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I’m a Disney World food expert, and there are places in the parks where I REFUSE to eat. Disney’s Hollywood Studios Now, because it’s our mission here at Disney Food Blog to eat at every restaurant in Disney World frequently, we don’t truly avoid any locations when it comes to dining reviews. But when we’re booking our own personal vacations, there are definitely some spots that we skip, simply based on preference. And today, we’re sharing the list of restaurants that we often refuse to book at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant Starting things out with Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant, we often find that this is a one-and-done for people. The atmosphere is super cool, with a drive-in movie theme where you dine at tables sitting in cars and watch old movie clips on the large screen at the front, but the menu typically leaves a bit to be desired. Sci-Fi Dine-In Theatre Restaurant Here, you’ll find classic American fare that’s generally pretty mediocre. The burgers are fairly average, and after you’ve sat through a meal where you’ve seen all the movie clips on the big screen three times through, you’ll likely not feel the need to return here again. Click Here for Our Last Review of Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant! The Hollywood Brown Derby This next one is a little tricky, because we do LOVE The Hollywood Brown Derby. But given the choice, we typically decide to visit The Hollywood Brown Derby Lounge instead of making a reservation at the main restaurant. Why is that? Well, the vibes and the ease, of course! The Cobb Salad at The Hollywood Brown Derby Lounge The Hollywood Brown Derby Lounge has lovely views of the park, which is perfect for people watching. It often offers most (if not all) of the same menu items that The Hollywood Brown Derby does. It’s a great choice if there aren’t reservations available for the main restaurant, or if you just want that relaxed atmosphere. However, we will say that you may want to choose the restaurant over the lounge if it’s a particularly hot or rainy day — the lounge is entirely outdoors. The Most Expensive Hollywood Studios Restaurant You Should Skip and the One You Gotta Try — Click Here! Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano Located in the back of Muppets Courtyard is Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano, an Italian restaurant with a relaxed vibe and a controversial menu. Some people love this place, and some people really hate it. Here at DFB, we’ve had pretty mixed experiences over the years, so it tends to not be one of those locations that we heavily recommend or visit often for fun. Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano If you’re looking for Italian fare, we’re more likely to recommend Trattoria al Forno at the BoardWalk or Tony’s Town Square Restaurant at Magic Kingdom (which has had a serious glow-up in the past few years). But Mama Melrose’s isn’t long for this world anyway — it’s closing May 11th, 2025, to make way for the new Monsters, Inc.-themed land coming to Hollywood Studios. Hollywood & Vine Last but not least, we’ve got to mention Hollywood & Vine. This character meal is located in the Echo Lake area of the park, and it features a breakfast with Disney Junior pals followed by lunch and dinner with Minnie Mouse and friends. It’s a unique character meal because it’s the only option in Disney World currently that changes theme with the seasons (they even have special meal theming for the holiday and Halloween seasons). Disney Junior Play ‘n Dine Despite the cool theme, we don’t often suggest this spot as a good character meal choice. The food is served buffet-style, and it has never really impressed us. Since you can meet Minnie and friends at other character meals (with better menus), there’s not much reason to come here unless you’re looking for the Disney Junior characters specifically…and even so, you can meet them in Animation Courtyard during the daytime. Doc McStuffins That’s a wrap on our list of Hollywood Studios reservations that Disney experts don’t usually book. If you’re heading to Hollywood Studios soon, make sure to check out our YouTube video on the BEST things to eat in that park! Stay tuned to DFB for more dining updates from around Disney World! Click Here for the Ultimate Guide to Disney’s Hollywood Studios Restaurants! 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 restaurants have you visited before? Tell us in the comments! The post 4 Disney's Hollywood Studios Restaurants the Experts Refuse to Book first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

We are neck-deep in excitement here as we welcome a towering new addition to our Kilimanjaro Safaris family at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Mara, our beloved Masai giraffe, gave birth to a beautiful baby boy named Tucker! This long-awaited arrival marks the first giraffe calf birth at Walt Disney World Resort since 2021 and underscores our ongoing commitment to wildlife and species protection. Mara, who joined our savanna in 2015, has proudly expanded her family, not once – but three times now! It seems like just yesterday we were celebrating the birth of her first calf, Jabari, in 2019. Today we watched Mara and Tucker stretch their legs and stroll out onto the savanna. A Baby Giraffe Stands Tall for Conservation at Animal Kingdom The birth of Mara’s baby giraffe at Animal Kingdom is a significant achievement. The Masai giraffe is classified as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), with around 30,000 giraffes remaining globally. With habitat loss and poaching posing threats in their natural environments, Disney is working hard to help protect this iconic species. “Tucker’s birth is really important for us. It’s a testament to Disney’s leadership in animal care and conservation and our incredible partnership with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and the Species Survival Plan. This plan focuses on maintaining genetic diversity of the giraffe population and helping to prevent giraffes from becoming extinct,” said Dr. Mark Penning, Vice President of Disney’s Animals, Science and Environment. Our team of world-class animal care professionals and expert on-site veterinarians have been working around the clock to ensure both Mara and her calf receive leading care. This birth is a true testament to the incredible work of our animal care team at Walt Disney World. Tucker’s arrival contributes to the genetic diversity and health of the Masai giraffe population, ensuring that future generations can enjoy the sight of these majestic animals towering above the savanna. The Disney Conservation Fund Celebrates 30 Years of Wildlife Protection Recognizing the urgency to protect rapidly vanishing wildlife and habitats around the world, the Disney Conservation Fund provides support to respected conservation organizations already at the forefront of critical conservation efforts. This year, the Disney Conservation Fund (DCF) is celebrating its 30th anniversary. Since its inception in 1995, the Disney Conservation Fund has directed more than $132 million to community conservation programs to support organizations working with communities to protect wildlife, inspire action, and promote environmental resilience. For updates on Tucker, and to see all the amazing work our talented team of cast members are doing for the more than 5,000 animals across Disney World, follow Disney’s Animals, Science and Environment on Facebook and Dr. Mark on Instagram. Baby Bakso Updates READ MORE Josh Gad: New Kilimanjaro Safaris Guide at Animal Kingdom WATCH NOW Indiana Jones and ‘Encanto’ Confirmed for Animal Kingdom READ MORE The post Meet Tucker, the New Baby Giraffe at Animal Kingdom appeared first on Disney Parks Blog. View the full article

If you’re setting sail anytime soon, you need to read this! ©Celebrity Cruises Whether you’re planning a Disney Cruise or any other kind, it’s always important to know what you’re packing, what you want to snack on, and if where you’re sailing to is safe and healthy! Another popular cruise line has now canceled visits to a series of ports through 2026. Get all the info you need before setting sail. If you’re setting sail on Celebrity Cruises anytime soon, your next cruise might be impacted! Celebrity Cruise Line has canceled a series of visits to Labadee in Haiti from April 2025 to April 2026. ©Celebrity Cruises According to the cruise company, these cancellations will impact at least ten cruises for guests sailing on the Celebrity Apex and the Celebrity Beyond. To replace the missing port, the cruise line shared with guests being affected, “We’ll visit Grand Turk, Turks & Caicos, from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.” ©Celebrity Cruises Not all of the cruises will be replacing the port with Grand Turk. Some itineraries will be changed to George Town, Grand Cayman. Some cruises will also see the addition of Cozumel, Mexico, to the itineraries. This month, the private island destination is supposed to receive Oasis ships. Beach and Ocean Views The previously scheduled visits to the port have been removed from the site and replaced with the new itineraries. This isn’t the first time the company has had to remove visits to Labadee. This isn’t the only spot where guests need to be cautious; recently, the U.S. State Department issued a Level 3 travel advisory for Trinidad and Tobago due to safety concerns in the areas. ©Trip Advisor As always, before heading on any trip, be sure to stay prepared and aware of your surroundings. Don’t forget to follow DFB for more travel news and updates. Norovirus Cases on the Rise on Cruise Ships. Here’s How To Protect Yourself! 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 Have you ever sailed with Celebrity Cruises? Tell us in the comments! The post NEWS: A Popular Cruise Line Just Canceled Visits to a Caribbean Destination first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Orlando residents, today is your day! Orlando Sign April 7th — or 4/07 — is known as 407 Day around Orlando, since it’s the official area code for the city. If you’re in the Orlando area, make sure you keep an eye out for deals and discounts at local businesses! But, even if you’re not in Orlando you can still reap the rewards of 407 Day with seriously discounted airfare on Spirit Airlines flights out of the city! Flights from just $40.70 out of Orlando?! Sign us up! As part of 407 Day, Spirit Airlines is offering one-way flights from $40.70 and up. Today, April 7th only, book a flight out of Orlando International Airport (MCO) and it might only cost you about as much as dinner for two! Orlando International Airport The following destinations are included in this sale: Atlantic City (ACY) Atlanta (ATL) Hartford (BDL) Nashville (BNA) Boston (BOS) Baltimore (BWI) Charlotte (CLT) Columbus (CMH) Detroit (DTW) Newark (EWR) Fort Lauderdale (FLL) Houston (IAH) Indianapolis (IND) Memphis (MEM) Milwaukee (MKE) New Orleans (MSY) Myrtle Beach (MYR) Norfolk (ORF) Philadelphia (PHL) Pittsburgh (PIT) Pensacola (PNS) Richmond (RIC) Louisville (SDF) ©Spirit Airlines The fares are limited in availability and the sale only applies if you book by 11:59 PM ET on April 7th, 2025. Flights must be booked on the official Spirit Airlines website and must be purchased 21 days in advance before your flight. Keep in mind that on Spirit Airlines, your bags do NOT fly free. Additionally, you’ll likely have to pay for seat selection, WiFi, and snacks onboard — but with savings like this, hopefully, those fees will sting a little bit less! ©Spirit Airlines And, don’t forget about MCO Reserve once you book your flight out of Orlando. MCO Reserve is a FREE service that lets you bypass the security line. All you have to do is hop online to MCO Reserve’s website, input your flight information when you are arriving at security, and then arrive at an MCO Reserve spot within the airport during an allocated time slot. ©Orlando International Airport We’ll be on the lookout for more flight deals and travel updates. Make sure you stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for the latest Disney news and more! I’ve Tried Every Orlando Airport Hack, and I’m Sharing the 3 That Work Every Time Travel Updates, Tips, and Tricks Complete Guide to Booking the CHEAPEST Flight to Disney World What to Do if Your Flight to Disney World Is Canceled Our Best Tips For Flying Through the Orlando International Airport Step-by-Step Guide: How to Get to Disney World From the Orlando Airport You’re SLEEPING on These Packing Hacks Air Travel Tips That’ll Change Your Life 8 Catastrophic Travel Mistakes and How to Solve Them The Airline with the MOST Flight Delays and Cancellations This Small Change Will Save You From Lost Luggage The Best Disney Luggage for 2023 21 Things a Former Flight Attendant Needs You To Know 7 Highest-Rated Travel Items on Amazon Join the DFB Newsletter to Get All the Latest Disney News Delivered Right to Your Inbox! Click Here to Subscribe Will you be taking advantage of this deal? Tell us in the comments. The post HURRY! You Have Less Than 24 Hours To Shop This Flight SALE first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Well, we’ve finally checked out Epic Universe…and, well, all we have to say is that it lives up to its “Epic” name. We spent so much time in Epic Universe with our jaws on the floor, y’all…you have no idea. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter — Ministry of Magic We still can’t get over how it felt like stepping into the movie when we visited How To Train Your Dragon — Isle of Berk or what it felt like meeting Toothless IN THE FLESH. We also loved the darker vibes of Dark Universe and still can’t get over all the amazing details in Monsters Unchained. We almost cried stepping into The Wizarding World of Harry Potter — Ministry of Magic, especially after riding Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry, but there was one thing that bugged us about this land…let’s talk about it. So here’s the deal. The actual land part of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter — Ministry of Magic is set in 1920s Paris around the time of the Fantastic Beasts movies. But the ride, Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry, is set in the modern day, or at least during the time of the Harry Potter movies. So this has caused a lot of confusion because there’s a disconnect between these two time periods — how exactly can you be in both the 1920s and modern day? The Wizarding World of Harry Potter — Ministry of Magic Well, believe it or not, Universal kinda knew what it was doing when it set the land up this way. The portal into the land has a time turner attached to it, so when you walk through, you’re going from the modern day into 1920s Paris. Okay, that totally makes sense. You can see the time turner at the top of the portal. Nice detail there, Universal. Portal Entrance into Ministry of Magic BUT Universal doesn’t really explain much about how you go from 1920s Paris back TO the modern day on the ride. Although, we think maybe the Floo transportation system is somehow also connected to a time portal or time turner? And somehow, when you walk out of the ride, you’re also somehow time-traveling back to the 1920s. But the idea of the land is that time is wonky there, and time magic is kinda just doing some chaotic things. So the answer is TIME MAGIC. Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry So, basically, it’s a lot like Doctor Who. It’s wibbly wobbly timey wimey. ©BBC The best we can guess, although it’s not explicitly stated, is that this land is full of time turners. It’s not like we can get judgy, considering that Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge in Disney World and Disneyland take place during the sequel movies, but you have characters from well before that timeline roaming around like The Mandalorian (and Luke Skywalker and a ton of other characters from other timelines in Disneyland). Luke Skywalker in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge But yes, if you find yourself wondering how it all works when you visit The Wizarding World of Harry Potter — Ministry of Magic, the answer is “time magic.” We’ll just leave it at that. Stay tuned to DFB for more.  Read more: DFB's complete guide to Universal’s Epic Universe >> What do you think? Does this explanation work for you? Let us know in the comments! Disclosure: In nearly all circumstances, Disney Food Blog writers and photographers pay full price for their own travel, hotel, food, beverage, and event tickets. We do this because it’s important to us as journalists to ensure not only that we give you unbiased opinions, but also that you can trust us to do so since we’re paying our own way. On rare occasions, when we are invited by a company to attend a preview as media, and when we choose to accept that invitation, we will always make you, our readers, aware of that situation. Today, we were invited by Universal to attend their media preview of Epic Universe. Note that when we attend events as media we are 1) Not required to review that event/food on any of our channels, and 2) Not required to review that event/food favorably. You can always count on DFB to give you a 100% unbiased and honest review of any event that we attend, food that we eat, or beverage that we drink. You can see more in our Disclosure Policy. Thank you for reading. — AJ The post Explaining The One Big Problem You Might Have With 'Harry Potter' Land in Epic Universe first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Alright, Star Wars fans, we need you to prepare yourselves because a TON of new merchandise just landed online! Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Specifically, if you’ve been on the lookout for new Loungefly bags for your upcoming trip, you’ll want to check out all these new options that just landed online. You’ll want to be fast, though, because we have a feeling some of them could sell out fast! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. R2-D2 Fans Will FLIP Over This NEW Bag! ©Loungefly If you’ve wanted to carry around your favorite droid on your back as you go around the parks, the new Star Wars: R2-D2 Astromech Droid Light-Up Mini Backpack is exactly what you’re looking for. We love the design on this one, and that it has pockets on the side for your water, AND R2’s red light actually lights up! Check it out! This Bag Is Straight From WonderCon! ©Loungefly Looking for a limited-time droid design that is truly like no other? Grab yourself the new WonderCon Limited Edition Star Wars Chopper (C1-10P) Figural Light Up Mini Backpack and delight in its poseable pieces and light-up features. Check it out! Darth Vader Fans, You’re Not Left Out ©Loungefly Love Darth Vader and want to show off your adoration while you’re in the parks? Look no further than the new Star Wars Limited Edition Samurai Darth Vader Cosplay Mini Backpack. He’s got a new helmet and suit inspired by traditional Samurai armor, so rest assured, this will look different than most other backpacks out there! Check it out! Who Can Say No to That Cute Face? ©Loungefly We can’t finish this post without highlighting the truly adorable Star Wars Limited Edition Logray Ewok Plush Cosplay Mini Backpack, because just look at it! It’s made from fuzzy sherpa to really bring this cuddly creature to life, and we adore his little bag and outfit as well. BRB, we’re buying four. Check it out! And that’s not all! If you want to check out the WHOLE collection and all the existing Star Wars Loungefly bags, check out the link below! Check it all out right here! Be sure to stay tuned to DFB for all the latest Disney merchandise news! Check out our Amazon Storefront for more of our favorite bags and accessories!The post Disney Just Released NEW Loungefly Bags Online first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Stitch attacks…Adidas! It’s Stitch! Adidas collaborated with Disney on some new shoes featuring characters from Toy Story, but now they have released new merchandise for our favorite blue alien, Stitch! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Adidas Disney Lilo & Stitch Backpack ©Adidas The first piece of the collection is this kid’s backpack! It has adjustable straps and a mesh side pocket for water bottles. We love the tropical vibes and how cute he is on his surfboard. SHOP ON ADIDAS Adidas Disney Lilo & Stitch Jogger Set Kids ©Adidas This is perfect for the little Stitch lovers in your life. This jogger set comes in lavender or white and has Stitch right on the front. SHOP ON ADIDAS Adidas Disney Lilo & Stitch Graphics Tee ©Adidas These tees, made of soft cotton jersey fabric, feature a vibrant print of Stitch on the back. Kiddos will need this one to watch the new live-action movie coming out soon. SHOP ON ADIDAS Adidas Disney Lilo & Stitch T-Shirt Set ©Adidas Another clothing set! Stitch is once again on his surfboard in various poses, and you can choose between lavender or light blue for the set. The shorts look so comfortable! SHOP ON ADIDAS Adidas Disney Lilo & Stitch Cap ©Adidas The last piece is this super cute kids’ hat. It has mesh on the back and Stitch surfing past the Adidas logo on the front riding a big wave. We love the blues, and we can see online how much Stitch would love this himself. SHOP ON ADIDAS We’re obsessed with this new kids’ collection! Follow Disney Food Blog to stay up to date with the best Disney merchandise. If you like what you see and are looking for more, check out our Amazon Storefront for our favorite finds. What’s your favorite piece in the collection? Let us know in the comments! The post A New Adidas Disney Stitch Collection Just Launched first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Staying at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is a bucket-list experience for many Disney fans, and we finally got the chance to check it off ours. Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort Disney’s Grand Floridian is one of the most luxurious hotels on property, and we got to specifically enjoy the DVC resort studios which are Mary Poppins-themed with subtle nods to Mary Poppins Returns. Let me tell you, the details are stunning, and now, we’ve got talk about the things that impressed us the most about our stay. The Views Are Absolutely Breathtaking One of the best things about staying at Disney’s Grand Floridian is the view, and these rooms take full advantage of that. Our room had a balcony with an incredible view of the Seven Seas Lagoon, and at night, we could see fireworks from Magic Kingdom right from our balcony. Balcony view Watching the boats float by in the morning with a cup of coffee was absolute perfection. The Thoughtful Mary Poppins Details Everywhere If you’re a Mary Poppins fan, you’re in for a treat. These rooms are filled with hidden references to the iconic film. The room! The wallpaper in the coffee station features characters from Mary Poppins Returns, along with tiny umbrellas woven into the design. Coffee station The gold chandelier in the main room has small glass birds, just like the ones Mary interacts with. Chandelier Even the vents in the room are themed—hiding both a hidden Mickey and more umbrellas! Hidden Mickey AND umbrellas! The level of detail here is truly next-level. The Gold Accents Make the Room Feel Extra Luxurious From the moment we walked in, we could tell this wasn’t just any Disney hotel room. Front entryway The brushed gold accents throughout the space give it a refined, elegant feel. The nightstand lamps have delicate gold trim, and the bathroom mirror? Well, it’s framed in gold and has built-in lighting that makes getting ready in the morning feel extra fancy. THAT MIRROR Even the artwork next to the TV and sofa has a gold touch, depicting what looks like Cherry Tree Lane with Mary Poppins herself soaring above. Artwork Hidden Surprises in the Room We love a good Disney Easter egg, and this room was full of them. Beyond the hidden Mickey in the vent, we also found tiny umbrellas on the nightstand lampshade, adding even more to the subtle Mary Poppins theming. Lampshade The artwork across from the beds features a landscape that gives major Cherry Tree Lane vibes, with Mary Poppins floating above. Every time we looked around, we found a new detail to admire. The Bathroom Feels Like a Spa Okay, let’s talk about this bathroom. The mirror alone deserves its own award—it’s massive, framed in gold, and has built-in lighting that gives it a glow. The vanity area continues the brushed gold theme, paired with beautiful watercolor artwork. The bathroom And let’s not forget the shower—spacious, well-lit, and stocked with Disney’s signature products. Water closet It felt more like a high-end spa than a hotel bathroom. The Room Design is Both Elegant and Functional One thing we really appreciated about these rooms was how well they balanced luxury with functionality. The beds had nightstands on either side, each with their own outlets and built-in shelves—super convenient for charging devices. Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort Room The beds were also tall enough for luggage to be stowed underneath, which helped keep the space uncluttered. Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort Room The room also had a small desk, a sofa that folded down into a daybed (perfect for extra guests), and a mini-fridge. Sofa folded down into a bed Everything was designed with guests in mind, making it a comfortable stay without sacrificing style. The Resort’s Pool is a Great Way to Relax After a long day in the parks, there’s nothing better than unwinding by the pool, and the Grand Floridian’s pools are fantastic. Grand Floridian There are two pools to choose from—the Beach Pool, which has a waterslide and waterfalls, and the Courtyard Pool, a quieter option perfect for relaxing. Grand Floridian Courtyard Pool Whether you’re looking for fun or just want to lounge in the sun, the resort pools add another level of luxury to your stay. The Resort’s Location and Perks Beyond the room itself, staying at the Grand Floridian comes with some serious perks. Since it’s a Monorail resort, we could hop on and be at Magic Kingdom in just a few minutes. Monorail at the Grand Floridian The resort also has a walking path to Magic Kingdom, which was a great option after a long day in the parks. It’s a pretty walk And let’s not forget about the dining—Grand Floridian has some of the best restaurants on property, from the upscale Citricos (which also has a subtle Mary Poppins theme) to quick-service options like Gasparilla Island Grill. Citricos Final Thoughts Staying in the new DVC resort studios at Disney’s Grand Floridian was an experience we won’t forget. The attention to detail, elegant design, and unbeatable location made it one of the best hotel stays we’ve had at Disney World. Whether you’re a Mary Poppins fan, a Disney Vacation Club member, or just looking for a deluxe resort with a little extra magic, these rooms are absolutely worth considering for your next trip. Grand Floridian DVC room Make sure you stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for the latest Disney news and more! 4 Reasons Staying at a Disney World Monorail Hotel Isn’t the Hack You Think It Is 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! Would you stay in these Marry Poppins themed rooms at the Grand Floridian? Tell us in the comments. The post I Stayed at the Luxury Hotel Disney Fans Dream About — 8 Things Impressed Me the Most first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Big news in the movie-making world! ©The Wrap Disney is no longer going to be using the 21st Century Fox studio lots. According to Deadline, sources have said that Disney will be leaving the 21st Century Fox lot by the end of 2025, before their lease ends in March 2026. This lot is located in West Los Angeles, and Disney is focusing on solidifying its operations in Burbank. ©Disney | Walt Disney Company Headquarters The Disney/Fox merger, which occurred in 2019, closed with a $71.3 billion deal. This is one of the largest in media history. Fox rents out its fifteen sound stages and other facilities to make about $50 million a year, and with Disney leaving these lots, Fox has the potential to generate more revenue from leasing. Walt Disney Studios in Burbank What does this mean in terms of content? Disney owns 21st Century Fox, and that deal is still in play, but Disney won’t be using their studio lots or resources. Disney only owns the 21st Century Fox part of the company and not the other assets under Fox Corporation, per Deadline. ©Deadline We’re still expecting to see our favorite Fox shows on Disney+ and have no reason to believe production won’t continue on new shows — they just might be filmed somewhere else. However, we’ll be keeping our eye on this to see if any changes happen. Keep following Disney Food Blog for more media news! Here’s everything coming to Disney+ in April! 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 The post NEWS: Disney To Leave Fox Studio Lots by End of Year first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Happy April, DFB Readers! It’s hard to believe that March went by so quickly, but here we are. Garden Grill Harvest Feast Platter This week was a BIG one in Disney World, at least for food. Not only did Gideon’s Bakehouse announce a new menu, BUT we got eight new food and drinks at Disney’s Pop Century Resort (and yes, be looking for those reviews coming soon). However, those aren’t the only restaurant changes we spotted in Disney World this week. We’ve also got some other restaurant menu updates to tell you about. Magic Kingdom Cinderella’s Royal Table Appetizers of the Court Castle Salad description changed from “Romaine, Brussels Sprouts, Goat Cheese, Seasonal Vegetables, and Green Goddess Dressing” to “Fresh Greens with Seasonal Fruit, Blue “Cheese,” Candied Pecans, and Riesling Vinaigrette” REMOVED: Slow-braised Beef ADDED: Crispy Pork Belly — Sweet Tea-glazed Pork, Heirloom Tomatoes, and Pickled Tomatillo-Cabbage Slaw Entrées Royale ADDED: Chicken Roulade — Chicken mousseline, Fregola Pasta, Pancetta, Carott Puree and White Wine-Black Truffle Butter Allergy-Friendly Appetizers REMOVED: Soup of the Day Cinderella’s Royal Table Plaza Restaurant Desserts REMOVED: Chocolate Layer Cake and Cotton Candy Cheesecake Plaza Restaurant Tony’s Town Square Cocktails REMOVED: Little Italy Cocktail ADDED: Cold Brew Martini — SelvaRey Chocolate Rum, Tia Maria Coffee Liqueur, and Joffrey’s Coffee Cold Brew for $16.50 Tony’s Town Square Restaurant Diamond Horseshoe Specialty Cocktails REMOVED: Legacy Mimosa Diamond Horseshoe Liberty Tree Tavern Specialty Cocktails REMOVED: Legacy Mimosa Liberty Tree Tavern Skipper Canteen Specialty Cocktails REMOVED: Legacy Mimosa Jungle Navigation Co., LTD Skipper Canteen Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Cafe Gluten/Wheat Allergy-Friendly ADDED: Nacho Bowl — House-fried Corn Tortilla Chips smothered with Stewed Pinto Beans, Chipotle Queso, and Pico de Gallo for $12.99 Pecos Bill Friar’s Nook Sweet Bites REMOVED: Tiana’s Famous Beignets ADDED: Apple Cider Doughnuts — with Caramel Sauce for $6.49 The Friar’s Nook Be Our Guest Entrees ADDED: Steak Frites — Slow-roasted Butcher’s Steak, House-cut French Fries, and Red Wine Sauce Signature Non-Alcoholic Drinks Blue Raspberry Slushy description changed from “Served with Candy Fish and a souvenir Glow Cube” to “Served with a Souvenir Glow Cube” Be Our Guest EPCOT Coral Reef Restaurant Entrees ADDED: Grilled Snapper — Coconut-Lime Rice, Mango Salsa, Avocado, Toasted Coconut, Chili-Lime Seasoning for $35 Coral Reef Restaurant Garden Grill Chip ‘n’ Dale Harvest Feast Offerings REMOVED: Farmer’s Seasonal Pie ADDED: Strawberry Shortcake Crumble — with Plant-based Whipped Cream Garden Grill Disney’s Hollywood Studios Woody’s Lunch Box Featured Offerings REMOVED: Chocolate-covered Strawberry Lunch Box Tart Chocolate Covered Strawberry Lunch Box Tart BaseLine Tap House Small Plates California Cheese and Charcuterie Plate description changed from “Toma Farmstead Cheese, Point Reyes Original Blue Cheese, Laura Chenel’s Sonoma Goat Cheese, Chorizo and Calabrese Salami, Cornichons, Grapes and Toasted Baguettes” to “Point Reyes Original Blue Cheese, Mt Tam Brie, Midnight Moon Goat Cheese, Sopressata Salami, Sliced Bresaola, Blueberry Compote, Onion Jam, and Bread and Butter Pickles with Lavash” REMOVED: Spiced Almonds ADDED: Avenue Chips — House-made Salt and Vinegar Kettle Chips served with Beer-Cheese Fondue for $7 Avenue Chips from BaseLine Tap House Sci-Fi Dine In Entrees Chicken Salad Sandwich and Prime Rib Sandwich ADDED: Fried Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich — Fried Chicken Thigh topped with Ham and Melted Swiss Cheese on a bed of Arugula with our Signature Maple Dijon served on a Brioche Bun for $22 ADDED: Cyborg-er — Our Signature blend of Beef topped with Griddled Pastrami, Pepper Jack, Lettuce, and Heirloom Tomato with House-made Carolina Mustard Sauce served on a Brioche Bun for $26 Desserts REMOVED: The Red Planet ADDED: Cerulean Moon — Chocolate Mousse Dome with Strawberry Filling on a Graham Cracker Tart with a Hibiscus Sponge, Green Space Dust, and Chocolate-Caramel Sauce for $9.50 Sci-Fi Dine-In Theatre Restaurant Disney’s Animal Kingdom Restaurantosaurus Sides Cheese Fries with Chili changed from $6.49 to $6.99 ADDED: Black Garlic, Truffle, and Parmesan Fries — French Fries topped with Black Garlic-Truffle Aïoli and Parmesan for $6.49 Restaurantosaurus Tusker House Restaurant Breakfast Offerings Pastries description changed from “Zebra Coffee cake, Multigrain Croissants, Blueberry Mini Muffins, Chocolate Twist Danish, Guava Cream Cheese Danish, Cinnamon Buns, Bagels” to “Mango-Apricot Jam Cake, Chai-spiced Croissant, Guava Danish, Chocolate Chip Muffin, Bagel” Breakfast Classics description changed from “Mickey Waffles, Simba Waffles, Hard Boiled Eggs, Overnight Oats with Berry Compote and House-made Granola, Fruit Salad with Ginger Syrup, Honey Greek Yogurt, Cardamom Granola, Breakfast Potatoes” to “Cooked-to-order Omelets, Scrambled Eggs, Potatoes, Bacon, Pork Sausage, Turkey Sausage, Rotisserie Ham” Fruits description changed from “Cuties Mandarins, Apples, Grapes, Bananas” to “Wild Berries, Grapes, Bananas” ADDED: African-inspired Breakfast Creations — Shakshuka, Bobotie, South African French Toast Bulkas Lunch/Dinner Starters Breads and Dips description changed from “African-influenced Breads, Naan, Blatjangs, Tzatziki Sauce” to “Naans, Curries, Blatjangs” Salads description changed from “Lentil Salad, Couscous Salad, Watermelon-Feta Salad, Salad Greens, Toppings, and Dressings” to “Lentil Salad, Couscous Salad, Watermelon-Feta Salad, Carrot-Olive-Raisin Salad” Lunch/Dinner Entrees Plant-based Offerings description changed from “North African Pilau, Spiced Broccoli, South African-spiced Cauliflower Curry, Lentil Salad, Couscous Salad” to “North African Pilau, South African-spiced Cauliflower, Couscous Salad, Potato and Pea Curry, Carrot-Ginger Soup” Lunch/Dinner Desserts REMOVED: Nature-Inspired Desserts ADDED: Seasonal Savannah-inspired Desserts — Cheesecakes, Blondies, Verrines, Mousses, Plant-based Dessert Tusker House Flame Tree Barbecue Sides REMOVED: A-Maize-ing Magic Munch Fries ADDED: Black Garlic, Truffle, and Parmesan Fries — French Fries topped with Black Garlic-Truffle Aïoli and Parmesan for $6.49 Flame Tree Barbecue Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge Boma Cocktails REMOVED: Sparkling Lavender Rosé Boma Sanaa Cocktails REMOVED: Sparkling Lavender Rosé Sanaa Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort Barefoot Pool Bar Specialty Cocktails REMOVED: Frozen Lavender Rosé Barefoot Pool Bar Oasis Bar & Grill Specialty Cocktails REMOVED: Frozen Lavender Rosé Oasis Bar and Grill Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa Beaches Pool Bar Alcoholic Beverages REMOVED: Frozen Lavender Rosé Beaches Pool Bar Courtyard Pool Bar Alcoholic Beverages REMOVED: Frozen Lavender Rosé Courtyard Pool Bar Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Geyser Point Bar & Grill Specialty Cocktails REMOVED: Frozen Lavender Rosé Geyser Point Bar & Grill Disney’s Old Key West Resort Olivia’s Cafe Specialty Cocktails Blackberry-Orange Spritz description changed from “Plantation Original Dark Rum, Bols Crème de Banana, Bols Blackberry Brandy, Orange, and Pineapple Juices with a float of Goslings 151 Rum” to “Ketel One Botanical Peach & Orange Blossom Vodka, Rockey’s Botanical Liqueur, Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc, Blackberry” Olivia’s Cafe Disney’s Port Orleans Resort — Riverside River Roost Appetizers Barbecued Wings description changed from “Smoked Chicken Wings tossed in a Sweet-and-Spicy Barbecue Sauce served with Cajun Fries” to “Tossed in Sweet-and-Spicy Barbecue Sauce and served with Carrots and Celery” River Roost Boatwright’s Dining Hall Specialty Cocktails REMOVED: Sparkling Lavender Rosé Boatwright’s Dining Hall Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort Banana Cabana Alcoholic Beverages REMOVED: Frozen Lavender Rosé Banana Cabana Disney’s Art of Animation Resort Landscape of Flavors Limited Time Offerings REMOVED: Peach Cobbler Landscape of Flavors Disney’s Pop Century Resort Everything Pop Desserts ADDED: Ice Cream Truck Sundae — Choice of Soft-serve with Chocolate Sauce, Whipped Cream, Rainbow Sprinkles, Cherries, and Snickers bar pieces for $27.79 ADDED: Mickey Brownie Sundae — Vanilla or Chocolate Soft-serve with a Mickey Brownie and Chocolate Topping for $7.79 ADDED: Cake Bar — Cake Pop with Buttercream and Skittles POP’d Freeze Dried Candy ADDED: Soft-serve Cup or Cone — Choice of Chocolate or Vanilla Soft-serve (Swirl Available) for $5.79 Tea ADDED: Mango Tea — Black Tea, Coconut Milk, and Mango Purée garnished with Mango Boba Pearls for $6.79 Specialty Cocktails ADDED: Chocolate Peanut Butter Bourbon Shake — Chocolate Shake blended with Peanut Butter and Maker’s Mark Bourbon topped with PB&J Sandwich, Whipped Cream, and a Cherry​ for $16.50 Everything Pop Disney’s All-Star Music Resort Intermission Food Court Limited Time Desserts REMOVED: Peach Cobbler Intermission Food Court Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort End Zone Food Court Limited Time Desserts REMOVED: Peach Cobbler End Zone Food Court Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort World Premiere Food Court Dessert ADDED: Mickey Brownie Sundae — Vanilla or Chocolate Soft-serve with a Mickey Brownie and Chocolate Topping for $7.79 Tea ADDED: Mango Tea — Black Tea, Coconut Milk, and Mango Purée garnished with Mango Boba Pearls for $6.79 World Premiere Food Court Blizzard Beach Lottawatta Lodge Entrees ADDED: Blackened Shrimp-Deviled Egg Salad — Deviled Eggs topped with Blackened Shrimp on a bed of Spring Mix Salad for $9.99 Lottawatta Lodge at Blizzard Beach Disney Springs Dockside Margaritas Margaritas REMOVED: Irish Whiskey Margarita Dockside Margaritas Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar Signature Libations REMOVED: Pot of Gold Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar Disney World restaurant menu changes happen all the time, but you can check menus by visiting the Disney World website or My Disney Experience app. We’ll also keep you updated when we see changes, so stay tuned to DFB for more. Disney dining changes are a lot to keep up with! We’ve done all the research for you in writing our DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining! We’ve got details on EVERY dining location at Walt Disney World inside our eBook – and it’s easy to download to your tablet or smartphone to take with you on your next trip. Battle of the Magic Kingdom Sit Down Restaurants — Which One Is Best? 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 Did your favorite Disney World restaurant change this week? Let us know in the comments! The post Be Our Guest, Sci-Fi Dine In and 34 MORE Restaurants CHANGED in Disney World This Week first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

There are a lot of reasons we love Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, and we just found one more! Art of Animation! The theming of this resort is so fun, with large Disney characters — perfect for photos! The Big Blue Pool is one of the most popular pools on Disney property. The Skyliner goes to this resort, and you can walk to Disney’s Pop Century from it as well. If that wasn’t enough reasons to love staying at this resort, this little hidden gem we just found is just the cherry on top! For this, you will want to head to the Ink & Paint Shop located next to the hotel’s lobby. When the store first opens, the Cast Members will choose one of the first guests of the day for a special surprise! Ink & Paint Shop at Art of Animation The selected guests get to draw a picture on a dry erase board, showing off their artistic abilities! The Cast Members then put it on display for the whole day and give the guests a certificate as a unique souvenir. Artist of the Day! The board is typically displayed at the front of the store for everyone to see. This can be such a great memory to make with your family. Ink & Paint opens at 7 AM so you will want to get there bright and early for a chance to be selected. Artist of the Day Displayed! If you are looking for other hidden gems, you won’t have to look far! Walk out of Ink and Paint towards the lobby and look up. You’ll find a chandieler of animation drawings and you can find one of Ursula from The Little Mermaid. Pat Carroll, who voices the sea witch in the film, signed this! Pat Carroll For more Disney World tips, make sure you follow us at DFB to help you have a magical Disney vacation! A Former Flight Attendant Told Me to Use This Carry-On Bag, so I Tried It at the Orlando Airport 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! Which Disney World hotel is your favorite and why? Tell us in the comments below. The post A Disney Cast Member Reveals the Secret Way To Get EXCLUSIVE Treatment at Art of Animation Hotel first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Traveling to Disney World means navigating airports, running to catch flights, and making sure you have everything you need without getting bogged down by heavy luggage. MCO Airport (and this is a GOOD crowd) So when a former flight attendant recommended a specific travel backpack as the ultimate carry-on bag, we had to give it a try. We tested it at the Orlando Airport — one of the busiest travel hubs for Disney-bound visitors — and spoiler alert: It did not disappoint. DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Check out this Snoffic Travel Backpack Our favorite carry-on bag! Let’s be real — finding a carry-on that meets airline requirements, fits under the seat, and actually holds all your stuff is a struggle. This backpack claims to do all that without costing a fortune. It’s marketed as TSA-friendly, water-resistant, and designed for maximum comfort. Seemed too good to be true, but I was willing to test it out. It provides a lot of space without being too bulky. Right out of the box, the Snoffic Travel Backpack felt sturdy and well-made. The material is thick and water-resistant (a lifesaver when you’re juggling coffee and a boarding pass). It has wide, padded straps that don’t dig into your shoulders, and a chest buckle for extra support if you’re carrying a heavier load. Wide straps, and additional straps for more support Plus, it comes with two different handles — one on top like a regular backpack and another on the side, making it easy to carry like a duffle. Another way to hold it This bag is deceptively spacious. I packed everything I needed for a short Disney World trip — even my mouse ears. The various compartments made organization easy, keeping everything from getting jumbled together. Snoffic Travel Backpack As you may know, the Orlando International Airport (MCO) is one of the busiest in the country, and it was the proving grounds for this backpack. Security was a breeze — since the Snoffic Travel Backpack is TSA-friendly. Now, onto boarding and the real test — seeing if it actually fit under the seat in front of me. TSA Line at MCO Airport (and this is a GOOD crowd) In my seat, I held my breath as I slid the bag under the seat. Success! It fit perfectly, even when I packed it to the brim. There was no awkward shoving or needing to rearrange my things. Huzzah! Let’s go! For the price, this bag is a winner. It’s comfortable, durable, and surprisingly spacious while still meeting airline size requirements. If you’re flying a budget airline and want to avoid baggage fees, this is the bag for you. Whether you’re headed to Disney World or anywhere else, the Snoffic Travel Backpack makes traveling so much easier. View on Amazon We’re always looking out for those essentials you’ll need on your next Disney trip, so don’t forget to stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for more! Shop for More Disney Essentials on Our Amazon StorefrontThe post A Former Flight Attendant Told Me to Use This Carry-On Bag, so I Tried It at the Orlando Airport first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

We’ve been eagerly awaiting more news about Universal Orlando’s new park coming in 2025 — Epic Universe — and now that we’ve been able to enter Epic Universe (and take allll the pictures), we have so much to share. WELCOME to EPIC UNIVERSE! We’ve checked out the park’s preview center, kept track of the updates about the themed lands (including Dark Universe!), and been looking at the construction. We even finally got a chance to go INTO the park, where we got to explore everything for ourselves, and THIS was the standout experience. Epic Universe is set to open on May 22nd, 2025, which will be here sooner than you know it! Within Epic Universe, you’ll find areas themed to Harry Potter… Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry …Nintendo… Super Nintendo World is HERE! …the Universal monsters… Dark Universe …and even astronomy and mythology (Celestial Park). Celestial Park There will also be the Grand Helios Hotel with direct access TO the park… Universal Helios Grand Hotel …and even more hotels to enjoy (Stella Nova and Terra Luna). Stella Nova Resort We’ll be sharing ALL of the latest Epic Universe information as it’s revealed, so stay tuned for more. Check out our posts below for additional updates. More Epic Universe News! If You Only Do ONE Thing at Epic Universe, Let It Be THISDFB Video: FIRST LOOK INSIDE Epic Universe — Dark Universe, Harry Potter, How to Train Your Dragon, NintendoThis Is the Best Epic Universe News We’ve Seen All MonthCONFIRMED: These New Lockers RULE in Epic UniverseFIRST LOOK Inside Super Nintendo World and Donkey Kong Country at Epic Universe Oh, and check out our NEW VIDEO covering EVERYTHING you need to know about Epic Universe! Be sure to stay tuned to DFB for all the latest Epic Universe news! Read more: DFB's complete guide to Universal’s Epic Universe >> What are you most looking forward to experiencing in Epic Universe? Tell us in the comments! Disclosure: In nearly all circumstances, Disney Food Blog writers and photographers pay full price for their own travel, hotel, food, beverage, and event tickets. We do this because it’s important to us as journalists to ensure not only that we give you unbiased opinions, but also that you can trust us to do so since we’re paying our own way. On rare occasions, when we are invited by a company to attend a preview as media, and when we choose to accept that invitation, we will always make you, our readers, aware of that situation. Today, we were invited by Universal to attend their media preview of Epic Universe. Note that when we attend events as media we are 1) Not required to review that event/food on any of our channels, and 2) Not required to review that event/food favorably. You can always count on DFB to give you a 100% unbiased and honest review of any event that we attend, food that we eat, or beverage that we drink. You can see more in our Disclosure Policy. Thank you for reading. — AJ The post If You Only Do ONE Thing at Epic Universe, Let It Be THIS first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Planning a trip to Disney World? Get ready — not just for magic, but for a little bit of classic Florida chaos in the skies. Magic Kingdom For the next two weeks, the Florida weather is throwing out a little bit of everything: warm sunshine, surprise thunderstorms, and temps creeping up into the 90s. Here’s a look at what you need to pack to stay prepared for whatever your day at the most magical place on earth may entail. If you’re heading to Disney World this week, you might be wondering, “Do I pack for sunshine or storms?” The answer? Both. Welcome to Florida — where the weather likes to change its mind more than we do inside the Main Street Confectionary (A candy apple? No. A cereal treat? No. A custom popcorn mix?? It just all looks too good!) Lollipops Florida is doing what Florida does best in the upcoming weeks: keeping things interesting. We’ve got a mix of warm, humid air and a front stirring things up — think possible storms and pop-up afternoon downpours. The good news? The worst of it is expected to stay scattered. But thunderstorms can still pop up in the afternoons, thanks to the classic sea breeze effect (basically warm land + cooler ocean = surprise storms). Rainy day at Magic Kingdom And get this — temperatures are climbing. We’re talking 90 degrees by midweek, according to ClickOrlando! Yup, it’s extreme pool weather. But don’t get too comfy; a cool-down is on the horizon for mid-April. Nothing too dramatic (you’ll still need sunscreen), but maybe not every day will feel like summer. Experts are warning that the weather is going to be all over the place this month, per ClickOrlando. Blizzard Beach What to pack for your upcoming Disney World trip: When It’s Hot: Lightweight clothes (cotton, linen, anything breathable) A hat or visor for shade on the go Sunglasses and SPF (Florida sun is not shy) Water bottle — hydration = key to surviving long park days When It Storms: A poncho or mini umbrella (because sudden downpours love prime parade time) Quick-dry or waterproof shoes Extra socks or a dry shirt in your park bag When It (Briefly) Cools Down: Light jacket or hoodie, especially for early mornings or evenings Crowds at Magic Kingdom Florida weather likes to show off, but with the right gear, you’ll be ready for whatever it throws at you. Safe travels, and may your Mickey ice cream bar never melt too fast! 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. For the latest in Disney World news, make sure to stay tuned to us here on DFB! CONFIRMED: NEW Perk Announced for Disney World Hotel Guests 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 must-have Disney travel essential for unpredictable Florida weather? We’d love to read about it in the comments! The post Headed to Disney World Next Week? Here’s What Experts Are Warning (and What You Should Pack) first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Are you ready to be one of the very FIRST people to see INSIDE Universal Orlando’s BRAND-NEW theme park, Epic Universe? Bowser’s Challenge! We’ve got an exclusive sneak peak at the rides, the food, and MUCH more, today on DFB Guide! Check out our video below: FIRST LOOK INSIDE Epic Universe — Dark Universe, Harry Potter, How to Train Your Dragon, Super Nintendo 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 are you looking forward to doing in this park? Tell us in the comments. The post DFB Video: FIRST LOOK INSIDE Epic Universe — Dark Universe, Harry Potter, How to Train Your Dragon, Nintendo first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

We just saw the MENU for the brand-new Lagoon Games & Lanes, which is opening at Walt Disney World Swan & Dolphin Resort! Lagoon Lagoon Games, Lanes, and Eats is a new, innovative game room exclusive to Swan & Dolphin Resort. It combines interactive gaming with delicious dining. And, get ready, there’s a BOWLING ALLEY! The afternoon menu will be available from 11 AM to 6 PM and will offer meals like a Tornado Potato, Crispy Fried Chicken Sandwich, and 7-Layered Chocolate Cake. OK, Lagoon — you got our attention with French Fry Skewers! ©Lagoon The menu also has Southwest, Cobb, and Caesar Salads. You can even add chicken breast, Gulf shrimp, and Beyond Meat patties to the salads, which we love. Look how good these main courses sound. House-made buffalo sauce? We’re SO in. ©Lagoon The evening menu will be available from 6 PM to 10 PM. It’s the same menu as the afternoon menu, but with additional options like Fried Mozzarella and Tempura Cauliflower Bites. Seating There are a few bowling lanes and lots of games to play. Looks like a lot of fun! Bowling! Lagoon just opened a few days ago, and while it’s a small space, there are plenty of arcade games. SO many games We’ll be back to check this place out soon, so stay tuned for more details! 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. For more Disney food news, make sure you’re following Disney Food Blog for all the details! A Definitive Ranking of EVERY Disney World Hotel Based on Their Restaurants 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 excited to try Lagoon? Let us know in the comments! The post FULL MENU Announced for the NEW Restaurant (With a BOWLING ALLEY) at Disney’s Swan & Dolphin Hotel first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Want to snag the best seats at Disney World restaurants? California Grill Dining room We’ve got insider “secrets” straight from the former Cast Members on our team, and trust us — they know how the system works. There’s nothing worse than getting stuck with a seat by the bathroom or missing out on a prime view of Cinderella Castle just because you didn’t know a few simple tricks. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to level up your dining experience, these tips can make all the difference. Offer to Wait One of the simplest (but most effective) ways to get a better table is to be willing to wait! A lot of guests expect to be seated right away, so if you let the host or hostess know that you’re happy to wait for a better table, they’re often more than willing to accommodate. California Grill Check-in This works especially well if you have your heart set on a specific view — like the fireworks at California Grill or a waterfront seat at Rose & Crown in EPCOT. Just remember to be polite and patient. A little kindness goes a long way! Arrive Early If you have a special request for your seating arrangement, showing up ahead of your reservation time can improve your chances. While arriving right on time is great for efficiency, getting there 20–30 minutes early gives you the chance to chat with the host and make your request before the rush. Yak & Yeti Host’s Stand Restaurants assign tables based on availability at the time you check in, so if you get there early and let them know what you’re hoping for, you might just get lucky. Mention Special Occasions Celebrating something big? Disney loves to sprinkle a little extra magic for guests celebrating milestones. If you’re on your honeymoon, proposing, or having a birthday dinner, be sure to let the Cast Members know. Celebration buttons! While they can’t guarantee anything, they often try their best to make your experience special. This could mean getting seated at a prime location, getting a little extra pixie dust sprinkled on your table, or even a complimentary treat. The more notice you give (and the friendlier you are about it), the better your chances! Be Flexible Sometimes, the best seats go to those who are willing to be a little flexible. If you’re open to dining at off-peak times—like a late lunch instead of dinner or an early dinner instead of prime time—you’ll have a better shot at securing one of the best spots in the restaurant. Citricos Crowds are lower, the staff is less rushed, and special requests are more likely to be accommodated. Plus, dining at odd hours means you might even get a little extra attention from your server! Request, Don’t Demand At the end of the day, Cast Members are there to make your experience as magical as possible, but they can only do so much. Being polite and friendly when making a request can make all the difference. A simple “Would it be possible to get a window seat?” will go over much better than “I need a window seat or I’m not sitting down.” Cast Members deal with a lot of people every day, and a little kindness and patience will always increase your chances of getting a great seat. Beautiful windows and lighting So there you have it—five easy ways to score the best seats at Disney World restaurants! It’s all about arriving early, being patient, and communicating your request in a friendly way. While nothing is ever guaranteed, these insider tips give you the best shot at securing that perfect table. In the meantime, stay tuned to DFB for all the latest from Disney. REVIEW: You Didn’t Need Another Reason to Go Eat at Garden Grill in EPCOT But Here’s One Just in Case 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 used any of these tips to get the best seats at Disney World restaurants? Let us know in the comments! The post A Former Cast Member Reveals The Secrets To Getting The BEST Seats at Restaurants first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Well, it finally happened. We got to go INSIDE Epic Universe and share that experience with you. Yes, our jaws have been dropping non-stop all weekend (and yes, there were some tears of joy, too), and we’re not done yet telling you all about it. Toothless and Hiccup! Now that we’ve visited all five lands in Epic Universe, we’re coming in with our takes, and we’ll admit that a lot of things surprised us (those big lockers at Monsters Unchained, for example). But the best news that came out of our visit might surprise you, so let’s get into it. So what surprised us the most about our visit to Epic Universe? Well, although Universal is generally known for thrill rides that appeal to teens and adults, Epic Universe is actually more family-friendly than we expected. This is a place that kids will get to enjoy as much as teens and adults, especially Super Nintendo World and How To Train Your Dragon — Isle of Berk. 1Up Factory in Super Nintendo World As far as rides go, kids have plenty to get excited about. Some rides have NO height requirements, including the Constellation Carousel (note that kids under 48 inches must be accompanied by an adult), Astronomica, and Fyre Drill. There are also a lot of rides with a height requirement of just 40 inches, meaning that kids around ages 6 and up may be able to ride. Fyre Drill Yoshi’s Adventure is specifically designed for little ones, with a height requirement of just 34 inches (under 48 inches requires an adult companion, though). Many other rides only have height requirements of 40 inches, meaning kids 6 and up may be able to ride. This includes Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge, Mine-Cart Madness, Curse of the Werewolf, and Hiccup’s Wing Gliders. Curse of the Werewolf Also, kids are going to LOVE being transformed into monsters at the Darkmoor Monster Makeup Experience, especially because they get to roam around Dark Universe for the rest of the day as one of the universe’s regulars. Oh, who are we kidding — the whole family should get a monster makeover! In The Wizarding World of Harry Potter — Ministry of Magic, you’ll see those students, the band, and a friend of Albus Dumbledore who is gathering intel. In How To Train Your Dragon — Isle of Berk, we saw Astrid and Stormfly roaming, as well as Dart and Gobber the Belch. You might also see siblings Ruffnut and Tuffnut! Be on the lookout for roaming characters This park is more than just thrill rides — there’s a whole UNIVERSE of characters and family-friendly things to see and do. We can’t wait to go BACK to Epic Universe when it officially opens on May 22nd. Stay tuned to DFB for more. We’re Spilling the Tea About the Hidden Details You Can See INSIDE Isle of Berk at Epic Universe 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 Will you be visiting Epic Universe this year? Let us know in the comments! The post This Is the Best Epic Universe News We've Seen All Month first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Are you trying to keep up with all things Disney? Magic Kingdom There are lots of changes happening around the world with the Walt Disney Company. Disney World is experiencing an overhaul, Disneyland has a big anniversary coming up, Disneyland Paris is changing in major ways, and that’s just scratching the surface. We’re doing our weekly round-up of the biggest Disney news right here so you don’t have to go searching anymore! Disney has been super busy this year, but luckily, this week was a bit quieter, so you haven’t missed as much! The biggest news comes from Disneyland this week, starting off with more details regarding the 70th Anniversary celebrations! ©Disney This week Disneyland was feeling generous because we got tons of info for the park’s anniversary! We’re getting 2 new dessert parties, a new character meet and greet is coming, new and returning shows are on the way, and there is so much merchandise! ©Disney Not only did Disney give us a glimpse at tons of new merchandise (which we are honestly drooling over), but they also showed us the newest interactive souvenir you can grab during the celebrations! The new Disneyland Keys light up and make sounds and more! Disney shared that guests can “embark on an adventure and activate special features while visiting 70th Anniversary lock stations in each land of Disneyland park. Once all nine lands are “unlocked,” the key will reveal 1 of 9 hidden commemorative keepsake pins inside – talk about magic! The best part? The key saves your progress, allowing you to unlock lands at your leisure over the course of the 70th anniversary celebration — all in one day or spread throughout your visit.” ©Disney Disney also shared that new restaurants and stores will be coming to Downtown Disney as the park continues to grow and change before the celebrations start on May 16th, 2025. See the brand-new merchandise for Disneyland’s 70th here! Our next piece of news also comes from Disneyland, specifically, for annual passes. If you didn’t know, Disneyland annual passes are called Magic Keys. Magic Keys come in 4 tiers — the Inspire Key, Believe Key, Enchant Key, and Imagine Key! Disney This week, Disney confirmed that none of the Magic Keys are available for purchase, confirming that there’s an indefinite pause. We’ve known that Magic Keys could sell out (and they have!) and that Disney could pause sales, so this isn’t a big surprise. ©D23 We don’t know when Magic Keys will go back on sale, but if you already own one of the exclusive tickets, you can renew it during the pause. Learn more about the Magic Key sales pause! Finally, our last bit of news takes us across the country to Walt Disney World! Over at Disney’s Pop Century Resort, there are 8 brand-new menu items for us to enjoy. There’s a new Ice Cream Truck Sundae that comes with your choice of soft-serve with chocolate sauce, whipped cream, rainbow sprinkles, cherries, and Snickers bar pieces served in Mickey’s Ice Cream Truck for $27.79. ©Disney Next is the Fruit-Flavored Cereal Shake is a vanilla shake blended with fruit-flavored cereal and strawberry, topped with strawberry-marshmallow whoopie pie, whipped cream, and cherry (Non-alcoholic) for $7.99. The Chocolate Peanut Butter Bourbon Shake is a chocolate shake blended with peanut butter and Maker’s Mark Bourbo,n topped with a PB&J Sandwich, whipped cream, and a cherry for $16.50. ©Disney There’s also a Totally Orange treat, which is orange and vanilla soft-serve swirl in an orange cone topped with Skittles POP’d Freeze Dried Candy. These items are just scratching the surface of all the yummy treats you can get now at the value resort. See all of the delicious treats here! It might not have been a major news week, but it was a tasty one! We can’t wait to grab too much merchandise in Disneyland and to chow down in Disney World. As always, don’t forget to keep following DFB for your Disney news and updates. Learn More About Disneyland Resort’s 70th Anniversary Celebration 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 news are you most excited about? Tell us in the comments! The post Just Announced: Disney Released 3 Major News Updates first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Let’s just say this weekend has been…EPIC. We finally got a chance to explore Universal Orlando’s new theme park, Epic Universe. We’ve been running all over Super Nintendo World, as well as How To Train Your Dragon — Isle of Berk, Celestial Park, and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter — Ministry of Magic. We also got to get our first really good look at Dark Universe, including the INCREDIBLE Monsters Unchained ride. Well, there was something about that ride that REALLY impressed us that we haven’t talked about yet: the lockers. So, if you’ve ever visited Universal Orlando, you’ll know that most rides require you to put your items in lockers. You’ll also know that the lockers are kinda small — there just isn’t a lot of space in them. Look at these tiny things — you can barely fit a Loungefly in there (and it’s going to get squished if you do manage to stuff it in there): Lockers at Universal Well, the lockers at Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment are a LOT bigger! And y’all — that made us so happy. Because you can stuff a Loungefly OR TWO (OR THREE) in there without any problem. We also like that these lockers could fit stuff from multiple people, which certainly makes keeping track of everyone’s things a bit easier. HUGE lockers! So shout out to Monsters Unchained for its big lockers — we would love to see this become the norm across Universal (yeah, we know we’re dreaming, but if this could be what lockers for all new rides look like, we’d be happy). Also, we hope other theme parks are paying attention. We often bring a park bag with a lot of STUFF — we need better places to store them when on rides. No room for bags on this ride! In the meantime, we’re always on the lookout for the latest Epic Universe news, so stay tuned for more. FIRST LOOK Inside Dark Universe at Epic Universe Read more: DFB's complete guide to Universal’s Epic Universe >> What do you think about these lockers? Let us know in the comments! Disclosure: In nearly all circumstances, Disney Food Blog writers and photographers pay full price for their own travel, hotel, food, beverage, and event tickets. We do this because it’s important to us as journalists to ensure not only that we give you unbiased opinions, but also that you can trust us to do so since we’re paying our own way. On rare occasions, when we are invited by a company to attend a preview as media, and when we choose to accept that invitation, we will always make you, our readers, aware of that situation. Today, we were invited by Universal Orlando to attend their media preview of Epic Universe. Note that when we attend events as media we are 1) Not required to review that event/food on any of our channels, and 2) Not required to review that event/food favorably. You can always count on DFB to give you a 100% unbiased and honest review of any event that we attend, food that we eat, or beverage that we drink. You can see more in our Disclosure Policy. Thank you for reading. — AJ The post CONFIRMED: These New Lockers RULE in Epic Universe first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

We’re HYPED for this upcoming event coming to EPCOT! EPCOT EPCOT is home to several events — like festivals — each year, and they can be massive draws. However, there’s one non-Disney hosted event coming up at EPCOT that will have many Disney Adults flocking to the famous Disney World theme park! Disney Dapper Day is an event that lets you “dress up a little, or a lot” during a visit to Disney World. The event celebrates “fun, refined style from vintage classics to chic, contemporary looks! Active and retired service members are encouraged to wear your dress uniforms if you like,” according to the official Dapper Day website. Pictured: @alange_realtor @mtorres1119 @saylortremaroli @rayrad This Dapper Day Spring Outing is coming to Disney World on April 26th and 27th, 2025, with a fun meet-up coming to EPCOT on the 26th. DAPPER DAY® On Saturday, April 26th, Dapper Day is hosting “Dapper Aperitivo”, starting at 5 PM at the Italy Pavilion in EPCOT. The official description reads: “Say ‘Ciao’ to friends new and old while savoring the sights, sounds, and tastes of the Italy Pavilion.” Italy Pavilion in EPCOT The fun doesn’t stop there. The next day, on the 27th, Dapper Day moves to Magic Kingdom with the “Liberty Belle Farewell”. This event starts around 2 PM at Liberty Square and will consist of “one final riverboat voyage before this 51-year-old attraction permanently closes. (If you miss the first departure, or it fills to capacity – just hop on the next one.)” Liberty Square Riverboat The Dapper Day brand doesn’t anticipate having a Pop-Up shop at the event but does hope to return to Disney World in the fall in case you miss this outing. As a reminder, Dapper Day is not associated with The Walt Disney Company. Pictured: @stormy_trooper24 @nurselisab1981 Do you plan on attending? Let us know in the comments and continue to follow us here at DFB for all the latest Disney World updates! EVERY Dapper Day Event Announced For Disney World and Disneyland in 2025 Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Have you ever attended a Dapper Day? Share your experiences in the comments below! The post Why Disney Adults Will Be Running to EPCOT at 5PM on April 26th first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

If you travel as often as I do, you know the airport security struggle all too well. Between juggling your carry-on, digging out your laptop, and making sure you haven’t left a water bottle in your bag (we’ve all been there), the last thing you want is to fumble with complicated shoes at TSA. MCO Airport (and this is a GOOD crowd) I used to be one of those people who wore sneakers that required lacing and unlacing (rookie mistake), but I’ve since learned my lesson. Now, I opt for lightweight, slip-on shoes that let me breeze through TSA without missing a beat. If you’re looking to upgrade your airport shoe game, here are some top picks that make security a total breeze. DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Check out these Women’s Penny Loafers by DREAM PAIRS ©Amazon Listen, loafers are the ultimate travel hack. They’re sleek, stylish, and—most importantly—easy to slip on and off. These Women’s Penny Loafers from DREAM PAIRS are a perfect example of form meets function. The supple PU upper and soft insole keep your feet comfy, while the lightweight outsole makes them ideal for airport sprints (because let’s be real, we’ve all had a gate change at the last minute). Plus, the metallic accent gives them a polished touch, so you can go straight from the plane to a nice dinner without skipping a beat. View on Amazon Check out these Women’s Sylvia Woven Mary Jane Ballet Flats with Memory Foam Insole by Universal Thread ©Target If you’re a fan of ballet flats, these Women’s Sylvia Woven Mary Jane Ballet Flats are a must-have. They feature a cushioned memory foam insole (perfect for long travel days), a closed pointed toe for a little extra sophistication, and an adjustable ankle strap to keep them secure. They’re a great option if you want something cute and breathable that won’t slow you down at security. View on Target Check out these Women’s Ballet Flats by FRACORA ©Amazon These Women’s Ballet Flats are 100% a travel essential. Made with breathable PU leather and featuring a memory foam insole, they offer all-day comfort without the bulk. The round-toe design makes them a great fit for all foot shapes, and the lightweight sole means you can easily pack them in your carry-on for a backup option. Whether you’re running errands at the airport or need something easy to slip into on the plane, these flats are a great choice. View on Amazon We’re always looking out for those essentials you’ll need on your next Disney trip, so don’t forget to stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for more! Shop for More Disney Essentials on Our Amazon StorefrontThe post I Go To the Airport Many Times a Year, and This Shoe Trend That Makes Security a Breeze first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Potterheads may well lose their minds when Epic Universe opens next month. Universal Orlando’s next theme park features a “Harry Potter”-inspired attraction that’s exhilarating, imaginative, and, at times, jaw-dropping. The ride, dubbed Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry, is one of the noteworthy Epic offerings that folks are experiencing as the park moves through its previews for key audiences, including Universal employees and, on Saturday, members of the media. The attractions remain in “technical rehearsal” before Epic Universe opens to the public May 22. Without being too terrible of a spoiler, here are initial impressions of upcoming attractions. The queue for Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry features Delores Umbridge, whose trial is the focal point of the ride. (Patrick Connolly/Orlando Sentinel)Taking Umbridge The storyline of Battle at the Ministry (part of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic) revolves around the trial of Dolores Umbridge, a villainess in the “Potter” series, and riders see a lot of her (actress Imelda Staunton). They also see Harry, Hermione and Ron more than they do in Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts ride at Universal Studios theme park. A trial is an unlikely setting for a park ride, so it’s fortuitous that there’s an escape attempt and pursuit. Riders, situated in 16-passenger “magical lifts,” follow the action in parallel lifts that move up, down and while bumping around in the depths of the Ministry of Magic. The movement is unpredictable and while we want to believe good will win out … Will it? Also in the mix is a formidable erumpent, a horned magical creature, reportedly Universal’s largest animatronic figure. But before all that is the long, winding queue through the Ministry. The pathway is lux if bureaucratic, and mixes grand, high-ceilinged spaces featuring golden statues with small spaces, including Umbridge’s very pink, very kitty office. Linking it all: miles of tiles. There are more than 200,000 of them lining the walls leading to the ride, Universal says. Stardust Racers rolls in Celestial Park during a preview day for Epic Universe on Saturday. (Patrick Connolly/Orlando Sentinel)Sky highs “Don’t underestimate Stardust Racers,” I was advised about Epic’s unassuming-looking roller coaster running in Celestial Park. But as I crested the first big hill after that wicked first launch I realized I had underestimated Stardust Racers anyway. The coaster has rollicking maneuvers that keep coming despite a string of profanities and pleas to my sainted mother in heaven to save us. The racing coaster aspect of Stardust practically forces Universal veterans to recall the late, great Dueling Dragons, a staple of the early days of Islands of Adventure. But just as I was thinking the near-misses weren’t as plentiful as they were in Dragons days, they flooded in on Stardust. Another fair IOA comparison would be with Jurassic World VelociCoaster. I’d rate their intensities as similar, but Stardust felt like a longer experience. Plus, the new ride has two similar — but not identical — rails. So now there are two of them. A quibble: At the top of the hills, I was distracted by non-Epic elements in the distance and nearby construction units. But it was nice on the descents to see grassy areas, something many coasters do without. Epic features three additional coasters: the also-surprising Hiccup’s Wing Gliders in How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk; the family-friendly Curse of the Werewolf spinning, spinning, spinning coaster in Dark Universe; and close call-heavy Mine-Cart Madness in Super Nintendo World. A 9-foot-figure of Frankenstein and Dr. Victoria Frankenstein are focal points of the pre-show leading up to Monsters Unchained. (Patrick Connolly/Orlando Sentinel)Monster musings Future Epic Universe debate: Ministry or Monsters — which is better? Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment, the centerpiece ride of Dark Universe, has a lot going for it, including multiple animatronics in unusual positions, effective robotic arm technology and a story that’s easy to follow with a girl power element to it. (Wait, what’s up with barefoot Dracula?) I’d also argue that there’s more humor in Monsters Unchained and a slightly less jerky ride. Its queue isn’t as fab as the one for Ministry, but it’s fitting, has grand staircases and starts the story effectively (and visually) before the ride begins. (Wait, what’s up with all the stairs all over Epic?) Perhaps I was more entertained by Monsters, but maybe Ministry is more impressive? Ministry or Monsters — which is better? There is no wrong answer. A portal leads the way to How to Train Your Dragon — Isle of Berk, one of the worlds of Epic Universe theme park, which officially opens to the public May 22. (Patrick Connolly/Orlando Sentinel)Making an entrance Each themed land’s entrance is a tunnel-like portal connecting from the Celestial Park area. They’re several yards deep and have distinct designs that build anticipation. Each is topped with elaborate spires with symbols representing the upcoming world. The other side of the portal isn’t an a-ha moment with a whole new land spread before you. Each gateway delays its big reveals a little, usually a shift in direction or a visual surprise such as a tile wall or twin escalators. There’s a method to this madness. When leaving the lands for your next stops, you’re unlikely to exit via the portal. Side exits naturally flow back to Celestial Park, so there is just one-way traffic through the tube. The portals also help with immersion, a major theme-park buzzword for the past umpteen years. The trend got a jumpstart with the original Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Islands of Adventure in 2010. The idea, of course, is to move visitors figuratively to another world, realm, fictional setting, or, in Epic’s case, a videogame. And to do this without hints of the outside world. Epic Universe is like building four Wizarding Worlds side-by-side. Its themed lands are distinct and stand-alone with few distractions. When standing on the lowest level of Super Nintendo World, the only real life seen was the blue sky above. In the latest Wizarding World, visitors stroll through a worn-looking 1920s Paris before traveling into a 1990s setting for its signature ride. The wide expanse of How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk goes big and wooden. In only a couple of instances does a neighboring land creep into sight. One involved the Grand Helios hotel, which stands in Celestial Park between two other lands, peeking over the top of scenery. In another spot, it feels like the landscape will grow in and provide separation. The Mario character and spinning gold coins decorate a fountain at Epic Universe theme park. (Patrick Connolly/Orlando Sentinel)If you please So many details of note all over Epic Universe, but let’s wrap up with five moments that we expect to be crowd-pleasers. • The 9-foot-tall animatronic of Frankenstein’s new monster in the pre-show of Monsters Unchained. • The Mario water fixture with spinning gold coins just outside Super Nintendo World. • The flying dragon above “The Untamable Dragon” stage show at Isle of Berk. • The rooftop bar at Helios Grand — and not just for the park views. • All the reading there to be done on the walls of 1920s Paris in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. 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

Universal Epic Universe, Orlando’s first new theme park since the late 1990s, offers five worlds including How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, Super Nintendo World and Dark Universe. The park, which has been open in preview mode for certain guests to ride coasters, see shows and explore immersive worlds, will open to the public on May 22. View the full article

We’re getting closer and closer to the opening of Epic Universe at Universal Orlando Resort! Super Nintendo World is HERE! This BRAND-NEW theme park will officially be opening on May 22nd and will be home to five different themed lands including SUPER NINTENDO WORLD. We’ve been keeping an eye out for any potential news ahead of the park’s opening, and now we’ve gotten to step inside SUPER NINTENDO WORLD at Epic Universe for the first time! Having made its debut at Universal Studios Japan followed by Universal Hollywood, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD is coming to Orlando, too! We just got to step into this land for the first time — along with a look at Donkey Kong Country, too and we’re bringing you everything you need to know. Let’s go inside! Like the other lands at Epic Universe, you’ll enter through the “portal” — in this case, the iconic green pipe from Super Mario World! SUPER NINTENDO WORLD is actually divided into two areas — Super Mario Land and Donkey Kong Country. Universal promises “vibrant scenery and exciting kinetic energy surround them as they are greeted by the familiar sights and sounds that they’ve experienced on their Nintendo game consoles – from the towering Mt. Beanpole and majestic Peach’s Castle to swaying Piranha Plants, pacing Goombas, spinning coins, Blocks and more.” Look at all this detail!! Super Mario Land will present adventures alongside Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, and other characters; Donkey Kong Country is where you can encounter thrills featuring Donkey Kong, Diddy Kong, and other members of the Kong family. Wow! Not only that, but Super Mario Land will be home to two attractions, Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge and Yoshi’s Adventure. While we didn’t get a chance to ride Yoshi’s Adventure today, we did get to take a spin on Bowser’s Challenge! Bowser’s Challenge! Bowser’s Challenge is essentially the exact same ride we got to experience over at Universal Studios Hollywood last year, and we loved it just as much. We think this ride is incredibly immersive and so much fun for people of all ages, but those who love Mario Kart will have the time of their lives. Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge in Universal Studios Hollywood And again, while we didn’t get to ride it today, here’s where you’ll enter to check out Yoshi’s Adventure on your visit. Yoshi’s Adventure This attraction is fantastic for younger ones, and you’ll want to keep an eye out for special easter eggs along your ride! It’s also a great way to see more of the land from a higher vantage point, which is beautiful. Yoshi’s Adventure Before we headed over to Donkey Kong Country, we also got a chance to pop into one of the main shopping locations here, which is Mario Motors! We love all the colors and the design of this location, especially all the nods and details that fans of the universe will recognize and love. Mario Motors Just take a look at some of the apparel you’ll be able to grab here in just over a month! A peek at some merchandise Then we headed over to Donkey Kong Country, which has one attraction — Mine-Cart Madness. Mine-Cart Madness We love the way this entire land looks, and it really feels like our favorite Donkey Kong games have been brought to life. The track for this ride brings you around the land a little bit, and the technology makes you feel like you’re truly jumping the track! Just look at this detailing! While this ride is friendly for families, keep in mind that it will be a bit more intense than Yoshi’s Adventure thanks to those jumping parts, so it might catch some riders off guard! You must be a minimum height of 40” to ride this attraction. The ride vehicles You can also check out The Bubbly Barrel in Donkey Kong Country, which is home to some sweet treats and refreshing drinks. The Bubbly Barrel As we were leaving the land, we got a chance to walk by the 1Up Factory, which is another merchandise location here in the land. 1Up Factory It’s also one of the places you can grab a Power-Up Band to enhance your experience in the land, if you so choose — be sure to grab one if you’re interested in seeing just how immersive this land can get! Our Power-Up Band! We’re getting a chance to check out the WHOLE park today, so stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for more theme park news! EVERYTHING We Know About SUPER NINTENDO WORLD at Epic Universe Read more: DFB's complete guide to Universal’s Epic Universe >> Are you excited about the opening of SUPER NINTENDO WORLD and Donkey Kong Country? Tell us in the comments. Disclosure: In nearly all circumstances, Disney Food Blog writers and photographers pay full price for their own travel, hotel, food, beverage, and event tickets. We do this because it’s important to us as journalists to ensure not only that we give you unbiased opinions, but also that you can trust us to do so since we’re paying our own way. On rare occasions, when we are invited by a company to attend a preview as media, and when we choose to accept that invitation, we will always make you, our readers, aware of that situation. Today, we were invited by Universal Orlando to attend their media preview of Epic Universe. Note that when we attend events as media we are 1) Not required to review that event/food on any of our channels, and 2) Not required to review that event/food favorably. You can always count on DFB to give you a 100% unbiased and honest review of any event that we attend, food that we eat, or beverage that we drink. You can see more in our Disclosure Policy. Thank you for reading. — AJ The post FIRST LOOK Inside Super Nintendo World and Donkey Kong Country at Epic Universe first appeared on the disney food blog. 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