WDW Daily News

We have exciting news! Construction on Tiana’s Bayou Adventure continues to take shape, and later this summer, a tiara-topped water tower emblazoned with the Tiana’s Foods logo will make its way to Magic Kingdom. 

Disney Parks guests will get to experience Princess Tiana’s story like never before following the attraction’s debut at Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort in 2024, and what a party it will be! The story will pick up where the film left off as guests join Princess Tiana and jazz-loving alligator Louis on an adventure down the bayou as they prepare to host a one-of-a-kind celebration during Mardi Gras season where everyone is welcome. Along the way, guests will encounter familiar faces, make new friends and travel through the bayou to original music inspired by songs from the film. 

The team of Imagineers recently traveled to New Orleans to capture the true essence of the Mardi Gras celebration, the energy, the colors, the rhythms of the music, all that and more to infuse into Tiana’s Bayou Adventure to create lots of memorable fun for guests! 

What’s your favorite Disney Thrill? Whether it’s giving a beloved character a big hug, showing off the perfect pair of Minnie ears or giggling your way through an exciting adventure with your entire family, everyone can enjoy all kinds of thrills at Walt Disney World Resort.

Today, we’re excited to share all the new experiences coming to Walt Disney World over the next few months!

Celebrating 25 Years of Innovation & Conservation at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park 

We can’t wait to celebrate 25 years of magic at Disney’s Animal Kingdom next month on Earth Day! Since it opened on April 22, 1998, this one-of-a-kind theme park has offered awe-inspiring animal encounters, thrilling attractions and larger-than-life musical stage shows. Since 1995, with support from The Walt Disney Company and guests, the Disney Conservation Fund has directed $120 million to support nonprofit organizations working with communities to save wildlife, inspire action and protect the planet. Additionally, the Disney Conservation team leads best-in-class scientific programs to conserve wildlife in Disney’s backyard and beyond, connects people to build a network for nature, and cares for the planet through everyday actions.

In April, there will be new ways to join in the celebration for Earth Day and this milestone, including new sweet and savory treats, specialty merchandise and limited-time character sightings in the park. There will be more surprises on April 22, when the park officially turns 25. Stay tuned to Disney Parks Blog for more details coming soon.

Summer House on the Lake Opens Later This Year at Disney Springs

A stunning new restaurant will open at Disney Springs in late 2023. Summer House on the Lake embodies a breezy, beach house vibe that will pair perfectly with the sweeping views of Lake Buena Vista.

Guests will be able to enjoy a California-inspired menu featuring simple, sustainable ingredients – from pizza and pasta to fresh salads and sandwiches. Plus, Guests can savor the restaurant’s exclusive Summer House Rosé along with a selection of wine, beer, handcrafted cocktails and non-alcoholic drinks. Just imagine sipping a favorite drink on one of three expansive outdoor patios with a lake view. Those of us with a sweet tooth will be delighted to hear about The Cookie Jar, a dessert-focused market within this space serving up freshly baked cookies and house-made pastries.

Corkcicle Opening First-Ever Retail Location at Disney Springs

Just announced today, Corkcicle is coming to Disney Springs! A local Orlando business, Corkcicle creates innovative, obsession-worthy, high-performing insulated drinkware, coolers and accessories in a variety of gorgeous colors that elevate every sip and bring delight to everyday moments. This kiosk will be Corkcicle’s first-ever retail location and will open later this spring.

Tiara-topped Water Tower Coming Soon to Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at Magic Kingdom

Construction on Tiana’s Bayou Adventure continues to take shape, and later this summer, a tiara-topped water tower emblazoned with the Tiana’s Foods logo will make its way to Magic Kingdom. Read more here to learn new details about the attraction’s queue and Tiana’s next chapter in her story as she continues to grow her business with Tiana’s Foods.

Disney Parks guests will get to experience Princess Tiana’s story like never before following the attraction’s debut at Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort in 2024, and what a party it will be!  The story will pick up where the film left off as guests join Princess Tiana and jazz-loving alligator Louis on an adventure down the bayou as they prepare to host a one-of-a-kind celebration during Mardi Gras season where everyone is welcome.  Along the way, Guests will encounter familiar faces, make new friends and travel through the bayou to original music inspired by songs from the film. Lots of memorable fun in store!

TRON Lightcycle / Run Launches April 4, 2023

You may have heard that one of the fastest coasters at any Disney park is launching soon in Magic Kingdom. Starting April 4, Guests will be able to race across the Grid in TRON Lightcycle / Run presented by Enterprise. As members of Team Blue, this will be the chance to board a high-speed Lightcycle and compete against a fierce group of Programs known as Team Orange

Merchandise fans can gear up for the Grid with racing-inspired apparel, collectible pins, must-have toys and light-up accessories inspired by the TRON films and the attraction itself.

If you’ve been to EPCOT recently, you’ve likely seen the amazing progress happening around World Celebration and World Nature as part of the park’s multi-year transformation. Well, get ready because it will all be completed later this year!

Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana will debut this fall in World Nature. This self-guided exploration trail will take you through the natural water cycle – from the skies to oceans and all the way back again. Just like Moana, Guests are encouraged to become a protector and friend to our natural resources.

When CommuniCore Hall opens in World Celebration later this year, it will be the center of festival programming throughout the park. In new renderings released today, Guests can see this will be home to a new character greeting location called Mickey & Friends. Guests will be able to meet Mickey Mouse and some of his best pals in this colorful space.

CommuniCore Hall will also be the home of a dynamic exhibition space that will transform with each festival throughout the year, as Guests can see here in one possibility imagined for EPCOT International Festival of the Arts. Playing with light, shapes and reflections, the architecture of this building was designed by Walt Disney Imagineering to celebrate the legacy of EPCOT and the original CommuniCore buildings.

Commemorating Disney100 at Walt Disney World 

EPCOT will host the Disney100 celebration at Walt Disney World Resort to commemorate this monumental milestone later this year. As well as all the new attractions and experiences I’ve mentioned, there will be even more magic.

As we honor the legacy of Disney storytelling and unforgettable characters that have entertained and inspired people of all ages for a century, now is the time to relive those beloved Disney memories and delight in making new memories with friends and family in our theme parks. Enjoy all-new experiences as we celebrate this momentous anniversary and the culmination of the EPCOT transformation – from meeting Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse in their platinum attire to snapping a selfie with a platinum sculpture of the one who started it all and watching Spaceship Earth illuminate the evenings with a special lighting design.

Let’s start with one of the most magical moments: meeting Disney favorites face to face. We recently saw the return of fan-favorite character experiences including Enchanted Tales with Belle, Ariel’s Grotto and Pete’s Silly Sideshow at Magic Kingdom Park. New friends will make their debut soon.

Just in time for the 25th Anniversary of Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, Moana will greet fellow voyagers on Discovery Island for the first time, starting April 22.

Later this summer, Guests will get the chance to hug long-time EPCOT icon Figment at the Imagination! pavilion.

And this fall, Mirabel from the Walt Disney Animation Studios hit film “Encanto” will greet Guests in the Fairytale Garden at Magic Kingdom, which will be transformed with whimsical décor inspired by La Familia Madrigal.

March 9, 2023

Both Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort are joining in on the fun and serving up some charming eats and sips throughout the month of March that will let guests get in the Irish spirit. They will feel like they’ve struck gold once they set your eyes on these items, like the adorably delicious The Nugget at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, the new Lucky Leprechaun at Disney’s Coronado Springs, and a green twist on a classic with the Green Stuff at Red Rose Taverne.

Well, it’s time we shamrock and roll and get to the Foodie Guide.

Read more

We are ready for yet another fantastic year of the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival. We are most excited for the Magic Shots that will be available from Disney PhotoPass Service (and the Outdoor Kitchens, of course). Seriously, we can’t get over these amazing shots! 

Like Heimlich said in Disney and Pixar’s film, “A Bug’s Life,” “Someday, I will be a beautiful butterfly and then everything will be better.” And well, everything does seem better when posing for this Magic Shot underneath a flurry of butterflies. Fly down to the entrance to World Showcase under the Monorail beam to capture this festival favorite!

Who wouldn’t want to visit Pixie Hollow and hang with Tink and her fairy friend? Now, with this Magic Shot and a little pixie dust, guests might find their way to Pixie Hollow! Just think of the happiest things and fly over to most PhotoPass photographers to uncover this flitterific Magic Shot.

Speaking of flying…when in Magic Kingdom Park, Orange Bird hangs out at Sunshine Tree Terrace and serves up some Dole Whips. But for the festival this year, he’s flying into the frame! guests can visit most Disney PhotoPass photographers stationed in World Celebration locations to capture this Magic Shot. And then maybe go and get a Dole Whip, because…why not?!

After a Dole Whip, guests can go find this fantastic floral photo at the water near Journey Into Imagination With Figment. You know how Isabela grows a flower and the town goes wild? Well, we’re going wild over this Magic Shot. Visions of purple, pink, and peonies will fill guests’ heads long after their visit.

Those visions of flowers are filling Spike the Bee’s thoughts too, so watch out Donald Duck! Spike the Bee is the star of the show in this Magic Shot. When he’s not busy pollinating or tormenting Donald Duck, he’ll make sure to pop into guests’ photos anywhere in the World Showcase.  

After a day of gazing at flowers, guests might as well pose for a photo with them! Poppy in this floral frame stationed in the Italy pavilion, near the entrance to World Showcase under the Monorail beam, and by the water near Journey Into Imagination With Figment. Here, guests will be surrounded by flowers that will last a lifetime. 

It is only fitting to wrap this up with our favorite shot of all: the Tiny World Magic Shot. Located near the fountain just beyond the main entrance of the park, guests can capture their entire family from the most magical angle. They get a fun festival border too!

We think Disney PhotoPass Service really rose to the occasion for the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival this year. guests can use the locations noted here as a guide for finding these Magic Shots, but we also recommend asking photographers what Magic Shots are available at their location. We truly hope guests enjoy their time photosynthesizing with Disney PhotoPass Service!

As Disney is gearing up for TRON Lightcycle / Run presented by Enterprise to blast off in Tomorrowland at Magic Kingdom Park in just a few short weeks, they’ve also got some exciting foodie news for everyone. Tomorrowland will soon be home to another new foodie spot – Energy Bytes!

This new kiosk will be serving up some tasty eats and sips for guests to grab, drawing inspiration from the futuristic environment around them. Whether they’re looking for some breakfast bites, savory snacks, sweet treats, or refreshing beverages, this new spot will soon become a go-to pitstop as guests venture into the world of Tomorrowland.

If guests are kicking off their morning in Magic Kingdom Park, Energy Bytes has some breakfast delights for them. For those wanting a sweet start to their day, the tasty Chocolate Cake Doughnut Holes topped with mocha sauce are a perfect option. With each “byte” guests will be begging for more! The coffee lovers out there will also have a new caffeinated beverage to try – Joffrey’s Cold Brew Coffee topped with a yummy mocha sauce. This iced sip is the perfect combination of that classic coffee flavor with a touch of sweetness. 

Now onto the savory options. If guests love buffalo chicken and dumplings, they’re in luck because Energy Bytes is combining both of these classics into one delicious concoction – Digital Dumplings – Buffalo Chicken. This bite perfectly combines chicken dumplings, blue cheese powder, and cayenne pepper broth.

And these aren’t the only dumplings coming to Tomorrowland. There is another dish soon-to-be served up. The Digital Dumplings – Beef & Broccoli is out of this world as it transforms this iconic dish into dumpling form with beef dumplings, broccoli pesto, and ginger-soy broth. 

For those looking for a little sweet pick-me-up, Energy Bytes has them covered too. The Strawberry IceOform is the ultimate refreshing treat with the sweetness of the strawberry ice cream mochi, graham crackers, and even a little bit of cheesecake foam to finish it off. It not only looks beautiful but tastes great too!

Last, but certainly not least, we’ve got the Watermelon Refresher with yuzu and ginger. This frozen sip will take guests to another world with tasty flavors. Just take a peek at how good it looks! It’ll be the perfect accompaniment for any of the other yummy items available at this location.

Well, there we have it – all the must-try items coming to the newest food and beverage location at Magic Kingdom Park. We can’t wait to welcome everyone to Energy Bytes soon!

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

By: Disney Destinations

March 9, 2023

Today, we announced that Disney Cruise Line will welcome guests to a one-of-a-kind island destination at Lighthouse Point, located on the island of Eleuthera in The Bahamas, for the first time during its opening season in summer 2024!

Created in close collaboration with local artists and advisors, the vibrant island retreat at Lighthouse Point will be a unique celebration of Bahamian culture brought to life with the quality and service of a Disney vacation.

Keep reading to discover all the latest details about this relaxing beach escape designed with families in mind, infused with the color and energy of Bahamian artistry, and developed with a commitment to conservation at its core.

Uniquely Designed, Sustainably Developed

When guests arrive to Lighthouse Point, they’ll be greeted by distinctive, sweeping architecture in bright, saturated hues — a bold style inspired by nature and created in partnership with local artists.

The curvilinear buildings will at first appear as Bahamian shells scattered along the shoreline. Upon closer inspection, guests will discover artistic expressions of the native flora and fauna of The Bahamas and the pageantry and history of Junkanoo parades. Throughout the destination, references to playful folklore characters will evoke the warmth and charm of the local culture.

Respect for the environment is at the heart of the design. At least 90 percent of the destination’s electricity needs will be met by an onsite solar array, the pier was designed to avoid the need for dredging and elevated walkways will help limit impact on the landscape.

Visitors to Lighthouse Point will have the opportunity to be surrounded by the wonders of nature and get a glimpse into the efforts taking place to conserve wildlife and their unique island habitats.

Fun and Relaxation for Everyone

At Lighthouse Point, families will enjoy a day of fun in the sun as they relax on pristine beaches, embark on active adventures and discover the magic of Bahamian storytelling alongside favorite Disney characters. Much like Disney’s cruise ships and private island of Castaway Cay, Lighthouse Point will offer activities and areas for every age group.

Families can relax and play along white sandy beaches and turquoise waters at the expansive family beach on the east side of the island, which will be centrally located near market-style dining, recreation and other amenities.

A Bahamian art and culture pavilion featuring special programs and local artists will provide visitors to Lighthouse Point opportunities to learn and celebrate the traditions and natural beauty of The Bahamas.

A brightly-colored, interactive family water play area will include two slides, water drums, fountains and more, along with a dedicated space for toddlers.

North of the family area will be an adult-exclusive beach — a glorious stretch of sun-drenched serenity complete with a dedicated dining area for convenient access to food and drinks throughout the day, plus six private cabanas available by reservation.

Children ages 3 to 12 will splash and play at a themed kids’ club under the care of highly-trained Disney Cruise Line counselors. It will include a splash pad inspired by favorite undersea creatures from Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “The Little Mermaid,” plenty of shade and a dedicated dining area.

Set away from the activity of the main family area, a peaceful beach along the south-western shore will be lined with 20 premium family cabanas available to rent, including four double cabanas that accommodate larger groups and offer massage services.

Additional recreational activities will be available for kids and kids-at-heart, including a covered gaming pavilion; a volleyball court and gaga ball pit; watercraft and bicycle rentals; nature trails for hiking and biking; and more. And a collection of new Port Adventures developed in partnership with local tour operators will take guests beyond Lighthouse Point to explore the rich culture and breathtaking beauty of Eleuthera.

Disney’s new island destination is being thoughtfully designed to provide a hassle-free experience for families, including complimentary beach essentials (towels, chairs and umbrellas and lunch) and convenient tram transportation.

Lighthouse Point will open for guests on select sailings in summer 2024. Stay tuned for more details about inaugural itineraries, signature entertainment, dining, retail and excursions and more. 

Are you ready to create some family memories at a Disney Vacation Club property surrounded by some of their favorite Walt Disney Animation Studios stories? The Villas at Disneyland Hotel will open to guests on September 28, 2023!

The Villas at Disneyland Hotel will celebrate the magic of creativity and storytelling through a blend of contemporary designs and carefully curated pieces inspired by the stories, characters and worlds of Disney Animation.

This will be the fourth tower at the AAA Four Diamond, landmark Disneyland Hotel, located just steps from the Downtown Disney District, Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park.

The lobby will feature a one-of-a-kind mural created exclusively for The Villas at Disneyland Hotel by Disney Animation artist Lorelay Bové, known for her work on classics from “The Princess and the Frog” to “Encanto.”

The Villas at Disneyland Hotel will have 344 whimsically themed rooms, including duo studios, deluxe studios, one- and two-bedroom villas, and grand villas. Each includes modern just-like-home amenities with touches of Disney magic sprinkled throughout, themed to Walt Disney Animation Studios like “The Jungle Book,” “Sleeping Beauty,” “The Princess and the Frog,” “Fantasia” and more.

Guests can even soak up some inspiration during their vacation at a vibrantly colored, mid-century modern hangout for the entire family.

Here are some upcoming important dates to keep in mind:

• Wednesday, March 15 – Disney Vacation Club Members can begin to make rental reservations by calling Member Services at (800) 800-9800
  
• Thursday, March 16 – Disneyland Resort Magic Key holders can start booking rental reservations by contacting (714) 956-6425
  
• Friday, March 17 – All guests can make rental reservations online or by contacting (714) 956-6425

The Villas are limited in availability and are subject to restrictions and change without notice.

The Villas at Disneyland Hotel is not yet fully registered or available for sale.  Not an offer in any jurisdiction where registration requirements have not been met. Furnishings and fixtures are subject to change. Disney Vacation Development, Inc., 1851 Community Drive, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830.

When guests sail with Disney Cruise Line, there are not only incredible ports of call around the world for their families to experience, but there are also many home ports that are top vacation destinations! Miami is one of the leaders on that list, and families can not only take a cruise from South Florida on either the Disney Dream or Disney Magic this year, but they can also extend their vacation before (or after) to experience all this vibrant city has to offer.

Whether guests love to indulge in culinary delights or tend to venture outdoors, below are ways everyone in the family can make the most of their time on board and on land with a cruise from South Florida!

1. For the Foodie: Miami is a foodie’s dream, with many areas dedicated to all things delicious! Stop by Little Havana or Ocean Drive for authentic Cuban fare or fresh, vibrant seafood. Once guests board the ship, they can prepare their tastebuds for themed family dining, 24-hour room service and of course – ice cream! And whether they’re on the Disney Dream or Disney Magic, they can dine at Palo for an adults-only, elevated dining experience featuring northern Italian cuisine.

2. For the Sports Buff: Miami is home to an impressive roster of iconic sports teams, including the Miami Heat, Miami Dolphins, Miami Marlins and more. No matter what time of year guests are sailing from South Florida, chances are they can catch a game with the family while in town! Once on board, guests can show off their own athletic skills on Goofy’s Sports Deck (Disney Dream) or Wide World of Sports (Disney Magic), where they’ll find a basketball court, foosball and more; they can also get in a workout in at the Senses Fitness Center or on the running deck; or even watch a game live with friends and the family.

3. For the Beach Bum: Miami provides several sun-soaked beaches, such as South Beach and the Miami Beach Boardwalk, where guests can lounge the day away. The fun in the sun certainly doesn’t end with Disney Cruise Line. In addition to many pools and water features on the ships, voyages from this home port make stops in sun-drenched ports throughout the Caribbean and Bahamas, and all sailings from Miami visit Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island oasis.

4. For the Art Lover: If guests are a lover of the arts, Miami is the perfect fit for them! The city boasts a unique Art Deco Museum and the Bass Museum of Contemporary Art, as well as the Wynwood Art District. guests can continue this artistic adventure on board with participation in animation classes, or enjoy the arts in a different way by watching one of the Broadway-style shows offered.

5. For the Shopping Enthusiast: For those who love to shop ‘till they drop, Miami offers phenomenal shopping districts, including Lincoln Road Mall and Coconut Grove, to name a few. When guests step on board, several retail shops are available, so whether they are looking for classic Disney Cruise Line merchandise or a special item to remember their trip by, there is a souvenir for everyone.  

Whether guests can relate with one of these categories or all five, these are just a few of the reasons to sail from Miami! Bon voyage!