Disney Legend Tony Baxter Shares the Making of Indiana Jones Adventure
“Welcome, my friends!” Since its 1995 debut, Indiana Jones Adventure has challenged Disneyland guests to survive the Temple of the Forbidden Eye. Now, you can join Disney Legend and former Imagineer Tony Baxter for an exclusive look at how this iconic attraction was brought to life—just remember to heed the warning and avoid the eyes of Mara!
This event will take place at the ILM Theater in San Francisco, California, on Saturday, April 4th. It’s $25 for members of The Walt Disney Family Museum, $45 for adults, $40 for seniors & students, and $35 for youth. Children ages 5 and under are free.
Tickets for this event went on sale starting February 24th. Sadly, if you didn’t already purchase a ticket, they are now sold out.
As a powerhouse of the “second generation” of Imagineers, Disney Legend Tony Baxter has shaped the Disney landscape for over 50 years. His legendary portfolio includes icons like Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Splash Mountain, and Indiana Jones™ Adventure, along with the creative oversight of Disneyland Paris. Since transitioning to a Creative Advisor role in 2013, Baxter has continued to lend his visionary input to Disney Parks worldwide.
A celebrated figure in the industry, Baxter’s career is chronicled in his biography, Tony Baxter: First of the Second Generation of Walt Disney Imagineers. His immense contributions have earned him the TEA Lifetime Achievement Award and the prestigious Disney Legends Award. Perhaps most significantly, his legacy is forever cemented with a dedicated window on Main Street, U.S.A. at Disneyland—an honor he considers his most cherished recognition.
Hallmark Christmas Movie Filming Wraps Up at Walt Disney World
The Hallmark Channel and Disney Parks have officially confirmed that filming has wrapped for the upcoming movie, Holiday Ever After: A Disney World Wish Come True. The announcement, shared via a celebratory Instagram post, marks the completion of the first-ever original holiday film collaboration between the two brands shot entirely on location at the resort.
Initially announced last December, Holiday Ever After: A Disney World Wish Come True was filmed across the Walt Disney World Resort and is set to headline the Hallmark Channel’s 17th annual Countdown to Christmas. To celebrate the wrap, stars Lacey Chabert and Travis Van Winkle—along with castmates Richard Kind, Christy Carlson Romano, and others—gathered in front of Cinderella Castle before heading off to enjoy the park’s attractions.
The story follows Lindsey (Chabert) as she heads to Florida for a dream family vacation, only to find her holiday spirit dampened when she discovers her hotel room is right next to Philip (Van Winkle), a disastrous former first date. However, as the two repeatedly cross paths throughout the “Most Magical Place on Earth,” the tension begins to melt. Between the holiday decor and a special wish made at the Cinderella fountain, Lindsey might just find that her rivalry is turning into a true Disney romance.
Black Tap Reveals the New CrazyShake Menu for Disney Springs
Just over a week after the big reveal, we finally have the full scoop on the CrazyShake pop-up at Disney Springs—complete with the official menu lineup and pricing!
Opening for a limited run on March 2, 2026, this pop-up takes over the former Sprinkles building, which sat vacant after the brand’s nationwide closure on New Year’s Day. CrazyShake is ready to fill that void with its legendary, Instagram-ready treats, headlined by the Special Edition Mickey Mouse Shake. This showstopper features a vanilla-frosted rim with Mickey sprinkles, topped off with a homemade Mickey-shaped crispy treat, rock candy, whipped cream, and a cherry.
The following shakes are $17.50 each:
Bam Bam Shake – fruity pebbles shake; vanilla frosted rim with Fruity Pebbles, topped with a Fruity Pebbles Rice Krispies treat, strawberry Pop-Tarts, Laffy Taffy, whipped cream, and a cherry
Cookies ‘N Cream Supreme – Oreo shake; vanilla frosted rim with crushed Oreos, topped with a cookies ‘n cream sandwich, crumbled Oreos, whipped cream, and chocolate drizzle
The Cookie Shake – vanilla cookie shake; vanilla frosted rim with cookie crumbles, topped with a ‘cookiewich,’ crumbled cookies, chocolate chips, whipped cream, and chocolate drizzle
Brooklyn Blackout – chocolate shake; chocolate frosted rim with mini chocolate chips, topped with a chocolate brownie, whipped cream, and chocolate drizzle
There’s also a special edition shake that is $24:
Special Edition Mickey Shake – A strawberry shake with a vanilla frosted rim and Mickey Mouse sprinkles, topped with a homemade Mickey Mouse-shaped crisped treat, white and red rock candy, whipped cream, red sprinkles, and a cherry.
CrazyShake will also offer Classic shakes which will be $12 each.
Known globally for its flagship Disneyland Resort location in the Downtown Disney District, Black Tap Craft Burgers & Shakes is now bringing its signature flair to Florida. CrazyShake is the brand’s world-famous line of specialty milkshakes, designed to be as much a feast for your eyes as they are for your sweet tooth.
Are you excited to see CrazyShake come to Disney Springs?
Disney World Resort Guests Can Save Up to 25% on Select Disney Cruises
Keep the magic alive even after you leave the parks! Guests who have recently stayed at a Walt Disney World Deluxe or Deluxe Villa Resort are now eligible to save up to 25% on their Disney Cruise Line voyage fare. Whether you’re looking to sail from the sunny coasts of Florida, Texas, or California, you can enjoy a magical cruise.
Aquatica Orlando Debuts New Island Experiences for 2026
Get ready to trade your sweaters for swimsuits. Aquatica Orlando is officially turning up the tropical heat with the return of Aloha to Summer, a limited-time weekend party series running March 7 through May 3.
This year, the park is transforming into the ultimate island-inspired escape, blending high-energy splash parties and live entertainment with brand-new interactive activations and a fresh menu of Polynesian flavors. Whether you’re looking to challenge the family to a sandcastle contest or sip a Mai Tai at a refreshed bar, Aquatica is proving you don’t need a passport to find paradise.
Before you even hit the slides, you’ll notice significant upgrades designed to make your visit smoother. Aquatica Orlando is rolling out several guest experience enhancements to ensure the 2026 season is the best yet:
Streamlined Entry: An additional toll booth is being added to improve traffic flow and get guests into the water faster during peak weekends.
New Treats: Plans are underway for a dedicated Coffee and Funnel Cake shop, perfect for a midday pick-me-up.
Refreshed Relaxation:Ke-Re’s Bar has been completely updated with a more vibrant look and expanded guest space, making it the primary hub for tropical relaxation during the event.
The 2026 season introduces several “firsts,” ensuring that every weekend feels like a new adventure. Upon arrival, guests will be greeted with a Welcome Celebration featuring festive Hawaiian leis and a refreshing sip to start the party immediately.
The energy stays high at the Summer Splash Parties in the Polynesian Realm, where DJs and water sprayers keep the crowd cool and moving. For those who enjoy a bit of creativity, the park is introducing Rotating Weekend Experiences. Families can enjoy different interactive activations each visit, ranging from sandcastle and shell art to surfboard painting.
Even the attractions are getting a makeover. Tassie’s Underwater Twist will feature a brand-new audio and video overlay, giving the ride a fresh summer vibe exclusive to Aloha to Summer weekends. Meanwhile, adults can head to Ke-Re’s Bar for the new Bar Trivia series to test their island knowledge while enjoying specialty tropical drinks.
All-New Island Flavors
No tropical party is complete without a feast. This year’s event debuts a curated menu of island-inspired bites and beverages across the park. Highlights include:
Huli Huli Ribs: Sweet-and-savory island-style BBQ that falls off the bone.
Ahi Tuna Poke Nachos: Crispy chips topped with fresh tuna and bright, tropical garnishes.
Signature Sips: A fresh lineup of cocktails and mocktails, including the citrus-forward Green Hawaiian and the classic Hawaiian Mai Tai.
Exclusive Perks for Pass Members
Aquatica is rolling out the red carpet for its most loyal fans. During Aloha to Summer, Annual Pass Members have access to a dedicated welcome area at Tassie’s Twisted Cove, an exclusive festive craft activity, and priority access to Tassie’s Underwater Twist during the morning hours.
The best way to catch every wave of Aloha to Summer—and the rest of the 2026 season—is with an Aquatica Orlando Annual Pass, which offers unlimited visits, early entry, and seasonal event access.
For tickets, passes, and a full schedule of weekend events, visit AquaticaOrlando.com.
Epcot Breezeway Seating Area Near Connections Cafe Gone
Whether you’re a Starbucks devotee or a fan of the Liege waffle, the breezeway between Connections Café and Creations Shop has long served as a vital “overflow” zone for EPCOT guests. However, recent shifts in the park’s layout have seen the removal of the traditional breezeway seating area, marking another chapter in the ongoing evolution of World Celebration.
Here is the breakdown of why this popular rest stop has vanished and where you can head instead.
The breezeway seating was originally introduced as a temporary solution to a massive problem: the high demand for indoor seating at Connections Café. When the eatery first opened, the interior often reached capacity within minutes of the lunch rush, leading Disney to install a variety of benches, tables, and umbrellas in the outdoor corridor.
As of early 2026, several factors have led to its removal:
Crowd Flow Optimization: With the full opening of CommuniCore Hall and Plaza, Disney has focused on keeping the primary thoroughfares clear. The breezeway is a major “artery” for guests moving between World Discovery (Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind) and the front of the park; removing the furniture prevents bottlenecks.
The Shift to CommuniCore: Much of the “leisure” infrastructure has been shifted to the nearby CommuniCore area, which was specifically designed to handle festival crowds and offer more permanent seating solutions.
Festival Layouts: During major events like the Flower & Garden Festival, these open spaces are often reclaimed for topiaries, character meet-and-greets (such as the Lightning McQueen & Mater display), or floral installations that require a clear line of sight.
If you’ve just grabbed your cold brew and are looking for a place to rest your feet, don’t panic. There are several superior alternatives just steps away:
1. CommuniCore Hall (Indoor/Outdoor)
Located directly across from the back exit of Connections, this is the new “living room” of EPCOT. It offers air-conditioned indoor seating and plenty of outdoor benches under the shade of the plaza’s geometric canopy.
2. World Celebration Gardens
The “lush” center of the park now features numerous built-in benches and planters designed for sitting. While not always shaded, it offers a much more scenic view of Spaceship Earth than the concrete breezeway.
3. The Odyssey Pavilion
Often overlooked between Test Track and Mexico, the Odyssey is a massive indoor space that is frequently open to the public during festivals. It is almost always cooler and quieter than Connections.
4. Journey of Water (Pathways)
If you just need a quick standing break or a cool mist, the pathways near the Moana-themed attraction offer several “nooks” that are far less chaotic than the main dining corridors.
While many regulars will miss the convenience of the breezeway tables, the change reflects Disney’s desire to return EPCOT to its “open and airy” roots. By moving the “clutter” of tables into dedicated zones like CommuniCore, the park feels less like a food court and more like the futuristic garden it was meant to be.
Ryan Coogler’s The X-Files Reboot Ordered to Pilot by Disney-Owned Hulu
The truth is out there… and it’s heading back to your screen. Disney-owned Hulu has officially ordered a pilot for a reboot of The X-Files from filmmaker Ryan Coogler.
According to Variety, Danielle Deadwyler is attached to star as one of the two lead FBI agents. The other lead role has not yet been cast. The logline teases two highly decorated but vastly different agents who form an unlikely bond after being assigned to a long-shuttered division devoted to unexplained phenomena. Yes, that division.
Coogler will write, direct, and executive produce the pilot under his Proximity Media banner. Proximity co-founders Sev Ohanian and Zinzi Coogler will also executive produce, alongside Simone Harris. Jennifer Yale is set to serve as showrunner and executive producer. Original series creator Chris Carter will also executive produce, keeping a thread of DNA from the original run woven into this new chapter.
The original The X-Files aired from 1993 to 2002 and became a pop culture phenomenon, starring David Duchovny as Fox Mulder and Gillian Anderson as Dana Scully. The paranormal procedural followed the pair as they investigated strange and often unsettling cases tucked away in the FBI’s basement files. The franchise also included a 1998 feature film and 2008’s The X-Files: I Want to Believe, plus a two-season revival that aired in 2016 and 2018.
At this time, neither Duchovny nor Anderson are attached to the Hulu pilot. The new project is being developed by Onyx Collective and 20th Television.
With Coogler’s cinematic style and a fresh cast stepping into the shadows, this reboot could aim for something atmospheric and character driven while honoring the eerie legacy of the original. The basement office light may be flickering back on.
Cake Bake Shop at Disney’s BoardWalk Accused of Wage Violations Amid High Menu Prices
A popular and often talked about bakery at Disney’s BoardWalk is now facing serious legal allegations. The Cake Bake Shop Restaurant by Gwendolyn Rogers has been accused by at least 10 former employees of paying under minimum wage, requiring off-the-clock work for uniform preparation, and deducting money from paychecks for cleaning and shoe purchases.
According to complaints filed in Orange County Civil Court and federal court in 2025 and 2026, former servers and bartenders claim they relied on tips but were assigned what lawsuits describe as “excessive” side work that prevented them from being properly compensated. Allegations include being required to perform cleaning, stocking, washing dishes, packing to-go orders, mopping, dusting, and handling heavy LED lamps before and after their tip-producing shifts. Some workers say they were required to spend up to an hour per shift preparing their uniforms off the clock.
Court filings cite alleged violations of the Florida Minimum Wage Act and the Fair Labor Standards Act. One pending federal lawsuit filed by a former bartender seeks damages between $15,000 and $50,000, exclusive of interest, costs, and attorney’s fees. Several cases filed last year reportedly reached settlements covering owed wages and legal fees before being voluntarily dismissed.
The litigation is being handled by attorney Tanner Riche, who declined to comment. The Cake Bake Shop also declined to comment on the specific allegations but issued a statement through Vice President Angie Daniel saying the company remains committed to its team members and to fostering a respectful and positive workplace.
If accurate, the reporting is especially striking given the well-publicized pricing at the location since it opened in 2024. The bakery quickly became known for its $22 cake slices, $12 to $13 croissants, $8 teas and lemonades, $12 cold brew, and specialty cocktails reaching $20 to $25. Even souvenir goblet drinks and champagne options can run significantly higher. The shop drew both buzz and criticism for its premium pricing, with four slices of cake famously totaling $93 during early media previews.
The Cake Bake Shop has built a reputation for elaborate desserts, ornate décor, and luxury presentation along the BoardWalk. Now, the focus has shifted from buttercream rosettes to courtroom filings. As the cases continue to move through the legal system, more details may emerge.
New Gate Link Trams Installed at Orlando International Airport in $253 Million Upgrade
If your Disney vacation officially begins the second you step onto the airport tram, you are going to like this update. Orlando International Airport has installed another set of brand new Gate Link trams as part of a massive $253 million modernization project.
The Gate Link system is the automated tram that connects Terminals A and B to gates 70 through 129, including Airsides 2 and 4. In short, it is the ride that stands between you and your first glimpse of Central Florida sunshine. These new vehicles are part of a full system overhaul that goes far beyond a fresh coat of paint.
The project includes replacing all tram vehicles, running surfaces, operating systems, power distribution equipment, vehicle controls, communication systems, and platform screen doors. Essentially, MCO is rebuilding the system from the tracks up to keep passenger flow smooth for millions of travelers each year. For a city powered by theme park tourism, that seamless movement is everything.
Airport officials shared that there is still plenty of testing ahead before the new trams are fully operational. The overall project is scheduled for completion in Fall 2027, meaning guests flying in for future Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando adventures will be cruising between terminal and gate on a fully modernized system.
For frequent flyers into MCO, this is one of those behind the scenes upgrades that makes a huge difference. Fewer delays, updated technology, and improved infrastructure mean less waiting and more time heading toward Cinderella Castle or your next roller coaster fix.
Club Level Guests Can Save 20% on Disney Private VIP Tours at Walt Disney World
If you have ever dreamed of walking through the parks like theme park royalty, this offer might be your golden FastPass. Guests staying Club Level at Walt Disney World Resort can now save 20% on a Disney Private VIP Tour for a limited time this spring and summer.
For select stays, Club Level guests can unlock savings on one of the most exclusive experiences Disney offers. With a Disney Private VIP Tour, you get your very own plaid-clad VIP Tour Guide, customizable park hopping, backstage style efficiency, and private transportation throughout your day. It is essentially your dream Disney itinerary with a Cast Member fairy godparent making the magic happen.
The 20% savings is available for tours taking place April 26 through October 3, 2026, and can be booked now through October 3, 2026. There are a few blockout dates to note, including May 22 through 24 and July 3 through 5. As always with VIP Tours, valid theme park admission is required and not included in the tour price.
The offer is valid only for guests staying in Club Level Rooms or Club Level Suites during their Walt Disney World Resort stay, and the number of discounted tours is limited. It is also valid for new reservations only and cannot be combined with other discounts. In other words, if you have been waiting for the perfect excuse to splurge on a guided day of attractions, this might be your sign from the Magic Kingdom skies.
Villains Land Just Got More Wicked: New Plans Reveal Larger Show Building at Magic Kingdom
Something wicked just grew this way at the Magic Kingdom. Updated wastewater management plans filed for the upcoming Villains Land expansion show that the largest show building in the area has increased in size compared to documents submitted just weeks ago. And while wastewater permits are not exactly bedtime reading for most guests, they can spill some very interesting tea when it comes to what Disney is cooking up behind Big Thunder Mountain Railroad.
The newly revised plans for “Project SNK” indicate that the massive structure believed to house the Maleficent-themed dark ride has expanded beyond its previously estimated footprint of around 70,000 square feet. For comparison, Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance clocks in at roughly 92,000 square feet, while Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith comes in near 71,000. If this new building is creeping closer to Resistance territory, we may be looking at a full scale, effects-packed, show scene extravaganza rather than a simple spin through villainy.
This update follows reporting from TheWrap that Disney leadership asked Imagineers to go bigger and bolder with Villains Land. According to that report, the Maleficent attraction is being reimagined as a large-scale indoor water-based dark ride designed to rival heavy hitters like Radiator Springs Racers. That kind of ambition would absolutely require a beefier show building, so the expanded footprint lines up with the rumor mill in a very interesting way.
The wastewater plans also show multiple structures within the Villains section, including a second building hovering around 48,000 square feet. Meanwhile, the nearby Cars expansion structure appears to measure roughly 40,000 square feet in the updated documents. Utility lines snake through both expansion pads, tying into existing park infrastructure like the world’s most magical extension cord.
Disney first announced Villains Land at D23 in 2024, promising an “incredibly twisted grand scale” with two major attractions, dining, and shopping. Since then, official details have been quieter than a spinning wheel in a dragon’s lair. Site clearing continues beyond Big Thunder, with the former river areas drained and reshaped as crews tackle what can only be described as a gargantuan earthmoving operation.
While permits are never final blueprints and changes happen constantly during development, the fact that the same type of filing now reflects a larger building is definitely notable. If Disney truly is aiming for a Lightning Lane Single Pass level anchor attraction, potentially priced at the top tier, this expanded show building could be the first real sign that Villains Land is leveling up from sinister to spectacular.
Every Disney World Attraction Closing for Refurbishment in March
Stay ahead of the crowds and the construction walls with your updated guide to Walt Disney World closures for March 2026. Whether you’re chasing the spring sun or planning a family getaway, knowing which rides are taking a breather will help you maximize every magic moment of your trip!
Magic Kingdom
Cinderella Castle-Ongoing Paint Project
Cinderella Castle is currently undergoing a regal transformation as Disney begins a restoration project to return the icon to a more traditional color palette. Moving away from the vibrant “earidescent” rose gold and cobalt blue of the 50th Anniversary, the refreshed look will feature a classic blend of grays, creams, and soft blues, highlighted by elegant gold accents. Work is expected to continue through the coming months, with a final reveal slated for later in 2026.
To facilitate this massive undertaking, the Cinderella Castle Moat has been drained, giving crews safe access to the lower levels of the structure for surface prepping and painting. While heavy machinery and cranes are required to reach the castle’s highest spires, Disney is working to preserve the magic for your vacation photos—cranes are typically lowered or removed from sight by noon each day to keep those iconic Hub shots as clear as possible.
Buzz Lightyear Space Ranger Spin
Attention, Junior Space Rangers! Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin is currently mid-refurbishment after closing last August, but the countdown to its Spring 2026 relaunch has officially begun.
When the Bay reopens, Star Command is rolling out some high-tech artillery to help us defeat Zurg once and for all. Expect a total tactical upgrade, including:
Handheld Blasters: No more fixed cannons! These new blasters feature always-on lasers in two distinct colors for pinpoint accuracy.
Interactive Targets: New reactive targets will now light up when you score a direct hit.
Upgraded Cruisers: Refreshed ride vehicles designed for a smoother journey through the Gamma Quadrant.
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
Please hold onto your hats and glasses, because the wildest ride in the wilderness is currently taking an extended hiatus. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad has been closed for a massive scheduled refurbishment since January 2025, with an expected reopening set for spring 2026.
The excitement continues to build following Disney’s announcement of the new Rainbow Caverns scene, and fans are eager to see what other surprises the Imagineers have in store for this classic coaster. Until the trains start running again, Frontierland feels notably quieter without the thunderous roar of the mountain.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Animation Courtyard
The Animation Courtyard at Hollywood Studios is currently behind construction walls as it prepares for a cinematic transformation. The area—formerly home to Star Wars Launch Bay and Disney Jr. Play and Dance!—is set to debut as The Walt Disney Studios later this summer, offering a refreshed hub for family-friendly entertainment and character encounters.
This reimagined land will introduce several new experiences, including:
Olaf Draws!: An interactive drawing experience inside the Magic of Disney Animation.
Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live!: A brand-new stage show for the youngest Disney Junior fans.
Indoor & Outdoor Play: A new climate-controlled indoor playground alongside much-needed shaded outdoor relaxation areas.
Character Hub: Dedicated spaces for meeting your favorite stars from Disney and Pixar films.
Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster
Time is running out to catch a ride on the classic Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith! You have just one day in March to experience the attraction before it closes on March 2 to make way for a major Muppets retheme.
While the iconic Aerosmith recording studio pre-show was unexpectedly boarded up back in December 2025, you can still rock out to the band’s legendary soundtrack as you blast through the neon-lit streets of Los Angeles. This final “encore” ends after March 1, with the high-speed coaster set to reopen later this summer featuring The Electric Mayhem.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Conservation Station & Wildlife Express Train
The entirety of Rafiki’s Planet Watch (now transitioning to Conservation Station) officially closed on February 23 to begin its transformation into the highly anticipated Bluey Experience. This closure is a total “paws” on the area, meaning the Wildlife Express Train, The Animation Experience, and the Affection Section petting zoo are all currently unavailable to guests.
Fans of the Heelers won’t have to wait too long, however. The land is expected to make its grand return this summer, with rumors pointing toward a May 26 debut to kick off the “Cool Kids’ Summer” seasonal event.
