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Big changes are coming to Magic Kingdom! ©Disney A major Magic Kingdom expansion is going on, and several classic attractions are getting big updates. As we eagerly await updates, we’ve been keeping an eye on construction changes throughout the park. Thanks to new aerial photos, we can see exactly what’s going on in Frontierland! Magic Kingdom is currently expanding to add a brand new Cars-inspired land to Frontierland! The new area will be called Piston Peak, and it’s replacing Tom Sawyer Island and the Rivers of America, which closed in July. Work quickly began on changes to the area, and thanks to bioreconstruct on X, we have new updates! @bioreconstruct on X These photos were taken on October 12th, 2025, and show a very drained Rivers of America. The river first started draining in August, roughly a month after closing. You can already see the track that the Liberty Belle ran on. @bioreconstruct on X Tom Sawyer Island’s buildings are still intact, and the lush greenery hasn’t been removed yet. There are several machines visibly like an excavator, which is used to move dirt, dig, and more. You can also see the back of the walls that are currently lining Frontierland. @bioreconstruct on X In a few wider shots, you can see how Piston Peak will be situated in Frontierland, near Big Thunder Mountain and Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. Big Thunder Mountain has been closed for the entirety of 2025 and will stay closed until early 2026 for a major refurbishment. Disney has teased that “new magic” will be coming to the attraction and even released some concept art that ties Piston Peak and the attraction together. @bioreconstruct on X Bierconstruct also got some pictures of the area beyond Big Thunder Mountain where the new Villains Land will be built. Disney has stayed pretty quiet regarding Villains Land, but we do know that it will feature new attractions, dining options, and more. The land has been cleared, but there hasn’t been much progress since the September update. @bioreconstruct on X Disney has yet to share opening timelines for Piston Peak or Villains Land, but it’s clear there’s quite a bit of work to go. We are seriously excited to see these updates and are hoping for a relatively quick timeline because we aren’t the biggest fans of the construction walls. (Is anyone a fan of the walls?) As always, be sure to keep following DFB for more Disney news and updates. Piston Peak — Cars Land Expansion Coming to Disney World’s Magic Kingdom 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 updates? Tell us in the comments! The post We Have NEW UPDATES On Magic Kingdom's Major Expansion first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

The grim ghosts are grinning, the pumpkins are lit on Main Street, U.S.A. , and Disney Parks has dropped another fang-tastic set of Halloween popcorn buckets. Whether you’re a die-hard collector or just here for the not-so-scary vibes, the 2025 popcorn bucket lineup at Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort is un-boo-lievably good. From adorable to downright villainous, here’s where to find the popcorn buckets haunting Disney Parks this Halloween season. Cute Mickey Mouse Ghost Bucket New in 2025, the Mickey Mouse Ghost popcorn bucket is an adorable specter and we want to give him all our treats. This lil’ guy is holding a jack-o’-lantern brimming with colorful candy, which lights up at the touch of a button. And if you’ve come across the infamous Cutie Ghost collection, you know he’s about to fit right in with every outfit. His hat even features “Happy Halloween” in orange across the back, just like the classic Mickey ear hats. A purple strap adorned with cutie ghost Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse designs, pumpkins, and fall leaves makes this bucket easy to carry around the parks. Where to Find the Mickey Mouse Ghost Bucket Over at Disneyland park and Disney California Adventure park, check our Disneyland Resort Halloween Foodie Guide for specific locations (you can find it at most popcorn carts and select quick-service locations). Limit two (2) per person, per transaction. While supplies last, no discounts apply. Jack Skellington Bucket This Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas Jack Skellington Gravestone Bucket features Jack sitting oh-so-casually atop a tombstone. He looks like he’s about to burst into song with a light-up jack-o’-lantern in one boney hand. Jack’s trusty pal Zero floats on one side of the gravestone with a basket of potions, and a menacing pumpkin rests at the base. A creepy hatch opens on the front to hold your popcorn, and the whole piece sits on a hill that harkens back to Halloween Town. This is an eerie tabletop piece to display every Halloween at home. Where to Find the Jack Skellington Gravestone Bucket At Walt Disney World, this creepy bucket is available at select popcorn carts at Magic Kingdom. Check out the Disneyland Resort Halloween Foodie Guide for specific locations inside Disneyland Park and California Adventure. You can also find Jack at The Coffee House at Disneyland Hotel and the Grand Californian Great Hall Cart at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa. Limit two (2) per person, per transaction. While supplies last, no discounts apply Stitch Mummy Bucket What lights up, glows in the dark, and is covered in toilet paper? Well, this year, it’s none other than everyone’s favorite alien experiment — Stitch! He’s coming to trick-or-treat this year as a mummy, and instead of toilet papering Cinderella Castle, he’s improvised a scary(???) costume. Stitch’s badness level is at an all-time high this Halloween season, with all your popcorn going right in his mouth! Not only is he munching on your snacks, but he’s also running around scaring the neighborhood with his glowing mummy wrap and a pumpkin that lights up with a touch of a button. Where to Find Mummy Stitch At Walt Disney World, the Mummy Stitch popcorn bucket is available at select popcorn carts at Magic Kingdom Park, Disney’s Animal Kingdom, EPCOT, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. On the west coast, look for Stitch throughout both the parks, and he can even be found at Tangaroa Terrace Tropical Bar & Grill at Disneyland Hotel and GCH Craftsman Grill at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa. Limit two (2) per person, per transaction. While supplies last, no discounts apply. Halloween Popcorn Bucket The standard Disney popcorn bucket you know and love has been taken over by Disney Villains! Yep, you love to hate ‘em, your favorite baddies are all over this bucket. Headliner villains like Captain Hook, Maleficent, and Ursula dominate the bucket, but even more nemeses are lurking nearby, like the Sanderson Sisters and Pain & Panic. Look for your favs creeping near, waiting for another popcorn refill. Where to Find the Villains Halloween Popcorn Bucket You can find this bucket at most popcorn carts and select quick-service locations at Disneyland Park and California Adventure. For exact locations, see our Disneyland Resort Halloween Foodie Guide. Beyond the Bucket: Halloween Sippers & More to Haunt Your Drinks Imagine strutting into work on Monday, hydrating with a haunted cone. These seasonal snack souvenirs go beyond the bucket with lots of festively frightening ways to enjoy your drinks at the parks and at home. Halloween Sippers At Magic Kingdom, Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas Mayor Sipper will be available at Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Cafe and The Friar’s Nook to help express your current vibe. Look for the Pluto Skeleton Sipper at all four Disney World parks. Limit two (2) per person, per transaction. While supplies last. At Disneyland Resort, you can find the Pluto Skeleton Sipper and Cars Land Lighted Cone Sipper throughout the parks and hotels (see our Foodie Guide for exact locations). Bottle Toppers, Glow Cubes, and More at Disneyland At Disneyland, little Halloween delights add a bit of seasonal flair to any potion of your choice. Glow cubes galore at Disneyland give your drinks an eerie hue. The Halloween Candy Glow Cube, Kuzco’s Poison Bottle Glow Cube, and the Oogie Boogie Moon Glow Cube can all be found at select locations in the parks. And dress up your straws with the Winky Mickey Mouse Pumpkin Bottle Topper and Zero Light Up Straw Clip. Check our Disneyland Foodie Guide to find your favorites. Halloween season is in full spiritual swing, and here on Disney Parks Blog, we love to sample all the treats and collect every bucket. See what’s brewing with all our Halloween coverage, and we’ll see you at the next popcorn cart. The post These Cute Disney Halloween Popcorn Buckets Creeped into Our Hearts appeared first on Disney Parks Blog. View the full article

Indulging in all things Disney is an expensive endeavor…so let’s save some cash the easy way! Gift cards at Sam’s Club Sam’s Club members can often find great deals on all kinds of gifts and essentials. With the holidays around the corner, we can’t think of a better gift than Disney gift cards — and Sam’s Club has some member deals that are worth taking advantage of. Let’s take a look! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Disney gift cards work for purchases of goods and services such as food, merchandise, park tickets, and hotels at Disney World, Disneyland, the Aulani Resort in Hawaii, DVC properties, the Disney Cruise Line, and Adventures by Disney. ©Disney Ultimately, the best times to shop for discounted Disney gift cards at Sam’s Club are during major shopping events like Black Friday/Cyber Monday, as well as seasonal promotional windows throughout the year. But if you simply cannot wait, you can still get some members-only deals (as well as some non-member Disney+ and Southwest Airlines deals) RIGHT NOW. Check them out! Save $10 with this promotion ©Sam’s Club Right now, you can grab a $200 Digital Disney Gift Card for $190! This promo is currently capped at a maximum of 4 per order. BUY AT SAM’S CLUB This card pack will save you a few bucks Promotion pricing When it comes to Disney purchases, we’ll take every dollar we can save. The $150 Gift Card Multi-Pack certainly helps with that, as it costs $144.98 at the moment. This pack includes 3 physical cards valued at $50 each. This promo is currently capped at a maximum of 2 per order. BUY AT SAM’S CLUB Save some cash on a $500 gift card ©Sam’s Club The $500 Disney Gift Card can be yours for $484.98 if you’re a Sam’s Club Member. If you’re dropping this kinda cash, every dollar saved matters. Right now, this promo is limited to a maximum of 2 per order. BUY AT SAM’S CLUB You don’t need to be a member for this deal! ©Disney Sam’s Club is currently offering a Digital Disney+ Streaming Only $50 Gift Card for a discounted $47.98! These digital cards are limited to a maximum of 2 per order and 2 per membership. Save some cash on your streaming membership with this deal! BUY AT SAM’S CLUB Fly cheaper with this deal ©Sam’s Club For a limited time, you can save an extra 10% with Sam’s Club on the Southwest Airlines $500 Digital Gift Card! Priced at $464.98, you can save more than $35 now until October 31st when the promo ends. This deal has a limitation of a maximum of 5 per order and 5 per membership. Grab yours before it’s too late! BUY AT SAM’S CLUB Be sure to check the Sam’s Club website frequently as we get closer to the holiday season for more savings, and check back here at DFB for the latest updates on Disney discounts! The post Disney Gift Cards -- How To Maximize Your Savings at Sam's Club first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

If you have a Disney+ account, there are quite a few perks you can take advantage of! ©Disney On the Disney+ Perks website, you’ll often find special offers on subscriptions to other services, sweepstakes to take you on fun trips, or even freebies for Disney fans, and the latest freebie is a special edition of TIME magazine! Recently, Disney+ Perks posted a new freebie — subscribers can enter to win their own special edition of TIME all about The Simpsons. From now through October 16th, you can enter the sweepstakes daily on the Disney+ Perks website. ©Disney The magazine celebrates 36 years of the iconic show, highlighting special moments, the cultural impact of the series, and characters you know and love. If you’re a longtime fan, you’ll want to enter the contest once daily on the Disney+ website — it ends on October 16th at 8:59PM PT. ©Disney Only 10 copies of the magazine will be available, so make sure to enter every day if you’re interested. And while you’re checking out this sweepstakes, make sure to look at the other perks available! Right now, you can enter to win a trip to the Avatar: Fire and Ash premiere, get a 6-month trial of DashPass through DoorDash, or enter for a chance to go to the NWSL finals. ©Disney We’ll make sure to keep you in the loop with any more special offers or important perks. Stay tuned to DFB for more! Keep following DFB for more Disney news. Disney Just Acquired the Rights to a Popular Fantasy Series! 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 Disney+ account? Tell us in the comments! The post NEW Sweepstakes Announced for Disney+ Subscribers Perks first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Disneyland really said the weather outside is frightful, and it’s time to let it snow, let it snow, let it snow! Sleeping Beauty Castle! Christmas at Disneyland is still a month away, but Disney is already prepping for all the festivities ahead. How can we tell? Well, it looks like it’s started snowing in the park already — let us show you! Make sure to start packing your winter jacket when going to Disneyland (don’t actually, it’s still the mid-80s), because we’ve spotted some snow covering the peaks of the Sleeping Beauty Castle! It snowed! The snow-covered castle is just one of the many sweet additions to Disneyland during the holidays. This first piece is a reminder that the colder weather is starting to come in and that the most wonderful time of the year really is just around the corner. Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow Lots are confirmed to be coming to Disneyland this Christmastime, including Holidays at the Disneyland Resort, Disney Festival of Holidays, and Disney ¡Viva Navidad!. These events will return on November 14th and will last through January 7th, 2026. The holidays give guests the chance to enjoy Disney’s gorgeous holiday décor, view some exclusive live entertainment, and get a holiday treat (of course). We’re getting excited! The snow is just the start of the beautiful castle display, as Wintertime Enchantment at Sleeping Beauty’s Winter Castle is back again this year! Get ready, because this gorgeous display features 80,000 lights! It looks like a snowy, sparkling version of itself. ©Disney Another thing we’re looking forward to for the holidays is the amazing “Believe…In Holiday Magic” fireworks nighttime spectacular! It’s returning again this Christmas season, and it will have the snow going down Main Street U.S.A. Christmas! Want to visit for the holidays, but don’t want to go through all of the stress of booking your Disney trip alone? Reach out to our friends at Small World Vacations! Their experienced agents monitor your reservation for possible future savings, 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 can’t wait for Christmas at Disneyland, and yes, we know Halloween hasn’t hit yet. For more Disney news and updates, make sure to stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog! CONFIRMED: Character Dining, Parade, Fireworks, and MORE Coming To Disneyland This Holiday Season 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 the holidays? Let us know in the comments! The post Surprise! Change Hit Disney Castle Overnight, and You’re Going To Love It first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

We’re spilling the secrets! Magic Kingdom THESE Free Disney World upgrades are by far and away the BEST thing you can do to improve your upcoming vacation. Check out our video below: Ranking EVERY Hollywood Studios Snack 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. The post DFB Video: SECRET and FREE Disney World Upgrades first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

It’s almost the most wonderful time of the year over in EPCOT! 2022 EPCOT Candlelight Processional Well, any day in EPCOT is a great day in our opinion, but the holidays bring something special to the park — the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays! While this festival is full of great dishes to try from booths all around the world, one of our other favorite parts of the festival is the Candlelight Processional. If you’ve been looking forward to it as much as we have and want to be sure you’ve got the best seat, dining packages are now available to book! If you want a guaranteed spot at the Candlelight Processional without having to wait in a long line, consider booking a Candlelight Processional Dining Package! These packages are available to book as of October 14th, and are available at the following restaurants: Biergarten Restaurant — Lunch and Dinner: Adult $70 / Child $38 Disney Dining Plan Requirements: ONE Table Service Credit Chefs de France — Lunch and Dinner: Adult $86 / Child $35 Disney Dining Plan Requirements: ONE Table Service Credit Coral Reef Restaurant — Lunch and Dinner: Adult $78 / Child $32 Disney Dining Plan Requirements: ONE Table Service Credit Garden Grill — Breakfast: Adult $71 / Child $43; Lunch and Dinner: Adult $84 / Child $52 Disney Dining Plan Requirements: ONE Table Service Credit La Crêperie de Paris — Lunch and Dinner: Adult $57 / Child $30 Disney Dining Plan Requirements: ONE Table Service Credit La Hacienda de San Angel — Lunch and Dinner: Adult $86 / Child $37 Disney Dining Plan Requirements: ONE Table Service Credit Le Cellier — Lunch and Dinner: Adult $104 / Child $42 Disney Dining Plan Requirements: TWO Table Service Credits Nine Dragons Restaurant — Lunch and Dinner: Adult $68 / Child $28 Disney Dining Plan Requirements: ONE Table Service Credit Rose & Crown Dining Room — Lunch and Dinner: Adult $66 / Child $29 Disney Dining Plan Requirements: ONE Table Service Credit Shiki-Sai: Sushi Izakaya — Lunch and Dinner: Adult $99 / Child $50 Disney Dining Plan Requirements: ONE Table Service Credit Spice Road Table — Lunch and Dinner: Adult $60 / Child $24 Disney Dining Plan Requirements: ONE Table Service Credit Teppan Edo — Lunch and Dinner: Adult $110 / Child $60 Disney Dining Plan Requirements: ONE Table Service Credit Tutto Italia Ristorante — Lunch and Dinner: Adult $77 / Child $29 Disney Dining Plan Requirements: ONE Table Service Credit Via Napoli Ristorante e Pizzeria — Lunch and Dinner: Adult $65 / Child $28 Disney Dining Plan Requirements: ONE Table Service Credit Menu for Rose and Crown dining package The majority of table service restaurants in EPCOT are participating in this, but to see a full list of all restaurants included, as well as their pricing, and what their Disney Dining Plan credit equivalent is, you’ll want to check out our post below (including recent reviews for each one so you can know which may be best for you and your family). Everything You Need to Know About Restaurants Included in This Year’s Candlelight Processional Dining Package Advance Dining Reservations can be made 60 days out starting TODAY, October 14th, 2025, and interested guests may book online, through the My Disney Experience app, or by calling (407) WDW-DINE (it’s recommended to book online or through the app, as the phone line doesn’t open until 7 AM each morning). However, if you’re looking for a dining package last-minute on the same day of your visit, same-day dining packages are available at Regal Eagle Smokehouse: Craft Drafts & Barbecue, but they are subject to availability. 2022 Dining Package Ticket Disney recently announced the list of Candlelight Processional narrators, and there are some BIG names on that list! This year, you can see: November 28th to 29th — Constance Wu (NEW) November 30th to December 2nd — Jordan Fisher December 3rd to 4th — Jennifer Garner (NEW) December 5th to 6th — Ashley Eckstein December 7th to 8th — Ralph Macchio December 9th to 10th — Leslie Uggams (NEW) December 11th to 13th — Marlee Matlin December 14th to 15th — Henry Winkler (NEW) December 16th to 17th — Lauren Daigle (NEW) December 18th to 19th — Gary Sinise December 20th to 22nd — Brendan Fraser December 23rd to 24th — Luis Fonsi December 25th to 26th — Joel Smallbone (NEW) December 27th to 28th — Brie Larson (NEW) December 29th to 30th — Sheryl Lee Ralph (NEW) Candlelight Processional Seating If there’s a narrator you really want to see, and you don’t want to wait in line for regular seating only to find that you may not be able to get a spot if you didn’t get in line early enough (or spend hours waiting in line to ensure you get a seat), then getting a Dinner Package may be the best way to go. At each participating restaurant, you’ll get to experience a sit-down, prix-fixe meal of an entrée and dessert or one full buffet (except for Spice Road Table, where you’ll get 2 small plates, a shared tagine, a shared dessert platter and one nonalcoholic beverage), and then know for a fact you’ll get a seat at one of that night’s three shows. Candlelight Processional We strongly suggest booking your dining package sooner rather than later, as you don’t want to rely on booking a same-day package for a narrator you’d really like to see, especially if they’re more well-known and sought after. However, if you’d like to try your chances and don’t mind waiting in line for general seating, that is completely free and is included with the price of your EPCOT admission. More Recent Festival of the Holidays News! Disney Just Made It WAY Easier to Plan Your Visit to the EPCOT Festival of the HolidaysREMINDER: EPCOT Park Hours Are CHANGING SoonJUST CONFIRMED: One of the BEST Christmas Traditions Will Return to Disney World This Year!9 Things EPCOT Festival Booth Cast Members Want To Tell You But Won’t Cause They’re Too NiceREVIEW: This Exclusive EPCOT Festival Treat Is Only Worth It for the FREE Souvenir Be sure to stay tuned to DFB for all the latest EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays news! I’ve Written About Disney World for 7 Years. Here Are 4 Powerful Things I’m Seeing in the Parks Right Now. DON'T MISS A MOMENT OF HOLIDAY MAGIC Holidays at Disney World: DFB's Merriest Guide is a one-of-a-kind resource that will help you get the most out of your holiday vacation at Walt Disney World. It includes all the must-have information for navigating the holiday season at Disney World, including: The COMPLETE schedule of events for the Holiday Season How to avoid the crowds on Disney World's busiest days (and when Disney World closes their parks due to capacity!) ALL of the events, activities, and holiday additions in Walt Disney World. ALL. OF. THEM. And, of course, we'll tell you where to eat! Save 20% on the Holidays at Disney World: DFB's Merriest Guide with code PEPPERMINT. GET YOUR GUIDE NOW MORE Disney World Holiday INFO! Learn About Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Get the Latest Information About the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays Get All the Details About Disney Jollywood Nights Everything You Need to Know About Disney World Holiday Dining and Events Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the latest holiday news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! Who are you hoping to see narrate the Candlelight Processional this year? Tell us in the comments! The post ALERT! You Can Book 2025 EPCOT Candlelight Processional Dining Packages NOW first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Our team goes to Disney World every day, and with that experience, we know an expert tip when we see one! Magic Kingdom Every time you visit Disney World, you might learn a new little trick that makes the day smoother, faster, or just a little more magical. And lately, two reader-submitted tips have become part of our regular park routine, because they seriously work. These two tips will save you some time at every Disney park! 1. Speed Through Security With This Smart Hack Disney’s security scanners can be surprisingly sensitive, and items like umbrellas, glasses cases, and sometimes portable chargers are notorious for setting them off. When that happens, you’re pulled aside for a full bag check, which can slow you down and cost you valuable park time, especially during morning rush. Reader Jason Chapa shared a super helpful strategy: if you’re bringing a stroller or a bag, place those “flagged” items right in sight before you go through security. Security line You can hold those items straight out in front of you as you walk through the scanner to help you avoid triggering it. This is a game-changer for guests trying to rope drop and get inside those gates as soon as possible. Less time at security means more time at Space Mountain. Trust us, after doing this for several park days, we’ll never go back to digging through our bags in the middle of a security line again. Disney World Security Mobile Order Breakfast While You’re Still on the Bus We all know mobile ordering is a huge time-saver at Disney World, but one reader, Elizabeth Lentz Kerns, shared a next-level way to use it: Place your Mobile Order while you’re still on the bus heading to the park. You can schedule pickup for when the restaurant opens, so by the time you finish your Early Entry rides, your breakfast is ready and waiting for you. It’s the perfect way to skip long morning food lines and avoid the dreaded mid-morning HANGER. Mobile order You can do this easily in the My Disney Experience app, and most quick service spots allow you to pick a return window. You can pick a time for later that morning, and that means no standing around waiting for food or realizing too late that you’re starving. It’s a total morning time-saver and lets you plan out your day more efficiently, especially if you’re juggling Lightning Lane return times or trying to rope drop multiple rides. We’ve started doing this on almost every park day now, and it makes mornings feel way more relaxed. You can also apply this for lunch and dinner as well to get a jump on the crowds! Mobile Order window at Columbia Harbour House So WHERE should you Mobile Order from? In Magic Kingdom, one of our favorite breakfasts is a waffle from Sleepy Hollow Refreshments in Liberty Square. You can choose from the Waffle with Sweet-and-Spicy Maple Chicken, the Waffle with Berries, Powdered Sugar, and Whipped Cream, or the Waffle with Chocolate-Hazelnut Spread, Bananas, Berries, and Whipped Cream. These waffles are crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and they come with plenty of toppings! Waffle with Chocolate-Hazelnut Spread, Bananas, Berries, and Whipped Cream If you’re going to head right into Tomorrowland at Rope Drop, there are a couple of good breakfast items you can mobile order from The Lunching Pad! First, we have a Breakfast Bowl with Potato Barrels, Cheese Omelet, Chili Con Carne Queso, and Sour Cream. If you’re looking for something savory — this is a filling, flavorful option! The Breakfast Bowl We also recommend the sweet option here — Sticky Bubble Bread! This is sweet bread rolled in cinnamon, caramel, and warm spices. This is a pull-apart bread that’s easy to share, and we promise — it’s not as messy as it sounds. Oh my! If you’re headed to EPCOT, um, well, this trick won’t exactly work. Far fewer restaurants in EPCOT offer mobile order, and there’s not a great option for breakfast on Mobile Order here. On your EPCOT day, we recommend eating at your resort or checking out the breakfast items at Connections Cafe (EPCOT’s Starbucks location), Kringla Bakeri Og Kafe in the Norway Pavilion (get the School Bread or Cinnamon Roll with Orange Cream Cheese Icing!), or Les Halles Boulangerie-Patisserie (try the Croissant Salé — a bacon, egg, and cheese sandwich, or the Pain au Chocolat, but really you can’t go wrong with anything here!). Croissant Sale Let’s head over to Disney’s Hollywood Studios and while you’re traveling that way, mobile order your breakfast from Ronto Roasters in Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge! Grab the Ronto Morning Wrap made with eggs, grilled pork sausage, shredded cheddar, and peppercorn sauce on pita bread. Ronto Morning Wrap Or head over to Woody’s Lunch Box for another breakfast bowl! This one is made with a “hearty portion” of Potato Barrels smothered in Smoked Brisket Country Gravy, Scrambled Eggs, and a sprinkling of Green Onion. This is tasty and EASY to EAT while walking! That’s important when you want to grab your Mobile Order and head off to your next Lightning Lane. Breakfast Bowl Finally, let’s talk about mobile ordering breakfast in Animal Kingdom. There are not very many choices here for Mobile Order, but we can recommend the Slow Roasted Pork Shoulder Potato Hash with Chorizo Sausage and Charred Onion Sauce at Satu’li Canteen. Slow Roasted Pork Shoulder Hash We really enjoy the tender roast pork and spicy sausage in this dish. And don’t get us wrong — there is SO MUCH great quick-service food in Animal Kingdom, it’s just that most locations that offer breakfast don’t offer mobile order. Still, this is a solid trick that we now use ALL the time — especially on our Magic Kingdom days. For more tips for your Disney World vacation, be sure to follow DFB! I Was a Disney World Cast Member, and I’m Revealing the SECRETS I Have Stored in My Phone 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 is a pro-level Disney tip that you give to people? Tell us in the comments below. The post 2 New Tricks I’ve Been Using Constantly In Disney World first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

There’s something so charming about the holiday season, whether it’s the twinkling lights, warm cookies, nostalgic music, and of course – the joy of styling your outfits! You may be heading to a party, planning a trip to the parks, or just want to sprinkle a little Disney cheer into your everyday look, and the Disney x Macy’s Holiday Collection is sure to help you sparkle and shine. The new collection features NYC-inspired designs and classic characters with Minnie Mouse as the star, brought to you by brands including BaubleBar, kate spade new york, Loungefly, and Stoney Clover Lane. Sometimes, my favorite part of any festive holiday outfit is those final finishing touches, like the jewelry you choose to top off your look or the bag you select to perfectly match the ensemble. From practical purses and pouches to cheerful charms and glittering gems, this collection has everything you could possibly need to complete your seasonal style. Let’s take a peek at everything you can purchase starting today! Tote Bags, Backpacks, and Purses “I’m Walkin Here” Faux-Leather Tote This Loungefly tote bag is made for walking, with Mickey & Friends laced up and ready to enjoy a stroll through the bustling streets of Manhattan. SHOP NOW Mickey Mouse & Minnie Mouse Printed Mini Backpack Take a bite out of the Big Apple with this colorful Loungefly mini backpack, featuring the Sensational Six surrounded by iconic NYC foods like soft pretzels and hot dogs. SHOP NOW Mickey Mouse & Minnie Mouse Heart Shaped Crossbody Handbag This heart-shaped Loungefly shoulder bag, complete with a beautiful blue bow, is so romantic, showing Mickey and Minnie dressed to the nines for a night on the town. SHOP NOW Minnie Mouse kate spade new york Assortment kate spade new york has crafted so many cute pieces for the holiday season, including the red Top Handle Leather Tote Bag that comes with a Minnie Mouse bag charm, along with a wallet and crossbody bag featuring a very glamorous Minnie Mouse out for a drive. Stoney Clover Lane Assortment Stoney Clover Lane has no shortage of seasonal selections, again with lots of nods to NYC, including pouches, fanny packs, and crossbody handbags. In addition to the vibrant prints, you can further decorate your bag with patches! Bag Charms and Keychains Minnie Mouse 2D Bag Charm This Minnie Mouse bag charm from BaubleBar will certainly be the star of the show (or whichever bag you have slung over your shoulder), with a smiling Minnie Mouse dangling alongside her logo. SHOP NOW Mickey & Friends 2D Spinner Keychain This BaubleBar spinner bag charm allows you to combine different icons for a uniquely customized look, including the Sensational Six, images like a heart and apple, and letters spelling out “NYC.” SHOP NOW 3D Mickey Mouse NYC Bag Charm Nothing says New York City like a hot dog, and this BaubleBar bag charm features Mickey Mouse in his street style carrying the signature snack and a bundle of “NYC” balloons. SHOP NOW Jewelry Mickey Mouse & Minnie Mouse Cluster Charm Necklace and Bracelet Custom charm bracelets and necklaces have been one of my favorite jewelry trends this year. You can select a chain and choose from charms including Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse or beloved NYC icons to create your own BaubleBar piece. Mickey & Friends Earrings BaubleBar has so many earrings to choose from – whether you prefer a more dramatic dangle look (go for the Minnie Mouse with hearts and bows huggies), a colorful statement piece (we suggest the Minnie Mouse motif earrings), or maybe a more subtle stack (the character faces set is a great choice). Minnie Mouse Tennis Bracelet This tennis bracelet is so glam and is the perfect final touch for your holiday fit. The sparkling stones serve as a backdrop for enamel charms including lipstick, a bow, and Minnie Mouse looking beautiful as ever. SHOP NOW Soaring High Mickey Mouse Black Leather Strap Watch This sleek watch from Citizen with a black leather band and gold-toned detailing is a great way to show off your Mickey Mouse spirit, as he floats amongst the clouds as part of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. SHOP NOW Kids DIY Bracelet Set Kids can stack these bracelets from Super Smalls any way they like, with shiny gold beads and colorful charms featuring fun food and character icons. SHOP NOW Kids Mickey & Friends Ring Set These chunky, multicolored rings from Super Smalls, each one highlighting a different character, can help the little ones in your life feel fabulous and fashionable. SHOP NOW Accessories Mickey Mouse & Minnie Mouse Ears Headband The perfect park day is not complete without a set of mouse ears, and this sweetly simple design features the friendly faces of Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse. SHOP NOW Minnie Mouse Hair Clip Set The Minnie Mouse balloon takes to the sunny skies on this claw clip from BaubleBar, also featuring Minnie Mouse’s elegant swirling signature on one side. SHOP NOW Mickey Mouse & Minnie Mouse 3″ Balloon Pin These pins from Loungefly show Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse soaring over the streets during the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in adorable balloon form. SHOP NOW Mickey Mouse & Minnie Mouse 3″ Car Pin Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse take in the seasonal sights and sounds of the city from their red convertible on this Loungefly pin, complete with spinning wheels and glow-in-the-dark headlights. SHOP NOW Minnie Mouse is serving as the ultimate style icon this season, and every piece in this collection is full of joyful cheer and holiday spirit. The entire Disney x Macy’s Holiday Collection is available now on macys.com, in the Macy’s app, and at select Macy’s stores nationwide, so this is your chance to grab your pals and get the festive fun started. I already know which of these items I’m adding to my cart – do you? Keep an eye on the Disney Parks Blog for more Macy’s news and holiday shopping guides as you’re making your wish list (and checking it twice) this year. Disney Store’s Top Toy Picks for 2025 Holidays READ MORE Disney Parks Merchandise Launches in Disney Store at Selfridges READ MORE A Holly Jolly 2025 Disney Holiday Merchandise Preview READ MORE The post Disney and Macy’s Holiday Collection: Shop Jewelry and Accessories appeared first on Disney Parks Blog. View the full article

Are you ready to get into full holiday glam mode? This is the time of year to elevate your look with bold beauty products, whether you’re prepping for the ultimate festive party, planning a girls’ night out, or maybe just getting dolled up to sip cocoa on the couch. M·A·C Cosmetics and Disney have collaborated this holiday season on a collection for Macy’s, inspired by Minnie Mouse and Daisy Duck, to bring all the magic to your makeup bag. The M·A·C x Disney Minnie & Daisy Special-Edition Collection, created for Macy’s, celebrates Minnie Mouse’s status as a timeless fashion icon, and captures everything we love about her: confidence, charm, and glamour. The collection includes a mix of all-new and iconic M·A·C hues dreamt up by Minnie Mouse and Daisy Duck, including the debut of Minnie Woo, which is a festive twist on the iconic Ruby Woo lipstick. Want to up your makeup game and start shopping? Let’s go! Lustreglass Sheer-Shine Lipstick The Lustreglass Sheer-Shine Lipstick is a lightweight, nourishing lip product that is comfortable to wear all day. Dress lips in these three new shades, inspired by our favorite duo: Minnie Woo, Gal Pals, and Upsy Daisy. This is one of my personal favorite products to throw on when I know I won’t be able to reapply for a while – it wears so beautifully! Lipglass This fan-favorite gloss gets a magical makeover in three shimmering shades: Pink Polka Dots, Dress Up, and Out On The Town. This versatile gloss can be worn over lipstick or just on its own. Its high-gloss, glass-like finish gives you a sparkling sheen that will have you shining brighter than the twinkling holiday lights. Also, how adorable is this packaging showcasing our best pals Minnie Mouse and Daisy Duck? 4 Idol Lash You can have your lashes looking long and luscious, just like Minnie Mouse and Daisy Duck, with these false lashes. If you have a flair for the dramatic and want to embrace the glitz and glamour of the holiday season, false lashes are always a fun way to bring out your inner diva. There’s no limit to the looks you can create this season with the M·A·C x Disney Minnie & Daisy Holiday Collection, available now on macys.com, in the Macy’s app, and at select Macy’s stores nationwide. Maybe you’re more of a Minnie Mouse or perhaps Daisy Duck is your girl, but we suggest grabbing your bestie and sleighing the season together with whatever products are more your style. And even if you’re not shopping for yourself, these items make the perfect stocking stuffer gift! Are you feeling inspired now to get an early start on all of your holiday wishlists and shopping? The Disney Parks Blog is your go-to holiday hub for news, announcements, and gift guides (coming soon)! Disney Store’s Top Toy Picks for 2025 Holidays READ MORE Disney Parks Merchandise Launches in Disney Store at Selfridges READ MORE A Holly Jolly 2025 Disney Holiday Merchandise Preview READ MORE The post New M·A·C x Disney Minnie & Daisy Collection Available Now at Macy’s appeared first on Disney Parks Blog. View the full article

The holidays are about to get even more bow-tiful thanks to everyone’s favorite fashion muse! Disney and Macy’s are teaming up once again to bring festive cheer and timeless style to fans everywhere. This all-new collection brings together the best of fashion, beauty, and fandom with an assortment spanning apparel, accessories, Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade keepsakes, one-of-a-kind toys, home décor, and more. Featuring beloved brands like M·A·C Cosmetics, Loungefly, BaubleBar, Super Smalls, and Stoney Clover Lane, it captures the perfect mix of nostalgia through vintage artwork by Disney legend and American cartoonist Floyd Gottfredson, with trending designs. A Fashion Moment Worth Celebrating Disney’s Minnie Mouse returns to New York City in the 99th annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in her signature style and we can’t wait to see her soar! Whether you’re watching from home or joining the celebration on 34th Street, the new Disney x Macy’s collection lets you add a touch of Minnie Mouse’s flair to your holiday wardrobe. Some Products We Love From glitz and glam to cozy keepsakes and collectible décor, this collection celebrates Minnie Mouse as a fashion muse for the ages. Fans can find: Women’s Minnie Mouse Pullover Hoodie You’re a style icon in this fun look from Disney | Macy’s, a cozy pullover hoodie with a slight crop and a vibrant Minnie Mouse graphic at the front. Women’s Minnie Mouse Sweatpants Maintain your stylish standards during down time with these Disney | Macy’s sweatpants, a comfy fleece pair with a vibrant Minnie Mouse at the front. Women’s Minnie Mouse Ringer Baby Tee Go for Minnie Mouse magic in a big way with this Disney | Macy’s baby T-shirt. Comfy in a cotton blend, it features a bold and vibrant Minnie Mouse balloon graphic at the back. Women’s Satin Pajamas Sleep Set Playfully sophisticated, these Disney | Macy’s pajamas are in chic satin with authentic Minnie Mouse signature touches. Ruffles bring whimsy to the polished set. Women’s Straight-Leg Jeans Embellished with Crystals by Swarovski The perfect pair of jeans that offer a stylish blend of classic denim embellished with Crystals by Swarovski in Minnie Mouse silhouettes. They add a fun, whimsical touch to casual outfits. Women’s Minnie Mouse Bow Fit & Flare Party Dress Turn every celebration into a fairytale with this stunning party dress, featuring a show-stopping oversized bow for that perfect touch of enchantment. Crafted with a flattering fit & flare silhouette, and a perfectly placed bow as a nod to Minnie Mouse’s iconic style. Mickey & Minnie Reversible Knit Blanket Cute and cozy, this Disney | Macy’s throw blanket is in soft jacquard knit with a large Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse at the front and colorful hearts on the back. It’s a great gift or collectible. Minnie Mouse Bow Tree Topper A distinctive finish for your décor, this Disney | Macy’s Minnie Mouse tree topper adds a touch of timeless whimsy. Minnie Mouse Leather Gloves by Kate Spade Bring vibrant color and timeless style to your cold-weather look with these supple leather gloves and Minnie Mouse-inspired motif created by kate spade new york. Minnie Mouse & Daisy Duck Fashion Dolls Minnie Mouse and Daisy Duck are ready to celebrate in style! Minnie dazzles in a red party dress with her signature silver foil detail, cropped jacket, studded purse, and red heels. Daisy shines in a denim set with silver foil hearts, a pink rhinestone sweater, and matching bow, heels, and handbag. Minnie Mouse Shoe Ornament by Swarovski A must-have for fans, this playful shoe ornament is inspired by Minnie Mouse. It showcases 278 brilliant facets, with pair of black crystal ears and a polka dot bow. Hanging on a white satin ribbon, it will add a fun touch to your festive decor. Style for Every Member of the Family While we’re celebrating our favorite muse, Minnie Mouse, the full Disney x Macy’s collection also features fashionable finds for the whole family. Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck, Daisy Duck, Goofy, and the rest of the crew join the festivities with apparel and accessories made to mix, match, and make memories in. Disney | Macy’s Men’s Mickey Mouse Button-Front Shirt Jacket Disney | Macy’s Men’s Mickey Mouse Graphic Short-Sleeve Tee. Disney | Macy’s Girls Toddler 2T–4T Minnie Mouse & Daisy Duck Short-Sleeve Tee Disney | Macy’s Toddler 2T–4T Mickey Mouse Striped Sweatshirt & Jogger Pant Set Bring the Magic Home The Disney x Macy’s Holiday Collection is available now on macys.com, in the Macy’s app, and at select Macy’s stores nationwide. Whether you’re shopping for yourself or finding the perfect gift for the Disney fan in your life, this collection will make every day feel like a runway. After all, no one has style quite like Minnie Mouse. Disney Store’s Top Toy Picks for 2025 Holidays READ MORE Disney Parks Merchandise Launches in Disney Store at Selfridges READ MORE A Holly Jolly 2025 Disney Holiday Merchandise Preview READ MORE The post Disney and Macy’s Unveil New 2025 Holiday Collection appeared first on Disney Parks Blog. View the full article

We are always on the hunt for things that will make our Disney World trip easier! Animal Kingdom This is not only for us, but also so that we can share it with you to help make your trip easier! We go to the Disney parks every day, and that means we need little hacks to help make our days easier in every way so we can focus on the magical moments like grabbing a Dole Whip and watching Enchanted Tiki Room and riding our favorite attractions. So when we found and tested these six products recently, we knew we struck gold. DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Never Worry About Rain at Disney Again With These! Our reporters love them! These shoe covers blew us away! They do exactly what they’re supposed to. They’re waterproof, easy to slip on, and keep your shoes dry. We tested these during a storm and were impressed by how well they worked! They are the perfect thing to keep in your park bag, especially during the summer when it can rain almost daily. Did we just find the ULTIMATE rainy-day solution? Our reporters wore these things all day and they ended up loving them. Not only did they protect them from the falling rain, but when they encountered puddles that we quite literally jumped into to splash and had no trouble at all with the water getting into their shoes. Shop on Amazon THIS is Actually the Best Belt Bag for Disney World! ODODOS Daily Sling Bag We’re very passionate on finding the best bags for Disney World, because they are NOT all made equally. We love the ODODOS Daily Sling Bag because it’s got multiple pockets to fit all you need, but is still on the small side. It’s adjustable, great for a long day in the parks because of how comfortable it is, and comes in over 12 colors! It’s easy for us to keep everything organized and find what we need in just a few seconds, and that’s a big win in our book. Shop on Amazon These Are Incredibly Handy For So Many Reasons! Popcorn Bands These Grifiti Band Joes aren’t your average rubber bands. They’re heavy-duty silicone bands that can handle Florida heat and rain without breaking down. Use them to keep ponchos tightly rolled, secure loose items, or keep your popcorn buckets shut. They’re heat and UV-resistant, so they won’t melt or break in your bag. Super helpful! It’s very simple to use, they come in a multi-pack to share or gift or just color coordinate, and it does the job effectively with minimal effort. Shop on Amazon Keep Your Phone Charged! INIU Portable Charger It’s absolutely essential for you to keep your phone charged all day, not only to take all the photos and videos you’d like to, but you also use your phone to take full advantage of the My Disney Experience App to make dining reservations, Lightning Lane selections, and so much more. We love using the INIU Portable Charger, and it’s never let us down! It can charge our phone a few times over, and it’s slim and easy to put in a pocket or bag. Shop on Amazon For Those Who Need Some Extra Cooling Power AMKEN Waist Fan If you’re someone who often carries extra heat in their back, stomach area, or trunk, we couldn’t recommend the AMKEN Waist Fan enough. This is powerful when used outside, and especially when used in combination with A/C. You can clip it right onto your pants, use the lanyard to wear it around your neck, or can set it up on a table to blow right at you. For anyone concerned about overheating and doesn’t mind the quiet but persistent whirring of a fan, this is a must-grab. Shop on Amazon Keep That Back Sweat From Forming VentaPak Lightweight Ventilation Backpack Spacer If you’re someone who deals with a lot of back sweat from wearing a backpack with all your essentials, the VentaPak Lightweight Ventilation Backpack Spacer is certainly something to look into. It’s a little on the expensive side, but we feel if you’re someone who is outside a lot, or loves to participate in things like hikes, long walks, or carries a backpack for many events, this is a must-grab, because you can use it over and over! Shop on Amazon We’re always here to bring you the latest suggestions to make your Disney trip the best it can be, so stay tuned to DFB! The post We Wish We Would Have Bought These For Disney World Sooner first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

During a recent field trip to Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, the on-site expert offered some sage advice when asked about the relative safety of rocketry venues. “I don’t recommend launching bottle rockets in mom’s kitchen,” said KSC lead educator Phil Bradley, who was demonstrating to a group of youngsters how to make a homemade rocket with a 2-liter bottle, baking soda and vinegar. He and fellow educator Ben Hedgecock fielded other important inquiries from the three dozen Palm Bay Elementary School students such as, “Is that duct tape?” and “Are you the actor from ‘Wolverine’?” directed at the scruffier of the two educators and “Why can’t we do this inside?” “Why, because science needs its space,” Bradley replied. The students donned protective goggles and stood back about 80 feet from a mobile launch platform — in this case, a folding table in a parking lot — with a towering life-size model of a space shuttle external fuel tank and solid rocket boosters looming in the background, just outside the Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit. Three times the bottle rocket took flight, as onlookers collectively chanted “10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, blast off!” Students from Palm Bay Elementary School look at a rocket launch during the Arm & Hammer Baking Soda Rocket Day at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, on Thursday, Oct. 9, 2025. (Ricardo Ramirez Buxeda/Orlando Sentinel)Lead Educator Philip Bradley gives a rocket building and launching demonstration to students from Palm Bay Elementary School during the Arm & Hammer Baking Soda Rocket Day at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, on Thursday, Oct. 9, 2025. (Ricardo Ramirez Buxeda/Orlando Sentinel)Lead Educator Philip Bradley demonstrates how to launch a rocket to students from Palm Bay Elementary School during the Arm & Hammer Baking Soda Rocket Day at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, on Thursday, Oct. 9, 2025. (Ricardo Ramirez Buxeda/Orlando Sentinel)Rocket launch demonstration to students from Palm Bay Elementary School during the Arm & Hammer Baking Soda Rocket Day at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, on Thursday, Oct. 9, 2025. (Ricardo Ramirez Buxeda/Orlando Sentinel)Rocket launch demonstration to students from Palm Bay Elementary School during the Arm & Hammer Baking Soda Rocket Day at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, on Thursday, Oct. 9, 2025. (Ricardo Ramirez Buxeda/Orlando Sentinel)Lead Educator Philip Bradley gives a rocket building and launching demonstration to students from Palm Bay Elementary School during the Arm & Hammer Baking Soda Rocket Day at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, on Thursday, Oct. 9, 2025. (Ricardo Ramirez Buxeda/Orlando Sentinel)Lead Educator Philip Bradley demonstrates how to launch a rocket to students from Palm Bay Elementary School during the Arm & Hammer Baking Soda Rocket Day at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, on Thursday, Oct. 9, 2025. (Ricardo Ramirez Buxeda/Orlando Sentinel)Lead Educator Philip Bradley gives a rocket building and launching demonstration to students from Palm Bay Elementary School during the Arm & Hammer Baking Soda Rocket Day at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, on Thursday, Oct. 9, 2025. (Ricardo Ramirez Buxeda/Orlando Sentinel)Lead Educator Philip Bradley gives a rocket building and launching demonstration to students from Palm Bay Elementary School during the Arm & Hammer Baking Soda Rocket Day at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, on Thursday, Oct. 9, 2025. (Ricardo Ramirez Buxeda/Orlando Sentinel)Lead Educator Philip Bradley gives a rocket building and launching demonstration to students from Palm Bay Elementary School during the Arm & Hammer Baking Soda Rocket Day at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, on Thursday, Oct. 9, 2025. (Ricardo Ramirez Buxeda/Orlando Sentinel)Lead Educator Philip Bradley gives a rocket building and launching demonstration to students from Palm Bay Elementary School during the Arm & Hammer Baking Soda Rocket Day at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, on Thursday, Oct. 9, 2025. (Ricardo Ramirez Buxeda/Orlando Sentinel)Lead Educator Philip Bradley gives a rocket building and launching demonstration to students from Palm Bay Elementary School during the Arm & Hammer Baking Soda Rocket Day at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, on Thursday, Oct. 9, 2025. (Ricardo Ramirez Buxeda/Orlando Sentinel)Lead Educator Philip Bradley demonstrates how to build a rocket to students from Palm Bay Elementary School during the Arm & Hammer Baking Soda Rocket Day at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, on Thursday, Oct. 9, 2025. (Ricardo Ramirez Buxeda/Orlando Sentinel)Lead Educator Philip Bradley demonstrates how to launch a rocket to students from Palm Bay Elementary School during the Arm & Hammer Baking Soda Rocket Day at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, on Thursday, Oct. 9, 2025. (Ricardo Ramirez Buxeda/Orlando Sentinel)Lead Educator Philip Bradley demonstrates how to launch a rocket to students from Palm Bay Elementary School during the Arm & Hammer Baking Soda Rocket Day at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, on Thursday, Oct. 9, 2025. (Ricardo Ramirez Buxeda/Orlando Sentinel)Rocket launch demonstration to students from Palm Bay Elementary School during the Arm & Hammer Baking Soda Rocket Day at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, on Thursday, Oct. 9, 2025. (Ricardo Ramirez Buxeda/Orlando Sentinel)Show Caption1 of 16Students from Palm Bay Elementary School look at a rocket launch during the Arm & Hammer Baking Soda Rocket Day at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, on Thursday, Oct. 9, 2025. (Ricardo Ramirez Buxeda/Orlando Sentinel)Expand Banshee-like shrieks of excitement ensued as each bottle shot up to about 100 feet high, then careened in haphazard reentries. A couple landed within feet of the students, but one ended up on an administration building’s rooftop. With the scent of vinegar wafting across the parking lot, the giddy excitement of the gaggle of children was mixed with the real purpose of the exercise: learning. This was the culmination of a lesson about chemical reactions. “A chemical reaction is when two elements — two molecules — mix. They mix and they create something new,” Bradley said noting that baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate, and vinegar turn into carbon dioxide, water and a type of salt. “So three things that we didn’t have before.” Rocket launch demonstration to students from Palm Bay Elementary School during the Arm & Hammer Baking Soda Rocket Day at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, on Thursday, Oct. 9, 2025. (Ricardo Ramirez Buxeda/Orlando Sentinel) He also confirmed to one inquiring, youthful mind that it was similar to what happens when you insert Mentos in a bottle of Diet Coke. The interaction is just one feature of this near-daily experience at the visitor complex, which is one of the prime field trip destinations for local schools. “They come from all around the world. So it’s not just Central Florida. It’s not just Florida. We have international youth groups, student groups that come and visit us. So we are global,” said Dionne Wallington, KSC’s director of education, consumer events and marketing operations. The attraction has been privately run by contractor Delaware North in partnership with NASA since 1995. The company doesn’t release visitor numbers, but said it hosts hundreds of students a month. “Field trips have always been a component,” she said. “They’re certainly growing and becoming more sought after.” That estimate of hundreds per month is on the low side, based on the totals reported just by the Orange County School District. “It’s probably top five for one of our bigger trips of the year,” said Joshua Niesman, a senior manager in risk management who oversees field trips for Orange County Public Schools. The other big trips include Disney, Universal, St. Augustine and the Orlando Science Center. Already for the 2025-26 school year, he said Orange County schools have booked 28 trips to KSC, slated to go this fall or early next year and totaling about 2,500 kids across elementary, middle and high school age. More will come in the spring. Last year, he estimated, the district booked nearly 90 visits, topping 7,500 students just from Orange County. The price is designed to be attractive for educational institutions with KSC offering a $23 per youth group admission compared to $77 for a standard adult admission. Niesman said KSC checks the right boxes for a school district field trip. “Every trip has to serve a educational experience. So our board is very, very clear on you have to have something in there that gives us an educational component, which is why we love Kennedy Space Center.” Wallington says what the kids get to experience includes history, adds fun and can spark interest in STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) education. “I enjoy being able to inspire the next generation and sharing that NASA story,” she said. “It is something that not everybody gets to do. We are here — a part of it. We’re a part of the story.” She said the attraction introduces youth to facets of space-based exploration they may have not known about before. “There’s many career fields that the students can find out about coming here. It’s not always just the astronauts that are the jobs that are needed. It’s across the board,” she said. “So it’s really cool to see that light turn on.” View the full article

There is nothing quite like a unique Disney World snack! Disney Springs From Magic Kingdom to Disney Springs, there are so many different savory and sweet desserts to try. Snacks and treats also rotate throughout the year, and we are both scared and excited to see the creepiest dessert is back in Disney World! Salt and Straw in Disney Springs always ensures that you’ll find something interesting in Orlando! Salt & Straw This ice cream shop in Disney Springs offers the most unique frozen flavors, toppings, and more. They have flavors like Honey Lavender and Chocolate Gooey Brownie, along with unique flavors specific to Florida, including The Salty Donut Guava & Cheese and Panther Coffee Chocolate Tres Leches. Now, they’ve finally dropped their Halloween Series! ©Salt and Straw There are 6 flavors in the series, including the Great Candycopia! On their website, they shared that this ice cream is to “capture the feeling of dumping out a pillowcase full of trick-or-treat goodies.” They use homemade Reese’s, Snickers, Kit Kats, Heath Bars, and almond brittle in every tub of their salted, butterscotch ice cream. ©Salt and Straw Next, we have the Jack o’ Lantern Pumpkin Bread! It’s made with pumpkin spice ice cream, pumpkin bread, and a thick layer of cream cheese frosting in one of three colors: yellow, orange, or white. It’s meant to mirror candy corn! ©Salt and Straw You can also try the Double Bubble Toil and Trouble! This one is returning after a “brief hiatus” and is a take on dairy-free bubblegum ice cream. It uses pineapple, banana, and pear blended into creamy coconut milk with cinnamon and vanilla. Plus, the bright blue hue comes from spirulina, a natural algae. ©Salt and Straw The Essence of Ghost has white sherbet infused with scotch and Mexican vanilla. It also features “wisps” of black licorice chocolate ice cream. ©Salt and Straw Finally, the most exciting (and maybe creepy) flavor is BACK! The Creepy Crawly Critters has returned with a simple matcha ice cream, a splash of fresh orange juice, and Don Bugito’s edible insects (coconut toffee candied mealworms and chocolate-covered crickets). YES! REAL BUGS! ©Salt and Straw This flavor is returning, and yes, we have tried it! It was GOOD. The matcha ice cream tasted like a creamy matcha latte with a nice vanilla sweetness to it. The bugs were also good! They sorta’ reminded us of a savory KitKat, and as long as you don’t look at the ice cream while you’re eating it, you might actually like it. The flavors are well-balanced, and they just work together well, bugs and all. Don Bugitos Creepy Crawly Critters Ice Cream These flavors are around all October long, so be sure to test them out when you can! As always, be sure to keep following DFB for more Disney news and updates. REVIEW: ‘Ohana’s Noodles Might Have A RIVAL In Disney Springs Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Which flavor would you want to try? Tell us in the comments! The post BUG ICE CREAM Is Back In Disney World first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

We love to try all the snacks around Disney World, and we have a new one to add to your list for your next vacation. Chocolate Swirl Cheesecake This time, we’re heading to Animal Kingdom to try a sweet dessert that we think you’re going to love. Animal Kingdom is full of fun treats, and we usually find ourselves trying new snacks here and We tried the Chocolate Swirl Cheesecake for $6.49 at Pizzafari in Discovery Island. This is a chocolate and vanilla marble cheesecake with raspberry sauce, whipped cream, and a zebra stripe medallion. YUM! We thought it was such a solid sweet treat! It was light and fluffy, with just enough chocolate without it being too much. The vanilla was the softer of the flavors since chocolate always seems to take over a bit, but it was the perfect balance for us. We wish there were some sort of crust, like a graham cracker crust, but if you are here for the cheesecake filling, you’re going to love this. What a good sized slice! It’s served on top of raspberry sauce, with some more on the side. It was tangy and tart, adding a bright, fresh fruit flavor. We loved that most of the sauce came on he side in case you don’t want to dip your cheesecake in it, but we were dunking all the way. Digging in For about $6.50, we thought it was a great-sized dessert that hit our sugar craving. Because it is so light and fluffy, we didn’t feel weighed down on the rest of our Animal Kingdom day. This is such a great stop to add to your list while you’re in Animal Kingdom. Make sure you keep following Disney Food Blog for more food reviews for your next visit to Disney World. REVIEW: THIS MICKEY-SHAPED DISNEY TREAT WAS ALMOST PERFECT Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW What’s your favorite restaurant in Animal Kingdom? Tell us in the comments! The post REVIEW: It’s Sweet-Treat-O-Clock, and We Know What You’re Grabbing From Disney World first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Looking to spend some money on Amazon today? Mickey fan Well, we’ve got you covered! We spend a lot of time on Amazon looking for the best deals on Disney souvenirs and essentials, and we have a list of great items you’ll want to add to your cart ASAP. So let’s get to shopping! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Get the Touchland and Disney Special Edition Mist Case Touchland and Disney Special Edition Hand Sanitizer + Mist Case If you love Touchland sanitizer mist, this case is a MUST. First, the sanitizer is a necessity, so you might as well carry it in a Mickey-themed case, right? It comes with a metal key ring so it’s easy to attach to your day bag to have handy when you need it. View on Amazon Buy the Acrylic Headband Holder ©Amazon Storing those Minnie Ears can be challenging, but we love this acrylic headband holder because it makes it so easy to keep your ears organized. It’s also easy to put together, and you’ll be using it within minutes. Then you can place it on a desk or table to show off your collection. View on Amazon Get the Mouse Misting Fan LACOVIA Cute Mouse Misting Mini Fan Y’all…we LOVE this adorable fan. But it’s more than just cute, it also has three speeds to help you stay cool on a hot Florida day. It can also be placed on a desk or table for hands-free fanning and misting. It’s rechargeable via USB-C, and it’s fairly easy to work with. We love that it’s small enough to fit easily in our day bag, too. We found the battery life on this thing lasts a good long time, too. View on Amazon Buy the Quilted Makeup Bag ©Amazon Okay, we always need a good makeup bag for our Disney World trips to keep our makeup somewhat organized. This quilted bag is adorable and comes in a ton of different colors. It also holds a lot of products, which is important. It’s padded with cotton to keep any glass jars and bottles you might have from breaking. View on Amazon Get the Flat Plug Power Strip We own one! Trust us, you are going to need extra outlets and places to plug in your devices in your Disney World hotel room, especially if you’re traveling with others. That’s why we always bring this power strip along, so we don’t run out of places to plug in things. This one packs up nice and easily, too. View on Amazon Buy the Solar Buddies Sunscreen Applicator Solar Buddies Sunscreen Applicator We love this refillable roll-on sunscreen applicator because it makes it easy for kids (and us) to apply and reapply sunscreen, which is VERY important if you’re visiting Disney World. It makes applying sunscreen mess-free, because it can get messy, right? 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! The post The Best You Can Spend on Amazon Today first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

We were thrilled to hear that beignets were coming to Golden Oak Outpost after Tiana’s Bayou Adventure opened in 2024, but we have to admit, they’ve often let us down. Will these new beignets live up to what we want them to be? They’re not as fluffy as we’d like them to be, so we often recommend skipping them and heading over to Port Orleans French Quarter for beignets instead. However, there’s a new addition that just debuted here, and we’ve gotta admit, they ARE a step up from the normal ones we’ve had in the past! Right now, you can grab the Banana-Caramel Beignets at Golden Oak Outpost for $8.79. These are Light, Sweet, and Fluffy Beignets with Powdered Sugar, Bananas, and Caramel Sauce. Banana-Caramel Beignets The banana and caramel topping really elevates the beignets here! The bananas are soft and have that slightly caramelized flavor to them, and the caramel sauce is silky and has a similar consistency to maple syrup. The beignets are also topped with powdered sugar, making these VERY sweet, but we feel it would pair well with the breakfast sandwich they have there for some sweet and savory action. They’re VERY sweet! The beignets by themselves are still just okay. They’re not super fluffy or soft, but are instead buttery and doughy, which isn’t our favorite. The caramel sauce does help with making them taste a bit softer, which we really enjoyed, but we still think these could be improved with better batter. However, unlike the regular beignets, which are pretty much a one-and-done, we’d totally get these again, especially if we’re craving something sweet. Pack the bananas inside for a great combination! Looking for more recent reviews around Disney World? Check out our posts below! More Recent Reviews! REVIEW: Can Bananas and Caramel Sauce Fix This Magic Kingdom Snack? We Found Out!REVIEW: Can I Take This Chocolate Cake On A Date In Disney World?REVIEW: This Disney Restaurant Is Totally Underrated…and We’re Tired of It!REVIEW: You Will Never Be the Same After Trying This $10 Blue Milk UPGRADE in Disney WorldREVIEW: This Disneyland Paris Restaurant Failed to Live Up to Its Namesake We’re always here to bring you the latest and greatest Disney World news, reviews, and everything in between, so stay tuned to DFB! We Reviewed Our 7 Favorite Snacks in Magic Kingdom 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 grab these beignets? Tell us in the comments! The post REVIEW: Can Bananas and Caramel Sauce Fix This Magic Kingdom Snack? We Found Out! first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Disney World is home to so many unique experiences — many of which are hiding around the hotels. Sangria Flight One of our favorite underrated experiences is Sangria University at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort. Here, attendees not only get to drink tons of sangria, but they get to learn all about the history of sangria and how to make it at home! Previously, Sangria University was held at Three Bridges Bar & Grill, but that is changing soon! If you’re looking for something unique to do at Disney World, consider checking out Sangria University at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort! As part of this class, attendees can taste four sangria offerings accompanied by a light appetizer, and then make their own. It’s a really fun way to make your Disney World trip even more memorable. But, there’s an upcoming change you need to know about! We learned so much! In the past, this class has been held at Three Bridges Bar & Grill, but Disney has announced that the class will be moving to Toledo — Tapas, Steak & Seafood beginning on December 13th. Not only that, but there will now be two classes every Saturday and Sunday! That means more chances for you to check out this fun class. Toledo at Coronado Springs When we attended Sangria University earlier this year, the Sangria Flight came with four of the restaurant’s house-made Sangrias — Cava Blackberry Macabeo (White), which tasted like tart Lemon to us, Rosé (which was the sweetest and had the most alcohol), and Garnacha (Traditional Red). Sangria University We decided to create ours with White Wine, Triple sec, POG Juice, and a piece of pineapple, and we weren’t disappointed! It was fruity and sweet, which is exactly what we loved. Make sure you check out Sangria University at Toledo starting in December! Time to mix! We’ll be on the lookout for more 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. There’s a Sangria University at Disney World, and We Think You Should Enroll Now Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Have you ever done the Sangria University class at Disney World? Let us know in the comments. The post NEWS: Disney World Announces CHANGES for Popular Hotel Experience first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

In the past few years, there’s been a restaurant in Disney World that we believe is truly underrated. The Steak Frites from Steakhouse 71! It’s not too expensive, it’s not too crowded, and it serves up truly high-quality eats with some delicious twists. It’s great for a special occasion or it’s acceptable to visit when you’re in your theme park clothes. What IS this magical place? It’s Steakhouse 71 at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, and we recently stopped by to do a full lunch review. You’re gonna want to stick around for this one! Atmosphere Steakhouse 71 is located on the first floor of the Contemporary, where The Wave used to be. This spot opened in 2021 for Disney World’s 50th Anniversary, and we’ve been several times since to try out different things on the menu…and because we genuinely love it here! Let’s head inside! You enter from the hotel lobby under the Steakhouse 71 sign, and as you walk in, you’ll take this hallway filled with photos from Disney history. At the end of the hallway, you can check in at the host’s stand. Photos of Disney history! There’s also a small waiting area here… The lounge! …and it’s home to the Steakhouse 71 lounge. The bar! The dining room has a variety of table setups with booths and regular tables. It’s all one big room, but there are some dividing walls. Let’s take our seat! Now let’s dive into the menu! Menu Today, I’m here to show off the lunch menu! First off, it starts with an impressive selection of appetizers — from French Onion Soup to onion rings to the Sea Salt-dusted Potato Brioche. The front of the menu! For entrees, most of the options are traditional steakhouse fare. You could order the Prime Rib Sandwich or Stack Burger, or even go a bit more elevated with the Steak “Frites.” The full menu! For dessert, they have four different choices: the Popcorn Crême Brûlée, the Carrot Cake-Cheesecake, the Lemon Cream, and the famous Steakhouse 71 Signature Chocolate Cake. Check out the drinks! They also serve up a variety of beverages, including specialty cocktails, beer, wine, and more. Eats I started out my meal with something I love…BREAD. I ordered the Sea Salt-dusted Potato Brioche for $12 as my appetizer. It’s served with butter and a roasted garlic-tomato spread. The Sea Salt Dusted Brioche! This might be the fluffiest bread I’ve ever had! It was light and moist, making it so easy to pull apart. The inside was incredibly soft, and the salt on top added a really nice depth of flavor. The bread was slightly sweet, which paired well with the salt. The bread with some jam! The tomato jam was bright, fresh, and a little watery with a strong herbaceous flavor. The butter was smooth, rich, and creamy. This might be one of my favorite bread options in all of Disney World. Have bite! I wanted to get a good scope of the entree options for this review, so I snagged two of the popular ones. First up is the Steak “Frites” for $28. This is made with hangar steak, steak fries, and served with a truffle aioli. The Steak Frites! The first thing we spotted was that our steak wasn’t cooked to our request. We requested medium but ended up with something closer to medium rare, thanks to the warm pink center. Aside from that, the steak was fairly juicy, but the outside was a bit tough. A closer look at the steak It had a nice char, but some bites were overly crispy and tough. This came with the signature Seakhouse 71 sauce, which was slightly smoky and paired well with the steak. The fries were super soft and slightly crisp on the outside! Compared to other options I’ve had, like the Stack Burger, this one was a bit of a let-down. Have a bite! The other entree on my list was the Gourmet Grilled Cheese for $17 (that’s almost as low as quick service pricing, you guys!). It’s toasted brioche with Gruyère, smoked Gouda, shredded pork belly, arugula, and caramelized onion jam, served with your choice of petite Caesar salad, steak fries, or pasta salad. The Grilled Cheese! When Disney said gourmet, they weren’t kidding! This sandwich was piled high, and there was a hefty side of fries. The bread is the same brioche from the rolls that I loved. It was soft, delicious, and buttered and toasted to perfection. The cheese didn’t pull, but it melted together, making it nice to enjoy and not stringy, which you tend to find with grilled cheeses. A look inside! The argula added a bit of bitterness and earthy flavors to balance the cheese. The pork belly was super tender, meaty, and savory. The onion jam surprised me by being slightly sweet, which made the sandwich a bit sweet. It was filling and unique in the best way. The fries were the same as the ones that came with the Steak Frites. Have some fries! And for dessert, you know I absolutely could not resist the iconic Steakhouse 71 Signature Chocolate Cake! This thing is 15 layers of Jack Daniel’s infused chocolate cake with chocolate mousse and raspberries for $13. It’s HUGE. The chocolate cake! Can I go on a date with this cake? I want it to be my best friend. I am a big fan of chocolate, and this one still manages to stand out! This might be my favorite chocolate dessert in Disney World! It’s light, fluffy, and rich but not overly heavy. It was decadent, but slightly dry at times. It’s so beautiful The mousse helps to balance that out. The frosting is thick and almost reminds me more of fudge than a traditional icing. The raspberry adds a much-needed tartness, making the flavors sharp and bright. It was a serious hit for me! Have a bite! Nosh or Not This Disney World restaurant is a must-visit if… You love a nice dining experience without breaking the bank You need a place to celebrate something Or you love an amazing dessert that’s shareable You should skip this Disney World spot if… You want the best steak in Disney You want to save some money Or you need a smaller meal Overall The vibes here are so broad in the best way! Some people were in suits, some were in theme park clothes. Some people were on Disney trips, and some were convention guests. I like how chill it was and always seems to be. The lounge is seriously so stunning. The entire team loves stopping by for a tasty meal, close to the Magic Kingdom. The full spread! In the meantime, we’ll be on the lookout for more restaurant updates from Disney World and beyond. Make sure you stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for the latest Disney news and more! The Best Restaurants in Disney World in 2025 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 Steakhouse 71 before? Tell us in the comments! The post REVIEW: Can I Take This Chocolate Cake On A Date In Disney World? first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Cotino, the very first Storyliving by Disney community coming to life in the greater Palm Springs area, is celebrating new milestones every day. The first residents have moved in and are already discovering what made this part of the desert such a special place for Walt Disney and his family – stunning mountain views, candy-colored sunsets, a vibrant art scene, iconic architecture, and so much more. For an extra touch of magic, Cotino residents may choose to join the voluntary Artisan Club. This optional membership unlocks a trove of recreation and relaxation amenities located along the tranquil shores of Cotino Bay, featuring the clearest turquoise waters with Crystal Lagoons technology. When designing the look and feel of the Artisan Club, Disney Imagineers expertly combined their signature placemaking touches with the mid-century modern architectural styles of the Coachella Valley. From archival artwork by Disney legends and custom pieces by local artists to enriching environments that bring new stories to life, every detail has been thoughtfully curated. Artisan Club lap pool and fitness center. Artisan Club lap pool and fitness center. Artisan Club lap pool and fitness center. Artisan Club beach. Artisan Club beach. Artisan Club beach. Later this month, the club will open and provide club members with a beautiful place to connect, create and celebrate together. Looking for unforgettable experiences? Members can enjoy immersive storytelling dinners, creative art workshops, and more — delivered with the exceptional care of Disney cast members. From taking up new hobbies to exploring life-long interests, the Artisan Club is a place where members can spend time pursuing their passions. Today, we’re giving you an exclusive first look at the brand-new spaces opening soon. Desert Dining in Disney Style With fresh, seasonal menus, the club’s two signature dining spots – Architects Fork and Plot Twist – both offer a staple dining experience for Artisan Club members. Architects Fork interior. Architects Fork interior. Architects Fork interior. Architects Fork bar. Architects Fork bar. Architects Fork bar. Architects Fork, the club’s table-service restaurant, takes members on a creative journey of architecture and design. Every wall is lined with artwork and technical concept designs from throughout Disney history. Construction documents of iconic projects such as “it’s a small world” and Big Thunder Mountain are on display, paying homage to the hand-drawn techniques of Imagineers. Diners will also see works by celebrated Disney artists including Mary Blair, a hand sketch of Sleeping Beauty’s Castle by Bruce Bushman, a mockup of Disney’s Contemporary Resort by Ken Chapman and more. Each piece was hand selected by Imagineers from the Walt Disney Imagineering archives. On the menu, members can find a selection of hand-crafted items for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Plot Twist beach view. Just outside of Architects Fork is Plot Twist – the Artisan Club’s outdoor beach bar. Offering a selection of beverages and snacks, Artisan Club members can relax and refresh in comfy lounge seating while soaking up views of the sparkling Cotino Bay.  Plot Twist outdoor seating. Paying homage to the beach bar’s name, members will notice book passages and sketches from historic tales that influenced classic Disney stories. From the original Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland to Cinderella’s glass slipper, the backdrop that runs along the bar features characters and icons that will resonate with Disney fans and fairytale readers alike. Artisan Club movement studio. Artisan Club movement studio. Artisan Club movement studio. The Courts at the Artisan Club. The Courts at the Artisan Club. The Courts at the Artisan Club. Where Magic Meets Wellness Whether it’s focusing on strength training, finding peace during Pilates, paddleboarding on Cotino Bay, or hitting the court for a friendly match of pickleball or tennis, Artisan Club members can have a variety of fun options to stay active while soaking up the beautiful panoramic mountain views. Within these brand-new facilities, Artisan Club members can experience select Disney-inspired fitness experiences—sprinkled thoughtfully among a broader mix of programs and classes—to channel their favorite Disney characters and stories through vibrant, themed sessions, adding a touch of enchantment to their wellness journey. Artisan Club instructor during Moana Breathwork class. Artisan Club instructor during Moana Breathwork class. Artisan Club instructor during Moana Breathwork class. Moana Breathwork class. Moana Breathwork class. Moana Breathwork class. Curated by Disney Imagineers, these fitness classes will empower members to master their breathwork like Moana, learn to move like the family Madrigal during a high-energy Latin dance cardio class, push it to the limit with a fully-body “Super Circuit” worthy of The Incredibles, channel their inner villain through a wicked power sculpt class, and venture out on Cotino Bay for a paddle board workout during a Stitch-inspired lesson. Programming will be facilitated by leading health and wellness provider Optum. This is just a small portion of the unique amenities Artisan Club members can access when the club officially opens later this month. Make sure to check back for more updates on the other incredible spaces and stories coming soon to the Artisan Club at Cotino. This content contains general information about and proposed plans for Cotino®, a Storyliving by Disney community, which plans are subject to change or cancellation in part or whole, at any time without notice. Residential community is Disney branded and managed, developed by DMB Development with homes built and sold by third-party builders. Disney is not the developer, builder or seller of homes within Cotino® community or other Storyliving by Disney communities. The parties developing and building homes are independently owned and operated. Club membership, events, programming, and access and use of future proposed amenities and offerings will require payment of dues and/or fees and be subject to terms and conditions which will be set by the owner of the club. All offerings will be subject to change, cancellation, availability and capacity. Some will be available for an additional fee (in addition to the required fees, dues and minimums) and be subject to additional terms and conditions. Membership benefits may vary by membership type. Optum is independently owned and operated and is not affiliated with Disney. Purchase of a Cotino® community home is separate from Artisan Club membership and the decision to buy a home should not be based on club membership. Each home buyer must separately apply for and be accepted by the club based on its terms and conditions at the club owner’s discretion. Availability of membership and operation of club facilities are not guaranteed. Home purchase does not grant access to Cotino Bay or its beaches; access will require separate fees. No representation or warranty is made about the continued operation/maintenance, long-term water levels or features of Cotino Bay; water levels may fluctuate. No guarantee is made that the community, the Club, or any of its facilities or improvements therein will continue to be managed by Disney, use the name “Disney” or otherwise be associated with Disney. Obtain the Property Report required by Federal law and read it before signing anything. No Federal agency has judged the merits or value, if any, of this property. This does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation to buy, real estate to residents of any state, province or jurisdiction, where prohibited by law, or where prior registration or filing of a disclosure statement is required but has not yet been completed. Developer: ECRM Residential, Limited Partnership (LSP 0504925). PA REG #OL001186. KY REG #R-204. Equal Housing Opportunity. Broker participation welcome. See Cotino.com for full details. Storyliving by Disney Realty, CA DRE License No. 02194403. AZ Broker: Silverleaf Realty, LLC. First Look Inside the Incredible Parr House at Cotino READ MORE Behind the Magic of Cotino, the First Storyliving by Disney READ MORE First Look: Neighborhood Parks Coming to Cotino READ MORE The post Artisan Club at Cotino: Inside the Imagineer-Designed Space appeared first on Disney Parks Blog. View the full article

A steady stream of families made their way to Miami Seaquarium on Sunday, eager to help close the marine theme park’s final chapter. But as cars streamed into the park’s entrance off the Rickenbacker Causeway, many visitors were met by protesters urging them not to spend another dime at the faded South Florida tourist attraction. Sunday marked the end of the Seaquarium’s 70 years on Virginia Key, where it opened on Sept. 24, 1955. Plans for the waterfront site’s redevelopment are already under way with a $22.5 million investment for a county lease. The marine theme park’s storied legacy has been clouded by accusations of animal mistreatment and an eventual eviction notice. Still, for many South Floridians who grew up visiting the Miami landmark, its closure was bittersweet. Flipper, a TV series filmed at the Miami Seaquarium, aired 88 episodes on NBC from 1964 to 1967. The show followed two hit films — Flipper starring Chuck Connors and Flipper’s New Adventure. Following the show’s success, the Seaquarium introduced two orca whales: Hugo in 1968 and Lolita (also known as Tokitae or Toki) in 1970. Lolita became the park’s main attraction, while Hugo died in 1980 from a brain aneurysm, possibly from the years of ramming his head into the tank known as the Whale Bowl. He was quietly disposed of, and Lolita lived alone for the next 43 years, continuing to perform. Lolita died on Aug. 18, 2023. Warm memories Karen Slusser teared up as she spoke of how Sunday would be her last visit to the Seaquarium. Raised in Key Biscayne, where her mother worked at an environmental center, Slusser now lives in Cooper City in Broward County and made the trip to Miami with her adult children, who were also raised visiting the park. “I was like, we’ve got to do it. We’ve got to do it one last time,” she said, ready to capture the moment with photos of her family. She recalled a story about her friend, Dennis Elster, who once managed the aquarium. While cleaning the killer whale tank, the famous orca Lolita grabbed his wetsuit, which “snapped like a rubber band,” she said with a laugh. For Slusser, the Seaquarium holds countless memories — from watching killer whales drench the audience during their shows to seeing nurse sharks and manatees being fed. Those moments, she said, will always have a special place in her heart. ‘Another nail in the coffin’ But for Susan Hargreaves, 66, who has been protesting the aquarium since she moved to South Florida in 1986, the closure is a “step forward for animals and it’s another nail in the coffin of the aquarium industry,” she said with a glass of celebratory champagne in hand. Hargreaves, who founded Animal Hero Kids, an organization that promotes animal education (and veganism) to children, said that animals such as dolphins, orcas and seals “do not need to be confined in this day and age.” “It’s a victorious sign of the times,” Hargreaves said of the closure. Miami developer David Martin and his company, Terra, plan to take over the property and transform the tourist attraction. Martin is buying the lease from the Dolphin Company, the Mexican-based operator of marine theme parks that had been leasing the land from Miami-Dade County. The county has been in the process of evicting the Dolphin Company, which filed for bankruptcy earlier this year. The Dolphin Company began leasing the Seaquarium from the county in 2022. If the county approves Terra’s lease, Martin intends to preserve the Seaquarium name and construct a new aquarium on the site, without marine animals. The marine mammals now at the Seaquarium will be relocated to new homes, while a marina, restaurants, and a scenic public baywalk will line the edge of Biscayne Bay. Hargreaves said she loves that Martin does not plan on keeping mammals on the property. Around a couple dozen protesters, mostly with PETA, a Virginia-based nonprofit animal-rights organization that was formed in March 1980, joined Hargreaves signs in hand and telling attendees that it was the “last day to pay for abuse.” For years, PETA has campaigned for the Seaquarium’s closure, using lawsuits, protests, celebrity endorsements and even letters to county officials. “PETA is celebrating that after more than 50 years of imprisoning animals in crumbling concrete tanks, denying them veterinary care and forcing them to perform demeaning and often painful tricks, the Miami Seaquarium is finally closing down,” Amanda Brody, a campaign manager for the activist group said. Miami Herald staff writer Howard Cohen contributed to this report. ©2025 Miami Herald. Visit miamiherald.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. View the full article

As Disney honors the U.S. Navy’s 250th anniversary, the company salutes the many Navy veterans who helped shape The Walt Disney Company and reflects on the shared heritage between the two organizations. Roy O. Disney A Legacy of Service Honoring U.S. military service members and veterans is more than tradition — it’s part of the foundation of The Walt Disney Company. This deep admiration and respect began with the company’s founders, Walt and Roy Oliver Disney, whose dedication and support for those who served in uniform helped shape the company’s values and legacy. Roy O. Disney, Walt Disney’s brother and co-founder of The Walt Disney Company, proudly served in the U.S. Navy during World War I. Walt, though too young to enlist, joined the American Red Cross Ambulance Corps as a chauffeur and ambulance driver. Their early commitment to service laid the groundwork for The Walt Disney Company culture that continues to honor veterans to this day. Boosting Morale in the Navy During World War II, The Walt Disney Studio received numerous requests from military units to design insignia, which would be featured on unit planes, ships, uniforms, and other military vehicles and equipment. Over 1,200 of these insignia were produced by Disney studio artists, with many featuring Disney characters, and occasionally, the units already had a specific character in mind. In the 1940s, several insignia were designed for the Naval Construction Battalions, or Seabees, which were established following America’s entry into World War II. The name connotes the nautical phase of the work to be undertaken by this force, by “SEA” coupled with the industriousness of the “BEE.” In addition, the phonetic pronunciation of the words forms the letters “CB,” an abbreviation of Construction Battalion. Logos created by Disney studio animators for the 60th and 24h Naval Construction Battalions In honor of Walt’s generosity and patriotism, the Navy presented him with a statue of a Seabee in 1966. Along with the award that is currently on display inside the Main Street Opera House in Disneyland as part of the Walt Disney – A Magical Life attraction, Walt was bestowed with the title of Honorary Seabee. Seabees Statuette, 1966. Courtesy of The Walt Disney Family Museum The Naval Legacy at the Heart of Disneyland’s Construction One of the most influential veterans in Disney history is Navy Rear Admiral Joe Fowler. A naval architect and veteran of both World Wars, Rear Admiral Fowler supervised the design and construction of some of the largest aircraft carriers used during World War II. After 35 years nobly serving in the U.S. Navy, the Admiral was personally recruited by Walt Disney in 1954 to lead the construction of Disneyland. Pictured above from left to right: Navy Rear Admiral Joe Fowler, Walt Disney, Gretchen Richmond and Vice Admiral Alfred C. Richmond Joe oversaw the construction of Disneyland and went on to manage its operations after the park opened in 1955. Appropriately, Walt had also cast him as technical advisor of the Academy Award® -winning 1954 live-action film 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea. During the 1960s and 70s, Joe was charged with the Herculean task of planning and building Walt Disney World Resort. Learn more about Admiral Fowler here. 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea also involved of fellow U.S. Navy veteran and future Disney Legend, Card Walker, who, in 1956, was named the vice president of advertising and sales and tasked with promoting the same film. Card Walker Card’s career with Disney actually began years earlier, in 1938, following his graduation from UCLA. From the studio mailroom, Card eventually went to work in the camera department and became a unit manager on short subjects in the production department. In 1941, Card enlisted with the U.S. Navy and served as a flight deck officer during World War II. Following his time in the Navy, Card returned to the Disney studio, working in the story department where audience reactions to potential new films, such as 1950’s Cinderella and 1951’s Alice in Wonderland, were tested using a new polling system with the A.R.I. (Audience Research Institute). Pictured above from left to right: Walt Disney and Card Walker Card went on to hold roles such as vice president of marketing, executive vice president of operations, executive vice president and chief operating officer, president and chief executive officer of Walt Disney Productions. Throughout Card’s career, the company grew to include landmarks such as EPCOT, Tokyo Disneyland and The Disney Channel. Learn more about Card Walker here. Disney’s Submarine Voyage On June 6, 1959, Disney honored the Navy with the opening of the Submarine Voyage at Disneyland. The journey through liquid space featured a fleet of submarines named after real-life U.S. Navy vessels including Nautilus, Seawolf, Skate, Skipjack, Triton, George Washington, Patrick Henry and Ethan Allen. Submarine Voyage The attraction’s elaborate grand opening and dedication ceremony, held on June 14, 1959, was led by Navy Admiral Charles C. Kirkpatrick, and crowds gathered for a glimpse of what lay beneath the sea. Since then, the attraction has been reimagined as Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage. Honoring Veterans Within Disney Parks After a nearly 25-year career with Disney, Rear Admiral Fowler retired in 1978 and went on to be named a Disney Legend in 1990, just three years after the program was established to honor individuals who have made significant contributions to The Walt Disney Company. Tributes to Admiral Fowler can still be found in the parks. The harbor used as a dry dock for the S.S. Columbia and paddle wheeler Mark Twain at Disneyland is named “Fowler’s Harbor,” which also includes a building known as Fowler’s Inn. At Walt Disney World, one of the ferry boats that transports guests across the Seven Seas Lagoon to the Magic Kingdom was rechristened in 1997 as the Admiral Joe Fowler in his honor. The Admiral Joe Fowler ferry boatThe post Disney Celebrates the U.S. Navy’s 250th Birthday appeared first on Disney Experiences. View the full article

EPCOT features the World Showcase, which allows guests to travel the world, all while being in Orlando, Florida. We’ve tried snacks from all around the world, and usually, when we’re in EPCOT, we spend the majority of our time there. Violet Sake Slush at Kabuki Cafe We just got some new updates on the Japan Pavilion in EPCOT, and we’re not sure what to think about it. Starting us off, at the Kabuki Cafe, Kakigori is now available in regular and large sizes, with the regular serving as a snack credit on the Disney Dining Plan. You can also choose to add one to three toppings for an additional charge. Beyond just sweet milk, you can add coconut creme, pineapple creme, or mandarin orange. Kakigori The sushi there is still labeled as a snack credit, but the prices have increased to $10 to $12, compared to the original $6.25. They were originally “snack-sized” portions, but we’re assuming with almost double the price, more pieces will be included. The Tokyo Sushi Combo for $14 includes four pieces of a California Roll and three pieces of Nigiri, so we assume the other options come with a few pieces less. Nigiri Combo There is big news at Katsura Grill, though — they no longer serve sushi! Ah! It also looks like the desserts were taken off the menu. Katsura Grill With all these changes, is it still worth stopping by? Well, it seems a lot harder to get sushi, which is a major reason we stopped by the Japan Pavilion. We used to love how cheap the suhi was at Kabuki Cafe, but now that it’s up to $10, it isn’t quite the easy snack we’re used to grabbing. Shrimp and Chicken Teriyaki at Katsura Grill We love Kakigori as a sweet and refreshing treat on a hot summer day, and we’re happy to have more toppings to add to it, too. Kakigori Right now, the EPCOT Food & Wine Festival is happening until November 22nd, featuring tons of food booths around EPCOT, including in the Japan Pavilion. We recommend stopping at the booths for limited-time food offerings versus Kabuki Cafe and Katsura Grill, which you can grab all year round. Teriyaki Chicken Bun for Food & Wine Festival Make sure you keep following Disney Food Blog for more. EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO EAT AND DRINK AT THE 2025 EPCOT FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW What’s your favorite EPCOT pavilion? Tell us in the comments. The post The Japan Pavilion in EPCOT Just Got Hit With Major Changes first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Heading to Disney World soon and want to know where to find the BEST desserts? You’ve come to the right place! Rosie’s All-American Café Here at the Disney Food Blog, we know all the ins and outs of Disney restaurants — including where you should definitely eat, and where you should skip. We recently stopped by Rosie’s All-American Café at Hollywood Studios to check out a staple dessert and are bringing you our FULL review! We stopped by Rosie’s All-American Café recently to check out the seasonal Peach Cobbler. We’ve seen this come and go in the past, both here and at Backlot Express, but it’s always a treat when it’s around! You can pick up the Peach Cobbler for $5.49, and it’s house-made with brown sugar streusel topped with whipped cream. Peach Cobbler To say we were thrilled with this would be an understatement. Our reporter, who tried this, considers herself “somewhat of a peach cobbler snob,” and said that this one was a hit all the way around. There was a nice sweetness with the brown sugar and cinnamon, and it paired so well with the peaches — which tasted super fresh, not canned. Peach Cobbler The peaches were firm and not soggy, which can sometimes happen with cobblers or pies. The layer of spongey cake was a nice addition, if not truly cobbler in style. It was bouncy and moist, and the whipped cream was so light and decadent. When you got a bite of the peaches, the streusel, and the whipped topping altogether, it was like heaven! We wish this one were around all the time. SO good If you see it on the menu while you’re at Disney World, make sure you check it out! In the meantime, we’ll be on the lookout for more restaurant updates from Disney World and beyond. Make sure you stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for the latest Disney news 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 Have you had the Peach Cobbler from Rosie’s? Let us know in the comments. The post REVIEW: Trust Us, You Will NOT Be Disappointed by This Hollywood Studios Snack first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

There is nothing we love more than a Starbucks holiday drink! It’s almost Christmas time! It’s one of the best parts of the Christmas festivities to us, but there is one way you can make it even better! Adding our delicious peppermint mocha to the brand-new Starbucks tumbler is going to make this holiday season the best by far. Now, we’re getting a first look at the new Starbucks Holiday Tumblers dropping online soon! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Is it possible to be obsessed with a cup collection? We’ve been adding to our collection for years, and their newest drop will be no exception. New Starbucks Peppermint Tumbler ©Disney Store We can already hear the jingle bells ringing when we look at these new peppermint tumblers! The new cups drop online on October 17th at 8 AM PT, and fast shoppers will have the opportunity to buy two different styles of cups. One is a 40-oz Stanley-style cup with a handle and a Mickey peppermint straw clip. ©Disney Store The other cup is a classic 24-oz Starbucks tumbler with an overall print of the Mickey peppermint logo and so much shine! To sign up, you can sign up for Disney Store text messages, emails, or download the Disney Store app. Guests are limited to 2 per style. The private access will last until October 19th. These cups will be available to the general public on October 31st. Shop for more Starbucks Cups Online We are seriously excited to see these on our shelves just in time for the holiday season! As always, be sure to keep following DFB for more Disney finds online. The post FIRST LOOK at the NEW Disney Starbucks Tumbler Dropping October 17th first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article