Cool Kid Summer Is Coming to Walt Disney World! (Plus New Florida Resident Summer Magic Ticket Details)

Cool Kid Summer is headed to Walt Disney World from May 27 through September 1, 2025! Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a quick getaway, or just want to enjoy some amazing Florida Resident ticket deals (spoiler alert — they’re really good this year), there’s a lot to love about Disney’s summer plans.

If you’ve been dreaming of long summer days filled with Disney magic, get ready — Cool Kid Summer is headed to Walt Disney World from May 27 through September 1, 2025! Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a quick getaway, or just want to enjoy some amazing Florida Resident ticket deals (spoiler alert — they’re really good this year), there’s a lot to love about Disney’s summer plans.

Here’s what’s in store and how to make the most of it.


Cool Kid Summer at WDW
Photo: Disney Parks

🏖 Florida Resident Summer Magic Tickets Are Back!

Let’s start with the news Florida locals will be most excited about:
The Summer Magic Ticket returns May 6 — and this year’s prices are a steal!

4-Day Ticket – $60 per day ($240 plus tax)
3-Day Ticket – $75 per day ($225 plus tax)
2-Day Ticket – $105 per day ($210 plus tax)

➡ Valid for visits May 18 – September 27, 2025 (with a park reservation).

Seriously, these prices are so good, they almost warrant a move to Florida! (Ok, we all know that’s my master plan anyways, but $60/day??? That’s less than HALF a standard one-day park ticket!!). As always, you’ll want to grab these early because some dates will book up fast, especially weekends and holidays.


🌸 EPCOT: GoofyCore & Summer Fun

Cool Kid Summer at WDW
Photo: Disney Parks

Starting May 27, CommuniCore Hall is transforming into a Goofy-themed dance and play zone. Expect DJ dance parties, silly games like Loopy Limbo, and lots of family fun.

I think this is an inspired choice by Disney: Goofy is always such a fun character to interact with, and he’s always so much fun to be silly and play with. I think the kids are going to really love this “dance and play zone”. I can’t wait to see all the hijinks!!

If you’re visiting EPCOT before May 27, note that CommuniCore Hall will temporarily close starting May 12 for the makeover — but CommuniCore Plaza and Mickey & Friends meet-and-greet will stay open.

🌼 Flower & Garden Festival tip: Check out Florida Fresh for some bonus Farmer’s Feast treats while you’re there!


🐾 Disney’s Animal Kingdom: Wilderness Badges & Crafting

Cool Kid Summer at WDW. Animal Kingdom
Photo: Disney Parks

Rafiki’s Planet Watch will host hands-on craft activities all about pollinators (perfect for your little nature lovers).

Plus, there’s a special, limited-time Wilderness Explorers badge up for grabs — and a new interactive sing-along show at Discovery Island at day’s end.

Pro tip: Keep an eye out for some of Animal Kingdom’s lesser-known animal residents like okapi and tigers during your badge quest!


🎬 Hollywood Studios: Dance Parties & All-New Shows

Cool Kid Summer at WDW
Photo: Disney Parks

Animation Courtyard will be buzzing with games, crafts, street performers, and surprise character moments.

Little ones can dance the day away with Mickey Mouse and Disney Junior pals at a DJ party.

🖤 Two new stage shows debut May 27: (I am so excited about BOTH of these, I can’t even tell you!)

  • Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After (your favorite baddies get the spotlight)
  • The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure (a fresh, magical retelling with songs and special effects)
The Little Mermaid - A Musical Adventure

🎪 Magic Kingdom: Storybook Circus & Galactic Beats

At Storybook Circus, Pluto will be hosting a Big Top Bash dance party, complete with jugglers and stilt walkers.

Cool Kid Summer at WDW
Photo: Disney Parks

Over in Tomorrowland, dance with Stitch at the Galactic Blast and enjoy a cool new craft inspired by the upcoming Pixar movie “Elio.”

Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away Encanto Float
Concept Art: Disney Parks

And later this summer, keep your eyes peeled for the debut of Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away — a brand-new nighttime show featuring characters from Encanto, Frozen, Coco, and more.


💦 Bonus Perks for Resort Guests

If you’re staying at a Disney Resort Collection hotel this summer:

✔ Get free water park admission on your check-in day (starting May 21).
✔ Enjoy 30-minute early theme park entry every morning.
✔ Expect extra activities, character visits, and more at Pop Century, Art of Animation, Caribbean Beach, and Wilderness Lodge.

Cool Kid Summer at WDW
Photo: Disney Parks

💰 More Summer Savings to Know About

Disney has rolled out several other deals families can combine with the Florida Resident tickets or room stays:

  • Kids’ Tickets 50% Off (ages 3-9) on 3-day or longer tickets (May 27–Sept 20).
  • 3-Day, 3-Park Ticket – $89/day for EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom.
  • Resort Room Deals – Save up to 30% (Aug 1–Oct 11). Disney+ subscribers can snag rooms from $99/night at select resorts (June 29–July 31).
  • FREE water park visit on your check-in day for all Resort Guests. BOTH Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach will be open all summer, so you get to CHOOSE which water park you want to play in!
Cool Kids Summer at WDW
Photo: Disney Parks

🏰 Final Thoughts

Between the new shows, extra character moments, and dance parties galore, Cool Kid Summer 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most fun — and affordable — summers at Disney in a while.

If you’re a Florida Resident or planning a visit this summer, this might be the perfect time to jump in.

Want help planning your summer trip or grabbing those Florida Resident tickets? I’m always happy to help! Contact me today!

Email me for a free, no obligation quote today!

Free Dining for Kids in 2026 with the Disney Dining Plan!

If you’ve been dreaming of a magical Disney World vacation with your little ones, 2026 just might be your year. Disney just announced a brand-new offer that has me (and my fellow Disney planning fans) doing a happy dance around Cinderella Castle!

Starting April 22, 2025, you can officially book your 2026 Walt Disney World vacation — and there’s a seriously sweet deal on the table:

🎈 Kids ages 3–9 get the Disney Dining Plan FREE when staying at a Disney Resort hotel — as long as the adults in the party purchase a dining plan as part of their vacation package.

Yes, you read that right. FREE dining for the kiddos for all of 2026. 🍕🍓🥪🧃👑

Let’s break it down and talk about why this could be a big win for your family—and why now is a perfect time to plan ahead.

Free Dining CAN save families a lot of money, depending on the rules Disney sets around each specific Free Dining offer. And most of us, when we hear FREE anything in relation to Disney, we get excited! A Walt Disney World vacation is an expensive vacation, there is no getting around that. And any offer that can potentially save you money is OF COURSE something we want to look at.

But it is important to remember that Free Dining is not always the best deal for every family. Let’s take a look at what this particular offer, 2026 Kids Eat Free with the Disney Dining Plan, really means.

🏰 Why This Free Dining Plan Offer MIGHT be a Game-Changer for Families

As a Disney travel planner who’s helped lots of families make their Disney dreams come true, I can tell you this: dining costs add up fast, especially with little ones who want their Mickey waffles and then some!

With this 2026 offer:

      • Kids (ages 3–9) get a full Disney dining plan for free

      • To take advantage of this offer, each adult will need to purchase a dining plan with their vacation package

      • Pro: You’ll enjoy peace of mind knowing meals and snacks have been “prepaid” with your vacation package

      • You can make advance dining reservations, use Mobile Order, and skip the stress of budgeting food during your trip

Whether your kids love character breakfasts, classic burgers, or Disney’s famous chicken tenders, they’ll be covered — and that means you could potentially save hundreds of dollars over the course of your stay.

Things to consider:

    1. Free Dining is Back. Disney Dining Plan. Quick Service. Kids Dining.
      Photo: Disney Parks
      •  How your children like to eat. If your children are good “eaters” and like to eat a normal children’s portion at most meals, you definitely would have to budget for their meals as part of your vacation budgeting. However, if your kid(s) are extremely light eaters, or mainly eat off of mom and dad’s plates, you may not need to budget as much for their meals. 
      • How many children under 9 you have. Another important factor to consider when evaluating this particular FREE Dining offer: how many members of your family actually qualify? For example, if you are a family of five, with 2 adults and 3 children, you could potentially get free dining for all three children. As long as all three children are under the age of 10. But if that same family of five is 2 adults and three kids, but the kids are aged 6, 10 and 12–you’d be buying the regular dining plan for 4 family members and getting a FREE dining plan for 1 family member.  As you can see, the ages of your children will have a significant impact on how much you could potentially save with this offer. AND, how much you might have to spend to GET that offer.
      • How YOU like to eat on vacation: Just as important as your children’s eating habits are YOUR habits. Are you a light eater? Do you have a big appetite? Do you and your spouse often split entrees? Conversely, do you each always order a different entree so you can try new things and share them? Are you a vegetarian? Do you eat at least 2 meals every day? All of these questions can have an impact on whether the Dining Plan is a good fit for your family. Remember, one of the caveats for this newest Free Dining offer is that each adult in the vacation package must purchase a dining plan. So if there are two adults in your family, you will be purchasing the dining plan for EACH of you. Which can be TERRIFIC, don’t get me wrong. But if you often share entrees or skip meals? Maybe not.
    • Disney World Summer Savings. Chef Mickey's Character Dining
      Chef Mickey’s Photo: Disney Parks
       
      • How you like to budget for your vacations. Do you prefer to know as many costs up front as possible, and fully pay for as much of your trip as you can before you leave home? Or are you more comfortable paying up front for your lodging, travel costs and park tickets, but prefer to bring money with you on vacation to cover meals, snacks and beverages? Some families prefer to prepay for their entire vacation, feeling more relaxed during the trip because they know they already paid for it. Other families prefer to put “during vacation” expenses on credit cards to pay off AFTER vacation. And there are others that bring cash on vacation for food and incidentals, and when the cash runs out, they’re done. Everyone has a slightly different approach to finances for vacations. Whether the dining plan or any FREE dining plan is a good fit for your family depends a lot on how YOU prefer to approach your vacation budget.
      • Does your family snack? Now, this may SEEM like a silly question–but for some families, this is a REAL sticking point. When you get any of the Dining Plans, every person on the plans (including free dining plans) will get 1 snack credit per day. You can use these on things like Mickey Bars, chips, even bottled water. BUT any unused snack credit goes to waste–and essentially costs you $4-$6. If your family snacks, you will likely have no trouble using all your snack credits. But if your family DOESN’T snack, you may be paying for something you won’t use.
Disney Dining Plan. Free Dining. Snacks.
Photo: Disney Parks
      • Do you qualify for any other kinds of discounts at Disney World for your 2026 vacation? Sometimes, there are deeper discounts available for members of the military, Florida residents or annual passholders.
      • FREE Dining isn’t REALLY free. We all know that in today’s world, nothing is ever really free. You are paying for the “free” thing somewhere else. In the case of Disney Free Dining, how much Kids Free Dining in 2026 will benefit you really depends on what other discounts you may qualify for, and whether or not the Dining Plan is a good fit for your family.

If you’d like to talk through any of these questions, feel free to reach out to me. I can explore all available discounts for your vacation, and help you to determine if Free Dining For Kids in 2026 is truly a great deal for YOU. 

Bonus: When you work with an authorized Disney Vacation Planner like me, we monitor future discounts as they become available. If Disney releases a new discount that could save you money before your final payment is made, your planner can update your vacation package to apply that discount!


🌟 More Perks of Staying at a Disney Resort in 2026

This free dining plan for kids is amazing on its own, but it’s only one part of the magic you get when you stay at a Disney Resort hotel in 2026. Check out these other included perks:

 

🚍 Free Transportation
Hop on the Skyliner, monorail, boats, or buses to get to the parks with ease (no car seats required!).

Walt Disney World Transportation, Free Dining for Kids in 2026

🅿️ Free Parking
At your resort, the theme parks, and even the water parks.

🎢 Early Theme Park Entry
Disney Resort guests can enter every park 30 minutes early every day. That means lower crowds and shorter lines — yes, please!

🌙 Extended Evening Hours
If you’re staying at a Deluxe Resort, you’ll get access to extra evening time in select parks on select days.

🍽️ Early Access to Dining & Lightning Lane Reservations
You’ll be first in line to book your must-do meals and experiences like Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique or Oga’s Cantina.

🏖️ NEW! Free Water Park Admission
Starting in 2025, Resort guests can enjoy complimentary access to a Disney water park on their check-in day. Talk about a splashy start to your vacation!

Disney Water Parks, Free Dining for Kids in 2026
Photo: Disney Parks

🎈 Resort-Only Fun
From poolside games and movies under the stars to surprise character visits, Disney resorts are full of magic even when you’re not in the parks.


📅 When Can I Book My 2026 Vacation?

Mark your calendar! Vacation packages for travel dates through October 2026 go live on April 22, 2025. (November and December 2026 dates will open up a little later.)

Already itching to go sooner? I can help you explore current special offers for 2025 too — including discounted room rates and limited-time ticket deals.

Walt Disney World Family Vacation, Free Dining for Kids in 2026
Photo: Disney Parks

🧚‍♀️ Ready to Plan a Magical Trip Where Your Kids Dine for Free?

I’d love to help you book the perfect Disney World vacation for 2026 — with all the perks, none of the stress. We’ll choose the right resort, dining plan, and park tickets for your family, and I’ll make sure you don’t miss a thing. We’ll evaluate your unique family situation and how you like to travel, dine and budget. We’ll review the available promotions and determine if Free Dining for Kids in 2026 is the best deal for YOUR family, or if there is another offer that would be better for you.

✨ Let’s make some magical memories — and save some pixie dust dollars while we’re at it.


 

 

 

Ready to plan your next Magical Adventure? Email me today for a no-obligation quote!

Disney+ Subscribers SAVE this Summer at WDW!

Disney+ Subscribers get Great Summer Savings at WDW!

Photo: Disney Parks

Great Rates at Select Disney Resorts!

If you are a Disney+ subscriber, we’ve got good news for you. Disney is offering some terrific savings on room rates at select Walt Disney World resorts this summer for Disney+ subscribers.

Disney+ subscriber rates at Disney Resorts Collection hotels start as low as $99 per night. This offer is valid on 2-night stays or longer, most nights from June 29 to July 31, 2025. The offer is limited to the following room types:

      • $99 Per Night for Standard Rooms at Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort
      • $169 Per Night for Woods View Rooms at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside
      • $229 Per Night for Cars Family Suites at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
      • $249 Per Night for Deluxe Studios at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort
      • $339 Per Night for Savanna View Rooms at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

Proof of a Disney+ subscription is required, and must be submitted at the time of reservation. A Disney+ subscriber with an active subscription must stay in the room.

Ready to take advantage of this special summer savings for Disney+ subscribers? Email me today to get started!

 

 

 

 

runDisney, Princess Half Marathon, Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend
Are you ready to plan your next Magical vacation? I’d love to help! email  Brooke@disneycastledreaming.com for a free, no obligation quote today!

Disney’s Grand Floridian Lobby is Getting Renovated!

Disney’s Grand Floridian: Victorian Elegance Gets a Fresh Update

One of the most popular deluxe resorts at Walt Disney World is getting a facelift. Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort’s lobby is getting renovated this year!

A Victorian Dream Just Steps from Magic Kingdom

Stepping into the Grand Floridian is like being transported to another era—an elegant Victorian wonderland that somehow feels both nostalgic and fresh at the same time. Just minutes from Magic Kingdom (you can see Cinderella Castle and even watch the fireworks from this resort!), this stunning property has been impressing Disney guests since 1988.

What makes this resort truly special is how it celebrates Florida’s history and the golden age of travel. Those gorgeous seaside hotels of yesteryear? The Grand Floridian captures that essence perfectly while adding that special Disney magic we all crave.

Disney's Grand Floridian Lobby is getting renovated
The Grand Floridian Photo: Disney Parks

The Stunning Lobby Transformation

Disney’s Grand Floridian lobby renovation marks the final piece of the resort’s multi-year refurbishment project. The Grand Floridian’s rooms, restaurants and even the spa have all gotten updated over the last couple of years. From the concept art of the planned lobby renovations, we can tell that Disney has saved the best for last.

The most AMAZING planned addition? A gorgeous new lobby bar!

This isn’t just any hotel bar. Inspired by the lobby’s iconic birdcage, this new bar will feature beautiful Victorian details—intricate woodwork, stunning stained glass, and elegant brass accents. Stained glass and colorful birds will be hidden throughout the atrium’s design.

Disney's Grand Floridian Lobby is getting renovated
Disney’s Grand Floridian Lobby Pre-Renovation                                                             Photo: Disney Parks

And don’t worry, Disney purists! That charming cage-style elevator we all know and love? It will still be there, directly opposite the new bar. Disney knows not to mess with perfection!

Fresh but Familiar

What I love most about this renovation is how respectful it is to the Grand Floridian’s heritage. The refreshed lobby, staircase, and front desk will feature botanical accents and inviting colors that create a dreamy, garden-like atmosphere.

The new carpeting is beautiful—Victorian-inspired borders with hand-drawn florals that were inspired by turn-of-the-century botanical studies. It’s these little details that make Disney so special, right?

All the new furnishings blend rich finishes and brass accents with fabrics that just make you want to sink in and stay awhile.

Disney's Grand Floridian Lobby is getting renovated
Disney’s Grand Floridian                                                                                                          Photo: Disney Parks

The Disney Difference

Staying at a Disney Resort hotel is always magical, but there’s something extra special about the Grand Floridian. It’s one of more than 25 Disney Resort hotels at Walt Disney World, and one of only a handful considered “Magic Kingdom Resorts”.

Being so close to the Magic Kingdom means you can pop back for an afternoon nap. You have the option to take the monorail or a bus…but you’re even close enough to walk to the Magic Kingdom. Staying at the Grand Floridian will give you access to the Seven Seas Lagoon. You can rent a variety of watercrafts to play on the Lagoon and at night, you can see the classic Electrical Water Pageant!

Disney's Grand Floridian Lobby is Getting Renovated
Electrical Water Pageant                                                                                                           Photo: Disney Parks

Disney’s Grand Floridian is one of only two Disney World Deluxe Resorts that feature a spa. (Disney’s Saratoga Springs is the other one, in case you were curious). The Grand Floridian is also the only Walt Disney World resort to feature its own Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique.  (Note: The Grand Floridian’s Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique is not currently open; however, I’m hopeful that it will reopen later this year.)

Disney's Grand Floridian Lobby is getting renovated. Senses Spa
Spa at Disney’s Grand Floridian                                                                                             Photo: Disney Parks

Worth Every Penny

Is Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort a splurge? Absolutely.

Is it worth it? It depends on what’s important to you, but if you prefer a deluxe experience and staying near the Magic Kingdom is important to you, it’s really hard to beat the Grand Floridian.

Whether you’re celebrating something special (anniversary trip, anyone?), treating yourself to an unforgettable meal at Victoria & Albert’s (which, by the way, now has a MICHELIN STAR!), or you’re lucky enough to call it your home away from home as a Disney Vacation Club member, this resort is pure magic.

Disney's Grand Floridian Lobby is Getting Renovated, Victoria & Alberts
Victoria & Albert’s                                                                                                                      Photo: Disney Parks

Sometimes things at Disney change, and that’s okay—it’s part of Walt’s vision to keep growing and evolving. But some things, like the warm welcome you receive when checking in, the meticulous attention to detail, and that heart-fluttering feeling of stepping into somewhere truly special—those things will always remain the same at the Grand Floridian.

Have you stayed at the Grand Floridian? Are you excited about the lobby renovations? Drop me a comment below—I’d love to hear your thoughts!

 

 

 

 

Brooke Hudson Disney Travel Agent
Ready to Plan Your Next Disney Vacation? I’m ready to help! Email brooke@disneycastledreaming.com

Both Disney World Water Parks Open This Summer!

SPLASHY NEWS! Typhoon Lagoon AND Blizzard Beach will BOTH be open this summer!

Disney is really going ALL-IN on the water parks this year! Both Disney Water Parks will be open from May 21 through September 7 this year. For the first time since 2019 in fact, ALL SIX Walt Disney World parks will be open at the same time! Yes, you read that right – both Blizzard Beach AND Typhoon Lagoon water parks will be open all summer!

Both Disney World water parks open this summer 2025, Blizzard Beach, Typhoon Lagoon
Photo: Disney Parks

The Coolest Summer Ever Just Got Better!

I don’t know about you, but my family has been counting down the days until summer vacation, and this announcement just made our planning SO much more exciting! With the tropical paradise of Typhoon Lagoon AND the winter wonderland of Blizzard Beach both available, we’ll definitely need to add an extra water park day to our itinerary! Since 2019, every time Typhoon Lagoon opened for its “season”, that meant Blizzard Beach was closed. When it was time for Blizzard Beach to open, Typhoon Lagoon would close.

Both Disney World Water Parks Open this summer 2025, Blizzard Beach, Typhoon Lagoon
Blizzard Beach. Photo: Disney Parks

Both water parks are TONS of fun, but they each have different strengths. As a fan of BOTH parks, I prefer to have a choice between the two. If I’m in a “spend all day in the lazy river” kind of mood, or really want to embrace the “Florida” of it all, I want to go to Typhoon Lagoon. If I’m more in a daring, adventurous mood, or really want the WINTER theming, I’m probably going to lean more towards Blizzard Beach. For YEARS, Disney has made that choice for me. There was no choice, basically. If you wanted to visit a Disney water park, you had one choice–whichever park was actually open during your visit.

Both Disney World Water Parks open this summer 2025. Blizzard Beach, Typhoon Lagoon.
Photo: Disney Parks

But THIS year, Disney is giving us back our choices. This summer, BOTH Disney water parks will be open for the whole season.

Quick note: Blizzard Beach (which is celebrating its 30th anniversary this month) will need a little “refresh” time and will temporarily close from May 1-20 before reopening for the summer season.

FREE Water Park Access for Resort Guests!

Disney already brought the water parks to our attention when they announced late last year that ALL Disney guests staying on property in 2025 would get FREE water park admission on their arrival day! I love this perk, and think it’s a great way for guests that have never experienced a Disney water park to check them out. It was always hard to justify the water park ticket price if you weren’t planning on spending a whole day at the water park, and it was always a little tough to trade off a theme park day for a water park day–especially when you were planning ahead and not completely sure of the weather.

Both Disney World water parks are open this summer 2025. Blizzard Beach, Typhoon Lagoon
Photo: Disney Parks

But now, you can visit a Disney water park on the day you arrive for most of the day (if you arrive early) or just a few hours (if you arrive a little later) and it doesn’t cost you ANYTHING extra. Which is NOT something I find myself saying very often about Disney!

This is such a fantastic way to kick off your vacation, especially if you arrive early in the day and want to make the most of your first day before hitting the theme parks tomorrow! It also makes that “your room is not ready until 4 pm (or sometimes later!)” challenge SO much less impactful. You can drop your luggage at Bell Services, grab your “water park go bag” and go have FUN at the water park. (and let’s face it: this aspect of customer DISsatisfaction with check-in was a big motivator in Disney deciding to offer this new perk this year!).

Nighttime Water Park Fun at H2O Glow!

For my night owls who want to splash under the stars, H2O Glow After Hours at Typhoon Lagoon is BACK from May 23 through September 13 on select nights! We absolutely LOVED this event last year – think reduced wait times, complimentary snacks, and Toy Story character encounters amid glowing, colorful lights!

Both Disney World Water Parks Open This Summer 2025. Typhoon Lagoon H2O Glow
H2O Glow at Typhoon Lagoon. Photo: Disney Parks

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

For all my runDisney friends participating in this year’s Springtime Surprise there is a H2O Glow night during race weekend! What better way to wind down AND celebrate your race than to pay in the water at Typhoon Lagoon? It wasn’t warm enough to enjoy an event like this during the Princess Half Marathon weekend this year, but I’m so envious of all of you racing in Springtime Surprise that can enjoy this event!

The best part? Kids’ tickets are just $42.50 this year (half the adult price of $85)! Plus, my fellow Annual Passholders and DVC members, you’ll get additional special savings too!

Tickets went on sale TODAY (April 4)! Note: This event did sell out several nights last summer, so if this is something you and your family or friends want to enjoy, buy those tickets SOON. (I’m happy to help, just send me an email.)

Both Disney World Water Parks open this summer 2025. Typhoon Lagoon H2O Glow!
Typhoon Lagoon H2O Glow! Photo: Disney Parks

Tips to Maximize your Splashy Fun on Arrival Day!

When planning to include visiting a Disney water park on your arrival day, there are a few things I recommend to make sure you get the most enjoyment out of this great FREE perk.

Both Disney World Water Parks Open This Summer 2025. Typhoon Lagoon, Blizzard Beach
Blizzard Beach Summit Plummet. Photo: Disney Parks

Review Your Travel Party – and Make Updates If Needed
Make sure that everyone in your travel party is listed on your reservation. This FREE water park visit on arrival day is ONLY available to registered resort guests, so make sure you didn’t leave anyone off the reservation!

Double Check the Water Park Calendar(s) and Hours
Check the park calendar and operating hours before your check-in day so you can plan your water park visit. And remember, if you’re visiting this summer, BOTH Disney World water parks will be open, so you’ll need to decide WHICH park you want to visit.

Also, this water park benefit is only on the day of check-in, and is valid for admission to either Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon water park or Disney’s Blizzard Beach water park, whichever is open. If both parks are open, you get to choose.

Both Disney World Water Parks Open This Summer 2025. Typhoon Lagoon, Blizzard Beach
Photo: Disney Parks

Check the Weather Forecast
Even Disney can’t control Mother Nature. (Are you surprised?!? I was!) Depending on the weather, it IS possible that the water parks will close in inclement weather. Be sure to check the weather before heading off to visit Typhoon Lagoon or Blizzard Beach.

Please keep in mind:

  • Full-day closures will be reflected on the park calendar at least one day in advance.
  • Temporary, day-of closures may occur—sometimes with very little advance notice. Those will not be reflected on the park calendar. Hint: Disney does NOT like lightning. The park will likely stay open if it rains. But bring on the lightning? You’re probably heading back to your resort!

Pack a Small “GO” Bag for the Water Park
I always recommend my clients have a water park (or pool) GO bag ready when they travel to Disney–especially in the summer. That’s even MORE important in 2025 since you can visit a water park for FREE on your arrival day. You’ll be heading to the water park before your Resort room will be ready (in most cases), so you won’t want to have to dig through your suitcase to find your bathing suits and sunscreen. Both water parks have changing areas with showers, so you can put on your swimsuits once you arrive at the water park.

When packing a water park (or pool) GO bag, you may want to include:

      • Swimsuits
      • Sunscreen
      • Sunglasses
      • Flip-flops or water shoes
      • A change of clothing

Be sure to follow the water park dress code policy—and leave prohibited items at home.

Other things to know:

      • Complimentary life jackets are available in the water park for all water park Guests—so you can leave yours at home.
      • Disney Resort hotel Guests can enjoy complimentary towel rentals from Singapore Sal’s and High ‘N Dry Rentals. Be sure to use your Key to the World card, MagicBand, MagicBand+ or Disney MagicMobile service to receive this benefit.

The Splash-tastic Bottom Line

If you’re planning a summer Disney trip, I highly recommend adding at least one water park day to your itinerary. Especially if you live in the northern half of the United States, Canada or most of Europe–that Florida summer heat and humidity can be really challenging!  And of course, nothing is more fun on a glorious summer day than floating on a lazy river,  zipping down Summit Plummet at Blizzard Beach or catching a wave in Typhoon Lagoon’s surf pool! And if you can make that water park visit FREE because you are staying on Disney property and arriving early enough in the day to spend most of the day at a water park?? BONUS!!!

Both Disney World Water Parks open this summer! Typhoon Lagoon, Blizzard Beach
Blizzard Beach Wave Pool.                                                                                                        Photo: Disney Parks

Have you been to both Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach? Which is your family’s favorite? Why do you love your favorite water park? Does anyone else remember River Country? Please comment below, I’m very curious about which water parks everyone prefers and why!

Until next time, keep making magical memories!

 

 

 

 

runDisney, Princess Half Marathon, Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend
Are you ready to plan your next Magical vacation? I’d love to help! email Brooke@disneycastledreaming.com for a free, no obligation quote today!

Disney Summer Magic for Kids!

Wow! Disney World’s Summer 2025 Is Going to Be SPECTACULAR for Kids!

Posted on March 27, 2025

Hello, my Disney-obsessed friends! I’m here with an exciting update featuring lots of Disney summer magic for kids that’s coming for Summer 2025 at Walt Disney World. If you’ve been on the fence about planning a summer Disney World family trip this year, this post might just push you over the edge. Trust me – Summer 2025 at Walt Disney World is shaping up to be THE ultimate kid-focused vacation!

“Cool Kid Summer” Is Coming! 🌞✨

Disney is officially dubbing this the “Cool Kid Summer” and for good reason! From May 27 through September 1, they’re rolling out SO many special experiences designed specifically for families with little ones.

Disney Summer Magic for Kids. Cool Kid Summer Walt Disney World Summer 2025
Image: Disney Parks

Kid Zones That Will Blow Their Tiny Minds!

Picture this: you’re in Magic Kingdom and the little ones are getting a teensy bit cranky from the heat. Solution? Head to the NEW kid zones in Storybook Circus or hang with STITCH in Tomorrowland! (I can already imagine how excited kids will be – Stitch is such a fan favorite!)

And after the Flower & Garden Festival wraps up at EPCOT, Goofy is taking over CommuniCore Hall for what they’re calling “the ultimate game party and play space.” I don’t know exactly what that means yet, but anything involving Goofy is bound to be lots of fun and perfect for keeping energetic kids entertained!

Early Morning Character Magic!

OK, this tip alone is worth its weight in gold: If you’re staying on property (which I ALWAYS recommend), Disney is rolling out EARLY CHARACTER MEET-AND-GREETS during Early Theme Park Entry! Normally, Characters don’t come out until the park opens, at the earliest. Your kids will get a 30 minute head start over everyone NOT staying on Disney property!

This is HUGE! Meet your favorites with significantly shorter lines before the main crowds arrive. This is the stuff Disney dreams are made of!

Where to Stay for Maximum Kid Fun

If you’ve been debating which resort to book, I’ve got insider intel! Four specific resorts are getting EXTRA special “Cool Kid” treatment this summer:

    • Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
    • Disney’s Pop Century Resort
    • Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
    • Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

These four will have additional kid-focused activities, INCLUDING scheduled character visits! As someone who has struggled with the “when will characters show up at our resort?” question, having set times is a game-changer for planning your day around pool breaks!

Disney Summer Magic for Kids
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort                                                                (Photo: Disney Parks and Resorts)

FREE Water Park Day?! Yes, Please!

This isn’t new for 2025, but it’s worth repeating because I still meet Disney fans who don’t know about it – ALL Disney Resort hotel guests get FREE admission to a Disney water park on their check-in day!

Pro tip from your bestie Brooke: Book an early flight, drop your bags with bell services, and head straight to Typhoon Lagoon or Blizzard Beach! I did this last year with friends, and it was the PERFECT way to ease into vacation mode.

Disney Summer Magic for Kids, Disney Water Parks, Blizzard Beach, Typhoon Lagoon
Photo: Disney Parks

The Shows! The PARADE!

Two brand-new shows are dropping on May 27:

The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure: If you know any Disney Princess fans, this is a MUST-DO! All-new sets and visuals for this classic that will have everyone singing “Under the Sea” for days! We’ve been waiting for a LONG time for this show, I’m so happy we finally have a DATE. (Dare I hope that we’ll have early previews when Mom and I visit at the beginning of May?)

Disney Summer Magic for Kids, Little Mermaid Show
Concept Art: Disney Parks

Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After: For kids who are into the darker side of Disney (and deep down, I think we all suspect that every kid has a LITTLE villain in them), this interactive show lets the audience decide which villain has been treated most unfairly. So creative!

Disney Summer Magic for Kids! Disney Villains Ever After
Concept Art: Disney Parks

But the BIGGEST news? Disney Starlight, the new NIGHTTIME PARADE coming to Magic Kingdom later this summer! It’s been nearly 10 YEARS since Disney World had a nighttime parade, y’all! Characters from “Peter Pan,” “Encanto,” “Frozen” and more will be lighting up Main Street, U.S.A.! Check out this post for more detailed information Disney Starlight.

Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away Moana Float
Concept Art: Disney Parks

Tips to Make the Most of Disney Summer Magic for Kids!

    • The parks have longer hours in summer, so plan for a mid-day break to avoid meltdowns (both kid and adult varieties).
    • Download the My Disney Experience app NOW if you haven’t already – that’s how your water park ticket will be loaded.
    • Pack cooling towels, portable fans, and plenty of sunscreen. Florida summer heat and humidity is no joke!
    • Make dining reservations ASAP! With all these new offerings, restaurants will book up even faster than usual.
Disney Summer Magic for Kids
Photo: Disney Parks

Disney Summer Magic for Kids

So, is your credit card burning a hole in your pocket yet? This summer at Disney World is going to be MAGICAL, and I can’t wait to hear about YOUR family’s adventures! If you have any questions, or would like help planning an amazing Disney summer vacation, email me today!

If you haven’t already seen our post about all the fantastic special offers Disney released for Summer 2025, click here.

What are you most excited about for your kids at Disney this summer? Please comment below!

 

 

 

 

 

runDisney, Princess Half Marathon, Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend
Are you ready to plan your next Magical vacation? I’d love to help! email Brooke@disneycastledreaming.com for a free, no obligation quote today!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

P.S. Who’s your favorite Disney character? Let me know in the comments, and I’ll try to share some special tips for meeting them this summer!

Disney World Summer Saving Deals!

Disney World SUMMER SAVINGS ALERT! Disney Just Dropped AMAZING New Deals for Summer 2025!

If you are thinking about visiting Disney World this summer, I have some absolutely FANTASTIC news that has me doing happy dances around my living room! Disney World just released their Summer 2025 special offers, and wow, are there some incredible savings to be had!

I literally dropped everything to bring you this breaking news because these deals are TOO GOOD to wait! Let’s break down all the magical ways you can save on your summer Disney adventure!

FREE DINING IS BACK!

Yes, you read that correctly! The most beloved Disney deal of all time has returned in all its glory! When you book a 4-night, 4-day Disney World package with a room at select Disney Resorts Collection hotels and theme park tickets with Park Hopper, you’ll get a FREE dining plan!

Free Dining is BACK. Disney World Summer Savings.
Image: Disney Parks

This offer is available for arrivals on most nights during these date ranges:

June 29 to September 30, 2025
October 20 to November 1, 2025
December 6 to December 22, 2025

If you’ve never experienced the joy of free dining, let me tell you – there’s something extraordinarily liberating about ordering whatever your heart desires without thinking about the price! Mickey waffles for breakfast? Yes! Signature dining experience? Absolutely!

Disney World Summer Savings. Chef Mickey's Character Dining
Chef Mickey’s                                                                                                                           Photo: Disney Parks

A couple of notes: Notice that Park Hopper tickets are required to get Free Dining this time around. Park Hopper tickets are significantly pricier than one park per day tickets, so that may impact how much value you could get from this particular package. While so many of us LOVE Free Dining, it’s not ALWAYS the best deal. I am happy to help you figure out if this is the RIGHT deal for you. Also, you can check out this previous post for more details on things to consider when evaluating whether Free Dining is a good fit for you.

HALF-PRICE TICKETS FOR KIDS!

Traveling with little ones? Here’s a deal that will make your wallet very happy! Children ages 3 to 9 can get 3-day or longer standard theme park tickets for 50% OFF! This special pricing applies to tickets with start dates from May 27 through September 20, 2025.

DIsney World Summer Savings 2025
Photo: Disney Parks

With all the new kid-focused experiences coming this summer (have you heard about the new kid zones and character interactions?), this deal couldn’t have come at a better time!

BUDGET-FRIENDLY 3-DAY, 3-PARK SPECIAL TICKET 🎫

If you’re looking to maximize fun while minimizing costs, check out this specially priced ticket option! For just $89 per day (total starting at $267 plus tax), you can get a 3-Day, 3-Park Ticket valid for admission to:

Disney’s Hollywood Studios
EPCOT
Disney’s Animal Kingdom

This is PERFECT for first-time visitors who want to experience a variety of parks without the premium price of Magic Kingdom admission. And trust me, these three parks alone have enough amazement to fill several days of adventure–just make sure that you understand that if you want to visit Magic Kingdom, you will need to purchase an additional park ticket for Magic Kingdom separately. (Currently, pricing for a one day ticket to Magic Kingdom ranges from $139 – $164 for most of the days this summer.)

New Adults-Only Lounge at EPCOT GEO-82 Spaceship Earth
Photo: Brooke Hudson

SAVE UP TO 30% ON RESORT ROOMS

Planning a longer Disney getaway? You’ll be rewarded with bigger savings! Stay 5 consecutive nights or longer at select Disney Resorts Collection hotels between August 1 and October 11, 2025, and you can save up to 30% off room rates!

Even if you can’t stay quite that long, Disney is still offering savings for shorter stays during the same period. This is a fantastic way to experience the immersive storytelling that makes staying on Disney property so special!

Choosing where to stay on your Disney vacation. Disney's Contemporary Resort
Disney’s Contemporary Resort Photo: Disney Parks

Let me help you figure out the best offer for your vacation! Drop me an email today.

FLORIDA RESIDENTS: EVEN BIGGER SAVINGS! 🌴

My Florida friends, Disney hasn’t forgotten about you! Florida residents can save up to 35% on rooms at select Disney Resorts Collection hotels when staying 4 consecutive nights or longer between August 1 and October 11, 2025.

And yes, there are savings for shorter stays too! Just remember that your credit card or payment method must have a Florida billing address to qualify. (Disney is really tightening up the rules on Florida resident discounts!)

Art of Animation Resort
Photo: Disney Parks

Annual Passholders, there’s a similar offer available for you as well! Email me today with the dates you want to travel, and I’ll provide a no obligation quote for you.

Insider Tips for Maximizing These Deals:

    • Book ASAP! These offers have limited availability, especially for the most popular resorts and dates.
    • Be flexible with dates if possible. Try different arrival dates to find the best availability.
    • Consider value season travel. Late August and September typically have lower crowds and better availability for deals.
    • Don’t forget about Early Theme Park Entry! As a Disney Resort guest, you’ll get into the parks 30 minutes early every day – a HUGE advantage and in my opinion, adds a lot of value to your vacation. Of course, that does require you be willing to get up and get to the parks early! It’s less of an advantage if you’d rather sleep in on vacation!
    • Use the savings to splurge on special experiences. Maybe a dessert party with fireworks viewing? Or that character meal you’ve been eyeing?
Disney World Summer Savings 2025. Topolino Terrace Character Breakfast
Topolino Terrace Character Breakfast                                                                        Photo: Linda Harkness

Disney Summer Savings 2025

Which of these amazing deals has you reaching for your credit card? I’m definitely tempted. Mom and I are going down in May for the EPCOT International Flower and Garden Festival, but some of these deals are really selling me on a quick mid-summer trip! (Especially with Universal’s new Epic Universe park opening at the end of May. Disney for 3-4 days and a quick hop over to Epic Universe…sounds like it could be a plan.)

Let me know in the comments which offer you are most tempted by.  And of course, if you have any questions about any of these deals, I’m always happy to help plan your perfect vacation!

 

 

 

 

EPCOT, Les Chefs de Paris, Cocktails in France
There’s nothing I love more than helping plan a magical vacation. Email me today for a free, no obligation quote.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

P.S. If you’re planning a summer Disney trip, be sure to check out my recent post about all the SPECTACULAR kid-focused activities coming to Walt Disney World this summer!

Free Parking Returns for Disney Resort Guests!

I have more good news to share today!  Walt Disney World has announced that they are removing the nightly parking fees at Walt Disney World Resorts for overnight guests.  This is the first bit of FINANCIAL good news I’ve been able to share for a while about our beloved Walt Disney World.  Could this be an early result of Bob Iger’s return?  I don’t know, but it definitely makes me happy!

Free Parking Returns for Disney Resort Guests Immediately!

If you don’t drive at Walt Disney World, you may not have felt this pain.  Starting in 2018, Disney resort guests were charged between $15 and $25 per night per vehicle to park at their resort.  Only Disney Vacation Club guests were exempt from these charges.  As I’m sure you can imagine, these costs added up quickly for guests.  If you drove to Walt  Disney World or chose to rent a vehicle for your Florida vacation, you felt this pain.

These fees have been an enormous source of guest frustration over the last several years.  Parking fees have also served as a STRONG example in media conversations about Disney “nickel and diming” guests on top of ever increasing park ticket prices.

Walt Disney World Resort guests already get free parking at the theme parks–this has not changed.  However, making the decision whether to rent a car or whether to fly or drive is a little easier when you don’t have to add in the cost of parking at your resort every night!

Is this a PR Move?

So of course, a big question is WHY is free parking returning for Disney resort guests?  Is it just a big public relations move?  Absolutely!!  It is for SURE an effort to improve the public perception of the Walt Disney Company.  Disney’s reputation, especially with the fanbase has taken a lot of hits in the past couple of years.  Free parking is a pretty minor move, but it will get some press.  It will also make a lot of Disney fans and travelers happy.  Or at least, happier.

Free parking returns for Disney resort guests
Photo: Brooke Hudson

What is giving this news more mileage for me personally is that Disney is sacrificing revenue.  We haven’t seen Disney do this in a long time.  For the last I don’t even KNOW how many years, we have seen a trend of Disney making an awful lot of decisions that are VERY bottom line focused.  We have seen LOTS of decisions that seem to put guest experience and guest relations at a much lower premium than the company used to value.

The reality is, a Walt Disney World has always been expensive.  But the value over the years has decreased.  It is still VERY valuable, and hour for hour, you still get a TON of value from a Walt Disney World vacation.  But for those of us that have been visiting Walt Disney World for many years, it’s challenging to see the guest experience degrade somewhat while the pricing of everything has increased so significantly.

Final Thoughts

I don’t know if free parking returning for resort guests is a sign of things to come or just a token PR gesture — but it IS meaningful.  It HAS impact on Disney travelers, especially those that drive to Walt Disney World.  And it will, very slightly, reduce how much money Disney will make from the resorts each day.  Or maybe it won’t.  Because if the guest doesn’t have to spend $25 to park his car, maybe he will spend it on a T-shirt instead.

Happy Dreaming!

Brooke

 

Brooke Hudson Disney Travel Agent
Ready to Plan Your Next Disney Vacation? I’m ready to help! Email brooke@disneycastledreaming.com