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No Magic Kingdom day is complete without a magical viewing of the iconic fireworks show, Happily Ever After! Magic Kingdom However, you need to pay attention because the start time is changing again! Last month, on March 8th, the start time shifted from 9 PM to 9:30 PM. And as we approach the summer months, it looks like the time is going to be changing again! You don’t want to miss the nighttime fireworks! Starting on April 19th, Magic Kingdom’s fireworks show, Happily Ever After, will start at 10 PM! It’s also important to note that Magic Kingdom closes early, at 5:30pm, on May 13th, so there won’t be any fireworks that night. However, since the parks are also set to close at 10pm, it’s important to have your firework strategy ready to go! Fireworks If it’s super important for you to see the projections on the castle and be in the middle of everything, then you might want to camp out for a great spot in front of the castle. Happily Ever After Projections Or if you want to see the fireworks but avoid the crazy exit crowd, then a spot at the back of Main Street might be the best place for you. Happily Ever After from Main Street However, if you want to try to avoid the crowds altogether, and you’re okay missing out on the projections, watching the fireworks from Storybook Circus is a hidden gem! It’s quiet, tucked away from the crowds, and you might even be able to see the fireworks from Dumbo or Goofy’s Barnstormer. Happily Ever After! And if fireworks aren’t really your thing, take advantage of those short wait times and hop in line for a popular ride like Tron right before 10 PM. That way you can experience a great ride with a shorter line, and by the time you’re done, hopefully some of those crazy exiting crowds will have quieted down! Tron at Night! There are so many ways to view this incredible fireworks show, and you can choose what’s best for your family, even if that doesn’t mean being in the center of Main Street! However you choose to view the fireworks, it’s important to know when they start so you can plan your day. From now through April 18th, they will begin at 9:30 PM, and then on April 19th the officially move over to the 10pm start time! so pretty! Make sure to follow Disney Food Blog so you never miss any Disney updates or changes! We want to make sure you’re fully informed so you can have the best possible time at Disney! Could there be a hotel inside Magic Kingdom?? Click here to learn more! Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW What’s your favorite way to view Happily Ever After? Let us know in the comments! View the full article

Is Disney’s most recently opened international resort about to expand with a second theme park? Shanghai Disneyland Since before the Shanghai Disney Resort even opened back in 2016, Disney aficionados have speculated on whether a second theme park was coming to the first resort complex to bear the company’s name in mainland China (The Walt Disney Company actually ONLY owns 43 percent of the resort. The majority 57 percent is held by Shanghai Shendi Group, a joint venture of three companies owned by the Shanghai government). Now, a possible leak MAY give a clue as to Shanghai’s second gate. Currently, the Shanghai Disney Resort is made up of the Shanghai Disneyland theme park (home of the original version of TRON Lightcycle Power Run as well as a revolutionary take on Pirates of the Caribbean, among other unique attractions), a pair of operating hotels (the 420-room Shanghai Disneyland Hotel, and the 80-room Toy Story Hotel) as well as two more currently under construction, and the Disneytown shopping and entertainment district (think Downtown Disney or Disney Springs). Future expansion plans for the resort have long called for two more theme parks to be constructed on undeveloped land on the site. Toy Story Hotel ©Shanghai Disney Resort Recently, a pair of new images, allegedly leaked concept art for a second park at the Shanghai Resort, have begun floating around the internet. The first shows a blurry image of a park that looks remarkably similar to EPCOT… @zoybeg X Account … while the second shows how that park could fit next to the Shanghai Disneyland park. @zoybeg X Account While nothing has been confirmed as of press time, if the concept art is legitimate, there is historical precedent for Disney to design a potential second gate based on EPCOT. After all, years before California Adventure, Disney planned to open the EPCOT-inspired WestCot as the Disneyland Resort’s second gate. Westcot Concept Art ©Disney Furthermore, given the immense transformation of the original EPCOT in the last decade, including the introduction of several popular Disney intellectual properties like Frozen, Ratatouille, Moana, and the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s Guardians of the Galaxy, it’s not out of the realm of possibility that Disney could bring a new, built from the ground up park in Shanghai. Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind It remains to be seen whether this concept art — and rumors of a Spring 2026 announcement of a second gate coinciding with the 10th anniversary of the resort’s opening — are legitimate. However, that timing would be in line with Disney’s MO. Maybe there’s more solid news to come at the D23 Event in August this year!! Stay tuned to DFB for further coverage of Disney’s potential international expansion. Should I Use a Travel Agent for My Disney Trip or Disney Cruise 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 What do you hope is included at the Shanghai Disney Resort’s second gate? Let us know in the comments below. View the full article

The former Muppets Courtyard at Hollywood Studios is being turned into Monstropolis from Monsters, Inc., and it looks totally different now! Muppet*Vision 3D For reference, this is what the Muppets Courtyard looked like before it closed last June. Now, a warning for Muppets fans, brace yourselves. We’re totally not crying from behind our screen right now! Thanks to bioreconstruct on X, we can get aerial drone footage over the construction sites at Disney World. So when we checked their updates today, we saw that Muppets Courtyard looks completely different! Remember the colorful store attached to Muppet*Vision 3D? Well, it’s sterile millennial gray now! ©Bioreconstruct When we zoom in on the former Muppet*Vision 3D entrance, there’s a lot of earthmoving equipment, construction materials, and scaffolding around the building. They’re getting the ground ready for new pavement in addition to the exterior work on the theater. ©Bioreconstruct Based on Disney’s concept art, the building will likely stay a theater. It will have a similar layout, but get a facelift to become monster-ified, so we’re hoping it’ll get a new brick layer soon. Having to look at all of the gray on our next visit to Hollywood Studios will bring up all the feels! ©Disney When we look at the land’s entrance, there are lots of earthmoving equipment and trucks across the walkway. We can see some scaffolding and beams on the ground by the former Gonzo’s Royal Flush bathrooms, so they could be adding structural enhancements to the restaurant and bathrooms while they’re not in use. ©bioreconstruct Over by PizzaRizzo, the building’s signage has been removed, but ultimately looks the same. The tables and furnishings have also been removed, with boxes of what’s presumably more construction materials on the patio. ©bioreconstruct In the back of the Monstropolis land, Disney is building its first-ever suspended roller coaster. And now, it has a building (Well, kind of). They’ve set the building’s foundation with the gray and dark brown ground layer, and they’ve added some steel beams and a massive crane to the site. ©bioreconstruct When we zoom in on the future ride building, there’s a gray patch of concrete that’s a new foundation, and we have steel beams coming up that will likely become a wall or structural support. But when you look closely at the picture, do you see those little bright yellow dots? Yeah, those are the construction workers. This ride building is so massive that they look like ants! ©bioreconstruct We’re so excited to see what Monstropolis looks like once it’s done, but in the meantime, we’ll be crying over Muppet*Vision 3D. Stay tuned to Disney Food Blog for more Disney World news! The Ultimate Guide to Disney’s Hollywood Studios Restaurants Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW What do you think of the changes coming to Hollywood Studios? Comment below! View the full article

If you’re planning a trip to Disney World in June, you’ll want to hear about this change. Sunset Blvd This could impact your trip to Hollywood Studios. Here’s everything you need to know. Hollywood Studios will be closing early on June 18th. Instead of the typical 9 PM closing time, the park gates will shut at 6 PM. Hollywood Studios Entrance I’m sure your first thought was what special event is happening in the park to make it close so early? Is it an After Hours Event or some other special Disney event happening in the park? And the answer is no! Studios at Night! Hollywood Studios is actually closing down for a private event! The Society of Human Resource Management is holding its annual conference at the park and renting it out from 8 to 11 PM. Hollywood Studios While it’s not extremely common, companies and groups can rent out an entire Disney park for a few hours! This early closure will only happen on June 18th. It will not affect the park’s opening hours, which will remain at 9am. This change will also not have any effect on the other Disney Parks. Galaxy’s Edge at Night So, if you’re planning a trip to Disney World this June, we suggest heading to Hollywood Studios any day other than the 18th. You will miss out on three hours of your park day. And since the park will close while it is still light out, they most likely will not run Fantasmic, which is a Studios-must! Plus, you’ll miss out on the beautiful nighttime atmosphere of this park! Fantasmic! If you’re planning a Disney trip this summer, one of the most important things to consider is where you’re going to eat. Specifically, if you’re gonna purchase the Disney Dining Plan. It can feel stressful and overwhelming trying to figure out if it’s the right choice for your family or if it will actually save you money. Which is why we created the Disney Dining Plan Guide! It goes over everything from how it works, which restaurants have the best value, and how to best use your snack credits! If you’re thinking about the Disney Dining Plan, check out our guide to make the whole process simple! We will let you know if any other early closures hit the parks in the future. Make sure to follow Disney Food Blog so you never miss any important Disney updates! Click here for a Hollywood Studios Update! 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 If you could rent out a Disney Park for the evening, which park would you choose? Let us know in the comments! View the full article

There are a few things at Disney World that feel eternal. Cinderella Castle. Mickey waffles. That one family argument happening in the middle of the walkway for absolutely no reason. And, of course, Spaceship Earth. Spaceship Earth That giant silver sphere is still one of the most gorgeous icons in all of Walt Disney World, and it is still the gentle EPCOT classic that takes you from the Stone Age to the computer age. But in 2026, it’s also giving off a little “vintage beauty who maybe needs a spa day, a nap, and a very patient maintenance team” energy. It’s still iconic, but it’s also feeling a little…dated Part of Spaceship Earth’s charm is that it feels like old EPCOT in ride form. It’s thoughtful, weirdly soothing, and full of that big optimistic “humans invented communication and that’s neat!” spirit. But some of what once felt futuristic now lands a little more “retro classroom filmstrip with excellent lighting.” Inside Spaceship Earth And Disney’s own Project Tomorrow page does not exactly help the case for modernity here. The official description still highlights that you can view the video you made on the ride and email it to family and friends from a kiosk. Which is charming, sure. It is also the kind of sentence that makes you instinctively check whether your Motorola Razr is clipped to your belt. The 2025 refurb didn’t really solve the big question Yes, Spaceship Earth did get a refurbishment last fall. But if you were hoping that meant a big, juicy glow-up, the reality was much more modest. When the ride reopened in October 2025, there were no new scenes, no narration change, and no major story overhaul. Reports from the reopening noted that the attraction was largely the same ride, with maintenance work, some smoother Audio-Animatronic motion, and general tune-ups rather than a dramatic reimagining. In other words, Disney gave the icon a polish, not a reinvention. Spaceship Earth is temporarily closed for refurbishment That matters because a routine refurb is great for keeping the lights on, literally and figuratively, but it doesn’t answer the bigger question hanging over this attraction: is Disney actually planning to give Spaceship Earth the deeper TLC it has seemed to need for years? That long-promised D23 vision is still floating in limbo And this is where things get especially side-eye-worthy. Back at D23 in 2019, Disney said Spaceship Earth would remain a voyage through time, but the journey would transform with new scenes, a new guide, and all-new narration focused on storytelling and the shared human experience. That sounded like a meaningful next chapter for one of EPCOT’s most beloved attractions. ©Disney Fast-forward to now, and that bigger vision still hasn’t actually shown up…or been mentioned. The 2025 refurbishment did not deliver that overhaul, and post-refurb coverage made it clear the previously announced “Story Light” style update was not part of the project. So yes, it’s fair to wonder whether Spaceship Earth has been stuck in a strange holding pattern: too beloved to ignore, too old to leave untouched forever, and still waiting on the more ambitious refresh Disney once teased from a convention stage. The recent downtime isn’t exactly comforting If Spaceship Earth were just old-school, that would be one thing. Old-school is fine. Old-school can be chic. Old-school can be beloved. Old-school plus operational hiccups? That’s when the forehead furrow begins. In February, Spaceship Earth still had not opened more than seven hours after EPCOT opened, after several other lengthy delays earlier in the year. The ride saw five hours of downtime in three out of five days in late January. Spaceship Earth is closed tonight. Then, in March, the ride went through a multi-day unplanned closure before reopening on March 23. The exterior lighting on the sphere was also dark during part of that closure, which is not exactly the kind of visual you want from the literal symbol of EPCOT. Disney did not publicly announce a cause, and rumors about interior damage or water issues remained unconfirmed, but the headline takeaway was still the same: Spaceship Earth had another rough patch, and people noticed. Why this matters more than it would for another ride This isn’t some tucked-away attraction that only die-hard fans are seeking out between snack booths. This is Spaceship Earth. It’s the park icon. It’s an any-height attraction in the very front of EPCOT. It’s one of the most recognizable visuals in all of Walt Disney World. Spaceship Earth Line So when this ride feels a little creaky, or a little stalled-out creatively, or a little too prone to downtime for comfort, it hits differently. Guests are not just noticing a ride issue. They’re noticing it on the giant silver centerpiece of the entire park. That’s a much bigger vibe problem. The End… Or Just the Beginning To be clear, Spaceship Earth is still lovely. It’s still nostalgic. It’s still one of those rides that makes EPCOT feel like EPCOT. But that’s also exactly why we’re worried about it. IYKYK Right now, Spaceship Earth feels like an attraction Disney knows people love enough to keep forgiving. The problem is that nostalgia can only carry so much weight before guests start asking for something sturdier than affection and good memories. Between the light maintenance, the recent downtime, and that long-ago D23 vision that still hasn’t materialized, it’s hard not to look at this beautiful icon and think: honey, you deserve better than a patch job. Spaceship Earth at Night Does this nostalgic beauty need a little TLC? At this point, yes. Probably more than a little. And if Disney wants to keep Spaceship Earth from turning into the prettiest question mark in World Celebration, it may be time for a real plan instead of another quiet tune-up. Stay tuned to DFB for more. “If They Don’t Have Rome Burning I Will Cry.” Disney Fans Have 6 Demands for EPCOT’s New Spaceship Earth Lounge 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? Does Disney need to refurb the Spaceship Earth lighting? Let us know in the comments! View the full article

“We are below the water line. The water is one deck higher. You’re walking underneath.” This man, smiling mischievously at our wide-eyed reactions, is Johan Blokstra, Chief Engineer of the Disney Destiny. He knows everything there is to know about the dense, intricate network of pipes, wires, and machinery here in the bottom of the ship. Johan recently invited Disney Parks Blog on our first-ever tour of the inner workings of a Disney Cruise Line ship. And here, below deck one, we’ll see how the entire Disney Cruise Line Wish class of ships work, and, well, how they work again to conserve every resource possible. Johan moves fast, so we’d better get going. Backstage on a Disney Ship Just minutes ago, our small group passed through an unassuming door on Deck 1. Like the famous-yet-mysterious utilidors in Magic Kingdom, this hidden thoroughfare branches off into specialized operational rooms and allows crew members to quickly get to guest areas of the ship. It was just before dinner and there went a crew member headed up to Pride Lands: Feast of the Lion King (I could tell by the costume). Right behind her, a group passed by in their Worlds of Marvel vests and pointed, in kind, toward my bright yellow safety vest. For a moment, I felt like one of the crew. The author pleads with our dear readers to accept her lack of Engine Control Room photos. Picture This: The Engine Control Room A place Johan calls “The heart of the ship,” the Engine Control Room is where every system on the Disney Destiny is monitored, optimized, and managed. Media could not take photos during this part of the tour but just look up there at my face after seeing the Engine Control Room; it was so cool. So, I’ll paint a picture for you with words. In ride pre-show terms, which is how we measure all spaces here at Disney Parks Blog, the Engine Control Room was larger than the chess room on the Millennium Falcon, but smaller than the Xandarian teleport room where the Cosmic Generator goes missing. I told you this had to be vague. And like a cross between the Falcon’s cockpit controls and something straight outta Xandar, this room had analog buttons and switches alongside touchscreen displays and four big monitors lining the walls. The deep hum and steady whooshes of machinery and ducting blanketed the room in white noise, occasionally cut with shrill beeps and bloops. A main console stretched across the middle of the room where crew members sat in chairs, able to roll within reach of phones, screens, and keyboards. It was, in short, what you might picture an Engine Control Room to look like. Was that helpful? Optimizing How the Destiny Runs, Every Second As our small group feasted our eyes, Johan pointed at a softly shifting web-like graph, “This is how we control our power plant, how we control our LNG [liquefied natural gas] plant … air conditioning, everything that’s going on in the ship is being controlled from here.” Disney Cruise Line is focused on working to reduce emissions on the entire fleet of ships. And what Johan was showing us here was the ABB Ability OCTOPUS system, a high-tech energy efficiency coach for the ship. The system cuts down on fuel usage and emissions by giving the crew instant, easy-to-understand guidance on the most efficient way to run every part of the ship, from LED lighting to fan and pump speeds. Fuel Efficiency and Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions By continually striving to run in the most efficient way, Wish Class ships emit 20 percent less greenhouse gases than a similar-sized vessel without these innovations. Even the shape of the ship helps save fuel. The hydrodynamic hull and an optimized propulsion system save nearly 1,800 tons of fuel per ship annually. On this warm day docked at Disney Castaway Cay, it was easy, even for me, to decipher a bit of the web. Johan explained the display, “Currently, one of the engines is running which is being converted into electricity. Propulsion is off right now … the chillers are going for the air conditioning, and we’ve got a lot of ventilation going on upstairs.” The energy-efficient HVAC systems aboard save nearly 700 tons of fuel per ship each year. Johan told us that the system constantly monitors the vessel’s condition to ensure maximum reliability and efficiency. “There’s a lot of heat. The engines generate a lot of heat, so we also have [heat] losses. We use those losses as much as we can to recover that heat in our power generation.” All the operational data is securely shared with specialists ashore, who use it to analyze and improve the performance of every ship in the fleet. With these systems, Disney Cruise Line can make smarter decisions on energy efficiency. And with that, Johan was ready to take us down below Deck 1 to see the engines themselves. A Place Where Every Bit of Trash is Sorted But first, a quick stop at the Recycling Room, a place that can be found on each Disney Cruise Line ship. Everything that you throw away on a Disney ship ends up in a room like this. Here, teams sort waste to process recyclable materials like glass, paper, cardboard, metal, and plastic. Big can crushers and cardboard balers prepare materials for recycling instead of ending up in a landfill. On each ship across the Disney fleet, up to 400 tons of materials are recycled annually. Disney Cruise Line has eliminated nearly all single-use plastics from its ships and island destinations in The Bahamas, with the goal of sending zero waste to landfills. That’s right, from bow to stern, teams on land and at sea across Disney Cruise Line have found ways to replace items once made from single-use plastics with more sustainable options. From reusable cutlery and cereal dispensers to all paper cups and lids for your morning to-go coffee, these simple swaps to everyday items can make a big difference. So, the next time you grab a snack, use a shampoo dispenser, or even buy a souvenir on a Disney Cruise Line ship, you might notice something is missing. And it’s a whole lot of single-use plastic. Know that each time you reach for these familiar onboard items, you’re partnering with Disney Cruise Line to reuse, recycle, and re-think our impact. Our group soon went down a series of tight, winding stairways. Many required a backward descent (ladder-style). This tempted the Multiverse to open up, and I eventually ended up on Deck 31(c). I don’t get it, either, but I’m here to see the engines, so let’s move on. We emerged into a forest of pipes and beams stretched between ducted ceilings and metal floors. Gauges and lightning bolt stickers hailed something important to the trained eye. Bundles of multicolored wire ran like arteries and nerves all over the walls and ceilings toward glorious purpose. We all popped in earplugs to control the din of innumerable machines, and I found myself continually refocusing my eyes to pick out proper hallways from mere gaps between Very Important Things. We pressed on to view the engines. One of the five room-sized engines that power the Disney Destiny. The Engines and Recovering All That Energy Lift the proverbial hood on the Disney Destiny and you’ll find five huge engines. Our group took a catwalk above Engine 1 for a better look. Johan told us that the engines don’t run all the time; they are carefully managed to meet the needs of the ship. While each engine boasts a large amount of (sea?) horsepower, their use is constantly optimized in the Engine Control Room to run as efficiently as possible. Johan gestured and I realized the other behemoths were in view, lining yet another hall of wires and beams. He said, “Here are 3, 4, and 5. Number 1 is running by itself, and when we leave [Disney Castaway Cay] tonight, we’re going to start two more.” Our tour accessed service areas to get up close and personal with Engine 1. Disney Cruise Line has invested in using new fuels across the fleet, including liquefied natural gas (LNG) onboard the Disney Destiny. Johan explained that the LNG fuel is stored in a few huge tanks (each three decks tall) at a cryogenic temperature of 250 degrees Fahrenheit below zero. The fuel expands over 600 times as it warms into a gas, so it is stored at this cold temperature to be able to store the fuel in a smaller space (like, inside a ship). This machine helps turn hot water from the engine into cool water for air conditioning all over the ship. Turning Engine Heat into Air Conditioning Our group turned a corner, and Johan directed us toward a new chiller, “This takes all the hot water from the engine that we use for cooling. Part of it goes through this machine and there is a chemical reaction happening inside.” Johan explained that it turns the hot water into cold water, which goes back into the air conditioning system for the ship. “This is a new technology, and we’re really happy we have this machine onboard.” And while the Cold Recovery Unit was out of sight, tucked amid twisting tubes, Johan explained that it uses gas from the engines to help chill the water. “That again helps us with the generation of the air conditioning upstairs. We use the energy to help us keep the ship cold as well,” Johan clearly loves this science, adding, “Pretty neat!” And again, the air conditioning reuses water. The naturally occurring condensation produced by the air conditioning system is turned into fresh water for onboard laundry facilities, which saves each ship approximately 10 million gallons of water annually. Something to think about when you’re watching your clothes swirl around at Fairytale Fresh on Deck 8. Conserving Water and Protecting Oceans Up to 99% of the freshwater onboard a Wish class ship is produced onboard using energy-efficient reverse osmosis systems. To translate; the ship turns seawater into freshwater. Disney Cruise Line is committed to tracking every drop of water to maximize use and avoid having water delivered to the ship from ports of call. This 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea lookin’ guy is part of the wastewater recovery system. How Advanced Treatment Protects Marine Life So, there’s another type of water use you might be wondering about — everything that goes down the drain from showers, galleys, and yes, even toilets. When you flush, it’s all processed via the Advanced Wastewater Treatment system to be safe for marine life and can be released off the ship. Johan had a purified water sample to display, “This is what we discharge overboard. It is clean.” Johan explained that the process is similar to a household septic tank, where oxygen and bacteria go to work to help clear the water to levels far exceeding international standards. Looking Ahead to Conserving Our Oceans Soon it was time to climb back up each narrow stairway and emerge on Deck 1, where we thanked Johan for this exclusive look at the inner workings of a Wish class ship, and watched him disappear through that unassuming door to get the Disney Destiny ready to depart from Disney Castaway Cay. Johan and the author, who has been upcycled. Amid giant engines and remarkable technology, the most memorable part of our tour was Johan’s enthusiasm for the investment Disney has made to sustainability. He was excited to educate us about every remarkable system that reuses, recycles, and repurposes resources on the Disney Destiny. He upcycled us into engineering superfans. And Johan was always looking ahead to the future of sustainability. As Johan said during our tour, surrounded by humming machines, fully comfortable with this dense, futuristic world far below the waterline, “Things are moving. Things are evolving. At the moment, this is the best way forward, but in a couple years’ time you’ll see changes.” Learn more about Learn more about Disney Cruise Line’s commitment to conserving our oceans via Disney Planet Possible, and The Walt Disney Company’s environmental goals at impact.disney.com. Disney Destiny Planning Tips for the Perfect Sailing READ MORE Staterooms and Suites Aboard the Disney Destiny READ MORE Disney Destiny Updates: Latest News from the Ship READ MORE The post We’re Going Below Deck on the Disney Destiny appeared first on Disney Parks Blog. View the full article

If you’re planning a trip to Disney World in 2026 and staying at a Disney World hotel, you’ll be able to grab some pretty SWEET perks. For example, if you’re staying at a Disney World hotel from May 26th through September 8th, you’ll get free tickets for you and your group to one of Disney’s water parks on your arrival date. Animal Kingdom During Extended Evening Hours All Disney World hotel guests get access to Early Theme Park Entry, but only those staying at a deluxe Disney World hotel get access to Extended Evening Hours. Now, extended evening hours only happen on select dates in select parks, so we’re going to give you a full rundown of all the extended evening hours dates and parks for 2026. Extended Evening hours are available on select dates and at select parks for guests staying at the following Disney World hotels: Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge Disney’s Beach Club Resort Disney’s BoardWalk Inn Disney’s Contemporary Resort Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Disney’s Yacht Club Resort Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Jambo House Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village Disney’s Beach Club Villas Disney’s BoardWalk Villas Disney’s Old Key West Resort Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows Disney’s Riviera Resort Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort – A Disney Vacation Club Resort (Please be aware that the extended evening hours benefit applies to Disney Vacation Club Cabins only.) The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa Walt Disney World Swan Hotel Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel Walt Disney World Swan Reserve Shades of Green® on Walt Disney World Resort Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort Those guests will get a few extra hours every evening in specific theme parks after the parks have officially closed to the public. This is a great chance to ride attractions with shorter wait times, and most attractions in each park will be available. Disney’s Contemporary Resort Here are the dates and parks with Extended Evening Hours in 2026: April Wednesday, April 1st — Magic Kingdom, 11PM – 1AM Monday, April 6th — EPCOT, 9PM – 11PM Wednesday, April 8th — Magic Kingdom, 11PM – 1AM Monday, April 13th — EPCOT, 9PM – 11PM Wednesday, April 15th — Magic Kingdom, 10PM – 12AM Monday, April 20th — EPCOT, 9PM – 11PM Wednesday, April 22nd — Magic Kingdom, 10PM – 12AM Monday, April 27th — EPCOT, 9PM – 11PM Wednesday, April 29th — Magic Kingdom, 10PM – 12AM TRON Lightcycle / Run at night May Monday, May 4th — Animal Kingdom, 6PM – 8PM Wednesday, May 6th — Magic Kingdom, 10PM – 12AM Monday, May 11th — Hollywood Studios, 9PM – 11PM Wednesday, May 13th — Animal Kingdom, 6PM – 8PM Monday, May 18th — EPCOT, 9PM – 11PM Wednesday, May 20th — Magic Kingdom, 10PM – 12AM Monday, May 25th — EPCOT, 9PM – 11PM Wednesday, May 27th — Magic Kingdom, 10PM – 12AM Pandora at night June Monday, June 1st — EPCOT, 9PM – 11PM Wednesday, June 3rd — Magic Kingdom, 10PM – 12AM Monday, June 8th — EPCOT, 9PM – 11PM Wednesday, June 10th — Magic Kingdom, 10PM – 12AM Monday, June 15th — EPCOT, 9PM – 11PM Wednesday, June 17th — Magic Kingdom, 10PM – 12AM Note that this is as far out as the Disney World calendar goes so far, but more dates and parks will be released soon. We’ll keep you updated as more are added, so stay tuned to DFB for more. Will I Be Able To Use Lightning Lane Multi Pass at Extended Evening Hours 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 Will you be using Extended Evening Hours during your next Disney World trip? Let us know in the comments! View the full article

We’ve had an interesting week in Disney World, although granted, EVERY week is pretty interesting when you spend it at Disney World. Sweet Potato Ice Cream Sandwich First, we tried a sweet potato ice cream sandwich, then we watched lines get longer and longer for a NEW viral snack in Disney’s Animal Kingdom (and we get it, because that snack is AMAZING), and we found out that Refreshment Port in EPCOT is being reimagined into La Poutinerie and will now be hosted by Air Canada. A LOT going on. Well, we also saw some changes happening on Disney World restaurant menus, so we’re going to break those down for you now. Magic Kingdom Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe Entrées ADDED: Truffle-French Onion Burger — Angus Beef Patty with Braised Beef-Caramelized Onion Confit, Swiss Cheese, Parmsean, Crispy Onions, and Black Garlic-Truffle Aioli served with French Fries for $14.99 Cosmic Ray’s Main Street Bakery Seasonal Offerings ADDED: Dragon Drink Energy Refresher – Grande for $6.65 ADDED: Mango Strawberry Lemonade Energy Refresher – Grande for $6.65 Main Street Bakery Be Our Guest Signature Non-Alcoholic Drinks ADDED: Royal Berry Spritzer — Blackberry, Pomegranate, and Lime blended with Top Chico Blueberry Hibiscus Sparkling Water served in an Enchanted Light-up Souvenir Cup for $20.59 Be Our Guest EPCOT Joy of Tea Tea and Bottled Drinks Peach Bubble Milk Tea changed from $7.75 to $7.95 Honey Hibiscus Iced Tea changed from $7.75 to $7.95 Lychee Bubble Tea changed from $7.75 to $7.95 DASANI Bottled Water changed from $4 to $4.25 Specialty Cocktails Tipsy Ducks in Love changed from $14.50 to $14.75 Kung Fu Punch changed from $13.95 to $14.25 Lychee Cha Cha changed from $12.95 to $13.50 Honey Hibiscus Hard Iced Tea changed from $13.95 to $14.25 Tipsy Ducks in Love Teppan Edo Entrées NY Cut Steak changed from $44 to $45 REMOVED: Julienne Steak Teppan Edo Spice Road Table Mediterranean Small Plates Spiced Lamb Kefta description changed from “Harissa Yogurt, Mint Chutney, Toasted Pistachios, Preserved Lemon” to “Whipped Feta Cheese, Roasted Garlic Oil, Spiced Tomato Sauce” REMOVED: Calamari, Spice Road Table Sampler Spice Road Table San Angel Inn Entrées REMOVED: Arrachera Wagyu San Angel Inn Chefs de France Appetizers Rillettes au deux Saumon, Brioche, sauce à l’aneth changed from $18.95 to $20.95 Entrées Fruits de la Mer, tarte aux èpinard, sauce au homard changed from $38.95 to $39.95 Filet de saumon, riz pilaf, sauce beurre blanc changed from $37.95 to $38.95 Ratatouille Provençale changed from $27.95 to $28.95 Steak Frites, entrecote grillé, pommes frites, sauce bérnaise changed from $54.95 to $55.95 Chefs de France Disney’s Hollywood Studios Trolley Car Cafe Seasonal Offerings ADDED: Dragon Drink Energy Refresher – Grande for $6.65 ADDED: Mango Strawberry Lemonade Energy Refresher – Grande for $6.65 Trolley Car Cafe Disney’s Animal Kingdom Satu’li Canteen Gluten/Wheat Allergy-Friendly ADDED: Mangkwan Mousse – Gluten/Wheat Allergy-Friendly — Flourless Chocolate Cake, Chocolate Mousse, Raspberry Gelée, Mango Coulis, Boba Pearls, and a Milk and White Chocolate Garnish for $6.29 Satu’li Canteen Creature Comforts Seasonal Offerings ADDED: Dragon Drink Energy Refresher – Grande for $6.65 ADDED: Mango Strawberry Lemonade Energy Refresher – Grande for $6.65 Creature Comforts Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort Cafe Rix Beverages REMOVED: Cold Brew Cafe Rix Siestas Cantina Frozen Besito Daiquiri changed from $15.50 to $16 REMOVED: Abuelita’s Freeze ADDED: Abuelita’s Mudslide — A frozen twist on Mexican hot chocolate, blending vodka, Kahlua, and RumChata with rich mocha, vanilla, and cinnamon for $17 Siestas Cantina Disney’s Contemporary Resort Contempo Cafe Egg Allergy-Friendly ADDED: Signature Rice Bowl with Chicken – Egg Allergy-Friendly — Cilantro-Lime Rice, Black Beans, Grilled Peppers, Onions, and Queso Fresco topped with Shrimp for $14.99 Contempo Cafe Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort Gasparilla Island Grill Desserts REMOVED: Pistachio-Berry Mousse Gasparilla Island Grill Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Roaring Fork Snacks ADDED: Frozen Lemonade Cup for $6.29 ADDED: Frozen Strawberry Lemonade Cup for $6.29 Roaring Fork Disney’s Beach Club Resort Cape May Cafe Non-Alcoholic Specialty Offerings REMOVED: Pomegranate Lemonade, Watermelon Lemonade Cape May Cafe Disney’s Old Key West Resort Olivia’s Cafe Entrées West Indian Tofu and Coconut Curry description changed from “Mango-Coconut Curry, Crisp Vegetables, Jasmine Rice, and Cilantro” to “Coconut Curry, Crisp Vegetables, Rice, and Cilantro” Olivia’s Cafe Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort Turf Club Bar and Grill Non-Alcoholic Specialty Offerings REMOVED: Pomegranate Lemonade, Watermelon Lemonade Turf Club Bar & Grill Disney Springs Amorette’s Patisserie Limited Time Offerings REMOVED: Mini Easter Croquembouche Signature Pastries REMOVED: Chocolate Chip Cookie – 2 Count Amorette’s Patisserie Starbucks at Marketplace Seasonal Offerings ADDED: Dragon Drink Energy Refresher – Grande for $6.65 ADDED: Mango Strawberry Lemonade Energy Refresher – Grande for $6.65 Starbucks at Marketplace Starbucks at West Side Seasonal Offerings ADDED: Dragon Drink Energy Refresher – Grande for $6.65 ADDED: Mango Strawberry Lemonade Energy Refresher – Grande for $6.65 West Side Starbucks at Disney Springs The Basket at Wine Bar George Sweets REMOVED: Espresso Pistachio Cannolo ADDED: Chocolate Almond Tart — chocolate ganache / green chartreuse for $9 The Basket at Wine Bar George Wine Bar George Wine Country Brunch Small Plates REMOVED: Spanakopita Salad ADDED: Yogurt Parfait — Greek yogurt / fresh fruit / granola for $10 ADDED: Seasonal Salad — vegetables / croutons / shallot vinaigrette for $14 ADDED: Seasonal Puff Tart — available in limited quantities for $10 Dippy Egg description changed from “sweet potato / tomatillo salsa / coddled egg / sourdough spears” to “spinach whipped potatoes / bacon / coddled egg / ciabatta” Wine Country Brunch Main Plates Wine Country Omelet description “changed from “spinach / mushroom / bacon / Havarti / crispy shallots” to “cotija / avocado / corn / tomatillo crema” REMOVED: Tiramisu French Toast, Seared Porchetta Sandwich ADDED: French Toast — Diplomat cream / fresh fruit / maple syrup for $19 Wine Country Brunch Sweets REMOVED: Espresso Pistachio Cannolo ADDED: Chocolate Almond Tart — chocolate ganache / green chartreuse for $9 Bites & Boards Seasonal Salad description changed from “arcadian greens / spinach / kale / seasonal fruit / basil vinaigrette / brioche croutons “to “vegetables / croutons / shallot vinaigrette” Small Plates REMOVED: Butternut Squash Risotto, Miso Roasted Onion, Stuffed Phyllo Shell, Spanakopita Salad Pork Belly description changed from “roasted beets / apple cranberry gel / chicharrones” to “shoyu glaze / charred cabbage / grapefruit” ADDED: Tomato Goat Cheese Risotto — oyster mushrooms / cippolini onions for $16 ADDED: Seasonal Salad — vegetables / croutons/ shallot vinaigrette for $14 ADDED: Bouillabaisse — grouper / clam / mussels / roasted vegetables for $24 Main Plates REMOVED: Brie & Turkey Sandwich, Bratwurst, Whole Greek Sea Bass Double Bone Pork Chop description changed from “collard greens / sweet potato / apple bourbon glaze” to “roasted Brussels sprouts / rice grits / sorghum glaze” ADDED: Braised Pork Sandwich — roasted tomatoes / brioche / house-made chips for $19 ADDED: Chicken Quinoa Salad — almonds / spinach / tomato / citrus vinaigrette for $18 ADDED: Skirt Steak (serves two) — asparagus / mashed potatoes / chimichurri for $83 Grilled Ribeye description changed from “potato onion gratin / roasted onion / black garlic butter” to “potato stuffed potato / peas / black garlic butter” ADDED: Branzino — whole bean ragout / spinach / tomatoes for $45 Sweets REMOVED: Espresso Pistachio Cannolo ADDED: Chocolate Almond Tart — chocolate ganache / green chartreuse for $9 Wine Bar George Disney World menus change all the time, and it can be a lot to keep up with, although you can check menus on the Disney World website or My Disney Experience app. We’ll also keep an eye out for changes, so stay tuned to DFB for more. Disney dining changes are a lot to keep up with! We’ve done all the research for you in writing our DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining! We’ve got details on EVERY dining location at Walt Disney World inside our eBook – and it’s easy to download to your tablet or smartphone to take with you on your next trip. Five Popular Disney World Restaurants Fans Aren’t Booking 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 Did Disney World change the menu at your favorite restaurant this week? Share your thoughts in the comments! View the full article

One of our favorite ways to save money while traveling is using as many points as we possibly can, whether it be for hotel stays, rental cars, etc. Swan and Dolphin However, that also means we’re constantly looking for ways to earn points in our everyday life, so we can use them on vacation. Sometimes that means using a credit card at certain locations to earn more points, and if you’re a local to Orlando, or find yourself wanting to dine at some of the best restaurants while you’re there, we’ve got great news — at the Walt Disney World Swan & Dolphin Resorts, you can now earn points for dining at select restaurants! This isn’t new, believe it or not — it’s actually been around for a few years, but many people don’t know about it! If you’d like to sign up during your next trip, you can sign up at any of the following restaurants: Bourbon Steak | A Michael Mina Restaurant Il Mulino Kimonos Todd English’s bluezoo Amare Rosa Mexicano Grilled Souvlaki with Angus Beef Skewers at Amare This is a fantastic way to earn points and rewards at restaurants you were already planning to go to anyway. These are also some of our favorite restaurants on Disney World property, so when we say we don’t think you’ll be disappointed, we mean it wholeheartedly. More Recent Swan and Dolphin News! Say WHAT?! We’re Sharing the SECRET To Getting 5 FREE Nights at This Disney World HotelI Thought Travel Credit Cards Were a Scam — Then I Used One for This Disney World HotelForget Disney World, THIS Is Where I Want To Trick or Treat on HalloweenJUST ANNOUNCED: NEW Executive Chef Revealed for Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin ResortThis Is the BEST Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort News We’ve Heard All Year With DOZENS of places to eat at Disney World, we know it can be tough to plan your meals. That’s why we wrote the DFB Guide to Dining at Walt Disney World! We have reviews, pictures, and details about every restaurant all in one digital download, plus ALL of our best tips and strategies from decades of Disney World trips for you to have in your pocket with you as you’re on your trip. DFB Guide to Disney World Dining! We’ll continue to keep you updated on all the latest Disney World news to help you plan your trip, so stay tuned to DFB! The Complete Guide to Eating at Disney’s Swan and Dolphin Resorts Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW What’s your favorite restaurant at the Swan & Dolphin Resorts? Tell us in the comments! View the full article

Over the last 40+ years, EPCOT’s World Showcase has become beloved for its authentic architecture, themes, and cuisine representing the cultures of the countries each pavilion represents…. which makes it surprising that the United Kingdom Pavilion is lacking a spot for afternoon tea, given its importance to British culture. Rose & Crown Pub However, some Disney Adults are taking matters into their own hands. The U.K. Pavilion’s Rose & Crown Dining Room used to host an afternoon tea experience, which, as we noted back in the day, included a selection of tea and tea sandwiches for a $30 per person experience. However, the event was discontinued several years ago. Tea Experience at Rose & Crown Pub and Dining Room So, some Disney guests have taken things into their own hands. First, they’re booking early afternoon reservations at the Rose & Crown, roughly in time for afternoon tea. Then, arguably most importantly, they’re ordering tea. Specifically, the Rose & Crown offers Twinings Hot Tea for $4.49. Twinings Tea More adventurous guests may go for the $17.50 Indigo Hibiscus cocktail, which includes Empress 1908 gin, Bols Blue Curaçao liqueur, Minute Maid Premium Lemonade, Orgeat (almond), Lemon, and Hibiscus Grenadine. Indigo Hibiscus Whether they’re enjoying tea or a tea-inspired cocktail, they need food to complete the experience. However, the Rose & Crown doesn’t currently offer any traditional tea sandwiches, Tea Experience at Rose & Crown Pub and Dining Room However, here is some lighter fare like the plant-based $25 Tikka Masala (A blend of seasonal vegetables in a curry sauce served with Basmati Rice and naan) or the $13.00 Coronation Salad (Crisp salad with green apple chutney, radish, and onion bhaji topped with Madras dressing). Of course, some guests eschew anything light whatsoever, instead going for the traditional Fish & Chips, Bangers & Mash, and Shepherd’s Pie. Fish and Chips at Rose & Crown So there you have it, a DIY afternoon tea experience at the U.K. Pavilion. Of course, guests who want to enjoy an official afternoon tea can head over to the Grand Floridian for the new Garden View Tea Room experience, which returned in March following a 6-year closure. The revamped experience is “a proper British afternoon tea experience” featuring “premium Twinings tea selections paired with delightful scones, small bites and exquisite pastries” all themed to Alice in Wonderland. Tea Experience in the Garden View Tea Room Since EPCOT’s U.K. Pavilion is currently lacking an official afternoon tea experience, some Disney Adults have made their own at the Rose & Crown Dining Room. Are you planning to do the same? Stay tuned to DFB for more Disney World tips. These 5 World Showcase Hacks Are Getting Out of Control 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 Would you try this DIY afternoon tea? Let us know in the comments below. View the full article

One of the most fun things about EPCOT is that all around World Showcase, you can find unique souvenirs from all around the world. Mitsukoshi Department Store While some of them are Disney-themed, many of them aren’t, and so it makes for a fantastic find if you grab something that’s truly from that country, but just happens to be sold in Disney World. One of our favorite stores in the entire area is Mitsukoshi in the Japan Pavilion. This store has been in existence since 1673, and we love taking a look inside and finding all the fun, special souvenirs we can find. Yesterday, however, we saw something that made our jaws drop — it was a gorgeous necklace…being sold for THOUSANDS of dollars. Yes, this really does exist in Mitsukoshi right now! This Mikimoto pearl necklace is currently on sale in the store for a whopping $21,000! Mikimoto Necklace This is easily one of the most expensive souvenirs we’ve seen in Disney World (but not the most expensive, believe it or not!), and what we especially find interesting is that, from a quick search on Mikimoto’s website, there are many other similar-looking pearl necklaces they sell that are much more affordable. They seem to range in price from $4,500 to $16,500 for white pearl necklaces and also offer pearl necklace-and-earring combinations for $20,000 to $47,000. It’s stunning! We certainly can’t deny that this necklace is beyond stunning, and it just goes to show that you never know what you may find in the parks! We’re walking around Disney World basically every day, and not a day goes by that we don’t see something new or interesting — things change on a dime, and that’s one of the things we love most about it. Want to See Other Expensive Souvenirs We've Found? Check Out These Posts! This Souvenir Costs $21,000 In EPCOT’s Japan Pavilion — No, We Aren’t JokingThis $3,000 Souvenir at Disney’s Hollywood Studio Made Our Jaws DropThis $550 Disney Souvenir Has Us Questioning RealityThese Disney Souvenir Prices Are Getting Out of HandAlright, Who’s Buying These WILDLY Expensive Disney Souvenirs? (And Can We Be Friends?) We’ll be sure to keep you updated on all the latest and greatest Disney news we see, so stay tuned to DFB! How the RICH Do Disney Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW What’s the most expensive thing you’ve seen in Disney World? Tell us in the comments! View the full article

It’s been a big week in Disney World for rides, restaurants, and everything in between, and we’re here to keep you updated on it all! Big Thunder Mountain Railroad in Magic Kingdom A Magic Kingdom ride officially reopened this past week, and we got the official reopening date for another! As if that wasn’t enough, we also got a big update about a long-closed spot in EPCOT, and, while it’s not as joyous, we also know about another pool closure coming to a popular hotel. Sounds like a lot? Don’t worry, we’ll keep it simple — here are all the closures you need to know about this upcoming week, along with all the most recent updates we have for each one! Disney’s Hollywood Studios Animation Courtyard Animation Courtyard closed on September 25th, 2025, to make way for Walt Disney Studios. This new area will open on May 26th, 2026, and will be a special nod to the Walt Disney Studios lot. Star Wars Launch Bay will be turned into The Magic of Disney Animation. This attraction will have you interacting and exploring with this fun take on Disney Animation headquarters. Disney announced that a new Animation Academy experience called Olaf Draws! will be added into this new area, and it’s been…controversial, to say the least! ©Disney However, most recently, we’ve seen a lot of progress on this upcoming land — new pavement is almost all set, and it’s really starting to come together. @bioreconstruct via X This area will also feature a new Drawn to Wonderland indoor play area and the current Disney Jr. Play and Dance! show will be getting a makeover. During the transformation, you will still be able to visit “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure” and Walt Disney Presents. Muppets Courtyard, including Muppet*Vision 3D, PizzeRizzo, and Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano Muppet*Vision 3D AND PizzeRizzo closed on June 8th, 2025, and Muppets Courtyard has been walled off so construction can begin on the new Monsters, Inc. land. Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano has been closed since May 11th. Most recently, we got a good look at the building being formed for the new attraction, which is set where Cast Member parking used to be, and we’re SHOCKED by how massive it is! ©bioreconstruct Don’t worry, the Muppets won’t be missing from Disney’s Hollywood Studios forever. The Muppets will eventually be taking over Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster in summer 2026. Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets Disney has already made tons of progress on the new version of this iconic attraction! The previous name of the ride has already been removed from multiple locations, including on the guitar, which is now behind the scrim and scaffolding. Under construction Disney is also already putting new paint on the car at the entrance to this area, so it looks more like the Electric Mayhem’s iconic van. It looks great! KRNR The Rock Station is also currently closed, and we’re curious to see if it’ll reopen as a new snack spot, just rethemed, in the near future! Closed! We’ll be keeping a close eye on this spot — we know a lot is to come! NEWS: An Army of Olaf Robots Is Coming to Disney Parks Around the World EPCOT Refreshment Port Refreshment Port located near the Canada Pavilion in EPCOT’s World Showcase closed for refurbishment on January 12th. We’ve heard nothing on it for months, but now, we know that when it reopens, it’ll become La Poutinerie! La Poutinerie Concept Art ©Disney The spot will be sponsored by Air Canada, and promises to deliver “a Canadian classic with a twist.” Currently, we still don’t have an opening date or a menu, but we’re hoping it’ll come any day now! Your Next Flight Just Got Even MORE Expensive Disney’s Animal Kingdom On February 23rd, Disney temporarily closed Rafiki’s Planet Watch and the Wildlife Express, which takes guests over to this part of the park, to make way for the new Bluey attraction coming to the park for Cool KIDS’ SUMMER on May 26th. For the time being, you can still visit the Wilderness Explorer badge offerings, as well as a few character meet and greets, at the train station. The signs are covered up! Since February 2nd, it’s been official that DinoLand U.S.A. is officially closed to make way for the new Tropical Americas land, Pueblo Esperanza. Don’t get us wrong, we’re looking forward to what’s new, but especially since we just recently saw the DinoLand sign come down, we’re missing DINOSAUR and the rest of this uniquely themed land already! Most recently, a new permit was filed for the new Encanto ride to “install set elements.” ©Disney We’re also seeing lots of progress on the new carousel attraction coming to this land, which is very exciting! ©Bioreconstruct This new land is expected to open sometime in 2027 with three new rides, a new restaurant, shopping spots, a beautiful fountain, and more, so we’ll be sure to keep you updated on all the latest! NEW Report Reveals Disney Will Cut 1,000 Jobs Blizzard Beach On February 15th, 2026, Blizzard Beach reopened in Disney World, and Typhoon Lagoon closed for refurbishment. Blizzard Beach Visiting during the summer and don’t want to worry about tons of crowds in one park? Typhoon Lagoon will reopen again on May 12th, 2026, so for the majority of the summer, we’ll have both water parks open again. NEW Deals and Discounts for Disney World Vacations Disney World Hotels Kiddie Pool Deck — Disney’s Pop Century Resort Disney recently announced that the Kiddie Pool Deck at Disney’s Pop Century Resort will close for refurbishment beginning April 13th. Kiddie Deck There’s no ending date for this right now, but the current timeline is that it will last through the end of April. Boat Dock — Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Beginning on April 13th and lasting through May 1st, the boat dock at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge will be closed for refurbishment. While maintenance to the dock will last until late July 2026, boats should begin running again by May 2nd. Boat dock construction at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge During this closure, this means that the only way to get to Magic Kingdom (as well as all other locations on property) from this hotel will be by bus, unless you have your own car, so you’ll want to allow a little more time due to the higher crowds! Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa This hotel has been undergoing refurbishments all over for quite some time now, but we know that sections of the hotel — specifically the porte cochere — will continue to undergo refurbishment through early 2027 at least. Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa We certainly hope it’ll actually be able to hit this timeline — we’re a little tired of seeing construction all over this beautiful hotel! Bay Cove Pool Area — Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort This week, the Bay Cove Pool, the water play area, and the whirlpool spa at Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort will temporarily close for maintenance. From January 26th through early May 2026, the pool area will be unavailable. Disney’s Contemporary Resort During the closure, guests can still use the Bay Lake Pool, the feature pool, the water play area, and the whirlpool spa at Disney’s Contemporary Resort. Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort For those looking to dine at this hotel, you need to know that the Turf Club Bar & Grill and Turf Club Lounge will both be under refurbishment from mid-March through mid-September 2026. To break it down, in early April, the Turf Club Lounge will close for refurbishment and will reopen in early August. In the meantime, the Turf Club Bar & Grill will remain open with a pop-up bar serving a modified Lounge food and beverage menu. The Turf Club Lounge Then, from early to mid-August, the Turf Club patio will close for refurbishment, and finally, from mid-August through mid-September, the Turf Club Bar & Grill will be closed for refurbishment, but the Turf Club Lounge will be open. Leisure Pools — Disney’s Yacht Club Resort and Disney’s Beach Club Resort Disney’s Yacht Club and Disney’s Beach Club Resort are currently undergoing visible exterior maintenance. The maintenance could affect views and may require alternate routes at times. In addition, two of the resort’s leisure pools will close for routine maintenance. At Disney’s Yacht Club, the Admiral leisure be will be closed for maintenance through early May 2026. Admiral Pool At Disney’s Beach Club, the Tidal leisure pool will be closed for maintenance through early May 2026. During the construction, guests may see or hear construction work, but it will only be done during the daytime hours. Crew’s Cup Lounge — Disney’s Yacht Club Resort On February 23rd, Crew’s Cup Lounge closed for refurbishment until June 1st, 2026. Crew’s Cup Lounge Additionally, Yachtsman Steakhouse will close for refurbishment on May 11th, meaning these closures will overlap for a few weeks. It’s expected to reopen sometime in early August. Turtle Pond Pool, Turtle Pond Pool Spa, BBQ Area, and Playground — Disney’s Old Key West Resort Starting early January through early February 2026, the Turtle Pond Pool, Turtle Pond Pool Spa, the BBQ area, and the playground at Disney’s Old Key West Resort will be closed for routine maintenance. Turtle Pond Pool at Old Key West During the closure, guests can head over to the Sandcastle Pool or one of the resort’s leisure pools. There are two different leisure pools available: the South Point Pool and Miller’s Road Pool. Surfboard Bay Pool and Kiddie Pool — Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort From January 2026 through April 2026, the Surfboard Bay Pool and Kiddie Pool at Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort will be closed for maintenance. Don’t worry, though, if you are in the swimming mood, you will still have plenty of options for pools. You may just need to travel a bit farther. Surfboard Bay At Disney’s All-Star Sports, the Grand Slam Leisure Pool will still be open. As well, you can also use any of the pools at the other All-Star Resorts. You can use the Calypso Pool and Piano Pool and kiddie pool at Disney’s All-Star Music Resort or the Fantasia Pool and Duck Pond Pool and kiddie pool at Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort. Promenade Fine Art Gallery — Disney’s BoardWalk Inn and Resort The Promenade Fine Art Gallery will be closing its Disney’s BoardWalk location on October 20th, 2025. However, the Promenade Fine Art Gallery isn’t closing for good, and it will just be moving to a new location. Promenade Fine Art Gallery The gallery hasn’t announced yet where that new location will be, but we will keep you updated as we learn more! Jellyrolls — Disney’s BoardWalk Jellyrolls at Disney’s BoardWalk officially closed on April 19th, 2025. This entertainment venue has provided our team with countless memories, and we know many others are also sad to see it close. Jellyrolls had its final farewell performance on April 19th and closed its doors forever on Disney’s BoardWalk. Jellyrolls Now, we know that Jellyrolls will be moving to a new location about 10 minutes away, and a grand opening is planned for late summer or fall 2026. We also know that the new location will have free parking, be closer to the space that the original Disney location was in, and allow people to be dropped off and picked up by rideshare services right at the front door. The Best Shoes for Toddlers in Disney World Don’t want to go through all of the stress of booking your Disney World trip alone? Reach out to our friends at Small World Vacations! Their experienced agents monitor your reservation for possible future savings, compare discounts, and determine which works best for your travel party, dates, resort, and touring plans. They also share expert tips and first-hand advice about your magical vacation. Small World Vacations Looking for more resources to help you get ready for your upcoming trip? Check out these posts to learn all about Disney World’s rides: 10 Rides to AVOID in Disney World if You Struggle with Motion Sickness What It Takes to CHANGE a Disney World Ride 9 of the SCARIEST Rides in Disney World, According to YOU! A FULL LIST of the Thrill Rides in Disney World! The Ultimate Guide to the BEST and WORST Seats On EVERY Magic Kingdom Ride We’ll keep you updated with all the latest news, so stay tuned to DFB. Every NEW Disney Loungefly Releasing in April (FULL LIST + Prices) 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 When is your next Disney World vacation? Let us know in the comments! View the full article

Did you know you can live inside Disney World? Golden Oak is a residential neighborhood designed by Disney Imagineers that’s minutes away from the theme parks! ©The Hardy Team Golden Oak homes have gone viral because they’re a very pretty penny. One home recently sold for a whopping $14 million! With seven bedrooms, seven full bathrooms, two half baths, and four garages, this two-story, 10,740-square-foot mansion is fit for Disney royalty. To start, there’s a massive foyer with tons of natural light. This spiral staircase is fit for a Disney Princess-style grand entrance. These star lights are giving Disney magic in the best way possible! ©The Hardy Team We were led into the dining room with a Beauty and the Beast-level fireplace! With the French oval-backed chairs, baby blue ceiling, and bird stained glass, this house is giving Disney Princess vibes in the best way possible. ©The Hardy Team Then we have a gorgeous kitchen that made our jaws drop! We love all of the small details here – the crown molding on the cabinets, a regal white hood range, and pillars holding up the island. ©The Hardy Team The kitchen led to a huge wine cellar! It’s so big that we could fit a lifetime supply of wine in here. Drink up me hearties! ©The Hardy Team The living room is massive with vaulted ceilings, wooden contrast beams, and a human-sized chandelier! We love the mini stained glass of Cinderella Castle hiding up top! ©The Hardy Team The master bedroom features a stone fireplace, a seating area, and French doors out to the backyard. We were very surprised at how many fireplaces this house had, considering it rarely gets cold in the Sunshine State! ©The Hardy Team The master bathroom is the star of the show. It has a walk-in shower with a rain showerhead, a jacuzzi tub, and a stained glass window of swans for natural light! ©The Hardy Team Now, we know what you’re thinking – Compared to most Golden Oak homes we’ve seen, this place doesn’t have too much Disney going on? That’s what we were thinking when we were led into a massive Star Wars-themed movie room! There are 3D walls to replicate the Millennium Falcon, with even a decked-out projector. And yes, the life-sized Chewbacca in the corner jumpscared us! ©The Hardy Team We had so much fun looking at this house inside Disney World. Stay tuned to Disney Food Blog for more Disney news! 6 Common LIES You’ll Hear About the Elite Neighborhood Inside 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’s the best Disney home you’ve ever seen? Comment below! View the full article

Okay, we’re going to admit that we’ve got some Disney World news that might just make you cry. We see a manatee; we fall in love So, one of our favorite things to do in EPCOT is visit The Living Seas with Nemo and Friends and head on over to the aquarium, where you can see all kinds of sea life, including turtles, seahorses, stingrays, and more. Well, one of our favorite creatures to see is the manatees, and y’all…we fell in LOVE with a manatee named Mermaid that we first saw in March. Well, we have a huge update to share about her! As we said, we first saw Mermaid in EPCOT in March, and we learned that she was rescued north of Tampa from the Homosassa River in February. She had been found in an “emaciated state,” so Disney took on the task of caring for her and rehabilitating her so that she could return home to the river when she was ready. This poor animal had a split tail, which was likely due to a cut from a boat propeller, although it’s hard to tell for certain what caused it. Mermaid’s tail was injured Mermaid eventually regained her weight and strength. And recently, she was taken back to where she was rescued, the Homosassa River. A small group of the education team from The Seas pavilion went on the journey with her, including a Cast Member who told us how happy she was when she was released. Mermaid in EPCOT Now, this is where you might cry: the Cast Member told us that the minute her nose hit the water of the river, she was gone. She took that advice from the BTS song “Swim,” and SWAM. This manatee could not wait to be free again, and now she is (we’re not crying!!!). So swim free, little Mermaid, and may you have a long and healthy life! Via @drmarkatdisney We love stories like this because they showcase just how important the work Disney World does with its animals, especially with its manatee rehabilitation program. Mermaid got a chance to recover from her injury and go back home because of the hard work and care given to her by the Cast Members who worked with her. We’ll be back with even more heartwarming stories from Disney World, so if you need a good cry that will make you feel joyful, too, stay tuned to DFB for more. The Unspoken Rule You Should Follow at the Seas Pavilion 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 favorite animal that you’ve seen at The Seas Pavilion? Let us know in the comments! View the full article

With summer just around the corner, is it really the time to be going to Disney World? Magic Kingdom If you have a trip to Disney World planned this summer, there’s a chance you might see it emptier than usual. Between Animal Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, and Magic Kingdom, a lot is going on at the parks this year. Even though summer is vacation time for lots of people, it might not be spent at the Most Magical Place on Earth. The question is, why? 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. Too Much Construction It’s no secret that a lot is coming to Disney World in the future, which means there is a lot of construction happening at the parks. Disney’s Animal Kingdom feels like a half-day park right now as Disney Imagineers continue to put together the brand-new Tropical Americas themed land, Puebla Esperanza. DINOSAUR was permanently closed earlier this year, and with Dinoland gone, the park just feels emptier. Pueblo Esperanza construction Over at Hollywood Studios, construction is taking place in a few different spots. Even though the all-new animation courtyard, The Magic of Disney Animation, will be open by May 26th, Hollywood Studios will still have a lengthy construction period ahead of it. Muppets Courtyard closed down to make way for Monstropolis, and that whole area will be closed for a while. Construction for Monsters Inc. Land As for Magic Kingdom, construction is underway for Piston Peak and eventually Villains Land. The entire area where Tom Sawyer Island is is completely walled off. Throw in all the construction taking place at the many resorts around the property, and you’re going to see a lot of walls and cranes at Disney World this summer! Attraction Closures On top of construction, there are many attractions that are closed right now. Some will open within the few weeks of summer, some possibly later. Attractions like Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, the animation courtyard at Hollywood Studios, and Rock ‘n’ Rollercoaster starring the Muppets are all closed right now. Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster construction They are set to open closer to the beginning of the summer, but it’s something you’ll want to be aware of. Also, this will be the first summer after DINOSAUR’s permanent closure. Ticket Prices Are Too High We hate to say it, but ticket prices are just too high at Disney World right now. It seems like every year, a Disney World vacation gets harder and harder to do, solely based on the cost of getting into the parks. Yes, Disney just dropped an afternoon ticket deal, but it still doesn’t feel like enough. Magic Kingdom’s Cinderella Castle Days at Magic Kingdom can run as high as $200 this summer. No park hopper, no Lightning Lane, just one day at one park. Everyone Is Going to Disneyland It’s true, everyone is going to Disneyland this summer! This isn’t a debate about which park is better (you can have that amongst yourselves), it’s because the D23 Expo is happening at Anaheim in August. The D23 Expo is the ultimate Disney fan event, filled with awesome experiences, exclusive behind-the-scenes looks at Disney projects, merchandise, and more. All the Disney fans heading to D23 will surely spend their money for a day at Disneyland while they’re there. D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event Between D23, Disneyland, and Disney World, it seems logical that Disney World is at the bottom of the priority list for Disney fans this summer. Epic Universe Believe it or not, Universal’s Epic Universe is close to celebrating its first anniversary. On May 22nd, 2026, Epic Universe will have been open for one year. The brand-new park has been very popular, but if you remember, it was pretty limited capacity last summer. Everyone who missed out will want to check out that park this summer if they can. Same with everyone who wanted to wait to see what others said before checking it out. Epic Universe All in all, Epic Universe will be taking some guests away from Disney World for the people who travel to Florida this summer! IT’S SO DANG HOT Everyone coming to Florida knows that the humid summer heat can be a lot to deal with. This is the least contributing factor on this list, but hey, some people don’t want to sweat all day long at Disney World while on their vacation. So, this is something to consider. Spaceship Earth Just to be clear, we’re not saying DON’T go to Disney World this summer. Every day is a good day to be at the park we all love, but that doesn’t mean some seasons aren’t better or worse than others. In fact, maybe this summer is a good time to go if the park is emptier. However, if you decide to wait for another time because of these reasons, that’s totally valid. For more Disney content, make sure to stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog! COMPLETE LIST of Disney World Early Entry Hotel Perk Changes For May 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 Will you be coming to Disney World this summer? Let us know in the comments! View the full article

Happy Earth Month! Disney Springs! Every year, Disney World seems to have some sort of thing going on to celebrate Earth Month. This year, that celebration is happening at Disney Springs! Multiple restaurants across Disney Springs will be offering a limited-time Earth Day cocktail, and we have the information you need to know. This Earth Month, guests can raise a glass at Disney Springs in celebration of the beautiful planet we live on while also giving back to impactful organizations. A new, special and unique drink is available across the Disney World shopping and dining district. Disney Springs Check out the limited-time Bee’s Harvest Margarita crafted with Patrón Silver. With this drink, you can “bee” the difference this Earth Month! ©Disney This drink is more than just a seasonal sip! The cocktail supports pollinator education and preservation through The Bee Cause, which helps protect vital bee populations with every order. It’s a simple, impactful way for guests to celebrate Earth Day while enjoying one of Disney Springs’ signature experiences. Disney Springs! You can grab the drink at four different locations! The Edison… The Edison in Disney Springs …Morimoto Asia… Morimoto Asia …Enzo’s Hideaway… Enzo’s Hideaway Tunnel Bar and Restaurant …and Maria & Enzo’s. Maria & Enzo’s 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 100% going to be trying this drink out! Make your way to Disney Springs and check it out for yourself. We’re always on top of all the latest Disney news and updates, so make sure to stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog, and you won’t miss a thing. REVIEW: The Disney World ICONIC Turkey Leg Has a NEW Competitor Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Do you want to try this drink? Let us know in the comments! View the full article

We love The Cake Bake Shop Restaurant for its yummy entrees and over-the-top cakes, but have you tried their drinks yet? Brûlée Martini Cake Bake has some great cocktails like Gwendolyn’s Famous Cosmopolitan and The Black Swan, so this new martini caught our eye! The Brûlée Martini is $22 at The Cake Bake Shop Restaurant. It’s made with Broker’s gin, St. Germain, Bitter Truth violet liqueur, and house-made Rosé Bubbles syrup, then garnished with edible glitter and violet flowers. Brûlée Martini This martini tasted very floral thanks to the elderflower-flavored St. Germain, violet liqueur, and rose syrup. We could barely taste the gin in here with how strong all of the florals are, and because of that, the strong alcohol taste typically in a martini wasn’t prominent either. Overall, it was very floral and sweet, but not much else. Brûlée Martini We’d recommend this to anyone wanting a fun, floral cocktail at Disney World. This didn’t feel like a martini to us with how weak it was, so if you’re a martini purist, this drink might not be for you. If you want to try it for yourself, it’s available at The Cake Bake Shop at Disney’s BoardWalk Inn. The Cake Bake Shop Bakery and Restaurant We’ve been there – picking restaurants for Disney World can feel like a full-time job. 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! We’ve had so much fun trying The Cake Bake Shop’s new spring menu this week. Stay tuned to Disney Food Blog for more Disney World food reviews! The 12 Disney World Restaurants That Will Be Harder to Book This Summer Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW What’s your favorite drink in Disney World? Comment below! View the full article

Winnie the Pooh fans, this is your warning label. If you’ve got a soft spot for Pooh, Piglet, honey pots, or anything that looks like it belongs in a storybook picnic scene, you may want to brace yourself. Or don’t. Enabling is kind of the whole point here. Winnie the Pooh A new Pooh Loungefly collection has arrived, and it is the exact kind of drop that lures you in with soft colors, innocent woodland charm, and the false promise that maybe this time you’ll “just look.” You won’t. None of us will. That’s not how this goes. This is how you end up emotionally attached to a mini backpack shaped like a good decision and financially attached to a matching wallet you absolutely did not plan to buy five minutes ago. DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. And this collection? It’s got range. There are classic bags, tiny bags, floral bags, and the kind of sweet Hundred Acre Wood aesthetic that feels less like merch and more like your personality now. Some of these are practical. Some of these are simply adorable little chaos agents. All of them feel designed to prey specifically on people who hear “Winnie the Pooh Loungefly” and immediately lose the ability to act in their own best financial interest. Loungefly Disney Winnie the Pooh Mini Backpack This is the kind of bag that says, “Yes, I have excellent taste, and yes, I probably do have lip balm, a portable charger, and a suspicious number of park receipts in here.” ©Amazon A standard mini backpack is the bread and butter of the Loungefly universe for good reason. It’s cute, it’s practical-ish, and it gives you enough space for your essentials without encouraging you to pack like you’re emigrating. For Winnie the Pooh fans, this one feels like an easy, everyday pick. It’s got that classic character appeal, which means it’ll work whether you’re heading to the parks, running errands, or just looking for a reason to carry something more charming than your sad black tote. ©Loungefly This is the safest bet in the bunch if you want one Pooh bag that can do a little bit of everything. view ON AMAZON Loungefly Disney Winnie the Pooh Micro Mini Backpack Now this one? This one is for the chaos gremlins among us. The micro mini backpack is adorable, impractical, and impossible not to love. Is it going to hold your whole life? Absolutely not. Is it going to hold a few tiny essentials while making people stop and ask where you got it? Very possibly. This is the kind of accessory you buy because it is aggressively cute and because sometimes functionality needs to take a little nap while style drives the car. ©Amazon For a park day, this is more of a statement piece than a workhorse. For a casual outing, though, it’s pure whimsy in bag form. And for Pooh fans who like their accessories tiny and ridiculous in the best way, this is a winner. view ON AMAZON Loungefly Disney Winnie the Pooh Hundred Acre Wood Tote Bag Every collection needs one item for the people who hear “mini backpack” and immediately think, “That’s nice, but I carry snacks, sunglasses, hand sanitizer, a cardigan, and the emotional burden of planning the whole trip.” Enter the tote. ©Amazon The Hundred Acre Wood tote has the most easygoing energy of the whole lineup. It feels a little more relaxed, a little more versatile, and a lot more useful for real life. This is the bag for bookstore runs, travel days, office commutes, or throwing together your theme park survival kit when you know you’re going to accumulate things throughout the day. And if the design leans scenic and storybook-inspired, even better. Pooh just works so well with that soft, nostalgic woodland aesthetic. This is probably the most practical piece in the collection, which is great news for people who want their fandom with a side of actual storage. view ON AMAZON Loungefly Disney Winnie the Pooh Zip Around Wallet A good Loungefly wallet is a dangerous little creature because it always feels so easy to justify. “It’s small.” “It’s useful.” “It matches the bag.” “It would honestly be irresponsible not to get it.” You see how this spirals. ©Amazon A zip-around wallet is one of those items that pulls its weight. It’s easy to toss into a park bag, tote, or larger purse, and it gives you a little coordinated Disney flair without committing to a full character-bag moment. If you love Winnie the Pooh but want something a little more subtle for everyday use, this is the kind of piece that makes sense. Also, matching sets just hit different. There. It needed to be said. view ON AMAZON Loungefly Disney Winnie the Pooh Floral Mini Backpack — BoxLunch Exclusive Now we get into the part of the collection that feels like Pooh went to a garden party and came back looking expensive. The floral mini backpack is for the Winnie the Pooh fan who likes a softer, prettier take on character merch. It still gives you the sweetness of Pooh, but with a more polished, boutique-y vibe that makes it feel a little less overtly fandom-forward and a little more “I just happen to have impeccable taste in whimsical accessories.” ©BoxLunch This is the one for people who love Disney but don’t always want their bags to look super loud or ultra-theme-park-specific. It’s still playful, but it has a gentler, more elevated look. Basically, if your style mood board includes florals, soft colors, and one deeply unnecessary but emotionally correct accessory purchase, this may be your bag. view ON BOXLUNCH Loungefly Disney Winnie the Pooh Floral Wallet — BoxLunch Exclusive And naturally, the floral backpack has a matching wallet, because the universe loves temptation. This is the kind of add-on that makes the whole set feel complete. You do not technically need the matching wallet, but that has never stopped any of us before, and it will not start today. Paired with the floral mini backpack, it creates a coordinated look that feels especially giftable, collectible, and very hard to resist. ©BoxLunch On its own, it’s also a nice option for someone who wants a little Pooh magic without going all-in on a full bag. It’s cute, compact, and much easier to justify than buying your fourth character backpack of the year. Even if we all know that’s where this road eventually leads. view ON BOXLUNCH Why Winnie the Pooh and Loungefly Just Work Some Disney characters lend themselves to bold, flashy merch. Pooh is not one of them. Pooh merch works best when it leans into the cozy, nostalgic, honey-pot-soft charm of the character, and that’s exactly why a collection like this feels so appealing. ©BoxLunch It’s playful without being over-the-top. It’s character merch, but with enough variety that you can go classic, tiny, practical, or floral depending on your personal flavor of Disney obsession. And whether you’re the kind of shopper who wants one signature park bag or the kind who keeps acquiring Loungeflys like they’re emotional support accessories, there’s something here with your name on it. We’re always on the hunt for the latest and greatest Disney souvenirs and essentials, so don’t forget to stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for more! View the full article

We think it’s safe to assume that we, yes WE, all love free food! Wetzel’s Pretzels Well, if you’re a pretzel fan, you’re going to want to mark down this specific date in your calendar. Wetzel’s Pretzels is giving out free pretzels this month — how can you say no?! Did you know that April 26th is National Wetzel Day? It’s true, and you’re invited to celebrate Wetz Fest. Wetzel’s Pretzels During this celebration, Wetzel’s Pretzels will be giving out free Original Pretzels from 3 PM to close. This will be limited to one free pretzel per person. However, that doesn’t necessarily stop you from going to multiple locations. So go get those pretzels. Original Pretzel Don’t worry about bringing your cash or credit card, because no purchase is required to get the free pretzel! Wetzel’s Pretzels What gets us extra excited is that Wetz Fest will be bringing free pretzels to Disney! At Disney World, you can find Wetzel’s Pretzels at Disney Springs. You’ll find the Wetzel’s Pretzels Snack Stand on the West Side, near AMC Theatres and Planet Hollywood. Wetzel’s Pretzels Over at the Disneyland Resort, Wetzel’s Pretzels is located at Disneyland’s Downtown Disney. So, you can make your way over there to get your free pretzel as well. Wetzel’s Pretzels We’re looking forward to getting our pretzel freebie! Make sure to mark it down in your calendar on April 26th. We’re always on the lookout for Disney food news, so make sure to follow us at the Disney Food Blog, and you won’t miss a thing! REVIEW: The Disney World ICONIC Turkey Leg Has a NEW Competitor 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 getting a free pretzel? Let us know in the comments! View the full article

Aulani is Disney’s resort and spa in Ko ʻOlina on the island of Oahu, Hawaii. It’s a popular spot for travelers to get family fun, Hawaiian culture, and Disney magic all in one trip. Aulani If you want to go to Aulani this summer, Disney just dropped three new discounts that you can’t miss. You can save up to 35% on your Aulani stay! Disney Visa Cardmembers can save up to 35% off on stays of 5 or more consecutive nights and up to 30% on stays of 4 consecutive nights. This offer is valid for stays on most nights from August 9th to October 18th, 2026, with checkout no later than October 19th, 2026. To get the deal, use a valid Disney Visa Card or Disney Rewards Redemption Card when booking your room. Disney’s Aulani Resort In addition, active or retired members of the US military can save up to 30% on select stays of two to 14 nights from August 9th through October 18th, 2026. The deal is available on almost every room type, excluding suites and 3-Bedroom Grand Villas. Present a valid military ID upon check-in to get the discount! Our room at Aulani If you’re not a member of these exclusive groups, there’s still a deal for you! You can save up to 20% for stays of 4 consecutive nights from August 9th to October 18th, 2026. But if you’re staying for five nights or longer, the savings jump to 25% off rooms — including Ocean and Partial Ocean view rooms! Our Aulani view! We’re so excited to take advantage of these deals and head back to Aulani this summer. Stay tuned to Disney Food Blog for more Disney discounts! NEW Deals and Discounts for Disney World Vacations 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 Aulani before? Comment below! View the full article

Disney World’s Soarin’ in EPCOT is a popular ride, and for a reason. It allows you to soar OVER the world without ever having to leave World Showcase. Well, that ride is set to change soon to celebrate the U.S. Bicentennial and become Soarin’ Across America. ©SeaWorld Not to be outdone, though, SeaWorld Orlando opened a ride about a year ago that’s a lot like Soarin’. It’s called Expedition Odyssey, and it takes you soarin’ above the Arctic where you can get a bird’s eye view of what wildlife is like in one of the coldest parts of Earth. Well, that SeaWorld Orlando’s ride is ALSO getting an update! Expedition Odyssey features “unparalleled ride technology, breathtaking real-world footage, and up-close encounters with Arctic wildlife.” However, the ride will soon be updated to Expedition Odyssey Fire & Ice. The new version of the ride is expected to open this spring with a new “story-driven experience giving guests a powerful new reason to take a journey to the Arctic.” So that means if you want to ride the original Expedition Odyssey, you probably want to do so ASAP. ©SeaWorld Orlando According to The Orlando Sentinel, the new ride will still feature Arctic animals and scenery, but it will be given new life via storytelling and narration. “We are telling a whole new immersive adventure from beginning to end,” said Kevin Boutte, vice president of attraction design. The new story will have riders assuming the roles of Arctic researchers. Their journey will showcase the contrast between geothermal fire and ice. ©SeaWorld Orlando The ride system will remain the same, and it’s very similar to Soarin’, where riders sit side by side in long rows with their legs dangling as they face a large domed screen. The ride includes movement of the vehicle, as well as special effects with mists and smells. So if you love Soarin’, this one’s for you. Soarin’ vehicle “Guests will see new environments that they’ve never seen before, new animals that weren’t in the previous experience, such as sperm whales,” Boutte said. “And then new environments, like volcanoes. … I won’t give too much away, but really unique environments that only exist because these forces that are at play. People will be amazed that the world has these types of places.” Expedition Odyssey, in its current version, will remain in place during the transition to the new version of the ride, which should take about 40 days. Shark Tunnel at SeaWorld It’s kind of interesting that just a year after the ride initially opened, SeaWorld Orlando is already changing it, but the hope is that the new version will take better advantage of the advanced ride system. We’ll keep an eye out for more Orlando theme park news, so stay tuned to DFB for more. I Went to 3 Different Theme Parks in a Week. Disney and Universal Were Hard…But SeaWorld Nearly Killed Me. 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 these changes? Let us know in the comments! View the full article

Your phone is your lifeline at Disney World. Our phone is Disney ready! It holds your park tickets, your dining reservations, your Lightning Lane selections, your photos, and your Maps app when you’re trying to figure out how to get from EPCOT’s World Showcase to the France Pavilion restrooms without getting turned around. The problem is that all of that constant use drains your battery faster than you’d expect, and a dead phone in the middle of a 12-hour park day is genuinely one of the most stressful things that can happen. The good news is there’s a simple, affordable fix that fits right in your park bag. DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Shop our favorite Disney World essentials here Don’t Be That Person Begging for an Outlet Near the Gift Shop INIU Portable Charger You’ve seen them. Someone hunched over a charging station near the exit of a ride, standing in an awkward spot just trying to get their phone to 20% before their next reservation. It doesn’t have to be you. A portable charger is one of those things that sounds obvious until you’re the one who forgot to bring it, and at that point, no amount of wishing will get your battery back. The price is the best part The INIU Portable Charger is the one worth throwing in your bag. It’s a 10,000mAh power bank that comes in at around $20, which is basically nothing compared to what you’d spend on a Mickey pretzel and a Dole Whip. What sets it apart from the generic options out there is that it’s genuinely compact, so it won’t take up half your bag, and it charges fast. We’re talking an iPhone 15 to 60% in about 25 minutes. We’re always using this thing It’s also got three ports total (two USB-C and one USB-A), so if you’re traveling with a partner or need to charge your camera and your phone at the same time, you’re covered. Oh, and it doubles as a small flashlight if you double-tap the power button, which comes in surprisingly handy during nighttime spectaculars. INIU Portable Charger One heads-up: it doesn’t come with a charging cable, so you’ll want to grab one separately. That’s really the only knock against it. We tested it against our usual go-to (an Anker model we’ve been loyal to for years), and this one won us over. It’s slimmer, it holds a longer charge, and unlike Fuel Rods we’ve used in the past, it didn’t trigger any alarms at the security bag check. That alone is worth something. It’s super slim If you’re heading to a Disney park soon, this is one of those purchases you’ll make once and then wonder how you ever went without it. It earns a full five out of five in our books, and that’s not something we say lightly. view ON AMAZON Whether you’re a Disney regular or planning your first trip, little upgrades like this one make the whole experience a lot smoother. Shop our favorite Disney World essentials here 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

So, here’s the thing — we’re in Disney World every day. Yes, LITERALLY every day. Now, we’re not in every single park each day, but yes, we step onto resort property every day, and that means we sometimes see some…interesting things. Discovery Trading Company While Disney’s Animal Kingdom is usually the most chill park, where we go for some relaxation (especially if we’re heading to Nomad Lounge), and while that’s still partly true, all the construction around does put a bit of a damper on that. We’re also wondering if that’s why something VERY interesting was forgotten inside a prominent shopping spot inside the park, because otherwise…this is bugging us more than it should. While we were walking through Discovery Trading Co. at the front of the park, we came across a big section of pastel shirts, which are perfect for spring! We browsed them, seeing if anything would catch our eye, and we’d ultimately return after our work hours to purchase it and bring it home, but instead, we spotted something very out of place. A Christmas shirt…in April Yep, that’s a Christmas shirt on the racks…in APRIL. It was in with the other pastel shirts, as if Disney was trying to convince people it could also be fit for spring. The worst part, though, is that it’s not on sale in the slightest, meaning that Disney is asking you to pay full price for a shirt that’s entirely out of season, and has been for four months. Discovery Trading Co. We’ve gotta admit, this isn’t something we normally see, so we do wonder if this shirt was accidentally forgotten, and was meant to be taken off the shelves months ago, but it genuinely DOES blend in with the other pastel shirts. Or, if it was on purpose, we don’t know how successful their plan has been so far. More Recent Animal Kingdom News! Why Am I Irrationally Angry In A Disney World Souvenir ShopThis Disney World Snack Is SO Popular It Should Have Its Own Lightning LaneWhy May 26th Is a HUGE Day for Disney FansCOMPLETE LIST of Disney World Early Entry Hotel Perk Changes For May 2026This Disney World Ride Just Debuted a NEW Change — And, No, It’s Not the Yeti We’ll be sure to keep you updated on all the latest Disney World news we hear, so stay tuned to DFB! CONFIRMED: Every Opening Date Announced for Disney World 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 ever seen something strange like this in Disney World? Tell us in the comments! View the full article

Take advantage of these deals before it’s too late! Our favorite sling bag! You can find us at the Disney Parks literally every single day, which means we’re constantly having to stock up on essentials that will help us during our visits. As such, we’re always scouting Amazon for some big-time deals — and there are quite a few right now that every Disney fan should check out! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Save 30% on this stroller fan ©Amazon A 30% discount is nothing to scoff at, and a Stroller Misting Fan can come in handy during a hot park day. This portable fan combines water-spraying capabilities with air-blowing features that will provide you and your child tons of cooling. The fan includes three built-in speeds, flexible legs, and the ability to rotate 360° with a 270° vertical tilt. BUY ON AMAZON Keep your devices charged with this next essential item Flat Plug Power Strip If you’re traveling with a lot of devices, check out this Flat Plug Power Strip! Currently 33% off on Amazon, this power strip comes with a 6-foot-long extension cord and includes three outlets, two USB-A ports, and two USB-C ports. BUY ON AMAZON Save 34% on this sling bag EVANCARY Small Sling Bag This Sling Bag is one of our favorites, and it’s currently 34% off on Amazon. The bag is available in several different colors and comfortably carries your Disney Parks essentials while giving you tons of storage with its many pockets! BUY ON AMAZON Keep your baby dry with this next item ©Amazon Rain is something you have to worry about during a Disney vacation — especially at Disney World. That’s where this Stroller Rain Cover can help. Currently 40% off on Amazon, this stroller essential is transparent and has mesh vents on both sides, as well as a lid that rolls up to allow air to circulate. The velcro straps secure the rain cover to the stroller and make sure that the cover won’t fly off during high winds. All in all, this universal cover keeps your baby dry and prevents water leaks — taking one major potential problem off your plate. BUY ON AMAZON Keep YOURSELF dry with this DFB favorite Frogg Toggs Poncho Currently 33% off on Amazon, the Frogg Toggs Poncho is one of our favorite reusable ponchos that we always pack for a park visit. Available in many different colors in adult and youth sizes, this poncho is waterproof, portable, lightweight, and super breathable. BUY ON AMAZON Fit right in with this Disney sweatshirt! ©Amazon If you’re looking to upgrade your Disney closet collection, check out the Oversized Sequins Sweatshirt! Featuring sequined images of Sleeping Beauty Castle, this sweatshirt is breathable, light, and currently 63% off on Amazon! BUY ON AMAZON Keep your devices charged on the go with this last item INIU Portable Charger Finally, our reporters swear by this Portable Charger, which is currently 17% off on Amazon. This charger is ultra slim and comes with a USB-C cord (it is both USB-C and USB-A compatible) to help you make sure your phone and MagicBand stay charged after a long day at the parks! BUY ON AMAZON And there you have it! We’re always on the hunt for great deals on items that could elevate your next Disney vacation, so keep it posted right here at DFB for all the latest updates! View the full article

If you need a quick pick-me-up after a long week, we’ve got you covered. Amazon is having a massive sale right now, and some of our favorite finds are even cheaper! ©Amazon Whether you’re looking for a new outfit, more accessories, planning your vacation, or just want something cute, we’ve found your new favorite thing! After all, you deserve it! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. These Heart-Shaped Hook Clips are perfect for when you’re on the go. ©Amazon These Heart-Shaped Hook Clips are super adorable, but also incredibly practical. They’re crafted from a durable and lightweight high-grade aluminum material that’s perfect for day-to-day use. Use them as a backpack hook, a water bottle connector, or a key chain! View on Amazon This Flowy Mini Skort is so cute! ©Amazon This Flowy Mini Skort is a pleated skirt with shorts made of flowy and lightweight fabric that makes you feel comfortable all day at Disney! It’s so versatile – you can wear it while working out, going out, or just for daily casual wear! View on Amazon Get these BAGSMART Wet Dry Bags for your next vacation! ©Amazon These BAGSMART Wet Dry Bags are perfect for traveling. It’s part packing organizer and part closet rack that easily folds up to fit in your suitcase. This set includes three zipper bags, one drawstring bag, and one shoe bag. Use them for shirts, shoes, towels, or swimsuits! But the best part? It’s 75% off right now! View on Amazon Stay hydrated in style with this BAGSMART Water Bottle Holder Bag! ©Amazon This BAGSMART Water Bottle Holder Bag in Purple fits various water bottles from 18 oz up to 64 oz and comes with a side zipper to fit any kind of tumbler handle. We love how this comes with pockets – we can fit our phone, keys, and credit cards inside without needing a bag! View on Amazon This Hydro Flask Micro Bottle is adorable! ©Amazon This Hydro Flask Micro Bottle in Glimmer Pink is the cutest water bottle we’ve ever seen. It holds 6.7 oz of hot or cold drinks, and keeps them at the right temperature for up to 7 hours thanks to TempShield double-wall vacuum insulation. Plus, it’s leakproof, so you can easily toss it into your bag when you’re on the go! View on Amazon Don’t forget these Compression Packing Cubes for your next trip! ©Amazon These 6 Set Compression Packing Cubes include an XL cube, two Large cubes, one Medium cube, one Small cube, plus a waterproof toiletries bag. You can organize seven to 14 days’ worth of clothes, making it ideal for longer travel or families sharing a suitcase! 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