WDW Daily News

There are more than 25 uniquely themed Disney Resort hotels at Walt Disney World, each inviting guests to immerse themselves in a different world between adventures throughout the theme parks and beyond.

When guests stay at Disney’s Port Orleans – French Quarter, they are instantly transported to the lively streets of New Orleans. Colorful building facades, grand walkways and lush greenery evoke the feeling of walking through the city’s historic streets.

Now, with over a thousand room refurbishments officially completed, there’s even more festive flair for guests to discover at this fan-favorite resort. 

Enjoy Refurbished Rooms with Charm at Port Orleans French Quarter 

Throughout each room, colorful fabrics and patterns inspired by the city’s charming architecture bring the lively spirit of “The Big Easy” to life, just like the buildings’ vibrant exteriors.

Guests will also notice nods to Mardi Gras celebrations, including artwork featuring those iconic purple, gold and green beads.

New portraits add even more character, featuring Princess Tiana, Prince Naveen, Louis and Charlotte La Bouff from “The Princess and the Frog” all dressed in their Mardi Gras best and dancing through the French Quarter in style!

Guests can take a closer look at the intricate detailing on the bathroom door and mosaic-style pattern above the beds, and catch hidden details like Tiana’s sparkling tiara, as well as drums and trumpets — an homage to New Orleans’ jazz roots.

The refreshed bathroom is as relaxing as it is functional, offering plenty of storage options and a spacious counter — perfect for those mornings when the family is getting ready before a fun-filled day at the theme parks.

Get Transported to New Orleans

Outdoors, the theming continues with updated surfaces and vibrant designs throughout the newly refurbished Doubloon Lagoon pool area and Mardi Grogs pool bar, now featuring a brighter, more upscale look with airy blues, black-and-white tiles and wrought iron details.

They perfectly weave in those recognizable New Orleans elements while complementing the relaxed poolside vibe.

“This resort is all about transporting guests to the heart of New Orleans, and the recent enhancements bring that story to life in exciting new ways,” said Diane Petit, General Manager, Disney’s Port Orleans Resort. “Everything ties back to the charm and culture that our guests love.”

Experience All the Resort Has to Offer 

When guests are not relaxing in these newly reimagined spaces, there’s no shortage of fun to experience around the resort. From taking a spin down the colorful sea serpent waterslide (named Scales!) to catching a movie under the stars, there’s something for everyone.

Many guests love listening to the live jazz music at Scat Cat’s Club – Lounge, taking a stroll along the scenic Sassagoula River, renting bikes or even hopping aboard a boat to Disney Springs – one of the complimentary transportation options available as part of their stay. And of course, no visit to the French Quarter is complete without Mickey-shaped beignets from Scat Cat’s Club – Café! 

At the heart of the magic of a Disney Resort hotel stay is the exceptional service provided by Disney cast members. Whether it’s a friendly greeting after a day at the parks, a surprise magical moment to celebrate a special occasion or just a helping hand when guests need it most, cast members are known for creating the kinds of memories that last a lifetime. 

Stay in the Magic This Summer

There is so much fun in store this summer as we get ready to kick off Cool Kid Summer, coming to Walt Disney World May 27 through September 1. Families can make a splash with special deals and Disney-themed activities at select resorts.

Staying at a Disney Resort hotel offers more than just a place to rest — it provides convenient access to the magic, early theme park entry and complimentary transportation throughout Walt Disney World Resort, and even admission to a Disney water park on check-in day.

With special offers available throughout the year, it’s easier than ever to create unforgettable memories with loved ones. 

Stay tuned for even more updates as the Disney Resort renovations continue, and as they say in the French Quarter, laissez les bons temps rouler!

May 12, 2025

On select autumn nights, the sun sets over Cinderella Castle as Magic Kingdom park transforms into the center for all things spooky and fun. Twinkling songs give way to eerie music, shadows lengthen, and the Haunted Mansion hums with main character energy.

For those who yearn for ghastly vibes, it’s time to start planning the next night of magical frights. Today we’re sharing the 2025 Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party dates, when guests can buy a ticket, and a few details on what to expect at this year’s celebration.

What is Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party?

Mickey’s No-So-Scary Halloween Party is a separate ticketed event that happens each year at Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World. Offerings include exclusive entertainment, Halloween-themed food and beverages, photo opportunities, exclusive merchandise and character greetings.

Guests can expect a party that offers the ultimate family Halloween celebration: Show off a most creative Disney-themed costume and see the Headless Horseman stalk the streets. Gather candy around every corner, see favorite rides get a little spookier — and maybe even run into a witch or three.

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Dates

The 2025 Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party dates will run from Aug. 15 to Oct. 31. The party runs only on specific weekend or weekday nights, so be sure to consult the calendar of dates to plan.

2025 Party Dates:

• Aug. 15, 17, 19, 22, 24, 26, 29
• Sept. 2, 5, 7, 9, 12, 14, 16, 19, 21, 23, 25, 26, 28, 30
• Oct. 2, 3, 5, 7, 9, 10, 13, 14, 16, 17, 19, 23, 24, 26, 28, 30, 31

Planning Tip: To help conjure fiendish pursuits, note that in August, party dates occur on Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays. This is also true for September with the addition of one Thursday date on Sept 25. In October, ghouls can descend upon Magic Kingdom every Friday and Saturday, most Mondays, and some Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Exclusive Character Greetings

“Surprised, aren’t you?” Guests can meet Sally and Jack Skellington at Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party at one of the many character stops that feature exclusive meet-and-greet opportunities. At Town Square Theater, Mickey and Minnie will, for the first time, greet guests together in their Halloween costumes.

Stay tuned for details on which characters you can meet — and who will be in special festive attire.

For even more creepy character fun, keep eyes peeled because guests may see new and returning Disney Villains appear as they creep by through the streets.

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Tickets

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party ticket prices vary per date and will be available for purchase starting on May 15 for guests staying at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels, Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotels, and Shades of Green.

Tickets will be available starting on May 22 for all other guests. Party dates often sell out, so our best tip is to plan early and purchase tickets in advance for your desired party date.

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Party Ticket discounts are once again available for Annual Passholders and Disney Vacation Club Members.

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary guests can enter as early as 4:00 PM to enter Magic Kingdom before the party kicks off at 7:00 PM. This means guests have up to 8 hours to celebrate all across the park.

Trick or Treating at Mickey’s Not-So-Scary

For some of us, our Halloween dreams include a bag overflowing with candy. Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is one of the best trick-or-treat destinations, with over a dozen treat trail stops marked on the party map. And this year, guests can expect even more fun than ever before with some familiar (and fiendish) faces surprising guests along the trails.

At each stop, cast members in their famously adorable Halloween costumes give out handfuls of Mars Wrigley favorites like M&Ms, Snickers and Starburst. And no worries if guests forgot their pumpkin bucket at home: Each guest will receive complimentary treat bags for candy collection (that includes adults).

Guests with food allergies can also join in the fun at every stop. Grab a teal bag from a Cast Member and collect teal tokens along the trail to redeem your fill of allergy-free candy at Allergy-Friendly Centers.

Trick-or-treaters do not have to be in costume to collect candy. Guests are encouraged to dress up in creative Halloween costumes. Be sure to follow official costume guidelines.

Mickey’s Boo-to-You Halloween Parade

There was a time before sparking shovels incited a bone-chilling response, and then guests watched Mickey’s Boo-to-You Parade.

In this whimsical production, Mickey, Minnie and their friends have donned cute costumes to lead a parade of waltzing ghosts, Disney Princesses and treacherous villains. Guests can expect to see rare characters like Pain & Panic from Disney’s “Hercules,” and Vanellope from “Wreck-It Ralph.”

In 2025, the Mickey’s Boo-to-You Parade will again take place at 8:15 PM to allow plenty of time for little ones to enjoy the celebration.

Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular

It’s been three hundred years, right down to the day … or it seems that long since we’ve seen the Sanderson Sisters take the stage. This fan-favorite show is both hilarious and bone-chilling as Winifred, Sarah, and Mary try their haphazard best to cast a spell.

It turns out that they need a little help from their friends, who happen to be some of the most nefarious Disney Villains, including the likes of Hades, Cruella De Vil, Jafar, Dr. Facilier and The Evil Queen. Guests will help add ingredients to the cauldron with lots of clapping and singing along.

Disney’s Not So Spooky Spectacular

As the party creeps closer to the witching hour, guests are invited to a spooky story time with the Pumpkin King himself, Jack Skellington, who has transformed Cinderella Castle into a haunted house. Watch as Zero leads Mickey and Friends inside, where spiderwebs, skeletons and Grim Grinning Ghosts await.

Dazzling projections will transform the castle into a spooky fantasy while the sky comes alive with fireworks. Get ready for towering encounters with Ursula, The Queen of Hearts, and Oogie Boogie. Will Mickey and Friends make it out of Jack’s haunted house this time?

Stay Tuned: Food, New Merch, and Lively Cadavers

Once again, a few of your favorite rides are getting a grim overlay. Expect spellbinding transformations with special lighting and music. Check back to see which attractions are getting the Halloween treatment.

Speaking of scream-worthy experiences, get ready to groove at a new dance party with the music and moves of “Zombies 4” and more “Zombies” fan favorites. And a little spider told us that the Cadaver Dans will be back again this year to sing in soulful harmony.

In addition to festive candy apples and popcorn guests can always find in the park, our chefs are plotting and planning a new menu of specialty Halloween food and drink for even the most frightening of appetites. Our upcoming Foodie Guide will have all the ghoulish details.

Exclusive party merch will also be available for purchase at Magic Kingdom to commemorate your not-so-scary night of macabre memories.

Stay tuned for even more details and shriek peeks of Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party entertainment, merchandise, and photo opportunities as they materialize.

May 6, 2025

It’s time to raise a glass and let out a hearty shout – The Beak and Barrel opens later this year in Adventureland at Magic Kingdom Park! Established by the legendary pirate rumrunner, Captain Meridian “Merry” Goldwyn, and her talkative first mate, Rummy (more on them below), this lively pirate pub will soon welcome swashbucklers, scoundrels, bandits and buccaneers of all ages from every corner of the seven seas. 

Meet Rummy

As Merry’s trusted companion and first mate, Rummy serves as the tavern’s quartermasterkeeping an eye on the place from his roost high atop the bar. Although retired from seafaring life, Rummy is a dutiful crewman to his beloved Merry, ensuring everything is ship-shape, sharing tales of piracy and leading the bar in a rousing toast or two.  

Eagle-eyed Disney fans may notice that Rummy bears a striking resemblance to the original Barker Bird that previously sat at the entrance to Pirates of the Caribbean but flew the coop some time ago. 

The Mess

The largest and central space at The Beak and Barrel was once the mess hall for Spanish soldiers and is now known appropriately as “The Mess.” Long tables span the room, allowing for pirates to gather ‘round and tell their own tales, while an imposing anchor covered in candles and dripping wax hangs high above.  

A large bar anchors one side of the room, cobbled together from salvaged portions of a cursed shipwreck. At its center, the skull-shaped stern holds an impressive collection of grogs and brew. Guests may also spot the Enchanted Rum Bottle, which was gifted to Merry by the enchantress Tia Dalma and seemingly serves as the source of the tavern’s specialty brews, or Rummy hobbling along the bar’s ledge, greeting the patrons and keeping a close eye on the crew while Merry is away.  

Captains’ Quarters

Inside the Captains’ Quarters, visiting pirates can enjoy a taste of the finer life, which was once the living quarters of the Spanish Comandante. However, the fine artwork and drapery hasn’t escaped slashing blades or burn marks over the years by rambunctious pirates, and in some places, faded spots on the wall are all that remains of now plundered portraits.  

Above the fireplace are mounted five miniature ships in glass bottles, rumored to represent pirates from every corner of the world banding together to defeat tyranny. Keep a weathered eye out, as these mysterious bottles have been known to come alive and engage in a fearsome battle.  

There’s still plenty more to be discovered inside The Beak and Barrel, but that’s enough for today. Be sure to stay tuned for more details, including the opening date and a first look at some of the sea-worthy selection of drinks and bites fit for pirates of all ages coming soon. It’s a pirate’s life for us!

April 28, 2025

Today we have a first look at the menu for the brand-new GEO-82 lounge coming to EPCOT on June 4, with reservations opening on May 6. This adult-exclusive, sophisticated spot nestled within Spaceship Earth will feature a cutting-edge beverage program to enjoy as guests delight their taste buds with a selection of small bites that are as beautiful as they are delicious.

Whether looking for an afternoon sip and snack or the perfect end to their EPCOT evening, guests will want to take in the beautiful views of the World Celebration Gardens as well as the lounge, which takes inspiration from the iconic architecture of Spaceship Earth itself.

Some of the innovative sips to discover include the Brown Butter Old Fashioned, which will offer up a twist on a classic with brown butter-infused bourbon, and the Clarified New York Sour, which features culinary techniques that make a visually stunning cocktail.

The small bites are also not to be missed while guests enjoy their beverages, as these have been expertly crafted by the culinary team. These dishes feature flavors inspired by dishes from around the globe, including the decadent Jumbo Lump Crab Gâteau and the Truffled Ahi Tuna with aromatic umami flavors. 

For a perfect conclusion to guests’ days, they can reserve the GEO-82 Fireworks Experience as part of the Enchanting Extras Collection for new views of Luminous The Symphony of Us from tables along the lounge’s windows. This premium experience includes a tasting tower of savory light bites, sweet selections, Champagne poured tableside, and event-exclusive cocktails. And now, on to the menus! Here is the first exclusive look at GEO-82.

GEO-82 Drink Menu

Featured Cocktails

• Caramelized Leek Martini: Fords Gin, Dolin Dry Vermouth de Chambéry, caramelized leek, and pickled onion
• Brown Butter Old Fashioned: Woodford Reserve Double Oaked Kentucky Straight Bourbon, brown butter, maple, and Hella Cocktail Co. Mexican Chocolate Bitters
• Strawberry and Coconut ‘Right Hand’: Campari Liqueur, Coconut Cartel Añejo Rum, Carpano Antica Formula Sweet Vermouth, strawberry and coconut

• Clarified New York Sour: Old Forester 1920 Prohibition Style Bourbon, Lustau Amontillado Sherry, yuzu, lemon, and Red Wine Float
• High Brow Batanga: Tapatio Reposado Tequila, Ramazzotti Amaro, kola nut, lime cordial, salt, and bubbles
• Strawberry-Black Pepper Sour: Campari Liqueur, Luxardo Maraschino Liqueur, strawberry, lemon, and black pepper 
• Electron: Siete Misterios Doba-Yej Mezcal, carrot, cinnamon, lime, Hella Cocktail Co. Orange Bitters, and pink peppercorn

• Peach Shrub Whisky Smash: Toki Suntory Whisky, Lustau Amontillado Sherry, peach and mint shrub, and bubbles
• Banana Brûlée Highball:Toki Suntory Whisky, Lustau ‘Don Nuño’ Oloroso Sherry, banana, coffee, cacao, and bubbles
• Exclusive Disney Select Bourbon Flight: These bourbons have been hand-selected for GEO-82 and are exclusive to Disney.

• Uncle Nearest Single Barrel Premium Whiskey
• Woodford Reserve Single Barrel
• Blanton’s Gold Single Barrel
• Stagg Private Barrel

Zero-Proof Cocktails

• A Walk Through the Garden: Seedlip Garden 108 Non-Alcoholic Spirit, basil, fennel, lemon, Hella Cocktail Co. Orange Bitters, The Bitter Truth Celery Bitters, and bubbles
• Manhattan in the Morning: Seedlip Spice 94 Non-Alcoholic Spirit, Joffrey’s Coffee Cold Brew, Maple, Verjus Blanc, tart cherry, and Fee Brothers Black Walnut Bitters 

Wine Selections

Champagne and Sparkling: 

• Bergère ‘Origine’ Brut NV
• Schramsberg Brut Rosè

Rosé: 

• Arnot-Roberts Rosé

White: 

• Muxagat Douro Branco
• Domaine Siret-Courtaud ‘Quincy’ Sauvignon Blanc
• Massican Hyde Chardonnay

Red: 

• Domaine Chapel ‘Fleurie’ Charbonnières
• Presqu’ile Pinot Noir
• Fisher Vineyards Unity Cabernet Sauvignon 

Beer Selections 

• Athletic Brewing Co Run Wild Non-Alcoholic IPA
• Miller High Life Lager
• Bell’s Two Hearted IPA
• Lexington Brewing Kentucky Bourbon Barrel Ale
• Modelo Especial Lager
• Yuengling Traditional Lager

GEO-82 Food Menu

• Cannellini Hummus:Pumpkin seed pistou, heirloom radish, preserved lemon, Fresno peppers, and pappadam (Plant-based)
• Chef’s Selection of artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and accompaniments
• Funghi Flatbread: Roasted mushrooms, miso-mascarpone, mozzarella, fontina, pickled red onion, and black garlic molasses
• Jumbo Lump Crab Gâteau: Smoked cheddar, pickled mustard seed-lemon vinaigrette, and Siberian Supreme Caviar

• Truffled Ahi Tuna:Japanese whisky barrel-aged soy-truffle ponzu, citrus, scallion, tobiko, and black sesame seeds

GEO-82 Souvenir Glasses

A memento of this luxurious experience, beautiful glasses inspired by the location, are available for purchase through mobile order for guests with reservations at GEO-82.

We look forward to the opening of GEO-82 this June at EPCOT, along with the incredible drinks and bites to come!

With these tasty adventures, the possibilities are endless at Disney Parks.

(Note: All offerings are subject to change and availability.)  

Set your coordinates to Disney Parks and kick it into hyperdrive because May the 4^th is almost here! And to celebrate, the culinary teams at Walt Disney World Resort are working hard to blast your tastebuds into another system!

This year, you can expect to see some returning favorites alongside new galactic goodies like the Sliced Eopie Wrap at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. All these mission approved rations are packed with enough fuel to keep you going!

Still looking for more delicious foods? Check out the Season of the Force Foodie Guide for items available at Disneyland Resort through May 11. Travelers attending Disneyland After Dark: Star Wars Nite may delight in exclusive treats, only served during this separately ticked, after-hours celebration.

Now, grab your credits and let’s set off on a journey around the galaxy for otherworldly dishes!

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By: Disney

Due to upcoming construction impacts, runDisney races at the resort will be placed on hiatus in 2026 after the conclusion of the 2026 Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend.

One of the things runDisney participants enjoy most about our races is running through our theme parks as they enjoy special entertainment and character experiences. Due to upcoming construction impacts, we will be unable to provide guests with the race experience that our participants have come to expect from our events.

For fans who love to experience runDisney events, we will continue to offer races at Walt Disney World Resort, as well as virtual offerings.

Disney Cruise Line’s fan-favorite themed sailings will launch in a whole new way in 2026. Texas, get ready to assemble! For the first time, Marvel Day at Sea will bring heroic thrills to Disney Magic voyages out of the Port of Galveston starting in January.

Get ready to play! Pixar Day at Sea will make its return to the Disney Fantasy out of Port Canaveral, Florida, in January, with beloved Pixar characters bringing extra magic at every turn.

Marvel Day at Sea Hits Texas

For the first time out of Galveston, Texas, Marvel Day at Sea will transport families into the thrilling universe of beloved heroes and infamous villains in an action-packed adventure at sea. Select four- and five-night Disney Magic sailings will offer adventurous entertainment for the whole family, plus character encounters and special themed dining and merchandise, all culminating with a clash between good and evil on the upper decks in a spectacular deck party.

Spider-Man, Captain America, Captain Marvel, Thor, Loki and Black Panther are among the dozens of favorite heroes and villains from across the multiverse that will collide onboard the Disney Magic during Marvel Day at Sea in 2026.

The excitement of the Marvel Universe will come to life at sea with experiences for the whole family. In Fathoms, a big-band, star-spangled tribute to Captain America will unfold with a special USO show, featuring vintage dance numbers and an appearance from the Star-Spangled Man himself! Recruits of Wakanda will convene in the atrium for warrior training with the mighty Okoye, General of Dora Milaje. For aspiring young heroes, themed youth activities like the Avengers Training Initiative will offer the chance to test their Super Hero skills.

Classic Disney characters will also join in the heroics as Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, and their friends dress up in their favorite Marvel gear during Mickey and Minnie’s Super Hero Celebration.

Finally, Marvel Heroes Unite, a signature nighttime spectacular on the upper decks will sweep guests up in a daring battle with thrilling stunts, special effects and fireworks at sea as Marvel Super Heroes and villains engage in a battle of destiny that cuts across the multiverse.

Pixar Day at Sea

Pixar Day at Sea is BACK! Gather Pixar-themed attire and play with very favorite toys, monsters and supers throughout the ship, complete with character encounters, themed dining and special merchandise. On select five-night Disney Fantasy sailings out of Port Canaveral, Florida, families will experience the beloved Pixar tales of “Toy Story,” “Monsters, Inc.,” “The Incredibles,” “Inside Out,” and “Coco” during this fun-filled adventure, starting with the Hey Howdy Breakfast, a musical breakfast themed to “Toy Story.”

Every member of the family will find some fun during Pixar Day at Sea. For those looking for a turtle-y righteous celebration on the big blue, head to the upper decks for Crush’s Totally Awesome Pool Party, full of dances and games led by Crush’s Pixar Party Patrol. For guests more about the presentation, darling, they can don their best Pixar fashion and strut their stuff for the ultimate critic, Edna Mode, during Edna Mode’s Style on Parade. Just remember… “No capes!”

Guests’ taste buds will have a blast, too! Live like Remy during Anyone Can Cook, a live cooking demonstration with Disney Chefs. What’s on the menu? Ratatouille, of course!

The sun will set on the Pixar Day at Sea fun and games during the Pixar Pals Celebration on the upper decks. Dance the night away in a high-energy deck party with favorite Pixar friends. Marvel Day at Sea and Pixar Day at Sea sailings begin on select voyages in January 2026.

April 21, 2025

Looking ahead to everything families can do during a Walt Disney World vacation next year? Well, guests are in luck, because beginning April 22, they can start booking their 2026 vacations to Disney World with plenty of convenient and flexible to options to choose from, with bookings open through October 31, 2026.

It’s never too early to start thinking about the next trip, and 2026 is going to be a fantastic year to visit — especially for kids!

How to Get Free Disney World Dining Plan for Kids (Ages 3-9) in 2026 

Throughout all of 2026, guests staying at one of our more than 25 Disney Resort hotels will get a free dining plan for their kids (ages 3 to 9) when purchasing a dining plan as part of their package for the other members of their party (ages 10 and up). Dining plans can help guests maximize their stay with added peace of mind, letting them enjoy some of the many dining locations we offer from meals to snacks and kid-friendly favorites. 

The kids free dining plan offering can be combined with other select special offers, meaning they may still be eligible to take advantage of other deals we later roll out for 2026!  

2026 Disney World Resort Perks 

There’s nothing like a visit to Disney World. With so many attractions, entertainment offerings, dining, shopping and more across our four theme parks and beyond, staying at a Disney Resort hotel means being right inside the magic. With everything we offer, Walt Disney World remains the place to be for an ultimate multi-day vacation, a special occasion, or a day full of rides, food, and fun.  

Get More Time at the Theme Parks 

Continuing through 2026, Disney Resort hotel guests can enjoy more time in our theme parks with 30 minutes of early theme park entry every day, at every park.* That means getting a head start in the parks to check out some favorite attractions. Guests of our Disney Deluxe Resorts or Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts will also continue to have access to extended evening hours at select theme parks on certain days.  

*Valid theme park admission required for entry.  

Enjoy Free Transportation, Parking, and More  

Disney Resort hotel guests continue to get access to other offerings and special perks that make vacation planning easier.

• Complimentary theme park transportation via monorail, boat, bus, and Disney Skyliner  
• Free standard parking at hotels, theme parks, and water parks  
• Early access to dining reservations and Lightning Lane for your entire stay, as well as advanced access to purchase tickets to select special events.  
• Coming back in summer 2026, Disney Resort hotel guests can get free water park admission on their check-in day (subject to availability). Additional details, including specific dates, will be shared at a later time.  

Get Even More Magic at Your Disney Resort  

Whether guests are taking a day off from the theme parks or simply want to relax at their hotel, there’s no shortage of activities all from the convenience of their hotel.   

Guests can enjoy resort activities, themed pools, character dining, and surprise character visits. When they stay at a Disney Resort hotel, they’re staying as close as they can to the magic with everything they need. That includes the outstanding guest service and hospitality provided by our cast members.

Guests can book their 2026 Disney World vacations starting April 22 for travel dates through October 31, 2026. Please note that bookings for November and December 2026 will become available at a later date. Want to visit sooner? There are special offers available now for 2025 Disney Resort hotel stays and theme park tickets, including ways to save and enjoy limited-time fun this summer!

Just minutes away from the Magic Kingdom, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa has delighted guests with its Victorian charm and timeless atmosphere since 1988.      

A celebration of the golden age of travel and Florida’s lavish seaside hotels, the resort is known for its unique theming and Disney hospitality – two qualities that will be honored during the renovation of the Grand Floridian lobby.   

The lobby’s renovation marks the culmination of the resort’s multi-year refurbishment, which has included enhanced guest rooms, refreshed dining experiences, including the Michelin star-awarded Victoria & Albert’s, Cítricos, Narcoossee’s and 1900 Park Fare, and more.     

Coming Soon: Grand Floridian Lobby Bar  

There’s something special about walking into the Grand Floridian—the soft piano music, glowing chandeliers, and aromatic floral arrangements create a luxurious, yet relaxing atmosphere. And soon, guests will be able to take in this ambiance with a refreshing beverage in hand, thanks to the new lobby bar!      

Inspired by the lobby’s iconic birdcage, the bar will pay tribute to the resort’s Victorian roots with intricate woodwork, stained glass, and brass accents. Guests may even spot colorful birds in the stained glass and murals throughout the atrium! Opposite the bar, guests will still find the Victorian cage-style elevator that fans know and love.  

New Look, Same Grand Feel  

The surrounding lobby, staircase and front desk will be refreshed with a mix of botanical accents and inviting colors to create an airy, garden-like atmosphere.    

Disney Imagineers are approaching this refurbishment with great care and focus in maintaining the heart and story of the Grand Floridian, while adding fresh new life to the lobby for guests to enjoy.   

As shown in the new rendering, the lobby will feature beautiful new carpeting with Victorian-inspired borders and scrollwork featuring hand-drawn florals inspired by turn-of-the-century botanical studies. Updated furnishings will blend rich finishes and brass accents with cozy, welcoming fabrics–plus a few playful touches inspired by Florida’s natural beauty and Victorian decorating trends.    

The Magic of Staying at a Disney Resort Hotel  

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is among the more than 25 Disney Resort hotels at The Most Magical Place on Earth – contributing to the nearly 29,000 guest rooms on Walt Disney World property. Guests at Disney Resort hotels like the Grand Floridian get a variety of special perks with an unbeatable location close to the magic. That’s in addition to the amazing cast members who deliver distinctly Disney service every day.  

Whether guests are visiting for a once-in-a-lifetime celebration, an unforgettable meal or the Grand Floridian is their home away from home as a Disney Vacation Club member, the resort will continue to be one of the most special and unique places to stay on Disney World property.   

And some things – like the warm welcome, the attention to detail, and that unmistakable feeling of stepping into somewhere truly special – will always stay the same.  

This year, cast members at Victoria & Albert’s at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, the culinary crown jewel of Walt Disney World, are celebrating the honor of retaining their status as a MICHELIN star restaurant! 

For over 20 years cast have provided a signature dining experience known for its lavish setting, offering a multi-course dining experience that features carefully curated menus with premium and sustainable ingredients sourced from around the world.

Maître d’Hôtel and Walt Disney Legacy Award Winner Israel Perez showcases the current Victoria & Albert’s seasonal menu 

“The ingredients drive the menu,” Chef de Cuisine and Walt Disney Legacy Award Winner Matthew Sowers explains. “We use the freshest seafood and highest quality meat from across the globe as the base of our dishes. For example, the Glacier 51 Toothfish on the current menu can only be found in the Arctic more than one mile under the ocean’s surface.” 

Creating an experience where timeless traditions seamlessly blend with modern culinary artistry takes teamwork, and there’s no shortage of it in the Victoria & Albert’s kitchen. Guests are served a wide range of small courses inspired by the culinary team’s travels, cultural backgrounds and personal stories.  

“The Miyazaki A-5 Wagyu on the current menu is inspired by Chef Miguel’s Venezuelan roots. During the winter months, beef and cabbage are staple ingredients in his family’s meals,” shares Sharon, a cast member who has served at the restaurant for over 20 years. “And the Norwegian King Crab is a nod to Chef Gabriella’s home country of Norway. We have Chefs from all over the world bringing their stories to life in every dish – curating a fine dining experience in a way only Disney can.”  

Sharon, a 22-year cast member at Victoria & Albert’s showing the plated wagyu with a celebratory pour 

Always evolving, the menu of Disney’s MICHELIN star restaurant shifts with the season, delighting returning guests with new and unique flavors every time every visit. With a world-class wine collection boasting over 500 selections, each course is thoughtfully paired to enhance the experience from start to finish. 

But ask the team what they believe is the secret to their success, and you won’t hear them talk about stars or awards. 

“It’s because we’re a family. We all really do care for the restaurant and each other,” says Chef Nathan, who moved from Pennsylvania to Florida to join the Victoria & Albert’s culinary team due to its strong reputation. “Every single one of us goes above and beyond. We have a shared vision of excellence.” 

Victoria & Albert’s remains the first and only restaurant owned and operated by a U.S. theme park destination to hold a MICHELIN Star. The cast are an incredible example of how Walt Disney World continues to raise the bar for exceptional dining – from iconic Disney-themed snacks and immersive restaurants in the parks, to unforgettable fine dining experiences like this one.

Congratulations to the cast of Victoria & Albert’s on this extraordinary distinction!