Disney’s Grand Floridian: Victorian Elegance Gets a Fresh Update
One of the most popular deluxe resorts at Walt Disney World is getting a facelift. Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort’s lobby is getting renovated this year!
A Victorian Dream Just Steps from Magic Kingdom
Stepping into the Grand Floridian is like being transported to another era—an elegant Victorian wonderland that somehow feels both nostalgic and fresh at the same time. Just minutes from Magic Kingdom (you can see Cinderella Castle and even watch the fireworks from this resort!), this stunning property has been impressing Disney guests since 1988.
What makes this resort truly special is how it celebrates Florida’s history and the golden age of travel. Those gorgeous seaside hotels of yesteryear? The Grand Floridian captures that essence perfectly while adding that special Disney magic we all crave.
The Grand Floridian Photo: Disney Parks
The Stunning Lobby Transformation
Disney’s Grand Floridian lobby renovation marks the final piece of the resort’s multi-year refurbishment project. The Grand Floridian’s rooms, restaurants and even the spa have all gotten updated over the last couple of years. From the concept art of the planned lobby renovations, we can tell that Disney has saved the best for last.
The most AMAZING planned addition? A gorgeous new lobby bar!
This isn’t just any hotel bar. Inspired by the lobby’s iconic birdcage, this new bar will feature beautiful Victorian details—intricate woodwork, stunning stained glass, and elegant brass accents. Stained glass and colorful birds will be hidden throughout the atrium’s design.
Disney’s Grand Floridian Lobby Pre-Renovation Photo: Disney Parks
And don’t worry, Disney purists! That charming cage-style elevator we all know and love? It will still be there, directly opposite the new bar. Disney knows not to mess with perfection!
Fresh but Familiar
What I love most about this renovation is how respectful it is to the Grand Floridian’s heritage. The refreshed lobby, staircase, and front desk will feature botanical accents and inviting colors that create a dreamy, garden-like atmosphere.
The new carpeting is beautiful—Victorian-inspired borders with hand-drawn florals that were inspired by turn-of-the-century botanical studies. It’s these little details that make Disney so special, right?
All the new furnishings blend rich finishes and brass accents with fabrics that just make you want to sink in and stay awhile.
Disney’s Grand Floridian Photo: Disney Parks
The Disney Difference
Staying at a Disney Resort hotel is always magical, but there’s something extra special about the Grand Floridian. It’s one of more than 25 Disney Resort hotels at Walt Disney World, and one of only a handful considered “Magic Kingdom Resorts”.
Being so close to the Magic Kingdom means you can pop back for an afternoon nap. You have the option to take the monorail or a bus…but you’re even close enough to walk to the Magic Kingdom. Staying at the Grand Floridian will give you access to the Seven Seas Lagoon. You can rent a variety of watercrafts to play on the Lagoon and at night, you can see the classic Electrical Water Pageant!
Electrical Water Pageant Photo: Disney Parks
Disney’s Grand Floridian is one of only two Disney World Deluxe Resorts that feature a spa. (Disney’s Saratoga Springs is the other one, in case you were curious). The Grand Floridian is also the only Walt Disney World resort to feature its own Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique. (Note: The Grand Floridian’s Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique is not currently open; however, I’m hopeful that it will reopen later this year.)
Spa at Disney’s Grand Floridian Photo: Disney Parks
Worth Every Penny
Is Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort a splurge? Absolutely.
Is it worth it? It depends on what’s important to you, but if you prefer a deluxe experience and staying near the Magic Kingdom is important to you, it’s really hard to beat the Grand Floridian.
Whether you’re celebrating something special (anniversary trip, anyone?), treating yourself to an unforgettable meal at Victoria & Albert’s (which, by the way, now has a MICHELIN STAR!), or you’re lucky enough to call it your home away from home as a Disney Vacation Club member, this resort is pure magic.
Victoria & Albert’s Photo: Disney Parks
Sometimes things at Disney change, and that’s okay—it’s part of Walt’s vision to keep growing and evolving. But some things, like the warm welcome you receive when checking in, the meticulous attention to detail, and that heart-fluttering feeling of stepping into somewhere truly special—those things will always remain the same at the Grand Floridian.
Have you stayed at the Grand Floridian? Are you excited about the lobby renovations? Drop me a comment below—I’d love to hear your thoughts!
Ready to Plan Your Next Disney Vacation? I’m ready to help! Email brooke@disneycastledreaming.com
GET READY TO GLOW! H2O After Hours Returns to Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon This Summer!
I’m really happy to report that H2O Glow After Hours at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon is BACK this summer. I’m a big fan of Disney After Hours events in general, but H2O Glow After Hours is one of my favorites.
H2O Glow After Hours at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon will be lighting up select summer nights from May 23rd through September 13th, and I couldn’t be more thrilled to share all the glowing details with you! (yes, I’m cheesy. I admit it!). Enjoy all of the water park FUN without the searing SUN. (Told you I was cheesy.)
H2O Glow After Hours at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon. Photo: Disney Parks
Tickets On Sale April 4
Listen up, my Disney planning pals! Tickets go on sale April 4! If you’re staying at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel (and if you’re not, we should talk about that!), you can snag your tickets starting April 1st. General public tickets will be available beginning April 4th. Last year, several nights of H2O Glow After Hours did sell out, so if this fits into your summer plans, I HIGHLY recommend buying your tickets SOON. (Email me and I can take care of this for you.)
And here’s the BEST NEWS for families – kids’ tickets are only $42.50 this year, which is HALF the adult price of $85! Plus, my fellow Annual Passholders and DVC members get even more savings! If you are a Typhoon Lagoon (or water parks in general), this is seriously one of the best values at Disney right now!
Why You’ll LOVE H2O Glow After Hours💙
Let me tell you why this event is a non-negotiable part of our summer Disney trips:
Partysaurus Rex from Toy Story will be your host for the evening, along with some of his friends! All the kids I saw went CRAZY for these character interactions last year!
The wait times are SO much shorter compared to daytime hours. We rode Humunga Kowabunga three times in a row last summer – that NEVER happens during regular hours!
You’ll avoid that intense Florida summer heat while still enjoying all the splashy fun! AND extra benefit: you’ll avoid all those killer UV rays that are so strong during the day!
FREE SNACKS! Yes, you read that right – complimentary Mickey bars, popcorn, and select beverages are included with your ticket! I admit it, Disney. You had me at “free Mickey bar”. It works EVERY TIME.
Photo: Disney Parks
New Delicious Treats!
This year they’re adding even MORE yummy treats! So far, we’ve learned there will be new Chicken and Mickey-shaped Waffle Sliders at Leaning Palms. Also, I’m hearing there’s a Glow-versized Loaded Baked Potato at Typhoon Tilly’s that sounds incredible! I’ll update you all with the full menu as soon as Disney shares it.
Dance the Night Away!
Who DOESN’T love a Disney Dance Party?? The combination of pulsating music, dazzling lights, and Disney characters makes for the most magical atmosphere at the H2O Glow After Hours DJ Dancing Parties. You might even get to dance with Partysaurus Rex!
H2O Glow After Hours Dance Party! Photo: Disney Parks
The GLOWING Bottom Line
If you’re planning a summer Disney trip and your budget allows for it, I HIGHLY recommend adding H2O Glow After Hours to your itinerary. It’s one of the more reasonably priced After Hours events (that’s kind of relative, I realize). It’s also the perfect way to cool off after a hot park day, and the nighttime vibes make it feel like a completely different experience from a regular water park visit!
Have you experienced H2O Glow After Hours at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon before? Are you adding it to your wish list for this summer? Drop me a comment below – I’d love to hear about your plans or answer any questions!
Ready to Plan Your Next Disney Vacation? I’m ready to help! Email brooke@disneycastledreaming.com
P.S. – If you’re more interested in visiting Walt Disney World’s water parks during the day, click here to learn about all the fun heading your way this summer!
SPLASHY NEWS! Typhoon Lagoon AND Blizzard Beach will BOTH be open this summer!
Disney is really going ALL-IN on the water parks this year! Both Disney Water Parks will be open from May 21 through September 7 this year. For the first time since 2019 in fact, ALL SIX Walt Disney World parks will be open at the same time! Yes, you read that right – both Blizzard Beach AND Typhoon Lagoon water parks will be open all summer!
Photo: Disney Parks
The Coolest Summer Ever Just Got Better!
I don’t know about you, but my family has been counting down the days until summer vacation, and this announcement just made our planning SO much more exciting! With the tropical paradise of Typhoon Lagoon AND the winter wonderland of Blizzard Beach both available, we’ll definitely need to add an extra water park day to our itinerary! Since 2019, every time Typhoon Lagoon opened for its “season”, that meant Blizzard Beach was closed. When it was time for Blizzard Beach to open, Typhoon Lagoon would close.
Blizzard Beach. Photo: Disney Parks
Both water parks are TONS of fun, but they each have different strengths. As a fan of BOTH parks, I prefer to have a choice between the two. If I’m in a “spend all day in the lazy river” kind of mood, or really want to embrace the “Florida” of it all, I want to go to Typhoon Lagoon. If I’m more in a daring, adventurous mood, or really want the WINTER theming, I’m probably going to lean more towards Blizzard Beach. For YEARS, Disney has made that choice for me. There was no choice, basically. If you wanted to visit a Disney water park, you had one choice–whichever park was actually open during your visit.
Photo: Disney Parks
But THIS year, Disney is giving us back our choices. This summer, BOTH Disney water parks will be open for the whole season.
Quick note: Blizzard Beach (which is celebrating its 30th anniversary this month) will need a little “refresh” time and will temporarily close from May 1-20 before reopening for the summer season.
FREE Water Park Access for Resort Guests!
Disney already brought the water parks to our attention when they announced late last year that ALL Disney guests staying on property in 2025 would get FREE water park admission on their arrival day! I love this perk, and think it’s a great way for guests that have never experienced a Disney water park to check them out. It was always hard to justify the water park ticket price if you weren’t planning on spending a whole day at the water park, and it was always a little tough to trade off a theme park day for a water park day–especially when you were planning ahead and not completely sure of the weather.
Photo: Disney Parks
But now, you can visit a Disney water park on the day you arrive for most of the day (if you arrive early) or just a few hours (if you arrive a little later) and it doesn’t cost you ANYTHING extra. Which is NOT something I find myself saying very often about Disney!
This is such a fantastic way to kick off your vacation, especially if you arrive early in the day and want to make the most of your first day before hitting the theme parks tomorrow! It also makes that “your room is not ready until 4 pm (or sometimes later!)” challenge SO much less impactful. You can drop your luggage at Bell Services, grab your “water park go bag” and go have FUN at the water park. (and let’s face it: this aspect of customer DISsatisfaction with check-in was a big motivator in Disney deciding to offer this new perk this year!).
Nighttime Water Park Fun at H2O Glow!
For my night owls who want to splash under the stars, H2O Glow After Hours at Typhoon Lagoon is BACK from May 23 through September 13 on select nights! We absolutely LOVED this event last year – think reduced wait times, complimentary snacks, and Toy Story character encounters amid glowing, colorful lights!
H2O Glow at Typhoon Lagoon. Photo: Disney Parks
For all my runDisney friends participating in this year’s Springtime Surprise there is a H2O Glow night during race weekend! What better way to wind down AND celebrate your race than to pay in the water at Typhoon Lagoon? It wasn’t warm enough to enjoy an event like this during the Princess Half Marathon weekend this year, but I’m so envious of all of you racing in Springtime Surprise that can enjoy this event!
The best part? Kids’ tickets are just $42.50 this year (half the adult price of $85)! Plus, my fellow Annual Passholders and DVC members, you’ll get additional special savings too!
Tickets went on sale TODAY (April 4)! Note: This event did sell out several nights last summer, so if this is something you and your family or friends want to enjoy, buy those tickets SOON. (I’m happy to help, just send me an email.)
Typhoon Lagoon H2O Glow! Photo: Disney Parks
Tips to Maximize your Splashy Fun on Arrival Day!
When planning to include visiting a Disney water park on your arrival day, there are a few things I recommend to make sure you get the most enjoyment out of this great FREE perk.
Blizzard Beach Summit Plummet. Photo: Disney Parks
Review Your Travel Party – and Make Updates If Needed
Make sure that everyone in your travel party is listed on your reservation. This FREE water park visit on arrival day is ONLY available to registered resort guests, so make sure you didn’t leave anyone off the reservation!
Double Check the Water Park Calendar(s) and Hours Check the park calendar and operating hours before your check-in day so you can plan your water park visit. And remember, if you’re visiting this summer, BOTH Disney World water parks will be open, so you’ll need to decide WHICH park you want to visit.
Also, this water park benefit is only on the day of check-in, and is valid for admission to either Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon water park or Disney’s Blizzard Beach water park, whichever is open. If both parks are open, you get to choose.
Photo: Disney Parks
Check the Weather Forecast
Even Disney can’t control Mother Nature. (Are you surprised?!? I was!) Depending on the weather, it IS possible that the water parks will close in inclement weather. Be sure to check the weather before heading off to visit Typhoon Lagoon or Blizzard Beach.
Please keep in mind:
Full-day closures will be reflected on the park calendar at least one day in advance.
Temporary, day-of closures may occur—sometimes with very little advance notice. Those will not be reflected on the park calendar. Hint: Disney does NOT like lightning. The park will likely stay open if it rains. But bring on the lightning? You’re probably heading back to your resort!
Pack a Small “GO” Bag for the Water Park
I always recommend my clients have a water park (or pool) GO bag ready when they travel to Disney–especially in the summer. That’s even MORE important in 2025 since you can visit a water park for FREE on your arrival day. You’ll be heading to the water park before your Resort room will be ready (in most cases), so you won’t want to have to dig through your suitcase to find your bathing suits and sunscreen. Both water parks have changing areas with showers, so you can put on your swimsuits once you arrive at the water park.
When packing a water park (or pool) GO bag, you may want to include:
Swimsuits
Sunscreen
Sunglasses
Flip-flops or water shoes
A change of clothing
Be sure to follow the water park dress code policy—and leave prohibited items at home.
Other things to know:
Complimentary life jackets are available in the water park for all water park Guests—so you can leave yours at home.
Disney Resort hotel Guests can enjoy complimentary towel rentals from Singapore Sal’s and High ‘N Dry Rentals. Be sure to use your Key to the World card, MagicBand, MagicBand+ or Disney MagicMobile service to receive this benefit.
The Splash-tastic Bottom Line
If you’re planning a summer Disney trip, I highly recommend adding at least one water park day to your itinerary. Especially if you live in the northern half of the United States, Canada or most of Europe–that Florida summer heat and humidity can be really challenging! And of course, nothing is more fun on a glorious summer day than floating on a lazy river, zipping down Summit Plummet at Blizzard Beach or catching a wave in Typhoon Lagoon’s surf pool! And if you can make that water park visit FREE because you are staying on Disney property and arriving early enough in the day to spend most of the day at a water park?? BONUS!!!
Blizzard Beach Wave Pool. Photo: Disney Parks
Have you been to both Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach? Which is your family’s favorite? Why do you love your favorite water park? Does anyone else remember River Country? Please comment below, I’m very curious about which water parks everyone prefers and why!
Until next time, keep making magical memories!
Are you ready to plan your next Magical vacation? I’d love to help! email Brooke@disneycastledreaming.com for a free, no obligation quote today!
Big news for EPCOT fans! Disney just announced GEO-82, an all-new, adults-only lounge coming to EPCOT’s Spaceship Earth later this year. Yes, you read that right—this elegant new lounge will be inside EPCOT’s iconic geodesic sphere, offering modern cocktails, globally inspired small plates, and stunning views of World Celebration gardens and World Showcase Lagoon.
Let’s take a closer look at what makes GEO-82 a must-visit addition to Walt Disney World!
GEO-82: The Ultimate EPCOT Lounge Experience
GEO-82 will be reservation-only and exclusively for guests 21 and older. This sleek, stylish space will be the perfect spot to unwind after a long day of exploring EPCOT. Imagine sipping on an innovative cocktail, sampling global flavors, and soaking in breathtaking park views—all from within one of Disney’s most famous icons.
Image: Disney Parks
A Lounge Inspired by Spaceship Earth
The design of this adults-only lounge, GEO-82, is a love letter to EPCOT’s legendary architecture. Inside, guests will be surrounded by futuristic geometric shapes, intricate patterns, and warm metallic tones—all echoing the look and feel of Spaceship Earth itself. Disney promises an elegant and intimate atmosphere, making this the ultimate hidden gem for adults visiting EPCOT.
Cocktails & Small Plates With a Global Twist
While Disney hasn’t released the full menu yet, they tell us that GEO-82 will feature globally inspired small plates and creative cocktails. Given EPCOT’s reputation for world-class dining, expectations are high—and I can’t wait to see what delicious drinks and bites make the final cut. (And if you can read the menu, thank the Phoenicians! 😉)
Concept Art: Disney Parks
More Lounges Coming to Walt Disney World!
GEO-82 isn’t the only new lounge opening this year. Disney has also teased a Pirates of the Caribbean-inspired tavern coming to Magic Kingdom Park later in 2025. While GEO-82 will be an adults-only retreat, this upcoming pirate-themed spot promises fun beverages for the whole family—so keep an eye out for more details soon!
In addition, there’s a brand new DVC (Disney Vacation Club) Members Lounge opening at Magic Kingdom this week. McKim’s Mile House is located in Frontierland, and offers DVC members and their guests a quiet place to relax and recharge.
Photo: Disney Parks
Adults-only Lounge Coming to EPCOT
Let’s talk about the somewhat controversial elephant in the room. I bet there are at least some of you that saw that the new lounge will be “adults-only” and were unhappy about that. After all, Disney is a family destination. I think many people would tell you that Disney is “for the kids”. And to a certain extent, yes, Disney’s primary target audience is children (and their parents and grandparents with the money to FUND their children’s Disney love). However, as a “Disney Adult”, I have to express firmly that Disney is NOT just for children. Disney has spent billions over the years to successfully appeal not just to children, but to teens, adults and seniors as well. There is entertainment, attractions and food and beverages that appeal to all ages–not just children.
A toast at dinner in France. Photo: Linda Harkness
EPCOT is more “grown-up” friendly than the other parks
The truth is, EPCOT is the one park that IS a little more adult friendly. The Food & Wine Festival is NOT targeting children, I promise you. EPCOT was the first Disney theme park to serve alcohol. In fact, EPCOT has long been criticized for not being focused enough on children. With only three “attractions” in World Showcase, many feel that EPCOT can be boring for young children. While this hasn’t been my family’s experience, I can certainly understand why some might feel that way. Regardless, children are currently welcomed everywhere in the theme parks at Walt Disney World.
I really like the idea of one place where adults can go to have some cocktails and maybe some snacks at Disney without children. Just for an hour or two. As much as I love Disney and get a genuine charge out of watching children all over the parks having fun–sometimes, it’s really nice just to sit and have a drink and relax–without children around. And of the four theme parks at Walt Disney World, I think it makes sense to put the first adults-only lounge at EPCOT.
My FAVORITE Alcoholic Beverage in ALL of WDW…The Grand Marnier Orange Slushy in France. Photo: Brooke Hudson
But it’s NEW!
I understand that this is a new thing, and that you might think, “everyone should get to enjoy it”. But I don’t really think that’s a big deal, personally. There is plenty of stuff all over Disney that everyone gets to enjoy. Will the kids really care that they’re not invited into this new lounge? No. The kids would be BORED in the new lounge. It won’t have fun, colorful things to climb on. It won’t be kid friendly, and it won’t be themed to entertaining children. They’d MUCH rather go to the Space 220 Lounge and watch astronauts walking in space than sit in a relatively quiet, elegant (and hopefully) classy lounge.
Space 220. (Photo Disney Parks)
Most likely the people that will be frustrated that GEO-82 is an adults-only lounge are the people traveling with their children that want to go to the lounge. Unfortunately, sometimes we don’t get everything we want. But those people can still visit the new lounge–as long as they have someone to watch their children while they do.
But what if Disney builds MORE Adults-only Lounges?
What if they do? Would that really be so terrible? I’ve definitely heard some parents voice concerns about people drinking too much around World Showcase, and not wanting to expose their children to drunk adults behaving badly. (I don’t want to be exposed to them either, so I’m with you on that). But would it be so bad if there were a few adults-only spots on property that separated the drinking adults from the families with young children? I’m not sure I see an issue, honestly. I mean, sure, I’d rather have some new attractions or shows. But I wouldn’t mind an adults-only lounge in each theme park if they were to happen.
When Can You Visit GEO-82?
Disney has yet to announce an official opening date or when reservations will become available, but stay tuned! I’ll share updates as soon as Disney releases more details.
What do you think about this elegant new EPCOT lounge? Are you excited to sip cocktails inside Spaceship Earth? Are you disappointed that the new lounge will be adults-only? Let me know in the comments!
Are you ready to plan your next Magical vacation? I’d love to help! email Brooke@disneycastledreaming.com for a free, no obligation quote today!
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
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Photo: Disney Parks
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
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
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 today from the Walt Disney World Company! Disney has announced that Tiana’s Bayou Adventure will open THIS SUMMER 2024! Previously, Disney had promised that Tiana’s Bayou Adventure would open “Late 2024”–with most experts predicting an October/November opening day. However, there have been lots of signs that construction has been moving fairly quickly. One of the most exciting recent visual clues that the reimagined attraction might open sooner than expected came last week, when visitors noticed water flowing through visible areas of the attraction.
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Construction
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Construction has been in progress for just over one year so far. Splash Mountain closed on January 23, 2023 to be reimagined as Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. You can read more about that closure here.
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Construction/ Photo: Destinations to Explore
From what we’ve learned so far, the basic ride system itself will remain basically the same. This will still be a log ride on water. Guests will ride in a log through the attraction, culminating in a drop near the end of the attraction where guests will most likely get wet. What WILL change is the entire visual look and feel of the attraction. The attraction is being completely re-themed to The Princess and the Frog, featuring Princess Tiana and her friends.
External changes to the attractions that have been visible to guests include the repainted attraction/queue buildings, shown in the photo above. The primary attraction/queue building is now a bright cheerful yellow and features a mural showcasing Tiana’s jazz loving alligator friend, Louis. Other visible external changes include the additional of the Tiana’s Foods Water Tower, topped with Tiana’s crown! There’s also been a lot of changes to the greenery and vegetation on the exterior of the “mountain”.
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure/ Photo: Disney Parks
Astonishing Animatronics
Disney has told us that not only will Tiana’s Bayou Adventure open this summer 2024, it will include dozens of new animatronic characters! The behind the scenes glimpses we’ve seen so far of these new animatronics shows us that as technology continues to improve, so do these amazing attraction treasures. Take a look at this video featuring Tiana herself.
Her movements look so natural, don’t they? It’s really fun to see her come alive from the concept art to this. I can’t wait to see her embedded in the attraction!
Tiana Animatronic / Photo: Disney Parks
Here’s another really short sneak peek look at an animatronic for this attraction that Disney gave us, but it doesn’t give us anywhere NEAR as good a look. But I think I might be even MORE excited to see this one in action!
Can you guess who this one will be?
Concept Art for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Will Open Summer 2024 – What’s the Story?
Many Disney attractions based on a beloved Disney feature film retell the story of the film (in just a few minutes). Think ‘The Little Mermaid: Ariel’s Undersea Adventure’ for a great example of this. I’m excited that Imagineers are going a different direction with Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. For this attraction, the story is picking up AFTER the movie ends!
Concept Art for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure
While we don’t know exactly what the story is, we DO know that this adventure is taking place in the next chapter of Tiana’s adventures. She’s successfully opened her restaurant, Tiana’s Palace. Now, she’s expanding her business with Tiana’s Foods. Tiana and her friends are throwing a big celebration during the Mardi Gras season. The attraction will be filled with fun music, characters, critters and adventure. I’m so excited that we won’t have to wait too much longer to check it out for ourselves!
Tiana’s Foods Concept Art: Disney Parks
Are YOU Excited to Ride Tiana’s Bayou Adventure When it Opens This Summer 2024?
SO….Are you excited? Is this an attraction you’ve been waiting to hear about? Do you love that Disney chose to announce on Fat Tuesday an opening season for an attraction with a Mardi Gras tie-in ? Please comment below if this is an attraction you’re excited to ride!
Our big family trip is this October, so I’m VERY excited for this announcement. I’d previously been worried that the attraction would reopen AFTER our trip, and our family wouldn’t get to experience it. I know that everyone will enjoy this one, and I’m looking forward to the new theming. I loved The Princess and the Frog, and I’m really happy to see Tiana get some love in the parks.
It sounds like the Disneyland version of the attraction is going to open later than the Disney World version, most likely in the fall. I’ll be sure and keep you all posted.
Mom and I will be in the parks later this month for the Disney Princess Half Marathon (also Tiana themed–hmmm, I’m sensing a pattern here!), so I’ll be sure and come back with some construction photo updates for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. I’m excited to see what we can see from the outside!
Ready to Plan Your Next Disney Vacation? I’m ready to help! Email brooke@disneycastledreaming.com
