WDW Daily News

Earlier this year it was announced that Walt Disney World’s Magical Express, the incredibly convenient transportation option to get guests from Orlando International Airport to the theme park resort would be going away at the end of 2021.

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Super Heroes Assemble! As we’ve all been anticipating, we’re pleased to share that Avengers Campus—an entirely new land dedicated to discovering, recruiting and training the next generation of Super Heroes—will open June 4, 2021 at the Disneyland Resort!

At this fully immersive land inside Disney California Adventure park, guests will be invited to team up with the Avengers and their allies and live out their Super Hero dreams. Avengers Campus is comprised of several heroic locations, each hosted by a different Avenger to share their unique powers, technology and knowledge with recruits. Today, we’re also excited to unveil a first look inside Avengers Campus!

Sling webs with Spider-Man and unite with the Guardians of the Galaxy

The first key area is the Worldwide Engineering Brigade – also known as WEB. It brings together bright innovators like Peter Parker who have been assembled by Tony Stark to invent new technologies and equip everyday people to become Super Heroes like the Avengers. WEB will house the new WEB SLINGERS: A Spider-Man Adventure, the first Disney ride-through attraction to feature the iconic friendly neighborhood Spider-Man!

We previously shared that Tom Holland will reprise his role as Spider-Man in the new family-friendly attraction, which invites guests to put their web-slinging skills to the test and experience what it’s like to have powers alongside Spider-Man – a feat accomplished with innovative technology adapted specifically for this attraction, perfect for up-and-coming recruits of all ages.

The second anchor attraction looms high above the land, Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT!, a fan-favorite that opened in 2017. This rockin’ adventure blasts guests straight into the “Guardians of the Galaxy” story, alongside characters from the blockbuster films and comics. Help Rocket bust his fellow Guardians of the Galaxy out of the Collector’s Fortress and experience raucous mayhem, music inspired by the soundtracks from the movies, thrilling free-fall drop sequences and six different story lines!

Power up with tiny treats and massive meals

When it is time to take a break from the heroics, several new dining spots at Avengers Campus will offer dishes that are rich in both flavor and storytelling. Pym Test Kitchen is a food innovation science lab where the food and drinks tell a story. Just as Ant-Man and The Wasp use “Pym Particles” to grow and shrink just about anything, Pym Technologies applies this science to the creation of shareable bites, inventive entrees and sweet treats. Guests will be able to savor such items as the Impossible™ plant-based large and micro meatballs with pasta, or the “Pym-ini,” a panini served by the slice or as a long, multi-portion sandwich.

Adjacent to the Pym Test Kitchen, an oversized beer can overhead signals that grown-up beverage tastings are available at Pym Tasting Lab. Guests can order a craft beer, ranging from a blood orange hefeweizen to an amber lager, or try one of the Pym Research Staff’s Pym

Particle-infused cocktail experiments. Both locations will offer mobile ordering via the Disneyland App.*

Visit one of The Avengers favorite food joints, Shawarma Palace. Enjoy a shawarma wrap at this food cart, which is decked out with memorabilia for Avenger fans. Lastly, Taneleer Tivan did not limit his collection to lovable misfits; he is also curating a weird and wonderful menu of intergalactic eats at the Terran Treats food cart near Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT!

Team up with the Avengers and their allies like never before

Throughout Avengers Campus, Super Heroes will come to life in exciting ways. Guests may have heroic encounters with Iron Man, Captain Marvel, Black Panther, the Dora Milaje, Black Widow, Ant-Man and The Wasp, the Guardians of the Galaxy, Thor and even villains like Loki.

Guests may even have the chance to witness Spider-Man swinging into action high above Avengers Campus with gravity-defying, acrobatic feats never seen before in a Disney theme park.

At a nearby ancient sanctum, Doctor Strange will train recruits in the mystic arts by bringing this ancient sanctum to life with powerful spells. At night, the area glows even more vividly with majestic colors and lights, pulsating with mystic energy.

Suit up with the latest Super Hero gear

The WEB Suppliers store will offer the latest inventions, including interactive Spider-Bots much like the ones seen in the new attraction, WEB SLINGERS: A Spider-Man Adventure. Each Spider-Bot has a remote control, and all eight articulated legs move forward and backward. Guests may customize their Spider-Bot with tactical upgrades to harness the powers and style of favorite Super Heroes, including Black Panther, Iron Man and Black Widow, as well as Ant-Man and The Wasp.

Other must-have items at WEB Suppliers include a specially-designed backpack to carry Spider-Bots when they are not in action, Spider-Man light goggles, a take-home spider web kit and Funko Pop! vinyl figurines of Spider-Man and Iron Man.

The Campus Supply Pod is the place to power up with official Avengers Campus gear, including performance fleece hoodies and tees, headwear, drinkware and other Super Hero supplies.

We are counting down the days till we can team up with the Avengers and their allies, sling webs with Spider-Man, taste-test inventive food and drinks and become part of a bigger universe alongside some of our favorite Super Heroes.

Stay tuned for more epic updates!

*Message, data and roaming rates may apply. Availability subject to handset limitations, and features may vary by handset, service provider or otherwise. Coverage and app stores not available everywhere. If you’re under 18, get your parent’s permission first.

It’s the ‘mane’ virtual event Guests have been waiting for! This summer, Guests can join us in celebrating six years of the runDisney Virtual Series as we honor the timeless majesty of “The Lion King” with three wild and wonderful 5Ks. From The Pride Lands to their very own neighborhood, Guests can be prepared to rule the road (or sidewalk, or treadmill). 

It’s hard to believe that it was 1994 when we first met Simba, the cuddly cub who would become king in the animated classic. Since then, he’s taken Broadway by storm and has been reimagined for a whole new generation. So whether Guests grew up with him back then, or they’re watching their little ones grow up with him now, this unforgettable story of discovering your purpose and celebrating who you are will forever be a cherished part of our lives … and we hope this runDisney virtual event can be as well!

Take a look at each storytelling version of The Lion King we are celebrating for the runDisney Virtual 5Ks and the runDisney Virtual Challenge:

runDisney Virtual 5K | The Timeless Classic

runDisney Virtual 5K | The Broadway Phenomenon

runDisney Virtual 5K | The Reimagined Classic

runDisney Virtual Series Challenge

Running a runDisney virtual event truly means having no worries! Not only do Guests get to decide when they run, they also get to decide where they run. Plus, when they register, Guests can add even more ferocious fun to their miles by downloading a themed bib and at-home kit that includes a start line, finish line and mile markers.

Guests can get ready to have a roaring good time with three different 5Ks, each featuring its own medal inspired by the three unique storytelling versions of “The Lion King.” They can be the talk of The Pride Lands and test their endurance by registering for the runDisney Virtual Challenge that includes all three 5Ks and they’ll receive four marvelous medals total.

Guests can be prepared for a chance of a lifetime as registration opens Thursday, April 8 at 10 a.m. ET for all runDisney Virtual Series events on runDisney.com. If Guests love The Lion King or just want a wild way to train this summer, the runDisney Virtual Series is the perfect opportunity to push themselves to great heights! 

Guests at Walt Disney World Resort will be able to enjoy a convenient and contactless new option for entering the theme parks and more, as part of the rollout of Disney MagicMobile service!

Available now on iPhone and Apple Watch and coming soon to other smart devices, Disney MagicMobile service is a fun, easy-to-use new way for guests to experience The Most Magical Place on Earth. The service is offered in addition to other options such as the MagicBand, the colorful, all-in-one bracelet, which will continue to be available and introduced in even more colors, designs and limited-edition fan favorites into the future. 

Here are a few helpful tips to get started with Disney MagicMobile service: 

• Create A Customized Digital Pass: Guests can create a Disney MagicMobile pass through the My Disney Experience app and add it to the Wallet app on iPhone or the digital wallet on other smart devices. Guests can customize their pass by choosing from several Disney-themed designs that animate upon use (including special designs just for Annual Passholders and DVC Members)! For added ease, they may also store multiple passes on a single device, a great option for families.
• Easily Enter the Parks and More: Guests can simply hold their iPhone, Apple Watch, or other smart device near an access point when entering the parks or using other available features, just like they do with a MagicBand. With Express Mode on iPhone and Apple Watch, guests do not even need to wake or unlock their Apple device, or open up the app, to use their Disney MagicMobile pass. As a reminder, valid park admission and a park reservation are required for park entry and must be linked to an account.
• Discover Other App Enhancements: We’ve also added a new feature in the My Disney Experience app that allows guests to automatically link their Disney PhotoPass attraction photos and videos to their profile through a smartphone. Just confirm the settings in advance of riding at participating attractions. The My Disney Experience app also enables Disney Resort hotel guests to unlock their room door using our current digital room key feature.

Guests may use Disney MagicMobile service, a MagicBand or a card interchangeably for added flexibility. Disney Resort hotel guests can purchase MagicBands at a special, pre-arrival price. Guests can also pick up a Key to the World card at their convenience at the front desk.

Download the My Disney Experience app today to check out these latest updates! 

*Please note Disney MagicMobile service requires iOS 14.4 or later and watchOS 7.3 or later.

Today, we’ve got some SWEET news to share about exciting work happening at Magic Kingdom Park as we prepare for the beginning of The World’s Most Magical Celebration at Walt Disney World Resort this October! 

Kicking things off, let’s talk about Main Street Confectionery. We’re delighted to share that this iconic location will soon receive a fresh new look, expanded layout with more room to shop and interactive opportunities for Guests to customize their confections like never before.

To bring these concepts to life, both Main Street Confectionery and The Chapeau will close for refurbishment later this month. Along with that, some of the merchandise and goodies will be shifting to other spots in the park. Now don’t worry, Guests will still have plenty of options to satisfy their sweet tooth once work to transform the locations kicks off on March 29, 2021. Many of the treats from Main Street Confectionery will be available at Emporium and Main Street Cinema during the closure. And have no worries about where Guests can find their favorite Disney hats, including the must-have Mickey Mouse ears. Those will be just across the street at Box Office Gifts, at the Town Square Theater. Finally, if Guests are looking for collectibles and artwork, Bonjour! Village Gifts will be the new go-to spot. 

Outside of the world of merchandise, Guests may have noticed some other updates taking place around the park recently. Whether it be a freshly painted castle turret being adorned with 50th anniversary décor, or shimmering gold leaf being added to your favorite Fantasyland attractions, our Cast Members are hard at work making Magic Kingdom Park shine like never before. Be sure to keep an eye out for these enhancements and more in the coming months!

EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival begins July 15 at Walt Disney World Resort!

This year’s event will kick off with Global Marketplaces, including the return of many favorites – Canada, Greece, Germany, Hops and Barley, Appleseed Orchard and others. Even more marketplaces will join the international smorgasbord as the festival continues on into the fall before wrapping on Nov. 20, 2021.

There will be lots of ways for families to enjoy this year’s event (beyond just eating lots of great food, of course):

• Sample all sorts of delicious cheeses served in fun ways as part of Emile’s Fromage Montage – if Guests collect a stamp from five different Global Marketplaces, they’ll earn a prize!
• Remy’s Ratatouille Hide & Squeak will send Guests on a savory scavenger hunt in search of Remy statuettes hidden all over the park.
• Take a tasty souvenir home from the new merchandise collections, including a festival collection featuring a spirit jersey, baseball cap and so much more.
• Listen to musical favorites performed by Voices of Liberty, Mariachi Cobre and the Jammin’ Chefs.

This is just an appetizer for the 2021 EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival. We’ll have a full plate of details to share soon, so stay tuned to Disney Travel News for more juicy morsels.

Disney announced a proposal to overhaul its Anaheim resort with new attractions, shops, restaurants and entertainment. This rendering shows the additions of attractions and shops around the resort’s Disneyland Hotel and Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel. (Disney)

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As we head into Earth Month, it’s a great time to reflect on our personal relationship with our beautiful planet and how we can all care for the world we share. Whether it’s reducing your own ecological footprint, planting a tree, creating a butterfly garden or learning more about wildlife and conservation, all of these efforts unite us as we do our part to protect nature’s treasures. And while Disney theme parks celebrate all living things every day, during the annual Earth Day Celebration there’s an added opportunity for Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park Guests to connect with the magic of nature through engaging activities designed to educate and inspire the whole family.

From April 18 to 24, Disney’s Animal Kingdom will host limited-time experiences including unique Disney character appearances, fun learning opportunities, specialty merchandise, themed food and beverage, a new Wilderness Explorer activity and more. Here’s a look at what’s in store to spark Guests’ curiosity about wildlife and inspire their own conservation efforts:

• The Animation Experience at Conservation Station shows how Disney Artists bring favorite characters to life by using animals for inspiration. For the Earth Day Celebration and the month of April, Guests can learn to draw characters – including Dumbo, Terk, Squirt, Shere Khan, Simba and Scar – whose real-life counterparts represent amazing stories of conservation work around the globe.
• Guests can catch a glimpse of some special characters who will join other favorite Disney pals on Discovery River Character Cruises. 

• Guests can nosh around the park sampling Earth Day eats, including a selection of limited-time specialty cupcakes: the Creature Comfort’s Honey Bee Cupcake, the strawberry-flavored Flamingo Cupcake at Flame Tree Barbecue, or the Sea Turtle Graham Cracker Cupcake (plus the Crave the Wave cocktail!) at Restaurantosaurus Lounge. These treats are only available for a limited time.
• Guests can set out on a series of self-guided, nature-themed challenges and earn a special Wilderness Explorer limited-time Earth Day Nature badge.
• Guests can hunt for an Earth Day 2021 limited-edition Te Fiti Moana trading pin. They can also support the Disney Conservation Fund by purchasing a cuddly plush inspired by species that call Disney’s Animal Kingdom home; or check out Island Mercantile’s eco-friendly water bottles, tumblers and reusable bags that promote sustainability. 

• Any time Guests visit the park, they can marvel at unique animals and meet the newest arrivals. Most recently, the park welcomed the birth of Ranger, and Guests can get a glimpse of the rambunctious five-month-old white rhino calf and his crash on their journey aboard Kilimanjaro Safaris. While on safari, Guests can also keep an eye out for two young Masai giraffe who were born a few months ago, and playful Nigerian dwarf goats that hang out at the warden’s outpost. 

• Disney PhotoPass Service captures magical memories with special in-park Earth Day backgrounds and Magic Shots, including an all-new photo opportunity. In addition, Earth Day screen savers and Zoom backgrounds can be downloaded from the My Disney Experience PhotoPass gallery.
• Beginning April 2, Guests can watch as artisans transform 40 tons of sand into a detailed sculpture celebrating National Geographic’s “Secrets of the Whales,” an original series streaming on Disney+ on Earth Day. The intricate sculpted masterpiece will be located on the Discovery Island Stage until April 30.

For more information on how Disney cares for animals and helps protect species in the wild, visit DisneyAnimals.com, Guest can check out “Magic of Disney’s Animal Kingdom” on Disney+, streaming now, Disney Park Wild Sights, a short form video mini-series exclusive to the My Disney Experience app, or follow along on Disney’s Animals, Science and Environment Instagram (@DrMarkAtDisney) and Facebook (@DisneyASE) pages.  

Here is the message from Disney:

At Walt Disney World Resort, we’re always looking for innovative and convenient ways to improve our Guests’ experience—especially as we navigate the impact of COVID-19.

With the future in mind and the shift in focus to more touchless experiences, we’re conducting a limited 30-day test using facial recognition technology (length of test subject to change). Participation in this test is optional.

To learn more about this limited facial recognition test, please visit Disneyworld.com/ParkEntryTest.

“The World’s Most Magical Celebration” begins on Oct. 1, 2021 – and Florida car owners can get ready to celebrate with us by purchasing the first-ever Walt Disney World Resort specialty license plate!

We’re excited to reveal the design of this unique plate, featuring our “EARidescent” 50th anniversary castle logo on a majestic royal blue background. Inspired by the color scheme of Cinderella Castle, this magical plate is currently available for presale and will also help make even more dreams true, with 100 percent of the proceeds benefiting Make-A-Wish of Central and Northern Florida and their work granting wishes for children with life-threatening medical conditions.

Interested drivers can purchase a presale voucher* now for $25 plus applicable state administration fees exclusively through their local County Tax Collector’s Office, license plate agencies (DMVs) across the State of Florida, or online through the Orange County Tax Collector’s Office at https://www.octaxcol.com/specialty-license-plate-vouchers/.

Disney has a longstanding relationship with Make-A-Wish, dating back to 1980, and since then, more than 140,000 Disney-inspired wishes have been granted, including thousands taking place at Walt Disney World Resort. This license plate is a unique opportunity to commemorate 50 years of Central Florida magic.

For more information about the Walt Disney World Resort specialty license plate, visit www.flhsmv.gov, and learn more about The World’s Most Magical Celebration at www.DisneyWorld.com/50.

*A minimum of 3,000 presale vouchers are required to be sold by the State of Florida before manufacturing of specialty license plates may begin.