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If you’ve been to Universal Orlando or Universal Hollywood, you’ve probably taken a ride on the Hogwarts Express (and in Universal Orlando, it transports you between parks). ©Warner Bros./Rail Events Well, if you love Harry Potter and can’t make it to Florida or California, you may soon be able to take the Hogwarts Express in a city near you, thanks to a new experience called Harry Potter: A Hogwarts Express Adventure. Yes, the famous train from the Harry Potter books and movies could be coming to a location near you. Harry Potter: A Hogwarts Express Adventure will be on a REAL train, similar to the Polar Express attraction you can catch in various cities during the holidays. In fact, the same company behind the Polar Express is behind this experience, too. ©Warner Bros./Rail Events The attraction will take place on a real moving train that will include a pre-boarding experience with nods to Platform 9 3/4. ©Warner Bros./Rail Events When you’re on board the train, you’ll be able to participate in competitions with Hogwarts hosts to rack up points for your Hogwarts House. ©Warner Bros./Rail Events After your journey on the train, you’ll be able to enjoy Butterbeer and shop for special merchandise to celebrate your journey on the Hogwarts Express. Here’s a video with more details about the experience.  Locations will be announced at a later date, so we’ll be keeping an eye out for that and dates. You’ll want to stay tuned to DFB for more. I Went to 3 Different Theme Parks in a Week. Disney and Universal Were Hard…But SeaWorld Nearly Killed Me. Read more: DFB's complete guide to Universal’s Epic Universe >> What do you think? Let us know in the comments! The post NEW Hogwarts Express Ride Announced, 2026 Opening Confirmed first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Getting locked out of a Disney World park, being stranded at a resort, and running out of time?? Where are the crowds? These are the top 10 BIGGEST disappointments we’ve ever encountered on Disney World property (so YOU can make sure to prepare and/or avoid them before they threaten to ruin YOUR vacation). Check out our video below: 10 BIGGEST Disappointments in Disney World Are you a DFB Video subscriber? If you hit the button below, you can subscribe to our channel and catch up on ALL of our latest episodes! And stay tuned for more theme park news! Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW What do you think of this video? Tell us in the comments. The post DFB Video: 10 BIGGEST Disappointments in Disney World first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Although Disney World is known as “The Most Magical Place on Earth,” things don’t always run smoothly in the parks, but that’s just how things go. For example, if bad weather is in the area, outdoor rides will close as a precaution. Slinky Dog Dash in Toy Story Land You also can’t account for things like crowds or ride closures. Now, we all know that one of the best ways to avoid long lines for popular rides in Disney World could be arriving at the parks for rope drop, but this morning, rope drop in Disney’s Hollywood Studios wasn’t going so smoothly. When we arrived at Hollywood Studios this morning for rope drop, things were…well, they were a little rough. Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster was closed this morning, and you couldn’t book a Lightning Lane for the ride through Lightning Lane Multi Pass. Now, maybe that means all the Lightning Lanes have been booked up (and with the ride closing next year, it could be people wanting to get in as many rides as possible), but we just wanted to warn you in case you’re headed to Hollywood Studios today. Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Slinky Dog Dash was also having issues. It was open for Early Theme Park Entry, but closed right before regular park opening. It eventually reopened with a 45-minute wait, and there was an announcement that one of the trains had to be taken off line, so the ride was only running at half capacity. This bumped the wait time up to a whopping 95 minutes and then to 120 minutes. However, as the morning progressed, that wait time has gone back down and was sitting around 30 minutes. So that issue may have been resolved. Slinky Dog Dash We just wanted to give you a heads up if you are heading to Hollywood Studios today. Hopefully, the rest of the day will go more smoothly than rope drop. Stay tuned to DFB for more. 2 Ways Disney’s Hollywood Studios Will Be Totally Different in 2026 Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW What do you do when rides are closed during rope drop? Share your strategies in the comments! The post NEWS: 2 BIG Ride Problems Impact Rope Droppers at Disney's Hollywood Studios first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

It’s no secret that the Magic Kingdom is full of crowds. Whether in queues, at restaurants, watching shows or fireworks, or sometimes even just trying to walk down Main Street, there are people everywhere, which in turn can make the whole resort a bit of a nightmare for introverts. Magic Kingdom Crowds As a bit of an introvert myself, I’ve come to learn how to deal with visiting the park over my 30+ years of visiting, including finding the right spots for some solitude (even if Disney did eliminate one of my favorite spots on the former banks of the Rivers of America earlier this year) and picking the right day of the week to visit. *A caveat before we continue: Even the quietest of crowd days at the Magic Kingdom are only comparatively so, as thousands of guests visit the park 365 days a year. Furthermore, each day is different, and while the following is a rough estimation, it may not be the case every week going forward.* That out of the way, what’s the best day of the week for an introvert to visit the Magic Kingdom? Well, the answer is (most of the time) Tuesday. You see, weekends are almost always busy, ruling out most Saturdays and Sundays (and even Friday nights), and while one may think Mondays would be comparatively quiet, they’re actually often quite crowded as many guests will spend their first day of vacation at the Magic Kingdom. That leaves Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. While all three of those days are generally lower crowd levels, Tuesday usually sees the comparatively lowest crowds of the three. Magic Kingdom This is especially true during the fall and early winter months, as many Tuesday nights play host to Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, and later Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. While those parties themselves are packed, the park is generally quieter for most of the day, as guests without party tickets choose to skip since it will be closing at 6:00 to non-party guests. Meaning that it’s as close to a quiet introvert’s playground as it’s going to get from rope drop until the window for party guests to arrive opens at 4:00 PM. Very empty here! If you’re an introverted Disney fan looking for the comparatively quietest day possible at the Magic Kingdom, circle the middle of the week — particularly Tuesday — in your calendar. Stay tuned to DFB for more Disney World tips. The Introvert’s Guide to Packing for Disney World – 5 Things You AREN’T Bringing (But Totally Should) 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 ideal day to visit the Magic Kingdom? Let us know in the comments below. The post I'm a Raging Introvert, and These Are the Quietest Times To Visit Magic Kingdom first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Disney recently announced a NEW Moana-themed restaurant, and it is opening very soon! ©Disney The brand-new restaurant themed to Moana will be opening on September 12th, 2025, at the Hong Kong Disneyland Resort. Yes, we have definitely been considering booking a trip over there for this restaurant opening. While Disney recently announced this restaurant, and it is opening SOON, we don’t have a whole lot of details about it yet. From the concept art, we can see that it will be named Wayfinders’ Table. You can spot the name both on the front of the building and on a sign to the side. ©Disney We also think that it could be a quick-service restaurant since we can see guests holding trays and walking out of the restaurant with their food. ©Disney We can also see Moana, Hei Hei, and Pua. There’s also a bunch of Kakamora! One kid is even posing with what might be a Kakamora food vessel or drink cup. ©Disney We also spotted some of the kids holding Moana’s Wayfinder boat in the concept art, and it looks like one is filled with some sort of ball food. Could these boats possibly be for kids’ meals? There are also lots of other tropical elements like surfboards, flowers, and the building looks like a building from Moana’s village. Plus, Moana is also standing out front! Maybe she will be hanging out by the restaurant a fair amount. ©Disney You can also see what looks like a menu next to Moana, but the food pictures and text are too small to learn too much from it. We are hoping that Disney might announce the menu for this restaurant soon, or we will at least know what is on the menu when it opens on September 12th! Hong Kong Disneyland That is not all that is coming soon to Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, though. Disney also announced a NEW Disney Villains-themed party coming soon! The party officially kicks off on September 19th and runs through November 2nd. It is called “Uninvited! A Villains Takeover Party” and will feature a cavalcade, street party, and a musical spectacular, with the villains taking over Main Street. ©Disney Stay tuned to DFB for all your Disney news! You Won’t BELIEVE Where We Discovered Our Favorite Disney Breakfast 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 about the new Wayfinders’ Table? Let us know in the comments! The post Disney's NEW 'Moana' Themed Restaurant Is Opening THIS MONTH first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Disney Cruise Line is helping hundreds of students kick off the new school year, donating essential school supplies, textbooks and laptops to schools in its port communities in Florida and in The Bahamas. “It means so much to us to give back to the communities our ships visit so often and where many of our cast and crew members call home,” said Beth Thibodaux, director, external affairs, Disney Cruise Line. “Through this support, we hope to inspire local students to get excited about the new school year and their bright futures ahead.” Florida In Brevard County, Disney Cruise Line invested in the Brevard Schools Foundation to support back-to-school readiness for local students, funding key initiatives including the Supply Zone for Teachers, the Take Stock in Children mentoring and scholarship programs and resources for Endeavour Elementary School. “Disney Cruise Line’s support will make a direct difference in the lives of students and teachers throughout Brevard County,” said Janice Kershaw, president/CEO Brevard Schools Foundation. “Together, we are building a foundation for success—one child, one classroom, one community at a time.” In Broward County, Disney Dream crew members recently spent a day lending a helping hand to teachers from Jack & Jill Center’s Early Education Program as they prepare for the new school year. The volunteers worked together to set up classrooms and organize school supplies. This support helps ease financial burdens and ensures children have the tools they need to succeed in school. The Bahamas In Abaco, where Disney Castaway Cay is located, Disney Cruise Line joined the community for its official kick-off to the new school year. Disney Cruise Line sponsored the South Abaco Back to School Jamboree, hosted by the South Abaco District Council. Disney Castaway Cay VoluntEARS distributed supplies and participated in sports and other fun activities with the kids to celebrate the new school year together. In Eleuthera, students will have access to brand new laptops at Green Castle and Wemyss Bight Primary Schools to help spark their curiosity and fuel their learning adventures. Recently, while the ship was in port at Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, Disney Magic crew members teamed up with students and dozens of community members at Wemyss Bight Primary School to enrich the school’s library – setting up new computers, printers, desk chairs, reading books and textbooks donated by Disney Cruise Line. They also decorated the space with inspirational designs and quotes. Each week, classes will use the updated library for computer practice, reading and homework support. “Disney Cruise Line, you have made us so happy. We are celebrating, and we extend a big thank you,” said Clara Williams, who spearheaded this work. “For many years, we have worked very hard to secure a space for this library because knowledge is the key, and without knowledge we can’t go far. Our staff and volunteers have held on to our dream, and Disney Cruise Line has helped us make this dream come true.” Additionally, Disney Cruise Line supplied an air conditioning unit for the library to keep students comfortable during their time in the space. In Nassau, students at Woodcock Primary School will head back to the classroom with valuable new resources and supplies, including laptops and textbooks. “Disney Cruise Line is making a significant impact on our school by equipping our students with essential resources, including much-needed textbooks,” said Ms. Robertha Scott, principal, Woodcock Primary School. “This support lifts a tremendous weight off of many families who may otherwise struggle to prepare for the new school year.” This support reflects Disney Cruise Line’s strong commitment to education and community, empowering students and educators across its port communities and providing them with the resources they need to be successful. To learn more about Disney Cruise Line news and community initiatives, visit DCLNews.com or follow Disney Cruise Line Crew & Community on Facebook. The post Empowering Students: Disney Cruise Line Donates Supplies in Port Communities appeared first on Disney Experiences. View the full article

Elvis’ car has arrived in the building. It’s literally a big deal at 41 feet long. The sparkling pink Cadillac modified to look like a guitar, has a new home at Orlando Auto Museum, an attraction inside Dezerland Park on International Drive. The vehicle, known to be driven by Elvis Presley one time to a concert in Las Vegas, was purchased by Michael Dezer, South Florida developer, car collector and owner of Dezerland Park. The car has been in France, spending a giant stretch of time in a junkyard and atop a shopping mall. It started as a 1970 Cadillac Eldorado, later split in the middle to fulfill a design by Jay Ohrberg. The engine has stayed upfront, then a long, think extension — like a guitar neck — connects to the back half of the car and its one seat. Originally, there were “strings” running from front to back, tuners flanking the hood and curved fiberglass additions to the back so that, from above, it looks like a musical instrument. Thus, Elvis’ “guitar car.” Kris Kirer (left) and Michael Dezer take a look at a custom made, guitar-shaped car, once driven by Elvis Presley, that arrived at Dezerland Park Orlando on Wednesday. (Ricardo Ramirez Buxeda/Orlando Sentinel) “I’m not surprised with it because I know the uniqueness of the vehicles that we have on-site,” said J.J. Morales, museum curator. “It’s still a piece to behold,” he said. Mystery surrounds the car’s post-Vegas journeys, but here’s one certainty: It needs work. It has rusted-out spots, damage to its body where modifications were attached. There’s wear around the seat and exposed wood. It’s missing a hubcap. Under the hood, it’s missing the distributor and other vital parts, workers quickly noticed. Because the engine doesn’t run, it took 15 people to maneuver the car into a backstage area of Dezerland on Wednesday. “It’s been decades overall since it’s been seen, and most of that time was actually outside in a junkyard, so it took all the elements,” Morales said. The car features curious details: Musical notes running down the sides, oversized tailfins, a snug seating area once topped with a futuristic transparent dome (but no windshield). A logo on the side, which includes a Rolling Stones-esque tongue symbol plus two women in boots and bikinis, reads “Hollywood Star Cars.” In other ways, it’s normal-looking: The front license plate, likely a novelty, is from Tennessee registered in 1977. The keys are in the ignition. “Few cars capture the spirit of American music and culture the way this one does,” Dezer said in a news release. “We are proud to bring this extraordinary piece of Elvis history back to the U.S. and to make it available for fans to see up close.” The 'guitar car' has been out of the United States for years. Orlando Auto Museum plans a restoration with public observation. (Ricardo Ramirez Buxeda/Orlando Sentinel) Dezer’s purchase price of the guitar car has not been revealed. His Orlando Auto Museum has more than 2,500 rare and famous vehicles with a value of more than $200 million. The collection includes cars from movies, international oddities, military vehicles, antiques and the world’s longest limo, also a Ohrberg creation. The guitar car originally was listed on eBay, seeking a bid of 10,000 Euros, the equivalent of about $11,000 in the U.S. The museum plans to restore the vehicle where visitors can watch the progress. It plans to begin the public part in a month or two. “I don’t think he [Dezer] is going to spare any expense in the restoration process, but there’s a lot of panels and items I need to get rebuilt or made,” Morales said. The project could take a year and cost a million. “Between having people here come during business hours and seeing all the social media posts, we’re very excited because it’s something we don’t get to do here often,” Morales said. dbevil@orlandosentinel.com View the full article

The magic of Halloween Town is back, and this time it’s landing right in your closet. Gap has teamed up with Disney Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas to deliver a limited-edition 24-piece collection for the misfits and the rule-breakers. Launching online today, the drop fuses Gap’s signature silhouettes with the eerie charm of Jack Skellington, Sally, and the whole Halloween Town crew. From skull-covered tees and oversized fleece hoodies to frightfully fun accessories, these pieces are perfect to wear on your next pumpkin patch stroll or while plotting an elaborate scheme to find Sandy Claws with your ghoulish gang. Spooky Chic for Every Ghoul Why wait for October to embrace your spooky side? Effortlessly layer the Modern Shrunken T-Shirt or the “Nightmare” Mini Rib Tank Top under the CashSoft Skull Cardigan for a cozy and stylish look, guaranteed to earn Dr. Finkelstein’s seal of approval. Go for a vintage vibe wearing the ’90s Loose Jeans, or sharpen your silhouette with the Mid Rise UltraSoft Barrel Jeans. For a finishing touch, the Stripe Denim Jacket honors Jack Skellington’s iconic pinstripes, perfect for a midnight walk on Spiral Hill. Tiny Terrors, Big Fashion There are even styles in the collection for the littlest residents of Halloween Town. The light purple Kids Shrunken Graphic T-Shirt pairs perfectly with the dark blue Kids Mid Rise Baggy Jeans for adventures from the playground to haunted houses. The Kids Skull T-Shirt is a staple for everyday mischief, while the VintageSoft Crop Hoodie adds a cozy layer for crisp autumn days. The whimsical Sailor Top nods to Sally’s stitched-up charm, and the Kids Skull Baseball Hat is the perfect topper for any look and offers a bit of Lock, Shock, and Barrel energy. Comfy, Creepy, and Movie Marathon Ready Whether you’re hosting a viewing party of Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas, or just cozying up with cocoa and candy corn, this collection delivers the perfect couch-ready styles. The Heavyweight Skull Hoodie and Heavyweight Zip Hoodie wrap you in warm, oversized comfort, and perfectly pair with the Heavyweight Skull Baggy Joggers. Plus, the Skull Flannel PJ Pants are made for dancing along while Oogie Boogie takes center stage. The Organic Cotton Stripe Skull Boxers and the Baby & Toddler Organic Cotton PJ Set are so comfy you might just dream you’ve landed in Christmas Town. The Gap x Disney Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas collection launches today at gap.com. Collectible Ursula Doll Joining the Disney Darkness Descends Seri READ MORE Disney Villains Collection by Bath & Body Works READ MORE New Fa-BOO-lous Cutie Ghost Collection Arrives at Disney Store READ MORE The post Step in to Halloween Town with the Gap x Disney Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas Collection appeared first on Disney Parks Blog. View the full article

There’s a bit of pixie dust in the air today—and I, for one, am cheering! Walt Disney World just announced that Cinderella Castle will soon be repainted to its original color scheme, removing the pink and gold hues added during the 50th Anniversary makeover. This news is music to my ears. While I understand the […] The post Cinderella Castle Is Returning to Its Classic Colors—and I’m So Glad appeared first on Military Disney Tips. View the full article

To what extent is Disney World tracking you? MagicBand+ MagicBand and MagicBand+ wristbands do a lot of nifty things at Disney World! They unlock your hotel room, work as a ticket to get you into the parks, let you scan in for Lightning Lanes, and even let you charge snacks to your room with a quick tap. But as with any tech that makes life easier, there’s always one unsettling question lurking…Is Disney tracking me with this thing? The answer? It’s complicated. Disney tracks you, but not in a way that takes note of your every step. MagicBand+ According to Disney, “MagicBand+ devices are not GPS-based and do not enable collection of continuous location signals. However, we may be able to detect the location of Guests who choose to use or wear MagicBand or MagicBand+ products while visiting the Walt Disney World Resort and certain other locations.” MagicBands! Your MagicBands do not contain a GPS, and Disney’s not using a satellite to follow you around the property. But you are being tracked, nevertheless. When you scan your MagicBand to enter a park, tap into a Lightning Lane, use your MagicBand for a fun park interaction, or link a PhotoPass picture, Disney does log that interaction. So they know where you’ve been and what you’re doing. But that tracking detail isn’t just limited to MagicBand users. Scanner Your MagicBands are linked to your My Disney Experience account and app. Anything you do digitally — reservations, mobile orders, Lightning Lane selections, etc. — Disney tracks. They can detect you in specific locations, just more in a checkpoint kind of way and not a “we know you’re going to the bathroom AT THIS VERY MOMENT” kind of way. MagicBand+! Disney says they do this for a couple of reasons. Disney uses your location to create interactions with your band, such as a lighting effect for MagicBand+ during nighttime spectaculars. But the company primarily tracks you to enhance guest experience, or so they say. This means taking your data to form trends and adjust the park experience. MagicBands streamline everything from ride queues to photos to hotel stays. Disney can analyze this data to see crowd flow, ride demand, and even dining trends. ©Guide2WDW Rest assured: when you aren’t using your MagicBand, there’s nothing Disney can track. So, no, they aren’t spying on you at your house. Remember, MagicBands are totally optional, and you can definitely operate a park day successfully without them! Do you use MagicBands? How do you feel about Disney “tracking” you? Share your thoughts in the comments below and continue to follow us here at DFB for all the latest Disney World coverage! Does Disney World Use Facial Scanning Technology? 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 prefer to use MagicBands during your Disney World vacations or do you opt for other organization methods? Let us know in the comments! The post Does Disney World Track Your Movement with MagicBands? It's Complicated. first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Toy Story Mania has been a cornerstone attraction at Hollywood Studios for almost two decades (yeah, it makes me feel old too), and it still remains as popular as ever, especially since many guests see the game as a challenge. Toy Story Mania However, there are ways to improve your score and overall experience on the ride! Over my 6+ years covering Disney Parks, I’ve heard of some Toy Story Mania pointers, and now I’m passing them on! Try for a Lightning Lane Okay, before we get into tips for the ride itself, let’s start here. Despite nearing 20 years old, Toy Story Mania is still one of the busiest rides at Hollywood Studios, often near the top of the wait times list. Combined with the fact that it doesn’t exactly have an engrossing or story-centric queue (Mr. Potato Head notwithstanding), it’s a good Lightning Lane option. Toy Story Mania Ride Earlier in the Day It’s worth riding the attraction earlier in the day; that way, you’ll have more energy. You may laugh, but the cannon apparatus can be a bit cumbersome, and the less tired you are, the more energy you’ll have to pull the cord, and in turn, the more points you’ll score. Toy Story Mania On to the Easter Eggs Each of the games that make up Midway Mania features easter eggs and hidden options that will help you score! In Hamm and Eggs, target the animals in the background to “flip the barn” and make the targets worth more points. In Rex and Trixie’s Dino Darts, focus on the 500-point balloons. Popping all three will bring out a comet. From there, hit the comet 3 times, which will, in turn, bring out further clusters of 500-point balloons to pop. In Green Army Men Shoot Camp, you and your vehicle mate should aim for the 2000-point plates on each side of the screen. Once you hit them, the mountain in the middle will disappear, and a tank will appear with even more high-scoring plates to pick off. In Buzz Lightyear’s Flying Tossers, you and your row partner have to work together to cover ALL of the aliens in the rocket ship at the same time. Once they’re all gone, the rocket ship will launch away and reveal a giant robot. Shoot as many rings into the mouth of the robot as possible, and when you need to reactivate it (open the mouth again), each player must toss a ring over the rockets found on each side of the screen. In Woody’s Rootin’ Tootin’ Shootin’ Gallery, there are two games, each with easter eggs. In the first game, you’ll see bullseyes all over the screen as you move across it. Work with your partner to open up the bullseyes and then CLOSE the same ones. Each time you open and close one, the points will go up across the board. The second half of this game involves four lanes of falling mine carts. This is where you DON’T need your partner anymore, so it’s your chance to rack up all the points and win it all! Be sure to hit every mine car that you can before it goes over the mountain, but also keep an eye out for the bats that fall from the top of the screen over the cars, as they’ll make the mine carts worth more points. Following these tips will likely increase your score and make your next ride on Toy Story Mania much more enjoyable! Stay tuned to DFB for more Disney World tips! Take your shot! Following these tips will likely increase your score and make your next ride on Toy Story Mania much more enjoyable! Stay tuned to DFB for more Disney World tips! The New Plan of Action You Have to Follow in Disney’s Hollywood Studios 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 best Toy Story Mania tip? Let us know in the comments below. The post 8 Things That’ll Make Your Ride on Toy Story Mania in Disney World 10x Better first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Who’s ready to save some major money on dining? I know I am! Summer House on the Lake Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining Event, which runs till September 30th, and offers some killer deals on dining. While there are tons of restaurants around Orlando taking part, there are some restaurants at Disney World also participating. Let’s dive in! For this Magical Dining Event, restaurants ovver 3-course prix-fixe dinners for $40 or $60, depending on the location. Wolfgang Puck Bar and Grill 152 restaurants are joining in, but if you’re looking for some right at Disney World, you should check out these restaurants: Ravello (Four Seasons Resort; $60 Menu) Il Mulino New York Trattoria (Disney World Swan Resort; $40 Menu) Jaleo (Disney Springs; $40 Menu) Amare (Walt Disney World Swan Reserve; $40 Menu) Todd English’s Bluezoo (Walt Disney World Dolphin Resort; $60 Menu) Maria & Enzo’s (Disney Springs; $40 Menu) La Luce (Signia by Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek; $60 Menu) Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill (Disney Springs; $40 Menu) Summer House on the Lake (Disney Springs; $40 Menu) Maria & Enzo’s When you sit down, if your server doesn’t mention the deal, make sure to ask so you can take full advantage. Since it’s part of the prix fixe menu, you’ll have to make sure you’re ordering the correct menu before you get the bill. Each restaurant donates a portion of its Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining dinners to local nonprofits, too. Jaleo tasting menu You can book reservations through OpenTable or directly through the restaurant. We’re super excited to try out these deals and check out all the menus. I personally have my eye on Summer House on the Lake, which is one of my favorite spots in Disney Springs. You can choose dishes like Potato Salad, Deviled Eggs, Costa Mesa Salad with Wood-Grilled Chicken, and Gooey Lemon Butter Cake We LOVE Summer House Don’t want to go through all of the stress of booking your Disney World trip alone? Reach out to our friends at Small World Vacations! Their experienced agents monitor your reservation for possible future savings, compare discounts, and 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. In the meantime, make sure you keep following Disney Food Blog for more dining deals and reviews. REVIEW: JUST WHEN WE THOUGHT WE COULDN’T LOVE IT ANY MORE, THIS DISNEY WORLD RESTAURANT PROVED US WRONG Need Disney Restaurant Advice? We’ve Got EVERYTHING You Need to Know The ONLY Disney Dining Planning Tool You’ll Need Is Here – Get the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining! See Our Complete Disney World Restaurants Guide The Best Magic Kingdom Restaurants The Best EPCOT Restaurant Restaurants The Best Hollywood Studios Restaurants The Best Animal Kingdom Restaurants The Best Disney Springs Restaurants Check Out Dozens of Disney Dining Tips and Tools Learn All About Tipping at Disney Restaurants How to Use Mobile Order in Disney World Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the latest Disney food news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! Have you ever tried a Magical Dining Event deal? Tell us about it in the comments. The post A HUGE Dining Deal at Disney World Restaurants Ends THIS Month first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

It’s Halloween, y’all! This could be one of our favorite times of the year in Disney World. The weather starts to cool off (well, a little…by the end of the fall season). The Halloween decorations are up. Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party has kicked off. Halloween sampler The BEST part of the Halloween season in Disney World, though, are the snacks! Disney goes above and beyond every year with its fun, spooky treats. So we headed to Disney Springs recently to visit Swirls on the Water, which doesn’t JUST have spooky treats, but a spooky DOLE Whip Sampler! Oh, yeah, we tried it! The DOLE Whip Sampler at Swirls in the Water is one of the best ways to get a taste of several of the snacks available there, so we grabbed a sampler for $7.99 with three Halloween-inspired treats. First, we have to start this review with a complaint. The sampler now comes in a new container, and you can’t take each individual cup out of it. Disney took something that wasn’t broken and changed it. Granted it does LOOK cool in photos. It’s certainly pretty Okay, on to the actual review of what we got. The first is a classic DOLE Whip Pineapple swirled with Vanilla Soft-serve and Fresh Pineapple Wedge. You know it, you love it, it’s a classic DOLE Whip swirl. You’ve got that lovely tangy pineapple with a creamy vanilla soft-serve. It’s also something you can get pretty much all over Disney World, so MOVING ON… A classic! The next DOLE Whip is a lot more interesting. It’s Green Apple Soft-serve swirled with Salted Caramel Soft-serve, Apple Pie Filling, and Halloween sprinkles. We thought it was fine, mostly because the flavor reminded us of The Sanderson Sisters Caramel-Apple Pie Sundae. The green apple is distinctly green, but it’s sweeter than sour. The salted caramel helps by adding some nice sweetness with that salt. It is a STRONG salted caramel flavor, though, so if that’s not a flavor you like, you might want to get something else. It’s spooky looking! The third treat is the Marshmallow Soft-serve swirled with Chocolate Soft-serve, Chocolate Sauce, and Graham Cracker Topping. Yep, it’s giving s’mores, but mostly, it tastes like a candy bar…but as ice cream. It’s nice and creamy, and the marshmallow against the chocolate flavor is perfection. SO good. The chocolate sauce on top does make it a little runny, though, so beware of melting. Stay tuned to DFB for more. WE KNOW – there are SO many great snacks at Disney World! How do you choose (we don’t want to choose but will blow our budget on Day 1 otherwise)? We’ve got you covered! We have reviewed nearly EVERY snack available at Disney World, and we’ve written a series of DFB Guides about them! Check out our DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining + Snacks Bundle for all the details you need to plan your snackin’ and spending. You can even download them to your smartphone – it’ll be like we’re right there with you in the parks! REVIEW: Okay, We Need Everyone to STOP Ignoring This Incredible Restaurant in Disney World Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW What’s your favorite thing to get at Swirls on the Water? Tell us in the comments! The post REVIEW: Oh Hello, CANDY-BAR Flavored DOLE Whip. We Love You. Signed, Disney Snack Fans. first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

We are ALWAYS down for an afternoon of building LEGO sets! There is something incredibly satisfying about assembling the little bricks to create something amazing. ©Disney We especially love it when we are creating sets that remind us of Disney World. And we found six LEGO sets that will make your home feel like a mini–Disney World, and we can’t wait to share them with you! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. If you are like us and are always dreaming about your next Disney World vacation, we found the perfect LEGO sets for you! These are adorable little reminders of all the wonderful memories you have at Disney World and will turn your home into a mini–Disney World. Let’s take a look at these sets! Grab this Castle LEGO Set! ©Amazon It doesn’t get much more iconic than a castle centerpiece, and this LEGO set is the perfect centerpiece! The set features 4,837 pieces that will have you building a gorgeous castle. The set also includes mini figures of Cinderella, Prince Charming, Snow White, Prince Florian, Princess Tiana, Prince Naveen, Rapunzel, and Flynn Rider. This is truly an impressive display piece for your home! Get this LEGO set here! Get this Beauty and the Beast Castle Building Set ©Amazon You can reminisce about meals at Be Our Guest while in Disney World with this Beauty and the Beast Castle Building Kit. The set has 2,916 pieces that come together to build a gorgeous castle complete with mini figures of Belle, Beast, Gaston, LeFou, and more. We think it is so beautiful! Get this LEGO set here! Build a Mini Enchanted Mansion ©Amazon You can also build your very own enchanted mansion to add to your Disney World. This one is perfect for Haunted Mansion fans, and while it looks more like the Disneyland Haunted Mansion attraction, there are no rules when it comes to adding pieces to your mini-Disney World! Get this LEGO set here! Add a Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs’ Cottage to your collection ©Amazon You can add a bit of Snow White to your collection and remember the drops and thrill of Seven Dwarfs Mine Train in Disney World. This set features 2,229 pieces and has mini figures of Snow White, the Prince, the Evil Queen in disguise, and the seven dwarfs. It is charming, cozy, and the perfect addition to your collection. Get this LEGO set here! Add some Main Street magic to your collection ©Amazon While this Holiday Main Street set ISN’T a Disney Main Street, we still think it gives a lot of the same vibes as Main Street, U.S.A. The set features two buildings, a streetcar, and lots of mini figures to give it some charm. We think this is the perfect way to add the feeling of walking down Main Street to your collection. Get this LEGO set here! Snag a Disney Encanto LEGO Set ©Amazon Disney is currently hard at work on the Pueblo Esperanza expansion at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, which features Encanto. You can get a head start with this LEGO set to add some Encanto to your own mini-Disney World. With this set, you will construct The Magical Madrigal House from 1,560 pieces. It is so pretty! Get this LEGO set here! Stay tuned to DFB for all your Disney merchandise news! The post These 6 LEGO Sets From Amazon Will Turn Your House Into a Mini Disney World! first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Are you planning a visit to Universal Orlando? A lot of folks are right now, especially now that Epic Universe is open and Halloween Horror Nights just kicked off. Volcano Bay at Universal Orlando Well, if you are visiting Universal Orlando soon, you might also be staying in a Universal Orlando hotel. As you may know, staying in a Universal Orlando hotel scores you certain perks, with one of the best being early admission to the theme parks, including Universal’s water park, Volcano Bay. Well, the Early Park Admission perk at Volcano Bay recently changed. During Universal Orlando’s Early Park Admission, guests staying at Universal Orlando hotels can get into the parks up to one hour before the parks officially open to the public. During that time, select attractions and rides are open. Recently, those hotel guests visiting Volcano Bay could access the following attractions during that early admission hour: Honu of Honu ika Moana ika Moana of Honu ika Moana Krakatau Aqua Coaster Ko’okiri Body Plunge Waturi Wave Pool Ohyah of the Ohyah and Ohno Drop Slides Ohno of the Ohyah and Ohno Drop Slides Puka Uli Lagoon ©Universal Well, that list has changed. From now through October 31st, the following attractions at Volcano Bay will be available during early admission: Honu of Honu ika Moana ika Moana of Honu ika Moana Krakatau Aqua Coaster Ko’okiri Body Plunge Waturi Wave Pool ©Universal So, if you’ll be visiting Universal Orlando soon and want to use early admission at Volcano Bay, you’ll want to prioritize those rides that will be available during that time. Note that early admission could be affected by things like weather, which can even occasionally close Volcano Bay (particularly during hurricane season). Don’t want to go through all of the stress of booking your Universal Orlando 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. Stay tuned to DFB for more. EVERYTHING You Need to Know About Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Orlando in 2025 Read more: DFB's complete guide to Universal’s Epic Universe >> Are you headed to Universal Orlando this fall? Let us know in the comments! The post Universal Orlando Confirms Changes To Early Park Admission Hotel Perk first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Uh Amazon? What are you going? Amazon According to CNBC, Amazon is cracking down on sharing free shipping with Prime, and we have some thoughts. The Prime Invitee Program, which allowed for the sharing of free delivery with others, will end on October 1st, 2025. You were originally allowed to share the shipping perks with one other adult in your household, even if they used a different address. ©Amazon Amazon is encouraging users to sign up for Amazon Family, which allows free shipping with one other adult, four children, and up to four teens added before April 7th, 2025. All users must share the same primary residence, which is what Amazon refers to as the “address you consider to be your home and where you spend the majority of your time.” Our question is: what about using a different address when you’re traveling? We love to have items sent directly to our hotel during our Disney World trips. We’ve sent items we’ve forgotten, cases of water, extra strollers, and anything else we needed. With the fast shipping, we’re usually able to get it the next day, which can help our trip go smoother. We love ordering essentials straight to our hotel Amazon is not the first company to limit sharing to inside households. Streaming services have started the trend, requiring logins to be shared within the same household, which has also caused some difficulty while traveling. Even though you can usually acknowledge you’re traveling with a one-sided code, if you’re spending a significant amount of time on vacation, it might deceive that you’re not part of the household. ©Amazon If you’re still looking at sending groceries to your hotel during your Disney World vacation, we recommend using Kroger Grocery Delivery. They deliver it right to the hotel, and you can order things like snacks, breakfast, and lunch foods to make your trip a little easier. Kroger Delivery Don’t want to go through all of the stress of booking your Disney World trip alone? Reach out to our friends at Small World Vacations! Their experienced agents monitor your reservation for possible future savings, compare discounts, and 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. In the meantime, make sure you keep following Disney Food Blog for more. STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE TO ORDERING KROGER GROCERY DELIVERY TO DISNEY WORLD DON'T DO IT ALONE! Our favorite people over at Small World Vacations are ready to help you save time, headaches, and best of all, money, when you book your Disney trip or cruise. Their agents compare current offers to find the best deal for you -- they've literally saved their guests millions of dollars since 1996. Plus, their services are 100% FREE FOR YOU! (They're DFB's recommended travel agency, and you can see why here!) So book that trip now, then sit back and enjoy planning your Disney World Trip with a DFB-approved expert! Click here for a no obligation price quote today, and let them know DFB sent you GET MORE INFO What do you think about this current change? Tell us in the comments. The post Bad News for Disney World Hotel Guests: Amazon Is Cracking Down on Its Shipping Rules first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

There is a lot happening in Disney’s Animal Kingdom right now. The Dino Eggs-cavation A brand-new show will be coming to the Tree of Life, Zootopia: Better Zoogether. However, the biggest change has been the phased closure of DinoLand, U.S.A., to make way for a brand new land, Pueblo Esperanza. Now we’ve recently gotten word of when the rest of DinoLand will close for construction in early 2026, and one snack spot is now missing one of its most fun menu items. We hate to share bad news, but the Dino Eggs-cavation snack at Dino-Bite Snacks is no longer available. We invariably hate it when a snack disappears, but the Dino Eggs-cavation was SO much fun. The treat included a chocolate chunk cookie, cookie crumb-milk mousse, edible sugar bones, and a white chocolate dinosaur egg with a surprise inside! Not only that, but everything about this snack was DELICIOUS. But we confirmed today with a Cast Member that it’s no longer available. The dino! We also asked about two other snacks. Note that these two snacks are NOT on the online menus on the Disney World website or My Disney Experience app, but at the moment, they are still available. You can still enjoy the Totally Sweet Sundae (Passholder exclusive) and the Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Sandwich. Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Sandwich We also got word that a NEW snack is coming to this spot in October, but we couldn’t get any indication of what it is yet. You know we’ll be checking every day in October until it’s revealed, though. So, although one snack is going away, we’ll be getting a new one, so we’ll take that as a win. Of course, this snack spot is closing forever on February 2nd, 2026. We’ll have to see if any of the snacks there will make it another Animal Kingdom snack spot once it’s gone. WE KNOW – there are SO many great snacks at Disney World! How do you choose (we don’t want to choose but will blow our budget on Day 1 otherwise)? We’ve got you covered! We have reviewed nearly EVERY snack available at Disney World, and we’ve written a series of DFB Guides about them! Check out our DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining + Snacks Bundle for all the details you need to plan your snackin’ and spending. You can even download them to your smartphone – it’ll be like we’re right there with you in the parks! DFB Guides Stay tuned to DFB for more. 15 Disney World Snacks You’ll Have to Show ID to Order 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? Are you sad to see this snack go? Share with us in the comments! The post SAD SNACK NEWS: One of the BEST Treats at DinoLand Is GONE Ahead of Permanent Closure in Disney World first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Singer Dolly Parton and a former Universal Orlando executive will be among the new entrants to the IAAPA Hall of Fame, the Orlando-based global attractions association announced Wednesday. Parton was already an international country music star and actress when she bought an interest in the Silver Dollar City attraction in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, in 1986. As part of the deal, the park was renamed Dollywood. “Her vision, investment and heart for her community have helped Dollywood grow into a world-class destination that has inspired other operators around the world, creating joy for millions of guests each year,” IAAPA President and CEO Jakob Wahl said in a video announcing the honorees. Keith James, who had executive roles in the late ’80s and early ’90s at Universal Studios Florida, also will be recognized by IAAPA. At one point, he was the resort’s senior vice president for planning and development in 1990. He subsequently managed production work for Jack Rouse Associates/RWS Global for 30 years. “His creativity, leadership and committment have inspired countless projects and professionsal worldwide,” Wahl said. Inductee Keith James' resume includes RWS Global, Universal Studios Florida experiences. (IAAPA) Other inductees for 2025 are: • Gerardo Arteaga Oehninger, who established Fantasilandia in Chile and expanded Happyland into Peru, Mexico and Colombia. He was one of the first three IAAPA members in Latin America. He died last month at age 81. • Gary S. Wachs, who oversaw the opening of Kings Island, Kings Dominion, and Canada’s Wonderland. • Su Zhigang, founder and chairman of Chimelong Group, an influential developer of Asian attractions. Inductees are selected by a committee of five past global chairmen and the four current regional chairmen for IAAPA, an acronym for the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions. The new honorees will be formally inducted during the IAAPA Legends: A Hall of Fame Celebratory Affair on Nov. 17, ahead of the annual IAAPA Expo at Orange County Convention Center. For tickets and more information, go to IAAPA.org. dbevil@orlandosentinel.com View the full article

Ready, set… magic! It’s time to lace up those sneakers and hit the most pixie-dusted pavement on Earth because the 2025-2026 runDisney race season kicks into high gear this week. Whether you’re a first-time runner or a seasoned marathoner, runDisney offers a course full of character high-fives, sunrise views from iconic Disney landmarks and medals you’ll want to wear straight to the parks. From chasing a personal best to racing for fun, there’s a runDisney event for every runner. Many participants turn race weekends into full-blown vacations, and staying at a Disney hotel is the easiest way to get to the start line without missing a beat. Along the way, it’s about more than the miles…it’s the memories, the costumes, the cheering crowds, and the selfies that prove you ran through magic. The season gets off and running this week with the spooktacular Disneyland Halloween Half Marathon Weekend, followed by four run-tastic race weekends at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida and an additional race weekend at Disneyland Resort in California. Each race weekend includes different mileage options such as a 5K, 10K, 10-miler, half marathon, and marathon. For runners who can’t make it to the parks, you can get some of the magic of runDisney at home by signing up for one or more of our three virtual races. So, let’s hit the ground running. here’s everything you need to know about the runDisney experience. Running Through Disney Parks There is something unforgettable about running through a Disney park before guests arrive. Participants get to run past iconic landmarks and fan-favorite spots, which turns every mile into a one-of-a-kind race-day experience. From winding through themed lands to spotting beloved characters along the way, each step feels like part of an adventure that cannot be found anywhere else. It is a rare chance to experience the parks in a completely unique way. When you sign up for a runDisney race, you’ll get a race bib, a themed race shirt, and a finisher medal that proves you conquered the challenge and had a lot of fun doing it. Just remember, park tickets aren’t part of the package — you’ll need one if you want to celebrate your victory with some Disney theme park fun afterward. Characters and Entertainment on the Course No other race puts runners in the middle of a course filled with iconic Disney characters, and participants can interact with them along the way. Imagine the feeling of getting an encouraging wave from Mickey Mouse to help propel you through those final few miles. In addition to Disney characters, you’ll encounter singing choirs, high-energy DJs and other colorful performers along the route, adding just the energy you need to complete your magical runDisney journey. runDisney x Brooks Running Shoes runDisney runners often say the magic begins before the race even starts, and part of that magic comes from lacing up in style. The official runDisney and Brooks shoe collection, which typically involves new styles at upcoming runDisney race weekends, offers performance running shoes infused with playful Disney storytelling. Look for new shoes to drop this week at the Disneyland Halloween Half Marathon Weekend. Must-Have runDisney Merch runDisney merchandise is arguably the most in-demand running gear anywhere and it’s easy to see why. Runners can shop for a large variety of fashion-friendly merchandise and exclusive items available only at the event, from performance gear to keepsakes that celebrate their achievement. Each race introduces fresh, on-trend collections designed to make the experience even more special and memorable. Finisher Medals as Magical as the Race Itself The runDisney finisher medals are unlike any others in the running industry. They are a real vibe! They are always Disney-themed and feature beloved characters, iconic symbols and classic Disney story touches. Some of them have moving parts that slide, shake, turn, and even spin. It’s the kind of bling that will leave your friends in awe. Costumes That Make Running Even More Fun runDisney is a huge party disguised as a race. People are running in Disney-inspired looks that sparkle, twirl, and shine. You’ll see plenty of tutus, tiaras, superhero capes, and Mickey ears, but that’s just the beginning. Creativity is king and runners fully embrace it, which creates an atmosphere that feels like a colorful parade of sneaker-wearing personalities and personas. Not Just a Race, It’s an Experience Sure, the races are fun, but that’s just the half of it. Our runDisney races are a true running experience that extends far beyond the course. Take the runDisney health and fitness expo, for instance. This is not your typical race expo. It’s like its own village, the central hub for the entire race weekend. It’s huge, offering every running gadget, gimmick and goop that you can imagine, all in an effort to make your running experience even more magical. Beyond that, there are ancillary events at select races, such as a post-race party and early morning yoga inside a Disney park. A Community That Runs Together and Celebrates Together Perhaps the greatest magic of all is found in the community of runners who come together for runDisney. Participants travel from across the globe, united by their love of Disney and their passion for running. The camaraderie is visible on the course as runners cheer for one another, offer encouragement, and celebrate every accomplishment together. For many, the friendships formed during a runDisney weekend become just as cherished as the medals earned. Whether you join in person or run virtually from home, there has never been a better time to lace up, hit the pavement, and experience the most magical race weekends on Earth. Step into your sneakers, pick up the pace, and let the Disney magic carry you across every magical mile! And if you’re ready for your next race, there’s still space left in the runDisney Springtime Surprise 10-Miler and Yoga. You can sign up at www.rundisney.com. Come get your fairytale finish! Run, Don’t Walk: 2025-2026 runDisney Race Dates Reveal READ MORE Where to Stay and Play: Disneyland Resort Hotels Vacation Guide READ MORE Jock Lindsey’s Halloween Hangar Bar: Frightful First Look READ MORE The post Everything You Need to Know About the <I>run</I>Disney Experience appeared first on Disney Parks Blog. View the full article

When you’re flying, sometimes it’s hard to keep track of what exactly you need to do during your security screening. TSA lines at MCO This is especially true now that some long-standing TSA rules are changing, such as not taking off your shoes anymore, but rules still vary from airport to airport. At some airports, you don’t need to take anything out of your bag, including liquids and electronics, while at others, those rules still apply. However, one thing is for sure — you CANNOT travel with this one hair tool, and if you do, you could be fined THOUSANDS of dollars. DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. We all know the struggle of attempting to pack your bag without completely overstuffing it, and anyway you can save room is typically a good thing. For many people who prefer to curl their hair to style it, they’ve been turning to cordless curling irons to save space. Not only does this keep you from needing to save room for a whole cord, but you also don’t need to worry about plugging in the curling iron — no plug? No problem! What are you packing? However, according to Travel & Leisure, these cordless curling irons could cause MAJOR issues when flying, as many of them contain butane-fueled gas cartridges. These are allowed in carry-on bags, but not checked luggage, and if you do fly with it at all, you need to “cover certain heating elements and protect them from accidental activation while on the aircraft” or remove the heating element altogether. The reason? These butane cartridge batteries “lasts for months of normal use,” but they pose a big risk of accidentally activating on board an aircraft, or anywhere, for that matter. ©Getty Images One of the most popular brands of cordless curling irons right now is Conair, which sells curling irons like the Infiniti by Conair Mini Pro Cordless Therma Cell Butane Cartridge Curling Iron for just $19.99. While you may be saving a bunch of money on the item itself, make sure to look up all TSA rules before flying so you know if you need to pack your curling iron in your carry-on bag or not. ©Walgreens Travelers who do pack prohibited items could face fines of up to $17,000, or even possible arrest. Needless to say, if you’re concerned about it, it may just be better to pack your normal curling iron and deal with the cord, as those aren’t restricted. We’re always here to bring you the latest travel news to help you prepare for your upcoming vacation, so stay tuned to DFB! Southwest Airlines Just Announced ANOTHER Big Airplane Change (but This Is a Good One) 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 accidentally packed something in your bag that caused you issues at security? Tell us in the comments! The post There’s a TSA Hair Tool Rule You Need To Know About -- and It Might Surprise You first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

We’ve got an updated look at the construction happening over at Universal Kids Resort in Texas! Courtesy of @stclairphotos Phew! When it comes to Universal theme park news, there’s so much to talk about. Universal just kicked off its Halloween Horror Nights season with a stacked lineup of haunted houses, food, drinks, and new entertainment. We just got done saying goodbye to a classic coaster. But while we’re celebrating all of the changes happening in Universal Orlando, there’s even more to be excited about right now. Universal Kids Resort in Texas is finally starting to take shape, and we’re giving you an updated look to see how far construction has already come for Universal’s newest park. We’ve been following along with this project since before it even had a name. This new park will mark a new chapter for Universal Resorts, becoming its first theme park in Texas as well as its first focused on smaller children (which has been a common criticism for parents in Universal’s other parks up to this point). ©Universal | Kids Resort Universal Kids Resort is scheduled to open in 2026, and the park’s overall theme, rides, shows, food, and entertainment offerings are expected to cater to the entertainment needs of some of the tiniest visitors, targeting the preschool to toddler age group. This new park will allow parents the opportunity to enjoy a park built specifically for younger kids. ©Universal Over the summer, we finally began to see the initial stages of the buildings from the concept art come to life, and now we’re seeing that Universal is building on that even further. Thanks to @stclairphotos on Instagram, we’ve got new aerial photos of what the park is looking like so far. Universal is still very early on in the building process, but we can see it coming to life! Here is an update on the park’s neighboring hotel, which will be located right on site, adjacent to the park’s entrance. Already, we’re starting to see some of that colorful detail displayed across this building. Courtesy of @stclairphotos Additionally, we’ve got a look at the front side of the hotel. This is a little more plain for now, but we’re confident that we’ll be seeing lots of color splashed all over the building’s exterior soon. Courtesy of @stclairphotos This brings us to our next update about the actual park itself. Near the center of the property, you’ll spot this gigantic concrete circle. If the concept artwork is any indication, this looks to be the beginning formations of the water feature that will run throughout most of the park’s central area. Courtesy of @stclairphotos Just beyond that, you’ll find a few of the rides already starting to take shape. In this photo, we can make out what appears to be the framework for a swing ride that looks like its seats will suspend in the air. There also appears to be a potential show building with outdoor (yet covered) viewing areas. Courtesy of @stclairphotos One last significant update for you! We also spotted what appears to be a small roller coaster that will become one of the highlights of the park. This mild thrill ride looks to be of similar scale to that of DreamWorks Land’s Trollercoaster found at Universal Orlando. It’s nice to see that so much of what appears to be the queue area for the ride is also intended to be covered. Courtesy of @stclairphotos One of my favorite things about upcoming theme parks is watching them come alive from initial design and concept to full realization in such a short span of time. Be sure to stay tuned with us right here at DFB for even more updates on this new Universal park and more! I Went to 3 Different Theme Parks in a Week. Disney and Universal Were Hard– But SeaWorld Nearly Killed Me. Read more: DFB's complete guide to Universal’s Epic Universe >> Do you have plans to be among some of the first to visit Universal Kids Resort when it opens? Tell us why or why not in the comments below. The post NEWS: Roller Coaster Track Installed Plus 3 MORE Construction Changes Hit NEW Universal Resort in Texas first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

I hate to break it to you, but 2026 is almost here! While it means 2025 is coming to an end, it also means that we can look forward to our 2026 Disney World trips and all the fun that goes along with them. Grand Floridian Resort There are so many benefits to staying at a Disney World Resort during your vacation, but before you click “book hotel,” heed these warnings so you’re prepared for the best trip ever. Like 2025, guests staying at a Disney World Resort get access to free water tickets for everyone listed in the room. Score! Unfortunately, everyone else staying at a Disney World Resort also gets free tickets, plus everyone else who chose to go. Blizzard Beach Your free tickets will work on the day of your check-in, which is perfect to have something to do after you drop your bags off. Disney World has two different water parks, Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon. During the summer, both are open, but once winter arrives, it usually closes down to one park at a time while the other undergoes refurbishment. Humunga Cowabunga at Typhoon Lagoon While it does get a little cooler in Florida, it’s likely that you’ll still want to hit the water parks, even in the winter, but with only one water park being open, it can get busy. Even while both were open, parks are known to fill to capacity and not allow new guests in, even if you already have a ticket. With one park being open and everyone having water park tickets, we wouldn’t be surprised if these parks filled up fast in the morning. Blizzard Beach If you know that hitting the water parks is on your list, make sure you arrive early so there’s a greater chance of you getting in. Also note that if you come when only one park is open, you won’t have a choice between which park to enjoy, so if there’s only one you have your eye on, make sure you’re visiting during the open season. Crowds! You can always spend time at the hotel pool, too! Take advantage of your hotel’s pool Something that might encourage you to book your trip in 2026 is the big promotion where kids eat free. Yes, it’s as amazing as it sounds, but you need to make sure that you know all the details before heading to the parks. You could get a lot of food! The deal is only available for children aged three to nine. Anyone younger gets into the parks for free, so they typically aren’t included in any deals or promotions. You’ll also need to purchase a dining plan for ALL the other members of your party, which can add up. You also need to purchase it for the whole length of your trip. Kids breakfast Kids can only choose from the kids’ menu when there is one available as well. If you’re purchasing the Quick-Service Dining Plan for the adults, the kids will also get quick-service, and if you purchase the other Dining Plan, which focuses more on table service, the kids will get that one as well. Sesame Chicken Kids’ Meal FULL GUIDE TO DISNEY DINING PLAN AT DISNEY WORLD You can also add this deal to other offers, which is great to know, too. Save the money where you can! Crystal Palace Don’t want to go through all of the stress of booking your Disney World trip alone? Reach out to our friends at Small World Vacations! Their experienced agents monitor your reservation for possible future savings, compare discounts, and 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. In the meantime, make sure you keep following Disney Food Blog for more tips and tricks you need for your next Disney vacation. WHICH DISNEY WORLD RESORT HOTEL IS BEST FOR YOU? DON'T DO IT ALONE! Our favorite people over at Small World Vacations are ready to help you save time, headaches, and best of all, money, when you book your Disney trip or cruise. Their agents compare current offers to find the best deal for you -- they've literally saved their guests millions of dollars since 1996. Plus, their services are 100% FREE FOR YOU! (They're DFB's recommended travel agency, and you can see why here!) So book that trip now, then sit back and enjoy planning your Disney World Trip with a DFB-approved expert! Click here for a no obligation price quote today, and let them know DFB sent you GET MORE INFO Are you going to Disney World in 2026? Tell us in the comments. The post Two Warnings for Your 2026 Disney World Hotel Stay first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

There are lots of lessons to learn in Disney World, and unfortunately, sometimes you have to learn them the hard way. Pirates of the Caribbean We’ve been there FAR too many times ourselves. Some lessons you learn once and never make again, like forgetting your ID at home (that’s a one and done), while other times, we have to learn the same lesson over and over and just HOPE we’ll finally get it (like remembering to bring rain gear…oops). When we were talking as a team about hard lessons we’ve had to learn in the parks, I thought of one that I NEVER expected to run into, but alas it happened — here’s why you should never ride this ONE Magic Kingdom attraction when you’re on a time crunch. Early in 2025, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure still used a Virtual Queue system. Since going to Disney is always a ballin’ on a budget trip for me, I wasn’t about to pay for a Lightning Lane Single Pass to guarantee myself a spot, so I figured I’d try for the second VQ drop of the day, which was at 1 PM. Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Right around 12:30 PM, I noticed that Pirates of the Caribbean only had a 15 minute wait, and knowing the ride was only about 10 minutes long, I figured that was the perfect amount of time to check the attraction off my list and have some time before the VQ dropped. I got in line, which moved pretty fast, but did have a bit of a slowdown near loading. By the time I got there, the VQ was going to drop in about twelve minutes, and I knew I’d be cutting it close. I figured I could still grab the VQ on the ride if I needed to, right? Pirates of the Caribbean Entrance WRONG. I got on my boat with exactly ten minutes until 1 PM, and was hoping for the best…until we got a few scenes in and I realized that there was no service! I mentally smacked myself — I KNEW the ride went down deeper into the building (thanks to that drop at the beginning), and so it didn’t surprise me that there was no service, but I couldn’t believe I hadn’t thought of it sooner. Pirates of the Caribbean Then, things got worse — we stopped. Boats started stacking up right before the “hey look, everything’s on fire” scene, and the clock was ticking. I got ONE bar of service and prayed to George (the supposed ghost inside the attraction) that I could grab a VQ spot, since I’d never gotten to ride Tiana’s before. Lo and behold, I got VERY lucky and had just enough service as we were all stuck there to grab myself a spot for three hours later. Getting stuck on this ride is certainly interesting! Thank goodness my return time was pretty far out, because I ended up getting evacuated off the ride! Checked that off my bucket list, which was nice, since Pirates of the Caribbean is a ride I always thought would be extra interesting to get evacuated off of (it was!), and then I had some time to kill before my Tiana’s ride, where I reflected on the fact that I would NEVER make the same mistake again. If there’s something I’m trying to book at a specific time, I’ll do whatever is needed to NOT be somewhere with no service for a solid ten minutes ahead of time. Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at Magic Kingdom So, don’t be like me. Plan ahead, and even if you’re trying to make the most of your trip and do absolutely everything you can, if a reservation is more important than riding a different attraction, or heading somewhere with not-so-great service, just stay out in the open with plenty of service until the reservation has been made! Be sure to stay tuned to DFB for all the latest Disney World news, tips, and tricks! Disney World Just Made a Game-Changing Announcement — Enjoy it While it Lasts 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 Has something like this ever happened to you? Tell us in the comments below! The post I Learned a HARD Lesson in Disney World -- Pirates of the Caribbean Nearly Cost Me a Virtual Queue Reservation first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

What’s this? What’s this? GAP just released a new Nightmare Before Christmas collection?! Jack and Sally If you’re a fan of Tim Burton’s hit Halloween movie, you NEED to get your hands on this collection. This genuinely might be one of the best GAP x Disney collections we’ve ever seen, and it makes it even better that it arrived just in time for the spooky season. DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Get this Jack Skellington Baseball Cap ©GAP Check out this Gap × Disney Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas Kids Skull Baseball Hat! This hat was made for the biggest fans of the iconic spooky film. We love the design of Jack’s mischievous eyes, and his grin curved along the brim. The colors almost give the hat a retro vibe. View online We need this Nightmare Tank Top ©GAP We’re obsessed with this Gap × Disney Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas Mini Rib Tank Top! This tank top works for fans of Nightmare Before Christmas or those looking to add a little spooky spiciness to their wardrobe. View online We love this Jack Skellington Shirt ©GAP We’re loving the look of this Gap × Disney Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas Skull T-Shirt! This shirt features the beloved face of Jack Skellington, created by faces of Jack Skellington — now that’s a spooky twist. This is the shirt we should be wearing to Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. View online Take a look at the whole collection! ©GAP You can check out the whole Nightmare Before Christmas collection online! The collection is filled with all sorts of fits that would be perfect for spooky season this year. View the whole collection online 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 Disney X GAP Just Released the Ultimate Nightmare Before Christmas Collection first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Everyone, remain calm…Disney just dropped brand-new Crocs! Jack Skellington and Sally Spooky season is underway, and Disney just released brand-new Crocs online to get us ready. These Crocs are all treat and no trick, because we’re loving them! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Get these Nightmare Before Christmas Crocs ©Disney Store Check out these Nightmare Before Christmas Crocs for adults, inspired by the fan-favorite Tim Burton holiday movie. These will go perfectly with a Halloween outfit at Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. The Crocs are designed with an all-over print of the beloved Jack Skellington and Sally. What really stands out is the giant decoration that covers almost the entire top front part of the shoes, featuring Jack and Sally. View online You can also get them for kids ©Disney Store Do you want to match with your little ones? You can also get the Nightmare Before Christmas Crocs for kids! They’re designed in the exact same way as the adult ones, with the all-over print and the giant Jack and Sally decorations. These are such a cute set! View online We love these Lotso Fuzzy Crocs ©Disney Store We’re entering the fall season, which means it’s time for cozy outfits. Nothing looks more comfortable than these Lotso Fuzzy Crocs! These Crocs have a unique design covered in pink fuzz and feature the popular villain from Toy Story 3. The Crocs even feature the huggable bear’s face on them. View online Or, you can grab the Lotso Crocs for kids ©Disney Store Disney also dropped a pair of Lotso Crocs for kids! Sorry, kiddos, these ones aren’t fuzzy and cozy like the adult shoes. They still feature the iconic Pixar villain and have lots of smaller pink charms covering the Crocs. 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 2 New Disney X Crocs Collections Just Dropped first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article