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While it may seem like 2026 just began, the reality is the year’s halfway over and many Disney World guests are already planning their trips for 2027…including selecting their hotel. Art of Animation However, some Disney guests are skipping a few of the resort’s most popular hotels next year. Having trouble choosing a hotel? Don’t want to handle the stress sweats that come with the Disney World planning process? That’s where our friends at Small World Vacations come in. They are the best in the business when it comes to planning Disney vacations, and their services are completely FREE. Thinking about it? Go ahead and reach out! Art of Animation In the late spring of 2026, Disney confirmed that a major refurbishment is coming to the popular value resort, Art of Animation. The hotel will remain open and proceed through phases, with changes coming to both the standard guest rooms and family suites. Disney’s Art of Animation Resort During a preview, we got to see the Little Mermaid-themed rooms. While retaining the similar theme, the rooms will feature new under-the-sea prints and a Murphy bed — similar to the current layout of the rooms at Pop Century — along with a seashell bed and chairs. Furthermore, the company said that Imagineering and facilities are working together to maintain the feeling of stepping into a movie, which is obviously integral to rooms such as Cars and Toy Story. Finding Nemo Suite The refurbishment isn’t the only work to hit Art of Animation next year, though the first will be much shorter. The Disney World Skyliner will be closed for its annual maintenance from January 24th through January 30th, 2027. Disney will provide complimentary bus service between the four Skyliner resorts (Art of Animation, Pop Century, the Riviera Resort, and the Caribbean Beach Resort) and EPCOT and Hollywood Studios during the closure. Disney World Skyliner These 5 Disney World Hotels Are Suddenly a Much Better Deal Port Orleans Riverside The Port Orleans Resort is already home to some of our favorite hotel rooms on property, and things are improving even more thanks to a massive room refurbishment coming to the Port Orleans Riverside Resort’s Magnolia Bend area. Decked out for Cool Kids Summer However, the work on the hotel will continue through August of 2027, meaning the hotel will be home to construction through the first half of the year and beyond. Port Orleans Riverside ROOM TOUR: Come See The NEW Royal Rooms At Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside Resort Fort Wilderness Campground Disney’s campground has been an integral part of the Disney World experience since (almost) the very beginning. However, the construction and summer 2027 opening of the massive Lakeshore Lodge Resort (which is located right near the campground, in the former location of the River Country water park), combined with the fact that the free water park day perk will NOT extend to Fort Wilderness guests next year, has many rethinking their stay at the campground in 2027. via @bioreconstruct on X/Twitter While you’re booking your hotel, you’re also going to think about dining. Between the reviews, menus, and reservation strategies, it’s a lot to sort through. Our Guide to Disney World Dining pulls it all together so you can stop stressing and focus on the fun without feeling like you’re missing a thing! Have a bite! In addition, several other Disney World hotels will have confirmed construction projects during 2027, including: All-Star Movies Refurb: May 2026 to January 2027. Animal Kingdom Lodge Jambo House Refurb: May 2026 to January 2027. Grand Floridian Resort-Wide Refurbishment Including Porte-cochère: Through early 2027. Beach Club Exterior Refurbishment: Through Late 2027. Contemporary Resort-Wide: Through Late 2027. Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge If you’re planning a Walt Disney World trip for 2027, there are some hotels you may want to steer clear of. Stay tuned to DFB for more Disney World tips. 3 Rules To Know BEFORE Booking a Discounted Disney World Hotel Room Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Are you heading to Disney World in 2027? Let us know in the comments below. View the full article

At Disney destinations around the world, creating happiness is often a family tradition. Across generations, cast member dads have built meaningful careers filled with purpose, opportunity, and pride in their work. This Father’s Day, Disney is celebrating the dads whose love for creating memorable guest experiences grew into something even greater: a shared family journey. Across parks, resorts, and ships around the world, children who once looked up to their fathers’ Disney careers are now carrying forward a tradition rooted in hard work, heart, and storytelling. Father's Day Celebrations Disneyland Resort Walt Disney World Resort Disney College Program Aulani Disney Cruise Line A Father-Daughter Journey Fueled by Disneyland Magic Disneyland Resort cast members Lily and Jim share a special father-daughter bond. In 2011, Lily’s wish was granted by Make-A-Wish and Disney, sending her on the trip of a lifetime. Aboard the Disney Dream, Lily set sail to The Bahamas to experience Disney magic at sea and swim with dolphins, but there was even more magic in-store. After spending the last 11 months deployed overseas in Iraq, her father, Jim, was able to join Lily and family on the ship, thanks to Make-A-Wish. Jim is a U.S. Army Veteran with 23 years of service and a member of Disney SALUTE, our veteran employee resource group that honors and empowers cast members with a military background. While on board, the Moser Family experienced incredible care from Disney Cruise Line crew members. “The way the crew treated us, we felt like the only people in their orbit,” Jim raved. “The trip was magical in every way and it’s a memory our entire family will always cherish.” Following her wish, Lily was eager to inspire others and joined the Make-A-Wish Oregon chapter volunteer team as a Wish Ambassador, where she shared her story of hope. Remarkably enough, Jim also served the chapter as a wish granter, helping to make dozens of wishes come true. In 2021, after moving from Portland, Oregon to sunny Southern California, Jim joined the Disneyland Resort Security Special Services team. Feeling inspired by her dad, Lily began her Disney career journey the following year with Disney Imagination Campus. To celebrate their incredible Disney journey and the magic of wish granting, we invited Lily and Jim to join us at our Wishes Assemble event. Hosted by Disney, Make-A-Wish and MrBeast, the event celebrated nearly 40 wish children and their families on World Wish Day at Disneyland Resort. Lily and Jim reflect on their time at Disney as a full-circle moment. Once their annual family vacation spot, Disneyland is now a place where the father-daughter duo can reminisce while feeling proud to represent the magic daily as cast members. But at the root of it all, Disney will always hold a special place in their hearts. “My life would not have been the same without the hope, strength, and joy Make-A-Wish and Disney brought me and my family,” said Lily. Lily is proud to share she is now seven years seizure-free and her critical illness diagnosis is considered resolved, and as a father, Jim could not be happier. To learn more about Lily and Jim’s story of hope, check out their feature right here on the Disney Parks Blog. Disney Dads Inspiring the Next Generation at Walt Disney World Across the country at Walt Disney World Resort, Brian’s journey began with a honeymoon trip that inspired him and his wife to leave Chicago for Central Florida in search of a better future. He started as a Walt Disney World Resort bus driver and steadily built his career over time while supporting his family. Through the Walt Disney World Electrical Apprenticeship Program, he developed new skills, grew into leadership roles and now helps lead the overnight Engineering Services operations that keep Magic Kingdom powered and ready for guests each day. At home, his children watched that journey unfold through the persistence and pride he brought to his work. Today, that influence continues through his son, Giovanni, who supports events at ESPN Wide World of Sports, and his daughter, Gianna, who creates meaningful guest experiences at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort while continuing her education through Disney Aspire, the company’s education investment program. “Seeing my dad’s Disney story play out in front of us really inspired my sister and I to dream big and take pride in the magic we help create,” Giovanni shared. For Gianna, watching her father’s growth showed her what was possible. “Seeing how much pride he took in creating magical experiences made me want to be part of that too,” she said. “Now, getting to welcome families at the start of their vacations feels really special because I remember feeling that same excitement growing up.” For Brian, seeing his children build careers of their own at Walt Disney World has become one of the most meaningful parts of his 25-year Disney journey. “You always hope your kids are proud of the example you set,” Brian said. “Watching them build lives and careers of their own here means more to me than I can explain.” The Pride of Seeing Something Familiar Begin Again For nearly four decades, Faron Kelley has helped shape guest experiences across Disney through leadership roles spanning entertainment, marketing, and operations. Today, he serves as senior vice president of Disney Sales Strategy and Solutions. His daughter, Callie, grew up watching the care, leadership, and passion he brought to his teams each day. Years later, she followed in his footsteps through the Disney College Program and now works in Magic Kingdom merchandise, recently stepping into a coordinator role in Liberty Square. “When she came home from Traditions with her name tag and costume on, that’s when it really hit me,” Faron shared. “Seeing her begin her own journey here after growing up around this company was incredibly emotional.” How Hawaiian Culture Brought Father and Daughter to Aulani Resort When Kamalia Hopkins first started her role as a Youth Activities Counselor at Aulani Resort in November 2024, she was hesitant to share that her dad, Kama Hopkins, was Aulani’s Hawaiian Culture Advisor. “I wanted to prove myself and show that I was a good worker,” Kamalia said. “I didn’t want anyone thinking I got the job because I have connections.” But keeping the secret proved to be difficult considering they have the same name. Kama Hopkins is known throughout Aulani as talkative, friendly, and positive – whether you’re referring to dad or daughter. “People say we’re both Mr. and Miss Aloha,” Kamalia laughs. “My dad is always the first one to make friends with new cast members, and I try to be the same way.” The elder Kama shared one of his favorite sayings, passed along by one of his mentors, “Always with aloha,” he says. “I teach my kids to approach everything from a place of aloha.” At Aulani Resort, aloha is shared daily by both Kama and Kamalia. In her role at Aunty’s Beach House, Kamalia helps lead Aulani’s youngest guests through programs and activities, many of which involve stories of Hawai‘i. As Hawaiian Culture Advisor, Kama guides how the culture is presented, ensuring that Aulani’s use of language and stories is accurate and appropriate. Beyond their titles, Kama and Kamalia are also two of the 31 cast members at Aulani Resort who are fluent in ‘Ōlelo Hawai‘i, Hawaiian language. Kamalia shares her dad’s love and appreciation for ‘Ōlelo Hawai‘i and speaks it with keiki as much as possible. “Sometimes we get kids in Aunty’s Beach House who speak Hawaiian, and I’m thankful that I get to be a resource for them. I can play games with them in Hawaiian and help them exercise their main language outside of home and school.” While they’re family by blood, the ‘ohana created at Aulani seems to be what attracted them to Disney, and also keeps them both here. “As a parent, I see the family environment that exists naturally at Aulani,” says Kama. “The opportunity for growth in Disney is unlike any company I’ve ever worked for. With her skills and background, I knew this was the right place for my daughter.” Kamalia agrees, “It’s the people. My leaders are always praising us for the good work we do, and they’re so encouraging and uplifting. Even if I was at Aulani for staycation, I’d stop in to see my coworkers.” She has also warmed up to sharing that Kama is her dad, “I’m so glad that my dad is someone who people like to have around and enjoy working with,” says Kamalia. “He is one of the most positive, loving and friendly people I know. That’s how I try to live.” A Family Affair at Sea: How One Father Made Disney His Family Legacy Aboard the Disney Dream, one crew member is living a fatherhood journey unlike any other. Alex, a dedicated part of the Disney Cruise Line team for the past 13 years, is experiencing the ultimate gift of working side-by-side with his two sons, Alex Christopher, and Oriel. Alex’s story began with a leap of faith when he left the Dominican Republic to pursue a contract at sea. His initial goal was simple: help his family reach their financial goals. What started as a temporary career choice quickly evolved into a deep-seated pride in leadership, mentorship, and Disney culture. “When I first started 13 years ago… I thought it would be a short contract,” Alex recalled. “But then you see the impact you make, and Disney becomes a part of who you are. Now, looking at my boys next to me, I realize I wasn’t just building a career; I was building a path for them.” Inspired by their father’s career, Alex Christopher, and Oriel eventually decided to forgo career paths on land to head out to sea. Stepping onto a cruise ship as a first-time crew member brings an inevitable wave of homesickness. When Alex Christopher followed in his father’s footsteps, his first few months were tough — the two were stationed on different ships, and the distance felt vast. To support the family, Disney Cruise Line facilitated a transfer to bring them together. “The first few months on a different ship were really hard,” he said. “But when I requested a transfer to be with my dad and brother, and Disney approved it, that changed everything. I remember telling my brother, ‘Wow, Disney really do magic’—not just for the guests on the upper decks, but for us down here.” “Having them here changed ship life from an endurance test into a comfort,” Oriel added. “You come off a long shift, and you aren’t alone in a room. You are with your blood.” On duty, their dynamic is rooted in deep professional respect. Off duty, their shared cabin fills with the joyful energy of home. “When we are in the cabin, it’s loud, we are playing music from back home, watching movies, joking around, and just being a family,” Oriel said. “But the moment we put on that nametag and step through the door, it’s strict professionalism. On deck, he isn’t ‘Dad’: He is a leader, and we respect that.” This dedication to excellence can be hard to switch off. Alex’s wife frequently laughs during his vacation time back home, teasing him for bringing his rigorous Disney standards into their household. “She says, ‘Alex, you bring too much of that Disney perfectionism home with you. Relax, you aren’t on the ship!’ I can’t help it, it’s the standard we live by now,” Alex said with a smile. For Alex, being a father at sea has redefined what it means to anchor a family. Instead of watching his children grow up from afar through occasional phone calls, he is actively guiding his children through adulthood and career success right beside them. “People ask me if it’s hard working with my kids, and I tell them it is the greatest gift,” he said. “Most fathers have to say goodbye and wonder how their sons are growing up. I get to stand right next to them and watch them become men, professionals, and leaders every single day. That is the real magic.” A Place Where Careers and Family Grow Together At Disney, no two career journeys look exactly the same, but many share a common thread of growth, purpose, and connection. Some begin in frontline roles and evolve into skilled trades or operations. Others unfold over decades, leading teams and helping shape the future of the business. Along the way, something even more meaningful often takes root. Here, careers have a way of growing alongside family, fueled by pride in work and a deep sense of belonging. For many cast members, the values they bring to their teams each day are the same ones their children grow up witnessing at home through leadership, care, accountability, and the way they treat others. Over time, those examples can leave a lasting impact, inspiring the next generation to pursue paths of their own. Today, cast members at Disney build careers, creating stories of mentorship, opportunity, and family legacy that spans generations. This Father’s Day, these families remind us that Disney is more than a place to work. It is a place where passion is passed down, futures take shape, and the example one generation sets can help inspire the next to lead. Celebrating Disney Moms at Disneyland and Disney World READ MORE Why Guests Keep Complimenting Disney Cast Members READ MORE Happy Tears and Hugs During the Disney Cast Member Celebration READ MORE The post Celebrating Disney Cast Fathers Across Disney Experiences appeared first on Disney Parks Blog. View the full article

It’s almost here, the NEW Universal Kids Resort in Frisco, Texas, is about to open! Jurassic World Adventure Camp We’re here, visiting for the first time at a media event, and we’ve stepped inside the park to bring you a full look! There are new lands themed to popular franchises that kids love, and one of those lands is all about DINOSAURS. Yep, we’re going inside Jurassic World Adventure Camp…come along with us! This new park opens officially on July 1st, 2026, and it’s designed to appeal primarily to kids. One of the themed lands here is Jurassic World Adventure Camp, which is designed for little ones to experience dinosaurs up-close and personal. Let’s check it out! Atmosphere When you walk into Jurassic World Adventure Camp, we feel like we were transported into Jurassic World (or Park. We respect the originals, too). Come on in! One of the best things about this land is the multiple play areas that kids can explore. There’s a sensory garden… Sensory Garden …play areas themed to dinosaur paddocks… Paddock Play …and Jurassic World Lookout Towers that your kids can scale! How cool is that? Lookout tower Jurassic World: Cretaceous Coaster Our first ride in the land is Jurassic World: Cretaceous Coaster. This is described as, “Baby Bumpy, the curious Ankylosaurus, has gone missing — and we need your help finding her. Board a Jurassic World ranger vehicle and join the search as you roar through the land on this exciting roller coaster ride.” Creatious Coaster You’ll zoom through twists and turns as you search for Bumpy on this ride, and it has a height requirement of 39″. Those under 48″ must be accompanied by a supervising companion. Now on to the next ride! Pteranodrop Nearby, you’ll find Pteranodrop, a gentle drop ride made for kids and parents alike. You’ll get excellent views of Jurassic World Adventure Camp from this vantage point! Pteranodrop The minimum height for this ride is 36,” and you’ll get to dip and soar like a real Pteranodon. How exciting! Mr. DNA’s Double-Helix Spin The third ride in this area of the park is Mr. DNA’s Double-Helix Spin. You’ll board a pod and join Mr. DNA to spin round and round aboard a giant double-helix in a fun twist on a teacup-style ride. Double Helix Spin There’s no height requirement for this ride, but hand-held infants are not permitted. Baby Raptor Meet-and-Greet Of course, one of the big highlights of this land is the baby raptor meet-and-greet. While you’re visiting the adventure camp, you can get up close and personal with a baby dinosaur! It’s so cute! WE JUST MET A BABY RAPTOR AT THE NEW UNIVERSAL KIDS RESORT! Dining While we weren’t able to try any of the bites since they were sold out by the time we got there, we did get to see Jurassic World Canteen. You’ll be able to grab dino nuggets on mashed potatoes that look like a volcano. Jurassic World Canteen That’s a wrap on our first visit to Jurassic World Adventure Camp. We’ll be covering more excitement from this new park, so stay tuned to DFB for the latest. Learn More About Universal Kids Resort Here! Read more: DFB's complete guide to Universal’s Epic Universe >> Would you visit this new park? Let us know in the comments! Disclosure: In nearly all circumstances, Disney Food Blog writers and photographers pay full price for their own travel, hotel, food, beverage, and event tickets. We do this because it’s important to us as journalists to ensure not only that we give you unbiased opinions, but also that you can trust us to do so since we’re paying our own way. On rare occasions, when we are invited by a company to attend a preview as media, and when we choose to accept that invitation, we will always make you, our readers, aware of that situation. Today, we were invited by Universal to attend their media preview of Universal Kids Resort. Note that when we attend events as media we are 1) Not required to review that event/food on any of our channels, and 2) Not required to review that event/food favorably. You can always count on DFB to give you a 100% unbiased and honest review of any event that we attend, food that we eat, or beverage that we drink. You can see more in our Disclosure Policy. Thank you for reading. — AJ View the full article

We know a lot of you live for the vintage Disney vibes. There’s just something about that old-school animation and hand-drawn designs that hits different. Hi Mickey! If your style leans more “classic” than “latest movie merch,” then these retro Disney tees might be your new go-to park outfit staples. We found some seriously fun tees that are giving us that retro vibe and you’re going to love them! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Get this Mickey Mouse and Friends Tee here! ©Amazon Nothing is more classic than Mickey Mouse and his friends! This Mickey and Friends tee is on sale right now and features Mickey, Goofy, Donald, and Pluto. It’s made out of 100% cotton as well. view ON AMAZON This Robin Hood tee is retro! ©Amazon This Robin Hood Classic shirt comes in a ton of color options. It has sizes small to 6XL tall. Robin Hood came out in 1973, so this shirt is very retro. It’s great for old-school Disney fans. view ON AMAZON Don’t forget this Mickey and gang shirt! ©BoxLunch As we said, Mickey and friends are retro! This BoxLunch shirt shows off the Sensational Six in their classic outfits. These shirts are 100% cotton and would look great with jeans, shorts, or leggings! view ON AMAZON Don’t forget to grab this Mickey tee! ©BoxLunch This Mickey Mouse Vintage Logo Youth Shirt is available on BoxLunch. This is the shirt that is simple, but still shows your Disney pride. We love the bright colors in the Mickey, with Mickey himself being the “I”. It comes in XS to XL in youth sizes. view ON Boxlunch And this Mickey and friends retro tee from BoxLunch! ©BoxLunch This Mickey and Friends tee is similar to the Amazon one, but with this beautiful, bright blue color! This is a youth shirt, so keep that in mind when choosing sizing. The shirt is made out of 60% Cotton and 40% Polyester. view ON BoxLunch Or, you can grab this Goofy Movie tee. ©Target 90’s kids love a Goofy Movie, and this Target shirt is perfect! Featuring all your favorite characters like Max and Roxanne, with “Eye to Eye Forever” written on the front. It has retro designs in the background on the front. view ON target Don’t forget this Villains tee from Target! ©Target This Villains Have More Fun tee is perfect for a day at Hollywood Studios or around the Halloween season. Own the moment with this stylish new every day women’s scoop neck t-shirt that is perfect for every occasion! Featuring a distressed poster of your favorite characters like Ursula, Evil Queen, Cruella, and Maleficent. view ON Target We’re always on the hunt for the latest and greatest Disney souvenirs and essentials, so don’t forget to stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for more! View the full article

Howdy, partner! Disney and Pixar’s Toy Story 5 hits theaters this Friday, June 19, and Disney Experiences around the world are getting in on the fun. From fresh new character looks to themed bites and must-have merchandise, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate at Disney Parks. Let’s round up all the offerings with our favorite toy crew. New Looks, New Adventures Your favorite characters are sporting fresh new looks across Disney Parks, complete with updated accessories inspired by the film—including Woody’s bandana poncho, Jessie’s sheriff badge, and Buzz Lightyear’s star sticker. Woody, Buzz Lightyear, and Jessie are greeting guests at Pixar Pier in Disney California Adventure park at Disneyland Resort, Toy Story Land in Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, Westernland in Tokyo Disneyland, and Disney•Pixar Toy Story Land in Shanghai Disney Resort. You can also spot Jessie and Woody appearing at Jessie’s Round Up: A Rip-Roarin’ Revue! as part of Cool KIDS’ SUMMER at Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World Resort and at Disney Adventure World, the newly reimagined second Disney park at Disneyland Paris, alongside a special appearance from all-new tech toy Lilypad. These limited-time looks won’t be around forever, so be sure to catch your favorite toys while they’re still in style. Food and Beverage Saddle up for a salty snack with the all-new Bullseye Bucket, available starting June 18 at Disneyland Resort in Disney California Adventure park and coming soon to Walt Disney World at Magic Kingdom and Disney’s Hollywood Studios (limit two per person, per transaction; available while supplies last). Modeled like everyone’s favorite loyal steed from Toy Story, this fun collectible is the perfect way to bring a little Wild West charm to your snack time. Guests can enjoy a lineup of returning Toy Story-inspired treats at Disneyland Resort, including a Forky Cake Pop available at Bing Bong’s Sweet Stuff in Disney California Adventure, plus a Moonliner Macaron and The Green Drink at Alien Pizza Planet in Disneyland park. Plus, the Little Green Men Jetpack Sipper has touched down in both Tomorrowland in Disneyland park and Pixar Pier in Disney California Adventure. Talk about an out-of-this-world way to stay refreshed! There’s even more to discover over at Walt Disney World. From the Yodel-ay-hee-hoo! Cheesecake at Amorette’s Patisserie in Disney Springs to the Lilypad Lunch Box Tart at Woody’s Lunch Box in Disney’s Hollywood Studios, themed treats are popping up across the resort. At Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, check out new items through August 31, 2026, including an all-new experience “Pixar Dine & Play Party” at Main Street Corner Cafe Hosted by Coca-Cola, as well as a variety of Toy Story-themed offerings at Plaza Inn and outdoor vending carts. Over at Shanghai Disney Resort, keep your eyes peeled while you snack at Tomorrowland’s Stargazer Grill. You may spot new décor throughout, and if you pick up some popcorn, don’t miss the Toy Story 5-themed scoops; they’re a fun little detail worth catching. Disneyland Paris has a lineup of new treats ready for you to dig into, including a collection of doughnuts at the Searchlight Kiosk (pistachio fans won’t want to miss the Lilypad doughnut). Over at the Worlds of Pixar Kiosk, you can also find Bullseye and Jessie macarons, while Ice Cream Creations is serving up the Buzz Lightyear Magnum Bar for a cool treat. If you’re still craving some more delicious delights, head over to The Hollywood Gardens Restaurant for the Emperor Zurg Burger and the Infinity & Beyond Eclair, or mosey on to Fine Foods for the Alien, Piggy Bank, and Forky Biscuits. Plenty of bites to keep your adventure going! New in-park offerings and seasonal hotel menus are on the way this summer to Tokyo Disney Resort. Starting July 1, Pan Galactic Pizza Port will feature Pizza Planet-themed items, including pepperoni pizza with star-shaped cheese slices. Beyond the parks, Disney hotels will offer their own lineup of themed dining experiences from July 1 through September 14. At the Toy Story Hotel, the Lotso Garden Cafe will offer vibrant, visually playful dishes at the buffet, while the Disney Ambassador Hotel will feature Woody- and Jessie-inspired items at Tick Tock Diner. Over at the Tokyo Disneyland Hotel, Canna will offer multi-course meals with colorful desserts and children’s menu options, and Dreamers Lounge will present select dishes with eye-catching nods to our favorite toy crew. The Dreamers Lounge menu will be available through August 11. Entertainment The Toy Story celebration comes to life in even more ways with special entertainment offerings. Join the fun at Jessie’s Roundup: A Rip-Roarin’ Revue! this Cool KIDS’ SUMMER at the Diamond Horseshoe in Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World, where Jessie, Woody, and Bullseye lead a rootin’, tootin’ good time filled with songs, dancing, games, and more. At Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, “Pixar Pals Spectacular” takes center stage as the pinnacle nighttime experience of “Pixar Summer Fest.” This breathtaking show will unfold just before the beloved “Momentous” nighttime spectacular, transforming the sky into a vibrant celebration of Pixar stories, including special appearance of new friends from Toy Story 5, and inviting guests to look up as the night comes alive with wonder. Guests can also splash, dance and cheer along Toy Story characters at the two parades – “Pixar Water Play Street Party!” and “Friendtastic!”. Bonus Playtime Looking for a few extra ways to play? There’s even more to discover around the parks with these interactive and shareable experiences. Bring your favorite characters to life with guided drawing experiences across the parks. Follow along as artists teach step-by-step lessons to sketch Woody, Jessie, Bullseye, Buzz Lightyear, and Lilypad at the Animation Academy in Disney California Adventure park at Disneyland Resort. It’s a chance to see how these iconic Pixar characters come together, step by step. Meanwhile, at Disney Adventure World in Disneyland Paris, you can draw Woody, Jessie, Buzz Lightyear, and Lilypad. Each sketch becomes a personal keepsake, with artists of all ages bringing their favorite toys to life. Be sure to sign your masterpiece before you go! Blending creativity and character moments, the brand-new Draw & Meet experience at Animation Academy in Hong Kong Disneyland Resort invites guests to sketch Bullseye, Lotso, or Rex before stepping next door to meet them in person. While exploring Pixar Place Hotel at Disneyland Resort, pause to take in a special installation highlighting Toy Story 5 located on the second-floor atrium. Guests are invited to explore drawings, paintings, a sculpture, and behind the scenes footage from the film. Surfs up, summer lovers! “Disney Poolside Splash Bash” is coming to each of the Disneyland Resort Hotels on Thursdays and Sundays, beginning July 2, featuring Disney trivia, music through the decades, and characters showing off some of their dance moves. Groove along with Jessie, Bo Peep, and Woody at Pixar Place Hotel, Disneyland Hotel, and Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa for a root’n and toot’n dance party and good time to help celebrate the release of Toy Story 5! At Shanghai Disney Resort, keep an eye out for new décor featuring characters throughout Disney•Pixar Toy Story Land and at the Toy Story Hotel. And be sure to strike a pose at the Toy Story 5 photo op at the main entrance of Pixar Adventurous Journey. Looking for more fun at Disneyland Paris? Take part in a scavenger-style hunt to spot 15 customized Pizza Planet miniature trucks tucked throughout Worlds of Pixar at Disney Adventure World. While you search, be sure to check out the custodial water art near the entrance of Animation Celebration: you might see some familiar Toy Story characters. Alaska Airlines is bringing the next chapter of the iconic Toy Story franchise to the skies with a new livery inspired by Toy Story 5, in theaters June 19. The all-new design features fan favorites Woody, Buzz Lightyear, and Jessie, along with new characters including Lilypad, Snappy, Atlas, and Smarty Pants. Check it out in the video above! Toy Story Finds to Take Home Looking to bring the magic home with you? There’s no shortage of playful finds to pack in your suitcase and relive the fun long after your visit. At Walt Disney World, swing by Jessie’s Trading Post at Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Store Command at Magic Kingdom to see their new goodies. At Disneyland Resort, stop by Little Green Men Store Command at Disneyland and Midway Mercantile at Disney California Adventure to check out the latest finds. Continue the quest for new favorites at Pixar Adventurous Journey and Al’s Toy Barn at Shanghai Disney Resort. While visiting Disneyland Paris, visit Animation Celebration and Mickey’s of Hollywood for new products of toys, clothes, pins, and collectibles to discover the latest treasures inspired by the film. Stop by Andy’s Toy Box in Hong Kong Disneyland Resort and build up your own toy box with the wide range of Toy Story and Pixar-themed collectibles, apparels, and accessories. You’ll be set for a day of adventure in style! Disney Consumer Products Playtime just unlocked a whole new level with the Ultimate Action Woody and Ultimate Action Buzz Lightyear from Mattel. These interactive figures come with “toy” and “alive” play modes for long-lasting fun! In “Toy mode,” Woody and Buzz have their basic toy features – but in “Alive mode”, Woody and Buzz come to life with animatronics, clap and pose recognition, and even know when their best pal is nearby and will interact with each other. Get ready to blast off on your next adventure with the Disney and Pixar’s Toy Story 5 | Away Collection, featuring new travel accessories and essentials for Toy Story fans of all ages. With designs inspired by iconic Toy Story characters Woody, Buzz Lightyear, Jessie, and the Aliens, plus newcomer Lilypad, this collection is perfect to add a playful touch to your next getaway. Saddle up in style with the new adidas | Toy Story collection, featuring shoes for kids and adults with new designs inspired by Woody, Buzz Lightyear, and Jessie. The collection is now available at adidas.com, footlocker.com and in select Foot Locker retail locations. You’ve got plenty of friends in this Toy Story 5 Figure Set featuring iconic characters like Woody, Buzz Lightyear, and Jessie, plus exciting newcomers like Lilypad and Smarty Pants. And when playtime is done, stay hydrated with the Jessie and Bullseye 30 oz. Stainless Steel Travel Tumbler with Straw, which features Jessie and Bullseye in a Western-style design – perfect for any cowgirl (or cowboy) on the go! You can find both of these and even more rootin’ tootin’ new Toy Story 5 treasures on DisneyStore.com and in select Disney Parks retail locations. Discover even more fun and playful Toy Story 5-inspired collections here on Disney Parks Blog! There’s a lot to buzz about. Stay tuned to the Disney Parks Blog and @disneyparks socials for the latest on all-things Toy Story 5 and see the film in theaters this Friday. Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin Tips: How to Score Big READ MORE Saddle Up for ‘Toy Story 5’ with These Products READ MORE Toy Story: Fun Across Disney Parks and More READ MORE The post Round Up the Fun: Toy Story 5 Across Disney Experiences appeared first on Disney Parks Blog. View the full article

A brand-new theme park is officially open, and we’re exploring it ALL! Universal Kids Resort is located in Frisco, a suburb north of Dallas, Texas. It’s aimed at families with young children, but it’s fun for both kids and kids-at-heart! It’s SpongeBob and Patrick! This new theme park features seven lands themed after Shrek, SpongeBob, Minions, Trolls, and Jurassic World. We’ve been making our way around this park, and now we’re exploring the SpongeBob SquarePants Bikini Bottom land! This new theme park is decked out in classic Universal IP like SpongeBob SquarePants, Shrek, Trolls, Grabby’s Dollhouse, and more. Universal Kids Resort features 31 new attractions, rides, shows, meet-and-greets, and more for kids and families to experience. Right now, we’re exploring Bikini Bottom, so come along with us! Attractions Jellyfish Fields Jamboree This floating spinner ride has riders catching jellyfish above the coral alongside SpongeBob himself in their Jelly Angler! It’s similar to Disney’s Dumbo ride, only with a SpongeBob twist! Jellyfish Fields Jamboree Barnacle Bus Barnacle Bus is a slower, sightseeing-style tour through Bikini Bottom with familiar characters and locations along the route. Barnacle Bus Bobbing Barrels This ride is a spinning water attraction that lets you blast water alongside Patrick Star and Sandy Cheeks! Bobbing Barrels Mrs. Puff’s Boating School At Mrs. Puff’s Boating School, get behind the wheel of an undersea vehicle as it spins, swerves, and reverse maneuvers throughout the course. At least SpongeBob won’t be driving this time! Mrs. Puff’s Boating School Mussel Beach and Pineapple Paradise These play areas are perfect for kiddos, with multiple different options. Pineapple Paradise features a splash pad environment, and kids can even go inside SpongeBob’s pineapple house! Pineapple Paradise Food Goofy Goober’s This restaurant features chicken sandwiches, salads, hot dogs, and of course — sky-high sundaes, just like the iconic restaurant from SpongeBob SquarePants. I’m a Goofy Goober, yeah! Goofy Goober’s We’ll be exploring even more of Universal Kids Resort, so keep checking back here for more! In the meantime, make sure you stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for the latest theme park news and more! Universal CONFIRMS 31 New Attractions Set to Open in 2026 DON'T DO IT ALONE! Our favorite people over at Small World Vacations are ready to help you save time, headaches, and best of all, money, when you book your Disney trip or cruise. Their agents compare current offers to find the best deal for you -- they've literally saved their guests millions of dollars since 1996. Plus, their services are 100% FREE FOR YOU! (They're DFB's recommended travel agency, and you can see why here!) So book that trip now, then sit back and enjoy planning your Disney World Trip with a DFB-approved expert! Click here for a no obligation price quote today, and let them know DFB sent you GET MORE INFO Are you planning a trip to Universal Kids Resort in Texas? Let us know in the comments below! Disclosure: In nearly all circumstances, Disney Food Blog writers and photographers pay full price for their own travel, hotel, food, beverage, and event tickets. We do this because it’s important to us as journalists to ensure not only that we give you unbiased opinions, but also that you can trust us to do so since we’re paying our own way. On rare occasions, when we are invited by a company to attend a preview as media, and when we choose to accept that invitation, we will always make you, our readers, aware of that situation. Today, we were invited by Universal Kids Resort to attend their media preview of the new theme park. Note that when we attend events as media we are 1) Not required to review that event/food on any of our channels, and 2) Not required to review that event/food favorably. You can always count on DFB to give you a 100% unbiased and honest review of any event that we attend, food that we eat, or beverage that we drink. You can see more in our Disclosure Policy. Thank you for reading. — AJ View the full article

In case you missed it, we’re at Universal Kids Resort in Frisco, Texas, checking out everything this new theme park has to offer ahead of its official opening date on July 1st. We’ve already given you a full tour of the Universal Kids Resort Hotel, as well as a tour of one of its rooms, but now, we’re INSIDE the theme park, and we have SO much to tell you about. Jurassic World Adventure Camp So the theme park has seven themed lands based on some kid-favorite properties like SpongeBob SquarePants, Shrek, Minions, Trolls, Puss in Boots, and more. Well, that also includes a Jurassic Park-themed land called Jurassic World Adventure Camp…and y’all, this might be our favorite of all the lands because we just met a baby raptor! Jurassic World Adventure Camp is the perfect spot for young adventurers and includes rides like Jurassic World: Cretaceous Coaster and Mr. DNA’s Double Helix Spin, as well as the Jurassic World Lookout Towers. However, the BEST part of Jurassic World Adventure Camp might just be the Baby Raptor Meet and Greet. Yes, you can come face-to-face with a baby raptor. BABY RAPTOR! Universal Kids Resort calls this an experience that’s been “65 million years in the making.” The baby raptor does have a handler with him, because you know…he’s still an itty bitty baby. This is one experience your kids will probably be talking about FOREVER, so be sure to make time for it if you visit Universal Kids Resort. It’s so cute! We’ll be posting even more from Universal Kids Resort, so stay tuned to DFB for more. FULL TOUR of the Brand-New Universal Kids Resort Hotel Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Will you be visiting Universal Kids Resort when it opens? Let us know in the comments! Disclosure: In nearly all circumstances, Disney Food Blog writers and photographers pay full price for their own travel, hotel, food, beverage, and event tickets. We do this because it’s important to us as journalists to ensure not only that we give you unbiased opinions, but also that you can trust us to do so since we’re paying our own way. On rare occasions, when we are invited by a company to attend a preview as media, and when we choose to accept that invitation, we will always make you, our readers, aware of that situation. Today, we were invited by Universal to attend their media preview of Universal Kids Resort. Note that when we attend events as media we are 1) Not required to review that event/food on any of our channels, and 2) Not required to review that event/food favorably. You can always count on DFB to give you a 100% unbiased and honest review of any event that we attend, food that we eat, or beverage that we drink. You can see more in our Disclosure Policy. Thank you for reading. — AJ View the full article

While Universal Kids Resort will officially open on July 1st, we’re at the park right now to experience it early! This is Universal’s first Texas theme park, featuring some of the most popular children’s characters, including SpongeBob, Shrek, and more. Universal Kids Resort The park has seven brand-new lands – Isle of Curiosity, Shrek’s Swamp, Puss in Boots Del Mar, Minions vs. Minions: Bello Bay Club, Jurassic World Adventure Camp, TrollsFest, and SpongeBob SquarePants Bikini Bottom – and we’re taking you with us through all of them! ​​ Universal Kids Resort is a brand-new theme park located in Frisco, Texas, a suburb north of Dallas. It’s aimed at families with young children, with family-friendly characters, rides, and food, but we think it’s fun for both kids and kids-at-heart! Universal Kids Resort Universal Kids Resort features seven different lands themed after Shrek, SpongeBob SquarePants, Minions, Trolls, and Jurassic World. There are over 3o new attractions, dozens of new restaurants, seven new gift shops, one new show, and a whole lot more. There’s plenty to see and do, and we’re taking you along for the ride! ©Universal We started by heading to the hotel, where we were blown away by the bright colors. Come on in! We also got to meet a few characters while we were there. Hi there! The Standard Room was built perfectly for families, and we think there’s going to be some arguments about who gets the top bunk. Standard Hotel Room CHECK OUT THE FULL ROOM TOUR HERE! We were not going to skip out on the pool, either. It was no entry, so anyone could walk right in, and we enjoyed lounging around and soaking in the Texas heat. The pool No, really. The pool might be our favorite part of the whole hotel. The pool FULL TOUR OF THE BRAND-NEW UNIVERSAL KIDS RESORT HOTEL Now that we’re in, let’s check out the rest of this park! SpongeBob SquarePants: Bikini Bottom For our first land of the day, we had to hang out at SpongeBob SquarePants: Bikini Bottom! The land has six attractions. First, we rode Barnacle Bus, which took us on a tour of Bikini Bottom, taking in the sights and familiar faces from Goofy Goober’s to Glovey Glove and SpongeBob’s loyal pet, Gary the Snail. Barnacle Bus We were super excited to ride Mrs. Puff’s Boating School. We had our undersea boating license ready and rode on through. Luckily, we stayed on the road a little easier than SpongeBob. Mrs. Puff’s Boating School Look at Bobbing Barrels! Patrick was waving us in, and with the hot Texas sunshine, we were ready for a cooler water ride. Bobbing Barrels We also checked out some of the photo ops around! Photo ops There’s also a brand-new restaurant called Goofy Goober’s that serves the iconic Goofy Goober Sundaes. Goofy Goober’s Yes, dreams came true the minute we held them in our hands. It felt just like the cartoon! IT’S GORGEOUS! Of course, we played in the splash pad a little bit, too. Splash pad CHECK OUT EVERYTHING YOU CAN SEE AND DO IN SPONGEBOB’S BIKINI BOTTOM Jurassic World Adventure Camp Next, we went to Jurassic World Adventure Camp to meet real-life dinosaurs and ride some more attractions. All Jurassic Park and Jurassic World fans will want to check out this land to live their dinosaur-exploring dreams. Jurassic World Adventure Camp We met a baby raptor, and it was awesome. BABY RAPTOR! CHECK OUT MORE DETAILS ABOUT OUR DINO MEET AND GREET HERE! We had to ride Jurassic World: Cretaceous Coaster, a family coaster where you search for Baby Bumpy, a curious ankylosaurus that has gone missing. Cretaceous Coaster Then, we hopped on Pteranodrop, a ride that takes you into the skies like a pteranodon! We had an amazing view of the park. Pteranodrop Lastly, we rode Mr. DNA’s Double Helix Spin, where we hopped in a colorful pod and joined Mr. DNA for a fun experience packed with tons of twists and turns! Mr. DNA’s Double Helix Spin There’s also some pretty fun playgrounds like this massive climbing tower… Lookout tower …and this dinosaur you can play on! Paddock Play For dining, you can check out Jurassic World Canteen. They were sold out of dishes when we made our way over, but you’ll be able ot get pizza and dino nuggets on mashed potatoes that look like a volcano. Jurassic World Canteen CHECK OUT EVERYTHING YOU CAN DO AT JURASSIC WORLD ADVENTURE CAMP HERE! We’re going to be updating this post throughout our trip at Universal Kids Resort, so keep checking back for new details and info. Stay tuned to Disney Food Blog for more Universal Kids Resort news! Ticket Prices REVEALED for NEW Universal Theme Park — And They’re ON SALE NOW! Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Are you planning on going to Universal Kids Resort? Comment below! Disclosure: In nearly all circumstances, Disney Food Blog writers and photographers pay full price for their own travel, hotel, food, beverage, and event tickets. We do this because it’s important to us as journalists to ensure not only that we give you unbiased opinions but also that you can trust us to do so since we’re paying our own way. On rare occasions, when we are invited by a company to attend a preview as media, and when we choose to accept that invitation, we will always make you, our readers, aware of that situation. Today, we were invited by Universal to attend their media preview of Universal Kids Resort. Note that when we attend events as media, we are 1) not required to review that event/food on any of our channels, and 2) not required to review that event/food favorably. You can always count on DFB to give you a 100% unbiased and honest review of any event that we attend, food that we eat, or beverage that we drink. You can see more in our Disclosure Policy. Thank you for reading. — AJ View the full article

If there is one thing Disney fans love, it is a ride with a long line. The longer the wait, the more convinced we become that whatever is on the other side must be life-changing. Surely this attraction will heal our skin, balance our finances, and justify standing in the Florida sun for an hour and a half. Hello, EPCOT! Unfortunately, that is not always how it works. EPCOT is packed with great attractions, but it is also a park where time management matters. Between the size of the park, the popularity of certain rides, and the temptation to spend half your day eating your way around World Showcase, every hour counts. That is why not every headliner deserves equal priority. In fact, there is one of EPCOT’s most popular rides that we would seriously consider skipping in 2026, especially if you only have a single day in the park. Before anyone panics, we are not just taking rides away. We are also talking about the attractions that deserve your time instead. What You Should Skip If we had to skip one major EPCOT ride in 2026, we would seriously consider skipping Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure. Do not start throwing tiny chef hats at us just yet. Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure is cute. It is charming. It sits in the France Pavilion, which already feels like EPCOT put on perfume and decided to be better than everyone. The ride shrinks you down to the size of a rat and sends you scurrying through Gusteau’s kitchen in a trackless ride vehicle, which is a very fun concept. But “fun concept” and “worth rearranging your whole day around” are not always the same thing. Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure Remy’s is still one of the bigger EPCOT draws, and that means it can come with a big wait. It is also one of the attractions in EPCOT’s top Lightning Lane Multi Pass group, along with Frozen Ever After and Test Track. That makes your choice a little more painful. If you pick Remy as your advanced selection, you may be passing up Frozen or Test Track. If you do not pick it, you may be staring down a standby wait that feels longer than the wait at the Les Halles bakery case. The line for Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure There is also the ride experience itself. Remy has improved for some guests since moving away from the old 3D glasses setup, but it is still a screen-heavy attraction with a lot of movement. If rides with swooping visuals, big screens, and trackless motion make your stomach start a full-blown revolution, this may not be your best use of time. Alfredo And then there is the thrill factor. Remy does not have a height requirement, which is great for families with little kids. But if your group is made up of teens, adults, thrill-seekers, or people who want their EPCOT ride to have a little more “did my soul briefly leave my body?” energy, Remy may not be the one. It is not a bad ride. It is just not the ride we would automatically protect at all costs. Why Remy Can Be a Trap The tricky thing about Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure is that it feels like a must-do because it is popular. That is how Disney gets us. We see a long line and assume the cheese must be magical. Sometimes it is. Sometimes the cheese is perfectly fine, but we have now waited longer than it takes to watch an actual Pixar movie. Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure Standby Line Remy can also create a weird morning traffic jam. Guests entering through International Gateway often head straight to France. Guests coming from the front of the park may also aim for Remy after making the long trek through World Showcase. Suddenly, the France Pavilion is less “charming Parisian morning” and more “tiny rat marathon.” The wait time jumps up quick! If you are staying at a Skyliner resort or entering through International Gateway, Remy might still make sense early in the day. It is right there. You are close. You have geography on your side, and geography is the most underrated Disney strategy tool. Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure But if you are entering through the front of EPCOT, be honest about what you are signing up for. That walk to France is not nothing. EPCOT is a large park, and starting your morning with a long hike toward one of the most popular rides can leave you sweaty, cranky, and questioning every sandal choice you have ever made. What We’d Ride Instead If you are going to skip Remy, we would prioritize Frozen Ever After or Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind instead. Yes, they are wildly different rides. One is a musical boat ride through Arendelle. The other is a giant indoor coaster where the soundtrack may permanently rearrange your brain chemistry. There’s an EPCOT for everyone. Frozen Ever After Frozen Ever After is the better pick if you are traveling with kids, Frozen fans, boat ride loyalists, or anyone who wants a classic Disney attraction with just enough excitement to keep things interesting. It has music. It has characters. It has a small drop. It has the kind of queue that actually gives you something to look at, which is not a small thing when you are waiting in theme park time, where 20 minutes can feel like a weather event. Frozen Ever After Frozen Ever After is also a strong use of a Lightning Lane Multi Pass selection because it is in that top EPCOT group with Remy and Test Track. If your family is more into Anna, Elsa, and Olaf than rats in a restaurant wall, this is the easier call. Frozen Ever After The ride is not a major thrill ride, but it does feel more broadly satisfying for a lot of families. It is cute without being too chaotic. It is familiar without being boring. And it gives you that “we did a real Disney ride” feeling without needing to recover afterward in the fetal position near a Norway trash can. 3 Things That’ll Make Your Ride on Frozen Ever After in Disney World 10x Better Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind If your group wants the best ride in EPCOT, Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind is probably the one to beat. This is EPCOT’s big coaster. It has a reverse launch, rotating ride vehicles, a giant indoor track, and a randomized soundtrack that can turn your ride into a full cosmic disco fever dream. It is smooth, thrilling, weirdly joyful, and very easy to understand why so many Disney fans treat it like the park’s crown jewel. Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind But Guardians is also not for everyone. It has a 42-inch height requirement, and the rotating motion can be rough for guests prone to motion sickness. This is not the ride where you bravely test your limits after eating your way through three festival booths and a suspiciously large margarita. Star Lord! Strategy-wise, Guardians is not part of EPCOT’s regular Multi Pass group. It is a Lightning Lane Single Pass attraction, so you will need to plan differently if you want to skip the standby line. That means it does not compete with Remy, Frozen, or Test Track in the same Lightning Lane selection pool, but it does compete with your budget and your tolerance for standby wait times. Still, if everyone in your group can ride it and wants a thrill, this is where we would put our energy. The NEW Rule You Need To Know at Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind in EPCOT The Other 2026 Option You Should Not Ignore There is another ride that deserves attention in 2026: Soarin’ Across America. Soarin’ has a new film in EPCOT right now, and that alone may make it a bigger priority than usual. If you have not ridden the updated version yet, this is a solid “ride instead” pick, especially for guests who want something scenic, gentle, and big-feeling without going full Guardians. Soarin’ Across America It also puts you in The Land Pavilion, which brings us to the part where I become deeply predictable. A Word of WARNING About the New Soarin’ in Disney World My Personal EPCOT Queen Living with the Land. There. I said it, and I will say it again with a tiny tomato crown. Living with the Land Living with the Land is not the flashy pick. It is not the ride people sprint toward at rope drop unless they are blessed with taste and a deep respect for greenhouse drama. But it is one of the best rides in EPCOT because it understands the assignment EPCOT was originally built to complete. Well, that was something…or nothing It is relaxing. It is interesting. It is air-conditioned. It has boats, fish farms, Mickey-shaped produce, and the comforting energy of a PBS special with better lighting. You leave feeling calmer, smarter, and slightly more invested in hydroponics than you expected to be. A festival-exclusive display And here is the real strategy perk: Living with the Land often has a much more reasonable wait than EPCOT’s headliners. You can ride it without spending your whole morning, and then you are already near Soarin’, Sunshine Seasons, and Garden Grill. That is a beautiful little Land Pavilion sandwich, and I will rope that any day of the week. If you are the kind of Disney fan who wants every attraction to throw you around, Living with the Land may not be your headliner. But if you want an attraction that feels classic, weird, peaceful, educational, and deeply EPCOT, this is the one. Skip it at your own spiritual risk. So What Should You Actually Do? Here is the simplest version: If your group loves Pixar, has little kids, is entering through International Gateway, or can grab a reasonable Lightning Lane return time, Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure may still be worth doing. Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure But if the line is huge, your stomach is sensitive, or you only have one day in EPCOT, do not feel guilty about skipping it. Ride Frozen Ever After if you want a better family-friendly classic. Ride Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind if you want the park’s biggest thrill. Ride Soarin’ Across America if you want to see the updated film. Ride Living with the Land if you just want to relax. Living with the Land EPCOT is not a checklist. It is a choose-your-own-adventure with snacks, questionable footwear, and at least one moment where you will wonder why you are walking so much in a park that also sells cheese soup. The best EPCOT day is not the one where you technically did every popular ride. It is the one where you chose the right rides for your group, skipped the ones that were not worth the wait, and still had enough time to eat something ridiculous in a country you did not technically travel to. So go ahead. Skip the rat if you need to. Just do not skip the Land. To get the BEST strategy for your EPCOT visit, make sure to check out our video below. Stay tuned to DFB for more tips and tricks on how to navigate Disney World. Click Here to See the One Ride You Should Never Rope Drop in EPCOT! Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW What’s your go-to ride in EPCOT? Tell us in the comments! View the full article

We may have found the spot at Disney World that guarantees you’re going to find a delicious sweet treat! Cannoli Cupcake If you’ve ever been to the Artist’s Palette at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort, you know that the artwork they create there is the tasty art that dances on your taste buds. There are so many options around Disney World to find a sweet treat, but this place has TONS to offer. Which is why we grabbed FIVE desserts from here! The Artist’s Palette has so many things to offer. They have meals, snacks, drinks, but what we really went for were the sweets. From cakes to brownies to cream puffs, there is a wild selection of goodies at your fingertips. As we said, we got five treats, and we’re sharing them all with you! Artist’s Palette Let’s start with the Cannoli Cupcake for $6.99. This was one of those big Disney cupcakes that you know will be more than enough. There’s nothing super special about this treat other than the cannolo on top, but it is really good! The cupcake itself is very soft and thick. There’s a lot of icing on this thing, but it isn’t overwhelming. The icing is very soft, and it’s very fluffy. It’s almost like chewing into a cloud. Cannoli Cupcake It also comes with chocolate chips on the top to give it a little bit more of a sweet and flavourful taste. They don’t give you too much chocolate, which is good because it doesn’t overtake the vanilla flavour of the cupcake. It’s so tasty! The chocolate-covered cannolo on top is filled with this thicker icing. It’s the same icing you’ll find at the centre of the cupcake. The cannolo is really tasty, not nearly as sweet as you think it would be, which we appreciated. Great crunch, definitely a texture change from the cupcake. Overall, this is a great treat! The cannoli Next, we had the Pistachio-Chocolate Cream Puff for $6.49. A Cast Member told us that this was supposed to be delicious, so we had high hopes going in! This was really good, but it also feels like a lot. You probably will end up eating half of it and saving half of it for later. Pistachio-Chocolate Cream Puff The cream puff has a really good crunch to it, with a soft interior. It’s filled with custard and chocolate cream. The inside of the cream puff is soft, and then you add the softness of the two creams inside of it, you get the perfect balance. Let’s take a bite! We will say, this one on the surface doesn’t look too appetizing, but it’s the taste that counts! It doesn’t look the prettiest, but it’s tasty! Then there’s the Pineapple-Coconut Cheesecake for $6.29. Even if you’re not the biggest coconut fan, and you’re a little skeptical going into this one, don’t worry. You’ll probably still enjoy this. The cheesecake is extremely soft, like biting into a cloud. Pineapple-Coconut Cheesecake It goes down super easily, and the cookie layer at the bottom has a really good balance to the texture. They really knew how to balance the flavors on this because you don’t get too much pineapple, and you don’t get too much coconut. It’s really just a nice, refreshing summer treat. You have to try this! We loved the Toasted Marshmallow Brownie for $5.99. The Cast Member at the cashier told us that this is so much better warm than cold. The treat comes cold, so we let it sit a little to get to room temperature at least, before digging in. This probably had the most unique mix of flavors out of all of the treats. Toasted Marshmallow Brownie You get Graham cracker, you get brownie, you get chocolate, you get marshmallow, this thing has it all. We do think the cast member was right, and that this probably is just better warmer (or at least room temperature). We didn’t try it cold, but we don’t know if we would want to. We feel like taste-wise, it is super chocolate heavy, which makes sense since a brownie. Look at this! This is probably a given, but brownie fans will love this treat! Honestly, any dessert fan should really like this. The whole thing is pretty soft. We expected a little bit of a crunch with the cracker at the bottom, but it didn’t really add much of a texture difference. They added the right amount of marshmallows because you can actually taste them despite the brownie being so chocolate-heavy. Let’s take a bite! Lastly, we had the Pride Honey Cake for $6.99, which is only here for June. This cake was deceivingly thick, to the point where it’s hard to cut into or pull apart with your fork. It’s partly because the cake is thick, but it’s also partly because the icing is thick too. The honeycomb on top of the cake reminds us of that fidget toy, where you pop the inside. There’s also a little bee on top. Pride Honey Cake For it being a honey cake, we do feel like it’s pretty vanilla-forward. You get a little bit of honey from the icing, but the cake is so thick that it just overtakes the whole flavor with vanilla. There’s some blueberry-jam-ish type filling in this cake, which was actually really tasty. We think the cake could’ve used more of that. Look at this! The icing is this interesting foamy texture. It just feels like the cake is wrapped in marshmallow, basically. We’re honestly most surprised by the fact that there just wasn’t more flavor to this other than vanilla cake. The bumblebee on top is one of those soft candies, while the rainbow honeycomb was one of those white chocolate pieces that Disney puts on their cupcakes and cakes. The honeycomb and bee! We weren’t the biggest fans of the honeycomb. It felt kind of like biting into wax, but it’s honestly no different than any other kind that you get around Disney. We think we were expecting more from this, but we did enjoy it! Take a bite! We’re always on the hunt for Disney eats and treats, so make sure to follow us at the Disney Food Blog for even more reviews! The Best Disney World Snacks We’ve Eaten So Far in 2026 Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Have you been to Artist’s Palette? Let us know in the comments! View the full article

Sound the alarm, we’re finally getting details on what’s happening at Disney World’s Boardwalk Resort! BoardWalk A huge announcement was made about tons of things coming to Disney’s Boardwalk Resort. Yes, we finally have answers on what’s happening with what was Jellyrolls, but what we want to talk about right now is a brand-new shopping experience on the way. A new shopping experience is coming to Disney’s Boardwalk Resort, and it’s going to offer vintage charm. The new retail experience is called Basin on the BoardWalk, and it will be rooted in the resort’s classic boardwalk heritage. The store will offer a sensory shopping experience that is described as “both timeless and distinctly new.” Disney’s Boardwalk The store will have a “curated collection of handcrafted products made with quality ingredients, including natural soaps, botanical bath salts, bath bombs, body butters, lip salves, shampoo and conditioner bars, and more.” ©Disney Not only will you be able to shop here, but you can also take a look at the interactive elements that make the experience especially unique. The interactive elements will include a custom bath tea blending counter, a make-your-own-soap station, and a soap embossing press for a personalized finishing touch. If you’ve ever visited the Basin locations at Disney Springs or the Grand Floridian, this will be similar, but with a fun new twist! ©Disney In other news, we also got word on something else new coming soon. Disney’s Boardwalk is getting a new lounge called Hurly-Burly. The lounge will offer guests “fun-filled afternoons and glamorous evenings inside a historic seaside theatre with a vibrant BoardWalk story that spans over a century.” Disney never confirmed that it would be the Jellyrolls building, but we have a hunch! ©Disney The agents at Small World Vacations know how to save money on your Disney Vacation! When you book your trip with Small World Vacations, their experienced agents monitor your reservation for possible future savings. They also compare discounts and figure out which one works best for your travel party, dates, resort, and touring plans. And they share expert tips and first-hand advice with you about your magical vacation. We’re always on top of all the latest Disney news and updates, so make sure to follow us at the Disney Food Blog so you don’t miss a thing! It’s Actually Ridiculous That People Don’t Know About THIS at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Are you excited about the new announcement? Let us know in the comments! View the full article

Disney World is taking this whole BIG CHANGES thing way too seriously. Not only are three of Disney World’s four parks getting new lands and expansions, but Disney Springs is getting new experiences and stores, and there’s even a brand new hotel, Lakeshore Lodge, in the works. BoardWalk So if it feels like Disney World is revealing new things every day, it almost is! Well, hold on to your hats because more changes are on the way because Disney just revealed some big updates happening at Disney’s BoardWalk, including a new quick-service restaurant. Disney just dropped some new announcements about things coming to the BoardWalk soon, including a new lounge, a new shop, and more. Well, at the very tail end of that announcement, Disney revealed the following: “There’s even more to come, with a new quick-service restaurant also coming soon to Disney’s BoardWalk — but more on that later this summer.” Disney’s BoardWalk That’s it. That’s all we have to go on. We know a new quick-service dining spot is coming to Disney’s BoardWalk. We don’t know what it will be or where it will be, but it’s just like Disney to tease something like this and make us wait until later this summer. Since summer just began, it may be another few months before we have any other concrete details. Disney’s BoardWalk Until then, we’ll just have to get excited about the Hurly-Burly, a new lounge coming to Disney’s BoardWalk. During the day, the space will host family-friendly activities, but at night, it’s going to be a live music venue “with classic, coastal-inspired cocktails and tasty light bites.” Sounds fun, right? ©Disney We’ll be keeping an eye out for more updates, so stay tuned to DFB for more. FIRST LOOK Behind the Construction Walls of Monstropolis in Disney World Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW What do you think about these updates? Share your thoughts in the comments! View the full article

There’s quite a bit of empty space at Disney’s BoardWalk that we’ve been waiting and waiting (not so patiently) to see how Disney would fill. We lost Jellyrolls, which was one of our most beloved spots with live music, but it seems like something similar is coming back to the BoardWalk. Old Jellyrolls Disney just made a HUGE announcement with everything coming, but there’s one that is catching our eye. We might have said goodbye to Jellyrolls (well, sort of. It’s moving to a new location outside of Disney), and we might have found a suitable replacement. A new lounge called Hurly-Burly will welcome guests for “fun-filled afternoons and glamorous evenings inside a historic seaside theatre with a vibrant BoardWalk story that spans over a century” and is set to open starting in late 2026. While Disney did not specifically state which building it would be taking over, based on the size and the concept art, we’re thinking it’s going to be in the old Jellyrolls building. ©Disney During the afternoon, there will be family-friendly activities like trivia and other games led by a host, but at night, it switches over to 21-and-over. It will become a live music venue where you can unwind with classic, coastal-inspired cocktails and tasty light bites, while enjoying a variety of musical entertainment that perfectly complements the BoardWalk’s other unique offerings. Uh yeah, that sounds pretty awesome! Disney’s BoardWalk Disney said that you’ll want to visit time and time again, whether you’re coming for a round of daytime trivia or an evening of seaside serenades. We love that it’s both family-friendly and also a space for adults, depending on what time you come. Anywhere with live music, we’re going to be there anytime we can. In the meantime, make sure you keep following Disney Food Blog for more Disney news. FULL GUIDE TO DISNEY WORLD BARS AND LOUNGES Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW View the full article

How Cinderella Castle Was Transformed to Its Classic Look | Disney UnscriptedView the full article

Universal Kids Resort officially opens on July 1st, but we were able to tour the brand-new hotel early! This hotel is built with families in mind and only offers rooms for groups of four or more. Universal Kids Resort Hotel There are four room types – Standard Queen, Deluxe Queen, Signature Queen, and Family Suite. Right now, we’re taking you on a tour of a Standard Queen room. The Standard Queen room is a 288-square-foot room with one queen bed, a twin-over-full bunk bed, and a kid-friendly bathroom. Standard Queen room The bunk beds are a lot of fun, and we can imagine kids are going to fight over them. The color scheme is bright and colorful. Bunk beds There are some super fun lighting fixtures beside the bunk beds. Lighting fixture beside bunk beds Our room had a view right above the theme park entrance. Our view There’s a small table between the bunk beds and the larger bed. Nightstand The bed itself has multiple pillows. Plenty of pillows The nightstand on the other side of the bed has an alarm clock that also has a space to charge your phone on top, as well as a built-in sound machine with eight sounds to choose from. The alarm clock is also a sound machine There’s a place to sit right with a little loveseat, stool, and table. There’s a mirror here, too, as well as a trash and recycling bin. Seating area Underneath the loveseat are more spaces for storing luggage and other things. The one thing about this room is that there are plenty of spaces like this. Lots of storage space Beside that is a wide-screen TV. Underneath the TV are cabinets for storage space. TV and more cabinets One of those cabinets includes the room safe. Room safe You also get an ice bucket and extra cups. Ice bucket There’s a phone, as well. Phone You also get a fun notepad and colored pencils. Love the colored pencils Beside the TV is a large wardrobe for hanging clothes. It also has an extra pillow and blanket, luggage rack, and hangers. Wardrobe The hallway leading into the room is small, but there’s a full-length mirror on the outside of the bathroom door. Hallway There’s a thermostat so you can control the room’s temperature. Thermostat There are plenty of outlets; some are standard, but the ones by the beds and table have a regular outlet, a USB outlet, and a USB-C outlet. Lots of outlets in the room Let’s head into the bathroom. We thought it was a little small, but we also realized this isn’t a hotel where you’ll spend a week or longer…this is a short stay kind of place. There’s a large lighted mirror above the sink and counter. Bathroom There’s just one sink in the bathroom. On the counter are tissues. You’ll also find extra towels and toilet paper underneath. Sink and counter If you need a blow dryer, one is provided. Blow dryer Amenities include Dove soap. Amenities The bathroom also has a bathtub, as well as a shower. Bathtub and shower The tub and shower have a shower curtain. The toilet is right beside the shower and bath. Shower curtain You’ll find Dove shampoo, conditioner, and body wash attached to the wall in dispensers. More Dove amenities We’re so excited to finally be at Universal Kids Resort. Stay tuned to Disney Food Blog for more Universal Kids Resort tours, because we’re taking you through the entire theme park tomorrow! You Can Visit Universal’s NEW Theme Park BEFORE It Opens for Only $50 Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Would you stay at the Universal Kids Resort hotel? Comment below! Disclosure: In nearly all circumstances, Disney Food Blog writers and photographers pay full price for their own travel, hotel, food, beverage, and event tickets. We do this because it’s important to us as journalists to ensure not only that we give you unbiased opinions, but also that you can trust us to do so since we’re paying our own way. On rare occasions, when we are invited by a company to attend a preview as media, and when we choose to accept that invitation, we will always make you, our readers, aware of that situation. Today, we were invited by Universal to attend their media preview of Universal Kids Resort. Note that when we attend events as media, we are 1) Not required to review that event/food on any of our channels, and 2) Not required to review that event/food favorably. You can always count on DFB to give you a 100% unbiased and honest review of any event that we attend, food that we eat, or beverage that we drink. You can see more in our Disclosure Policy. Thank you for reading. — AJ View the full article

If there’s one thing EPCOT in Disney World is known for, it’s probably the FOOD! The entire World Showcase is packed with restaurants, both quick-service and full-service, and if there’s a festival, there’s even more to choose from. We love to dine everywhere, so we can give you the best review and help you decide where to stop during your trip. Tutto Gusto Wine Cellar Let’s go to Tutto Gusto Wine Cellar in the Italy Pavilion in EPCOT. We’re ready to dive into some great Italian dishes, and we’re taking you along! Atmosphere The restaurant is open from 12:30 PM to 9 PM, so it can be great for some late-night options before the park closes. It feels like you’re walking into a real wine cellar with brick everywhere and very little natural light. Come on in! It’s dark and relaxing and doesn’t require an Advanced Dining Reservation. When you don’t want to plan your meal weeks in advance, this can be a great spot while you’re in the World Showcase. The bar Menu Who’s ready for some Italian Food? They offer some classic Italian dishes, and there are tons of Italians wines to try. The plates are smaller since we’re here to focus on the drinks with a little bit of food on the side. The counter You can check out cocktails and limoncello, too! While there is no kids’ menu, all members of the family are welcome inside to enjoy some of the bites. Yum! Eats We started with the Calamari Fritti for $23, which is served with Marinara Piccante. Calamari Fritti These were crunchy on the outside and very tender on the inside. It comes with a bit of lemon to squeeze on top, which is one of our favorite parts of calamari. The sauce is pretty spicy since it has red pepper flakes in it, so if you’re not into spice, you might want to ask for another tomato sauce or skip dunking. Crispy We also had the Penne Arrabbiata, which is penne pasta and spicy pomodoro for $16. Penne Arrabbiata When our waiter offered to put cheese on top, you know we couldn’t resist! There was a heavy basil flavor, and the sauce had a subtle tick in the back that we enjoyed. The pasta was cooked perfectly, and when you just need a bowl of something tasty, this is a great option. Perfect pasta We couldn’t resist the Polpette Parmigiana, which features baked meatballs, pomodoro, mozzarella, and parmesan for $11. Polpette Parmigiana The meatballs were really tender and seasoned well. The cheese was very melty, and the red sauce underneath was the perfect level of savory. Kids will probably enjoy this simple take on meatballs, and who doesn’t love melted cheese on top? Meatballs for the win! Drinks To drink, we grabbed the Espresso Martini for $18. We’ve had a lot of espresso martinis in our lives, and this is a really great one. The espresso is super smooth, with a nice coffee flavor. The martini burns at the end of each sip, and overall, it was a really enjoyable option. Espresso Martini We also tried the Limoncello Flight for $14, which comes with all three of their limoncello flavors: Fabrizia Crema di Pistacchio, Fabrizia Sicilian, and Fabrizia Crema Di. Limoncello Flight The pistachio-flavored one had a great nutty flavor and tasted very fresh. You could really taste the toastiness of the nuts. The Fabrizia Crema Di one was not quite as strong but had a great creaminess along with a bit of sweetness, which helped offset the burn from the alcohol. At the end of each sip, though, there is definitely a strong alcohol taste. The classic Fabrizia Sicilian was one of the strongest drinks we’ve had at Disney World! It was a bit hard to taste the lemon through the alcohol, but those who love the burn of their drink will really enjoy it. Taste notes Nosh or Not You need to head to Tutto Gusto if… You want more of an affordable meal — Okay, so it’s still Disney prices, but believe it or not, $16 for a dish is not nearly as bad as we’ve seen it, including at Tutto Italia Ristorante next door, where the pasta dishes are around $26 and up. You’re ready for a more adult-focused restaurant — While kids are welcome, with the limited options and lack of a kids’ menu, we find adults mostly head here. It is a wine cellar after all! You need to relax and cool down — We love how dark and cool this restaurant is! When the Florida sun has been beating down on you all day, you’ll be thanking yourself for taking a minute to recover in the air conditioning. You’re probably okay to skip if… You’re looking for a faster and smaller meal — Since there’s a lot to do in EPCOT, you might not want to take the time to sit down and relax. If you’re ready to run to your next Lightning Lane, you might want to grab a quick-service restaurant instead. You want a more expansive menu — We recommend going to Tutto Italia Ristorante, also in the Italy Pavilion, and while it is more expensive, it has a significantly bigger menu, including a kids’ menu. Italy isn’t one of the pavilions you’re stopping in — While it can be tempting to hit up every single pavilion in the World Showcase, that can be super overwhelming and exhausting, especially if you want to drink and eat at every stop. You’re probably okay skipping the Italy Pavilion for other options. The spread Overall We had a great time at Tutto Gusto! The Italian dishes were classic and traditional, and when you need a bowl of pasta you know you’re going to like, this can be a great option. The restaurant is also known for its drink options, and the Limoncello Flight was a fun addition to try. The whole restaurant is dark and cool, and while there isn’t a wild amount of seating, it can be a relaxing space to unwind during your EPCOT day. In the meantime, make sure you keep following Disney Food Blog for all the food reviews you need to know when planning your next Disney World vacation. We’ve eaten EVERYWHERE in Disney World and have all the details you’ll want to pick the best restaurants for your family. WE’VE EATEN AT EVERY EPCOT RESTAURANT. THESE ARE THE BEST. Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Have you ever been to Tutto Gusto? Tell us about your experience in the comments. View the full article

New experiences are on the horizon at Disney’s BoardWalk, set to open starting in late 2026. Disney’s BoardWalk has long been known for its timeless charm, lively atmosphere and unique mix of dining, shopping, and nightlife. Inspired by turn-of-the-century coastal boardwalks like those found in Atlantic City and Coney Island, this waterfront promenade remains a favorite place to relax and play along Crescent Lake. These additions are part of the continued evolution of Disney’s BoardWalk, bringing new excitement while preserving the heart of what makes it so special. Check into Disney’s BoardWalk Inn or stop by for a night out after visiting EPCOT right next-door and you’ll find that there’s always something enchanting waiting to be discovered at Disney’s BoardWalk. A New Lounge Takes Center Stage Tucked along the waterfront, Hurly-Burly will welcome guests for fun-filled afternoons and glamorous evenings inside a historic seaside theatre with a vibrant BoardWalk story that spans over a century. During the afternoon, guests can drop by for family-friendly activities like trivia and other games led by a charismatic host. By night, Hurly-Burly will transition into a live music venue, welcoming guests 21-and-over to unwind with classic, coastal-inspired cocktails and tasty light bites, while enjoying a variety of musical entertainment that perfectly complements the BoardWalk’s other unique offerings. Whether you’re stopping by for a round of daytime trivia or an evening of seaside serenades, Hurly-Burly is the sort of spot you’ll find yourself visiting again and again for both the flavorful refreshments and the lively atmosphere. A New Shopping Experience Brings Vintage Charm Basin is bringing a new retail experience to Disney’s BoardWalk. Rooted in the resort’s classic boardwalk heritage, Basin on the BoardWalk will offer a sensory shopping experience that feels both timeless and distinctly new. Inside, you’ll discover a curated collection of handcrafted products made with quality ingredients, including natural soaps, botanical bath salts, bath bombs, body butters, lip salves, shampoo and conditioner bars, and more. The location will also feature interactive elements that make the experience especially unique, including a custom bath tea blending counter, a make-your-own-soap station, and a soap embossing press for a personalized finishing touch. Stay Tuned for More BoardWalk Updates There’s even more to come, with a new quick-service restaurant also coming soon to Disney’s BoardWalk — but more on that later this summer. With its timeless charm, lively waterfront setting and mix of experiences for every kind of visit, Disney’s BoardWalk continues to offer something special, and these upcoming additions will build on that story in exciting new ways while giving guests even more reasons to stay at Disney’s BoardWalk Inn. Stay tuned for more details! 2026 EPCOT Eat to the Beat Concert Lineup: Full Concert Schedule READ MORE Letters from Lakeshore: Updates on Disney World’s Newest Resort READ MORE Our Neon Night: Inside H2O Glow After Hours 2026 READ MORE The post New Experiences Are Coming to Disney’s BoardWalk appeared first on Disney Parks Blog. View the full article

Here at Disney Food Blog, we’re at Disney World all day, every day. We’re always on the hunt for theme park essentials that will make our vacations ten times more magical! We love staying hydrated in Disney style! From June 24th to June 30th, ALDI has a TON of theme park essentials at some of the most affordable prices we’ve seen! Run to ALDI for some lifesaving finds if you’re headed to Disney World soon. DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. From June 3rd to June 9th, ALDI will have a TON of theme park essentials. Run to your nearest ALDI for this Misting Fan, which will keep you cool in the parks all day! ©ALDI But if you don’t like misting fans, this Portable Ice Fan keeps you ice-cold without water! ©ALDI Stay hydrated with these Sip Your Way Water Bottles, which look like a fun-colored Owala FreeSip dupe! ©ALDI And to keep the sun out of your eyes, these Polarized Sunglasses are super cute. They have dozens of different styles all on sale! ©ALDI But if you don’t have an ALDI near you, we’ve got you covered! Amazon has similar items at comparable prices that can be shipped almost anywhere in the world. Take advantage of Prime Free Shipping if you’re leaving soon! ©Shutterstock This Ariel Owala Water Bottle is fit for royalty! We love this Ariel Owala! This Ariel Owala Water Bottle is a 24-ounce insulated stainless-steel FreeSip spout water bottle inspired by our favorite Disney Princess. The patented FreeSip spout is designed for either sipping upright through the built-in straw or tilting back to swig from the spout opening. The double-wall insulation keeps drinks cold for up to 24 hours, so it’s perfect for your next park day! view ON AMAZON These Retro Oval Polarized Sunglasses are super cute (and 20% off)! ©Amazon These Retro Oval Polarized Sunglasses will protect your eyes in a vintage 90s style. The high-definition TAC polarized lenses can filter out sunlight reflected glare and protect your eyes from long-term damage by blocking 99.99% of harmful UVA and UVB rays. view ON AMAZON The HandFan Handheld Turbo Misting Fan keeps you cool all day! ©Amazon This HandFan Handheld Turbo Misting Fan is a powerful fan that goes from a gentle breeze to powerful cooling at speeds of 19 ft/s. You can easily adjust the airflow in 100 smooth steps to match any situation. Plus, you can combine the high-speed wind with a fine water mist to stay even cooler! view ON AMAZON We’re always on the hunt for the latest and greatest Disney souvenirs and essentials, so don’t forget to stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for more! View the full article

If you’re like me, it does not matter how many times you visit Magic Kingdom Park, you’re always tempted to pull out your phone and grab a quick picture of Cinderella Castle. It’s iconic, stunning, and makes you believe in magic! And now, more than ever, this Walt Disney World icon is shining even brighter thanks to its new color palette brought to life through a close collaboration between teams across Walt Disney World. Over the past several months, these teams balanced creative vision with complex execution, ensuring the Castle’s refreshed look honored its rich legacy while enhancing its presence for today’s guests. The Cinderella Castle refresh was first announced last year at Destination D23 and sparked excitement among Disney fans. The project came to life through a seamless coordination across Walt Disney Imagineering, Facility Asset Management (FAM), and partners in Disney Live Entertainment, Project Development, Operations, and PhotoPass teams. All of these teams blended creative intent with precise execution every step of the way. For Nathan, the Associate Project Manager with FAM, this project is something even more personal. After starting his Disney career as an intern just a few years ago, he helps maintain the magic across Walt Disney World. For the past several months, he has helped oversee the recently completed repainting of the Castle, guiding his teams on one of the most visible projects at Disney World. “Not every day you are told, ‘Hey, you’re going to change the look of one of the most iconic buildings Disney has,'” Nathan explained. “That excitement hit immediately, and then very quickly, the weight of it.” While guests along Main Street U.S.A. photograph and enjoy the finished paint project, the work behind-the-scenes was anything but simple. Restoring a Classic Look The newly completed paint scheme selected by Walt Disney Imagineering brings the Castle back to a more classic appearance. The colors were chosen to reflect the Florida sunshine in a way that makes the Castle shimmer and shine from every angle while emphasizing its architectural details. “Presented with the opportunity to introduce a new color palette, it was important for us to consider the history and heritage of our beautiful Castle,” said Chris, Senior Creative Director with Walt Disney Imagineering.  ”We took our inspiration from that classic vision of the Castle in 1971 by selecting elegant shades that lean into the element of fantasy. To highlight the architectural details of the Castle, we used deep blue roofs, stonework, and graceful gold trim to celebrate the details and whimsy of our park icon.” The design process was rooted in historical research, collaboration, and careful planning that ensured the final result felt both refreshed, yet familiar. Getting to Work Before a single brushstroke could touch the front of the Castle walls, the FAM team had to tackle one of the biggest logistical challenges of the entire project: draining the hundreds of gallons of water in the Castle moat. “Probably one of the most difficult parts of this project was getting into the moat,” Nathan explained. “The moat had to be completely drained so we could safely work in there.” Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom Learn more about what it took to refresh this iconic symbol of Walt Disney World. To make that happen, temporary dams were constructed. Once the water level dropped, the team cleaned the moat so work could proceed safely and efficiently. When that was complete, large boom lifts were individually lifted into the moat so painting work could begin on the front of the Castle. Unlike many projects that FAM cast members work on, the Cinderella Castle refresh was impossible to hide and that meant the work happened in full guest view. To make sure our guests could still capture that perfect picture of Cinderella Castle, the teams worked together with the operation to create a project schedule that allowed the cranes were carefully lowered and moved aside and placed out of sight each day at noon. Over the course of several weeks, painters suited up in safety harnesses and protective equipment, were hoisted up to 150 feet into the air where they carefully painted each piece of trim, wall, and roof of the iconic Castle with small brushes and rollers. One of the final pieces of the painting project happened when crews were able to paint the top of the Castle, normally a view that only Tinker Bell gets to see. For Nathan, working at Disney and helping manage part of the Cinderella Castle project has been a career defining moment. “Five years ago, I was not even working for Disney yet,” he shared. “Now I drive into work and get to say I helped manage the work on Cinderella Castle. That’s something I’ll carry with me forever. It’s truly a dream come true, and it gets me excited about the potential of what else I can do while working here.” The entire project is a reminder that while Cinderella Castle feels timeless, and keeping it magical takes constant care, incredible collaboration, and teamwork, and cast members whose passion brings Disney’s most beloved icons to life, something that truly can only happen at Disney. 2026 EPCOT Eat to the Beat Concert Lineup: Full Concert Schedule READ MORE Letters from Lakeshore: Updates on Disney World’s Newest Resort READ MORE Our Neon Night: Inside H2O Glow After Hours 2026 READ MORE The post Meet the Team Behind Cinderella Castle’s Sparkling Refresh appeared first on Disney Parks Blog. View the full article

Since it opened back in 1988, The Grand Floridian Resort & Spa has been Disney World’s flagship resort. The Perch at the Grand Floridian Situated on the Seven Seas Lagoon, the hotel features the crème de la crème of perks, some of Disney World’s most renowned restaurants and lounges, and is just a Monorail ride away from the Magic Kingdom. However, what many fans may not realize is that the hotel shares a major thematic connection with the theme park, one which harkens back to an opening day concept. The Grand Floridan is themed Victorian Era beach resorts that began popping up around the United States, including on Florida’s Atlantic coast near the turn of the 19th century into the 20th century. Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa Interestingly, the hotel’s unique color scheme of white faux wood and red gabled roofs actually comes from across the country as it was directly inspired by the Hotel del Coronado in Coronado, California, near San Diego. California’s Hotel Del Coronado. Look familiar? ©Wikipedia This Victorian design directly ties the Grand Floridian to the Magic Kingdom’s Main Street, U.S.A., which itself is themed to the turn of the century Victorian United States (though the park’s land is more based on Midwestern small towns than opulent coastal beach resorts). This was no fluke or coincidence, but rather a part of A design philosophy that Disney has employed over the years in the Magic Kingdom Resort Area: Hotels that distinctly reflect the Magic Kingdom’s lands. Main Street The very first hotels built at Disney World, the Polynesian Village Resort and the Contemporary Resort, were built as analogous to Adventureland and Tomorrowland, respectively. In fact, the latter hotel was positioned to serve as a backdrop to Tomorrowland when seen from within the park. Disney’s Contemporary Resort In addition, the Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground was very reminiscent of the park’s Frontierland, especially during its early years. Fort Wilderness Further planned-but-unbuilt 1970s Magic Kingdom Resort Area hotels like the Asian Resort and Persian Resort would have also reflected Adventureland. Asian Resort Concept Art ©Disney By the time the Grand Floridian was built in the late 1980s, much of Disney’s approach to hotels at the resort had changed dramatically, but the idea of theming the closest resorts to the Magic Kingdom was still prevalent, leading to the Victorian theme of the Grand Floridian. Stay tuned to DFB for more dives into Disney’s fascinating history of design choices. The Only 2 Disney World Hotels That Still Have Room Service Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Did you ever put together that some of Disney World’s hotels somewhat reflect the Magic Kingdom’s lands? Let us know in the comments below. View the full article

We’ve been HOLDING OUT on you. Disney’s Wilderness Lodge There are SO MANY Disney Hotel secrets we’ve been busy COLLECTING lately, and now… we’re ready to SPILL ‘EM ALL, here on DFB Guide. Check out our new video: 50 Disney World Hotel Secrets Only the Pros Know Are you a DFB Video subscriber? If you hit the button below, you can subscribe to our channel and catch up on ALL of our latest episodes! And stay tuned for more theme park news! Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW What video do you want to see from DFB next? Let us know in the comments! View the full article

We’ve been seeing a lot of closures at Disney Springs this year, so we were excited to see some “reopening” news regarding a popular store! Disney Springs! Disney’s shopping and dining district, Disney Springs, is home to many stores and restaurants. It doesn’t require theme park admission, so we always recommend that people stop by here at least once during their Disney World vacation. If you’re a fan of Columbia Sportswear, you’ll be happy to hear that the store at Disney Springs is set to reopen soon! We’ve been seeing a lot of closures at Disney Springs, both temporary and permanent. Among the locations, Columbia Sportswear at Disney Springs closed for temporary refurbishment on May 27th, 2026. At first, we had no idea when the popular store would reopen, but now Disney has just announced the reopening date. Columbia Sportswear Company Columbia Sportswear is set to reopen in a little over a month, on July 24th. Soon, we’ll be able to shop for jackets, athletic tops, shorts, you name it. Boba Fett collection at Columbia Sportswear There’s some new merchandise we’re hoping to check out once the store is reopened at Disney Springs. Right now, Columbia Sportswear has some new items for the summer. This includes The Mandalorian and Grogu Bahama, as well as the Mickey’s Outdoor Club collection. ©Columbia Sportswear In other Disney Springs news, we recently saw that new signage has been put up at the highly anticipated Gideon’s Bakehouse-themed restaurant, Six Ravens. It’s located in the Landing area of Disney Springs, just a couple of spots over from Gideon’s Bakehouse, right where the Art of Shaving used to be. Six Ravens The agents at Small World Vacations know how to save money on your Disney Vacation! When you book your trip with Small World Vacations, their experienced agents monitor your reservation for possible future savings. They also compare discounts and figure out which one works best for your travel party, dates, resort, and touring plans. And they share expert tips and first-hand advice with you about your magical vacation. We’re always on the lookout for all the latest news and updates happening at Disney World. Make sure to follow us at Disney Food Blog, and you’ll be prepared for your next Disney World vacation. NEWS: Food Trucks Set to Permanently Close in Disney Springs Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Are you a fan of Columbia Sportswear? Let us know in the comments! View the full article

If you’re heading to Hollywood Studios this July, there are some major things to be aware of. Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets At the tail end of May, Galaxy’s Edge saw the addition of a new mission to Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run featuring the Mandalorian and Grogu (Baby Yoda, to those of you unfamiliar with the Galaxy Far, Far Away), which includes visits to Bespin, the wreckage of the second Death Star around Endor, or the bustling city-planet, Coruscant. A few days after Mando and Grogu arrived, the Muppets took over an iconic coaster! This new take on the classic Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster features a soundtrack of classic songs as covered by the Electric Mayhem, as well as animatronics of Scooter, the penguins from Muppet*Vision 3D, and even Stadler and Waldorf! Both of these additions have proven hugely popular and will likely remain so into July. However, they’re not the only things going on at Hollywood Studios in July. Afternoon Ticket If you want to just pop into Hollywood Studios to experience these new attractions, you can grab Disney’s new ticket option. Throughout July, Disney is offering specially priced 2 or 3-day tickets that provide admission to one theme park each day, after 2:00 PM. The 2-day ticket must be used within 4 days of the selected start date; the 3-day ticket must be used within 5 days of the selected start date. The ticket can be used for any of Disney World’s 4 theme parks. Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway Where Disney World’s NEW Afternoon Ticket Actually Works (and Where It Fails) After Hours Events If you want to ride these attractions with smaller lines late at night, an After Hours Event may be your best bet. These separately ticketed events allow guests to enjoy beloved attractions with lower wait times for an extra two hours after the park closes to the pubic, plus enjoy snacks included in the cost of this ticketed event. Hollywood Studios will play host to After Hours events on July 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd, and 29th. Galaxy’s Edge at Night Everything You Need to Know (and More) About After Hours in Disney World V.I.Passholder Days Exclusives Beginning on May 1st, Disney launched V.I.Passholder Summer Days, a “summer celebration brimming with limited-time offerings and exciting perks just for Passholders!” and plenty of those perks will be available at Hollywood Studios through July 31st, when the promotion ends! They include: An exclusive Popcorn Bucket featuring a design from illustrator Ashley Taylor will be available beginning May 1st at the Popcorn Cart between The Hollywood Brown Derby and The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure. An exclusive V.I.Passholder Tumbler available at Backlot Express and Dockside Diner. Finally, Passholders can even save big on dining, saving 40% at Hollywood & Vine (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), Monday to Thursday only, from May 1st through July 31st. Minnie at Hollywood & Vine EVERY Passholder Perk You Can Get Right NOW in Disney World If you’re making your way to Hollywood Studios in July, be aware of these NEW and exclusive experiences! Stay tuned to DFB for more. “This Is 100% Better” —What People Are Saying About the NEW Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster in Disney World Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Are you heading to Hollywood Studios anytime soon? Let us know in the comments below. View the full article

Universal is getting ready to open its first theme park for kids in Frisco, Texas. Dubbed Universal Kids Resort, the theme park will feature lands and attractions based on popular characters and stories like Shrek, the Minions, SpongeBob SquarePants, and more. However, the resort also has its very own hotel. Universal Kids Resort Universal Kids Resort Hotel features 300 rooms with its own dedicated park entrance, where you can enter the lines right outside the hotel vs. others coming from the parking lot. Guests staying at the hotel will also get the added perk of early park admission with select lands and rides open during that time. We had a chance to check out the hotel early, so we’re giving you ALL the details. As we previously mentioned, Universal Kids Resort Hotel features 300 rooms and family suites, including Standard Queen Rooms, Deluxe Queen Rooms, Signature Queen Rooms, and Family Suites. Some rooms also feature views of Universal Kids Resort. Let’s start by taking you through the lobby of the hotel. The lobby is as vibrant as the hotel’s exterior, with lots of light and colorful carpeting and rugs. Come on in! There were plenty of places to sit… Seating …and we loved all the character photos everywhere. By the elevators We also got to say hi to a few characters! We saw SpongeBob SquarePants and Patrick Star, but earlier, we saw Poppy from Trolls. HI there! The hotel also features a dedicated entrance into Universal Kids Resort (although you will need to have a valid ticket to the theme park to enter). Guests will also get early admission into the theme park one hour before its official opening time. Dedicated Park Entry The hotel also features three dining options, including Curiosity Cafe, which we got to check out for ourselves. Curiosity Cafe We also picked up a refillable mug, which is one of our favorite parts of staying at theme park hotels. Refillable mug There was a Coca-Cola Freestyle machine that had special flavors, too. We got to try them all! The pool is definitely one of our favorite places. The pool! We loved how we could walk right in, which is perfect for kids and adults of all sizes. No entry We saw a chair lift that looks like it can be moved to different areas of the pool. Chair lift There were also children’s life vests along with a few toys. Life vests We also wanted to note that you can grab swim diapers at the front counter when needed. Swim diapers There were quite a few tables and chairs around, too, for relaxing. It’s also not a bad place to enjoy a quick lunch with the family. Seating around the pool There’s also a cool interactive arcade. Arcade You’ll also find a gym so you can get your workout in before heading to the park. Gym There was also a small store to check out. Mini Store There were some fun souvenirs… Flip-flops …and some essentials like sunscreen, diapers, hand sanitizer, and snacks. Some essentials The rooms are also as vibrantly colored as the rest of the hotel, with fun layouts that are perfect for families. We got to check out a family suite, and it was seriously built for kids in the best way. Standard Hotel Room If you’re planning a visit to Universal Kids Resort, you might want to consider bundling your hotel and theme park tickets to make planning even easier. We’ll be covering EVERYTHING about Universal Kids Resort, so stay tuned to DFB for more. Why We’re Even MORE Excited About Universal’s NEWEST Theme Park Opening Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW What do you think of Universal Kids Resort so far? Let us know in the comments! Disclosure: In nearly all circumstances, Disney Food Blog writers and photographers pay full price for their own travel, hotel, food, beverage, and event tickets. We do this because it’s important to us as journalists to ensure not only that we give you unbiased opinions, but also that you can trust us to do so since we’re paying our own way. On rare occasions, when we are invited by a company to attend a preview as media, and when we choose to accept that invitation, we will always make you, our readers, aware of that situation. Today, we were invited by Universal to attend their media preview of Universal Kids Resort. Note that when we attend events as media we are 1) Not required to review that event/food on any of our channels, and 2) Not required to review that event/food favorably. You can always count on DFB to give you a 100% unbiased and honest review of any event that we attend, food that we eat, or beverage that we drink. You can see more in our Disclosure Policy. Thank you for reading. — AJ View the full article

June 16, 2016. The gates of Shanghai Disney Resort swung open for the very first time — and the world got a brand-new Disney destination unlike anything it had ever seen. But behind the dazzling spectacle and the smiling first guests was a remarkable team of Disney cast members who had traveled thousands of miles to help make it all happen. They came from different Disney parks and experiences around the world. They left behind their everyday roles, packed their suitcases, and travelled across continents to be part of something historic: the Opening Task Force Team — a handpicked group of experienced Disney cast members assembled to help Shanghai Disney Resort launch with the heart, heritage, and magic that defines Disney. Their stories remind us that Disney parks aren’t just built with steel and imagination — they’re built with heart, dedication, and the kind of magic that only cast members can create. Happy 10th Anniversary, Shanghai Disney Resort! Hannah Black Hannah, a Disneyland Resort cast member, thought she was heading to Shanghai as a costumer. She was — but the adventure turned out to be so much bigger than she ever imagined. “I had the time of my life opening Shanghai Disneyland!” she exclaimed. “The camaraderie of living abroad with fellow expats gave me friendships I will have for the rest of my life. The fun thing about working on the Task Force for a new theme park is never knowing what roles you’ll be thrown into out of necessity — I thought I was there as a costumer, and so I was, but I also helped out as an Entertainment Costuming Operations manager, and I learned the logistics for shipping costumes into the country!” Her specific role? Costumer for Eye of the Storm: Captain Jack’s Stunt Spectacular — a show featuring an actual wind tunnel that lets performers fly onstage. And she’ll never forget the day former Disney CEO Bob Iger and fellow executives came to preview it: “We had the opportunity to show off costumes and stunts — they smiled and nodded throughout. Then came the wind tunnel. When they saw a performer fly on the stage for the first time, everyone in the house went from ‘professional executives’ to ‘teens screaming on a thrill ride.’ We all cheered, screamed, and high-fived. I remember thinking, I wished everyone at the Resort was able to see the faces of these executives — the pure joy and excitement from something we all worked so hard to make a reality.” Michael Pelozuelo For Disneyland Paris cast member Michael Pelozuelo, the Shanghai Disney Resort opening was years in the making — and the realization of a long-held dream. A 17-year Disney cast member, he first heard about the project in 2009 while working as a junior publicist at Disneyland Paris and immediately set his sights on being part of it. In 2016, that dream became reality when he joined the Task Force as a Red Carpet Producer, relocating to Shanghai for two months to produce celebrity red carpets for the Grand Opening events. “From day one, what made the experience unforgettable was the people,” Michael said. “Working alongside colleagues from China, Florida, California, and Hong Kong created an energy that was both inspiring and deeply enriching.” One of his proudest moments came during the opening night of The Lion King Broadway production, where he brought a touch of his Cannes roots to the celebration. “We designed the final photocall on the grand staircase leading up to the theater, transforming the moment into something truly cinematic and iconic,” he shared. “Standing there at the end of the night, celebrating with the teams, felt absolutely magical.” Today, Michael continues to tell Disney stories through a new lens as a photographer for Communications at Disneyland Paris — and carries those memories with him. “These are moments I’ll cherish forever — and I’d love nothing more than to be part of another opening one day. You never know what magic lies ahead.” Frank Reifsnyder Walt Disney Imagineering’s Frank Reifsnyder arrived in Shanghai in early January 2016 for a six-month stay with a very specific mission: help the resort’s communications team transition from pre-opening mode to post-opening operations. With nearly 15 years’ experience at Disney at the time (he is celebrating 25 this July!), he brought deep expertise to the assignment. “I was tasked with helping the resort’s communications team transition from a pre-opening to a post-opening communications team,” Reifsnyder explained. “I also assisted with giving park tours to key stakeholders and media and being a communications liaison between Walt Disney Imagineering and SHDR Communications.” The result? A deeply meaningful chapter in his Disney career: “It was a fantastic experience. I learned a lot about China, got to know the entire resort thoroughly, and made lifelong friends both from the Task Force team and from Shanghai Disney Resort. I have been back several times since, and it’s great to see that many of the same team I worked with 10 years ago are still working at Shanghai Disney Resort.” Tarra Valcourt Sometimes the most magical moments aren’t the grand spectacles — they’re the tiny, heartwarming ones you never see coming. Tarra Valcourt, who has been with Disney for 22 years, and went to Shanghai as an Attractions Area Manager, will never forget one little girl in Fantasyland who stole the show on opening day. “We were taking a team picture in Fantasyland and a little girl came up and just started waving at all of us,” the Walt Disney World cast member remembers. “It was so precious, and her parents could not convince her to leave the spot because all she wanted to do was wave at us. It was a great reminder of why we do what we do!” Ronald Tam A 16-year Disney cast member, Ronald Tam joined the Shanghai Disney Resort Opening Task Force from Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, supporting guest experiences during the park’s earliest days. Even the simplest moments could bring unexpected challenges — and lasting memories. “One moment that stands out was guiding guests to Club 33. At the time, we weren’t entirely sure of the way ourselves — but we worked together and made sure they arrived where they needed to go.” Looking back, it’s a moment that reflects the spirit of the Opening Task Force: cast members supporting one another, adapting in real time, and always putting the guest experience first. Jayson Savickas Walt Disney World Cast Member Jayson Savickas spent three months in China as a Security Manager, helping establish several of Security’s specialized teams — and came home a changed person. With 28 years at Disney, the experience didn’t just shape his career; it sparked a lifelong passion for Disney park exploration. “This was my first experience being across the Pacific or Atlantic Oceans, on top of training and developing cast with little experience in their culture,” Jayson shared. “Everyone I met with the Task Force Team and those at Shanghai Disneyland were incredible and taught me so much. Many of the leaders took us out to experience the temples, museums, and food — including my first Peking Duck!” And the impact hasn’t faded one bit: “Thanks to this experience, it gave me the motivation to travel to other Disney parks and actually visit all of them. Still to this day, I stay in contact with several members from Shanghai Disneyland and the Task Force, and I recently returned to SHDR back in March 2026 to visit with several cast.” Rodney Penson With nearly 35 years of Disney magic under his belt, Rodney Penson knows a career-defining moment when he sees one — and Shanghai was it. “It was just a wonderful experience,” the Walt Disney World cast member, who was invited overseas to play the role of Security Leader, said. “Being selected for the Opening Team, seeing the beauty of Shanghai Disneyland, and working with many leaders and cast members to help make the dream a reality — I will always cherish my time in Shanghai!” Scott Line Ask Scott Line to pick just one memory from Shanghai, and you’ll get a laugh — because there are simply too many. But one moment rises above them all for the Disneyland Resort Cast Member who was invited to Shanghai as a lead visual effects artist: “Most memorable of all was watching the reactions of the very first crowd to see the opening of our firework spectacular, ‘Ignite the Dream,'” he recalled. “The smiling faces — and some weeping because it was their first time ever seeing something at such a grandiose scale. I’ll never forget the positive reaction and reception from the fans and how much it meant to them, bringing not only a memorable nighttime spectacular, but a park for them.” Michael Weyand What started as a simple two-week trip turned into a two-month adventure that forged bonds lasting a decade. Michael, a 19-year Disney cast member, was invited to assist with audio systems — and quickly became indispensable. “When I was first given the opportunity to join the project, it was a simple two-week trip to oversee and complete the audio system programming of the Mickey Mouse greeting location,” the Disney Live Entertainment cast member recalled. “Upon completion of that work, I stepped in and helped program and commission the castle stage audio system. Little did I know that the assistance I provided that team ended up earning another seven weeks in Shanghai!” But it wasn’t just the work that left a lasting impression — it was the people: “One of my most memorable parts of my time in Shanghai was the people I was able to work with, and the professional bonds that have only been strengthened over the years. The work was hard and the days were long, but on opening day, seeing all of the guests enjoying the hard work of so many — and 10 years later, friendships still intact — the hard work was worth it!” Wendy Ruth For Wendy, a 28-year Disney cast member from Disney Live Entertainment, opening Shanghai Disneyland was the culmination of years of creative collaboration — and a powerful lesson in connection. Invited to serve as a Creative Director, she spent four months in the field working with three different creative teams alongside a highly skilled technical crew, all working toward a shared goal: creating experiences that would truly resonate with Shanghai guests. “What an incredible experience it was, opening Shanghai Disneyland!” Wendy shared. “The culmination of six years’ effort was four months in the field, working with three different creative teams and a hardworking crew of technical wizards. Each team was a blend of local and international cast members, working hard to make magic and build understanding.” Ensuring authenticity and cultural resonance was top of mind throughout development: “We thought carefully about whether our shows would resonate with Shanghai guests. It was important to have local writers and directors involved in development and rehearsals with the cast — making sure we were respecting the culture while successfully presenting our storytelling and capturing guest interest.” One moment, in particular, captured that success in a deeply meaningful way. During Tai Chi with Character in the Gardens of Imagination — affectionately known as “Donald Tai Chi” — Wendy and her team held their breath. “At one point in the show, Donald creates his own tai chi moves — and we wondered, would this resonate?” she recalled. “Then, a grandmother stepped forward from the crowd and — very seriously — began to imitate Donald’s moves. One by one, more guests joined in alongside the characters.” The response said everything: “The show didn’t have a confetti burst or a big musical finale, but it created a shared moment — and that made it a true success for our team.” Keith Beaver A 32-year Disney cast member, Keith joined the project about three months before opening, supporting the deployment and implementation of FASTPASS multi-selection kiosks across the park. “When I think back to Shanghai, I don’t just remember launching a system — I remember watching a park rise from dirt and knowing I played a small part in bringing it to life,” he shared. The work was deeply hands-on from day one: “Those months were as hands-on as it gets — walking active construction sites, confirming kiosks were delivered and installed correctly, setting up hardware, and making sure everything was running exactly as designed.” He also helped lead pre-opening testing to ensure the system was ready for guests: “Knowing these kiosks would be part of a guest’s first experience in the park made the work feel even more meaningful.” What made the experience truly unforgettable, though, was the people. “I had the opportunity to reconnect with long-time partners from Walt Disney World and Disneyland — people I had worked with for over 20 years — while also sharing our knowledge with a brand-new local team in Shanghai. It was a unique blend of history and new beginnings.” Living abroad for nearly three months gave him a front-row seat to transformation: “I got to see the park evolve in real time — from dirt, to structures, to a fully realized place filled with energy. I experienced previews, walked the park daily, and watched everything come together piece by piece.” One moment, in particular, stands out. “The cast photo was when it really hit me. I was there with my peer — and still teammate today — Steven, along with my long-time ticketing partner Dawn Zappitello. Standing there, I realized I hadn’t just supported a system — I had helped bring part of the guest experience to life.” Alongside the professional milestones were deeply personal moments — celebrating milestones with colleagues and honoring friendships that remain meaningful today. Looking back, the takeaway is simple: “I’m incredibly proud — of the work, the team, and the experience as a whole. More than anything, I’m grateful — for the people, the trust, and the chance to be part of something so special.” Stephane Cunnac For Disneyland Paris cast member Stéphane Cunnac, the Shanghai Disney Resort opening was made special by the people he met along the way. Supporting the Events and Press team during the Grand Opening, he helped recruit, train, and manage hundreds of press representatives supporting more than 800 media outlets on site. “Although there was a lot of pressure to prepare the Grand Opening, I mostly remember the people we met and worked with,” Stéphane shared. “We were told communication might be difficult due to cultural differences, but we found the opposite. Everyone was so invested — we worked seamlessly, and even found ways to joke and have fun together.” One standout moment came through an innovative solution from the local team. “Since it wasn’t possible to recruit enough representatives to support every outlet in person, our Chinese cast members developed a system using WeChat,” he explained. “A single press rep could support a small group of media — sharing schedules, answering questions, and managing requests in real time.” The result was both simple and effective: “I was amazed at how clever, smooth, and efficient it turned out to be.” Reyna Martin For Costumer Reyna Martin, the Shanghai Disney Resort opening meant stepping into one of the most challenging — and rewarding — moments of her career. A 26-year Disney cast member, Reyna arrived in Shanghai eager to help bring the new park to life, quickly immersing herself in a new culture and way of working. One challenge stood out. Just weeks before opening, the Tarzan gorilla costumes proved too heavy for performers to execute their acrobatics. “We realized the costumes were far too heavy, and the performers couldn’t move the way they needed to,” Reyna says. With no time to rebuild, she proposed a solution: trim every costume by hand. “I tested trimming the fringe from five inches to two, and it worked. Then we had to do the remaining 299,” she recalls. With a small team, they worked long days to complete the task — ensuring the show opened on time. “It was an overwhelming amount of work, but it’s something I’m still proud of today,” Reyna said. “I still carry a piece of the gorilla fringe with me — it reminds me that if I can get through trimming 300 costumes, I can get through anything.” Lito Morona For Lito Morona, a 32-year Walt Disney World veteran, opening day at Shanghai Disney Resort stands alone as the single greatest highlight of his career. “I was helping with crowd control on opening day, June 16, 2016, and was honored to welcome the very first guests into the park,” Lito remembers. “It was an unforgettable experience to see so many smiling faces — many experiencing the magic of Disney for the very first time. Opening the park was definitely the highlight of my Disney career, and I look forward to seeing many familiar friends when I return for the 10-year reunion this summer.” Du Hongjin Helping shape the very first impressions of Shanghai Disney Resort cast members was no small task — and for this Disney University team member, it meant building something entirely new from the ground up. Stationed on the Disney University team leading the new hire Traditions experience, they helped create a fully functioning satellite campus offsite — transforming an abandoned school into a welcoming and magical space for new cast members. “Every day, hundreds of new hires would come in, and we would be the first people to welcome them to the company and get them excited,” she shares. “We worked out all the operational details and partnered closely with many teams to bring the experience to life.” The scale — and the impact — was extraordinary: “Before the grand opening, there was the pep rally where all Opening Team cast members gathered on Mickey Avenue, and we were really proud to see our impact. We trained 10,000 cast members in four months, and they were all ready for the grand opening!” Jacklyn Grimault Sometimes, the most meaningful stories from Shanghai Disney Resort aren’t just about opening a park — they’re about building a life. For Walt Disney World cast member Jaclyn Grimault, a 21-year Disney veteran, the experience became something even more personal. While living in Shanghai and supporting hotels and Task Force teams across Front Office, Housekeeping, and Recreation, she met a fellow Task Force leader from Disneyland Paris — completely by chance. “While living in Shanghai, I met a Task Force leader from Disneyland Paris, Marc, at a St. Patrick’s Day pub crawl outside of work,” she shares. “After meeting, we started dating, supported the opening of the resort, and then continued dating long-distance before getting married.” Today, that once-in-a-lifetime assignment has turned into a lifelong partnership: “We just celebrated nine years of marriage this March!” The post They Packed Their Bags, Crossed the World, and Made Disney History! appeared first on Disney Experiences. View the full article