Disney4me

Things at Disney World are constantly changing, even when it comes to food. The Hollywood Brown Derby That’s why we tell you about new snacks coming to the parks, get you reviews of those snacks so you can decide whether or not they’re worth it, tell you all about restaurant menu changes, and more. Now, we’ve got some HUGE menu updates to tell you about at an ICONIC Disney World restaurant. The Hollywood Brown Derby is a much-beloved table service spot over in Disney’s Hollywood Studios. But there may be some NEW reasons to love this restaurant because it just got a seasonal menu update. We spotted some menu changes at the Brown Derby not long ago but now we’re highlighting EVERYTHING you need to know. Hollywood Brown Derby First, the good news: the Cobb Salad that The Hollywood Brown Derby is known for will remain on the menu, so we can all let out a sigh of relief knowing that. The Famous Cobb Salad The changes start under the appetizers section. The Crab Louie (a returning item) is back for $17. It features crispy olive bread, a citrus blend, fried capers, and Louie sauce. (It looks like this returned a bit earlier in the year but we wanted to let you know it’s still available.) If you love shrimp, you can also still pick up the Shrimp Cocktail for $17 — it’s topped with shaved fennel, cucumbers, and a traditional cocktail sauce. ©Disney And don’t worry — the Heirloom Tomato and Burrata Salad and Charcuterie Board are also still on the menu. Charcuterie 2020 You can also get the Escargot, although the description has changed a bit. The description changed from “Roasted Garlic Béchamel, Crispy Prosciutto” to “Roasted Garlic Béchamel, Crispy Prosciutto, Puff Pastry.” Roasted Bone Marrow is also back for $17 — it’s Braised Beef, Pickled Mustard Seeds, and Fig Bread Crostini. Escargot 2022 Some entrees have changed, too. Sustainable Salmon Coulibiac, Free-Range Chicken Coq au Vin, Tomato Risotto, Braised Short Rib, and Duck à l’Orange have all been removed from the menu (that change took place back in late April). But some NEW entrees have been added while others have been changed up: The Filet Mignon description changed from “Root Vegetable Hash, Charred Sweet Peppers, Green Peppercorn Sauce” to “Glazed Carrots, Potato Pavé, Horseradish Cream, Peppercorn Sauce” (this is a change that was made a little while ago — back in March 2023) The Grilled Pork description changed from “Roasted Sweet Potatoes, Brussels Sprouts, Red Eye Gravy” to “Lavender-Sage Polenta, Local Corn Salsa, Huckleberry Barbecue” (change made in April 2023) ADDED: Sustainable Fish — White Bean Ragoût, Derby Summer Vegetables, Roasted Tomato Emulsion for $45 (change made in April 2023) ADDED: Free-Range Chicken and Dumplings — Lemon-Ricotta Gnudi, Shishito Cream, Gooseberry Jus for $35 (change made in April 2023) ©Disney ADDED: Shepherd’s Pie — Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes, Mushrooms, Peas, Corn, Carrot Romesco for $32 (change made in April 2023) ADDED: Lamb Shank — Summer Vegetables, Harissa Vinaigrette, Nasturtium Chermoula for $45 (change made in April 2023) ADDED: Free-Range Chicken and Dumplings — Lemon-Ricotta Gnudi, Shishito Cream, Gooseberry Jus for $35 (change made in April 2023) ADDED: Seafood Cioppino — Shrimp, Sea Scallops, Seasonal Fish, Mussels, Toasted Baguette, Aromatic Tomato Broth for $48 ©Disney Enhancements have even changed. The Brussels Sprouts are no longer available, but you can now get Mixed Mushroom Sauté instead (both changes were made in late April). And now let’s talk about dessert. Disney made it very clear that the FAMOUS Grapefruit Cake is not going anywhere so don’t stress out about that one! But back in late April, a new dessert did hit the menu — Brûléed Champagne Sabayon — Minted Strawberries, Lemon-Pine Nut Biscotti for $13. Grapefruit Cake So if you happen to be headed to Disney World soon, be sure to make an advance dining reservation for Hollywood Brown Derby to try out this seasonal menu. Disney dining changes are a lot to keep up with! We’ve done all the research for you in writing our DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining! The 2023 DFB Guide to Dining in Disney World We’ve got details on EVERY dining location at Walt Disney World inside our eBook – and it’s easy to download to your tablet or smartphone to take with you on your next trip. Use our discount code for DFB readers – WDW2023 – for 25% off! Read our most recent review of The Hollywood Brown Derby! 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! Save 25% on the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining with code WDW2023. GET YOUR GUIDE NOW What’s your favorite menu item at Hollywood Brown Derby? Was it affected by these menu changes? Let us know in the comments! The post Menu Changes Hit The Hollywood Brown Derby in Disney World first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

The time to eat your blue shrimp is now folks because Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser (a.k.a. the Star Wars Hotel) is CLOSING. Galactic Starcruiser room The cruise-like experience puts you at the center of your very own Star Wars story complete with unique dining experiences, lightsaber training, and an “excursion” to Batuu. We’ve shared a tour of the rooms, details about the WHOLE thing and whether it’s worth it (because a stay here is NOT cheap), and more. But soon this experience will come to an END. Disney has announced that the Star Wars hotel will be closing. Crowds in the Galactic Starcruiser’s Atrium Here’s the statement a Disney spokesperson has released on the matter: “Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser is one of our most creative projects ever and has been praised by our guests and recognized for setting a new bar for innovation and immersive entertainment. This premium, boutique experience gave us the opportunity to try new things on a smaller scale of 100 rooms, and as we prepare for its final voyage, we will take what we’ve learned to create future experiences that can reach more of our guests and fans.” You read that right — final voyage. INSIDE the Galactic Starcruiser The final voyage for the Star Wars Hotel will be September 28th-30th, 2023. For the time being, new bookings will be temporarily paused. Disney will be contacting those who had bookings from September 30th through the end of the year. Bookings will then reopen on May 26th for voyages on the Starcruiser until its final “trip.” Characters on the Starcruiser Disney has shared that they want to create immersive experiences on an even bigger scale, so they’ll be taking the creative spirit behind the Star Wars Hotel and everything they learned from it to focus on future projects that can reach more guests and fans. Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser Details on what will happen to the building and location have not yet been shared. Thus far, there are no current plans to announce. For those not familiar with it, the Star Wars Hotel opened in March 2022. The experience offers a two-day, two-night itinerary. Disney has described the Galactic Starcruiser as: “part live immersive theater, part themed environment, part culinary extravaganza, part real-life role-playing game—and yet so much more.” Crown of Corellia Dining Room Throughout your stay, you’re given the chance to train with a lightsaber, interact with your favorite characters (and encounter new ones), and operate the ship’s defense systems! Plus, there’s plenty to eat, including the famous blue shrimp. But you’ll also enjoy other meals here including breakfast and lunch options with colorful and unique treats. Definitely bizarre We have a LOT to share when it comes to dining at the Star Wars Hotel, so we’re gathering more links below so you can learn everything about it: See our full review of EVERYTHING on the Dinner Menu for Night ONE aboard the Halcyon! And find our full review of EVERYTHING on the Dinner Menu for Night TWO aboard the Halcyon! What to eat (and what to AVOID) for BREAKFAST aboard the Halcyon! We ate EVERYTHING for LUNCH on the Galactic Starcruiser! One of our FAVORITE Disney World snacks showed up on the Kids’ Menu on the Starcruiser! Are you traveling to space with a picky or less adventurous eater? See the options HERE. Is the exclusive Captain’s Table experience worth the extra money? We talk about that here. Space food! And there’s more. A trip on the Starcruiser also gave you the chance to shop for exclusive items, take a trip to Batuu, and even stop by the Sublight Lounge for a drink or snack. Sublight Lounge And we HAVE to talk about those space bunk beds! There are a variety of room types available, but the space bunks and the window to “space” are some highlights you can’t miss. Starcruiser cabin The experience is unlike anything else in Disney World, but it won’t be around for long so you’ll want to book your trip as soon as you can if you’re hoping to experience it before it’s gone. Just remember that a trip here isn’t cheap. Voyages begin at around $1,209 per guest per night for 2 guests in a cabin. Disney has released some discounts already for Disney Visa Cardmembers and Annual Passholders, so we’ll certainly be watching to see if any discounts get released for upcoming trips. ©Disney Once reservations become available again, you can reach out to our friends at Small World Vacations to help you with all your booking needs, so you don’t have to worry about it all on your own. 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 http://www.disneyfoodblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/customemailexample.jpg To see our video about the Star Wars Hotel to help you decide if it’ll be worth it, click below.  You can also click here for our FULL PAGE on the Star Wars Hotel with links to ALL of our food reviews, hotel room tours, and MUCH more. And stay tuned for updates. Star Wars Hotel -- Galactic Starcruiser News and Information Check Out Our COMPLETE GUIDE to the Star Wars Hotel We’re Breaking the MYTHS from Inside the Star Wars Hotel Rooms What to Get (or AVOID) for Breakfast at the Star Wars Hotel We Ate EVERYTHING for Lunch at the Star Wars Hotel See Our FULL Review of the Entire Dinner on Night 1 of the Star Wars Hotel Yes, Dinner on Night 2 at the Star Wars Hotel is Different. See Our Full Review Is the Captain’s Table Worth the Extra Cost? See How the Fireworks at the Star Wars Hotel Will (and Won’t) Surprise You Get Our Full Thoughts on the BLUE SHRIMP See What Snacks Look Like in Space Some of the Best Food in the Star Wars Hotel is Hiding! Get a Look at the Exclusive Star Wars Hotel Merchandise Learn About What’s Included When You Leave the Star Wars Hotel for Hollywood Studios Take a Look at the Pricing for the Star Wars Hotel Watch Our DFB Video About Our Experience at the Star Wars Hotel Click HERE to See More About Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser Join the DFB Newsletter To Get All the Latest Disney News Delivered Right to Your Inbox Click here to Subscribe What do you think about this announcement? Tell us in the comments. The post BREAKING: Disney Will CLOSE Its Star Wars Hotel first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Disney has just announced a major update on a BILLION dollar construction project it had planned for the Orlando area. ©Disney | Walt Disney Company Headquarters Some time ago, Disney announced plans for a new campus in Lake Nona, a suburb of Orlando, FL. It was expected that the project could cost $1.3 billion to build (according to the Orlando Business Journal) and it was set to become home to a “regional campus” for THOUSANDS of Disney employees (some would relocate from California to Florida). The timeline for the project had been extended previously but now it’s hit a major stopping point. According to The New York Times, Disney CEO Bob Iger and Chairman of Disney Parks, Experiences and Products Josh D’Amaro have officially called the Lake Nona project. That’s right, the $1 billion office complex that was set to be built in Orlando is no more. Lake Nona Town Center ©Lake Nona As the Times points out, the project would have brought more than 2,000 jobs to the area, and more than 1,000 employees from Southern California (including most of the Imagineering department) would have relocated to this new campus. D’Amaro initially cited Florida’s “business-friendly climate” when the move was announced in 2021. But in a recent email sent to employees, D’Amaro talked about “changing business conditions” and noted that those changes were behind the cancelation of the Lake Nona project. Map of the Potential Community in Lake Nona ©Orlando Business Journal D’Amaro once again reiterated that $17 BILLION is expected to be invested in construction at Disney World over the next decade (which is something we’ve heard Disney talk about before). It’s anticipated that this investment could bring 13,000 jobs to the area. In talking about that investment, D’Amaro wrote “I hope we’re able to.” Two people briefed on the matter who spoke with the New York Times on condition of anonymity shared that Disney’s battle with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis “figured prominently” into Disney’s decision to cancel the Lake Nona project. Obtained Via the Orlando Business Journal Disney’s battles with DeSantis began back when it made a statement against the Parental Rights in Education bill and the Company’s desire that the bill be repealed or struck down. Since then, Disney’s Reedy Creek Improvement District has been dramatically changed (removing much of Disney’s control), DeSantis has signed legislation that will subject the Disney World monorail to state inspections, and the Company is in the middle of 2 lawsuits (one federal and one state) involving the Reedy Creek issues. Most recently, Iger fired back at DeSantis and asked this question: “Does the state want us to invest more, employ more people, and pay taxes, or not?” Disney VERSUS DeSantis UPDATE: A DeSantis spokesperson has commented on the situation. According to Deadline, DeSantis’ press secretary said “Disney announced the possibility of a Lake Nona campus nearly two years ago. Nothing ever came of the project, and the state was unsure whether it would come to fruition…Given the company’s financial straits, falling market cap and declining stock price, it is unsurprising that they would restructure their business operations and cancel unsuccessful ventures.” ©Governor Ron DeSantis Website Another change has hit the Walt Disney Company in recent months that may have impacted this project as well — the return of current CEO Bob Iger. The Lake Nona campus was one championed by former CEO Bob Chapek. The Times reports that Iger had been “less enthusiastic” about the project, even before the Company’s battles with DeSantis. Reportedly, as soon as Iger returned he started to insist that it made little sense to move Imagineering so far from Disney’s movie studios in California. Bob Chapek and Bob Iger ©CNBC And let us not forget that Disney is in the middle of carrying out plans to cut $5.5 BILLION in spending. Thus far, around 200 Disney employees have relocated to Florida from California. D’Amaro has shared that Disney will talk to them about options including the possibility of moving them back. Florida Palm Trees We will continue to look for updates, but for now, it seems the Lake Nona project is no longer happening, though other investments planned for Disney World are still expected to take place if, as D’Amaro seems to indicate, Disney is able to do them. UPDATE: Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings has issued a statement on the issue. In a press release, he shared, “It is unfortunate that Disney will not be moving forward with construction of the Lake Nona campus. However, these are the consequences when there isn’t an inclusive and collaborative work environment between the state of Florida and the business community. We will continue to work closely with our valued partners at Disney.” ©Orange County TV Live Stream UPDATE: According to ABC Action News, Jeff Vahle, President of Walt Disney World Resort, has issued a statement on the cancelation of the project. He shared that since the project was first announced, “several dynamics have changed, including a change in company leadership and evolving economic and business conditions.” He noted that Disney’s plans call for them to invest $17 billion in Disney World over the next 10 years. He said, “We hope those plans will become a future reality.” He continued, “For decades, we have operated our business responsibly and being the region’s largest taxpayer, we paid and collected over $1.1 billion in state and local taxes during last year alone. As the largest single-site employer in Central Florida, we are deeply rooted in this community, and we continue to make investments for the betterment of our region.” He concluded by saying, “While today’s decision was not easy, we remain committed to our Cast Members as well as you and our wonderful community.” Jeff Vahle For more about Iger’s statements surrounding the DeSantis conflict, click here. And stay tuned for more Disney news. Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! The post BREAKING: Disney Cancels Billion-Dollar Project in Orlando first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Floyd Pepper Reacts To Spaceship Earth at EPCOT | The Muppets at Walt Disney WorldView the full article

No, Disney World is NOT just full of chicken nuggets and fries (though you will find those and they are delicious). The parks and hotels are actually home to some pretty unique snacks and can be a great place to visit if you have an adventurous palette! EPCOT One place to find some unique snacks is the House of Good Fortune in the China Pavilion at EPCOT. Here, one of our favorite things to check out is Lay’s potato chips. In the past, we’ve seen tons of interestingly-flavored Lay’s chips here — from squid and candy flavors to honey butter. We recently found another bag of unique Lay’s chips at House of Good Fortune we just had to give them a try. Are you ready to check them out with us? Let’s go! While we were walking through House of Good Fortune recently, we stumbled across… House of Good Fortune …Takoyaki-flavored Lay’s Chips — otherwise known as octopus balls/meatballs-flavored chips. For those not familiar with it, the Food Network explains that Takoyaki means “grilled octopus” in Japanese. These are typically “slightly crispy balls of pan-fried savory batter filled with diced cooked octopus and other flavorings. The snack “originated in Osaka in the 1930s and can now be found across the country, and abroad.” Let’s try them! Takoyaki Chips When we first opened the bag, we noticed that the chips smelled similar to the tried and true Lay’s barbecue potato chips. Those who have eaten a RIDICULOUS amount of Lay’s barbecue chips in their lifetime will know exactly what we are talking about. This smell was comforting, and we were excited to dive in and give them a try. The Chips! These chips definitely had a good coating of seasoning/flavoring. The flavor almost mimicked barbecue chips with an aftertaste that gave us a hint of sour cream and onion vibes — just without a bitter taste. Interestingly enough, the aftertaste as a whole reminded us of a bologna sandwich…? Maybe that fits the bill here since the snack it’s based on is meant to be a mix of batter with cooked octopus — compare that to bread and bologna — yeah, okay, we can kinda see the feel. But maybe that’s just us… Takoyaki Chips They weren’t terribly salty (like you might expect some potato chips to be), but the unique mix of flavors from the barbecue-style taste to the interesting aftertaste made for quite the chip experience. Our reporter shared that the flavor was NOT at all what they were expecting. While they shared that they wouldn’t necessarily buy these again, we think they could be a good snack for anyone who likes chips and has an adventurous palate. If you aren’t a fan of salty foods or barbecue flavors though, we’d recommend skipping this one. The Chips! These are priced at $5.50, but chip flavors here can change often so be sure to grab ’em fast! For more about Disney World snacks, check out our bucket list of 50 snacks you’ve GOT to try. You can click the image below to learn more. We’ll continue to keep you updated with more Disney food news and reviews, so follow along for the latest details! Looking for more snack tips? Check out the snack hack that comes with some CONSEQUENCES! Need Disney Restaurant Advice? We’ve Got EVERYTHING You Need to Know The ONLY Disney Dining Planning Tool You’ll Need Is Here – Get the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining! See Our Complete Disney World Restaurants Guide Check Out the 19 Best Restaurants in Disney World in 2022 Our Top 50 All-Time Best Disney Dining Tips These Are the BEST Meals in Disney World for Under $15 Ranking Every Single Magic Kingdom Restaurant Ranking Every Single EPCOT Restaurant Ranking Every Single Restaurant in Disney’s Hollywood Studios Ranking Every Single Restaurant in Disney’s Animal Kingdom Ranking Every Single Restaurant in Disney Springs Ranking Every Single Restaurant in Disney World Hotels – Cheap Eats Edition Check Out Dozens of Disney Dining Tips and Tools Learn All About Tipping at Disney Restaurants How to Use Mobile Order in Disney World Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the latest Disney food news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! Would you try these chips? Let us know in the comments! The post OCTOPUS CHIPS Are a Thing in Disney World and They Might SURPRISE You first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Planning a trip to Walt Disney World can be complicated — especially when you’re trying to choose between 25 resort hotels. If you’ve narrowed down your choices to these hotels, how do you make your final selection? Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort Well, we’re here to walk you through the differences between Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort and Disney’s Art of Animation Resort. We want to help stretch your vacation dollars because trips to Disney World can be costly. Not surprisingly, hotel expenses can take up a big portion of your travel budget. How do you make the right decision for your family? We give you all the details, so you can choose wisely between Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa and Disney’s Art of Animation Resort. Art of Animation Whether room size, location, pools, and/or restaurants are most important to you, we share the information that you’ll need to make an informed decision. After all, we want you stay at the hotel that is best for your family! Let’s get started and look at all the details so that you can plan your Disney trip with confidence. What a view from Saratoga Springs! The best way to tackle such a massive decision like this is with as much logic as possible, so we broke down this comparison into five categories: Common Ground, Theme/Rooms, Pools, Food, and Transportation. Let’s get started on your vacation research. COMMON GROUND Before we mention their differences, let’s take a look at what Saratoga Springs and Art of Animation have in common. First, both resorts offer bus transportation as well as one other mode of Disney transport. Disney bus Both resorts offer a quick service restaurant, several pools, and various room options. But what about their nightly rates? For Saratoga Springs, that means that for the cheapest room at the cheapest time to visit, you can expect to pay around $451 per night (not accounting for any tax or current discounts), and it goes up to $3,477 per night (not accounting for any tax or current discounts) for the most expensive rooms at the most expensive time to visit. (Based on 2023 rates) For Art of Animation, Little Mermaid Standard Rooms start at $201 per night in value season, and a Finding Nemo Family Suite will cost about $912 per night during the December holiday season. Family suites sleep a whopping six guests comfortably! Hey Disney! at Art of Animation Resort! Let’s dig a little deeper to see what you can get for the money at these resorts! Extra Theme Park Hours Benefits for Disney World Resort Hotel Guests THEME/ROOMS Saratoga Springs This resort offers villa-type accommodations with studio, 1-bedroom, 2-bedroom, or 3-bedroom layouts. Speaking of spacious accommodations, the 3 Bedroom Grand Villas at various Disney Vacation Club properties can sleep up to 12 people! These rooms typically come with 3 bedrooms, 3 (or more) bathrooms, a (very large) full-sized kitchen, living area, dining area, and a balcony. These rooms are available first for DVC members to book, so they’re pretty difficult to score and pricing is not readily available to the public (unless you call Disney to book for a specific date). Studios have a kitchenette. The one-to-three-bedroom villas have a full kitchen, as well as washer and dryer. The Murphy bed at Saratoga Springs If you’re looking for convenience, these amenities might make your trip a whole lot easier! Here, you’ll escape to a 19th century equestrian resort, although there aren’t any horses! Opened in May 2004, the quaint gardens add to the peaceful atmosphere. The large resort layout consists of a central lobby building with outer buildings housings the actual hotel rooms. Saratoga Springs is a huge resort and thus, rooms are often available! Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort Studio Studios at this resort provide a queen bed and pull-down bed; these rooms sleep four. Two bedrooms sleep up to 8 people. (Remember that a child under three does not count toward maximum occupancy.) As of 2020/2021, rooms have been renovated. Treehouse Villa However, the unique but very remote treehouse villas can accommodate up to nine guests. Art of Animation Celebrate the characters, colors, and creativity of Disney animated films at Art of Animation Resort! ©Disney Many of our readers tell us that Disney’s Art of Animation Resort is the BEST value resort on Disney World property. It’s a great hotel for families, particularly if you’re needing some more space and you’re willing to pay for it. Guests may reserve a Lion King Family Suite, a Cars Family Suite, a Finding Nemo Family Suite, or a Little Mermaid Standard Room (277 sq. ft.) for their Art of Animation stay. The Little Mermaid Standard Room at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort The theme feels well done and intricate, so it’s at least a bit nicer than the other values. PHOTOS! Tour a Lion King FAMILY SUITE at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort! Results What location and price point do you prefer? If your focus is spending time at Disney Springs, Saratoga Springs might be the best pick for you. If you need a cheaper starting rate, Art of Animation fits the bill. However, we prefer the more deluxe accommodations at Saratoga Springs. If you are traveling with small kids, they’ll love the Disney icons situated around the resort at Art of Animation. NEWS! MAJOR HOTEL CHANGE Announced for Disney World POOLS When the weather is HOT or you just need a break from park queues, head to your resort pool! After all, the pools have their own unique features and special theming. Feature pools at Walt Disney World hotels usually have at least one slide and also offer poolside activities. Look at the hotel’s recreation schedule for more information. Some Disney resorts are so spread out that they also offer leisure pools. These swimming spots are family-friendly with at least one whirlpool spa. Leisure pools are quieter than the more crowded and active feature pools. Pool Area Note that poolside towels are always complimentary. Saratoga Springs This resort has two featured pools — High Rock Spring Pool and The Paddock Pool. High Rock Spring re-opened in late March 2023 after a renovation. This pool continues to offer a fun atmosphere with waterfalls, zero-depth entry, and a 128 ft. slide. You’ll find two whirlpool spas at this location. Got kids? They’ll love the Donald Duck splash area with a fun kiddie-sized slide. Pool at Saratoga Springs The zero-depth entry Paddock Pool showcases a slide that starts at the top of a water tower and provides 146 feet of fun! Kids can splash in the aquatic play area showcasing two small waterslides. Nearby, a horseshoe-shaped whirlpool offers a nice respite. Paddock Pool at Saratoga Springs Leisure pools with whirlpool spas can be found at the Treehouse Villas, Congress Park, and The Grandstand. Art of Animation Art of Animation boasts the largest pool of any Disney Resort hotel: it’s The Big Blue Pool! Pool at Art of Animation Guests also have access to two more pools. The Cars section hosts the Cozy Cone Pool (complete with clever Cone Cabanas) and The Little Mermaid section hosts the Flippin’ Fins Pool. Results If you have small children, Art of Animation has one of the best splash pad areas — Schoolyard Sprayground — for little kids at Walt Disney World. And the pool at over 308,000 gallons is massive. However, Saratoga Springs is a more relaxing atmosphere for grownups! 10 Hidden Secrets About Disney World Pools FOOD Park days can be exhausting. Whether you’re taking a whole day to enjoy your resort, or you are relaxing after a shopping excursion at Disney Springs, once you’re at your Disney World hotel, you might not want to get back on a bus or boat for nourishment. So, you’ll want to know about the best options at your Disney World resort! Artist’s Palette at Saratoga Springs Take a look at the menus and decide which resort has the food that best suits your family. Saratoga Springs Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa is an equestrian-themed resort, with dining options that are simultaneously relaxed and refined. The Turf Club Bar and Grill features steaks and chops — along with pasta dishes — in a lovely atmosphere created with dark woods and forest greens. Pork Chop You can also enjoy spending some time at the Turf Club Lounge. (May I recommend the Mint Julep?) We do want to note that the Turf Club at Saratoga Springs is only open for dinner. Backstretch Pool Bar and On the Rocks Pool Bar serve cold specialty drinks that are perfect for relaxing by the pool on a sunny day. On the Rocks Pool Bar The Artist’s Palette is a Counter Service option serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a spot made to resemble an artist’s studio in New York. The indoor seating is welcome on hot Florida days, chilly mornings and evenings, and during rainstorms! Fresh sandwiches, pizza, salads and more are on offer, and the bakery case always boasts some fantastic and creative cupcakes. Stop by Artist’s Palette for seasonal treats! The Paddock Grill is located by the Paddock Pool, offering substantial eats to enjoy poolside — even for the early risers at breakfast! Click HERE for our Complete Guide to Eating at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort! Art of Animation The Landscape of Flavors food court which serves Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner. The menu offers classic counter service eats such as pizza and pasta, burgers, and more. You might even order up a stir-fry dish. Or you can grab a creative cupcake from the bakery case! One of our most recent meals from Landscape of Flavors Guests can also rest their fins and grab a drink at The Drop Off Pool Bar located by the Big Blue Pool. Pool Bar P.S. This is a GREAT place to stop and check out what they’re serving up for the Drink of the Month! Find our COMPLETE GUIDE TO EATING at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort HERE. Results While the variety at Saratoga Springs is rather slim, you’re not far from Disney Springs, which has a ton of restaurants. If your favorite eateries are at Disney Springs, Saratoga Springs may look more appealing to you. If you are just looking for a quick service food court, Art of Animation checks off that box. Plus, Art of Animation offers access to the Disney Skyliner, so you can easily get to the restaurants at Riviera Resort and other nearby resorts. TRANSPORTATION Do these resorts offer anything different when it comes to transportation? Let’s see!! Saratoga Springs You can walk and boat to Disney Springs, but otherwise, you’re stuck with a moderately lengthy bus ride to get around. And beware of those internal stops again! This is a rather large resort, so it’s easy to get lost when trying to locate the different amenities featured on the property. Take a boat to Saratoga Springs! This hotel is fairly far away from the Disney parks — so getting to-and-from places using Disney’s complimentary transportation can take a big chunk out of your day. Art of Animation Resort Disney’s newest form of transportation, the Disney Skyliner, hosts a station located between Pop Century and Disney’s Art of Animation Resort. This is a HUGE perk for Art of Animation guests that makes getting around Disney World a whole lot easier (and fun!). Skyliner gondola system From Pop Century and Art of Animation, the Skyliner goes directly to Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort where guests can then transfer to Disney’s Riviera Resort, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and EPCOT. Additionally, guests have access to Disney Bus Transportation to and from the theme parks, water parks, and Disney Springs. Results At Saratoga Springs, the Sassagoula Riverboats to Disney Springs are a pleasant mode of transportation, except during inclement weather. Art of Animation Resort has the perk of Disney Skyliner to two theme parks — Disney’s Hollywood Studios and EPCOT! We’ll give this one to Art of Animation because the ability to take the Skyliner to two theme parks as well as to other resorts is a huge convenience! Note that ride share, taxis, and Minnie Vans are also available at an extra cost in case you find yourself in a hurry. Learn all about WDW Transportation THE WINNER! So, where do we think you should stay? Sorry, that decision has to be up to you. It depends on the people in your traveling party and what your plans are during your stay at Walt Disney World. If you’re wanting to spend a lot of time at Disney Springs, then Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort might be the resort to book! Or perhaps, you’ll be playing golf — Disney’s Lake Buena Vista Golf Course is located on the sprawling property of Saratoga Springs. Enjoy relaxing at Saratoga Springs! Your hotel at Walt Disney World will either be a place just to sleep or a hang-out in between touring the parks and other Disney World diversions. If you’re seeking relaxation and don’t feel the need to rush to the parks, then Saratoga Springs provides an excellent respite from the crowds. If budget is your highest priority and/or you have small children, Art of Animation will likely be a fantastic option! 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 http://www.disneyfoodblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/customemailexample.jpg Where did you decide to stay? Share with us and your fellow readers! The post Saratoga Springs vs. Art of Animation Disney World Resort Guide 2023 first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Get ready Figment fans, something NEW is coming but you might not qualify to get it. Hey Figment! You’ve already experienced the excitement of the Figment popcorn bucket, and maybe even have a Figment wallpaper on your phone, but now there will be a NEW reason for Figment fans to celebrate. Recently, Disney announced that a NEW Annual Passholder magnet will be coming soon! In the announcement, Disney didn’t expressly state what character would be the star, but they noted that the magnet would “spark” our “imagination,” which is what led many to believe that Figment would be the one featured. Figment Fans Rejoice! Now, Disney has officially confirmed that the new Passholder magnet will be Figment-themed! They shared a video of it on the Passholder Facebook page. The video features the famous purple dragon painting on a wall. ©Disney He turns around… ©Disney …looks a little surprised to see us there… ©Disney …and then walks off screen revealing that the new FIGMENT Passholder magnet is coming soon! ©Disney This is all part of the V.I.PASSHOLDER Days Disney will be hosting this year starting in June. This and other perks will become available to Disney World Pasholders for a limited time. The other perks include things like new discounts, a Passholder lounge, and more. Sales of all Passholder types are currently available on the Disney World website, so you can pick up your pass today. Click here to learn all about the Passholder program, and stay tuned for more details. Click here to read about the ticket CHANGES coming for Annual Passholders in 2024 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! Save 25% on the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining with code WDW2023. GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Are you excited about this Passholder magnet? Tell us in the comments. The post EXCLUSIVE New Figment Souvenir Confirmed for Disney World first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Ask Disney Vacation Club Consumer Finance Specialist Alex Lantz which Disney character he relates to most, and you might (depending on your level of cynicism) expect to hear “Scrooge McDuck.” But while his job title may call to mind a money-pit-diving mallard, his heart is with Hercules. “I do everything in my power to ‘go […]View the full article

DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Okay, who’s ready for another big Disney sale? 100th merchandise display We do our best to make sure you’re up to date on all the best Disney deals, and we’ve got another massive sale to share with you over at shopDisney. 30% Off Encanto Gear! That includes this Encanto Ear Hat Light-Up Living Magic Sketchbook Ornament. It has Mirabel, Abuela Alma, Isabela, and Luisa on it, as well as the Madrigal family’s house. ©Disney At night, the candle in the window of the house lights up, just like in the real Casita! Looking for Encanto toys, costumes, pins, and more! Shop the WHOLE sale here. View on shopDisney 30% Off Swim Gear! Celebrate the release of the live-action The Little Mermaid with this super cute Ariel Deluxe Swim Set for Kids — y’all, it even comes with a little mermaid tail. ©Disney This swimsuit even has UPF 50+ built-in UV protection to protect your kiddos from the sun. Shop the whole swim sale here. View on shopDisney Beach Towels on Sale (And You Can Personalize Them!) Speaking of swimming, tons of beach towels are on sale, and you can even personalize them for an extra fee! For those Frozen fans, you can get the Frozen Beach Towel and have your name or your kid’s name put on it. ©Disney This towel features Elsa and Anna! View on shopDisney Save on Graphic Tees! You can also save on tees (and who doesn’t need tees?). If you buy 2 or more t-shirts, you can save $9 each on adult tees. That includes this Long Sleeve Disneyland 2023 Pennant Flag Shirt. It’s so RETRO. ©Disney Your favorite Disney characters are featured on pennant flags on the sleeves. View on shopDisney You can also grab the Walt Disney World Logo Bleach Spot T-Shirt. This one has that classic Cinderella Castle icon on it. ©Disney It’s got stylish “bleached” spots all over it, too. The same deal is also available for Kids’ Shirts. View on shopDisney Special Deal on This Disney100 Ornament! Want to save on that Disney100 Mickey Mouse Platinum Drip Ear Hat Ornament? If you purchase any other Disney100 item, you can get it for just $12! 100th Ornament You’ll just need to add it to your shopping cart with another Disney100 item. View on shopDisney 25% Off Disney100 Merch! OH, YEAH! So be sure to check out that deal, as well as the rest. Disney 100th Anniversary Platinum Ears Now is a great time to buy some Disney merchandise! View on shopDisney While you’re in the shopping mood…have you checked our DFB exclusive graphic tees and merch? It’s super fun stuff to wear to the parks, or to rep your happy place at the grocery store! Click here to visit the DFB Merch Store! Here’s ALL the Amazon EXCLUSIVE Disney 100th Anniversary Merchandise 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! Save 25% on the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining with code WDW2023. GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Will you be grabbing anything through this sale? Let us know what you bought in the comments! The post The MASSIVE Disney Sale You DON'T Want To Miss first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

The Hollywood Brown Derby at Disney’s Hollywood Studios has some new and returning favorites coming center stage for its summer 2023 menu.View the full article

The live-action Little Mermaid movie is almost here — are you READY?! ©Disney You can prepare for the big event by watching the trailers, checking out the secrets of the upcoming movie, and getting dolled up like the underwater princess. But now, we have details about the NEW way you’ll be able to celebrate this upcoming film — in Disney World AND Disneyland! Disney had previously announced that a live-action Little Mermaid meet-and-greet would be coming to Disneyland and Disney World this summer. And earlier today, Scott Gustin (via Twitter) shared some news about the opening date of the new meet and greet with the live-action version of Ariel! Halle Bailey According to Gustin, Disney has confirmed that the new meet and greet will officially open on May 26, 2023 — the opening date of the film — in Disney World and Disneyland. In Hollywood Studios, you’ll be able to meet the live-action Ariel in Walt Disney Presents. It appears this will be located in the area that was previously being used for a Sulley meet and greet. Walt Disney Presents In Disneyland, you’ll be able to find her at the promenade near “it’s a small world”. “it’s a small world” We’ll continue to watch for other updates about this new addition, so stay tuned to DFB for more! Click here to read about all the character meet and greets 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! Save 25% on the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining with code WDW2023. GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Will you be seeing this new film on opening day? Let us know in the comments below! The post BREAKING: Date Announced for NEW Live-Action Ariel Meet and Greet in Disney World and Disneyland! first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

There are tons of ways to celebrate holidays in Disney style. ©Disney You can live out your trick-or-treating dreams during Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party, get in the Christmas spirit with tons of new themed snacks, or even take a picture with Mr. and Mrs. Easter Bunny in Magic Kingdom. Did you know there are even little-known holidays that Disney celebrates? National Donut Day, National Pizza Day, and National Peanut Butter Day are just SOME of the unique holidays that Disney takes part in. But, they’re not all food related. May 20th is National Streaming Day, and we are expecting some announcements from Disney — in fact, they’ve already started! Last year, Disney released a LOT of news on this quirky holiday. Let’s take a look at some of the things we are already seeing this year! 1. Discounts/Deals on Streaming Last year, Disney celebrated the day with a huge deal on Hulu subscriptions. New and eligible returning customers could get Hulu for $1/month for three months! ©Hulu This year’s deal has already been released, and it’s a little more expensive — but still a bargain! From now until May 27th new and eligible returning Hulu subscribers can subscribe to Hulu (With Ads) for $2/month for three months – and add Disney+ (With Ads) for $2/month more! Here’s the link to learn more. Disney has shared that they will be raising the price for Disney+ subscriptions by the end of the year, so this might be your chance to save some dough on your streaming services. New Trailers Last year, Disney also used this opportunity to release a new trailer. On May 20th, we saw a teaser for Ms. Marvel, an original series from Marvel Studios. We also got to see a new extended clip from the “Obi-Wan Kenobi” show. Obi-Wan Kenobi (Ewan McGregor) in Lucasfilm’s OBI-WAN KENOBI, exclusively on Disney+. © 2022 Lucasfilm Ltd. & . All Rights Reserved. Given that we now have a release date for the new season of Loki —October 6th, maybe we’ll get a new trailer for that as well? ©Marvel Studios Or, maybe there will be a new trailer for the new show Echo, which debuts on Disney+ on November 29th. New Show/Series Announcements Finally, on May 20th last year, we got a bunch of news about shows on Disney+. We learned that the original movie “Zombies 3” would be released on July 15, 2022. Disney also announced that all the episodes of “Glee” were going to be added to Disney+ on June 1st, 2022. Disney also used this opportunity to confirm that “High School Musical The Musical The Series” Season 4 would return. ©Disney So, what news about your favorite shows and movies are you hoping to hear about this week? We’ll keep watching for any updates, so stay tuned to DFB for all the latest info! Click here to read about the opening dates for some of Disney’s MAJOR projects 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! Save 25% on the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining with code WDW2023. GET YOUR GUIDE NOW What do you hope Disney does to celebrate National Streaming Day? Let us know in the comments below! The post 3 Big Announcements We're Expecting from Disney This Week first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

National Streaming Day is just around the corner! Celebrate by binge-watching your favorite movies and shows, and check out this special streaming deal for Disney Parks fans!View the full article

Celebrate National Streaming Day With HuluView the full article

DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. If you’re a technology fan, perhaps you’ve been keeping an eye out for a highly-anticipated Amazon product launch. We’re talking about ‘Hey, Disney,’ a software made in collaboration with Disney and Amazon that is essentially an Amazon Alexa device for the Disney resorts. Plus, it does some pretty snazzy Disney-themed tricks! Hey, Disney! We’ve seen the Amazon/Disney partnership slowly make its way to the Disney World hotels, but we’re still waiting for the new tech to come to our homes. According to Amazon and Disney, the software would be available to purchase and download onto existing Alexa devices so that us Disney fans could have a little bit of extra magic at home. So, when Amazon announced some NEW products, we got our hopes up for a second. It wasn’t the launch of the ‘Hey, Disney’ software, but it is still pretty cool. Amazon announced new Echo Buds, the third generation of the Echo Buds headphones, and a new device called the Echo Pop. Let’s check them out! ©Amazon The newest generation of the Echo Buds headphones look pretty similar to Apple AirPods, don’t you think? They are currently available for pre-order and will be officially released on June 7th, 2023. ©Amazon The headphones boast all kinds of impressive features, including a long-lasting battery and Alexa on the go. Pre-order the Echo Buds Amazon also just debuted the new Echo Pop, a front-facing Echo design you can pre-order now. The item will be released on May 31st, 2023. ©Amazon This little speaker comes in four different colors and works both as an Amazon Alexa device AND a speaker to play your favorite music. Pre-order the Echo Pop We’ll continue to keep you updated on travel and tech news, especially when the ‘Hey, Disney’ software is available to purchase! Follow along here at DFB for more. Click here for more on the ‘Hey, Disney’ Amazon Device 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! Save 25% on the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining with code WDW2023. GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Will you be purchasing any of the new Amazon devices? Let us know in the comments! The post This Amazon Announcement Made Our Hearts Skip a Beat first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Do you love Starbucks? Starbucks in Disney World We do too! You can probably find us starting our morning, especially on those early days in the parks, with a Starbucks drink. From the drinks themselves to the fun Disney-themed merch, Starbucks is practically always on our minds; we’ve even seen some Starbucks tumblers and ornaments on sale recently. While we’re on the subject, Starbucks is hosting a NEW sweepstakes you need to know about! There’s a new Starbucks sweepstakes happening right now. We’re talking about the Starbucks Summer Game: Adventure Awaits! ©Starbucks The sweepstakes runs from May 15th to June 18th, 2023. It is open to Starbucks Rewards members and residents of the United States who are at least eighteen years old. No purchase is necessary to enter or win. The game consists of an instant-win game, a sweepstakes, and another little game! Free stars, anyone? ©Starbucks To enter, go to starbuckssummergame.com or visit the Starbucks app and sign in to your Starbucks account. Each player receives one entry upon registration. Additional entries can be earned by making purchases at participating Starbucks locations, or by playing without making a purchase (a.k.a. the FREE way) by visiting starbuckssummergame.com and completing the entry form. Participants can earn up to two game plays per day! An iced caffeinated drink for those hot days in the parks The sweepstakes also includes bonus entries that can be earned by reloading your account, ordering through the app, redeeming stars, and more. For complete rules, eligibility, and other information, you can refer to the official Starbucks rules. ©Starbucks Best of luck to you if you play in the sweepstakes, and stay tuned to DFB for all the latest Disney news and more! 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! Save 25% on the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining with code WDW2023. GET YOUR GUIDE NOW What’s your favorite Starbucks drink? Let us know in the comments! The post We’ve Got a FREE Excuse for You To Order From Starbucks This Summer -- You’re Welcome. first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

While we do typically claim the Disney parks as our happy place, we understand that some years you just need a break from the Florida humidity, crowded theme parks, and army of strollers. Or, you could be in the lucky group of people looking for another vacation to take alongside your Disney trip. (We’re jealous!) Where are you headed this summer? Regardless, who doesn’t enjoy an opportunity to save a bit of money while planning all these travels? This summer travel season is already projected to be a busy and expensive one, so we know that many of you are looking for all the money-saving travel hacks that are available. We found one that could reduce not only your airfare costs, but your hotel costs as well. Let’s check it out! Hopper, a fan-favorite travel app, is currently running a sale that features up to $100 off flights and up to 50% off hotels. The sale is valid from now until 3AM on May 20th, 2023, so you’ll want to act fast if you’re hoping to snag these deals! We love an airfare deal! If you hop on the app (get it?), you can see the current Orlando deals, including 25% off Orlando hotels and $25 off flights to Central Florida. ©Hopper The sale also features flight and hotel deals in numerous locations around the world. Yep, this sale includes both domestic and international flights! Anyone feeling a trip to Disneyland Paris? Will you be traveling domestically or internationally this year? The deal ends right before Memorial Day, so this could be a great opportunity to book a last-minute getaway for the long weekend. Who wants to go to Disney World? What do you think? Will you be traveling somewhere this summer using these deals? We’ll continue to keep you updated with any and all travel deals we come across, so make sure to follow along for more. Looking for more travel deals? Click here! Travel Updates, Tips, and Tricks Complete Guide to Booking the CHEAPEST Flight to Disney World What to Do if Your Flight to Disney World Is Canceled Our Best Tips For Flying Through the Orlando International Airport Step-by-Step Guide: How to Get to Disney World From the Orlando Airport The Ultimate Disney World Packing List for 2022 You’re SLEEPING on These Packing Hacks Air Travel Tips That’ll Change Your Life 8 Catastrophic Travel Mistakes and How to Solve Them The BEST and WORST Airlines in the US, Ranked by Customer Complaints The MOST and LEAST Reliable Airlines in the U.S. This Small Change Will Save You From Lost Luggage The Best Disney Luggage for 2023 21 Things a Former Flight Attendant Needs You To Know 7 Highest-Rated Travel Items on Amazon Join the DFB Newsletter to Get All the Latest Disney News Delivered Right to Your Inbox Click Here to Subscribe Where will you be traveling this summer? Let us know in the comments! The post Limited Time Offer: Save BIG on Disney World Hotels and Flights this Summer first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

We’ve seen stores close in Disney Springs, old character meet-and-greet locations return to the parks, and new restaurants open — sometimes it feels like EVERYTHING is changing in Disney World. Disney Springs For example, a LOT has changed at EPCOT as it continues to undergo a massive multi-year transformation. In fact, there’s construction all over the park! Even one classic ride in the Magic Kingdom has closed to be re-themed as a brand new ride. Disney World restaurants are changing, too, including one Disney Springs restaurant that just revealed a brand-new menu! Jaleo by Chef José Andrés features a Spanish-inspired menu of tapas with signature dishes such as paella, cured meats, Spanish cheeses, and more. Well, Jaleo is getting a new menu for the summer with some brand NEW dishes. Jaleo Here’s what you’ll find on the new menu: Cono de Atún “Gilda” — Cone of Tuna Tartare, Modern Olive, Cantabrian Anchovy and Piparra Pepper for $8 Gazpacho Estilo Algeciras — Classic chilled Spanish soup made with Tomato, Cucumbers, and Green Bell Peppers for $10 Ensalada de Aguacate y Mojo Verde “Spanish Diner” — Avocado, Mojo Verde and Goat Cheese Salad for $13 Piquillos Rellenos con Brandada de Bacalao — Stuffed Piquillos of Bacalao and Potato served with Manchego cheese and a Bechamel Sauce for $16 Mejilones a la Brasa con Mojo Verde — Mussels cooked in Josper served with Mojo Verde for $16 Desserts at Jaleo in 2019 Lubina a la Pobre — Whole roasted Branzino served with Potatoes, Olive Oil, and Fresh Herbs for $56 Ensalada de Tomate con Ventresca — Heirloom Tomato Salad served with Red Onions, Piparra Peppers, and 4 oz. of conserved Tuna Belly from Asturias for $34 Secreto Iberico de Bellota — Secreto Iberico cooked on the basque grill and served with Pan con Tomate for $105 Pintxos Morunos de Cordero — Basque Grilled Lamb Skewer with Andalusian Spices for $18 Berenjenas con Miel — Fried eggplant with honey and lemon zest for $12 Atún Crudo con Aguacate — Thinly sliced tuna served with avocado and a citrus dressing for $18 Jaleo This is one of the biggest menu changes that’s happened at Jaleo since it opened in 2019, so be sure to check it out the next time you’re in Disney Springs. Also, be sure to make advance dining reservations if you want to visit; it could book up fast if you’re not careful! Disney dining changes are a lot to keep up with! We’ve done all the research for you in writing our DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining! We’ve got details on EVERY dining location at Walt Disney World inside our eBook – and it’s easy to download to your tablet or smartphone to take with you on your next trip. Use our discount code for DFB readers – WDW2023 – for 25% off! 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! Save 25% on the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining with code WDW2023. GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Have you ever been to Jaleo? What were your thoughts about the restaurant? Let us know in the comments! The post HUGE Changes Coming to a Disney Springs Restaurant first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

We know that Disney World ain’t cheap. Cinderella Castle But did you know that Disney TRICKS YOU into spending more money in the parks? We’re sharing how in this DFB video! Check out our video: How Disney World Tricks You Into Spending More Money Are you a DFB Video subscriber? If you hit the button below, you can subscribe to our channel and catch up on ALL of our latest episodes! And stay tuned for more Disney news! Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! Save 25% on the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining with code WDW2023. GET YOUR GUIDE NOW How do you save money at Disney World? Tell us in the comments. The post DFB Video: How Disney World Tricks You Into Spending More Money first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

From the Carousel of Progress to Walt’s ideas on EPCOT, The Walt Disney Company has been interested in technology and innovation from the beginning. Recently, Disney executives spoke at the SVB MoffettNathanson Technology, Media & Telecom Conference and provided updates on everything from Disney+ to the Disney Cruise Line. EPCOT The conference shed light on the company’s plans in terms of investing, scaling, and cutting costs. What’s on Disney’s radar? Can we expect any price increases (or decreases)? Let’s find out! Throughout the conference, Disney CFO Christine McCarthy answered questions regarding The Walt Disney Company’s recent earnings call and how the company plans to invest going forward. One of the first questions McCarthy addressed was, “What actions and decisions are you taking today to improve the Disney company’s financial performance going forward?” Here’s what she had to say. Disney+ At Disney’s most recent earnings call, it was revealed that Disney+ Hotstar is losing subscribers. Since then, some investors have expressed their concerns about the future of the Disney+ streaming platform. Disney+ In terms of Disney+’s new ad-free tier, McCarthy explained, “We are looking at pricing overall and pricing for the ad-free tier, which is really a premium product, in comparison to the ad-supported product, which is at a much more accessible price for consumers.” During Disney’s recent earnings call, Disney CEO Bob Iger revealed that the company will be raising the price of the ad-free Disney+ tier by the end of the year. Disney+ Day Cavalcade McCarthy went on to add, “We’re looking at optimizing that ad tier,” explaining, “There are some things we want to refine.” In fact, McCarthy pointed out that the Disney+ ad tier is currently only in the U.S., and the Disney+ ad-supported tier will be launching outside the U.S. in the future. ©Disney From there, McCarthy went on to comment on what some critics have been saying about Disne’ys decision to cut back on content, saying, “I think I’ve read some commentary of some concern over us cutting back on content, and somehow that’s gonna have a negative impact on our ability to attract or retain new subscribers and existing subscribers, and that’s really not the case; it’s really spending our content dollars to the highest and best use of where they will attract and retain those subscribers.” Christine McCarthy ©The Walt Disney Company Despite the recent loss in subscribers, McCarthy and other executives made a point to clarify that Disney is confident in its plan for the streaming service. IP in the Disney Parks Lately, Disney Imagineers have been using more Intellectual Property in the parks both domestically and internationally. McCarthy touched on this strategy, explaining, “We have ways we can use our intellectual property, our franchises, the ones that really resonate with our consumers, and we have more data than we had before.” The refurbished Guest Rooms at the Polynesian Village Resort feature ‘Moana’ details. McCarthy used the Frozen movie franchise as an example, referencing the past when Disney only had box office data to judge the popularity of its films. “So Frozen was a few years ago; it had tremendous box office performance, we knew it resonated — we had incredibly strong consumer products coming out of that franchise as well. Now, with new franchises and strong IP, we can also incorporate that consumer data to know how deep it is and in what parts of the world it’s most significant in.” Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania at AMC Theatre in Disney Springs Imagineers and other Disney creatives are now using Disney+ data to help determine what they can (and should) bring to the Disney parks. For example, Disney could look at its newest animated feature on Disney+ and see, “How often are people watching it?” or “Do they watch it multiple times?” to help predict the popularity of a new IP-inspired experience or attraction in the parks. Disney recently created some new ‘Encanto’ topiaries in EPCOT Specifically, in part, McCarthy stated, “That better informs our creatives and our Imagineers to lean into things that we can really exploit in our theme park businesses.” Price Increases McCarthy was also asked to comment on the rising theme park prices, including things like Genie+, food, and theme park tickets. She explained, “One of the things that I’d like to just point out is that we are in an inflationary environment, and the macroeconomic environment we are in, we’re very aware of that,” McCarthy reiterated, “The inflationary impact of day-to-day living is something that we’re very much aware of.” Magic Kingdom entrance McCarthy used theme park ticket prices as an example of how inflation impacts pricing, explaining, “When you go back and look at the pricing increases that we have taken in our admission price…they are pretty much around inflation.” The Writers Strike Finally, McCarthy briefly referenced the ongoing Writers Guild of America strike, which may, in part, impact Disney’s total cash content spending budget. ©Disney Variety reported that McCarthy also recently attended a conference in New York, where the company presented to ad buyers and brands. The presentation, “was noticeably light on scripted fare, given the writers strike.” Walt Disney Company Headquarters ©LA Times In reference to Disney’s recent spending cuts, McCarthy stated, “We are well on our way to meeting or exceeding the 2.5 billion of SG & A savings that we put out to the market previously.” The conference covered a LOT, but in the end, both McCarthy and Disney president of ad sales Rita Ferro were optimistic, saying, “We have better days ahead.” As Disney lovers, we sure hope so! In the meantime, we’re always on the lookout for the latest Disney news, so stay tuned for more. NEWS: PRICE INCREASE Announced for Disney+ 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! Save 25% on the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining with code WDW2023. GET YOUR GUIDE NOW How do you feel about Disney’s plans to bring more IP into the parks? Let us know in the comments! The post The Future of Disney Parks: Brace Yourself for an Influx of Disney Movie Characters first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

At the Disneyland Resort, anyone can become a Super Hero. But for 3-year-old Colton, it was a wish come true.  Earlier this year, Colton and his family traveled from their home in Oregon on a Make-A-Wish visit to the Disneyland Resort. The Iron Man fan was dressed head to toe in his own Iron Man […]View the full article

There’s a lot of strategy that goes into not just planning a Disney vacation, but how you experience a Disney vacation once you’re in the parks! Main Street, U.S.A., at night If you’re a morning person and planning to get to the parks as soon as they open for first-crack at the attractions while the lines are still low, then you want to know when the parks are open. But if you’re visiting Disney World from the West Coast or are a night owl, you might be looking to get your park experience in after the sun goes down, and you’ll need to know how late the parks stay open. We’re here to help you plan and not get caught off-guard! So, we’ve pulled together some info to help you know when Magic Kingdom closes for the rest of 2023. Magic Kingdom is magical when the sun goes down Now, the usual caveats apply. These times are current as of the publication of this post. Disney may make adjustments to their hours during your visit, so make sure you monitor the Disney website and the My Disney Experience app for the most current park hours information! In general, you can expect Magic Kingdom to close between 9PM and 11PM most days. The park tends to stay open later during times when Disney expects crowds. BUT, there are days when Magic Kingdom closes as early as 6PM because of special events. AND, there are “extended evening hours” for guests of certain hotels that sometimes keep the park open as late (or early, depending on how you look at it) as 1AM. At the time of publication, Disney has only released park hours through July 15th, 2023. P.S. Remember, Magic Kingdom closes early several days throughout the week during the Halloween (August – October) and Holiday Season (November – December) for extra-ticket events: Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party and Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. See the affected dates at either of those links. May For the month of May, Magic Kingdom opens at 9AM daily, and closes at 10PM through May 24th. ©Disney Starting May 25th, Magic Kingdom stays open until 11PM, with the exception of Extended Evening Hours posted on select Wednesdays, when Disney Resort Hotel guests can remain in the park until 12AM or 1AM on May 31st. June In June, Disney maintains its summer schedule, opening at 9am and closing at 10pm every day except June 1st & 2nd, when it closes at 11PM. ©Disney Extended Evening Hours are posted on select Wednesdays, when Disney Resort Hotel guests can remain in the park until 12AM. July In July, Disney maintains its summer schedule, opening at 9am and closing at 10pm every day. ©Disney Extended Evening Hours are posted on select Wednesdays, when Disney Resort Hotel guests can remain in the park until 12AM. August-December Disney has not officially published their park hours beyond July 15th (at this time). Historically, Magic Kingdom has been open until 10pm or 11pm, with the exception of holiday party events like Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party (MNSSHP) and Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party (MVMCP). Sold out? On these dates, Magic Kingdom opens at 8 am and closes to regular ticket holders at 6 pm. MNSSHP and MVMCP are separately-ticketed, meaning that only those who purchased event tickets are able to stay in Magic Kingdom after 6 pm. (Those parties run until midnight.) In other words, the park stays open 4-5 hours later to regular guests when MNSSHP and MVMCP are not held. Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party! Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party dates start on August 11th and run on select nights through November 1st. Though Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party dates for 2023 have not been announced yet, in 2022, it ran from November 8th through December 22nd. A FULL List Of Disney World Park Hours Through June 2023 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! Save 25% on the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining with code WDW2023. GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Are you a rope-droppin’ morning person or a park-closin’ night owl? Let us know how you tour the parks in the comments below! The post When Does Magic Kingdom Close in 2023? first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

We're sharing a glimpse at just a few of the unique Alaskan Port Adventures Disney Cruise Line is offering this summer.View the full article

DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. If it’s Disney-themed and contains caffeine, it’s hard to turn it down. All the mugs! Collecting Disney mugs to enjoy a morning cup of joe each day is a great way to add just a little extra Disney magic into our real lives, and if you feel the same way, you’re in luck! We spotted an online sale on Disney mugs from which we think you coffee and tea lovers might benefit. Today only, shopDisney is having a Fantasy Flash Sale that includes up to 40% off select drinkware, and yes, mugs are included! While there are so many to choose from online, we picked a few of our favorites. Let’s check them out! First up, we have this Winnie the Pooh and Pals Rainbow Mug. Winnie the Pooh and Pals Rainbow Mug This white ceramic mug features tons of tiny rainbows as well as outlines of Pooh and his friends. Grab the Winnie the Pooh and Pals Rainbow Mug here! Next up, check out this Alice in Wonderland Mug, Saucer, and Tea Infuser Set! Alice Mug, Saucer, and Tea Infuser The mug and saucer feature Alice’s journey through Wonderland while the tea infuser resembles a stack of teapots. Grab the Alice in Wonderland Mug, Saucer, and Tea Infuser Set here! This Mickey Mouse Cupcake Mug comes with a lid and looks just like a cupcake. Cupcake Mug This one could be great for coffee, tea, or even snacks! Grab the Mickey Mouse Cupcake Mug here! We’ll continue to keep you updated with more Disney news and updates — merchandise included. Make sure to follow along for more! Check Out This SALE on Disney Starbucks Cups! 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! Save 25% on the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining with code WDW2023. GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Which of these Disney mugs is your favorite? Let us know in the comments! The post You Can Score Disney Mugs for 40% Off -- But HURRY! first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Disney World isn’t the ONLY resort in Orlando with a lot of new stuff coming soon to its theme parks. Universal Orlando Universal Orlando has been busy adding some new things, too, including a brand new park called Epic Universe, as well as a new LAND, Minion Land, based on the Despicable Me movies. Well, now, we’ve got some brand NEW details about Minion Land, including what kind of food you’ll be able to get there (and trust us — it’s exciting)! Minion Land will be a new immersive area that will expand on the Despicable Me Minion Mayhem attraction but also include NEW experiences themed around the Minions franchise. The land will feature a brand new attraction, character meet-and-greets restaurants, snack spots, and shops. Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast We previously told you about the new attraction opening with this land, Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast, which will be located where Shrek 4-D used to be in the park. This attraction combines “innovative screen technology, state-of-the-art gaming interactivity, and elaborate physical sets to create a one-of-a-kind, game-based adventure where guests encounter immersive environments, nefarious villains, and tons of mischievous Minions from Illumination’s films in a whole new way.” ©Universal The attraction’s exit will feature a new shop called Evil Stuff, where visitors can buy Villain-Con and Minions merchandise. Illumination’s Minion Cafe The Minion Cafe will be a new restaurant in the land, but it’s way MORE than that. It’s an “immersive new eatery” that offers food that should please everyone, as well as an entertaining dining experience with three themed areas dedicated to Minions Kevin, Stuart, Bob, and Otto. ©Universal However, more important is the food at Minion Cafe, which will include “despica-bowls” like Otto’s Noodle Bowl, Agnes’s Honeymoon Soup, and Carl’s Crispy Cauliflower (plant-based)… ©Universal …handhelds like a Steak & “Cheese Ray” Sandwich… ©Universal …; desserts like Bob’s Teddy Bear Chocolate Cream Puff; a kids’ menu that includes the Mini Boss’ Mega Melt; and more. ©Universal The three areas include the Kitchen, where visitors will see the Minions equipment they’re using to create the cafe’s menu, as well as the Breakroom, where visitors will eat and find Easter eggs like “Office Safety Tips” and a vending machine stocked with “mischievous items.” Shops and Snack Spots You’ll also find Bake My Day, a retail location that will offer a selection of Minion-themed treats, including cupcakes, macarons, s’mores, and more. You’ll also find exclusive Minion-inspired merchandise like apparel, plush, drinkware, accessories, keychains, and more. ©Universal Pop-A-Nana will feature Banana-flavored popcorn, because why not? This is also where you’ll find other popcorn flavors, along with Minion-themed popcorn buckets, including the Minion Selfie bucket. Freeze Ray Pops will feature a variety of popsicles inspired by Gru, the Minions, and Vector. Meet and Greets and More Illumination Theater is where visitors will get to meet all their favorite Minions characters, as well as characters from the movie Sing! Guests will also find photo ops throughout the new land celebrating additional characters from Illumination films. Minion Land will open in Universal Orlando in summer 2023. We’ll be keeping an eye out for a more specific date, so be sure to stay tuned to DFB for more. Universal Made Its Own Version of MagicBand+ — Is It BETTER Than Disney? 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! Save 25% on the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining with code WDW2023. GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Are you interested in Universal Orlando’s Minion Land? Let us know in the comments! The post NEW DETAILS Revealed About the Minion Land Coming to Universal Orlando first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article