Disney Installs Gates at Contemporary Resort’s Fireworks Viewing Area
Disney’s Contemporary Resort is locking down some of its upper-level views. Multiple gates have been installed on the resort’s popular fourth-floor observation deck to block guests from accessing higher stairwell landings—spots that many had been using as makeshift fireworks viewing areas, likely prompting this new safety measure.
The fourth-floor observation deck has long been a “not-so-hidden gem” for watching the Magic Kingdom fireworks outside the park. For years, savvy guests have used these outer stairwells to climb to higher landings for an even better vantage point—similar to the exclusive rooftop views found just upstairs at California Grill.
However, the addition of these new gates indicates that Disney is actively clamping down on the practice. Contemporary Resort Cast Members confirmed that these stairwells are required to remain completely clear for emergency evacuations. The gates serve as a direct deterrent, preventing guests from crowding the upper landings and blocking unauthorized access to the exclusive California Grill rooftop deck.
Two separate gates have been installed—one on each stairwell leading up from the observation deck.
What do you think about this change? Should Disney keep these upper landings completely off-limits to regular guests?
Set Installation Permit Filed for Alien Swirling Saucers
Toy Story Land might be getting a little refresh. Disney has officially filed a new permit targeting Alien Swirling Saucers, signaling upcoming work on the popular Hollywood Studios attraction.
Filed on May 28, 2026, the newly surfaced permit enlists the help of Icarus Exhibits, Inc. to “install set elements” at the Toy Story Land attraction. Valid for one full year unless extended, the permit points directly to the address of Alien Swirling Saucers.
Icarus Exhibits is a frequent collaborator with Walt Disney Imagineering, having recently lent their expertise to major projects like Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, Monstropolis, and the upcoming Indiana Jones attraction at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Because Disney has not announced any official updates or closures, this project will likely serve as a quick aesthetic refresh that can be completed without shutting down the ride.
What changes do you think will be coming to Alien Swirling Saucers?
Emporium’s Cinderella Castle Display Returns to Classic Gray
The miniature Cinderella Castle display inside the Magic Kingdom Emporium has been repainted gray, bringing it back in line with the look of the actual landmark just down Main Street.
If you look up near the center of the shop, you’ll spot the miniature castle sitting above the clothing racks. Until recently, it sported the pink hue that defined the park’s centerpiece for the last few years. Today, it stands as a perfect tiny replica of the actual castle anchoring the end of Main Street, U.S.A.
This change follows a park-wide shift. The real Cinderella Castle was given a bold pink, royal blue, and gray makeover for the 50th-anniversary celebration back in 2021. But in summer 2025, Disney decided to bring back nostalgia, announcing a return to the traditional gray and light blue color scheme. Painting kicked off in January 2026, and with only the moat area left to finish, the park’s ultimate icon—and its retail counterpart—look classic once again.
Three Classic Disneyland Attractions Facing Early Summer Closures
If you are planning a trip to the Happiest Place on Earth to kick off the sunny summer season, you might want to double-check your itinerary! Disneyland Resort has officially scheduled temporary refurbishments for three fan-favorite attractions, meaning some major landmarks will be taking a brief hiatus just as the summer crowds start to roll in.
While routine maintenance is a necessary part of keeping the magic running smoothly, it can definitely catch unsuspecting park-goers off guard. Here is a look at which classic attractions are currently down or heading into hibernation as June arrives.
Disneyland is preparing to temporarily close three additional attractions for seasonal refurbishments just as the busy summer season kicks into high gear. With schools letting out and families flocking to the Anaheim theme parks for their summer vacations, these scheduled maintenance windows will mean a few more temporary adjustments for park-goers’ itineraries.
Starting in June, Soarin’ Over California, Pixie Hollow, and the nighttime spectacular “Fantasmic!” will all pause operations. These closures are part of standard, routine refurbishments or pre-planned seasonal scheduling across both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure.
These three upcoming closures will join an already extensive list of dark attractions. The resort’s current refurbishment lineup already includes major favorites like Pirates of the Caribbean, Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters, Silly Symphony Swings, and Inside Out Emotional Whirlwind, all of which were previously shuttered for maintenance.
Soarin’ Over California is preparing to wrap up its popular seasonal revival at Disney California Adventure. The nostalgia-fueled flight over the Golden State, which returned for the park’s Food & Wine Festival, will officially end its run on June 30.
The attraction will close for a single day on July 1 to allow Imagineers to install a brand-new, patriotic-themed film just in time for the 250th anniversary of the United States. The all-new experience, titled Soarin’ Across America, will make its official West Coast debut on July 2, taking guests on a limited-time journey over iconic landscapes and cityscapes from sea to shining sea.
Over at Disneyland Park, the “Fantasmic!” nighttime spectacular along the Rivers of America will briefly go dark on June 16 and 18. Don’t fret if you’re visiting later in the week, though—daily performances of the beloved show are expected to continue standard operations throughout the rest of the summer.
Meanwhile, Pixie Hollow in Fantasyland is implementing a modified operating schedule for the month. The whimsical meet-and-greet area will be closed on Tuesdays and Thursdays throughout June (specifically June 2, 4, 9, 11, 16, 18, 23, 25, and 30). These brief weekday pauses come shortly after the character spot wrapped up a major, 10-month refurbishment to refresh Tinker Bell’s home.
Disney-Themed MRI Machines Debut to Comfort Young Patients
In a heartwarming collaboration, Disney and health tech giant Philips have teamed up to bring a touch of comfort to children undergoing MRI scans. By seamlessly integrating beloved Disney stories and characters directly into the medical equipment and room design, the partnership creates an immersive, magical environment that helps ease anxiety and transform a potentially scary hospital experience into a familiar adventure.
The newly designed scanners have officially launched in the United States, the United Kingdom, and several other countries. Anyone who has ever had an MRI knows that these machines can be incredibly loud, cramped, and uncomfortable—an experience that is often deeply overwhelming for young children.
To help ease that anxiety, beloved Disney characters and vibrant storybook scenes are built directly into the scanner environments to distract and comfort pediatric patients. Hospitals can choose from a variety of immersive themes, including The Little Mermaid, Sorcerer Mickey, Spider-Man, and other iconic Marvel heroes.
This innovative approach is backed by impressive medical data. A clinical study conducted across six European hospitals revealed that these child-friendly, themed machines significantly reduced stress levels in patients between the ages of 6 and 10. Even more notable, the study saw scan disruptions and pauses drop by a staggering 63% compared to standard MRI environments.
“The data showed that a child-friendly audio-visual intervention reduced stress levels in young children and decreased scan disruptions, supporting a smoother MRI workflow,” said Emilio J. Inarejos Clemente of the Department of Diagnostic Imaging at Sant Joan de Deu Hospital in Barcelona, Spain. “This can help clinicians maintain efficiency and focus on delivering high-quality diagnostic imaging, helping more patients to be seen without compromising care.”
Following this successful rollout, eligible MRI machines in 87 countries are set to receive these magical, patient-focused upgrades.
“At Disney, we believe stories have the power to bring comfort and emotional connection to children and families,” said Lisa Haines, Senior Vice President of Corporate Social Responsibility at The Walt Disney Company. “We’re proud to collaborate with Philips to extend that impact into MRI rooms in a meaningful way—using our beloved stories and characters to help provide moments of escape, normalcy, and reassurance during what can be an intimidating experience for kids in hospitals.”
By weaving iconic Disney storytelling directly into the medical environment, the initiative creates a comforting space that actively encourages young patients to stay calm and still. This stress reduction doesn’t just improve the emotional experience for children and their worried families; it also delivers vital practical benefits for medical professionals.
“By bringing Disney stories into the MRI environment, we are helping create a setting where children can feel more at ease and remain still during scans,” remarked Atul Gupta, Philips’ Chief Medical Officer. “Reducing stress can improve the experience for young patients and their families, while helping care teams deliver efficient, high-quality imaging so they can care for more children each day, supporting better care for more people.”
Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Officially Designated as Walt Disney World Gateway Hotel
Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Officially Named a Walt Disney World Gateway Hotel
The Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Resort has officially earned the prestigious designation of a Walt Disney World Gateway Hotel. Located just minutes from the theme parks, this exciting new status allows guests to seamlessly book their stay at the luxury resort as part of an official, all-in-one Walt Disney World vacation package.
Spanning an award-winning 1,500 acres, the stunning Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress is situated directly adjacent to Walt Disney World and just minutes from Universal Orlando and SeaWorld Orlando. The resort boasts an incredible array of premium amenities and activities, including champion-level golfing on a course beautifully designed by the legendary Jack Nicklaus.
Nestled along the sandy beaches of the resort’s private Lake Windsong, the crown jewel of the property is its free-flowing, 800,000-gallon lagoon pool. This massive water paradise features 12 cascading waterfalls, two relaxing whirlpools, a rock-climbing wall, and an interactive water jet splash zone—all framed by expansive wrap-around sundecks and scenic walking paths. Beyond the pool, families can enjoy an evening s’mores pit, exciting watersports, and miles of clearly marked trails for jogging, walking, and biking.
The resort’s culinary lineup is a major highlight, anchored by Four Flamingos: A Richard Blais Florida Kitchen—a Michelin-recommended dining experience crafted by celebrity chef Richard Blais. Guests can also enjoy fresh, family-friendly meals at the LakehouseRestaurant or grab casual, refreshing bites right by the water at the On The Rocks Poolside Grill.
“This partnership makes planning a Walt Disney World vacation seamless for our guests, allowing them to book their entire experience while enjoying their stay with us,” said General Manager Majed Farah. “Combined with our prime location and resort-style amenities, Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress is an ideal choice for families looking to create unforgettable Disney memories.”
As an official Walt Disney World Gateway Hotel, travelers can now bundle a stay at the resort with theme park tickets into a complete Walt Disney World vacation package directly through the Walt Disney World website or call center.
To make the theme park experience even more convenient, guests receive complimentary resort shuttle transportation directly to the Walt Disney World Transportation and Ticket Center, EPCOT, and Disney Springs, with easy connecting service available to Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
“We are thrilled to work alongside such a fantastic team with this new relationship, infusing the magic of a Walt Disney World vacation with the unforgettable experiences that can be found throughout Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress for families,” said Eric Watkins, Director of Travel Industry Sales and Marketing for Disney Destinations.
The luxury resort comes highly decorated, having been recognized among the top five Orlando resorts in both the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards and the U.S. News & World Report rankings.
Guests can choose from a diverse selection of beautifully appointed room types, ranging from comfortable standard guest rooms to expansive, luxurious suites. For the ultimate getaway, the property features the stunning, 2,375-square-foot President’s House, tucked away on the resort’s private lake. Best of all, the hotel is completely pet-friendly, ensuring that every beloved member of the household can join in on the vacation fun.
Ready to plan your next magical getaway? Guests can book their stay at the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress as part of a vacation package directly via the official Walt Disney World website or by calling (407) 934-7639. For more details on the resort’s premium amenities and offerings, visit HyattRegencyGrandCypress.com.
Interactive Cookie Painting and More Debuts at Disney Springs
Disney Springs is officially diving headfirst into the Cool KIDS’ SUMMER celebration, unleashing a vibrant lineup of family-friendly activities, live entertainment, and interactive fun. Running from now through September 8 at Walt Disney World, it’s the ultimate way for families to beat the heat, get creative, and make unforgettable summer memories together!
One of the most exciting additions to the lineup is the Mickey and Minnie Cookie Art with Edible Watercolor Paintsover at Amorette’s Patisserie. This incredibly fun treat allows kids to let their inner artists shine by decorating classic character cookies using actual edible paints and brushes. Honestly, it sounds like one of those brilliantly creative activities that parents will enjoy diving into just as much as the little ones!
Over at the AdventHealth Waterside Stage, Disney is cranking up the volume and energy with the brand-new DescenDANCE Party x Camp Rock Jam. If your family has Disney Channel nostalgia running through its veins, this high-energy music and dance experience is easily going to be one of the most popular hot spots of the summer season.
For younger guests looking to dive into a classic Disney park tradition, a dedicated Kids Pin Trading experience is now happening at Disney’s Pin Traders. This specialized setup gives junior collectors a fantastic, low-pressure opportunity to trade pins without having to navigate the overwhelming crowds of seasoned collectors. And if the summer heat gets to be a bit too much, the Marketplace splash pad area is getting in on the action as well, providing the perfect place for little ones to cool off and play!
The Disney Springs Kids Club Presented by Coppertone is officially taking over the Marketplace Splash Pad area. It features a lively lineup of games, interactive activities, and extra entertainment curated specifically for younger guests looking to splash away the heat during those intense Central Florida afternoons.
Disney has been pulling out all the stops to promote Cool KIDS’ SUMMER across Walt Disney World, filling the resort with brand-new entertainment, immersive Bluey experiences, updated attraction offerings, high-energy dance parties, and delicious seasonal snacks. It is incredibly refreshing to see Disney Springs included in the lineup with activities that feel genuinely family-focused, giving parents and kids a perfect place to play together outside the theme parks.
Starting this summer, Universal Studios Hollywood amplifies the thrills with the return of Mega Movie Summer, a beloved seasonal festival showcasing a vibrant array of shows, snacks, and unique gear inspired by legendary and future hits from Universal Pictures and Illumination. This special engagement begins Saturday, June 13 and runs every day through Sunday, August 9, 2026, and is fully covered by standard theme park entry.
Universal Studios Hollywood is also providing visitors the opportunity to enjoy two premier L.A. days with the Buy A Day, Get A 2nd Day Free General Admission deal. Travelers can buy this pass online via the Universal Studios Hollywood site to secure their complimentary second visit, with both trips concluded by December 16, 2026. The initial date is set by the buyer at purchase. Blackout dates affect the free return. Other conditions apply.
The current Mega Movie Summer highlights jump from the cinema into the park via several unique and interactive displays inspired by Illumination’s upcoming Minions & Monsters, hitting theaters July 1, atmosphere-driven sets from Christopher Nolan’s fresh action legend The Odyssey, debuting July 17, the landmark 25th anniversary of the Fast & Furious franchise, and the comeback of enchanting icons Elphaba and Glinda from Wicked and Wicked: For Good.
Creative limited-time dining and drink options designed by Universal Studios Hollywood’s Executive Chef, Julia Thrash, will enhance Mega Movie Summer’s engaging attractions to ensure every visitor discovers the ultimate summer experience in Los Angeles
Mega Movie Summer 2026 at a glance:
Illumination’s Minions & Monsters brings the film’s all-new Minions stars, Henry and James, to Super Silly Fun Land near “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem,” featuring interactive guest experiences and an energetic Minion Dance Party.
An all-new parks’ exclusive Minions & Monsters-themed merchandise collection will be available for purchase, including an all-new Shoulder Pal themed to new monster character Goomi from the film, blind box figures, apparel, accessories and more, just in time to celebrate the theatrical release of the film.
The Minions Cafe will serve an array of vibrant new treats, including Howard’s Berry Lemonade Cupcake and James’ Carbonara, a cavatappi pasta tossed in a garlic cream sauce with pancetta and peas. Despicable Delights offers Irene’s Orange Banana Float, a new delectable frozen beverage.
Celebrate The Odyssey at Universal Studios Hollywood with epic, behind-the-scenes moments tied to the groundbreaking cinematic adaptation of Homer’s foundational saga, written for the screen and directed by Christopher Nolan. One of the original ships featured in the film will be on display exclusively along the world-famous Studio Tour. Insightful footage and filmmaker interviews will play on the tram monitors, offering fans a closer look at the making of this cinematic adventure.
Universal Studios Hollywood joins Universal Pictures in commemorating the 25th anniversary of the Fast & Furious film franchise and its high-speed legacy with a dazzling display of authentic picture cars from the films within Universal Plaza. A rousing hip-hop performance by the Street Racers dance show and a daily DJ will bring a new level of energy to the scene, adding to the excitement as the countdown continues to the eagerly awaited opening of the theme park’s “Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift” roller coaster this summer.
Fans can also shop for new merchandise celebrating the anniversary at the 101 Exchange store, located adjacent to “Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift.”
Hollywood & Dine, located near the park’s main entrance, shifts into high gear by transforming into Drift & Dine, offering a Fast & Furious–themed, limited-time menu, that will include such items as L.A. Drift Dog, BBQ Chicken Platter, Fried Elote Corn Dog, BBQ Corn Ribs, Quarter Mile Funnel Cake and Street Cart Watermelon and Pineapple. The Cocina Mexicana restaurant, located adjacent to “Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift” will offer shareable La Familia Meal, bringing bold flavors and family-style dining to Mega Movie Summer.
Guests and fans of Universal Pictures’ global cinematic phenomenon, Wicked and Wicked: For Good,can once again defy gravity with beloved Elphaba and Glinda character meet and greets at the vibrantly themed photo op, located near the DreamWorks Theatre. A selection of Wicked parks exclusive merchandise will also be available for purchase, including Spirit Jerseys, plush and more.
As guests prepare to dive into summer, Steven Spielberg’s landmark thriller, Jaws readies to take a bite out of Mel’s Diner with a specially themed menu serving up returning favorites such as the Shark Bait Burger, Lobster Roll, Fish & Chicken Basket and Amity Island Funnel Cake. Plus, Studio Scoops, located on the lower lot, debuts the Hello Kitty Jaws Blueberry Cheesecake Sundae.
A selection of exclusive Jaws-inspired merchandise, including a new Loungefly crossbody bag, apparel and accessories will also be available for purchase.
Universal CityWalk Hollywood joins the celebration of Mega Movie Summer with a lineup of limited-time offerings, including:
The impressive 34-foot-tall Trojan Horse from Christopher Nolan’s upcoming 2026 film The Odyssey arrives at Universal CityWalk Hollywood for a limited-time appearance, beginning in July, located in front of the Universal Cinema AMC.
NBC Sports Grill & Brew offers bold flavors with its new menu options in honor of Fast & Furious 25th Anniversary, featuring the Full Throttle Teriyaki Burger, Drift Tandem Skewers, Car Meet Platter and a refreshing new cocktail, the Nitrous Boost.
The authentic Mexican cuisine destination, Antojitos Cocina Mexicana, serves two new flavorful dishes inspired by Fast & Furious – the Birria Burger and La Familia Platter, plus a refreshing tequila-based cocktail.
Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville offers up island vibes with two Jaws-themed items, Beachside Melt and the Forbidden Waters cocktail.
Voodoo Doughnut brings a playful twist with a lineup of whimsical Minions & Monsters inspired Doughnuts – the Banana Cream Mayhem Doughnut and the Minions & Monsters Mischief Doughnut.
Universal Kids Resort to Adopt Seasonal Operating Schedule
Families planning a visit to the new Universal Kids Resort will want to pay close attention to the calendar. While the highly anticipated theme park is set to open on July 1, 2026, it won’t operate every day of the year like Universal Orlando’s other theme parks.
According to information published on the Universal Kids Resort hotel website, the park will have several planned closure dates during its first winter season. Rather than shutting down for extended periods, the resort will close on select days throughout November, December, and January.
Currently scheduled closure dates include:
• November 3-4, 10-11, 17-18, and 26 • December 25 • January 5-8, 11-15, and 19-31
Universal notes that these dates are subject to change and that additional closures may be added at the resort’s discretion.
Located in Frisco, Texas, Universal Kids Resort is designed specifically for younger children and their families. The park will feature immersive lands based on beloved franchises from DreamWorks, Illumination, Nickelodeon, and Jurassic World, along with interactive play experiences throughout the resort.
Guests will be able to explore themed areas including DreamWorks’ Shrek’s Swamp, Puss in Boots Del Mar, Minions vs. Minions: Bello Bay Club, Jurassic World Adventure Camp, TrollsFest, SpongeBob SquarePants’ Bikini Bottom, and the original Isle of Curiosity.
Unlike traditional theme parks that focus heavily on thrill rides, Universal Kids Resort is being built around hands-on experiences, imaginative play, sensory-friendly spaces, and family interaction. Features such as chalk drawing areas, bubble play zones, water blasters, and sensory gardens are designed to encourage exploration and creativity.
Time to Make a Splash in Style with The Little Mermaid Loungefly Collection
If you’ve been dreaming of adding some serious under-the-sea magic to your style, stop what you’re doing right now. A brand-new, exclusive The Little Mermaid Loungefly collection has officially arrived, and it is absolute perfection. Whether you’re strolling down the boardwalk or just running your daily errands, this gorgeous duo is guaranteed to make you feel like the ultimate mermaid princess.
First up is the absolute crown jewel of the drop: The Little Mermaid Exclusive Ariel, Flounder, & Sebastian Mini Backpack ($90). Seriously, you’re going to want to make this stunning bag a permanent Part of Your World! The design completely immerses you in ocean waves, featuring gorgeous debossed details of all your iconic favs. Ariel takes center stage with her signature, flowing red locks, looking absolutely radiant alongside her favorite crustacean sidekick, Sebastian. But the real showstopper? A super cute, interactive Flounder sits just below them with fins that actually move! Of course, it wouldn’t be a classic Disney tale without a little drama, if you peep the side pockets, you’ll spot Ursula trying her absolute best to creep in and upstage our beloved mermaid. Whether you’re hanging out under the sea or exploring the world above, this bag is an instant fashion level-up.
If you love a matching moment and let’s be real, who doesn’t?, you absolutely have to pair the backpack with The Little Mermaid Exclusive Ariel, Flounder & Sebastian Card Holder ($26). It’s the perfect way to carry a little piece of the ocean with you wherever you go without the bulk. The front features the same beautiful debossed artwork of Ariel, Sebastian, and Flounder, while the flip side shows off Ursula flaunting her iconic tentacles. It’s just as functional as it is cute, packed with four card slots and a clear ID slot to keep your essentials totally organized.
This charming collection is already making major waves in the Disney style community, so don’t wait until they swim away!
New Cool Kids’ Summer Guide Map Arrives at Magic Kingdom
Families visiting Magic Kingdom this summer have a brand-new planning tool to help make the most of their day. Walt Disney World’s 2026 Cool Kids’ Summer celebration officially kicked off on May 26, and Magic Kingdom is now offering a special guide map packed with kid-friendly activities, attractions, entertainment, and interactive surprises.
The colorful map features fan-favorite characters and attractions on the cover, including Jessie, Cinderella Castle, Mad Tea Party, and “it’s a small world.” Kids can even personalize their own map by writing their name on the front before heading off on their adventure.
Inside, the guide serves as both a planning tool and activity booklet. Parents will find helpful information on strollers, lockers, Baby Care Centers, Rider Switch, My Disney Experience features, and splash zones. Meanwhile, young explorers can discover recommended attractions, family-friendly dining locations, and entertainment offerings designed specifically for Disney’s Cool Kids’ Summer event.
One of the biggest highlights featured on the map is Jessie’s Roundup at Diamond Horseshoe. The new entertainment offering marks the first show at the location in nearly two decades and serves as one of the signature experiences of this year’s summer celebration.
The fun continues on the back of the map with interactive activities, including a Winnie the Pooh-themed game, a space to draw your favorite Disney snack, and a spot to place a sticker of your favorite Disney character. The fold-out map also includes attraction markers and character icons designed to help younger guests navigate the park with ease.
Animal Kingdom’s Viral Cookie Dough Brownie Ice Cream Sandwich Now Available at a Second Location
One of the hottest snacks at Disney’s Animal Kingdom just got a little easier to find! The wildly popular Cookie Dough Brownie Ice Cream Sandwich, which has been drawing long lines since its debut earlier this year, is now available at a second location inside the park.
Originally sold exclusively at Terra Treats near Creature Comforts, the indulgent dessert can now also be found at the ice cream stand located near Island Mercantile on Discovery Island. The additional location should help guests satisfy their sweet tooth without having to brave the lengthy lines that often form for this fan-favorite treat.
Priced at $8.29, the dessert layers creamy vanilla ice cream between a rich brownie base and a thick topping of edible cookie dough. It’s then finished with mini chocolate chips, colorful sprinkles, and a touch of salt that helps balance the sweetness. The combination has become a surprise sensation among Disney foodies, with many guests calling it one of the best desserts currently available at Walt Disney World.
The added location is especially welcome as Central Florida temperatures continue to climb heading into summer. Guests should note that availability may vary throughout the day, as the treat was reportedly not available during some morning hours before appearing later in the afternoon.
