Disney offers a complimentary airport transfer service called Magical Express to all of its resort guests. Not only will Disney pick you up at the airport and drop you off at your resort, but they’ll also retrieve your bags and deliver those to your room, as well.
When it’s time to go home, you can check your bags at the resort and use Magical Express for your return to the airport.
If you are traveling with small children, Magical Express can be a lifesaver at the end of a long day of travel since you don’t have to worry about waiting for your bags and then schlepping your suitcases (and children) through the airport to whatever ground transportation you’re using.
It is also handy if you prefer to not drive or want to save money and not rent a car or car service. The downside to Magical Express is that, in some instances, it can take some time for your bus to depart the airport and it will take several hours for your bags to arrive in your room.
The popular Minnie Van transportation service at the Walt Disney World® Resort is celebrating a major milestone – 1 MILLION GUESTS MAGICALLY TRANSPORTED!
And the best is yet to come for Minnie Vans connected by the ridesharing service Lyft. It was just announced that Lyft is now the official rideshare of Walt Disney World® Resort and Disneyland® Resort and new enhancements will be added to the Walt Disney World® Resort service as early as this fall.
Disney and Lyft are collaborating in exciting ways for guests. This fall, Lyft and Disney will be enhancing the app experience at the Walt Disney World® Resort. The update will make it easier to request a Minnie Van ride, find the most convenient pickup location, and even select a wheelchair accessible vehicle.
Since 2017, the Minnie Van fleet has been taking guests everywhere they want to go at the Walt Disney World® Resort in a magical way that only Disney can do.
As part of the celebration of the upcoming live-action film, The Lion King, Disney has launched “a global campaign to raise awareness of the crisis facing lions.”
Disney shares that the campaign supports “the Lion Recovery Fund and its partners to help advance conservation across Africa, including the goal to double the number of lions in the wild by 2050.”
As part of the efforts, two new Special Edition plush are newly available in Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
The colorful Simba and Nala plush are $19.99 each. And for each plush sold, Disney will donate $5.00 to the Wildlife Conservation Network in support of the Lion Recovery Fund (and its local partners).
40,000 of the plush will ultimately be available in both Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resort. Guests can find the plush now at Mombasa, Island Mercantile, and Discovery Trading Company at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and at Seaside Souvenirs at Disney’s California Adventure park.
Starting July 1st, the plush will also be sold in World of Disney, Elias & Co. and Bazaar at Disneyland Resort and in the Emporium, Mouse Gear, World of Disney and more locations at Walt Disney World Resort.
Additionally, at www.disney.com/LionKingProtectThePride, Disney has announced that for every guest who rides the Kilimanjaro Safaris attraction in Animal Kingdom from July 19 – 25, 2019 (the opening week of “The Lion King”), the Disney Conservation Fund will donate $2.00 (up to $350,000) to the Lion Recovery Fund’s efforts. You can learn more about these and other efforts by visiting www.disney.com/LionKingProtectThePride.
We’ve all become accustomed to seeing the food booths in Epcot's World Showcase but what is there to do until the next festival? Well, check out the following list of things to do in Epcot when the theme park is a little less festive!
Epcot Wine Walk
If you enjoy trying wine from various countries and regions try the Epcot Wine Walk. The Wine Walk is often an overlooked activity in Epcot. When you purchase it you receive two refillable glasses and a passport that entitles you to, and tracks, your two pours at each location. You can purchase the Wine Walk in either the Germany, France, or Italy wine shops. Take your tasting passport and Wine Walk glass to the wine shops in each shop and enjoy a taste of wines from various regions in each country.
If you don’t want to complete the Wine Walk but still like the wine glass, you can buy just the wine glass for $5.00. Then you can purchase wines of your choice at each of the three locations. Plus, you’ve got a pretty cool souvenir to take home!
Behind the Seeds Tour
If you have ever wondered where some of the food comes from in the parks and resorts you’ll find out on the Living with the Land ride. To learn even more, take the Behind the Seeds tour.
The Behind the Seeds tours are led by a member of the Epcot Science Team and let you discover more than 60 crops from around the world, see some of the latest techniques used to grow and improve plants, and walk through the fish farm to see thousands of fish — and alligators. You might even get up close to some ladybugs and learn how they help keep the insect population down.
You can sign up for the tour on the day of if there is availability, or sign up in advance by calling (407) WDW-TOUR. The cost is $25 for adults and $20 for children. Be sure to ask about annual passholder, DVC, and Disney Chase Visa Cardholder discounts.
Enjoy the Entertainment
The live entertainment in Epcot is worth the price of admission alone. First, for those who love the characters, there is plenty to see in Epcot. The Character Connection in Future World is a great place to start. Follow that with various meet and greets in the countries.
Over in World Showcase, you can spend your entire day going from country to country and with cultural experiences from around the Globe. Without festivals, the park is a little less congested, and this gives you space and time to enjoy the entertainment in the World Showcase pavilions. There are musical groups in the Canada, UK, Morocco, American Adventure, and Germany pavilions, the Serveur Amusant with their amazing climbing and balancing act in France, the Matsuriza drums in Japan, Sergio and his juggling act in Italy, the Jewel Dragon Acrobats in China, and the Mariachi Cobre as well as their retelling of the tale of Coco in Mexico.
Of course, there are the classic eat around the world or drink around the world activities as well. I wanted to take this time to point out a few of the lesser known or not as popular things to do in Epcot.
While sitting down at a Walt Disney World park may be the last thing you expect to do, sometimes you just need a break and if you find the right bench Aside from offering a nice place to sit, some theme park benches offer unique photo opportunities with some very popular characters. Here are my benches to rest:
Goofy Bench (Magic Kingdom) – There isn’t a ton of seating in and around Main Street U.S.A., as most people are just entering the park and too excited to take a break or trying to leave and just want to make it to their car safely. But if you do need to take a seat in this area head to Exhibition Hall and sit down next to Goofy. The statue of this popular Disney character, dressed in his usual top hat, purple suit jacket, gold vest, red tie and black pants welcomes you to come and sit next to him and snap a photo. This is the perfect Disney bench to experience your first character meet-and-greet.
Roy and Minnie (Magic Kingdom) – Perhaps the most popular bench in Walt Disney World is the Roy & Minnie Mouse bench. Here, co-founding father and Walt Disney’s brother Roy O. Disney is seated next to Minnie Mouse and holding her hand. The statue is entitled “Sharing the Magic.” Guests can squeeze in right beside these two figures and “share the magic” with them for a unique photo op that captures the spirit of Disney. This bench is located just outside the fence in Town Square with Cinderella Castle as a backdrop.
Animal Benches (Animal Kingdom - Discovery Island) – You’ve probably walked past these benches in Disney’s Animal Kingdom a hundred times and thought, “Oh, how cute…” and then kept walking. These multi-colored, multi-shaped seats are made out of recycled plastic products. Well, yes, they are cute, and I love that Disney took the trouble to give the benches various animal character themes. But what’s really interesting about these brightly colored benches is that they are made out of recycled plastic milk jugs. Totally in keeping with the theme park’s conservation theme!
Chester & Hester's Bench (Animal Kingdom - Dinoland) – You can spot this one just outside Chester and Hester’s Dinosaur Treasures, in Dinoland USA. It makes perfect sense, because, as the story goes, Chester and Hester ran a old-time gas station where dinosaur fossils were discovered. They decided to sell tacky, dino-themed souvenirs as well as gas. Guess this bench is a symbol of that! This is just another one of those Disney details that are so easy to overlook.
Rocking Chairs (Magic Kingdom) – OK, technically this one isn't a bench, but it's still one of the best places to take a load off and rest. In Liberty Square you can find rocking chairs on the porch to the right side of Hall of Presidents. This spot is very popular with guests and it’s often difficult to secure a seat here.
France Pavilion (Epcot) – France offers unique wooden benches, but don’t plan on leaning back. The support is somewhat lacking. It's still a great place to rest your feet.
Canada Pavilion (Epcot) – With a view of the Rockies, these simple but stylish benches in the Canada Pavilion are a great place to escape and catch your breath.
Raglan Road (Disney Springs) – There is bronze gent sitting on a bench outside Raglan Road Irish Pub‘s Shop for Ireland at Disney Springs is Irish poet/novelist Patrick Kavanagh. Actually, the bench is a replica of Irish sculptor John Coll’s statue that now resides in Dublin along the bank of its Grand Canal on Mespil Road. Among Kavanagh’s best-known works is the poem “On Raglan Road”— so I think you can see the sculpture’s relevance.
We’re sure there are other benches in and around the parks that might be just as interesting, with stories to tell. Next time you feel like you need to have a seat while you’re in the World, remember to look down first — your bench just might be one of the most interesting you’ll ever see!
To celebrate the upcoming release of Disney’s groundbreaking new film The Lion King, The Walt Disney Company has announced a global conservation campaign to raise awareness of the crisis facing lions and other wildlife across Africa. The Lion King “Protect the Pride” campaign focuses on protecting and revitalizing the lion population, with Disney lending its support to the Wildlife Conservation Network’s (WCN) Lion Recovery Fund (LRF) and their vision to double the lion population across Africa by 2050 through efforts that engage communities to ensure a future for African wildlife and their habitats.
In the 25 years since Disney released the original version of The Lion King, Africa’s lion population has been halved due to a variety of threats that include poaching and destruction of habitats. Only about 20,000 lions remain in the wild, but research shows their numbers can be strengthened by adequately protecting the habitats they share with people and other African wildlife, in addition to protecting the lions themselves.
“Disney is committed to supporting lion conservation efforts and we believe The Lion King is the perfect story to remind us of the role each of us has in ensuring a world where these majestic animals are treasured and protected,” said Elissa Margolis, senior vice president, Enterprise Social Responsibility for The Walt Disney Company. “Conservation has always been a core value of The Walt Disney Company and that commitment is apparent in everything from our films to our theme parks and is why we created the Disney Conservation Fund (DCF). Through the stories we tell and the experiences we create, we have the power to reach people around the world and inspire them to take action with us.”
Disney has already donated more than $1.5 million to the LRF and its partners, and plans to double that amount through additional grants, as well as participation from fans, for a total contribution of up to $3 million. The Lion King Protect the Pride donation will mark the largest single contribution in the 24-year history of the Disney Conservation Fund, which has previously directed $75 million to save wildlife globally, including $13 million to protect African wildlife spanning more than 30 countries. The LRF supports a variety of partner organizations working in Africa and employs a three-pronged approach to lion recovery: investing in conservation projects on the ground, developing campaigns that build support for the protection and revitalization of Africa’s lion population, and expanding and strengthening collaborations, as no single entity will be able to solve the problem alone.
To kick off The Lion King Protect the Pride campaign, Disney and WCN recently assembled more than 80 of the world’s leading lion conservation experts, from 18 countries and representing more than 50 organizations, for the Lion Footprint Forum at Walt Disney World Resort. During the meeting—the first of its kind in 20 years—the participants collaborated to develop strategies to address challenges impacting lion populations and help ensure a future for the species, as well as other wildlife across Africa. Resulting ideas and project proposals will be considered for support through the LRF. Additional information about the LRF’s lion conservation efforts may be found at LionRecoveryFund.org.
Here are some of the ways that fans can help increase the total donation:
At Disney’s Animal Kingdom, experience Kilimanjaro Safaris Expedition during the opening week of the film. For every guests who rides July 19-25, Disney will donate $2 (up to $350,000).
Beginning June 10th, Purchase one of 40,000 Special Edition Simba and Nala plush lions at the Disney Store (or Shop Disney.com). For each plus sold, Disney will donate $5.
Disney will also donate $25,000 from the sales of the new book, “The Art and Making of the Lion King.”
The Lion King opens in U.S. theaters on July 19, 2019.
Are you someone who tries to eat balanced, healthy meals, even on vacation? I’m trying to make improvements in my eating choices, and I must admit that thinking about “dieting” on vacation is a bit stressful- but so is the thought of gaining those extra pounds. The good news? Eating healthy food at Walt Disney World is actually easier than you may expect. Disney fare goes well beyond traditional “theme park food” in its offerings- it’s not all hot dogs, chicken nuggets, and burgers. There are plenty of healthy options all around if you look for them!
Follow the same common-sense rules you would at home
Hydrate! Especially if you’re traveling to Walt Disney World in the hotter months, you’ll be thankful for hydration! Skip the sugary drinks and focus on water intake. Remember- you can grab a FREE cup of ice water at any counter service location- just ask. You can also bring your own bottles into the park.
Another good tip is to watch your portions. Consider sharing meals, or just ordering an entree at a quick service location without sides (you may even save a few dollars). Adults may also order smaller kids entrees, but be aware that if you are using the Dining Plan, you’ll still be charged an adult meal credit. You can also share entrees- it is not discouraged! Make smart substitutions. You can always ask for fruit or a side salad instead of fries. If you’re not sure what’s available, just ask!
Snack smarter
Eating around the “World” might be tempting, but those snacks you grab during the day can add up. One of the most popular treats, the Dole Whip, is actually not terrible for you at all. Coming in at under 100 calories, it’s a great alternative to an ice cream sundae, and it’s a favourite of many guests! Skip the Dole Whip Float, though- all the added juice is higher in calories than the actual non-dairy soft serve. You can also find some fantastic snack spots that will offer fresh fruit, like Hollywood Studios’ Anaheim Produce or Animal Kingdom’s Harambe Market.
Did you know you can also bring your own snacks into the parks? You may want to stash some protein bars or trail mix in your bag to help keep you sustained between meals. I wouldn’t advise you to “ban” a coveted snack; just be mindful in your eating, and make sure the calories you are consuming are worth it!
Make your dietary needs known
Know where to go for some delicious meals and snacks. Regardless of where your party has reserved a meal, you’re likely to find a healthy option or two on the menu. The less planned, on-the-go dining is more of a challenge if you haven’t looked in advance. Here’s a list of a few particularly delicious Quick Service options for your healthy- eating needs!
In the Magic Kingdom:
A favorite quick-service location of many is Columbia Harbor House. While they have plenty of not-as-healthy (but yummy) seafood options, they also have a delicious tuna sandwich and a Lighthouse sandwich (hummus and broccoli slaw on multigrain bread); the tuna is also available for kids as a Disney Check item.
A few steps farther into Fantasyland, try a the Caprese flatbread at Pinocchio Village Haus - I think it’s just as satisfying as a slice of pizza, and definitely healthier. On the opposite side of the park, enjoy a southwest salad or chicken fajitas at Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn & Cafe. They have a full toppings bar, complete with several salsas, veggie fixings, and guacamole- so fill up on healthy toppings (you can practically make those fajitas into a salad)!
At Epcot:
Sunshine Seasons in the Land Pavilion is a fantastic choice for eating a balanced, fresh meal. They offer tons of variety, from soups and salads, to fresh chicken and fish, hearty homestyle choices, and Asian dishes. Kids can even enjoy Disney Check salmon or chicken drumstick options.
If you’re looking to grab a bite in the World Showcase (and really, who isn’t?) try Tangierine Cafe in Morocco - they have some great vegetable and chicken options, as well as sides like couscous salad, tabbouleh, and hummus.
At Animal Kingdom:
My go-to choices are Flame Tree BBQ (check out the watermelon salad) and my newest favorite, Satu’li Canteen. Located in Pandora, Satu’li Canteen offers a variety of “bowls” that include a protein (chicken, beef, fish, or tofu) as well as a base (quinoa and sweet potato hash, to name a few) and a sauce. Depending on the combination you choose, you can certainly build a light and nutritious meal.
This guide certainly only scratches the very, very delicious surface of the world of Disney dining. Eating healthy foods on vacation will help with energy and stamina, but remember to strike a balance in your travels- stressing about food shouldn’t be on your agenda! Menus at Walt Disney World do change, so also be sure to keep any eye out for new options. This guide is by no means exhaustive of all the great healthy options available- we would love to hear what your favorite healthy snacking and dining choices are!
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge opened at Disneyland Resort on May 31, 2019 and invited guests to live their own Star Wars adventures as they explore a remote planet of Batuu which is full of unique sights, sounds, smells, tastes, and many other immersive experiences.
Upon entering the land, guests will be transported to a galaxy far, far away in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge on their journey to Batuu.
Welcome to the Edge of Wild Space: Black Spire Outpost on Batuu
Photo courtesy of Disney
Batuu is a far-flung destination along the galaxy’s Outer Rim, on the frontier of Wild Space – the uncharted region beyond all known star systems. The planet is home to Black Spire Outpost, an infamous port for smugglers, traders, and adventurers wishing to avoid any unnecessary … entanglements with the First Order.
When guests arrive at Black Spire Outpost, they will come across aliens, droids and other inhabitants of this planet as they search for rare and unique goods, discover unusual food and drink, or join a crew seeking adventures. Along the way, guests may encounter some familiar faces, including Rey, Chewbacca or even Supreme Leader Kylo Ren and his Stormtroopers.
Star Wars Adventures Come to Life in Two Thrilling Attractions
For more than four decades, fans of Star Wars films have imagined what it would be like to blast across the stars inside the Millennium Falcon or race through the halls of a Star Destroyer. Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge will feature two signature attractions that turn those dreams into reality.
In Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run, guests climb into the cockpit of “the fastest hunk of junk in the galaxy” for their own Star Wars adventures. They take the controls of the Falcon in one of three unique and critical roles as the ship hurtles through space. Some will be pilots, some gunners, and some engineers, creating multiple ways for guests to engage with the attraction in an experience that responds in real time to the actions they take.
Photo courtesy of Disney
A second attraction, opening by the end of 2019, is Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, will be one of the most ambitious, advanced and immersive experiences ever undertaken by Walt Disney Imagineering. It will place guests in the middle of a climactic battle between the First Order and the Resistance, including a faceoff with Kylo Ren. Their journey takes them aboard a full-size transport shuttle and then into a nearby Star Destroyer on a harrowing and thrilling adventure that blurs the lines between fantasy and reality.
A Diverse Menu of Food and Beverages Await
What does Blue or Green Milk actually taste like? That question and more will be answered when guests visit Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and experience the new land’s expansive array of food and beverages. Guests walk through a bustling marketplace, where vendors offer various local delicacies, including an Outpost Mix of flavored popped grains from Kat Saka’s Kettle, a unique popcorn snack with a combination of sweet, savory and spicy flavors.
At Oga’s Cantina, even the blaster-bolt scorches on the walls tell a story. Here, guests gather to share their tales from around the galaxy as they enjoy exotic beverages served in unique vessels and listen to spirited musical entertainment provided by DJ R-3X, otherwise known as Rex, the former Starspeeder 3000 pilot droid from the original Star Tours. Rex re-invents himself as the cantina’s DJ, and he’s as quirky and talkative as ever.
A multi-purpose transport shuttle docked on top of a large hangar beckons guests into Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo, a designated location for traveling food shuttles. Chef Strono “Cookie” Tuggs is in much demand for his culinary skills, so he moves from site to site in a modified.
Sienar-Chall Utilipede-Transport that becomes a mobile kitchen and restaurant. His travels across the galaxy allow him to fill his pantry with exotic ingredients he uses to make new and unusual dishes. He is proud to present Tuggs’ Grub, a “traveling diner for diners traveling,” inspired by dishes he created during his time working for Maz Kanata on Takodana.
Elsewhere in the market, Ronto Roasters draws attention with its large podracing engine firing up a barbecue pit for mouth-watering Ronto Wraps. When hungry customers queue up to order, they encounter a former smelter droid, carefully turning the spit of meats. Guests can also choose from a variety of exotic non-alcoholic drinks like the Sour Sarlacc or Tatooine Sunset.
The Milk Stand offers two local favorites – Blue Milk and Green Milk. Blue Milk was first seen in Star Wars: A New Hope when Luke Skywalker sat down for a family meal. Green Milk was introduced in Star Wars: The Last Jedi when Luke lived on the planet Ahch-To. Now, thirsty guests can order these colorful frozen drinks as they live their own Star Wars adventures.
Take a Piece of the Star Wars Galaxy Home from a Vibrant Marketplace
Photo courtesy of Disney
Food is one of many discoveries just waiting to be made while wandering the lively marketplace of Black Spire Outpost, where guests encounter a robust collection of merchant shops and stalls filled with authentic Star Wars creations.
The Droid Depot invites guests to construct their own astromech droids. Patrons pick pieces and parts off a conveyor belt to build one of two core models (R-series or BB-series) and they can customize their droids with various parts and colors. These droids interact with elements throughout the land, enhancing guests’ adventures. Additional accessories can be added to further customize these new friends. In addition, the Droid Depot will offer pre-built droids, droid- inspired toys and apparel, and more.
At Savi’s Workshop – Handbuilt Lightsabers, guests have the opportunity to craft and customize their very own lightsabers. In this mystical experience, guests feel the Force as they build these elegant weapons from a more civilized age.
Inside Dok-Ondar’s Den of Antiquities, guests find a selection of rare and mysterious items for sale representing different eras of the Star Wars galaxy, including holocrons, ancient Jedi and Sith artifacts, lightsabers and more. As they explore the nooks and crannies of the shop, guests also see Dok-Ondar at his desk as the large Ithorian checks his inventory and barks the occasional order at his assistants.
In addition to these special experiences, the Black Spire Outpost marketplace features the Creature Stall dedicated to the plethora of rare and fascinating creatures that populate the galaxy, as well as Black Spire Outfitters, showcasing the latest in galactically trendy apparel and accessories. The Toydarian Toymaker stall is full of toys and games crafted by a Toydarian (the flying alien species first seen in Star Wars: The Phantom Menace). And all tourists who visit Batuu will want to make a stop at Jewels of Bith, offering “trinkets to treasure” and other accessories.
Guests can also demonstrate where their loyalties lie with the gear and accessories they purchase within the land. Resistance Supply is a “makeshift” location at the Resistance’s hidden command post, selling Resistance pins, badges, hats, and other accessories to help guests feel like part of the cause. First Order Cargo, meanwhile, is a temporary First Order storage dock near the marketplace. Easily identified by a never-before-seen First Order TIE echelon ship, the cargo location offers guests a chance to pledge their loyalty by purchasing pins, caps, gear, model ships and more.
Play Disney Parks Mobile App Deepens Guest Engagement with the Land
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is the first land within a Disney park designed to integrate with the Play Disney Parks mobile app. The app debuted last year and offers interactive adventures and experiences that bring surrounding environments to life at Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort. When guests choose to use the Play Disney Parks app in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, they will be able to transform it into their very own Star Wars: Datapad. Using the app provides new opportunities for guests to engage with the land, such as translating a galactic language or learning what’s hidden inside crates and containers.
Photo courtesy of Disney
In addition, guests can use the Play Disney Parks app to interact with elements in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, including droids, blinking door panels and antenna arrays. Throughout the day, guests may participate in a multiplayer game throughout the land, “Outpost Control,” to support either the Resistance or the First Order.
In light of tremendous demand, Disney is opening Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge at Disneyland park in phases to allow guests to sooner enjoy the one-of-a-kind experiences that make Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge so spectacular. Guests wanting to visit Galaxy's Edge between May 31st and June 24, 2019 must have a reservation to enter the land.
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge opens August 29, 2019, at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Florida.
We hear a lot of misconceptions about Disney. Here are some things we thought we should clear up!
1. I’ll be eating burgers and hot dogs the whole trip
Well… if you want to you’re welcome to. But Disney offers a huge variety of meals now for every taste. Want to try Asian cuisine? Yak and Yeti at Animal Kingdom is great! What about some seafood? Grab some crab at Cape May Cafe. Up for a steak dinner? Le Cellier in Epcot it is. No matter what your tastes, you’ll find something at Disney you love.
2. The only snacks are popcorn and ice cream
This closely ties in with the food in general. Yes, ice cream and popcorn are available. So are cinnamon rolls and zebra domes and cream brulee and the infamous Dole Whip. There are so many snacks available that we’ve often toyed with simply snacking our way through our time at Disney Parks. You won’t be disappointed by the assortment.
3. You only need one day per park
Maybe on your second visit. On your first visit, we definitely recommend at least two days at Magic Kingdom if possible. The other parks it really depends on your interest level. Do you want to see all the shows at Hollywood Studios? You might need two days. Want to take your time touring and dining at Epcot? Maybe a day and a half (more if you plan on taking in one of the festivals like Food and Wine). But at any of these parks, you could easily spend multiple days if you wanted.
4. There aren’t any attractions for toddlers, grandparents, etc.
The vast majority of rides can be enjoyed by everyone. Peter Pan comes to mind as one of the quintessential Disney rides that’s gentle enough for everyone in your party to ride. All the boat rides are also fair game as well as many others. Everyone can also enjoy the shows, parades, and fireworks. Disney was designed to be a family experience, and that includes everyone.
5. I need to be super rich to go to Disney
Disney isn’t cheap, but it’s not as expensive as most people imagine either. When you price things out via the Disney website it automatically defaults you to the more expensive options. Disney wants you to purchase those options because then they make more money. Here’s where a good travel agent can help you. I'd be happy to advise you on how to save some money and get the best bang for your buck (you can visit my website for a free no-obligation quote). Many times a Disney trip can be less expensive than a comparable trip to other tourist destinations.
6. Characters are only for kids
Everyone can stop to see their favorite character, no matter their age. Want a picture with Mickey Mouse? Get your photo. Want to get a hug from Chewbacca? Go for it! Characters are there for everyone to enjoy, no matter how old you are.
7. You need to stay in the park from open until close
You don’t need sunscreen or to prepare for the Florida heat. Guests often underestimate the Florida sun and heat (just ask my husband). It can get very hot and the sun is extremely powerful. Even in the winter months, guests should plan ahead with sunscreen, breathable clothing and comfortable shoes. Guests should also be sure to hydrate very well and drink water throughout the day while in the parks.
8. The dining plan definitely saves you a lot of money
While the dining plan is a fantastic value for some, it’s not always a money saver. If you are likely to have an entree, drink, and dessert at every meal, it might be worth it to you. However, if you don’t often order dessert, and sometimes drink water instead of ordering fountain drinks, you may be spending more money on the dining plan than you would be paying as you go. Of course, if there’s a “free dining” promo, go for it (but remember, you would be paying full price for your resort room).
9. You only need to go once
Unless you are planning a month-long trip or do not care about experiencing most of what Disney World has to offer, you will surely want to visit Disney more than once. There’s much more to Disney than just rides. We have been to WDW more than 20 times over the past 16 years and we have not yet seen everything. Disney is constantly changing.
10. You can buy super cheap park tickets
Visiting Walt Disney World is expensive, and one of the most frequent questions I get is whether there’s a way to save on park tickets. The short answer is yes, there is — but those discounts tend to be pretty modest, a few percentage points at best.
What then, of the tickets you find on the internet or in the Orlando area that purport to be free or steeply discounted from the gate price? One of two things is happening. Unless you are a Florida resident, the only way to legitimately get really cheap or even free Disney tickets is by agreeing to sit through a timeshare presentation. Invariably, the presentation will be high pressure, far longer than advertised, and unless you’re actually in the market for a timeshare, probably a bad use of your time.
The other possibility is that the tickets are bogus. Deeply discounted Disney tickets sold at less established locations to the public at large are likely fake or have already been partially used by someone else and should be viewed with caution. Craigslist, eBay, random convenience stores around Orlando — you might see Disney World tickets advertised at any of these places, and chances are good that you’ll be buying tickets that have no value at all.
What misconceptions have you heard about Disney World? Do you agree with our list? Do you try to talk people out of their misconceptions? Let us know!
Start planning your next Disney trip with an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. They’ll help you get the best price for your vacation, share their expert advice and their services are totally FREE!
I know that just being at Walt Disney World is quite a celebration itself, but if you're looking for a specific restaurant to celebrate a special day whether it's a birthday, anniversary or something else you want to celebrate, the following are my personal favourite locations to celebrate (keep in mind this list was made with adults in mind, so if you have a seven-year-old who wants to celebrate their birthday I would recommend Chef Mickey's or a different restaurant).
California Grill, Contemporary Resort
I personally recommend the brunch at California grill - it is fantastic with all-you-can-eat sushi. The dinner service is also fantastic - I've also had some amazing steak there and there's even a create your own Bloody Mary bar. Like most of the restaurants on this list it is a bit more expensive but it's for a special occasion so I feel like it's definitely worth it.
Victoria & Albert’s, Grand Floridian Resort
This is Disney’s best restaurant by a wide margin. The difference between Victoria & Albert’s and a restaurant that’s merely “very good” is that a “very good” restaurant is probably known for a few signature dishes it does well. At Victoria & Albert’s, every single menu item is exceptional. Each course — and there are 7 to 10 of them on the tasting menus — is prepared by accomplished chefs, using the best ingredients available regardless of cost, presented in innovative ways, by servers whose knowledge is frankly astounding. Also astounding is the price, which starts at $185 per person for the 7-course tasting menu, and goes to $235 per person for the 10-course menu. Add in a wine pairing ($65 to $150 per person), caviar, and gratuity, and dinner for two people will top $1,000. Formal attire is required to dine at Victoria & Albert's.
Boma – Flavors of Africa, Animal Kingdom Lodge
The Boma buffet has been one of our favourites since it opened more than fifteen years ago. The buffet is enormous — stretching down almost the entire length of the restaurant and continuing along one side. If the food at Jiko is a tempered introduction to African, Asian, and Indian cuisine, the food at Boma is even more so. For every pot of mulligatawny (a curry-flavored stew with meats and vegetables) there’s a tray of chicken nuggets and fries. My favorite here is the carving station with roasted meat and sauces. The dessert options are wonderful too. Both breakfast and dinner are buffet style.
Artist Point, Wilderness Lodge
Artist Point features food from the Pacific Northwest. Its house specialty for years has been salmon roasted on a cedar plank, which won’t steer you wrong. We've eaten at Artist Point many time and really enjoy the Braised Short Rib Bolognese, with thick egg noodles and mushrooms. If you’ve got a large group, the charcuterie board is stocked with boar, venison, and pork is a good option. Pair that with the cheese board of five samples, and you’re off to a good start. Another yummy entree is the buffalo strip loin, two perfect pieces of meat with just salt and pepper on top. The most popular side dish is a truffle macaroni and cheese.
Beaches & Cream Soda Shop, Beach Club Resort
Beaches & Cream serves old-fashioned hamburgers and fries, plus traditional American diner food, milkshakes, and sundaes. It’s not a fancy menu, but the burgers are cooked fresh and at $16 each are considerably better (and a few dollars cheaper) than many other table service places in Walt Disney World. Reservations are exceptionally difficult to get at Beaches & Cream because of its small size — it might hold a few dozen people, tops. If you can get your family in, try the Kitchen Sink sundae: scoop after scoop of ice cream served with every topping on the menu — it serves four people.
Monsieur Paul, France Pavilion, Epcot
Monsieur Paul is definitely one of the most grown-up of all Epcot restaurants. It’s a true fine-dining experience tucked away upstairs in the France Pavilion. It’s quite expensive, but is perfect for date night without kids. The menu is unique and the food is always excellent. Dinner is the only meal served at Monsieur Paul, so you can always expect a special experience. The prix fixe meal is the restaurant’s signature offering. The menu changes often, but always has a variety of top-notch choices. Appetizers range from fancy soups to crab legs. For entrees, you can always expect a good mix of beef, chicken, and fish. The Beef Tenderloin is my personal go-to. Also, the restaurant is known for commonly having a great Sea Bass dish on the menu. Dessert is a big highlight for Monsieur Paul, so don’t leave without it. There are a handful of the usual suspects- cake, ice cream, meringue, but I recommend the “La Sphere”. The La Sphere is a chocolate sphere filled with chocolate almond cake, chocolate cream, pralines, hazelnut biscuit, chocolate ice cream, and cognac sauce. The presentation is beautiful and the dessert itself is delicious.
Jiko - The Cooking Place, Animal Kingdom Lodge
Jiko is one of Disney World’s overall best restaurants. Jiko’s food is outstanding. It’s a mix of African and Mediterranean-inspired dishes that are unique, but not so out of the ordinary that a picky eater can’t enjoy a meal here. My personal favorite item on the menu is the Botswana Short Rib. You hear “fall-off-the-bone-tender” a lot at restaurants, but Jiko’s short rib is deserving of that claim. Lamb, steak, chicken, seafood- all of it is top quality and incorporates just enough African flair. Lots of imported wines to choose from too.
Did your favorite restaurant make the list? Are there any restaurants that you feel I missed? Let me know in the comments.
