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Get ready for some sale shopping because Amazon’s Big Spring Sale dates have finally been revealed! ©Amazon While Prime Days might still be a ways away, we’re gearing up for the Big Spring Sale — which kicks off on March 25th. Luckily, you don’t even have to wait to start shopping because some early sales have started already! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Amazon’s Big Spring Sale kicks off on March 25th, but you can start shopping for early sales already! Some of our favorite Disney World must-haves are currently on sale, so shop them below! Get the Frogg Toggs poncho on sale Frogg Toggs Poncho The Ultra Lite 2 Poncho stays comfortable. Constructed with an outer layer that provides waterproof and breathable protection and an inner layer that remains soft next to the skin. We use this in the parks during the rainy season (which is basically all year round in Florida), and it has saved the day more than once! view ON AMAZON This flat plug power strip is a must-have for your hotel room Flat Plug Power Strip Outlets can be hard to come by in hotel rooms, and this flat plug power strip packs up easily into suitcases, so it doesn’t take up too much room. It features three standard outlets, two USB-C outlets, and two USB-A outlets. Perfect for charging all of your devices so you’re ready for the next day! view ON AMAZON We love this mini portable fan JISULIFE 3 IN 1 Handheld Mini Fan Featuring a fan, flashlight, and backup power bank, the JISULIFE pocket bear fan is your summer go-to essential for staying cool on hot days while offering versatile functionality to meet your Disney World needs. We love that it’s both a fan and a portable charger! 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

The post WDI’s Robotic Character Olaf Makes Appearance at NVIDIA GTC appeared first on Disney Parks Blog. View the full article

Ahead of his debut at Disneyland Paris on March 29, Olaf, the self-walking, free-roaming robotic character created by Walt Disney Imagineering Research & Development, appeared at this year’s NVIDIA GTC, the biggest AI conference of the year for developers, researchers, and business leaders. During the GTC Keynote presentation, NVDIA CEO Jensen Huang was joined onstage by Olaf. We caught up with Kyle Laughlin, SVP, Research & Development and Technology & Engineering at Walt Disney Imagineering to explore the technical advancements the team accomplished in the last few months, before Olaf joins the kingdom of Arendelle at the brand-new World of Frozen. Now that Olaf is about to make his guest-facing debut at World of Frozen, what obstacles did R&D face in advancing Olaf’s movements and how were they overcome? We’ve been hard at work to make sure Olaf is ‘show ready.’ He is such a unique character — he is made of snow, moves in non-physical ways, and he has snowball feet. Olaf will be debuting at World of Frozen as part of the daily Celebration in Arendelle show, which takes place on a boat in the lagoon. This meant he had to learn to balance on an unstable surface. Through deep reinforcement learning, in just a matter of hours, he earned his sea legs. Tell us about the continued work you’re doing with NVIDIA and Google DeepMind, specifically the progress on the Kamino simulator Disney Research developed. The Kamino simulator is a GPU-accelerated physics solver designed for accurate simulation of complex mechanical systems. Kamino enables large-scale reinforcement learning by running thousands of parallel environments on a single GPU, including inhomogeneous worlds where each environment can contain a structurally different robot. Deep reinforcement learning through simulation allowed Olaf to learn to stand and walk in challenging environments, like on a boat, in a fraction of the time it would take a human child. Are there plans to use Kamino to develop and train new robotic characters? Are there specific characters you’re excited to explore next? Kamino is designed for simulating complex mechanical systems that go beyond simple kinematic trees, which are basically maps of connections that inform the ways in which the robots move. If you think about all the tools in our Imagineering toolbox, Kamino is another that will help us solve real world problems and physical challenges. The speed at which we’re able to create new characters — and get them in front of our guests — is unprecedented. We are working to bring more emotive, expressive, and surprising characters to guests at our parks and ships around the world. Read more about Olaf and Disney’s robotic character platform in our November 2025 interview with Kyle about Episode 7 of We Call It Imagineering and catch the full episode on the Walt Disney Imagineering YouTube Channel and Disney+. The post Walt Disney Imagineering’s Robotic Character Olaf Makes Appearance at NVIDIA GTC appeared first on Disney Experiences. View the full article

One of the BEST restaurants near Disney World is hiding at the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress, and we think you should definitely make a stop on your next trip to the Most Magical Place on Earth. Four Flamingos: A Richard Blais Florida Kitchen Four Flamingos: A Richard Blais Kitchen serves coastal Floridian fare with an upscale twist. If you’re looking for a spot to spend Easter brunch this year, Four Flamingos has what you need! On Easter Sunday, April 5th, Four Flamingos is offering a NEW à la carte brunch from 10:30 AM to 3:30 PM! Grilled Peach and Goat Cheese Brûlée Salad Honey Truffle Vinaigrette Reservations are open now, and the menu looks DIVINE! Here’s just a sneak peek at what you can expect from this exclusive brunch: Crab cakes Napoleon Jerk chicken & waffle Lobster rolls Florida Croque Madame Oxtail pasta Coquito French toast tiramisu Maple & Black Pepper Spice Country Style Ribs Four Flamingos is located at the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress, and parking is complimentary with validation. The restaurant will only be open for brunch, and will not be open for dinner on this date — so keep that in mind. Filet Mignon We’ll be on the lookout for even more restaurant news from Disney World and beyond. 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 restaurant reviews below! REVIEW: We Can’t Stop Thinking About This NEW Disney RestaurantREVIEW: We’re SHOCKED by How Much We Loved Disney’s NEW Princess RestaurantI Ordered One of the Cheapest Snacks at Disney’s Pop Century Hotel — This Is What I Loved About ItREVIEW: Boiled Peanuts and Pimento Cheese? Yep, We’re Never Leaving This Disney World Hotel PoolREVIEW: $22 and Not a Regret in the World. Why People Are Paying Big Money for Cake 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 Have you eaten at Four Flamingos before? Let us know in the comments below! View the full article

Disney Adventure World, the reimagined second park coming to Disneyland Paris, is almost ready to open on March 29th. There are new attractions, restaurants, and characters, and we seriously couldn’t be more excited. ©Disney Disney just shared a sneak peek at some of the Cast Member costumes coming to the park, and OMG, is it too late to apply to work here? We’re going to be bringing you all the details of the new Disney Adventure World right here at Disney Food Blog, so make sure you keep following for more! EARLY PREVIEW OF NEW SOUVENIRS COMING TO DISNEY’S WORLD OF FROZEN Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW View the full article

Some things never change, like how INCREDIBLE WALT DISNEY IMAGINEERING IS!!!!! ©Carlye Wisel We just got to see the brand-new animatronic Olaf, affectionately called Robo-Olaf, to us here at DFB, and Disney Imagineering is officially blowing our minds. This happy snowman just made his debut in Disneyland Paris ahead of the opening of the new World of Frozen in Disney Adventure World. Wait till you check it out! Hi, I’m Olaf. ©Carlye Wisel We couldn’t believe our eyes (and maybe we shed a few tears) when we saw Olaf walking around. It’s so strange to see a fully walking animatronic so close and moving around like it’s no big deal. He’s a lot bigger than we thought, too. Olaf seems to be the perfect size for hugs (but don’t worry, we didn’t go for the hug!). Olaf moved his arms up and down, which was pretty neat to see. HUGE shoutout to our friend Carlye Wisel for grabbing these photos! ©Carlye Wisel Something we can’t get enough of is his voice. Yep, Olaf is still voiced by Josh Gad, the original voice actor from the movies, so Olaf looks and sounds exactly like the original movie version we met in 2013. Hard to believe that was 13 years ago! To make sure Olaf was as accurate as possible, Imagineering partnered with Walt Disney Animation Studios. Olaf’s mouth and eyes are fully articulated, which makes him seem more realistic (well, as realistic as a walking, talking cartoon snowman can be!), and these give him the ability to speak and engage. His arms, nose, buttons, eyebrows, and hair are all magnetically attached, so Olaf can move them around how he feels. Disney Adventure World opens on March 29th and is the fully reimagined second park at Disneyland Paris. Their World of Frozen has fun attractions, including Frozen Ever After, of course. There are also restaurants that look like they’re straight out of Arendelle. ©Disney This is going to be Olaf’s main home as he wanders through the cobblestone meeting and greeting people. Luckily, we don’t think he’s going to melt in the sun thanks to Elsa’s ice powers. He is going to appear soon at Hong Kong Disneyland as well, where they also have a World of Frozen. ©Disney Over in Disney World, Hollywood Studios is getting a new Walt Disney Studios section, which includes animation classes called Olaf Draws! Olaf is our host as he joins guests in drawing a Disney character. We know this experience will feature an audio-animatronic Olaf, but we’re not sure if he’s going to be fully walking around like he is in Disneyland Paris. The experience is set to open on May 26th. ©Disney Make sure you keep following Disney Food Blog for more updates coming to Disney Parks. NEW LOOK AT TANGLED RIDE COMING TO DISNEY NEXT MONTH Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW What do you think about this Olaf animatronic? Tell us your thoughts in the comments. Disclosure: In nearly all circumstances, Disney Food Blog writers and photographers pay full price for their own travel, hotel, food, beverage, and event tickets. We do this because it’s important to us as journalists to ensure not only that we give you unbiased opinions, but also that you can trust us to do so since we’re paying our own way. On rare occasions, when we are invited by a company to attend a preview as media, and when we choose to accept that invitation, we will always make you, our readers, aware of that situation. Today, we were invited by Disney to attend their media preview of the Olaf Animatronic. Note that when we attend events as media we are 1) Not required to review that event/food on any of our channels, and 2) Not required to review that event/food favorably. You can always count on DFB to give you a 100% unbiased and honest review of any event that we attend, food that we eat, or beverage that we drink. You can see more in our Disclosure Policy. Thank you for reading. — AJ View the full article

Lots of people think the most important thing for your Disney World trip is wearing the right shoes, and while that’s certainly not wrong, there’s something else that’s just as important — the right socks! Character Socks! It sounds like it wouldn’t make that much of a difference, but we can tell you firsthand that wearing the wrong socks is a BAD idea. Sometimes they get holes in them, leading to potential blisters (and just general discomfort), and other times, they don’t provide any additional cushion. We recently checked out a pair of Disney socks we spotted online, and we’ve gotta admit, we didn’t have high hopes, but these were SO cute and comfortable all day! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. The Cutest (And Most Comfortable) Disney Socks! Disney Socks! These Cartoon Character Socks are available online for just about $17, which isn’t too bad for four pairs of Disney-themed socks. Not only is the price great, but these were genuinely SO comfortable all day! They were soft and comfortable the whole day, and didn’t have any issues slipping down. Often with cheap socks, we feel a sort of “hard” pull sensation that drives us nuts, but that wasn’t here at all. ©Amazon We love that you can mix and match the socks as you’d like, and even if the rest of your outfit isn’t Disney themed, throw on these socks, and you’re ready to go! They don’t take up much space at all in your suitcase or bag, but they easily level up your outfit in seconds. Our only complaint is that we wish there were even MORE characters to “collect” and choose from! Compared to other Amazon socks we’ve tried, these are EASILY at the very top of the list, and we’d buy them again and again! Grab them on Amazon! We’ll continue to try out new Disney essentials to help you decide if they’re great for your trip or not, so be sure to stay tuned to DFB! View the full article

Disney has wasted no time getting started on the transformation of Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster at Hollywood Studios from Aerosmith to The Muppets (two equal giants in the rock world, obviously), and we’ve been keeping up with all the progress. ©Disney It was recently confirmed that the new ride will be a Lightning Lane Multi Pass option once it opens later this summer, but now we know a little bit more about how the ride will operate — especially when it comes to Early Theme Park Entry and Extended Evening Hours! We’re getting closer and closer to the opening of Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and we can’t wait to be rockin’ and rollin’ with the Electric Mayhem. Disney recently confirmed that this ride will be available during both Early Theme Park Entry and Extended Evening Hours for Deluxe hotel guests! Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster news! Folks staying at Walt Disney World Resort hotels have access to an added perk: EXTRA time in the theme parks — Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom! All Resort hotel guests have access to Early Theme Park Entry every morning, and guests staying at Deluxe hotels and villas may also enjoy Extended Evening Hours at select parks on select nights. This means that Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets will be available as part of both of these extra benefits! ©Disney This updated ride will feature an all-new storyline. Disney has shared that Scooter, as band manager, along with the penguin audio engineers, will be working hard to get Electric Mayhem to make it on time to their concert! They confirmed this will be the first time Scooter has ever been imagined as an audio animatronic and that he might not be the only one in the attraction. However, they said we will have to learn more about that at a later date. ©Disney Throughout the attraction, we will be getting a VIP tour of G-Force Records, which is under new management by The Muppets! We’ve also been warned that G-Force Records has a snazzy new look now that Scooter’s uncle, real estate tycoon and owner of the Muppet Theatre, J.P. Grosse, is in charge. The NEW car! We’ll be on the lookout for even more Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster updates from Disney World and beyond. In the meantime, make sure you stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for the latest Disney news and more! Check out more Hollywood Studios news at the links below! NEWS: Early Entry CONFIRMED for Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster at Disney WorldNEW LOOK at ‘Monsters, Inc.’ Land Coming to Disney WorldWell, 8 Disney World Restaurants Just Got Pricier This WeekDisney Released MAJOR Opening and Closing News This Week!HUGE Announcements Revealed for Magic Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, and MORE! Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Are you looking forward to the Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster retheme? Let us know in the comments below! View the full article

Orlando Airport is one of the busiest airports, and as someone who flies there often, it can be brutal waiting in the TSA line. TSA PreCheck at MCO Travel days can feel hectic, and the airport is often one of the most stressful parts of the journey. Fortunately, there are a few ways to make your experience at Orlando International Airport (MCO) a little easier. While long lines can sometimes be unavoidable, there are steps you can take ahead of time to reduce how long you’ll spend waiting in security or sitting at your gate during a delay. Here are some helpful tips to know before flying out of MCO. MCO Reserve TSA lines at MCO are known for being lengthy. For those travelers who DON’T have TSA PreCheck, the Orlando International Airport offers the MCO Reserve service, which “allows travelers to reduce stress by planning ahead and reserving a dedicated time slot for their party to go through TSA security screening.” ©Orlando International Airport On arrival at the MCO Reserve lane, flyers scan their MCO Reserve QR code and move directly to TSA to screen their boarding pass and ID, and then proceed through the standard TSA security screening, cutting a considerable amount of time from the process on most days. MCO Terminals A, B, and C all have dedicated MCO Reserve lanes with a limited number of slots available each day, and travelers may book their time slot up to 7 days in advance. Screening times are available from 5 AM to 5 PM for flights departing between 6:30 AM and 8:30 PM. You can reserve your timeslot here. MCO Airport TSA PreCheck While TSA PreCheck is not exclusive to MCO, it’s a great investment for those who fly often. For those unaware, TSA PreCheck is “an expedited screening program that makes risk assessments about passengers before they arrive at an airport checkpoint,” which “enhances aviation security and provides a better travel experience.” Those eligible for the program include: U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents enrolled in TSA PreCheck. Members of Global Entry. U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents who are members of SENTRI. U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, and Canadian citizens who are members of NEXUS. Members of the U.S. Armed Forces, including those serving in the National Guard and Reserves, as well as government employees from select agencies. Cadets and midshipmen of the U.S. Military Academy, Naval Academy, Coast Guard Academy, Air Force Academy, and Merchant Marine Academy. Passengers 12 and younger traveling with an eligible passenger. Passengers who are selected using existing Secure Flight system requirements while traveling on participating airlines. PreCheck signage Passengers enrolled in TSA PreCheck do not need to remove shoes, belts, compliant bags, light jackets/outerwear, and laptops from their bags and can take advantage of exclusive, quicker lanes at participating airports. How to Get TSA PreCheck For FREE MCO TSA Precheck Check Ahead of Time There are two ways you can cut down on MCO delays before even leaving for the airport! The airport’s website — flymco.com — provides official, real-time tracking data for each terminal’s security checkpoints, and you can check your flight status. This will give you an idea of how long it could take you. ©MCO Different TSA Points At MCO, there are specific TSA checkpoints depending on your gate number. This is unlike my home base airport in Charlotte, where you can go to any TSA security checkpoint and get to your gate. This is important to remember because what will make a 45-minute wait at TSA even worse is doing it for the wrong set of gates and having to do it all over again. Be sure to double-check your gate number before heading to security. TSA lines at MCO If you’re flying out of MCO anytime soon, be sure to keep these tips in mind to save yourself some stress! Stay tuned to DFB for more travel tips. I’ve Used Every Airport Transportation Service to Disney World and This One Wins Every Time Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW View the full article

The 98th Academy Awards recently aired on ABC, and with it came a whole host of the usual gags and pranks, especially considering Conan O’Brien was the host. Oscars at Disney Springs But, we also saw some actors reunite for the first time in quite a while, albeit in a potentially unexpected way — including a few Marvel favorites: Robert Downey, Jr., Chris Evans, and Channing Tatum. Marvel stars Robert Downey, Jr. and Chris Evans reunited at the Oscars this past Sunday, as they marked the 14th anniversary of the original Avengers movie and presented the awards for Best Screenplay. In a playful bit, Evans asked Downey what he got him as an anniversary gift, and said that he got him a signed copy of the original script. Downey appeared flustered, and the two proceeded to give out the Oscar to Paul Thomas Anderson for One Battle After Another. ©Marvel Evans remained on stage, with Downey nowhere in sight. But then, Downey ran back out on stage, and the following hilarious moment ensued: Despite Downey’s flub of Channing Tatum’s name, the latter was a good sport about it all, even commenting that he needed the sparkly underwear back because he “had to work later.” If you had “Channing Tatum’s thong from Magic Mike makes an appearance” on your Oscars Bingo Card, congratulations! ©Mega Downey and Evans will no doubt be reuniting again for the upcoming Avengers: Doomsday, but Downey won’t be playing Iron Man anymore… instead, he’ll be playing Doctor Victor von Doom! ©Variety Tatum joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe when he played Gambit in 2024’s Deadpool & Wolverine. Whether he will continue that role in any upcoming Marvel movies remains to be seen. ©Disney We’ll be on the lookout for even more Marvel news. In the meantime, make sure you stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for the latest Disney news and beyond. Check out more Marvel news at the links below! We Became the Most FAMOUS Person on a Disney Cruise Because of a Container of Face Paint and a DreamThis NEW ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ Ride Is on a CRUISE SHIP and We’re Taking You On It With UsI Never Wanted To Go On a Disney Cruise, Until I Saw THISTime Is Running Out for This HUGE Disney Loungefly DealCould Marvel Be Making a ‘Deadpool 4’?! Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Are you a Marvel fan? Let us know in the comments below! View the full article

We see a lot of Disney World fans complain about just how much time they need to spend on their phones now, and well, that’s just the reality of visiting Disney World right now. You’ll use your phone for everything from connecting your MagicBand to your Disney account to using it as a way to unlock your hotel room if you don’t have a MagicBand to Mobile Ordering Food and selecting Lightning Lanes. INIU Portable Charger This causes one of the WORST problems we can think of…all that time on your phone uses up your phone’s battery, and you’ll find your phone’s battery struggling just to make it through the day. Well, we’ve got one essential for your park bag that can help you solve that problem, so you never have to worry about your phone’s battery being completely drained while you’re still in the parks. DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Get the INIU Portable Charger ©Amazon We carry this portable charger EVERY TIME we go to the parks. Trust us, we put our phones through the paces because it’s basically how reporters get all those great photos, communicate with the whole DFB team, and upload all those great photos, also while navigating the My Disney Experience app. The best thing about this charger, though, is the price…and it’s just as good as more expensive chargers. It’s super slim This charger has multiple charging ports so that you can have several devices plugged in at the same time. We also like that it has ports for both USB-C and USB cords, so you have a ton of options depending on what you want to charge. It also charges FAST, which is definitely needed when you’re on the go in Disney World. Even better? It holds a charge longer than previous models we’ve tried, AND it charges fast itself. We’re always using this thing The only thing we don’t like about it is that it doesn’t come with any charging cords, so you’ll have to figure out what cord to use to charge it, and you’ll need to pack a charging cord for your other devices in your park bag. Overall, it’s reliable, durable, multifunctional, and easy to use. 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

We’re back to bring you more of the brand-new Disney Adventure cruise ship! Duffy and Friends! The Disney Adventure’s home port is in Singapore, and it is the first Disney Cruise Line ship to sail from Singapore’s Marina Bay Cruise Centre throughout Southeast Asia. We’re exploring everything there is to see, do, and eat on this ship — oh, and did we mention it’s the first Disney ship to heavily feature Duffy the Disney Bear?! Will you be setting sail on the Disney Adventure cruise ship? Let us know in the comments below! View the full article

When you hear “Disney Resort,” your mind probably jumps to the iconic magic of Walt Disney World Resort in Florida or Disneyland Resort in California. Maybe even a faraway destination like Disneyland Paris or Tokyo Disney Resort. …But have you ever thought about South Carolina? For 30 years, Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort has been quietly welcoming families and Disney Vacation Club members to a charming coastal retreat in the heart of the Lowcountry, where front-porch vibes, marsh views and beach days set the scene for unforgettable vacations. Every cast member here, especially the few who have been here since the beginning, will tell you it’s truly something special. In honor of three decades of Disney in Hilton Head, here are three reasons to love this hidden gem. Hilton Head Combines Disney Magic with Oceanside Charm Tucked away on 15 acres of private Longview Island, Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort is designed to feel like a cozy saltwater fishing lodge. It’s the kind of place where the sea breeze rolls in, rocking chairs line the porch and Spanish moss sways overhead. Days here unfold a little differently than any other Disney Vacation Club destination. Guests can rent bikes and ride along the scenic path to Disney’s Beach House, an oceanfront hideaway with beach access and fun family offerings for resort guests or explore 12 miles of Atlantic coastline. There are also heated pools for year-round relaxation. The Disney magic is very much alive here. Guests might spot Pluto or Chip ‘n’ Dale popping up for hugs and photos, and when the craving hits for a favorite Disney snack, they can swing by Tide Me Over for a Dole Whip or Mickey Pretzel. The resort offers daily recreation activities like evening campfires with storytelling and s’mores, Goofy Bingo, Movies Under the Oaks, and guided nature tours. There are so many activities to explore, but there is also plenty of time built in to simply slow down. Whether you’re exploring on two wheels, relaxing by the water, or discovering the Lowcountry outdoors, a stay here feels both effortless and full of excitement. Cast Members Welcome You Like Family The magic of Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort comes alive through the passion and dedication of our cast members. For three women, that magic has been part of their story since the very beginning. Evelyn, Alicia, and Melissa are all celebrating 30 years with the resort. They helped welcome the very first guests in 1996 and for three decades they’ve helped make the magic that makes this resort feel like home. When guests arrive at the resort for the first time, Housekeeping Manager, Evelyn, says the difference is immediate. “When they come through the gate and we say, ‘Welcome home,’ they actually feel like they’re at home and not on vacation.” That sense of home is something she believes sets the resort apart. For Rooms Coordinator, Alicia, who was born and raised just over an hour away on St. Helena Island, the resort feels just as personal. “It’s literally my home away from home,” she explains. “These cast members are like my family. Even some of the guests that come year after year, they’re family too.” Housekeeping Coordinator, Melissa, who moved to the island from Connecticut, explains it this way: “We’re laid back. We are where people vacation to truly relax and get rest.” That slower pace is paired with something guests often don’t expect. “They are surprised mostly by the Southern hospitality that they get from the cast members,” Alicia says. “Our cast members are really friendly.” As a manager, Evelyn believes that great culture starts behind the scenes: “I feel like positivity spreads from cast member to cast member, then they roll it out to the guests, and everyone feels right at home.” Over three decades, those relationships have grown into lifelong traditions. Melissa recently reconnected with a returning guest family she’s known since 1998. She’s watched the children grow up and their parents become grandparents. “It’s like we’re neighbors or best friends,” she said. Whether they’ve been with the resort since day one or just joined the team, every cast member is part of the resort’s story, and we’re so grateful for the magic they bring to Lowcountry. You Can Make a Positive Difference The magic of Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort extends far beyond the guest rooms and pools. Cast members like the resort’s naturalist help immerse guests in nature through programs about local ecosystems, beach renourishment, and wildlife spotting. Dolphin cruises, kayak tours, and hands-on educational experiences allow everyone from curious kids to knowledgeable nature lovers to explore and appreciate the Lowcountry in a way that feels uniquely Disney. It’s an experience that leaves guests feeling more connected to nature, and even inspired to protect it long after their vacation ends. The resort has also been committed to supporting the local community through partnerships and volunteer efforts, including work with the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, the Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, and many other nonprofits that work to lift up the community. Evelyn remembers her many opportunities with Disney VoluntEARS and the Boys & Girls Club fondly. “It meant a lot to me. I enjoy being around them even just to put a smile on their faces.” Ryan Wise, the Area Director of the Boys & Girls Club of Hilton Head Island, spoke highly of the work Disney is doing in the community too. “Moments like this are incredibly powerful for our kids. Having Disney visit the Club brings excitement and inspiration, while reminding our members that their dreams are just as big and important as anyone else’s,” he shared. “We are grateful for partners who invest in our young people and help create experiences that spark imagination and leave lasting memories.” Together, our cast members and guests help support programs that make a real difference in the lives of children and families living in Hilton Head Island, reinforcing Disney’s ongoing commitment to serving and strengthening the Lowcountry region it calls home. Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort is a place where vacation, conservation, and connection come together to create Disney magic – the kind that truly makes a lasting impact. 4 Ways DVC Makes Family Vacations Effortlessly Enjoyable READ MORE New Disney Vacation Club Lounge Opens at Magic Kingdom Park READ MORE Creativity Meets Conservation at the Island Tower Addition READ MORE The post Disney’s Best Kept Secret Turns 30 appeared first on Disney Parks Blog. View the full article

If you’ve been looking at your kitchen cabinets and thinking you need to upgrade your dishware, you’re in luck! ©Disney Disney just dropped a whole new home collection online that we just KNOW people are going to lose their minds over. They’re simple, yet we love their subtle Disney theme, and you can mix and match between both the pink and blue collections. Just like lots of other new collections, we’ve got a feeling this could sell out fast, so check it out and add to cart while you can! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. The Most Adorable Disney Mug ©Disney If you need a new mug to drink your coffee out of in the morning, the Mickey Mouse Pink Icon Mug is perfect! We love the light pink color and the slight Mickey emblem embossed on the sides. It’s also microwave and dishwasher-safe, so you can use it for all different types of drinks. Grab it online! A Bowl To Match! ©Disney If you want some new bowls to match your new mug, the Mickey Mouse Pink Icon Bowl is also part of the new collection. This is the same pink color, is also dishwasher and microwave-safe, and has the same Mickey emblem pattern on the sides of the bowl. Grab it online! Plates For Every Occasion ©Disney Who doesn’t need new plates, right? We love the Mickey Mouse Pink Icon Plate and the way it matches so perfectly with the mug and bowls. As you can expect, this is also dishwasher and microwave-safe, and has the same pink color and Mickey icon pattern as the others, but this one is around the sides of the top of the plate. Grab it online! Tumblers To Complete The Collection! ©Disney Finally, in the pink collection, we’ve got the Mickey Mouse Pink Icon Glass Tumbler Set! It comes with two tumblers, both with an all-around ridged design that makes the Mickey icon stand out a bit more on the sides. However, it’s still subtle, which we really love. Grab it online! That’s Not All — Check Out The Blue Collection! ©Disney If you love the design of the tumblers but want a different color, look no further than the Mickey Mouse Blue Icon Glass Tumbler Set! This has the same all-around ridged design as the pink, but since the color is different, the Mickey icon does stand out a little bit more here, which may be more what you’re looking for in your kitchen. Grab it online! We Love A Blue Disney Bowl! ©Disney If you loved the look of the bowl but aren’t a fan of pink, the Mickey Mouse Blue Icon Bowl is a great option! The bowl itself is a dark blue, almost a navy, which makes the Mickey emblems around the side a little more prominently noticeable without being overwhelming. Grab it online! Don’t Forget The Blue Mug! ©Disney Finally, we’ve got the Mickey Mouse Blue Icon Mug, which we love just as much as the pink! Again, it’s dishwasher and microwave-safe, and has the same dark blue color as the rest of the collection. We like that the Mickey emblems on the side are a little more noticeable, but don’t scream Disney fan at the top of its lungs. Grab it online! We’ll be sure to keep you updated on all the latest Disney merchandise news, so stay tuned to DFB! View the full article

We’re SO thrilled we got to set sail on the Disney Adventure’s maiden voyage! Disney Adventure That’s right! We flew to Singapore to hop on this new Disney Cruise Line ship. It’s the first to sail from Singapore’s Marina Bay Cruise Centre and go throughout Southeast Asia. We’ve explored everything there is to see, do, and eat on this ship, and right now, we’re taking you with us to Navigator’s Club Restaurant. Will you be booking a trip on the Disney Adventure? Let us know in the comments below. View the full article

There is something instantly cheerful about Disney’s Pop Century Resort. Bold color, playful details, and nostalgic winks to decades past spark joy for the young and the young-at-heart. With the resort’s recent refreshes coming together throughout the lobby, Petals Pool Bar, and refreshed rooms, the experience feels even brighter and more “Pop” than ever. Celebrate the Decades with New Lobby Details The first thing you’ll notice when you step into the newly reimagined lobby is how bright and energetic the space is, with plenty of spots to pause, take everything in, and snap a photo before you head out for your Disney day. New touches include vibrant floor-to-ceiling artwork inspired by pop culture from the 1950s-1990s and larger-than-life illustrations of Disney’s Fab Five. The decades come alive through bold patterns and graphics like the TV wall, a collection of vintage-style television frames that creates a delightfully retro backdrop. The refresh also made the space work better for today’s guests. To create more room to relax while waiting to check in or head out, the teams behind the magic reconfigured part of the lobby and added more seating, including communal tables that give guests more places to sit, recharge or get a little work done. “One of our biggest goals was making the lobby feel brighter, more vibrant and more functional for Guests,” said Luis Sanchez, project manager on the Facility Asset Management team. “We looked at everything from the lighting to the seating layout so the space feels more open and comfortable — and supports the look and feel Disney Imagineers envisioned.” While the design grabs your attention, the welcome is what makes it feel like Disney. Whether you’re ready to start your vacation or figuring out where to go next, cast members are right there to help you settle in, answer quick questions, and make arrival feel effortless. Cool Off at Petals Pool Bar Petals Pool Bar has always been a bright spot at the Hippy Dippy Pool, and newly refreshed finishes make it the perfect pit stop for a mid-day break between splashes. Up close, tile details add texture and color behind the bar, and clear digital menu boards make ordering simple. The space also received refreshed finishes and thoughtful updates that make ordering easier and the overall experience more comfortable for both guests and cast members. Of course, it wouldn’t be a great pool day without the people who keep it running smoothly. Cast members bring the friendly, upbeat service that makes Petals Pool Bar a fan-favorite, offering quick recommendations and helpful answers so you can stay in vacation mode. Recharge With Refreshed Rooms After a full day of fun, the refreshed rooms offer a bright and comfy space to kick back and relax. Disney Imagineers brought Pop Century’s playful, decade-inspired style into the refreshed rooms through a brighter palette and layered textures — with warm, wood-toned flooring, a geometric area rug with pops of blue, gray, green, and orange, and soft sky-blue accents near the bed wall and bathroom. Refreshed curtains and patterned upholstery add extra personality, with subtle touches — including Hidden Mickeys in the chair fabric — that keep the space feeling unmistakably Disney while still clean, comfortable, and functional. The enhancements to the lobby, Petals Pool Bar, and rooms shine alongside earlier updates at Everything POP Shopping & Dining, including refreshed dining and shopping spaces and a new coffee shop for fueling up before you head to your next adventure. Countless Reasons to Stay in the Magic One of the best parts of a Disney Resort hotel stay is the support that’s built into the experience, including how easy it is to get where you’re going. At Disney’s Pop Century Resort, you’re just steps away from access to the Disney Skyliner, making it simple to travel to EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. And when it’s time for the rest — finding your way, choosing a meal, figuring out transportation, or getting a question answered — cast members are always ready to help keep your day moving smoothly. Staying at a Disney Resort hotel also comes with conveniences that make vacation days feel simpler from start to finish, like early theme park entry. For even more convenience, the Airport Luggage Transfer at Disney pilot lets eligible guests staying at select Disney Resort hotels transfer luggage to and from Orlando International Airport when flying with participating airlines. However you “do” Pop Century — park days, pool days, or a little of both — these refreshed spaces are ready to welcome you with plenty of personality, comfort, and signature Disney service throughout. Disney World Pools That Make a Big Splash READ MORE New Rooms at Port Orleans French Quarter READ MORE All-Star and Pop Century Resort Refurbishments READ MORE The post Check In & Check It Out: New Rooms and Lobby at Pop Century Resort appeared first on Disney Parks Blog. View the full article

Some MAJOR things are on their way to the Magic Kingdom in the next few years, with construction in full swing on the Cars-themed Piston Peak coming to Frontierland and the Villains Land taking over the area “Beyond” Big Thunder Mountain. ©Bioreconstruct on Instagram However, the tradeoff for these upcoming new lands is the closure of one of the park’s opening day areas, which led to an uproar from some fans and Disney traditionalists alike. Back when these additions were announced at the D23 Ultimate Fan Event in the summer of 2024, fans were excited at the prospect of the long-awaited Villains Land and the idea of a new version of Disneyland’s Cars Land concept coming to Walt Disney World… until they learned that the latter would be replacing the Rivers of America and Tom Sawyer Island. Rivers of America Based on the original versions from Disneyland, both the river and the island — an activity area haven for the young and young at heart — had been staples of the Magic Kingdom since the park opened in 1971. The closure of the river also brought about the closure of its watercraft, including the Liberty Square Riverboat, AKA the Liberty Belle. Rivers of America To say many fans were upset about these closures would be a slight understatement, as a cavalcade of criticism was unleashed on Disney for destroying a classic “Walt-era” element of the park. (It should, of course, be noted that Walt Disney had passed away before construction on the Magic Kingdom had even begun, though the original Rivers of America and Mark Twain Riverboat in Disneyland had been part of his initial plans for the park.). This was compounded by the closure of the Frontierland Shooting Gallery — to be replaced by a Disney Vacation Club lounge — several months earlier, which left many fans feeling like the traditional version of Frontierland was set to disappear and be replaced by a land themed to a movie that doesn’t match the time period. McKim’s Mile House As time went on, Disney released further details on Piston Peak and how it will integrate into the theme of Frontierland. The land will be based partially on a location that appeared in the Cars spinoff, Planes. The new setting will be “an awe-inspiring wilderness filled with towering trees, snowcapped mountains, breathtaking waterfalls, roaring rivers and impressive geysers,” according to Disney. ©Disney The land’s design will be inspired by the Rocky Mountain region of the United States, as well as the country’s national parks. In fact, the buildings in the area will be based on the National Park Service’s “Parkitecture” concept. This architectural style was developed by the service as a way to create structures that “harmonize with the natural environment.” Of course, Disney Imagineering’s versions will be scaled to Cars as opposed to humans. This includes the massive Visitor’s Lodge, an A-Frame building in the tradition of classic National Park lodges from the early-to-mid 20th Century, which will serve as the primary loading area for the land’s main attraction, an “off-road rally race” ride, complete with custom vehicles. Coming Coming to Frontierland at Magic Kingdom, a new area themed to Pixar Animation Studios’ “Cars” will leave Radiator Springs and head to the wilderness with two new attractions including an off-road race. Disney also stressed that Piston Peak will blend seamlessly into the Frontierland landscape thanks to trees that “will provide a natural barrier between the off-road rally and other parts of Frontierland and Liberty Square” while “rugged mountains with dramatic peaks will be nestled along a calming waterway across from Grizzly Hall and soaring geysers from the famed Big Thunder Mountain Railroad will stretch into the trails of our off-road rally. “ ©Disney The question of whether Piston Peak will blend in well enough with the land to alleviate the feelings of fans who’ll miss the Rivers of America won’t be answered until the land opens. While Villains Land isn’t facing the same fan anger issues as Piston Peak, given the fact that it’s replacing nothing, the land is facing its own challenges. When the land was confirmed, concept art seemed to show a dark and twisted coaster as one of its centerpieces. Villains Land Concept Art ©Disney Over the last year, land has been cleared in the area, and it seemed like Villains Land was on track to open in the next several years… until rumors emerged in early 2026 that incoming CEO D’Amaro had instructed Imagineers to throw away their plans, including the coaster, and start anew. According to a February article in TheWrap, “The coaster was planned to be the big draw. As the concept art suggested, it was going to be themed to Maleficent, the big bad from Sleeping Beauty, who was later brought to life in the live-action Maleficent films by Angelina Jolie. This was going to be a really-for-real thrill ride…” However, the article goes on to say that the coaster concept is “being converted to a more family-friendly coaster, along the lines of Slinky Dog Dash at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, this time themed to The Emperor’s New Groove. This makes sense, considering that antagonists Yzma and Kronk actually ride a rollercoaster in that 2000 comedy, and how many more guests you can get on the ride with a lower height requirement. (Before you ask, yes, there is a “pull the lever” moment in the ride currently.)” The outlet goes on to say that clarification on the plans is likely to be released at the D23 event in August. ©Disney Major changes are coming to the Magic Kingdom in the coming years, though they may never be enough to satiate the anger of fans who aren’t over what was closed to make way for them. Stay tuned to DFB for more on Disney World’s evolution. Former Cast Member Reveals the SECRET Way to Get the BEST Magic Kingdom Fireworks View 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 Piston Peak and Villains Land? Let us know in the comments below. View the full article

For lovers of Crocs, or those who cannot get enough of anything Goofy or Chip ‘n Dale, there’s a new release online you HAVE to see before they’re gone! ©Disney We know Crocs are a very popular choice in theme parks, especially for kiddos and adults who find them comfortable and supportive. Not to mention, most of them dry super quickly, which can be great for those rainy days this spring and summer. We suggest checking out these Crocs sooner rather than later, because they could sell out! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Goofy Crocs Are Here! ©Disney Lovers of the one and only Goofy can’t miss the Goofy Clogs for Adults by Crocs that are now online! They come in sizes as small as M4/W6, and go up to a M13 (10 sizes total). You’ve got Goofy’s face on the very front of the black front of the shoe, while the inside is green. The strap on the back has Goofy’s name on the back, and his face on the side buttons, and is both orange and blue. There are a lot of colors going on, but we love it! Grab them here! Who Doesn’t Love Chip ‘n Dale? ©Disney If you can’t get enough of these troublesome chipmunks, the Chip ‘n Dale Fuzzy Clogs for Adults by Crocs could not be more perfect for you. Now, these are the fuzzy Crocs, which means they’re not as great for bad weather outside. You’ve got Chip on the right and Dale on the left, and the shoes are complete with their fuzzy ears up front and tails at the back of the shoe. They also come in 10 sizes, from M4/W6 through M13. Grab them here! Be sure to stay tuned to DFB for all the latest Disney merchandise news! View the full article

Disney fans may want to DROP everything and get to Amazon ASAP! ©Amazon Right now, the massive E-tailer has some of our Disney favorites available for discounted prices! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Silver Buffalo Lilo & Stitch Tumbler ©Amazon This 40-oz tumbler features a white background with “whimsical, retro sketches of palm trees, the ocean, and Disney’s experiment 626 Stitch.” It includes a secure sliding lid, a straw, and can fit in a standard-size cup holder! SHOP HERE Disney Adults: Exploring (And Falling In Love With) A Magical Subculture by AJ Wolfe Disney Adults! Disney Food Blog’s very own AJ breaks down the Disney Adult subculture, “exploring the lives and experiences of a fascinating community to better understand its devotees’ unwavering passion for all things Disney, why it offends, and why it matters.” SHOP HERE Melissa & Doug Sticker Wow! Bundle ©Amazon PERFECT for Easter Baskets, this bundle includes a toy stamper that dispenses Disney-themed stickers, a 24-page Disney Minnie Mouse activity pad, and 300 easy-to-remove stickers (100 unique Disney-themed designs), providing hours of creative play! SHOP HERE Amazon Echo Pop Kids ©Amazon Decked out in Disney Princess iconography – and featuring the “Hey Disney” digital assistant – this special Echo dot can “stream kid-friendly songs from Amazon Music, Apple Music, Spotify, and others. Includes silicone sleeve” and will “automatically give kid-friendly responses and filter explicit songs.” Purchase also includes “6 months of Amazon Kids+ – A digital subscription designed for kids aged 3-12 to safely learn, grow, and explore. Kids can enjoy kid-friendly Audible books, interactive games, fun Morning Routines, and educational Alexa skills. After 6 months, your subscription will automatically renew every month starting at just $5.99/month plus applicable tax.” SHOP HERE Disney Villains Chess ©Amazon Combining the class game with the most iconic Disney villains from classic Disney films, this set features spooky translucent green or purple pieces of fan-favorite classic villains, including Jafar, Maleficent, Yzma, Ursula, Gaston, Scar, Hades & more! SHOP HERE If you’re in the market for any of these Disney essentials, get over to Amazon ASAP to get them on sale! Stay tuned to DFB for more Amazon deals! View the full article

If you know us, you know we love a fun dining option in Disney World. And today, we’re here to share with you one of the most underrated! Summer House on the Lake in Disney Springs Summer House on the Lake is one of the newer restaurants in Disney Springs, and it’s a popular spot for brunch or a meal with friends in a stunning, bright atmosphere. But did you know that they offer MARTINI HOUR?! Every Monday through Friday at the Summer House on the Lake bar, you can stop by for Martini Hour from 3-6PM. The menu includes $10 martinis, a $5 glass of wine, and a $4 draft beer, plus “elevated bar bites.” Sounds like a dream, right?! Martini Hour For the martinis, you have a choice of the Classic, the Espresso Martini, or the Finn Collins. Wine options include red, white, and rosé, and the draft beer is one from a rotating menu. Those are some STEALS compared to drink prices elsewhere in Disney World. Our classic martini was strong and pretty basic, but exactly what you’d expect. Classic Martini (which we decided to get dirty instead of dry) If you prefer something on the sweet side, we recommend the Finn Collins. The pour was strong, so the gin shines through, and the flavor emphasis was more floral than “sugary” sweet. The lemon makes it nice and refreshing, though the rhubarb flavor didn’t really come through. Finn Collins On the eats side of things, you could get First Class Warm Nuts, Summer House Tostadas, Two Saucey Chicken Tenders, the Prime Cheeseburger, or Bottomless Truffle Fries. You know those fries were just calling our name! They were just $10, and they’re bottomless for up to FOUR people. These fries are crispy, earthy, and aromatic — simply delicious. We are SUCKERS for some truffle fries The fries are even served with a spectacular truffle aioli on the side. We would’ve eaten this with a SPOON. Delicious aioli served with the fries! We also tried out the Lobby Cut Tavern Style Pizza for $12. This is the same pizza you’ll find on their lunch menu, which is a great hack, because on the lunch menu, it’s $19.95. You can add on sausage, pepperoni, or spicy giardiniera for an additional $3 each. Lobby Cut Tavern Style Pizza It’s served in bite-sized squares, so it’s easy to eat, and the crust is thin and crispy. It’s honestly pretty large for the price, so we’d recommend sharing with a couple of people — it’s not really a one-man dish. Easy to eat! If you’re looking for an excellent Happy Hour option in Disney World, we’d recommend this over and over again. Stellar food, affordable drinks, and a great view? We’re SOLD. Summer House For more updates on dining options around Disney World, make sure you subscribe to our newsletter — we’re constantly reviewing restaurants on property. Stay tuned to DFB by following us on social media and subscribing to our YouTube channel! See Our Latest Review of Summer House on the Lake 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 Have you been to this restaurant yet? Tell us in the comments! View the full article

Scarers, are you ready?! ©Disney Hollywood Studios is getting a huge new expansion dedicated to Monsters, Inc., and we just got a new update on the land. I’m so ready to grab my Monsters, Inc. hard hat and a varsity Monsters University jacket and run to the land because everything is coming together and starting to take shape. One ride coming to Monstropolis is a hanging door roller coaster. Your seat will actually be picked up, and you’ll be added to the rows of doors, and you’ll say hi to Sulley, Mike, and Boo. ©Disney This has been the main work going on in the land. The back area, which was part of the Cast Member parking lot, has been taken over, and the shape of the building is starting to appear. We’ve been watching them work on the ground, and you can really tell how huge it is! We’re always so grateful for these aerial photos from bioreconstruct on X. ©bioreconstruct Here’s a closer look in. Really, it’s SO big. ©bioreconstruct I love this photo in particular because it looks like a roller coaster track! It is not, but it is instead an electrical conduit in rebar for the foundation of the building, and it’s making me pretty excited to see the twists and turns that will eventually come here. ©bioreconstruct The rest of the land is also being worked on. This used to be Gonzo’s Royal Flush, the bathroom next to PizzeRizzo. Do you think they’ll rename the bathroom or just call it a bathroom? I hope it gets a fun name or even looks like the one from the movie where Boo gets lost in the locker room. ©bioreconstruct This is the old Mama Melrose’s, which was an Italian restaurant. It looks like they’ve been working on the ground and retheming the buildings. We’re expecting the buildings to look somewhat similar because Monstropolis is planned to have a street look, but they should look more themed towards monsters. I really want monsters to be popping out of the windows to say hello! ©bioreconstruct Ugh, and we have to take a look at the old MuppetVision theater, which is devastating to see. This is expected to be turned into a Monsters, Inc. themed show, but we haven’t gotten very many details yet. One piece of concept art called it “The Glob.” ©bioreconstruct We’re seriously so excited for this land to open. We haven’t heard any opening dates, but we’ll be keeping our eyes open for more announcements as they pop up. Keep following Disney Food Blog for more! ALL THE NEW RIDES AND ATTRACTIONS AT DISNEY WORLD IN 2026 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 excited for Monstropolis? Tell us your thoughts in the comments. View the full article

It’s certainly no secret that the Disney World parks are changing. New expansions are coming to Magic Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom, but changes are also coming to Disney Springs! A NEW store is coming! On a recent stroll around this shopping, dining, and entertainment district, we spotted something new! It looks like a new store will be coming to Disney Springs soon, in the location that was formerly home to the Volcom store — here’s what we know. It looks like a Vans store will be opening at Disney Springs soon! On a recent trip, we noticed new signage up in the space that formerly housed the Volcom store, and more recently, Disney’s Enchanted Holiday Art Gallery. Vans store When we stopped by, we spotted signage up with the Vans logo along with some signs that said “Coming Soon.” As of now, there’s no official opening date for this spot, but we’ll be keeping an eye on it. The new store is located in Disney Springs’ Town Center, right between the Harley Davidson and Levi’s stores. We’re hopeful that this will be a quick turnaround, as both stores that previously occupied this spot were also merchandise locations, so that likely means Vans won’t have to do a complete overhaul of the space to get it up and running. Coming soon! Several stores throughout Disney Springs feature discounts for Annual Passholders, DVC Members, and members of Disney’s D23 Fan Club — so we hope this Vans store does, too! Now there will be one more spot to shop for clothes and shoes at Disney Springs. New store Another exciting new addition is coming to Disney Springs soon, too. Six Ravens is a fast-casual concept from the Gideon’s Bakehouse team that will specialize in savory hand pies. It will open sometime in 2026, but we have an update that means work is happening, and we’re crossing our fingers that it means we’ll be getting new, savory treats sooner rather than later. ©Six Ravens We’ll be on the lookout for more news from Disney Springs, including an official opening date for the Vans store. In the meantime, make sure you stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for the latest Disney news and more! Check out more Disney Springs news at the links below! I Spent $42 on This Happy Hour in Disney Springs and I’d Do It Again in a HeartbeatNEW Store Coming Soon to Disney SpringsWell, 8 Disney World Restaurants Just Got Pricier This WeekWe Went Back to the Disney World Restaurant We Tell You to Skip. Is It Actually Better Now?REVIEW: There Are Lucky Charms On Our Donut…And We’re Not Mad About It 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 this new store when it opens? Let us know in the comments. View the full article

Disney World has KICKED these things to the CURB. No Crocs allowed on Disney World escalators But… were YOU about to rely on them during your next theme park vacation? Here are the things you DIDN’T know were banned in Disney. Check out our video below: 10 Things You Didn’t Know Were BANNED in Disney World  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

After nearly six years, the Garden View Lounge Tea Room Experience at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort is finally reopening! Opening to guests of all ages and occasions on March 19, 2026, The Garden View Lounge – Tea Experience at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa to bring guests on a whimsical afternoon tea extravaganza. This reimagined offering blends the elegance of the Victorian era with the playful charm of the Walt Disney Animation Studios film Alice in Wonderland, bringing the timeless story from the silver screen to the heart of the newly refurbished Grand Floridian, sure to leave guests feeling enchanted. Afternoon tea has been a part of the Grand Floridian for decades, and we’re SO excited to experience it once again after the Tea Room reopens. Ahead of its March 19th opening, Disney shared some behind-the-scenes details and a new look at the transformed space. The new tea room experience will be 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. Opening to guests of all ages and occasions on March 19, 2026, The Garden View Lounge – Tea Experience at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa to bring guests on a whimsical afternoon tea extravaganza. This reimagined offering blends the elegance of the Victorian era with the playful charm of the Walt Disney Animation Studios film Alice in Wonderland, bringing the timeless story from the silver screen to the heart of the newly refurbished Grand Floridian, sure to leave guests feeling enchanted. We got to chat with a few of the brilliant minds behind the new Tea Room: Alessandra Rogers, Chef de Cuisine-Pastry Michelle Schutte, Chef Amber Trafford, Proprietor; Tea Professional Suzanne Szak, Senior Interior Designer, Walt Disney Imagineering While the Grand Floridian has both Mary Poppins and Alice in Wonderland theming throughout, they shared that it was easy to pick the latter as the theme for the Tea Room, on account of the Mad Tea Party, of course. Opening to guests of all ages and occasions on March 19, 2026, The Garden View Lounge – Tea Experience at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa to bring guests on a whimsical afternoon tea extravaganza. This reimagined offering blends the elegance of the Victorian era with the playful charm of the Walt Disney Animation Studios film Alice in Wonderland, bringing the timeless story from the silver screen to the heart of the newly refurbished Grand Floridian, sure to leave guests feeling enchanted. Part of the extensive lobby refresh at the Grand Floridian, the renewed space has been redesigned to complement the resort’s updated aesthetic while preserving the gracious atmosphere longtime Disney guests remember. Floor-to-ceiling windows overlook the resort’s gardens, and the new decor incorporates subtle nods to the Main Street U.S.A. elegance and refined Victorian sensibilities that make the Grand Floridian one of Walt Disney World’s most iconic resort hotels. Opening to guests of all ages and occasions on March 19, 2026, The Garden View Lounge – Tea Experience at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa to bring guests on a whimsical afternoon tea extravaganza. This reimagined offering blends the elegance of the Victorian era with the playful charm of the Walt Disney Animation Studios film Alice in Wonderland, bringing the timeless story from the silver screen to the heart of the newly refurbished Grand Floridian, sure to leave guests feeling enchanted. Suzanne Szak, Senior Interior Designer with Walt Disney Imagineering, said that they were greatly inspired by Victorian conservatories, which is reflected in the expansive, arched glass windows and views of the garden. Expect to see repeating floral patterns throughout the space in the carpet, murals, and the stained glass. Opening to guests of all ages and occasions on March 19, 2026, The Garden View Lounge – Tea Experience at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa to bring guests on a whimsical afternoon tea extravaganza. This reimagined offering blends the elegance of the Victorian era with the playful charm of the Walt Disney Animation Studios film Alice in Wonderland, bringing the timeless story from the silver screen to the heart of the newly refurbished Grand Floridian, sure to leave guests feeling enchanted. There are also birds seen around the space, primarily wrens and sparrows, which are both native to Florida. Opening to guests of all ages and occasions on March 19, 2026, The Garden View Lounge – Tea Experience at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa to bring guests on a whimsical afternoon tea extravaganza. This reimagined offering blends the elegance of the Victorian era with the playful charm of the Walt Disney Animation Studios film Alice in Wonderland, bringing the timeless story from the silver screen to the heart of the newly refurbished Grand Floridian, sure to leave guests feeling enchanted. There are Mickey Mouse silhouettes hidden in the carpet as well! Opening to guests of all ages and occasions on March 19, 2026, The Garden View Lounge – Tea Experience at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa to bring guests on a whimsical afternoon tea extravaganza. This reimagined offering blends the elegance of the Victorian era with the playful charm of the Walt Disney Animation Studios film Alice in Wonderland, bringing the timeless story from the silver screen to the heart of the newly refurbished Grand Floridian, sure to leave guests feeling enchanted. The full menu, which costs $79 per adult, plus tax and gratuity, includes the following: Teas: Orangery of Lady Grey – Light and fragrant black tea with bright citrus notes of orange and bergamot. A refreshing twist on classic Earl Grey, inspired by sunlit English orangeries London Strand Breakfast – Bold and malty Assam black teas with golden-tipped leaves for richness and a full-bodied finish Nutty Chocolate Flavoured Assam – Rich Assam black tea meets the flavours of smooth chocolate and roasted hazelnuts. A blend inspired by the timeless pairing of tea and chocolate. Spicy Chai – A blend of African black tea and Rooibos with a blend of fragrant spices for a rich and delicious Chai. Exotic Mango & Ginger – A rich, fragrant blend of glorious mango and ginger layered over a base of green tea. Lemongrass & Peppermint – Refreshing lemongrass blended with sweet peppermint, creating an upliftingly smooth herbal citrus infusion. Redbush Caramel Velvet – A vibrant copper-red herbal infusion made from South African redbush leaves. Flavoured with caramel and safflowers for a smooth, comforting cup. Blackcurrant & Lavender – Rich and fragrant, this herbal blend delivers the essence of autumn-fiery golden leaves, vibrant holly berries, and fields of amber harvests. ©Disney Tea-Based Cocktails: Mint Tulip: featuring Old Forester 1870 Original Batch Kentucky Straight Whiskey, Twinings Refreshers Peach Mango Tea Instant Beverage, and mint Mar-TEA-ni: with Drumshanbo Gunpowder Irish Gin, Twinings Earl Grey Tea, lemon, and honey. ©Disney Non-Alcoholic Specialty Teas: Curiosi-TEA: with Twinings Refreshers Strawberry Raspberry Herbal Tea Instant Beverage with a touch of shimmering magic This Way, That Way: with Twinings Refreshers Peach Mango Tea, Herbal Tea Instant Beverage, and mint ©Disney Food Orange-Cranberry Scone – A classic English scone with orange and cranberry for a starter Curried Chicken Salad Playing Card Tart – Savory curried chicken salad filling topped with cherry gelée Footman’s Feast: Wonderland Salmon Crisp – Wonderland Salmon Crisp with a salmon rillette on a miso brown butter crisp Tweedledee Egg Salad Sandwich – A traditional egg salad on beet bread Caterpillar Cucumber Roll – A delicious combination with butterfly pea-infused cream cheese and cucumbers on pumpernickel Matcha Mad Hatter – Sponge cake with apricot jam and yuzu buttercream Tea Party Tart – Vanilla tart, coffee custard, and chantilly cream Flamingo Croquet Choux – Choux pastry filled with passion fruit cream and a raspberry crunch Painting the Rose – Earl Grey-flavored teacake painted tableside ©Disney There are also additional enhancements available, including a Seasonal Cheese Selection or Royal Osetra Caviar with Mini Chive Biscuits and Traditional Accompaniments, along with a plant-based menu option as well. ©Disney For younger guests, Disney is offering a $49 Children’s Afternoon Tea featuring savory minis like the Queen of Hearts Cheese Toastie, a Fanciful Turkey Wrap, and a Sunflower Seed Butter and Jelly Bun. For dessert, kids can have the Cheshire Cat Raspberry Macaron, the Chocolate Brownie Branch, and don’t be late for the vanilla White Rabbit Cupcake. ©Disney We’ll be bringing you our full review of the Garden View Lounge Tea Room Experience after it officially opens. In the meantime, make sure you stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for the latest Disney news and more! Check out more Disney news at the links below! NEW Store Coming Soon to Disney SpringsDFB Video: 10 Things You Didn’t Know Were BANNED in Disney WorldREVIEW: Did Our ‘Big Hero 6’ Dreams Just Come True on the NEW Disney Adventure Cruise Ship?This Airline’s Sweepstakes Will Take You To Disney’s NEWEST Park Expansion!REVIEW: Is This $16 Drink on the Disney Adventure the Fairest of Them All? 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 booking tea at the Garden View Lounge? Let us know in the comments below. Disclosure: In nearly all circumstances, Disney Food Blog writers and photographers pay full price for their own travel, hotel, food, beverage, and event tickets. We do this because it’s important to us as journalists to ensure not only that we give you unbiased opinions, but also that you can trust us to do so since we’re paying our own way. On rare occasions, when we are invited by a company to attend a preview as media, and when we choose to accept that invitation, we will always make you, our readers, aware of that situation. Today, we were invited by Disney World to attend their media preview of the Garden View Lounge Tea Room. Note that when we attend events as media we are 1) Not required to review that event/food on any of our channels, and 2) Not required to review that event/food favorably. You can always count on DFB to give you a 100% unbiased and honest review of any event that we attend, food that we eat, or beverage that we drink. You can see more in our Disclosure Policy. Thank you for reading. — AJ View the full article

Grab your best-teas and get read-tea for the debut of The Garden View Lounge – Tea Experience at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, opening to guests March 19, 2026. This reimagined offering blends the elegance of the Victorian era with the playful charm of the Walt Disney Animation Studios film Alice in Wonderland, bringing the timeless story from the silver screen to the heart of the newly refurbished Grand Floridian, sure to leave you feeling enchanted. I’m so excited to share this first look with you – let’s hop to it! A Whimsical Welcome to the Reimagined Lounge As you step into The Garden View Lounge, it feels like walking into a sunlit conservatory. My personal favorite part of the space is the floor-to-ceiling windows. No matter the time of day, natural light pours into the room, giving the entire space a warm, inviting glow. As you look closer into the space, the furniture strikes a balance between modern comfort and classic Victorian, making the lounge feel fresh while honoring the beloved Grand Floridian style guests know and love. Details That Bring the Space to Life As with any Disney location, the magic is in the details. The floral patterns, plush fabrics, and gentle hues of green, blue, and gold create a serene atmosphere that feels connected to nature. Organic shapes appear throughout the room, portraying the flowers and leaves you’d find in a flourishing garden, creating a lush escape for anyone who enters. The brass-framed mirrors resemble flower petals, reflecting an outdoor garden, while the stained-glass windows featuring native Floridian birds add color, character, and warmth. Looking down, the gorgeous carpet inspired by winding garden vines will have you stop in your tracks (it was one of the first things I noticed about the space!). Do you see anything special integrated into the design? A Timeless Tradition Returns This long-awaited Afternoon Tea Service returns with a delicious menu inspired by the whimsical world of Alice in Wonderland, of course served with a unique presentation of Twinings Teas. Adults are welcome to choose between a traditional tea service or a plant-based option, while younger guests can enjoy a special children’s tea. It’s a thoughtful approach that makes the experience feel welcoming for families, couples, and solo tea lovers alike. For a closer look at the offerings, the Disney Eats First Look provides a preview of the full tea-riffic menu. We can’t wait to welcome you to The Garden View Lounge – Tea Experience, where you’ll sip, savor, and steep your way through an afternoon filled with charm. For more delightful details, wonder over to DisneyWorld.com. At Walt Disney World, the possibili‑teas truly are endless. Make sure to stay tuned to the Disney Parks Blog for the latest enchantment and adventures! Inside the New Takumi-Tei Spring Menu at EPCOT READ MORE EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival Foodie Guide READ MORE First Look at Garden View Lounge – Tea Experience READ MORE The post The Garden View Lounge: Details and Photos of the Reimagined Lounge Experience appeared first on Disney Parks Blog. View the full article