

The Walt Disney Company has been providing entertainment, products, and experiences to folks for over 100 years now, and throughout its long history, it has seen its share of ups and downs. Walt Disney Company Headquarters in Burbank Disney is one of the few companies that offers such a broad and diverse spectrum of offerings, including TV, movies, streaming, theme parks, cruises, merchandise, and more. And although the company has spent much of its 100 years building its reputation, over the past few years, that reputation has taken a hit. Disney’s reputation is continuing to decline, according to the 2026 Axios Harris Poll 100. Every year, the Axios Harris Poll surveys over 16,000 adults about how they view a company and determines that company’s reputation ranking. Last year, Disney had already fallen to #76, but this year, the company has fallen even further and comes in at #79, just under companies like McDonald’s, UnitedHealth Group, and Anheuser-Busch. ©Axios So what were the top companies with the best reputations? Well, Chewy, a pet food and supplies company, came in at #1, which probably won’t surprise those who’ve done business with the company. Rounding out the rest of the top 5 were Toyota, Samsung, Nvidia, and Costco. ©Axios So why is Disney continuing to drop in its reputation ranking, although the company continues to make a profit? Some might say that a lot of it has to do with soaring costs at theme parks (as well as the perceived nickel-and-diming), a perceived decline in original ideas, and public controversies. Main Street, U.S.A. in Disney World However, the company is now under new leadership with its new CEO, Josh D’Amaro, and a lot of big things are in the works for many of Disney’s divisions, including theme park expansions, more ships being added to Disney Cruise Line, additions to streaming, and more. We’ll just have to see if the public’s perception of the company changes. We’ll keep an eye out for more Disney news, so stay tuned to DFB for more. “Expect To See Both Pricing and Attendance Growth” — Disney Executives Speak on Park Price Increases 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 Why do you think Disney’s reputation keeps falling? Share your thoughts in the comments! View the full article

A brand new Star Wars-themed bucket has touched down at both Walt Disney World and Disneyland. We love our new best friend! The new bucket is based on the BDX Droid characters, who debuted as part of Galaxy’s Edge at Disney parks and are currently appearing on screen in the Star Wars: The Mandalorian & Grogu film. On the West Coast, the BDX Droid — which has a weathered look to it, in line with much of the Star Wars universe — is available for $26.99 at the following Disneyland Resort locations: Galactic Grill’s Seasonal Novelty Release (Available through mobile order from May 21st to 23rd) Popcorn Cart in Tomorrowland Kat Saka’s Kettle Beverage Carts in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge The bucket can also come with fries. Across the country at Walt Disney World, a limited number of BDX Droid Buckets are available for $29.00 via mobile order and can be picked up across from the Milk Stand in Galaxy’s Edge, as well as at the following locations: Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo ABC Commissary Backlot Express Fairfax Fare Hollywood Hills Amphitheatre Refreshments near Fantasmic! Popcorn Cart near the Main Entrance On both coasts, the buckets are limited to two per person per transaction while supplies last. The sass! Of course, the buckets aren’t the only element of the new Mandalorian & Grogu film debuting at the Disney parks in conjunction with the film. New missions based on the titular characters have been added to Millennium Falcon Smuggler’s Run. The new experience puts the crew in “control of their own destination, leading to potential adventures on Bespin, the wreckage of the second Death Star around Endor, or Coruscant. This is so cool! Directed by Jon Favreau, The Mandalorian and Grogu film stars series headliner Pedro Pascal, as well as Star Wars newcomers Sigourney Weaver and Jeremy Allen White. The film was produced by Favreau, Kathleen Kennedy, Dave Filoni, and Ian Bryce, with music composed by Ludwig Göransson. The Mandalorian and Grogu on Smugglers Run A brand-new novelty bucket based on the Mandalorian & Grogu film’s BDX Droid is available at Disney World and Disneyland while supplies last. Stay tuned to DFB for more on Disney’s latest offerings. 26 Hidden Details On the NEW Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets at Hollywood Studios 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 collectible? Let us know in the comments below. View the full article

We loooove mobile ordering at Disneyland. You can order your food on the go, skip the line, and have hot and ready food in just a few minutes! Haunted Heatwave Pizza But the Disneyland app just underwent a major change — mobile ordering looks totally different for one of our favorite Disneyland restaurants! When we went to mobile order our favorite Disneyland pizza from Alien Pizza Planet, we found that the restaurant no longer offered the traditional Mobile Ordering! After some investigating, it turns out that mobile ordering is still offered at Alien Pizza Planet, but it’s now on a separate page in the app. Alien Pizza Planet To mobile order at Alien Pizza Planet now, search for “Alien Pizza Planet Express” in the app. However, this doesn’t offer the full menu. Alien Pizza Planet Express only offers 16-inch pizzas and family-style meals! Currently, mobile ordering only includes six items: Whole Cheese Pizza Whole Pepperoni Pizza Whole Cheese Pizza Family Combo Whole Pepperoni Pizza Family Combo Artisanal Style Cheese Pizza with Magic Key Thermal Tumbler (Magic Key Holder Exclusive) Artisanal Style Pepperoni Pizza with Magic Key Thermal Tumbler (Magic Key Holder Exclusive) Alien Pizza Planet Mobile ordering is no longer available for the full menu. This includes everything – entrees like pizza slices and pasta, sides like salad and breadsticks, kids’ meals, and desserts. If it’s not a family-style meal, it’s not available for mobile ordering! Luckily, the full Alien Pizza Planet menu is still available with regular, in-person ordering. Haunted Heatwave Pizza from Alien Pizza Planet It also includes their seasonal offerings of souvenir cups, sippers, straws, and popcorn buckets. Since the Magic Key Holder-exclusive meals are available for mobile ordering, we wouldn’t be surprised if more Magic Key Holder-exclusive merch is available for mobile ordering in the future, but Disney hasn’t confirmed it. These are still available for mobile ordering at other locations in the park, but if you’re hoping to get them all in one place, you’ll have to wait in line. King Arthur Carrousel Popcorn Bucket We’ll be sure to keep you updated on any more changes to mobile ordering. Stay tuned to Disney Food Blog for more Disneyland news! This NEW Disneyland Scavenger Hunt Is Gonna Be POPULAR Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Do you like mobile ordering? Comment below! View the full article