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Showing posts with label parks. Show all posts
Showing posts with label parks. Show all posts
7/10/2013
Disney Parks Facts that you didnt know!
MAGIC KINGDOM
Liberty Square
Liberty Square
The colored concrete is indicative of the old time drains (there are NO restrooms within Liberty Square boundaries since they had no restrooms in that time period! The only ones you can find there are inside buildings, and they go so far back in the buildings that they are actually outside of Liberty Square proper!). The CM’s wearing the longer dresses would have been the servants where the short
dressed women were usually the woman of the house.
The addresses on the doors are all two numbers. If you put 18 in front of it, that is the style of door that they would have had for that year. As
you walk along, you can see the progression of the style. From the windows to the hardware to the door and window styles themselves.
Liberty Square was supposed to represent the East Coast of the United States all the way across to the Train station behind splash Mountain
which was to represent the West Coast of the United States. The 17th-century mansion of master Gracie is supposedly on the Hudson River.
The Hall of Presidents is supposed to represent Pennsylvania. I think the river for the paddle boat was supposed to be on the Mississippi.
The diamond horseshoe is at the gateway to the west, St. Louis MO. The old wooden cottage of the Country Bear Jamboree symbolically
represents Colorado. Big Thunder Mountain and the tiny town of Tumbleweed were near Monument Valley, MT., and lastly, the train
stopped in Frontierland represented California.
Liberty Square Christmas shop: It’s actually three separate shops with the walls opened between them. They are supposed to be
owned by three different colonial families–a German family, a woodcarver’s family, and a musician’s family.
Liberty Square Christmas shop: Hidden park in Liberty Square in the back of the Christmas Store.
Liberty Square Christmas shop: there is a small tree called the Magical Moments Tree. Every day, one person is chosen to decorate the tree. That person gets a magical moments certificate and a free Christmas ornament. Typically the person chosen is picked early in the day, and is usually a child, but it can happen at any time to a person of any age.
Tug on the Liberty Bell rope
All the shutters on the windows are hanging crooked. This is because in those times leather was used to fasten shutters on and would stretch
over time to hang crooked.
Haunted Mansion: At night, look up at the top story right above the front door. If you watch it for a while you’ll notice a light pass by it and
some shadows, it looks like 2 people are walking by with a lantern.
Haunted Mansion: If you look up at the cemetery gate when you are first going into the cemetery, you can see a paper tag hanging off
of the top-left corner. That is actually the purchase tag that was accidentally left on the gate when it was purchased from a California
manufacturer.
Haunted Mansion: In the graveyard scene, one of the last scenes on the ride, you will find a great hidden mickey. At the end of the room, when the cart begins to turn, look over the right hand side and you’ll see a grim reaper. Look closely at his raised hand, he is holding a hidden ghostly Mickey.
Haunted Mansion: Be among the first to exit for the Doom Buggies by standing on the side with the painting of the lady with the parasol.
After riding the stretching room down, as you walk to the cars, there is a lobby with a desk and lamp. On the desk is a
dictionary that is turned to the word death.
Haunted Mansion: in the ballroom scene, if you look down on the floor of the balcony the doombuggies are traveling on, about halfway through the scene you will see a patch of light and the shadows of two pairs of legs swinging as if there are two people sitting on a ledge above you.
The flag that flies atop of the American Adventure actually has 15 stripes.
There is a silver plate that runs between Liberty Square and Frontierland. This plate represents the Mississippi River, separating the east
from the west, and there is water flowing out from the plate into the Rivers of America.
Hall of Presidents upstairs window facing Haunted Mansion has 2 lanterns lit “one if by land, two if by sea”
dressed women were usually the woman of the house.
The addresses on the doors are all two numbers. If you put 18 in front of it, that is the style of door that they would have had for that year. As
you walk along, you can see the progression of the style. From the windows to the hardware to the door and window styles themselves.
Liberty Square was supposed to represent the East Coast of the United States all the way across to the Train station behind splash Mountain
which was to represent the West Coast of the United States. The 17th-century mansion of master Gracie is supposedly on the Hudson River.
The Hall of Presidents is supposed to represent Pennsylvania. I think the river for the paddle boat was supposed to be on the Mississippi.
The diamond horseshoe is at the gateway to the west, St. Louis MO. The old wooden cottage of the Country Bear Jamboree symbolically
represents Colorado. Big Thunder Mountain and the tiny town of Tumbleweed were near Monument Valley, MT., and lastly, the train
stopped in Frontierland represented California.
Liberty Square Christmas shop: It’s actually three separate shops with the walls opened between them. They are supposed to be
owned by three different colonial families–a German family, a woodcarver’s family, and a musician’s family.
Liberty Square Christmas shop: Hidden park in Liberty Square in the back of the Christmas Store.
Liberty Square Christmas shop: there is a small tree called the Magical Moments Tree. Every day, one person is chosen to decorate the tree. That person gets a magical moments certificate and a free Christmas ornament. Typically the person chosen is picked early in the day, and is usually a child, but it can happen at any time to a person of any age.
Tug on the Liberty Bell rope
All the shutters on the windows are hanging crooked. This is because in those times leather was used to fasten shutters on and would stretch
over time to hang crooked.
Haunted Mansion: At night, look up at the top story right above the front door. If you watch it for a while you’ll notice a light pass by it and
some shadows, it looks like 2 people are walking by with a lantern.
Haunted Mansion: If you look up at the cemetery gate when you are first going into the cemetery, you can see a paper tag hanging off
of the top-left corner. That is actually the purchase tag that was accidentally left on the gate when it was purchased from a California
manufacturer.
Haunted Mansion: In the graveyard scene, one of the last scenes on the ride, you will find a great hidden mickey. At the end of the room, when the cart begins to turn, look over the right hand side and you’ll see a grim reaper. Look closely at his raised hand, he is holding a hidden ghostly Mickey.
Haunted Mansion: Be among the first to exit for the Doom Buggies by standing on the side with the painting of the lady with the parasol.
After riding the stretching room down, as you walk to the cars, there is a lobby with a desk and lamp. On the desk is a
dictionary that is turned to the word death.
Haunted Mansion: in the ballroom scene, if you look down on the floor of the balcony the doombuggies are traveling on, about halfway through the scene you will see a patch of light and the shadows of two pairs of legs swinging as if there are two people sitting on a ledge above you.
The flag that flies atop of the American Adventure actually has 15 stripes.
There is a silver plate that runs between Liberty Square and Frontierland. This plate represents the Mississippi River, separating the east
from the west, and there is water flowing out from the plate into the Rivers of America.
Hall of Presidents upstairs window facing Haunted Mansion has 2 lanterns lit “one if by land, two if by sea”
Frontierland
At the Frontierland RR Station, look for a wooden leg named Smith. It is a reference to a joke in Mary Poppins. “I knew a man with a
wooden leg named Smith.” “What’s the name of his other leg?”
Look down at the main walkway (which is also the parade route). Instead of just plain cement there’s also and area a couple feet wide that
goes all the way down the walkway and looks like a brownish/yellow gravel. It seems in frontier times the streets had a urine trough in them for the all of the horse urine. The gravel area represents the urine trough.
Big Thunder Mountain: After you exit the ride, and are back outside walking down the exit ramp, look at the rocky wall to your left. You will see a deliberate profile of a hidden Tinkerbell – one of the best hidden characters anywhere in WDW.
At the Frontierland RR Station, look for a wooden leg named Smith. It is a reference to a joke in Mary Poppins. “I knew a man with a
wooden leg named Smith.” “What’s the name of his other leg?”
Look down at the main walkway (which is also the parade route). Instead of just plain cement there’s also and area a couple feet wide that
goes all the way down the walkway and looks like a brownish/yellow gravel. It seems in frontier times the streets had a urine trough in them for the all of the horse urine. The gravel area represents the urine trough.
Big Thunder Mountain: After you exit the ride, and are back outside walking down the exit ramp, look at the rocky wall to your left. You will see a deliberate profile of a hidden Tinkerbell – one of the best hidden characters anywhere in WDW.
Fantasyland
Carousel: Cinderella’s horse is the horse with the gold ribbon tied on its tail.
Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh: In the first room there is a picture of Mr. Toad handing over the deed to Owl (Pooh ride used to be Mr.
Toads Wild Ride).
When you go to Sir Mickey’s Shop in Fantasyland look at where the roof meets the walls. You will see Willie the Giant from Mickey and the
Beanstalk peeking into the shop.
Cinderella’s Castle: Inside the walls of the walk-through of the castle are several mosaics. On the mosaic wall farthest from the entrance are the two stepsisters, Anastasia and Drusilla. The mosaic shows one of them with a red face and the other with a green face. Red with Rage and Green with envy!
Tink’s Treasures: Anyone visiting Tinker Bell’s Treasures that wants to can now call Tinker Bell to Fantasyland from Pixie Hollow. Just speak to a Cast Member near the registers closest to Mickey’s Phillharmagic
Peter Pan: Watch when you fly over the Mermaid Lagoon. You can see a mermaid that look remarkably like Ariel from the Little Mermaid.
Carousel: Cinderella’s horse is the horse with the gold ribbon tied on its tail.
Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh: In the first room there is a picture of Mr. Toad handing over the deed to Owl (Pooh ride used to be Mr.
Toads Wild Ride).
When you go to Sir Mickey’s Shop in Fantasyland look at where the roof meets the walls. You will see Willie the Giant from Mickey and the
Beanstalk peeking into the shop.
Cinderella’s Castle: Inside the walls of the walk-through of the castle are several mosaics. On the mosaic wall farthest from the entrance are the two stepsisters, Anastasia and Drusilla. The mosaic shows one of them with a red face and the other with a green face. Red with Rage and Green with envy!
Tink’s Treasures: Anyone visiting Tinker Bell’s Treasures that wants to can now call Tinker Bell to Fantasyland from Pixie Hollow. Just speak to a Cast Member near the registers closest to Mickey’s Phillharmagic
Peter Pan: Watch when you fly over the Mermaid Lagoon. You can see a mermaid that look remarkably like Ariel from the Little Mermaid.
Adventureland
Pirates of the Caribbean: Always stay in the left hand side of the queue when entering the line for the ride. At random times of day, Jack Sparrow will be in the jail cell on this side, and it makes for a great picture & is good entertainment.
Pirates of the Caribbean: Ask the cast member when you board if they said good morning to George today. George is supposedly a ghost that haunts the ride, and if they don’t greet him everyday, the ride will break down frequently or other strange things will happen.
Pirates of the Caribbean: Always stay in the left hand side of the queue when entering the line for the ride. At random times of day, Jack Sparrow will be in the jail cell on this side, and it makes for a great picture & is good entertainment.
Pirates of the Caribbean: Ask the cast member when you board if they said good morning to George today. George is supposedly a ghost that haunts the ride, and if they don’t greet him everyday, the ride will break down frequently or other strange things will happen.
Main Street USA
When you first enter Disney World’s Magic Kingdom, walk under the train station where the lockers are. Facing Cinderella Castle, look for a door on the right just before you exit from under the station. Open this door and get a look at the Mural on the wall.
Tony’s Town Square: Paw prints of Lady and the Tramp outside of the porch on the sidewalk.
Tony’s Town Square: At the back, there is a beautiful 3-paned dark blue window, through which you can see the shadowy silhouettes of Lady and the
Tramp sharing their late-night meal of spaghetti.
In the Main St. RR Station lower level, up on one of the shelves (Cast members (CM’s) can help you locate it) you can see Aladdin’s lamp
as well as other characters’ belongings waiting to be picked up.
Harmony Barber Shop: This shop is on the left hand side as you walk down mainstreet, and is a little bit hidden. The wait gets very long, so if you want to visit, go early in the day. You can get a haircut, or just get “pixie dusted”. This is especially made into a big deal if it’s a baby’s first haircut as they get a special set of mouse ears and a Magic Certificate.
When you first enter Disney World’s Magic Kingdom, walk under the train station where the lockers are. Facing Cinderella Castle, look for a door on the right just before you exit from under the station. Open this door and get a look at the Mural on the wall.
Tony’s Town Square: Paw prints of Lady and the Tramp outside of the porch on the sidewalk.
Tony’s Town Square: At the back, there is a beautiful 3-paned dark blue window, through which you can see the shadowy silhouettes of Lady and the
Tramp sharing their late-night meal of spaghetti.
In the Main St. RR Station lower level, up on one of the shelves (Cast members (CM’s) can help you locate it) you can see Aladdin’s lamp
as well as other characters’ belongings waiting to be picked up.
Harmony Barber Shop: This shop is on the left hand side as you walk down mainstreet, and is a little bit hidden. The wait gets very long, so if you want to visit, go early in the day. You can get a haircut, or just get “pixie dusted”. This is especially made into a big deal if it’s a baby’s first haircut as they get a special set of mouse ears and a Magic Certificate.
Tomorrowland
Carousel of Progress: The current voice of the main character you may recognize as the voice of the narrator from “A Christmas Story”.
Carousel of Progress: The current voice of the main character you may recognize as the voice of the narrator from “A Christmas Story”.
EPCOT
Futureworld
Spaceship Earth: the scene with the monks writing. One has fallen asleep and has a Mickey shaped ink blob next to him.
Futureworld
Spaceship Earth: the scene with the monks writing. One has fallen asleep and has a Mickey shaped ink blob next to him.
World Showcase
The bridge continuing on past France symbolically crosses the English Channel. See if you can find a bike and an easel as if an artist were
coming back to finish a painting of the store across the canal. (Location may change periodically) This is also the location of the rear
entrance (International Gateway) from some of the resorts to Epcot.
Germany: If you know the holiday story about the pickle ornament, find the pickle tree (in a store).
Germany: At the courtyard if you look up towards the back there is a clock. If you are there around the hour, it will ring and a German boy
and girl will come out (they are made our of wood, they are not real) and twirl around.
Morocco: Take a look at all of the mosaic tile artwork on the walls. You will notice that each mosaic has at least one cracked/flawed tile in it.
The Moroccan people worship Allah and believe that only Allah can create something that is “perfect,” so every mosaic was purposely
flawed!
Morocco: There is a “gold” prayer room in Morocco that was included for the CM and is open to the public.
England: The tea shop outside and inside architecture represents UK in the 1600s–thatched roof, huge hearth inside low ceilings, dark lighting even the style floor. The next shop represents the 1700s and has a sign out front that says Est. 1702. It has higher ceilings and basic wrought iron lighting fixtures. If you look at it from the outside, you can see the cantilever build. They threw out the upstairs windows into the drains that ran down the center of the streets. Just another reason gentlemen walked nearer the road and wore large brimmed hats while ladies walked very near the bldgs. The next building is 1800s neoclassical. See the window styles and even how ornate the window coverings and lighting are? Look up at the ceiling and how it is painted. As you exit that shop, look to your right. There is a whole other building over there, and it is in the same 1800s time frame to stay in sync. Look at the rooftops. See the Mary Poppins style chimneys?
The bridge continuing on past France symbolically crosses the English Channel. See if you can find a bike and an easel as if an artist were
coming back to finish a painting of the store across the canal. (Location may change periodically) This is also the location of the rear
entrance (International Gateway) from some of the resorts to Epcot.
Germany: If you know the holiday story about the pickle ornament, find the pickle tree (in a store).
Germany: At the courtyard if you look up towards the back there is a clock. If you are there around the hour, it will ring and a German boy
and girl will come out (they are made our of wood, they are not real) and twirl around.
Morocco: Take a look at all of the mosaic tile artwork on the walls. You will notice that each mosaic has at least one cracked/flawed tile in it.
The Moroccan people worship Allah and believe that only Allah can create something that is “perfect,” so every mosaic was purposely
flawed!
Morocco: There is a “gold” prayer room in Morocco that was included for the CM and is open to the public.
England: The tea shop outside and inside architecture represents UK in the 1600s–thatched roof, huge hearth inside low ceilings, dark lighting even the style floor. The next shop represents the 1700s and has a sign out front that says Est. 1702. It has higher ceilings and basic wrought iron lighting fixtures. If you look at it from the outside, you can see the cantilever build. They threw out the upstairs windows into the drains that ran down the center of the streets. Just another reason gentlemen walked nearer the road and wore large brimmed hats while ladies walked very near the bldgs. The next building is 1800s neoclassical. See the window styles and even how ornate the window coverings and lighting are? Look up at the ceiling and how it is painted. As you exit that shop, look to your right. There is a whole other building over there, and it is in the same 1800s time frame to stay in sync. Look at the rooftops. See the Mary Poppins style chimneys?
HOLLYWOOD STUDIOS
Singing in the Rain Umbrella: Near Lights Motor Action at the end of NY Street.
Going into the Great Movie Ride, the lions at the front are not really lions. They are dogs! And the female has a baby whatever-it-is under her paw
If you exit the Indiana Jones Stunt Spectacular theater from the far right-side stairway (as you face the stage) pay attention as you go onto
the landings, look for the hand of a CM rising above the railing holding the golden idol from the show’s Mayan (or South American in the
movie version) temple. The idea is to pat the head of the idol as you go past.
While facing the entrance of IJSS, look to the left. There’s a display of Indiana Jones props. There’s a rope that says “do not pull”. Pull the rope and listen.
Muppetvision 3D. Right after you walk in the building on the right you will see and window that has a sign hanging “Be back in 5 minutes, Key is under the mat”. Check under the mat and there really is a key.
Singing in the Rain Umbrella: Near Lights Motor Action at the end of NY Street.
Going into the Great Movie Ride, the lions at the front are not really lions. They are dogs! And the female has a baby whatever-it-is under her paw
If you exit the Indiana Jones Stunt Spectacular theater from the far right-side stairway (as you face the stage) pay attention as you go onto
the landings, look for the hand of a CM rising above the railing holding the golden idol from the show’s Mayan (or South American in the
movie version) temple. The idea is to pat the head of the idol as you go past.
While facing the entrance of IJSS, look to the left. There’s a display of Indiana Jones props. There’s a rope that says “do not pull”. Pull the rope and listen.
Muppetvision 3D. Right after you walk in the building on the right you will see and window that has a sign hanging “Be back in 5 minutes, Key is under the mat”. Check under the mat and there really is a key.
ANIMAL KINGDOM
I usually enter it by the It’s tough to be a bug fastpass distriubution. you go in the area where the machines are, all the way to the right. it
looks like it could be a queue line for ITTBAB, but it’s the path.
Check out the pathways between Africa and Asia for Devine
On the path, as you walk to get to the FOLK, there is a bridge that you walk over. On the right side of the bridge, if you look over the side to
the left, you will see what appears to be a Dragon Waterfall (the sole surviving hint of Beastly Kingdom).
At the Tusker House Restaurant you can hear kitchen noises if you sit in the outside dining area.
I usually enter it by the It’s tough to be a bug fastpass distriubution. you go in the area where the machines are, all the way to the right. it
looks like it could be a queue line for ITTBAB, but it’s the path.
Check out the pathways between Africa and Asia for Devine
On the path, as you walk to get to the FOLK, there is a bridge that you walk over. On the right side of the bridge, if you look over the side to
the left, you will see what appears to be a Dragon Waterfall (the sole surviving hint of Beastly Kingdom).
At the Tusker House Restaurant you can hear kitchen noises if you sit in the outside dining area.
GENERAL
Ask for a list of Hidden Mickey’s from Guest Relations and/or pins including: “Just Married, Happy Birthday, First Visit, Happy Anniversary, Happily Ever After, I’m Celebrating, My Magical Triumph, Family Reunion” and “Honorary Citizen” pins. Coming next year is “Honorary VoluntEAR”
Ask for a list of Hidden Mickey’s from Guest Relations and/or pins including: “Just Married, Happy Birthday, First Visit, Happy Anniversary, Happily Ever After, I’m Celebrating, My Magical Triumph, Family Reunion” and “Honorary Citizen” pins. Coming next year is “Honorary VoluntEAR”
DOWNTOWN DISNEY
Downtown Disney, Art of Disney Store – The Art of Disney Store runs a trivia quiz daily with prizes.
Downtown Disney, Art of Disney Store – The Art of Disney Store runs a trivia quiz daily with prizes.
8/11/2012
New Fantasyland Grand Opening Set For December 6 at Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort
Today we’re thrilled to announce that the grand opening of New Fantasyland will take place on December 6, 2012. Attractions included in this opening are Under the Sea ~ Journey of The Little Mermaid, Be Our Guest Restaurant, Enchanted Tales with Belle, Ariel’s Grotto, Gaston’s Tavern and Bonjour! Village Gifts.
Previews of these attractions will begin November 19.
As previously planned, the New Fantasyland expansion will continue with the opening of Princess Fairytale Hall in 2013 and the debut of a new Disney “mountain” in the form of the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train in 2014.
The Storybook Circus section of the New Fantasyland expansion, which includes Barnstormer – Starring the Great Goofini, the Casey Jr. Splash & Soak Station, and Dumbo the Flying Elephant, opened to guests in July.
How soon will you visit? And which New Fantasyland attraction are you most excited to experience?
5/23/2011
Legoland Florida
LEGOLAND® Florida, opening October 15th, 2011, is a 150-acre family theme park located in Winter Haven, just 45 minutes southwest of the Orlando theme parks or downtown Tampa. The Park will offer interactive attractions, family rides, shows, restaurants, shopping and beautiful landscape specifically geared for families with children ages 2 to12.
There are four other LEGOLAND Parks in the world – LEGOLAND® Billund in Denmark (opened in 1968), LEGOLAND® Windsor, outside of London (1996), LEGOLAND® California in Carlsbad (1999) and LEGOLAND®Deutschland in Günzburg, Germany (2002).
An additional LEGOLAND Park project has been announced in Malaysia, and is scheduled to open in 2012.
In 2005, LEGOLAND theme parks became part of Merlin Entertainments Group, the leading name in location-based, family entertainment.
Merlin Entertainments brings together LEGOLAND, Madame Tussauds, London Eye, SEA LIFE, LEGOLAND Discovery Center, Dungeons – as well as national brands such as Alton Towers, Gardaland, Thorpe Park, Warwick Castle and Heide Park.
8/26/2008
8/25/2008
Epcot® International Food & Wine Festival - Cities in Wonderland
September 26, 2008 – November 9, 2008
Embark on an epicurean adventure as the 13th Annual Epcot® International Food & Wine Festival showcases the flavors of the world. Explore marketplaces featuring regional foods, wines, and beers. Learn from renowned chefs and winemakers at special programs and demonstrations, and sample the finest cuisine from around the globe. Savor the sizzling sounds of the Eat to the Beat concert series, presenting a stellar line-up of popular musical acts.
For more information, visit the hub at the Festival Welcome Center, where you'll also find the Festival Wine Shop, the Wonders Bar for champagne and wine, and the official book-signing location for celebrity chefs and authors. Venture inside the Stockpot shop and check out its marvelous merchandise, including the marketplace cookbook and a special festival edition of the Disney Gift Card, which provides a handy way to pay for so much fun at the Festival!
International Marketplaces
Sample the authentic flavors of over 25 countries and regions as you take a tasty trip through World Showcase.
Special Exhibits
Explore fascinating cultural exhibits that feature fabulous cuisine, wine walkabouts, artisans and instructive culinary demonstrations from countries and regions throughout the world.
Eat to the Beat Concert Series
Give your taste buds a rest and groove to the sounds of your favorite musical acts live on stage at this nightly concert series.
Special Wine & Culinary Programs
Satisfy the gourmet within you at these exceptional dining experiences complete with delicious food, fine wine and great company.
Festival Dining Experiences
Indulge in sumptuous premium dining events prepared by some of the finest chefs in the world.
Fun for Families
Bring epicureans of all ages to these activities and exhibits that offer great fun and flavors for the entire family.
Embark on an epicurean adventure as the 13th Annual Epcot® International Food & Wine Festival showcases the flavors of the world. Explore marketplaces featuring regional foods, wines, and beers. Learn from renowned chefs and winemakers at special programs and demonstrations, and sample the finest cuisine from around the globe. Savor the sizzling sounds of the Eat to the Beat concert series, presenting a stellar line-up of popular musical acts.
For more information, visit the hub at the Festival Welcome Center, where you'll also find the Festival Wine Shop, the Wonders Bar for champagne and wine, and the official book-signing location for celebrity chefs and authors. Venture inside the Stockpot shop and check out its marvelous merchandise, including the marketplace cookbook and a special festival edition of the Disney Gift Card, which provides a handy way to pay for so much fun at the Festival!
International Marketplaces
Sample the authentic flavors of over 25 countries and regions as you take a tasty trip through World Showcase.
Special Exhibits
Explore fascinating cultural exhibits that feature fabulous cuisine, wine walkabouts, artisans and instructive culinary demonstrations from countries and regions throughout the world.
Eat to the Beat Concert Series
Give your taste buds a rest and groove to the sounds of your favorite musical acts live on stage at this nightly concert series.
Special Wine & Culinary Programs
Satisfy the gourmet within you at these exceptional dining experiences complete with delicious food, fine wine and great company.
Festival Dining Experiences
Indulge in sumptuous premium dining events prepared by some of the finest chefs in the world.
Fun for Families
Bring epicureans of all ages to these activities and exhibits that offer great fun and flavors for the entire family.
8/18/2008
Walt Disney World’s Best Summertime Activities
- Take a break from the theme parks and spend a day by one of Disney’s fantastic resort pools. What better way to cool off in the summer heat.
- Shop till you drop in the air conditioned shops and restaurants at Downtown Disney. Pick up all your souvenirs at the newly remodeled World of Disney, the largest Disney store anywhere.
- Splish splash the day away at one of Disney’s unique water parks. Typhoon Lagoon is a beauty with a pool boasting some of the tallest simulated waves in the world. Or if you’re a daredevil at heart head to Blizzard Beach with its wild, rushing water and death-defying slides.
- Snag a bass on a fishing excursion. Pontoon boats with experienced guides depart from the resort marinas to fish the waters of Bay Lake, the Seven Seas Lagoon, Lake Buena Vista, and the Sassagoula River. No fishing license is required and it’s strictly catch and release.
- Hit the water at the Contemporary Resort where Sammy Duval Water Sports offers parasailing, water-ski, tubing, and personal watercraft action. It’s the kick of a lifetime!
- Catch a wave at Typhoon Lagoon with Cocoa Beach Surfing School. Learn to surf in the super wave pool before park opening hours on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday.
- Take a spin on one of Disney’s waterways. With 850 acres of lakes, 130 feet of shoreline, 66 miles of canals, and over 500 watercraft, boating is a major pastime at Walt Disney World. Most resorts as well as Downtown Disney have their own marina with a variety of boats available for hire including Boston Whaler Montauks, pontoon boats, sailboats, Sea Raycers, even a luxury yacht.
- Cool off in the mountains of the Himalayans. Expedition Everest, the Animal Kingdom’s newest attraction, involves out-of-control railcars that race forward and backward, sending Disney's Animal Kingdom guests swooping into the unknown to brave twists, turns and drops inside and outside a mighty mountain. It all leads to an unforgettable encounter with the yeti.
Cara Goldsbury is the author of The Luxury Guide to Walt Disney World Resort. For more information visit her online at www.wdwluxuryguide.com.
8/15/2008
Yakitori House
Resembling the teahouse of the Imperial Summer Palace, this small eatery offers a menu of teriyaki chicken and beef, and a handful of other beef, chicken, and seafood items. The food is reasonably good though a little on the blah side, and portions are smaller than at many other Disney restaurants. There's seating both indoors and out, but no matter where you dine, you'll be overlooking tranquil Japanese gardens and a gentle waterfall
Cuisine: Japanese
Hours: 11am-park closing
Location: Japan Pavilion, World Showcase, In Epcot
Reservations: No Advance Reservations
Phone: 407/939-3463
8/12/2008
Kid Friendly Restaurants At Walt Disney World
Walt Disney World is, naturally, a very child-friendly place and you
will find that children are welcome at most of the restaurants at
the resort, particularly if they are well behaved.
There are, however, some restaurants which are particularly good
choices for families with children. This list is for parents with
children of any age is geared towards kids under 10. You know your
own children best so use this list as a guideline when planning your
WDW vacation.
*A Note For Parents of Picky Eaters*: Most WDW restaurants can
accommodate even the fussiest eaters. Meals can be prepared without
sauces if your child prefers them that way and spaghetti and peanut
butter and jelly sandwiches, while not on the menu, are often
available if you just ask. Buffet-style restaurants are also good
bets for picky eaters as they are able to take just the things they
like in amounts as large as they would like. A number of the buffets
have special "kids" buffets, too.
MAGIC KINGDOM- Magic Kingdom Restaurants
Casey's Corner - The main draw here is hot dogs. They come in a
variety of styles (chili, cheese, foot long, etc.) and desserts and
beverages are also offered.
The Crystal Palace - Located at the castle, end of Main Street, on
your left, just off the pathway to Adventureland, this restaurant
offers three buffet-style character meals per day. The Characters-In-
Residence are Pooh, Tigger, Piglet and Eeyore.
Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Cafe - This large fast-food spot is
located in Frontierland, very close to Splash Mountain. It offers
Burgers, hot dogs and other standard fast-food fare.
Liberty Tree Tavern - A character dinner featuring assorted
characters in Revolutionary War-era dress is offered here every
evening. Dinner is served family style and special kid-friendly
items like macaroni and cheese are offered.
Cinderella's Royal Table - is located on the second floor of
Cinderella Castle. Cinderella, herself, is usually on hand to greet
guests. The Once-Upon-A-Breakfast is offered every morning. Food is
pre-plated but is all-you-care-to-eat. Characters on hand usually
include Cinderella, Snow White and others.
Pinocchio's Village Haus - Another fast-food spot, this restaurant
is located in Fantasyland to the right of the entrance to It's A
Small World.
Lumiere's Kitchen - This fast-food spot operates seasonally. It is
good bet for "Kid's Meals" and also offers selections for adults. It
is located between Pooh's Adventure's and Snow White's Scary
Adventures in Fantasyland.
Cosmic Ray's Starlight Cafe - One of the largest fast-food spots at
the Magic Kingdom Cosmic Ray's offers spit-roasted chicken, burgers,
salads, soups and more. It is located across the path from the Grand
Prix Raceway in Tomorrowland.
7/03/2008
DISNEY WORLD TRIVIA
When Disney’s Magic Kingdom opened its doors on October 1, 1971, adult admission cost just $3.50, a seven-ride attraction ticket book cost $4.75 and an 11-ride attraction ticket book cost only $5.75.
Approximately 10,000 guests attended the grand opening of Disney’s Magic Kingdom on October 1, 1971.
At 189 feet tall, Cinderella Castle is Disney's Magic Kingdom's tallest structure. Space Mountain is the Magic Kingdom's second tallest structure at 183 feet tall.
It’s A Small World and the Carousel of Progress both debuted at the 1964-65 New York World’s Fair.
From 1971 to 1982, Disney's Magic Kingdom offered ticket books that categorized attractions based on an "A" to "E" scale. E tickets were used for the eight most popular Magic Kingdom attractions: 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, Country Bear Jamboree, Hall of Presidents, Haunted Mansion, It's a Small World, Jungle Cruise, Pirates of the Caribbean and Space Mountain.
The Omnimover vehicles used for The Haunted Mansion are nicknamed “Doom Buggies.”
"Chief Nammie ” is the headhunter who shows up near the end of the Jungle Cruise in Adventureland.
At 199.5 feet tall, Expedition Everest is the tallest artificial mountain at Walt Disney World Resort.
William Windsor Jr. was the first guest to enter Disney's Magic KIngom when the theme park first opened its doors on October 1, 1971.
The cover of Life magazine's October 15, 1971, cover depicts approximately 1,500 Disney characters and employees posing in front of Cinderella Castle.
Epcot's Spaceship Earth rises 180 feet and weighs approximately 16 million pounds.
The 14-story Tree of Life at Disney's Animal Kingdom boasts approximately 300 animal carvings.
Cinderella's Golden Carrousel was originally built in 1917 and once stood at Olympic Park in Maplewood, New Jersey.
Disney's Hollywood Studios features a replica of world-famous Mann's Chinese Theater.
Swiss Family Treehouse in Adventureland weighs 200 tons and rises 60 feet.
The six trains at Big Thunder Mountain Railroad are named I.B. Hearty, I.M. Brave, I.M. Fearless, U.B. Bold, U.R. Daring and U.R. Courageous.
The Walt Disney World Railroad is an authentic 1928 steam-powered train.
Each space capsule at Mission: Space is equipped with motion sickness bags.
At 30,500 acres, Walt Disney World Resort is approximately the same size as San Francisco, California.
Disney's Magic Kingdom draws an estimated 16.2 million guests annually, followed by Epcot (9.9 million), Disney's Hollywood Studios (8.6 million) and Disney's Animal Kingdom (8.2 million).
Rock 'n' Roller Coaster - Starring Aerosmith at Disney's Hollywood Studios launches you at a speed of 0 to 60 miles per hour in 2.8 seconds.
Intergalactic lounge singer Sonny Eclipse entertains diners daily at Cosmic Ray's Starlight Cafe in Tomorrowland.
Golf legend Jack Nicklaus captured the first championship at the inaugural 1971 Walt Disney World Open Invitational.
The Atlanta Braves spend Spring Training at Disney's Wide World of Sports Complex, which features a 7,500-seat, state-of-the-art ballpark.
Before Disney closed its Central Florida animation studio at Disney-MGM Studios in 2003, several animated films were worked on there such as Mulan (1998), Lilo & Stitch (2002) and Brother Bear (2003), among others.
Disney's Animal Kingdom, Disney World's largest theme park, opened on Earth Day - April 22, 1998.
The now-defunct River Country opened at Fort Wilderness in 1976 as Disney World's first water park.
Epcot is the only Disney World theme park that boasts two entrances (one being accessible via Disney's Boardwalk).
Mickey's PhilharMagic in Fantasyland boasts the world's largest seamless projection screen.
The theme and characters for Splash Mountain were inspired by the 1946 Disney movie, Song of the South.
President Richard Nixon gave his famous "I am not a crook" speech during at convention at Disney's Contemporary Resort in 1973.
According to legend, a total of 999 ghosts inhabit the Haunted Mansion.
WEDway People Mover was the original name for the Tomorrowland Transit Authority.
Surfing instruction can be arranged at the Surf Pool at Disney's Typhoon Lagoon.
Despite an intense "Save the Toad" campaign, Mr. Toad's Wild Ride was replaced by The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh in 1998.
One of the Magic Kingdom's original attractions, 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea closed in 1994 and has been partially replaced by a Winnie the Pooh playground and Ariel's Grotto, a Disney character meet and greet area.
The fountain at Epcot Innoventions Plaza can reputedly shoot water up to 150 feet in the air.
The 5.7-million-gallon tank at The Seas with Nemo & Friends is home to approximately 3,000 fish and other sea creatures.
Epcot's France Pavilion contains a 103-foot-tall replica of the Eiffel Tower.
The Earth Globe that provides the centerpiece for Epcot's "Illuminations: Reflections of Earth," weighs 350,000 pounds.
Approximately 10,000 guests attended the grand opening of Disney’s Magic Kingdom on October 1, 1971.
At 189 feet tall, Cinderella Castle is Disney's Magic Kingdom's tallest structure. Space Mountain is the Magic Kingdom's second tallest structure at 183 feet tall.
It’s A Small World and the Carousel of Progress both debuted at the 1964-65 New York World’s Fair.
From 1971 to 1982, Disney's Magic Kingdom offered ticket books that categorized attractions based on an "A" to "E" scale. E tickets were used for the eight most popular Magic Kingdom attractions: 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, Country Bear Jamboree, Hall of Presidents, Haunted Mansion, It's a Small World, Jungle Cruise, Pirates of the Caribbean and Space Mountain.
The Omnimover vehicles used for The Haunted Mansion are nicknamed “Doom Buggies.”
"Chief Nammie ” is the headhunter who shows up near the end of the Jungle Cruise in Adventureland.
At 199.5 feet tall, Expedition Everest is the tallest artificial mountain at Walt Disney World Resort.
William Windsor Jr. was the first guest to enter Disney's Magic KIngom when the theme park first opened its doors on October 1, 1971.
The cover of Life magazine's October 15, 1971, cover depicts approximately 1,500 Disney characters and employees posing in front of Cinderella Castle.
Epcot's Spaceship Earth rises 180 feet and weighs approximately 16 million pounds.
The 14-story Tree of Life at Disney's Animal Kingdom boasts approximately 300 animal carvings.
Cinderella's Golden Carrousel was originally built in 1917 and once stood at Olympic Park in Maplewood, New Jersey.
Disney's Hollywood Studios features a replica of world-famous Mann's Chinese Theater.
Swiss Family Treehouse in Adventureland weighs 200 tons and rises 60 feet.
The six trains at Big Thunder Mountain Railroad are named I.B. Hearty, I.M. Brave, I.M. Fearless, U.B. Bold, U.R. Daring and U.R. Courageous.
The Walt Disney World Railroad is an authentic 1928 steam-powered train.
Each space capsule at Mission: Space is equipped with motion sickness bags.
At 30,500 acres, Walt Disney World Resort is approximately the same size as San Francisco, California.
Disney's Magic Kingdom draws an estimated 16.2 million guests annually, followed by Epcot (9.9 million), Disney's Hollywood Studios (8.6 million) and Disney's Animal Kingdom (8.2 million).
Rock 'n' Roller Coaster - Starring Aerosmith at Disney's Hollywood Studios launches you at a speed of 0 to 60 miles per hour in 2.8 seconds.
Intergalactic lounge singer Sonny Eclipse entertains diners daily at Cosmic Ray's Starlight Cafe in Tomorrowland.
Golf legend Jack Nicklaus captured the first championship at the inaugural 1971 Walt Disney World Open Invitational.
The Atlanta Braves spend Spring Training at Disney's Wide World of Sports Complex, which features a 7,500-seat, state-of-the-art ballpark.
Before Disney closed its Central Florida animation studio at Disney-MGM Studios in 2003, several animated films were worked on there such as Mulan (1998), Lilo & Stitch (2002) and Brother Bear (2003), among others.
Disney's Animal Kingdom, Disney World's largest theme park, opened on Earth Day - April 22, 1998.
The now-defunct River Country opened at Fort Wilderness in 1976 as Disney World's first water park.
Epcot is the only Disney World theme park that boasts two entrances (one being accessible via Disney's Boardwalk).
Mickey's PhilharMagic in Fantasyland boasts the world's largest seamless projection screen.
The theme and characters for Splash Mountain were inspired by the 1946 Disney movie, Song of the South.
President Richard Nixon gave his famous "I am not a crook" speech during at convention at Disney's Contemporary Resort in 1973.
According to legend, a total of 999 ghosts inhabit the Haunted Mansion.
WEDway People Mover was the original name for the Tomorrowland Transit Authority.
Surfing instruction can be arranged at the Surf Pool at Disney's Typhoon Lagoon.
Despite an intense "Save the Toad" campaign, Mr. Toad's Wild Ride was replaced by The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh in 1998.
One of the Magic Kingdom's original attractions, 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea closed in 1994 and has been partially replaced by a Winnie the Pooh playground and Ariel's Grotto, a Disney character meet and greet area.
The fountain at Epcot Innoventions Plaza can reputedly shoot water up to 150 feet in the air.
The 5.7-million-gallon tank at The Seas with Nemo & Friends is home to approximately 3,000 fish and other sea creatures.
Epcot's France Pavilion contains a 103-foot-tall replica of the Eiffel Tower.
The Earth Globe that provides the centerpiece for Epcot's "Illuminations: Reflections of Earth," weighs 350,000 pounds.
9/03/2007
Disneys Height Restrictions
The Orlando theme parks are for little kids and big kids but there are rides at all attractions that have height restrictions for children.DISNEY'S ANIMAL KINGDOM
Dinosaur - at least 40 inches tall
Expedition Everest - at least 44"
Kali River Rapids - at least 38 inches tall
Primevil Whirl - at least 48 inches tall
DISNEY-MGM STUDIOS
Rock n' Roller Coaster - at least 48 inches tall
Star Tours - at least 40 inches tall
Twilight Zone Tower of Terror - at least 40 inches tall
EPCOT
Body Wars - at least 40 inches tall
GM Test Track - at least 40 inches tall
Mission: Space - at least 44 inches tall
Soarin' - at least 40 inches tall
MAGIC KINGDOM Park
Alien Encounter - at least 44 inches tall
Big Thunder Mountain - at least 40 inches tall
Goofy's Barnstormer - at least 35 inches tall to ride
Space Mountain - at least 44 inches tall
Splash Mountain - at least 40 inches tall
Stitch's Great Escape! - at least 40 inches tall
Tomorrowland Speedway - at least 52 inches tall
BLIZZARD BEACH
Slush Gusher - at least 48 inches tall
Summit Plummet - at least 48 inches tall
Downhill Double Dipper - at least 48 inches tall
T-Bar (in Ski Patrol Training Camp) - must be under 5 ' tall to ride
Tike's Peak (Children's area) - must be under 48" tall
The Chair Lift - at least 32 inches tall (No infants or lap riding)
Cross Country Creek - adult supervision is required
Rock Climbing on Mt. Gushmore - for ages 9 and older (Additional fees required)
Expectant mothers and those with neck or back problems are strongly discouraged from experiencing any water slide attraction.
TYPHOON LAGOON
Humunga Kowabunga - at least 48 inches tall
Keel Haul Falls - at least 48 inches tall
Mayday Falls - at least 48 inches tall
Storm Slides - at least 48 inches tall
Bay Slide - must be under 5' tall to ride
Castaway Creek - adult supervision is required
Ketchakiddee Creek - must be under 48" tall to experience (especially for children ages 2-5 and their parents)
Shark Reef - guests must be 10 years old
Before/After hours Surfing- students must be at least 8 years old (Surfboards are provided)
**Expectant mothers and those with neck or back problems are strongly discouraged from experiencing any water slide attraction
Age Restrictions
MAGIC KINGDOM Park
Space Mountain - at least age 3
Big Thunder Mountain - at least age 3
The Barnstormer - at least age 3
EPCOT
Body Wars - at least age 3
DISNEY/MGM STUDIOS
Star Tours - at least age 3
Twilight Zone Tower of Terror - at least age 3
BLIZZARD BEACH
Chair Lift no infants may ride
TYPHOON LAGOON
Castaway Creek - Adult supervision required
Shark Reef - Children under 10 years of age must be accompanied by an adult
DISNEYQUEST
Buzz Lightyear's AstroBlaster - at least 51 inches tall
Cyber Space Mountain - at least 51 inches tall
Mighty Ducks Pinball Slam - at least 48 inches tall
7/30/2007
Fun for Older Kids and Teens
Here is a great pre-trip scavenger hunt for the older set.
Ask your preteen/teen to go online and "Google" "Hidden Mickey." They can read all about the history of how these illusive creatures began turning up and where to look for them. This could turn into a great trip-long scavenger hunt for the digital camera/cell phone set. They can try to spot the known and unknown cheese eaters all over the parks. It also helps to pass the time away while online for attractions. Disney does sell a comprehensive book on the topic, but fans on the Web have many of their own ideas on the subject. It is a project to get older kids involved prior to the trip, and fun to share with the entire family!
For those interested in the book, it costs about $10 US and is called "Hidden Mickeys:A Field Guide to Walt Disney World's Best Kept Secrets." You can buy it at Amazon.com or at Disney World.
Shhh, Mom and Dad ~ A hidden Mickey is a partial or complete impression of Mickey Mouse placed by the Imagineers and artists to blend into the designs of Disney attractions, hotels, restaurants, and other areas. The most common Hidden Mickey form is the tri-circle Mickey frontal silhouette: three circles that form Mickey’s round head and adjoining round ears. There's lots more on the Web or in the book.
Kim
extras:
Hidden Mickeys Photolog
Hidden Mickeys, 3rd Edition: A Field Guide to Walt Disney World's Best-Kept Secrets
Ask your preteen/teen to go online and "Google" "Hidden Mickey." They can read all about the history of how these illusive creatures began turning up and where to look for them. This could turn into a great trip-long scavenger hunt for the digital camera/cell phone set. They can try to spot the known and unknown cheese eaters all over the parks. It also helps to pass the time away while online for attractions. Disney does sell a comprehensive book on the topic, but fans on the Web have many of their own ideas on the subject. It is a project to get older kids involved prior to the trip, and fun to share with the entire family!
For those interested in the book, it costs about $10 US and is called "Hidden Mickeys:A Field Guide to Walt Disney World's Best Kept Secrets." You can buy it at Amazon.com or at Disney World.
Shhh, Mom and Dad ~ A hidden Mickey is a partial or complete impression of Mickey Mouse placed by the Imagineers and artists to blend into the designs of Disney attractions, hotels, restaurants, and other areas. The most common Hidden Mickey form is the tri-circle Mickey frontal silhouette: three circles that form Mickey’s round head and adjoining round ears. There's lots more on the Web or in the book.
Kim
extras:
Hidden Mickeys Photolog
Hidden Mickeys, 3rd Edition: A Field Guide to Walt Disney World's Best-Kept Secrets
Tips For Traverlers with Young Children
Whether or not you have been to Orlando before, young kids love the penny press machines scattered all over Disney and Universal. For those of you who are unfamiliar with them, penny presses are machines, some manual (which are more fun) and some automatic, that literally press a penny with an impression when a penny and two quarters are inserted. Every machine features impressions of different characters and poses, usually the ones prominent in that particular part of the park. Near the Buzz Lightyear ride, you may find a machine with Buzz and Woody.
Kids love to collect them all and make a mad dash for them whenever they spot one. Both Disney and Universal sell inexpensive collector's books that are small, sturdy and waterproof for around $8 US that have a place to display every one found in the parks. It's like a scavenger hunt for the younger set and is relatively inexpensive on-going fun. Make sure you bring a Ziplock bag full of "shiny" pennies and quarters at a ratio of 1:2. You can add more on each subsequent trip and they make a great Show & Tell when back at school!
We also recommend buying an inexpensive fanny pack, which can be found at any bargain store on Highway 192 for a few dollars, so your children can hold onto their own Ziplocks of coins and collector's book.
Kim
Kids love to collect them all and make a mad dash for them whenever they spot one. Both Disney and Universal sell inexpensive collector's books that are small, sturdy and waterproof for around $8 US that have a place to display every one found in the parks. It's like a scavenger hunt for the younger set and is relatively inexpensive on-going fun. Make sure you bring a Ziplock bag full of "shiny" pennies and quarters at a ratio of 1:2. You can add more on each subsequent trip and they make a great Show & Tell when back at school!
We also recommend buying an inexpensive fanny pack, which can be found at any bargain store on Highway 192 for a few dollars, so your children can hold onto their own Ziplocks of coins and collector's book.
Kim
10 Best Children’s Activities at Walt Disney World
by Cara Goldsbury
I’m sure you all know about Disney World’s amazing theme parks, but are you familiar with the myriad of fascinating activities for children offered throughout Walt Disney World that are either complimentary or offered for a reasonable fee to Disney resort guests? Here are some of the best:
- Snag a Bass On a Kid’s Fishing Excursion. 1-hour angling trips just for children are available from the resort marinas of Disney’s Contemporary, Polynesian, Yacht and Beach Club, and Boardwalk Inn and Villas. For miles of shore fishing head over to Disney’s Ft. Wilderness where cane poles and rods and reels may be rented at the Bike Barn in the Meadow Recreation Area. Fishing excursions are approximately $25 per child. Call 407-WDW-PLAY for reservations.
- Enjoy the Old West. Hayrides depart each evening from Pioneer Hall at Fort Wilderness for a 45-minute trip. Very tame, cowboy-guided trail rides are also offered, or younger children can opt for a $2 pony ride at the Fort Wilderness Petting Farm. Hayrides are $8 per adult and $4 per child; no reservations taken. Trail rides are $30 per person; reservations are required and may be made up to two weeks in advance by calling 407-WDW-PLAY.
- Sing-Along in Front of the Campfire. Families gather round the campfire each evening at Ft. Wilderness for a sing-along, marshmallow roast, and a Disney animated movie. Complimentary to all Walt Disney World resort guests.
- Watch the Electrical Water Pageant Parade. Nightly on the Seven Seas Lagoon is a delightful 1000-foot string of illuminated barges featuring King Neptune and his court of whales, sea serpents, and other deep-sea creatures. The free show can be seen from the beaches of Disney’s Polynesian, Grand Floridian, Contemporary, and Wilderness Lodge Resorts.
- Ride Up Front with the Monorail Driver. Simply ask the Cast Member on duty. They will be happy to oblige as long as the front car is empty.
- Take a Spin on a Watermouse Boat. Rent one of these two-seater mini-power boats and zip around one of Disney’s lakes at 22 miles per hour. Kids love them, particularly because they need only be 12 years or older and at least 5 feet tall to drive one without adult supervision. Available at the Contemporary, Polynesian, Grand Floridian, the Yacht and Beach Club, Downtown Disney, and the Wilderness Lodge. Approximately $22 per half-hour.
- Dive into One of Disney’s Fabulous Themed Pools. You can’t do much better than a dip in one of Disney’s wonderful swimming pools. Children’s favorites: the Volcano Pool at Disney’s Polynesian Resort featuring a smoking volcano slide, underwater music, and sparkling waterfall, all with a superb view of the Seven Seas Lagoon; the Wilderness Lodge’s boulder-lined pool featuring waterfalls, rocky overlooks, water slide, and a nearby geyser; the eye-popping Stormalong Bay, a mini-water park complex that meanders between the Yacht and Beach Club, offering three acres of winding, watery delight including sandy bottom pools, a giant “shipwreck” waterslide, a tidal whirlpool, bubbling hot tubs, a kiddie pool with its own slide next to the beach, and enough length to float lazily in inner tubes to your heart’s delight.
- Search for Buried Treasure on a Pirate’s Cruise. Every Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday, children ages 3-10 sail from the dock of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort on a 2-hour supervised trip to a deserted island. $28 fee includes snacks, bandanas, and treasure. Call 407-WDW-DINE for reservations.
- Attend a Children’s Tea Party. A “Wonderland Tea Party” happens Mon-Fri at 1:30 P.M. in 1900 Park Fare at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort. Hosted by characters from Alice in Wonderland, the little ones play games, listen to stories, and drink apple “tea”. $28. Strictly for children ages 3-10. Call 407-WDW-DINE for reservations.
- Take in a Character Meal. These extremely popular dining opportunities, offered at both the Disney theme parks and resort hotels, are a perfect way for your children to spend extra time with favorite Disney characters. Meals are offered in three ways depending on the restaurant: buffet-style, family-style, or pre-plated meals; regardless, it’s essentially all-you-can-eat. Characters work the room, stopping at each table to interact with guests, pose for photos, and sign autographs. Book priority seating early, particularly for Cinderella’s Royal Table, Epcot’s Princess Breakfast in Norway, and Chef Mickey’s by calling 407-WDW-DINE.
Cara Goldsbury is the author of The Luxury Guide to Walt Disney World: How to Get the Most Out of the Best Disney Has to Offer. Visit her at www.luxurydisneyguide.com.
7/15/2007
Disney’s 10 Most Magical Experiences
by Cara Goldsbury, author of The Luxury Guide to Walt Disney World: How to Get the Most Out of the Best Disney Has to Offer
- An Epcot Illuminations Cruise — Each evening boatloads of visitors depart from the docks of Disney’s Boardwalk Inn and Disney’s Yacht Club headed for Epcot. Their destination is a prime position under the bridge between the United Kingdom and France for a view of the Illuminations fireworks spectacular. Cruises are offered nightly with your choice of either a pontoon boat seating 10 or a beautiful reproduction of a 1930s Chris Craft accommodating 6-7 people. Although reservations can be made up to 90 days in advance, they sometimes sell out on the first day. Call 407-WDW-PLAY.
- Dinner at the California Grill — The California Grill on the 15th floor of Disney’s Contemporary Resort is a definite highlight for any connoisseur of cutting-edge cuisine. Through immense windows is an unbeatable panorama of the Magic Kingdom and the Seven Seas Lagoon and on many nights picture-perfect views of the Wishes fireworks. From pristinely fresh sushi to the exceptional New American Cuisine to sensational desserts and the outstanding California wine list, this place has it all.
- Breakfast With Cinderella — High atop Cinderella’s Castle in the Magic Kingdom is your chance to feast in a fairytale setting with Cinderella, Jasmine, Aladdin, and Belle. Kids love the grand dining room where through glittering leaded-glass windows is a birds-eye view of Fantasyland. The characters make their way around the dining room and give each child quality time signing autographs and posing for pictures.
- Beachside Vista of the Magic Kingdom’s Fireworks — On evenings when fireworks are on the Magic Kingdom’s agenda, head to one of the Polynesian Resort’s idyllic white-sand beaches, grab a hammock, kick back, and view the festivities.
- Your First Glimpse of Cinderella’s Castle — As you walk under the train station at the Magic Kingdom and into a world of make believe, the splendor of Main Street is spread out before you with that celebrated fairy tale castle sitting at the end.
- The Sight of Exotic Animals Grazing Below Your Guestroom Balcony — A stay at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge comes with a view of its marvelous savanna filled with hundreds of roaming exotic animals. After dark the preserves are lit with a moon glow effect, perfect for a nighttime stroll or after dinner entertainment from your room balcony.
- A Picturesque Ride on the Monorail — Hop on board Disney’s favorite form of transportation for a delightful journey around the Seven Seas Lagoon, through the interior of the Contemporary Resort, past the Magic Kingdom, and off through the pine trees on your way to Epcot.
- Cocktails in the Grand Lobby of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort — This resort’s favorite gathering spot is an exquisitely soaring, 5-story lobby of stained-glass cupolas and filigreed chandeliers. Find a seat on a cushy sofa and take pleasure in the lively big band orchestra while sipping a strawberry-topped glass of champagne.
- Reliving the Drive-In of Your Youth At Disney-MGM Studios — At the Sci-fi Dine-In Theatre, guests are served in sleek 1950s-era convertibles while watching B-grade sci-fi and horror trailers on the big screen. Waiters on roller skates carhop the darkened, starlit theater, speaker boxes hang on the side of your car and, of course, popcorn and hot dogs dance on the screen during intermission. Though the food is just so-so, who cares when Godzilla is your entertainment.
- A Float Through Splash Mountain — Who can resist the charms of Brer Rabbit, Brer Fox, Brer Bear, and the rest of the gang, even if it culminates in one heck of a plunge? Drift round the briar patch in a hollowed-out log while toe-tapping music plays among the cabbages and carrots, jugs of moonshine, chirpin’ birds, and croakin’ frogs as you relax and bob your head to the beat. As you float through bayous, marshes, and caverns, all a delight to the eyes with loads of colorful detail and too-cute cavorting characters, the heartwarming theme song “Time To Be Moving Along” plays. It’s guaranteed to put a smile on your face.
Provided the following credit is given, you are welcome to reprint this article for free.Cara Goldsbury is the author of The Luxury Guide to Walt Disney World: How to Get the Most Out of the Best Disney Has to Offer. Visit her at www.luxurydisneyguide.com.
Tips for Disney World First Timers
By guest writer Cara Goldsbury
The character breakfasts can be very popular and are booked out almost as soon as they are available to be booked.
Read below for the information you need that will maximize your chances of getting a table at one of these breakfasts.
Many more invaluable tips can be found in Cara Goldsbury's book, The Luxury Guide to Walt Disney World.
So you've finally decided to head to Walt Disney World. Most people find that a Disney experience can be overwhelming - there is so much to see and do. You don't want to get stuck in lines, you don't want to miss out on 'must sees', and you do want to enjoy yourselves.
Here are a hopefully lucky thirteen tips to make your trip one that will be remembered for a lifetime.
- Plan ahead. Decide ahead of time what your priorities are and make a plan of action.
- Get to the parks early! It's amazing, particularly in busy season, how many of the popular rides you can knock off before half the "World" gets out of bed.
- Take the time to rest in the middle of the day. Stay at one of the Magic Kingdom or Epcot resorts, allowing a return in the middle of the day for a nap or dip in the pool.
- Call exactly 90 days prior at 7 AM Orlando time for priority seating if breakfast at Cinderella's Royal Table in the Magic Kingdom is tops on your child's list. The only way you might get away with sleeping in and booking a bit later for this highly coveted character breakfast is if you are traveling in extremely slow season.
- Come prepared for an afternoon shower during the rainy summer months even if the sky looks perfectly clear in the morning. Rent a locker to store your raingear and circle back if skies start to look threatening. However, if you're caught unprepared, just about every store in the parks sells inexpensive rain ponchos.
- Use Fastpass, Disney's free, nifty timesaving device. It's offered at all four theme parks and is a great way to save hours of waiting in line. Just insert your park pass in one of the machines located at each individual Fastpass attraction and receive a ticket printed with a designated one-hour window in which you may return and enter a special line with little or no waiting.
- Pre-arrange priority seating, Disney's answer to dining reservations, by calling 407-WDW-DINE. On arrival you'll receive the next table available for your party size, thus saving hours of frustration and waiting.
Allow plenty of time to reach the theme parks each morning. It's easy to miss your breakfast priority seating if you don't allocate enough time. - Be spontaneous. If something catches your eye, even if it's not on your daily list of things to do, stop and explore. If not, you could miss something wonderful.
- Realize the limitations of your children. If they're tired, take a break. If their feet hurt, get them a stroller (forget that they outgrew one years ago). If a ride scares them don't force the issue. Such precautions will make your day and the day of other park visitors a lot less stressful.
- Bring pagers, 2-way radios, or cell phones. If your party plans on splitting up, they are a perfect way to keep in touch
- Wear broken-in, comfortable footwear. Better yet, bring two pairs and rotate them. Nothing is worse than blisters on your first day and then nursing them for the remainder of your vacation.
- Most importantly, slow down and enjoy the magic. Resist the urge to see everything at breakneck speed. You can't possibly cover it all, so think of this as your first trip to Disney, not your last. There will be time to pick up all the things you missed on the next go-round.
Cara Goldsbury is the author of The Luxury Guide to Walt Disney World: How to Get the Most Out of the Best Disney Has to Offer, available at 800-247-6553,
Originally published 1 Feb 2004
You may freely reproduce or distribute this article for noncommercial purposes as long as you give credit to Cara Goldsbury as original writer.
Disney Tips - General Park Information
General Park Information and Tips
- The theme parks at Walt Disney World are open year round. The parks usually open daily at 9:00 am and close anywhere from 6:00 p.m. to midnight depending on what part of the season it is. Animal Kingdom usually opens at 7 or 8 am every day. Disney changes its hours of operation throughout the year, but there are many places to find the hours of operation including calling Disney World and certain web pages.
- The busiest periods at Disney World are from mid-February to August and from Christmas Day to New Years Day. The slowest months are January, September, October and November. The busiest day of the week seems to be Tuesday with Friday and Sunday being the least crowded.
- Hurricane season is roughly from August to October. This is probably why these months are less crowded. Though it may rain every day during this season, the showers are often short and sometimes very light. Having a plastic rain parka can make this a very minor inconvenience.
- The theme parks are generally less crowded after 4:00 p.m., especially Magic Kingdom and MGM Studios. Epcot seems to be the opposite, it is least crowed early in the morning.
Attraction boards are located in all of the theme parks. It is a large board that lists all the attractions in the park and approximate waiting times for that attraction. This can be helpful in choosing what to see based on the length of the line. There is also a Disney staff member stationed at each board to give you directions to attractions. - Find out when parades are taking place at the park you are visiting. If you have already seen the parade or are not interested in seeing it, this is a good time to see one of the more popular attractions, as lines are generally shorter.
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