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Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando have revealed the final days of operation for a handful of attractions at Magic Kingdom and Universal Studios theme parks. They’ll all be unavailable by the end of summer. The last day to experience Tom Sawyer Island, the Liberty Square Riverboat and Rivers of America will be July 7. Those attractions opened in 1973, about 18 months after Magic Kingdom first opened. The final day to ride Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit roller coaster at Universal will be Aug. 17. The thrill ride debuted in 2009. These shutdowns were previously announced, but a precise closing date was not announced until this week. Two “Cars”-themed rides are going into the Tom Sawyer Island area as part of an expansion of Frontierland. Disney announced some theming based on the (fictional) Piston Peak National park. “Inside Piston Peak, guests will be able to see and explore the visitor lodge, Ranger HQ, trails and more all set within the Disney and Pixar ‘Cars’ universe,” according to a post on the official Disney Parks Blog. Trees will be a natural barrier between the “Cars” attractions and and other parts of Frontierland and Liberty Square, the Disney post said. No timeframe has been announced for the Magic Kingdom expansion, which will also include a villains themed land. Tom Sawyer Island has been a low-tech, kids-run-free attraction with old-timey activities to explore such as Superstition Bridge, Fort Langhorn, Tom’s Landing, Poor Ole Jim’s Shack, Harper’s Mill, Old Scratch’s Mystery Mine and Barrel Bridge. Universal has not revealed what will replace Rip Ride Rockit, which is wedged between soundstages and the theme park’s Music Plaza. The coaster has included on-board audio and the ability to choose between dozens of songs — including a secret-song menu — in several genres. In 2023, the options were reduced to five songs. The ride also was known for its dramatic 17-story, straight-up lift hill right out of the loading station. An earlier announcement indicated that Rockit would close in September. Email me at dbevil@orlandosentinel.com. BlueSky: @themeparksdb. Threads account: @dbevil. X account: @themeparks. Subscribe to the Theme Park Rangers newsletter at orlandosentinel.com/newsletters. View the full article

If your coffee routine could use a little more pixie dust (and a lot more cuteness), Target’s latest Disney mug drop might be calling your name. Target Whether you’re team Stitch, Pooh Bear, or Remy, these brand-new ceramic mugs bring serious charm — and some very generous pours. DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Disney Lilo & Stitch “Ohana” Ceramic Camper Mug ©Target Target understood the assignment with this one. This 20-ounce camper-style mug features Stitch in all his mischievous glory. The art is full-color, bold, and basically says, yes, I do eat three breakfasts and cause chaos before 10 a.m. If you’re the kind of person who needs an XL mug of coffee just to open your emails, this one’s for you. View on Target Disney Lilo & Stitch “All Hail The King” Ceramic Glitter Mug ©Target Now this one is pure personality. It features Stitch dressed as a lion, because obviously. It’s fun, a little chaotic, and perfect for anyone who fully relates to Stitch’s energy before their morning caffeine. It holds 20 ounces, so again, it has BIG cup vibes. There’s also a subtle glitter effect baked into the ceramic that gives it that little extra flair without being too much. View on Target Disney Winnie The Pooh “Sweet As Can Bee” Ceramic Mug ©Target Pooh Bear is bringing the cozy energy we all need. This mug has a honey-dripping design around the rim, plus a happy Pooh mid-smackerel. It’s a whole vibe — think Saturday morning, oversized hoodie, something sweet in your mug, no plans. It holds up to 20 ounces and has that glossy finish that feels good in your hand. Honestly, it’s not just a mug — it’s a moment. View on Target Disney Winnie The Pooh “Sweet Like Hunny” Tapered Pottery Mug ©Target This one’s more on the rustic side — a bit more “storybook cottage in the woods” than bold and glossy. The soft yellow and tan colors give it a warm, earthy look, and the tapered shape makes it feel extra special. There’s Pooh, of course, happily sipping honey with buzzing bees nearby (iconic behavior). This one holds 14 ounces — perfect for tea, cocoa, or that herbal brew you swear helps you sleep. It’s giving “quiet joy,” and we’re here for it. View on Target Disney Tinker Bell in Lantern 24 Ounce Ceramic Tiki Mug ©Target Yes, you read that right — 24 ounces. This is a lantern-style tiki mug featuring four different poses of Tinker Bell looking fabulous and feisty, just like we like her. The matte brown and green glaze gives it a rustic fantasy feel, kind of like something you’d find in the Lost Boys’ kitchen. Whether you’re sipping a late-night tea or hosting a Disney-themed happy hour, this mug brings the aesthetic and the capacity. View on Target Disney Pixar Ratatouille Remy Ceramic Tiki Mug ©Target This one is tiny but mighty — just like Remy. It’s styled like a tiki mug with a cool blue-gray glaze, and it stands 9 inches tall. It holds about 10 ounces, so it’s smaller than the others, but still perfect for espresso, wine, or a little fancy mocktail. Whether you’re a Ratatouille superfan or just love a mug that doubles as kitchen decor, this one’s a standout. View on Target 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! Shop for More Disney Essentials on Our Amazon StorefrontThe post 6 New Disney Mugs Have Been Released at Target first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

For Global Running Day on June 4, Disney is spotlighting the thousands of athletes and cast members that participate in runDisney race weekends. Not just to shout out their impressive achievements on the course, but also for the good they do beyond the finish line. That’s because, among the thousands of athletes who participate in runDisney race weekends, many choose to shed a jacket or extra layer they no longer need along the course. And participants bring extra layers to leave behind knowingly — not to merely be put in the lost-and-found or discarded, but rather to go to a good cause. The clothing is collected, cleaned and donated to Harvest Time International, a Florida-based non-profit organization supporting families in need. After the 2025 Walt Disney World Marathon alone, a record 24,000 pounds of clothing was donated to Harvest Time. Think of how many families this helped! “It’s an incredible feeling knowing our guests and cast members are contributing to an important cause. We’re grateful for the opportunity to help support families across Central Florida,” Tajiana Ancora-Brown, Director of External Affairs at Walt Disney World, said. After the last runner crosses the finish line, Walt Disney World’s custodial cast members collect and prepare the clothing for transport to Textile Services, the resort’s on-site laundry facility. After an impressive cleaning and drying process, cast members package the items with care to make their way to a new home. “The clothing donated during runDisney race weekends makes a real difference for the families we serve at Harvest Time International. Once sorted, these donations are distributed through our outreach programs and respond to urgent needs. Every donation helps restore dignity and stability for families facing difficult circumstances. We’re deeply grateful for the generosity, care, and coordination that make it possible for these items to continue their journey and offer families a fresh start,” Trae Brogdon, Director of GIK Partnerships at Harvest Time International, said. Thanks to the kindness of our guests and the dedication of our cast, we’re able to provide support to those who may not be able to purchase clothes for their families. And just imagine, the clothing that helped a runDisney athlete cross the finish line could now help introduce a young person to the joys and benefits of running. Walt Disney World’s dedication to its community doesn’t stop with runDisney: recent initiatives include the resort hosting its second-ever Once Upon A Wish Party — a multi-day large-scale wish-granting event where nearly 50 children facing critical illnesses and their families were swept away into their own Disney Princess stories; providing schools in Central Florida with the resources they need to launch sustainable theater programs through the nationwide Disney Musicals in Schools program; and hosting the 2025 Special Olympics Florida State Summer Games at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex for 2,300 athletes from across the state. The post Beyond the Finish Line, runDisney Donations Help Families in Need appeared first on Disney Experiences. View the full article

For Global Running Day on June 4, Disney is spotlighting the thousands of athletes and cast members that participate in runDisney race weekends. Not just to shout out their impressive achievements on the course, but also for the good they do beyond the finish line. That’s because, among the thousands of athletes who participate in runDisney race weekends, many choose to shed a jacket or extra layer they no longer need along the course. And participants bring extra layers to leave behind knowingly — not to merely be put in the lost-and-found or discarded, but rather to go to a good cause. The clothing is collected, cleaned and donated to Harvest Time International, a Florida-based non-profit organization supporting families in need. After the 2025 Walt Disney World Marathon alone, a record 24,000 pounds of clothing was donated to Harvest Time. Think of how many families this helped! “It’s an incredible feeling knowing our guests and cast members are contributing to an important cause. We’re grateful for the opportunity to help support families across Central Florida,” Tajiana Ancora-Brown, Director of External Affairs at Walt Disney World, said. After the last runner crosses the finish line, Walt Disney World’s custodial cast members collect and prepare the clothing for transport to Textile Services, the resort’s on-site laundry facility. After an impressive cleaning and drying process, cast members package the items with care to make their way to a new home. “The clothing donated during runDisney race weekends makes a real difference for the families we serve at Harvest Time International. Once sorted, these donations are distributed through our outreach programs and respond to urgent needs. Every donation helps restore dignity and stability for families facing difficult circumstances. We’re deeply grateful for the generosity, care, and coordination that make it possible for these items to continue their journey and offer families a fresh start,” Trae Brogdon, Director of GIK Partnerships at Harvest Time International, said. Thanks to the kindness of our guests and the dedication of our cast, we’re able to provide support to those who may not be able to purchase clothes for their families. And just imagine, the clothing that helped a runDisney athlete cross the finish line could now help introduce a young person to the joys and benefits of running. Walt Disney World’s dedication to its community doesn’t stop with runDisney: recent initiatives include the resort hosting its second-ever Once Upon A Wish Party — a multi-day large-scale wish-granting event where nearly 50 children facing critical illnesses and their families were swept away into their own Disney Princess stories; providing schools in Central Florida with the resources they need to launch sustainable theater programs through the nationwide Disney Musicals in Schools program; and hosting the 2025 Special Olympics Florida State Summer Games at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex for 2,300 athletes from across the state. The post Beyond the Finish Line, runDisney Donations Help Families in Need appeared first on Disney Experiences. View the full article

Goofy has taken over EPCOT, and we’re here for it! GoofyCore in EPCOT For Cool Kid Summer, Disney World’s character-filled event running till September 1, Goofy has rethemed CommuniCore Hall to GoofyCore. He’s brought in games, DJs, entertainment Cast Members, and, of course, himself to play with guests of all ages. Now he’s taken over a whole food booth, so let’s see what he’s serving up. The food booth on the side of CommuniCore has been transformed into Grab-n-Goof with brand-new food options. When we hear the words “new food,” we’re booking park reservations and running out to see what’s happening! Grab-n-Goof We started off with the Mac and Cheese Bites for $5.50. Nope, these aren’t corn dog nuggets! These are served with ranch, and the outside was super crunchy when we bit into it. The inside was classic Disney mac and cheese, which was incredibly creamy. While we wish the filling were a bit more unique, it’s hard not to like a mac and cheese bite. Obsessed The outside is a bit thicker than we’ve seen on other bites, but with that crunchy exterior, we don’t mind! We loved them! Then we had the Pepperoni Pizza Ravioli for $6. Pepperoni Pizza Ravioli This is served with parmesan and marinara, and it feels like a combination of a dumpling and a ravioli, all fried. The filling doesn’t completely fill the shell, but it was cheesy. It’s more similar to cheese we find on pizza as compared to a mozzarella stick, so keep that in mind when you bite into it — it might not be as gooey and stringy. There were small chunks of pepperoni and herbs inside, and the outside is crunchy with a lovely dusting of parmesan. The inside The marinara sauce on the side was tomato-forward and sweet, and we really enjoyed dipping our ravioli into it. There was a bit of spice, but we wouldn’t call them spicy, but those who are picky in that department might want to take a small bite first. It definitely reminded us of a pepperoni pizza! Dippable and delicious For dessert, we had the Cookies and Cream Ravioli for $5.50. Cookies and cream for the win! This is a sandwich cookie-crusted chocolate cream ravioli topped with chocolate ganache and vanilla cream. This dessert is sweet, and we loved it that way! The exterior is the same as the Pepperoni Pizza Ravioli, and the filling here reminded us of a chocolate cake pop. Filling! It’s topped with Oreo crumbles, drizzled with chocolate sauce, and served with marshmallow-flavored icing on the side. We loved the crunch on the outside and the moist inside, and if you’re in a sweet treat mood, this might be the snack for you. We love a side of icing There’s even a special drink at the booth! We got Goofy’s Gone Fishing for $6.50. Gone Fishing! It’s a blue raspberry lemonade with strawberry boba pearls and a choice of fish or shark gummy candies. There was so much popping boba, which made the drink so much fun! They had a strong raspberry flavor with a bit of sweet strawberry. The drink itself is very sweet, with that blue raspberry flavor being the most forward. Fish and sharks! We couldn’t pick between sharks and fish, so we got both. The fish were on the bottom and the sharks on top, and they give the drink a little bit of chew, which brings on the Goofy fun. It’s even served in a plastic fish bowl cup, and while the flavors might be on the simple side, we loved it and can’t wait to grab it again this summer. Our spread! We’re not sure there are any misses at this booth! The food was fun and playful, but still provided solid flavors. While the flavors weren’t wildly unique, they were tastes the whole family can enjoy and snack on together. While we head on to GoofyCore to hang out with Goofy himself, make sure you keep following Disney Food Blog for all the food reviews you need for your next visit. THESE 10 NEW DISNEY WORLD ADDITIONS WILL MAKE YOUR TRIP 10X BETTER Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Are you going to EPCOT this summer? Tell us something you’re looking forward to in the comments! The post REVIEW: Goofy Has Taken Over EPCOT and We Tried His NEW Food Booth first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Dining at a Michelin Star restaurant is a special experience, and we’re going to explain exactly why! ©Disney Getting three Michelin Stars is considered the highest honor in the restaurant industry. The best of the best restaurants — like Disney World’s Capa at the Four Seasons Orlando and Victoria & Albert’s at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa — are recognized by the Michelin Guide each year for their excellence, and we’re going to walk you through what these honors mean and how restaurants can achieve them! For those who don’t know, the Michelin Guides are a series of guidebooks published by Michelin since 1900 that not only inform but also provide recommendations. Place Setting at Victoria & Albert’s Per the OFFICIAL Michelin Guide website, “A Michelin Star is awarded to restaurants offering outstanding cooking.” ANY RESTAURANT CAN QUALIFY. Any restaurant currently in the Michelin Guide already qualifies to be judged for a Star, but any restaurant can request consideration, and the Guide may also evaluate restaurants recommended by readers. There is NO LIMIT to how many restaurants can win Michelin Stars in a year. Great cooking is great cooking. Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure The Guide takes into account five universal criteria: Quality of ingredients Harmony of flavors Mastery of techniques Personality of the chef as expressed through their cuisine Menu consistency and consistency over time Anyone Can Cook! The award system includes one, two, and three Stars that are given out annually. Their differences are as follows: One Michelin Star: Awarded to restaurants using top quality ingredients — “where dishes with distinct flavours are prepared to a consistently high standard.” Two Michelin Stars: Awarded when “the personality and talent of the chef are evident in their expertly crafted dishes; their food is refined and inspired.” Three Michelin Stars: The highest honor awarded for “the superlative cooking of chefs at the peak of their profession; their cooking is elevated to an art form and some of their dishes are destined to become classics.” Seafood Paella Restaurants are reassessed on an annual basis — meaning they can lose or gain Stars each year, including losing all of their stars altogether if they don’t maintain a high standard of cooking. Decor, style, and service ARE NOT factored into the judging. Wine lists are considered, but the Michelin Guide believes that restaurants that are serious about their food usually have interesting wine lists. Capa Speaking of judging, Michelin Inspectors are anonymous and are all full-time employees with former restaurant and hospitality experience. Per the website, “Once several inspectors have eaten at a restaurant, they then discuss their experiences as a team in order to make a final decision.” Inspectors will visit a restaurant several times to get a clear picture of its consistency — even visiting during different seasons, weekends, AND weekdays, and different meal services. They try “as many dishes as possible over the course of the year” as they search for that high level of consistency. Sometimes they eat alone, in pairs, and in groups — but the final decision is made collectively. Victoria and Albert’s Stars rely heavily on head chefs, but if they leave a restaurant with Michelin Stars, those Stars are not automatically pulled. “Sometimes the restaurant will promote the sous chef who is of equal talent to his or her predecessor; others might hire a talented chef from another restaurant. We will simply return to the restaurant and see how well we eat.” When a head chef is away, the kitchen staff usually remains the same, so consistency is still expected. If it’s not, the restaurant is in danger of losing Stars or consideration altogether. It’s Chef Ramsay ©PRNewsFoto/Paris Las Vegas | Obtained Via the Gazette The Michelin Guide wants it known: “There is no secret, mathematical formula – we’re just looking for really great cooking. Some Michelin Stars are innovative, some traditional; some offer set menus, others à la carte; some are casual places, others formal.” They recognize that not everyone will agree on each Starred restaurant, and that’s a good thing. At the end of the day, these are simply (well-regarded) recommendations. Cerdo The Michelin Guide also has the Bib Gourmand — an award for great value that highlights simple, yet skilful cooking at an affordable price — as well as the newer Green Star, which is awarded to restaurants that pioneer in sustainable gastronomy. ©Disney For all kinds of dining tips, updates, and more, stay tuned right here at DFB! NEWS: Disney World Restaurant Named One of the Best Restaurants in 2025 Following Michelin Star Award 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 dined at a Michelin Star restaurant? Share your experience in the comments below! The post What is a Michelin Star, and How Does a Restaurant Win the Award? first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

NEW Stage Shows at Disney’s Hollywood Studios! Which To See First? | Walt Disney WorldView the full article

“Drawn to Life,” the theatrical show from Cirque du Soleil and Disney, is offering free children’s tickets to select performances through Aug. 28. The free admission to the Disney Springs show is part of Walt Disney World’s Cool Kid Summer promotion. “Drawn to Life” is a child-centered show, telling the story of young Julie, who is coming to terms with the death of her father, a Disney animator. Julie dives into the world of Disney animation, where she discovers hope, joy and love endure. Her adventures, in Cirque du Soleil style, involve encounters with exciting circus performers and silly clowns. The physical feats inspire oohs and ahs, the emotion of the story touches the heart. “Drawn to Life,” which is also a salute to the power and legacy of Disney animation, opened in November 2021. Signature acts include a team of unicyclists and an Icarian Games duo, who perform a sort of leg-based human juggling. The Cool Kid Summer program provides extra character encounters and children’s activities in Disney’s theme parks and hotels. With this offer, the purchase of a full-priced adult ticket to any Thursday performance of “Drawn to Life” enables the buyer to receive a free child’s ticket, with a maximum of four free tickets. Adult tickets generally start at about $68. Showtimes on most Thursdays for the 90-minute show are at 5:30 and 9 p.m. In the fine print of the free-ticket deal: If buying at the Disney Springs box office, mention the “Kids Free” offer. Tickets are subject to availability, and some exclusions or block-out dates may apply. The tickets are subject to taxes and fees and are non-refundable and non-exchangeable. For more information or to buy tickets online, go to cirquedusoleil.com/drawn-to-life. To take advantage of the special summer offer, click on “See Tickets” and then select the “Deals” tab. Follow me at facebook.com/matthew.j.palm or email me at mpalm@orlandosentinel.com. Find more entertainment news and reviews at orlandosentinel.com/entertainment or sign up to receive our weekly emailed Entertainment newsletter. View the full article

McDonald’s fans, we’ve CONFIRMED big news for a returning menu item! McDonald’s We love keeping up with the ever-changing menu at McDonald’s, and now they’ve confirmed when a returning fan favorite menu item will make its official debut. So grab your car keys, put on your favorite Crocs, and get ready to hit the drive-thru SOON! McDonald’s menu items seem to have us in a chokehold lately. Between all the nostalgic releases of everything from decorated glasses to the return of popular collaborations for kids’ meals and novelty sauces, there’s no telling what kinds of things they’ll pull back into their menu lineup next. McDonald’s Last year, we cheered when McDonald’s confirmed we would see the return of its Snack Wraps sometime in 2025, and now it seems we’re even closer to reuniting with them once again. Fans of McDonald’s Snack Wraps have been without the beloved menu item since it was taken off McDonald’s menus way back in 2016. ©McDonald’s It seems the outpouring of support for the Snack Wrap to return has finally had its cries answered, and when we received the text from McDonald’s confirming its return, we even got a date. Mark your calendars now because McDonald’s will once again start serving Snack Wraps beginning July 10th! Included in the message, McDonald’s also wrote, “Never thought this day would come but thanks to YOU its rly happening” Our text from McDonald’s While this is exciting news to know that it will be returning to McDonald’s menus so soon, we’re not entirely sure how long they could be hanging around. So if you’re looking to get your hands on a snack wrap before they disappear again, you won’t want to wait around too long! This will be the latest of McDonald’s returning menu items to reappear in the last few months, and we’re hoping that their returns mean we could see a trend of past favorites returning, even if they’re only around for a limited time. We’re talking about all the latest food trends here at DFB! Check back in with us for even more. McDonald’s Just Gave Us 12 NEW Reasons To Grab a Happy Meal  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! What’s your go-to order at McDonald’s? Tell us what we need to be ordering on our next visit in the comments below! The post We Know Where Every McDonald's Fan Will Be On July 10th first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Here at DFB we love to try all sorts of eats, treats, and drinks from all over the place — and that includes galaxies far far away! Galaxy’s Edge We recently went to Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge in Disneyland, and a certain drink caught our eye. There were literally cookies in this coffee drink — “a surprise to be sure, but a welcome one.” Come with us to try it out! There are a ton of places to get snacks and drinks from Galaxy’s Edge. You’ll often find fun Star Wars-themed treats, and we recommend you eventually try them all (especially if you’re a Star Wars fan). We recently went to Kat Saka’s Kettle, a snack kiosk with a couple of different popcorn flavors. We love the popcorn there, but what really stood out to us was a NEW drink! Black Caf Slushy! Introducing the Black Caf Slushy for $7.99! This drink consisted of cold brew slushy, chocolate cookie sweet cream, and creme-filled chocolate cookie crumbles. Yes, we weren’t kidding when we said it was filled with cookies. We’ll let you know right off the bat, we LOVED this! Look at this thing! It was the perfect cold and refreshing sweet treat on a hot day (and trust us, it was hot)! There is a lot of chocolate going on with this drink, which makes sense with the Oreo toppings and chocolate cookie sweet cream. We honestly did think this might be a little TOO rich with all of the chocolate. However, the slushy actually slightly watered down the chocolate. On top of that, there’s a bit of vanilla from the Oreos and sweet cream that offsets and pairs well with the chocolate flavor. It was so refreshing! If you get this drink, we recommend mixing it well! When we took our first sip, the cold brew flavor was pretty strong. That first sip basically gave us almost no chocolate. Once we mixed the sweet cream and Oreos, it definitely toned down that cold brew flavor. Get ready for chocolate If you’ve ever had the original black caf cold brew and loved it, or if you love Oreos, OR if you’re just looking to get a sweet treat to cool you down on a hot day — we HIGHLY recommend this! With every drink, you need a snack to pair with it. So we also decided to try a new, unique snack you can only get at Kat Saka’s! Huttese Spiced Cheese Kernals! We don’t know if this is a snack Jabba the Hutt likes, but we had to try the Huttese Spiced Cheese Kernals for $6.49! You may hear “kernels” and think popcorn, but this is not that. This is cheesy white corn and four-chile rub. Sweet, cheesy, and creamy At first, you just get a sweet, creamy, and cheesy corn flavor — and then the spice kicks in! We’re conflicted because this was delicious, but the spice was definitely getting to us a little bit. If you can’t handle spicy stuff whatsoever, we probably would say to avoid this one. If you’ve ever had elote, it was like that, but in a cup minus a few ingredients. If you like elote or a snack with a kick, then you’d like this! The spice was tough on us in the heat. Galaxy’s Edge You’ll find Kat Saka’s Kettle in the Marketplace. Stop by when you can to give these two new items a try! We’re always trying new foods and drinks, so make sure to follow us at the Disney Food Blog for more reviews. 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! Are you going to try these new items? Let us know in the comments! The post REVIEW: There Are Cookies in Disneyland’s NEW Coffee Drink and We Ain’t Mad! first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Who wants a stellar flight deal and a great excuse to come to Disney World? We do! Cinderella Castle! Southwest is having a new promotion, and this one is one of our favorites! Welcome to the WOW Sale! You can get up to 50% off base fares between June 3rd and 5th. You need to use the code WOWZERS at checkout, and that’s all! Southwest It’s only available for certain dates, it’s available, and if you’re flying continentally, you won’t be able to book on the following blockout dates: September 1st October 13th November 21st to 26th November 28th to December 1st Southwest Planes There’s only a certain number of tickets available with this deal, so make sure you book soon if you’re ready to fly. Southwest While we would suggest always booking a ticket to Disney World to enjoy all of the summer offerings, you can book to lots of different airports if you’re not going to Florida. Well, you could also book a flight to Disneyland (but you didn’t hear that from us). Southwest Disneyland is celebrating its 70th anniversary with a massive celebration, featuring new snacks, ride overlays, and entertainment. 70th Anniversary Castle Tribute in Disneyland Disney World is having a Cool Kid Summer with tons of characters, dance parties, and activities, too! Stitch at Cool Kid Summer No matter where you fly, don’t forget to use that WOWZERS promotion code and book before 11:59 PM on June 5th. Want to book a Disney vacation without the hassle? We recommend our friends at Small World Vacations! They’re experts in the industry and know everything you need for a perfect trip. They’ll help with all the details so you can sit back and relax and enjoy your vacation stress-free. Make sure you’re following Disney Food Blog for flight deals, travel news, and everything you need to know before your next vacation. 5 THINGS I WISH I KNEW BEFORE WAITING 45 MINUTES IN LINE AT THE ORLANDO AIRPORT 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 coming to Disney World this summer? Tell us what you’re looking forward to in the comments! The post Southwest Has 50% Off Select Flights But You Need to Book FAST first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

There is SO much going on with the new Cars area in Magic Kingdom! Piston Peak ©Disney We recently learned that the new area will be called Piston Peak, we got some insight on new queue details, and we snuck a peek at a brand new map! While that has all been very exciting, there is one thing that we think might be our favorite part of the new area, and it’s super simple. See what we’re talking about right here! There will be so much to see and do in Piston Peak! The new area will feature two attractions, a new character named Ranger J. Autobahn Woodlore, and so much shade. While we’re sad to be losing Tom Sawyer and the Rivers of America, we won’t lie and say we aren’t excited for the new changes. Cars Area Concept Art ©Disney One thing we’re super excited about is a smaller detail that might be a bit niche. Within the new area, there will be a large geyser called Old Tankful. (Get it? Like Old Faithful?) This geyser will erupt periodically throughout the day. ©Disney Not only will it erupt throughout the day, but you can also race around it! While the design isn’t set in stone, we can see this being a really fun and simple way to enjoy the land. One thing we will miss about Tom Sawyer Island is the interactive playgrounds, bridges, and more for our kiddos to burn off some steam while parents catch a water break. Tom Sawyer Island cave While it won’t be an entire playground, we like to think that Old Tankful will offer that fun, interactive, playful element that we’ll be losing with Tom Sawyer’s permanent closure on July 7th, 2025. The entire area will feature tons of rainbow geysers, water features, and more, which has made us even more excited. ©Disney This is just one of the little things we’re excited to see come to life when the land opens. Disney has yet to hint when the land will officially open. We are eagerly awaiting more details, so make sure you keep following DFB for the latest Disney news updates. Learn More About Piston Peak Here Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Are you excited about this new area? Tell us in the comments! The post This Might Be My Favorite Part Of The New 'Cars' Land In Magic Kingdom first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

There is a lot of Disney merchandise online, and we found six pieces on Amazon to bring the magic back home. Disney World From water bottles to autograph books and so much in between, these six souvenirs can make your next Disney World trip a little bit easier or keep the magic alive after your trip. DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. First, we have this Moana Owala Bottle. ©Amazon Staying hydrated is essential at home and in theme parks, and with this super cool Moana bottle, you’ll want to drink more water. Owalas are our go-to park water bottle, and we love how easy the lid is and how our water stays cold all day. This is brand-new and we’re expecting to sell it fast! SHOP ON AMAZON Next is this Minnie Mouse Springtime Loungefly. ©Amazon Did you know you can get official Loungefly Bags on Amazon? This is where we find some of our favorites! This one is screaming spring and summer, and we love the pink sequins, too. This is also new, and we think it’s going to go fast! SHOP ON AMAZON Check out this Disney Bitzee! Bitzee Mickey! This is a small game featuring 30 different Disney characters. You’ll get to enjoy iconic moments from different characters, such as Mickey Mouse putting on his sorcerer’s hat and Stitch surfing. SHOP ON AMAZON We love this Autograph Book, too! ©Amazon If you’re heading to Disney World soon, this is a great purchase to get you excited about your trip. The best part? It’s currently 40% off, so it’s only around $9. We don’t even want to talk about what it costs in the parks. SHOP ON AMAZON For our Stitch summer, we found this Stitch Stuffed Animal! ©Amazon He is SO cute! He’s eating a huge piece of watermelon and looks so soft and cuddly. Stitch is really the star of this summer, and this plush is a great way to celebrate the season. SHOP ON AMAZON Last up is this Touchland Disney Sanitizer. ©Amazon We didn’t know hand sanitizer could be so fun! It has big Mickey ears, and Mickey himself is popping up from the bottom. It even has a keyring to clip it onto your bag. SHOP ON AMAZON Here at DFB, we are obsessed with Disney merchandise, and we love sharing the best with you! If you like what you’re seeing, make sure you keep following us here to stay up to date on new products and Disney news. Check out our Amazon Storefront for more!The post 6 Disney Souvenirs You'll Regret Not Buying From Amazon Today first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Over the years, Disney has faced several lawsuits. Cinderella Castle We’ve seen lawsuits filed for policy changes, for injuries from theme park visits, and even lawsuits filed by former Cast Members. One of the most frequent ones we’ve seen is people suing Disney World for water park injuries, and now we can add another lawsuit to that list. Click Orlando reports that Disney World has been targeted in a lawsuit after a man was hurt going down a waterslide at Blizzard Beach Water Park. The lawsuit states that Eugene Strickland visited Blizzard Beach back in 2021 and rode the Downhill Double Dipper. Downhill Double Dipper The waterslide has riders racing on side-by-side slides to the finish line. It has a height requirement of 48 inches, but the lawsuit claims that its weight restriction is 300 lbs, and that Strickland exceeded that weight limit at the time of his visit. Blizzard Beach “While sliding down… (Strickland) became momentarily airborne as a result of the ride’s ‘exhilarating speeds’ and design, resulting in Disney’s inner tube becoming forcibly, suddenly and unexpectedly dislodged from underneath (Strickland’s) body,” the lawsuit reads. ©Disney The lawsuit alleges that Strickland suffered “permanent catastrophic injuries” due to slamming into the hard plastic of the slide. Strickland is accusing the company of negligence and failing to maintain safe premises, and the lawsuit is asking for over $50,000 in damages. Blizzard Beach In the past few years, we’ve seen several waterslide-related lawsuits in Disney World, including two that involved the Humunga Kowabunga attraction at Typhoon Lagoon. In one of those cases, a woman ended up with a brain injury. Humunga Kowabunga We’ll make sure to keep you in the loop with any more Disney news. To learn more about the water parks, check out the video below. Stay tuned to DFB for more Disney World news. Click Here to See What to Eat at Blizzard Beach! 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 been to Blizzard Beach? Tell us in the comments! The post Disney World Guest Files Lawsuit for K After Water Park Injury first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Disney Vacation Club members — there’s a NEW CHANGE in DVC’s policy you’ll need to be aware of before you book your next Disney hotel stay! ©D23 Becoming a Disney Vacation Club member can be a rewarding experience for future Disney World and Disneyland vacation stays (and it doesn’t hurt when the perks just keep coming)! But, even though these perks and discounts might be a huge part of the program that attracts members to sign up, it’s also seemed to spark a new problem that Disney is looking to crack down on SOON! Disney’s version of a timeshare, or Disney Vacation Club, has become a popular option for Disney fans looking to book their next Disney trips over the last few decades. This program allows its members to buy into a points allotment that is then used to book their next Disney World or Disneyland hotel stays — and can be quite the money saver if you’re traveling a lot, tend to book the Deluxe hotel category, or have a larger family and need more space to vacation together. ©Disney Members have been fairly flexible in using these points at all kinds of Disney destinations beyond hotel stays, including booking staterooms onboard Disney Cruise Line ships and taking up adventure with an Adventures By Disney vacation. As an alternative, several members have relied on the ability to rent or sell points out for booked hotel stays to non-members looking to try out the program. In turn, this allows the renter to pay the member cash value for a stay that they would otherwise have had to book directly with Disney (and probably at a higher price). It’s also not out of the realm of possibilities that companies or individuals looking to become DVC members might have zeroed in on this system as a way to turn a profit over time after a set investment. Copper Creek deluxe studio room This practice has long been believed to be a contributing factor to one of the biggest frustrations as a Disney Vacation Club member. Over the more recent years, as the popularity of the program has increased and more members are being added, it’s becoming more and more common to hear members complain that the availability they once enjoyed getting to book their preferred hotel stay has decreased. When you buy into DVC as a member, your points are assigned a “home” resort on a purchase contract. This contract’s points can be used for hotel stay bookings as early as 11 months in advance of your trip since you own a deeded real estate interest at that hotel. However, one of the perks of being an owner with full access to membership benefits from DVC is that you can choose to stay at a hotel that’s not your home resort as long as it’s available within the system and not already claimed by that particular hotel’s existing owners at 7 months in advance of your travel dates. Oftentimes, members are finding that choosing availability for their entire stay (even at their “home” resorts) has become rather difficult, leading to having to choose a split stay over multiple Disney hotels for one vacation or forfeiting their plans completely in favor of another time or year. Island Tower It seems these complaints have trickled up to Disney Vacation Club, and they’re looking to make changes that they hope will reflect positively for their members. Recently, DVC updated its membership terms and conditions for bookings and added some stark stipulations for future bookings. Now, when members go to book their next hotel stays using points, you will need to acknowledge that this booking will be used for personal use rather than commercial profit. One of the points in the updated document outlines explicitly, “You agree that any reservations made under your membership are solely for personal use and not for commercial purposes, as required by governing documents for each DVC Resort, including but not limited to the Declaration of Condominium and Membership Agreement. DVCM reserves the right to interpret personal use and determine if reservations are booked for personal or commercial purposes in its sole discretion.” ©Disney The document goes on to read, “Personal use may include enjoying the benefits of a DVC Membership with family or allowing use of any reserved Vacation Home to friends and family on occasion. Additionally, personal use means that the member does not regularly or frequently rent/sell reservations booked using their membership.” DVC Lounge in EPCOT So what does all this mean? Well, we called Disney Vacation Club ourselves to make sure we didn’t misinterpret. What one supervisor told us is that this update intends to crack down on folks who typically use these memberships for profit over actually enjoying personal vacations with them. While the occasional rental is allowed under the outlined terms, they do strongly discourage trading booked stays under membership points for any compensation. He also mentioned that when you make a booking going forward, that “personal use” checkbox will have to be checked to complete the booking. Now that DVC aims to keep closer tabs on bookings made that are NOT in members’ names, too many occurrences could flag your membership for review with member services for further explanation. Disney Vacation Club So it seems this new update may not be such a bad thing for existing members. This appears to be the answer that DVC has come up with for now about booking availability concerns. When we pushed a little further to ask about situations where members book these stays to pay for other kinds of Disney vacations where the point exchange isn’t as favorable (such as renting your points out for hotel stays and in turn using that money from the renter to pay cash instead of using points for Disney Cruise Line sailings), we were told at this time there’s no conversation yet around revising the points charts for other Disney vacations. DVC kiosk in Animal Kingdom All in all though, it will be interesting to watch over and see if this new crackdown of policy will help DVC booking availability, if it will have any notable effect to it at all, and if we’ll see an increase in members with large point contracts selling back their memberships to Disney Vacation Club or other interested parties. We’re always on the lookout to bring you the latest Disney news, changes, updates, and more! Be sure to check back in with us at DFB soon. 17 Perks REVEALED for Disney Vacation Club Members This Summer!  Want More Details About Disney World’s Hotels? Ranking of ALL of Disney World’s Hotels The “I’m So Tired; Just Tell Me What To Do” Guide To Choosing the Perfect Disney World Hotel 13 Critical Things You’re FORGETTING About When Booking a Disney World Hotel 8 Gadgets You Need for Your Disney World Hotel Room The Surprising Things You Won’t Find in Your Disney World Hotel Room The Secret Way to Stay in Disney World’s Hotels for LESS! What's New at the Disney World Hotels All About Disney World's Resort Hotel Refillable Mugs Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the latest Disney World hotel news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! Do you think DVC’s updated terms and conditions for members will help the booking availability? Tell us in the comments below! The post NEWS: Disney Vacation Club Quietly Updates Points Policy first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Disney World is getting a Cars-themed land called Piston Peak, and a brand new map was dropped for it. Coming to Frontierland at Magic Kingdom, a new area themed to Pixar Animation Studios’ “Cars” will leave Radiator Springs and head to the wilderness with two new attractions including an off-road race. We’ve been obsessing over all the hidden details on the map, and we’re sharing our favorites with you. Here’s a look at the map! Piston Peak ©Disney Starting off, we have Ranger J. Autobahn Woodlore. Ranger J. Autobahn Woodlore ©Disney That name might sound familiar because his name is based on Ranger J. Audubon Woodlore, a park ranger from Disney’s Humphrey the Bear and Donald Duck cartoons. ©Disney Another part we noticed is how the water from Tiana’s Bayou Adventure connects to the water for Piston Peak. We’re not sure if this was a feature they just added for the map, but it would definitely connect the two together. ©Disney Speaking of the river, we have a river! It might not mean much to some, but Piston Peak will be taking over Tom Sawyer Island and the Rivers of America, so while it won’t be a full river, it will still be a great water element tied in. Rivers of America One element that makes our little Disney nerd hearts happy is the rainbow geysers. These were originally part of the Big Thunder Mountain Railroad concept art for Disneyland. ©Disney That looks like a barrel bridge to us! This must be a fun nod to Tom Sawyer Island. Notice that big tree? It resembles a sequoia, which ties in with the Rocky Mountain National Park inspiration, but we also think it looks like the petrified tree from Disneyland. ©Disney Speaking of nods to Tom Sawyer Island, the white, snow-capped mountain looks very cave-like. It looks like the road racing ride goes through the mountain, but maybe there will be some opportunities to walk inside it, too. ©Disney It also appears that the boardwalk originally surrounding the Rivers of America will remain, which we love, as it allows us to avoid the crowds and sneak back to Big Thunder Mountain and Tiana’s Bayou Adventure with fewer people. ©Disney Does that look like the Liberty Square Riverboat loading dock to you? It does to us, so they might be keeping part of the building. ©Disney A big point that Disney took extra care of was sightlines. People were questioning the connection of Cars to Frontierland (or Fron-tire-land if you catch our drift), and by making Piston Peak with a National Park twist, there are lots of old Western styles and wood accents connecting it all together. They also said they were mindful of sightlines, so everything looks in unison. Magic Kingdom’s Frontierland We’re thrilled about two new attractions and the arrival of this brand-new area. The Rivers of America, Tom Sawyer Island, and the Liberty Square Riverboat will be closing on July 7th, so make sure you take your last trip to the caves and a spin around the river before they close. Keep following Disney Food Blog for more Disney news. EVERYTHING WE KNOW ABOUT PISTON PEAK — THE ‘CARS’ LAND EXPANSION 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 What other details do you see on the map? Tell us your ideas in the comments! The post 8 CLUES Hiding in the Map of Disney's NEW 'Cars' Area Coming to Magic Kingdom first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Feeling thirsty? ©Amazon Over the last several years, Owala has become one of our FAVORITE water bottle brands. Recently, we took a look around Amazon to find the best Owalas deals available on the site RIGHT NOW! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. 24 oz Star Wars Water Bottle ©Amazon This bottle, one of several themed to denizens of a Galaxy Far, Far Away, features a color scheme reminiscent of Yoda… or Grogu if that’s the Way (we couldn’t resist) you see it. The bottle features a FreeSip spout designed for either “sipping upright through the built-in straw or tilting back to swig from the spout opening” and double-wall insulation that keeps drinks cold for up to 24 hours. SHOP HERE 14 oz Kids Water Bottle ©Amazon Featuring a mint chocolate color scheme, this bottle is perfectly sized for the tiny hands of a toddler and features a straw, leakproof locking lid, and double insulation. SHOP HERE 12 oz Kids Tumbler Amazon If you’re looking for something even smaller for the kiddos, how about this tumbler in fun colors! This 12 oz cup features a spill-resistant lid for “less mess and stress, perfect for home, sipping in the booster seat, and chillin in the stroller cup holder.” SHOP HERE 25 oz Clear Tritan Amazon This clear bottle features a “built-in straw for sipping and a large spout opening for swigging”, a push-button lid, a convenient carry loop, and a wide opening for cleaning and adding ice. SHOP HERE If any of these Owala bottles are what you’re looking for, get over to Amazon NOW to find them on sale. Stay tuned to DFB for more Amazon alerts! Looking for more summer essentials? Head to our Amazon Storefront now!The post Every Single Owala Water Bottle Under You Can Get On Sale On Amazon Right Now first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

The convenience of Amazon with the fun of Disney merch? Yes, please! Whether you’re stocking up on gifts, treating yourself, or just adding a little extra joy to your cart, these Disney items on Amazon are here to bring the fun without you ever needing to leave your couch. ©Disney From adorable plush toys to wearable nostalgia, there’s something for every kind of fan. So sit back, click away, and let the magic come to your doorstep! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. The cutest nap time companion ever! This Mickey Mouse Cuddleez Plush is the softest version of the icon we all know and love. With oversized proportions, a super squishy feel, and a face that’s pure joy, Mickey’s ready for naps, movie marathons, or just sitting cute on your bed. Seriously, you’ll want to hug him forever! Shop from Amazon Wear your love for Disney food loud and proud! ©Amazon Foodies and Disney fans unite with the Snack Around the World shirt, a must-have for anyone who’s ever conquered EPCOT with a fork in hand. It’s comfy, clever, and a fun way to show your love for Disney dining. Shop from Amazon Gift your kiddos mess-free magic with Crayola Disney Color Wonder ©Amazon This Crayola Disney Color Wonder Bundle is a total lifesaver for little artists (and their furniture). This 3-pack features Disney favorites and uses special Color Wonder markers that only work on the included paper, so your walls, couch, and dog are safe. Perfect for travel, quiet time, or just some magical creativity! Shop from Amazon Make any place you step into shimmer with these Minnie Mouse-inspired earrings! ©Amazon These gorgeous Minnie Mouse Earrings feature a delicate gold finish and are perfect for Disney adults who want a little sparkle in their everyday look. Whether you’re heading to the parks or the office, these subtle studs bring a dash of Minnie’s signature charm wherever you go. Shop from Amazon Minnie Mouse meets sporty chic with this stylish Baseball Cap! ©Amazon Add some flair to your sunny day look with this Minnie Mouse Baseball Cap. It’s casual, cute, and goes with just about everything. With Minnie’s classic design, this hat brings the fun wherever you go. Shop from Amazon The perfect shirt for the ’90s kids who never grew up! ©Amazon This “Made in the 90s” Toy Story shirt is a total throwback and full of personality. Featuring Buzz Lightyear and Woody, this iconic tee is comfy, retro, and perfect for anyone who remembers when Pizza Planet was the dream. Shop from Amazon Whether you’re gifting, collecting, or just adding more magic to your day, Amazon has everything you need to keep the Disney vibes going strong, without ever leaving home. For even more awesome Disney finds, stay tuned to us here on DFB! Like what you see? Check out more of our Disney must-haves on our Amazon Storefront! The post The ‘90s Throwback T-shirt Every Disney Adult Is Buying from Amazon first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

EPCOT has been a theme park full of exciting rides, cultures, and so much more. This park has some of our favorite Disney World secrets, and today, we’re sharing them with you. EPCOT We love uncovering the hidden gems around the Disney World parks and sharing them with you. Like Hidden Mickey. There is no shortage of Hidden Mickeys in the parks, like on food, and in ride queues. But there are other secrets hidden around EPCOT, and some of them are sure to blow your mind! 1. Universe of Energy is STILL Around (Kinda) While Universe of Energy closed in 2017, you can still find little nods to the attraction hidden inside Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind. You can find a lot of Universe of Energy references here, and if you’re wondering why, it’s because the Guardians took over where Bill Nye and Ellen DeGeneres once lived. Universe of Energy If you see Xandarian writing on the columns in the queue, there are four specific words you can translate. They read: Ellen, Alex, E=MC, and Dino. Alex is a specific shout-out to the late Alex Trebek, who played a big part in the Jeopardy scenes of the old Universe of Energy ride. That’s not all, during the preshow, if you listen closely, the song they’re jamming to happens to be a rock cover of the old Universe of Energy theme song! Can you see it? 2. Did You Know that the Pizza Planet is at EPCOT? If you are a Pixar fan, you might remember that the Pizza Planet truck is kinda of a big deal as it is hidden inside Pixar films. Well, when you’re riding Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure in the France Pavilion, you’re gonna want to look away from the opening scene to spot it. Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure As Remy is trying to decide what to make for dinner, you’re going to look for the lit window and see the vehicular-shaped shadow peeking past the shades. A child who LOVES Pizza Planet must live there – since that toy-sized vehicle in the ride is shaped like the very same full-sized vehicle that makes cheesy deliveries in the Toy Story films! Ride Vehicle 3. The World Showcase That Wasn’t Did you know that the World Showcase was originally going to be one big half-circle building with ALL the different countries squeezed inside? However, those plans quickly shaped into the pavilions we have today. Imagineers made sure to place Canada and Mexico as the first two potential World Showcase entry points since these are the two countries that you can find on either side of the United States. Mexico Pavilion However, as the World Showcase was under construction, Imagineers weren’t originally planning on adding the America pavilion to the lineup. Instead, the America section was going to be “a two-story structure on stilts between World Showcase and Future World.” The attraction itself was going to be on the second story, while the first story would be used as a covered gateway leading to World Showcase. In the end, the idea was scrapped, and the American Adventure pavilion was placed in the center of the World Showcase pavilions. American Adventure 4. Honoring Walt Disney Inside Living With the Land While riding Living With the Land, you will pass by a farmhouse scene early on. Upstairs in that farmhouse is a bedroom. That bedroom is supposed to represent Walt Disney’s childhood room from his days back in Marceline, Missouri. To really get the full impact of the secret, you will want to have to be dining at the Garden Grill restaurant, which overlooks this very ride scene. Living with the Land If you are dining at Garden Grill, look into the bedroom window and check out the lamp on the windowsill. This lamp represents the one you can find in Walt Disney’s apartment above the Fire Station on Main Street USA in Disneyland. Just like the lamp in that apartment, the lamp in the farmhouse is always left on in honor of his memory. Farmhouse views 5. The Cutest Creatures in the Seas Over at the Seas, you’ll find tiny creatures wearing tiny Mickey hats. When you’re hanging around Sea Base after riding The Seas with Nemo and Friends, you can find the urchin tank on the top floor of the aquarium building. Cast member aquarists originally placed 3D printed Mickey ear decorations in the urchins’ tank so that our fishy friends could also join in on Walt Disney World’s 50th Anniversary festivities. Sea Urchin Lucky for us, they are still around. That’s not all — because sea urchins “naturally pick up objects for decoration or camouflage,” they put the hats on. So don’t forget to stop by to see these cuties on your next trip! Adorable 6. Fish Really Are Friends Speaking of the Seas, have you ever thought, “Why haven’t the sharks eaten every last one of these little fishies?” Well, we have an answer! It’s because the sharks in the aquariums at Sea Base are trained to only eat at night. When it’s the end of the day, the tank goes dark, and an animal service team member will shine a light where the food intended for the sharks will be dropped. Sharks are taught to “head toward the light” for food. The Seas 7. What’s Your Animal? Over in Canada, to the right of the DVC kiosk, you can find four colorful totem animals lined up in a row. Once upon a time, you used to be able to touch the hearts of each of these animals and hear what sounds they made. However, that hasn’t been the case for a while now, since these poor creatures are tucked away out of sight, out of mind. Canada Pavilion at EPCOT But if you DO decide to go visit them, you’ll see a bear, an eagle, a wolf, and an owl. Each animal represents an empowering characteristic of sorts: the Bear = strength, the Eagle = Courage, the Wolf = Freedom, and the Owl = Wisdom. Oh, Canada! 8. What’s Behind That Wall? The mural on the wall in the back of the Germany Pavilion is beautiful and intricate, but it’s also hiding a secret. If you knock on the wall of this mural, you’ll find that it sounds hollow. This was actually supposed to be the opening to a ride that never happened, called the Rhine River Cruise Ride. On this cruise, guests would’ve been able to see Germany’s famous rivers and landmarks. But before the concept was brought to life, the idea was scrapped, leaving behind a mural-covered entrance to where it once could’ve resided. This is our petition for Imagineers to bring it to life. This could have been a ride! That’s a few secrets we hope bring you some Disney joy today. For more Disney World secrets, be sure to follow us at DFB! These 10 NEW Disney World Additions Will Make Your Trip 10X BETTER Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Which of these secrets do you love the most? Tell us in the comments below! The post 8 EPCOT Secrets Disney Doesn't Want You to Know first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Disney just dropped NEW merchandise for the #1 duck out there! Donald Duck! Yep, we love Donald Duck just as much as you do, so we’ve gathered up some of the hottest items that dropped in the Disney Store online. Some of them even come from the Disney parks in Japan! Let’s check out the new collection. DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Get the Donald Duck tote bag! ©Disney SHAKE THOSE TAIL FEATHERS, DONALD! This cute Donald Duck Canvas Tote Bag is definitely going to be the new hot park accessory, and tbh, it would look SO fun with character signatures on it. This one comes from the Disney Store Japan collection! View in the Disney Store! There’s also a plush bag! ©Disney For a different park bag, you could snag the Donald Duck Plush Crossbody Bag from Disney Store Japan. View in the Disney Store! We love the Donald Duck beret ©Disney Planning a Donald Duck Disneybound? If so, you need this Donald Duck Beret. It’s made to look similar to Donald’s signature hat, and it has his name embroidered on the side. You can even adjust the fit from the inside of the hat! View in the Disney Store! Or, you can grab the Donald plush Donald Duck Plush This Donald Duck Pastel Plush is also from the Disney Store Japan collection. He has embroidered features and a velour outfit, so he’s extra soft. The perfect addition to your Disney plush lineup! View in the Disney Store! Don’t forget the King Donald version ©Disney Of course, we all know that Donald is #1! And if you truly believe it, you can snag this King Donald Duck Plush — he’s dreaming that he’s ruler of Duckburg U.S.A. The little plush is complete with cape and crown, as well as a cute little bowtie. View in the Disney Store! We’re always on the hunt for the latest and greatest Disney souvenirs and essentials, so don’t forget to stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for more! Shop for More Disney Essentials on Our Amazon StorefrontThe post Disney’s New Donald Duck Collection Is EVERYTHING first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Disney just gave us FOUR new reasons to shop on Amazon… Loungefly bags in EPCOT …and by reasons, we mean Loungflys! Check out these brand-new Loungefly bags that just dropped on Amazon. DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Get this Minnie Mouse Springtime Loungefly ©Amazon How stunning is this Minnie Mouse Springtime Sequins Loungefly Backpack! You can already tell this bag will dazzle while you walk around Disney World, catching everyone’s attention. The front pocket of the bag features a ton of sequins in shades of pink, and the zipper is a Minnie Mouse head. Sequins are also attached to the Minnie bow up top. We love the springtime decorations of flowers covering the bag. The back is adorable — as it features Minnie herself, sitting with flowers! View on Amazon This Disney Wedding Loungefly is perfect ©Amazon Look how gorgeous this Disney Wedding Loungefly Bag is! Whether you’re going to a bridal shower, a wedding, or you’re the bride-to-be — this would make a perfect gift for a perfect day. The bag has a stunning, detailed pattern all over, and features a lace white bow with a heart in the middle. The front pouch is a clip pocket, and the zipper on the top of the bag has a unique style surrounding it. View on Amazon We also love this Disney Crossbody Bag ©Amazon You can’t have one without the other — so pair the Wedding Loungefly Backpack with this Disney Wedding Loungefly Crossbody Bag! What makes for an even better wedding gift is the matching crossbody bag. The white and gold make for an eye-catching look. We love the Minnie Ears that sit at the top of the bag! View on Amazon Or, you can grab the Wallet ©Amazon Or, what makes an even BETTER wedding gift than that, is getting the whole set. You need to get this Disney Wedding Zip Around Wallet! Keep everything inside the wallet with its useful zipper — no more worrying about anything falling out. The wallet is in the same style as the other bags in the set, and is a gorgeous wallet by itself. 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! Shop for More Disney Essentials on Our Amazon StorefrontThe post 4 NEW Loungeflys Just Dropped On Amazon first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Disney Visa Cardholders, there’s a NEW Disney Cruise Line offer available that could save you BIG! Disney Wish While Disney just announced an exclusive offer for DVC members looking to set sail on their next Disney Cruise Line adventure, it seems they’re looking to expand on that offering. If you’re a Disney Visa cardholder, you’re probably already taking advantage of its perks and special offerings, but this new offer could be a game-changer for your next sailing. Disney Visa cardholders are an exclusive group of Disney fans who know how to take advantage of every perk and discount Disney could offer. On top of earning cash back for everyday purchases, they’re also the ones who are able to EARN money back by using this Visa card to pay for Disney purchases they make during their vacation, online booking their trips, and enjoying special interest offers on them, too! You can also get Disney Visa discounts Yep, with even more perks and discounts (along with a special photo op for cardholders) than we can count, it’s easy to see why so many folks have opted to become Disney Visa members. Just recently, though, a new offer has become available for those cruising with Disney Cruise Line soon. Disney Wish In this new offer, cardholders who book a Disney Cruise Line sailing aboard the Disney Wish could be eligible to receive a $250 onboard credit, and can also save up to 30% on select stateroom categories. Of course, this offer is subject to select August 1st and September 15th sailings, and bookings for those itineraries can be made now. You’ll need to book soon, though, as this offer will only apply to bookings made by phone through September 1st. Queen Bed in Category 4C Oceanview Verandah Stateroom on the Disney Wish In order to take advantage of these offers or inquire further, you’ll need to contact the Disney Cruise Line Call Center or reach out to your travel advisor. Cardholders booking these sailings must pay using a Disney Visa Card or Disney Rewards Redemption Card, and it is important to note that both Concierge and Suites are not eligible with this offer. However, it is a valid offer extended to new AND existing bookings for eligible sailings. The onboard credit in this offer is non-refundable, non-transferable, may not be redeemed for cash in whole or in part, and can only be used during the sailing booked with this offer. One $250 onboard credit per stateroom will automatically appear on the stateroom account and can be used onboard toward the purchase of shipboard services, merchandise, food and beverage, or Port Adventures. The number of bookings allocated for this offer is limited, cannot be combined with any other offers or discounts (except guaranteed staterooms with restrictions offer), and is subject to availability. It’s also not combinable with Disney Vacation Club points. Cheers to your Disney cruise! Additionally, full payment is required at the time of booking for all sailing guests. Full legal names of all Guests are required at the time of booking, and no name changes are allowed. Bookings are non-refundable, except bookings made in the United Kingdom or the European Union, which are subject to applicable cancellation fees. A specific stateroom will be assigned at a later time, based on availability. The sailing rate does not include gratuities or Port Adventures and is subject to Disney Cruise Line Terms and Conditions. Senses Spa on the Disney Wish This new offer could be a great advantage for those considering booking a Disney Cruise Line sailing aboard the Disney Wish or who already have a qualified sailing and are looking for something to put money back into their vacation. One thing’s for sure, though — with limited availability on select sailings, it’s certainly an offer you’ll want to include sooner rather than later if you can! There’s a LOT that goes into planning a Disney Cruise, so why not make it easier on yourself and reach out to our friends at Small World Vacations! They are the best travel agents in the business and can take all of the stress out of planning. Get a free quote right here! We’re always on the lookout for the latest Disney tips, tricks, offers, and discounts that could help you save before and during your next vacation. Be sure to stay tuned with us at Disney Food Blog so you don’t miss them! I’m a Former Disney World Cast Member. Here Are 5 Things I Wish You Knew Before Going on a Disney Cruise  What You Need to Know About Disney Cruise Line Learn All About Disney Cruise Line and Its Various Ships Explore Disney’s Mega Cruise Ship – The Wish A Full List of What You CAN’T Bring on a Disney Cruise These Are the BEST Times to Book Your Disney Cruise The Best Ways to SAVE SPACE in Your Tiny Cruise Cabin 10 Things You NEED on Your Next Cruise (That You Won’t Think to Pack!) What It’s Like to Live on a Cruise Ship for 6 Months Join the DFB Newsletter To Get All the Latest Disney News Delivered Right to Your Inbox! Click here to Subscribe Which of Disney Cruise Line’s ships are you looking to sail on next? Tell us in the comments below! The post EXCLUSIVE Disney Cruise Line Discount Now Available for Disney Visa Cardholders first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

When it comes to planning a Disney World trip, you need to consider a few things. Rainy day in Disney World You need a good packing list, an idea of your goals, and to be prepared for any type of weather. Orlando is known for its heat, but if this is your first trip or your 100th, you might not be prepared for hurricane season. Well, if you’re headed to Disney World soon, you need to pack your rain gear and get ready for some potentially strong weather. Let’s dive into everything we know here. So what does all of that mean? It essentially means that there are signs of a major storm forming along the Southeast portion of the United States. If it continues to grow over the next few days, it could turn into signs of a subtropical or tropical storm. A tropical storm, specifically, can develop into a hurricane if it continues to grow. Magic Kingdom entrance the day after Hurricane Milton If you’re headed to Disney World this week, that might seem nerve-wracking, but don’t stress too much. First, this storm could potentially die off while it’s still over the Atlantic, never forming into an actual hurricane. (Only time will tell.) Second, Disney is no stranger to hurricane weather. Cast Members prepping for Hurricanes Disney has a detailed hurricane policy that will be your best friend during impending storms. It applies if you book directly through Disney and deals with cancellation policies, vacation packages, and rescheduling as needed. We have weathered several hurricanes while at Disney World, and they have several plans in place to keep everyone safe, fed, and warm should the hurricane be severe enough for the parks or resorts to close. If you want to avoid rainy weather, you might want to take a look at the calendar! Luckily for us, the current weather forecast just means heavy rain for now and (hopefully) nothing more than that. The National Hurricane Center lists the chances of formation as low over the next week. Just pack your rain gear, and prepare for some wet feet over the next few days as the storm moves. For real-time updates, you can check hurricanes.gov for the most accurate information. Rainy day in Animal Kingdom Hurricane season isn’t something to be scared of; it’s just something to prepare for! You can find tips directly from a Disney expert on how to handle hurricane season here. As always, be sure to keep following DFB for more Disney news and updates. Our Tips and Tricks for Conquering Rainy Days in Disney World Planning a Trip to Disney World? We’ve Got Everything You Need to Know The Ultimate Guide to Planning a Disney World Vacation A Month-by-Month Guide to Planning Your Disney World Trip Tips, Hints, Lists, and Videos for Planning the BEST Disney World Trip Learn About the Disney Park Pass System The Ultimate Disney World Packing List Everything You Need to Know About Lightning Lanes Insider SECRETS for Your First Trip to Disney World A Complete Look at the Current Disney Discounts and Deals The ONLY Disney Dining Planning Tool You’ll Need Is Here – Get the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining! Join the DFB Newsletter to Get All the Latest Disney News Delivered Right to Your Inbox! Click Here to Subscribe What is your favorite way to handle the rain in Disney World? Tell us in the comments! The post NEWS: National Hurricane Center Monitoring Potential Tropical Disturbance first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Back in 2024, Disney shared that a new area inspired by the Pixar Animation Studios movie Cars would be coming to Frontierland in Magic Kingdom, and we’ve been hoping for more details ever since. ©Disney The NEW part of Frontierland will be called Piston Peak and will include new theming, two new rides, additional food and beverage options, and more. Disney recently shared a bit more about Piston Peak — including details about one of the ride’s preshows! Piston Peak is based on Rocky Mountain National Park, which includes red rocks, mountains, rivers, and tons of diverse landscapes. But it’s also based on Disney animated parks, and even existing park buildings like Disney’s Wilderness Lodge and Grizzly Peak in Disney California Adventure! ©Disney One of the rides coming to Piston Peak National Park will be a family fun attraction, and the queue for that ride will be held in the park’s ranger lodge. This makes total sense, because as you move through the queue of this ride, you’ll be introduced to a new character — Ranger J. Autobahn Woodlore. Cars Area Concept Art ©Disney This is a nod to Ranger J. Audubon Woodlore, the park ranger from Disney’s Humphrey the Bear and Donald Duck cartoons. ©Disney This attraction will feature an animatronic of Ranger J. Autobahn Woodlore in a pre-show, where he’ll tell you about the history of Piston Peak and its folklore — which Disney says we’ll learn more about at a later date. ©Disney The buildings in Piston Peak will have “car-ified” elements like lower windows so that cars can see out of them, entrances and building additions that are big enough for cars, and architecture that shows the cars are using found materials — like old wagon wheels — in their buildings. @Disney Disney also shared that Big Thunder Mountain Railroad will be subtly updated to fit into the Piston Peak area — you’ll see rainbow geyser pools scattered around the base of the mountain, and possibly even some tire tread tracks in the dirt! Oh, and did we mention that this area will have a LOT of water elements and shade?! Both are things that have been sorely missing in some of the other lands opened recently. Imagineers said they lost count of the number of waterfalls being added to this new area. ©Disney We can’t WAIT to learn more about the new Cars area coming to Magic Kingdom. Piston Peak will certainly add something new to this iconic park! We’ll be on the lookout for more updates on this new area, so make sure you stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for the latest Disney news and more. NEW QUEUE DETAILS Revealed for Cars Ride Coming to 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 Are you looking forward to the new ‘Cars’ area at Magic Kingdom? Tell us in the comments. The post JUST REVEALED: Pre-Show and NEW Character for 'Cars' Ride in Magic Kingdom first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Disney World is about to undergo some SERIOUS change. Okay, technically, it has been undergoing change for quite some time already. But, over in Magic Kingdom, those changes might be coming sooner than we originally thought. On July 7th, Tom Sawyer Island, the Liberty Belle Riverboat, and the Rivers of America will be closing forever to make way for a new Cars-themed area. To make that happen, the Walt Disney World Railroad will also have to undergo some changes. An iconic part of Magic Kingdom will officially be closed beginning on July 7th, 2025. Tom Sawyer Island, Rivers of America, and the Liberty Belle Riverboat will all have their last day of operation on July 6th — so get in your last adventures while you still can. As part of these changes, the Walt Disney World Railroad will still remain operational during the construction — but with a few updates. Rest in Peace While construction on Frontierland continues, the Walt Disney World Railroad station in this land will be closed — but the train will still be available to take guests between the Main Street, U.S.A., and Fantasyland stations. It will operate in “shuttle mode” starting on July 7th. Instead of making the full loop around the park, the train will go back and forth between the two stations. Walt Disney World Railroad Train But, Disney will be swapping some of the benches on the trains around so that they face both ways instead of just one — that way, folks have an option of sitting backwards or forwards on their ride. Hopefully, this will help any folks who are prone to motion sickness when riding backward! Train! So, what’s coming to this Cars-themed area — Piston Peak? Guests can look forward to two NEW Cars attractions! Get ready to race through the mountains on wild terrain along mountain trails as you dodge geysers and splash through mud holes. We also know that there will be new food and beverage options, new characters, and a whole lot more. Cars Area Concept Art ©Disney Please also be aware that Frontierland’s Big Thunder Mountain closed on January 6th, 2025, and won’t reopen until 2026. The ride will return, however, and will even do so with “with a little bit of new magic,” accordingly to Disney. This closure may also be intended to accommodate construction on Villains Land, another major expansion that is in the works for Magic Kingdom. ©Disney We can’t WAIT to learn more about the new Cars area coming to Magic Kingdom. Piston Peak will certainly add something new to this iconic park! We’ll be on the lookout for more updates on this new area, so make sure you stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for the latest Disney news and more. EVERYTHING We Know About Cars Area 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 Are you excited about the Magic Kingdom expansion? Let us know in the comments. The post NEWS: The Disney World Railroad Is CHANGING Soon first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article