Dad has a tough job. He’s got to balance laying down the law (and sticking to it) with playtime, sporting events, thrilling trips to Disney and so much more! While you take over his job, you can celebrate him with a Disney gift that shows your love and nods to his fandom. This week Disney […]
The post Disney Store Father’s Day Gift Guide: Fun and Practical Selections for Ever Disney Dad appeared first on LaughingPlace.com.
The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is honoring the U.S. Military again this Armed Forces Week, offering active and former service members complimentary admission, with a discount offer for up to four of their guests. What’s Happening: The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex will honor all those who currently serve or who have served in […]
The post Kennedy Space Center Honors Active and Former Service Members During Armed Forces Week appeared first on LaughingPlace.com.
A metal frame has been added to the exterior of the former Universal Legacy Store as it is transformed into an Epic Universe preview center at Universal CityWalk Orlando.
In our last preview center construction update, we noted that the Universal globe sign and a balcony had been removed. We also spotted metal supports along the top of the building on squares of sheathing.
More short supports have since been installed, including where the balcony used to be. The new metal frame is attached to two pairs of supports on a corner.
The steel frame is rectangular with six horizontal poles. They bend slightly at the center, matching the walls behind them.
The Universal Legacy Store closed in January, a few weeks after we reported rumors that it would be turned into an Epic Universe preview center. Universal later confirmed an “interactive” Epic Universe preview center was coming to CityWalk this year.
Epic Universe, the third Universal Orlando Resort theme park, is scheduled to open in 2025. Universal recently revealed details of the park’s Super Nintendo World. They’ve also announced details of How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk and Celestial Park. The other two lands will be the Universal Monsters-inspired Dark Universe and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic. More information about these lands and Epic Universe as a whole will be released in the next few months.
For more Universal Studios news from around the world, follow Universal Parks News Today on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. For Disney Parks news, visit WDWNT.
The post PHOTOS: Metal Frame Installed on Future Epic Universe Preview Center in Universal CityWalk Orlando appeared first on WDW News Today.
Disney Cruise Line (DCL) will soon be opening the first “Haunted Mansion” locaation on board a ship when The Haunted Mansion Parlor opens on the Disney Treasure, and they’ve released some new details as part of Disney Park’s “Halfway to Halloween” event. The Details Disney Cruise Line and Disney Imagineers will harness the power of… Read More »Disney Cruise Line Reveals More Details of The Haunted Mansion Parlor Coming to the Disney Treasure
The post Disney Cruise Line Reveals More Details of The Haunted Mansion Parlor Coming to the Disney Treasure appeared first on The Disney Blog.
Starbucks has a NEW summer drink on the menu for a limited time, and it seriously took us back to one of our favorite childhood memories.
Starbucks at Main Street Bakery in Magic Kingdom
Come with us to try out the NEW Summer-Berry Starbucks Refresher and find out why this is going to be our go-to drink for as long as it’s available.
Starbucks announced the new Summer-Berry Starbucks Refreshers, so we immediately went to Main Street Bakery (the Starbucks location in Magic Kingdom) to pick one up!
Summer Berry Refresher
The drink has a mix of berry flavors, and it has raspberry-flavored pearls added in as well. You can get one with a base of water, lemonade, or coconut milk. We grabbed a grande water-based drink, and it was $6.99.
Yum!
We LOVED this drink. It’s exactly what it claims to be: refreshing! We really enjoyed it with the water base and thought it might not be quite as good with the lemonade base, as that would add more tartness and sweetness when the berry syrup and pearls are already bringing plenty of those flavors. However, if you’re looking for a really flavor-blasted drink, you might love the lemonade version!
Close-up on the pearls
When we first took a sip, we knew it reminded us of something nostalgic, but it took a couple more sips for it to sink in. This tastes very similar to Berry Kool-Aid! And we mean that as the highest compliment possible. It’s a grown-up version (not quite as sickly sweet), and we felt like we were kids again, sipping Kool-Aid in front of Cinderella Castle.
Our reporter said, “It is giving ‘My budget has grown up, but my soul has not.’” 
New refresher
UPDATE: Another DFB team member tried out this drink and said it reminded her of the blue Jolly Rancher, so that means it’s doing double duty with the nostalgia.
We can’t wait to try it with coconut milk, too! It seems like the creaminess will upgrade the flavor even more.
Make sure to head to Starbucks to grab this new refresher soon! Their announcement said that these drinks will only be available for a limited time, but they didn’t specify how long exactly they’ll be on the menu. If you’re in Disney World, you can pick one up at any of the Starbucks locations at the resort:
Stay tuned to DFB for more updates on the latest Disney food news!
Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.
Whether you’re a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!
Are you going to try this new drink? Let us know in the comments.
The post REVIEW: Starbucks’ NEW Drink Tastes Exactly Like My Childhood first appeared on the disney food blog.
If you’re traveling to Disney World this summer, there are a few things you need to be prepared for.
Summer Crowds in Magic Kingdom
We talk incessantly about how hot it will be, and we will continue to do so until we stop seeing people suffering from heat stroke in the parks because they’re not staying hydrated (which will never happen, unfortunately). Going to Disney World during the summer is a DIFFERENT experience, and you need some very specific essentials to survive.
©Amazon
Things get HOT in the parks, and what better way to cool yourself than with your own rechargeable fan? These USB Rechargeable Personal Neck Fans really are a game changer, and we recommend having one for everyone in your family so no one is fighting! Also, it’s hands free, which is so nice!
Cooling towel
If a neck fan isn’t your thing, or you also want something cool you can lay ON your neck or pulse points throughout the day, grab some Cooling Towels! A few members of our team use these personally, and can say they really are a necessity (again, one for everyone in your party).
©Amazon
When we say having genuinely good shoes are of the utmost importance in Disney World, we mean it wholeheartedly. We have a whole list of some of the best shoes on the market that will hold up and keep you comfortable during your trip — just be sure to break them in at home BEFORE your trip starts!
©Amazon
Grabbing a Mini Umbrella is super important, because a summer day without rain in Disney World is immensely rare. Grab one of these, put it in your bag, and save yourself from getting soaked! We like this one because it is tiny, can easily fit in a park bag, and even comes in a little carrying case!
Clear Rain Jacket
If you’re not a fan of umbrellas, we get it, but you’ll still want something to protect you from the rain. A Poncho can sometimes feel a little cumbersome, but it will cover more of your body and keep you dry! We own these ponchos and like how thick they are and the fact that they have buttons. That way, you don’t have to pull it over your head to get on and off!
©Amazon
We talk a lot on here about how important the right bag is for the parks, but it really is true! We absolutely love the Lululemon Athletica Everywhere Belt Bag because of its compact size, but its ability to hold everything we need. We see SO many people wearing this exact belt bag in the parks because it’s reliable and a good price for the brand.
Owala Water Bottle
Again, you need to be drinking a TON of water in the parks to make up for how much you’re sweating, so you need a quality water bottle that will keep your drink cold all day. Many members of our team use an Owala and adore it! They’re available in so many colors too — there’s something for everyone! We also like to get them signed by characters while in the parks. It’s a really fun way to get those autographs!!
Jack Sparrow with our Owala
We’re always here to help you be as prepared as possible for your next Disney World trip, so stay tuned to DFB!
What other essential would you add to this list? Tell us in the comments!
The post You’ll Suffer Without These 7 Essentials in Disney World This Summer first appeared on the disney food blog.
Seeing the Walt Disney World sign at the start of a trip always makes us smile. The beginning of a Disney World trip is filled with so many emotions.
Walt Disney World
There is so much to do at Disney World, but there are also some surprising things you will want to avoid so you don’t get kicked out of it.
There are quite a few rules in place at Disney World to keep guests, cast members, and animals safe, while also ensuring everyone has the best experience possible. However, some of the rules are a bit surprising! So today we’re bringing you 10 ways to get kicked out of Disney World that might surprise you.
We hope that you always treat Cast Members and other park-goers with kindness and respect. Being kind can really go a long way! However, did you know that you can actually get kicked out of Disney World if you are not? In December 2022, Disney wrote a specific rule about this saying, that guests “must always remember to treat others with respect, kindness, and compassion. Those who can’t live up to this simple wish may be asked to leave Walt Disney World Resort.” Disney World can be exhausting and frustrating sometimes, but don’t forget to take a breather if you need one. As well, being disruptive in the parks can also get you kicked out. Don’t do crazy things, like running around naked or jumping out of a ride vehicle.
Be kind and respectful!
We know, we know. Disney World is supposed to be the Most Magical Place on Earth, and you can’t even dress up as your favorite character? This is true to an extent, so we want to make sure you are aware of this. Disney World does allow you to dress up if you are younger than 13 years old or if you are attending Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. However, if you are older than 13 years and not at the Halloween Party, take special consideration when you are deciding on your outfits. Disney World will not allow you to elaborately dress up as your favorite character and enter the park. They are worried that you could be mistaken for that character, and they would not be able to control how you portray that character. If you are wanting to dress up as your favorite character, we recommend Disney bounding, which is wearing regular outfits that represent the character.
A family at Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party @heather.dahll
Disney World is a place for all ages, but there is one rule that could get you kicked out of Disney World. You must be at least 14 years old to enter the park by yourself. If you are younger than 14, you will need to be accompanied by another group member who is at least 14 years old. Essentially, if you could dress up as your favorite character still, you will need to be accompanied by someone who would only be able to Disney bound.
If you are under 14 years old, make sure you have someone accompanying you!
Disney World is a magical place, but there is also a lot going on behind the scenes to make the magic happen. While you are free to explore the theme parks to your heart’s content, backstage areas are off limits unless you are taking part in a tour or being specifically escorted by a cast member. You may be very curious about what happens backstage, but don’t risk it sneaking backstage. You may end up not being able to return to Disney World ever again. If you are really curious, you can sign up for various tours that will give you a glimpse behind the scenes.
Don’t go where you shouldn’t be!
While you are at Disney World, you will likely be taking A LOT of photos. However, there are a few that could get you escorted out of the park. Taking pictures backstage is one. Of course, we already covered that you shouldn’t be backstage, so taking pictures backstage is also a no-go. Don’t take pictures when you have been specifically told not to. For example, you shouldn’t take photos on certain rides or use your flash during shows. You won’t be kicked out if you accidentally take one photo with flash, but repeat offenders may be asked to leave. As well, you can’t bring in your own commercial photographer. You are welcome to take photos in the park, but bringing in a hired photographer is not allowed. Disney World offers various options including PhotoPass cast members throughout the park, and even private Capture Your Moment sessions that will allow you to have a professional photographer take your picture. Finally, you are not allowed to take pictures from drones or fly drones for that matter. Disney World is a no-fly zone, and flying a drone will get you kicked out.
PhotoPass Cast Member
There are lots of items that are not allowed to be brought into Disney parks, but some are a bit more surprising. Some of these include folding chairs, skateboards (including scooters, inline skates, and wheelie shoes), alcohol, and artificial noise makers. These items will all need to be left at home for your next trip. Also, balloons are not allowed in Animal Kingdom or Animal Kingdom Lodge. They will need to be left behind or deflated to protect the animals.
Balloons in Magic Kingdom
We get it, there are some pretty adorable animals wandering around Disney World. However, Disney World also has strict rules about interacting with these animals. You cannot pet, feed, touch, harass, or harm any wildlife while at Disney World, or you may risk getting kicked out. No matter how adorable the baby ducks might be, just admire them from a distance. If you absolutely must touch some animals, take the train ride over to Rafiki’s Planet Watch in Animal Kingdom and check out the Affection Section. You can pet various animals including goats and pigs.
Disney ducks strolling down Main Street, U.S.A.
Be respectful of your surroundings and don’t climb around on the landscape or go into areas you shouldn’t be. There are lots of areas throughout Disney World that allow for climbing and exploring like The Boneyard in Animal Kingdom. Unless you are in a designated playground area, don’t climb on the landscape. Also, when you are on attractions, make sure you are staying where you should be. Don’t jump out of the ride vehicle or leave the designated queue area.
Climb all you want in playgrounds but be respectful everywhere else.
Disney World also has a strict rule about selling your own stuff while you are there. You should not be bringing your own products to sell to others, unless you have already sorted it out with Disney World prior. You cannot sell goods or services on Disney World property. While your handmade ears are fabulous, you won’t be able to sell them while you are at Disney World.
World of Disney
This is one of those things that we wish we didn’t have to say. But spreading ashes while at Disney World will get you kicked out. Not only is it a big health hazard to both cast members and guests, but it will also cause major delays as they clean it up. So, please, leave the ashes at home and just have fun at Disney World!
The Haunted Mansion
There you have it, that was ten surprising ways to get kicked out of Disney World! Now you are even more prepared for you next Disney World trip to make sure you are following the rules.
Stay tuned to DFB for all your Disney World news!
Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.
Whether you’re a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!
Do you know of any other weird Disney World rules? Let us know in the comments!
The post 10 Surprising Ways to Get Kicked Out of Disney World first appeared on the disney food blog.
You may notice we talk a lot about bathrooms here at DFB, but that’s because they’re IMPORTANT!
Some of our favorite EPCOT bathrooms are in the UK Pavilion.
Everyone has to go to the bathroom during their Disney World day (and if you don’t, that probably means you’re not drinking enough water), so you might as well know which bathrooms are the best, and which ones you may want to stay away from. However, we haven’t talked about THIS bathroom issue in Walt Disney World, and it’s time we sit down and have a discussion.
There are tons of bathrooms located all over the Disney World parks, but have you ever noticed that Disney World transportation is sorely lacking in the bathroom department?
Skyliner
We’re serious! There are no bathrooms to be found at any of the Skyliner Stations, and you also won’t find any on or around the boats/boat docks. While there are bathrooms close-ish to the Monorail lines at the TTC, there are not any at the EPCOT Monorail station, Now, we know there have to be some around for the Cast Members working these stations, but no bathrooms are available for guests to use.
A ferry long line (ha-ha, get it)
We recently checked on bathrooms available on the ferryboats you take from the Ticket and Transportation Center to the Magic Kingdom. The boats used to be used for fireworks cruises, and there was bathroom access at that time. But those cruises are not currently available. Our reporter talked to Cast Members who showed him this door…
There’s a bathroom back here — but you can’t use it.
…and said they believe there is a bathroom behind it, but they don’t know how to open it (or what state they would find it in if they did!). So while there used to be bathroom access on the Ferryboats, it’s not something available at this time.
While this normally doesn’t seem like a huge issue, since you’re not in these locations for very long, if there’s a transportation delay (which can happen easily), you’re stuck in an area with no bathrooms. Adults may be less stressed about this, but we recognize that some folks need quick access to a bathroom at all times. And some kiddos who are old enough to be out of diapers but still fight with you on going to the bathroom before you head to transportation may have some issues.
EPCOT Monorail
The only way to really solve this issue is by making sure you use the restroom before you head to your next location, and/or making sure you discuss ahead of time who in the party will take children out of line and to the nearest bathroom (which may be inside a park or inside a hotel lobby).
Disney World Skyliner
We’re not totally sure WHERE Disney could add more bathrooms to these areas, so it may just be a matter of needing to be prepared for this potentiality to happen. We’re always here to help you prepare for the unexpected during your Disney World trip, so stay tuned to DFB!
Tips, Hints, Lists, and Videos for Planning the BEST Disney World Trip
Have you ever gotten stuck somewhere in Disney World with no bathroom? Tell us in the comments!
The post There’s a Glaring Bathroom PROBLEM in Disney World first appeared on the disney food blog.
We just got ANOTHER hint that the opening day for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure in Disney World is getting close! While we are still waiting for an official date, we know that Tiana’s Bayou Adventure in Magic Kingdom will be opening this summer and it’ll open later this year at Disneyland Park.
©Disney
We’ve all seen those promotional videos that Disney makes to advertise new stuff, with people riding various rides and enjoying the parks, right? Well, we just spotted a casting call for a promotional video of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, and it’s officially our new dream job.
The storyline of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure will take place where Disney’s The Princess and the Frog movie left off. The attraction will take us on a journey with Tiana and her friends as they prepare for their first Mardi Gras celebration. We have seen lots of progress in Magic Kingdom, including construction walls coming down, ride testing, and a critter spotting! Now we just got another hint that opening day is coming soon.
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure in Magic Kingdom
Ariza Talent and Modeling Agency, which is based out of Longwood, FL, recently posted a casting call to their Facebook page for a Disney Tiana’s Bayou Adventure B-Roll Shoot. Ariza Talent and Modeling Agency has worked with a variety of clients, including Universal, SeaWorld, and Disney.
The requirements for this casting call include being over 40″ tall, willing to get wet, and willing to ride over and over again while conveying thrill and joy. The project prefers local talent, but they are also willing to consider others.
Filming will be happening soon!
The casting call emphasized that people in the video will be riding the attraction over and over (and over and over). Um, SIGN US UP. We may have just found our next calling in life: Disney World ride promo video stars! The agency is hiring both kids and adults to film while riding the new attraction. The filming date was not listed, but this is another exciting step towards opening day.
©Disney Tiana’s Bayou Adventure concept art
Stay tuned to DFB for more news about Tiana’s Bayou Adventure!
Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.
Whether you’re a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!
Will you be submitting for this casting call? Let us know in the comments!
The post We Found Our New Dream Job – Getting Paid To Ride Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Before It Opens first appeared on the disney food blog.
