It may seem like many of our favorite things have disappeared from Walt Disney World theme parks in 2020 but today, Craig shared what he thinks are the top three positive changes that took place over the past year so let’s focus on those for a moment or two.
If you haven’t had the chance to visit EPCOT recently, you may not be aware that the main entrance of the theme park has opened up in a big way. From the time that the Legacy Monoliths were removed then the giant colorful construction walls were put up until just last week, it almost felt as though you were entering a maze rather than a theme park.
Now, the walls at the entrance are down and the brand-new, magnificent fountain with its clear pylons stretching toward the sky have appeared. The new display looks gorgeous no matter what time of day you’re visiting, but especially when the light from the sun hits just right. Disney did a remarkable job with updating this entire area and we’re excited to see what the future holds with all of EPCOT’s upcoming projects.
The second item on the list is the opening of Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway at Disney’s Hollywood Studios which was only open for a couple of short weeks prior to the theme parks closing due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Even if you’re not the biggest fan of the new style of animation in the Mickey Mouse shorts, this attraction is so enjoyable. The trackless ride vehicles make for a delightful ride that changes slightly every time you ride it. It’s not the most ground-breaking attraction there ever was, but it’s the very first attraction where Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse are the stars, and no matter how you slice it, it’s FUN! Be sure to stop by the Mickey Shorts Theater to watch Vacation Fun, too!
Number one on the list is the opening of Gideon’s Bakehouse at Disney Springs. This newly-opened hot spot has such a cool backstory – they originally opened with one employee and a grand total of $800 in the East End Market located in Orlando.
Last week, they had their soft-opening at their brand new location in The Landing at Disney Springs, and boy are we happy about it! Their nearly half-pound cookies are absolutely delicious; actually, you can’t go wrong with any of their options which include giant cake slices, iced coffees, delicious cookies, and more (click their name above to check out their full menu!). You might be turned off if you see a large line, but this location uses a virtual queue that allows you to peruse all that Disney Springs has to offer while you wait to enter this mysteriously-themed bakery. We promise that it’s 100% worth the wait!
We wouldn’t feel right if we didn’t take a moment to mention the awesome cavalcades/promenades/floatillas that have been appearing in the Walt Disney World theme parks since they reopened back in July. Without the traditional character meet and greets and Character Dining happening, these experiences are genius. Not only are they a great way to see a ton of characters without having to wait in long lines, but they make for some unique selfies that are just perfect! We love that they were re-themed for both the Halloween and Christmas seasons, too! Plus, if you’re an adult who doesn’t particularly care for socializing with them, these new character interactions are just the thing.
What’s your favorite (and positive!) addition and/or change that’s taken place at Walt Disney World in 2020? Let us know in the comments!