The Jungle Cruise is among the most popular and beloved Disney park attractions. Now, visitors at Disney World’s Magic Kingdom can augment their whimsical river journeys by grabbing a table at the Jungle Navigation Co. Ltd. Skipper Canteen restaurant.
Disney Parks Launches 10th Annual Moms Panel Search
Today, Disney Parks kicks off the 10th annual search for applicants to join the 2017 Disney Parks Moms Panel. Moms, dads, grandparents, and guardians of all walks of life can serve as panelists for this award-winning, online trip-planning forum.
Disney Parks is seeking seasoned Disney vacationers with diverse backgrounds to lend fresh insights to the Disney Parks Moms Panel that offers advice to guests looking to plan their ultimate Disney getaway. The search is on for new panelists who can answer questions in any of the four languages now used on the forum –English, Spanish, French and Portuguese. Adults who have experience with and a passion for Disney vacations are encouraged to apply now through September 14 by visiting www.momspanelsearch.com.
The Disney Moms Panel began in January 2008 as a simple, question-and-answer forum with only 12 members focused solely on the Walt Disney World Resort. Today, the Disney Moms Panel is a multilingual resource that has tripled in size with a diverse array of enthusiastic panelists with extensive knowledge of Disney vacation destinations and offerings, including Disneyland Resort, Disney Cruise Line, Disney Vacation Club, runDisney and ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. Over the years, more than 145 moms, dads and grandparents have participated on the panel and have answered more than 300,000 Guest questions.
“With this being the 10th year of our global search for Disney Parks Moms Panelists, I’m always in awe to see so many passionate and inspiring applicants share their Disney memories and emotional experiences as they vie for a spot on the Panel.” said Leanne O’Regan, Director of Content Relations for Disney Parks. “Since 2008, the Panel has replied to hundreds of thousands of questions providing personalized answers and often sharing fun stories that help guests with their individual planning needs.”
Panelists tap into their own real-life experiences to thoughtfully answer a wide array of questions. Whether the questions are about visiting as a family on a tight budget, a parent of a child with special needs, or families traveling in groups looking to plan the ultimate getaway, there is truly a panelist for everyone.
How to Apply
Disney Parks will accept applications for the 2017 Disney Parks Moms Panel from noon EDT on September 7, 2016, through noon EDT on September 14, 2016. Visit www.momspanelsearch.com to enter. The application process includes a series of written questions and essays in the first round; additional questions and essays along with a video submission in Round 2; with the final round being a phone interview. Applicants selected to be panelists for the Disney Parks Moms Panel will be announced in January 2017. Those selected must be available to attend a training session at Walt Disney World Resort in December 2016.
About the Disney Parks Moms Panel
The Disney Parks Moms Panel is an online forum where guests can get tips and insights for a Disney vacation from real moms, dads and grandparents who have mastered the art of planning Disney getaways. Guests can pose questions to panelists in English, Spanish, French and Portuguese, and gain access to other Disney vacation planning tools. Featuring just 12 members in its 2008 inaugural year, the panel has more than tripled in size since. That growth is a result of the popularity of the forum and an ever-growing number of questions submitted by curious parents. For more information and to meet the panelists, visit www.DisneyParksMomsPanel.com.
THE SEARCH FOR THE SORCERER’S APPRENTICE BY SAM ALLEN
While Mickey Mouse appeared in over 100 films during the Golden Age of Hollywood alone, his portrayal of the Sorcerer’s Apprentice in “Fantasia” is considered by many Disney enthusiasts to be his greatest role.
The Science Behind Pixar Exhibition to Open October 15, 2016 at the California Science Center
Guests at the California Science Center will be inspired by the science and technology behind some of the most beloved animated films and their characters with the west coast premiere of The Science Behind Pixar Exhibition,opening October 15, 2016. This hands-on 12,000 square foot exhibition showcases the science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) concepts used by the artists and computer scientists who help bring Pixar’s award-winning films to the big screen.
Featuring more than 40 interactive exhibit elements, The Science Behind Pixar Exhibition demonstrates the technology that supports the creativity and artistry of Pixar’s storytellers. The exhibition is broken into eight distinct sections, each focusing on a step of the filmmaking process – Modeling, Rigging, Surfaces, Sets & Camera, Animation, Simulation, Lighting andRendering – providing guests with a unique view of the production pipeline and concepts used at Pixar every day. Visitors of all ages will engage in and learn about the filmmaking process through hands-on activities inspired by some of Pixar’s most treasured films, from the first-ever computer animated feature film Toy Story, to the Oscar®-winning film Inside Out. They will also have the opportunity to take their photo with human-size recreations of many of their favorite Pixar film characters, including Buzz Lightyear, Dory, Mike and Sulley, Edna Mode and WALL•E.
“The Science Behind Pixar Exhibition is a fun, hands-on experience where guests can explore the art and science of animation at Pixar as though they were part of the production team,” said Jeffrey N. Rudolph, President and CEO at the California Science Center. “It’s a great opportunity for them to participate in the step-by-step process where art incorporates science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) to make all the elements of an animated film seem more believable.”
Visitors will be invited to experience different roles within the production pipeline. Exhibit highlights include:
- Sets & Cameras – Discover how a bugs-eye view was achieved for A Bug’s Life, through camera angles and large-set design within the computer.
- Modeling – Envision how Toy Story’s digital sculptures are created based on sketches from artists.
- Lighting – Explore challenges similar to what Pixar artists faced in creating animated water with virtual light in Finding Nemo.
- Rigging – See how the models are given a virtual skeleton to enable animators to add movement, like the virtual model of Sulley from Monsters, Inc., which has 30,000 posable points.
- Surfaces – Feel immersed in the techniques behind adding color and texture to every surface of a film by designing “skins” for computer models of characters from Cars.
The Science Behind Pixar Exhibition was developed by the Museum of Science, Boston in collaboration with Pixar Animation Studios, and is part of the Science Museum Exhibit Collaborative (SMEC) – of which the California Science Center is a member.
The Walt Disney Company Executives to Discuss Fiscal Full Year and Fourth Quarter 2016 Financial Results via Webcast
The Walt Disney Company (NYSE: DIS) will discuss fiscal full year and fourth quarter 2016 financial results via a live audio webcast beginning at 5:00 p.m. EST / 2:00 p.m. PST on Thursday, November 10, 2016.
Results will be released after the close of regular trading on November 10, 2016.
To listen to the webcast, point your browser to www.disney.com/investors. The webcast presentation will be archived.
2016-2017 runDisney Race Season Officially Underway After Labor Day Weekend’s Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend
The 2016-2017 runDisney race season got up and running in September with a string of nine race weekends and events geared for runners of all ages and levels. In the U.S., each race weekend offers runDisney Kids’ Races, 5K, 10K, half marathon and a massive health & fitness expo, while Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend also features the full 26.2-mile marathon.
The runDisney series kicked off Labor Day weekend with the Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend presented by Cigna and concludes with the Tinker Bell Half Marathon presented by PANDORA jewelry in May. In all, more than 200,000 runners from around the world are expected to participate in runDisney events at Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland Resort and, for the first time this season, Disneyland Paris.
Here’s a breakdown of all runDisney race weekends coming up this season:
Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend presented by Cigna (Sept. 1-4): More than 32,200 runners participated in the various events during this 11th annual event. Many runners registered for more than one event, including more the than 6,000 runners for the 10K and the half marathon in the Dumbo Double Dare challenge.
Disneyland Paris – Val D’Europe Half Marathon Weekend (Sept. 23-25,): The much-anticipated debut of the Disneyland Paris Half Marathon Weekend comes this fall. Kick-off parties, uniquely designed medals and a course that takes runners through the Disneyland Paris Resort area and the Parisian countryside sets this inaugural international event apart from other runDisney races. This race weekend features the Disneyland Paris 5K and Disneyland Paris Half Marathon, as well as the Castle to Chateau Challenge for runners who complete the Disneyland Paris Half Marathon and a runDisney race in the U.S.
Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend presented by MISFIT (Nov. 3-5): This culinary-themed race coincides with the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival. For the first time, what used to be a nighttime race will now take place in the early morning hours. Participants will run through multiple theme parks and finish at Epcot, site of an exclusive after-hours post-race party. New this year are the Disney Wine & Dine 10K and Lumiere’s Two Course Challenge, for runners who do both the 10K and the half marathon.
Super Heroes Half Marathon Weekend (Nov. 10-13): This 3rd annual race weekend includes a 5K that pays tribute to the 75th anniversary of Captain America, while the 10K gets its theme from the upcoming film, “Doctor Strange”, the latest installment in the Marvel film franchise. The Avengers Super Heroes Half Marathon caps the weekend’s events. Runners can put their super powers to the test by participating in the Infinity Gauntlet Challenge – running the 10K and the half marathon. There’s also a pasta party during the weekend’s events, where guests can indulge in a buffet dinner and interact with their favorite Marvel super heroes.
Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend presented by Cigna (Jan. 4-8, 2017): This is runDisney’s signature event, which began in 1994 and features a marathon that takes runners along a magical 26.2-mile journey through Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Known as one of the top family-destination races, this race weekend attracts more than 55,000 runners and their guests. Participants who didn’t get enough action during the race weekend can run from the parks to paradise by participating in the Disney Castaway Cay Challenge. The Monday after the marathon takes place, guests can sail on the Disney Dream and run a 5K on Disney’s private island in the Bahamas.
Star Wars Half Marathon Weekend – The Light Side (Jan. 12-15, 2017): One of two Star Wars-themed races in the runDisney series, this race weekend at Disneyland Resort is one of the most popular runDisney events of the season. Runners can meet and pose for pictures with their favorite Star Wars heroes as well a variety of races including the Rebel Challenge – tackling the 10K and the half marathon.
Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend presented by Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals (Feb. 23-26, 2017): With more than 26,000 runners participating throughout the weekend, this is 8th annual event one of the largest women-specific endurance events in the country. The fiercest princesses of them all can sign up for the Disney Glass Slipper Challenge, which involves running the 10K and the half marathon.
Star Wars Half Marathon – The Dark Side (April 20-23, 2017): This race weekend is the newest at Walt Disney World, taking place for the first time last April. Before the race, runners have the opportunity to interact with their favorite Star Wars characters from the dark side of the force. The toughest runners can participate in the Dark Side Challenge by doing the 10K and half marathon on back-to-back days.
Tinker Bell Half Marathon Weekend presented by PANDORA jewelry (May 11-14, 2017): This 6th annual race coincides with Mother’s Day weekend and is Disneyland Resort’s women-specific endurance event. Runners can earn their “wings” across the weekend’s events, and those with a little more faith and trust can do the Pixie Dust Challenge – “flying” through the 10K and half marathon.
Some of the most special features of a runDisney event are the highly coveted medals for each race. In addition to the event-specific medals, runners also have the opportunity to earn a special Coast to Coast Challenge medal, given to those who complete a half marathon at Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World resort in the same calendar year. Runners who specifically do the Disney Princess Half Marathon and Tinker Bell Half Marathon will receive a special pink edition of the Coast to Coast Challenge medal. And if the force is with them, runners who participate in both Star Wars-themed half marathons will earn the Kessel Run Challenge medal.
For more information on runDisney events, visit runDisney.com.
TOP 25 DISNEY SONGS
What’s your favourite Disney song? Maybe it’s that romance ballad that warms your heart, or that Broadway-esque number you like to stumble through at the top of your lungs after a dinner party has devolved, or the duet you and your friend think you’ve nailed at karaoke before realising nobody was paying attention. Whatever the case, it’s a very personal thing, so we’re not positioning this list as definitive. It is, however, our top 25 Disney songs – from the company’s animated efforts only – of all time.
Walt Disney World Refurbishments – Fall 2016
| Magic Kingdom® Park | |
| Monorail The Walt Disney World® Resort Monorail System is undergoing refurbishment and may be on modified service and/or routes. If Guests plan to use this form of transportation during their visit they should check to be sure of the best option available on their day of travel, as alternative transportation options will be available. |
Through Summer 2016 |
| Swiss Family Treehouse Big Thunder Mountain Railroad “it’s a small world” |
Jul. 6 – Sep. 29, 2016 Aug. 8 – Nov. 18, 2016 Aug. 22 – Sep. 15, 2016 |
| Epcot® | |
| None | |
| Disney’s Hollywood Studios® | |
| Pizza Planet | Jan. 19 – Late 2016 |
| Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Theme Park | |
| DINOSAUR Dino Institute Shop |
Jul. 25 – Oct. 16, 2016 Jul. 25 – Oct. 16, 2016 |
| Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park | |
| Annual Refurbishment | Dec. 25, 2016 – Mar. 11, 2017 |
| Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park | |
| Annual Refurbishment | Oct. 23 – Dec. 24, 2016 |
| Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort | |
| Soft Goods Refurbishment | Apr. 2 – Sep. 24, 2016 |
| Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort | |
| Grand Slam Pool During this time Guests may use the Surfboard Bay Pool, located near the main lobby. |
Oct. 10 – Dec. 2, 2016 |
| Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village | |
| Soft Goods Refurbishment This work will be conducted between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. During this time, Guests may see or hear work in progress and certain pathways may be unavailable. |
Jul. 15, 2016 – January 2017 |
| Disney’s BoardWalk Villas | |
| Room Refurbishments Guests may see or hear work in progress. Additionally, Guests may have an interruption to water service during the overnight hours. |
May 16 – Oct. 31, 2016 |
| Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort | |
| Beach Renourishment Project | May 1 – Fall 2016 |
| Disney’s Pop Century Resort | |
| Computer Pool During this time Guests may use the Hippy Dippy Pool or Bowling Pool. |
Oct. 31, 2016 – Jan. 3, 2017 |
| Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter | |
| Sassagoula Floatworks & Food Factory Refurbishment | Jul. 11 – Late Fall 2016 |
| Disney’s Vero Beach Resort | |
| General Resort Refurbishments Due to several refurbishment projects, Guests will very likely see and hear construction work throughout the villas, spa and dining areas. We will attempt to limit any work most likely to cause a noise impact to the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Sonya’s restaurant and Bleachers Bar & Grill have permanently closed to make way for exciting new experiences. In the meantime, the table-service restaurant, Shutters, will be temporarily relocated to the nearby SeaGrape Room. |
Now through Oct. 2016 |
| Disney’s Wilderness Lodge & Villas | |
| General Resort Refurbishments Due to extensive refurbishment projects, Guests will very likely see and hear construction work in various areas throughout their stay. To minimize disruptions, we will attempt to limit work until after 9:00 a.m. At this time, many popular areas will remained closed – including the Hidden Springs Pool (the leisure pool at The Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge), beach, marina, playground and more. In addition, certain pathways, like our nature trail, will be unavailable, and surrounding views may be altered. However, the recently renovated Silver Creek Springs Pool will remain open and boat transportation to Magic Kingdom park will continue to be offered. |
Through 2017 |
| Cub’s Den (Children’s Activity Center) – unavailable | Through 2017 |
| Disney’s Yacht Club Resort | |
| Room Refurbishments During this time, Guests may see or hear work in progress and certain pathways may be unavailable. To minimize any disruptions, we will attempt to limit work to 9:00 a.m – 5:00 p.m. |
Oct. 29, 2016 – Jun. 23, 2017 |
| Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Convention Center | |
| Expansion Work During this time, Guests may see or hear work in progress and certain pathways may be unavailable. To minimize any disruptions, we will attempt to limit work to 9:00 a.m – 9:00 p.m. |
Aug. 4, 2016 – Feb. 1, 2018 |
| Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel | |
| Guest Room Renovations Renovation work is scheduled to take place between 7 a.m. – 6 p.m. daily. No guests will be accommodated in the renovation area as to minimize impact on the guest experience. |
June – September 2016 |
| Disney Springs™ | |
| Planet Hollywood | Jan. 6 – Fall 2016 |
| Fulton’s Crab House – reopening as Paddlefish | Apr. 4 – Fall 2016 |
| Golf Courses/Miniature Golf | |
| None | |
Information and dates subject to change without notice.
Marvel CAPTAIN AMERICA: CIVIL WAR Collector’s Edition Review
It is official. My new favorite Marvel movie is Captain America:Civil War. This action packed super hero movie has everything anyone could ever want.. awesome fight scenes, interesting story lines, unexpected twists and turns, and humor.
In Captain America:Civil War we get to see what is going on with the Avengers-Captain America, Iron Man, Black Widow, Scarlet Witch, Falcon, and Hawkeye. The Avengers are in some trouble with the government because of the destruction that follows them after a battle. After all, who pays to rebuild the cities that are destroyed in their wake? Aren’t they responsible for injuring citizens as “collateral damage”? These are some of the questions that lead to the “civil war” between our heroes. We are also treated to some other famous Marvel characters that add some new dimensions to the story. (I am not going to ruin the surprise for you-although the Collector’s Edition cover will give a few away.)
The Captain America: Civil War Collector’s Edition comes with the Blu-Ray in 3D, a Blu-Ray, and a Digital HD copy. We are lucky enough to have a 3D big screen television so it was like my favorite heroes were actually in my house! Watching it in my basement with 3D goggles on might seem extreme to some casual fans, but these are THE Avengers, people! They are at their best when they can come to life in 3D! The Blu-Ray pack includes the feature film and some awesome bonus features. You simply cannot scroll past the bonus United We Stand, Divided We Fall-The Making of Captain America: Civil War Part 1 & Part 2. I just love watching the interviews with the actors and directors. We also get to see behind the scenes with fight choreography and how all of the computer simulations are made to look so real on the big screen. There is also the fan-favorite Gag Reel, an exclusive sneak peek of Marvel’s Doctor Strange, deleted scenes, and an in-depth look at the evolution of Captain America and Iron Man.
Marvel’s Captain America: Civil War Collector’s Edition is an absolute must-have if you love Marvel as much as I do. I believe this is the best Marvel movie yet. I promise you, you will not be disappointed.
Fact Sheet: Walt Disney World Resort Hotels
Disney’s Contemporary Resort – 655 rooms and suites and a concierge floor in a 14-story deluxe resort. Dining options include California Grill, The Wave…of American Flavors, Contempo Café and Chef Mickey’s, three lounges, two snack bars and room service. Recreational amenities include water skiing, boat rentals, jogging, volleyball, parasailing, playground and two swimming pools. Specialty shops, game room, laundry service, beauty shop, child-care and health club. Monorail, motor coaches and watercraft provide easy access to the theme parks. The resort features 90,000 square feet of meeting space, including a 44,300-square-foot grand ballroom.
Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort -This Disney Vacation Club resort features 295 units (2-bedroom equivalents) including studio, one- and two-bedroom villas and is located next to Disney’s Contemporary Resort. Most of the rooms boast modern artwork, flat-screen TVs, full kitchens complete with granite countertops and modern appliances, separate bedrooms, washers and dryers, and other home-like amenities. A rooftop lounge promises to deliver some of the most dramatic views available anywhere at Walt Disney World Resort.
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa – 867 rooms and suites, including 181 concierge accommodations. Dining at Cítricos, Victoria & Albert’s, Gasparilla Grill & Games, Grand Floridian Cafe, 1900 Park Fare, Narcoossee’s and two lounges. Recreation and amenities include boat rentals featuring the Grand 1 52-foot Sea Ray yacht, swimming, playground, health club, game room, shopping, child-care and laundry facilities. Meeting facility with nearly 40,000 square feet of meeting and convention space. Easy access to theme parks via watercraft, motor coach and monorail.
The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa – This Disney Vacation Club resort – reminiscent of the golden age of a bygone Victorian era – resides alongside the picturesque shores of Seven Seas Lagoon, steps away from the myriad world-class dining and recreation offerings available at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. The resort features a variety of villa accommodations that sleep anywhere from five to twelve guests. Expansive grand villas sleep 12 guests and feature a large kitchen, multiple bedrooms and bathrooms, as well as a media room with a home theatre system.
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort – 484 traditional hotel rooms/suites in addition to 20 over-the-water bungalows and 360 deluxe studio villas as part of the Disney Vacation Club Resort, Disney’s Polynesian Villas and bungalows. The resort is designed with South Pacific Island theming along the beach of Seven Seas Lagoon. Dining options include ‘Ohana, Kona Café, Captain Cook’s, the “Spirit of Aloha” dinner show, Tambu Lounge, room service. Recreation and amenities include swimming, boating, jogging, playground, game room, shopping, child care, laundry facilities. Transportation by monorail, watercraft and motor coach.
Disney’s Wilderness Lodge– 727 guestrooms reflect a “woodsy” national park-like setting. Reminiscent of Old Faithful Inn at Yellowstone Park — with distinctive Disney touches. A spectacular six-story lobby, replete with teepee-topped chandeliers, totem poles and an 82-foot-tall stone fireplace. A bubbling hot spring in the lobby expands outside the building into a roaring waterfall flowing into the swimming area (featuring hot and cold spas). A geothermal “geyser” erupts hourly from a rocky outcrop at the edge of Bay Lake. Recreation and amenities include bike and boat rentals, swimming, playground, laundry, game room and on-site child care. Dining options include Artist Point, Whispering Canyon Café, Roaring Fork Snacks and Arcade, Territory Lounge, pool bar and room service. One boardroom/meeting room – 750 square feet. Easy access to theme parks via watercraft and motor coach.
The Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge -114 units (2-bedroom equivalents) including studio, one- and two-bedroom villas, located next to Disney’s Wilderness Lodge. This five-story Disney Vacation Club ownership resort surrounds visitors with the grandeur of the Old West and stories of the people who settled there. Art and architecture tell the tales of pioneers who built and stayed in late 19th century railroad hotels in the national parks region of the American West. Rooms include wet bar, microwave and small refrigerator, or a full kitchen. A unique feature of the resort is its themed living room area that features railroad memorabilia, including a special exhibit on loan from the Disney family of two of Walt Disney’s personal scale-model train cars and a piece of the original track. Also found at the resort is a quiet pool and state-of-the-art health club open to guests of both the lodge and villa properties.
Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground– 799 campsites, 409 Wilderness Cabins all set in a relaxed 700-acre wilderness setting. Campsites are level, paved pads with electric, water and sewer hookups, charcoal grills and picnic tables. All campsites have close access to air-conditioned comfort stations with private showers, coin laundry facility, vending machines and telephones. Wilderness Cabins are air-conditioned accommodations that sleep up to six guests and feature vaulted ceilings, fully equipped kitchens, full bathrooms, television, VCR, outdoor grills, picnic tables and a private patio deck. Wilderness Cabins also come equipped with hairdryers, foldaway cribs and ironing equipment, and daily housekeeping is offered. Amenities include watercraft, beach, fishing, tennis courts, two heated swimming pools, arcade game room, laundry facilities and kennel. Groceries and camping supplies at Meadow and Settlement Trading Posts. Dining options include Crockett’s Tavern, Mickey’s Backyard BBQ, Trail’s End Restaurant and “Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue” nightly dinner show at Pioneer Hall. Campfire and marshmallow roast with Disney characters and a Disney movie. Motor coach and boat transportation links campground with all Walt Disney World Resort areas.
Epcot Area
Disney’s Pop Century Resort– 2,880 room “time capsules” are available at this resort that pays homage to 20th century pop culture. This value-priced resort features lodge buildings and furnishings inspired by the 1950s, 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s. Larger-than-life icons from each decade are found all over the resort, from four-story Rubik’s Cubes to bowling pins that tower more than 65 feet high. Recreation includes three pools, a kiddie pool, the Pop Jet Playground and the Fast Forward arcade. Guests can feed their hunger and slake their thirst at the Everything Pop food court area or Petals Pool Bar. The resort is located near ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex.
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort– Three colorful Caribbean-themed resort villages featuring 2,112 rooms located on 200 acres surrounding a 42-acre lake. Guestrooms include mini bars and coffee makers. Recreation includes a lakeside recreation area with a themed slide, boat rentals, swimming, playground, game room, bicycling, nature walks, jogging track, laundry facilities and shopping. Dining available at Shutter’s full-service restaurant and the Market Street food court. Transportation to theme parks available by motor coach.
Disney’s Yacht Club Resort – 621 rooms and suites in oyster-gray clapboard buildings set around 25-acre Crescent Lake feature hardwood floors and rich millwork in a nautical theme reminiscent of New England seashore hotels of the 1880s. All rooms feature French doors that open onto porches or balconies. The nautical theme carries through in the restaurants — Captain’s Grille, Yachtsman Steakhouse and two lounges. An expansive croquet lawn and marina lighthouse add to the resort’s ambience. The Yacht Club is the perfect complement to its neighbor, Disney’s Beach Club Resort. Centrally located to each resort is a 73,000-square-foot convention center that includes a 36,000-square-foot ballroom which seats up to 2,800 for dinner.
Disney’s Beach Club Resort – 576 rooms and suites in buildings of pale blue and white stick-style architecture inspired by New England beach cottages of the 1860s. The lobby features white wicker furniture, 24-foot-high ceilings and natural French limestone floors. The Beach Club is the perfect complement to its neighbor, Disney’s Yacht Club Resort. Centrally located to each resort: Stormalong Bay features three lagoon areas and a thrilling water slide; the Ship Shape Health Club with steam bath and sauna, and massage, weight and aerobics rooms; a marina with motorized watercraft; and Beaches & Cream, an old-fashioned ice cream parlor. Dining in Cape May Café and two lounges. Both hotels provide transportation via watercraft and motor coach. Child care, beauty and barber shop, and laundry facilities are available.
Disney’s Beach Club Villas – Featuring an ambience of casual elegance, Disney’s Beach Club Villas (part of Disney Vacation Club) was designed by noted architect Robert A.M. Stern. Situated next to Disney’s Beach Club Resort, the 576-unit (2-bedroom equivalents) property offers studio, one- and two-bedroom vacation villas. The resort features Cape May-inspired theming characterized by the use of whimsical “stick-style” architecture, pastel colors, porches and other decorative elements.
Disney’s BoardWalk– The 372-room BoardWalk Inn is located alongside Crescent Lake and includes shopping, children’s activity center, health club, tennis courts, themed pool and a 20,000-square-foot conference center. Surrounding Crescent Lake and steeped in 1930s nostalgia and old-fashioned Atlantic seaboard charm, Disney’s BoardWalk restaurants include Flying Fish Café, Big River Grille and Brewing Works, ESPN Club, Atlantic Dance nightclub, Jellyrolls dueling piano bar, Seashore Sweets Bakery.
Disney’s BoardWalk Villas– This 280-unit (2-bedroom equivalents) vacation ownership resort (part of Disney Vacation Club) is a place where guests can experience the romance and playfulness of a bygone era, both inside the elegant salt water taffy-colored vacation villa community and outside amidst the carnival sights and ragtime sounds of the boardwalk. Accommodations are available in studios and one-, two-, and three-bedroom villas which offer kitchens, living areas and a variety of amenities.
Disney Springs Area
Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa – This Disney Vacation Club resort features 924 units (2-bedroom equivalents) that recall the late 1800s heyday of America’s first vacation destination – Saratoga Springs, N.Y. Victorian-style cottages line the streets and the historic influence of horse racing is found throughout the resort. Also featured is a full-service spa and health club and The Artist’s Palette – a counter-service restaurant and market. Bus transportation is provided to all four Walt Disney World theme parks. The resort is located across the lake from Disney Springs and adjacent to Disney’s Lake Buena Vista golf course. There are 60 three-bedroom Treehouse Villas, built on pedestals amid forested glens. The villas offer two baths, an open kitchen, flat-panel TVs and a barbecue grill.
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort-French Quarter – 1,008 moderately priced, French Quarter-style accommodations adjacent to Disney’s Port Orleans Resort-Riverside. Located on a 325-acre woodland site between Epcot and Disney Springs. Sassagoula Floatworks food court and pizza delivery. Themed pool, boat rentals, lounges, game room and retail shops. Riverboat to Disney Springs. Linked by motor coach to all other Walt Disney World resorts and entertainment facilities.
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort-Riverside – 2,048 rooms in three-story southern-style mansions and two-story rustic bayou dwellings. Dining includes Riverside Mill food court and Boatwright’s Dining Hall. Recreation includes Ol’ Man Island, a 3 ½-acre old-fashioned swimming hole with slides, rope swings and playgrounds; quiet pools; boat rentals; game room; lounges and gift shop. Riverboat to Disney Springs. Transportation via motor coach to other Walt Disney World attractions and resorts.
Disney’s Old Key West Resort– 549 units (2-bedroom equivalents) in a Key West setting (part of Disney Vacation Club). Accommodations include deluxe studios, one- and two-bedroom homes and two-story, three-bedroom Grand Villas that sleep up to 12. Dining includes Olivia’s Café, poolside fare at the Gurgling Suitcase, and Good’s Food to Go quick-service restaurant. Rooms include wet bar, microwave and small refrigerator, or a full kitchen. Health club, tennis, swimming pool, sauna and planned recreation. Linked by motor coach to all other Walt Disney World resorts and entertainment facilities.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Area
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge -Deluxe 972-room, six-story resort styled in a horseshoe shape after a kraal African village design, features 24-hour views to its own 46-acre savanna of free-roaming mammals and tropical birds. The resort features hand-carved furnishings, African art and a giant fireplace in a soaring lobby. Guests can stroll along a rock outcropping and enjoy nearly panoramic views of roaming animals and flowing streams. Features two full-service restaurants – Boma-Flavors of Africa and Jiko-The Cooking Place – plus a mezzanine lounge and a quick-service eatery with poolside dining. The resort is west of Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park.
The Villas at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge– This Disney Vacation Club resort offers 449 units (2-bedroom equivalents) featuring studio, one- and three-bedroom vacation villas at Jambo House and Kidani Village. Accommodations feature intricate African-inspired details and home-like amenities, and most offer sweeping views of an expanded savanna inhabited by a variety of African animals. Sanaa restaurant features “the art of African cooking with Indian flavors” and remarkable views of the resort’s savanna through nine-foot windows.
Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort – 1,917 moderate-price guestrooms, inspired by the American Southwest and regions of Mexico, encircling a 15-acre lagoon. Three “quiet” pools. A five-story Mayan pyramid serves as the splashy centerpiece for a family-fun pool with a water slide. Dining includes the Maya Grill full-service restaurant, Pepper Market dining court, Rix Lounge, Laguna Bar lounge, Siestas Cantina poolside bar and limited room service. Special services include in-room coffee makers and ironing equipment, La Vida Health Club, hair-styling salon, bike rentals, watercraft rentals, arcade, sand volleyball court, kiddie pool and playground. A 220,000-square-foot convention center includes the 60,214-square-foot Coronado Ballroom.
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort – 1,120 family suites and 864 standard guest rooms make up this family-friendly resort. The big blue world of Nemo and friends, the Pride Lands of Africa, under the sea in Ariel’s grotto, a super-charged adventure through Radiator Springs all come to life for vacationers in four distinctly designed wings. The resort celebrates rich storytelling, spirited characters, original sketches and playfulness with colorful icons and whimsical theming inspired by classic Disney and Disney Pixar films. Family suites include two bathrooms, a kitchenette and three separate sleeping areas that can sleep up to six; while standard rooms at The Little Mermaid can sleep up to four. Dining options in the main Animation Hall include a poolside snack bar, pizza delivery and Landscape of Flavors food court featuring many made to order offerings.
Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort – Features 1,920 value-priced rooms in buildings festooned with larger-than-life sports icons representing surfing, basketball, tennis, baseball and football. Located on a 246-acre site at the northwest quadrant of World Drive and U.S. Highway 192 interchange. Features a commercial center with check-in and guest service facilities, a food court, retail store and game room. Two swimming pools and a kiddie pool, a pool bar, pizza delivery and laundry facilities. Use of Walt Disney World transportation system is included.
Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort – 1,920-room resort with facilities and amenities that mirror Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort. Giant icons from favorite Disney movies set the scene, and images from “101 Dalmatians,” “Toy Story,” “Fantasia,” “The Mighty Ducks” and “The Love Bug” adorn the resort hotel.
Disney’s All-Star Music Resort– Features 1,489 value-priced rooms and 215 family suites in buildings with larger-than-life icons representing jazz, rock, Broadway, calypso and country music. Facilities and amenities are the same as Disney’s All-Star Sports and Disney’s All-Star Movies resorts. The family suites sleep up to six and offer two bedrooms, two full baths, a kitchenette and two 27″ flat screen TVs.
Shades of Green at Walt Disney World Resort – 586 rooms in a relaxed, country atmosphere overlooking golf courses, gardens or pools. Full-service dining available, plus snack bars, lounge and room service. Meeting space includes 1,000 square feet. Tennis, swimming, fitness center and game room. Walt Disney World continues maintenance of golf operations on the two PGA championship 18-hole golf courses and nine-hole walking course located adjacent to this property, and golf is available to all Disney resort guests. Shades of Green is operated as an Armed Forces Recreation Center for the exclusive use of military members and their families. For reservations: 407/824-3600.
Walt Disney World Swan and Walt Disney World Dolphin – 2,265 luxury rooms and 254,000 square feet of meeting and exhibition space. Seventeen restaurants and lounges, four swimming pools, two health clubs and a wide area of recreational activities. Connected to Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Disney’s BoardWalk via water and walkway.
Four Seasons – The 444-room Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort is located within the gates of the luxury residential community, Golden Oak at Walt Disney World Resort, just five miles from Magic Kingdom and four miles from Epcot. Accommodations include 68 suites with versatile connecting options ideal for families and groups of friends traveling together. A Tom Fazio-designed golf course will be refurbished and managed by Four Seasons. Indoor and outdoor treatments will be enjoyed in the spa’s 18 treatment rooms and gardens. Three restaurants will include a modern Italian ristorante, a southern poolside BBQ experience, and a 17th floor rooftop steakhouse with views of the nightly fireworks at Magic Kingdom and Epcot.
For reservations, visit DisneyWorld.com, call 407/W-DISNEY (934-7639), or a local travel agent.
Total number of resorts at Walt Disney World – 36*
Number of Disney owned/operated resorts – 26**
Number of Disney Vacation Club resorts at Walt Disney World – 8
Total number of guestrooms at Walt Disney World Resort – more than 30,000 ***
Number of Disney owned/operated guestrooms – nearly 24,000
Number of Disney Vacation Club units – 3,293 (2-bedroom equivalents)
Number of campsites at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground – 799
*Includes non-Disney resorts and eight Disney Vacation Club ownership resorts on property.
**Includes Disney Vacation Club resorts.
***Includes non-Disney resorts.
