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How to Get the Best Value from Your Disney Dining Plan at Disney World

How to Get the Best Value from Your Disney Dining Plan at Disney World

DisneyStore.com
8 ways to maximize the Disney dining plan

Hooray! As of today, dining plans are FINALLY back at the Walt Disney World Resort!

Let’s be honest, food at Disney World is very expensive. You can certainly save money by bringing food, drinks, and snacks with you into the parks, but if you’re planning to purchase food in the parks, you may be wise to consider one of the Disney dining plans. Disney dining plans are available to guests staying at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel. You can currently choose from the quick service dining plan and Disney dining plan when you book a vacation package at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel.

Character Dining

Character meals are some of the most expensive meals at Disney World. You can spend over $50 per person for a dinner with Mickey Mouse and friends at Chef Mickey’s! This is a great use of a Disney dining plan. Plus, your whole family will love having characters come visit with you at your table for photos and autographs. You can review all of the character dining experiences here.

Use Snack Credits Wisely

We typically don’t recommend spending snack credits on items less than $5. If you’d like a soda or bottle of water, it’s often better to purchase these out of pocket. Some of our favorite snacks are ice cream, cupcakes, funnel cakes, pretzels, popcorn, and breadsticks. You can even enjoy almost all Starbucks beverages with just a snack credit! So, go ahead and add that extra pump of syrup… it’s still only one snack credit!

Consider Meal Times

Breakfast is a less expensive meal than lunch or dinner, especially when it comes to table service meals. If possible, we recommend booking lunch or dinner for your table service meals as they would normally cost more if you were paying out of pocket. You’ll also get dessert included with your table service meal during lunch or dinner only. If you’re on one of the dining plans that only include two meals per day, breakfast is also an easy one to “skip.” You can use your snack credits to cover that meal or even pack cereal bars from home for an on-the-go meal.

8 ways to get the best value from the Disney dining plan

Epcot Festivals

If you are visiting during any of the annual festivals at Epcot, plan to use as many snack credits there as possible. All of the festivals offer snacks and drinks at the booths set up throughout the World Showcase, and even Future World, at times. These snacks can often be $8 or more when purchased out of pocket so they are a great value on the Disney dining plan.

The Festival of the Arts runs select dates in January and February. The Flower and Garden Festival usually runs from March through May. The Food and Wine Festival usually kicks off at the end of August and runs through mid-November. The Festival of the Holidays runs from Thanksgiving through December.

Dining Packages

Who doesn’t love dinner and a show? There are a few dining packages available with the Disney dining plan. You can enjoy a reserved viewing area for a parade or show with the cost of your meal. These dining packages cost the same number of credits that you would have spent otherwise. You can choose from:

  • Fantasmic! Dining Package at Hollywood & Vine, Mama Melrose’s, and Hollywood Brown Derby
  • Disney Festival of Fantasy Parade Dining Package at Tony’s Town Square
  • Candlelight Processional Dining Package at select Epcot restaurants
  • Garden Rocks Dining Package at select Epcot restaurants
  • Eat to the Beat Dining Package at select Epcot restaurants
  • Disney on Broadway Concert Series Dining Package at select Epcot restaurants

Specialty Drinks

You can treat yourself to a specialty drink with your table service meal at no additional cost. Alcohol is now included with the Disney dining plan. Or, if you prefer a kid-friendly drink, there are often specialty drinks available for guests of all ages. Just ask your server what options are available at each location.

best ways to use the Disney dining plan

Use Your Resort Refillable Drink Mugs

All four of the Disney dining plans include one resort refillable drink mug per person, age 3+. They can be refilled not only at the resort that your family is staying at, but ANY Walt Disney World Resort Hotel. You can fill your mug before you leave the resort in the morning, enjoy time by the pool with it, or even leave a park to refill your mug at a neighboring resort. You can get soda, Powerade, coffee, and tea in your mug.

Spend Leftover Credits on Prepackaged Snacks

If you happen to have any leftover snack credits at the end of your visit, be sure to spend them before you leave! All Disney dining plan credits are available until midnight on the day that you check out. You can find a variety of prepackaged snacks (or drinks) at the parks and resorts. If you aren’t visiting a park, stop by Goofy’s Candy Company Disney Springs. Goofy’s has a line of Disney gummies, jelly beans, licorice, and more that travel well. There are also prepackaged rice krispy treats you can take home.

You can keep track of your Disney dining plan credits in the My Disney Experience app or at the bottom of your receipt. It will automatically update each time an entitlement is used to reflect your remaining credits.

What are your favorite ways to use the Disney Dining Plan?

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. We may make a small commission from purchases made through these links. Thank you for supporting our small business!

When is the Best Time of Year to Go to Disney World?

If you are planning a Walt Disney World Resort vacation, you may be wondering when is the BEST time to of year to go to Disney. Best can be mean something different to different people. Some people are looking for the “best” weather (some like it warmer or cooler than others) while others prefer the lowest price or lowest crowds. Unfortunately, there isn’t a time that will check every box on your list, but there are certainly advantages to certain times of year over others.

Overall, most guests are hoping to find a combination of the lowest crowds, best prices and most comfortable weather. Although there isn’t one “perfect” time of year that meets all of the criteria exactly, there are certain times of year that are more favorable to giving you the best experience possible. With some advance planning and insider tips and tricks, you can certainly make the most of your time in the parks and truly enjoy your time at the Most Magical Place on Earth.

Let’s look a little closer at each month and some factors you may want to consider if you’re visiting then.

January

Weather: Average high of 71 and 2 inches of rain

Seasonal events include runDisney’s Marathon Weekend as well as the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts.

The best time to visit Disney World in the month of January for low crowds and the most competitive pricing is the middle and end of the month, after Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

February

Weather: Average high of 75 and 2.5 inches of rain

Seasonal events include the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts as well as runDisney’s Princess Half Marathon Weekend.

The best time to visit Disney World in the month of February for low crowds and the most competitive pricing is the beginning of the month, before winter break and Princess Half Marathon weekend.

March

Weather: Average high of 78 and 3.5 inches of rain

Seasonal events include the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival and runDisney’s Springtime Surprise Weekend.

The best time to visit Disney World in the month of March for low crowds and the most competitive pricing is the beginning of the month, before spring breaks begin.

April

Weather: Average high of 84 and 2.5 inches of rain

Seasonal events include the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival.

The best time to visit Disney World in the month of April for low crowds and the most competitive pricing is end of the month, after Easter and spring breaks.

May

Weather: Average high of 88 and 4 inches of rain

Seasonal events include the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival.

The best time to visit Disney World in the month of May for low crowds and the most competitive pricing is the beginning and middle of the month, before Memorial Day weekend.

June

Weather: Average high of 91 and 8 inches of rain

Seasonal events include the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival.

The best time to visit Disney World in the month of June for low crowds and the most competitive pricing is the beginning of the month, before schools have gotten out for summer across the entire country.

July

Weather: Average high of 92 and 7 inches of rain

Seasonal events typically include the end of the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival followed by the beginning of the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival.

The best time to visit Disney World in the month of July for low crowds and the most competitive pricing is the middle and end of the month, after Fourth of July.

August

Weather: Average high of 92 and 7 inches of rain

Seasonal events include Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party on select nights at Magic Kingdom Park as well as the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival.

The best time to visit Disney World in the month of August for low crowds and the most competitive pricing is the middle and end of the month, as schools start to go back.

September

Weather: Average high of 90 and 6 inches of rain

Seasonal events include Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party on select nights at Magic Kingdom Park as well as the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival.

The best time to visit Disney World in the month of September for low crowds and the most competitive pricing is the beginning and middle of the month, right after all of the schools have gone back.

October

Weather: Average high of 85 and 3.5 inches of rain

Seasonal events include Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party on select nights at Magic Kingdom Park as well as the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival.

The best time to visit Disney World in the month of October for low crowds and the most competitive pricing is the beginning and end of the month, avoiding fall breaks in the middle of the month.

November

Weather: Average high of 79 and 2 inches of rain

Seasonal events include Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party on select nights at Magic Kingdom Park as well as the end of the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival followed by the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays and runDisney’s Wine & Dine Marathon Weekend.

The best time to visit Disney World in the month of November for low crowds and the most competitive pricing is the beginning and middle of the month, before Thanksgiving.

December

Weather: Average high of 73 and 2.5 inches of rain

Seasonal events include Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party on select nights at Magic Kingdom Park as well as the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays.

The best time to visit Disney World in the month of December for low crowds and the most competitive pricing is the first couple weeks of the month, before schools get out for Christmas break.

2024 Disney World Vacation Waitlist is Now OPEN!

Who’s ready to start planning a visit to the Most Magical Place on Earth? Although we aren’t even halfway through 2023 yet, it’s already time to start thinking about 2024, especially if you are considering a Walt Disney World Resort vacation next year. Sign up today to join my 2024 Disney World waitlist and be notified as soon as Disney releases 2024 vacations!

2024 Disney World Vacation Waitlist is Now OPEN!

Wondering why you should start thinking about your vacation plans for 2024 now? Here are my top 4 reasons why you’ll want to book your 2024 Disney World vacation as soon as possible:

  • Resort availability is limited so whether you would like a specific resort or room category or you just need extra space with a large family, you will have the best choice of both resorts and rooms when you book as early as possible.
  • You lock in the pricing once you’ve paid your deposit so if Disney raises ticket prices next month, you are protected from any increases before you travel. However, discounts can still be applied so you never have to worry about over paying for your vacation!
  • After paying a nominal deposit (just $200 for a vacation package), you can make payments and/or save towards the remaining balance which makes traveling easier and more affordable.
  • You have even more time to dream about and plan for all of the magic and fun awaiting you at the Walt Disney World Resort.

Plus, with TRON Lightcycle / Run now open at Magic Kingdom Park and new attractions like Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana scheduled to open at EPCOT by the end of 2023, 2024 will be an extra magical time to visit the Walt Disney World Resort.

I’d love to add you to my 2024 Disney World waitlist so you can be the first to know when 2024 Walt Disney World Resort vacation packages become available! Just enter your information here to be notified!

Plus, you’ll even receive a special offer to book your 2024 Walt Disney World Resort vacation with me 😉

2024 Disney World Vacation Waitlist is Now OPEN!

Everything You Need to Know About MagicBand+

It’s time to band together because the long awaited MagicBand+ is debuting July 27, 2022 at the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida!

magicband+
Image: Disney

The original MagicBand was introduced in 2013 at Walt Disney World, making the guest experience in both the theme parks and resorts more convenient and hands-free for things like park and guest room entry, retail and dining, Disney PhotoPass and more. MagicBand+ will retain those popular features and add functionality that unlocks new moments of magic for you.

At Walt Disney World, MagicBand+ can do everything a MagicBand can do and more – from entering the theme parks with a tap* and connecting your Disney PhotoPass memories, to unlocking your Disney Resort hotel room and more. 

But, Disney’s newest wearable also has great new features, including color-changing lights, haptic vibrations, and gesture recognition – plus it pairs to your smartphone using the My Disney Experience app. Once you get your hands on one, you’ll want to do it all – and there’s a lot you can do with MagicBand+!

Before you head out on these exciting new experiences, you’ll want to pick out the perfect MagicBand+ from an incredible lineup of more than 25 designs. 

Shop Disney Parks items at shopDisney.com!

Disney Fab 50 Quest

As part of the Walt Disney World 50th Anniversary celebration, you can interact with the Disney Fab 50 Character Collection throughout all four theme parks with the “Disney Fab 50 Quest.” Help Tinker Bell bring the sculptures to life across all four Walt Disney World theme parks using virtual pixie dust from Tink.

Jodi Benson, who you may know as the voice of Ariel in “The Little Mermaid,” recently embarked on the quest and caught up with a few familiar friends – Sebastian and Flounder!

Sebastian and Flounder are just a few characters you may meet on your quest! 

You can wave your hand to sprinkle virtual pixie dust at each Disney Fab 50 Character sculpture for different reactions! To unlock even more during your quest, use the Play Disney Parks app to collect the sculptures and enter the worlds of your favorite characters through an augmented reality feature.**

Star Wars: Batuu Bounty Hunters

On Batuu, the bounty hunting business is booming. MagicBand+ will be your guide to seeking numerous virtual bounties hidden across Black Spire Outpost with the Star Wars: Batuu Bounty Hunters experience. Vibrations and lights on MagicBand+ guide you down the right path. When you find your Bounty, you can use the Play Disney Parks app’s augmented reality thermal viewer to reveal who’s hiding in the shadows.** Local guild master Raga Bua will reward you with galactic credits. Do you have what it takes to join the guild?

Nighttime Spectaculars

MagicBand+ brings the magic of Disney nighttime spectaculars closer than ever before during “Disney Enchantment” at Magic Kingdom Park and “Harmonious” at EPCOT! MagicBand+ complements the magic in the skies, lighting up and vibrating in sync with fireworks, visual effects, and music. Your MagicBand+ will also engage as all four theme park icons transform into Beacons of Magic!

Tip: Before you embark on these experiences, make sure your MagicBand+ is charged, up to date and paired to your device.

If you’re planning to get one or even collect some, don’t forget that Disney Resort hotel guests may purchase MagicBand+ online at special prices before their arrival ($10 discount). Currently, MagicBand orders will ship within 10 business days of purchase, unless noted otherwise. Once your order has shipped, you will receive confirmation in your My Disney Experience account.

All guests can buy MagicBand+ at select stores across Walt Disney World and online at shopDisney, starting at $34.99 for solid colors and $44.99 for designs.

At Walt Disney World, you can purchase a MagicBand+ at the following locations: 

  • Magic Kingdom Park: Emporium  
  • EPCOT: Pin Traders – Camera Center  
  • Disney’s Hollywood Studios: Celebrity 5 & 10 and Tatooine Traders 
  • Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park: Discovery Trading Company  
  • Disney Springs: Disney’s Pin Traders  
  • Select merchandise locations at Disney Resort hotels 

Although features and experiences across Disney Parks will vary, Disneyland Resort guests will be able to get in on the MagicBand+ fun later this year. Stay tuned for more updates on the exciting future for MagicBand+ at both Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resorts!

Current MagicBands will continue to be available, too, along with the complimentary Disney MagicMobile service that extends MagicBand features, such as park entry, to smart devices. 

*With valid admission and park reservation

**To use the Play Disney Parks mobile app to enhance the MagicBand+ experience, guests must be logged into the Play Disney Parks app with the Disney account linked with their MagicBand+.

This post contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission for purchases made through these links. Thank you for supporting our small business!

Where to Find a Dole Whip at Disney Destinations

Happy Dole Whip Day! Did you know that Disney Parks celebrates Dole Whip day every third Thursday in July? Dole Whip is an iconic Disney Parks treat available at both the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida and Disneyland Resort in California, Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa in Hawaii and even onboard Disney Cruise Line. The classic Dole Whip is pineapple flavored, but there are variations available including raspberry, coconut, and watermelon flavors.

Dole Whip

Dole Whip at Walt Disney World Resort

Magic Kingdom Park

Aloha Isle (Located in Adventureland)

  • Pineapple Float: DOLE pineapple juice served with a choice of DOLE Whip, vanilla soft-serve, or swirl (available with Tiki Sipper for additional cost)  
  • Raspberry Swirl Float: DOLE Whip and raspberry swirl served with DOLE pineapple juice
  • Pineapple Upside-Down Cake served with choice of DOLE Whip, vanilla soft-serve, or swirl
  • DOLE Whip Cup: Choice of DOLE Whip, vanilla soft-serve, or swirl
  • Coconut Cup: Choice of coconut or coconut and DOLE Whip swirl
  • Raspberry Swirl Cup: DOLE Whip and raspberry swirl

Storybook Treats (Located in Fantasyland)

  • Soft-serve Cup: DOLE Whip lime, chocolate, or vanilla soft-serve, or swirl in a cup
  • Snow White Cone: DOLE Whip lemon in a blue cone garnished with a chocolate bird and sugar bow

Sunshine Tree Terrace (Located in Adventureland; Mobile Order available)

  • DOLE Whip Orange Cup
  • Orange Cream Soft-serve Cup: DOLE Whip orange and vanilla soft-serve swirl
  • DOLE Whip Strawberry Cup
  • DOLE Whip Float: DOLE Whip or vanilla soft-serve with your choice of Coca-Cola, Barq’s Root Beer, Diet Coke, Fanta Orange, Fanta Strawberry, POWERADE Mountain Berry Blast, or Sprite
  • I Lava You Float: Fanta Strawberry Soda and passion fruit flavor served with DOLE Whip orange and topped with popping candy

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park

Tamu Tamu

  • Scar’s Lair: DOLE Whip and sour apple
  • Lion’s Lair: DOLE Whip topped with Parrot Bay Coconut Rum and sour apple
  • Simba Sunset: DOLE Whip with strawberry  
  • King’s Cooler: DOLE Whip with Parrot Bay Coconut Rum and strawberry
  • DOLE Whip Float: DOLE Whip with DOLE pineapple juice (available with Parrot Bay Coconut Rum)
  • DOLE Whip Cup (available with Parrot Bay Coconut Rum)

Trilo-Bites

  • Trilo-Bites Twist: DOLE Whip orange with vanilla soft-serve

EPCOT

Refreshment Outpost (Available through November 19)

  • DOLE Whip: Watermelon, pineapple, or swirl (New)

Disney Springs

Swirls on the Water

  • Peach Bellini Float: Peach Bellini topped with DOLE Whip orange (New)
  • Orange Bird Cone: DOLE Whip orange atop an orange cone with sprinkles
  • DOLE Whip Flight: DOLE Whip orange swirled with DOLE Whip watermelon, DOLE Whip lemon swirled with blue butter cookie soft-serve, and DOLE Whip and Vanilla soft-serve swirl

Walt Disney World Resort Hotels

Disney’s Contemporary Resort

Contempo Café (Available July 21 through August 20; Mobile Order available)

  • DOLE Whip Cupcake: Yellow cupcake filled with DOLE Whip mousse and garnished with a cherry (New)

Disney’s Old Key West Resort

Good’s Foods to Go (Mobile Order available)

  • Key Lime Swirl: DOLE Whip lime and vanilla soft-serve swirl topped with graham cracker crumbs
  • DOLE Whip Key Lime Martini: DOLE Whip lime served with Parrot Bay Coconut Rum and garnished with a lime (New) (available July 21 through 24)

Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

Pineapple Lanai

  • “Tamatoa-inspired” Dipped Cone: DOLE Whip raspberry swirled with DOLE Whip orange in a white chocolate-dipped waffle cone and coated with “shiny” gold sugar (available July 21 through 24)
  • 50th Celebration DOLE Whip: Your choice of DOLE Whip with a 50th white chocolate medallion, umbrella, and EARidescent glitter
  • Pineapple Float: DOLE pineapple juice served with a choice of DOLE Whip, vanilla soft-serve, or swirl
  • DOLE Whip with Rum Floater: DOLE Whip with Parrot Bay Coconut Rum

Barefoot Pool Bar and Oasis Pool Bar

  • Frozen Margarita with DOLE Whip Lime: Corazón Blanco Tequila blended with DOLE Whip lime and chili-lime seasoning
  • Frosty Pineapple: DOLE Whip with Captain Morgan Private Stock Rum

Trader Sam’s Tiki Terrace

  • Spikey Pineapple: Barbancourt Pango Rum blended with DOLE Whip

Dole Whip at Disneyland Resort

Disneyland Park

The Tropical Hideaway (Located in Adventureland; Mobile Order available)

  • DOLE Whip
  • DOLE Whip Float: DOLE pineapple juice topped with DOLE Whip
  • DOLE Whip Swirl Float: DOLE pineapple juice topped with choice of two different DOLE Whip flavors: mango, watermelon, or pineapple
  • DOLE Whip Swirl: Swirl any flavors: mango, watermelon, or pineapple

Disneyland Hotel

Tangaroa Terrace Tropical Bar & Grill (Mobile order available)

  • DOLE Whip
  • DOLE Whip Float: DOLE pineapple juice topped with DOLE Whip (available with Parrot Bay Coconut Rum)

Dole Whip at Disney’s Vero Beach Resort

  • DOLE Whip Cup: Choice of DOLE Whip, vanilla soft-serve, or swirl (available with Parrot Bay Coconut Rum)
  • DOLE Whip Lime topped with Graham Cracker Crumbs (available with Parrot Bay Coconut Rum)

Dole Whip at Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa in Hawaii

Dole Whip

Little ‘Opihi’s

  • DOLE Whip pineapple, mango, watermelon, and vanilla soft-serve
  • DOLE Whip Fresh Fruit Sundae with sprinkles in a waffle bowl topped with fresh pineapple (Moana-themed) or watermelon fruit (Stitch-themed)
  • Mickey and Minnie Waffle Bowl featuring DOLE Whip with sprinkles

Ulu Cafe

  • Churro Pineapple DOLE Whip with Li Hing fresh pineapple (New) (available July 19 through 21)
  • DOLE Whip (available with vanilla soft-serve swirl)

Dole Whip Onboard Disney Cruise Line

You can indulge in DOLE Whip at the following locations across the Disney Cruise Line fleet:

  • Frozone on the Disney Magic, Disney Dream, and Disney Fantasy
  • Sulley’s Sips on the Disney Wonder
  • Wheezy’s Freezies on the Disney Wish

I hope you enjoy all these tasty treats for DOLE Whip Day, from July 21 through 24, and every single day of the year too. Be sure to try all the flavors and combinations at Disney parks, resorts, and Disney Cruise Line. Happy snacking!

Is a Dole Whip a “must have” Disney destinations treat for you or someone in your family?

(Note: All offerings are subject to change and availability.)

Dole Whip

10 Best Themed Hotel Rooms in Orlando

Are you planning an Orlando vacation and looking for a little extra fun in your hotel accommodations? Don’t miss the ten best themed hotel rooms in Orlando! With incredible rooms available at both the Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando Resort in addition to Legoland Florida Resort, there are accommodations to fit every style and budget.

themed hotel rooms

Disney’s Art of Animation Resort

You’ll be surrounded in the artistry, enchantment and magic of Disney and Pixar movies when you stay at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort. This Disney Resort hotel invites you to explore the storybook landscapes seen in such classics as Finding NemoCarsThe Lion King and The Little Mermaid. From delightfully themed family suites to wondrously detailed courtyards, Disney’s Art of Animation “draws” you and your family in to become a part of some of your animated favorites.

Disney’s Art of Animation Resort is a value resort so they offer some of the most affordable accommodations at the Walt Disney World Resort. Some of the other benefits of this resort include the Disney Skyliner, the new gondola system offering a bird’s-eye view as it whisks you and your family away to Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios, in addition to the largest resort pool in Walt Disney World Resort.

Finding Nemo Family Suites

Finding Nemo suite at Disney's Art of Animation Resort

Venture into the “Big Blue” in the Finding Nemo section of Disney’s Art of Animation Resort. You can hang ten with Crush or just keep swimming with Dory. Most centrally located at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, the Finding Nemo family suites can accommodate up to six guests through a bedroom with one queen-size bed; one double-size convertible TableBed; one double-size sleeper sofa; living room; 2 bathrooms and a kitchenette.

Finding Nemo suite at Disney's Art of Animation Resort

Cars Family Suites

Cars suite at Disney's Art of Animation Resort
Photo: DoubleYourWDW

Venture into Radiator Springs with life size models of Lightning McQueen, Tow Mater and more friends from the Disney-Pixar “Cars” franchise. The Cars family suites can accommodate up to six guests through a bedroom with one queen-size bed; one double-size convertible TableBed; one double-size sleeper sofa; living room; 2 bathrooms and a kitchenette.

Cars suite at Disney's Art of Animation Resort
Photo: DoubleYourWDW
Cars suite at Disney's Art of Animation Resort
Photo: DoubleYourWDW

Lion King Family Suites

Lion King Suite at Disney's Art of Animation Resort

Explore Pride Rock and remember “Hakuna Matata” means “no worries” in the Lion King section of Disney’s Art of Animation Resort. The Lion King family suites can accommodate up to six guests through a bedroom with one queen-size bed; one double-size convertible TableBed; one double-size sleeper sofa; living room; 2 bathrooms and a kitchenette.

Lion King suite at Disney's Art of Animation Resort
Lion King suite at Disney's Art of Animation Resort

Little Mermaid Standard Rooms

Little Mermaid room at Disney's Art of Animation Resort

You’ll feel like you’ve gone under the sea in the Little Mermaid section of Disney’s Art of Animation Resort. The Little Mermaid standard rooms can sleep up to four guests in either two queen beds or one king bed.

Little Mermaid room at Disney's Art of Animation Resort

Disney’s Port Orleans Resort- Riverside

Royal Guest Room at Disney's Port Orleans Resort- Riverside

Your little princes and princesses will truly feel like royalty in the royal guest rooms at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort- Riverside. These rooms feature fun regal touches from Princess Tiana, Prince Naveen and Tiana’s princess pals, including a special fireworks display headboard, Aladdin’s magic carpet, and golden bathroom fixtures. Royal guest rooms can sleep up to four guests with two queen beds.

Royal Guest Room at Disney's Port Orleans Resort- Riverside
Royal Guest Room at Disney's Port Orleans Resort- Riverside

Disney’s Contemporary Resort

Incredibles room at Disney's Contemporary Resort

Are you ready to put on your supersuit and feel like a superhero with “The Incredibles?” The rooms at Disney’s Contemporary Resort were recently refurbished to include a new “Incredibles” theme. These rooms blend a sleek Monorail motif with some of our favorite characters from Pixar Animation Studios’ Incredibles films, including Jack-Jack, Frozone and Edna Mode. The custom artwork you’ll find in guest rooms and along guest corridors is modern, futuristic and oh so stylish, dahling, complementing the resort’s architecture while putting the Supers’ powers on display.

Incredibles room at Disney's Contemporary Resort
Incredibles room at Disney's Contemporary Resort
Incredibles room at Disney's Contemporary Resort

Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

Moana room at Disney's Polynesian Village Resort

Can you feel that Pacific breeze blowing? That’s because we just stepped into one of the newly refurbished Moana themed rooms at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort! These reimagined spaces feature a new color palette inspired by the Pacific Ocean and its many islands, including details, patterns and textures from the hit Walt Disney Animation Studios film “Moana” – look closely and you might even spot some characters from the story! You’ll also see all-new furnishings and fixtures in these rooms. In the bathrooms, for example, Disney Imagineers took inspiration from the sandy ocean floor for the tiles and carved details in the vanity. The colorful patterns found throughout the room bring a whole new energy to the space, evoking undulating ocean waves and tropical flowers.

Moana room at Disney's Polynesian Village Resort
Moana room at Disney's Polynesian Village Resort

Loews Royal Pacific Resort

Jurassic Kids Suite at Loews Royal Pacific Resort
Photo: Universal Orlando Resort

Your kids will love sleeping and playing among the dinosaurs in the Jurassic Kids Suite at Loews Royal Pacific Resort. There’s plenty of space for up to 5 guests in this 670-square-foot 2-bedroom suite featuring a standard king bedroom for two adults, plus a separate connecting room for the kids.

When your kids lay down in bed, they’ll feel as if they’ve stepped right into their very own gyrosphere ride, maneuvering through the jungle terrain. The kids’ room only opens into the adults’ room, connected via a door modeled after the dinosaur enclosure that can be opened or closed to contain your little wild things. Of course, the kids aren’t the only ones who can get in on the fun of the Jurassic World™ themed rooms. Mom and dad can have a little privacy in the master bedroom.

Plus, at this tranquil South Seas retreat, you can leave the rest of the world behind and unwind with all the benefits of being a Universal Orlando hotel guest, including free Universal Express Unlimited to skip the regular lines at participating rides and attractions at Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure (valid theme park admission required).

Jurassic Kids Suite at Loews Royal Pacific Resort
Photo: Universal Orlando Resort

Loews Portofino Bay Hotel

Despicable Me Minions Kids Suite at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel
Photo: Universal Orlando Resort

Despicable Me Kids’ Suites at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel offer the children a place their own space to play and unwind while parents relax in a beautiful master bedroom. Your children will love the view and the appointments in these minions themed suites. These suites can sleep up to five guests with a rollaway (king bed in one room and two twin beds in the other) with 650 square feet of space.

Despicable Me Minions Kids Suite at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel
Photo: Universal Orlando Resort

Guests of Loews Portofino Bay Hotel also enjoy exclusive Universal Orlando Resort benefits, including free Universal Express Unlimited to skip the regular lines at participating rides and attractions at Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure (valid theme park admission required).

Despicable Me Minions Kids Suite at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel
Photo: Universal Orlando Resort
Despicable Me Minions Kids Suite at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel
Photo: Universal Orlando Resort

Pirate Island Hotel at Legoland Florida Resort

Pirate Island Hotel at Legoland Florida

Ahoy Mateys! You can vacation like a pirate at the LEGOLAND Pirate Island Hotel, situated just 130 kid-steps from the LEGOLAND Park front gates in Florida! This hotel will transform your family vacation into a unique pirate adventure with immersive themed rooms, a resort pool, and a boat-load of interactive activities and live entertainment for the young bucs (and ol’ sea dogs) to experience during their stay.

Some of our favorite features include a welcome treasure hunt with a LEGO prize, LEGO bricks to build with during your stay, nightly pirate entertainment and so much more. Arrgh… you ready?!

Pirate Island Hotel at Legoland Florida

Are you ready to book one of these themed hotel rooms in Orlando? Call Siera today at (734) 771-1290 or email her at siera@destinationsinflorida.com to check pricing and availability on the room of your choice.

themed hotel rooms

Six Reasons to Celebrate the Holidays at Disney World in 2022

Happy Halfway to Holidays! It’s hard to believe that 2022 is almost halfway over and we are now halfway to the holiday season! The holidays at Disney are an extra special time of year at the Walt Disney World Resort! The parks and resorts are full of holiday decor, festive entertainment, themed merchandise and so much more during the holidays at Disney World. We are especially excited for the return of Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party on select nights at Magic Kingdom Park!

holidays at Disney World
Photo: Disney

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party

Holiday joy will unfold at Magic Kingdom as Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party returns this year! On 24 select nights, Nov. 8 – Dec. 22, 2022, this separately ticketed event will invite guests to Magic Kingdom for an evening of merriment.

  • Join Mickey and his pals at the Cinderella Castle stage for the ultimate must-watch Christmas extravaganza – “Mickey’s Most Merriest Celebration.” The show features nostalgic and modern medleys of holiday music paired with dance performances.
  • Minnie Mouse orchestrates a sparkling spectacle over Magic Kingdom as a part of “Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks.” Full of holiday magic, the show includes dazzling castle projections, fireworks and seasonal songs. 
  • With his famous flying reindeer leading the way, Santa Claus will join Mickey Mouse and friends in the must-see “Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade” as it makes its way through the park.
  • Speaking of Santa Claus, he isn’t the only one who likes cookies during the holidays. Partygoers can indulge in complimentary cookies and hot cocoa at locations throughout Magic Kingdom.
  • Magic Kingdom attractions will get a special dose of yuletide cheer. Holiday magic will once again transform the Jungle Cruise into the Jingle Cruise. And, as an exclusive treat for event attendees, Space Mountain, Tomorrowland Speedway, Monsters Inc. Laugh Floor and Mad Tea Party will all receive a special holiday makeover.
  • Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café becomes the coolest place to get down when denizens of the North Pole drop by for an intergalactic dance party!  
  • Also at Magic Kingdom, dance the night away alongside favorite Disney characters during an out-of-this-world holiday show, “A Totally Tomorrowland Christmas” on the Rockettower Plaza Stage.
  • The fun continues for young partygoers and Disney Junior fans of all ages at Storybook Circus during the “Disney Junior Jingle Jam” as Disney Junior characters take part in a fun-filled dance celebration.
  • NEW! In honor of the 50th Anniversary celebration, Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party attendees will discover three jolly new photo opportunities. Guests will also receive a special 50th Anniversary commemorative keepsake, themed for the holidays.

Tickets for Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party are limited and may be purchased online beginning July 7, 2022. Guests of select Walt Disney World Resort hotels can begin purchasing tickets as early as June 30, 2022. Ticket prices will range from $149 – $199 per person. Event dates are:

  • November: 8, 10, 11, 14, 15, 17, 18, 20, 22, 27, 29
  • December: 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 9, 11, 13, 15, 16, 18, 20, 22

Holiday Themed Beacons of Magic

beacons of magic

During the Walt Disney World 50th Anniversary celebration, select theme park icons will continue to transform into Beacons of Magic, illuminating select nights with an EARidescent glow. And as a special yuletide surprise for guests, the magic will continue as each park celebrates the season with a delightful rotation of unique heartwarming holiday-themed displays.

Santa Claus

Santa at Disney Springs

The holiday season will be an especially busy time for Jolly Old St. Nick as he makes special appearances throughout the Walt Disney World Resort. You can catch him cruising down Hollywood Boulevard in his candy-apple red convertible at Disney’s Hollywood Studios during the Santa Claus Merry Motorcade or voyaging across the Discovery River as part of a festive flotilla at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park. Santa Claus will continue to spread the joyous spirit of the season during visits to Magic Kingdom Park and Disney Springs, where guests may have individual time to take photos and share their Christmas wishes. Finally, at EPCOT, Santa Claus will join storytellers from around the world as a part of the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays presented by AdventHealth beginning November 25.

Festive Entertainment for the Holidays at Disney

festival finale of For the First Time in Forever show at Hollywood Studios during holidays at Disney
  • Disney’s Animal Kingdom will come alive with the return of a Merry Menagerie of winter animals realized in the form of life-size, artisan-sculpted puppets.
  • Just in time for the holidays, “For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration” at Disney’s Hollywood Studios adds a festive finale, featuring everyone’s favorite snowman, Olaf, and celebratory songs of the season. 
  • At Disney Springs, guests visiting Town Center will experience a magical snowfall, bringing the spirit of the North Pole to Central Florida.
  • EPCOT will celebrate the return of “Candlelight Processional” during EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays beginning November 25, a beloved long-standing tradition of heartwarming holiday performances at America Gardens Theatre.
  • This season, the Guardians will trade in their classic hits playlist for a mash-up of seasonal jams at Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind at EPCOT. Guests will blast off to the tune of an awesome holiday single, bringing joy to Xandar and Terra, too.
  • Disney PhotoPass photographers can help guests enhance their Disney vacation photos with holiday-themed Magic Shots at all four Walt Disney World theme parks, a new Disney PhotoPass Lens and virtual backdrops at the Disney PhotoPass Studio at Disney Springs. 

Seasonal Flavors

holiday treats from Epcot during holidays at Disney
  • The Holiday Cookie Stroll will return to EPCOT this year, inviting guests to partake in a sweet scavenger hunt during the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays. The festival will also herald mouthwatering menus of traditional and inspired adaptations of holiday dishes from around the world at special Holiday Kitchens, located throughout the park.
  • At Disney Springs, Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar will become Jock Lindsey’s Holiday Bar and feature yuletide touches alongside festive food and craft cocktails.
  • Select dining locations throughout Walt Disney World will celebrate the season with tasty winter-inspired dishes.

Holiday Decor

gingerbread carousel at Disney's Beach Club Resort during holidays at Disney World

The 2022 holiday season will bring Christmastime cheer to every corner of the Walt Disney World Resort with whimsical décor that creates a nostalgic and joyous atmosphere. From twinkling trees and glittering ornaments to an abundance of tinsel and wreaths, the distinct personality of each Walt Disney World theme park shines even brighter during the holidays. The merriment will continue at Disney Springs with the Disney Springs Christmas Tree Stroll presented by AdventHealth, where elaborately themed Christmas trees will draw inspiration from beloved characters, and at resorts across Walt Disney World, where guests will encounter artisan-made gingerbread creations displayed in select locations. Have you ever seen the life-sized gingerbread house created each year in the lobby of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa or the carousel in the lobby of Disney’s Beach Club Resort?

Halfway to Holidays at Disney

What are you most looking forward to during the holiday season at the Walt Disney World Resort? Will you be celebrating the holidays at Disney this year? It’s not too late to start planning your visit!

2023 Disney World Packages Now Available

Disney has officially opened Walt Disney World Resort vacation packages for 2023, for travel up to 500 days in advance. 2023 Disney World vacation packages include: 

  • Accommodations at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel
  • Theme park tickets with choice of ticket length from 2-10 theme park days
  • Keepsake Luggage Tag (one per person)
  • Magical Extras
2023 Disney World packages

Plus, when you book your 2023 Disney World vacation package with me, you’ll always receive my world famous services including: 

  • Discount Watching (to make sure you get the best deal possible, even after you are booked)
  • MousePerks (weekly tips and tricks to help you get excited about and prepare for your vacation)
  • VIP Dining Services (recommendations based on your preferences)
  • Exclusive Facebook Group with tips and updates added daily
  • Autographed Picture of Mickey Mouse (mailed within 30 days of travel)
  • Autographed Letter from Mickey Mouse (mailed within 30 days of travel)
  • Disney Parks Growth Chart (mailed within 30 days of travel)
  • Personalized recommendations based on your plans and interests
  • Always available to assist you with questions, planning and more
Mouseperks

Here’s a little more information on the Walt Disney World resort hotels and theme park tickets to help you plan the best 2023 Disney World vacation for your family. We are still awaiting the return of Disney dining plans, but they can be added to existing reservations when they become available again. 

Disney’s Value Resorts: 

Disney’s Moderate Resorts:

Disney’s Deluxe Resort:

Disney’s Deluxe Villa Resorts: 

I also have some recommendations for the best Disney resorts for kids and familiesa list of the five best hotel pools and even shared 9 reasons why I think you’ll love staying at Disney’s Pop Century Resort

Disney World vacation

Park Ticket Options (2-10 days available with vacation package):

  • One Park per Day
  • Park Hopper Option 
  • Water Park and Sports Option 
  • Park Hopper Plus Option 

Although Disney has confirmed that dining plans will return, we are still awaiting the official date. With the lack of Disney dining plans, it can be difficult to budget for dining costs in the parks. I recently review the most affordable table service dining locations in the theme parks, Disney Springs and Walt Disney World Resort hotels

Plus, with so much time to save for your vacation, you may also be able to use these easy ways to earn extra money for your vacation

Please note that your check in date cannot be more than 500 days in the future. We can currently book through Saturday, October 21, 2023. If you are planning to travel later in 2023, please let me know and we can figure out exactly when your booking window will open.

booking a Disney World vacation
  • Book your vacation package with just a $200 deposit
  • Remaining balance is due 30 days prior to arrival
  • Change or cancel without penalty up to 30 days prior to arrival
  • Travel protection is available for $82.50 per adult and $6 per child, must be paid in full at the time of purchase and is non-refundable
  • Memory Maker can be added for a discounted price of $169 up to 3 days prior to arrival
  • Theme park reservations are required to guarantee admission into the park of your choice each day

5 Reasons to Book Your 2023 Disney World Vacation TODAY

Disney World vacation
  1. You only need a $200 deposit to book your vacation package. 
  2. The sooner that you book, the more time that you have to save to pay off your vacation. 
  3. As soon as you have booked, you can make your park reservations to guarantee admission into the park of your choice each day. 
  4. The earlier that you book, the better availability will be as far as room categories. The most economical categories and best views book quickly! 
  5. If you book by the end of the month, you will receive a FREE pair of Mickey ears for each child (under 10) in your room. 
Free Mickey ears

As an exclusive gift for my guests, each child in your family will receive a FREE pair of Mickey ears as my gift to you when you book a qualifying* 2023 Disney World vacation package by June 30, 2022. 

* Vacation package must include a minimum three night hotel stay with three or more days of theme park tickets to qualify. 

Are you thinking about giving the gift of a Disney vacation to your family? Here are 10 ways you can surprise them with the news

I also have some fun ways you can bring a little Disney magic into your home. Whether you are counting down the days until your next visit or ready to book your next vacation, you can take a virtual Disney vacationmake some delicious Disney Parks recipes, or try the Ultimate Disney Fan Challenge right now. 

Disney World vacation

Still trying to get through 2022? That’s ok! I am happy to help you with your travel plans whenever you’re ready! 

Don’t forget, we can book ALL vacation destinations including Universal Orlando Resort, cruises, all inclusive resorts, and so much more!

Who’s planning to book one of the new 2023 Disney World packages?

22 Reasons to Visit Disney World in 2022

It’s always an exciting time to plan a visit to the most magical place on Earth! But, 2022 is looking like an extra magical year at the Walt Disney World Resort! Today, we are sharing 22 reasons why you should plan to visit Disney World in 2022!

1. The World’s Most Magical Celebration

Cinderella Castle

The World’s Most Magical Celebration, in honor of the 50th anniversary of the Walt Disney World Resort, began October 1, 2021 and will continue for 18 months so you can enjoy this celebration throughout all of 2022!

Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse are hosting “The World’s Most Magical Celebration,” while decked out in sparkling new EARidescent fashions. Donald Duck and Daisy Duck, Goofy and Pluto, and Chip ‘n’ Dale are also sporting their own custom-made EARidescent looks. You can see them when they travel through Magic Kingdom Park several times daily in the new “Mickey’s Celebration Cavalcade.”

These eight friends are even featured in special golden character sculptures at Magic Kingdom Park. There are 50 characters total in this series of sculptures that are displayed across all four theme parks.

“The World’s Most Magical Celebration” features icons at each of the four parks transforming into Beacons of Magic at night, exclusive merchandise, new food and beverage offerings and even an update look for the iconic Cinderella Castle.

2. Typhoon Lagoon is Now Open

Typhoon Lagoon

Surf’s up! Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park is open once again for guests to experience their favorite thrilling water attractions and tropical family fun. You can build your own tropical flavor DOLE Whip combinations at Snack Shack, body surf in America’s largest outdoor wave pool, plunge down Humunga Kowabunga, relax in Castaway Creek, and take a journey with friends and family down Miss Adventure Falls. 

Whether it’s the topsy-turvy architecture, storm-strewn treasures scattered around the park, or the stranded ship, Missy Tilly’s, perched upon the summit of Mount Mayday, each detail immerses guests into the magical legend of Typhoon Lagoon every time they visit the park.

3. New Nighttime Spectaculars at Magic Kingdom and EPCOT

Disney Enchantment

“Disney Enchantment,” the new nighttime spectacular at Magic Kingdom Park, will take you on a journey filled with adventure, wonder and empowerment. Inspiring everyone to believe in magic, “Disney Enchantment” features music, enhanced lighting, stunning fireworks and, for the first time, immersive projection effects that extend from Cinderella Castle down Main Street, U.S.A.

Harmonious,” at EPCOT, is one of the largest nighttime spectaculars ever created for a Disney park. This new show brings the globe together at World Showcase Lagoon in a celebration of Disney music that inspires people worldwide. It’s a grand, powerful tribute to the stories and songs that unite us, embracing new technical magic that incorporates pyrotechnics, choreographed moving fountains, lighting and media in new ways. “Harmonious” will invite you to travel the globe through new interpretations of classic Disney songs as you’ve never heard them before, reimagined in more than a dozen languages by a diverse group of 240 artists from around the world.

4. Character Meet and Greets Are BACK!

Meet Mickey Mouse

You can once again have individualized time with some of your favorite Disney characters, by getting to visit with them in a themed location and snap a photo or two. You will find the Disney Princesses at Princess Fairytale Hall in Magic Kingdom Park, Minnie Mouse at Red Carpet Dreams and the stars of Disney Junior in Animation Courtyard at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. And, when you stop in to see Mickey Mouse backstage at Town Square Theater on Main Street, U.S.A., he’ll be sporting his all-new EARidescent look designed just for the Walt Disney World 50th Anniversary Celebration!

5. Select Behind the Scenes Tours Returning February 6, 2022

Enchanting Extras Collection at Disney World
Image: Disney

For those of you with a love of animals, adventure and the outdoors – and those seeking to discover how Walt Disney’s vision, innovation and creativity brought Magic Kingdom Park to life – things are about to get a lot more exciting with the return of some fan-favorite tours from the Enchanting Extras Collection!

Guests who want to get even closer to the magic of nature and Disney now can book one of the following tours returning beginning Feb. 6, 2022:

  • Disney’s Keys to the Kingdom
  • Caring for Giants
  • Wild Africa Trek
  • Up Close with Rhinos
  • Savor the Savanna

6. Disney Genie Service

Disney Genie Service
Image: Disney

Available for all guests right in the My Disney Experience app, the new complimentary Disney Genie service offers new features that let you create your best Disney day. These features include a personalized itinerary creator that effortlessly and smartly maps out an entire day inspired by the things you love – helping you make the most of your park time so you can have more fun. 

Disney Genie puts guests at the center of the experience by prioritizing ways to:

  • Reduce time in lines while keeping in mind your top picks
  • Pace your day with experiences you’ll enjoy – and haven’t already done yet
  • Build around your existing plans like dining reservations and Park Hopper preferences 

7. Taste of EPCOT International Festival of the Arts

Epcot International Festival of the Arts
Image: Disney

This annual festival, running January 14 through February 21, 2022, invites you to explore an expansive collection of visual, performance and culinary arts throughout the park. The DISNEY ON BROADWAY Concert Series is also returning for this year’s festival, where you can see some of your favorite entertainers perform Disney songs live at America Gardens Theatre in World Showcase.

During the festival, art lovers of all ages can enjoy inspirational experiences, such as:

  • Culinary delights from Food Studios around World Showcase
  • The Wonderful Walk of Colorful Cuisine – a fun food stroll featuring five delicious sweet and savory treats
  • Chalk artists turning walkways into stunning landscapes and portraits
  • Photo ops where you can step into famous artwork
  • A paint-by-number mural
  • Figment’s Brush with the Masters scavenger hunt
  • Performance and visual artists
  • Special festival merchandise

8. Star Wars Galactic Starcruiser to Welcome Guests Beginning March 1, 2022

Star Wars Galactic Starcruiser
Image: Disney

The inaugural voyage of Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser at Walt Disney World Resort will depart March, 1, 2022! General bookings for this immersive adventure in a galaxy far, far away are now available.

Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser is a first-of-its-kind vacation experience that goes beyond anything Disney has created before. You’ll become the hero of your own Star Wars story during this two-night adventure, traveling the galaxy in style aboard the Halcyon starcruiser and eventually making your way to the Outer Rim for a planetside excursion to Batuu. You choose how to make your way in the galaxy – maybe as a member of the Resistance, or by learning the ancient ways of the Jedi lightsaber. Maybe you prefer loyalty to the First Order or the excitement of living life like a smuggler? The decisions are up to you. 

9. EPCOT International Flower and Garden Festival

Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival

The 2022 EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival springs to life March 2 and runs through July 4, offering 125 days to enjoy fresh cuisine, colorful gardens, playful topiaries and vibrant entertainment.

Gardeners will marvel at thousands of blooms forming colorful, living panoramas all around EPCOT, and the entire family can experience the Health Full Trail presented by AdventHealth along the Imagination walkway to learn tips for staying well.

Fresh flavors are on the menu at the festival’s 18 Outdoor Kitchens as well as other food and beverage locations around EPCOT, offering a fresh selection of springtime fruits, vegetables, desserts and more.

The popular Garden Rocks Concert Series is planned to return, featuring favorite tunes at the America Gardens Theatre.

You’ll also find blooming keepsakes including vibrant apparel, drinkware, accessories and more with new merchandise collections launching just in time for the event.

10. Disney’s All Star Sports Resort Reopens March 31, 2022

Disney's All Star Sports Resort
Photo: Disney

Put them in, coach! Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort will welcome Guests back beginning March 31, 2022. The whole family can get in the game at this Walt Disney World Resort hotel that salutes the world of competitive sports, including baseball, basketball, football, surfing and tennis. Go the distance and don’t be afraid to celebrate your inner fan amid sporty décor starring some of your favorite Disney characters.

11. Finding Nemo: The Big Blue… and Beyond to Premiere at Animal Kingdom

Finding Nemo: The Musical
Photo: Disney

A reimagined version of “Finding Nemo: The Musical”, based on the same beloved characters, will debut at Theater in the Wild  in 2022.

The musical retelling of this underwater tale of family, friendship and kindness will feature new story material, as well as fan favorite songs such as “In the Big Blue World” and “Go with the Flow.” This new show is set in the timeline of the movie “Finding Dory.” When you take a seat in the theater, you’ll find yourself at the Marine Life Institute.

12. Festival of Fantasy Parade Returns to Magic Kingdom

Disney Festival of Fantasy Parade

This year will welcome the return of the Disney “Festival of Fantasy” Parade at Magic Kingdom Park. This vibrant and joyous celebration of Fantasyland brings to the streets of Magic Kingdom Park dozens of beloved Disney characters and stories, from the Disney Princess Garden to a carnival of color presided over by none other than Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse.

13. Adventure Friends Cavalcade

Disney Adventure Friends Cavalcade
Image: Disney

2022 will also introduce a new character cavalcade, the Disney Adventure Friends Cavalcade, with an exciting lineup of characters all embarking on a great journey through the park. The Disney Adventure Friends Cavalcade will feature the most characters of any cavalcade to date, including Nick and Judy from “Zootopia,” Baloo and King Louie from “The Jungle Book,” José Carioca and Panchito from “The Three Caballeros,” Miguel from “Coco,” plus Merida, Moana, The Incredibles, and so many more!

14. Mickey’s Magical Friendship Faire

Mickey's Magical Friendship Faire
Image: Disney

Live entertainment is returning to the Cinderella Castle Forecourt Stage with a show newly enhanced for the 50th Anniversary celebration. “Mickey’s Magical Friendship Faire” will incorporate favorite scenes from the previous version of the show – with sequences inspired by “Frozen,” “Tangled,” and “The Princess and the Frog” – plus a new opening and a new finale with Mickey Mouse and all his friends in their sparkling, EARidescent fashions. The show will also include an all-new, original song entitled “Where the Magic Feels Like Home.”

15. MagicBand+ to Debut

MagicBand+
Image: Disney

MagicBand+ will retain popular features of the original MagicBand and add functionality that unlocks new moments of magic for you. After you enter a theme park, MagicBand+ will come alive at various times with color-changing lights, haptic vibrations and gesture recognition. The wearable will allow you to engage with favorite Disney moments in new ways, including:

  • Play like a bounty hunter in a galaxy far, far away and find virtual bounties throughout Black Spire Outpost in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. 
  • Interact with the “Disney Fab 50 Character Collection,” the golden sculptures spread throughout the Walt Disney World theme parks.
  • Experience nighttime spectaculars in a new way as you see your band light up and complement the magic in the skies, including the new “Harmonious” at EPCOT and “Disney Enchantment” at Magic Kingdom Park.

16. Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind to Open at EPCOT This Summer

Guardians of the Galaxy Cosmic Rewind
Image: Disney

Cue up your mixtape and prepare for something awesome … because it’s about to be save the galaxy time!  Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind will open at EPCOT this summer. This thrilling new family-friendly coaster matches the “grandosity” and fun of the blockbuster “Guardians of the Galaxy” films in what will be one of the longest fully enclosed coasters in the world. 

17. 40th Anniversary of EPCOT

Spaceship Earth at EPCOT

EPCOT will celebrate its 40th anniversary on October 1, 2022! The park has been undergoing an historic transformation and we hope to see more new openings here in 2022, like Journey of Water, inspired by “Moana” where guests will have the opportunity to meet and play with magical, living water. You can also enjoy new dining options like Space 220 and the Creperie while awaiting the opening of a new quick service dining option, Connections Cafe, near the new Creations shop.

18. Fantasmic! Will Return to Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Fantasmic returns to Disney's Hollywood Studios
Image: Disney

“Fantasmic!” will be returning to Disney’s Hollywood Studios in 2022. When this incredible spectacular reopens, it will incorporate an all-new sequence featuring more than 50 live performers, massive sets, stunts, stunning special effects, dazzling pyrotechnics, rousing music and more!

19. Disney KiteTails at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park

Disney KiteTails

 “Disney KiteTails” takes the magic of nature and Disney storytelling to new heights, immersing everyone in a gala performance of color and movement at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park.

This new show happens several times daily at the Discovery River Theater, near DinoLand U.S.A. As you make your way into the space, you’ll be joined by a team of performers bringing with them a colorful collection of oversized props and kites adorned with Disney animal friends from “The Little Mermaid,” “a bug’s life” and “Finding Nemo.” Original arrangements of favorite Disney tunes fill the air, and the excitement builds toward the launch of an impressive show of kites over the lagoon.

Watercraft zoom into view, pulling with them dynamic kite trains and enormous, three-dimensional kites depicting familiar characters from “The Lion King” or “The Jungle Book.” From one performance to another, you may see Baloo the bear dancing in the sky or Zazu the red-billed hornbill chasing after Simba. These remarkable kites, some as large as 30 feet in length, are inflated by moving through the air, allowing characters like King Louie or Timon and Pumbaa to soar like never before!

20. Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure at EPCOT is Now Open

Remy's Ratatouille Adventure at EPCOT

You can see everyone’s favorite “Little Chef” when you ride Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, the newest attraction at EPCOT! In this delicious new attraction, you’ll feel like you’ve shrunk to the size of Chef Remy as you scurry through Gusteau’s famous restaurant on a wild adventure for the whole family (no height requirement!).

21. Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular is Back at Hollywood Studios

Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular
Photo: Disney

Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular has recently restarted daily shows at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This live show, featuring Indy and Marion, allows you to watch as the daring duo dodges deadly traps, battles bad guys, leaps from tall buildings and makes thrilling escapes straight out of Raiders of the Lost Ark. The edge-of-your-seat suspense ends with a dynamite finale!

Along the way, you’ll also get an inside look at how stunts are done in movies with demonstrations that reveal how to safely throw and take punches, fall from tall buildings, and even wield whips in the midst of complex action sequences.

22. Celebrate Animation with Cirque du Soleil’s New Show, Drawn to Life

Cirque du Soleil Drawn to Life

Drawn to Life presented by Cirque du Soleil and Disney, is a new show inside the iconic white theatre at Disney Springs. Drawn to Life is the first theatrical collaboration between three creative icons: Cirque du Soleil, Walt Disney Animation Studios and Walt Disney Imagineering.

Drawn to Life celebrates Disney’s extraordinary legacy in the art of animation, from the earliest pencil sketches to the feature films of today. The classic characters and moments from Disney Animation are reinterpreted through Cirque du Soleil’s innovative design, acrobatic performances, dazzling choreography and creative costuming alongside an original score inspired by timeless Disney music.

22 reasons to visit Disney World in 2022

Are you planning to visit Disney World in 2022? You can receive free vacation planning assistance and book your trip here!

Best Places to Eat, Drink and Be Merry for the 2021 Holiday Season at Disney World

holiday treats at Disney World
Photo: Disney

Happy Holidays! It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Are you ready to celebrate the season? Disney’s chefs and mixologists have been busy preparing delicious holiday treats for the Walt Disney World Resort. Here are some of the best places to eat, drink and be merry during the 2021 holiday season at Disney World.

holiday treats at Disney World
Photo: Disney

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park

Restaurantosaurus

  • Open-Faced Thanksgiving Turkey Sandwich – Grilled multigrain bread with roasted garlic mayonnaise, cornbread stuffing waffle, sliced smoked turkey breast, herb gravy, cranberry sauce, and a fried sage leaf (available Nov. 25)

Satu’li Canteen

  • Thanksgiving Bowl – Cornbread stuffing, sliced roasted turkey, cranberry boba pearls, gravy, and slaw (available Nov. 25)
  • Pumpkin Cheesecake Mousse – Pumpkin cheesecake, chocolate “dirt,” and cranberry boba pearls (available Nov. 25-28)
  • Peppermint Cream Cheese Mousse – Peppermint cream cheese mousse, peppermint sauce, peppermint candy pieces, and chocolate “dirt” (available Dec. 1-30)

Tiffins Restaurant

  • Thanksgiving Plate – Turkey roulade, fine-herbs whipped potatoes, maple-glazed carrots, sweet potato pave, wild mushrooms, green bean casserole, cornbread dressing, cranberry gel, and turkey gravy (available Nov. 25)
  • Roasted Squash Soup – Ginger-pear chutney, pickled jalapeño, chai-spiced and candied pistachios (available Nov. 25)
  • Apple Pie Cheesecake – Whipped caramel cheesecake, apple pie compote, white chocolate streusel, and cranberry sauce (available Nov. 25)
  • Horchata Mousse Snow Globe – Golden coffee crémeux, gingerbread sable cookie, coriander chantilly, elderflower meringue, bourbon caramel, and candied pecans (available Dec. 25)
  • Pork T-Bone – Apple-brined pork, sweet potato variations, boniato mash, and ginger-pear butter (available Dec. 25)

Tusker House Restaurant

  • Thanksgiving Dinner – Spit-roasted turkey, turkey gravy, mashed red potatoes, and focaccia bread dressing along with seasonal vegetables, pork loin, flank steak, and an assortment of desserts (available Nov. 25)
holiday treats at Disney World
Photo: Disney

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

ABC Commissary

  • Sugar Cookie Snowman – A tasty snowman made of white chocolate sugar cookie mousse, whipped lemon curd, and a holiday sugar cookie (available Nov. 8-Jan. 3)

ABC Commissary and Catalina Eddie’s

  • Santa’s Belt Cookie – White chocolate-covered chocolate shortbread cookie (available Nov. 8-Jan. 3)

Backlot Express and Trolley Car Café

  • Red Velvet Whoopie Pie – Moist red velvet cake filled with classic cream cheese filling and festive sprinkles (available Nov. 8-Jan. 3)

The Hollywood Brown Derby Lounge and Tune-In Lounge

  • Holiday Bliss – Vanilla vodka, sour apple liqueur, caramel beverage syrup, and vanilla ice-cream mix (available Nov. 8-Jan. 3)

ABC Commissary, Backlot Express, Rosie’s All-American Café, and PizzeRizzo

  • Frozen Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate – Salted caramel beverage syrup and frozen hot chocolate mix topped with marshmallows and chocolate syrup (available Nov. 8-Jan. 3)
  • Frozen Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate with Black Cherry Bourbon – Salted caramel beverage syrup, frozen hot chocolate mix, marshmallows, chocolate syrup, and black cherry bourbon (available Nov. 8-Jan. 3)
holiday treats at Disney World
Photo: Disney

Oasis Canteen, Animation Arch Bar, and Sunshine Day Bar

  • Christmas on the Beach – Coconut rum, blue curaçao, cranberry juice, and pineapple juice served with a souvenir glow cube (available Nov. 8-Jan. 3)

Outdoor Carts

  • Holiday Brownie – Chocolate Mickey brownie with holiday sprinkles (available Nov. 8-Jan. 3)

PizzeRizzo

  • Butterscotch Caramel Cannoli – Holiday cannoli filled with caramel cheesecake, butterscotch chips, and chocolate flakes (available Nov. 8-Jan. 3)

Rosie’s All-American Café and Trolley Car Cafe

  • Reindeer Mousse – Spiced caramel cheesecake over peanut butter mousse atop a salty pretzel shortbread cookie (available Nov. 8-Jan. 3)

Woody’s Lunch Box

  • Holiday Lunch Box Tart – Apple pie filled tart frosted with cinnamon icing, sugar snowflake, and holiday sprinkles (available Nov. 8-Jan. 3)
holiday treats at Disney World
Photo: Disney

Magic Kingdom Park

Auntie Gravity’s Galactic Goodies

  • Christmas Cookie Sundae – Christmas Cookie soft-serve topped with whipped cream, hot fudge, and holiday sprinkles (available Nov. 8-Dec. 31)
  • Christmas Cookie Milkshake – Christmas cookie milkshake topped with whipped cream and holiday sprinkles (available Nov. 8-Dec. 31)

Golden Oak Outpost

  • Gingerbread Almond Cake Pop – Gingerbread almond cake pop dipped in white chocolate (available Nov. 8-Dec. 31)

Main Street Bakery

  • Mickey Cinnamon Roll – Mickey-shaped cinnamon roll drizzled with red and green icing (available Nov. 8-Dec. 31)

Sleepy Hollow

  • Ginger Apple Funnel Cake – Gingerbread funnel cake topped with apple pie filling, vanilla ice cream, and caramel sauce (available Nov. 8-Dec. 31)
holiday treats at Disney World
Photo: Disney

Disney Springs

Amorette’s Patisserie

  • White Chocolate Peppermint Éclair with White Chocolate and Peppermint Mousse (available Nov. 5- Dec. 30)
  • Santa Mickey Dome Cake (available Nov. 5-Dec. 30)
  • Holiday Mickey Mousse Mini Dome Cake (available Nov. 5- Dec. 30)
  • Holiday Parfait – Bourbon white chocolate mousse, cranberry cherry panna cotta, maple chocolate ganache, and chocolate chiffon cake (available Nov. 5- Dec. 30)
  • NYE Petite Cake (available Dec. 31)

AristoCrêpes

  • Cherry Jubilee Bubble Waffle – Bubble waffle filled with scoops of vanilla ice cream, cherries jubilee fillings, and whipped cream (available Nov. 5- Dec. 30)
  • Santa Hot Crêpe – Sweet crêpe filled with eggnog custard topped with chocolate sauce and whipped cream (available Nov. 26- Dec. 30)
holiday treats at Disney World
Photo: Disney

D-Luxe Burger

  • Holiday Turkey Burger – Turkey patty, butternut squash risotto cake, bacon-cranberry jam, lettuce, and tomato (available Nov. 5-Dec. 1)
  • “Oh Deer” Cookie Shake – Hazelnut liqueur, vanilla gelato, cinnamon beverage syrup, whipped cream, cinnamon, and sugar dusting with ginger deer garnish (available Nov. 5- Dec. 30)

Dockside Margaritas

  • Snowman on the Beach Margarita – Silver tequila, key lime juice, crème de coconut, sweet and sour, graham cracker rim, chocolate pearls, and carrot sugar piece (available Nov. 5- Dec. 30)

The Daily Poutine

  • Gobbler Poutine – Turkey, brown gravy, cranberry chutney, and cheese curds (available Nov. 5- Dec. 30)

The Ganachery

  • Olaf Hot Cocoa Surprise (available Nov.12- Dec. 30)
  • Santa Mickey Piñata (available Nov. 5- Dec. 30)
  • Gingerbread Ganache Square (available Nov. 5- Dec. 30)
  • Peppermint Bark (available Nov. 5- Dec. 30)
  • Chocolate Christmas Cottage (available Dec. 22- Dec. 30)
holiday treats at Disney World
Photo: Disney

Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar

  • Venison Slider – Sliders with venison sausage patties, arugula, tomato, and cranberry aïoli on house made buns (available Nov. 5- Dec. 30)
  • Fried Brussel Sprouts – Fried Brussel sprouts with bacon vinaigrette (available Nov. 5- Dec. 30)
  • Holiday Lights Deviled Eggs – Colored deviled eggs with tobiko, and shrimp (available Nov. 5- Dec. 30)
  • Ham and Brie Flatbread – Shaved ham and brie cheese, pomegranate seeds, granny smith apples, apple vinaigrette, and watercress (available Nov. 5- Dec. 30)
  • Cookies and Milk – Assorted Christmas cookies and coquito (available Nov. 5- Dec. 30)
  • Lump of Coal Dessert – Cookies and cream ganache “coal” (available Nov. 5- Dec. 30)
  • Elf Elixir –Tequila, crème de menthe, and half & half with cookie crumb and holly leaf sugar garnishes (available Nov. 5- Dec. 30)
  • Claus Mo – Traditional cosmopolitan with a shimmery twist garnished with red and white sugar and a candy cane (available Nov. 5- Dec. 30)
  • Yule Mule – Gin, ginger beer, cranberry juice, and rosemary simple syrup with a holly leaf sugar garnish (available Nov. 5- Dec. 30)

Outdoor Carts and Kiosks

  • Mistletoe – Coconut rum, melon liqueur, blue curaçao, orange juice, pineapple juice, and Sprite (available Nov. 5- Dec. 30)
  • Fireside Cider – Cinnamon whiskey, vanilla vodka, white cranberry juice, grenadine, and Ginger Ale (available Nov. 5- Dec. 30)
  • Merry Margarita – Tequila, ginger liqueur, cinnamon beverage syrup, white cranberry juice, sweet and sour, and grenadine (available Nov. 5- Dec. 30)

 (Note: All offerings subject to change.)

Will you be celebrating the 2021 holiday season at Disney World?

Thanks Disney Parks Blog!