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You guys, I’ve been waiting on my favorite Disney World ride to reopen for what feels like AGES. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad That’s right, I’m a die-hard Big Thunder Mountain Railroad fan, and it has been closed since January 2025 (I miss it so much!). It’s set to reopen in early May 2026, but we don’t have a specific date yet. The good news? Ride testing is underway! When one of our reporters visited Magic Kingdom on April 1st, she spotted sandbags in the mine cars on Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. This is a method of testing they use on rides before they open or reopen to make sure they’re safe for the public. See the sandbags? The train was absolutely loaded down from front to back, but it was taking that hill like a CHAMP! It feels so good to see this roller coaster running again. Go train go! Big Thunder got a handful of updates during its closure. The biggest changes are that the backstory of the ride has changed slightly, and they’re adding in the Rainbow Caverns scene! Now, when you enter the caverns, they’ll be colorful…and a bit more dangerous (Disney has said there will be rumblings). ©Disney Also, the ride got all-new track to make the experience a bit smoother, and there will be new lighting and effects throughout. Of course, we’ll be there when it reopens to check it out and report back on the changes. Construction currently I can’t wait to enjoy the wildest ride in the wilderness again in the future! We’ll be sure to let you know when a set reopening date is announced. For more tips and news, subscribe to our newsletter and our YouTube channel. Learn More About the Ride Changes Here! Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Are you excited for Big Thunder to reopen? Tell us in the comments! View the full article

Disney Loungefly bags are usually the kind of park accessory you admire from afar and then quietly talk yourself out of at checkout. Loungefly SALE! But right now, there are a few options sitting at a much more reasonable price point, and it honestly feels a little dangerous for our wallets. When you can snag something this cute for around $40, it suddenly becomes way easier to justify. If you’ve been thinking about upgrading your park bag or just want something fun for everyday use, these three Loungefly picks are actually worth a closer look. DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. SEE All THE Disney Loungeflys On SALE HERE!!!! This Is What Happens When Nostalgia Meets a Practical Park Bag ©Amazon There’s something about Pixar shorts that hits differently. They’re quick, emotional, and packed with moments you don’t forget, but they rarely get the merch spotlight they deserve. That’s what makes this next bag feel like such a hidden gem. The Loungefly Exclusive Pixar Shorts Mini Backpack pulls together some of those iconic moments in a really thoughtful way. You’ll spot Tin Toy, the mountains from Lava, Geri from Geri’s Game, Luxo Jr’s famous lamp duo, and even baby Bao. The color-block design keeps it from feeling too busy, while the Pixar ball shows up on the front pocket, zipper charm, and back for a cohesive touch. It’s playful without being overwhelming, and it works just as well in the parks as it does for everyday errands. If you love subtle Disney details that other fans will instantly recognize, this one just makes sense. view ON amazon When Your Outfit Needs a Little Extra Main Character Energy ©Amazon Some days call for a low-key bag. Other days, you want something that actually stands out in photos and pulls your whole look together. That’s where this next option really shines. The Loungefly Mickey Mouse Glitter Sequin Convertible Mini Backpack & Crossbody Bag is built for versatility. You can wear it as a mini backpack for park days or switch it to a crossbody when you want something lighter. The Mickey ears feature ombre sequins that fade from orange to yellow, giving off a sunset vibe that feels perfect for evenings in the parks. The glittery front pocket adds just enough sparkle without going over the top. It’s the kind of bag that works especially well if you’re planning outfits or just want something that pops against neutral basics. view ON amazon The One Bag That Carries You From Halloween to the Holidays ©Amazon Seasonal merch is fun until it only works for about three weeks out of the year. If you want something festive that actually lasts beyond a single holiday, this one checks that box. The Loungefly Disney Nightmare Before Christmas Jack Mini Backpack leans into that in-between season perfectly. The main body has a cozy, sweater-style pattern with pumpkins and ghosts, while the front pocket features reversible sequins. One side shows Jack Skellington, and the other flips to a jack-o’-lantern. It’s a small detail, but it makes the bag feel interactive and a little more special. This is the kind of accessory you can start wearing in October and keep using straight through the holidays without it feeling out of place. view ON amazon Finding a Loungefly at this price point doesn’t happen every day, especially with designs that feel this fun and wearable. Whether you’re planning a park trip or just want to bring a little Disney into your daily routine, these are the kinds of pieces that actually earn their spot in your rotation. See every single Disney Loungefly On SALE 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

If you have a trip to Disneyland Resort planned for April, you’re going to have to prepare for the park to look a little different. Disneyland As we get closer to summertime, it looks like some popular attractions at both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure are getting hit with refurbishment closures. Let’s take a look at what’s closing and when so you can plan accordingly. Three rides have just joined a long Disneyland refurbishment list, and all of their closures begin in April. These will be temporary closures for what looks to be basic refurbishment work. However, there is no end date for any of these rides as of right now! Disney California Adventure Toy Story Mania Staying in Disney California Adventure, Toy Story Mania will also be closing for refurbishment. The closure will begin on April 6th, with no opening date listed through the current end of the calendar on the Disneyland website. You’ll have a few more days to hit one of the park’s most popular attractions before it closes. Toy Story Midway Mania Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters Over in Disneyland Park, Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters will be closing for refurbishment on April 13th, with no opening date confirmed. One Buzz Lightyear ride finally opens in Disney World, while the other one closes in Disneyland. Astro Blasters Silly Symphony Swings The Silly Symphony Swings at Disney California Adventure will be closing on April 27th, with no official opening date. If you take a look at the Disneyland website, the ride shows no hours of operation starting on April 27th and through the latest date the calendar shows. Silly Symphony Swings In addition, these rides are currently closed at Disneyland Resort: Disneyland Monorail Roger Rabbit’s Car Toon Spin Jungle Cruise Disneyland Monorail 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. Make sure to write these dates down in your calendar so you can be prepared for your next Disneyland trip. We’re going to keep an eye out for any more Disneyland news so that we can keep you in the loop, so make sure to stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog. WE’RE FREAKING OUT! The Disney Character News We’ve All Been Waiting For Is HERE 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 have a Disneyland trip planned for April? Let us know in the comments! View the full article

You guys, it’s a pretty rough week to be a Disney character! ©Carlye Wisel In the past few years, Disney has made some pretty incredible character animatronics, particularly for its international parks. They’re SO cool to check out, but sometimes they have malfunctions and problems, just like their older counterparts. And this week? Well, there were some unfortunate incidents for TWO Disney characters. That is ROUGH man! This one’s probably going to require more immediate repair and likely some kind of deterrent to keep the wildlife away. That hair is not nest material, folks! (Especially since she’s known for having particularly beautiful hair!) Get a Closer Look at the Tangled Ride Here! So if you’re a Disney character animatronic, look out! I’m not sure why you’d be reading this article, but consider this your formal warning to be on your guard this week. Call us here at DFB if you need backup. For more news and Disney updates, subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media. Everything You Can See and Do at the NEW Disney Adventure World Expansion 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 either of these new lands? Tell us in the comments! View the full article

You’re not going to believe what NEW meet-and-greet just appeared at Disneyland Resort! WALL-E and Eve! After not seeing WALL-E since Earth Day a year ago, he has finally come back to Disneyland Resort. We started freaking out when we saw him once again, but this time it was even more exciting! This year, he brought Eve with him! 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. WALL-E and Eve have popped up at the Pixar Place Hotel in celebration of Earth Month, and we couldn’t be more thrilled! Of course, we had to stop by and say hi to the loveable robots, and not to be dramatic, but we seriously can’t get over our interaction with them — they’re just so dang cute! Look at them! You’ll find WALL-E and Eve in the lobby of the Pixar Place Hotel on Wednesdays throughout April. Guests will have the rare opportunity to celebrate Earth Month with the iconic pair. They are so cute together! Expect there to be a bit of a crowd when you stop by to see them; these two tend to draw quite a bit of attention. Unfortunately, you will have to come in April to catch the two robots, or you most likely will miss them. Hi WALL-E Earth Month at Disneyland usually brings new treats and merchandise to the resort as well. We haven’t heard or seen much about that yet, but it is just the beginning of the month. We’ll be keeping an eye out for any announcements so that we can update you! Sleeping Beauty Castle in Disneyland Character meet-and-greets always make us smile. We’ll make sure to keep an eye out for any more rare ones for you to check out, on top of any Earth Month news from Disneyland and Disney World. Make sure to stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog so you make sure you don’t miss anything! This Disneyland Change Will Make Your Trip 10x BETTER Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Will you have a chance to see WALL-E and Eve? Let us know in the comments! View the full article

If you’ve ever walked through the France Pavilion in EPCOT and felt completely overwhelmed by the pastry case at Les Halles Boulangerie-Patisserie, you are not alone. Les Halles Boulangerie Pâtisserie There’s so much going on in there that it’s genuinely easy to overlook something spectacular, and that’s exactly what almost happened to us with the Citron. We’d never heard of it. The people standing in line around us had never heard of it either. It wasn’t showing up in the My Disney Experience app, which is probably a big part of why it flies so far under the radar. But it was right there on the menu board, sitting pretty at $7.95, and we figured we had nothing to lose. We’re so glad we went for it. What Is the Citron? The Citron is a flaky puff pastry filled with a lemon cream base and topped with a generous pile of fresh blueberries. Citron at Les Halles Boulangerie-Pâtisserie The outside of the pastry is dusted with powdered sugar, which adds just the right amount of sweetness to the shell without going overboard. It sounds simple, and in a way it is, but the combination of flavors and textures here is doing a lot of work in the best possible way. Citron at Les Halles Boulangerie-Pâtisserie How Did It Taste? Really, really good. Let us just get that out of the way first. Citron at Les Halles Boulangerie-Patisserie The lemon cream base and the blueberries together are genuinely tart. We’re talking pucker-up tart, especially if you’re getting bites from the center of the pastry where everything is concentrated. On its own, that tartness might be a little much for some people. But the pastry crust is the key player here, and it completely changes the equation. When you get a bite that includes the flaky, powdered-sugar-coated pastry along with the lemon and blueberry, the flavors even out into something that is perfectly balanced and honestly just really satisfying. Citron at Les Halles Boulangerie-Patisserie The pastry is doing real heavy lifting, and we think it deserves its flowers. Without it, this would be a very tart fruit-and-cream situation. With it, you have a well-rounded, layered bite that feels considered and intentional, the kind of thing you expect from a French patisserie. Citron at Les Halles Boulangerie-Patisserie Our one small critique: the filling is concentrated in the center of the pastry rather than spread throughout. We would have loved for the lemon cream and blueberries to run through more of the pastry, so every bite had that full flavor combination. As it is, some bites are mostly pastry, and while the pastry is good, we wanted more of that lemon-blueberry punch throughout. Definitely something to keep in mind as you eat through it strategically. A Fair Warning The blueberries aren’t shy. They will roll, they will tumble, and they will make a small scene if you are not prepared. Citron at Les Halles Boulangerie-Patisserie Bring napkins. Bring a lot of napkins. This is not a graceful snack to eat on the go, but it is absolutely worth the minor chaos. Should You Order the Citron? Yes. Full stop. Kids will love it, adults will love it, and honestly, anyone with a soft spot for lemon desserts needs to make this a priority on their next EPCOT visit. At $7.95, it’s a genuinely great value for the quality you are getting. Citron at Les Halles Boulangerie-Patisserie Next time you are at Les Halles, and you find yourself staring into that pastry case, don’t let the Citron get lost in the shuffle. It is one of the best snack finds we have had in the France Pavilion in a long time, and it deserves way more attention than it is currently getting. More Recent Reviews! REVIEW: We Almost Skipped This EPCOT Snack…That Would’ve Been a BIG MistakeREVIEW: This $16 Disney World Milkshake Has Us Going “Uh, What?”6 iPhone Accessories Disney World Cast Members Swear ByREVIEW: We Spent $12 on a Disney World Pretzel, but We’re Here for the CHEESE!The Only 9 Essentials You Need for Disney World Are Up to 40% Off Today We’ll be sure to keep you updated on all the latest Disney World dining news, so stay tuned to DFB! REVIEW: Proof That This Disney Springs Spot RARELY Lets Us Down 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 tried the Citron at Les Halles? Tell us in the comments! View the full article

The Sprint To Race Day: Inside The Making of a runDisney Weekend | Disney UnscriptedView the full article

Let’s face it. Disney World is NOT a cheap vacation, so anytime there’s a discount or deal released, we know Disney fans want to take advantage of it. Disney World Theme Park Tickets However, Disney recently released a deal that has actually proven to be a little controversial. Disney World is now offering a ticket discount for the summer for visitors who visit the theme parks after 2 PM each day. Now, for some, this seemed like a good deal. But other folks think it’s a big joke. Let’s look at the discount and see why folks are or aren’t happy. So here’s the ticket deal Disney released: you can get a discounted theme park ticket for two or three days for all four parks with admission to one park per day after 2 PM. This ticket is valid from May 26th through July 29th. Pricing for the tickets depends on the start day, but a 2-day ticket runs anywhere from $118 per day to $156 per day, while a 3-day ticket runs from $116 per day to $154 per day. Magic Kingdom But some folks are not very happy with this offer. One of our Facebook followers, Andrea, said, “I feel like this is an April fools joke” because the offer was announced on April 1st. Okay, we get that. It’s hard to tell what’s real when things are announced on April Fool’s Day. Cristie said, “I feel like it’s a lot of money for half a day.” This is a very good point, especially if you’re considering using the ticket for Disney’s Animal Kingdom, which closes considerably earlier than the other theme parks. You’re not even getting a half day there, but more like a quarter of a day. Disney’s Animal Kingdom Londa pointed out, “It’s not a good value and not that much cheaper, especially compared to the current 4 day ticket deal. If you get half the time in the parks, it should be half the cost.” She’s got a point there, and when we looked at ticket prices on the Disney World website, the 4-park magic ticket is actually LESS per day than the 2 PM ticket. Now, most visitors will want to visit all four parks anyway, so, yes, the 2 PM deal isn’t a great one with this Magic Ticket around. ©Disney On the other side of things, though, if you’re only visiting the park for two or three days, it could be a good value. A regular 2-day park ticket for July 27th (one of the cheaper times to visit in the summer) is $157 per person. ©Disney A regular 3-day park ticket for the same day is $155 per day. ©Disney In comparison, the ticket price for a 2-day ticket for visits after 2 PM starting on July 27th is $118 per day. ©Disney A 3-day ticket for after 2 PM is $116 per day. ©Disney So in the case of a visit of two or three days, you would actually save $30 to $50 per ticket, depending on the day you choose to start your trip. Of course, some folks don’t think it’s enough of a discount, considering you’re getting such a shorter day in the parks. Taryn commented, “The idea is good but the price is laughable.” EPCOT’s Spaceship Earth Other DFB readers, though, see the value in the new ticket offer, especially as Disney has done something similar before (although previous ticket offers were for 12 PM and after in the parks). For those who don’t want hectic rope drop mornings, it might even make sense. Susan said, “It’s a great idea for those who like to sleep in/get in some pool time.” Hippy Dippy Pool at Disney’s Pop Century Resort Viktoria pointed out how this ticket offer could be good for your arrival day, too, although you’d have to buy a 2-day ticket and visit the parks after 2 PM at least twice: “Perfect for days you can’t get the first early morning flight. You can still head to park at 2 & when magic kingdom is open til 11, you still get 9 hours in the park. Still a full park day!” Main Street, U.S.A. in Disney World Also, this ticket offer could be great for locals who don’t have an Annual Pass, as one of our readers pointed out. Locals might not want to deal with rope drop, but would rather visit the parks later in the day. Lindsey also made a great point: “I think it works good for Summer! My family can’t handle a full park day when it’s so hot outside.” As previously said, it’s a great way to spend the morning enjoying the pool at the hotel and then heading to the parks later in the day and into the evening when the sun is a little lower in the sky. Hollywood Studios So as you can see, the opinions about this discount are all over the place, as to be expected. It really comes down to what works best for your Disney World trip, and if this is something you see the value of, that’s great. Otherwise, there are still other ticket discounts available, including the 4-day Magic Ticket, as well as discounted tickets for those who subscribe to Disney+. We’ll keep an eye out for more Disney discounts and deals, so stay tuned to DFB for more. Click Here For All Current Disney Discounts and Deals 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? Is this ticket option something you would consider? Share your thoughts in the comments! View the full article

A classic Disney World ride is FINALLY going to reopen after over a year-long refurbishment! Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Back in January 2025, Magic Kingdom’s Big Thunder Mountain Railroad closed for a lengthy refurbishment that has lasted for over a year. Disney made it clear that this would be more than just routine maintenance, calling it a “mountain-top to cavern-deep refurbishment,” hence the lengthy downtime for the attraction. But luckily for those of us not-so-patiently waiting for its return, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is finally reopening soon! Mark your calendar, Disney fans, because the time is almost here! Disney previously revealed that Big Thunder Mountain Railroad will reopen in early May, meaning we can finally revisit the wildest ride in the wilderness NEXT MONTH! Big Thunder Mountain Railroad We’re super excited to check out the “little bit of new magic” Disney has teased will be coming with the revamped version of the ride. One of the most exciting details Disney shared involves the underground portion of the ride. When the trains enter the caverns, guests will encounter phosphorescent pools along with shimmering, illuminated stalagmites and stalactites, an area they’re calling Rainbow Caverns. ©Disney We’ll also learn more about the backstory of Big Thunder Mountain, with the lore of Barnabas T. Bullion, who struck gold in the Big Thunder region during the early days of America’s first gold rush and founded the Big Thunder Mountain Company. ©Disney We can’t wait to check out the newly updated Big Thunder Mountain Railroad when it opens next month! Disney hasn’t announced the exact date it will reopen yet, but we’ll keep a close eye out for any updates as we get closer and closer to that early May timeline. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad And remember, there are even BIGGER changes coming to Magic Kingdom in the future too — Disney is in the early phases of construction for the highly-anticipated Villains Land AND the Cars-themed land, Piston Peak. Villains Land ©Disney What an exciting time to be a Disney fan! We’ll keep you updated with all of the latest developments and news, so stick with us at DFB to stay in the loop! 20 Big Changes Disney Has Already Announced for 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 Which big Disney World news are you the most excited about? Let us know in the comments! View the full article

Calling all Disney World Annual Passholders, we’ve got some news for you! Disney World Annual Pass V.I.PASSHOLDER Summer Days is coming back to Disney World once again this year, and it’s going to be filled with exclusive merch, limited-edition snacks, giveaways, and more. Disney dropped some details before it begins in one month, and we’re sharing it with you! V.I.PASSHOLDER Summer Days is a celebration of all the fun to be discovered around Walt Disney World Resort throughout the summer. It’s a way Disney shows some extra appreciation to all the guests who visit the park year-round. Scanning in During this summer event, Disney World offers Passholders unique opportunities to enjoy the season through limited-time offerings and experiences designed just for them. You’re going to be thrilled to see that this includes things like: New Passholder merchandise Food & beverage items Special discounts A new magnet And so much more! Annual Passholder Card The celebration will begin on May 1st, kicking off the summer at Disney World, and end on July 31st. Things like merchandise, food, and magnets will most likely be announced the closer we get to the date, and throughout the summer. Something else we’ve seen in the past during V.I.PASSHOLDER summer has been Passholder lounges, which we’re sure will return. Annual Pass at Animal Kingdom Summer is just around the corner, and Disney World is the place to be. A few weeks after V.I.PASSHOLDER begins, Cool KIDS’ SUMMER will return on May 26th, featuring exclusive characters and fun activities throughout Disney World for kids of all ages. Magic Kingdom 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 going to keep an eye out for more news surrounding the summer event as we get closer to the start date. Make sure to stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog so you don’t miss any important information and updates that will help make your trip as great as possible! No Lie. You Need to Skip These 5 Disney World Rides 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 Will you be celebrating V.I.PASSHOLDER Summer? Let us know in the comments! View the full article

There’s one REALLY big problem going to Disney World. When you hit the shops, you’ll want to buy, well, EVERYTHING. We get it…we’ve been there. The problem with that, though, is that when you start packing all those souvenirs up into your luggage, you may discover that not everything will fit. Oops. ©ALDI Well, there’s a very good travel tip out there that having a decent size foldable bag in your luggage could help you with that. You could either pack your souvenirs in that foldable bag to carry them home with you. Then you’ll have an extra bag handy if you need it, and it won’t take up a lot of space in your luggage when you don’t. You’ll find these bags at ALDI from April 8th through April 14th. DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Foldable Backpack ©ALDI A foldable backpack is a great solution for giving you an extra bag, should you need it for all those souvenirs you bought at Disney World or Disneyland. ALDI will have one next week for just $5. It comes in two colors: black and blue. Foldable Duffel Bag ©ALDI If you’re more of a duffel bag person, you can also get a foldable duffel bag to use for when you need an extra bag to bring all those souvenirs home. This bag is also just $5 and comes in black and blue. Foldable Tote ©ALDI A foldable tote will also be available in those two colors, for just $5. It has a zippered section plus a front zippered pocket for storing smaller items. Buy the 2-Pack of Foldable Travel Bags ©Amazon Can’t get to ALDI next week? Well, we found a 2-pack of foldable travel bags for under $10, which puts them at about the same price as the bags from ALDI. These are also a little bigger, so you can stash more stuff in them. view ON AMAZON Get the 4-Pack of Travel Bags ©Amazon Need even more bags? You can score a pack of four on Amazon for just $13, which actually makes them CHEAPER than the bags at ALDI. If you’re traveling with others, now everyone can have their own foldable bag. view ON AMAZON Buy the Foldable Travel Backpack ©Amazon If you prefer a backpack, you can also grab this foldable travel backpack on Amazon for close to the same price as the one at ALDI. This one comes in a variety of colors, too, so you can pick your favorite. 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

Secret menu items, the best happy hour deals, and tried and tested Disney World restaurant tips! Pizza Planet Spring Rolls We’re doing some DEEP CUTS for the magical Dining scene today to bring you our FAVORITE food and restaurant hacks, here on DFB Guide. Check out our video below: Disney World’s TOP SECRET Food Hacks Are you a DFB Video subscriber? If you hit the button below, you can subscribe to our channel and catch up on ALL of our latest episodes! And stay tuned for more theme park news! Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW What do you think of this video? Tell us in the comments. View the full article

It’s tempting to want to do EVERYTHING on your Disney World vacation…but your trip might actually be better if you DON’T ride some attractions. Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run From classic attractions to exciting new additions, you might be thinking, “Yup, I want to do them all,” as you plan your upcoming Disney World vacation. But, as shocking as it might sound, SKIPPING some rides might actually be the best thing you can do to get the most out of your trip. Here are 5 rides you may want to intentionally leave off your 2026 Disney World itinerary! Space Mountain Okay, first let’s address the massive elephant in the room. Yes, Space Mountain is absolutely a classic, and for that reason, it will always hold a special place in our hearts. But the rest of our body doesn’t necessarily agree with that feeling! Space Mountain Several members of our team have mentioned they can’t handle Space Mountain anymore because, despite its iconic status, it can be a rough ride — literally. We often find ourselves walking away from the ride with a sore back, a headache, or other various aches and pains. Looks a lot more painful with the lights on. Space Mountain includes lots of quick, unexpected drops and turns, and the track doesn’t always feel the smoothest. If that sounds like something that could also trigger some painful issues for you, you might want to bypass it to avoid potentially derailing the rest of your vacation plans. Space Mountain But that doesn’t mean all thrill rides are off the table! For an exciting ride without a ton of jarring motions, you could head to TRON: Lightcycle Run, right next door. TRON is also a rollercoaster with plenty of thrills, but with fewer sudden turns and drops, it’s less likely to leave you sore than its classic neighbor, Space Mountain. Mission: SPACE Speaking of rides that could leave you feeling less-than-stellar afterwards, Mission: SPACE in EPCOT is a space flight simulator that’s notorious for causing motion sickness. Need further evidence? The air sickness bags included in all the ride vehicles should illustrate the point! Mission: SPACE If you’re on the fence when debating whether or not you can handle it, there are two different Mission: SPACE experiences you can choose from. The Green Mission is a gentler, more family-friendly version that has light motions and doesn’t spin. And the Orange Mission is the more intense version that spins and tilts to simulate the speed and G-forces of a spacecraft launch. Mission: SPACE If you have even a hint of motion sickness, you’ll want to avoid the Orange Mission, or else risk giving yourself a nasty bout of it! And if you’re super sensitive to motion sickness, you may want to skip this ride entirely, since the movement and images in the Green Mission can still cause issues. Mission: SPACE For a gentler simulated flight experience, you can check out Soarin’ in The Land Pavilion. It can be scary for riders who are afraid of heights, but other than that, it’s generally super family-friendly! Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run This one might seem like a hot take, but we promise there’s a reason it made the list! Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run is an interactive flight simulator in Disney’s Hollywood Studios that allows guests to take control of the Millennium Falcon to transport contraband cargo on an important mission. Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios It’s an immersive ride that puts you right in the action of the Star Wars universe…so why is it on our “skip” list for 2026? Well, several caveats explain its placement! On May 26th, 2026, the attraction is being updated to add new experiences in honor of the release of the new movie, The Mandalorian and Grogu. New missions will be added to Millennium Falcon: Smugglers run in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort featuring the Mandalorian and Grogu. If you’re fortunate enough to visit Disney World fairly regularly and you’ve already been on the current version of the ride, you might want to hold off until the new version debuts so you can spend your precious park time on other attractions. Plus, lines might be extra long in the days and weeks immediately after the ride is first updated, so it might be better to wait until the hype dies down if you have the opportunity to visit again soon after. Hondo animatronic Of course, there are tons of reasons this one may NOT be a skip for you — if you’re a big Star Wars fan, haven’t had the chance to ride the current version yet, or won’t be back to Disney World for a while, it might still be firmly on your must-do list! But if you don’t fall into one of those categories, you might want to hold off until the new version comes out later this year. Kali River Rapids The ever-devisive Kali River Rapids is a water ride located in Disney’s Animal Kingdom. And before we go any further, we have to say that if you ride this attraction, you will get SOAKED. Kali River Rapids Getting completely drenched is the main takeaway from this attraction, since it isn’t super immersive or story-driven otherwise. With that in mind, this one is pretty much always a skip for the members of our team who prefer not to get soaking wet, since there isn’t much benefit to justify the soggy shoes. On the other hand, if a mid-day soak is exactly what you’re looking for, give this one a go! Kali River Rapids If you aren’t a huge fan of water rides, but can deal with them if there is also a storyline to the attraction, you may prefer Tiana’s Bayou Adventure in Magic Kingdom instead. Plus, you might not get completely drenched on that ride…it’s still possible, but not a guarantee like on Kali River Rapids! Peter Pan’s Flight You might see Peter Pan’s Flight and think, “How could that be a skip? It’s quintessential Disney World!” Which, fair, there are definitely some cases in which this could be a must-do! If you have little kids or major Peter Pan fans in your group, they’ll probably be blown away by this ride through Neverland, which would make this ride a super memorable part of your trip. Peter Pan’s Flight But we can’t talk about Peter Pan’s Flight without talking about the wait times. The standby line for this attraction is almost always super long, with waits regularly hovering around the hour mark. And since it’s often one of the rides people head to at park open to try to beat the crowds, you can’t even count on being able to knock it out in the morning with a shorter wait like you can with some other attractions. Peter Pan Plus, the ride itself is pretty short — about 3 minutes from start to finish. Compared to something like Haunted Mansion at 7-8 minutes or Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at 9-10 minutes, you might be disappointed to wait in line for an hour or more for such a short payoff. Peter Pan’s Flight ears It can be hard to justify waiting in line for Peter Pan’s Flight, especially if you’ve got a short trip planned where every second counts. If that’s the case for you, Under the Sea — Journey of the Little Mermaid is another Fantasyland dark ride based on a classic movie that could be a solid swap on your itinerary! When it comes to a Disney World vacation, more isn’t always more. You might want to consider skipping these rides on your next trip to avoid potential aches, pains, disappointments, and time wasters! We’re in Disney World every day (literally!), and we’re constantly on the lookout for the experiences that could derail your trip, so keep an eye on DFB for all the latest updates to help plan your dream vacation! If You Do This on Disney World Rides, You’re an Expert and We Love You 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 other rides are you skipping in 2026? Let us know in the comments! View the full article

It’s FINALLY happening! An iconic Disney World late-night spot is reopening… but not where you might expect. Jellyrolls Jellyrolls, a dueling piano bar, closed on Disney’s BoardWalk in April 2025 after 30 years of operation. When news of the closure was first announced, we knew that it wasn’t the end of Jellyrolls for good, but we weren’t sure when or where we’d meet our old friend again. That has officially changed, as Jellyrolls has announced that it will reopen just minutes from Disney World later this year. The Orlando Sentinel has reported that company officials have confirmed that Jellyrolls has secured a new location less than 10 minutes from its former home. A grand opening celebration is planned for late summer or early fall 2026. “We’re excited to continue the legacy we’ve had and do our thing,” shared Amber Antel, director of operations for Jellyrolls. Jellyrolls The company is building out a commercial space in Lake Buena Vista, a short distance away from resorts, shops, and restaurants that cater to tourists and locals alike, Antel said. The new location will feature free parking, be closer to the space than the original Disney location, and allow people to be dropped off and picked up by rideshare services right at the front door of the new space. Jellyrolls Almost a full year after the final night that the Disney Jellyrolls location closed on April 19th, 2025, we’re excited to finally have some idea of when and where we can finally enjoy this bar and entertainment space once again. As of now, Disney hasn’t announced plans for the former Jellyrolls space on the BoardWalk (though we’re always on the lookout!). Jellyrolls Jellyrolls owner, Michael Williams, was determined to find just the right location for the new space, per Antel. Construction has already begun transforming the space into a lively venue. It will keep many of the same features that made it popular (and a favorite of Cast Members) at Disney World, such as specialty cocktails and its signature popcorn. It will also remain restricted to ages 21 and older, with the song list continuing to forgo overly sexual or violent lyrics. Popcorn! “We’re not going to change our standards,” said Scotty Kilwein, director of entertainment. “We want everyone to feel comfortable.” Kilwein expects many of his fellow piano players from the Disney location to return when the new space opens. We can expect to see more technologically advanced sound and lighting, and the stage will be made more prominent with a makeover, he said. Jellyrolls at Disney’s BoardWalk Antel said she thinks music fans will find the new venue worth the wait. “We wanted to give our clientele an even better experience,” she said. “We weren’t just looking for a new home, we were looking for the right home — one we intend to be in for a long time.” Dueling Pianos at Jellyrolls To keep up with news of the official location and opening date, make sure you check back here or keep an eye on jellyrollsorlando.com. We’ll be on the lookout for additional details about the reopening of Jellyrolls and more. In the meantime, make sure you stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for the latest Disney news and beyond. 5 Disney World Buildings That Are STILL Abandoned 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 checking out the new Jellyrolls when it reopens? Let us know in the comments below! View the full article

Do you love Disney mugs? Honestly, Disney mugs are probably the BEST souvenir because they’re not just souvenirs that sit around the house and collect dust. They’re souvenirs you can use, whether that be for that morning cup of coffee, that evening cup of hot cocoa, or maybe even for holding your pens on your desk. They’re so versatile! We love Disney mugs Well, if you love Disney mugs as much as we do, go ahead and get ready to do some shopping. Some brand NEW Disney mugs have officially arrived online. DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Get the Pixar Ball Sculpted Mug ©Disney This mug is designed to look just like the Pixar ball…and it’s even round. It’s inspired by the Pixar short Luxo, Jr., and is now officially part of the studio’s branding. It’s even microwave and dishwasher safe! Get at the disney store Buy the Lightning McQueen Sculpted Mug ©Disney KA-CHOW! Lightning McQueen is the star of this Cars-themed mug. The mug is shaped like the famous race car and even has an “exhaust vapor” handle. This is the perfect mug to use when fueling up in the morning. get at the disney store Get the Minnie Mouse Icon Strawberry Mug ©Disney This mug celebrates the fruit of summer, strawberries, complete with a pattern that features Minnie Mouse’s signature head with a pretty polka dot bow imagined as a strawberry. get at the disney store Buy the Winnie the Pooh Sculpted Mug ©Disney If you can’t get enough of that silly old bear, you need this fun mug that is Winnie the Pooh’s face. What’s even more adorable, though, is the pattern of bees on the handle because we know how much Pooh loves honey. get at the disney store Get the Disney World Toy Story Mug ©Disney Is there any franchise more iconic than Pixar’s Toy Story? We think not. This mug celebrates all things Toy Story and includes some of your favorite Toy Story characters like Forky, Buzz, Jessie, Slinky, Woody, and more. The handle looks like toy blocks with silhouettes of Toy Story characters. Inside, you’ll see the Walt Disney World logo. get at the disney store Buy the Scar Mug ©Disney Be prepared! Scar from The Lion King just got his own mug. The mug is covered in figures of Scar, along with a fun animal print. Let Scar stalk your coffee in style. get at the disney store Get the Sebastian Mug ©Disney Life is better under the sea, and Sebastian is here on a mug to sing all about it. This mug features Sebastian on one side, singing his heart out, while his sea friends are on the back. That’s why it’s hotter under the water! get at the disney store Buy the Dinoco Motor Oil Mug ©Disney Okay, we love this Cars-themed mug that looks like a Dinoco Motor Oil can. It even has a removable lid with a simulated funnel spout. After all, Dinoco Motor Oil is the preferred breakfast of Piston Cup champion Lightning McQueen! get at the disney store Get the Mickey Mouse and Friends Golf Mug ©Disney Mickey enjoys a round of golf on this mug with all his friends, including Pluto, Goofy, and Donald. But the back is what makes this mug because it has Donald getting mad…again…Aw, Phooey! It’s the perfect mug for golfers! get at the disney store Buy the Russell and Dug Mug ©Disney This mug has Russel and Dug from Up! One side has Russell with “The wilderness must be explored!” while the other side has Dug and says “Charting a course to adventure.” LOVE! get at the disney store 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

A popular Disney Springs hotel is EXPANDING! Disney Springs The Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista, located directly across from Disney Springs, has recently expanded its on-property market and dining plans to make meals even better. There might be even more reasons why this hotel should be an option on your next Disney trip. Let’s take a look at all the details! 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. Disney World has lots of great budget hotel options for those who are coming for a Disney vacation, and one of our favorites is the Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista. It’s located right across from Disney Springs, the shopping and dining district at Disney World. Disney Springs! It also has great perks like early entry into the parks and shuttles to the parks. If that wasn’t reason enough to go there, now they have expanded on-property market and dining package options. Disney Springs! The expanded market now has more food and customizable build-your-own plate options, as well as enhanced dining packages. This will include a variety of ready-to-enjoy selections, such as pizza, pasta, lasagna, pulled pork, chicken breasts, sandwiches, ice cream novelties, drinks, and more. Disney Springs If you’re staying at the hotel and you have to be up for work, you have an early meeting, or you’re using that early entry perk to go to a Disney World theme park 30 minutes before opening, grab a Starbucks coffee as early as 6 AM. The Mainstreet Market also offers mobile ordering and self-checkout for added convenience. Magic Kingdom “Many of our guests are headed to conferences, events, or to the Disney World Parks, so we wanted to offer fast and easy dining options tailored to individual tastes and dietary preferences,” said Complex General Manager of Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista and Hilton Orlando Buena Vista Palace George Stanfield. “With the addition of our expanded dining package options, our guests can enjoy stress-free, simplified meals when staying with us.” Disney Springs You can now get half-dining and full-dining packages at the Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista. The half package includes daily buffet breakfast and dinner, while the full-dining package includes everything in the half-dining package, plus lunch. Disney Springs We’re loving these upgrades and think this is a great hotel for those looking to save a little extra on their next vacation. We’re always on top of all the latest Disney news and updates, so make sure to stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for more! 5 Tips For the NEW Disney Springs Bus Rule Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Would you stay at this hotel? Let us know in the comments! View the full article

Happy April Fool’s Day! Today is always a day filled with pranks, jokes, and funny, fake “announcements” from companies. Universal didn’t disappoint! Universal Orlando Universal Orlando just announced some “news” for Epic Universe that had us dying to experience it! There’s only one thing we love more than theme parks – and that’s the food and drinks! We made a free map of the best drink options from Butterbeer to hidden gems at the best Universal park, Epic Universe. We all know and love Epic Universe’s Dark Universe portal. Visit the village of Darkmoor, home to monsters, monster makers, and monster hunters. The land features monsters like Frankenstein’s Monster, Dracula, The Wolf Man, The Mummy, and the Creature from the Black Lagoon. We’ve always wondered if Epic Universe will have seasonal offerings like neighboring Universal Studios Florida, but we didn’t expect this… the Dark Universe portal will receive a new summer overlay! Dark Universe in Epic Universe The Totally Real New Dark Universe Summer Overlay has the tagline of “Fun in the sun is the ULTIMATE vampire repellent!” Universal’s official announcement states: “Introducing Summer at Darkmoor! Trade your lab goggles for shades and grab your sunhat for the grooviest vacay destination on this side of the morgue. The world will never see Summer the same again!” ©Universal Orlando We love how detailed this overlay is. Darkmoor has been turned into a beach with the Creature from the Black Lagoon taking a swim and throwing a beach ball! The beach is covered in towering tropical palm trees, bright starfish, and decorative conch shells. Assistant Ygor, who just finished decorating the Frankenstein manor in sunflowers, pinwheels, and beach umbrellas, just clocked out to eat a hot dog on the water! His sun hat is iconic. Ygor had a monstrous day at work We’re so excited for this new summer overlay to happen… never! Universal really got us hooked with this April Fool’s joke. Stay tuned to Disney Food Blog to see what other announcements are made today! NEWS: Universal Debuts NEW $65 Dining Pass Read more: DFB's complete guide to Universal’s Epic Universe >> 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 want to see a new overlay at Epic Universe? Comment below! View the full article

We’re visiting the Disneyland Resort to check out a new menu being offered at one of the BEST lounges on property! Carthay Circle Restaurant I recently stopped by Carthay Circle Lounge at Disney California Adventure to try the new lunch menu, and it’s safe to say that I had PLENTY of thoughts! Should you visit this popular lounge and try out these new offerings? Find out in my review below! Atmosphere Tucked within the gorgeous Carthay Circle Restaurant (one of Disneyland’s best Signature Dining experiences), Carthay Circle Lounge still maintains a ton of elegance in a refined and upscale setting themed after the classic Hollywood theater where Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs premiered in 1937. Carthay Circle Lounge The restaurant is like a time capsule — featuring old-timey-looking furniture with pictures of Walt (some with stars of his time) on the walls. It also features mood lighting and a relaxed setting that takes you away from the hectic theme park atmosphere. Well, at least inside… The elevator There is an expanded outdoor seating area as well that provides views of Buena Vista street with plenty of fresh air to spare. Outside seating All in all, it’s a gorgeous space that transcends typical theme park dining — but what matters most is everything you can eat, so let’s get into it! Menu Carthay Circle Lounge offers a seasonal menu of Mediterranean-California light fare that is styled kind of like tapas — small bites that you can share or stack with other choices to create a full meal. These aren’t exactly the heartiest of dishes compared to the attached restaurant, but there are TONS of eats to choose from. Keep in mind that this is one of the pricier locations at California Adventure. NEW Menu As a lounge, you will also find plenty of signature cocktails, wine, and other alcoholic beverages that are a bit more elevated than most other offerings at the park. Of course, there are some great mocktails here as well. Beverage menu Of note, everything we tried on the new lunch menu is ALSO available with the dinner menu, so worry not if you’re trying to squeeze in time here during your next visit! With that said, let’s get into everything I tried! Eats First up, I grabbed the Braised Short Rib Sliders for $28. This beauty is made with caramelized onions, sun-dried tomato aïoli, and arugula. Braised Short Rib Sliders This dish comes with three sliders that are PACKED with flavor. The buns had a fantastic texture that absolutely held up well. They were crispy, yet still soft and fresh, and the beef was so tender and paired wonderfully with the spinach and sauce (which had subtle tomato flavors that neither overpowered the snack nor were ignored). A look inside The onions here provided a really great earthy tone, and I was really impressed by the balance of all these ingredients. These were fantastic sliders made with top-notch quality ingredients, and everything worked as intended in my opinion. I would absolutely get these again, and it’s safe to say this may be my favorite thing that I tried during my review — and this is coming from someone who doesn’t usually opt for short rib options! 10/10, no notes Next up was the Green Tai Curry Baked Bay Scallops for $16. This is made with macadamia nuts, green papaya, and Thai basil. Green Tai Curry Baked Bay Scallops Served in a shell, the presentation here is visually pleasing and inviting. As for the taste, it was very citrusy (even before applying the lime) with a surprisingly subtle kick. The bread crumbs provided a nice crunchy texture, and the scallops were cooked perfectly to give you that soft versus crunchy combo you’d expect when ordering this dish. The nuts also give the scallops an extra dimension, but there aren’t a bunch. You get an earthy aftertaste, but the scallops are allowed to shine. A closer look at the scallops The basil cut through quite nicely with a freshness that helped keep everything light, but ultimately, I wish this flavor provided a bit more boldness, as it got lost within the fishiness of the scallops. Still, this is a solid dish and will likely appease seafood lovers. I really dug the fresh flavors happening here, and I appreciate that it’s a light option. I wouldn’t say it’s filling, but if you get it with something else, you should be fine. If you don’t like scallops, you won’t like this. Eat it altogether Next, I tried the Beef and Spinach Cannellonis for $22. This is made with parmesan, sungold tomato, and pomodoro. Beef and Spinach Cannelloni’s I found this to be rich and tomato-forward. This was the heartiest thing I tried, making the cost stomachable. Be warned that this is fairly acidic thanks to all that tomato. Each tomato element tastes differently, and the cherry tomatoes added a sweetness I really loved — but I couldn’t help but get distracted by the tomato acidity. The arugula cut through the acidity at least, and the fried parmesan added a fun, cheesy element that was almost a bit bitter. Tomatoes! The meat was very tender and worked in tandem with the soft pasta for a dish that melts in your mouth. There are also peas in this, and they’re fine, but I felt they were included just to combat some of the tomato. There is just so much tomato here that I felt more herbs would’ve been appropriate. This was probably my least favorite of the three, but it was still pretty good. The Quality at this restaurant is just so good that even the things I wouldn’t get again were pleasant. There’s a lot happening here Finally, for dessert, I got the Tahitian Vanilla Bean-Root Beer Float Popsicle for $15. This comes with the leftover root beer in a side cup to enjoy. Tahitian Vanilla Bean-Root Beer Float Popsicle Now THIS is a fun way to do a root beer float! It has a great crunch on top thanks to those earthy Tahitian beans, but if you’re worried about those, just dunk the popsicle in the root beer, and they’ll be nothing more than an afterthought! A couple of different servers reiterated that there’s no right or wrong way to enjoy this dessert, so I dunked it and turned it into a classic float. Look at that beauty! It was a little sweeter than your regular float and a bit nutty in the best ways. The Tahitian vanilla bean was a little fruity, and the textures were almost like cherry seeds, but they were subtle in flavor, and I ultimately found this to be an elevated root beer float, but still a root beer float. Maybe it’s a bit overpriced, but on a blisteringly hot day or one when you’re CRAVING a root beer float, this should hit the spot. Eat like ice cream, drink it like a float — however you prefer! I quite enjoyed this, along with everything else I tried! Nosh or Not This DCA lounge is a must-visit if… YOU WANT LIGHT FARE. These are smaller plates that can add up to a full meal, or they can simply be a delicious snack. YOU WANT SOMETHING MORE THAN REGULAR THEME PARK FOOD. This is part of the Carthay kitchen, which offers signature dining. This lounge is not your mere bar food quality… YOU WANT A SITDOWN EXPERIENCE THAT DOESN’T BREAK THE BANK. It is on the pricier side, but not by a lot. At no point during my meal did I feel like I was getting ripped off. You’re ultimately paying fair prices, for the most part. You should skip this DCA spot if… YOU NEED SOMETHING HEARTY. This is a lounge with smaller bites. The larger Carthay Restaurant is a better bet for big meals. YOU’RE ON A TIGHT BUDGET. There are quick-service restaurants all over the Disneyland Resort that offer more eats for a lower cost. The quality isn’t as good, but you will save a few bucks while taking care of your hungry party. YOU HAVE PICKY EATERS IN YOUR PARTY. The ingredients used here can get slightly adventurous. As I previously mentioned, the offerings here aren’t your standard theme park fare. If that’s what you’re craving, this lounge might be overkill. Overall This is a great seasonal menu that suits this fantastic lounge well. If you dine here, expect an attentive staff, a memorable environment that honors the legacy of Walt Disney, and a bunch of tasty lates that will satisfy most diners. Carthay Circle Lounge Spread We’ll continue to keep you posted on all the latest Disneyland dining reviews and updates, so make sure you stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog to stay in the know! REVIEW: We’re Not Calling This Disneyland Restaurant Perfect, But It’s Nearly There 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 eaten at Carthay Circle Lounge before? Share your review in the comments! View the full article

I’m lucky to be a somewhat local Disney World Annual Passholder, and that means my approach to the parks is a little bit different than, say, someone on a week-long vacation. Wildlife Express For the most part, my visits to the parks are all about simply having a good time — which usually involves grabbing a drink, some good eats, and taking in a ride or two. But, one of my favorite relaxing Disney World activities is about to get a LOT more complicated — and I’m not sure I’ll ever recover. On any given Disney World day, you can find me (with my husband in tow) at Animal Kingdom. This has become one of our favorite Disney World parks since becoming passholders, because we find it pretty darn relaxing compared to the others. It’s especially relaxing when we grab dinks (for me, a Ngumu Jungle Juice, and for my husband, an Old Elephant Foot IPA) and head to Conservation Station on the Wildlife Express train. The Wildlife Express It’s a great way to escape the crowds and head to a spot with animals, unique experiences, and more — or at least, it was. You see, the Wildlife Express train and Conservation Station have been closed as Disney makes way for a new experience. Bluey’s Wild World is opening at Conservation Station on May 26th, and that means the whole area will change. Conservation Station Adults and kiddos alike will get to play special games directly from Bluey episodes as part of this new experience, grab a photo with Bluey and Bingo, and even discover animals native to Bluey’s home country, Australia, at Jumping Junction. This whole area will now be all about Bluey, which is great for Bluey fans, but not so great for fans of relaxing train rides and air-conditioned spaces with little to no crowds. Bluey and Bingo It’s no secret that Bluey is POPULAR, and this new experience no doubt will be, too. We’re anticipating some serious crowds when Bluey’s Wild World opens, and crowds aren’t exactly relaxing. The lines for the Wildlife Express train will likely be long, and as far as Conservation Station goes, we’re expecting it to be way more crowded than it has been in recent history. While I’m excited to check out this new experience, I’m still in mourning for what I considered to be one of my favorite Disney World activities. Affection Section But, starting on May 26th, folks will be able to play games and dance with Bluey and Bingo at Conservation Station at Animal Kingdom! And, with the news about native Australian animals coming, we might even get to see kangaroos, wallabies, or koalas — and considering kookaburras are already found at Animal Kingdom, we might see them moved to this area, too. The full details of this new experience are yet to be announced, but we’re looking forward to learning more details. ©Bluey We’ll be on the lookout for more updates about Bluey’s Wild World and Animal Kingdom you need to know about. In the meantime, make sure you stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for the latest Disney news and beyond! Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Are you looking forward to the new Bluey experience at Animal Kingdom? Let us know in the comments. View the full article

Backpacks, water bottles, sunscreen, ponchos, there are so many Disney World essentials. However, out of all of them, this essential is the one that changed everything! We LOVE these! Getting Minnie Ears at the park can be super expensive, so when we saw these on Amazon, we knew everything was going to be different at Disney World. We promise you we’re not exaggerating! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Check out this Minnie Ears Headband We’re suckers for Minnie Ears! The ODOCARE Minnie Ear Headband is solid black Minnie ears featuring a center red bow with white polka dots. These are great for anyone who enjoys wearing ears, dressing up, adults and probably the older kids too. If you were to ask if these are worth the money, we would scream YES. The bow! What stands out the most with this? It has to be how fuzzy it is. You literally might find yourself stroking the ears like a pet’s fur, but they’re simple enough that it doesn’t need a lot of bells and whistles to be classic. On top of that, they’re so much lighter and cheaper than the ears you’ll buy in Disney’s parks. So fuzzy! We do wish they had a kids’ version! Also, the headband is a bit thick. They’re also a little hard to keep in your hand or worn on your head when it’s windy, but that’s similar to other ears. When you get to the headband straps, the loose fabric makes it feel a bit cheaper, which is really the only giveaway that they’re not “park” ears. Regardless, they’re a much cheaper and more comfortable alternative to those who complain that the Disney ones make their head hurt after a while. So cute! We’re giving these a 5 out of 5. They are more comfy, cheaper, and definitely a cute buy for a day at the parks! Sure, you might not NEED them, but look at us in our eyes and tell us you don’t want them, because we know you do! 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

There’s a lot more to do at Disney World than just going to the theme parks. Yes, you have Disney Springs, but checking out all of Disney World’s resorts is a very fun activity we love to do all the time! Riviera Resort Resort Hopping shows you a different side of Disney with more opportunities for shopping, dining, entertainment, and more. It used to be easy and free to do, until Disney introduced a new rule that requires you to have a hotel or dining reservation, making it so much harder. That being said, we’ve crafted together a list of tips for how you can still resort hop without reservations. Before we get into the tips, you need to understand this new rule. We all know that you can’t park at Disney World hotels without a hotel or dining reservation. That being said, one of the easiest ways around that was to park at Disney Springs, hop on a free bus, and head to the resort. However, that isn’t the case anymore. Right now, for a limited time, you CAN’T take a bus from Disney Springs to a resort without a reservation. Disney Springs So, you can’t park at a resort without a reservation, and you can’t take a bus from Disney Springs to a resort without a reservation…how do you even get to a resort without a reservation? Don’t worry, we’ve come up with five of them for you! Grand Floridian Resort Go to the Parks…THEN the Resorts To be honest, this would be the best option. No matter which of the four parks you go to, there are buses or some form of transportation that will take you to the Disney World hotels — no reservation needed. This option works perfectly for Annual Passholders who get free parking at the parks. Otherwise, you’ll have to pay to park. Skyliner station at Hollywood The TTC is Your Friend The TTC (Ticket and Transportation Center) is probably the best place to go for resort hopping. The TTC has the monorail, which covers Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort, Disney’s Polynesian Resort, and Disney’s Contemporary Resort. You can take the monorail to each of the resorts, or you can walk the trail from the TTC over to the Polynesian. Monorail entrance at the Ticket and Transportation Center (TTC) The monorail and trail will also take you to the Magic Kingdom’s front gate, where you can go to the boat dock and take a boat to Disney’s Fort Wilderness Lodge. So, the TTC really covers four of Disney’s most popular resorts, no reservation needed! Some ways to get to the TTC would be parking at Magic Kingdom or taking a rideshare — which leads us to our next point. Fort Wilderness Rideshare Taking an Uber or a Lyft is the next best way to visit the resorts without a reservation. Now, we would exercise this option with caution. You can take a rideshare to whatever resort you want to check out, but more often than not, we have been asked if we have a reservation. They might let you in, but you don’t want to bet on a might. It might be smarter to Uber or Lyft to a park, and then use Disney transportation from there to get to a resort. Uber at EPCOT Minnie Van This is basically the same point as the rideshare one, but the difference is that Minnie Vans are basically Disney World’s Uber. You’ll have a lot better luck getting into a Disney World resort using this, rather than your typical rideshare, but keep in mind that they still might require reservations. Minnie vans Target Hollywood Studios Our favorite option for resort hopping without reservations is the TTC for reasons we shared. Our next favorite option is Disney’s Hollywood Studios, because some of the other deluxe Disney World resorts are on the Skyliner route. The Skyliner will take you to spots like Disney’s Riviera, Caribbean Beach Resort, and EPCOT’s hotels, like Disney’s BoardWalk. You can then go to Disney’s Beach and Yacht Club Resort, too. Disney Skyliner If you’re an avid Disney World resort hopper like we are, we recommend trying these out while this temporary Disney Springs rule is in place. We’re always on top of all the latest Disney news, and we love to help make your trip so much easier and smoother. Make sure to follow us at the Disney Food Blog for more! NEWS: Disney World Announces NEW Hotel Deal Starting at $99 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 are your thoughts on the new rule? Let us know in the comments! View the full article

We see a lot of Disney souvenirs, but sometimes we just see something that we know is going to be SUPER popular. ©Disney This new Disneyland and Disney World collection by Girls Crew is already selling out, and the designs are literally perfect. Check out some of the new looks! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Disneyland Bracelet ©Disney This bracelet features “Disneyland” in that iconic font, adorned with additional jewels for added sparkle. It’s a fun way to share your love for the original park with a gorgeous 18k gold finish. SHOP NOW Disneyland Icons Bracelet ©Disney If you’re getting the other Disneyland bracelet, you should totally grab this one as well. It has four Disneyland icons, including Pixar-Pal-A-Round, the castle, Mad Tea Party, and the Incredicoaster. SHOP NOW Disney World Icons Ring ©Disney There’s a Disney World version, too, but this one is on a ring. It has the castle, Spaceship Earth, Tower of Terror, and the Tree of Life. We love the blue, green, clear, and amber faceted cubic zirconia, which are the gems intermixed into the icons. SHOP NOW Disneyland Icons Ring ©Disney Here’s a look at the Disneyland icons. It has the same four icons as the bracelet, but fixed on the ring, and it’s SO pretty. You can grab the ring in different sizes, and the icons are staggered to add a bit more dimension to the band. SHOP NOW Walt Disney World Ring ©Disney Now this ring is perfect! It has “Walt Disney World” in the official script with small gems throughout the letters. The “Walt” is above, so it almost wraps around your finger and looks like two different bands, and of course, that gold is so stunning. SHOP NOW Disneyland Ring ©Disney If there’s one for Disney World, there has to be one for Disneyland! This is “Disneyland” in their font with light pink, dark pink, and clear crystals around the letters. It’s definitely giving Sleeping Beauty Castle. SHOP NOW Other designs are already starting to sell out, so make sure you grab them before they’re gone and keep following Disney Food Blog for more. View the full article

Choosing the right bag for a Disney World day is one of those decisions that sounds simple until you’re standing at the park entrance, half your stuff already falling out, and hours of walking ahead of you. ©Target The right park bag can genuinely make or break your experience, and the good news is you don’t have to spend a fortune to find one that actually works. We spotted a few options at Target right now that are perfect for different kinds of Disney days, and we’re breaking them all down for you. DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. For the Little Disney Fan in Your Life ©Target If you’re heading to the parks with a kid who wants to carry their own things (and let’s be honest, they absolutely do), you need a bag that’s cute enough to get them excited and small enough not to become your problem. The Disney Clubhouse Kids’ Mini Lightweight Backpack in Minnie Mouse is exactly that. ©Target It’s made from durable polyurethane that’s easy to wipe clean (because parks happen), and the adjustable shoulder straps mean it can actually fit your kid without sliding off every five minutes. The zip closure keeps their snacks and little treasures secure, and Minnie’s signature bow means they’ll be asking to wear it long after the trip is over. ©Target Check it out before your next park day right here. view ON target For the Practical Packer ©Target Not everyone needs a fancy bag system. Sometimes you just need something that holds your stuff, keeps it organized, and doesn’t fall apart after one humid Florida afternoon. The Softside Backpack in Faux Neoprene from All In Motion covers all of that and then some. ©Target It’s got interior and exterior pockets so you’re not digging through one big black hole every time you need your sunscreen, plus a dedicated laptop pocket if you’re traveling with a tablet or device. The water-repellant design is a legit plus at Disney World, where an afternoon storm is basically a guarantee. ©Target And if you’re flying in for your trip, the trolley sleeve lets you attach it directly to your rolling luggage so you’re not juggling bags through the airport. ©Target Take a look at this one here. view ON target For the Stylish Traveler ©Target There’s a version of park-going that doesn’t require looking like you raided a camping gear store. The Puffer Backpack from Universal Thread is a 16.6-liter bag with a quilted design that actually looks intentional, not just functional. ©Target It fits a laptop up to 11 inches in the inner sleeve, has a zippered main compartment for all your park-day essentials, and the side water bottle pockets are the little detail that makes all the difference when you’re refilling constantly. ©Target Adjustable shoulder straps and a top loop give you flexible carrying options depending on how your arms are feeling by hour eight. view ON target Whether you’re wrangling a toddler, traveling solo, or somewhere in between, having the right bag is one of the easiest upgrades you can make to your Disney World trip. These three Target options hit three very different needs, and none of them will stress your budget before you’ve even walked through the turnstiles. 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

An EXCLUSIVE Disney World hotel deal just dropped! Animal Kingdom Lodge After recently releasing a new Afternoon Ticket Offer, Disney is keeping the summer deals rolling by announcing a new hotel deal for Disney+ Perks subscribers. You could score hotel rooms for as low as $99 per night — let’s get into the details! Disney World just revealed an exclusive hotel discount available for Disney+ Perks subscribers! With this deal, you can score Disney World hotel rooms for as low as $99 per night, depending on which hotel you choose. The offer is only available for select hotels, and you can check out all the info below. ©Disney This offer is bookable beginning Thursday, April 2nd, at midnight Eastern time for most travel dates June 21st through August 15th, 2026. Keep in mind that a two-night minimum length of stay is required. So, which hotels are included in this deal? We’re glad you asked! All-Star Sports Resort Check out the qualifying hotels and room types below — plus pricing! $99 per night, plus tax: Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort – Standard Room $169 per night, plus tax: Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside – Standard Location 5th Sleeper $249 per night, plus tax: Disney’s Art of Animation Resort – Cars Family Suite $279 per night, plus tax: Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort – Deluxe Studio $369 per night, plus tax: Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge – Savanna View Port Orleans Riverside The deal includes stays at Value, Moderate, and Deluxe Resorts. An Animal Kingdom Lodge Savanna View room for less than $400 per night?! Sign us up!! This is a great deal for your summer Disney World trip, especially since so many exciting things are happening around the parks! Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort The Bluey franchise is coming to Animal Kingdom on May 26th! Bluey and Bingo are making an excursion to Conservation Station at Rafiki’s Planet Watch, where guests will be able to encounter animals native to Bluey’s home country of Australia: it’s Bluey’s Wild World at Conservation Station! Bluey and Bingo Magic Kingdom’s Frontierland is welcoming your favorite Toy Story pals to Jessie’s Roundup at the Diamond Horseshoe! Hi from Woody and Jessie! In the upcoming Walt Disney Studios, Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live! will be joining the lineup on May 26th! ©Disney The free water park ticket perk is also returning for the Cool Kids’ Summer dates! From May 26th through September 8th, 2026, Disney World Resort Hotel guests (including Disney Vacation Club properties) will get a FREE park ticket to the water parks for use on their arrival day. Typhoon Lagoon And, Disney has revealed that Big Thunder Mountain Railroad will reopen with new magic and the shine and polish of an all-over refurbishment in early May! While an exact reopening date has still not been announced, we’re thrilled to know that we won’t have to wait all summer to experience this ride once again. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad We’ll be on the lookout for additional details about this exclusive Disney+ discount as they become available. In the meantime, make sure you stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for the latest Disney news and more! Check out more Disney World hotel news at the links below! REVIEW: This Disney World Restaurant Literally Never Fails To Impress UsThese Photos of Disney’s Newest Hotel Are Making Us Question Its Opening Date…Using This Value Hotel Trick in Disney World Feels Illegal, But It’s Not!Four Things You Should NEVER Do in Your Disney World HotelExclusive Hotel Discount Announced for 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 taking advantage of this exclusive hotel deal? Let us know in the comments below! View the full article

This Disneyland news is about to make your next trip a WHOLE lot easier. Sleeping Beauty Castle in Disneyland With how much you need to be on your phone in the parks these days — whether it’s for Mobile Ordering, checking wait times, or booking Lightning Lanes — your phone’s battery can drain pretty quickly. That’s why we LOVE using FuelRods in the parks. These portable batteries can be swapped for fresh ones at kiosks around the resort, and we just spotted the NEW FuelRod MAX10s at Disneyland for the first time! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. FuelRod MAX10s have officially landed at Disneyland! We love the wireless charging feature that this portable battery has. They’re great for tossing into your park bag, and when you run out of battery, you can either recharge at home or swap the charger out for a new one (for FREE!) at one of the FuelRod Kiosks throughout Disneyland Resort. Charging magnetically! As of now, the FuelRod MAX10s are not available at every FuelRod Kiosk just yet, but we did find them located at a couple of kiosks in Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure. At Disneyland Park, you can find the FuelRod MAX10 at the kiosk located by the lockers on Main Street, U.S.A., near Starbucks. FuelRod Kiosk We also spotted them at the FuelRod Kiosk inside Gone Hollywood at Disney California Adventure. FuelRod Kiosk If you want to snag the FuelRod MAX10 before your Disney trip, you can usually get them for a bit cheaper on Amazon! Get the FuelRod MAX10 on Amazon FuelRod Max10 The FuelRod MAX10 comes fully charged, complete with adapters and cables for most smart devices. Easily swap for a fresh, fully charged unit at any FuelRod Kiosk nationwide. Rechargeable via USB-C, it fits comfortably in your pocket, making it an ideal companion for any trip or staying charged on the go! 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