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"Fantasmic" show continues at Disney's Hollywood Studios despite Maleficent fire during Disneyland show. View the full article

Get ready — something has CHANGED at a fan-favorite Disney Springs restaurant. Disney Springs We’ve already shared the news about some Mother’s Day festivities coming to Disney Springs, as well as menu changes that have hit this area (and other spots in Disney World). But now we’ve got something NEW to share. The BOATHOUSE has shared some images via Instagram of the view from what they’re calling their “brand new patio,” which will be available for all guests to enjoy soon. We’ve actually seen things here under construction for a little while. Boathouse Construction Mid-April 2023 Here’s what things generally looked like before, with what was a mostly uncovered patio on the backside of the restaurant (past that Amphicar Launch sign). Boathouse April 2021 And here’s how things looked as of a few days ago (when we last visited Disney Springs). What Things Look Like Now You can see that the overhang above that patio has been extended out further, giving guests much more shade and cover from the elements. Coverage! We have a feeling that’ll be a great benefit for those seeking to enjoy some fresh air, snacks, and drinks at the BOATHOUSE without totally getting burnt in the sun or getting drenched in the rain (depending, of course, on what angle that rain is coming in at!). Another Look The BOATHOUSE hasn’t shared a specific opening date for this revamped patio, only that it’ll be available “soon,” so we’ll continue to look for updates and share that news with you. The BOATHOUSE For more Disney Springs info, click here to see the NEW store that has opened in Disney Springs, and take a look at the Disney Springs restaurant you should totally stop at during your next trip. Check out our Disney Springs restaurant guide here!  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! Are you a fan of The BOATHOUSE? Tell us in the comments. The post Something Has CHANGED at The BOATHOUSE in Disney Springs first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Sometimes you can’t improve upon greatness, but sometimes you can make greatness even more…well, great. Magic Kingdom When it comes to Disney World snacks, we’re ALWAYS looking for ways to upgrade some of our favorites, which is why we once put a Chocolate Bundt Cake on top of a Chocolate Milkshake (for science!) and made an Ice Cream Sandwich out of a Mickey Cinnamon Roll (hey, don’t knock it until you try it). We LOVE a good snack hack and we’ve got a brand new one for you to try! So we’re starting our snack hack over at Friar’s Nook in Magic Kingdom, where we recently tried — and LOVED — the Caramel Apple-Pecan Hand Pie. This snack is SO delicious on its own — who doesn’t love the taste of apple pie? This hand pie has a delicious Flaky Crust and is filled with Apples and Pecans and topped with Caramel Sauce. The Friar’s Nook Well, we went to pick up ANOTHER one for $5.99 because our reporter had the PERFECT snack hack idea. Apple pie… Right next door to Friar’s Nook is Storybook Treats — which has ice cream. So we picked up a cup of Vanilla Soft-Serve for $5.29. Ice cream! Do you see where we’re going with this? That’s right, we’re thinking of making that hand pie a la mode! Do you know what we’re thinking? That’s EXACTLY what we did. We put that Vanilla Soft Serve on TOP of the Hand Pie and BOOM — NEW DFB Snack Hack! There it is!!! So this is basically an apple pie a la mode and it is DELICIOUS. But we do have a few tips. First, you’ll need to do some planning to make this hack work. Get the hand pie first because the ice cream becomes soup (as you can see here) on a hot Florida day. We got the ice cream first, and then mobile ordered the hand pie afterward. Lesson learned. Storybook Treats can get busy, so the best way to make this work is tag team it — send a friend to get the ice cream while you get the hand pie. Anyway, we call this Caramel Apple-Pecan Hand Pie a la Mode! Warm apple pecan pie and ice cream? YES! So here’s the thing, though. This is a pretty expensive hack because the total comes to $11.28 for both items. But if you’re craving apple pie a la mode, this is the way to do it! We’ll share some more snack hacks with you as we come up with them, so stay tuned to DFB for more. WE KNOW – there are SO many great snacks at Disney World! How do you choose (we don’t want to choose but will blow our budget on Day 1 otherwise)? We’ve got you covered! We have reviewed nearly EVERY snack available at Disney World, and we’ve written a series of DFB Guides about them! DFB Guide and Snacks Bundle Check out our DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining + Snacks Bundle for all the details you need to plan your snackin’ and spending. You can even download them to your smartphone – it’ll be like we’re right there with you in the parks! Here’s a List of ALL Our DFB Snack Hacks! Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! Don't Miss Out on Any Disney Fun! Order Your Copy of the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining Today! With more than 900 pages, the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining is full of tips and planning tools developed by Disney World experts over 30+ years of visits. We've done the research for you, so you'll know just which spots will uniquely suit your family's needs! You'll get a Reference Guide, a 101 Plan, and a Printables and Resources Guide! With mini-reviews of every single restaurant, bar, lounge, kiosk and more; an entire chapter on the best snacks in Disney World; full Disney Dining Plan analysis; and a full chapter on discounts and deals; you'll have everything you need to plan your best vacation yet. Click here to order your copy of the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining E-book with code WDW2023 to save 25% off the cover price today! Use code WDW2023 at check-out for 25% off the cover price today! http://www.disneyfoodblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/ready-to-shop-button.png Our guides are backed by a 100% money-back guarantee, so you have nothing to lose. What’s your favorite food hack in Disney World? Share it with us in the comments! The post The SECRET DFB Snack Hack You Need To Try in Magic Kingdom first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

If you’re a Marvel fan, you probably have a lot of questions about why there aren’t a lot of Marvel attractions at Disney World. And here’s the thing: Disney CEO Bob Iger would LOVE to have more Marvel there. Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind This might seem even MORE confusing when Disneyland and Disneyland Paris both have an Avengers Campus, full of Marvel superheroes, food, and rides. So what gives, Disney World? Why is Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind the ONLY Marvel ride you have? Well, it turns out there’s a very good explanation for that. During the Walt Disney Company’s most recent shareholder meeting, Iger said, “We certainly would love to be able to do more with Marvel in our parks, but I’ll leave it at that.” However, there’s a reason why he can’t do that at Disney World (and why Marvel has more of a presence at other Disney Parks). Hulk at Avengers Campus in Disneyland Before Disney purchased Marvel in 2009, Marvel Comics had already signed a contract with MCA, Inc., the company that owned Universal Studios theme parks at that time. That’s why Universal’s Islands of Adventure at Universal Orlando has a WHOLE land with attractions and characters dedicated to Marvel characters. ©Universal Even after Disney purchased Marvel, the company did NOT get all of Marvel’s licensing rights. This is why X-Men characters still belonged to Fox (although Disney now owns Fox, so it now has the rights to those characters) and why Spider-Man remained with Sony — it was only an agreement between Disney and Sony that the character of Spider-Man could appear in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). ©Marvel This also applies to Marvel in the theme parks. The original Universal contract states that other companies, including Disney, cannot use any Marvel characters being currently used in Universal theme parks east of the Mississippi River. In other words, Disney World is legally not allowed to bring Marvel to Disney World. Also, as long as Universal continues to pay Marvel (aka, now Disney) for the use of those characters, the agreement is permanent. The “east of the Mississippi river” clause is also why Disney’s California Adventure at Disneyland Resort has an entire land devoted to Marvel characters. Dr. Strange and Spider-Man in Disney California Adventure But how did Disney World have the ability to add a Guardians of the Galaxy ride to EPCOT? Well, that’s because Universal Orlando is not using any of those characters in its theme parks. So those characters were okay for Disney World to use “east of the Mississippi River.” Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind According to Forbes, Disney World has also sort of managed its way around the original Universal agreement by bringing Marvel to Disney Springs, which is, technically, NOT a theme park, but a shopping and dining district. So you might see some Marvel-themed treats at some of the dining spots and see a store entirely devoted to Marvel merchandise at Super Hero Headquarters. However, don’t expect to see Marvel characters turn up there to greet visitors. Superhero Headquarters So what about characters not being used at Universal Orlando? What about characters like Ms. Marvel, She-Hulk, Moon Knight, and Captain Marvel? Could they potentially get their own rides at Disney World? Well, they haven’t, as of yet, and the whole licensing situation with Universal is complicated. The answer might be technically, “yes,” but Disney hasn’t announced any plans to bring those characters east of the Mississippi. Black Widow and Captain Marvel at Avengers Campus So for now, don’t expect to see a huge Marvel presence in Disney World. It’s unlikely the situation with Universal will change soon, so if you want the full Disney and Marvel experience, your best bet might be to just book a trip to Disneyland in Anaheim. Of course, things can always change, but it’s highly unlikely we’ll see any big changes with Marvel at Disney World any time soon. Web Slingers: A Spider-Man Adventure at Avengers Campus We’ll continue to keep you updated on all things Marvel AND Disney, so be sure to stay tuned to DFB for more. In the meantime, have you SEEN what’s new in our merch store?! Click here to shop our fun graphic tees! Watch The Trailer for Marvel’s ‘The Marvels’! Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! Don't Miss Out on Any Disney Fun! Order Your Copy of the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining Today! With more than 900 pages, the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining is full of tips and planning tools developed by Disney World experts over 30+ years of visits. We've done the research for you, so you'll know just which spots will uniquely suit your family's needs! You'll get a Reference Guide, a 101 Plan, and a Printables and Resources Guide! With mini-reviews of every single restaurant, bar, lounge, kiosk and more; an entire chapter on the best snacks in Disney World; full Disney Dining Plan analysis; and a full chapter on discounts and deals; you'll have everything you need to plan your best vacation yet. Click here to order your copy of the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining E-book with code WDW2023 to save 25% off the cover price today! Use code WDW2023 at check-out for 25% off the cover price today! http://www.disneyfoodblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/ready-to-shop-button.png Our guides are backed by a 100% money-back guarantee, so you have nothing to lose. Would you like to see more Marvel in Disney World? Let us know in the comments! The post Bob Iger Says He Wants To Have More Marvel in Disney World – Here’s Why He CAN’T first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Spectators at Disneyland’s popular “Fantasmic” show got a shock this weekend when the feature’s fire-breathing animatronic dragon suddenly burst into flames. View the full article

Looking to celebrate Mom at the Most Magical Place on Earth? Celebrate MOM! Well, we’ve already got some exciting news for you about this special holiday! Disney celebrates all kinds of occasions with food — and Mother’s Day is certainly no exception. Pretty soon, we’ll be able to treat our moms to all kinds of Disney treats for the occasion, but if you wanted to get a head start on your planning — we have just the way to do it! Mother’s Day is on May 14th this year, and one restaurant in Disney Springs has already started getting ready. Morimoto Asia shared on Instagram this week that they will be hosting a Mother’s Day Luau! And while you’re in Disney Springs, you can get a picture with your mom (or kid) in front of the special photo op. Mom photo op in Disney Springs If you’re looking for a sweet treat to gift her, don’t forget that Main Street Confectionary in Magic Kingdom already has some treats for the occasion. We spotted these candy apples recently. Main Street Confectionary If you’re hoping to celebrate your mom in Disney World this year, you’ve got lots of options! We’ll keep an eye out for any new updates for the occasion, so stay tuned to DFB for more. Click here to see the photos from last year’s luau at Morimoto Asia 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! What are you planning on doing for Mother’s Day? Let us know in the comments! The post How to Celebrate Mother’s Day in Disney World first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Well, it’s certainly been a busy week for Disney World, hasn’t it? Haunted Mansion Popcorn Mix With us being Halfway to Halloween, Disney just dropped LOADS of new information about Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. We also got a peek at some new Halloween merchandise. More importantly, we got to see what Halloween snacks will be available SOON. In the meantime, we’ve had some changes at Disney World restaurants, so let’s see what’s been updated. Magic Kingdom Pecos Bill Tall Tall Inn and Cafe The Walking Taco has been removed from the menu at Pecos Bill. Walking Taco Oh, Walking Taco, we hardly knew you! Read our review of the Walking Taco EPCOT Les Halles Boulangerie Patisserie Les Halles has seen a LOT of menu changes, including a ton of price increases. First up, we’ve got price increases for sandwiches at Les Halles: Jambon Beurre increased from $8.95 to $10.95 Brie au Pommes increased from $9.25 to $10 Dinde B.L.T. increased from $9.75 to $10.55 Croissant Jambon Fromage increased from $6.95 to $8.95 Poulet au Pistou increased from $9.50 to $10.50 ADDED: Tartine Aux Fromages — Country Bread, Tomato Sauce, Swiss, Parmesan, and Goat Cheese for $9.25 Croissant Jambon Fromage Here are the price changes under Specialties: Bisque de Homard increased from $5.95 to $6.95 Quiche Lorraine increased from $7 to $7.95 Fromages increased from $11.95 to $12.95 Croque Monsieur increased from $9.25 to $10.50 Baguette – Half increased from $2.25 to $2.75 Baguette – Full increased from $3.50 to $3.95 Pissaladiere increased from $4.95 to $5.75 Croissant Salé increased from $8.25 to $9.50 ADDED: Florentine Quiche –Ham and Gruyere Quiche for $9.95 ADDED: Pain Lard Fromage— Bacon and Cheese Roll for $8.25 Pain Lard au Fromage Under Viennoiseries, the following has changed: Croissant increased from $2.95 to $3.25 Beignet increased from $4.95 to $5.95 Pain au Chocolat increased from $3.80 to $4.25 Biscuit Chocolat increased from $3.95 to $5.25 Croissant Amandes increased from $5.75 to $6.25 ADDED: Viennoiserie Pomme — Apple Crumble Pastry for $4.95 Viennoiserie Pomme Desserts have also seen price increases: Fraises increased from $6.25 to $6.95 Éclair Chocolate increased from $5.25 to $5.95 Créme Brûlée increased from $4.95 to $5.75 Parfait aux Fruits increased from $6.50 to $7.50 Mousse au Chocolat increased from $6.50 to $7.50 Duo Au Chocolat increased from $6.50 to $7.95 Macaron Lime Raspberry increased from $6.25 to $7.50 Napoleon increased from $5.75 to $6.75 Macarons Collection increased from $11.95 to $13.50 ADDED: Chocolate Caramel Tarte — Caramel Cream and Chocolate Mousse for $7.25 Duo au Chocolat Beverages are also going to be more expensive now: Espresso increased from $4.75 to $5.15 Cappuccino increased from $5.25 to $5.65 Latte increased from $5.25 to $5.65 Café increased from $3.45 to $3.75 Sirop Monin increased from $1 to $1.25 Chocolat Chaud increased from $4.50 to $4.95 Thé increased from $3.45 to $3.95 Jus D’Orange increased from $6.25 to $6.95 Milk increased from $4 to $4.25 Les Halles Finally, beer and wine available at Les Halles just got more expensive, too: Frosé increased from $14.25 to $15.75 Champagne increased from $19.95 to $21.95 Mimosa increased from $9.95 to $12.50 Chardonnay increased from $7.75 to $8.50 Cabernet Sauvignon increased from $8 to $9 Read a recent review of Les Halles Disney’s Hollywood Studios Hollywood Brown Derby We’ve got quite a few changes at Hollywood Brown Derby. Here’s what changed under Appetizers: REMOVED: Roasted Squash and Apple Soup ADDED: Corn Bisque — Grilled Local Corn, Guajillo Oil, Corn Fritter for $15 Under Entrees, the following changed: Filet Mignon description changed from “Root Vegetable Hash, Charred Sweet Peppers, Green Peppercorn Sauce” to “Glazed Carrots, Potato Pavé, Horseradish Cream, Peppercorn Sauce” REMOVED: Sustainable Salmon Coulibiac REMOVED: Free-Range Chicken Coq au Vin Grilled Pork description changed from “Roasted Sweet Potatoes, Brussels Sprouts, Red Eye Gravy” to “Lavender-Sage Polenta, Local Corn Salsa, Huckleberry Barbecue” Sustainable Salmon Coulibiac REMOVED: Tomato Risotto REMOVED: Braised Short Rib REMOVED: Duck à l’Orange ADDED: Sustainable Fish — White Bean Ragoût, Derby Summer Vegetables, Roasted Tomato Emulsion for $45 ADDED: Free-Range Chicken and Dumplings — Lemon-Ricotta Gnudi, Shishito Cream, Gooseberry Jus for $35 ADDED: Shepherd’s Pie — Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes, Mushrooms, Peas, Corn, Carrot Romesco for $32 ADDED: Lamb Shank — Summer Vegetables, Harissa Vinaigrette, Nasturtium Chermoula for $45 Braised Short Rib Here’s how Enhancements have changed: REMOVED: Brussels Sprouts ADDED: Mixed Mushroom Sauté A new dessert has been added: Brûléed Champagne Sabayon — Minted Strawberries, Lemon-Pine Nut Biscotti for $13. Here’s a recent review Fairfax Fare The Hot Cocoa here increased from $3.29 to $3.49. Fairfax Fare Nothing else has changed here. Here’s a Fairfax Fare review Disney’s Animal Kingdom Tiffins Here’s how Appetizers have changed at Tiffins: Tiffins Signature Bread Service description changed from “Thai Milk Bread, Coconut-Makrut Lime Sauce, Indian Pappadam, Ginger-Pear Chutney, Brazilian Pão de Queijo, Guava Jam” to “Coconut-Curry Sauce, Guava Sauce, Ginger-Pear Chutney” Charred Octopus description: changed from “Sweet Corn Salsa, Chorizo, Tequila, Mole Rojo, Pickles, Cilantro” to “Sweet Corn Salsa, Chorizo, Tequila, Mole Rojo, Pickled Onions, Cilantro” REMOVED: Tacos ADDED: Plant-based Tacos — Plant-based Tinga, Avocado, Plant-based Cheese, Corn Tortilla for $12 Tiffin’s Bread Service Main Courses have also changed: REMOVED: North African-spiced Tofu ADDED: Szechuan Noodles — Grilled King Trumpet Mushrooms, Japanese Eggplant, Sugar Snap Peas, Napa Cabbage, Charred Corn, Marinated Cucumbers, Chinkiang-sesame Sauce, Garlic-chili Oil for $32 Here’s what’s different under Beverages: Snow Leopard Salvation description changed from “Snow Leopard Vodka, Belle de Brillet Pear Liqueur, Mint, and Lime Juice topped with Ginger Beer” to “Grey Goose Vodka, Belle de Brillet Pear Liqueur, Ginger Beer, Mint, Lime Juice” ADDED: Beer Flight — A sampling of three different beers 5-oz each: First Magnitude Wakulla Hefeweizen (5.4% abv | 8 ibu), USA Kungaloosh Spiced Excursion Ale (6.0% abv | 25 ibu), USA Lagunitas IPA (6.2% abv | 51.5 ibu) USA for $11.25 Read a recent review of Tiffins Nomad Lounge The Green Shimmering Margarita has been removed from the menu at Nomad Lounge. Nomad Lounge That’s the only change here. Read a review of Nomad Lounge Flame Tree Barbecue There’s a new snack at Flame Tree Barbecue: the Alive With Magic Cupcake — Vanilla Cake, Chocolate Toffee Mousse, Chocolate Buttercream, Dark Chocolate Crispy Pearls, Alive With Magic 25th Anniversary Chocolate Logo for $6.29. Flame Tree Barbecue This is one of the Animal Kingdom 25th Anniversary treats! It’s also available at Pizzafari and Restaurantosaurus. Read a review of Flame Tree Barbecue Tusker House Restaurant The EARidescent Sip-a-bration has finally been taken off the menu here — this was one of the 50th anniversary drinks. Tusker House Restaurant That’s the only change here. Here’s a review Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa Gasparilla Island Grill The Grilled Cheese Sandwich and Tomato Soup has been changed to Gourmet Grilled Cheese — Cheddar, American, and Provolone on Toasted French Bread served with Tomato Bisque for $9.99. Gasparilla Island Grill That’s the only change here. Read a review of Gasparilla Island Grill Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge The Mara There’s been a change with the Disney Check Kid’s Menu: the Green Salad with Chicken description changed from Half of a Sliced House-grilled Chicken Breast on a bed of Mixed Greens, Cucumber, and Tomato to Half of a Sliced House-grilled Chicken Breast on a bed of Mixed Greens, Cucumber, Shredded Carrot, and Tomato. The Mara It is still served with a Strawberry-flavored Yogurt Smoothie, Grapes, and choice of Small Lowfat Milk or Small DASANI Bottled Water. Here’s a recent review Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort The Artist’s Palette There have been a few changes on the menu here: ADDED: Fruit and Cheese Plate — Green Grapes, Kiwi, Strawberries, Clementines, Mini Babybel Snack Cheese, Sharp Cheddar, and Crackers for $6.99 Artist’s Palette ADDED: Pasta Salad — Orecchiette Pasta, Salami, Feta, Cherry Tomato, Sliced Olives, Fresh Parsley, and Vinaigrette for $4.49 Here’s a review from The Artist’s Palette Disney’s Port Orleans Resort — Riverside Riverside Mill Food Court The snacks menu at Riverside Mill Food Court has changed: the Allergy-Friendly Soft Baked Cookies – Double-Chocolate Chip is no longer on the menu. Riverside Mill Food Court Here’s what else has changed: REMOVED: Bayou Amber Ale Burger REMOVED: Chicken-Parmesan Pasta REMOVED: Caesar Salad Here’s a review Disney’s Contemporary Resort California Grill There’s a new menu item under Market Inspirations: Spicy Kazan Roll — Crab, Shrimp, Scallops, Tuna, Fireball Sauce. California Grill That’s the only change here for now. Read a recent review Disney’s BoardWalk Trattoria al Forno The breakfast menu for Trattoria al Forno has changed. Here’s what happened with Non-Alcoholic Beverages: REMOVED: San Pellegrino Sparkling Fruit Beverage, Limonata (Lemon), and Aranciata (Orange) ADDED: Watermelon No-Jito for $5.49 ADDED: Assorted Sparkling Water for $4.75 Trattoria al Forno These changes are also on the lunch and dinner menu. The cocktails here have also changed: ADDED: Tratto-Rita — Patrón Silver Tequila, Fresh Lime Juice, and Muddled Raspberries topped with Scarpetta Rose for $16.50 ADDED: Negroni — Beefeater Gin, Campari, and Carpano Antica Sweet Vermouth for $16.50 ADDED: Via del Fiori — Hendricks Gin, St. Germain Elderflower Liqueur, Lime for $15.50 Finally, a new beer is available: Crooked Can High Stepper IPA for $9.50. Here’s a review Disney Springs Enzo’s Hideaway A new cocktail is now available at Enzo’s Hideaway: Smoked Pistachio Tequila Sour — Casamigos Blanco tequila, pistachio syrup, and lime juice. ©Enzo’s Hideaway That’s the only update here. Read a review! Vivoli il Gelato There are some new specials at Vivoli il Gelato: the Blueberry Pie Sundae and the Blueberry Cannoli. Yum! Blueberry everything! The rest of the menu has also changed REMOVED: Pineapple Gelato REMOVED: Strawberry Prosecco Gelato (21+) ADDED: Frosé Gelato (21+) REMOVED: Shamrock Shake, Brownie Bunny Shake, Easter Basket, Pistachio Bombolato, and The Garage (21+) ADDED: Brown Cow — Vanilla gelato, coke, chocolate sauce, whipped cream for $12.50 ADDED: Chamoyada — Mango, Chamoy, Tajin, Beer for $18 ADDED: Strawberry Banana Split Shake — Strawberry and banana gelato, chocolats sauce, whipped cream, peanuts, and cherry for $13 Shamrock Shake New Liege Waffles have also been added: ADDED: Nutella and Seasonal Fruit — Pearl sugar waffle topped with Nutella and seasonal fruit for $7.50 ADDED: Gelato Waffle — Your choice of gelato, with a shot of espresso and whipped cream for $13.25 Here’s what changed with Cannolis: REMOVED: Mint Cannoli ADDED: Cannoli Nachos — Your choice of cannoli filling with cannoli chips for $10 Finally, the Bombolini description changed from Plain, Raspberry Sprinkles, or Fruity Pebbles to Plain, Raspberry Sprinkles, or Lucky Charms. Here’s a recent Vivoli il Gelato review Frontera Cocina Frontera Cocina has also updated its menu. Here are the changes under Appetizers: REMOVED: Guacamole & Chips – Pineapple ADDED: Smoked Salmon Ceviche Tostadas — Guacamole, tomatoes, serranos, jicama, cilantro, and onions for $18 ADDED: Guacamole & Chips – Verde — Roasted poblanos, roasted tomatillo, toasted pepitas, cilantro, and onions (contains seeds) for $13 Here’s what’s changed under Salads: REMOVED: Fall Ensalada ADDED: Guacamole Cobb — Romaine and arugula, bacon, roasted corn, black bean salsa, tomatoes, poblano rajas, queso fresco, chipotle ranch dressing (contains dairy, eggs) for $15 Frontera Cocina Under Tacos, the following has changed: REMOVED: Garlicky Mushroom & Eggplant Tacos ADDED: Cochinita Pibil — Achiote-marinated, slow-roasted tender pork, black beans, poblano rajas, pickled red onions, habanero salsa (contains pork) for $26 (was moved from the Entrees menu) Here’s what changed under Entrees: REMOVED: Mahi Mahi Al Coco REMOVED: Mole Coloradito Enchiladas REMOVED: Shrimp Mojo de Ajo ADDED: Roasted Vegetable Red-Chile Enchiladas ADDED: Mahi Mahi al Mojo de Ajo ADDED: Shrimp en Salsa Negra Shrimp Mojo de Ajo Here’s what changed with Desserts: REMOVED: Chocolate Pigñata REMOVED: Flan de Calabaza REMOVED: Ancho Chile Chocolate Soft Serve ADDED: Flan de Queso — Cheesecake flan, guayaba-piloncillo caramel, guava paste, fresh orange (contains dairy) for $10 ADDED: Mango Sorbet — With Spicy-Tangy Chamoy drizzle and tajin for $7 Pignata Even Margaritas has changed: Topolo increased from $18 to $19 REMOVED: Ilegal Paloma Blackberrita increased from $16 to $17 La Cava Avocado increased from $15 to $16 REMOVED: Viuda Negra ADDED: La Paloma — Fever-Tree pink grapefruit sparkling soda, fresh lime, Tajín chile-lime powder rim. Choice of ilegal mezcal or Curado Tequila for $17 Play with Fire Margarita Here are the changes under Cocktails: REMOVED: Cucumber Negroni ADDED: Seasonal Negroni –Palo santo infused Ten to One rum, Cappelletti, cofee liqueur, and Carpano Antica vermouth for $18 ADDED: El Oaxaqueño — Cold brew coffee made with Oaxaca beans, Mezcal ilegal reposado, Mr. Black liquor, and vanilla bean foam for $16 There’s also a new mocktail: Vallarta Sunset — Bittersweet orange, peach, rhubarb, and fine bubbly elderflower for $13 We’ve also got some changes under Mezcal: REMOVED: Ilegal espadín blanco, Gracias a Dios espadín reposado, Montelobos espadín blanco, Ojo De Tigre espadín blanco, Real Minero San Martinero Frontera Reserve, and Real Minero Marteño Frontera Reserve ADDED: Legal espadín — Served with grasshoppers and an orange wedge in a traditional “Veladora” for $12 ADDED: Ojo De Tigre espadín — Served with grasshoppers and an orange wedge in a traditional “Veladora” for $11 Frontera Cocina Under Tequila Flights, the Tradicional description changed from “Tromba blanco, Casa Noble reposado, Ambhar añejo” to “Ambhar blanco, Cantera Negra reposado, Tromba añejo” The changes even extend to Tequila: REMOVED: Teremana blanco, Casa Dragones blend añejo, and El Tequileño Reposado Rare ADDED: Cantera Negra reposado for $17 Here’s what’s different with Wine: REMOVED: Salentein Chardonnay, Argentina ADDED: Quintanilla Chardonnay, México REMOVED: Torre Cuna de Tierra Blend, México Read a review of Frontera Cocina Salt & Straw Salt & Straw is celebrating its 12 years in business by bringing back its Sea Salt w/ Caramel Ribbons flavor which combines Guatemalan fleur de sel ice cream with ribbons of housemade, hand-burned caramel. ©Salt & Straw It’s also bringing back the Salted Hazelnut Praline S’mores, a “chocolate-y, marshmallow-y, graham cracker crunchy, toasted hazelnut masterpiece in shops only for the remainder of April.” So grab it while it’s available! Here’s one of our Salt & Straw reviews If you’re looking for a specific menu item in Disney World, be sure to check the restaurant menu before your trip. You can do this on the Disney World website or My Disney Experience app. We’ll also keep you updated on any changes we come across, too. 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! Don't Miss Out on Any Disney Fun! Order Your Copy of the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining Today! With more than 900 pages, the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining is full of tips and planning tools developed by Disney World experts over 30+ years of visits. We've done the research for you, so you'll know just which spots will uniquely suit your family's needs! You'll get a Reference Guide, a 101 Plan, and a Printables and Resources Guide! With mini-reviews of every single restaurant, bar, lounge, kiosk and more; an entire chapter on the best snacks in Disney World; full Disney Dining Plan analysis; and a full chapter on discounts and deals; you'll have everything you need to plan your best vacation yet. Click here to order your copy of the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining E-book with code WDW2023 to save 25% off the cover price today! Use code WDW2023 at check-out for 25% off the cover price today! http://www.disneyfoodblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/ready-to-shop-button.png Our guides are backed by a 100% money-back guarantee, so you have nothing to lose. What Disney World restaurant has changed for the better? The worse? Let us know what you think in the comments! The post 18 Disney World Restaurants Changed Their Menus...But Only 2 of Them Had Price INCREASES 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? Grab a book a chair! Choosing between Disney’s Riviera Resort and Disney’s Wilderness Lodge isn’t an easy task. Well, let’s dive into the deets to see which one is right for you! 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 to stay at the hotel that is best for your family! Let’s get started and look at all the details so you can confidently plan your Disney trip. Wilderness Lodge There’s no doubt that Disney vacations are expensive, and no one wants buyer’s remorse when it comes to what can usually be the most EXPENSIVE part of your Disney trip. We’re approaching this chaos-agent of a decision with as much logic as possible, so we’re breaking it down into five categories: Common Ground Theme/Rooms Pools Food Transportation Welcome to Old Key West! Let’s get started on your vacation research. Common Ground Before we mention their differences, let’s take a look at what Old Key West and Wilderness Lodge have in common. First, both offer Deluxe Villa accommodations (Wilderness Lodge also offers Deluxe rooms) with a similar resort layout. The Disney Vacation Club (DVC) Villas can be booked by Disney Vacation Club members or cash-paying guests. You’ll discover luxurious amenities and unique theming at both hotels. Plus, both boast many of the same perks. Old Key West and Wilderness Lodge offer buses and one other type of Walt Disney World transportation. The Lobby of Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Resort The most expensive rooms at both resorts are large villas. You’ll see that rates are very similar, however note that the least expensive rooms at Old Key are still quite spacious. For Old Key West, that means that for the cheapest room at the cheapest time to visit, you can expect to pay around $457 per night (not accounting for any tax or current discounts), and it goes up to $3,081 per night (not accounting for any tax or current discounts) for the most expensive rooms at the most expensive time to visit. For the Wilderness Lodge, that means that for the cheapest room at the cheapest time to visit, you can expect to pay around $453 per night (not accounting for any tax or current discounts), and it goes up to $5,128 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) Disney’s Old Key West 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 These are not your standard hotels. At Disney’s Old Key West Resort, you’ll discover the tropical relaxation of southern Florida! While a stay at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge transports you to a Northwestern National Park Lodge. DVC Corkcicle But whether your stay takes you to the posh riviera or the rustic wilderness, you’ll find that both options provide delightful Disney amenities. Old Key West As a Deluxe Villa Resort, this hotel offers many unique perks. Villas can be booked by Disney Vacation Club members or cash-paying guests, and because of the immense size of Old Key West, rooms are often available! Opened in October 1991, Old Key West features a relaxed, beach vibe (minus the ocean). Picture yourself vacationing at a Caribbean-style guest house in small neighborhood-type structures. Exteriors are painted in soft hues reminiscent of the Florida Keys. People return here year after year because of the laid-back atmosphere and large rooms. Old Key West Resort — Deluxe Studio Room. Yes, this resort offers generous square footage in each studio or villa. Studios are furnished with two queen beds and a kitchenette. Take note of that balcony! Two-bedroom villas sleep up to nine people. The one-to-three-bedroom villas have a full kitchen, as well as washer and dryer. Rooms were last renovated in 2019. Old Key West Resort 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). If you’re looking for convenience, these amenities might make your trip a whole lot easier! Wilderness Lodge Welcome to the beauty and grandeur of the U.S. Pacific Northwest. Towering redwoods, pristine free-flowing creeks, artifacts, and monuments to American history and its inhabitants. The inspiration for this resort is pulled from various lodges and resorts of the national parks like Old Faithful Inn at Yellowstone National Park and Ahwahnee Hotel at Yosemite National Park. Guests feel the full majesty of nature once they enter the grand lobby, soaring ceilings, the massive 82-foot tall Grand Canyon-inspired fireplace, and 55-foot totem poles. Wilderness Lodge really shines during the holiday season! And the lobby delivers on that jaw-dropping “oh wow” moment (especially around the holidays). Headboards The deluxe Wilderness Lodge standard rooms received a little facelift, like the Contemporary and Polynesian rooms have. So, when you stay here, you’ll get to experience a bit more streamlined and updated decor that is both modern and rustic. Wilderness Lodge also has two different Disney Vacation Club accommodations, Boulder Ridge and Copper Creek, which include villas ranging from basic studio rooms all the way up to multi-room cabins overlooking Bay Lake. Bathroom Some of these cabins face the Contemporary Resort and may provide some obstructed views of the Magic Kingdom fireworks. Results This could boil down to your preference. Old Key West feels like stepping into “Margaritaville” and all things summer, while Wilderness Lodge is cozier and “wintery.” Both resorts deliver beautifully on their themes. So, this really could be down to what type of vibe you want on your vacation. PHOTOS: The Halls at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Are DECKED Out for Christmas! 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. Old Key West Pool Old Key West Sandcastle is Old Key West’s feature pool near the Hospitality House. Here, a 125-ft. waterslide traverses through a large sandcastle. Guests will love the decorative dolphins that spout water into the large pool. There’s also a relaxing whirlpool spa as well as a dry sauna located inside the nearby lighthouse. Small children will enjoy the kiddie pool. Keeping with the Florida Keys atmosphere, there is also a sandy “beach”! Sandcastle Pool This property has three leisure pools: Old Turtle Pond, South Point, and Miller’s Road. Wilderness Lodge The Wilderness is not to be outdone in the pool category; it hosts two pools: the Copper Creek Pool and the Boulder Ridge Pool. Both pools have the natural feel of swimming in a spring. Copper Creek is the main pool, complete with a water slide and the Copper Creek splash area. Time to swim! Copper Creek pool overlooks the serene Bay Lake and resort-iconic geyser, Fire Rock Geyser, which spouts off every hour on the hour between 7am and 10pm. (But they will turn it off for inclement weather or on particularly windy days.) Wilderness Lodge Geyser Boulder Ridge pool is a quieter pool closer to the Boulder Ridge section of the resort with rusticly themed cabanas, and close proximity to the Geyser Point Bar & Grill. Results Both have two, relaxing pools, and both have pool bars, lounge chairs, and splash areas. Again, it might boil down to just what your style is. Do you want to soak in a natural spring with lakeside views, a majestic geyser, and surrounded by serene, wooded trails? Or something a bit more modern with European flair? These two really make the choice difficult! Wilderness Lodge There’s no real loser in this category if you’ve found relaxation and joy! 10 Hidden Secrets About Disney World Pools Food Because we are Disney FOOD Blog, we take food seriously. Very. Seriously. And we love it all. We love the cheap, comfort of plastic cheese, and we love the high-brow sophistication of a wine flight or a multi-course pre-fixe meal. We don’t discriminate; we are a lover of all foods. Since food is SO important, let’s see how these resorts stack up against each other in the restaurant category. Old Key West Olivia’s Cafe is a relaxed and casual Table Service restaurant featuring flavors inspired by the Florida Keys. Brunch could be our favorite meal It’s open for brunch and dinner. Good’s Food To Go is Old Key West’s Counter Service option serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, and is unique with its outdoor setting made for more of a “to-go” style. However, Old Key West lacks a quick service food court with indoor seating! Good’s Food To Go The Conch Chowder is a guest favorite. Gurgling Suitcase is a charming little bar where guests can also order full entrees from Olivia’s Cafe. Gurgling Suitcase We love this little oasis. Turtle Shack Snack Bar offers sandwiches, pizza and salads to be enjoyed poolside. Turtle Shack Grab a bite and spend some time at the pool! Click HERE for our Complete Guide to Eating at Disney’s Old Key West Resort! Wilderness Lodge Wilderness Lodge has five dining spots for you to nibble and nosh your way through the wilderness. Geyser Point Bar & Grill located near the Copper Creek Springs Pool at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge — is a unique space in that it offers two different kinds of service for guests… all in one cozy and lovely setting. Geyser Point Bar & Grill It blends two different dining styles (a Table Service lounge and a Quick Service walk-up counter) and two different menus. The Featured Cocktail list at the lounge boasts beverages unique to Geyser Point, featuring spirits from Northwest distilleries in keeping with the theme of the Resort. Hearty appetizers can be ordered from the lounge as well, while full entrees are available at the connected Counter Service. Bison Cheeseburger The open-air restaurant offers gorgeous waterfront views and a fireplace for cool evenings. And don’t sleep on Geyser Point, it’s a destination-worthy eatery with amazing burgers, queso, and unique cocktails, all in a serene atmosphere. Formerly a signature restaurant, Artist Point’s setting and menu have been entirely transformed with a Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs theme for a different experience. Story Book Dining at Artist Point with Snow White is a Character Meal at Disney World’s beautiful Wilderness Lodge! Guests enjoy a prix-fixe meal and can look forward to Snow White, Dopey, and Grumpy stopping by throughout the dinner. And The Evil Queen is even present for a unique photo opportunity. Snow White Shhh…..don’t tell anyone our secret. Territory Lounge is one of our favorite hidden gems at Disney World! If your idea of a good lounge is one with cozy seating, specialty cocktails (as well as beer and even wine flights), and some of the best lounge eats on Walt Disney World property, then Territory Lounge is your place. Territory Lounge snacks Boasting its own unique menu of lounge noshes, the Disney Food Blog gives it a hearty thumbs-up. The Territory Lounge is a great place to grab a light dinner and drinks with friends in an atmosphere that’s warm and inviting. Hearty comfort food in a warm, rustic setting…. Welcome to Roaring Fork! Roaring Fork offers a variety of hearty entrees and counter service basics (along with grab-and-go options) for breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a serene atmosphere, with seating both indoors and out. Bear Mousse Cake Guests will even find specialty coffee drinks available, and fans of Disney cupcakes will often find some really fun and unique options here that change with the seasons. The other Table Service option at the Wilderness Lodge is Whispering Canyon. Whispering Canyon Cafe at the Wilderness Lodge is one of Disney World’s “funnest” restaurants ! With a crew of wayward servers intent on making you laugh and all-you-can-eat down home grub served skillet-style (guests may also choose from a la carte selections), this restaurant is a great one to book for a casual good time — especially if you’re with a group! Whispering Canyon Cafe Whispering Canyon is renowned for its raucous hijinks like wooden pony races, massive straw drops, and tables overloaded with ketchup bottles. It is one of Disney’s dining options that put the fun front-and-center, and also provides some consistently tasty eats. Click HERE for our Complete Guide to Eating at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge! Results It’s so hard to designate a clear winner for food — because both resorts offer a delectable lineup of dining choices. The Wilderness Lodge edges out Old Key West with some amazing quick service options and a Character Meal that is unique and memorable. But even though Old Key West doesn’t quite measure up in the food category, don’t forget it’s only a short boat ride away from Disney Springs and all of THOSE dining options! Transportation Do these resorts offer anything different when it comes to transportation? Let’s see!! Old Key West is just a boat’s ride away from Disney Springs Old Key West If you are driving to Walt Disney World or renting a car once you get to Florida, Old Key West offers the convenience of parking right in front of your villa. And with all the walking that you’ll do on vacation, this might be the right choice for your weary feet. This is especially helpful when traveling with grandparents, young children, or anyone with mobility concerns. Bus to Old Key West You can enjoy a leisurely boat ride down to Disney Springs, but to all theme parks, you’ll have to take a bus. Wilderness Lodge If Magic Kingdom is your destination, boat transportation sails through Bay Lake and the Seven Seas Lagoon to the front steps of the Magic Kingdom. There is also a bus option at peak times or when the weather doesn’t permit boat travel. Boat Dock at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge If EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, or Disney Springs is your destination, you can board one of Disney’s buses to transport you to these parks. Bus transportation at Wilderness Lodge Guests staying at the Wilderness Lodge will have to rely primarily on bus transportation for the free option to navigate around Disney property. Results This may boil down to where you’ll spend more time. If you’re going to for a laidback vacation where you’re spending time at your resort and Disney Springs, then Old Key West is the clear winner. If you will be hitting up Magic Kingdom more and all of the attractions and shows it has to offer, then Wilderness Lodge offers the proximity you’re looking for. Note that ride share, taxis, and Minnie Vans are also available at an extra cost in case you find yourself in a hurry. Get the answers to Frequently Asked Questions about the Disney Skyliner here! The Winner! So, who is the ultimate winner in the Old Key West vs. Wilderness Lodge battle? We hate to say it, but it depends! You’ll need to decide which theme, dining, room types, and transportation best suits your next vacation to Walt Disney World. Since their price point is similar and both resorts are popular, we don’t envy your decision. Contemporary vs. BoardWalk Inn Disney World Resort Guide 2023 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 What do you think? Is Old Key West or Wilderness Lodge the best choice for your family? Let us know in the comments! The post Old Key West vs. Wilderness Lodge Disney World Resort Guide 2023 first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

We’ve all been there — you see something in Disney World that you love, check the price, and immediately put it back down. This thing was $99,000! We’re no strangers to seeing expensive price tags in Disney — even the total cost of your vacation may be one of the priciest things you’ve ever paid for! From opulent restaurants to overpriced merchandise, some price tags can really make your jaw drop. Speaking of expensive merchandise, during our recent visit to EPCOT, we found some merchandise with a hefty price tag that TOTALLY makes sense. Surprised? So were we! Over in La Gemma Elegante in the Italy Pavilion, we spotted some new Donald Duck Disney X Gucci merchandise! Donald Duck Gucci Bags First up is this Donald Duck Gucci Clutch for $1,125. We must admit, it’s pretty cool! Donald Duck Gucci Clutch We also found this Donald Duck Gucci Backpack for $1,850. That’s the price of approximately 294 Mickey bars, to put it in perspective for you. Donald Duck Gucci Backpack We spoke to a cast member who confirmed that these items are considered “vintage,” as they’re no longer available on Gucci’s website. In fact, the last time we saw them online was wayyy back in 2020, making these Gucci items SUPER rare! La Gemma Elegante These new (but technically “old”) items were just put out today, April 23rd, and there’s limited stock. If you’re interested, go grab them now! As always, stay tuned to DFB for all the latest Disney merchandise news! Here are 14 outrageously expensive things in Disney World that are somehow STILL worth the money! Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! Don't Miss Out on Any Disney Fun! Order Your Copy of the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining Today! With more than 900 pages, the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining is full of tips and planning tools developed by Disney World experts over 30+ years of visits. We've done the research for you, so you'll know just which spots will uniquely suit your family's needs! You'll get a Reference Guide, a 101 Plan, and a Printables and Resources Guide! With mini-reviews of every single restaurant, bar, lounge, kiosk and more; an entire chapter on the best snacks in Disney World; full Disney Dining Plan analysis; and a full chapter on discounts and deals; you'll have everything you need to plan your best vacation yet. Click here to order your copy of the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining E-book with code WDW2023 to save 25% off the cover price today! Use code WDW2023 at check-out for 25% off the cover price today! http://www.disneyfoodblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/ready-to-shop-button.png Our guides are backed by a 100% money-back guarantee, so you have nothing to lose. What Disney character do you want to see on Gucci merchandise? Tell us in the comments! The post The RARE Gucci Bags You Can Find in An UNEXPECTED Disney World Spot first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Graceful princesses, colorful parade floats, catchy music — Disney’s Festival of Fantasy parade has it all! If you’ve ever spent an afternoon in the Magic Kingdom, you’ve likely caught at least part of this fan-favorite daytime parade. For little ones, it’s a must-see! Festival of Fantasy Parade If you’re planning a visit to the Magic Kingdom soon, a part of the Festival of Fantasy parade might look a little different. Let’s talk about it! Earlier this week, an unexpected fire incident happened during Disney’s Fantasmic! show in Disneyland. Luckily, no one was hurt, and the authorities were able to control the fire quickly. The Maleficent dragon caught on fire! After the fire, the upcoming Fantasmic! showtimes were canceled in Disneyland, and Disney released a statement on the company’s plans going forward. To sum it up for you, Disney plans to investigate the fire and suspend fire effects similar to those used at Disneyland until further notice. Where else are similar effects used, you may ask? Disney World! Maleficent might be a little less fiery for now! According to Scott Gustin, there will be a temporary suspension of fire effects on the Maleficent float in the Festival of Fantasy Parade at Magic Kingdom. For now, Maleficent will be a little less fiery than normal. Luckily, Disney World’s Fantasmic! show uses different technical effects, so the show will not change. The Maleficent dragon parade float in Festival of Fantasy will be the only prop in Disney World that is impacted by this temporary change. Disney did not share an exact timeframe on how long the fire effect will be paused. Prince Phillip’s job just got a little easier! We will continue to look out for more updates on this situation, so be sure to stay tuned for all the latest Disney news. VIDEO: Disney’s Maleficent Dragon Catches FIRE at Fantasmic! Show Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! Don't Miss Out on Any Disney Fun! Order Your Copy of the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining Today! With more than 900 pages, the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining is full of tips and planning tools developed by Disney World experts over 30+ years of visits. We've done the research for you, so you'll know just which spots will uniquely suit your family's needs! You'll get a Reference Guide, a 101 Plan, and a Printables and Resources Guide! With mini-reviews of every single restaurant, bar, lounge, kiosk and more; an entire chapter on the best snacks in Disney World; full Disney Dining Plan analysis; and a full chapter on discounts and deals; you'll have everything you need to plan your best vacation yet. Click here to order your copy of the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining E-book with code WDW2023 to save 25% off the cover price today! Use code WDW2023 at check-out for 25% off the cover price today! http://www.disneyfoodblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/ready-to-shop-button.png Our guides are backed by a 100% money-back guarantee, so you have nothing to lose. What’s your favorite part of the Festival of Fantasy parade? Let us know in the comments! The post NEWS: Major Effect to Be SUSPENDED in Disney World's Festival of Fantasy Parade first appeared on the disney food blog. 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. We truly think visiting Disney World during the summer should be considered an Olympic sport. You’re walking half marathons around the parks everyday, you’re drenched in sweat, and you’re doing it all while juggling kiddos, DOLE Whips, and those bubble wands your kids begged you to buy. Is it just us or is EPCOT one of the HOTTEST parks? And let’s face it — the heat can be unbearable, especially with all the extra things you’re having to carry around the parks. While yes, everyone complains about how uncomfortable and annoying the heat is, everyone forgets to talk about how dangerous it can be as well. Heat stroke is very real, but it can also be avoided. With proper planning and packing, you can fit in your park bag everything you need to beat the heat. When it comes to staying cool on those hot summer park days, only one thing has proven to be effective for us. The easiest and most efficient way for us to find relief from the heat has proven to be a cooling towel! Cooling towels are typically super affordable and are easy to fit inside your park bag. Amazon has an impressive array of options, so let’s take a look at some of them! Staying cool at Disney World is a must to ensure you’re comfortable and safe! First up, we have Frog Toggs. Frog Toggs was one of the first brands to put out these high-quality cooling towels, and their towels are a pretty reliable choice. ©Amazon They come in a wide range of colors, are durable and reusable, and can even provide UV protection. Click here to purchase the Frogg Toggs Cooling Towel This next cooling towel option is a great way to allow your towel to be a part of your park outfit. These Mission Cooling Bandanas could be an efficient and cute way to spruce up your Frontierland or Toy Story Land park outfit! ©Amazon Pair this with a white tank top and some comfy denim shorts and you’re ready to take on the ‘wildest ride in the wilderness,’ partner! Click here to purchase the Mission Cooling Bandana If you’re looking for the most cost efficient way to keep the whole family cool, this Sukeen Cooling Towel Set could be a great option. It comes with four different towels! ©Amazon Each towel is a different color so that each family member can remember which towel is their’s — ’cause let’s face it… nobody wants to share a sweaty towel! Click here to purchase the Sukeen Cooling Towel Set When it comes to these cooling towels, are biggest tip is to let them dry completely before rewetting them so that they aren’t constantly wet. Letting them dry completely (and letting them dry before you stow them in your bags) will keep them from getting that yucky mildew smell while you’re walking around the parks. Plus, taking them off your body occasionally and allowing them to air out actually allows the technology to work more efficiently, and therefore helping you stay cooler! You can even buy some in the parks! For the sake of keeping it real, though — staying cool won’t do you much good in this heat unless you’re also hydrating. Getting enough water intake can be difficult while being on the go, so we recommend electrolyte packets like the LiquidIV Hydration Multipliers to help get the job done. Liquid I.V. Hydration Multiplier We like to mix these in with free water cups while eating lunch or dinner, and it helps to ensure that we’re hydrated all day long! Click here to purchase LiquidIV There ya have it, folks! Please let this serve as a reminder that you absolutely cannot have the best vacation ever UNLESS you are taking care of yourself along the way. Staying cool and hydrated is an easy way to help make sure your Disney vacation is as magical as possible during those hot summer months. For more Disney packing tips, click the link below so that you don’t forget anything! Oh, and don’t forget to follow along for more Disney news, reviews, and updates. Looking for more packing tips? Look no further! Click here — we’ve got you covered. Planning a Trip to Disney World? We’ve Got Everything You Need to Know The Ultimate Guide to Planning a Disney World Vacation A Month-by-Month Guide to Planning Your Disney World Trip Tips, Hints, Lists, and Videos for Planning the BEST Disney World Trip How Many Days Do You Really Need in Disney World? How to Have the CHEAPEST Trip to Disney World 5 Simple Planning Tips You Need to Know About Before Your Next Disney World Trip The CHEAPEST Days to Visit Disney World in 2023 EVERYTHING You Need to Know Before Booking a 2023 Disney World Trip Learn About the Disney Park Pass System The Ultimate Disney World Packing List Everything You Need to Know About Genie+ Insider SECRETS for Your First Trip to Disney World A Complete Look at the Current Disney Discounts and Deals The ONLY Disney Dining Planning Tool You’ll Need Is Here – Get the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining! Join the DFB Newsletter to Get All the Latest Disney News Delivered Right to Your Inbox Click Here to Subscribe What is your best tip for staying cool and comfortable in the Disney parks during the summer? Let us know in the comments! The post The ONE Thing You’ll Regret Not Bringing to Disney World first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

This is the part of your Walt Disney World trip that no one wants to plan. A Magical Flight After a memorable, but likely exhausting, vacation, it’s time to return to the Orlando International Airport (MCO) to travel back home. And we get it — returning flights just aren’t fun. We know how difficult it is to leave the Happiest Place on Earth in order to get to the airport for your departing flight. So, before you even get to your last day of vacation, we think planning ahead will help the stress of departure day. Orlando International Airport We’re here to help your family travel back to the real world. So, let’s take a look at some Orlando Airport details! Orlando International Airport (MCO) Fifty million passengers use the Orlando airport each year. In fact, around 173,000 people recently passed through the airport during a busy spring break weekend! With all those people arriving and departing, how early do you really need to get to the airport? Orlando International Airport Terminal C First, you’ll want to check directly with your airline for the most up-to-date recommendations. Know that the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority suggests arriving three hours prior to your scheduled departure time. (Don’t forget to double-check for delays and cancellations prior to leaving for the airport.) Why three hours? Orlando International Airport crowds in January This airport is so busy that many mishaps can occur on your departure day. The extra time allows for long lines to check in your bags, get your boarding pass, go through security, and take the airport monorail (People Mover) to your gate. You’ll want to give yourselves time to complete all of these tasks so that you don’t miss your flight. And we all know that airports can experience technical difficulties, mechanical issues, and staffing shortages. Also, don’t forget to plan on time to get gas and return your car rental (if applicable)! The CHEAPEST Way to Get To Disney World From the Orlando Airport We also suggest using Orlando International Airport’s FREE MCO Reserve, which lets you go online and book a scheduled time to go through an exclusive security lane. This is offered at the airport for flights scheduled from 6:30AM to 8:30PM. You do need to reserve your spot 72 hours before your flight, though. Magic of Disney Store at Orlando Airport Yes, having MCO Reserve, TSA precheck, or global entry can help give you even more peace of mind, but we still recommend the full 3-hour buffer! And hey, if for some reason you DO get through security quickly, that leaves you plenty of time to grab something to eat and relax before you board your flight. Note that the Orlando Airport has an app that features a TON of helpful information, tips, and tricks. We’re always looking out for ways to make your travel just a bit easier, so make sure to follow along for more Disney-related news, reviews, and updates! Click here for more travel tips! 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 Do you have any Orlando Airport (MCO) tips to share? We want to hear from our readers!The post How Early Should You REALLY Get To Orlando Airport (MCO)? first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

You know, there aren’t very many places where we would ENJOY being called a “foolish mortal,” but in Disney World, we take it as a compliment. What can we say — we have a soft spot for those grim-grinning ghosts in the Haunted Mansion! Welcome, foolish mortals! For all our Haunted Mansion fans that know the detailed backstory of the mansion and can recite the entire stretching room monologue, we’re back today to share some happy news you may have forgotten! Just recently, the Disney Parks TikTok account shared a brief video on the history of the famous Hatbox Ghost. If you’re unfamiliar, the Hatbox Ghost currently resides in Disneyland Resort’s Haunted Mansion attraction (which many argue is superior to its Disney World counterpart, but that’s a whole discussion for another day). He’s a tricky fellow with a pretty neat effect! Soon, the legendary Hatbox Ghost will come to the East Coast! Back in 2022, at Disney’s big D23 event, Disney shared that the Hatbox Ghost will be materializing in Disney World this year! His head appears and disappears! That’s right — a little detail from the Disneyland Haunted Mansion will finally arrive in Disney World! Now if only the Florida attraction would get a Nightmare Before Christmas holiday makeover, too. We still don’t have a specific debut date quite yet, but we know that he’s coming to Disney World sometime this year! Spooookyyy! Until then, we’ll just keep daydreaming about an afterlife in the coolest mansion in Disney World. In the meantime, we’re always on the lookout for the latest Disney news, so stay tuned for more! How Disney World Is Getting BETTER in 2023 Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! Don't Miss Out on Any Disney Fun! Order Your Copy of the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining Today! With more than 900 pages, the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining is full of tips and planning tools developed by Disney World experts over 30+ years of visits. We've done the research for you, so you'll know just which spots will uniquely suit your family's needs! You'll get a Reference Guide, a 101 Plan, and a Printables and Resources Guide! With mini-reviews of every single restaurant, bar, lounge, kiosk and more; an entire chapter on the best snacks in Disney World; full Disney Dining Plan analysis; and a full chapter on discounts and deals; you'll have everything you need to plan your best vacation yet. Click here to order your copy of the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining E-book with code WDW2023 to save 25% off the cover price today! Use code WDW2023 at check-out for 25% off the cover price today! http://www.disneyfoodblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/ready-to-shop-button.png Our guides are backed by a 100% money-back guarantee, so you have nothing to lose. Which Haunted Mansion attraction is your favorite? Let us know in the comments! The post The New Haunted Mansion UPGRADE You Forgot Was Coming to Disney World first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

We may still be enjoying the Flower & Garden Festival, but that doesn’t mean we’re not ready for the 2023 EPCOT Food & Wine Festival! Food and Wine Festival (2022) Disney just revealed the dates for this year’s fest — July 27th to November 18th — and we’ve already started planning our visit. The Food & Wine festival is full of incredible entertainment, merchandise, and of course — food and drinks! It’s one of our favorites for a reason, but eating all that delicious food can put a serious dent in your budget. So, we’ve rounded up the cheapest days you can attend the Food & Wine Festival this year! There will be more than 25 food booths at this year’s Festival, including some returning spots like The Fry Basket, Flavors from Fire, Canada, India, and Spain. It seems Shimmering Sips hosted by CORKCICLE will be making a return, too. Disney has also indicated that some NEW Global Marketplaces (food booths) will open later in the festival as “summer turns to fall.” In other words, it sounds like not all of the food booths will open at once — instead, some will be delayed. 2022 EPCOT Food and Wine Festival Passport We’re going to be looking at single-day, one-park-per-day tickets to determine which are the least expensive days to go to the parks. EPCOT may cost more than other parks on the date of your visit, so those prices are reflected here. But, if you get a multi-day ticket or a park hopper, just know that the pricing will look different. If you’re like us, you’re already thinking about what to wear and coordinating with your crew — so check out our exclusive Food and Wine Vibes shirts! DFB Exclusive Food & Wine Merch! Click here to order! If you’re already planning your visit — we’ve got a look at the cheapest dates you can attend the 2023 EPCOT Food & Wine Festival! We’ll start off by saying that if your dates are wide open, late August and the month of September — the sweet spot between summer vacations and Halloween — are when you will usually find the least crowds and cheapest tickets (and hotel rooms). Now let’s take a look at the cheapest days each month of the fest. The festival kicks off at the end of July, and if you want to see it all when it opens, the cheapest days you’ll find this month are the 27th and 28th, which both start at $134. ©Disney In August, tickets start at $109 on the 22nd through 25th and the 29th through the 31st. ©Disney You’ll find quite a few “cheap” days in September. The 5th through 7th, 12th through 14th, 19th through 21st, and 26th through 28th are all priced starting at $109. ©Disney We often see crowds start to creep back up around Halloween, and the ticket prices seem to reflect that for October. The cheapest days to visit EPCOT this month are the 1st, 2nd, 10th, 11th, 12th, 12th, 17th, 18th, 19th, 23rd, 24th, 25th, 26th, and 31st — but you’ll be paying at least $144. ©Disney This year’s festival ends on November 18th, so the cheapest dates you’ll find before that this month will run you $144. November 1st through 3rd, 6th through 9th, 14th through 16th all fall into the “cheap” category. Keep in mind that these prices are subject to change, as Disney could pull a switcheroo and change things up depending on what demand looks like. ©Disney We can’t wait to see what this year’s Food & Wine Festival has to offer, and we’ll be on the lookout for more announcements like returning food booths, merchandise, and entertainment. Be sure to stay tuned to DFB for the latest Disney news and more! Read More About the EPCOT Food & Wine Festival Here! Ready to Plan for Your EPCOT Food and Wine Festival Trip? Pre-Order the DFB Guide to the 2023 EPCOT Food & Wine Festival e-Book today! This 250+-page guide to the Festival offers insider tips and advice as well as all of the details you need to know to plan your best Festival visit ever. Your purchase includes several bonus items as well — including details on what’s new this year, touring plan ideas, and a printable World Showcase Booth Menu Checklist to carry with you as you Eat around the World! Pre-Order your 2023 edition today! Don't miss a moment of the fun! Use code Chefs at check-out for 20% off the cover price! Learn More About the EPCOT Food and Wine Festival! Insider Tips for the EPCOT Food and Wine Festival What to Pack in Your Park Bag for the EPCOT Food and Wine Festival Eat to the Beat Concert Updates EPCOT Food and Wine Festival Fans Facebook Page EPCOT Food and Wine Festival Wine and Dine Half Marathon Food and Wine Festival 101 Get More Updates, Tips, and Tricks to Help You Conquer the Food & Wine Festival Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! Are you excited for Food & Wine this year? Let us know in the comments! The post The CHEAPEST Days To Attend the 2023 EPCOT Food and Wine Festival first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Sure, lunch and dinner are important meals, but is there anything better than a nice, filling brunch? Combining lunch AND breakfast? Well, whoever originally thought of that had a stroke of GENIUS. If you’re planning a late-morning visit to Disneyland, you might want to grab some brunch! Downtown Disney Now, there are a few places to grab brunch in Downtown Disney, like Ballast Point Brewing Co. and Tortilla Jo’s, but now there’s ANOTHER spot where you can grab an afternoon meal! Naples Ristorante e Bar in Downtown Disney just announced that it will be offering a brunch menu on the weekends! More places to brunch? Yes, please! This new brunch menu will be available from 9AM to 2PM on Saturdays and Sundays. Although the brunch menu isn’t available online yet, it looks like there could be a delicious Avocado Toast on the menu. ©Naples Ristorante e Bar If you’re looking for a new spot to try some brunch foods, check it out! Currently, the Disneyland website is not showing advance dining reservations for brunch, though we will continue to look for updates. We’ll also be on the lookout for that brunch menu, so stay tuned for more information. Naples Ristorante In the past, we’ve enjoyed the creamy pasta and cheesy pizza at Naples Ristorante e Bar, so we’re excited to see what they offer for brunch! 10″ Quattro Formaggi We’re always on the lookout for new and exciting happenings at Downtown Disney (especially with NEW restaurants on the way), so stay tuned to DFB for more! In the meantime, you’re going to love our graphic tees for your next Disney World trip! Click here to see the whole collection! Here Are Our Best Downtown Disney Parking Tips Want to Learn More About Disneyland? Check Out the Links Below! See Our DFB Disneyland Restaurants Guide Learn About Disney Genie and How to Use it in Disneyland Check Out What You Need to Know About the Theme Park Reservation System for Disneyland and Disney California Adventure Get All the Info About Closures and Construction at Disneyland Learn All About Disneyland Park See What Marvelous Stuff You’ll Find at Avengers Campus in Disney California Adventure Learn About Pixar Pier in Disney California Adventure Get All the Details About the Disneyland Mobile App Everything You Need to Know About Mobile Order in Disneyland Learn More About Disneyland’s Magic Key Program Full Details About the Holiday Season in Disneyland Full Details About Halloween Time at Disneyland Get Some STRANGE Tips for Disneyland Should You Go to Disneyland in 2022? Click HERE to Check Out Lots of Other DFB Posts About Disneyland Join the DFB Newsletter To Get All the Latest Disney News Delivered Right to Your Inbox Click here to Subscribe Will you be checking out brunch at Naples soon? Let us know in the comments! The post There's A NEW Spot To Get Brunch in Downtown Disney first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

No matter how far in advance you make your Disney plans and no matter how much research you do ahead of time, even the best-laid plans can go awry. From random technical difficulties to attraction refurbishments, there are some things we just can’t control! Sleeping Beauty Castle If you were planning to catch a nighttime performance of the famous Fantasmic! show in Disneyland this April, you might need to rethink your plans. Just recently, on April 22nd, there was an incident during Disneyland’s Fantasmic! performance. The fire-breathing Maleficent dragon unexpectedly caught on fire, causing the show to end early. There’s lots of fire involved with this show! Luckily, no one was hurt, and the fire department was able to quickly respond to the scene. Click here to learn more about the incident Now, it seems like subsequent shows will be canceled as Disney works to repair the Maleficent dragon. According to the Disneyland website, there are no showtimes listed from April 23rd through April 27th. ©Disney Currently, performances are set to resume on Friday, April 28th, though the schedule is subject to change. ©Disney We will continue to monitor the status of the show, so be sure to stay tuned for updates. Two Disney Restaurants Are Now Closed FOR GOOD Want to Learn More About Disneyland? Check Out the Links Below! See Our DFB Disneyland Restaurants Guide Learn About Disney Genie and How to Use it in Disneyland Check Out What You Need to Know About the Theme Park Reservation System for Disneyland and Disney California Adventure Get All the Info About Closures and Construction at Disneyland Learn All About Disneyland Park See What Marvelous Stuff You’ll Find at Avengers Campus in Disney California Adventure Learn About Pixar Pier in Disney California Adventure Get All the Details About the Disneyland Mobile App Everything You Need to Know About Mobile Order in Disneyland Learn More About Disneyland’s Magic Key Program Full Details About the Holiday Season in Disneyland Full Details About Halloween Time at Disneyland Get Some STRANGE Tips for Disneyland Should You Go to Disneyland in 2022? Click HERE to Check Out Lots of Other DFB Posts About Disneyland Join the DFB Newsletter To Get All the Latest Disney News Delivered Right to Your Inbox Click here to Subscribe Have you ever seen Fantasmic! in Disneyland? Let us know in the comments! The post Fantasmic! Showtimes CANCELED After Fire Breaks Out in Disneyland first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

From dining discounts to merchandise deals, who doesn’t love to take advantage of those little perks Disney offers from time to time? While we’re on the subject of perks, did you know that some Disney guests have access to secret lounges? Disney Vacation Club members, for example, can escape the heat (and the crowds) by visiting the DVC Member lounge in the Imagination Pavilion in EPCOT. Did you know that there’s a DVC lounge in EPCOT? Over in Disneyland, though, a NEW Disney Vacation Club lounge just opened. Let’s take a look! Welcome to the Disney Vacation Club Star View Station! Starting now, Disney Vacation Club Members can visit this new member lounge at Disneyland Resort in California. Let’s check it out! The longe is located in Tomorrowland. Just look for the signs and walk through these doors! Let’s head inside! Inside, you’ll find a space-themed lobby, complete with some Star Wars relics and dark mood lighting. Once you check in at the podium, a Cast Member will escort you upstairs to the lounge. We made it inside! According to Disney, the lounge is filled with retro space-theming and historic Disney gems, including the old K7 Space Suit worn by the Tomorrowland astronauts in Disneyland Park! This is where members can check in! Similar to the DVC lounge in Disney World, this new space was designed to help Vacation Club members relax and recharge. There are a variety of amenities, including a special Disney Vacation Club Member Services team, plenty of seating, complimentary Wi-Fi, device-charging stations, and complimentary soft drinks. ©Disney If you’re a Disney Vacation Club member, check out the new lounge on your next visit to Disneyland! In the meantime, we’re always on the lookout for the latest Disney news, so stay tuned for more. Is There Really a “Secret Door” In Magic Kingdom? Want to Learn More About Disneyland? Check Out the Links Below! See Our DFB Disneyland Restaurants Guide Learn About Disney Genie and How to Use it in Disneyland Check Out What You Need to Know About the Theme Park Reservation System for Disneyland and Disney California Adventure Get All the Info About Closures and Construction at Disneyland Learn All About Disneyland Park See What Marvelous Stuff You’ll Find at Avengers Campus in Disney California Adventure Learn About Pixar Pier in Disney California Adventure Get All the Details About the Disneyland Mobile App Everything You Need to Know About Mobile Order in Disneyland Learn More About Disneyland’s Magic Key Program Full Details About the Holiday Season in Disneyland Full Details About Halloween Time at Disneyland Get Some STRANGE Tips for Disneyland Should You Go to Disneyland in 2022? Click HERE to Check Out Lots of Other DFB Posts About Disneyland Join the DFB Newsletter To Get All the Latest Disney News Delivered Right to Your Inbox Click here to Subscribe What’s your favorite Disney perk? Let us know in the comments! The post An EXCLUSIVE Lounge Just Opened for Some Disney Guests first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Whether you love it or hate it, Genie+ is here to stay. Lightning Lane The paid, skip-the-line service isn’t exactly intuitive to use, especially if you’re not in Disney World every day like we are. Luckily, we’ve used Genie+ plenty of times at this point, and we know the ins and outs pretty well by now. If you’re heading to the parks soon, don’t forget about these critical Genie+ rules! We’ve been using Genie+ for a while now, and there are some important things you need to remember if you’re planning on using the service to skip the lines. There are two different types of Lightning Lanes — those included with the base Genie+ and Individual Lightning Lanes, which are paid per ride. For the regular Genie+ rides, you’ve got to learn a few rules. Disney Genie+ Once you’ve made a selection, you won’t be able to make your next one until a few things happen. More specifically, once you’ve made a selection, you can make your next Lightning Lane selection when: You have used the first one you booked; Your first return time window has ended (if you miss it); or 120 minutes have passed since you booked your last one* (or 120 minutes after park opening, depending on the situation). Essentially, you can book another Lightning Lane 2 hours (120 minutes) after reserving a previous one if the return time for the first Lightning Lane is more than 2 hours away. Kali River Rapids LIghtning Lane Are you confused? No worries, we’ve got you. Rule number one says you can’t make your next Genie+ selection until you’ve used the first one you’ve booked. This is true, but in our experience, you can actually make your next selection once you’ve scanned into your current one (some rides have two checkpoints while others only have one!) Tower of Terror Lightning Lane sign Rule number two states that you can make your next Genie+ selection once your current return window has ended. So, if you make a Lightning Lane reservation and are unable to make it for whatever reason, you can pick your next ride after the current window passes. Disney Genie+ allows you to book the Lightning Lane for rides. The final rule is a bit tricky. Essentially, this is what’s referred to as the “120-minute rule.” Let’s say that at 9AM you booked a Haunted Mansion Lightning Lane with a return time of 2PM. You don’t have to wait until 2PM to make another Lightning Lane reservation. Instead, 2 hours after you made that reservation, you can make another one. So at 11AM, you can choose another attraction AND you’ll still have the 2PM Haunted Mansion reservation. Expedition Everest Lightning Lane If you booked your first Lightning Lane at 7AM, though, the 2 hours don’t start until park opening time. So if you book one at 7AM but the park opens at 9AM, you can book the next one at 11AM — 2 hours after park opening time. But remember, if you make that first Genie+ selection BEFORE the park opens, your 120-minute timer actually starts when the park OPENS. In this case, you booked the Genie+ selection at 7AM, but Hollywood Studios doesn’t open until 9AM. So you’ll be able to book that next Genie+ selection at…11AM (or after you’ve scanned into your first ride!) Peter Pan’s Flight Lightning Lane Genie+ doesn’t have to be confusing, but just in case you still need a refresher, we’ve got plenty of videos with tips and tricks on using the service — just click the link below. We’ll be keeping up with all the latest news and updates from around Disney World, so stay tuned to DFB for more! Still Confused About Disney Genie+? Check Out These Videos! Planning a Trip to Disney World? We’ve Got Everything You Need to Know The Ultimate Guide to Planning a Disney World Vacation A Month-by-Month Guide to Planning Your Disney World Trip Tips, Hints, Lists, and Videos for Planning the BEST Disney World Trip How Many Days Do You Really Need in Disney World? How to Have the CHEAPEST Trip to Disney World 5 Simple Planning Tips You Need to Know About Before Your Next Disney World Trip The CHEAPEST Days to Visit Disney World in 2023 EVERYTHING You Need to Know Before Booking a 2023 Disney World Trip Learn About the Disney Park Pass System The Ultimate Disney World Packing List Everything You Need to Know About Genie+ Insider SECRETS for Your First Trip to Disney World A Complete Look at the Current Disney Discounts and Deals The ONLY Disney Dining Planning Tool You’ll Need Is Here – Get the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining! 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 Genie+? Tell us in the comments. The post Critical Genie+ RULES in Disney World first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

For many, Genie+ is considered a necessity in Disney World, particularly for those visitors who don’t want to spend a lot of their time standing in lines for rides. Genie+ on the My Disney Experience app However, the price of Genie+ is based on demand, and we’ve seen the price of Genie+ go as high as $35 during the Spring Break season. However, it’s also been lower than that since, but on April 23rd, the price of Genie+ is the lowest we’ve seen since early February! We keep track of Genie+ pricing and today, when we checked the pricing, we saw that it was at just $15 per person. According to our data, that’s the lowest price we’ve seen since February 4th. So we can say with some certainty that it seems like the Spring Break season is really over. ©Disney We can also say this could be a really good time to visit Disney World, too. A lower Genie+ price generally also means fewer people in the parks, as well as lower wait times for rides. In fact, depending on your ride priorities, you might even be able to skip using Genie+ completely, especially if you take advantage of rope drop or Early Theme Park Entry (available to Disney World hotel guests). Early Theme Park Entry Sign at EPCOT However, some rides might still warrant paying for them, particularly those more popular rides that use the Individual Lightning Lane Option. This also includes TWO rides that do not have standby lines, but use the virtual queue system: Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind in EPCOT and TRON Lightcycle / Run in Magic Kingdom. If you don’t want to take a chance NOT getting a space in the virtual queue, you can pay for the Individual Lightning Lane option to hop in those rides’ Lightning Lanes. TRON virtual queue and Lightning Lane signs We’ll continue to keep an eye on Genie+ prices in Disney World, so stay tuned to DFB for more. In the meantime, when are you headed to Disney World next? Have you checked out our line of fun graphic tees to wear on your trip? We’ve designed some for the whole family – from infants to adults! Click here to check them out! All About Disney Genie, Genie+, and Individual Attraction Selection READ THIS Before Using the New Genie Planning Tool in Disney World Check Out the FULL List of Rides Included With Genie+ in Disney World See What Rides You Can Pay EXTRA for in Disney World & How Much They May Cost Learn What Rides Are Included With Genie+ in Disneyland (Plus the Ones You’ll Pay EXTRA to Ride) You CAN’T Re-Ride Disney World Attractions With Genie+ You CAN’T Cancel Pay-Per-Ride Selections in Disney World Get the Answers to All of Your Burning Questions About Disney Genie See Why You May Want to Stay in a Disney World Hotel When it Comes to Disney’s Pay-Per-Ride System Here’s What Annual Passholders and Magic Key Holders Need to Know About Genie+ See 5 Ways Genie+ Might Surprise You Learn Some Disney Genie HACKS Get a Step-by-Step Guide to Using Disney Genie+ See Genie+ Tips for the Most Crowded Days in Disney World and Disneyland Still Confused About Disney Genie? Check Out These DFB Videos Learn About How Disney Genie Can Be Your Personal Assistant in Disney World Click HERE to See More About Disney Genie Join the DFB Newsletter To Get All the Latest Disney News Delivered Right to Your Inbox Click here to Subscribe Do you purchase Genie+ when you’re in Disney World? Why or why not? Let us know in the comments! The post This Is the CHEAPEST Genie+ Has Been in MONTHS at Disney World first appeared on the disney food blog. 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. It’s that time again, friends — Loungefly time! Loungefly! We recently spotted a new Toy Story Loungefly and found some new 100th Anniversary Loungefly options, plus an Amazon-exclusive bag inspired by The Little Mermaid. But now there’s a NEW Amazon Loungefly that Marvel fans will love! You can now pre-order the Ant-Man Cosplay Backpack on Amazon NOW! ©Amazon Check out all those costume details; the front of the bag looks like Ant-Man himself! The bag will be officially released on July 9th. Buy the Ant-Man Cosplay Backpack here! To go with your new backpack, you can grab the new Ant-Man Loungefly Wallet, too! ©Amazon The front has the same design as the backpack, and the inside has multiple card slots, a clear ID window, and a zipper closure. It will also be released on July 9th! Grab the Ant-Man Loungefly Wallet here! In other Marvel news, check out the new trailer for The Marvels, and grab your tickets now to see Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3! As always, stay tuned to DFB for all the latest Disney news! Here are 7 of the BEST Disney deals you can find online right now! Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! Don't Miss Out on Any Disney Fun! Order Your Copy of the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining Today! With more than 900 pages, the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining is full of tips and planning tools developed by Disney World experts over 30+ years of visits. We've done the research for you, so you'll know just which spots will uniquely suit your family's needs! You'll get a Reference Guide, a 101 Plan, and a Printables and Resources Guide! With mini-reviews of every single restaurant, bar, lounge, kiosk and more; an entire chapter on the best snacks in Disney World; full Disney Dining Plan analysis; and a full chapter on discounts and deals; you'll have everything you need to plan your best vacation yet. Click here to order your copy of the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining E-book with code WDW2023 to save 25% off the cover price today! Use code WDW2023 at check-out for 25% off the cover price today! http://www.disneyfoodblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/ready-to-shop-button.png Our guides are backed by a 100% money-back guarantee, so you have nothing to lose. Who is your favorite character from the Marvel Universe? Tell us below! The post NEW Marvel Amazon-Exclusive Loungeflys Are Online Now! first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

A lot of exciting things are happening in Disney World, especially at Disney World hotels. Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort At Disney’s BoardWalk Resort, a new sweets shop and restaurant is on its way. Over at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, rooms are getting re-themed. And at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, new Disney Vacation Club villas are being constructed. But what will those villa rooms look like? Well, here’s what we know. So Disney has not yet released any concept art or details about what the rooms might look like at the new DVC Villas, but the company has dropped a few hints. So here’s what we know so far. Waterfront Views We know where the property is being built and it’s right on Seven Seas Lagoon, so we know that the rooms will feature waterfront views. The villas are being constructed right on the water Because of the resort’s location overall, we also know that there will be views of Magic Kingdom, including the nightly fireworks. Taller Building One thing we’re also seeing is that the building will be taller than the traditional 2 and 3 stories for other DVC villas at Disney’s Polynesian Resort. Polynesian Villas Construction — April 2023 So that means those on higher floors might have even better views of the lagoon and Magic Kingdom. Balconies and Villa Types From the concept art, it seems that most, if not all, of the villas will have balconies with water views. ©Disney | Polynesian Village Resort concept art Looking at this concept art, too, we can guess that the new building will include a variety of accommodations, including 1-bedroom and 2-bedroom villas. Moana-Inspired Rooms The existing rooms at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort recently got a Moana makeover, and we could expect that the rooms at the new DVC villas could also have that theme. Moana-themed room However, Disney has said that the Imagineers working on this project were also inspired by the early concepts for the resort. The concept is to honor the past while continuing to work with the existing resort theme, which is inspired by Moana. Moana-inspired room at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort Considering that Disney is doubling down on Moana as a franchise with a live-action movie and an upcoming attraction at EPCOT, this makes sense. Hey, Disney Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort is currently the only hotel at Disney World with the new Hey, Disney service, which works with Alexa on Amazon Echo devices. The service can assist guests with room amenities, guest services, planning, and weather information with a touch of Disney magic. Hey, Disney It’s basically an AI personal assistant with a Disney touch. The new DVC villas will likely have it available in every room. Amenities Disney has also promised additional amenities at the building like new dining and swimming areas. Will ‘Ohana get some new restaurant competition at the resort? This, too, can be seen in the concept art. Other “recreation areas” have been mentioned for the new villas, as well. However, as we previously stated, Disney has not yet released details about the rooms, so we only know what we’ve been told so far and go from there. We hope to know more soon, though, as construction progresses on the new DVC villas, so as soon as we learn anything new, we’ll be sure to let you know. Stay tuned to DFB for more! Hold up for a sec! Before you plan your next trip to Disney World, check out our DFB Guide Everything Bundle here. You will get ALL of our best-selling eBooks with details on Disney World Dining, EPCOT Festivals, the BEST snacks in each park, and soooooo many tips and tricks we’ve learned over decades of visiting our happy place. Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! Don't Miss Out on Any Disney Fun! Order Your Copy of the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining Today! With more than 900 pages, the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining is full of tips and planning tools developed by Disney World experts over 30+ years of visits. We've done the research for you, so you'll know just which spots will uniquely suit your family's needs! You'll get a Reference Guide, a 101 Plan, and a Printables and Resources Guide! With mini-reviews of every single restaurant, bar, lounge, kiosk and more; an entire chapter on the best snacks in Disney World; full Disney Dining Plan analysis; and a full chapter on discounts and deals; you'll have everything you need to plan your best vacation yet. Click here to order your copy of the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining E-book with code WDW2023 to save 25% off the cover price today! Use code WDW2023 at check-out for 25% off the cover price today! http://www.disneyfoodblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/ready-to-shop-button.png Our guides are backed by a 100% money-back guarantee, so you have nothing to lose. What would you like to see in the Polynesian’s new DVC villas? Let us know in the comments! The post Everything We Know About the New Hotel Rooms Coming to Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Situated along the coast of South Carolina, Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort is a breath of Southern charm. This idyllic island retreat feels like home, not only for the Disney Vacation Club Members who return year after year to renew their vacation traditions, but also to dedicated cast members like Mark Hyland, who headlines this […]View the full article

Sure, we love a morning visit to the Disney parks; the feeling of walking through the World Showcase with a fresh croissant in hand is pretty unbeatable. But hitting the parks when the sun goes down is one of our (many) FAVORITE things to do! Between the incredible nighttime fireworks shows and Disney’s fan-favorite Fantasmic! show (which takes place on both coasts), Disney knows how to put on a show — even when the sun goes down! Disneyland is beautiful at night! Speaking of nighttime entertainment, one of our DFB readers shared a video from a recent Fantasmic! performance that you need to SEE to believe! A recent Fantasmic! showing in Disneyland Resort had a firey ending. Towards the end of the show, the Maleficent Dragon caught fire. DFB reader @jodiesdisneywishes on Instagram shared a video of the incident. At this time, no injuries have been reported. We’ll be sure to keep you updated when Disney determines the cause of the incident. Stay tuned to Disney Food Blog for more Disney news. Is There Really a “Secret Door” In Magic Kingdom? Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! Don't Miss Out on Any Disney Fun! Order Your Copy of the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining Today! With more than 900 pages, the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining is full of tips and planning tools developed by Disney World experts over 30+ years of visits. We've done the research for you, so you'll know just which spots will uniquely suit your family's needs! You'll get a Reference Guide, a 101 Plan, and a Printables and Resources Guide! With mini-reviews of every single restaurant, bar, lounge, kiosk and more; an entire chapter on the best snacks in Disney World; full Disney Dining Plan analysis; and a full chapter on discounts and deals; you'll have everything you need to plan your best vacation yet. Click here to order your copy of the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining E-book with code WDW2023 to save 25% off the cover price today! Use code WDW2023 at check-out for 25% off the cover price today! http://www.disneyfoodblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/ready-to-shop-button.png Our guides are backed by a 100% money-back guarantee, so you have nothing to lose. Have you ever experienced a technical difficulty in Disney World? Let us know in the comments! The post VIDEO: Disney's Maleficent Dragon Catches FIRE at Fantasmic! Show first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Central Florida Animal Reserve in Osceola County provides a home and care for lions, tigers, leopards, cougars and panthers. View the full article

Disney World is changing all the time, and some of those changes mean that certain rides, attractions, and restaurants have to CLOSE for a while. You have to be on your toes to plan a trip to Disney World! Before you head out the door on your next Disney World trip, you’ll want to know what’s NOT going to be available while you’re there. Check out everything that’s going to be closed in Disney World next week here! Magic Kingdom Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Splash Mountain closed on January 23rd for a long refurbishment. The ride is being re-themed to become Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, with a Princess and the Frog theme. Tiana’s Bayou Adventure The new ride will reopen sometime in late 2024. We’ll be watching for more updates on the reopening timeline. Recently, we noticed that the tree at the top of this ride has been removed as Disney continues construction on this major project. Scaffolding If you miss Splash Mountain or want to celebrate the new ride, you should check out our DFB t-shirts! We have a Splash Mountain Farwell Tour shirt… DFB Exclusive! …and a Tiana tee as well! Check out our new Tiana-inspired merch! You can shop both tees (and lots of other Disney merch) at our online store. Click here to shop our DFB merchandise store. Disney’s Hollywood Studios Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster The popular Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster ride closed on February 21st for a long refurbishment. Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster So far Disney hasn’t announced the date for when it will reopen, but we know it’ll be sometime in the summer of 2023. We’ll be watching for a specific reopening date. Voyage of the Little Mermaid This Little Mermaid-themed stage show has been closed in Disney’s Hollywood Studios for a long time now. Voyage of the Little Mermaid Disney hasn’t announced when or if the Voyage of the Little Mermaid will reopen. Check out our full review of Pizzerizzo at Hollywood Studios here. EPCOT Cool Wash Cool Wash temporarily had a new sign that re-named the spot “Refreshment Station,” but that sign was later removed. However, it looks like the sign is back now! The snack kiosk is still closed and blocked off by several plants. Disney hasn’t announced when Cool Wash (sorry, Refreshment Station) will reopen, but we’ll watch for any changes. Refreshment Station Don’t forget that the Flower & Garden Festival is going on in EPCOT right now as well! Click here to check out our NEW tees that are perfect for a trip to the festival. Get ready for Flower and Garden fest with these new shirts! You can choose from a variety of colors for our Flower & Garden tees. (If your trip is later in the year, Disney has announced the dates for the Food & Wine Festival as well!) Shop the EPCOT Flower & Garden Festival tees here. Disney World Water Parks Blizzard Beach Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon water park has officially reopened, but now the other water park, Blizzard Beach, has closed for refurbishment. Blizzard Beach Water Park Be sure to check the My Disney Experience app for updates! The BEST Rides at Blizzard Beach, Ranked Looking for more resources to help you get ready for your upcoming trip? Check out these posts to learn all about Disney World’s rides: 10 Rides to AVOID in Disney World if You Struggle with Motion Sickness What It Takes to CHANGE a Disney World Ride 9 of the SCARIEST Rides in Disney World, According to YOU! A FULL LIST of the Thrill Rides in Disney World! The Ultimate Guide to the BEST and WORST Seats On EVERY Magic Kingdom Ride We’ll keep you updated with all the latest news, so stay tuned to DFB. 95% of Disney Fans Say This Disney World Cost Is Totally Worth It Planning a Trip to Disney World? We’ve Got Everything You Need to Know The Ultimate Guide to Planning a Disney World Vacation A Month-by-Month Guide to Planning Your Disney World Trip Tips, Hints, Lists, and Videos for Planning the BEST Disney World Trip How Many Days Do You Really Need in Disney World? How to Have the CHEAPEST Trip to Disney World 5 Simple Planning Tips You Need to Know About Before Your Next Disney World Trip The CHEAPEST Days to Visit Disney World in 2023 EVERYTHING You Need to Know Before Booking a 2023 Disney World Trip Learn About the Disney Park Pass System The Ultimate Disney World Packing List Everything You Need to Know About Genie+ Insider SECRETS for Your First Trip to Disney World A Complete Look at the Current Disney Discounts and Deals The ONLY Disney Dining Planning Tool You’ll Need Is Here – Get the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining! Join the DFB Newsletter to Get All the Latest Disney News Delivered Right to Your Inbox Click Here to Subscribe Are you visiting Disney World this week? Let us know in the comments! The post Look Alive! These Rides and Experiences are CLOSED in Disney World This Week! first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article