We’ve been expecting this for a long time. Spaceship Earth was last updated in 2007, when new scenes and props were added to the attraction and Dame Judi Dench recorded a new narration. The 2007 refurbishment was the result of a six month closure of the attraction. This new refurbishment is going to be much more significant. Disney has announced that Spaceship Earth is closing for refurbishments on May 26, 2020.
Disney has not given us a firm timeline for this refurbishment; however, they have indicated a window of 18 – 30 months. I feel pretty comfortable predicting that this Spaceship Earth refurbishment will take at least 2 years.
Spaceship Earth Reimagining
Disney is calling this latest refurbishment of Spaceship Earth a “reimagining”. They are also telling us that it is going to be the most extensive refurbishment of the attraction since it opened in October 1982. The details, however, are sparse.
At last year’s D23 Expo, Disney announced the planned reimagining of Spaceship Earth. At that announcement, Disney shared that the new version of Spaceship Earth would focus on the journey of humanity through the ages. We were told that some scenes will be updated with new Disney magic, while some new scenes will be added.
It looks like the new iteration of this attraction will include new narration, telling a new story. The limited information we have indicates that light will be an important part of the new story. We will learn how light plays a role in our shared human journey, and what is possible when we all come together.
Disney has released this concept art for the updated Egypt scene in the attraction. This is a scene that is currently part of the attraction, but it is being updated and transformed to show the power of light.
Spaceship Earth Reimagining: Egypt (Concept Art: Disney Parks)
The Bad News: Spaceship Earth is Closing
There’s no getting around it. Major attraction refurbishments are a bummer. Spaceship Earth is going to close for a long time–at least 18 months, according to Disney.
Spaceship Earth is a popular dark ride, with ride vehicles constantly moving. It’s an attraction that absorbs a LOT of people per hour, and the line moves fairly quickly, when there is a line. Often, the lines are very short. Again, because the attraction is constantly moving and so many guests can be riding the attraction at once. It’s a nice break from the Florida heat, and is a fairly long attraction, so your feet and legs get a nice break.
The attraction also provides a unique souvenir: the little game at the end of the attraction results in an image that you can email to yourself (or others) featuring animation and your face(s).
Spaceship Earth being closed for such a long time is definitely bad news. However, there are some good things about this closure, too.
Photo: Brooke Hudson
The Good News
The most obvious good news is that Spaceship Earth is getting a necessary refurbishment. This attraction has needed an update for many years now. Some of the scenes are looking tired and worn and many of the vehicles have shown signs of wear for years. In addition, Disney has done so much with technology in the years since the last refurbishment, I’m excited to see what they integrate into Spaceship Earth. I’m looking forward to updated scenes, a new story and new narration. We may even get new vehicles (not confirmed).
October 2022 will be the 40th Anniversary of Epcot. I’m hopeful that the new iteration of Spaceship Earth will be open by then, if not sooner. I suspect the Imagineers are very cognizant of that anniversary date, and would really like to have the attraction completed and to be a cornerstone of that celebration.
More Good News
This is not necessarily directly related, but I have a theory. I suspect the opening of the new Ratatouille themed attraction in the France pavilion will dovetail pretty closely with the closure of Spaceship Earth for refurbishments. As I mentioned above, Spaceship Earth currently absorbs a LOT of people each hour. When it closes, those people will join the queues for other attractions, potentially making lines longer all over Epcot. However, there is a new attraction opening “this summer” that will potentially be able to absorb a lot of those people. Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure is a new dark ride that will feature trackless vehicles.
Ride Vehicle for Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure (Photo: Disney Parks)
Disney has not given us a firm opening date for this attraction yet; however, I believe that it will closely coincide with the closing of Spaceship Earth. While I doubt that Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure will move as many people through it per hour as Spaceship Earth does, a new attraction in the park will definitely help offset the loss of Spaceship Earth.
Currently, there is so much construction happening in the front of the park, the more Disney can move people through to World Showcase, the better. Getting Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure ready to open has to be a pretty big priority for them right now, I believe.
Final Thoughts
Overall, I think Spaceship Earth closing for refurbishment is a good thing. I think the ride needs updating and an infusion of new technology. I am disappointed that I won’t get to ride it one last time before it closes, though. I’m worried about the impact of this attraction closing on the lines and crowds in the park. I’m hopeful that new attractions and activities in other areas of the park will help offset the closing of Spaceship Earth.
What do you think about this announcement? Are you excited about the changes to Spaceship Earth or do you wish they’d just leave it alone? Please let me know in the comments below!
Happy Dreaming,
Brooke
email brooke@disneycastledreaming.com today to start planning your next Disney adventure!
Today we have exciting news from Epcot. There’s a brand new restaurant open at Epcot. The Regal Eagle Smokehouse: Craft Drafts & Barbecue has opened at Epcot’s American Adventure pavilion. The Regal Eagle Smokehouse is named after Sam the Eagle of the The Muppets. Epcot’s newest quick service restaurant is themed to a barbecue cook-off, featuring competitors from across America.
Restaurant Logo, Disney Parks
Perhaps best of all? Mobile Ordering IS an option for the Regal Eagle Smokehouse through your My Disney Experience app, helping to minimize your time spent in LINE.
Liberty Inn Closed June 2019
For years, the food at the American Adventure pavilion was an embarrassment! It always amazed me how bad the food was at the American pavilion. It was such basic theme park food. Cheeseburgers, hot dogs, chicken sandwiches, and [watery] pulled pork sandwiches. None of these items stood out, and all were disappointing (especially the pulled pork!). There was no theming to speak of, in my opinion. It just felt like a big fast food restaurant.
There is so much great food in the United States; the abysmal food at Liberty Inn aggravated me for years. It made me sad that visitors from all over the world could come to Disney and think THIS represented America. But that’s all old news, thank goodness. The Liberty Inn closed in June 2019 to make way for a new quick service restaurant. Finally, we have our new restaurant: The Regal Eagle Smokehouse: Craft Drafts & Barbecue hosted by Coca-Cola.
The Regal Eagle Smokehouse
At long last, the American Adventure pavilion has an American themed restaurant to be proud of. I think the choice to include the Muppets in the theming for this restaurant is genius. It’s subtle, but it iso great to see the Muppets in Epcot! Sam the Eagle is atop the logo and featured on the menu. We see other Muppet characters in sketches around the restaurant. The Muppet presence isn’t super overt, and of course, as a big Muppets fan, I wish there were more of it. However, these days ANY sign of the Muppets at Walt Disney World is a good thing, as far as I’m concerned.
The theming throughout the interior space is sprinkled with classic Americana. It’s got a little bit of a retro feel. The walls feature lots of brick and tile. There is red, white and blue bunting on the ceiling, and even the condiment station features Americana decor. There’s a tin ceiling, and there are lots of copper pots and old timey accessories throughout. The tables are flanked by backless benches, and the indoor seating area feels very large, bright and open. The overall look is really sharp.
Regal Eagle Smokehouse (Photo: Disney Parks)
Outdoors, the large seating area is all classic picnic tables with umbrellas to help protect guests from the Florida sun. There’s also a large classic smoker on display in the outdoor seating area. I’m not sure if this is just for show, or if we may see it in use during busy periods.
Barbecue Flavors From Across the United States
I think the Regal Eagle Smokehouse’s approach to “American” by using barbecue flavors found in different parts of the country is really smart. Since summer cook-offs are such a big part of festivals throughout the country, I thought choosing to theme the restaurant as “Sam’s Centennial Cook-Off” was also a terrific idea!
Source, Disney Parks
Entrees are themed to Texas, South Carolina, Missouri, Tennessee and North Carolina. Meats are smoked for 14 hours, and the quality of the meats and sides are very high, especially for a theme park quick service restaurant.
Menu Options
There are a lot of options on this quick service menu! There are a variety of sandwiches and platters. All sandwiches and platters include a side.
Great food can be found at the new Regal Eagle Smokehouse at the American Adventure Pavilion at EPCOT (Photo: Disney Parks)
The American Platter is $18.99, and I suspect it will be VERY popular, especially for first time visitors. It includes three choices from the meat options, one side of your choice and a piece of garlic toast. The meat options include Sliced Texas Beef Brisket, Kansas City Smoked Half Chicken, Memphis Dry-Rub Port Ribs, North Carolina Chopped Smoked Port Butt, and South Carolina Smoked Sausage. The brisket and smoked sausage are available as sandwiches, and the other three meat options are available as single meat platters. There is also a BBQ Burger, which is a burger topped with pulled BBQ pork and an onion ring. A Power Greens Salad is on the menu, and includes chilled pulled chicken and fresh citrus. For those that prefer plant based sandwiches, there is a BBQ Jackfruit Burger. This is a plant based burger topped with BBQ Jackfruit.
Regal Eagle Smokehouse, The American Adventure Pavilion at EPCOT (Photo: Disney Parks)
Side options include House Made Pickles, French Fries, Beer-Battered Onion Rings, Creamy Coleslaw, Macaroni and Cheese, Garlic Toast, and Baked Beans with Burnt Ends.
For dessert, you can choose from the Fresh Watermelon Cup (But WHY? Just kidding!), the S’mores Brownie and Banana Pudding. The banana pudding even has vanilla wafer cookies in it. So classic!
The kids menu features a cheeseburger, chicken salad, BBQ chicken leg and BBQ rib platter as options. Most of these come with one or two sides, and a choice of Chocolate Milk, Apple Juice or small fountain beverage.
Beverages
Inside you’ll find the traditional quick service restaurant Coca-Cola fountain beverage station, featuring the same Coca-Cola beverage options you find all over the parks. But at the Regal Eagle Smokehouse, you’ll also find Iced Unsweetened Tea, Sweet Tea and a few varieties of flavored iced teas that I think are a nice inclusion.
The menu inside also features a variety of American draft beers and ciders, wine and some specialty cocktails. There are more beverage options at the outdoor bar as well. (Read on for more about the outdoor bar!).
Meat Lovers Paradise
While there is a plant based option on the menu, the Regal Eagle Smokehouse is primarily for those of us that eat meat. If you are vegan or vegetarian, you will be happier at one of the other pavilions around World Showcase. If, however, you are a meat lover, you will most likely find at least one item on this menu that you’ll love.
The other thing that makes me happy is that the entrees are not drenched in sauces. Regal Eagle Smokehouse offers a variety of sauces on the side at the condiment bar, and you can add as much or as little sauce to your meats as you want to. I think this will appeal to a wide range of customers.
Sauces
The condiment bar features a variety of bbq sauces for you to try with your entree. There are four sauces, plus ketchup on the condiment bar. Sauce options include:
There are options available for those with gluten or wheat allergies, egg allergies, milk allergies, peanut or tree nut allergies, and soy allergies. To review the complete menu, along with the allergy related options, please visit here.
Regal Eagle Smokehouse: Outdoor Bar
One of the highlights of the new outdoor area at the Regal Eagle Smokehouse is the new outdoor bar. Many of the beverages offered at the outdoor bar can also be found inside the restaurant; however, I suspect the outdoor bar will satisfy a lot of patrons that aren’t interested in a meal.
The menu features a variety of American draft beers and ciders. There is also a selection of California wines on the menu, as well as a few “specialty cocktails”. Specialty cocktails include a Frozen Mint Julep, a Tennessee Lemonade (featuring Jack Daniels), a Texas Mule, a Frozen Strawberry Daquiri and a Moonshine Sour. There are two non alcoholic options on the outdoor bar menu as well: Berry Sparkler and Frozen Iced Tea Lemonade. Prices range from $4.50 (non alcoholic specialty beverages) to $14.00 (specialty cocktails). While anyone who knows me well knows I’m am very partial to the Grand Marnier slushie available at the Champagne Kiosk in the France pavilion, I am eager to try the Tennessee Lemonade at the Regal Eagle Smokehouse!
At Last, Good American Food at the American Adventure Pavilion
I am happy to report that at long last, we have good food available at the American Adventure pavilion at EPCOT. Of course, if you prefer table service, or eat good old American barbecue fairly frequently, the Regal Eagle Smokehouse might not be high on your list. Also, I suspect it won’t be a preferred stop for vegans or vegetarians.
However, if you want a good quality quick service option, you can’t go wrong with the Regal Eagle Smokehouse. The food is flavorful and the environment is fun and well themed. And hey, there are some Muppets touches. Good pulled pork, beef brisket, ribs and old fashioned banana pudding? Count me in!
Sam the Eagle, The Muppets (Photo: Disney Parks)
What do you think? Are you going to check out the Regal Eagle Smokehouse? Please comment below. If you’ve already had a chance to try it, please share your thoughts!
Happy Dreaming,
Brooke
Ready to Plan Your Disney Vacation!
P.S. There are lots of updates coming to EPCOT this year and next. Have you heard about EPCOT’s space themed restaurant coming later this year? Check out this post to learn more.
In preparation for next year’s big 50th Anniversary celebration, construction projects are ongoing throughout Walt Disney World. I’ve been wondering what Disney had in store for my beloved Cinderella Castle. Honestly, I’ve been worried. In previous years, they have done some questionable things to the castle. But now the mystery is over. Disney has officially announced that Cinderella Castle is getting a makeover.
25th Anniversary: Cinderella Castle Becomes a Giant Birthday Cake
Here’s one of the reasons I was worried. Does anyone else remember (with horror) the “birthday cake” Cinderella Castle that Disney did for the 25th Anniversary? If they’d done if for a day or a week, I probably wouldn’t cry every time I think about it, but it stayed like this for more than a year!!! They painted the castle bright PINK. Now I like pink as much as the next girl, but not on Cinderella Castle for goodness sake! As if the pink wasn’t bad enough, they attached all these inflatable things. It was AWFUL. I mean, the concept was cute I guess. But the beautiful Cinderella Castle looked like this for more than a year. 1996 was NOT a good year for Cinderella. I think maybe she let her Fairy Godmother decorate after a few too many nightcaps!
Cinderella Castle as a giant birthday cake for the 25th Anniversary of the Magic Kingdom (Photo: Disney Parks)
50th Anniversary: Cinderella Castle is Getting a Makeover
Fortunately, it looks like I didn’t need to worry. For this anniversary, Disney has decided to go classy instead of tacky. Disney announced this week that Cinderella Castle is getting a makeover. The castle is going to be repainted and additional gold accents are being added. I’m assuming all the gold is in recognition of the golden anniversary. If you aren’t already familiar, a 50th anniversary is the golden anniversary. Magic Kingdom opened in October 1971. October 2021 will be the 50th (golden) Anniversary for the Magic Kingdom, and by extension, Walt Disney World. Magic Kingdom was the only park at Walt Disney World until Epcot opened in 1982.
Here’s the concept art that Disney has released showing what Cinderella Castle will look like after its makeover.
Concept Art – Disney Parks
What do you think? I think it looks pretty good. This is pink, but it is not the hideous BRIGHT pink of the 25th anniversary. I think the gold accents and trip pieces look pretty, and will likely be sparkly in the Florida sunshine. There are a lot of scary things Disney could have done to the Castle for the big anniversary. I am relieved that they have chosen to go classy.
The Downside of Cinderella Castle Getting a Makeover
Unfortunately, there is a downside to Cinderella Castle getting a makeover. In all likelihood, this repair work is will last all summer and possibly into the fall. This will mean scaffolding around the castle. It could mean crane work. I’m not sure exactly what will be involved, or how dramatic the equipment and workers around the Castle will be.
I know everybody always complains when the crane is out for a couple of weeks in the fall to put the icicle lights on the castle for Christmas. People often get upset about the crane being in their pictures. I know I have a series of crane Castle pictures that I don’t love.
Nonetheless, I expected Disney was going to do something with Cinderella Castle for the big 50th Anniversary. If they’re going to do something, this is about the least offensive thing they could do. I also don’t think it’s gonna take a super long time to complete. Hopefully by the end of the summer, this will be a completed project. It’s likely they will do the work in phases. For example, they will have scaffolding on one area of the Castle at a time, so the whole Castle won’t be covered. This way, guests will be able to get pictures from certain angles without scaffolding in their photos.
It’s All About the Attitude
I recommend that if you are visiting Walt Disney World this summer, know that you are likely to see scaffolding on the castle. I understand that is disappointing. Cinderella Castle is a beautiful icon and I completely understand that you want great pictures from your vacation. Mostly likely, you were not planning to have scaffolding or other construction equipment or workers in your photos. I get it. However, keep in mind there are a TON of other locations around the parks where you will get fabulous pictures that won’t feature scaffolding.
Additionally, I suspect there will be some angles of the Castle that will still be lovely and without scaffolding. Perhaps from the rear of the Castle. The Castle is actually very lovely from the back. The Castle is also very lovely from each side. I believe there will be angles for photos where the scaffolding won’t be an issue. However, I don’t know that for sure. Disney hasn’t shared how they’re going to approach this project. They also haven’t given us a firm end date for the project. So far, they’ve just indicated the work will begin soon, and will continue throughout the summer. So, if you are visiting this summer, you are going to probably going to see the Castle in process of being painted.
Cinderella Castle at Dawn (Photo: Disney Parks)
Look on the Bright Side
On the other hand, if you have Castle scaffolding in your pictures, you are getting a very unique picture. This isn’t a common occurrence, and not many guests will see this project while its underway. So if you ARE visiting this summer, try to have as positive an attitude as possible about the project, and manage your expectations. If you expect there to be a lot of scaffolding, and when you arrive, there’s only a small amount, you’ll be pleasantly surprised. I’m a big believer in your attitude determining how terrific (or not) your vacation is. Read this post for more on this topic.
The Good News
There is some good news here. Of course, first and foremost, Cinderella Castle is going to look beautiful when it’s finished. The popular daytime show, Mickey’s Royal Friendship Faire, that takes place multiple times each day on the Castle Forecourt Stage, will not be disrupted according to Disney. It’s a cute show that features the Fab 5 and has a little fireworks at the end. This show will go on, which I think implies Disney is not doing major construction. They’re just putting up scaffolding and painting, primarily. This will be a relatively minor incursion into the public Castle spaces.
Mickey’s Royal Friendship Faire (Photo: Disney Parks)
Disney also stated that Cinderella’s Royal Table and the Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo Boutique will not be affected. This should mean you will still be able to walk through the Castle throughout the day to access Cinderella’s Royal Table and the Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo Boutique.
Happily Ever After
Disney has also promised that Happily Ever After will not be affected by the makeover for Cinderella Castle. Happily Ever After is the nighttime fireworks spectacular choreographed to music. The show is filled with lots of intensely colorful projections of scenes and animation onto Cinderella Castle. I interpret this statement from Disney to mean that all of the projections currently shown on the Castle during the show will continue to be shown. I’m guessing that we won’t even notice any scaffolding during the show. The projections are so bright and so detailed and play such clever tricks on our eyes, I suspect they will obscure any actual construction materials. The nightly fireworks show is an integral part of any visit to the Magic Kingdom for many guests, so I am happy that the show will not be affected by the makeover project.
Happily Ever After (Photo: Disney Parks)
Final Thoughts
Overall, I think Cinderella Castle getting a makeover is a good thing. I’m very happy that Disney is taking the 50th Anniversary so seriously. They’ve been sprucing up all over the parks and throughout Walt Disney World property in preparation. Epcot is getting a major update, some of which has been needed for a very long time. A number of new attractions are coming over the next year, too. The new Tron coaster at Magic Kingdom, the Guardians of the Galaxy Coaster at Epcot. We getting the Ratatouille attraction in Epcot this summer, as well as a new quick service restaurant in France. Almost every country in Epcot that has a film in their pavilion has gotten or is getting a new film. Hollywood Studios is practically bursting at the seams now with all the new stuff that has come on line in the last year!
There are a lot of really positive things going on right now. There have been some years that pretty big anniversaries were not recognized or celebrated at all. I’m happy that the 50th is a really big deal for Disney. I think the park next year, 2021, especially in the fall is going to be amazing. I really think if you can come in the fall of 2021 you’re going to see all four parks and in general Disney property in the most beautiful condition it’s ever been in. It’s all very exciting.
What Do YOU Think?
Please comment below with your thoughts. What do you think? Are are you looking forward to this makeover? Do you think the project is necessary? Were you hoping they were going to do another birthday cake? (I know there are some of you out there!)
If you haven’t started planning or 2021 trip yet, it’s time! I’d love to help you have a magical Disney vacation. Please reach out to brooke@disneycastledreaming.com.
Have you ever wanted to have a private photo session inside the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World? Have you wished you had a photographer with you to capture a special moment or event? Disney has a new offering that might be what you are looking for. With the new PhotoPass offering “Capture Your Moment”, Disney has made it possible for you to schedule a private photo session inside Magic Kingdom.
Private Photo Session Inside Magic Kingdom?
Disney, forever on the lookout for ways to make us spend our money, has come up with a new PhotoPass offering. The new PhotoPass offering is called “Capture Your Moment”. When you book Capture Your Moment, you are booking 20 minutes of time with a Disney PhotoPass photographer inside the Magic Kingdom theme park during regular park hours.
Sometimes, you want a PhotoPass photographer to be focused exclusively on you and or your family for longer than the one – three pictures most PhotoPass photographers have time to take. Examples include baby announcements, birthdays, proposals, anniversaries, baby gender reveals, and family reunions.
Disney PhotoPass Capture Your Moment (Photo: Disney Parks)
Disney has obviously seen the professional photographers roaming around the parks with their clients, taking pictures. They’ve also seen the gorgeous pictures online taken by professional photographers to commemorate engagements, baby announcements, girls’ weekends, and many other events. Since, as we know, Disney wants ALL our money, they certainly don’t want us hiring outside photographers to capture our special moments!
Private Photo Session Inside Magic Kingdom: The Basics
Available in the Magic Kingdom only. (At least right now!)
$50 for a 20-minute session; $100 for a 40-minute session.
The short answer? No. Disney wants to be very clear that is NOT for wedding photos.
Disney also made it very clear this will NOT replace the private Bridal Photo Session available for both Disney and non Disney brides and grooms. These pricey sessions happen in the early morning hours before the park opens, and are truly private.
Our Animal Kingdom Bridal Portrait Shoot (Photo: Disney Fine Art Photography)
Bridal and wedding attire is specifically prohibited for the PhotoPass sessions, so if you’re going to do a Capture Your Moment Disney PhotoPass photo shoot, plan to avoid the floor length gown, the glamorous white dress or the tuxedo.
If you want to learn more about a Disney Bridal Portrait photo session, check out this post and this post.
What Locations Are Available?
Disney is not releasing location information or options for these sessions. At least, not yet. Current policy dictates that your photographer will review the location options with you when you meet for your session. Once your photographer has given you the options, you will be able to choose your location.
Disney is doing this for a couple of reasons. One, they want the flexibility to adapt to park events, crowds and activities. Two, they want the flexibility to schedule sessions at the same time in different areas of the park. Three (and this is totally my own suspicious nature), Disney may not want guests to focus on particular locations. For example, I suspect Cinderella Castle may be a preferred backdrop for many guests. However, stage shows, parades and Castle projection shows will make that challenging many times each day. So perhaps Disney hopes to dissuade guests from assuming they can take photos at the Castle.
Many of the marketing pictures Disney has released with this announcement do include the Castle in the background. Perhaps I’m being too cynical.
Disney PhotoPass Capture Your Moment (Photo: Disney Parks)
I can envision a scenario where Castle locations are available initially as a test balloon. Once Disney sees which locations are the most popular, I suspect pricing will be revised. Maybe a tier structure will be introduced for certain locations. I suspect we will eventually see a tier structure at some point, based on my observations of Disney business practices over many years.
Can I Request a Particular PhotoPass Photographer?
At the moment, it does not sound like you can request your photographer but you could certainly try. If you have a particular PhotoPass photographer that works at the Magic Kingdom that you like, you could request them for your Capture Your Moment session. It’s not clear how many PhotoPass photographers are available for this offering. It is also not clear if the pool is limited to the most experienced PhotoPass photographers.
If you do request a particular photographer for your Capture Your Moment session, please let me know how it goes. Those of us that live out of state probably don’t have a favorite PhotoPass photographer. However, I bet local residents that visit the parks often have favorites.
Are the Photos Going to Be Digital or Print?
All pictures taken by your PhotoPass photographer during your session will be digital. As with all PhotoPass pictures, you can visit a PhotoPass center in one of the parks, and purchase physical prints of the digital pictures if you want to. Generally, if you have the downloaded digital files, you will be happier with printing the photos from somewhere like Shutterfly or MPix. More options are available, and prices are almost always better.
The price of your Capture Your Moment session does not include the actual pictures taken during your session. Let me say that again: the digital files of the photos taken during your session are NOT included in the session price of $50. The good news is that if you already planned to purchase Memory Maker (which I highly recommend for all visitors!), or if you are an Annual Passholder, you will have access to these pictures, along with any other PhotoPass photos or attraction photos.
Haunted Mansion Attraction Photo (Photo: Disney Parks)
Memory Maker
With Memory Maker you have up to 30 days after your trip to download all pictures and videos attached to your My Disney Experience account. Because individual downloads start at $14.50 per photo, it doesn’t take long for Memory Maker (at $169 for advance purchase) to be a reasonably good deal. There are currently 13 attractions that take picture or video during the ride, and as long as you have a Magic Band (or scan your ticket at the end of the ride on your picture), all those videos and photos WILL be on your account. For more information on Memory Maker, please visit this post.
Disney does offer a one-day Memory Maker for $69. If you’re doing a super short trip, or you really aren’t interested in any of your ride photos or PhotoPass pictures from any of your other park days, this option is worth considering. As long as you schedule your PhotoPass Capture Your Moment session on the day you have your one-day Memory Maker on your account, all the pictures from your session will be available in your Memory Maker. Alternatively, you’ll have the ability to view the pictures and purchase the downloads on an individual basis.
Scheduling Your Private Photo Session Inside Magic Kingdom
It is recommended that you schedule your session in advance (Call 407-939-7758) to guarantee availability. However, there are currently some same-day sessions are available.
You cannot be late for your session. Once you have reserved your session, you’ll be told where to meet your photographer. Disney states that if you are late, your session will not be extended. As an example: If you have a 20 minute session that is supposed to start at 3:30 pm, you arrive at 3:45 pm, your session will last 5 minutes. Disney says under no circumstances will the sessions be extended.
Things to Consider
If you’ve always wanted to do a private photo session inside Magic Kingdom, the Capture Your Moment session may be a perfect solution for you. However, there are a few things you want to consider before booking your session.
The Capture Your Moment sessions will occur during regular park hours. This means you will likely have other guests in the background of your pictures.
You have the option to book 2 sessions back to back. This would give you 40 minutes of time with your PhotoPass photographer. Again, this whole session will be inside Magic Kingdom during regular park hours. BUT this does mean you (and your family) are sacrificing park time. This could frustrate kids eager to go ride rides and have fun.
The skill and talent of the in-park PhotoPass photographer varies from photographer to photographer. Some PhotoPass photographers are pretty good, and are able to adapt to changes in light and shadows. Others are basically able to push the button and maybe notice if you’re in focus or not. There there are varying levels of quality amongst the PhotoPass photographers, so that’s an important consideration for readers considering one of these sessions.
The cost of the individual pictures are likely to be high. Of course, if you have Memory Maker or are an Annual Passholder, your photos are included. If you have to purchase the pictures individually, they will likely start at $14.50 per photo download. If you end up really liking all your pictures, the pricing can add up really quickly. (Note: You CAN add Memory Maker during your trip. It costs more to do it this way, $199 versus the $169 advance purchase. So if you like at least 10-14 pictures, you’ll want to add memory maker. Then you’ll get all pictures through Memory Maker. This will save money over purchasing individually).
This could be tough to do as a surprise. Since you are meeting your photographer at the start time of your session, and THEN choosing a location, it could be challenging to set up a surprise for the photographer to capture. (A proposal, for instance.) I suspect PhotoPass will find a way to help you, but I don’t know for sure. This could add unnecessary stress to your big moment.
Disney PhotoPass Capture Your Moment (Photo: Disney Parks)
Potential Quality Issues
Let’s talk a little more about the potential quality issue. One would assume that the photographers used for the Capture Your Moment sessions will be skilled and/or Senior PhotoPass photographers. There are definitely very good PhotoPass photographers out there. There are many stories of PhotoPass photographers that really loved their job and got really good. They emerged as very skilled photographers that eventually joined the Disney Fine Art Photography team or went out on their own. However, my PhotoPass library can testify that there are also some not-so-great PhotoPass photographers out there.
Again, I am assuming that Disney will choose its best PhotoPass photographers for these sessions. However, I can also envision a universe where these are popular and in high demand and require all hands on deck. This could result in a situation where you pay $50 for your session and end up with pictures you’re not happy. I think initially, these are a little bit of book at your own risk. Especially right now while this is a new offering.
Once we’ve had a chance to get reports back from people that have booked these sessions, I’ll feel more comfortable recommending them strongly. I want to know how it went, where they took photos, what locations were offered, etc. I will keep my ear to the ground on this one and let you know what I hear.
Capture YOUR Moment
Right now, I am cautiously optimistic about this new offering from PhotoPass. $50 for 20 minutes is quite a bit of money. However, if it’s a once in a lifetime or a very rarely in lifetime occasion, I could see it being a fun and special experience.
For example, if you’re at Disney World to celebrate your grandma’s 90th birthday and you want to have a lot of pictures of the whole family, this could be your solution. A group of pictures of Grandma with all the grandkids; just Grandma by herself; the girls with Grandma; Grandma with her children; the boys with Grandma –you guys know what I mean. You just can’t hold up a regular PhotoPass photographer for very long and take a bunch of different groupings. So this might be a great solution for you!
Another scenario: If you’re planning a special “in the moment” event and you want lots of pictures, this could also be a perfect session for you. For example, if you are planning to propose or tell your whole family you’re expecting a baby. This could be terrific for that. When my husband proposed to me, he did it at a regular PhotoPass photographer. We got lucky because he didn’t have a line, and he got pictures of the whole thing. (Of course, it was a pretty quick moment. It was following our first marathon, and I initially thought he’d fallen!).
Moments after Frank Proposed (Photo: Disney PhotoPass)
Private Photo Session Inside Magic Kingdom: Final Thoughts
Your mileage may vary on whether you find value in this package or not. If you really want a private photo session inside Magic Kingdom, and don’t mind the presence of other guests in the background, this might be for you. Also, if these are talented photographers and you get a bunch of good pictures out of it, you might want to schedule this. Finally, if you already planned on buying memory maker, you may find this has value for you.
If you’ve been reading my blog for any period of time, you probably know that I am a huge proponent of PhotoPass. Mainly because I love pictures. Before PhotoPass, I always came home from vacation with tons of pictures. Unfortunately, I was almost never in any of them. PhotoPass makes it possible for your entire family to get into many pictures. My favorite souvenir from vacation is almost always the photo book I make after our trip, filled with pictures we took and pictures taken of us by PhotoPass photographers.
So, for someone like me, Capture Your Moment might be something I will consider at some point. Maybe for an anniversary or another special event. However, I still think $50 is a lot of money for 20 minutes. Who knows what the future holds? One of the few regrets I have from our Disney Fairy Tale Wedding trip is that we were unable to do a Bridal Portrait shoot at the Magic Kingdom. I really wanted that darn picture with Frank and I in our wedding clothes in front of Cinderella Castle. With the rules and schedules in place at the time, we just weren’t able to make it happen. So, perhaps a more casual private photo shoot inside Magic Kingdom with PhotoPass photographers might be worth the cost? I’m not sure.
What are your thoughts on this offering? Is this something you think you might want to take advantage of? What occasion would you consider “worth it”? Please comment below with your thoughts.
Earlier this week, Disney increased ticket prices at both its US theme parks. The price increases came without any official announcement, but not without precedent. Disney has increased prices for its theme parks every year for the last several years, frequently in February. Notably, last year we saw more than one price increase.
Disney Skyliner: Tower of Terror (Photo: DIsney Parks)
Last year’s dramatic increases seemed to be directly in anticipation of increased demand due to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and the new Skyliner transportation system.
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge (Photo: Disney Parks)
With new attractions opening soon in both Hollywood Studios and Epcot, I’m assuming this year’s increase is indicative that Disney believes additional demand will soon follow. Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway opens very soon on March 4, 2020. Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure will open in the France Pavilion at Epcot sometime this summer. We don’t have a firm date yet, but I’m hopeful for early summer.
Disney Increases Ticket Prices – WDW Base Tickets
This increase is almost sneaky. The lowest price for a one day ticket is $109 (plus tax), and the highest price for a one day ticket is $159 (plus tax). However, while the top and bottom prices for a one day ticket remain the same, if you look through the calendar, you’ll see that the prices on many individual dates have increased. For example, last week, a one day ticket for Sunday, February 23, 2020 was $118 plus tax. Today, that same ticket is $125 plus tax.
Disney uses a date-based system for ticket pricing. Prices are highest during the most popular days, and lowest during the least popular days. For example, you’ll find prices higher during spring break and over the Christmas holidays. If you’d like to see ticket prices for your planned dates, please visit Disney’s website.
Disney also incentivizes guests to choose longer tickets over shortest. If you buy a park ticket with 3 or more days, you will start to see a per day discount. The best discount is on the 10-day ticket: With the new prices, a 10 day ticket now ranges from $52 per day to $67 per day (plus tax).
Disney Increases Ticket Prices – WDW Park Hopper and Park Hopper Plus Options
The price to add the Park Hopper option to your tickets has increased $5 per Park Hopper. Basically, whatever your base tickets cost, you would add the Park Hopper option to that cost. Here is the new pricing structure for Park Hoppers:
$65 per ticket for 1-day tickets
$75 per ticket for 2-day or 3-day tickets
$85 per ticket for 4-day to 10-day tickets
Personally, I love the flexibility the Park Hopper option provides. For more information about the various ticket options, please check out this post.
Park Hopper Plus tickets allow guest to “hop” between Disney theme parks in a single day, however they also add additional access. With the Park Hopper Plus, you get access to the water parks (Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach), Wide World of Sports, the NBA Experience, two miniature golf courses, and Disney’s Oak Trail Golf Course. The Park Hopper Plus option is $20 more than the regular Park Hopper option. Here is the new pricing structure for Park Hopper Plus add-ons.
$85 per ticket for 1-day tickets
$95 per ticket for 2-day or 3-day tickets
$105 per ticket for 4-day to 10-day tickets
Disney Increases Ticket Prices – WDW Annual Passes
This one is especially painful as last year’s Annual Pass increase in June was a big one. I (foolish, I know!) was hoping that Annual Passes would be spared another increase so soon. Unfortunately, I was wrong.
Here’s a table showing the old prices and new prices.
Pass Classification
Prev $
New $
Disney Platinum Plus Pass
$ 1,219
$ 1,295
Disney Platinum Pass
$ 1,119
$ 1,195
Disney Gold Pass (FL Residents & DVC)
$ 699
$ 719
Disney Silver Pass (FL Residents)
$ 519
$ 539
Disney Theme Park Select Pass (FL Residents)
$ 439
$ 439
Disney Weekday Select Pass (FL Residents)
$ 349
$ 369
EPCOT After 4 Pass (FL Residents)
$ 304
$ 319
Were You Surprised?
Did this ticket price increase catch you by surprise? Will the higher prices have any effect on your Disney vacation plans? Please comment below.
Disney also increased prices for Disneyland tickets and Annual Passes. I will do a separate post detailing those increases.
Disney’s newest attraction, Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, opens March 4, 2020 at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This is the first attraction in Disney parks history to actually feature our beloved Mickey and Minnie Mouse. Other favorite Disney classic cartoon characters will also be making an appearance. Fast Pass+ reservations are now available for Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway for rides on March 4 or later.
Concept Art: Disney Parks
Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway Fast Pass+ Reservations Available NOW
Earlier this week, we talked about the new Fast Pass tiers for Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Significant changes were made to Tier One, removing all the rides previously in that Tier except for Slinky Dog Dash. Disney also added Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run to Tier One. Now, Disney has made another addition to Tier One. Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway Fast Pass+ reservations can now be made, but the new attraction is in Tier One, which means you will have to make a tough choice.
Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway Queue Concept Art (Disney Parks)
Fast Pass+ Reservation Refresher
If you aren’t familiar with the two tier structure for Fast Pass+ reservations, here’s a quick refresher. You can book 3 Fast Pass+ reservations per day for each day of your trip (as long as you have a park ticket for that day). If you are staying on Disney property, you can book your Fast Pass+ reservations 60 days prior to your visit. If you’re staying off property, your window opens at 30 days prior to your visit. Your three Fast Pass+ reservations for each day must all be in the same Disney park. The system will not let you book two Fast Pass+ reservations in Magic Kingdom, and then one Fast Pass+ reservation at Animal Kingdom. Maybe someday that will be an option, but it is not at this time.
Slinky Dog Dash Fast Pass and Standby Entrance (Photo: Disney Parks)
When you go to book your Fast Pass+ reservations for a particular day, the first step will be to choose which park you plan to visit that day. Then, you will be prompted to choose which members of your party you want to book Fast Pass+ reservations. You can book Fast Pass+ reservations for your whole family at once, which is a nice time saver.
At Hollywood Studios, Epcot and Animal Kingdom, there is a Two Tier structure for Fast Pass+ reservations. The most popular attractions are generally in Tier One, and the rest of the parks’ attractions and/or shows are in Tier Two. You will be able to select ONE of your three Fast Pass+ reservations from Tier One, and the other TWO will come from Tier Two.
Example
For example, at Hollywood Studios, there are now three attractions in Tier One. Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, Slinky Dog Roller Coaster, and Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run. You can choose ONE of these three attractions for your first Fast Pass+ reservation, assuming Fast Pass+ reservations remain for these attractions. Note: If the system does not offer you any Tier One/Tier Two breakdown for Animal Kingdom, Epcot, or Hollywood Studios, it means that all the Tier One attraction Fast Pass+ are gone for that day. You will be choosing all three of your Fast Pass+ reservations from the Tier Two attractions.
Fast Pass+ Strategy Suggestions
If you are currently planning a trip for later this spring or summer, my recommendation for Fast Pass+ reservation planning at Hollywood Studios is as follows. For your Tier One Fast Pass+, I suggest you book Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway if it’s available. Traditionally, new attractions have the longest lines as EVERYONE always wants to ride the latest, newest thing. Theoretically, this attraction will be able to move a lot of guests through per hour, so the lines may move quickly, but we don’t know that yet. I may change my recommendation once the attraction has been open for a while and we’ve had a chance to see how the standby line moves. However, right now, I’m saying book your Fast Pass+ for Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway if you can.
Photo: Disney Parks
If Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway Fast Pass+ reservations are all gone by the time you are able to book, I would book Slinky Dog Dash Fast Pass+ reservations. This remains an incredibly popular attraction, and it does not move as many people per hour as a typical dark ride, so the lines tend to stay long throughout the day. I don’t think you really need to a Fast Pass+ for Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run unless your trip plan requires you ride it in the morning. The lines are longest in the morning as everyone rushes to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge first thing. The ride does move a lot of people through each hour, and generally, the lines move quickly during the afternoon and evening.
If you have a trip scheduled in the next 60 days
If you’ve already booked Fast Pass+ reservations for your upcoming trip and ended up with Tier Two attractions you aren’t excited about, you may want to go in and make changes. I suspect a lot of Fast Pass+ reservations will be dropped as people replace them with Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway Fast Pass+ reservations.
Also, if you are DYING to ride Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway (and you should be, I’m hearing terrific things!), you may want to go in and re-do your Fast Pass+ reservations anyway. I say go for it!
Where is Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance?
Until Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway opens, Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance is Disney’s newest attraction. Many of you may be wondering how you’ll get a Fast Pass+ reservation for this attraction. The short answer: you won’t. At least not in the current season. Rise of the Resistance is currently using a virtual queue system. Once you are in the park, you request a Boarding Group. As long as Boarding Groups remain available, you will be added to a Boarding Group, and given a time to go to the attraction and ride.
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Rise of the Resistance (Photo: Disney Parks)
The good news: you don’t have to use one of your three Fast Pass+ reservations for this attraction. The bad news: Boarding Groups for Rise of the Resistance fill up fast every day, and there is no guarantee that you will get a Boarding Group at all. In addition, if you DO get a Boarding Group, but it’s a high number, there is no guarantee that you will be able to ride. Check out our Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance review for more information.
My theory is that once Disney gets all the kinks worked out, the virtual queue for Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance will go away, and Rise of the Resistance will be added to Tier One for Disney’s Hollywood Studios Fast Pass+ reservations. I could be wrong; they also may come up with a smoother, more reliable way for the virtual queue to operate. I will keep you posted as we learn more.
New Marquee is up at the Chinese Theater
Earlier this week, Disney unveiled the new marquee (sign) for Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway at the Chinese Theater. Formerly the home of the Great Movie Ride, the Chinese Theater will soon be featuring a ride in the cartoon world of Minnie and Mickey and their friends. The new marquee sign is colorful and a little reminiscent (at least to me) of the former Great Movie Ride.
The new sign is in place, but won’t light up until the ride officially opens on March 4, 2020. However, someone we know and love MAY have snuck in to try the lights out a little early. Take a look:
A little cheesy, but fun, nonetheless. Gotta love Goofy.
Take a close up look at the new marquee.
New Marquee for Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway (Photo: Disney Parks)
Note: Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway is coming to Mickey’s Toontown at Disneyland Park in California in 2022.
Classic Dark Ride or Something Totally New?
Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway will be something we haven’t seen before. I mean, how has Disney been in the theme park business for more than 50 years and NEVER had an attraction featuring Mickey Mouse? That seems so crazy to me.
Imagineer at Work (Photo: Disney Parks)
The new attraction IS a classic dark ride, in that it is a (mostly) constantly moving ride system (think Haunted Mansion, It’s a Small World, or Pirates of the Caribbean). However, we are entering Mickey & Minnie’s world here, and it’s not like our world at ALL. We are entering the cartoon world via a train with Goofy as the conductor. I mean, what could possibly go wrong? The animation featured throughout the attraction is modeled on the Emmy award winning Disney shorts currently airing on the Disney Channel.
Concept Art: Disney Parks
I think we can expect great special effects and lots of colorful craziness. And of course, what would any dark ride be without a memorable theme song? I am confident that Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway will gift us a theme song that will haunt us the rest of the day.
All Ages and Heights Can Ride!
There are no height restrictions for Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, so kids of ALL ages can ride. Like most dark rides, it initially appears that you will be leaving the strollers and/or wheelchairs behind, and transferring to the ride vehicle. Disney has not yet released specific information regarding wheelchair accommodation, so I’m basing this on most other Disney attractions.
Are you excited?
So, are you rushing to book your Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway Fast Pass+ reservations? Are you excited to ride this new attraction? I’ve been so impressed with Disney’s new lands and attractions in recent years (Pandora, Star Wars, Flight of Passage, Rise of the Resistance), I can’t help but be excited. I’m still sad the Great Movie Ride is gone, though. I probably won’t ever get over that. (I know, I know. Change is GOOD. I’m trying!) Nonetheless, it’s gone, and I’m hoping Disney is going to knock our socks off with this newest attraction. Please comment below with your thoughts!
Disney’s EPCOT theme park is well known for lots of good and even great dining options—but the fast majority of those can be found in Epcot’s World Showcase. Coming soon to Epcot’s Future World is a space themed restaurant we’re hoping will knock our socks off! Epcot’s new space themed restaurant is called Space 220, and it’s expected to open sometime this spring.
Announced last year, Space 220 was originally projected to open during the fourth quarter 2019. That was fairly aggressive, and proved to be a deadline the new restaurant couldn’t meet. Later, February 2020 appeared to be the planned opening target, but more recently I’m seeing projections of late February/early March. I suspect we may see soft openings sometime in March, with the official opening happening in April. That’s not from the powers that be, that’s just my supposition, based on what I’ve been seeing and hearing as the project progresses.
I’m excited about the theming and story of this new restaurant. The story is that you are traveling to the Centurian Space Station for your meal. The Centurian Space Station is 220 miles above the Earth’s surface (that’s where the Space 220 comes from). While you dine, you’ll have stunning day and night views of Earth below and the Space that surrounds the Space Station. Doesn’t that sound like fun? Guests will enter a special space elevator that will quickly take them to the Space Station, with spectacular views along the way.
Location
Space 220 is located backstage, behind Mission Space. The entrance for Space 220 will be part of the Mission Space building. Have you ever been to Coral Reef at the Living Seas Pavilion? Coral Reef is part of the Living Seas Pavilion, but it has its own separate entrance around to the side. I believe Space 220 is using a similar configuration.
Epcot’s Mission Space. (Photo Disney Parks)
It is my understanding that Space 220 is set in the Mission Space universe—so we are a little bit in the future but not TOO far. The Centurian Space Station is a resource for the missions that happen at Mission Space. We may see some Mission Space tie-ins inside Space 220, but that has not been confirmed.
Food
We don’t have a menu yet for this new space themed restaurant in Epcot’s Future World, however, I feel confident that we will NOT be served Tang and freeze dried Ice Cream. Space 220 is being operated by the Patina Group, a company behind many of the most successful restaurants at Disney Springs and across the country. The Patina Group already operates several of the better restaurants at Epcot, including Via Napoli and Tutti Italia. They are also responsible for Morimoto Asia, Maria and Enzo’s, Enzo’s Hideaway, Pizza Ponte and The Edison at Disney Springs. I especially love Morimoto Asia, which is very elegant and lovely. The food is really good too!
Morimoto Asia (Photo Disney Parks)
The Patina Group has more than 60 restaurants across the country, including Tortilla Joe, Napolini Pizzaria, Catal Restaurant and UVA Bar and Restaurant at Downtown Disney in California.
We haven’t been given much information yet about the food. All we know is “American Modern”. I’m not exactly sure what that will mean. Hopefully, now that we are getting closer to an actual opening, menus will be released soon.
Concept Art
We don’t have any official interior pictures from Disney yet for this new restaurant. I suspect we will get pictures when Disney is ready to give us an opening date and makes Advance Dining Reservations (ADRs) available for Space 220.
We do have some concept art for this new addition to Future World, however.
Space 220 Concept Art. (Art by Disney Parks)
Based on the concept art, it looks like we can expect tiered seating, so everyone will have a view from their table of the giant windows looking out into Space and down at Earth.
Since the concept is that we are dining on the Centurian Space Station, I think we can expect the views out the windows to change as we move through Space, 220 miles above the Earth.
Space 220 Concept Art, Disney Parks
Advance Dining Reservations
As I mentioned above, we do not yet a have an official opening date for Epcot’s new space themed restaurant, Space 220. Disney has also not yet made Advance Dining Reservations available for the new restaurant. I think we can expect ADRs to be available shortly before the new restaurant opens, and the standard 180 day window to apply thereafter.
I’m sure this will be a very popular reservation, at least initially. Anytime there is anything new, we all clamor to check it out as soon as we can. Ironic, given how loud we yell whenever Disney changes anything, or god forbid, eliminates an attraction. Yes I’m still bitter that Horizons is gone. 😉
Once initial reviews are out about the food and the experience, we may see demand level off. However, if the experience is good (which I’m assuming it will be!) and the food is decent, I suspect Space 220 will join the list of “must get” ADRs for Disney trip planners.
Stay Tuned for Opening Date Announcement
As soon as Disney announces an opening date or makes Advance Dining Reservations available for Space 220, I will send out an alert and update the Blog. If you want to make sure you don’t miss the announcement, please click here to join our email newsletter mailing list. We send out email newsletters weekly. Occasionally, you will get an email alert from us when there’s big news. In my opinion, Space 220’s opening date and ADR availability is BIG news.
I’ll keep you posted as I learn more.
Update: Rumor Mill is reporting March 30 as a potential opening day for Epcot’s new space themed restaurant, Space 220.
I don’t have anything confirmed yet, but I am hearing a lot of rumors about March 30 from various sources. I will let you know once we have a confirmation from Disney.
Are you excited to check out Space 220? Do you agree that Future World needed a new restaurant? Please like this post and comment below.
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge has been open for a few months now at both Disneyland in California and Disney World in Florida. The newest Star Wars themed attraction, Rise of the Resistance, opened in early December in Florida, and in mid January in California. Read on for our Rise of the Resistance review.
Rise of the Resistance Review
Rise of the Resistance is one of the most immersive and stunning attractions Disney Imagineers have ever created. It is truly an outstanding attraction, especially for long time Star Wars fans. If you love Star Wars, this attraction is going to push ALL your buttons. You will come as close as you will ever come to actually BEING in one of the movies. Even if you are not a Star Wars fan, I think you will find it very challenging not to love this attraction.
Star Wars Rise of the Resistance (Photo: Disney Parks)
Rise of the Resistance has all of the components of Disney’s BEST attractions:
It is incredibly detailed and excels at making you feel you are part of the story. Disney’s best attractions have always been the rides that tell a story and bring you into it. Rise of the Resistance uses excellent pre-show segments to get you into the story from the moment you enter the queue. Rise of the Resistance also uses cast members better than any other attraction I can remember.
It has giant, memorable set pieces. There are wonderful special effects throughout the attraction, and there are both audioanimatronic figures and screens that make you feel like you are part of the story, interacting with characters you know and love.
It is a long attraction–about 18 minutes. The best attractions are long enough to make you feel like you really DID something. Your time in line was WORTH it. Rise of the Resistance is definitely worth the wait!
It has great music. Rise of the Resistance features memorable, recognizable, heart pounding music that deepens your emotional involvement in the story. (Note: the music composed by John Williams for Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge won a Grammy this past weekend!)
Most importantly, in my opinion: It is repeatable! There is so much going on in this attraction, I think I could ride it a dozen times and still notice something new. This is the true hallmark of a GREAT Disney attraction. I’ve ridden Pirates of the Caribbean and the Haunted Mansion tons of times over the years and I never get tired of it. I think Rise of the Resistance will join that camp of attractions we can ride again and again and always enjoy. Boredom will not be an issue with this attraction, I promise you!
Unlike Any Other Disney Attraction
I can’t compare Rise of the Resistance to any other attraction. It’s unique and full of new technology. In fact, Disney has applied for several patents for elements of this attraction–that’s how special and new the technology is in this ride.
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge: Rise of the Resistance (Photo Credit: Disney Parks)
I don’t want to spoil anything, so I won’t go into more detail about ride specifics. This is an incredible attraction, unlike anything Disney has done before. There are several pre-show segments that keep you entertained and immerse you in the story. The ride vehicles are trackless, so you feel much more free and like anything can happen. There are different elements and phases to the attraction to keep it interesting and surprising.
I really hope this attraction is a sign of future Imagineering at Disney. This attraction is truly amazing, and a wonderful addition to both Disney World and Disneyland.
What are people saying?
Disney released this short video a few days after Rise of the Resistance opened at Hollywood Studios Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. I think the excitement and enthusiasm is really fun to see:
Virtual Queue and Boarding Groups
Rise of the Resistance is NOT currently part of the Disney World Fast Pass+ system. It also does not have a standby line. For Rise of the Resistance, Disney is using a virtual queue system. Basically, the idea is that when you enter the park, you tell the system you want to ride via the My Disney Experience app or by visiting with the Guest Experience Team (if you don’t have a smart phone). The system will then assign you to a Boarding Group, and give you an idea of when your Boarding Group will be called to ride. Later in the day, when your group is called, you will have a window during which you will go to Rise of the Resistance and be able to ride.
Availability of Boarding Groups
You won’t have access to request a Boarding Group until after you’ve passed through the touchpoints at the park entrance (where you scan your Magic Band or ticket and scan your finger). Boarding Groups are not available until the official park open time, either. So while I always recommend you arrive at the park early as you will often be let in before the official park open time, you will not have access to Boarding Groups for Rise of the Resistance until AFTER you’ve entered through the touchpoints AND the official park open time for the day has arrived.
Boarding Group availability each day is based on the projected number of guests that Disney expects to be able to ride during that day, based on the hours the ride is expected to be functioning. They have built in some downtime.
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Rise of the Resistance (Photo: Disney Parks)
The Good
You don’t have to hover around Rise of the Resistance for hours, waiting for a chance to ride–you’ll get an update in your My Disney Experience app, notifying you of your Boarding Group being called. You can go about your day and enjoy many other attractions and shows at Hollywood Studios while you wait. Assuming there is availability, using the app to request a Boarding Group is fairly easy and user friendly–as long as the app doesn’t crash. Once you are notified that your Group has been called to ride, you have a window of time. In most cases, this is two hours, so you don’t have to rush right over or worry if you’re in line for another attraction. Note: sometimes the window is one hour, so be sure to read your notification carefully so you know how long you have.
The Bad
Currently, the Boarding Groups are filling up VERY fast. Most days, all the Boarding Groups for the day are filled within minutes of the park being open. The impact of thousands of guests all trying to get access to Boarding Groups at the same time via the My Disney Experience app is that the app often crashes or locks up, making it very challenging to get a Boarding Group before they are all gone. Adding to this, the attraction has unfortunately been breaking down fairly frequently, which is also limiting the availability of Boarding Groups for visitors. The notification window for Boarding Groups has been fluctuating — some groups are given two hours, while others receive one hour. It is important to read your notification carefully so you don’t miss your window.
Intriguingly, Disney has been surveying Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Rise of the Resistance guests this week about the virtual queue and possible alternatives. I’m interpreting this to mean all is not going as well as they’d hoped with the system, and changes may be coming.
Ride Breakdowns
The biggest challenge right now is that Rise of the Resistance breaks down pretty frequently. I think because this attraction is so huge, and has so many moving parts and so much new technology, breakdowns at the beginning are inevitable. In my opinion, Disney rushed this attraction a bit and announced open dates that were premature. I don’t think this attraction had enough time to work out all it’s kinks, and guests are bearing the brunt of that right now.
Currently, guests impacted by a ride breakdown are often given passes enabling them to return and ride the next day, or to ride later the same day. I think guests directly impacted are being adequately compensated; however, this does not address the indirect impact. With the ride experiencing downtime almost every day, and often, several times a day, Disney is not moving as many guests through this attraction as they anticipated. As a result, many guests are not being able to ride the attraction at all.
While this is always the case with a popular new attraction (queue times for Flight of Passage still often top 90 minutes most days), the anticipation for Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is significantly higher than for any other land or attraction in Disney history. Most guests visiting Disney this year are EXPECTING to visit Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and expecting to ride both attractions. With the current situation, many guests are leaving disappointed by not being able to experience this attraction.
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Rise of the Resistance (Joshua Sudock/Disney Parks)
What Can We Expect?
I’m confident that Disney is doing everything it can to fix the problems with the attraction, and hopefully, these breakdowns will soon be a thing of the past. I’m very anxious to see what happens with the virtual queue situation. So far, there is a lot of very loud frustration coming out of guests actually experiencing the virtual queue system, so I suspect some kind of change will be forthcoming.
Earlier this week, Disney made changes to the Fast Pass+ tier system (read here for more information). Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run is now part of the Hollywood Studios Tier One. If the virtual queue system doesn’t work, I suspect Rise of the Resistance will soon be joining Tier One as well.
Even with all the challenges to actually ride the attraction, I cannot stress enough: This is an AMAZING attraction! I promise, even if you struggle with some frustration is getting to ride, it will be WORTH IT! This is a MUST-RIDE attraction if at all possible!
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Rise of the Resistance (Photo: Disney Parks)
What do you think? Do you think Disney will end up adding a stand-by line and Fast Pass+ reservations for Rise of the Resistance, or do you think they will improve the system for the virtual queue and Boarding Group system?
Have you had a chance to ride yet? I’d love to hear your Rise of the Resistance review if you have one. Please comment below!
Are you planning a Walt Disney World Vacation for later this year? If so, this is BIG news for you. Disney World Fast Pass+ tiers are changing to include the new Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run attraction! This is MOST impactful if your trip is within the next 60 days and you’ve already booked your Fast Pass+ reservations. If your trip is AFTER February 19, 2020, you may want to review your Fast Pass+ and make changes.
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Millennium Falcon- Smuggler’s Run (Photo: Disney Parks)
What are Disney Fast Pass+ Tiers?
If you’re an experienced Disney World vacation planner, you have been dealing with the Fast Pass+ reservation tier structure for a couple of years now. Skip ahead to the next section to learn about the changes.
However, if you are new to Disney World vacation planning, you may not know about Disney’s tier structure for Fast Pass+ reservations. Basically, the tier structure is Disney’s way to spread Fast Pass+ reservations out over the most popular attractions. The tier structure is designed to give you your best chance to reserve a Fast Pass+ for at least one of the most popular attractions. The most popular attractions at each park are grouped together in one tier, allowing each guest to choose only one for their Fast Pass+ reservation of the day. The remaining two Fast Pass+ reservations will be booked from the second tier, which will contain the remaining attractions in that park.
Example: Disney’s Animal Kingdom Fast Pass+ Tiers
At Disney’s Animal Kingdom, two of the most popular attractions are the two newest: Pandora’s Flight of Passage and Pandora’s Na’vi River Journey. In a perfect world, you’d be able to book Fast Pass+ reservations for both of these popular attractions for your Animal Kingdom visit. However, Disney makes that impossible by putting these two popular attractions in their own tier. At Animal Kingdom, you can choose ONE Fast Pass+ reservation from Tier One, which has both Pandora attractions in it, and TWO Fast Pass+ reservations from Tier Two, which includes all other attractions.
The Islands of Pandora Photo: Brooke Hudson
In this example, Flight of Passage Fast Pass+ reservations might all be gone by the time you try to make your Fast Pass+ reservations, but you would still be able to book a Fast Pass+ reservation for Na’vi River Journey. This helps give guests the perception that they are able to book Fast Pass+ reservations for the most popular attractions, even when many of the Fast Pass+ reservations book up super quickly.
Keep in mind that with your Disney park ticket, you are able to book three Fast Pass+ reservations per day. These three reservations are limited to ONE park. Once you are at the park and have used all three reservations, you’ll be able to book additional, unlimited, Fast Pass+ reservations, one at a time, through the My Disney Experience app on your phone. There are also Fast Pass+ kiosks in various locations throughout the parks where you can book additional reservations if you don’t have a smart phone.
Effective on February 19, 2020, the current tier structure for Fast Pass+ reservations at Hollywood Studios is changing. Currently, Tier One attractions include Toy Story Mania!, Rock ‘n Roller Coaster, Tower of Terror, Slinky Dog Dash and Alien Swirling Saucers. This all changes February 19, 2020.
Tower of Terror Photo: Brooke Hudson
The new Hollywood Studios Tier One attractions will be Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run and Slinky Dog Dash. Guests making Fast Pass+ reservations will be able to choose ONE of these two attractions for their first Fast Pass+ reservation of the day. All other attractions will now be in Tier Two, and be available for the remaining two Fast Pass+ reservations of the day.
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Millennium Falcon – Smuggler’s Run (Photo: Disney Parks)
Keep in mind, once you have used your three Fast Pass+ reservations, you can book more. You’ll be able to book additional Fast Pass+ reservations via the My Disney Experience App on your phone. You can book an unlimited number of additional reservations throughout your day, one at at a time, as you use them.
Disney World Fast Pass+ Tier One Attractions (as of February 19, 2020)
Here’s a list of the Tier One attractions for each park after the changes:
Epcot: Soarin’, Test Track, Frozen Ever After and Epcot Forever (nighttime show)
Animal Kingdom: Flight of Passage, Na’vi River Journey
Hollywood Studios: Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run, Slinky Dog Dash
Magic Kingdom: There are no Tier One attractions. All attractions are available for Fast Pass+ booking at the same time.
What About Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance?
Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, the second major attraction at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge opened in December. Right now, Disney is experimenting with a virtual queue system to enable guests at the park each day to ride. There are no immediate plans at this time to add Rise of the Resistance to the Fast Pass+ system. Depending on the overall success of the virtual queue system, we may see that continue. If it works well, I bet we will see this with other new attractions as they come online. If it doesn’t work, we may see it disappear. In addition, I suspect we will see Rise of the Resistance added to the Tier One Fast Pass+ reservation system in a few months. I’ll keep you posted as I learn more.
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Rise of the Resistance (Photo: Disney Parks)
Fast Pass+ Reservation Strategy Changes?
Do these Disney World Fast Pass+ tiers changing impact your Fast Pass+ strategy? I’m happy with the changes as I thought there were TOO MANY Tier One attractions at Hollywood Studios. I felt like all my favorite attractions were all clumped into Tier One! I especially hated choosing between Toy Story Mania! and Slinky Dog Dash! Now that Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge has entered the mix, a day at Hollywood Studios is a completely different adventure than in past years.
How do you plan to change your Fast Pass+ strategy? Please comment below!
Happy Dreaming!
Brooke
Ready to Plan Your Disney Vacation!
P.S. If you’d like help with your Disney World Fast Pass+ reservation planning and have already booked your vacation, don’t worry! I offer stand alone trip planning services to help. I can book your dining reservations, Fast Pass+ reservations and help plan your general daily itinerary. Email brooke@disneycastledreaming.com for more information.
P.P.S. If you haven’t booked your Disney vacation yet, contact me today. I can help you choose the best package for you and your family. If you book your trip with me, it doesn’t cost you ANYTHING extra. As a bonus, you’ll get the benefit of my Disney trip planning expertise. I’ll be able to help you plan your dining reservations, Fast Pass+ reservations and MORE. Email today for more information. brooke@disneycastledreaming.com.
We finally have an opening date for Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios next spring! Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway opens March 4, 2020 in Florida. In more good news, the attraction will roll into Disneyland Park in 2022.
Replacing The Great Movie Ride
When Disney originally announced that longtime favorite “The Great Movie Ride” was being replaced by a new attraction, I was heartbroken. I don’t know about you, but I always loved The Great Movie Ride. Granted, it desperately needed some updating. Nonetheless, it was classic, and one of the few attractions left from the days when Disney Hollywood Studios was focused on the “movies”.
These days, most of the “Studios” has left Disney’s Hollywood Studios. There doesn’t seem to be much of the original focus on the “magic of the movies” left. Hollywood Studios has continued to be a beautiful park, and feature favorite attractions like the Rock n Roll Roller Coaster and the Tower of Terror–but what the heck do either of these have to do with MOVIES?????
Disney Hollywood Studios Tower of Terror Holiday
However, with the opening of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge this year and Toy Story Land last year, Disney’s Hollywood Studios has returned to a MUST NOT MISS park after a few years of construction and many closed attractions (to make way for Toy Story Land and Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge).
Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway
Disney Parks: Concept Art
Adding this new attraction, Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway, is sure to add even more juice to a park that is currently fairly jam packed with must-do attractions. Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway has no height or age restrictions. Hopefully this new attraction will appeal to guests of all ages.
Disney released a short video featuring the new attraction. Check it out below:
Can you believe Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway will be the first theme park ride to actually feature Mickey Mouse and his friends?? How crazy does that seem? It all started with a mouse. Mickey’s all over the parks, but he’s never had his own ride before.
Disney Parks Concept Art
That all changes with Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway. And in a not-so-surprising twist, this attraction will feature more “hidden mickeys” than any other attraction in Disney history or around the world.
Modern Disney Animation
The animations in this attraction are modeled after the Mickey and Minnie cartoons currently airing on the Disney Channel. Kids who watch cartoons on the Disney Channel today will feel VERY comfortable with these characters.
For those of us that grew up with a different style of Disney animation, the animations look a little strange; however, I’m sure we will get used to them. They are cute, just different. The current Disney shorts in this style have won awards and are VERY popular, so I think this newer style is here to stay.
Behind the scenes of Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway (Photo: Disney Parks)
We’ll visit the Chinese Theatre to join Mickey and Minnie on a magical adventure in the cartoon world where mouse rules apply. We’ll ride a train with Goofy as the Engineer, and as you can imagine, hijinks ensue!
I’m always overjoyed when a new attraction comes to any of the Disney Parks. This one promises to include new technology. I love that it is an “all ages” attraction. I think the best attractions are the ones that bring whole families together. Grandma can ride, and so can the littlest of grandchildren!
Disney Artist Rendering Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway
Are you looking forward to Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway? I suspect I will always miss The Great Movie Ride, but I’m happy to see a new attraction in Hollywood Studios. We’ll need something to keep us busy outside of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, haha.
Are you planning to check out this new attraction at Disney’s Hollywood Studios? Please comment below!
