Category Archives: Florida

Don’t Miss Rare Characters at Disney PhotoPass Day 2017 at Disney World

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Disney PhotoPass Day 2017

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

August 19 marks World Photo Day, and we’re excited to celebrate the occasion with the return of Disney PhotoPass Day 2017 at Walt Disney World Resort! During this event, Disney PhotoPass Service will offer a number of exclusive photo opportunities that will let you take home even more picture-perfect memories of your visit.

You can also celebrate Disney Princesses during Disney PhotoPass Day! In honor of Disney’s “Dream Big, Princess” campaign, you’ll find photo opportunities focused on some of your favorite Disney Princesses.

Check out all of the special opportunities that are planned in each of the four theme parks and Disney Springs on August 19 for Disney PhotoPass Day 2017:

Entertainment and photo opportunities are subject to change. Some locations could be affected by inclement weather.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Character Experiences:

  • Meeko joins Pocahontas at Character Landing on Discovery Island
  • Timon joins Rafiki at Rafiki’s Planet Watch
  • Princess Atta joins Flik at Discovery Island near Creature Comforts

Photo opportunities:

  • Dream Big Princess photo backdrop before the park entrance (daylight hours only)
  • Jungle Book Magic Shot near Yak & Yeti Restaurant
  • Visit the PhotoPass photographer in DinoLand U.S.A. from 9-10 p.m. to have magical Mickey light effects added to your photo (example below)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Character Experiences:

  • The Queen from “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,” Maleficent, and Cruella de Vil will meet with guests at Sunset Showcase. This opportunity will be available from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Photo opportunities:

  • Dream Big Princess photo backdrop outside the Theater of the Stars (daylight hours only)
  • Poison Apple Magic Shot on Sunset Boulevard
  • Fisheye lens in the Chinese Theatre Courtyard area

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Epcot

Character Experiences:

  • Genie will join Princess Jasmine in the Morocco Pavilion
  • Mushu will join Mulan in the China Pavilion

Photo opportunities:

  • Dream Big Princess photo backdrop near Epcot Character Spot (daylight hours only)
  • Baymax Animated Magic Shot with the PhotoPass photographer located near Mouse Gear and the Fountain of Nations
  • Fisheye lens near the fountain close to the entrance to Spaceship Earth

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Magic Kingdom Park
Character Experiences:

  • Dopey joins Snow White at Town Square Courtyard
  • Captain Hook joins Peter Pan in Fantasyland

Photo opportunities:

  • Dream Big Princess photo backdrop in Fantasyland (daylight hours only)
  • Cinderella’s Coach in Fantasyland
  • “Tangled” light painting photo opportunity near Ariel’s Grotto (available after dark)
  • Mickey Mouse Magic Shot on the bridge near Fairytale Garden
  • Main Street Vehicle near the Plaza Ice Cream Parlor (available in the morning and early afternoon)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Disney Springs 
Photo opportunities:

  • Dream Big Princess photo backdrop next to the Marketplace Stage
  • Fairy Wings Magic Shot from the PhotoPass photographer roaming around the Marketplace near Tren-D (available from 1-10:30 p.m.)
  • You can also visit the Disney PhotoPass Studio at Disney Springs to enjoy special $99.95 plus shipping pricing on a Personalized Storybook now through August 20!

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Don’t forget to share your photos from Disney PhotoPass Day 2017 on social media using #DisneyPhotoPassDay and #DreamBigPrincess, and if you want access to all of your PhotoPass photos from Disney PhotoPass Day 2017, purchase Memory Maker One Day for $59 in the My Disney Experience mobile app during or after your visit!

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. She would love to help you plan your next vacation at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

BaseLine Tap House Coming to Grand Avenue at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

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(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Debuting this fall, the new Grand Avenue area at Disney’s Hollywood Studios is being re-imagined by Walt Disney Imagineering to capture the spirit of present-day Downtown Los Angeles, showing vintage office buildings and warehouses representing the different vibrant districts and cultures of the city. One prominent hot spot to spring up is the BaseLine Tap House, a cheerful corner pub specializing in beer and wines from California.

In a quaint brick building, BaseLine Tap House celebrates the revitalization of Downtown Los Angeles by paying homage to the building’s former life as the Figueroa Printing Company, a mom-and-pop print house that had ties to the Disney studios in nearby Burbank. The space retains many of its cool architectural and mechanical details with exposed walls and old printing equipment and artifacts, blending the past and present in an inviting space. Outside is a charming tree-shaded terrace, perfect for a relaxing break in the day.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

California craft ales, lagers and cider will be the stars of the drink menu. You won’t want to miss California wines on tap along with specialty cocktails, either. A gourmet non-alcoholic lemonade and soda on tap will round out the drink selection.

If you’re feeling hungry, be sure to try one of the small bites, including a Bavarian pretzel with mustard and beer-cheese fondue, spiced almonds or a charcuterie board featuring California cheeses.

Are you excited to visit the new BaseLine Tap House when it opens at Disney’s Hollywood Studios?

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. She would love to help you plan your next vacation at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

Back to School 2017 Shopping at Disney Springs at Walt Disney World Resort

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(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Before you know it, the first day of school will be here. So today, we’re visiting Disney Springs for a first look at some “must have” back to school 2017 items and accessories to make this year extra magical.

At Disney Springs, finding a great school outfit is easy. Levi’s has a large selection of kids’ clothing, and offers custom tailoring, hemming and embroidery to help create a comfortable, unique look. Also, UNIQLO is packed with back to school essentials and has a variety of Disney-inspired clothing to show off your favorite character in style.

There are also some great deals on school outfits at Disney Springs. Superdry is offering $50 off your purchase of $200 or more August 18 through September 5, and when you spend more than $100 at Shore, you’ll receive a drawstring backpack August 18 through August 20.

For more back to school staples, check out Columbia Sportswear, Volcom and LACOSTE.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Finding a perfect backpack is simple at Disney Springs. CURL by Sammy Duvall has a variety of Disney-inspired Jansport backpacks. And Vera Bradley and Kipling in the Town Center also have backpacks and bags in a wide assortment of styles and colors. Both locations offer custom embroidery on all products, including pencil cases, lunchboxes, and more.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Need accessories? World of Disney is now offering an impressive assortment of pens, pencils, notebooks, and tablet cases. Francescas also has a fun selection of back to school items as well as a variety of stylish jewelry and accessories.

If you’re looking for shades, be sure to stop by Sunglass ICON and APEX by Sunglass Hut. Both are offering $40 off a second pair of polarized glasses when you purchase one full-priced pair. Edward Beiner, a location that can fill your eyeglass prescription in-store, is another great option to eyewear – offering the latest lens and frame styles for all ages.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

You can “pair” your new school outfit with a perfect pair of socks at the World of Disney or sock-specialty store Stance, carrying Disney, Star Wars, and Marvel-inspired collections for your feet.

Specialty footwear retailers Sperry and UGG are offering promotions during the back to school shopping season. Visit Sperry for 30% off select styles, now through August 18. At UGG, enjoy complimentary customization up to $20 on any purchase of Kids’ Classic II product. Fit2Run, the Runners Superstore and Melissa Shoes both offer Disney character-inspired footwear selections to complete your first day of school outfit.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

College-bound students looking to fill their toiletries bags should stop by Basin. The store is offering $10 off when you purchase a body butter, scrub, and three bath bombs together from August 4 through 6. And Sugarboo & Co. has all of your dorm essentials. When you purchase any pillow August 11 through 20, you can purchase a second one at half off.

If you build up an appetite during back to school shopping, Wolfgang Puck Express in the Marketplace is offering a free kids meal with the purchase of one adult entrée from August 4 through August 13. If you’re looking for some refreshing sorbetto, Vivoli il Gelato in the Landing will cool your palate with their seasonal pineapple, watermelon and cherry flavors. And stopping by Ghirardelli is the perfect way to enjoy that end-of-summer sundae, as well as satisfy that sweet tooth.

Check out Disney Springs for your back to school 2017 shopping and share your favorites with us using #DisneySprings on Twitter and Instagram.

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. She would love to help you plan your next vacation at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

Enjoy a Tropical Paradise at Loews Sapphire Falls Resort at Universal Orlando

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loews-sapphire-falls-resort-pool-scope-1170x731

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Every trip to Universal Orlando Resort should be full of riding roller coasters, character meet-and-greets, eating ice cream, and nonstop adventures. But after the miles of walking and navigating the theme parks, one of the best things about your visit will be coming back to your on-site hotel.

Loews Sapphire Falls Resort is Universal Orlando’s newest on-site hotel and is Caribbean-inspired. If you have a great love for island living, you will be taken to paradise as soon as you step through the door of you room.

loews-sapphire-falls-resort-room

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

At Sapphire Falls, there isn’t a shortage of activities, and you can easily spend an entire day at the hotel, because of all the amenities available.

The best place to cool off from the Florida heat is the pool. It’s a gorgeous 16,000 square foot pool, complete with a water slide, sand area and private cabanas (for an additional charge).

loews-sapphire-falls-resort-pool-teens-paradise

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Depending on the day’s activity schedule, you may even catch a ping-pong tournament or a nighttime movie showing. There is always something going on, so be sure to check with the concierge during your visit.

Plus, if you get hungry, you can head to Drhum Club Kantine, the hotel’s poolside bar. It’s the perfect place to stop for a drink or snack while getting your tan on!

In addition to Drhum Club Kantine, the hotel has several dining options. New Dutch Trading Co. is a quick-service café, whereas Amatista Cookhouse is a sit-down restaurant with an extensive menu. Room service is also available 24 hours in case you’re craving something at 3AM.

amatista-cookhouse-dining-room

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Amatista Cookhouse offers a delicious menu, but some guest favorites are the margherita pizza (and french fries!), finished with a slice of chocolate cake for dessert.

amatista-cookhouse-margherita-pizza

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

amatista-cookhouse-chocolate-cake

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Although you can easily spend most of your “hotel days” swimming and tanning in the pool area, if you would rather spend the afternoon in air-conditioning, the Calypso Game Room is the best place to be!

calypso-game-room-loews-sapphire-falls-resort

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

You can even fit in a workout if you don’t want your exercise routine to take a vacation. Kalina Health and Fitness Center is the full-service gym at Sapphire Falls. Plus, there are various walking and jogging paths that wind around the hotel. Whether you’re using the cardio machines in the gym or going on a run around the resort, you’ll be able to get your sweat on.

The internet at Sapphire Falls is super fast and reliable, and it’s complimentary for up to four devices per room.

Another benefit of staying at an on-site hotel is Early Park Admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Being able to visit one hour before the theme park opens to the public is immensely helpful and will maximize your experience at Hogwarts!

As for getting there? No worries. There is complimentary transportation from Loews Sapphire Falls Resort to Universal Studios Florida, Universal’s Islands of Adventure and Universal CityWalk.

loews-sapphire-falls-resort-water-taxi

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

You have the choice between a shuttle bus or a water taxi. While both are efficient, I recommend the water taxi (or as I like to call it: the mini cruise). It’s an enchanting ride, especially at night!

The tropical atmosphere, endless activities, and savory meals at Loews Sapphire Falls Resort are pure bliss. Are you planning a trip to Universal Orlando Resort soon? Think about booking at Loews Sapphire Falls Resort.

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, Universal Studios Travel Agency of the Year 2010, 2011, & 2012. She would love to help you plan your next Universal Orlando vacation at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

Mission Space Will Relaunch at Epcot on August 13, 2017 with New Experiences

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(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

If you’re a thrill seeker, one of your favorite attractions at Epcot may be Mission: SPACE. Mission Space gives you the feeling of lifting off into outer space and gives you an incredible view of the Earth as it appears from outer space. Many guests love the authentic, NASA-style training and space travel aboard the Mission Space “rocket.”

Although Mission Space has been closed for refurbishment since the beginning of June, it will officially relaunch on August 13, 2017 with a brand new experience and an enhanced version of the “classic” Mission: SPACE.

  • If you think you’ve got “the right stuff,” take on the Orange Mission for a truly intense experience that lets you feel the force of an actual space launch en route to Mars. On this mission, you’ll dodge meteoroids, slingshot around the moon and attempt a precision landing on the Red Planet’s alien surface. This “mission” has been enhanced with new, HD video to make it even clearer – I can’t imagine!
  • Or, embark on the more family-friendly Green Mission – a new mission that takes you on an exciting orbit around Earth. On this amazing new adventure, you’ll take in sites like the Hawaiian Islands, Italy’s “boot” and the Northern Lights—as seen from space, of course—before finally landing at Kennedy Space Center in Florida. No matter which mission you choose, it’ll be a journey that’s totally out of this world.

In addition to all the “mission” updates, Walt Disney Imagineering has also made this attraction MORE family-friendly. Younger astronauts will now have the opportunity to ride because the height restriction will be changed for the Green Mission side with the addition of new X-2 booster seats in order to allow children 40-44” to ride.

Do you prefer to experience the Orange Mission or Green Mission on Mission Space? Be sure to let us know in the comments!

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. She would love to help you plan your next vacation at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

New Universal Orlando Youth Program Offers Interactive Learning Experiences

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universal-orlando-youth-program-your-classroom-in-motion-1170x731

What happens when you take your physics textbook and turn it into a roller coaster?

Enter Your Classroom in Motion: A STEAM App Series, the latest Universal Orlando Youth Program.

Several programs make up this new series. Each one is unique and contains three parts:

  • Content-rich, pre-visit classroom lessons
  • Career-focused videos from NBC Learn
  • Thrilling in-park attraction and app-based experiences here at Universal Orlando Resort

And great news for teachers—the lessons all correlate with middle school and high school national and state education standards in STEAM concepts.

(STEAM is an educational approach that uses Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts and Mathematics to guide learning.)

I have had numerous educators confirm that when students are having fun with their work, learning is a natural outcome. To make the most of that, the series consists of the follow learning modules:

  • Transformers ROLL Out: Learn about the engineering principles of the 6 Degrees of Freedom. Then, reconstruct the ride vehicle’s motion sequences on TRANSFORMERS: The Ride-3D.
  • Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit Science: Work in small groups to collect data and measure speed at different points along the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit roller coaster. Then, use the data to prove the law of conservation of energy.
  • Kongtrol Panel: Use engineering principles to maneuver the ride vehicle around Skull Island: Reign of Kong.
  • Mummy Dig Site Detective: Use scientific observation to investigate curious discoveries at the dig site beneath Revenge of the Mummy.
  • Jurassic Paleobotany: Search for foliage in Jurassic Park using a digital map to collect photographic samples of Jurassic-era plants.

Your Classroom In Motion uses innovative software – exclusive to groups participating in the program – to give students hands-on learning lessons throughout Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure theme parks.

For students who love the performing arts, we also enhanced our existing workshop, Sound Design: Music and the Art of Foley. This energetic workshop gives students the chance to experience a day in the life of a working movie musician.

Band, choir or orchestra students can now sync music or choral arrangements and create sound effects and voiceovers to Illumination Entertainment’s Despicable Me and The Lorax.

Universal Orlando Resort is always ready to take students beyond the classroom and bring education to life. Contact us to learn how you can give your students a “day in the lab” like nothing else. Our Universe is your classroom!

If you’d like to bring your school group or band to Universal Orlando Resort, we can help you plan every details from accommodations to time in the theme parks and participation in your Universal Orlando Youth Program.

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, Universal Studios Travel Agency of the Year 2010, 2011, & 2012. She would love to help you plan your next Universal Orlando vacation at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

Incredible Photo Opportunities and Magic Shots in Pandora- The World of Avatar

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(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Incredible Photo Opportunities and Magic Shots in Pandora- The World of Avatar

Expeditions to Pandora – The World of Avatar have begun at Disney’s Animal Kingdom!

When you’re not trekking among mountains, drifting down a Pandoran River deep into the bioluminescent rainforest, or soaring on the back of a mountain banshee, you’ll find the striking beauty of Pandora offers many locations to take photos of your interplanetary travel.

Disney PhotoPass Service photographers are placed in the best locations in Pandora – The World of Avatar to capture your entire group’s adventure into this exotic world. There are some incredible photo opportunities and magic shots in Pandora – The World of Avatar that you won’t want to miss on your visit!

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Disney PhotoPass photographers are also able to capture a number of Magic Shots and Animated Magic Shots in Pandora featuring some of your favorite Pandoran inhabitants. Check them out below!

When you visit a PhotoPass photographer in front of the floating mountains during daylight hours, you’ll have the opportunity to include a banshee in your photo.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

In the evening, PhotoPass photographers can capture a woodsprite floating into your photos in both a Magic Shot and Animated Magic Shot:

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Remember, Animated Magic Shots can only be downloaded as part of an active Memory Maker entitlement, which allows you to take home all of your Disney PhotoPass photos and videos from your Walt Disney World Resort vacation for one price.

Enjoy your adventure!

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. She would love to help you plan your next vacation at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

2017 Epcot International Food and Wine Festival Menus Now Available

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(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Opening day of the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival is earlier than ever this year – August 31, with lots of new tastes and sips around World Showcase Lagoon and even extending in to Future World. Here’s a rundown of the 2017 Epcot International Food and Wine Festival menus from each Festival Marketplace to keep handy and help you plan ahead. The festival runs through November 13. For more information, visit epcotfoodfestival.com. Look for booking dates for special events soon!

Epcot Legacy Showplace

  • Chilled Scotch Egg wrapped in Sausage with Mustard Sauce
  • Zesty Cheeseburger and Cheddar Cheese Macaroni Handwich
  • L’Orange Cotton Candy: A mixture of Lime and Orange Cotton Candy (vegetarian)
  • Bright Horizons: Sprite® with Multi-flavored Boba Pearls (non-alcoholic)
  • M.I.A Beer Company 305 Golden Ale, Doral, FL
  • Playalinda Brewing Company Blonde Ale, Titusville, FL
  • Florida Beer Company Passport 35 Triple Chocolate Milk Stout, Cape Canaveral, FL
  • JDub’s Passion Wheat, Sarasota, FL
  • Central 28 Trekkerbier Farmhouse Ale, DeBary, FL
  • Cigar City Guayabera Citra Pale Ale, Tampa, FL
  • Eastern Florida Flight
    • M.I.A. Beer Company 305 Golden Ale
    • Playalinda Brewing Company Blonde Ale
    • Florida Beer Company Passport 35 Triple Chocolate Milk Stout
  • Western Florida Flight
    • JDub’s Passion Wheat
    • Central 28 Trekkerbier Farmhouse Ale
    • Cigar City Guayabera Citra Pale Ale

Flavors from Fire

  • Piggy Wings: Roasted Pork Wings with Korean BBQ Sauce and Sesame Seeds
  • Smoked Corned Beef with Warm Crispy Potatoes, Pickled Onions, and Blonde Ale Beer Fondue featuring BelGioioso
  • Romano and American Grana Cheeses
  • Sweet Pancake with Spicy Chipotle Chicken Sausage, Onion Jam, and Maple Butter Syrup
  • Chocolate Picante: Dark Chocolate Mousse with Cayenne Pepper, Chili Powder, and Raspberry Dust
  • Orlando Brewery Smokin’ Blackwater Porter
  • Ravenswood Zinfandel, Napa Valley
  • Swine Brine featuring Evan Williams Bourbon

Light Lab
Beverages

  • T=C2: Tonic Water and Cotton Candy (non-alcoholic)
  • RGB: Citrus Apple Freeze (non-alcoholic)
  • Bleu Spectrum: Blanc de Bleu Cuvée Mousseux with Boba Pearls
  • Left Hand Brewing Company Polestar Pilsner, Longmont, CO
  • Playalinda Brewing Company Robonaut Red Ale, Titusville, FL
  • Elysian Brewing Space Dust IPA, Seattle, WA
  • Sixpoint Brewery Mad Scientist Radiant Flux, Brooklyn, NY
  • Founders Brewing Company Green Zebra Watermelon Gose Ale, Grand Rapids, MI
  • Blue Point Brewing Company Hoptical Illusion IPA, Patchogue, NY
  • Space Flight
    • Left Hand Brewing Company Polestar Pilsner
    • Playalinda Brewing Company Robonaut Red Ale
    • Elysian Brewing Space Dust IPA
  • Light Flight
    • Sixpoint Brewery Mad Scientist Radiant Flux
    • Founders Brewing Company Green Zebra Watermelon Gose Ale
    • Blue Point Brewing Company Hoptical Illusion IPA

Earth Eats Inspired by ABC’s “The Chew”

  • Ricotta and Zucchini Ravioli with Rustic Tomato Sauce (vegetarian)
  • Grilled Beef Skewer with Romaine, Apricots, and Feta Cheese
  • Peanut Butter and White Chocolate Mousse with a Caramel Drizzle (gluten friendly)
  • Kurt Russell’s Gogi Wines Chardonnay “Goldie,” California
  • Kurt Russell’s Gogi Wines Pinot Noir, California
  • Redstone Meadery Black Raspberry Mead

Active Eats

  • Loaded Mac ‘n’ Cheese with Nueske’s® Pepper Bacon, Cheddar Cheese, Peppers, and Green Onions
  • Roasted Verlasso® Salmon with Quinoa Salad and Arugula Chimichurri (gluten friendly)
  • Sweet Avocado Crema with Strawberries, Yellow Cake, and Tortilla Streusel (vegetarian)
  • M.I.A. Beer Company HRD WTR Cucumber & Lemon Lime Hard Sparkling Water, Doral, FL
  • Chateau Ste. Michelle Cold Creek Riesling, Washington
  • Evolution by Sokol Blosser Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley

Coastal Eats

  • Lump Crab Cake with Napa Cabbage Slaw and Avocado Lemongrass Cream
  • Baked Shrimp Scampi Dip with Sourdough Baguette
  • Seared Scallops with Roasted Corn and Butterbean Succotash and Chili-chipotle Butter Sauce
  • Erath Pinot Gris, Oregon
  • Soter Planet Pinot Noir, Oregon

The Chocolate Studio

  • Liquid Nitro Chocolate-Almond Truffle with Warm Whiskey-Caramel (gluten friendly)
  • Sweet Dark Chocolate Raspberry Torte with Whipped Cream and Raspberry Dust (vegetarian)
  • Justin Cabernet Sauvignon, Paso Robles
  • Banfi Rosa Regale, Piedmont
  • Lenotti Recioto della Valpolicella, Italy
  • RL Buller Fine Muscat

The Cheese Studio Hosted by Boursin® Cheese

  • Braised Beef “Stroganoff” with Tiny Egg Noodles, Wild Mushroom, and Boursin® Garlic and Fine Herbs Cheese Sauce
  • Savory Caramelized Onion Boursin® Garlic and Fine Herbs Cheese Tart with cold Arugula Salad and Aged Balsamic (vegetarian)
  • Cheese Trio: Profiterole topped with Boursin® Garlic and Fine Herbs Cheese and Orange Apricot Jam; Smoked Salmon Pinwheel with Boursin® Shallot and Chive Cheese and Everything Seasoning; Strawberry Macaroon with Boursin Pepper Cheese
  • Leth Steinagrund Gruner Veltliner, Austria
  • Liberated Pinot Noir, California

The Wine & Dine Studio

  • Seared Scallops, Truffled Celery Root Purée, Brussels Sprouts, and Wild Mushrooms featuring Melissa’s Produce
  • Pulled Duck Confit with Cannellini Bean Ragoût and Zinfandel Reduction
  • Trio of Artisan Cheese (vegetarian): Fromager d’Affinois de Excellence with Toasted Baguette; Point Reyes Original Blue with Apricot Jam; Point Reyes Toma with Honey
  • Artist Palette of Wine and Cheese: Trio of Artisan Cheese Paired with Round Pond Estate Sauvignon Blanc, St.
  • Francis Chardonnay and Recuerdo Malbec
  • Round Pond Estate Sauvignon Blanc, Rutherford
  • St. Francis Chardonnay, Sonoma County
  • Recuerdo Malbec, Argentina
  • Eden Canyon “Jolie” Red Blend, California
  • Meiomi Rosé, California

Islands of the Caribbean

  • Jamaican Beef Patty with Mango Salsa
  • Mojo Pork with Black Beans, Cilantro Rice, and Pickled Red Onions (gluten friendly)
  • Quesito: Puff Pastry with Sweetened Cream Cheese and Guava Sauce (vegetarian)
  • Carib Lager
  • Caribbean White Sangria
  • Frozen Mojito

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

New Zealand

  • Steamed Green Lip Mussels with Garlic Butter and Toasted Breadcrumbs
  • Lamb Meatball with Spicy Tomato Chutney
  • Seared Venison Loin with Wild Mushroom Marsala Sauce and Kumara Purée
  • Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough
  • Nobilo Icon Pinot Noir, Marlborough
  • Frozen Wine Cocktail featuring Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc

Australia

  • Grilled Sweet and Spicy Bush Berry Shrimp with Pineapple, Pepper, Onion, and Snap Peas (gluten friendly)
  • Grilled Lamb T-Bone with Mint Pesto and Potato Crunchies (gluten friendly)
  • Lamington: Yellow Cake Dipped in Chocolate and Shredded Coconut (vegetarian)
  • Coopers Brewery Original Pale Ale
  • Robert Oatley McLaren Vale Shiraz
  • Hope Estate “Wollombi Brook” Semillon, Hunter Valley

The Almond Orchard Hosted by Blue Diamond Almond Breeze®

  • Cauliflower Risotto with Pulled Chicken, Artichokes, Spinach and Parmesan Cheese with Aged Balsamic
  • Fire-roasted Tomato Hummus topped with Blue Diamond® Salt & Vinegar Almonds served with Blue Diamond Nut Thins®
  • Banana Almond Soft-serve Sundae with Fresh Berries and Crunchy Chocolate Oats

Patagonia

  • Beef Empanada
  • Grilled Beef Skewer with Chimichurri Sauce and Boniato Purée (gluten friendly)
  • Verum Pinot Noir, Rio Negro
  • Bodega Noemía de Patagonia “A Lisa” Malbec, Rio Negro

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Hawai’i

  • Kalua Pork Slider with Sweet and Sour DOLE® Pineapple Chutney and Spicy Mayonnaise
  • Grilled Tuna Tataki with Seaweed Salad, Pickled Cucumbers, and Wasabi Cream
  • Teriyaki-glazed SPAM® Hash with Potatoes, Peppers, Onions, and Spicy Mayonnaise
  • Passion Fruit Cheesecake with Toasted Macadamia Nuts
  • Maui Brewing Company Bikini Blonde Lager
  • Florida Orange Groves Sparkling Pineapple Wine
  • Mai Tai featuring Sammy’s Beach Bar Rum

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Farm Fresh

  • Crispy Chicken with Griddled Cornbread and Red Eye Gravy
  • Roasted Beet Salad with Green Beans, Feta Cheese, Minus 8 Vinaigrette, and Toasted Walnuts (vegetarian and gluten friendly)
  • Gumption Citrus Freak Hard Cider, Middlebury, VT
  • Woodchuck Raspberry Hard Cider, Middlebury, VT
  • Two Henrys Elderberry Cream Hard Cider, Plant City, FL
  • Florida Orange Groves Mango Mama Wine
  • Cider flight

Greece

  • Loaded Greek “Nachos”: Pita Chips, Meatless Sausage Crumbles, and Vegan Tzatziki (vegetarian)
  • Taste of Greece: Stuffed Grape Leaves with Lemon Dill Sauce, Grilled Octopus and Feta Cheese Dip with Warm Pita
    Spanakopita (vegetarian)
  • Bougatsa: Warm Phyllo Dough Strudel with Sweet Vanilla Custard, Lemon Honey Syrup and Cinnamon (vegetarian)
  • Domaine Skouras Moscofilero, Peloponnese
  • Domaine Sigalas Assyrtiko, Santorini
  • Argyros Atlantis Red Blend, Santorini

Thailand

  • Marinated Chicken with Peanut Sauce and Stir-fried Vegetables
  • Seared Shrimp and Scallop Cake with Cold Noodle Salad
  • Red Hot Spicy Thai Curry Beef with Steamed Rice
  • Helfrich Gewürztraminer, Alsace
  • Singha Lager

Mexico

  • Rib Eye Taco: Marinated Rib Eye, Roasted Chipotle Sauce, and Grilled Scallions on a Corn Tortilla
  • Tequila Chipotle Shrimp: Served on a Black Bean Huarache garnished with Red and Green Cabbage, Queso Fresco, and Crema Mexicana
  • Cajeta Mousse served with Cajeta Sauce and White Chocolate Flakes
  • Prickly Pear Margarita
  • Classic Pomegranate Margarita
  • Mexican-style Sangria
  • Pacifico Lager with Floater

China

  • Beijing Roasted Duck Bao Bun with Hoisin Sauce
  • Spicy Chicken Bao Bun
  • Black Pepper Shrimp with Garlic Noodles
  • Chicken Potstickers
  • Mango Bubble Tea with Assam Black Tea and Milk (non-alcoholic)
  • Tsingtao Lager
  • Ritzy Lychee with Courvoisier Cognac VS and Smirnoff Vodka
  • Happy Peach with DeKuyper Peach Liqueur and Myers’s Dark Rum
  • Kung Fu Punch with Smirnoff Vodka and Bols Triple Sec
  • BaiJoe Punch: Chinese Bai Jiu Spirit, Lychee, Coconut and Pineapple Juice

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

India

  • Warm Indian Bread with Pickled Garlic, Mango Salsa and Coriander Pesto Dips (vegetarian)
  • Madras Red Curry with Roasted Cauliflower, Baby Carrots, Chickpeas, and Basmati Rice (vegetarian and gluten friendly)
  • Korma Chicken with Cucumber Tomato Salad, Almonds, Cashews, and Warm Naan Bread
  • Pistachio Cardamom Bundt Cake with Chocolate Coconut Mousse (vegetarian)
  • Mango Lassi (non-alcoholic)
  • Sula Chenin Blanc, Nashik
  • Sula Shiraz, Nashik
  • Kingfisher Lager

Africa

  • Berbere-style Beef Tenderloin Tips with Onions, Jalapeños, Tomato, and Pap (gluten friendly)
  • Spicy Ethiopian Red Lentil Stew with Vegan Yogurt and Quinoa (vegetarian)
  • Spinach and Paneer Cheese Pocket with Mint Raita (vegetarian)
  • Ernie Els “Big Easy” Chenin Blanc, Western Cape
  • Simonsig Pinotage, Stellenbosch
  • Jam Jar Sweet Shiraz, Western Cape
  • Wine flight

Brewer’s Collection

  • Lebkuchenherz: Decorated Gingerbread Heart
  • Radeberger Zwickel Pilsner (Unfiltered)
  • Hacker-Pschorr Hefe Weisse Naturtrüb
  • Schöfferhofer Hefeweizen Pomegranate Beer
  • Beer flight

Germany

  • Schinkennudeln: Pasta Gratin with Ham and Cheese
  • Roast Bratwurst in a Pretzel Roll
  • Apple Strudel with Vanilla Sauce (vegetarian)
  • Lebkuchenherz: Decorated Gingerbread Heart
  • Radeberger Zwickel Pilsner (Unfiltered)
  • Selbach Bernkasteler Kurfürstlay Riesling Kabinett, Mosel
  • Dr. Heyden Oppenheimer Sacträger Riesling Spätlese, Rheinhessen
  • Selbach Riesling Classic Dry, Mosel
  • Wine flight

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Spain

  • Charcuterie in a Cone with a selection of imported Spanish Meats, Cheeses, and Olives with an Herb Vinaigrette
  • Traditional Spanish Paella with Shrimp, Mussels, Chicken, and Crispy Chorizo (gluten friendly)
  • Seafood Salad with Shrimp, Bay Scallops and Mussels, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, White Balsamic Vinegar, and Smoked Paprika (gluten friendly)
  • Sweet Olive Oil Cake with Powdered Sugar and Lemon Curd
  • Rafael Palacios Bolo Godello, Valdeorras
  • Bodegas y Viñedos Artazu Garnacha Rosado, Navarra
  • Casa Castillo Monastrell, Jumilla
  • Wine flight

Italy

  • Crispy Calamari with Spicy Pomodoro Sauce
  • Absolut Penne: Vodka Sauce with Shrimp
  • Cannoli al Cioccolato: Chocolate-covered Cannoli Filled with Sweet Ricotta, Chocolate and Candied Fruit
  • Pinot Grigio
  • Chianti
  • Prosecco
  • Corbinello
  • Moscato
  • Frozen Margarita with Limoncello and Tequila
  • Moretti Lager Beer
  • Moretti La Rossa Double Malt Beer

Hops & Barley

  • New England Lobster Roll
  • Smoked Beef Brisket and Pimento Cheese served on Griddled Garlic Toast
  • Freshly Baked Carrot Cake and Cream Cheese Icing (vegetarian)
  • New Belgium Brewing Fat Tire White Ale, Fort Collins, CO
  • Anchor Brewing Liberty Ale, San Francisco, CA
  • Orange Blossom Brewing Foxtail Cold Brew Coffee Pilsner, Orlando, FL
  • Mer Soleil Reserve Chardonnay, Santa Lucia Highlands
  • Atalon Pauline’s Cuvée Red Blend, Napa Valley
  • Beer flight

Japan

  • Wasabi Shumai Steamed Pork Dumpling
  • Salmon BLT Sushi Roll
  • Teriyaki Ginger Pork
  • Pom Pineapple Sake Cocktail
  • Kara Tamba Tarekuchi Dry Sake
  • Yukikiage “Snow Shadow” Junmai Sake
  • Sapporo Lager

Morocco

  • Kefta Pocket: Seasoned Ground Beef in a Pita Pocket
  • Spicy Hummus Fries with Cucumber, Tomato, Onions, and Tzatziki Sauce (vegetarian)
  • Chocolate Baklava: Rolled Phyllo Dough with Toasted Almonds and Dark Chocolate Sauce (vegetarian)
  • Mimosa Royale: Sparkling Wine and Orange Juice topped with Orange Liqueur
  • Les Trois Domaines Guerrouane White Wine, Meknes
  • Moroccan Sangria
  • Casa Pale Lager

Belgium

  • Beer-braised Beef served with Smoked Gouda Mashed Potatoes
  • Belgian Waffle with Warm Chocolate Ganache and Whipped Cream (vegetarian)
  • Belgian Waffle with Berry Compote and Whipped Cream (vegetarian)
  • Hoegaarden Witbier
  • Leffe Blonde Belgian Pale Ale
  • Stella Artois Hard Cidre
  • Chilled Coffee featuring Godiva Chocolate Liqueur
  • Beer flight

Brazil

  • Escondidinho de Carne – “Little Hidden One”: Layered Meat Pie with Mashed Yucca (gluten friendly)
  • Crispy Pork Belly with Black Beans, Tomato, and Onions (gluten friendly)
  • Pão de Queijo: Brazilian Cheese Bread (vegetarian and gluten friendly)
  • M.I.A. Beer Company Barbosa Black Beer, Doral, FL
  • Lidio Carraro Chardonnay
  • Frozen Caipirinha featuring LeBlon Cachaça

France

  • Moelleux au Fromage de Chèvre et Épinards: Warm Goat Cheese Pudding with Spinach (vegetarian and gluten friendly)
  • Croissant aux Escargots: Escargot Croissant with Garlic and Parsley
  • Boeuf Bourguignon, Purée de Pommes de Terre:Cabernet Sauvignon Braised Beef with Mashed Potatoes
  • Crème Brûlée à la Confiture de Framboises: Crème Brûlée with Housemade Raspberry Jam (vegetarian and gluten friendly)
  • La Passion Martini Slush: Vodka, Grey Goose Le Citron, Cranberry and Passion Fruit Juice
  • Chardonnay, Bouchard Ainé & Fils
  • Château les Graves de Barrau Merlot and Cabernet Blend, Bordeaux
  • St-Germain Sparkling Kir: Sparkling Wine and St-Germain Elderflower Liqueur
  • Kronenbourg Blanc 1664 Pale Lager

Ireland

  • Roasted Irish Sausage with Colcannon Potatoes and Onion Gravy
  • Warm Irish Cheddar Cheese and Stout Dip with Irish Brown Bread (vegetarian)
  • Warm Chocolate Pudding with Irish Cream Liqueur Custard
  • Twinings® Pumpkin Chai Tea and Caramel Shake (non-alcoholic)
  • Bunratty Meade Honey Wine
  • Guinness Blonde American Lager
  • Twinings® Pumpkin Chai Tea Frozen Cocktail with Caramel Vodka

Scotland

  • Fresh Potato Pancake with Scottish Smoked Salmon and Herbed Sour Cream
  • Traditional Scottish Lamb Stew with Neeps and Tatties
  • The Tipsy Laird: Whiskey-soaked Cake with Lemon Cream and Toasted Oats (vegetarian)
  • Belhaven Brewery Scottish Ale
  • Citrus Thistle featuring Hendrick’s Gin

Canada

  • Canadian Cheddar Cheese Soup served with a Pretzel Roll
  • “Le Cellier” Wild Mushroom Beef Filet Mignon with Truffle-Butter Sauce (gluten friendly)
  • Moosehead Radler: Lager infused with Grapefruit, Grape and Lemon Juices, New Brunswick Neige Premiere “Apple Ice Wine”, Québec
  • Fielding Estate Red Conception, Niagara Peninsula

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. She would love to help you plan your next vacation at no cost to you. Call her at 734-771-1290 or email her at siera@destinationsinflorida.com for your free, no obligation quote. 

Disney Springs Summer 2017 Updates at Restaurants and Dining Locations

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(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

With Florida temperatures heating up, we want to share with you some cool news from Disney Springs summer 2017 updates on new and improved dining spots:

  • More shade, big umbrellas and new frozen margaritas at Dockside Margaritas, a favorite waterfront respite for cold drinks and live music. And while classic margaritas and other cocktails are on the menu, seasonal frozen margaritas (watermelon, apple, agave nectar and tangerine mix-ins are among rotating flavors) are fun for summertime. Live music usually starts around noon and goes until 10:15 p.m.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

  • Splitsville Luxury Lanes on the West Side added more air-conditioned space on the second floor with an enclosed balcony that expands the dining room. Tables and high tops are along the windows, with fabulous views of Disney Springs through floor-to-ceiling windows. A new bar anchors the space.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

  • The BOATHOUSE at The Landing has three new summer dishes: herb-marinated grilled shrimp with smoked jalapeño grits, cornbread and housemade jalapeño jelly; house-smoked beef brisket au jus sandwich with spicy giardineria; and coconut bread pudding souffle with roasted pineapple and rum caramel sauce.
  • B.B. Wolf’s Sausage Co. kiosk in Marketplace has a new Latin Dog, topped with chipotle mayo, corn salsa and queso fundido, one of five delectable choices – vegetarians can try the meatless Italian-style with peppers, onion and marinara. (And we love their homemade pickles.)
  • The popular “Jasper Board” starter gets bigger at Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ with smoked fish dip, pimento cheese, shaved country and tasso hams and buttermilk crackers. With a cocktail, it’s a meal. Or try the new “Ham, Ham & Jam” with three Cheddar drop biscuits with ham, blackberry fig jam and pimento cheese. A new hangar steak with good ol’ Southern succotash (made with grilled corn, tomato and lima beans) and a new Chef Art Burger with Art’s special secret sauce round out the savories. If you want to go lighter, there’s a new watermelon salad with heirloom tomatoes, crispy ham, feta cheese and candied pecans.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

  • STK Orlando has a new happy hour menu, available every Monday through Friday from 4 to 6 p.m. with small bites like Cherry Tomato and Watermelon Skewers for $6 and beer and well drinks for $4.
  • The Polite Pig in Town Center added five bourbon flights: The Friendly Flight, The Polite Flight, The Refined Flight, The Rye Whiskey Flight and the American Whiskey Flight. A fun way to try a sip of something new – each flight has three bourbons. There is also a new BBQ Cheddar Sausage Hoagie and Double Layer Chocolate Cake.

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. She would love to help you plan your next vacation at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

Celebrate Christmas in July at Disney Springs at Walt Disney World Resort

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(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

For the first time in 2017, the holidays will begin a bit early at Walt Disney World Resort with the celebration of Christmas in July at Disney Springs. Beginning July 15 through July 30, 2017, you can start searching for the perfect Holiday gift throughout the Disney Springs Marketplace while experiencing special holiday-themed treats, merchandise and entertainment offerings.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

In July, The Art of Disney is featuring holiday inspired art with artist meet and greets, Dockside Margaritas is pouring the Snowflake Margarita, and Disney’s Days of Christmas is hosting a special meet and greet with Santa – dressed for the Florida heat. “Summer Santa” will be on hand for photographs 1:00pm to 10:00pm.

For this limited-time Disney Springs celebration, a DJ will be spinning Christmas-beats and Enjoy Your Face will be celebrating with holiday face painting designs. Even the Disney Springs fountains will be decked for the season.

Also, Starbucks in the Marketplace is offering their holiday themed drinks and you can stock up on sweets at Goofy’s Candy Company or Disney’s Candy Cauldron, featuring peppermint bark and gingerbread cookies. You’ll also find a few holiday-themed treats, including Santa Mickey and Minnie specialty apples and krispy treats, to delight children of all ages. Head over to AristoCrepes to indulge in a gingerbread crepe.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

The special events continue in July with UNIQLO celebrating their 1-year anniversary with a Japanese Night Market inspired celebration. Now through July 30, 2017, guests can experience a taste of a traditional Japanese night market, complete with prize-winning games, special photo opportunities, origami and calligraphy classes, and more. This event is a first of its kind at UNIQLO, and special activities run from 7:00pm to 11:00pm daily. Visit UNIQLO’s event page event page for more information.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

And, if you’re looking for a spot to relax before checking out the nighttime entertainment, multiple venues have enhanced their daily drink special offerings. Throughout the month of July, the bar located inside the House of Blues Restaurant & Bar will offer drink specials daily, from 11:30am to 5:00pm. STK Orlando recently rolled out daily drink specials, and now Joffrey’s Tea Traders has also joined in on the fun. Stop by Tea Traders Café by Joffrey’s in the Landing between 4:00pm and 7:00pm daily to try discounted “spiked specialties,” including the Kahlua-Tini and Frozen Cappuccino with Bailey’s.

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. She would love to help you plan your next vacation at no cost to you. Call her at 734-771-1290 or email her at siera@destinationsinflorida.com for your free, no obligation quote.