There’s a new nighttime parade coming to the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World. Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away will debut this summer.
Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away will be the first brand-new non-Holiday themed nighttime parade to dazzle us at the Magic Kingdom in many, many years. One of the most well-known Disney nighttime parades, SpectroMagic, debuted in 1991 for the Magic Kingdom’s 20th Anniversary. SpectroMagic ran through 2010, eventually being replaced by a return of the original Disney nighttime parade, The Main Street Electrical Parade, which ran through 2016. Since then, there has been no nighttime parade at Disney’s Magic Kingdom, although nighttime parades are a staple at Disneyland and California Adventure.
SpectroMagic Nightime Parade Photo: D23
Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away
Back in August 2024, Disney announced they were planning to bring a new nighttime parade to the Magic Kingdom, but since the announcement, we haven’t been told very much. Until NOW, that is!
Disney tells us that the Disney Live Entertainment team has been hard at work, designing floats in Florida, recording music in London, and overseeing parade construction across the U.S.
This week, Disney has given us a first look at some of the magical elements coming our way. They’ve released concept art for some of the planned floats and they’ve also released a GORGEOUS official poster Let’s break it all down.
Disney Starlight Official Poster Revealed!
As tradition dictates, every nighttime parade at Magic Kingdom gets its own iconic poster, and Disney Starlight is no exception! This stunning piece of artwork will be displayed below the Main Street, U.S.A. train station, where Disney fans can admire it before the parade begins.
The poster highlights a blend of classic Disney nostalgia and modern favorites, teasing the parade’s full lineup of floats and characters. And if you look closely, you might even spot a few characters Disney hasn’t officially announced yet!
I’m just dazzled by the new poster, and it has me really excited for this parade to premiere!
Image: Disney Parks
Coco Joins the Parade with a Spectacular Float!
Disney Starlight is bringing the vibrant, musical world of Coco to Magic Kingdom! The parade will feature a stunning new float, complete with larger-than-life Pepita, her wings spread wide above the parade route.
Meanwhile, Miguel will strum his guitar at the foot of a glowing marigold bridge, symbolizing the connection between the Land of the Living and the Land of the Dead. And to top it all off? Sugar skull fireworks will light up the night sky!
Concept Art: Disney Parks
Disney promises this will be an explosion of color, music, and light that fans won’t want to miss. I really love the movie Coco, and am so happy to see it getting a starring role in the new nighttime parade!
More Disney Starlight Floats & Must-See Details
Now that all the floats from the poster have been revealed, Disney has shared even more magical details about what’s coming! Here are some highlights:
Blue Fairy Leads the Way
The very first float in the parade will feature the Blue Fairy, waving her wand to illuminate the “first star you’ll see tonight.” This moment is a special nod to the iconic phrase from Wishes, a beloved former fireworks show at Magic Kingdom. Guests will be invited to wish upon this star as the parade begins!
Concept Art: Disney Parks
Wishes is still my favorite Disney fireworks show–made me cry every single time. I still miss it, so I’m thrilled to see it get a little Easter egg in this new parade.
The concept art featuring the Blue Fairy also shows us that joining the parade lineup are Peter Pan, Wendy, and Elsa, each making an appearance on their own beautifully designed floats.
Isabela Madrigal from Encanto Swings into Magic Kingdom
Making her Magic Kingdom debut, Isabela will gracefully swing on floral vines, just like she does in Encanto! She’ll be joined by other members of the Madrigal family, bringing their magical casita to life on Main Street, U.S.A.
I love all the vibrant colors and beautiful colors from Encanto, and cannot wait to see these characters in Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away!
Concept Art: Disney Parks
Moana’s Luminescent Float Makes Waves
Moana’s float will feature breathtaking glowing ocean waves, complete with her adorable sidekicks Pua and HeiHei. Keep an eye out for a manta ray, a beautiful nod to Gramma Tala’s spirit guiding Moana on her journey.
Concept Art: Disney Parks
A Royal Waltz—Princesses & Princes Join the Parade
We all know that you simply CANNOT have a parade at Disney’s Magic Kingdom without featuring lots of Princesses and their Princes. One of the most anticipated floats in Disney Starlight is the Princess Float, which takes inspiration from the legendary Disney artist Mary Blair (best known for it’s a small world).
This elegant float will feature Aurora and Prince Phillip, Tiana and Prince Naveen, Belle and the Beast, and Cinderella and Prince Charming.
Concept Art: Disney Parks
Adding to the magic, the Royal Court Dancers will accompany the float, in a tribute to the classic Main Street Electrical Parade.
More Surprises Are on the Way!
While this first reveal has been packed with exciting details, Disney promises there’s even more magic to come! They’ve hinted at additional royal characters and surprises that will be unveiled in the coming months.
One thing’s for sure: Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away is set to be a must-see experience when it debuts this summer at Magic Kingdom! Mom and I are going down for our annual Flower & Garden Festival trip the first week of May. I know that’s not yet “summer” but I’m hoping that MAYBE we will get a preview? It will probably be too early, but hey, we can always hope, can’t we?
Are you excited for Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away? Which float are you most looking forward to? Let me know in the comments! 😊
Stay tuned for more updates, and as always… keep dreaming!
I’d love to help your next Disney adventure. Email brooke@disneycastledreaming.com for a free quote!
P.S.: Don’t forget: we are changing our Company name soon to WDW Magical Castles Travel. This website will NOT be going away, but we are moving to a new site you will be directed to, once it’s ready. For now, please visit our Facebook page. WDW Magical Castles Travel
Mando and Grogu Are Coming to Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run!
Big news, Star Wars fans! If you’ve ever dreamed of flying the Millennium Falcon with Mando and Grogu, get ready—because that dream is about to become a reality! Disney just announced a brand-new mission coming to Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run at both Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort, launching on May 22, 2026. And because the planers at Disney are not fools, this adventure is set to debut the same day as the highly anticipated Mandalorian movie!
Image: Disney Parks
A New Mission Awaits!
Given the EXTREME popularity of The Mandalorian, I think we all suspected Disney would find SOME way to bring Mando and Grogu into the theme park experience. On our last trip, we had an exciting moment where we very briefly saw Mando walking in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. The souvenir game has been VERY strong since The Mandalorian first gained attention, so this expansion into Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run feels very natural somehow.
Photo: Disney Parks
This exciting update was officially revealed during The Future of World-Building at Disney panel at SXSW, where The Mandalorian creator Jon Favreau joined Disney Imagineers Leslie Evans and Asa Kalama to give us a sneak peek at what’s coming to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.
Favreau explained that Disney’s ability to tell stories across multiple formats makes this kind of expansion possible:
“We’re already taking Mando and Grogu from the TV screen to the movie screen, and at the same time, Dave Filoni and I are working with Asa to bring this story to the Disney parks, too.”
So what does that mean for us? Well, Hondo Ohnaka is reworking your mission, and let’s just say things are getting a little more…Mandalorian! While Disney is keeping many details under wraps (for now), expect to see familiar and beloved locations aboard the Falcon—including Cloud City!
Mandalorian and Smuggler’s Run. Photo: Disney Parks
I don’t always love rides that are mostly virtual reality–I tend towards motion sickness, so I can’t even think about doing them without Dramamine, and even then, I sometimes struggle. BUT one BIG advantage of rides that feature VR is that they are easily updatable. Think about Star Tours…every couple of years, that attraction gets a few new scenes added and a few older ones disappear. It helps keep the ride fresh–even for those that ride their favorite attractions over and over. (Of course, my favorite attraction is The Haunted Mansion, which almost NEVER changes at Walt Disney World…so clearly change is not a necessity for enjoyment…)
But sometimes, when I think about beloved attractions that are no longer with us {sigh} The Great Movie Ride {sigh}…I wonder if those could have had longer lives if there’d been some way for Disney to update them without MAJOR investments and attraction downtime. I guess we’ll never know for sure, but I do think it bodes well for rides like Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run and Star Tours that they CAN be updated without having lengthy ride shutdowns. Of course, there’s an investment in creating the new scenes–but I suspect the costs associated with creating a new Virtual Reality scene are more easily sold to the Powers that Be than designing and installing a whole new physical set piece or making significant changes to a ride system.
Image: D23
Tied to the Movie, But Not a Retelling
One important note—this isn’t a direct retelling of The Mandalorian movie. Instead, it’s something happening just off-camera from the events in the film. So, while you won’t be “playing out” the movie plot, you’ll be on an adventure directly connected to the larger story.
Photo: Disney Parks
Imagineers actually filmed scenes for the Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run attraction on the movie set, meaning we can expect an authentic and immersive experience that fits seamlessly into the Star Wars timeline.
Droids, Anzellans, and More!
The Star Wars magic doesn’t stop there! If you’ve visited Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland, you might have noticed some playful BDX droids wandering around. Well, good news—these little guys are making their way to Walt Disney World, Tokyo Disneyland, and Disneyland Paris!
And that’s not all—these droids are also appearing in the upcoming Mandalorian movie. I love this so much: something that started in with Imagineers and in the theme park growing up into the movies (Remember Pirates of the Caribbean, anyone?!?) Seriously, though, these little guys are so cute, I can’t wait to see them in the park!
BDX Droid on the move. Photo: Disney Parks
Oh, and remember the adorably cranky Anzellans (Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, anyone?) who specialize in droid repairs? They’re coming to the parks too! Just try not to upset them.
May 22, 2026—Mark Your Calendars!
With The Mandalorian movie and the new Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run mission launching on the same day, May 22, 2026 is shaping up to be a Star Wars mega-event! Dare we hope for more Star Wars happenings that weekend a la the old “Star Wars Weekends”? Fingers crossed!
Will you be jumping to lightspeed with Mando and Grogu? I know I’ll be lining up for this one when it gets the update next year! Let me know in the comments—what are you most excited about?
And as always… May the Force be with you!
Ready to Plan Your Next Disney Vacation? I’m ready to help! Email brooke@disneycastledreaming.com
P.S. We’re updating our name very soon: Turns out the Big D doesn’t love me incorporating their name into my Company Name. Our new name is WDW Magical Castles Travel. We have a new logo and a new web address…but this one will continue to work and all the content will be the same. Here’s our new logo, what do you think?
It’s hard to believe, but 2024 is almost over and 2025 is on its way. One of the best things to look forward to in the new year is the 2025 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts. Festival time is always the BEST time to visit EPCOT, and the International Festival of the Arts is one of the best (and shortest!) festivals of the year.
The 2025 International Festival of the Arts will run from January 17 to February 24, 2025. EPCOT packs a lot of content in its annual International Festival of the Arts. Full of music, color, food and activity, the International Festival of the Arts is a feast for the senses.
Disney on Broadway Concert Series
Photo: DIsney Parks
The Disney on Broadway Concert Series features Disney on Broadway stars performing favorite songs from both films and broadway shows. Attend one of the shows in the concert series to see hits from shows like Aladdin, Newsies, Mary Poppins, Frozen, The Lion King, Tarzan and more!
The Disney on Broadway Concert Series is held at the American Gardens Theater in the American Adventure Pavilion. There are three shows per night: 5:30, 6:45 and 8:00 pm. Seats are first come, first serve.
Disney on Broadway Concert Series Schedule:
Patti Murin (Frozen) & John Riddle (Frozen): January 17, 19, 20, 23, 25, 27 & 28
Caissie Levy (Frozen) & Jelani Remy (The Lion King): January 18, 21, 22, 24, 26, 29 & 30
Adam Jacobs (Aladdin) & Josh Strickland (Tarzan): January 31, February 2, 3, 6, 8, 10 & 11
Ashley Brown (Mary Poppins) & Alton Fitzgerald White (The Lion King): February 1, 4, 5, 7, 9, 12 & 13
Michael James Scott (Aladdin) & Kissy Simmons (The Lion King): February 14, 16, 17, 20, 23 & 24
Rodney Ingram (Aladdin) & Kara Lindsay (Newsies): February 15, 18, 19, 21, 22 & 24
Disney on Broadway Concert Series— Photo: Disney Parks
Disney on Broadway Concert Series Dining Packages
The Disney on Broadway Concert Series will be a major highlight of the 2025 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts. Year after year, this series has proven very popular. One of the best ways to guarantee a seat at your preferred show for the Disney on Broadway Concert Series is a Disney on Broadway Concert Series Dining Package. If you want to attend a Disney on Broadway Concert Series show, you need to wait in line, and there is no guarantee you will get a seat for the show. However, if you purchase a Dining Package, you ARE guaranteed a seat for the show.
Dining Packages and Prices
Choose a restaurant from a variety of participating EPCOT table service restaurants that offer Disney on Broadway Concert Series Dining Packages. Here’s what your meal will include:
At Spice Road Table: 2 small plates, a shared tagine, a shared dessert platter and a nonalcoholic beverage (or alcoholic beverage for Guests 21 and older)
At Other Participating Restaurants: An entrée and dessert, or one full buffet (where applicable)—as well as a nonalcoholic beverage (or alcoholic beverage for Guests 21 and older)
Plus, you’ll get one (1) guaranteed seat per person to one DISNEY ON BROADWAY concert on the same day.
Advance Dining Reservations are HIGHLY recommended!
The prices in the table below do NOT include tax or gratuity.
Didn’t make Advanced Dining Reservations and hoping to do a Same Day Dining Package for Disney on Broadway Concert Series? You may be able to purchase a same-day dining package, which allows you to:
Enjoy guaranteed seats to a DISNEY ON BROADWAY concert later that day.
To check availability for same-day dining packages, visit Regal Eagle Smokehouse: Craft Drafts & Barbecue. Packages are subject to availability and may not be available on peak dates.
Of course, if you aren’t able to book a Dining package and if you aren’t able to get a seat for the show, all is not lost: you can still hear and see the show from the walkways throughout the American Adventure Pavilion. It’s not as comfortable as sitting, but when desperate times call for desperate measures, it is an option.
New Artful Experiences for 2025
30 Years of Disney on Broadway— Concept Art: Disney Parks
Once Upon a Stage: 30 Years of Disney on Broadway
2025’s International Festival of the Arts will feature a new exhibit in EPCOT’s CommuniCore Hall. 30 Years of Disney on Broadway will allow guests to experience the magic of Broadway in a walkthrough exhibit that celebrates three decades of Disney on Broadway. The exhibit will feature props and costumes from favorite Disney Broadway musicals. Also featured will be behind the scenes glimpses of how classic Disney animated films “The Lion King” and “Aladdin”.
Opening Bites Food Studio
Outside CommuniCore Hall at CommuniCore Plaza, the new menu will pay homage to foods and drinks on foods made famous on stage. Guests should keep their eyes open for the upcoming Festival of the Arts Foodie Guide to this and other Foodie Studios around EPCOT during the Festival.
New Artful Photo Ops
Throughout each International Festival of the Arts, guests can take advantage of Artful Photo Ops. These Artful Photo Ops allow guests to step onto the canvas and become “part” of the art. There are several returning favorites this year, including Luncheon of the Boating Party by Pierre-August Renoir, Washington Crossing the Delaware by Emanuel Gottlieb Leutze, and Edvard Munch’s The Scream. There is also a brand new Artful Photo Op inviting guests to voyage alongside our favorite seafarer featuring Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Moana.” Each location will have Disney PhotoPass Photographers available to capture your artistic moment.
Artful Photo Op— Photo: Disney Parks
2025 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts: Features to Enjoy
Scavenger Hunt: Figment’s Brush with the Masters
Each EPCOT Festival features a Scavenger Hunt. We’ve done several different version of these and really enjoy them. For the 2025 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts, the Scavenger Hunt features Figment learning about art, and is a World Showcase focused Scavenger Hunt.
To participate in the Scavenger Hunt, you’ll purchase your map and stickers for $9.99 (plus tax) at one of three locations:
Creations Shop
World Traveler
Port of Entry
Once you have your map and stickers, you’ll explore World Showcase and search for Figment in each World Showcase pavilion. You’ll look for Figment hiding inside art inspired by famous works—a clue will be a Figment themed picture frame. When you find Figment, you’ll place the corresponding sticker on the pavilion on your map.
When you’ve located Figment at each Pavilion around World Showcase, and placed stickers on each Pavilion on your map, you’ll return to one of the three shops above to show your completed map and win a small prize (while supplies last).
The Scavenger Hunt is a fun way to find new details in places you’ve explored many times before. Some years, they’ve been really challenging, and some years, they’ve been fairly easy. Either way, we’ve always enjoyed doing an EPCOT Scavenger Hunt. I wouldn’t necessarily recommend one for a first time visitor, but for someone who has visited EPCOT many times, they’re a fun way to add a new dimension to your visit.
Paint by Numbers Mural
One really fun component of the 2025 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts will be the giant Paint by Numbers Mural. This mural is for YOU, the guest. It’s painted by guests, throughout the course of the Festival. To participate, you’ll pick up a brush, a paint color and a number at the Expression Section Booth. Then, you’ll go to the massive mural and paint a few squares that correspond with your color.
EPCOT Paint by Numbers Mural—Photo: Disney Parks
The Expression Section Booth is located on the walkway between the Imagination! Pavilion and World Showcase. The Booth is open every day between 11 am and 5 pm. Note: This experience is subject to change without notice, and is subject to change or cancellation due to weather.
Kids Chalk Art
Children are invited to express their creativity using chalk on the bridge to World Showcase Plaza. The kids create their masterpieces on the walkway, and everyone walking by gets to enjoy their artistry! This kid friendly activity is available every day between 11 am and 5 pm. This experience is subject to change without notice.
Kids Chalk Art— Photo: Disney Parks
Animation Academy
I’m really looking forward to checking this one out, myself. Every day, throughout the Festival, you’ll have a chance to learn how to draw a Disney character from a Disney animator! The sessions are held twice a day, at 12:30 pm and 1:30 pm, in the American Gardens Theater in the American Adventure Pavilion. Sessions are subject to change without notice. Featured artists include:
Luke Consolo
Matthew Dewater
Justin Dring
Will Gay
Hannah Loflin
Alex Maher
Michael Montgomery
Sarah Schmidt
Lon Smart
Draw a Disney Character! — Photo: Disney Parks
Artists and Art Displays
All around EPCOT, you’ll find art displays and artists, showcasing their work. At World Showcase Plaza, you’ll be able to watch artists create Disney characters in minutes (Thursdays through Sundays throughout the Festival). Also at World Showcase Plaza, you’ll be able to hear musical artists performing daily. Throughout World Showcase, you’ll find chalk drawings of your favorite Disney characters. On the bridge to World Showcase Plaza, you’ll see Chalk Artists at work and be able to see galleries of their creative designs.
Photo: Disney Parks
Photo: Disney Parks
Photo: Disney Parks
Photo: Disney Parks
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Photo: Disney Parks
2025 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts: Food Studios
As with most EPCOT Festivals, the 2025 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts will feature food kiosks, called “Food Studios” for this Festival, featuring special food and beverages only available during the Festival. Some regular restaurants around the park will also feature some special “Festival” only menu items.
Artistic Food— Photo: Disney Parks
The Wonderful Walk of Colorful Cuisine
This year’s Festival will feature a fun game for the “foodies” among us. Your Festival Passport will feature seven tasty and vibrant specialty dishes for you to track down. Locate each of these items and track your progress by getting a stamp for your passport after you purchase the items.
Colorful Cuisine— Photo: Disney Parks
Once you’ve enjoyed at least five of the seven dishes—and collected the corresponding stamps—you’ll bring your stamped Festival Passport to the Deco Delights Food Studio and receive a complimentary Artist Palette Cookie.
2025 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts: Festival Merchandise
We can always count on Disney to help us find ways to spend our money, can’t we? EPCOT Festival Merchandise is a TERRIFIC example of Disney marketers working their creative brains to the bone to give us new ways to spend our money. Every Festival means new, Festival specific merchandise. And for some of the longer Festivals, the merchandise may even change during the Festival! The 2025 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts will definitely feature lots of special only-available-at-the-festival-merchandise. Disney has only released pictures of a few items so far, but I’m sure there will be lots more. We all know they won’t want to leave ANY money on the table if they possibly can come up with a way to get you to spend it!
Photo: Disney Parks
Photo: Disney Parks
Photo: Disney Parks
International Festival of the Arts Loungefly. Photo: Disney Parks
Photo: Disney Parks
The Final Brushstroke
The 2025 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts will run from January 17 through February 24, 2025. It will be filled with colorful artwork, lively music, tasty and artistic food, fun activities for both adults and kids and will overall be a very special time to visit EPCOT. Are you planning to visit EPCOT for this year’s International Festival of the Arts?
I’m very excited that this year, the Princess Half Marathon Weekend is during the last weekend of the Festival, so I’ll be able to attend the Festival during Race Weekend this year. Last year, I just missed it—I arrived 2 days after the Festival ended. It worked out great last year, because my mom was with me and the Flower and Garden Festival started early and we were able to check that out right at the end of our trip.
EPCOT Flower and Garden Festival— Photo: Disney PhotoPass
This year, Mom and I are doing a separate trip for Flower and Garden (that Festival is the subject of our next blog!) As I’m sure you can tell, I’m a bit of a junkie for EPCOT Festivals. The Flower and Garden Festival is my favorite but I’m super excited to check out the International Festival of the Arts in a few weeks.
What about you? Do you have a favorite EPCOT Festival? Do you ever plan your trips to coincide with a particular Festival? Please comment below. I’d love to know how EPCOT Festivals impact your planning!
Ready to Plan Your Next Disney Vacation? I’m ready to help! Email brooke@disneycastledreaming.com
One of the earliest planning decisions you need to make is choosing where to stay on your Disney vacation. There are many facets to this decision: staying on Disney property or staying off Disney property? If staying off property, do you want to stay at a hotel or rent a house (Air B&B)? If staying on property, do you want to stay at a Value Resort, a Moderate Resort or a Deluxe Resort? Do you want to stay at the Swan, Dolphin or Swan Reserve? Another option to consider: You could rent points and stay at a Disney Vacation Club Resort.
Photo: Destinations in Florida
Advantages of Staying on Disney Property
Once you’ve decided WHEN you want to go to Disney, your next big decision is WHERE to stay. Choosing where to stay on your Disney vacation is a HUGE decision. Where you stay will have a big impact on your vacation budget, whether you need to rent a car, how much time you spend at the parks, how early you need to get up in the morning–You’d be surprised what an impact where you decide to stay will have on your overall vacation experience.
Some of the advantages of staying on Disney property include:
Proximity to the Disney World theme parks.
Free parking at the resort and at each theme park.
Free Disney transportation within Walt Disney World.
Monorail at EPCOT Photo: Linda Harkness
You don’t need to rent a car, unless you want to.
Early park entry: Disney resort guests can enter 30 minutes before official open time every day at every theme park.
Extra evening hours: Disney resort guests can stay 2 hours after park close at select theme parks 2 nights per week.
Advance dining reservations can be made 60 days in advance of your stay for the entirety of your vacation–up to 10 days.
Great Disney gift shops at each Disney resort.
All Disney resorts offer lots of family friendly activities every day. There are craft activities, movie nights, s’mores, character visits, and more!
Restaurants and food courts: All Disney resorts feature some dining options. Value Resorts feature food courts with counter service meals, while Moderate and Deluxe resorts usually feature both counter service and table service meal options.
Resort Mug with Free Refills for the duration of your stay. All Disney resorts offer refillable mugs for purchase. These mugs can be refilled at no additional charge at beverage stations at several locations around your resort. Note: you cannot get refills in these mugs at the theme parks–but you can get free water throughout each theme park, and the refillable mugs work great for that, too.
Room service: some Disney resorts offer room service options.
Old Key West Pool Photo: Brooke Hudson
Intangible Advantages of Staying on Disney Property
There are additional, less tangible advantages to staying on Disney property as well. There’s nothing like being in the Disney bubble for your entire vacation. Even the highway signs on Disney property are themed! Each resort has it’s own theme, and you can count on Disney to carry the theme throughout your resort. And you gain time by staying on Disney property. You don’t have to get up as early, or get back to your resort as late if you’re staying on Disney property. You’re avoiding Orlando traffic, which can be pretty challenging.
Disney resorts are SO CLEAN. We’ve been visiting Walt Disney World for more than 50 years, and we’ve stayed at MANY different Disney resorts. We’ve never had an issue with a room not being clean, or with the resort public areas being clean. I’m not saying there are never exceptions to this–but they are exceptions. Disney has very high standards, and cast members are held to those standards.
When evaluating whether to stay on or off Disney property, you need to consider those “intangibles” in addition to the more tangible advantages. If budget is the most important thing to you when you are planning, you can definitely save money by staying off Disney property. But you may not save as much as you think.
Magic Kingdom Ferry: Free to Disney Resort Guests Photo: Brooke Hudson
Things to Consider if Staying Off Disney Property
There are a lot of great hotels located off Disney property, in every possible budget. And Central Florida offers a TON of vacation rental homes and condos. Again, in almost every possible budget. Every time we plan a longer Disney trip, we always consider staying at a vacation rental home–especially for our big family trips. There are twelve of us–and the inventory of vacation homes with 5 or more bedrooms is plentiful.
For our most recent trip, we very strongly considered it. But ultimately, we decided the advantages of staying on Disney property outweighed the cost savings of staying at a vacation rental. But everyone’s priorities are different and you have to consider what is important to you when making this decision.
Considerations
You HAVE to have your own transportation if you stay off property. If you’re driving to Disney, this is no big deal. However, if you’re flying, you will need to rent a car.
You will need to pay to park at the theme parks. Currently, parking at each theme park is $30 per vehicle, per day.
Magic Kingdom Gate
Travel time to and from Disney World. Depending on where you are staying, you may need to allow as much as one hour for travel time to the theme parks. Traffic in the Orlando area can be brutal. I live in Chicago, so Orlando traffic is no big deal for me–but generally, most Orlando visitors and residents complain a lot about the traffic in Orlando.
If you have read any of my previous blogs, you know I’m a big proponent at getting to the parks EARLY. The crowds are lightest first thing in the morning, so if you want to avoid long lines, your best bet is to arrive at the parks before opening. This means getting up earlier to allow time to drive to Disney, to park and to walk in from the parking lot.
Keep in mind that at the end of the night, you’ll have more of a drive back to your hotel or vacation rental.
You can make Advance Dining Reservations for meals on Disney property 60 days before your trip, but only one day at a time. (When you stay on Disney property, you can still make your reservations 60 days out, but you can book all your reservations for up to 10 days).
You won’t have access to Early Park Access (30 minutes per park per day if you’re staying on property).
You won’t have access to Extra Evening Hours (2 hours after park close at select parks 2 nights per week for Disney resort guests).
Bay Lake Tower at the Contemporary Resort Photo: Linda Harkness
The Bottom Line
Choosing where to stay on your Disney vacation is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when planning your Disney vacation. Deciding whether to stay on Disney property or off Disney property will have a major impact on both your budget and your overall vacation experience.
Photo: Disney Parks
If you are working with a tight budget, the most economical options are off Disney property. However, it’s important to consider the costs of renting a car, parking at the theme parks, and the time-cost of driving to and from Disney.
In our next blog, we’ll discuss the different types of Disney resorts to choose from.
Where do you like to stay when you visit Disney? Are there any Disney resorts or any off property resorts that you’re wanting to visit? Please share below!
Ready to Plan Your Next Disney Vacation? I’m ready to help! Email brooke@disneycastledreaming.com
P.S: The name of this blog is going to be changing soon. Our new name will be Magical Castles Travel or WDW Castle Dreaming Travel.
Did you have Muppets Rock-n-Roller Coaster on your bingo card? I sure didn’t! I’m always happy to see Disney adding more Muppets to the parks—but I have to be honest—Rock-n-Roller Coaster was NOT an attraction that I looked at and thought “Muppets”. But here we are! Disney announced earlier this week that the Muppets are “moving right along” to Rock-n-Roller Coaster.
Rock-n-Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith
Rock-n-Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith
Fans of Disney’s Hollywood Studios have long speculated that Rock-n-Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith would be overhauled. While Aerosmith is beloved by many, fans speculated that Disney would choose a new band to partner with for this attraction to help appeal to a younger demographic. Rock-n-Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith was closed earlier this year for several months for maintenance and refurbishment. Since this was a longer closure than usual, many fans wondered if it would reopen featuring a different artist. When it reopened, however, there were no substantial changes to the attraction. And, of course, Aerosmith is still the featured artist.
When Disney announced at last year’s D23 event that they were adding a Monsters Inc. area to Disney’s Hollywood Studios, I immediately started worrying for Muppets 3D Vision. The Grand Avenue area of the park, where Muppets 3D Vision is located, doesn’t really have much else over there. It’s at the south end of the park, and it seems like a logical area for a new attraction or “land”. The Muppets themed gift shop never reopened after Covid. I was really worried that if Muppets 3D Vision closed, that would be the end of the Muppets at Disney theme parks.
Muppets 3D Vision. Photo: Disney Parks
I LOVE Muppets 3D Vision. It’s a very cute show, inspired by The Muppet Show, and features lots of fun hijinks from many of our favorite Muppets. The pre-show is cute, and the props throughout the pre-show area are detailed and fun. I’m always noticing something new when in the Muppets 3D Vision preshow area. I’m also a big fan of any attraction that is air-conditioned and allows guests to sit down for more than 10 minutes without waiting in really long lines first. Funny and entertaining for all ages? BONUS!!
Outside Muppets 3D Vision is the Miss Piggy fountain. This is a popular photo spot, and another really fun tribute to the Muppets with lots of detail.
Miss Piggy Fountain. Photo: Brooke Hudson
On our most recent trip, we even got to meet Kermit the Frog in this area! I suspect the Miss Piggy fountain will also disappear when this area is taken over by Monsters. However, I’m hoping (maybe delusional…) that they will move the fountain to the Muppets Rock-n-Roller Coaster courtyard, or somewhere in that general neighborhood.
Photo:Disney PhotoPass
While I completely understand that this area is a very logical place to add the new Monsters Inc. area, I am very disappointed to see Muppet 3D Vision closing to make way.
Muppets Rock-n-Roller Coaster
As I mentioned above, the Muppets had never occurred to me as a possible replacement for Aerosmith at the Rock-n-Roller Coaster. However, now that Disney has announced it, it does make a weird kind of sense to me. Dr. Teeth and the Electric Mayhem, the house band for the Muppet Show, have always been somewhat chaotic, and I think that fits right in with the Rock-n-Roller Coaster vibe. The only concept art Disney has released so far for the Muppets Rock-n-Roller Coaster is the graphic at the top of this post. That graphic features Dr. Teeth, Animal, Janice, Floyd Pepper, Zoot and Lips—all the members of Dr. Teeth and the Electric Mayhem. The concept art also features Miss Piggy and Kermit the Frog. The concept art also shows them all riding in a psychedelic limo. I hope this means that the cars will all be painted with a psychedelic scheme, to match the Van that Dr. Teeth and The Electric Mayhem travel around in.
I suspect the ride itself will not change much. I’m guessing Disney will repaint the cars, and of course replace the Aerosmith scene with a scene involving the Muppets. Some changes to the artwork and the queue area and BOOM, Muppets Rock-n-Roller Coaster is up and running.
Rock-n-Roller Coaster Queue. Photo: Brooke Hudson
Almost like doing a holiday overlay of the attraction like they do to make the Jungle Cruise into the Jingle Cruise for Christmas—I think this could be a pretty fast transformation.
The Rock-n-Roller Coaster is one of only a few “thrill” rides at Disney World, and is very popular. I suspect they will not want the ride to be down for very long if they can possibly avoid it. But who knows? Maybe they will overhaul the entire attraction and dramatically change everything up. I doubt it, but you never know!
In the announcement, Disney says the Muppets will be teaming up with some of “music’s biggest stars” for a rockin’ music festival. Now it’s possible that Disney thinks Dr. Teeth and the Electric Mayhem are among music’s biggest stars, but somehow I don’t think so. So we may see some engagement with other musical celebrities—who knows? When The Muppet Show originally aired in the 70’s, they were able to get some pretty big stars of the time on the show. But the world has changed pretty dramatically since then, and the Muppets are not as popular as they were back then. I have a feeling we’re more likely to see some Disney channel stars or someone trying for a comeback than we are to see Beyoncé or Ariana Grande.
Disney also shares that Sunset Boulevard will offer “plenty” of Muppets themed merchandise. I’m guessing at minimum, the shop at the end of the attraction will be rethemed to match Muppets Rock-n-Roller Coaster. Perhaps the other shops on Sunset will feature more Muppets merch? There’s been a serious lack of Muppets merchandise in the parks in recent years, so I’m cautiously optimistic that this will get better when the Muppets Rock-n-Roller Coaster opens.
Monsters, Inc.
New attractions are always welcome—especially if it means some expansion to the park. Take a look at the concept art for the Monsters, Inc. area below:
Monsters Inc. area at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Concept Art.
In this concept art, it looks like the Monsters, Inc. building is pushing back on the south side of the park, or actually expanding into a new area, enlarging the footprint of Disney’s Hollywood Studios. I don’t know for sure, but that’s how it appears to me.
Disney promises that this new Monsters, Inc. themed area will include a Monsters, Inc. themed roller coaster, as well as dining, shopping and a new theater show. Humans will be able to enter the world of Monsters, and at long last, we’ll be able to be a part of the scene in Monsters, Inc. that looked like a ride design when we first watched the movie: the door vault scene. Disney tells us the coaster will be a suspended ride that will recreate the door vault.
I think this land will be a welcome addition to Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and I’m only surprised it has taken so long to get to this stage. I honestly expected Monsters, Inc. to show up in Disney’s Hollywood Studios 15 years ago! Disney’s Hollywood Studios will certainly benefit from another thrilling attraction and a good show that absorbs large crowds is a terrific plan! More dining and shopping is always welcome, so the only downside to this whole plan? Losing Muppets 3D Vision.
The Bottom Line
Retheming Rock-n-Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith to the Muppets Rock-n-Roller Coaster feels like a consolation prize. I suspect the powers that be are trying to assuage fans that will mourn the loss of Muppets 3D Vision with this retheming. And on some level, I understand that it’s time for change. As much as I love the Muppets and absolutely adore Muppets 3D Vision—you can almost always see the show with a max 15 minute wait. This is not a “hot” attraction anymore. If it was, I suspect it wouldn’t be on the chopping block, regardless of its location.
Fortunately, the Muppets are an important property and they do have marketable value (and they do help to sell merchandise…). I’m guessing the rethemed Muppets Rock-n-Roller Coaster is Disney’s “great idea” to keep the Muppets in the parks without spending a lot of money. There’s the side benefit of updating the original Rock-n-Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith, which also feels a bit outdated. Two birds, one stone.
I’m not sure these are the right decisions, but then no one at Disney asked me, hahahaha. I guess we’ll all see when the dust settles. I’m hoping there’s a Muppet loving Imagineer brainstorming new ways to use the Muppets in the parks. (If so, please let me know where to send the donuts!)
I AM excited about the new Monsters, Inc. land. I am always happy to see new attractions at any theme park, and nobody does immersive lands like Disney does. I’m hopeful that Monsters, Inc. will be wonderful and worth the long wait. I suspect this area won’t open until 2028–MAYBE 2027? I’ll keep you posted when I know more.
In the meantime, Disney has not announced closing dates for either Muppets 3D Vision OR Rock-n-Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith. So we all still have time to get rides in on those attractions. My guess is that both attractions will go down in 2025. I’m guessing after the summer? But one or both could go down much sooner. As soon as Disney announces official dates, I’ll post an update. There’s still plenty of time to plan your 2025 visit to Walt Disney World. If you’d like to get started, please email brooke@DisneyCastleDreaming.com.
Ready to Plan Your Next Disney Vacation? I’m ready to help! Email brooke@disneycastledreaming.com
Roundup Rodeo BBQ is a Toy Story themed table service restaurant that opened at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in March 2023. We originally visited Roundup Rodeo BBQ in May 2023, not long after it opened. Despite originally vowing to never eat at Roundup Rodeo BBQ again, we found ourselves revisiting Roundup Rodeo BBQ a few weeks ago. Our experience this time was substantially different and I felt deserved an updated review.
We left Roundup Rodeo BBQ pretty disappointed after our initial visit in May 2023. While we loved the theming, we were really disappointed with the food during that visit. That original review can be found Here.
Roundup Rodeo BBQ Photo: Disney Parks
When it came time to plan our big family trip for October 2024, we kept coming back to Roundup Rodeo BBQ. The theming was SO good and we knew that several family members would be excited to dine in Toy Story Land. We also had heard that Disney had made some changes to the menu based on guest feedback. While that doesn’t always mean good things when it comes to Disney, in this case, we felt things HAD to improve—we didn’t honestly think they could have gotten worse. With cautious trepidation, we made an Advanced Dining Reservation for dinner on our Hollywood Studios day. There were 10 people in our group the evening we had dinner at Roundup Rodeo BBQ.
Roundup Rodeo BBQ: Excellent Theming
The one thing that remained consistent between our first visit and our most recent visit was the theming of the restaurant. This restaurant is themed VERY well to Toy Story, and includes characters and storylines from all four movies throughout the restaurant. It’s very colorful and cheerful. This is a very family friendly restaurant—so the noise levels are high. Do not expect a calm or relaxing atmosphere at Roundup Rodeo BBQ. This is a high energy, fun experience—aimed at providing Toy Story fans (especially young fans) an immersive and memorable meal.
Roundup Rodeo BBQ Photo: Brooke Hudson
The cast members are all outfitted in cartoon western wear, very fitting with the Toy Story Rodeo theming. One thing my mom pointed out—she felt the cast member seating us and our server did a better job this visit with bringing everyone into the Toy Story atmosphere, and in telling diners what to expect. She’s not a Toy Story fan, and felt lost during our first visit—not understanding some of what was going on. This time, the cast members explained that Andy or Sid might come into the backyard, and because we are all honorary toys, we have to freeze whenever that happens. This helped Mom feel more involved, even though she hadn’t seen the movies.
The audio playing throughout the meal seemed clearer and more understandable this visit as well. We also noticed some really fun action that played out around the restaurant involving different cast members acting as certain Toy Story characters. It was fun and the activity and audio cues were frequent enough to keep younger kids from getting bored, but not so often as to make you feel anxious or overwhelmed. (Everyone’s barometer for overstimulation is different however; your mileage may vary on this).
Roundup Rodeo BBQ, Interior Photo: Disney Parks
Roundup Rodeo BBQ: Pricing
One of the advantages that Roundup Rodeo BBQ has had from the start is that it is a relatively fairly priced meal for Walt Disney World. The menu is served family style, and is all-you-care-to-eat. The meal includes a beverage (fountain drinks, iced tea or milk), several different meats, multiple sides and dessert. When Roundup Rodeo BBQ first opened, the price for adults (age 10+) was $45 per person, and the price for children (ages 3-9) was $25. These prices have increased slightly. The current prices for adults is $49 per person and for children is $27. This is the same whether you go for lunch or dinner–so make that reservation whenever you can get it. There’s no price disadvantage to the dinner hour, and no price advantage to the lunchtime shift.
The majority of our family really took the “all you care to eat” to heart. I think most of us really got our money’s worth here. We made sure to go in hungry—and the improvements in the menu were definitely appreciated by pretty much the whole family. One of the single BEST improvements to the menu doesn’t show on the online menu–it only appears on the printed menu you get at the restaurant: you can get salmon upon request with your proteins. And the salmon was SO GOOD!! It really elevated the meal for us. Somehow, I didn’t manage to get a picture of any of the VERY fabulous salmon. But I did capture my other favorite item on the menu–and this is an original menu item– the biscuits with the sweet pepper jam. Oh my goodness. I wouldn’t be surprised if a black market sprung up somewhere just for these!! Really yummy!
The desserts were also beloved universally at our table–and between the 10 of us, we tried ALL of them.
Let me be clear: $49 is a lot of money for lunch or dinner—especially for a 10 year old person. However, this is a meal inside one of the most popular theme parks in the world. For theme park dining at a table service restaurant, $49 is one of the lower priced options you’ll find. And while this is not a character meal, it is very well themed. And there actually is quite a lot of entertainment happening. Overall, now that the quality of the food has improved (in my opinion), I think this is a very reasonably priced table service meal at Disney. I definitely recommend going in hungry if you can!
The Bottom Line — Roundup Rodeo BBQ Revisited
Toy Story Land Table Service Restaurant Roundup Rodeo BBQ Photo: Disney Parks
I would definitely recommend Roundup Rodeo BBQ for a fun family dining experience at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. My recommendation does come with a few caveats, however. If your kids are SUPER picky eaters–make sure you look at the menu before making your reservation. $49 is a lot of money if the only thing your kid will eat is mac and cheese.
Be aware, this is a LOUD, boisterous and fun dining experience. If you have Toy Story fans in your group, they are likely to love it–but if you have kids with sensory issues or that get overwhelmed when there is a lot going on–this may not be the right dining experience for your family.
However, we found it to be fun and entertaining. The service was great, the food was really good, and our family REALLY enjoyed the all-you-can-eat aspect. I’d like to also personally recommend the Rattler Rum Punch for those that like a little alcohol with their boisterous family dining experiences. It was really tasty and had a nice little kick to it!
Roundup Rodeo Beverages Photo: Disney Parks
I think Roundup Rodeo BBQ fills a need that it was supposed to fill: good, fun, entertaining themed dining in Toy Story Land. Good food that appeals to most (especially with the changes they’ve made over the last year) at a reasonable for theme park dining price.
I suggest you check it out on your next Disney vacation–especially if you’re a Toy Story fan or have Toy Story fans in your traveling crew.
Ready to Plan Your Next Disney Vacation? I’m ready to help! Email brooke@disneycastledreaming.com
If you love Disney fireworks like I do, trust me, you want to know about Disney Fireworks Cruises. These exceptional experiences offer some of the best fireworks views around AND you get to avoid the crowds!
I am a Disney fireworks junkie, I admit it. Over the last 20 years, I have seen ever incarnation of Disney fireworks at all of the Florida Disney World parks, from regular shows to limited runs to holiday spectaculars. I LOVE Disney fireworks. If my fellow travelers would allow, we would watch Disney fireworks from SOMEWHERE every night of our Disney vacations.
Magic Kingdom Fireworks (Photo: Brooke Hudson)
Where to watch the show from is just as important as which show on what night. And I have watched from every location I could. In front of the castle, behind the castle. The rooftop at Bay Lake Tower, the catwalk at the Contemporary Resort. The porch at Narcoossee’s. The Beach at the Polynesian.
Magic Kingdom Fireworks from Bay Lake Tower Photo: Brooke Hudson
We’ve watched EPCOT fireworks from every country around the World Showcase and have watched from the spot between Port of Entry and Mexico or Canada. I’ve even watched from parking lots and the Skyliner.
Illuminations Reflections of Earth, Wedding Dessert Party Photo: Vicki and David Arndt
Until last night, I would have told you that the very best fireworks viewing to be had was from Disney fireworks dessert parties. We hosted a fireworks dessert party in the UK after our wedding and it was AMAZING—and offered a wonderful view of the fireworks. We’ve become big fans of the Seats and Sweets Fireworks Dessert Party over at the Magic Kingdom (Click Here to read my blog post about fireworks dessert parties.) While I would still highly recommend Disney fireworks dessert parties, the Disney fireworks cruise is has climbed to the top of the list for me. This is the BEST way to view Disney fireworks—and to have a terrific overall experience as well.
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Disney Fireworks Cruises – The Basics
First off, let me caution you: this is not an economical experience. However, it is also not an exceptionally overpriced extravagant experience. The current price for a Disney Fireworks Cruise is $449 + tax, and you can include up to 10 people on your cruise. This is a private, chartered cruise, and includes the services of a captain. The cruise also includes snacks, as well as pop, juice and water. If you shared the cost over all 10 people, each person would pay less than $60, and that would include the tip for the captain!
Disney Fireworks Cruise Oct 2024 Captain Kayleigh
You are also allowed to bring your own treats and/or alcoholic beverages if you wish.
Disney Fireworks Cruise Family Time Photo: Brooke Hudson
Children under 12 must wear a life jacket—provided by the marina team. Your cruise can also include a birthday or anniversary banner (provided by the Marina team) at no additional charge and may also include balloons for no additional charge if the winds are not too high.
Happy Birthday Banner Disney Pontoon Boats Photo: Deidra Ocampo
EPCOT Fireworks Cruises
EPCOT fireworks, currently “Luminous, a Symphony of Us”, are always at 9 pm. EPCOT fireworks cruises board at the Yacht Club Marina, located near the lighthouse at the Yacht Club on Crescent Lake. Each night, up to five pontoon boats may be chartered for the fireworks cruise. Your group (again, up to a maximum of 10 people) will board your boat at approximately 7:45 pm, with your captain setting sail at 8pm.
Crescent Lake Boat Tour – Swan & Dolphin Photo: Brooke Hudson
Your boat will tour Crescent Lake for approximately 35-40 minutes, traveling past the Swan and Dolphin to Disney’s Hollywood Studios before heading into EPCOT to tie up with the other fireworks cruise boats, just inside the park, between the UK and France.
Crescent Lake Boat Tour Photo: Brooke Hudson
Your group will float happily in this perfect location to watch the entire Luminous show. Once the show is over, the boats will separate and gradually return to their home dock. The entire experience lasts about an hour and a half.
Disney Fireworks Cruise, Boats Tied Together Before Show Starts Photo: Brooke HudsonDisney EPCOT Fireworks Cruise Photo: Brooke HudsonDisney Fireworks Cruises Pontoon Boats Photo: Brooke Hudson
Magic Kingdom Fireworks Cruises
Magic Kingdom fireworks start at different times, depending on sunset and/or holiday parties or special events. So the Magic Kingdom fireworks cruises are not quite as consistently scheduled as the EPCOT fireworks cruises are. The experience is quite similar though. Your experience will last approximately an hour and a half, and your boat will depart approximately one hour before the fireworks are scheduled. Your cruise will board at the Marina at the Contemporary Resort. Your boat captain will tour Bay Lake and the Seven Seas Lagoon with your party, making sure that your party has a great view of the fireworks, once they are ready to begin.
Disney Magic Kingdom Fireworks Cruise Boats Photo: Brooke Hudson
The main difference between the two experiences is that the Magic Kingdom fireworks cruise boats do not tie up together like the EPCOT fireworks cruise boats do. The Magic Kingdom fireworks cruise boats continue cruising throughout the fireworks show, albeit at a much slower pace. After the fireworks are over, the captain will return your boat to the Marina.
Note: Some Magic Kingdom fireworks cruises will launch from the Marina at the Grand Floridian resort. Please confirm your launch location when reserving your cruise.
How to Book a Disney Fireworks Cruise
Booking a Disney Fireworks Cruise is relatively easy; however, you cannot book your cruise until 60 days before the date of your cruise. You can book a Disney Fireworks Cruise through the My Disney Experience app, through this link, or by calling (407) WDW-PLAY (407) 939-7529. Alternatively, if you are working with an authorized Disney Vacation Planner like myself, your planner may also reserve your cruise for you.
The cost of your cruise is $449 + tax (and a tip for your captain!).
Disney Fireworks Cruise Family Photo Octo 2024
Rent a Pontoon Boat
Did you know that you can rent a pontoon boat during the day for up to 10 passengers during your Disney vacation? Rentals are available at the Yacht Club Marina, the Contemporary Resort Marina and the Grand Floridian Marina. You can rent the boat as long as you have a valid driver’s license, state ID or Military ID and are over 18 years old.
Things to keep in mind:
Cost $49 + tax for 3o minutes
Children under 12 years old must wear a complimentary life jacket
Reservations are not required
Rentals are available on a first come, first served basis
These boat rentals do NOT include a captain; YOU will be responsible for driving the boat.
Smoking is not allowed on board any Disney boat or watercraft
Only Resort guests or guests with Resort dining reservations will be permitted to park in the Resort parking areas
Final Thoughts
One thing to keep in mind. Once you have done a Disney Fireworks Cruise, you will have a hard time ever going back to standing shoulder to shoulder with 25,000 of your closest friends to watch Disney fireworks in a theme park! My mom and I were joking the other evening that we have been completely spoiled now–between the Seats & Sweets Fireworks Dessert Parties we’ve attended and now this amazing Disney Fireworks Cruise, regular old fireworks standing out in the Magic Kingdom or at EPCOT just isn’t going to feel as good as it used to!
We all had such a wonderful time on our Disney EPCOT Fireworks Cruise!
What do YOU think? Would you like to try a Disney Fireworks Cruise sometime? Comment below.
I have a Magic Kingdom Fireworks Cruise on my Wishlist now. I’m going to see if I can collect a few friends next trip to split the cost with me…
This may be unpopular with some vacationers that prefer to sleep in while on vacation. However, trust me when I tell you that the benefits to getting up early and getting into the theme park early are HUGELY worth the inconvenience.
Wake up!
If you are staying on Disney property or in a Disney Good Neighbor hotel, you have access to Disney’s Early Entry — this allows you to enter the theme park 30 minutes before it opens to the general public. This may not sound like much time, but you would be surprised at what an advantage this is!
Rise and Shine DeMarco Photo: Linda Harkness
Number one, MANY people like to sleep late on vacation. These people will still be in bed while you are getting on rides with very short or non existent lines! I love to sleep in as much as the next person; however I love short lines on Disney rides a lot more. Generally speaking, the morning crowds are SIGNIFICANTLY lighter than the afternoon crowds. Around 11 am, the crowd levels start climbing and they generally peak around 3:30 pm.
In the Florida heat and humidity, crowds can feel really intense and overwhelming. Especially as I get older, my tolerance for thick crowds on hot days has really shrunk!
I’m not promising that you’ll have NO lines all morning but the lines are markedly shorter in the mornings than they will be from noon on.
Soarin’ All to Ourselves in the morning!
Plan to Sit Down in Air Conditioning for Lunch
People underestimate the benefit of taking 45 minutes to an hour and sitting down and getting rest in air conditioning for lunch. Often people are so focused on trying to DO everything, they rush through lunch and don’t take any time to rest. Generally, these are the same people that you will observe yelling at their crying four year old around 4pm.
I cannot stress enough how much everyone, all ages, benefits from taking the time to sit down, cool off and rest. Yes, ultimately, you may end up doing one less ride during your day; however, you will actually ENJOY the rest of your day MUCH more. Now, if you are age 15 – age 30, this may not apply to you. However, I have traveled with families with young children, I have traveled with older family members and family and friends aged 2 to 80 and almost without exception–people were happier and had a much better time after taking a 45 minute lunch break to cool off and calm down.
Roundup Rodeo BBQ Photo: Brooke Hudson
This doesn’t necessarily mean you have to do a table service meal every day for lunch (although I highly recommend that if you can plan ahead and make reservations). There are many quick service restaurants that are inside locations that are air conditioned or have lots of ceiling fans. I highly recommend taking advantage of mobile ordering whenever possible to minimize time standing in line, especially if the line is outdoors like at Flame Tree Barbecue (Animal Kingdom).
Space 220 Concept Art, Disney Parks
Know the Shows or Rides Where You Can Rest
You may think I’m crazy when I tell you this, but take a few minutes in the morning to identify rides or shows in the theme park you are in where you know you can sit down for at least 20 – 25 minutes and get a little break.
Festival of the Lion King Photo: Brooke Hudson
For example, the Festival of the Lion King show is a 20 minute show. You’ll take your seats 15-20 minutes before start of the show. The theatre is air-conditioned, and you’ll be seated for approximately 30 minutes. The show itself is really good, and I highly recommend it. BUT, it’s also a great opportunity to get a little break. Pay attention to how you are feeling. Your kids might not notice if they are getting overheated or over tired–but you will. There is nothing wrong with accomplishing two things at once! Enjoy an attraction or a show AND get a little break from the Florida heat and humidity at the same time.
Here are some of my suggested attractions that will double as a “break” for you and your family.
Magic Kingdom:
Walt Disney World Railroad
Enchanted Tales with Belle
Carousel of Progress
Mickey’s Philharmagic
Tomorrowland Transit Authority (People Mover)
Country Bear Jamboree
Honorable mention: Pirates of the Caribbean: This a really nice and air conditioned line once you get inside the building and the ride itself is fairly long for a Disney ride.
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EPCOT:
Living with the Land (ride)
Spaceship Earth (ride–usually shorter lines)
Awesome Planet (10 minute movie)
The American Adventure (really plush comfortable seats)
Impressions de France (18 minute movie)
Beauty and the Beast Sing a Long (movie)
Honorable mention: Japan has a very large very air conditioned store, Mitsukoshi. There’s no where to sit, but there is a LOT to look at and do while in the store.
Entertainment at Canada Mill Stage (Musical acts)
Gran Fiesta Tour Starring the Three Caballeros: This is a relaxing boat ride in Mexico. This usually has a short line.
Honorable Mention: China has a movie in an air conditioned theatre that is definitely worth a watch–there are no seats but there are places to lean. There is also a large air conditioned series of shops in China. Again no where to sit down, but lots to look at.
Disney and Pixar Short Film Festival
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Disney’s Animal Kingdom:
Festival of the Lion King
Finding Nemo: The Big Blue…And Beyond
Wildlife Express Train (Short Train ride to Rafiki’s Planet Watch)
Honorable Mention: Feathered Friends in Flight (35 minute show in Asia). This is in an outdoor theater, but there are lots of shady spots, plenty of seats, and fans.
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Disney’s Hollywood Studios:
Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular
For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing A Long Celebration
Walt Disney Presents (there is a movie at the end where you can sit down)
Vacation Fun – An Original Animated Short with Mickey & Minnie
Beauty and the Beast Live on Stage
Muppetvision 3D
Fantasmic!
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Take an Afternoon Break
If you follow my advice and have an early start on your park days, by lunch time, you may be starting to wilt a little bit. Especially if you are traveling to Florida from cooler climates–the Florida heat and humidity can have a really adverse effect on your energy levels.
Generally speaking, the hours between 12pm and 5pm are the hottest and most crowded in theme parks. we usually try to leave whatever park we are in by around 1-2pm and go back to our resort and relax for a few hours. We’ll take short naps or go hang out by the pool. We might take the opportunity to get some laundry done. We might have afternoon cocktails on the patio or a late lunch by the pool. Sometimes we will even order pizza or DoorDash dinner in.
Old Key West Pool Photo: Brooke Hudson
Later, we will either return to the same park for evening rides, fireworks or shows OR if you are an Annual Passholder or have park hoppers, you can visit a DIFFERENT theme park at night.
Magic Kingdom Fireworks Photo: Brooke Hudson
Build in a Rest Day
If you are visiting Walt Disney World for 4 days or more, I HIGHLY recommend building in a rest day. Multiple park days in a row can get exhausting. Trust me when I tell you that your whole group will benefit from a rest day at the resort. I don’t mean don’t do ANYTHING, I mean take a day off from the theme parks. Take advantage of the amenities at your resort. Enjoy the pool. Enjoy the bar. Visit one of Disney’s four miniature golf courses. Sleep late, have a leisurely breakfast, enjoy a more relaxed day.
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Many people don’t know that the average theme park visitor will walk more than 5 miles in a day during their visit to a Disney theme park. My family often averages 7 miles per day during our trips–and that’s with the breaks that I build in. (Read here for tips on training for your Disney vacation.)
I’m not kidding around when I promise that your vacation will be much more enjoyable overall if you build in some rest time. Not to mention: Disney resorts (and MANY of the non Disney resorts) are really nice places to spend time. The pools are usually beautiful. Disney resorts offer fun activities most days and show movies many nights out by the pool. You can even roast marshmallows at fire pits at many Disney resorts. You’re paying for all the amenities at your resort–but most Disney guests never take advantage of any of the amenities their resort offers.
Disney offers many activities throughout the resort that have nothing to do with the world famous theme parks. There are three highly rated, professionally designed golf courses. There are two fun miniature golf courses. There are boats you can rent. You can go bowling, go shopping, go see a movie…There are a TON of options outside the theme. Granted some are more restful than others, but active rest can be good too!
Winter Summerland Miniature Golf Photo: Disney Parks
Five Key Tips for a Magical Disney Vacation — The Bottom Line
You are investing a lot of money in your Disney vacation. Most likely, you are also investing time planning your trip, thinking about your trip, getting excited about your trip, and budgeting for your trip. Once you are actually ON vacation, you would think you wouldn’t have to do any more thinking. And you will have a good time on your vacation as long as you pack some good shoes, a good attitude and a little bit of patience. But these five key tips will help you to have a more magical Disney vacation.
Get an early start
Plan to sit down in air conditioning for lunch
Know the shows or rides where you can sit down and rest
Take an afternoon break
Build in a rest day
What do you think? Do you have any favorite tips that you will employ on your next Disney vacation? Please comment below.
Ready to Plan Your Next Disney Vacation? I’m ready to help! Email brooke@disneycastledreaming.com
Are you planning to run in January’s Walt Disney World Marathon? runDisney has announced changes to the January 2025 WDW Marathon.
Each year, runDisney kicks off their race season with the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend. WDW Race Weekend includes a 5K, a 10K, a half marathon and a full marathon. There are also challenges: the Goofy challenge, for racers who complete both the half marathon and the full marathon; and the Dopey challenge, for participants the complete all four races: the 5k, the 10k, the half and the full.
runDisney 2025 WDW Marathon Weekend
runDisney: Consistency, year after year
There are many things about race weekend that are predictable that racers can count on to happen every year. For example: the 5K is on Thursday, the 10K is on Friday, the half is on Saturday and the full is on Sunday. There is an Expo that will begin on Wednesday and run through Saturday. There will be a lot of limited edition, fairly expensive race weekend merchandise for sale. Some of it will sell out VERY quickly. All four medals (six, if you include the challenge medals) will look great and will have some weight to them. The races will all start REALLY early, and racers need to be in their corrals SUPER early.
2025 Dopey Challenge
There will be hundreds, if not thousands, of porta potties near the starting corrals and throughout the courses. As many as 25,000 racers will be on the course for the races. There will be character photo opportunities throughout each course. We all know there will be water stations every mile or so throughout the courses. Disney makes sure there are Disney PhotoPass photographers taking pictures of racers during the theme park sections of the races as well as at the finish lines and in the post race areas.
runDisney on course photo
There are many things you can count on with runDisney races. They are very consistent and dependable. They charge a lot for these races and the overall race experience does reflect that, at least to some extent. As a “back of the pack” walker, I’ve been able to see that Disney staffs their race courses with water and Gatorade through the end of the race (for the most part–there have been a few exceptions over the years). There are always enough snack boxes at the end of the race for those of us that take hours longer than the fast runners at the front of the pack. That hasn’t been my experience with some of the other races I’ve walked in, so I’ve always been very grateful that runDisney seems to appreciate the back of the pack as much as the frontrunners.
Changes Announced for the 2025 WDW Marathon
This year, however, runDisney has announced there will be some CHANGES to the January 2025 WDW Marathon. The first change? Instead of the usual 5 a.m. start time, this year’s Marathon will begin at 4:30 a.m. I’m guessing this is so they can try to have the courses cleared a little earlier and to shorten the length of time theme park guests are impacted by the race.
runDisney 10K Chip & Dale
runDisney is telling us that the change is based on guest feedback and leads us to the other big change: the course itself. runDisney has recognized that guests LOVE the portion of each race that is actually inside the theme parks, so for the marathon, they’ve modified the course slightly to accommodate a little more time in EPCOT and the Magic Kingdom. They’re saying that starting the race 30 minutes earlier is allowing them to do this.
EPCOT 2025 WDW Marathon Course Changes
What exactly has changed? Normally, the race begins in the EPCOT parking lot and heads immediately out onto the roads towards Magic Kingdom. This year, the race will still begin in the EPCOT parking lot, but instead of heading out to the roads, racers will head into World Showcase, where the course will wind most of the way around World Showcase and then exit out near the front of EPCOT. Once racers leave EPCOT, they will then head to the roads towards Magic Kingdom. In this new course, most of mile three is actually inside EPCOT.
runDisney 2025 Marathon Map
Grand Floridian/Polynesian 2025 WDW Marathon Course Changes
The next big change happens when racers head towards the Magic Kingdom. Past courses have approached the Magic Kingdom by traveling under the Seven Seas Lagoon (briefly) and climbing the hill leading up to Disney’s Contemporary Resort and Bay Lake Tower before turning in to enter the Magic Kingdom. The 2025 course, however, goes the other way–passing Disney’s Polynesian Resort, the Wedding Pavilion, and Disney’s Grand Floridian before heading to the Magic Kingdom.
Magic Kingdom 2025 WDW Marathon Course Changes
There’s another change in the course to enable racers to see more of the Magic Kingdom during the race. In previous years, racers journeyed up Main Street, before routing through Tomorrowland to New Fantasyland, through Cinderella Castle, and then through Liberty Square and Frontierland before exiting out behind Tiana’s Bayou Adventure.
runDisney Castle on course photo
The new map allows racers a little more time (and distance, of course) in the Magic Kingdom. The new course still goes up Main Street, but instead of heading towards Tomorrowland, racers will go through Adventureland. Next, racers will wind through Frontierland and then Liberty Square. Racers will pass It’s a Small World, Peter Pan’s Flight, Mickey’s Philharmagic and Prince Charming’s Regal Carousel before racing through Cinderella Castle. The course continues through Fantasyland and Storybook Circus before winding into Tomorrowland and passing TRON and Space Mountain before exiting the Magic Kingdom near the Carousel of Progress. All of mile nine and about half of mile ten are inside the Magic Kingdom.
runDisney 2025 Goofy Challenge
The rest of the course looks pretty similar to past years. I’m a little worried there may be some congestion in a couple areas where the course kind of crosses itself. It looks, at least on the map, like the front runners and back of the packers may have a couple of intersections where they could all be in the same place at the same time. But I trust that runDisney will have it all figured out, and I’m sure once everyone is on the course, it will make more sense.
To learn more about the 2025 WDW Marathon weekend or other 2025 events, please visit runDisney.
What are your thoughts?
So what do you think? Are you excited about the changes announced for the 2025 WDW Marathon? Do they matter to you? I’m hoping that similar changes will be announced for the 10K and the half in coming weeks. And then for Princess…. But who knows?!? We will see. I think overall, these are positive changes. I’m always happiest during the theme park sections of the races, so I think trying to include more distance inside the parks makes a lot of sense. Please share your thoughts in the comments below.
Ready to Plan Your Next Disney Vacation? I’m ready to help! Email brooke@disneycastledreaming.com
Great news! Tiana’s Bayou Adventure opens June 28 at Magic Kingdom!
It’s been 18 months since long beloved Splash Mountain closed for reimagining. Fan reception was mixed when Disney announced that Splash Mountain would be replaced with an attraction based on The Princess and the Frog. Some fans were thrilled that Princess Tiana was getting her own attraction. Others were very upset that Splash Mountain was going to be changed at all, let alone completely reimagined with a new theme. Still others were happy that the “basic” ride itself wasn’t going to change–Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is still a log ride. It’s still a water ride with a 60′ drop. You will likely still get wet on Tiana’s Bayou Adventure.
Take a look at that drop! Photo: Destinations to Explore
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Opens June 28
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure has been in testing and previews for a few weeks now. Reviews from those that have ridden so far have been mixed: I’ve read reviews from people that absolutely loved the new attraction, and I’ve seen other reviews that have been lukewarm or even negative.
Some of the more negative reviews seem to be that the attraction wasn’t changed enough from Splash Mountain while others seem unhappy that it wasn’t still Splash Mountain. A third subset seem to be disappointed that there wasn’t more done with Audio-Animatronics. Disney has been telling us for months that these are the most sophisticated Audio-Animatronic characters they’ve ever created, and the early video they released of one of the Tiana Audio-Animatronics sure was impressive. See our earlier post here to check out that video. I’ve really been looking forward to seeing these new Audio-Animatronics live and in person, so I can certainly understand if some were disappointed if the new Audio-Animatronics don’t live up to the hype.
Jazz Loving Louis Audio-Animatronic Photo: Destinations to Explore
Based on the pictures and videos I’ve seen so far, I’m pretty excited about this reimagining. I loved Splash Mountain, but I wasn’t among those that were upset that it was getting an update. I loved The Princess and the Frog, and I think Princess Tiana was a terrific addition to the Disney Princess roster.
Still image from Disney’s “The Princess and the Frog”
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure: What’s the Queue Like?
The landscaping, pathways and the building exteriors have all been refreshed and revitalized. The main building is now a bright cheery yellow and has a terrific mural on one side.
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Construction Photo: Destinations to Explore
There’s now great signage for the new attraction, both outside the queue and within.
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Signage Photo: Destinations to Explore
Main Entrance Photo: Destinations to Explore
Tiana Foods Delivery Truck Photo: Destinations to Explore
Spoilers Ahead: Queue Photos for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure
If you don’t want more details about what the queue will include, click away now. If you’d to see the queue theming, check out the gallery below.
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The queue helps to tell the story of what inspires Tiana to go into the Bayou. This attraction picks up a while after the end of the movie, “The Princess and the Frog”. We learn that after the success of Tiana’s restaurant, Tiana’s Palace, Tiana went on to expand her business. Working with the community, Tiana took over an aging salt mine and created Tiana’s Foods. Tiana’s Foods produces seasonings, hot sauces and other foods.
We soon learn that Tiana is hosting a celebration tonight, and everyone is invited! But before the celebration can begin, Tiana needs our help! Somehow, in all the craziness of planning the party, both Tiana and Prince Naveen forgot to book a band! It’s Mardi Gras time, and there are no available musicians! Tiana thinks of her jazz loving alligator friend, Louis. All of us are going to journey into the Bayou to find Louis and see if he can help us find musicians for the party.
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure: What will we see on the ride? SPOILERS AHEAD
As Tiana leads us into the Bayou, we are again entering spoiler territory. If you want to be surprised by Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, click away now. But if you’d like to see some images from the ride itself, please check out the gallery below.
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In a ride experience full of music, we also get to experience some Disney magic as well. The wonderful music we’ll hear throughout the attraction will include a new song, “Special Spice” with vocals from Anika Noni Rose, who was the original voice of Princess Tiana. Mama Odie will shrink us down to an itty bitty size to help us find great Bayou musicians. She’ll also help us get back to normal size so we can experience the joyful Mardi Gras celebration of Princess Tiana and Prince Naveen’s celebration.
Audio-Animatronic Characters
As I mentioned above, Disney has been telling us that Tiana’s Bayou Adventure will include some of the most advanced Audio-Animatronic figures Imagineers have ever created. Disney also tells us that this new attraction includes “dozens” of Audio-Animatronic figures. Tiana’s Bayou Adventure includes Audio-Animatronic figures of Tiana, Mama Odie and Louis. Disney tells us that Louis is one of the largest and most dynamic Audio-Animatronic figures Disney has ever built!
Louis. Photo: Disney Parks
Tiana. Photo: Disney Parks
Mama Odie. Photo: Destinations to Explore
In addition to these three very familiar characters for fans of The Princess and the Frog, Disney has also created lots of NEW characters, just for this attraction. There are 19 new critters we’ll meet on our Bayou Adventure, each with their own distinctive features and personalities.
Critters. Photo: Destinations to Explore
Critters. Photo: Disney Parks
I don’t include any video ride-throughs on my page because I like to be at least a little bit surprised, and I’d like to preserve that opportunity for my visitors as well. Nevertheless, if you are interested in a video ride-through, you can find them on both youtube and tiktok.
I think the ride looks like a lot of fun from the pictures, and I’m really looking forward to riding it on our family trip in October.
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Will Open With Virtual Queue
Disney has told us that when Tiana’s Bayou Adventure initially opens, it will use a virtual queue, just like TRON, Guardians of the Galaxy and Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance. However, my impression from the information Disney has released so far is that the virtual queue for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure will most likely not last very long. I think once everything is going smoothly, Disney will drop the virtual queue and revert to a standby queue. I’m hopeful that the virtual queue will be a distant memory by summer’s end.
What about Lightning Lane?
Disney has told us that Tiana’s Bayou Adventure will not be an attraction available for separate purchase as a lightning lane attraction. However, it will be part of Genie+, and guests will be able to reserve lightning lane access via Genie+ if they choose to purchase Genie+ for the day. As with any Genie+ attraction, lightning lane access will depend on availability.
Bottom Line: Are You Excited to Ride?
It’s been a year and a half since Splash Mountain closed. Now that we know Tiana’s Bayou Adventure opens June 28 at Disney World, are you excited to ride it? Please let us know below!
Ready to Plan Your Next Disney Vacation? I’m ready to help! Email brooke@disneycastledreaming.com
