Disney World is overwhelming enough between having to travel there, figure out transportation to the parks, and delegate which rides to go on and attractions to see — having to decide what to eat there just makes things even more stressful.
Archive for Walt Disney World
Top Tips for Disney World First-Timers
Planning a trip to Walt Disney World can be overwhelming, especially if you’re visiting for the first time. You have to set a budget, decide the best time to go, where to stay and navigate four theme parks, two water parks and a multitude of dining and recreation options.
The Edison to Open in 2016 at Disney Springs, at Walt Disney World Resort
Patina Restaurant Group and Kinetescape’s Andrew Meieran announce that they will open The Edison, a lavish “Industrial Gothic” -style restaurant, bar and nighttime destination at the new Disney Springs at Walt Disney World Resort. Famous for exceptionally good classic American food, craft cocktails and live entertainment including cabaret and music, The Edison is inspired by its sister location in Los Angeles and set in a historic power plant.
The Edison is dedicated to a resurgence of old world-style sophistication and romance. The Florida venue will be themed to a 1920s-period electric company and recall an exuberant era of invention and imagination. Featuring 35-foot ceilings and a range of themed areas to explore, The Edison will have The Lab performance space, The Ember Parlour, Telegraph Lounge, The Patent Office, The Tesla Lounge, The Radio Room, Waterfront Patio and more. Entertainment will include contortionists, palm readers, DJs and more. Andrew Meieran’s vision and designs will be executed by Gensler Architects.
The Edison joins a growing family of new additions to Downtown Disney. Downtown Disney is currently undergoing the largest expansion in its history, to be renamed and re-imagined as Disney Springs, an exciting new waterfront district for shopping, dining and entertainment. The Landing, one of four neighborhoods planned for Disney Springs, will welcome The Edison in 2016.
“We are delighted to bring this extraordinary destination to the new Disney Springs,” said Nick Valenti, restaurateur and CEO of Patina Restaurant Group.
For dining reservations and more information about The Edison, guests will be able to visit https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/dining in the future.
Walt Disney World Resort Offers Guests Magical Fishing Opportunities
World-class theme parks, resort hotels and attractions are not the only reasons for visiting Walt Disney World Resort. There’s fishing, too, with largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie and catfish swimming in lakes and canals almost within casting distance of some of Disney’s most iconic landmarks.
From true beginners to expert anglers, thousands of Walt Disney World guests annually participate in fishing excursions sponsored by Take Me Fishing, the nation’s preeminent authority on the sport of fishing. Guests can venture onto any of Disney’s four lakes – Bay Lake, Seven Seas Lagoon, Lake Buena Vista and Crescent Lake – via marinas located at nine resorts across property. Popular catch-and-release excursions can provide guests with an unrivaled view of Cinderella Castle and Spaceship Earth, or they can take guests away from the theme parks for a unique opportunity to experience the natural wilderness that surrounds Walt Disney World Resort.
During construction of the Magic Kingdom theme park in the late 1960s, more than 70,000 bass fingerlings were released into Bay Lake and Seven Seas Lagoon. Organized fishing tours didn’t start at Walt Disney World Resort until 1977, leaving bass to grow and breed undisturbed for years. Most trips catch five to 10 fish, usually weighing in around two pounds, depending upon time of day, number of people on board and, of course, luck.
Two- and four-hour catch-and-release tours led by experienced fishing guides are offered daily on an advance-reservation basis year round. Guests can choose from the Guided Bass Fishing Excursions, which include a 21-foot SunTracker pontoon boat that can accommodate up to five guests, and Bass Nitro Fishing, which features a tournament-style Nitro Bass boat for one or two people. Both boats are fully equipped with rods, reels, fishing gear and beverages. Take Me Fishing excursions provide guests with access to world-class equipment like Castaway Rods & Wave Spin Reels, as well as boats outfitted with Lowrance depth finders, Power-Poles and other professional-grade fishing equipment.
In addition to having access to some of the industry’s best equipment, exceptional guides and Disney’s well-managed lakes, all Take Me Fishing excursion participants at Walt Disney World Resort receive a one-year BASS membership, which includes 11 issues of Bassmaster magazine and other special discounts and benefits.
Guests looking to experience something a little closer to their resort can take advantage of the dockside fishing opportunities at Disney by renting casting-rod fishing gear from the Bike Barn at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground or opting for traditional cane-pole fishing at the Fishin’ Hole at Old Man Island at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside.
Reservations can be made up to 180 days in advance by calling 407-WDW-BASS.
For more information about the fishing opportunities at Walt Disney World Resort, visit www.disneysportsnews.com.
The Ultimate Insider’s Guide to Disney World
A family vacation to Walt Disney World in Florida can be a magical experience. Some people save up for years to meet Mickey and friends at the resort’s four enchanting theme parks, two water parks and Downtown Disney.
‘The NBA Experience at Walt Disney World Resort’ Coming to Disney Springs
The Walt Disney Company and the National Basketball Association (NBA) announced today that they have begun developing “The NBA Experience at Walt Disney World Resort” at Disney Springs in Lake Buena Vista, Fla.
This expansive, one-of-a-kind destination will feature hands-on activities that put families and guests of all ages right in the middle of NBA game action. Guests will enjoy immersive NBA video productions and numerous interactive experiences, as well as a restaurant and a retail store.
“We’re thrilled to work with the NBA to take our guests inside the world of professional basketball with an extraordinary entertainment experience,” said Robert A. Iger, chairman and chief executive officer, The Walt Disney Company. “We’ve had a long and successful partnership with the NBA through ESPN, and we will continue to build on that foundation as we bring the Disney and NBA brands together for the first time in this exciting and innovative way.”
“We look forward to uniting the passionate, global fan bases of the NBA and our longtime partner, Disney,” said NBA Commissioner Adam Silver. “Working with the world’s top creator and operator of themed entertainment attractions, we can’t wait to bring the magic of Disney and the excitement of the NBA to guests from around the world.”
“Basketball fans of all ages will be able to experience the game in a whole new way when they visit ‘The NBA Experience at Walt Disney World Resort,’” said Bob Chapek, chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. “We’re excited to join the NBA in offering this unique form of family entertainment. It will be a terrific addition to the world-class lineup of shops and restaurants coming to Disney Springs.”
Downtown Disney Hyperlapse Video
With over 80 venues now open – including world-class and waterfront dining, unique brand shopping and dazzling entertainment – there’s something for everyone to enjoy at Downtown Disney at Walt Disney World Resort! See for yourself in this video!
Would You Pay $125 for a Day at Disney World?
The country’s priciest theme park may be about to get even more expensive. Disney (DIS) sent out a survey to recent resort guests late last month, asking them how they would feel about a tiered pricing strategy.
Harambe Market Now Open at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park
Harambe Market, a bustling marketplace alive with the aromas and flavors of African street foods, adds an exciting new dimension to the expanded Harambe Village experience at Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Theme Park in Walt Disney World® Resort.
Built around a Colonial-era train depot design complete with a 1960s water tower, Harambe Market invites guests to sample true flavors of Africa before or after they embark on Kilimanjaro Safaris®. The following four themed shops offer fresh meals, snacks and beverages like those found in an African street market:
- Kitamu Grill featuring skewered chicken and kebab flatbread sandwich.
- Famous Sausages showcasing a corndog made with a South African boerewors sausage dipped in curry-infused corn batter.
- Chef Mwanga’s spice-rubbed Karubi Rib paired with green papaya-carrot slaw.
- Wanjohi Refreshments quenches thirsts with craft draft beers, South African wines by the glass, sangria, frozen drinks, non-alcoholic tangerine lemonade and fountain beverages.
Harmabe Market offers shaded tables for dining, and area shops sell wares from Africa. And from the marketplace, guests can enjoy direct access to Kilimanjaro Safaris, the Wildlife Express train to Rafiki’s Planet Watch and a path to Asia attractions, including Expedition Everest®.
Celebrate Dads On Father’s Day and Everyday at Walt Disney World Resort with 10 Fun Faves for Fathers
It’s doesn’t have to be Father’s Day or even June to pay tribute to that special man in your life, Dad. Walt Disney World Resort salutes dads every day with a flurry of father-friendly activities sure to get him out of the “man cave” and into some theme park fun.
Walt Disney created Disneyland Park as a place for moms and dads to enjoy with their children and his vision extends to all of the Disney theme parks today, including Walt Disney World Resort. This nearly 40-square mile playground overflows with classic attractions, thrills, lively shows and fun for the entire family, but here’s some manly options to make dad feel like a king on his next Disney vacation:
Wild Africa Trek
This African expedition experience is just right for the dad with an adventurous spirit, and there’s no passport required. At Disney’s Animal Kingdom, dad can explore exotic African wildlife in their natural habitat on a privately guided, three-hour journey through a savannah. Wild Africa Trek also invites trekkers to a serene, savannah-view overlook while enjoying African-inspired food and beverage. Wild Africa Trek is $189 to $249 per person, plus tax (prices vary based on season). The tour can be booked by calling 407-WDW-TOUR and is not included with Disney’s Animal Kingdom admission.
Guided Fishing Excursion
Whether a seasoned sportsman or an amateur angler, there’s nothing more relaxing than fishing at sunrise on Bay Lake with spectacular views of the Magic Kingdom. Dads can reel in the fun with an unforgettable two- or four-hour, catch-and-release fishing trip that includes a private guide and all the fishing supplies. Call 407-939-2277.
Art of Shaving
This new boutique at Downtown Disney offers premium shaving supplies, plus hair and body grooming products ideal for dad. There are razors, shaving brushes, pre-shave oils and creams for a barbershop-like shave. Dads can get expert shaving advice on products and techniques, or make an appointment for a luxurious grooming experience at the Barber Spa.
World-Class Spas Aren’t Just for Mom
To soothe and unwind after a day at the theme parks, treat dad to some spaaaaaaaah time. With two full-service Senses spas at Walt Disney World Resort, dad can rejuvenate and recharge with a variety of treatments including sports massage, reflexology, custom firm, or a Swedish massage. Call 407-939-7727.
Golfing Galore
An active dad is a happy dad. While the family enjoys the theme parks, dad can hit the links with three 18-hole championship golf courses, or a 9-hole walking course. There’s even Fantasia Gardens Miniature Golf with one course that resembles a traditional golf course but built on a miniature scale. This challenging skills course offers sand traps, bunkers, water hazards and sloping greens.
Food Lover’s Paradise
With hundreds of eateries at Disney there’s everything from casual to gourmet to satisfy dad’s appetite. From fresh seasonal dishes at California Grill and first-rate oak-fired beef at Yachtsman Steakhouse, to a nostalgic meal in a 50s-style drive-in at Sci-Fi Dine In, the sky is the limit. And if dad is a foodie, there’s a culinary extravaganza featuring celebrity chefs, wine tasting, craft beers and savory samplings during the annual Epcot International Food and Wine Festival, Sept. 25 through Nov. 16, 2015.
ESPN Club
Dad doesn’t have to miss watching his favorite team or that big playoff game while on vacation. ESPN Club at Disney’s BoardWalk is the ultimate sports bar featuring 100 big screens, interactive games, dozens of beers, plus nachos, fries and ESPN Wings.
ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex
This 220-acre complex – a place for both pro and amateur athletics — features more than 170 annual events. Treat dad to some wings or nachos while you watch a game on one of seven HDTVs at ESPN Wide World of Sports Grill or in early spring, head to the ballpark with dad and catch the Atlanta Braves during a spring training game.
Splitsville Luxury Lanes
Take dad out to a night of good old-fashioned bowling in a retro, vintage-style venue at Downtown Disney. This trendy, two-level location features 30 lanes, plus live entertainment, a balcony bar, and a variety of dining options with all dad’s favorites such as filet sliders, pizza and even sushi.
Sosa Family Cigars
This fifth generation premium cigar store showcases the art of hand-rolling cigars. An authentic, solid cedar humidor room keeps the stogies fresh for a primo smoking experience. Treat dad to more than 80 brands of cigars at including Auturo Fuente, Padron, Imerio Cubano, and Guente Guente Opus XE. Sosa Family Cigars is located at Downtown Disney West Side.
