Even though I've been to Walt Disney World many times, I enjoy experiencing new things with each visit back. There are always new attractions opening, stage shows debuting, improvements to classic favorites, and more. And along with those new things, I also have a list of "dream experiences" I consider to be somewhat of a Disney bucket list that I've compiled over the years. While some of these dreams have little likelihood of coming true, I can't help but hope to cross all of these off someday! Check out my personal bucket list for all of Disney's Theme Parks & Resorts across the globe, and dream along with me! *Visit all of Disney theme parks across the world Since the Disney name is widely-known across the world for their iconic characters, beloved stories, and USA's Disneyland and Walt Disney World, there have been other parks built to enjoy in other parts of the world! In France there's the Disneyland Paris Resort, which is comprised of two parks, seven resort hotels, and a shopping, dining, and entertainment district. I had the amazing opportunity to visit for two days about a decade ago when my mom and I vacationed in Paris, and I am so dying to go back soon! I like to describe it as a more elegant Disney Parks & Resorts experience all around, with softer colors, a lot of gold, and that refined French touch. Plus, there's a dragon living underneath their version of Sleeping Beauty Castle! And in Asia, there is so much more Disney magic to behold, with three unique destinations to visit! There's Hong Kong Disneyland with one theme park and two resort hotels, the Tokyo Disney Resort with two theme parks and three resort hotels, and the upcoming Shanghai Disney Resort, which will feature one theme park and a shopping, dining, and entertainment district. The Asian parks really take everything to the next level in storytelling and theming, and their parades and shows look like they're beyond anything currently showing the American parks. All of these places are definitely at the top of my Disney bucket list! *Spend the night at all of Walt Disney World's resort hotels Another task right at the top of my list is to spend at least one night in each and every resort hotel at Walt Disney World. I'm off to a good start with stays at Pop Century (our go-to resort), Caribbean Beach, and Coronado Springs, but there are so many others to explore! It's fun to visit other resorts for meals, shopping, and strolling between park days on longer vacations, but I really want to rest my head for a night in each! Some of the resorts I'm particularly interested in? Definitely the Grand Floridian, the Polynesian (those new bungalows!!!), and Animal Kingdom Lodge. That just means I have to take more frequent trips, right?! *Spend the night in the Cinderella Castle suite inside the Magic Kingdom My inner princess wants to see the inside of this very special suite more than anything! Tucked away high up inside Cinderella Castle, there is an ornately-decorated suite that was originally going to be an apartment for Walt and his family before he passed away in the beginnings of constructing the Magic Kingdom. The suite is now used for promotional giveaways and special events, when celebrities visit the park, etc. It cannot be booked and you can't just walk in, so this one is going to be a tough one to cross off! *Make it though the entire day at one of the Magic Kingdom's 24-hour events A few years back on leap day, Disney decided to keep both Disneyland and Florida's Magic Kingdom open for 24 hours straight as part of a campaign known as "One More Disney Day." Since that event was so successful, they've since hosted more like this, particularly to kick off the Summer season. I haven't yet gotten the chance to spend time at the Magic Kingdom for any of these events, but I certainly hope to someday. I already enjoy staying in the park from open to close, so why not take it up a notch and go for 24 hours?! *Go on a private cruise over Seven Seas Lagoon during Wishes I often see families taking special boat cruises around Seven Seas Lagoon (and Crescent Lake near the Boardwalk) to take in the Magic Kingdom's nightly fireworks, and I would love to do the same! Whether it would be to celebrate something special, enjoy a private meal, or just to say I did it, it would be amazing! It's worth noting that there are no prices listed on the information page of the Walt Disney World website though, which leads me to believe this experience doesn't come cheap! *Go on a Wild Africa Trek at Disney's Animal Kingdom Taking a ride on Kilimanjaro Safaris is one of my favorite parts of each day at Disney's Animal Kingdom park, so why not get one step closer during this guided tour?! You get to walk on suspension bridges right over hippos and crocodiles, ride up closer to giraffes, learn more from a personal guide, pose for complimentary photos, and so much more. It may come at a high price (up to $250 per person during peak times of the year), but all of the guest reviews say it's worth it! *Complete the RunDisney Wine & Dine half marathon Now that I've completed my first RunDisney race, I'm itching to run another! The annual Wine & Dine half marathon at Walt Disney World is at the top of my list, which is held in the Fall season, and at night! It's themed around EPCOT's annual International Food & Wine Festival, and even includes a special finisher's party in the park afterwards with plenty food and drink samplings. I already thoroughly enjoy visiting WDW at this time of year, so why not add another amazing RunDisney experience to the plans?! *Take a tour through Walt Disney's apartment above the Disneyland fire station and the Dream Suite above Disneyland's Pirate of the Caribbean attraction This is another one that isn't very easy to come by (at all), but a girl can dream, right? Walt had a small apartment over the fire station right on Main Street for himself and his family that allowed him to stay right in the middle of the magic, quickly come down to meet guests, and be close enough to attend to any issues and help Cast Members. The Disney Dream Suite above Pirates of the Caribbean was an idea originally conceived by Walt himself so he could invite friends and celebrities to stay right in the park as well, but also so they didn't have to be bothered by other visiting guests. The suite was eventually completed and furnished a few years ago using Walt's original renderings, and like the Cinderella Castle Suite, is only used for promotional purposes and special events. *Ride Space Mountain with the lights on This may be a trivial one to have amongst my list of big Disney dreams, but it's still something I really want to do one day! I've seen many photos and videos, plus stories from guests on how the lights really add to the thrill factor (those tracks come very close together!), and I think it would be another great memory to make on one of my favorite attractions. Some things may be harder to accomplish on this list than others, but anything is possible! Disney is always dreaming up new magical experiences to be had at their theme parks and resorts, so I'm sure my list will continue to grow with each visit and announcement from the Imagineers. Be sure to visit the Disney Parks Blog regularly for announcements like these and more to help you build your own Disney bucket list! And please share yours with me in the comments below; I want to share in your Disney dreams! Until the next post, see ya real soon!
0 Comments
This Disney Princess loves to shop, and I make sure to save a separate budget for souvenirs during any and all trips to Walt Disney World. Yes, some items can be on the pricey side, and it might be hard justifying $30 for a stuffed animal, but the memories that go along with them can last forever! From pins to autograph books to t-shirts, I hold many special memories with each souvenir that I know I'll remember and share for years to come. Take a look at some of my favorite merchandise I've picked up on visits over time, and what I think every Disney fan should have: 1. Disney pins I was hesitant at first to jump on the bandwagon when Disney Pin Trading first came out, but now I've become a fanatic! Disney Pins come in all shapes, sizes, colors, and costs, with pins for every character you can think of, favorite attractions, seasonal events, and more. I've accumulated enough pins to now fill three lanyards (with a few left over that I like to carry with me as everyday accessories), and I still like to peruse new offerings on each trip for something new. In the photo above, you'll see I have a lanyard entirely filled with Princess pins, a "theme park" lanyard with attraction and resort pins, and a Disney Cruise Line lanyard that still needs some work! Some pins are sold individually, some in packs, and some in "mystery sets" (my favorite!), so you can build up a collection rather quickly once you get started. Plus, most Cast Members are required to wear/carry pins for trading with guests, so be on the look out for some unique ones as you walk through the parks! I personally don't like to trade, but it's fun to see just how many pins Disney has available. 2. Mickey Mouse ear hats/headbands You can see in a previous post just how much I love my mouse ear headbands! It's a given that anyone who visits Walt Disney World should own at least one pair of ears, no matter their personality. There are hats and headbands for Princess fans, Pixar lovers, Villian appreciators, those who like to keep things "classic," and more. I've created a tradition of purchasing a new pair of ears every time I visit, so now I have enough to wear something different for each park day! These are great too as conversation starters with characters, and like I mentioned, really show off your Disney personality. And you can forget about personalization too! Definitely a must-buy! 3. Plush stuffed animals You might be thinking, "Okay, you're in your 20s and still buy Disney stuffed animals?!" Yes, of course; I don't think you can have enough stuffed animals! Disney carries plush friends from most of their franchises, and in many sizes and themes. Some plush also have interchangeable outfits to dress them in, which can be extra special fun! I love the recent additions of Pillow Pets to the plush world, including classic characters like Mickey, Minnie, and Dumbo alongside newer friends like Sulley, Simba, and Stitch. Even if you're a big kid (I don't like the term "adult"), it's definitely still worth picking up a new plush on your next trip. Who doesn't want to bring home a new cuddly buddy?! 4. Mickey & Minnie Holiday plush Going along with the plush theme, I'm a big fan of the Holiday/seasonal versions of Mickey & Minnie that are released throughout the year. I now have a 9" set of the famous couple for Christmas, Halloween, Easter (purchased during my most recent trip), Summer, and a special set from "The Year of a Million Dreams" back a couple of years ago. These guys are great to remember specific trips from, and can even be set out as decorations during their associated time of year. I love to put mine out on the sofa or atop a shelf! While each plush might cost you upwards to $18, they really are a great alternative to the classic versions you may already have at home. And who could pass up those adorable outfits? 5. Antenna toppers Another set of collectibles I've become addicted to! Disney makes a ton of themed antenna toppers to adorn your vehicle that can really show off your Disney personality back at home. There are Holiday/seasonal toppers, character-specific toppers, attraction-specific toppers, and more! I'm a big fan of the different varieties for Christmas (including Santa Mickey, Mickey with reindeer antlers, and a Mickey-shaped ornament), Mickey in a yellow rain poncho, and a pink Minnie with a gold princess crown. But it's so hard to decide which is my favorite! These are very reasonably priced items, usually offered at two for $8, so they're great souvenirs if you're traveling on a limited budget. Plus, they can help you find your car quickly in busy parking lots - an added bonus! 6. Christmas ornaments Definitely a must-purchase on any trip! You can find special Christmas ornaments around almost every corner at WDW, and they're another great way of remembering specific visits. Whether you want to get something with the date of your trip, represent a special event like an engagement, graduation, or new baby, or simply pay tribute to your favorite character, there are tons to choose from! I especially love visiting Disney's Days of Christmas at the Downtown Disney Marketplace to pick up something on each trip and spend extra time looking at the hundreds of offerings. Most locations also offer personalization for your ornaments, which does come at an extra cost, but adds a little extra pixie dust to your purchase. Just be sure to get them wrapped tight for travel and carry them home on the plane rather than packing them away! 7. Dooney & Bourke bags These might be splurge items, but I like to save up a little extra cash before a visit so I can purchase the latest and greatest handbag from Dooney & Bourke for Disney! They've released bags for everything from the Disney Princesses to the parks to the Haunted Mansion, and I fall in love with each new pattern they release. They typically have a variety of styles for each pattern, which have past included a cross-body, bowler, and tote, and sometimes even carry smaller items like wallets and wristlets. These items can usually be found in the jewelry room at World of Disney at Downtown Disney and in Uptown Jewelers at the Magic Kingdom, among other locations (we usually find the biggest selections at these stores). While they definitely will take a large chunk out of your souvenir budget, I promise you'll want to carry them everywhere you go once you're home. 8. Alex & Ani bracelets Disney certainly knows how to capitalize on trends, and partnering with Alex & Ani was a very smart move! These made-in-the-USA, positive energy-touting bangles are the perfect accessories for every girl. They have varieties representing each park at Walt Disney World, the Disney Princesses, the Fab Five classic characters, and famous Disney quotes, among others. They even carry their popular birthstone varieties with an extra little Mickey silhouette hanging from the bangle to signify where you got it from. These pieces start at around $38 each and go up a little from there, and they're easy to get addicted to (if you're like me anyway!). I love to stack a bunch of mine and wear them at once, like the photo recently posted to my Facebook page, but they're also nice to wear one at time for a more delicate look. These can be found at the main retail locations for each park (think Emporium and Mouse Gear-sized stores), and both World of Disney and Tren-D at Downtown Disney. Word of advice though: If you see a style you like, buy it right away! These things sell out quickly at bigger locations, especially if it's a newly-released style! 9. Vera Bradley bags Can you tell I'm a girly-girl?! Much like the Dooney & Bourke bags, I've fallen in love with the few Disney patterns by Vera Bradley that have made their way to the parks within the last year. These can also be on the higher-priced side, but come in a variety of sizes to fit your style and budget. I really like the smaller backpack size, because it's perfect for taking to the parks! The Disney element of the patterns is subtle too, so you can definitely continue to carry your bag when you get home. These can usually be found in the same locations as the Dooney & Bourke bags all around property as well. 10. Animator's Collection dolls These dolls, mostly of the Princess variety, are great sit-on-a-shelf items to bring home if you're a collecting type like I am. Introduced a few years back, these guys share a little information about the animator who designed them on the back of their box, in addition to their cute faces. I really love learning all I can about how Disney's animated classic films were produced, so I enjoy having little pieces of history to bring back home after a visit to WDW. Some of the dolls can be found outside of the parks, but most are only available on-property, or at least offer something a little bit extra (see the little Olaf Anna is holding in the photo below?). I'd recommend using the shipping service Disney offers so you don't have to run the risk of damaging the box en route home, or stock up on your favorites if you're driving home from Walt Disney World in a car. Even if you're visiting Walt Disney World on a budget, be sure to save a little cash for some souvenirs to bring home. You don't want to limit yourself and then make it back saying "Oh, I wish I would have picked up that gift!" After all, you never quite know when you'll be back again. I have many fond, magical memories attached to things I've brought home from Disney vacations, and I'll treasure them forever. Be sure to check out https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/shops/ for comprehensive WDW shopping information to plan your attack. Do you have any favorite souvenirs from past visits? Share them with me in the comments below! I always love to hear your about your magical memories! Until the next post, see ya real soon! Even though I've visited Walt Disney World more times than I can count, I still find new things to discover every time I come back. And this year's trip for the Disney Princess Half Marathon was no exception! Between new attractions, snacks, and experiences, this WDW veteran got to do many new things, and do it all alongside a first-timer to boot - There's nothing quite as magical as that! Check out my favorite "firsts" from my most recent trip: 1. My first RunDisney race I ventured to Walt Disney World and structured our vacation around the 2015 Disney Princess Half Marathon, so that was easily the biggest highlight of the trip! 13.1 magical miles through the parks, 50,000 runners with amazing costumes throughout the weekend, and characters galore! Nobody hosts races like Disney, and this event is definitely something I'd recommend to any runner! I may already be planning another go at it for next year's event... Glass Slipper Challenge or Castaway Cay Challenge, anyone?! Check out my previous post for more info on the race and my experience! 2. Getting evacuated from an attraction While WDW is an amazing world of enchantment, fantasy, and innovative technology, their attractions do sometimes need quick tune-ups in the middle of the day. I experienced my first ever ride evacuation on The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh in Fantasyland during this trip, in which everything shut down so something could be fixed. It may not have been as exciting of an evacuation like some guests have experienced with Disney's thrill rides (AKA not as cool as seeing Space Mountain with the lights on), but it gave us another fun memory to bring home with us. Plus we got a free paper FastPass to use at one of a few select attractions, and we eventually got to come back later when the ride opened up again. Ah, paper FastPasses - Nostalgia at it's finest! 3. Finally enjoying a Dole Whip I'm sure some of you are reading this and saying, "You've been to Disney that many times and never had a Dole Whip?!" Yes, this was my first time ever enjoying the iconic pineapple treat. I truthfully never had an interest in trying one, as pineapple isn't my favorite fruit, but boy was I missing out! I went with the pineapple and vanilla twist soft serve option and it was wonderful! Definitely lives up to the hype other guests give it. You can find the different varieties to try at the quick-service Aloha Isle in Adventureland in the Magic Kingdom, which is on the right-hand side as soon as you enter the land from the Castle Hub. 4. Experiencing Disney's Festival of Fantasy parade If you've been following my blog for a while now, you know it's no secret that I'm a big parade, show, and street entertainment fan at WDW. Well the last time I visited prior to this trip was in August of 2013, in which the daily Celebrate a Dream Come True parade was still entertaining guests at the Magic Kingdom. Disney's Festival of Fantasy parade debuted in early spring of 2014, so I finally got to see it in person after watching it many times on YouTube in anticipation! I did thoroughly enjoy Celebrate a Dream Come True and was sad to see it go at the time, but Festival of Fantasy was even more amazing and fun than I expected it to be. The floats were spectacular, there were a ton of both classic and new characters, including Anna and Elsa from Frozen, and the costuming was so detailed. This parade was easily one of my favorite things from this trip (if not my top). A must-see the next time you visit the Magic Kingdom! 5. Purchasing my first Duffy plush I've had a longtime crush on Mickey's teddy bear Duffy the Disney Bear, and finally purchased my own plush version of him during this trip! If you're not familiar with Duffy or his story, here's the short version: When Mickey was preparing to go on a long journey, Minnie made him a teddy bear to take along and keep him company. Mickey named him Duffy, and they've gone on many adventures together since first meeting. You an actually meet Duffy yourself at the front of World Showcase in EPCOT and ask him about those adventures, get his autograph and photo, and give big hugs. He's so cute and cuddly and will definitely become my own travel companion now that I have my own! 6. Staying until the Kiss Goodnight at the Magic Kingdom When I visit the theme parks at Walt Disney World, I enjoy staying from open until close as much as possible to ensure I get in everything I want to do. Well at the Magic Kingdom, there's a short little show called the "Kiss Goodnight" that announces the park closing, and it's really a special way to end your day. Up until this trip I had never actually stopped to sit and watch the 3-minute announcement on my way out, as we usually visit during the Holidays and have to shuffle out with the crowds, so I made sure we got to see it at least once during our two visits to MK this trip. It really capped off the evening with extra pixie dust and made me tear up a little bit. A Cast Member told us they usually play the Kiss Goodnight at park closing, and then both 30 minutes and an hour afterwards (depending on the day of the week and time of year), so be sure to save those last few minutes of your day for it. I promise you it will be worth staying until the very end. 7. Dining with Pooh and friends at The Crystal Palace During my 2011 Disney College Program, I worked many shifts at the famous Crystal Palace buffet restaurant with my dear character friend Winnie the Pooh, but never got to actually sit down and eat there. As I planned this vacation I knew we had to make a reservation! It was definitely a magical breakfast as we met Pooh, Tigger, Eeyore, and Piglet and celebrated Friendship Day in the "Pooh-rade" with other guests. The food was delicious, and it was really nice to fill our tummies before starting our day at the Magic Kingdom. It certainly lived up to it's wonderful expectations, and I would eat there again! 8. Dining with Donald and friends at Tusker House Another buffet restaurant that I heard so many good things about, but never visited! The Tusker House can be found in the Africa area of Disney's Animal Kingdom park, and is another great place to fill up and meet characters (only at breakfast, FYI). We enjoyed a spread of both traditional American buffet favorites and unique African offerings, and got to meet Mickey, Goofy, Donald, and Daisy in their safari gear. It was a little loud inside, but I really enjoyed everything - Especially their house jungle juice. YUM! And since we had a 9 AM reservation, we got to enter the park early and take a ton of pictures in front of the Tree of Life icon without any crowds in the background! An extra perk! 9. Adding more FastPasses at a FastPass+ kiosk I've said before in a previous post that I'm a big fan of Disney's new MyMagic+ technology and all that comes with it, including FastPass+. Well this trip was the first time I tried out adding on more FastPasses at the kiosks located inside the parks once our initial three had been used. And I found it to be really easy and convenient! When I pre-scheduled our first FastPasses for our park days (in which you get to choose three ahead of time), I made sure to choose the earliest possible times available so we could then continue to add on more throughout the day. At the FastPass+ kiosks, you can add one more FastPass on to your party's (or individual's) itinerary at a time for the park you're in. The lines to use the technology got a little long at times, but I knew exactly what I wanted before I got up there, so I was able to get in and get out quick. Definitely utilize this service when you're in the parks, because we were able to add on many more FastPasses each park day. Tip: If meeting the current popular characters (think Anna & Elsa, Princesses, and Mickey) is on the top of your must-do list, get your FastPasses ahead of time as part of your first three. We found that character greeting FastPasses were pretty much all gone by early afternoon. 10. Experiencing the extra special magic of a friend's first visit In all my past visits to WDW, I traveled with the same people (my family) who had been to the parks before. I was very fortunate to be traveling with a first-timer this trip, a friend from work, and being there with her and experiencing everything through her Disney-novice eyes was absolutely amazing. Between her "firsts" of seeing Cinderella Castle, giving Mickey a hug, riding Tower of Terror (my favorite!), and seeing Wishes light up the sky, I was on an emotional roller coaster throughout the week. I am so blessed to have been able to grow up going to the Disney Theme Parks & Resorts and sailing with Disney Cruise Line many times, that being with someone who has never gone before really had me flashing back to all of the magical moments from previous trips with my family. If you ever have the chance to take a first-timer, help them plan their trip, or even just connect with them when they come back, do it. It makes you see just how powerful and wonderful the magic of Disney really is. I can only imagine how it will be when I'm able to take my own children one day... Even if you're headed to Walt Disney World for the 100th time, there may be some things you've missed or skipped along the way. Take extra time to experience all of the little moments, because you never know what kind of magic they might add to your trip! As always, be sure to check out https://disneyworld.disney.go.com for comprehensive information as your plan your visit, and do your research. What are your favorite "firsts" from previous trips to WDW? Do you have anything on your list you want to do during your next visit that would be a first? Tell me about them in the comments below! Until the next post, see ya real soon! My first experience with RunDisney at this year's Disney Princess Half Marathon was nothing short of magical! While I've ran a half marathon, multiple 5Ks, and other distance races before, this race was definitely a good course for athletes of all backgrounds and abilities. I set a personal fitness goal a year ago to prepare for this event, and despite a little bit of nervous energy, I really felt ready. Plus, there were characters and entertainment along the course, tons of positive energy from Cast Members, volunteers, and fellow runners, and fireworks at the race start to get the party started. You really can't find a race location better than Walt Disney World! Here's some highlights from my race experience this year, as well as some helpful tips for registering for RunDisney events and getting ready: The registration process: Maybe you've never heard of RunDisney and all of their annual events, but trust me, THOUSANDS of other people have. If you're interested at all in participating in one of their races, be prepared to sign up the minute your event opens. My running group and I knew exactly what date and time registration for the Princess Half was set for, gathered our necessary personal and payment information, and situated ourselves at our computers 15 minutes prior to that time so we could get on right away. And boy, were we thankful to have done so! I believe this year's main event (the half marathon) sold out within 6 hours. The accompanying 5K, 10K, and Kids Races weekend events took a little longer to fill up, but everything happened much quicker than I initially anticipated. There a few things you'll need to know and have before you register. First, you really want to make sure you know exactly what kind of event you're signing up for and be prepared to commit MONTHS in advance. For the Princess Half February 2015 event, registration opened up in mid July (about 6 months ahead of time). Registrations are non-transferable to other runners, so you can't chicken out once you're signed up. Plus, your registration fees are non-refundable as well. It looks like the open early bird registration cost for the 2016 Disney Princess Half Marathon is $175 (without commemorative items). You may be eligible for an even earlier registration date if you're an Annual Passholder, member of the Disney Vacation Club, etc., so pay attention to the RunDisney website leading up to registration and sign up for their reminder emails! Secondly, know if you want to pre-purchase any commemorative items or participate in any of the weekend's special challenges. You'll be able to pre-order items like the event's special pin (what I chose to do), Mickey ear hats, and limited edition apparel, so I'd suggest adding on anything you know you'll want ahead of time, as a lot of merchandise does sell out quickly. And same goes with the challenges - If you're up to the task, get yourself signed up right away. These also fill up quickly! Thirdly, have all of your personal and payment information ready on registration day. This will just make the process quicker. As soon as registration opened for this year's event, I could tell that a lot of other people were also trying to get signed up, as the website was really moving slowly. Just be prepared with all of the necessary info you'll need, and you should be set to go in no time. Preparing for the race and training: Even though this is a fun Disney race, it's still a tough test of physical endurance. TRAIN, TRAIN, TRAIN! And start early. RunDisney offers a lot of really great training and nutrition resources for free to help you prepare, so take advantage of everything you can. Get involved in local running events and races, find a running buddy/group, do whatever you need to do and hit the pavement. You want to be fully prepared. Definitely set a training pace of a 15-minute mile or quicker, as there will be pacing in effect on race day (but I'll get to that in a minute!). You can even submit a proof of time to RunDisney (which I'd recommend) ahead of the event to help get a corral placement closer to the initial start. There are a few stipulations to submitting a proof of time, as well as a deadline, so pay attention to your event's rules. I submitted an earlier half marathon time from November of 2014 for this particular event. Also take time before your race to prepare a special costume! I saw so many amazing and creative costumes during the race that brought a smile to my face, and you really were in the minority if you weren't dressed up. Whether you want to get advanced with props, makeup, and headpieces, or would rather DisneyBound with a more simple, character-inspired look, get into it and have fun! Also take your event theme into consideration - I obviously saw a lot of Princesses during my race, but their corresponding villains and sidekicks were also popular. I of course had to dress up as my favorite Princess Aurora, but I saw everyone from Cinderella to Maleficent to Flounder! Booking an accompanying stay at Walt Disney World: Whether you want to make your race a long girl's weekend or a week-long stay with extended family, it's fun to add a couple of extra days to explore WDW before or after your run. Upon registering and getting your confirmation, start looking into what kind of vacation you want to plan, and when you want to arrive/depart. RunDisney races bring in thousands of runners, spectators, and family members (there were close to 50,000 runners alone for the three Princess weekend races), so hotels will fill up quickly, and especially those close to the race start/along the course. I stayed at Disney's Pop Century Resort in the EPCOT and Wide World of Sports areas, which is extremely close to the race start and Health and Fitness Expo. For some of the smaller events, RunDisney will designate some resort hotels as Host Resorts, which are essentially the only resorts you can get direct race transportation to and from. All of the WDW resort hotels were considered to be host resorts for the Princess weekend events, but some like The Expedition Everest Challenge only have three or four resort hotels as host resorts. Having direct transportation really helps on race day and getting to/from the Expo, so be sure to check where you can get that during your event. RunDisney also partners with some third-party travel providers for special vacation packages if you'd rather have someone else do the planning, so look into those opportunities as well. I personally prefer to book everything directly and independently through Walt Disney World, but that's just me. Race weekend and race day: Once you've arrived at your race destination (Walt Disney World, obviously, for the Princess Half), you must attend the accompanying Health and Fitness Expo to pick up some necessary materials before race day. These include your race bib with your timing device, gEAR check bag, and free race t-shirt. You will have to present a signed waiver to pick these items up, which will be emailed to you directly a few weeks out from the race so you can have it ready ahead of time. This waiver will also list your bib number and corral assignment, which is fun to know before you get to your race. The expo will also have numerous exhibitors with merchandise for sale, including official race items from RunDisney, Dooney & Bourke, and NewBalance. If you're particularly interested in any of the "official" items, be sure to get to the expo on the first day, and early. I was told later that all of the event's Dooney & Bourke bags had sold out within hours of the the expo opening. If you can't make it until later, there will still be plenty of other items to shop for from the other exhibitors and RunDisney, but some of the more popular items will go first. When race day arrives, be prepared for an early morning. And I mean EARLY. Depending on your event and first corral start time, buses could begin running as early as 3:00 AM. I personally think you should strive to be on those first round of buses to assure you get to the race start within plenty of time to fuel, stretch, warm up, take specialty character photos, check your bag, use the restroom, and get to your corral before the designated start time. Remember when I said that thousands of people participate in these events? Well they'll all be trying to get to the same place as you, at the same time, so get to everything early! My group and I pretty much made it to the buses at 3 and didn't feel rushed at all. You will feel like there's some downtime at the race start, but it's better to be relaxed than rushed! And if you're preparing to run in costume, be sure to have tear-away warmups with you in event of inclement weather. It was a little chilly the morning of the half (only to then get boiling hot!), but the 5K and 10K earlier in the week had near record-low temps. If you have to shed some layers once you get running, anything you leave along the course will be donated to local charities. So don't be afraid of losing some sweats to just be thrown away - Everything will go to someone in need! The magical course: The Disney Princess Half Marathon course is AWESOME! Coming from a particularly hilly area and having completed really hilly courses, this one was fairly flat and offered great places to vary your pace. Plus, the best part of RunDisney races are the characters, entertainment, and theme parks! This race started just outside of the EPCOT parking lot, moved along WDW roadways to go through the gates to the Magic Kingdom, around the Transportation and Ticket Center, into the Magic Kingdom via Main Street USA, then through Tomorrowland, Fantasyland, and Frontierland, out back past the Grand Floridian, down more property roadways, and back into EPCOT for the last mile and a half. There are a few exit ramps and uphill slopes, but they really aren't all that bad. And there are also a few areas where the road really narrows, so be prepared to have to move onto grass for a little bit. I definitely ran on grass a lot to weave through walkers. Just give a little shout to your fellow runners as to where you're moving or when you're slowing down. And if you ever need to walk, be sure to move to the side so faster-moving runners can move through. All of the character and entertainment stops really add extra pixie dust and magic to the course, so have a plan in place before you start as to how much you want to stop. Some Disney friends will attract more fans (think the Heroes and Villians gatherings, as well as the Cinderella Castle photo spot), so know that you may have to wait for some pictures. The photographers and character attendants really try hard to keep things moving, so have your camera/phone out and turned on so you can move through quickly and get back to running. Also know that characters will NOT sign autographs during races. There are plenty of water stops, bathrooms (port-a-potties and formal restrooms alike), and medial tents along the route, and the mile marker signs make for cute photo ops as well. Definitely bring some form of camera with you during your race, because you won't want to miss any magical moments! What you need to be mindful of though are the notorious balloon ladies, or the pacers. These volunteers cross the start line last in the last corral and keep a 16-minute mile pace throughout the entire race. If you were to ever drop back behind these gals, you may get swept up before you finish the course and miss out on receiving a medal. I started in corral M (out of A through P), and I came very close to falling behind after a few photo stops. Proper training and a photo stop game plan will help in staying as far away from being swept up as possible. Post race fun: Once you've made it past that finish line, it's time to PARTY! You'll receive your medal as you move a little further down the chute, as well as some snacks, Powerade, water, and congratulatory greetings from all of the wonderful volunteers. There's also a photo spot for finishers and some additional entertainment, like a live DJ and character greetings. My travel party headed right to a buffet brunch at Chef Mickey's at the Contemporary, but really Walt Disney World is your oyster! I'd definitely recommend heading to Downtown Disney for the finisher's party that evening, where you'll see tons of other runners with their medals and can take advantage of some shopping and dining discounts at select locations (like T-Rex, where we had dinner!). Whether you want to take it easy by your resort hotel pool, or head right to the parks, be sure to celebrate your triumph! I'd highly recommend tackling the Disney Princess Half Marathon to interested athletes, and I myself am considering running again next year. Be sure to pay attention to registration dates, train properly, book your vacation early, and have fun! This event was definitely one of the most fun and engaging races I've ever participated in, so be prepared for a lot of smiling all along the course! For more information on RunDisney and all of their other events at Walt Disney World and Disneyland, check out http://www.rundisney.com. Have you ever done a Disney race before? Tell me about it in the comments below! Until the next post, see ya real soon! Good morning from Philadelphia International Airport! I'm officially en route to Walt Disney World for a week-long stay at the Pop Century, with days planned for each park, Downtown Disney, and of course the 2015 Disney Princess Half Marathon (as if you couldn't tell by our shirts)! Be sure to like Haleigh's Once Upon a Blog on Facebook for photo updates from the trip, the race, and what's happening around the resort. Be sure tell me your must-dos in the comments below!
See ya real soon! No trip to Walt Disney World is complete without checking out the Magic Kingdom's nightly spectacular, Wishes! This spectacular display in undoubtedly one of my favorite experiences WDW has to offer, and I really believe everyone should plan to see it at least once during their vacation, whether they're a first-timer or a seasoned Disney veteran. With all of the current construction going on around the Cinderella Castle hub area in the park, it may be a little tricky getting the perfect viewing spot if you'll be visiting soon. But don't fret, because there are many places other than the famous hub to see the show! Check out some of my favorite (and non-traditional) venues to see the fireworks: **Tomorrowland bridge to the right of the hub Can't find a spot right in front of the castle? Try moving just to your right and claiming a spot on the bridge to Tomorrowland! While this area might be closed off during nights with heavy guest foot traffic (like we experienced this past New Year's Eve), it offers a great view if it's open. You can still pretty much see Cinderella Castle straight on, and you can get a closer look at Tinkerbell as she flies literally right above the bridge from the top turret of the castle. Plus, you can clearly hear the show's soundtrack from this spot! Since this is a pathway connecting the hub to another land of the park there will be people walking through during the show, but there is normally a specific path marked with masking tape and an accompanying Cast Member directing traffic. **Main Street USA Train Station In addition to the main castle hub area, Main Street USA also fills up during fireworks. If you walk a little closer to the park exit, you'll find the Train Station, which boasts an up-high viewing spot for the show directly facing the front of the castle. This is a great venue for viewing, and also offers a quick getaway after the finale right to the park exit below. Make sure to head to this area a little sooner than 30 minutes prior to showtime though, as it can fill quickly! **New Fantasyland While a good part of the area behind Cinderella Castle is blocked off during fireworks as a safety precaution (i.e. potential fallout), New Fantasyland back a little further offers stunning views of the show from the perspective of the Magic Kingdom's two other castles: The Beast's castle and Prince Eric's castle. You can still clearly hear the soundtrack, foot traffic is reduced as everyone is closer to the hub and Main Street, and you get a 360-degree perimeter feel as fireworks are shot off both in front of and behind you! It's also definitely a great option if you've got later dining reservations at Be Our Guest or want to ride Under the Sea: Journey of the Little Mermaid one last time before the park closes. **Disney's Polynesian Village Resort beach People often forget that you can still catch stellar views of the fireworks once you exit the park. One of these locations adds a particularly extra tropical feel on the beach at Disney's Polynesian Village Resort. Situated right on the Seven Seas Lagoon across from the Magic Kingdom, this resort boasts a beautiful beach area with sand and hammocks perfect for a less stressful viewing experience. The Polynesian is accessible from the Magic Kingdom via the Monorail, so you can make it there from the park in about 20 minutes or so. With all of the construction going on at this resort (it's going through a major expansion and refurbishment) some areas might be off limits, so check everything out well before showtime to make sure you can access the beach for viewing. **Disney's Contemporary Resort balconies Another awesome spot outside of the Magic Kingdom! The Contemporary can be found directly next to the park, even accessible by a walking trail, so it's very close by and easy to get to after a long day of fun. There are multiple observation decks at this resort for fireworks viewing, and you can even see Cinderella Castle and Space Mountain from most vantage points! See my photo above - That was our view from one the stairway balconies on New Year's Eve 2014! You can access the main observation deck on level four of the resort, where the main gift shops and dining areas are found, or you can snag a viewing spot on the deck right outside of The California Grill if you're dining there that evening. There are also smaller balconies along the outdoor stairwells of the resort that connect guest room levels, but be mindful those doors cannot be opened from the outside, so you'll have to walk all the way down the stairs to ground level once the show is over. **Transportation and Ticket Center This is another great viewing spot in front of the Seven Seas Lagoon that is easily accessible by the Monorail right from the Magic Kingdom. The TTC serves as the main parking lot for the park, complete with it's own Monorail and ferryboat stations, and if you position yourself right between these stations, you can directly see Cinderella Castle in the distance and hear the show's soundtrack! The lighting won't be reduced in this area like it is in the park, but it's a much less crowded spot that again allows for a quick exit to your vehicle after the finale before the crowds disperse. I wouldn't recommend this viewing location for first-timers, as you really want to be closer to Cinderella Castle, but it's a great option nonetheless. You don't want to miss Wishes, so be sure to secure your viewing spot (wherever you may choose) with plenty of time before it's set to begin that evening. This show is one of the most popular experiences around Walt Disney World, and it brings in many guests every night. FastPass+ viewing is offered for this show, so you always have that options as well (if it's available that night). Have a plan for the day you want to visit the Magic Kingdom and be prepared to stake your claim at least 30 minutes ahead of showtime (and even an hour beforehand, if you're visiting during peak times). Also remember that Disney's entertainment schedule is always subject to change, and weather can affect showtimes. Be sure to check out https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/entertainment/magic-kingdom/wishes-nighttime-spectacular/ for complete info on the show and some additional tips. Where do you like to enjoy Wishes? Tell me in the comments below! Until the next post, see ya real soon! If you're planning an upcoming trip to Walt Disney World with big-time Disney character fans in your travel party, then consider adding a magical Character Dining experience to your plans! These one-of-a-kind meet and greet opportunities Disney has perfected are great for getting photos and autographs from many of your favorite pals in one place, at one time, all while having a fabulous meal. Whether you're a princess fan, love the "Fab Five," or want to spend extra time in the Hundred Acre Wood, there are multiple places for you to have a meal alongside your favorites. Not familiar with Character Dining? Still on the fence whether your family would enjoy the experience or not? Check out some of my tips for making reservations and getting the most out of your meal: **Find the right fit for your family There are over a dozen Character Dining opportunities to choose from at WDW, so be sure you're picking the right one for your family/travel party. If you're looking for a more upscale location where you can dine alongside royalty, then you might want to consider Cinderella's Royal Table at The Magic Kingdom or Akershus at EPCOT. Want a buffet venue that's more on the casual side? Then look into a meal at Cape May Cafe at Disney's Beach Club Resort or The Crystal Palace at The Magic Kingdom. Pay attention to menu choices, variety of characters, and costs as well. If you really want to meet Mickey, Minnie, Goofy and other members of the "Fab Five" classic character group, a breakfast at 1900 Park Fare with Disney's British friends doesn't quite fit the bill. Looking to indulge in cuisine fit for a more sophisticated palette? Then dinner at Mickey's Backyard BBQ probably won't fulfill that desire. Take your time looking at the options and know what you're getting yourself into. **Make your reservations EARLY With all of Disney's new capabilities through My Magic+ and the My Disney Experience site/app, take advantage of the opportunity to make your dining reservations early, even up to 180 days in advance of your trip! Disney is well-known for it's Character Dining opportunities, and many locations are guest favorites, some requiring advance reservations to get a table. Even if you're traveling during non-peak seasons or typically less busy times of the year, these restaurants will fill up quicker than you can say Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious (whew, that was a tough one to type). Play it safe and reserve your table as soon as your intended day becomes available. Tip: You'll need to submit credit card info to confirm your reservation, so have it handy or add it to your profile on your My Disney Experience account beforehand. You won't be charged when you make your reservation, but you will if you don't cancel within the given window of time or show up for that meal. Some of the more popular locations like Cinderella's Royal Table may require up-front payment when you first make your reservation, so be prepared for that as well. **Traveling on a budget? Consider breakfast vs. dinner Really want to experience Character Dining, but are on a tighter vacation budget? Consider dining for breakfast instead of dinner (if it's available at your desired location). Breakfast meal costs, especially at the various buffet locations, typically cost less per person. Plus, you can fill up at the start of your day so you don't have to worry about saving up for dinner and feeling hungry in the meantime. And if you make your reservation early enough in the day, you can get into the parks before they're officially open to the public! This means getting to leisurely stroll to the restaurant, get pictures for your vacation album without photo-bombs from random strangers, and take in all of the stunning scenery without feeling like you're in the way of other guests. It adds a little extra magic to the start of your day. **Be prepared for your meal This goes without saying, but make sure your family is prepared for your character meal before you arrive. Make sure your entire party arrives at the location ahead of your reservation time to check-in, you have enough money to pay the bill, you bring along a fully charged camera/phone to capture photos, and your all-important autograph book is in your park bag with a pen or sharpie too. And if you want to take your Character Dining experience up a notch, be sure to dress up for the location you're visiting! Characters love to see themselves on your clothing and accessories, and they love to add to your special vacation memories if you've got celebration buttons on. Tip: When you arrive at your table, seat children or guests particularly excited about meeting the characters in the spots closest to the aisles around your table. This will make it easier for the characters to lean in for photos and give hugs. And leave your autograph book open and out on the edge of the table also closest to the aisle so they can clearly see you'd like for them to sign your book. Make sure that pen cap is off, too! **Enjoy every moment! Remember, you're going to be getting nose to nose (or nose to snout) with Disney friends, so don't be shy and HAVE FUN! Sometimes character meet and greets in the parks can feel rushed and chaotic, so take every opportunity to spend as much time with the characters as you can, give big hugs, and capture all of the magical moments. Plus, take the time to rest your feet and fill your tummy - These meals serve as great relaxation opportunities indoors, too! Check out some of my favorite Character Dining spots around Walt Disney World: -Chef Mickey's at Disney's Contemporary Resort -Cinderella's Royal Table at The Magic Kingdom -Disney Junior Play 'n Dine at Disney's Hollywood Studios -The Crystal Palace at The Magic Kingdom -The Garden Grill at EPCOT Character Dining is a great way to meet many Disney friends at once, enjoy five-star meals only Disney can dream up, and relax a little bit during your vacation. Even at 23, without children of my own yet, I still get giddy meeting characters and spending a little bit of extra time with them. While it's an experience that comes at a little higher cost, it's so worth it. To check out all of the Character Dining experiences Walt Disney World has to offer, be sure to visit https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/dining/#/character-dining/ for more information. Do you have any memorable moments from a Disney character meal? Share them with me in the comments below! Until the next post, see ya real soon! As Walt once said: "Disneyland will never be completed. It will continue to grow as long as there is imagination left in the world." Well, Disney Theme Parks and Resorts continues to uphold that standard set by the original Imagineer and build upon our beloved parks, attractions, and experiences so they may live on forever. And sometimes, that means saying goodbye to some favorites to make way for new technologies and innovations. It isn't always easy, but we have to trust that something bigger, better, and more magical is on the horizon. While it's not Throwback Thursday just yet, I wanted to take a look back at some of my favorites that I've said goodbye to over the years and the magical memories that live on with them. 1. Spectromagic nighttime parade- Magic Kingdom Now don't get me wrong, I LOVE me some Main Street Electrical Parade, but I also dearly miss MK's original nighttime Parade spectacle, Spectromagic. This glittering, fantastical display ran from 1991 to 1999 and then returned for a second go-around from 2001 to 2010. Like the current Main Street Electrical Parade, it featured thousands of sparkling lights, a fantastic score of new and classic Disney tunes, and my favorite Jiminy Cricket as your host and narrator. The floats included units for The Little Mermaid, Fantasia, and Cinderella, among other favorites, and not to mention an incredible cast of characters and dancers. While I know I'd hate to see the Main Street Electrical Parade go, I'd also rejoice in seeing Spectromagic come back! 2. Tarzan Rocks! stage show - Disney's Animal Kingdom This is one show I genuinely miss over the current production that is housed in the Theater in the Wild at Disney's Animal Kingdom (No offense, Nemo fans!). Now staging Finding Nemo: The Musical, the once open-air theater was home to Tarzan Rocks!, a 30-minute stage journey through the story and music of Disney's Tarzan. It ran from 1999-2006 and featured a cast of dancers, acrobats, singers, live musicians, and inline skaters. The theater closed in 2006 so it could be refurbished to it's current air-conditioned, indoor location and the show was never performed again. The current Nemo show is definitely cute and a fun time for younger guests, but it can't hold a candle to this! And who doesn't love Phil Collins?! 3. Disney Channel Rocks! street show - Disney's Hollywood Studios Another show I dearly miss and secretly wish would magically appear any time I visit DHS. This mini parade and outdoor show featured some tunes from Disney Channel's then-current hits like The Cheetah Girls, High School Musical, and Camp Rock, among others, and a cast of talented singers and dancers. It took place in front of the giant Sorcerer Mickey hat at various times throughout the day, and little ones even got to get involved during a dance number with the cast. The energy was always high and really livened up the courtyard in front of the Great Movie Ride. It ran from 2010 to 2013 and wasn't replaced by anything new after it's final run. RIP, DCR... 4. PUSH the talking trashcan - Magic Kingdom Why did PUSH ever have to leave?! This magical, talking waste receptacle entertained guests in Tomorrowland and in front of Cinderella Castle all day long with wise-cracking jokes, tricks, and songs. After a third-party contract ended, PUSH permanently left the Magic Kingdom and hasn't been seen since. My family will particularly always remember the time he warmed up the crowd before the 3:00 parade only to then exclaim "THERE'S A BUG ON ME! GET IT OFF ME! GET IT OFF ME!" We'll miss you PUSH - You could never be replaced! 5. Maelstrom attraction - EPCOT This classic attraction in World Showcase's Norway pavilion closed just this past Fall after the announcement that it will refurbished into a Frozen-inspired area with a character meet and greet location, restrooms, and revamped attraction. It was previously a moderate thrill level ride through the story of Norway's troll legends, Viking folklore, and current economic state (odd, I know), and definitely had a cult following of devoted fans. I particularly enjoyed the attraction as I have Norwegian ancestry in my family history, and was sad to see if go. But, it did open in 1988, and I think the Frozen facelift will capture many new fans and make EPCOT a little more attractive for younger guests. 6. The Magic, The Memories, and You nighttime spectacular - Magic Kingdom While I do enjoy the current Celebrate the Magic castle projection show that replaced this innovative nighttime masterpiece, nothing will be able to ever live up to the emotional impact this show had on me. I saw this spectacular display for the first time after I completed my Traditions (Disney's orientation) class on one of the first days of my Fall 2011 Disney College Program and cried like a baby right there in the castle hub amid hundreds of other guests. This show featured the same projection technologies the current show uses, but it showcased hundreds of Photopass pictures taken that very day in the Magic Kingdom, so you could actually see yourself projected onto Cinderella Castle. The black and white sequence featuring vintage video and photos from the early days of Disneyland still gets me choked up. 7. Move it, Shake it, Celebrate it! dance party - Magic Kingdom This interactive dance party is another one of my favorites in which the current replacement leaves me wanting more/missing what once was. MiSiCi was recently revamped into the Move it, Shake it, Dance and Play it! street party, which is very similar, but leaves out many of the characters and music from the first edition that really made the party something special. I particularly miss my Sebastian! The new dance party still comes to the castle hub multiple times a day and invites guests to get up and dance, but a part of me really misses MiSiCi. 8. "The Hat" icon - Disney's Hollywood Studios Another very recent removal that really tugs at my heartstrings. Since it was first announced that Disney's Hollywood Studios would begin removing the giant Sorcerer Mickey hat icon from the park to make way for new refurbishments and renovations, it had a very polarizing response. Some people rejoiced, and some people were saddened (me being one of them). I personally loved the hat and cry a little bit inside each day as I check in on it's current state of removal. There's talks that it's going to be moved someplace else, so let's hope we see it again soon! 9. Skyway attraction - Magic Kingdom One of the things I remember from my first visit to Walt Disney World in 1998 is the Skyway attraction that connected Fantasyland to Tomorrowland via hanging gondolas high in the sky. It was open from 1971 to 1999 and offered stunning views of the park, a great opportunity to relax your feet and people watch, and an extra attraction to ride during a visit to the Magic Kingdom. It was never replaced with another version, and the former Fantasyland station is now home to the Tangled-themed restroom/charging area (which I do love, BTW). 10. Paper FastPasses And who could exclude paper FastPasses from a list like this?! While I do really love the new FastPass+ technology available with Disney's MagicBands, I do miss using and collecting paper FastPasses from trips to WDW. I still have many unused ones from my favorite attractions that serve as great souvenirs - I mean, they do have the exact date you visited the park right printed right on them! I think the new system is very green, efficient, and easy, but I'll miss one of Disney's finest vacation innovations that set a high precedent within the theme park industry. I'll never throw out my old paper FastPasses! Is there anything you wish would come back that I didn't include on my list? Tell me about it in the comments below! I love hearing the memories and stories others bring back from their Disney vacations, especially when it comes to the polarizing topic of attractions and shows gone by. Be sure to visit https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/attractions/ for a complete list of what's available for your enjoyment during your next trip. Until the next post, see ya real soon! Want even more Disney vacation planning tips, tricks, and suggestions? Be sure to visit Haleigh's Once Upon a Blog on Facebook and "Like" for more magic and fun! I hope to post more vacation planning advice, photos from my own trips, Disney Parks and Resorts trivia, and answer your questions as you plan your vacations.
Head over to https://www.facebook.com/haleighsonceuponablog now! Until the next post, see ya real soon! When it comes to playing in the theme parks at Walt Disney World, I like to really get into the magic with a Disney-themed outfit! Whether you add just a sprinkle of pixie dust with some Disney-themed jewelry, or go the distance with an ensemble dedicated entirely your favorite character (Jiminy Cricket FTW!), you'll come home with more magical memories than you ever thought possible, and cute photos to boot! I always like to add accessories to my park outfits based on where I"m headed for the day or any special reservations/plans my travel party has in place. Headed to the Magic Kingdom? You better believe I'm going to wear my Princess Aurora crown. Taking in a showing of Fantasmic! at Hollywood Studios? You'll be able to spot me with a light-up blinky necklace and glowing Tinkerbell clip. Joining some friends for a meal at Chef Mickey's? I can't forget to wear my classic Minnie Mouse ears! There are so many ways to dress the part and flaunt your Disney Side, so take a look at some of my favorite, go-to choices and how they can help you step further into the magic: **Mickey or Minnie Mouse ear hats/headbands A Disney accessory everyone must own! These little beauties come in more styles and colors than ever before, with many of them paying homage to Disney's classic and modern characters. You can find ear hats themed for your favorite princess or Pixar characters, some with attached veils and crowns, and even some with removable/adjustable pieces. There are even ears styled like the Disney villains! You can of course also get your hats embroidered on the back with the choice of a few fonts and color, too (available at most of the larger retail shops for an extra fee when you purchase your ears). That's definitely a must-do for a first-timer! I'm partial to the headband-style Minnie ears, which are nice for the ladies who don't want to risk getting hat hair in the Florida heat. These also come in a variety of styles and colors, including some for the season/holidays (see my red and green Christmas ears in the photo above). Be warned though, you may or may not want to collect as many pairs as possible after you purchase your first! And don't be afraid to sport your ears outside of the parks either - I like to pack a pair in my carry-on bag so I can put them on as soon as we touch down in Florida! **Jewelry No matter your taste in jewelry, it certainly shouldn't be overlooked when planning your park day outfits. Whether you go with a delicate Minnie silhouette necklace, chunky, neon-colored Tinkerbell watch, or Mickey-shaped birthstone earrings, Disney jewelry can take your look to the next level. I've recently become obsessed with Alex and Ani's Disney collection of bracelets, including bangles for most of the Disney Princesses, four WDW theme parks, and the "Fab Five" classic characters, among others. Even if it's only a piece or two, an extra little sparkle goes a long way. And if you visit any characters inspired by your jewelry, show them! They love to see themselves in your outfits! **Celebration buttons Be sure to let everyone know what you're celebrating on your Walt Disney World vacation! These free buttons can be found all around WDW, particularly at/near each theme park's Guest Relations location. Current button choices include a generic "I'm Celebrating" message, Happy Birthday, first visit, family reunion, Just Engaged, and Happily Ever After (perfect for newlyweds or couples celebrating an anniversary). You can also ask a Cast Member to customize your button for you with your name, date, or specific phrase if anyone is specifically handing out buttons. I highly suggest getting buttons for any occasion you may be celebrating, as Cast Members and guests alike will certainly take notice. Plus, you can never be wished "Happy Birthday!" too many times by a stranger, right? **Collectible Disney pins Whether you're into trading them or not, everyone has to have at least one of Disney's hundreds (maybe even thousands?) of collectible pins. Not familiar with the Disney pin craze? Well, where have you been?! You can find them for purchase at nearly every retail store location across property, and they come at all different price points, some in sets, and even some boxed as "mystery pins." There are pins for virtually every character, attraction, holiday, sports team, etc. The list goes on an on! While I personally don't trade my pins, I still like to showcase my favorites during my park days. They're great conversation starters, and can really theme your outfit for you without a lot of work. I like to wear my princess lanyard if I know I"m going to meet Cinderella, Aurora, or any other Disney royalty, and I always take my Disney Cruise Line pins with me on board any of their magical ships. **Tiaras fit for a princess Every girl that visits Walt Disney World deserves to let her inner princess shine, and a sparkling tiara is the perfect accessory to do just that. It can be big or small, plastic or metal, it doesn't matter. As long as it fits your style and Disney Side, it's the perfect choice for you. Plus, it's the best way to make sure you're greeted as a Disney Princess should by Cast Members throughout the parks. Even at 23, that still makes me smile :) **Backpacks/handbags You're going to be taking some sort of bag into the parks with you, right? Well then you better make it a Disney bag! Whether you load up one backpack for your entire travel party or have a small clutch just for some of your whozits and whatzits, you've gotta Disney-fy it. I'm a fan of the various Disney Parks leather bags by Dooney & Bourke and styles by Vera Bradley. While these are higher-priced splurges, they're all very high-quality and have multiple patterns to choose to compliment your Disney Side. Whatever you choose to carry, make sure it reflects your style and isn't too tedious to tote around all day long. Check out my previous post with tips on how to pack your park day bag! **Nighttime "blinky" bling Known affectionately by my family as "The Blinky Man," you'll see plenty of opportunities to light up the night as you walk through the parks and come across flashing, light-up accessories available for purchase on convenient retail carts. I love, love wearing light-up accessories to the theme parks if I know I'll be staying late into the night, and especially if I plan on taking in a nighttime show or fireworks. There's everything from basic necklaces to flashing tiaras and Mickey ears to spinning toys, and they all come at different price points. A great way add to the magic of Walt Disney World at night! **Literal pixie dust Did you know you can actually get some of TInkerbell's magic pixie dust at WDW? This is always a must-have accessory for me, and I make sure to get some right at the beginning of my day at the Magic Kingdom. Simply head to the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique at the back of Cinderella Castle or the neighboring Castle Couture shop in Fantasyland and ask a Cast Member for some. Close your eyes, make a wish, and you'll be sparkling all day long! Your outfit will be all the more magical, and you'll feel like you can do and be anything for the day. Parents, make sure to have your cameras ready for this as well - Pixie dusting makes for a great photo! **Your happiest smile! A smile is the best accessory anyone can have on vacation, so don't waste any of your time with frowns or pouts - Have fun! Whether you theme your outfit around your favorite character or where you're headed for the day, a bright smile can only enhance your look. So what are your favorite ways to accessorize your Disney Side while playing in the parks? Tell me about it in the comments below! And be sure to check out https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/shops/ for a comprehensive list of locations to shop for Disney clothing, accessories, and souvenirs around Walt Disney World, as well as my previous post with my favorites. Until the next post, see ya real soon! Planning a vacation to Walt Disney World can certainly be daunting task, but Disney is always working to make the planning process easier, more efficient, and more magical! Their most recent innovation, My Magic+, is a true testament to that goal. From selecting your personal vacation preferences to choosing FastPasses, making dining reservations to designing Magic Bands, and even booking a resort hotel stay, My Magic+ allows you to do it all. Here's my quick guide to navigating this new resource and feeling confident in your pre-planning abilities: Step one: Create your account Before you start putting together your Disney vacation, you'll want to create an account with My Disney Experience, the planning site/mobile app that will allow you to keep track of all your reservations and plans, as well as the current wait times and entertainment schedules in the theme parks once you're in Florida. To create an account, you'll need to supply an email address and a few other pieces of information, along with a personal password and security questions. Then once you're in, you can customize your profile with a character icon and vacation preferences - but we'll get to that in just a bit. As with any online account, be sure to write down your login info, password, and security questions just in case, and put them in a secure place. After you've created your account and played around a little bit on the site, be sure to then download the free app (available in the App Store). Having this app and your account linked will make all the difference as you plan your trip and spend time in the parks. Take some time to familiarize yourself with the different pages as much as you can, so you're comfortable - new technology can be hard tricky! You'll want to be sure each member of your travel party also creates as account so you can add them to your Family & Friends list. When you're connected, you'll be able to easily add them to dining reservations and FastPass+ selections in less steps, as well as extend vacation planning privileges and reservation access. Step two: Book your WDW vacation Once you've created your account and decided on the big parts of your vacation (when you're traveling, where you're going to stay), you're ready to book your trip using My Magic+ and your new My Disney Experience account. You can easily book your WDW resort hotel stay, add on theme park tickets and transportation, supply your flight information, and more. You can also directly pay the required deposit for your vacation package and save a credit card to your account, which will come in handy when it's time to book dining reservations and add on other special experiences. Your reservation will then be linked to your account, accessible on both the site and app, and you can move on to adding more magic to your vacation! Step three: Customize your Magic Bands The first bit of extra pixie dust you'll be able to add to your vacation are your travel party's Magic Bands! These water-proof, snap-on wristbands will serve as your hotel room keys, theme park tickets, Magical Express tickets, and even your credit card (should you want to link one for the duration of your trip). But most importantly, your Magic Bands serve as an accessory to your "Disney Side" personality! You can choose from seven different colors and customize exactly how you'd like your name to be printed on the inside of your band. Go by a nickname? Prefer to be called by your middle name? It's up to you! Once you've finished designing, My Disney Experience will approximate how long you have to make any changes before they're shipped to your home, which is about 3-4 weeks before your check-in date. And don't worry, you'll get an email letting you know when they've been shipped out. When you arrive at Walt Disney World, your Magic Bands will unlock a whole new world of possibilities for fun, so stay tuned for a future post with more information! Step four: Make your dining reservations One of my favorite parts about vacationing in WDW is the food, so be sure to take advantage of all the unique dining options available across property throughout your trip! Reservations before arriving for sit-down meals are pretty much required, or at least recommended, across the board these days, and My Magic+ allows you to do so while planning your vacation. You can make reservations for you travel party directly through your My Disney Experience account on either the site or the app, and you can do so starting as early as 180 days prior to your check-in date. This means you can make as many meal reservations as you'd like for any day of your trip as far as six months in advance. Pretty sweet, huh? Just log in to your account, find the location you want to reserve a table at, and choose your date, preferred time, and dining party. From there you'll need to provide credit card information to confirm your reservation - Remember when I said it would be beneficial to save a card to your profile? You can easily supply your card info without having to input it for each and every dining reservation you'd like to make. It doesn't seem like much, but it will save you plenty of headaches and frustration. Note: Your credit card will NOT be charged when making these reservations, it's just to secure your table. Should you not show up for your meal or cancel within the designated time frame, only then will your card be charged. Select locations do require pre-payment, but that will be indicated before you make the reservation. Once everything is submitted, you'll receive an email confirmation and be able to access your reservation directly from your My Disney Experience account on the app or site. You can edit your dining party to include your Family & Friends as well, so everyone can see the reservation from their own accounts. Step five: Choose your FastPass+ experiences Long gone are the days of paper FastPasses and having to rush to your favorite attraction first thing in the morning to reserve a time. Instead, My Magic+ and your My Disney Experience account allow you to choose your FastPasses before stepping foot in WDW! Once you're 60 days away from your check-in date, you can reserve FastPass times for attractions, shows, character meet and greets, and parade viewing for your entire trip (This 60-day window is only for guests staying at Walt Disney World hotel during their stay, so be mindful that it's 30 days in advance otherwise!). Simply go to the FastPass+ page on the site or app, and start selecting. There are some limitations to this service, so be sure to check out my previous post on FastPass+ for more details and my personal review! Now even if you've hit your maximum number of pre-selected FastPasses for any given day at the parks, you can preference or "like" your favorite attractions so My Magic+ plus can make suggestions for your party when you're in the parks. You can even set reminders for parades, shows, and fireworks times through your My Disney Experience account, without having to make a FastPass+ selection. This helps make sure you don't head home at the end of your trip saying "We forgot to see the Electrical Parade!" or "We didn't meet Winnie the Pooh!" among other very, very sad phrases. Utilize as much of the technology as you can! Step six: Check into your WDW resort hotel before you arrive Another advantage of My Magic+ is the ability to actually check in to your WDW resort hotel before arriving in Florida. Once you're within 60 days of your check-in date, simply visit your My Disney Experience account to get started. Find your hotel reservation and click the Online Check-In link to approximate your arrival time, place a room request (level preference, view preference, etc.), add a credit card for charging privileges and set pin numbers for your travel party, and bypass long lines when you arrive. Then, you can get to the fun stuff much quicker! There will be a special Online Check-In line in the lobby of your hotel where you'll need to present an ID and credit card for incidentals to receive your room assignment and ask any last questions you may have. I personally love to have as many details taken care of ahead of time, so having this ability with My Magic+ is awesome! Step seven: Let the memories begin! Well, you've made it to Walt Disney World and are ready to get started! With your customized Magic Bands in hand, you can get into your room, enter the parks, check-in for your dining reservations, and access your pre-selected FastPass+ experiences and reminders. Oh yeah, and have the most magical time of your life with the people you love most! My personal experiences with My Magic+ have been nothing short of magical, and I would highly recommend utilizing the technology while you plan your next Walt Disney World vacation! There's no better feeling than knowing the details are taken care of so you can make the most of your vacation time with family and friends from the very beginning. Whether you like to plan every moment or go with the flow, you're able to do so with My Magic+. How do you utilize My Magic+? Tell me about it in the comments below, and feel free to ask me any other questions you may have. For more information, be sure to visit https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/plan/my-disney-experience/my-magic-plus/. Until the next post, see ya real soon! As a former entertainment cast member at Walt Disney World, I enjoy taking time to meet Disney's famous characters whenever I make a trip back to Orlando. Whether you're a fan of the Disney Princesses, Winnie the Pooh and his pals, Pixar, or "the Fab Five," there are many fabulous places to meet your favorite characters around WDW. So turn on your camera and have your autograph books open, because these are my top 10 favorite character spots:
1. Town Square, Magic Kingdom Is there any place more iconic at Walt Disney World than Main Street USA? Stop by Town Square outside of The Emporium throughout the day for the chance to meet a variety of Disney friends, including Pluto, Snow White, and Mary Poppins, among others. A couple of characters are usually out and about at one time, each with their own line, so there are many chances to take photos, get autographs, and give big hugs all day long. With most outdoor locations like this, characters usually spend 30 minutes or so meeting guests between breaks for "a spot of tea" or to "check on the dwarves," if you catch my drift, so don't worry if you see one of your favorites walking away - They'll be right back! Each character always has one or more attendants with them, so they'll be able to answer any questions your may have or let you know when the characters will be back. 2. Princess Fairytale Hall, Magic Kingdom One of the newest character meet and greet locations at the Magic Kingdom, this is the place to go if you're a Disney Princess fan. Princess Anna and Queen Elsa, and Cinderella and Rapunzel are currently meeting guests here throughout the day, and FastPass+ is offered if you want to combat the major crowds they've been bringing in (especially Anna and Elsa). Plus, Disney's Photopass photographers are always available to help with capturing the magic during your meet and greet. On your way in, be sure to take a look at all of the details in the architecture and design! 3. Town Square Theater, Magic Kingdom If you're looking for a chance to meet with the big cheese himself or shrink down to the size of a fairy, then Town Square Theater is where you need to be! There are two different character experiences to be had at this location: visit with Mickey in his magic show dressing room, or step into Pixie Hollow to meet Tinkerbell. Each character has a FastPass+ line and meets throughout the day, so there are many chances to stop by and say hello. And the air conditioning in the building certainly makes for a nice break from riding rides and the Florida heat! 4. Character Spot, EPCOT Stop into Character Spot in Future World to get up close and personal with some of "The Fab Five" characters including Mickey, Minnie, and Goofy! This is a great location for young guests and those families who want to meet a couple characters at once and get on with the rest of their day. Again, FastPass+ is offered, Photopass photographers are there, and the area is air conditioned. Great place for meeting characters efficiently and with shorter lines in EPCOT! 5. The Magic of Disney Animation, Hollywood Studios This location hosts a multitude of Disney friends all day long, including some "surprise" meet and greets during select afternoons. You can meet Sorcerer Mickey, Minnie Mouse, Wreck it Ralph and Vanellope, and Mr. Incredible and Frozone, all under one roof! Each character has their own themed area, queue line, and photographer, so it does take a little bit of time to see everyone, but it's great for checking off many of the meet and greets on your list in one location. Be forewarned though as this building gets fairly loud and chaotic with a lot of young guests. And if you want to see what I mean by "surprise" meet and greets, head to this location in the late afternoon/early evening during nights Fantasmic! is showing. 6. Pete's Silly Sideshow, Magic Kingdom Another new character area in the Magic Kingdom that takes Disney theming to a whole new level, Pete's Silly Sideshow in the Storybook Circus area allows to you to meet Minnie, Daisy, Goofy, and Donald as their circus personas. It's a great place for kids of all ages and offers great photo ops with bright costuming, backgrounds, and details. There are two different lines (one to meet the girl characters, and one to meet the boys), so guests are moved through efficiently and easily. Tip: Head to this section of New Fantasyland first in the morning to see these characters and experience the rest of the area's attractions without any lines! 7. Animation Courtyard, Hollywood Studios Once you're done meeting characters inside The Magic of Disney Animation building, visit the Animation Courtyard right outside to meet Jake and Sofia from Disney Junior. This is the location to visit if you have little ones in your travel party and are not dining at Hollywood and Vine for a character meal (the only other place to meet Disney Junior pals). Both Jake and Sofia have their own area, but they're right next door to each other so you can meet them both fairly quickly and easily. Just make sure younger guests know what to expect to avoid a meltdown! 8. United Kingdom, EPCOT Travel over to World Showcase EPCOT and you'll see characters in each themed country pavilion. I especially love stopping in the UK for character meet and greets though, as you can see Pooh, Tigger, Alice, and Mary Poppins all within a few steps of each other. These meet and greets typically feel a little more organic and carefree, as each location usually has shorter lines that allow for more character interaction with each guest. No FastPass+ is offered, but Photopass photographers are normally available at each area to help you. And of course character attendants are there as well. 9. Pixar Place, Hollywood Studios If you're a Toy Story fan, or have one in your travel party, then you definitely need to walk through Pixar Place by the Toy Story Midway Mania ride. You can meet Buzz and Woody in an enclosed meet and greet area across from the ride, but you may run into a Green Army Man or two roaming the street as well. Have your camera ready! Buzz and Woody's line is often long, but they do meet guests throughout the day, so you age plenty of time to stop by and say hello. 10. Fairytale Garden, Magic Kingdom The carefree Scottish Princess Merida is ready to meet guests of all ages in the Fairytale Garden right next to Cinderella Castle. Join her for some archery practice and coloring before getting the chance to take photos and get her autograph. I love this area because it's intricately themed and offers the "play and greet" experience for kids that adds extra magic. Lines can be long though, so be prepared to wait for at least a little bit of time. No matter which characters you meet on your vacation at Walt Disney World, you're sure to have a magical experience and bring home many memories. Character meet and greets are for kids of all ages, so don't be afraid to hop in line if you come across your favorite Disney friends during your park days. And be sure to take a look at my previous post for tips to make your character experiences as magical, seamless, and fun as possible. For a compete list of where to meet characters around Walt Disney World, visit https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/entertainment/#/character-experiences/. Do you have any special Disney memories of meeting characters? Share them with me in the comments below! Until the next post, see ya real soon! Aside from the popular and well-known parades and nighttime spectaculars, Walt Disney World has so many other fun entertainment options that everyone in the family can enjoy together. Whether you plan to see a sit-down show or come across impromptu street performances, there really is entertainment around every corner at all four theme parks and Downtown Disney. Heck, you could even spend entire days without riding any rides and instead experience all of the entertainment offerings. Take a look at my top 10 favorites, aside from parades, fireworks, and nighttime spectaculars, at WDW.
1. Dream Along with Mickey, Magic Kingdom Top of my must-do list for each visit to the Magic Kingdom! Join your favorite Disney friends right in front of Cinderella Castle for a celebration of the magic in our dreams and wishes. The entire show lasts about 20 minutes, so it's the perfect amount of time for a little stop between attractions, and little ones won't get bored. There's no seating, so be sure to check out the performance times before you arrive and head to the castle-front stage a few minutes in advance (I'd suggest a least 5-10). During peak seasons there can be as many as six performances a day, but the schedule is subject to change. And definitely have your cameras ready! 2. Beauty and the Beast Live on Stage, Hollywood Studios Relive the "tale as old as time" with this 25 minute live-action performance inside the Sunset Boulevard theater at Disney's Hollywood Studios. You'll see Belle, the Beast, all of the enchanted objects, and the one and only Gaston. There are usually five to six performances a day, but the theater definitely fills up each time, so get your seats early (I'd suggest 10-15 minutes). FastPass+ is also offered at this show, so take advantage of that if you'd like guaranteed, preferred seating for your travel party. 3. Festival of The Lion King, Animal Kingdom One of my favorite parts of any day at Animal Kingdom! Step into the brand new Harambe Theater in the Africa section of the park, and experience this 30 minute spectacular with singing, dancing, aerialists, and your favorite Lion King characters. Kids can even get in the action towards the end of the show, so get in line early for a prime seat. While there are many performances throughout the day (usually eight to ten), this is one of the most popular offerings at Animal Kingdom, and the theater always fills up. Get there early, or get a FastPass for a guaranteed seat! 4. Magic Kingdom Welcome Show/Main Street Trolley Show, Magic Kingdom Easily the best way to start your day at the Magic Kingdom, the Welcome Show is always on my must-do list. This ten minute production takes place just inside the main gates of the park in front of the train station about 20 minutes before park opening, complete with characters and fireworks! Mickey Mouse and various Disney friends arrive on the Walt Disney World Railroad to officially open the park for the day, and a family of the day is crowned. This show always brings tears to my eyes, and you really feel the magic of Disney all around you. Just be careful during busy times and on Holidays, as many guests will be packed inside the gates with you to watch the show. I'd definitely try to arrive at the gates around 30-45 minutes before the park opens to make sure you're there in time. The Main Street Trolley Show adds onto the Welcome Show, as the citizens of Main Street travel on their trolley to perform for you. They usually stop around three or four times in the morning, and it's a great show that takes you back in time to the heartlands of America. We always try to take a few minutes to stop and watch while everyone else rushes and runs around us. It's sure to make you smile! 5. World Showcase Players, EPCOT Stop by the UK pavilion in World Showcase for a 25 minute street performance and retelling of one of Shakespeare's beloved stories. These players aren't all they're cracked up to be though, and they are definitely prepared to embarrass a few guests during their shows! We stumbled upon them a few years back, and always make sure to carve out some time in our day for one of their performances. They usually come by the Rose and Crown Pub around five times a day, so check out the times guide and your MyDisney Experience app while you plan your days! 6. Move It! Shake It! Celebrate It! Street Party, Magic Kingdom Another one of my Magic a Kingdom must-dos! This fun and vibrant parade-like street party makes its way to the Castle Hub area three to four times a day, and the cast wants you to join them. You can shake your tail feathers with Donald, conga with Mr. Incredible, and do the twist with Minnie, among other Disney friends. Don't be shy, and get out there! Even if you don't have too much time during your busy day, each street party is 35 minutes, so you have plenty of time for a little celebrating. 7. Jeweled Dragon Acrobats, EPCOT Head over to the China pavilion in World Showcase for this stunning acrobatic performance of strength and balance. There are usually around five shows a day, each about 20 minutes long, and everyone in the family is sure to be stunned and awed. We like to grab a bite from the Lotus Blossom Cafe and claim a spot a couple minutes before start time, because guests gather around rather quickly as soon as the music begins, taking up the viewing area. 8. Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular, Hollywood Studios If you're an action-adventure fan and want to see how movies are made, then you definitely don't want to miss this one! This 30 minute production gives you a glimpse into how many of Indiana Jones' epic movie stunts are put together, and you even have the chance to be a part of the show. Get to the theater early, get a seat close to the front, and be sure to volunteer when the director asks! FastPass+ is also offered here if you'd like to guarantee your seat. 9. Finding Nemo - The Musical, Animal Kingdom Get up close and personal with Nemo and friends in this live-action retelling of Marlin's quest to find his son. It's a 40 minute production that takes place around five times a day, and FastPass+ is offered for guaranteed seating. This is definitely a great show for little ones and adults alike, and it's almost guaranteed that you'll leave singing the bevy of original songs. The theater can be found at the back of the Dinoland USA section of the park, so definitely give yourself some time to make your way over and get in line early. 10. The Dapper Dans, Magic Kingdom A Disney Classic that's always a must-do. The iconic barber shop quartet can be found along Main Street USA throughout the day to perform 20 minute sets of familiar a cappella tunes. If you see them, definitely take a few minutes to stop and listen. They're also always happy to take photos with you and get you involved in their act, so don't be shy! A day at the Magic Kingdom just isn't complete without the a Dapper Dans. There's a lot more magic to experience with all of the entertainment offerings at Walt Disney World, so don't be afraid to slow down and take in everything you can. Whether you visit one of the many theaters for a large production or come across a street show, you're sure to have fun! For more information on all of the entertainment offerings at WDW, be sure to visit https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/entertainment/. Do you have your own list of favorites? Tell me about then in the comments below! Until the next post, see ya real soon! Are you a fan of classic Disney animation, heartwarming stories and timeless characters? Well, Disney's Art of Animation resort, the newest resort hotel at Walt Disney World, allows you to step right into you those stories and experience animation like never before. A Value Level accommodation that offers both standard rooms and family suites, this resort is a great option for larger groups traveling together, families with children, and animation lovers of all ages. Let's explore the resort together and find out if it's the right place for you stay during your next WDW vacation! Art of Animation is another Disney resort hotel that is made up of multiple buildings, including the main Animation Hall, which is the first building you'll see when you arrive and the epicenter of the resort. It's here that you'll find the main check-in area and guest services, a business center with phones, a large gift and sundries shop, an arcade, and Landscape of Flavor, the resort's main dining location. Animation Hall is adorned with tons of sketches, drawings, and art from the classic Disney and Pixar films Cars, Finding Nemo, The Lion King, and The Little Mermaid (these are also the films that come alive in each of the guest room buildings, but well get there in a second). The resort's WDW Transportation stop is just outside of the main entrance, and you'll also find the Magical Express bus stop there as well. No matter where your room is at the resort, you'll want to familiarize yourself with Animation Hall, because you'll be visiting many times during your trip! Landscape of Flavor is the food court-style eatery inside Animation Hall, and is the main dining location for the resort. It serves up everything from pasta to burgers, pizza to salads, and seafood to chicken, with backdrops of larger than life animated landscapes to view while you dine. You can also pick up and refill your resort mugs at the drink station and enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner. All of the stations change for each meal (very similarly to Everything Pop at the Pop Century resort hotel), so you don't have to worry about a lack of variety. I'd definitely suggest utilizing this dining location for breakfast before long days at the parks, and for a quick bite at the end of the day before bed. I can just taste the Mickey waffles now, can't you?! Art of Animation also offers in-room pizza delivery if you ever want to relax in your room and keep it simple for dinner. What makes this resort hotel unique are the themed areas of guest rooms you encounter when you step outside of Animation Hall. There are eight different buildings of guest rooms in four film-themed sections with both standard rooms and family suites: Cars, Finding Nemo, The Lion King, and The Little Mermaid. The Little Mermaid section is where you'll find the standard rooms (and standard rooms only) with all of the usual WDW resort hotel room features, including either two double beds or one King, a split vanity-bathroom area, and an in-room refrigerator. The other three sections offer family suites that sleep up to six adults each and include a small kitchenette, various bed types, and two bathrooms. Every guest room is intricately themed to the film section it's located in, with brightly colored furnishings, linen patterns, and wall icons of your favorite characters. The Little Mermaid and Cars sections are the furthest from Animation Hall, but any area is a good choice and fun for the whole family. The animated film themes extend outside of the guest room buildings into elaborate courtyards with larger than life character icon statues, specifically-chosen greenery and landscaping, and pool and recreation areas. The Finding Nemo area boasts the biggest and most advanced Big Blue pool, and is actually the largest pool of all the resort hotels at Walt Disney World. It even has underwater speakers! There's also a zero-entry area for little ones, plenty of chaise lounge chairs, and two play structures. Plus, you can grab a cold beverage at The Drop Off bar just steps from the pool. The Little Mermaid and Cars sections also have their own pools, which are smaller and typically less crowded and quiet, and The Lion King section has the Elephant Graveyard playground if the kids want to let out some energy. If you're looking for a little bit of fitness during your trip, you can run along the resort jogging trail, which totals 1.38 miles. And on select nights, you and your family can enjoy a movie under the stars in The Lion King courtyard. A nice offering for those nights when you want to stay at the resort and unwind. Disney's Art of Animation resort is a great place for larger parties traveling to Walt Disney World together, families with young children, and those looking to save a few dollars on their accommodations. All of the bright colors, characters, and animation create a unique world that puts you right into your favorite stories. And since it's the newest resort at WDW, there's plenty to land discover if you're a seasoned Disney veteran! For more information, be sure to visit https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/art-of-animation-resort/, and be sure to compare all of your options before making any reservations. Have you stayed at this resort hotel yet? Did you enjoy your stay? Tell me about it in the comments below! Until the next post, see ya real soon! Adding some time at either of Walt Disney World's two water parks during your family vacation is the perfect way to beat the heat and experience a different side of Disney! With two unique stories and theming, you can step into whimsical worlds of water fun for kids of all ages to enjoy. There are definitely a couple of things to consider and plan for before adding water park days to your vacation itinerary though, so be prepared ahead of time!
**Familiarize yourself with each park Walt Disney World is home to two different water parks: Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon. Both parks are homes to water fun for all ages, and each tell a unique story through themed areas, attractions, pools, an dining options. My favorite of the two, if I had to pick one, is Blizzard Beach. After a freak central Florida snowstorm left some of the white stuff at WDW, some of the locals decided to build a skit resort that would become Blizzard Beach. You can take rides down various icy slides, travel down a relaxing lazy river, and even ride a chairlift up to the top of Summit Plummet (if you're brave enough!). There's also eight different dining locations, areas just with kids stuff, and plenty of shopping. Typhoon Lagoon tells the story of a powerful storm that dropped in relics of the Caribbean to central Florida, including large fishing boats! There's plenty of water attractions to experience at this park, and it's home to North America's largest wave pool. You can even learn to surf on the pool's perfect waves! Surf lessons and private parties come at en extra cost, and space is limited. Characters also frequently make stops at both water parks, and the same level of cleanliness, friendliness, and quality service he Disney is known for is found around every corner. Whether you have time for one or both parks during your trip, make sure you know what to expect before walking through the gates. **Consider the time of year you're traveling Florida is known for heat and sunshine, but many days can be chilly, cloudy, and rainy. Before adding water park days to your plans and adding tickets (see below), really take a look at the weather patterns and decide if it's worth adding for your family or travel party. If you're visiting WDW any time between November and February, I'd probably save the water park fun for another trip. There's plenty of other seasonal offerings to take in during those times of year, and the average temperatures won't have you looking for a solution to beat the heat - It's really quite comfortable. And even if you're traveling during the warm, Summer months, know that you'll probably encounter some rain and thunder showers. Disney has various policies and rules when it comes to rain and lightning, so be prepared for some attractions to close down in the event of inclement weather. **Make sure your theme park tickets are correct Visiting either of Walt Disney World requires a special kind of theme park ticket, different than normal admission tickets to the four main parks. You can purchase day passes to each of the water parks if you're just stopping by and not planning to park hop, upgrade you regular theme park tickets (non-park hoppers) to include days at the water parks, or add the "Water Parks Fun & More" option to your park hopper tickets to allow for the most flexibility. I'd definitely suggest upgrading your park hopper tickets if you definitely think you're going to be spending time at the water parks, because you'll then be able to enjoy more than one park in one day (especially since the water parks typically close much earlier than the other theme parks). You can have fun in the sun all day, then head over to another park to catch fireworks or your favorite attractions at night. Plus with WDW's new MyMagic+, your tickets load right onto you Magic Bands, which are waterproof! No fuss, no muss! There are discounts for Florida residents available, as well as special promotions thought the year, so check all pricing and restrictions before you buy. **Be mindful of operating hours, and get there EARLY Disney's water parks have vastly different hours than their regular theme parks, so make sure you know what time everything is opening and closing before you head out for the day and make plans. Also try to get there as close to opening as possible so you have first dibs at lounge chairs and lockers. Do you really want to just be walking in at high noon when the sun is blazing hot and have to scour the land for a chair? I know I don't! **Prepare your family or travel party for the day Water park days tend to be different than other park days, so make sure everyone in your family is prepped and knows what to expect. You're not going to find any princesses walking around to sign autographs, there's no daily parade, and there are different rules to adhere to. Make sure children know that there can't be as much running (for safety reasons of course), you have to keep water shoes or Crocs on to protect your piggies, and their life vest keeps them safe in the water. I've seen many meltdowns where little ones don't want to wear a life vest, water shoes, or sunscreen, so make sure they know the rules and expectations from the get-go. **Have the appropriate gear This goes back to my previous point, but make sure everyone has a proper swimsuit and coverup, water shoes (not necessarily required, but definitely recommended!!!!), eye protection, towels, swim diapers, etc. before you leave your room in the morning. Disney is very good at having all of these items for sale at the parks, but you're going to be paying more for their goods than you would at home. I'd also suggest investing in a waterproof camera/phone case and money holder to keep everything safe and dry. Life vests for small guests can be rented at both water parks, so be sure to allocate a few dollars for that as compared to lugging your own from home. And if you don't want to carry everything around during the day or have someone in your party keep an eye on things, lockers are available for rent at the front of each park at a daily cost. **Wear plenty of sunscreen!!! Easily the most important item to remember, sunscreen is often one of the most overlooked things people forget to bring during water park days. Shocking I know, but you'll see sunburns around every turn. Don't ruin the rest of your vacation with sunburns and peeling because of one mistake. Be prepared, apply and reapply throughout the day, and wear the appropriate SPF level for your skin. Sun hats and coverups also help, and there are plenty of shady spots if you want to escape the sun at all during the day. Whether you choose to visit Blizzard Beach or Typhoon Lagoon during your next trip to Walt Disney World, you're sure to have plenty of fun in the sun. Make sure adding these plans is right for your family and vacation, be prepared for the day ahead of time, and enjoy everything the parks have to offer! For more information, visit https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/destinations/water-parks/. Do you like visiting Disney's water parks when you visit WDW? Tell me about it in the comments below! Until the next post, see ya real soon! |
About MeA twenty-something alumni of the Disney College Program looking to help others plan the Disney vacations of their dreams! Living that Disneyland AP dream in SoCal. Archives
February 2018
Categories
All
|