Summertime is a fun time to enjoy the sunshine in Downtown Disney District at the Disneyland Resort, where you and your family can dive into cool, tasty treats and the season’s hottest must-have merchandise.
This one-of-a-kind Disney experience recently began a phased reopening with a mix of family-friendly restaurants offering outdoor seating, favorite snacking stops and shopping boutiques. First stop, be sure to visit the flagship World of Disney store for the largest selection of Disney toys, souvenirs, accessories, collectibles and more.
So shop it, taste it, wear it, love it! Here are 10 reasons to visit Downtown Disney this summer at Disneyland Resort:
1. Warm Waffle Sundae at Ballast Point Brewing Company
Overlooking the Downtown Disney District, enjoy the upper deck patio and delve into this pearl sugar waffle made with vanilla bean ice cream, crumbled chocolate wafers, Victory At Sea chocolate sauce, candied walnuts and fresh berries. Try pairing with Ballast Point’s Victory at Sea Imperial Porter!
2. Frosty, Frozen Lemonade at Wetzel’s Pretzels
Nothing says summer like a fresh, frosty, frozen lemonade! Yet, any time of year you can sip on this delightful refreshment, with your choice of the original flavor or strawberry lemonade.
3. Churro Ice Cream Sandwich at California Churro
Through the month of August, don’t miss your chance to try this vanilla bean ice cream sandwich covered with two freshly-rolled, colored crispy cereal churro buns!
4. Strawberry Shortcake CrazyShake at Black Tap Craft Burgers & Shakes
Get your camera and your sweet tooth ready! This strawberry shake has a vanilla-frosted rim topped with a strawberry shortcake ice cream bar, pink & white twisty pop, whipped cream, strawberry drizzle, crumbled cake and a cherry. All shakes can be made with a vegan dairy free ice cream base and lactose free whipped cream.
5. Beignets at Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen
Hurray for beignets, as Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen and Express locations just reopened! Indulge in this classic taste of New Orleans with these delicious French donuts which are made fresh throughout the day, deep fried and topped with powdered sugar. They are available in the restaurant and to-go from the Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen Express window.
Photo: Disney Parks Blog
6. Cool Shades at Sunglass Icon
Stay cool and look cool in these classic Ray-Bans with a touch of Mickey Mouse! These functional and stylish sunglasses, named Justin Mickey A20, feature Mickey Mouse character art and limited-edition engraving on the temples, officially making the Justin Mickey the latest addition to the Ray-Ban x Disney collection.
7. Sunny and Seaside Pandora Charms
Summery and precious, add these charms to your collection: the Pandora Passions Pave Ice Cream Cone Sapphire and CZ Charm, the Pandora Tropical Starfish CZ Charm and the Pandora Me My Summer Sun Crystal Charm.
8. Summer Sandals and Beach Towels at California Sole
California Sole is the place to give your feet a treat! Slip into a comfy pair of OluKai, Reef, Sanuk, Vans or Havaianas, and add a Pura Vida bracelet for that breezy, beachy, California look. Get the Nomadix go-anywhere towel and take it with you to the beach, yoga or camping. It’s lightweight, quick-drying, sand-resistant and is made from recycled plastic bottles.
9. Beachwear at Curl Surf
Curl Surf has you covered for summertime fun. Stop by to check the newest selection of Roxy, Quiksilver, Levi’s and Billabong, along with graphic tees, swimwear, shorts and sandals. (Adding water is optional!)
10. Refresh at Rinse Bath & Body Co.
Stop by Rinse’s kiosk in the Downtown Disney District, where you can pick up natural products scented with essential oils, including the Lavender Refreshing Spray to spritz your skin and the Peppofoot Stick to put the pep in your step!
If you haven’t visited the Downtown Disney District lately, be sure to familiarize yourself with our health and safety measures at Disneyland.com/DTD to learn important details, including that all guests, ages 2 and older, must wear a face covering.
During the month of August 2020, Downtown Disney District hours are extended to 9 p.m. Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Continue to check Disneyland.com/DTD or the Disneyland app for the latest details, as information is updated often and individual locations may vary.
We hope you are enjoying these summer days with your family, and we look forward to seeing you again soon in the Downtown Disney District at Disneyland!
Walt Disney World Resort began its phased re-opening on July 11, 2020. I had the opportunity to spend eight days in the theme parks and at Disney’s Pop Century Resort at the end of July and would love to share my experience during Disney World’s phased reopening this summer.
Overall, I had a magical time in the parks and at my hotel. We were able to see a number of Disney characters, experience all of the attractions we wanted to (many multiple times) thanks to short lines, and even enjoy a character dining experience. The Disney magic is still alive and well and waiting to welcome you back at the Walt Disney World Resort. I even discussed my experience during Disney World’s phased reopening on The Budget Mouse podcast. Be sure to listen for all the details!
Safety Protocols
Disney is taking guest (and cast member) safety very seriously.
All guests make pass a temperature screening to enter the theme parks and wear a face covering throughout their visit. Face masks are only able to be removed while actively eating or drinking AND stationary. You are no longer able to stroll the parks with a drink in hand without your face covering.
Social distancing is being practiced everywhere, from the resort lobby to attraction queues and even Disney transportation. Disney buses now accommodate five to six families with barriers installed and select seats marked as unavailable. Dividers have been installed in the monorail, as well. There are ground markers at every attraction queue to keep at least (and sometime more) six feet between parties. At certain points of the queue where guests would be on one side of you or the other, plexiglass barriers have been installed.
They have added hand sanitizer machines throughout the parks and resorts. It is readily available and encouraged both before and after experiencing attractions.
I personally felt very safe traveling during Disney World’s phased reopening with my three year old and eight year old due to all of these safety precautions.
Disney Characters
One thing that many guests seem to be very concerned about (and understandably so) is characters. Disney is not allowing guests to hug characters right now, but we still found plenty of opportunities to see and even interact with them.
All four parks are offering character cavalcades that actually feel like a short, mini parade. You can find Mickey and friends at all four parks and a variety of other characters throughout the parks. Guests can even personally interact with many of these characters. For example, Anastasia and Drizella are often standing on Cinderella Castle with microphones to talk to guests. We also found Buzz Lightyear, Joy from Inside Out, Gaston, Winnie the Pooh, and Alice in Wonderland among others. You can stop for a picture and even talk to these characters.
Disney is currently offering two character dining experiences. You can enjoy breakfast at Topolino’s Terrace at Disney’s Riviera Resort or lunch or dinner at Garden Grill at Epcot. These are also the only opportunity to take a picture with the characters with your mask on. The characters just have to keep their distance.
Five Tips for Visiting During Disney World’s Phased Reopening
Take Advantage of Mobile Order Whenever Possible: This single tip will save you so much time during your visit. Mobile order is available at the resort food courts and (open) quick service locations in the theme parks. You can order your meals in your My Disney Experience app and simply arrive to pick up your food when it is ready.
Prepare for Bag Check: Bag check has changed, but for the better! It is so much faster and easier now! However, you can be prepared by removing any large metal objects from your bag like an umbrella or sunglass case as you prepare to enter the park.
Pack Multiple Masks: You’ll probably get hot and sweaty throughout the day so if you have an extra mask in your park bag, you can change it out for a fresh mask. Masks are also available for purchase throughout the theme parks and hotels.
Practice Wearing Masks at Home with Kids: Your kids may not have had to wear a mask very much at home, if at all. I would recommend practicing with them at home so that they have an idea of what to expect. They can also start getting used to the mask so it won’t be as bothersome during your visit.
We’d love to help you plan a magical and memorable Disney World vacation this year. Plus, we have a special offer when you book your 2020 Disney World vacation package with us! When you book a minimum three night stay with a three day ticket, you’ll receive a 2020 Walt Disney World Resort photo album ($24.99 value)!
PS- Don’t forget to sign up to receive a FREE Disney World coloring book here!
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. We may make a small commission from purchases made through these links. Thank you for supporting our small business!
How much do you know about Castaway Cay? No matter how many times you’ve been to Disney’s private island paradise, there’s a good chance that you still learn something new with each visit. If you’re looking forward to your first day at this little slice of paradise in the Bahamas, here are seven fun facts about Castaway Cay …
Photo: Disney
The island is reserved exclusively for Disney Cruise Line guests. If the Castaway Cay post office is open, be sure to stop by to mail a message (and brag) to friends back home. Also check out the merchandise you can only get on the island, like beachwear, hats and collectible pins with the Castaway Cay logo, at She Sells Sea Shells … and Everything Else!
You can walk right off the ship to the island. The dock built at Castaway Cay eliminates the need to tender, making the ship easily accessible throughout the day. Trams provide transportation to and from various points on the 1,000-acre island. All you’ll need is your Key to the World card to get on and off the ship as you please.
Photo: Disney
There’s something for everyone. Disney Imagineers designed Castaway Cay much like their ships, with unique activities and areas for every age group. Places for the family to spend time together are plenty, but when it’s time to do your own thing, kids can head to Scuttle’s Cove, teens to the secluded Hide Out and adults to the pristine Serenity Bay.
All that you need is included. From complimentary beach chairs and umbrellas to an all-you-care-to-eat lunch buffet and ice cream station, Disney has you covered. They even provide beach towels, wagons and strollers to make your day more comfortable. There isn’t much you’ll need to bring onto the island with you, except for of course plenty of sunblock and a good book!
Photo: Disney
There are plenty of Port Adventures options for your family. Just like in other Disney Cruise Line destinations, they work with local operators to offer excursions such as parasailing, deep sea fishing and boat tours. Plus, you won’t want to miss the activities exclusive to the island, including Castaway Ray’s Stingray Adventure, the Castaway Cay Walking and Kayak Nature Adventure and the teen-only Wild Side Adventure.
The island is stocked with toys for water sports enthusiasts. Water cycles, paddleboats, sea kayaks, sailboats, stand-up paddle boards, floats and snorkel gear are all available to rent. There’s also a watercraft ski adventure for the chance to drive a personal watercraft through mangroves and around the island.
Photo: Disney
You can stay cool even in the warm sunshine. Besides joining the water fun with one of the many activities listed above, the Pelican Plunge slide is a great way to cool off. When you need a break from the sun, shaded areas are located around the island, including covered seating near the lunch buffets and bars, In Da Shade Game Pavilion and private rental cabanas.
What are your favorite fun facts about Castaway Cay? How many days until your next Disney cruise?
Are you ready to start planning a tropical getaway next year? Fall 2021 Disney Cruise itineraries are now available and can be booked beginning Thursday, July 30, 2020 (and even sooner for Castaway Club Members)!
You can be among the first to book special, holiday-themed sailings with a tropical twist. You can celebrate the season during your vacation with one of the Halloween on the High Seas cruises or Very Merrytime cruises.
Guest favorite itineraries to the Caribbean and Bahamas will continue to depart from Florida and Texas, with most routes including a stop at Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island paradise. There will also be Baja and Mexican Riviera itineraries that will sail from California for a limited time. Or, you can explore Bermuda-bound voyages from New York.
The Caribbean
Get ready to island hop and soak up an invigorating mix of sun, sand and turquoise waters on a 4-, 5-, 6-, 7- or 8-night tropical cruise to some of the Caribbean’s most popular port ports of call.
WESTERN CARIBBEAN
2021 Disney Wonder 4-Night Very Merrytime Western Caribbean Cruise from Galveston: 11/19, 11/29, 12/3, 12/13, 12/17
Day 1: Galveston, Texas Day 2: At Sea Day 3: Cozumel, Mexico Day 4: At Sea Day 5: Galveston, Texas
2021 Disney Wonder 4-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Galveston: 12/27
Day 1: Galveston, Texas Day 2: At Sea Day 3: Cozumel, Mexico Day 4: At Sea Day 5: Galveston, Texas
2021 Disney Magic 5-Night Very Merrytime Western Caribbean Cruise from Miami: 11/8, 11/22
Day 1: Miami, Florida Day 2: Disney Castaway Cay Day 3: At Sea Day 4: Cozumel, Mexico Day 5: At Sea Day 6: Miami, Florida
2021 Disney Magic 5-Night Very Merrytime Western Caribbean Cruise from Miami: 12/11
Day 1: Miami, Florida Day 2: At Sea Day 3: George Town, Grand Cayman Day 4: At Sea Day 5: Disney Castaway Cay Day 6: Miami, Florida
2021 Disney Magic 5-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Miami: 12/29
Day 1: Miami, Florida Day 2: Disney Castaway Cay Day 3: At Sea Day 4: Cozumel, Mexico Day 5: At Sea Day 6: Miami, Florida
2021 Disney Magic 6-Night Very Merrytime Western Caribbean Cruise from Miami: 12/20
Day 1: Miami, Florida Day 2: Disney Castaway Cay Day 3: At Sea Day 4: Cozumel, Mexico Day 5: Costa Maya, Mexico Day 6: At Sea Day 7: Miami, Florida
2021 Disney Wonder 6-Night Very Merrytime Western Caribbean Cruise from Galveston: 12/21
Day 1: Galveston, Texas Day 2: At Sea Day 3: Cozumel, Mexico Day 4: George Town, Grand Cayman Day 5: At Sea Day 6: At Sea Day 7: Galveston, Texas
2021 Disney Fantasy 7-Night Halloween on the High Seas Western Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral: 10/9
Day 1: Port Canaveral, Florida Day 2: At Sea Day 3: Cozumel, Mexico Day 4: George Town, Grand Cayman Day 5: Falmouth, Jamaica Day 6: At Sea Day 7: Disney Castaway Cay Day 8: Port Canaveral, Florida
2021 Disney Fantasy 7-Night Very Merrytime Western Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral with 2 stops at Castaway Cay: 11/21
Day 1: Port Canaveral, Florida Day 2: Disney Castaway Cay Day 3: At Sea Day 4: Cozumel, Mexico Day 5: George Town, Grand Cayman Day 6: At Sea Day 7: Disney Castaway Cay Day 8: Port Canaveral, Florida
2021 Disney Fantasy 7-Night Very Merrytime Western Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral: 12/5
Day 1: Port Canaveral, Florida Day 2: At Sea Day 3: Cozumel, Mexico Day 4: George Town, Grand Cayman Day 5: Falmouth, Jamaica Day 6: At Sea Day 7: Disney Castaway Cay Day 8: Port Canaveral, Florida
2021 Disney Fantasy 7-Night Very Merrytime Western Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral: 12/19
Day 1: Port Canaveral, Florida Day 2: Disney Castaway Cay Day 3: At Sea Day 4: Falmouth, Jamaica Day 5: George Town, Grand Cayman Day 6: Cozumel, Mexico Day 7: At Sea Day 8: Port Canaveral, Florida
EASTERN CARIBBEAN
2021 Disney Magic 4-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise from San Juan ending in Miami: 11/4
Day 1: San Juan, Puerto Rico Day 2: Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic Day 3: At Sea Day 4: Disney Castaway Cay Day 5: Miami, Florida
2021 Disney Fantasy 7-Night Halloween on the High Seas Eastern Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral: 10/2, 10/30
Day 1: Port Canaveral, Florida Day 2: At Sea Day 3: At Sea Day 4: Tortola, British Virgin Islands Day 5: St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands Day 6: At Sea Day 7: Disney Castaway Cay Day 8: Port Canaveral, Florida
2021 Disney Fantasy 7-Night Very Merrytime Eastern Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral: 11/14, 11/28, 12/12
Day 1: Port Canaveral, Florida Day 2: At Sea Day 3: At Sea Day 4: Tortola, British Virgin Islands Day 5: St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands Day 6: At Sea Day 7: Disney Castaway Cay Day 8: Port Canaveral, Florida
2021 Disney Fantasy 7-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral: 12/26
Day 1: Port Canaveral, Florida Day 2: At Sea Day 3: At Sea Day 4: Tortola, British Virgin Islands Day 5: St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands Day 6: At Sea Day 7: Disney Castaway Cay Day 8: Port Canaveral, Florida
2021 Disney Fantasy 8-Night Halloween on the High Seas Eastern Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral: 10/16
Day 1: Port Canaveral, Florida Day 2: At Sea Day 3: At Sea Day 4: Philipsburg, St. Maarten Day 5: St. John’s, Antigua Day 6: San Juan, Puerto Rico Day 7: At Sea Day 8: Disney Castaway Cay Day 9: Port Canaveral, Florida
The Bahamas
Cast off from Galveston, Miami or Port Canaveral to sun-drenched destinations designed for relaxation and fun—including Disney Castaway Cay, our private island paradise.
2021 Disney Dream 3-Night Halloween on the High Seas Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral: 10/1, 10/8, 10/15, 10/22, 10/29
Day 1: Port Canaveral, Florida Day 2: Nassau, The Bahamas Day 3: Disney Castaway Cay Day 4: Port Canaveral, Florida
2021 Disney Dream 3-Night Very Merrytime Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral: 11/12, 11/19, 11/26, 12/10, 12/17, 12/31
Day 1: Port Canaveral, Florida Day 2: Nassau, The Bahamas Day 3: Disney Castaway Cay Day 4: Port Canaveral, Florida
2021 Disney Dream 3-Night Very Merrytime Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral: 11/5
Day 1: Port Canaveral, Florida Day 2: Disney Castaway Cay Day 3: At Sea Day 4: Port Canaveral, Florida
2021 Disney Fantasy 3-Night Very Merrytime Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral: 11/11
Day 1: Port Canaveral, Florida Day 2: Nassau, The Bahamas Day 3: Disney Castaway Cay Day 4: Port Canaveral, Florida
2021 Disney Dream 3-Night Very Merrytime Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral: 12/3, 12/24
Day 1: Port Canaveral, Florida Day 2: At Sea Day 3: Disney Castaway Cay Day 4: Port Canaveral, Florida
2021 Disney Magic 3-Night Bahamian Cruise from Miami: 12/26
Day 1: Miami, Florida Day 2: Disney Castaway Cay Day 3: At Sea Day 4: Miami, Florida
2021 Disney Dream 3-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral: 12/31
Day 1: Port Canaveral, Florida Day 2: Nassau, The Bahamas Day 3: Disney Castaway Cay Day 4: Port Canaveral, Florida
2021 Disney Dream 4-Night Halloween on the High Seas Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral: 10/4, 10/11, 10/18, 10/25
Day 1: Port Canaveral, Florida Day 2: Nassau, The Bahamas Day 3: Disney Castaway Cay Day 4: At Sea Day 5: Port Canaveral, Florida
2021 Disney Dream 4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral: 11/1, 12/27
Day 1: Port Canaveral, Florida Day 2: Nassau, The Bahamas Day 3: Disney Castaway Cay Day 4: At Sea Day 5: Port Canaveral, Florida
2021 Disney Dream 4-Night Very Merrytime Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral: 11/15, 11/22, 11/29, 12/6, 12/20
Day 1: Port Canaveral, Florida Day 2: Nassau, The Bahamas Day 3: Disney Castaway Cay Day 4: At Sea Day 5: Port Canaveral, Florida
2021 Disney Dream 4-Night Very Merrytime Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral: 11/8
Day 1: Port Canaveral, Florida Day 2: Nassau, The Bahamas Day 3: At Sea Day 4: Disney Castaway Cay Day 5: Port Canaveral, Florida
2021 Disney Magic 4-Night Very Merrytime Bahamian Cruise from Miami: 11/18, 12/2
Day 1: Miami, Florida Day 2: Disney Castaway Cay Day 3: Nassau, The Bahamas Day 4: At Sea Day 5: Miami, Florida
2021 Disney Dream 4-Night Very Merrytime Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral: 12/13
Day 1: Port Canaveral, Florida Day 2: Disney Castaway Cay Day 3: Nassau, The Bahamas Day 4: At Sea Day 5: Port Canaveral, Florida
2021 Disney Magic 4-Night Very Merrytime Bahamian Cruise from Miami: 12/16
Day 1: Miami, Florida Day 2: Disney Castaway Cay Day 3: At Sea Day 4: Nassau, The Bahamas Day 5: Miami, Florida
2021 Disney Fantasy 5-Night Very Merrytime Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral with 2 Stops at Disney Castaway Cay: 11/6
Day 1: Port Canaveral, Florida Day 2: Nassau, The Bahamas Day 3: Disney Castaway Cay Day 4: At Sea Day 5: Disney Castaway Cay Day 6: Port Canaveral, Florida
2021 Disney Magic 5-Night Very Merrytime Bahamian Cruise from Miami: 11/13, 12/6
Day 1: Miami, Florida Day 2: At Sea Day 3: Key West, Florida Day 4: Disney Castaway Cay Day 5: Nassau, The Bahamas Day 6: Port Canaveral, Florida
2021 Disney Magic 5-Night Very Merrytime Bahamian Cruise from Miami: 11/27
Day 1: Miami, Florida Day 2: At Sea Day 3: Nassau, The Bahamas Day 4: Disney Castaway Cay Day 5: Key West, Florida Day 6: Port Canaveral, Florida
2021 Disney Wonder 6-Night Very Merrytime Bahamian Cruise from Galveston: 11/23, 12/7
Day 1: Galveston, Texas Day 2: At Sea Day 3: Key West, Florida Day 4: Disney Castaway Cay Day 5: At Sea Day 6: At Sea Day 7: Galveston, Texas
2021 Disney Wonder 6-Night Bahamian Cruise from Galveston: 12/31
Day 1: Galveston, Texas Day 2: At Sea Day 3: Key West, Florida Day 4: Disney Castaway Cay Day 5: At Sea Day 6: At Sea Day 7: Galveston, Texas
Baja
Unwind on a short or long escape to the stunning Mexican beach towns of Ensenada and/or Cabo San Lucas. Each location offers countless activities for thrill seekers and nature lovers alike.
2021 Disney Wonder 3-Night Halloween on the High Seas Baja Cruise from San Diego: 10/8, 10/15
Day 1: San Diego, California Day 2: Ensenada, Mexico Day 3: At Sea Day 4: San Diego, California
2021 Disney Wonder 4-Night Halloween on the High Seas Baja Cruise from San Diego: 10/11, 10/18, 10/27
Day 1: San Diego, California Day 2: At Sea Day 3: Cabo San Lucas, Mexico Day 4: At Sea Day 5: San Diego, California
2021 Disney Wonder 5-Night Halloween on the High Seas Baja Cruise from San Diego 10/22, 10/31
Day 1: San Diego, California Day 2: At Sea Day 3: Cabo San Lucas, Mexico Day 4: At Sea Day 5: Ensenada, Mexico Day 6: San Diego, California
Mexican Riviera
This leisurely week-long sailing provides the perfect way to experience the culture, cuisine and recreational activities of 3 coastal destinations along Western Mexico—and the first-rate entertainment and amenities aboard your cruise ship.
2021 Disney Wonder Halloween on the High Seas Mexican Riviera Cruise from San Diego: 10/1
Day 1: San Diego, California Day 2: At Sea Day 3: Cabo San Lucas, Mexico Day 4: Mazatlán, Mexico Day 5: Puerto Vallarta, Mexico Day 6: At Sea Day 7: At Sea Day 8: San Diego, California
Bermuda
Soak up the sights of the Big Apple before commencing your tropical adventure at King’s Wharf—home to the Gibbs Hill Lighthouse, the Royal Naval Dockyard and Crystal & Fantasy Caves.
2021 Disney Magic 5-Night Halloween on the High Seas Bermuda Cruise from New York: 9/29, 10/4, 10/9, 10/14, 10/19
Day 1: New York, New York Day 2: At Sea Day 3: King’s Wharf, Bermuda Day 4: King’s Wharf, Bermuda Day 5: At Sea Day 6: New York, New York
2021 Disney Magic 5-Night Halloween on the High Seas Bermuda Cruise from New York ending in San Juan: 10/30
Day 1: New York, New York Day 2: At Sea Day 3: King’s Wharf, Bermuda Day 4: At Sea Day 5: Tortola, British Virgin Islands Day 6: San Juan, Puerto Rico
Canada
Sail roundtrip from New York on a 6-night cruise that will bring you to the beautiful seaside cities of Halifax (Nova Scotia) and Saint John (New Brunswick), Canada during the most vibrant time of year.
2021 Disney Magic 6-Night Halloween on the High Seas Canada Cruise from New York: 10/24
Day 1: New York, New York Day 2: At Sea Day 3: Saint John (New Brunswick), Canada Day 4: Halifax (Nova Scotia), Canada Day 5: Bar Harbor, Maine Day 6: At Sea Day 7: New York, New York
Pacific Coast
Cross 2 bustling metropolis cities off your list during this 4-night cruise to San Diego, a locale famous for its historic Gaslamp Quarter, laid-back beaches and 1,800-acre zoo.
2021 Disney Wonder 4-Night Pacific Coast Cruise from Vancouver to San Diego: 9/27
Day 1: Vancouver (British Columbia), Canada Day 2: Victoria (British Columbia), Canada Day 3: At Sea Day 4: At Sea Day 5: San Diego, California
Transatlantic
Jump-start your 11-night journey in Dover, England before traveling on to scenic Bilbao and La Coruña in Spain, and sun-swept King’s Wharf in Bermuda.
2021 Disney Magic 11-Night Westbound Transatlantic Cruise from Dover ending in New York: 9/18
Day 1: Dover, England Day 2: At Sea Day 3: Bilbao, Spain Day 4: La Coruña, Spain Day 5: At Sea Day 6: At Sea Day 7: At Sea Day 8: At Sea Day 9: At Sea Day 10: King’s Wharf, Bermuda Day 11: At Sea Day 12: New York, New York
Panama Canal
Embark on an incredible expedition from San Diego to Galveston on a 14-night cruise through the Panama Canal. You’ll visit beautiful beaches in Mexico, Grand Cayman and Colombia.
2021 Disney Wonder 14-Night Very Merrytime Eastbound Panama Canal Cruise from San Diego to Galveston: 11/5
Day 1: San Diego, California Day 2: At Sea Day 3: Cabo San Lucas, Mexico Day 4: Puerto Vallarta, Mexico Day 5: At Sea Day 6: At Sea Day 7: At Sea Day 8: At Sea Day 9: Panama Canal Day 10: Cartagena, Colombia Day 11: At Sea Day 12: George Town, Grand Cayman Day 13: Cozumel, Mexico Day 14: At Sea Day 15: Galveston, Texas
Are you planning a fall 2021 Disney Cruise Line vacation? Where would you like to visit?
We also have an exclusive offer just for our readers! If you book a fall 2021 Disney cruise with us by Friday, August 7, 2020, you will receive your choice of an onboard credit or in-room gift!
2020 hasn’t quite turned out how many of us had planned, but 2021 should be a pretty magical year at the Walt Disney World Resort. From the 50th anniversary of Magic Kingdom in October to experiences being able to return to normal, it will be a great time to enjoy the magic in the parks. Here are five additional reasons you may want to book your 2021 Disney World vacation as soon as possible.
Park Pass Reservations
Disney’s new park pass system is currently in place through September 26, 2021. If there are any restrictions on theme park capacity, this system will be used for crowd control. You will need a theme park reservation to be allowed entry into the parks. Valid theme park admission is required in order to make these new park pass reservations.
You do not have to have your vacation package paid in full to make these park pass reservations. As long as you have applied your $200 deposit, you can make your park pass reservations equivalent to the number of days of park tickets in your vacation package.
Availability
As soon as you book your 2021 Disney World vacation, your availability (and price) and guaranteed. You don’t have to worry about your preferred resort and/or room category selling out.
We are already seeing limited availability for 2021. Between all of the guests who were affected by the park closure this year and those who were already planning for 2021, rooms are limited. Since select Walt Disney World Resort hotels (All Star Resorts, Port Orleans Resorts, etc.) have not announced their re-opening dates yet, Disney currently has more limited availability than normally would otherwise, as well.
Pricing
You also guarantee your pricing as soon as you have paid your $200 deposit to book your 2021 Disney World vacation. If Disney raises ticket prices or hotel rates, you won’t be affected! It doesn’t matter if your vacation is paid in full or just has the minimum $200 deposit applied.
Worried about discounts? You won’t miss out on any future special offers either. Discounts can be applied to your reservation, as long as there is availability, anytime after you are booked. If you book with an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner, we automatically take care of this for you! It’s just one of the many FREE services included when you book your vacation through us.
Payment Plan
You can book a Disney World vacation package with just a $200 deposit. The remaining balance isn’t due until 30 days prior to arrival so you have plenty of time to pay off your balance.
You can create a payment plan to make weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly payments that best fit your financial situation. If you receive a bonus at work or have a tax refund, you can always make a larger payment towards your balance, as well.
Disney has an amazingly flexible change and cancellation policy. You can make any changes that you’d like to your package, without any type of penalty or change fee, up to 30 days prior to arrival. Would you like to change your travel dates as we get closer? Waiting for the All Star’s or Port Orleans Resorts to open? Hoping to add a Disney dining plan? Need to change your park tickets? No problem! You can do any of that and more quickly and easily while keeping your deposit in tact.
If for any reason, you aren’t able to travel, you can also cancel up to 30 days prior to arrival for a full refund. Just remember, refunds are given back to the original method of payment. So, if you’re paying with Disney gift cards, just be sure to hang onto them!
Are you ready to book your 2021 Disney World vacation now? We’d love to help you plan a magical and memorable vacation at no additional cost to you. Take advantage of our free services by calling (734) 771-1290 or emailing siera@destinationsinflorida.com today!
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. We may make a small commission from purchases made through these links. Thank you for supporting our small business!
Although pools and water parks are a great way for little ones to stay cool at the Walt Disney World Resort. Sometimes, you just need to take a break at one of the kids’ water play areas at Disney World. These charming areas offer slides, water spouts, fountains and spillover buckets that often reflect a fun theme inspired by a Disney film or resort.
Here are just five of our favorite water play areas at Disney World:
Casey Jr.’s Splash N Soak Station at Magic Kingdom Park – The Casey Jr. train from “Dumbo” has pulled into town and its animal passengers are ready to cool off. Here, kids can take a break from the heat and get squirted by elephant trunks and other circus animals.
“Alice In Wonderland” Water Play Area at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa – One of the newer kids water play areas, this “Alice In Wonderland”-themed area debuted at the resort last fall. Here, water overflows from teacups and the Mad Hatter’s hat. Kids can also enjoy small water slides or squirt one another with small water hoses.
Uwanja Camp at Samawati Springs Pool, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village – This water play area is themed after an animal observation site and offers a chance to cool off with leaky buckets, water cannons, a slide and more.
Shipwreck at the Fuentes del Morro Pool, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort – This shipwreck-themed splash area lets kids have fun on a “sinking” ship that’s complete with mini slides, leaky sails, buckets, and a crow’s nest.
Luna Park Pool, Disney’s BoardWalk Inn – The carnival-themed Luna Park Pool offers the Keister Coaster water slide, and a chance for kids to cool off under the spouting trunks of grinning elephant statues. Children can even splash about in their own kiddie pool.
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Image: ShopDisney
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Central Florida is warm almost year round so it’s the perfect place to plan a water park visit! Whether you call central Florida home or are vacationing at one of their world class theme parks, you can always cool off at these Orlando water parks.
Volcano Bay at Universal Orlando Resort
Volcano Bay is Universal Orlando Resort’s water theme park. Volcano Bay is probably unlike any water park that you’ve ever visited. At the center of the park you’ll find Krakatau volcano, which also houses the Krakatau Aqua Coaster. You can enjoy body slides, drop slides, tube slides, raft rides, lazy river, and so much more. Your kids will love the Puka Uli Lagoon, featuring playful, interactive elements like bongo drums and spraying jets of water.
Volcano Bay uses TapuTapu wearable technology for guests to take advantage of virtual lines, make cashless payment,s, and more. When you arrive at Volcano Bay™, you’ll receive a complimentary TapuTapu™ to wear on your wrist throughout your visit. It’s your key to having an amazing day—you’ll use it to ride most of the attractions, activate interactive surprises, open rental lockers, make cash-free payments and more.
You can visit Volcano Bay or add it to your Universal Orlando Resort vacation with a three park ticket. Plus, now through August 13, 2020, you will receive two days FREE at Universal with the purchase of a two day ticket. These tickets must be used by December 18, 2020 and do not have any blockout dates.
Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park at Walt Disney World Resort
Typhoon Lagoon is home to the Typhoon Lagoon Surf Pool, North America’s largest wave pool. The kids will love Bay Slides, twin body slides designed just for them and explore the Ketchakiddee Creek water play area. Thrill seekers can plunge down one of 3 Storm Slides; brave Mayday Falls, the highest and longest waterslide at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon; shoot the chute on Crush ‘n’ Gusher, the coaster-like raft ride; or race down Mount Mayday at a 60-degree angle on Humunga Kowabunga body slides. The whole family can float around the park in the Castaway Creek lazy river; enjoy a thrilling, whitewater voyage aboard a 4-person raft on Miss Adventure Falls; or enjoy a swift, scenic ride down Mount Mayday on Keelhaul Falls or the winding course of Gangplank Falls.
You can enjoy surfing at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon water park! They offer two options for surfing in the park. You can ride the wild surf in a private surf session (for up to 25 guests) or catch the stoke with a lesson for $199 per person, right in their safe, state-of-the-art wave pool.
You can purchase a one day water park ticket or add the Water Park and Sports option or Park Hopper Plus option to theme park tickets, if you are visiting the Walt Disney World Resort theme parks.
Blizzard Beach at Walt Disney World Resort
Can you imagine a ski resort in central Florida? Blizzard Beach will make you feel like you’re ready to hit the slopes! From a chairlift to the ski patrol training camp and summit plummet, you’ll find the ski and “snow” theme all around.
You can float around the park in the 3,000 foot Cross Country Creek lazy river. Or, get the best view of the park from atop Summit Plummet before you plunge 12 stories, almost straight down. The kids will love Ski Patrol Training Camp play area, Snow Stormers water slides, and Tike’s Peak water play area. The whole family can tackle a whitewater journey down the “mountain” on Teamboat Springs. You can always splash around Melt-Away Bay, a one acre wave pool. There’s also the Downhill Double Dipper high-speed slides, 90-foot Slush Gusher water slide, Runoff Rapids tube slides, and Toboggan Racers, an 8-lane downhill slalom-style waterslide.
You can purchase a one day water park ticket or add the Water Park and Sports option or Park Hopper Plus option to theme park tickets, if you are visiting the Walt Disney World Resort theme parks.
Island H2O Live! Water Park at Margaritaville Resort Orlando
Located at Margaritaville Resort Orlando, Island H2O Live! Water Park is Orlando’s newest water park. There is something for everyone to enjoy here. Island H2O Live! has racing slides, tube slides, body slides, water playground for kids, wave pool, adults only pool, lazy river, and so much more.
Island H2O Live! Water Park offers an interactive experience with the H2O Live app. You will find games and experiences that let you earn points to use toward food and merchandise discounts, plus the ability to control a streaming playlist to play on select slides and attractions! Don’t forget to stop by the selfie shacks scattered throughout the park to capture some of your memories.
Tip: You can download the H2O Live app from your mobile App Store before your visit. This free app will help you plan your day, display wait times, find family and friends, and earn points.
Aquatica Orlando at Sea World Orlando
Aquatica Orlando was recently rated the Nation’s Best Outdoor Waterpark by USA Today. You can relax and unwind, race down a water slide, and let the kids splash and play at Aquatica Orlando. They offer a lazy river, wave pools, raft rides, tube slides, water play areas for kids, the the steepest multi-drop slide in Orlando, and more.
Aquatica Orlando is the first water park in the world to be designated as a Certified Autism Center through The International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards. Aquatica Orlando Ambassadors have received specialized training to ensure they have the requisite knowledge, skills, temperament, and expertise to cater to all children, including those with special needs.
You can just visit Aquatica or add time at Sea World Orlando and/or Discovery Cove Orlando with a multi-park ticket. You can even receive unlimited admission to SeaWorld and Aquatica with select Discovery Cove admissions.
Have you been anxiously awaiting the opportunity to book a 2021 Disney World vacation? If so, I have some exciting news to share with you! You can book your 2021 Disney World vacation package beginning Wednesday, June 24, 2020 with just a $200 deposit!
That’s right! You can book a Walt Disney World Resort vacation package including your resort stay and theme park tickets with only $200. Then, the remaining balance isn’t due until 30 days prior to arrival. You can even arrange to make weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly payments in between to lessen your remaining balance. Plus, you can always cancel or reschedule without penalty up to 30 days prior to arrival if your plans change.
2021 Disney World vacation packages are now available to book for the following Walt Disney World Resort hotels:
Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas- Jambo House
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas- Kidani Village
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
Disney’s Beach Club Villas
Disney’s BoardWalk Inn
Disney’s BoardWalk Villas
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort
Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
Disney’s Old Key West Resort
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows
Disney’s Pop Century Resort
Disney’s Riviera Resort
Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa
Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Resorts
The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
2021 will be an exciting year at the Walt Disney World Resort. Magic Kingdom Park will celebrate its 50th anniversary on October 1, 2021. There will be new attractions, newly refurbished hotel rooms, and anniversary celebrations awaiting you. We are also looking forward to the return of the park hopper options, Disney dining plans, and so many other magical experiences that we know and love.
Exclusive Services When you Book Your 2021 Disney World Vacation with Siera
All guests who book their 2021 Disney world vacation package with us always receive our 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)
FastPass+ assistance, when available (recommendations based on your family’s unique interests and plans)
Disney will be retiring their complimentary MagicBand distribution to Disney Resort hotel guests for new reservations with arrivals beginning January 1, 2021. Disney Resort hotel guests will continue to have the option to purchase new MagicBands at a discount (with access to even more colors and designs featuring favorite Disney characters). However, guests who prefer not to purchase a discounted MagicBand will be able to use the My Disney Experience app or a Key to the World card during their visit.
Please note that booking a 2021 Disney World vacation package does not guarantee theme park availability. You will still need to make park reservations in your My Disney Experience account for arrivals starting in 2021 as Disney’s phased reopening continues.
Do you love eating at Disney? I do! Half of the fun of a Disney vacation is all of the delicious meals and snacks that I can enjoy in the parks and resorts! We can’t be in the parks every day though to enjoy all of those delicious treats. So, instead we can can taste a bit of the magic at home with these ten official Disney Parks recipes.
Disney Parks Churro Bites
Photo: Disney
Ingredients
1 cup water
8 tablespoons butter
¼ teaspoon salt
¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon, divided
1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
3 eggs
1 ½ cups vegetable or canola oil
½ cup sugar
Instructions
Combine water, butter, salt, and ¼ teaspoon cinnamon in 1 ½-quart saucepan over medium heat. Bring pot to rolling boil.
Reduce heat to low.
Add flour and stir vigorously until mix forms a ball. Remove from heat and let rest for 5-7 min.
Add eggs, one at a time, and stir until combined. Set aside.
Heat oil in medium skillet or 1-quart saucepan over medium-high heat or until temperature reaches 350˚.
Spoon dough into piping bag fitted with large star tip. Pipe 1-inch strip of dough over saucepan, cut with knife, and drop into hot oil. Repeat until churro bites fill saucepan with room to fry.
Fry churro bites until golden brown. Remove with slotted spoon or mesh spider strainer.
Drain churro bites on paper towel.
Mix sugar and ½ teaspoon cinnamon in medium bowl. Toss in churro bites until coated. Place on serving plate and serve with favorite dipping sauce.
Mickey Mouse-shaped Beignets
Photo: Disney
Ingredients:
1/2 teaspoon dry yeast
1/4 cup warm water (105°)
1/4 cup sugar
2 tablespoons vegetable shortening
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 egg
4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup boiling water
Vegetable oil for frying
Powdered sugar
Directions:
Sprinkle yeast over warm water in a small bowl, stirring to dissolve. Let stand for 5 minutes.
Combine sugar, shortening, salt, heavy cream, egg, flour and boiling water in a large bowl; stir in yeast mixture. With the dough hook attachment of an electric mixer on medium speed, mix the dough just until combined and smooth. Let dough rest for 30 minutes.
Roll to 1/4-inch thickness and cut individual beignets with a Mickey Mouse-shaped cutter or cut into 2 1/2 to 3-inch squares. Cover with a towel and let dough rise until doubled in size in a warm, draft-free area, about 1 to 1 1/2 hours.
Using caution, heat 3 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F in a deep, heavy pot over medium-high heat. Fry beignets until golden brown, about 2 to 3 minutes, turning as soon as they brown on one side. Remove with tongs and place on paper towels to drain. Dust warm beignets with powdered sugar and serve immediately.
Chocolate-Hazelnut Lunch Box TartsRecipe (from Woody’s Lunch Box at Disney’s Hollywood Studios)
Photo: Disney
Ingredients
Chocolate Hazelnut Tarts
4 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
2 1/4 teaspoons coarse salt, divided
3 sticks unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
1/4 cup coconut oil
3 eggs, divided
10 tablespoons water
1/2 cup chocolate hazelnut spread
Icing
1 cup confectioners’ sugar
2 tablespoons milk, divided
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Garnish
4 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
Instructions
For Chocolate Hazelnut Tart
Combine flour, sugar, brown sugar, 2 teaspoons of salt, butter, coconut oil, and 2 of the eggs in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with a paddle attachment. Mix on medium speed until combined.
Add water and mix on low speed for 1 minute. Increase speed and blend until dough is smooth. Do not overmix.
Divide dough into two even balls and wrap in plastic wrap. Rest in refrigerator for 45 minutes.
Preheat over to 375 degrees.
Mix remaining egg and 1/4 teaspoon salt in a small bowl. Set aside.
Lightly flour a large cutting board and roll first ball of dough into 1/4-inch thick rectangle. Cut into eight 2- by 6-inch rectangles.
Place rectangles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush with reserved egg wash. Spread 1 tablespoon of chocolate-hazelnut spread on the rectangle.
Roll remaining ball of dough into 1/4-inch thick rectangle and cut into eight 2- by 6-inch rectangles. Place on top of chocolate hazelnut covered tarts and seal edges with a fork. Brush top of tarts with egg wash.
Bake for 17 minutes, until golden brown. Cool completely.
For Icing
Mix sugar, 1 tablespoon of the milk, and lemon juice in a small bowl. Slowly add remaining milk until icing is smooth and spreads easily, but is not runny.
Spread icing on each cooled tart and top with bacon pieces.
Grilled Three-Cheese SandwichRecipe (from Woody’s Lunch Box at Disney’s Hollywood Studios)
Photo: Disney
Ingredients:
Cream Cheese Spread
1/2 cup cream cheese
1/2 cup shredded Double Gloucester or cheddar
2 tablespoons heavy cream
1/4 teaspoon coarse salt
Garlic Spread
1 cup mayonnaise
1 1/2 teaspoons minced garlic
1/2 teaspoon coarse salt
Grilled Three-Cheese Sandwich
8 slices of artisan bread
8 cheddar cheese slices
8 provolone slices
Instructions:
For Cream Cheese Spread:
Combine cream cheese, Double Gloucester or cheddar, heavy cream, and salt in food processor. Blend until smooth. Set aside.
For Garlic Spread:
Combine mayonnaise, garlic, and salt in small bowl and stir until blended. Set aside.
For Grilled Three-Cheese Sandwich:
Lay out artisan bread slices on parchment paper or large cutting board.
Place 2 slices of cheddar on 4 of the bread slices. Place 2 slices of provolone on remaining bread slices.
Equally spoon cream cheese spread on slices with provolone. Gently smooth cream cheese spread over each slice.
Press cheddar side and provolone side together.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat for 5 minutes, until hot.
Brush both sides of the sandwiches with garlic spread.
Grill sandwiches for 2 minutes on each side, until cheese is melted and bread is golden brown.
Canadian Cheddar Cheese Soup Recipe (from Le Cellier Steakhouse at EPCOT)
Photo: Disney
Ingredients:
1/2 pound of bacon, cut into 1/2-inch pieces 1 medium red onion, cut into 1/4-inch pieces 3 celery ribs, cut into 1/4-inch pieces 4 tablespoons butter 1 cup all-purpose flour 3 cups chicken stock 4 cups milk 1 pound white cheddar cheese, grated 1 tablespoon Tabasco sauce 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce Coarse salt, freshly ground pepper to taste 1/2 cup warm Canadian golden lager or any pale lager-style beer Chopped scallions or chives, for garnish
Directions:
In a 4- or 5-quart Dutch oven, cook bacon, stirring, over medium heat for about 5 minutes, or until lightly browned.
Add red onion, celery, and butter and sauté until onion has softened, about 5 minutes.
Add flour and cook, stirring constantly, for about 4 minutes over medium heat. Whisk in chicken stock and bring to boil for 1 minute. Reduce heat to simmer and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add milk and continue to simmer for 15 minutes. Do not boil after milk is added.
Remove from heat and add cheese, Tabasco sauce, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Blend with immersion blender until cheese is melted and soup is smooth. Stir in warm beer. If the soup is too thick, thin with some warm milk.
Serve the soup hot, garnished with chopped scallions or chives.
The Grey Stuff Recipe
Photo: Disney
Ingredients:
1 1/2 cups cold whole milk
1 (3.4 ounce) package instant vanilla pudding mix
15 chocolate sandwich cookies
1 (8 ounce) container whipped topping, thawed
3 tablespoons instant chocolate pudding mix
12 scalloped sugar cookies
Edible sugar pearls
Directions:
Pour milk into large mixing bowl. Add instant vanilla pudding mix and whisk for 2 minutes until smooth and slightly thickened. Place in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours, until firm.
Place chocolate sandwich cookies in food processor and pulse until puréed.
Fold puréed cookies into pudding mix. Stir until fully mixed.
Add whipped topping and instant chocolate pudding. Stir until fully mixed.
Place in refrigerator and chill for one hour.
Spoon grey stuff into piping bag fitted with desired tip. Pipe grey stuff onto cookies. Top with sugar pearls.
Tonga Toast Recipe (from Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort)
Photo: Disney
Ingredients:
Sugar-Cinnamon
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons cinnamon
Batter
4 large eggs
1 1/3 cup whole milk
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Tonga Toast
1 quart canola oil, for frying
1 loaf sourdough bread (uncut, 12 inches long)
2 large bananas, peeled
Directions:
For Sugar-Cinnamon:
Mix sugar and cinnamon in medium bowl (large enough to roll toast) with a fork until thoroughly blended. Set aside.
For Batter:
Whip eggs in medium bowl (large enough to dip toast) until well beaten. Add milk, cinnamon, and sugar. Mix well and set aside.
For Tonga Toast:
Using caution, preheat oil to 350°F in a large pot or a deep fryer. (If using a large pot, use a candy thermometer to make certain the oil does not get any hotter or it will burn.)
Slice the bread into four three-inch-thick slices.
Cut each banana in half crosswise, then each piece lengthwise.
Place a bread slice flat on the counter and tear out just enough from the middle (do not tear all the way through) to stuff half a banana into; repeat with each bread slice.
Dip stuffed bread into batter, covering both sides, allowing excess batter to drip off bread and place carefully into hot oil.
Cook 4-5 minutes until golden brown. If needed, turn toast over after 2 minutes and cook for another 2 minutes on other side. Remove and drain excess oil.
Roll toast in cinnamon-sugar. Repeat for each piece of toast.
Peanut Butter & Jelly Milk Shake Recipe (from 50’s Prime Time Café at Disney’s Hollywood Studios)
Photo: Disney
Ingredients:
2 tablespoons peanut butter
2 tablespoons jelly (strawberry or grape)
2 cups vanilla ice cream
1/4 cup milk
Directions:
Add all ingredients to blender and blend until smooth.
Add additional peanut butter or jelly to taste.
Cook’s Notes: Two cups sliced strawberries can be substituted for jelly.
Totchos Recipe (from Woody’s Lunch Box at Disney’s Hollywood Studios)
Photo: Disney
Chili with Beans
1 pound lean ground beef
1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (14.5 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, drained
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon coarse salt
Black pepper, to taste
Ground cayenne, to taste
Queso Sauce
2 cups jar cheese sauce
1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes with chilies
Totchos
1 (2 pound) bag frozen potato barrels
1 1/2 cups corn chips
Chili with Beans
Queso Sauce
3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
6 tablespoons sour cream
2 tablespoons thinly sliced green onions
For Chili with Beans:
Brown ground beef in a 5-6 quart Dutch oven over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain off excess grease.
Add onion and garlic and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until onion is translucent.
Add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, chili powder, and cumin. Simmer for 20 minutes. Add salt.
Add black pepper and cayenne, as needed.
Keep warm until ready to serve.
For Queso Sauce:
Place cheese sauce and diced tomatoes with chilies in small saucepan. Cook over low heat for 10 minutes, until warm.
Keep warm until ready to serve.
For Totchos:
Cook potato barrels according to package instructions.
Divide potato barrels into 6 bowls. Place 1/4 cup each of corn chips, chili with beans, and queso sauce on top of each bowl of potato barrels.
Top each bowl with 2 tablespoons shredded cheese, 1 tablespoon sour cream, and 1 teaspoon green onions.
1 cinnamon spice cupcake (2 ½ x 1 1/4-inch), quartered
1 angel food cupcake (3 x 1 1/2-inch), quartered
2 generous scoops vanilla ice cream
2 generous scoops chocolate ice cream
2 generous scoops strawberry ice cream
1 generous scoop mint chocolate chip ice cream
1 generous scoop coffee ice cream
3 tablespoons chocolate syrup
1/4 cup marshmallow cream
1/4 cup strawberry topping
1/4 cup pineapple topping
14-ounce can dairy whipped topping
1 large brownie (6-inch x 6-inch), quartered
1 regular-sized candy bar, quartered
4 chocolate cookies with cream filling
1 tablespoon sliced toasted almonds
1 tablespoon dark and white chocolate shavings
1 tablespoon crushed chocolate cookies with cream filling
1 tablespoon chopped jellied orange slices, about 2 large slices
1 tablespoon milk chocolate chip morsels
1 tablespoon peanut butter chip morsels
1 tablespoon chocolate sprinkles
1 tablespoon rainbow sprinkles
1/2 cup drained maraschino cherries
To Serve:
Pour hot fudge, butterscotch, and peanut butter toppings into bottom of large bowl.
Layer banana slices and cupcake pieces over toppings. Top with all ice creams.
As quickly as possible, spoon chocolate syrup, marshmallow cream, strawberry, and pineapple toppings over ice cream.
Cover completely with dairy whipped topping. Tuck brownie pieces, candy bar pieces, and cookies in whipped topping.
Sprinkle with toasted almonds, dark and white chocolate shavings, crushed cookies, jellied orange slices, milk chocolate chip morsels, peanut butter morsels, chocolate sprinkles, and rainbow sprinkles. Top with cherries.
What are some of your favorite Disney Parks recipes?
