Disney Cruise Line will offer a variety of enchanting vacations in summer 2023, including cruises to Europe, Alaska, the Bahamas and Caribbean.
For the first time ever, the Disney Dream will be heading east to the rich culture and history of Europe, calling on a wide variety of destinations among the most treasured in the world.
Are flip-flops and white sand beaches more your speed? Head to the sunshine state where three ships, including the all-new Disney Wish, will cruise to the dreamiest tropical destinations. If Alaska fires your adventurous spirit, set sail on the Disney Wonder for a surreal landscape of spectacular glaciers, soaring eagles, breaching whales and towns with a Gold Rush past.
In addition to visiting exciting destinations, each and every voyage in summer 2023 also includes a healthy dose of Disney magic! No matter where you are in the world, your family will also receive Disney Cruise Line’s signature service, along with Broadway-style shows, themed dining, character encounters and activities for everyone in the family.
Disney Dream Marks Inaugural Season in Europe
With sailings anywhere from four to eleven nights, the Disney Dream will sail from Barcelona and Rome to picturesque ports of call throughout the Mediterranean, including a first-ever seven-night sailing to the Greek Isles with stops in the ever-popular ports of Santorini and Mykonos.
Late summer/early fall departures of the Disney Dream from Southampton will feature cruises to a wealth of destinations including Spain, France, the British Isles, Norway and Iceland. New ports of call include the postcard-worthy La Rochelle, France and two new ports in Norway – Skjolden, home to a wealth of natural attractions, and Sandnes, a small city just outside the metropolis of Stavanger known for its outdoor activities.
Summer 2023 sailings to Alaska aboard Disney Wonder
The breathtaking natural beauty of Alaska will combine with the magic of Disney on five-, seven- and nine-night sailings on the Disney Wonder from Vancouver, Canada. Beginning in May, cruisers will be invited to discover exciting ports like Ketchikan and Skagway, with their prehistoric glaciers, gold mining relics and spectacular land- and sea-life. Three Alaskan itineraries call at Icy Strait Point, home to a coastal rainforest, wilderness tours and – for thrill-seekers – ziplining above the treetops.
Tropical Escapes to the Bahamas and Caribbean from Florida
Sun-splashed tropical isles throughout the Bahamas and Caribbean will await guests on three Disney Cruise Line ships from Florida in summer 2023.
For its first full summer of sailing, the Disney Wish will homeport in Port Canaveral near Orlando for a series of three- and four-night Bahamas cruises to Nassau and Disney’s private island oasis, Castaway Cay. The Disney Wish will feature exciting new additions including Disney’s first “Frozen”-themed theatrical dining experience and AquaMouse, a wild water adventure and first-ever Disney attraction at sea.
Port Canaveral will also be the departure point for the Disney Fantasy for sailings ranging in length from five to 10 nights. In addition to seven-night cruises to popular ports in the eastern and western Caribbean, guests will also be able to experience a five-night Bahamian sailing with back-to-back calls at Castaway Cay, a 10-night southern Caribbean itinerary to the islands of Aruba and Bonaire and an eight-night cruise featuring two days on the beautiful pink sand beaches of Bermuda.
The Disney Magic will make its summer home in Miami for an assortment of exciting destinations. Starting May 27, the Disney Magic will sail four-night Bahamas cruises and five-night western Caribbean voyages, followed by two seven-night sailings in July to the eastern and western Caribbean. Select summer voyages aboard the Disney Magic will include double days – for double the fun – at Castaway Cay.
Guests who are Disney Cruise Line Castaway Club and select other groups may take advantage of the following extended early booking windows:
Platinum Castaway Club Members, Golden Oak and Club 33 Members: Monday, May 2, 2022
Gold Castaway Club Members: Tuesday, May 3, 2022
Silver Castaway Club Members, Disney Vacation Club and Adventure Insiders: Thursday, May 5, 2022
Bookings open to all Guests: Monday, May 9, 2022
It’s time to start planning your family’s next great adventure. Tell us in the comments below which summer 2023 Disney Cruise Line itinerary you are most excited about!
In honor of the upcoming Star Wars Day (May 4th), we are sharing ten ways you can celebrate with these fun Star Wars activities. Whether you are joining the rebellion or fighting along the dark side, there are activities for Star Wars fans of all ages and interests.
Solo Activity Sheets
Print just one or all of these 9 Solo activity sheets. You can color Chewbacca, try the Mighty Wookie word search or color your own Millennium Falcon. You’ll just need a printer and either crayons or colored pencils (or both) to enjoy these Solo activity sheets.
Star Wars: The Force Awakens Activity Pack
The Star Wars: The Force Awakens activity pack includes coloring sheets from your favorite Star Wars characters, door hangers, maze, bookmarks, a memory game and more. You can print individual pages or the entire 22 page packet. You’ll just need a printer and either crayons or colored pencils (or both).
Learn to Draw Grogu (AKA Baby Yoda or “The Child”)
Grogu (or Baby Yoda or “The Child”) from The Mandalorian has stolen hearts all over the galaxy! And now, you can learn how to draw your very own Grogu! So, cuddle up with some bone broth and a soft robe and learn how to draw the adorable baby.
You can make your own lightsaber pretzels at home with just pretzel rods and colored candy melts! First, you’ll need to heat the candy melt color of your choice until fully melted. Once melted, you will cover approximately 3/4 of the pretzel rod with the candy melt. Once dry, you can then heat black candy melts to cover the bottom of your pretzels for the handle of your lightsaber. You can find the complete recipe and instructions here.
Even if you’ll be spending the day at home, you can still wear your favorite Star Wars look! If you have a Star Wars costume, wear it! Or, just be sure to pull out your favorite Star Wars t-shirt at the least. Don’t forget to order your own Baby Yoda to remain by your side.
Watch the Star Wars films
Of course, there are the nine “episodes” comprising three Star Wars trilogies, but you can also watch other Star Wars films and series to celebrate. Rise of Skywalker will be coming to Disney+ today in addition to all eight of the preceding episodes. If you don’t have access to Disney+ or just want a physical copy, you can order Star Wars: The Complete Saga. You can also find The Clone Wars, The Mandalorian, Rogue One, and Star Wars Rebels, among others, on Disney+. Play Star Wars Bingo while watching the film for a little more interactive fun.
Start Planning Your Next Star Wars Adventure
The immersive new Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser is now open at the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. This two night adventure will allow you to live the Star Wars universe unlike ever before. Guests will board a Launch Pod, travel into hyperspace, and dock with the Halcyon starcruiser. Once onboard, you can explore your cabin, mingle with characters from the Star Wars stories, try bridge training or lightsaber training, eat in the Crown of Corellia dining room, choose your side to help their mission, and so much more!
If you’re not ready to splurge on the Starcruiser yet, you can still experience Batuu (Star Wars land) at Disney’s Hollywood Studios during any Walt Disney World Resort vacation. There are incredible experiences available in the park for Star Wars fans of all ages, like droid building at Droid Depot, lightsaber building at Savi’s Workshop, the opportunity to pilot the Falcon on Smuggler’s Run and so much more.
May the Fourth Be With You, Always!
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Ahoy! One of my favorite experiences during a Disney cruise is Pirate Night! (almost) Every Disney Cruise Line sailing offers a pirate night featuring a deck party, show, late night buffet, fireworks at sea, Disney characters, and more. Your dinner menu will even be themed to celebrate. If you’re planning your first Disney cruise, you may not be sure what to expect or how to prepare for Pirate Night so we wanted to share these five tips with you.
Before You Go
Pack Your Pirate Night Attire: You’ll receive bandanas from your stateroom host or hostess, but so many guests will go all out in full pirate costumes. Kids of all ages always love some fun pirate accessories, too, like glow sticks, costumes, eye patches, and tattoos.
Book The Pirates League Early: The Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique transforms into The Pirates League for Pirate Night! At The Pirates League, you can choose from beards, bandanas, swords, scars, earrings and eye patches to accessorize your costume. You can have a full pirate makeover! The First Mate package comes with a bandana, scars, fake teeth, eye patch and sword. The Empress package comes with a Disney Cruise Line exclusive dress, shimmering makeup, face gem, nail polish, earring, eye patch and sword. If you’re interested in booking The Pirates League experience for your children (or you), be sure to reserve the experience as soon as your booking window opens on the Disney Cruise Line website (which for first time cruisers is 75 days prior to sailing).
Once Onboard
Check Your Daily Navigator: Be sure to read your Daily Navigator on the Disney Cruise Line app (or grab a paper copy from guest services) so you don’t miss out on any of the pirate fun. There are pirate themed activities scheduled throughout the afternoon and evening that you won’t want to miss. You will have the opportunity to meet characters like Captain Hook, Captain Jack Sparrow, Tinker Bell, Pirate Mickey, and more so be sure to check their times and locations in your Daily Navigator.
Enjoy Your Pirate Themed Dinner: All of the main dining rooms serve a special “Pirates IN the Caribbean” themed menu for pirate night. If you’re planning an adults only dining experience like Palo or Remy, try to avoid Pirate Night, if possible. You can always request a dining rotation in advance to make sure you don’t miss your favorite restaurant, either. The servers even offer light up skull cups for a small charge during dinner!
End the Night with “Mickey’s Pirates IN the Caribbean” and “Buccaneer Blast”
Arrive Early for “Mickey’s Pirates IN the Caribbean” and “Buccaneer Blast”: There are two incredible shows up on the pool deck for Pirate Night. These “must see” shows are “Mickey’s Pirates IN the Caribbean,” a family-friendly interactive show featuring the famous Disney characters; “Hunt Fer Jack,” a thrilling live-action pirate showdown; and “Buccaneer Blast,” a spectacular display of fireworks at sea. If you have little ones, try to get an afternoon nap so they are up for a late night!
PS- Don’t forget to check out the late night buffet at Cabanas after the Buccaneer Blast! You will enjoy tacos, ham, turkey legs, baked potatoes, crepes, fresh fruit, and more! Your main dining room server should fill you in on all of the details, including serving times!
What are some of your favorite tips for Pirate Night on Disney Cruise Line? Be sure to share below!
This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission. Thank you for supporting our small business!
Spring is almost here and you know what that means … the 2022 EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival! With flavors in full bloom and dishes waiting to be cultivated from March 2 through July 4, this year’s celebration is not one to be missed. With so many delicious items to try, we are sharing the 2022 Epcot Flower and Garden Festival menus early so you can start planning your must-have treats!
Once you see the tasty options available, your appetite will be sure to grow. With nearly 20 Outdoor Kitchens, there is a perfectly harvested combination of new delights like the BLT Scone at Cider House and fan favorites like the Local Wildflower Honey-Mascarpone Cheesecake at The Honey Bee-stro Hosted by National Honey Board back in season. There’s so much to enjoy this year – you and your tastebuds will want to keep coming back for more.
As you eat your way through the Festival, don’t forget to pick up a Festival Passport to participate in Garden Graze, a returning food stroll featuring five delicious dishes from various Outdoor Kitchens. Get a stamp in your passport after you’ve purchased the items and once you’ve compiled all five, simply make your way to Pineapple Promenade to receive your Festival-exclusive treat.
If you know anything about the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival, you know that the fresh flavors aren’t the only fun to be had. This celebration is filled with adorable topiaries featuring some of your favorite characters, renowned performers for the Garden Rocks Concert Series, and, of course, exclusive merchandise to bring the fun home with you. The little ones can get in on the fun too with Spike’s Pollen-Nation Exploration, a scavenger hunt for the whole family!
Now, it’s time to see all the 2022 Epcot Flower and Garden Festival Menus!
Image: Disney
Flavor Full Kitchen Hosted by AdventHealth
(Between Imagination! and Refreshment Port)
Food Items:
Grilled Street Corn on the Cob with savory garlic spread (Gluten/Wheat Friendly) (Plant-based) (Garden Graze)
Seared Salmon with farro risotto and micro herbs
Strawberry Mousse with chocolate-crisp pearls
Beverages:
Blood Orange Agua Fresca (non-alcoholic)
Cookie Butter Worms and Dirt (non-alcoholic)
Image: Disney
EPCOT Sunshine Griddle
(Near Test Track presented by Chevrolet)
Food Items:
Avocado Toast with marinated toybox tomatoes on toasted ciabatta (Plant-based) (Garden Graze)
Shrimp and Grits: Blackened shrimp and cheddar cheese grits with brown gravy and sweet corn salsa
Corned Beef Brisket Hash with house-made potato barrels, onions, peppers, cheese curds, and a soft-poached egg with Tabasco hollandaise (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly)
Fried Cinnamon Roll Bites with cream cheese frosting and candied bacon
Beverages:
Froot Loops Shake (non-alcoholic)
Joffrey’s Coffee Cold Brew Cocktail with milk, rum and coffee liqueur, and vanilla vodka
Image: Disney
The Honey Bee-stro Hosted by National Honey Board
Food Items:
Tupelo Honey and Sweet Corn Spoon Bread with jalapeños, bacon, and house-made whipped honey butter (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly)
Lavender Honey Mustard-marinated Chicken Flatbread with whipped honey-ricotta cheese, marinated vegetables, and goat cheese
Local Wildflower Honey-Mascarpone Cheesecake with orange blossom honey whipped cream, whipped honey, crystalized honey, honeycomb, dehydrated honey, and fennel pollen meringue kisses
Beverages:
Honey-Peach Freeze in a Souvenir Spike the Bee Sipper Cup (non-alcoholic) (Limit 2 per guest)
Lemonade Mead
Orange Blossom Honey Wine
Honey-Peach Freeze with Blueberry Vodka
Image: Disney
The Citrus Blossom
(Near Port of Entry)
Food Items:
Crispy Mojo Marinated Pork Belly, with avocado cream, corn salsa, salsa verde, and plantain chips (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly) (New)
Tuna Tataki Bowl with spicy yuzu glaze, mango, avocado, and pappadam crisp
Springtime Menu (available April 10 through May 21)
Grilled Vegetable Bruschetta with marinated peppers, zucchini, squash, artichokes, goat cheese, and balsamic glaze on grilled ciabatta (New)
Herb-crusted Spring Lamb with marble potatoes, spring vegetables, and red wine butter sauce
Strawberry Rhubarb Upside-down Cake with crème fraîche whipped cream
Image: Disney
Summer Solstice Menu (available May 22 through July 4)
Tomato and Cornbread Panzanella with burrata cheese and fresh basil
Barbecue Seared Pork Tenderloin with summer succotash, herb butter, and grapefruit vinaigrette (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly)
A Whole Lotta Melon: Feta cheesecake with watermelon curd, pickled watermelon rind, watermelon caramel, and compressed watermelon (New) (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly)
Beverages (available throughout the Festival):
Raspberry Lemon Verbena Whole-Leaf-Steeped Sparkling Hard Tea
Hibiscus Lemonade Cocktail featuring hibiscus gin
Image: Disney
Cider House
(United Kingdom)
Food Items:
BLT Scone with Nueske’s applewood-smoked bacon, sundried tomato, and basil (New)
Dark Chocolate Raspberry Tart with whipped cream
Beverages:
Pink Lemonade Hard Cider
Watermelon Hard Cider
Triple Jam Hard Cider
Pure Brewed Organic Lager
Snakebite: Triple jam hard cider and pure brewed organic lager
Cider Flight
Image: Disney
Northern Bloom
(Canada)
Food Items:
Seared Scallops with French green beans, butter potatoes, brown butter vinaigrette, and applewood-smoked bacon (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly)
Beef Tenderloin Tips, Mushroom Bordelaise Sauce, and Whipped Potatoes with garden vegetables
Griddled Maple Pound Cake with warm peach compote and sweet corn gelato
Beverages:
Maple Popcorn Shake (non-alcoholic)
Blonde Ale
Blueberry Fruit Beer
Apricot with Maple Syrup Blonde Ale
Maple Popcorn Shake with maple rye whisky
Beer Flight
Image: Disney
Jardin de Fiestas
(Mexico)
Food Items:
Enchilada de Mole Negro: Chipotle chicken in a corn tortilla with mole negro, avocado mousse, crema Mexicana, and queso fresco (New) (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly)
Taco Vampiro: Barbacoa beef in a corn tortilla with crispy grilled Monterey jack cheese, salsa ranchera, and esquites (New) (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly)
Tostada de Chorizo: Plant-based Chorizo and black beans on a crispy corn tortilla with avocado mousse and queso fresco (New) (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly)
Beverages:
Poppy Flower Margarita: Tequila blanco, hibiscus flower tea, cucumber juice, aperitivo, and blackcurrant liqueur with a chile salt rim
Hypnotic Margarita: Tequila blanco, mezcal, rosemary syrup, cognac, and lemon juice
Craft Mexican Lager
Image: Disney
Lotus House
(China)
Food Items:
Spicy Mala Chicken Skewer (New)
House-made Cheesy Crab Wontons
Beverages:
Rose Bubble Milk Tea (non-alcoholic) (New)
Jasmine Draft Beer
Marco Boba: Amaretto, iced coffee, milk, and boba
Kung Fu Punch: Vodka, triple sec, mango, orange juice, and soda water
Tang Dynasty: Tequila gold, light rum, strawberry, piña colada mix, white boba pearls, and soda water
Image: Disney
Primavera Kitchen
(Italy)
Food Items:
Arancini: Fried Risotto Balls stuffed with braised beef served with grape tomato salad and balsamic emulsion
Ravioli alla Boscaiola: Sweet sausage ravioli with sweet corn, spring vegetables, and cream sauce
Bomboloni: Cream-filled Italian doughnut with raspberry sauce and powdered sugar
Beverages:
Pilsner
Pinot Grigio
Chianti
Prosecco
Rosa Regale
Moscato
Italian White Sangria with prosecco
Italian Red Sangria with cabernet sauvignon
Italian Margarita with limoncello and tequila
Image: Disney
Hanami
(Japan)
Food Items:
Frushi: Strawberry, pineapple, and cantaloupe wrapped in sweet rice and pink soy wrap served with whipped cream, berry sauce, and toasted coconut
Chicken Yakitori: Grilled chicken with scallions, red pepper-shoyu emulsion, and pickled onions
Beef Tataki: Seared sirloin with red shiso sauce, watermelon radish, and sprouts
Beverages:
Yuzu Tilted Tonic Hard Seltzer
Ozeki Pineapple Nigori Sake
Cucumber Cooler: Sake, vodka, and cucumber garnished with a cucumber slice
Image: Disney
Fleur de Lys
(France)
Food Items:
Croissant au Fromage de Chèvre, Herbes et Ail Rôtie: Croissant with goat cheese, herbs, and roasted garlic (New)
Pan Bagnat Classique: The Niçoise Sandwich with house-made bread, albacore tuna mayonnaise, tomato, black olives, lettuce, and celery (New)
Salade de Lentilles à la Lyonnaise: French Green Lentil Salad with bacon and garlic sausage (New)
Beignet Caramélisé, Fourré Crème Vanille, Glacé au Caramel Fleur de Sel: Caramelized Beignet filled with vanilla cream and glazed with caramel fleur de sel
Beverages:
French Wheat Draft Beer
VeRy Raspberry: Rosé wine with natural raspberry flavor
Grand Mimosa Cocktail with orange liqueur, Champagne, and orange juice
La Vie en Rose Frozen Slush: Vodka, orange vodka, and liqueur with white and red cranberry juice
Image: Disney
Funnel Cake
Food Item:
Strawberry Cheesecake Funnel Cake topped with strawberry ice cream, cheesecake crumbles, strawberry drizzle, and whipped cream (New)
Image: Disney
Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Company
World Discovery (Near Mission: SPACE) – Minty Melon Refresher: A lightly caffeinated blend of watermelon-cucumber-mint juice with strawberries and blueberries (Spirited option available featuring Watermelon-Basil Vodka)(New)
Near Canada: Strawberry Fields Refresher – A lightly caffeinated blend of strawberry açaí juice with strawberries and blueberries (Spirited option available featuring strawberry-lemongrass vodka)(New)
World Showcase (Near Disney Traders) – Pink Paradise Refresher: A lightly caffeinated blend of refreshing dragon fruit-lychee juice with strawberries and blueberries (Spirited option available featuring watermelon-basil vodka)(New)
The American Adventure – Wildberry Wonder Refresher: A lightly caffeinated blend of wildberry-hibiscus juice with strawberries and blueberries (New) (Spirited option available featuring tropical rum)
I hope you’re as excited to try everything from the 2022 Epcot Flower and Garden Festival menus as I am. Enjoy all the excitement ahead from the 2022 EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival and don’t forget to share the magic with other Disney fans using the hashtag #FreshEPCOT!
Beginning in Fall 2022 and continuing through Spring 2023, the Disney Wonder will offer Disney Cruise Line guests 3-, 4-, 5- and 7-day cruises to Baja, Mexico and the Mexican Riviera from San Diego, California. In fact, it will be Disney Cruise Line’s longest season yet from this popular southern California homeport!
Home to 11 decks overflowing with restaurants, pools, recreation, imaginative kid’s clubs, adult-exclusive hotspots, special encounters with Disney characters, a spa and Broadway-caliber shows, the Disney Wonder is filled with adventure and plenty of Disney magic. And that’s not all! Your family can dine with Princess Tiana herself at Tiana’s Place, a restaurant inspired by “The Princess and the Frog.” While you might enjoy the live jazz music, this restaurant is always a guest favorite because of the southern cuisine. We highly recommend the beignets for dessert!
In case that wasn’t enough, your family can also choose itineraries that include limited-time Halloween and holiday activities. Imagine experiencing the magic of the seasons at sea, including Halloween on the High Seas voyages and – for the first time from San Diego – Very Merrytime holiday cruises! Or, if you’re looking to escape winter back home to soak up magical fun, sun and relaxation while taking in the natural splendor of sun-kissed seaside towns, you can opt for one of the early 2023 sailings.
San Diego, Disney Wonder’s homeport for this extended season, is a picture-perfect urban gem worthy of a stay before or after your cruise. Balboa Park and Old Town speak to the city’s Spanish colonial heritage, while the world-famous San Diego Zoo is home to more than 12,000 animals of more than 650 species.
From San Diego, the Disney Wonder will set sail to popular destinations, alive with color and culture. Ports include:
Mazatlan, the renowned “Pearl of the Pacific” and the perfect beachside escape with breathtaking natural wonders, thriving culture and colorful history.
Cabo San Lucas, a favored destination with dramatic rock formations and white-sand beaches.
Puerto Vallarta, a beautiful seaside resort wrapped around romantic Banderas Bay and bordered by the stunning Sierra Madre Mountains, where outdoor adventures abound.
Ensenada, known for its turquoise blue water and rugged mountainous terrain.
Catalina Island. Fabled in song and legend, Catalina abounds in wildlife, outdoor adventures and seaside charm. No visit is complete without stopping at the vast Wrigley Memorial Botanical Gardens or the gilded splendor of the Catalina Island Casino, a showplace that was beautifully restored to its 1930s Art Deco magnificence as a reminder of the island’s glorious past.
Unforgettable awaits! Cruises from California aboard the Disney Wonder will open for booking on Tuesday, February 22, 2022.
Have you been dreaming of your next bucket list European vacation? Well, I have some very exciting news for you! 2023 Adventures by Disney river cruise itineraries are now available!
Adventures by Disney just announced a return to three enchanting rivers in 2023: Rhine, Danube and Seine. With 27 action-packed departures that include family, adult-exclusive and holiday-themed sailings, you’ll experience firsthand the people, places and stories of iconic destinations. Plus, their team of specially trained Adventure Guides will provide a seamless and authentic experience that is marked by Disney’s signature service.
Image: Disney
Family Vacations in the Heart of Europe
Sailing with AmaWaterways, a premier luxury river cruise line, Adventure by Disney’s eight-day, seven-night river cruises are filled with active, immersive experiences.
On Rhine River cruises, guests will explore storybook villages in Switzerland, France, Germany and the Netherlands. Highlights include a toboggan ride through the black forest, high-adrenaline thrills at an indoor winter park and a voyage through the Upper Middle Rhine Valley offering up-close views of 30 majestic castles.
Danube River sailings visit eight unforgettable destinations in Germany, Austria, Slovakia and Hungary, where adventurers will roam medieval ruins, scale treetop rope bridges and marvel at the rolling hills made famous in “The Sound of Music.”
Seine River cruises will celebrate the magnificence of rural France with visits to picturesque provincial towns, the historic beaches of Normandy, Monet’s House and Gardens, the dramatic cliffs of Etretat, and Paris – the “City of Lights.”
Plus, Adventures by Disney guests can extend their Seine river cruise vacation with a three-day, two-night Paris Escape. From spectacular views of the “City of Lights” to a private walking culinary tour and an immersive visit to the Louvre Museum guided by a local expert, you won’t want to miss this pre-cruise package.
Specialty, Seasonal and Themed Departures
The 2023 Adventures by Disney river cruise lineup includes a variety of specialty sailings that feature themed offerings onboard and onshore, in addition to the excursions and entertainment already built into each itinerary.
Special adult-only vacations include themed Oktoberfest sailings on the Danube River and Food and Wine cruises on the Rhine River, each offering an extra serving of refinement and fun for culinary connoisseurs and “foodies” alike. Also on the Danube and Rhine, families can discover the spirit of the holiday season during festive Christmas Market cruises.
2023 Adventures by Disney river cruise bookings will open to the public on January 28, 2022.
If you’re interested in booking a vacation on 2023 Adventures by Disney river cruise sailings, you can take advantage of Adventure by Disney’s Early Booking Offer savings of $500 per person. You can also sail into summer with Adventures by Disney’s 2022 River Cruise Offer savings of $500 per person on select Rhine or Danube river cruises. Availability for these offers is limited.
To learn more about Adventures by Disney or to book a vacation, call Siera at (734) 771-1290 or email siera@destinationstoexplore.com.
National Plan for Vacation Day (NPVD), celebrated on the last Tuesday in January, is a day to encourage Americans to plan their vacation days for the whole year at the start of the year— and inspire them to use those days to travel to and within the United States. Since 2015, when the travel industry and partners began tracking American vacation usage, survey findings have continuously shown that vacation days are not being used, negatively affecting mental health, personal relationships and job performance. National Plan for Vacation Day helps highlight the importance of taking time off to travel—both for our personal health and wellbeing and for the overall economic prosperity of our nation. This year’s National Plan for Vacation Day is on January 25, 2022. Together, using #PlanForVacation, we are reminding Americans to commit—and take—their days off. How will you celebrate National Plan for Vacation Day 2022?
Image: U.S. Travel Association
After two years of living through the COVID-19 pandemic, Americans are feeling burned out and ready for a change of scenery. However, COVID-19 related health and safety concerns and increased workloads have prevented many American workers from using their hard earned time off. Americans are STILL not using all of their vacation days.
American workers left an average of more than four days or 29% of their paid time off on the table last year, but the majority of Americans (64%) say they desperately need a vacation.
Planning Vacations Reduces Burnout
Image: U.S. Travel Association
More than two-thirds (68%) of American workers feel at least moderately burned out and 13% are extremely burned out
More than half (53%) of remote workers are working MORE hours now than they were in the office and 61% now find it more difficult to unplug from work
COVID-19 related concerns followed by work related barriers such as heavy workloads and lack of coverage are top reasons preventing Americans from using their paid time off
Just one-quarter of Americans used ALL of their earned time off in 2021
Nearly eight in 10 (79%) believe vacations are important to their overall health and well-being
Avoiding burnout was the top-rated motivator to book a trip in the next six months—ranked even higher than travel discounts/deals
Travel Remains a Top Priority
More than nine in 10 (91%) Americans say it is important to use their paid time off to travel
Nearly eight in 10 (79%) believe vacations are important to their overall health and well-being
Nearly six in 10 (59%) agree that travel is more important than ever and 61% plan to make travel a top budget priority in 2022
Vacation Planning WORKS!
The three-quarters of Americans who planned out their paid time off for the year were more likely to use their paid time off to travel in 2021
53% of planners anticipate traveling more in 2022 versus 27% of non-planners
More than nine in ten (91%) Americans say it is important to use their paid time off to travel
Close to eight in ten (79%) of Americans believe vacations are important to their overall health and well-being
The Impact of Planning
Americans who plan out their time off take more time off to travel—but one-quarter (24%) of American households don’t do this simple step. As a result, they lose or have to forfeit these days
Planners prioritize traveling with their paid time off, a trend that is expected to continue to rise in 2022 where 53% of planners anticipate traveling more than previous years versus 27% of non-planners
And planners actually do travel more than non-planners. More than half (56%) of Americans who typically planned their time off took an overnight vacation in 2021 compared to 33% of non-planners
Anticipating and planning travel makes Americans happy. Close to three-quarters (74%) of planners reported being extremely or very happy anticipating and planning vacations in the next year versus just four in 10 of non-planners
Avoiding burnout is an even greater motivator to book a trip for non-planners than planners—62% of non-planners rated avoiding burnout as a top motivator compared to 53% of planners
Planning: A Key to Happiness
Image: U.S. Travel Association
Those who plan for vacations are happier in general—with everything from their personal relationships to their work/life balance, health and well-being and even their job.
Extremely or Very Happy
Planners
Non-Planners
On Vacation
86%
67%
Personal Relationships with Family and Friends
80%
58%
Work/Life Balance
72%
54%
Job Flexibility
72%
53%
Anticipating and Planning Vacations
74%
40%
Physical Health and Well-Being
72%
46%
Company Where You Work
68%
53%
Job
68%
50%
Source: Destination Analysts, 2021 & U.S. Travel Association
Ready to start planning your next vacation? Here are a few ideas to help get you started…
Walt Disney World Resort
Image: Disney
It’s always a magical time to plan a visit to the most magical place on earth, but 2022 is extra special with the 50th anniversary of the Walt Disney World Resort. We recently shared 22 reasons why you should plan to visit Disney World in 2022! Plus, you may be able to take advantage of a special offer for additional savings when you travel March 6- July 7, 2022.
Universal Orlando Resort
There’s never been a better time to start planning your epic trip to Universal Orlando Resort. Universal Orlando Resort features incredible theme park adventures that allow you to let go and live in the moment with those you care about most. There’s plenty to explore at Universal Orlando Resort – home to three theme parks featuring more than 60 world-class attractions combined, eight magnificently-themed resort hotels, destination-wide entertainment and Universal CityWalk.
This isn’t vacation days spent. This is bragging rights earned. You can conquer the tallest waterslide in North America and snap a shot from 450 feet up in a helium balloon. Grab a drink at the swim-up bar and soak up the scene in the largest freshwater pool in the Bahamas. Or get a taste of Bora Bora with their own floating cabana. This is Perfect Day at CocoCay — only on Royal Caribbean®
Ready to just unplug and recharge? Don’t want to have to worry about cooking or anything while you’re on vacation? Maybe an all inclusive getaway is the best fit for you. There are resorts available for for couples and families. You can find some of our favorite all inclusive resorts for families here.
Special thanks to the U.S. Travel Association for sharing these statistics with us!
It’s always an exciting time to plan a visit to the most magical place on Earth! But, 2022 is looking like an extra magical year at the Walt Disney World Resort! Today, we are sharing 22 reasons why you should plan to visit Disney World in 2022!
1. The World’s Most Magical Celebration
The World’s Most Magical Celebration, in honor of the 50th anniversary of the Walt Disney World Resort, began October 1, 2021 and will continue for 18 months so you can enjoy this celebration throughout all of 2022!
Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse are hosting “The World’s Most Magical Celebration,” while decked out in sparkling new EARidescent fashions. Donald Duck and Daisy Duck, Goofy and Pluto, and Chip ‘n’ Dale are also sporting their own custom-made EARidescent looks. You can see them when they travel through Magic Kingdom Park several times daily in the new “Mickey’s Celebration Cavalcade.”
These eight friends are even featured in special golden character sculptures at Magic Kingdom Park. There are 50 characters total in this series of sculptures that are displayed across all four theme parks.
“The World’s Most Magical Celebration” features icons at each of the four parks transforming into Beacons of Magic at night, exclusive merchandise, new food and beverage offerings and even an update look for the iconic Cinderella Castle.
2. Typhoon Lagoon is Now Open
Surf’s up! Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park is open once again for guests to experience their favorite thrilling water attractions and tropical family fun. You can build your own tropical flavor DOLE Whip combinations at Snack Shack, body surf in America’s largest outdoor wave pool, plunge down Humunga Kowabunga, relax in Castaway Creek, and take a journey with friends and family down Miss Adventure Falls.
Whether it’s the topsy-turvy architecture, storm-strewn treasures scattered around the park, or the stranded ship, Missy Tilly’s, perched upon the summit of Mount Mayday, each detail immerses guests into the magical legend of Typhoon Lagoon every time they visit the park.
3. New Nighttime Spectaculars at Magic Kingdom and EPCOT
“Disney Enchantment,” the new nighttime spectacular at Magic Kingdom Park, will take you on a journey filled with adventure, wonder and empowerment. Inspiring everyone to believe in magic, “Disney Enchantment” features music, enhanced lighting, stunning fireworks and, for the first time, immersive projection effects that extend from Cinderella Castle down Main Street, U.S.A.
“Harmonious,” at EPCOT, is one of the largest nighttime spectaculars ever created for a Disney park. This new show brings the globe together at World Showcase Lagoon in a celebration of Disney music that inspires people worldwide. It’s a grand, powerful tribute to the stories and songs that unite us, embracing new technical magic that incorporates pyrotechnics, choreographed moving fountains, lighting and media in new ways. “Harmonious” will invite you to travel the globe through new interpretations of classic Disney songs as you’ve never heard them before, reimagined in more than a dozen languages by a diverse group of 240 artists from around the world.
4. Character Meet and Greets Are BACK!
You can once again have individualized time with some of your favorite Disney characters, by getting to visit with them in a themed location and snap a photo or two. You will find the Disney Princesses at Princess Fairytale Hall in Magic Kingdom Park, Minnie Mouse at Red Carpet Dreams and the stars of Disney Junior in Animation Courtyard at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. And, when you stop in to see Mickey Mouse backstage at Town Square Theater on Main Street, U.S.A., he’ll be sporting his all-new EARidescent look designed just for the Walt Disney World 50th Anniversary Celebration!
5. Select Behind the Scenes Tours Returning February 6, 2022
Image: Disney
For those of you with a love of animals, adventure and the outdoors – and those seeking to discover how Walt Disney’s vision, innovation and creativity brought Magic Kingdom Park to life – things are about to get a lot more exciting with the return of some fan-favorite tours from the Enchanting Extras Collection!
Guests who want to get even closer to the magic of nature and Disney now can book one of the following tours returning beginning Feb. 6, 2022:
Disney’s Keys to the Kingdom
Caring for Giants
Wild Africa Trek
Up Close with Rhinos
Savor the Savanna
6. Disney Genie Service
Image: Disney
Available for all guests right in the My Disney Experience app, the new complimentary Disney Genie service offers new features that let you create your best Disney day. These features include a personalized itinerary creator that effortlessly and smartly maps out an entire day inspired by the things you love – helping you make the most of your park time so you can have more fun.
Disney Genie puts guests at the center of the experience by prioritizing ways to:
Reduce time in lines while keeping in mind your top picks
Pace your day with experiences you’ll enjoy – and haven’t already done yet
Build around your existing plans like dining reservations and Park Hopper preferences
7. Taste of EPCOT International Festival of the Arts
Image: Disney
This annual festival, running January 14 through February 21, 2022, invites you to explore an expansive collection of visual, performance and culinary arts throughout the park. The DISNEY ON BROADWAY Concert Series is also returning for this year’s festival, where you can see some of your favorite entertainers perform Disney songs live at America Gardens Theatre in World Showcase.
During the festival, art lovers of all ages can enjoy inspirational experiences, such as:
Culinary delights from Food Studios around World Showcase
The Wonderful Walk of Colorful Cuisine – a fun food stroll featuring five delicious sweet and savory treats
Chalk artists turning walkways into stunning landscapes and portraits
Photo ops where you can step into famous artwork
A paint-by-number mural
Figment’s Brush with the Masters scavenger hunt
Performance and visual artists
Special festival merchandise
8. Star Wars Galactic Starcruiser to Welcome Guests Beginning March 1, 2022
Image: Disney
The inaugural voyage of Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser at Walt Disney World Resort will depart March, 1, 2022! General bookings for this immersive adventure in a galaxy far, far away are now available.
Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser is a first-of-its-kind vacation experience that goes beyond anything Disney has created before. You’ll become the hero of your own Star Wars story during this two-night adventure, traveling the galaxy in style aboard the Halcyon starcruiser and eventually making your way to the Outer Rim for a planetside excursion to Batuu. You choose how to make your way in the galaxy – maybe as a member of the Resistance, or by learning the ancient ways of the Jedi lightsaber. Maybe you prefer loyalty to the First Order or the excitement of living life like a smuggler? The decisions are up to you.
9. EPCOT International Flower and Garden Festival
The 2022 EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival springs to life March 2 and runs through July 4, offering 125 days to enjoy fresh cuisine, colorful gardens, playful topiaries and vibrant entertainment.
Gardeners will marvel at thousands of blooms forming colorful, living panoramas all around EPCOT, and the entire family can experience the Health Full Trail presented by AdventHealth along the Imagination walkway to learn tips for staying well.
Fresh flavors are on the menu at the festival’s 18 Outdoor Kitchens as well as other food and beverage locations around EPCOT, offering a fresh selection of springtime fruits, vegetables, desserts and more.
The popular Garden Rocks Concert Series is planned to return, featuring favorite tunes at the America Gardens Theatre.
You’ll also find blooming keepsakes including vibrant apparel, drinkware, accessories and more with new merchandise collections launching just in time for the event.
10. Disney’s All Star Sports Resort Reopens March 31, 2022
Photo: Disney
Put them in, coach! Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort will welcome Guests back beginning March 31, 2022. The whole family can get in the game at this Walt Disney World Resort hotel that salutes the world of competitive sports, including baseball, basketball, football, surfing and tennis. Go the distance and don’t be afraid to celebrate your inner fan amid sporty décor starring some of your favorite Disney characters.
11. Finding Nemo: The Big Blue… and Beyondto Premiere at Animal Kingdom
Photo: Disney
A reimagined version of “Finding Nemo: The Musical”, based on the same beloved characters, will debut at Theater in the Wild in 2022.
The musical retelling of this underwater tale of family, friendship and kindness will feature new story material, as well as fan favorite songs such as “In the Big Blue World” and “Go with the Flow.” This new show is set in the timeline of the movie “Finding Dory.” When you take a seat in the theater, you’ll find yourself at the Marine Life Institute.
12. Festival of Fantasy Parade Returns to Magic Kingdom
This year will welcome the return of the Disney “Festival of Fantasy” Parade at Magic Kingdom Park. This vibrant and joyous celebration of Fantasyland brings to the streets of Magic Kingdom Park dozens of beloved Disney characters and stories, from the Disney Princess Garden to a carnival of color presided over by none other than Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse.
13. Adventure Friends Cavalcade
Image: Disney
2022 will also introduce a new character cavalcade, the Disney Adventure Friends Cavalcade, with an exciting lineup of characters all embarking on a great journey through the park. The Disney Adventure Friends Cavalcade will feature the most characters of any cavalcade to date, including Nick and Judy from “Zootopia,” Baloo and King Louie from “The Jungle Book,” José Carioca and Panchito from “The Three Caballeros,” Miguel from “Coco,” plus Merida, Moana, The Incredibles, and so many more!
14. Mickey’s Magical Friendship Faire
Image: Disney
Live entertainment is returning to the Cinderella Castle Forecourt Stage with a show newly enhanced for the 50th Anniversary celebration. “Mickey’s Magical Friendship Faire” will incorporate favorite scenes from the previous version of the show – with sequences inspired by “Frozen,” “Tangled,” and “The Princess and the Frog” – plus a new opening and a new finale with Mickey Mouse and all his friends in their sparkling, EARidescent fashions. The show will also include an all-new, original song entitled “Where the Magic Feels Like Home.”
15. MagicBand+ to Debut
Image: Disney
MagicBand+ will retain popular features of the original MagicBand and add functionality that unlocks new moments of magic for you. After you enter a theme park, MagicBand+ will come alive at various times with color-changing lights, haptic vibrations and gesture recognition. The wearable will allow you to engage with favorite Disney moments in new ways, including:
Play like a bounty hunter in a galaxy far, far away and find virtual bounties throughout Black Spire Outpost in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Experience nighttime spectaculars in a new way as you see your band light up and complement the magic in the skies, including the new “Harmonious” at EPCOT and “Disney Enchantment” at Magic Kingdom Park.
16. Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind to Open at EPCOT This Summer
Image: Disney
Cue up your mixtape and prepare for something awesome … because it’s about to be save the galaxy time! Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind will open at EPCOT this summer. This thrilling new family-friendly coaster matches the “grandosity” and fun of the blockbuster “Guardians of the Galaxy” films in what will be one of the longest fully enclosed coasters in the world.
17. 40th Anniversary of EPCOT
EPCOT will celebrate its 40th anniversary on October 1, 2022! The park has been undergoing an historic transformation and we hope to see more new openings here in 2022, like Journey of Water, inspired by “Moana” where guests will have the opportunity to meet and play with magical, living water. You can also enjoy new dining options like Space 220 and the Creperie while awaiting the opening of a new quick service dining option, Connections Cafe, near the new Creations shop.
18. Fantasmic! Will Return to Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Image: Disney
“Fantasmic!” will be returning to Disney’s Hollywood Studios in 2022. When this incredible spectacular reopens, it will incorporate an all-new sequence featuring more than 50 live performers, massive sets, stunts, stunning special effects, dazzling pyrotechnics, rousing music and more!
19. Disney KiteTails at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park
“Disney KiteTails” takes the magic of nature and Disney storytelling to new heights, immersing everyone in a gala performance of color and movement at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park.
This new show happens several times daily at the Discovery River Theater, near DinoLand U.S.A. As you make your way into the space, you’ll be joined by a team of performers bringing with them a colorful collection of oversized props and kites adorned with Disney animal friends from “The Little Mermaid,” “a bug’s life” and “Finding Nemo.” Original arrangements of favorite Disney tunes fill the air, and the excitement builds toward the launch of an impressive show of kites over the lagoon.
Watercraft zoom into view, pulling with them dynamic kite trains and enormous, three-dimensional kites depicting familiar characters from “The Lion King” or “The Jungle Book.” From one performance to another, you may see Baloo the bear dancing in the sky or Zazu the red-billed hornbill chasing after Simba. These remarkable kites, some as large as 30 feet in length, are inflated by moving through the air, allowing characters like King Louie or Timon and Pumbaa to soar like never before!
20. Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure at EPCOT is Now Open
You can see everyone’s favorite “Little Chef” when you ride Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, the newest attraction at EPCOT! In this delicious new attraction, you’ll feel like you’ve shrunk to the size of Chef Remy as you scurry through Gusteau’s famous restaurant on a wild adventure for the whole family (no height requirement!).
21. Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular is Back at Hollywood Studios
Photo: Disney
Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular has recently restarted daily shows at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This live show, featuring Indy and Marion, allows you to watch as the daring duo dodges deadly traps, battles bad guys, leaps from tall buildings and makes thrilling escapes straight out of Raiders of the Lost Ark. The edge-of-your-seat suspense ends with a dynamite finale!
Along the way, you’ll also get an inside look at how stunts are done in movies with demonstrations that reveal how to safely throw and take punches, fall from tall buildings, and even wield whips in the midst of complex action sequences.
22. Celebrate Animation with Cirque du Soleil’s New Show, Drawn to Life
Drawn to Life presented by Cirque du Soleil and Disney, is a new show inside the iconic white theatre at Disney Springs. Drawn to Life is the first theatrical collaboration between three creative icons: Cirque du Soleil, Walt Disney Animation Studios and Walt Disney Imagineering.
Drawn to Life celebrates Disney’s extraordinary legacy in the art of animation, from the earliest pencil sketches to the feature films of today. The classic characters and moments from Disney Animation are reinterpreted through Cirque du Soleil’s innovative design, acrobatic performances, dazzling choreography and creative costuming alongside an original score inspired by timeless Disney music.
If you are looking for picturesque views, phenomenal dining options, pools that will transport you and your family to full vacation mode, and oh yeah some Universal Orlando Resort theme park perks, too? Well, you’re in luck because half the fun of a Universal Orlando vacation can be found at the eight unique and impeccably-themed Universal Orlando Resort hotels. So, today, we are sharing ten unique experiences at Universal Orlando Resort hotels you won’t want to miss!
This experience at Loews Sapphire Falls Resort is an educational blast — you’ll be paired with a Rum Captain (coolest job title ever) who will host a tasting of several different rums and teach you about their flavor nuances. Even if you’re not a rum-fan, I recommend trying this out or just sitting at the bar and enjoying one of the other great signature cocktails.
Well, at least try to bowl a strike. How many hotels have a literal bowling alley in them? Let alone one as cool as you’ll find at Cabana Bay Beach Resort. Whether you’re staying at this hotel or not you should definitely plan a bowling excursion during your Universal trip.
3. Make a splash at your hotel pool.
Photo: Universal Orlando Resort
What’s a vacation to Florida without a day spent at the pool? Each of the hotels deliver their own great pool experience (Cabana Bay Beach Resort even has a lazy river)! Be sure to check out our guide to the pools here and don’t forget your sunscreen.
Sushi with a view is the most succinct way I can articulate the magic that is this restaurant in Loews Royal Pacific Resort. The sushi menu is vibrant and inventive, the cocktail offerings are one-of-a-kind, and you’ll be enjoying it all with a view worthy of the word “paradise” as the restaurant overlooks the lush and tropical vibes at Royal Pacific..
5. Attempt the Kitchen Sink Challenge at The Kitchen in Hard Rock Hotel.
Photo: Universal Orlando Resort
Think you have what it takes to eat a burger, side of fries, one fried pickle, and a giant slice of The Kitchen Sink Cake in thirty minutes? Even if you can’t, I can bet it’ll be a delicious experience trying.
6. Enjoy gelato on the harbor.
Photo: Universal Orlando Resort
Get yourself a cup of gelato from the Gelateria and soak in the relaxing ambience of the harbor at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel. You may even end up having to pinch yourself to come back to reality and remind yourself you’re not actually in Italy.
7. Grab a rooftop drink and bite to eat at Bar 17 Bistro.
Photo: Universal Orlando Resort
Take in one of the best views throughout all of Universal Orlando Resort at Bar 17 Bistro, located at the top of Aventura Hotel. Sipping on a Volcano View with a view of Volcano Bay is an unmatched experience.
8. Level up your vacation with one of our themed kids’ suites.
Photo: Universal Orlando Resort
Whether the kids in your group are into dinosaurs, Minions, or music, there’s a kids-suite for them! The different kids’ suites throughout Universal hotels will really have you sleeping where the action is with the Future Rock Star Suites at Hard Rock Hotel, Despicable Me Kids Suites at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, and Jurassic World Kids Suites at Royal Pacific Resort.
9. Sample all of the exclusive drinks the hotels have to offer.
Photo: Universal Orlando Resort
If you’re at Universal Orlando Resort’s newest hotel, Dockside Inn and Suites, grab some of the Wet n’ Wild-inspired specialty cocktails by the pool. More of a beer drinker? Enjoy the specialty craft beers at Sunset Lounge in Dockside or head to Jake’s American Bar at Royal Pacific Resort to try out their menu of specialty beers. Pro-tip for your time at Jake’s — all of the Team Members have made-up names there! Be sure to ask your server why they picked theirs.
10. Treat yourself to some pampering at Mandara Spa.
Photo: Universal Orlando Resort
You deserve it! This spa at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel has a ton of options for you to relax and bring your vacation to another level of pure joy and bliss. Besides, after all that roller coaster riding you’ve been doing in the theme parks, you’ve earned yourself a massage.
If you’re coming to vacation at Universal Orlando Resort, you’re most likely going to find yourself passing through Universal CityWalk. Whether you’re staying at one of the fabulous Universal Orlando resort hotels and riding a water taxi over or parking in one of the massive parking garages, you’ll find yourself walking through CityWalk on your way to Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure. CityWalk is the perfect place to grab lunch, dinner, or a quick snack, and there is a lot of fun entertainment to check out after you wrap up a day in the theme parks. Here are the top 10 things to do at Universal CityWalk during your next Universal Orlando Resort vacation!
If you went to Universal and didn’t get a Toothsome milkshake, did you even go? These milkshakes are the must-get treat during your vacation for not only the deliciousness, but also the photo that will have everyone wishing they were in your shoes.
Is it sushi? Is it a burger? It’s both! Burgushi combines the best of both worlds into unique dishes you can only find at The Cowfish. While you’re there, I recommend trying one of their exotic cocktails or spiked milkshakes.
Not many can say they’ve golfed through a space worm or a haunted house during their vacation… but you can! These two mini-golf courses are themed to the classic sci-fi and horror flicks of the 1950s.
4. Stop By Voodoo Doughnut for a Big Pink Box of… Doughnuts!
Voodoo Doll. Grape Ape. Portland Cream. No, these aren’t band names, they’re doughnuts from Voodoo Doughnut. Choose from traditional or whimsical flavors and make sure to ask if they have any specialty doughnuts. They also have vegan options like the ODB, which is so good, like borderline flawless, absolutely delicious.
You don’t have to miss the game just because you’re on vacation. Catch any league game here while enjoying good food (like a giant soft pretzel) and a cold one from a selection of over 100 beers. There are also foosball tables. Literally, a table where you can eat and also play foosball!
6. Sing Your Heart Out at Rising Star with a Live Karaoke Band
Photo: Universal Orlando Resort
If you’ve ever dreamed of becoming a singer, Rising Star makes that dream reality. Take the stage with backup singers and a live band (on select nights) and belt out your favorite songs in this rockin’ karaoke experience.
7. End Your Day Roasting S’mores and Savoring Smoky Spirits at Bigfire
Open fire cooking? Check. S’mores tableside? Check. An extensive list of whiskey and bourbon? Check. Bigfire is where you go to have summer vacation vibes year round with smoky flavors reminiscent of camping and backyard barbeques.
You won’t want to miss stopping by this big — and I’m talking BIG — store jam-packed with all the Universal themed gifts and souvenirs you could ever want.
Dang, this is some good pizza. These made-to-order pies are baked in a stone-lined oven with a variety of both blanco and rosso pizzas. Grab one to go and sit by the CityWalk lagoon for a great view or enjoy outside seating at the restaurant while getting some great people watching in.
10. Spend the Evening Listening to Your Choice of Live Music
End your busy day at the theme parks by unwinding with live music from one CityWalk’s many venues. From reggae jams to full-blown rock concerts, here are a few of my favorite spots.
(Just remember that like all restaurants and concert venues, these performances are subject to change. Luckily, there is always something to do in CityWalk!)
Got any recommendations for first-time visitors? Share your favorite things to do at CityWalk in the comments below.
