Disney Shares First Look at Grand Canyon Filming for Limited-Time “Soarin’ Across America” Coming to EPCOT
Disney is giving fans a sky-high sneak peek at the filming process for Soarin’ Across America, the limited-time update coming to EPCOT and Disney California Adventure as part of the United States’ 250th anniversary celebration.
Newly released behind-the-scenes photos from Walt Disney Imagineering show crews capturing sweeping aerial footage through the towering rock formations of the Grand Canyon. One image shows the view from inside a helicopter cockpit as cameras point out over the dramatic canyon landscape, while another captures the aircraft weaving between the canyon walls to get those signature soaring shots.
Imagineers used a mix of high-tech tools to bring the new adventure to life, including satellite mapping, aerial path modeling, specialized helicopter rigs, heavy-lift drones, and a variety of cinematic camera lenses. The goal was to capture America’s landscapes and cityscapes in the same immersive style that made the original Soarin’ attraction a fan favorite.
Like previous versions of the attraction, Soarin’ Across America will pair breathtaking visuals with a custom musical score and signature scents that match each scene, making guests feel like they are truly gliding across the country.
The limited-time film will debut at EPCOT on May 26, just after Memorial Day, before arriving at Disney California Adventure on July 2 in time for Independence Day celebrations. Disney also released a teaser featuring everyone’s favorite Soarin’ flight attendant, Patrick Warburton, welcoming guests aboard once again.
A Wave of Bluey Content and Park Experiences Heading to Disney
For real life?! Disney+ is becoming the ultimate destination for the Heelers this year. Today, Disney and BBC Studios announced a massive expansion of the “Bluey” universe, spanning from your living room to the Disney Parks and even the big screen.
With 45.2 billion minutes streamed in 2025 alone, Bluey continues its reign as a global phenomenon, and these new offerings are designed to keep fans “playing” all year long.
The biggest news for home viewers is the arrival of Bluey’s Big Play – The Stage Show on Disney+. This special televised version of the world-renowned theatrical production premieres on March 16, 2026. Featuring an original story by creator Joe Brumm and music by Joff Bush, the special brings fan-favorite characters to life via world-class puppetry, offering the front-row experience to everyone at home.
But that’s not all. Starting May 20, 2026, a fresh collection of 10 Bluey Minisodes will debut on the platform. These one-to-three-minute shorts have previously only been available in Australia and online. The collection includes:
Looking further ahead, BBC Studios and Walt Disney Studios officially confirmed that the first-ever feature-length Bluey movie is in development. Fans will have to wait a little longer for this “big-screen” debut, as it is scheduled to hit cinemas on August 6, 2027.
Bringing the Play to Disney Parks & Cruises
Disney is leaning heavily into “Bluey” for its 2026 guest experiences, with activations launching on both coasts and at sea:
Disneyland Park: “Bluey’s Best Day Ever!” Starting March 22, 2026, the Fantasyland Theatre will transform into a vibrant “Fun Fair” at Bluey’s School. Guests can join Bluey, Bingo, and a cast of live performers for interactive games (like Keepy Uppy!), live music, and appearances from “familiar friends” throughout the day.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom: Bluey’s Wild World Beginning May 26, 2026, the Heelers are taking over Conservation Station (accessible via the Wildlife Express Train). This new “Wild World” experience includes:
Interactive Play: Games directly from the show with an animal-themed twist.
Jumping Junction: A chance to discover animals native to Australia.
Meet & Greets: Photos with Bluey and Bingo in a specially themed setting.
Disney Cruise Line For those hitting the high seas, Bluey and Bingo are already setting sail! Throughout 2026, the duo will appear on select sailings (including the Disney Dream out of Fort Lauderdale and the Disney Wish out of Port Canaveral) for “Wakey Wakey” morning celebrations and the “Pyjama Bash” dance parties.
Fan Fest Nights just leveled up with the reveal of Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon the Miracle Moon Palace Chapter — Deluxe
Universal Fan Fest Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood is embracing the massive global appeal of anime with the addition of Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon the Miracle: Moon Palace Chapter — Deluxe. This all-original experience features a high-energy CG anime short film that first captured hearts as a standout attraction during Universal Studios Japan’s legendary “Cool Japan” event.
Step into the DreamWorks Theatre for a high-stakes, subtitled screening featuring the legendary Super Sailor Moon! In this Japanese-language short film, the heroine must defend the Moon Palace’s enchanting ball from a sinister new enemy determined to seize the Legendary Silver Crystal.
Universal Fan Fest Nights is a specially ticketed, after-hours event designed to immerse you in the worlds you love! Created by Universal’s award-winning entertainment team and industry experts, this event is the ultimate celebration of fandom.
Every event night features a massive lineup of interactive experiences, from high-energy live entertainment and rare character encounters to epic cosplay and themed photo ops. Plus, fans can fuel up with curated food, grab exclusive beverages, and shop limited-edition merchandise!
Universal Fan Fest Nights will also feature these in-world experiences:
Scooby-Doo Meets The Universal Monsters: Mystery on the Backlot. This all-new, immersive walk-through adventure is designed to give guests the sensation of stepping into a live-action mystery with the Scooby-Doo gang and the Universal Monsters. Guests will travel to the destination via Studio Tour tram where they have a chance to walk along a movie studio backlot with Scooby-Doo himself and his pals Fred, Daphne, Velma and Shaggy. The exciting escapade will challenge them to solve a mystery involving the most legendary Universal Monsters in cinematic history, including Frankenstein, Dracula, Bride of Frankenstein and Wolf Man, as they navigate portions of Universal’s world-famous outdoor film sets, from the cobblestone streets of Little Europe to the iconic Court of Miracles, the original filming locations for historic Universal horror films Frankenstein (1931) andThe Wolf Man (1941).
ONE PIECE: Grand Pirate Show. ONE PIECE returns to Universal Fan Fest Nights, but this time as a live show extravaganza at the WaterWorld show venue. Inspired by the success of the Universal Studios Japan production, ONE PIECE: Grand Pirate Show will invite guests to a whirlwind performance featuring a cast of ONE PIECE fan-favorite characters. With action, comedy and chaos taking center stage, guests will be transported to the very heart of the world of ONE PIECE – enveloped in friendship, freedom and mayhem.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter—Forbidden Forest: A Search for the Hippogriff. This new, unique, walk-through experience will take guests into the depths of the Forbidden Forest in search of a lost Hippogriff. With guidance from a Hogwarts Professor, they will encounter magical creatures and familiar beasts as they face a series of obstacles which will require the guests to summon their bravery and spell-casting skills to help a Hippogriff in need.
SUPER NINTENDO WORLD – Colorful Yoshi Celebration. This year’s Universal Fan Fest Nights introduces a vibrant, multi-colored Yoshi celebration in SUPER NINTENDO WORLD. This all-new adventure will welcome guests to explore the land, where they will have a chance to meet new, colorful Yoshis who can be found throughout the Mushroom Kingdom.
DUNGEONS & DRAGONS: Secrets of Waterdeep. This fan-favorite immersive experience returns due to popular demand, along with some enhancements. Inspired by the World’s Greatest Roleplaying Game™, DUNGEONS & DRAGONS (D&D), this epic walk-through experience will welcome guests and fans to partake in a one-of-a-kind adventure and explore the fantastic world of D&D. Guests will join the Harpers—a heroic spy network—to foil a plot by the legendary beholder Xanathar and save the city of Waterdeep.
This engaging experience features the legendary beholder Xanathar, uniquely created by the masterful puppeteer, Jim Henson’s Creature Shop. For over 40 years, Jim Henson’s Creature Shop has been a world-renowned innovator in puppetry, animatronics and digital animation.
Tickets are on sale now with a variety of ticket offerings available. Click here to purchase tickets and for full Terms and Conditions.
Latest Disney World Offers and the coolest Kids Summer News
Walt Disney World is the ultimate destination for young families this summer, kicking off the Cool KIDS’ SUMMER celebration from May 26 through September 8, 2026. This season is packed with brand-new experiences, refreshed fan-favorite attractions, and incredible value across the entire resort.
With some of the year’s best ticket prices and extended theme park hours, summer 2026 offers a unique opportunity to experience magic you can’t find anywhere else.
Get a FREE Dining Plan for the Whole Family
This summer, you can get a free dining plan for the whole family when purchasing a non-discounted 4-night, 4-day Walt Disney Travel Company package for your family that includes a room at select Disney Resort hotels and tickets with a Park Hopper option.
This offer is available for arrivals most nights June 28 through October 3, October 19 through October 31 and December 6 through December 21, 2026. Be sure to book by April 30 to get this delicious deal!
4-Day, 4-Park Magic Ticket
The 4-day, 4-Park Magic ticket is the perfect way to soak up all there is to see and do this summer. It’s valid for all four theme parks and gives you access to one park per day with one admission per park. The special ticket starts at $109 per day, plus tax (total price starting at $436, plus tax) for visits between May 26 and October 3, 2026. Ticket must be used within 7 days of first use.
Disney Resort Hotel Deal
Save up to 30% on rooms at select Disney Resorts Collection hotels this summer when you stay five nights or more for arrivals most nights July 30 through October 3, 2026.
Florida Residents and Annual Passholders
We have special deals for you, too! Florida Residents can save up to 35%, and Annual Passholders can save up to 40%on rooms at select Disney Resorts Collection hotels when staying four nights or more for arrivals most nights July 30 through October 3, 2026.
Walt Disney World Resort is sharing additional details and opening dates for new and refreshed attractions, stage shows and limited-time entertainment coming this summer, along with special ticket and hotel offers to help families save and visit in ways that make sense for them. This is all taking place during the return of Cool KIDS’ SUMMER, running May 26 through Sept. 8.
Announced Today
Opening April 8: Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin at Magic Kingdom
Opening May 26: Bluey’s Wild World at Conservation Station at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live! and “The Walt Disney Studios” courtyard at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Soarin’ Across America at EPCOT.
Cool KIDS’ SUMMER Fun for the Whole Family
With the kids out of school and looking for excitement, summer is all about family fun, and guests have plenty of ways to make unforgettable memories at Walt Disney World.
Bluey’s Wild World at Conservation Station
Bluey and Bingo are on their way to Disney’s Animal Kingdom! Starting May 26 and staying beyond Cool KIDS’ SUMMER, guests can play games and dance with Bluey and Bingo at Conservation Station.
Once guests hop off the Wildlife Express Train, it’s time for fun. Play special games directly from “Bluey” episodes, grab a photo with Bluey and Bingo themselves, and even discover animals native to Bluey’s home country, Australia, at “Jumping Junction.”
Jessie’s Roundup: A Rip-Roarin’ Review in Magic Kingdom
A new limited-time, Toy Story–themed Cool KIDS’ SUMMER exclusive experience, Jessie’s Roundup: A Rip-Roarin’ Revue, will debut at the Diamond Horseshoe in Frontierland, featuring Jessie, Woody, Bullseye and more Toy Story pals in an energized roundup with songs, dance, games and other playful activities.
GoofyCore at EPCOT
Families can take part in GoofyCore at CommuniCore Hall, a Cool KIDS’ SUMMER special party that’s packed with music, movement and maximum silliness. The limited-time fun is filled with DJ-led dance breaks, interactive games and larger-than-life playground-style activities inviting kids to wiggle, giggle and let loose in true Goofy fashion.
Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live! at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
It’s time to Mousekedance with Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse in a new show coming May 26 and staying beyond Cool KIDS’ SUMMER.Inspired by Disney Jr.’s global hit series, Mickey Mouse Clubhouse+, the entire family is invited to a party at the Clubhouse with Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, Daisy and Pluto, filled with original songs, dance and interactive fun.
A Disney Springs Dance Party
When visiting the Marketplace on select nights, guests can break out their best dance moves during a party featuring hits from “Descendants: Wicked Wonderland” and “Camp Rock 3,” in celebration of the new original movies coming to Disney+ this summer.
Disney Friends Make a Splash at Water Parks
This summer, guests can meet Goofy in his laid-back style at Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park or catch Stich spreading playful chaos at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park.
And for those guests preferring to splash the night away, Disney H2O Glow After Hours returns to Typhoon Lagoon on select nights from June 2 through September 5. The separately ticketed event will bring waves of excitement, with guests being able to enjoy the water park after dark, boogie on the beach and see some rare Disney characters like Powerline Max, Chip ‘n’ Dale Rescue Rangers and more.
Sweeten Your Style with the Newest Winnie the Pooh Loungefly Drop
If there is one thing we can all agree on, it’s that you can never have too much Winnie the Pooh in your life! The latest Loungefly drop is bringing all the sweetness of the Hundred Acre Wood straight to our closets, and honestly, our shelves are screaming for these. Whether you’re headed to the parks or just running errands, these bags are the perfect way to carry a little bit of hunny wherever you go.
First up is the Bees & Flowers Mini Backpack, and it is absolute perfection for springtime vibes. This mid-size beauty features Pooh Bear himself right on the front pocket, looking as cute as ever holding his iconic hunny pot. The bag is covered in gorgeous embroidered bees and flowers that give it such a high-end, whimsical feel. Even the side pockets have tiny embroidered details! At $95, it’s a total must-have for any collector looking for that classic, sweet aesthetic.
For those who love a versatile look, the All-Over Print Micro Mini Backpack is a literal game-changer. This one is a bit smaller than the traditional silhouette, making it super lightweight for a day of adventure. It features a stunning embossed pattern of honeybees all over, and the top flap is adorned with a 3D molded metal Pooh charm that is just too precious. The best part? The straps zip together so you can convert it from a micro backpack into a trendy sling bag! Grab this one for $75 and get ready to buzz around in style.
Calling all pin collectors! The Hundred Acre Wood Tote Pin Trader Crossbody is the functional accessory we’ve been waiting for. The front features a beautiful map of the Hundred Acre Wood, but here’s the hunny on top: the material is perforated, meaning it’s designed specifically for displaying your favorite pins! It even comes with three enamel pins to get your collection started. With a honeycomb pattern on the sides and a back design featuring Pooh and his many pots of honey, this $80 tote is the ultimate way to show off your flair at work or at the parks.
Florida Residents: Save Up to 35% on Rooms in Late Summer and Early Fall at Disney World
Living in the Sunshine State definitely has its perks, especially when it comes to planning a “staycation” at Walt Disney World. Disney has just announced a new exclusive discount for Florida residents, offering significant savings on room rates for late summer and early fall 2026.
Whether you’re planning a quick weekend getaway or a full week of Disney magic, this tiered discount allows residents to save more the longer they stay.
For most arrivals between July 30 and October 3, 2026, Florida residents can take advantage of the following rates:
Save up to 35% on stays of 4 or more consecutive nights.
Save up to 30% on stays of 1 to 3 consecutive nights.
This is a fantastic opportunity to be among the first to experience the late summer festivities or the start of the spooky season at Magic Kingdom without paying full price for a resort stay.
Eligible Resorts and Savings
Stack the Savings with Kids Dining
One of the most exciting aspects of this offer is that it can be combined with the 2026 Kids Dining Plan Offer. For families with children ages 3 to 9, this means you can lock in a deeply discounted room rate while also taking advantage of free dining for the kids. Stacking these two promotions is easily one of the best ways for Florida families to maximize their vacation budget this year.
Important Details for Florida Residents
Proof of Residency: You must provide valid proof of Florida residency at check-in to keep the discounted rate.
Limited Availability: As with all Disney room offers, the number of rooms allocated for this discount is limited. If you have a specific resort in mind, it is best to book early.
Excluded Room Types: This offer excludes 3-Bedroom Villas, suites at Moderate and Deluxe resorts, the Cabins at Copper Creek, and the Bungalows/Penthouses at the Polynesian.
Park Admission: Theme park tickets are not included in this offer and must be purchased separately. Remember that theme park reservations may still be required depending on your ticket type.
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New Story-Driven Costumes Debut Across Walt Disney World
In celebration of Fashion Week, Walt Disney World is shining a spotlight on the newest “fits” being worn by the people who make the magic happen. The Disney Live Entertainment Costumingteam has been working “behind the seams” to roll out three distinct new collections that blend high-fashion storytelling with the functional needs of a Florida-based cast.
From the parking plazas to the heart of EPCOT, these new designs are packed with nostalgia, hidden details, and performance-driven upgrades.
The first group you’ll likely spot in their new gear is the parking and auto plaza team. Designed by Costume Designer Nicole, these bright new outfits are a love letter to Disney transportation.
The custom print features the iconic Walt Disney World Mickey globe logo interspersed with sketches of famous vehicles. Whether you’re a fan of the vintage Herbie the Love Bug, the retro Susie the Little Blue Coupe, or the high-tech TRON Lightcycle, there is a nod for every motor enthusiast.
To keep cast members moving during their long outdoor shifts, the shirts include:
Raglan Sleeves: Specifically designed for a wider range of motion.
Functional Epaulettes: Shoulder pieces that provide structure and utility.
Performance Fabric: Built-in stretch and UPF protection to shield against the Florida sun.
Flora and Nostalgia at The Land Pavilion
Over at EPCOT, The Land Pavilion is blooming with a fresh look. Costume Designer Josh drew heavy inspiration from the pavilion’s mid-80s roots and the massive, windswept murals found at the Living with the Land loading platform.
The result is a print that feels like an impressionist painting of the pavilion’s original five-leaf icon. The goal was to respect the vintage nostalgia of EPCOT while modernizing the fit. Josh noted that the team sought to balance the “Space Age” history of the park with an organic aesthetic that fits the agricultural and environmental themes of the pavilion.
Perhaps the most detailed of the new drops is for the Outdoor Vending (ODV) cast at Magic Kingdom. Since fireworks are such a quintessential part of the park’s story, the costuming team brought that explosive energy to the fabric.
The blue, chambray-inspired tops feature a custom pattern that blends swirling firework bursts with the natural flora found in the park’s various lands. But the real magic is in the details—the team incorporated Hidden Mickeys throughout the print, making these shirts a fun “scavenger hunt” for eagle-eyed guests waiting for their popcorn or Mickey bars.
Function Meets Fashion
While the aesthetics are impressive, the “behind the seams” process is rooted in practicality. Each of these new collections underwent a rigorous development phase, including:
Cast Feedback Sessions: Real-world input on what works during a shift.
Wear Tests & Role Shadows: Designers literally followed cast members to see how the fabric moves and breathes.
Fabric Innovation: A focus on moisture-wicking technology and UV protection to combat the heat and humidity.
As Josh put it, when one design succeeds in improving the cast experience, it’s a win for the whole team as they look toward future projects across the resort.
Stay Longer and Save More with Up to 30% Off Disney World Rooms
If you are looking for a way to maximize your budget for a late summer or early fall getaway, Disney just released a “stay longer and save more” offer that might be the perfect fit. While the allure of Free Dining is everywhere right now, a straight room discount often provides the best bottom-line savings—especially for families who prefer a mix of dining options.
For most arrivals from July 30 to October 3, 2026, you can save significantly on your stay at select Disney Resorts Collection hotels.
Save up to 30% for stays of 5 or more consecutive nights.
Save up to 25% for stays of 1 to 4 consecutive nights.
This tiered structure makes those longer vacations much more enticing, especially since the late summer and early fall periods often see slightly lower crowds before the holiday rush begins.
Eligible Resorts and Savings
Stack the Magic with the Kids Dining Plan Offer
One of the best parts about this specific room discount is its flexibility. Unlike many Disney promotions, this room offer can be combined with the 2026 Kids Dining Plan Offer.
This means if you have children ages 3 to 9, you could potentially secure a discounted room rate and still have your kids eat for free (when you purchase a dining plan for the adults in the group). Stacking these two deals can lead to some of the deepest savings we’ve seen for the 2026 season.
Important Details to Note
Tickets Required for Parks: This is a room-only discount. You will still need to purchase valid theme park admission to enjoy the parks.
Limited Availability: There are only a certain number of rooms allocated for this discount at each resort. Popular spots like Disney’s Pop Century and the monorail resorts tend to fill up fast.
Length of Stay: You can book anything from a single night up to a 14-night stay under this promotion.
Excluded Room Types: As usual, this offer excludes 3-Bedroom Villas, suites at Moderate and Deluxe resorts, the Cabins at Copper Creek, and the Bungalows/Penthouses at the Polynesian.
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Experience Every Disney World Theme Park for Less with the 4-Day 4-Park Magic Ticket
If you are planning a summer getaway to Walt Disney World, Disney just dropped a ticket offer that makes visiting all four theme parks more affordable. The 4-Day 4-Park Magic Ticket is returning for the 2026 season, offering a streamlined way to experience everything from the spires of Cinderella Castle to the wilds of Pandora.
Starting at just $109 per day (plus tax), this ticket is designed for guests who want to ensure they don’t miss a single iconic park during their vacation.
The 4-Park Magic Ticket gives you a total of four admissions to be used on four separate days. The catch? You get exactly one admission to each of the four main theme parks:
Magic Kingdom
EPCOT
Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Disney’s Animal Kingdom
This ticket is perfect for families who want a “greatest hits” tour of the resort without the added cost of a Park Hopper option.
Pricing and Dates
The total price for the ticket starts at $436 (plus tax). Because this is a date-based ticket, pricing may vary depending on your selected start date.
Valid Dates: You can select a start date from May 26 through September 26, 2026.
Usage Window: Once your start date begins, you have a 7-day window to use all four admissions.
No Reservations Required
One of the best perks of this specific offer is the ease of use. This is a date-based ticket, which means you do not need to make a theme park reservation to enter the parks. You can simply show up at the gate of the park you’ve chosen for that day and head straight inside.
Important Details to Keep in Mind
One Park Per Day: This ticket does not allow for “Park Hopping.” You can only visit one park per day.
No Repeats: You cannot use this ticket to enter the same theme park twice. It is strictly one visit to each of the four parks.
Non-Transferable: Like all Disney tickets, these are nonrefundable and cannot be transferred to another person once used.
Whether you’re looking to catch the latest nighttime spectaculars or finally ride Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, this ticket offer is one of the most cost-effective ways to do it all this summer.
Let our friends at Get Away Today help you! Just click here and enter your info, and someone will message you with more details!
It’s the announcement every Disney foodie waits for! Walt Disney World has officially released one of its most popular promotions: the Free Dining Plan offer. For select arrival dates in the summer, fall, and winter of 2026, you can save hundreds—if not thousands—of dollars on your vacation by getting your meals and snacks included for free.
If you’ve been planning a trip for the second half of the year, now is the time to lock it in. Here is everything you need to know about the 2026 Free Dining offer.
To qualify for this offer, your arrival must fall on a select night within one of the following windows:
June 28 to October 3, 2026
October 19 to October 31, 2026
December 6 to December 21, 2026
Note: While your arrival must be during these windows, your package can extend for a longer length of stay!
How the Offer Works
To snag this deal, you must purchase a nondiscounted 4-night, 4-day Walt Disney Travel Company package that includes:
A room at a select Disney Resorts Collection hotel.
A theme park ticket with a Park Hopper option.
The specific dining plan you receive for free depends on where you choose to stay. Generally, higher-tier resorts receive the full Disney Dining Plan, while Value and Moderate resorts receive the Quick-Service option.
Eligible Resorts and Dining Plans
What’s Included in the Plans?
Dining plans are designed to give you peace of mind by pre-paying for your meals.
Disney Dining Plan: Includes one Table-Service meal, one Quick-Service meal, and one snack or nonalcoholic drink per night of your stay. You also get a Resort-refillable drink mug.
Quick-Service Dining Plan: Includes two Quick-Service meals and one snack or nonalcoholic drink per night of your stay, plus a Resort-refillable drink mug.
Important Details and Exclusions
As with any major Disney promotion, there are some “fine print” items to keep in mind:
Excluded Room Types: 3-Bedroom Grand Villas, Campsites at Fort Wilderness, Cabins at Copper Creek, Bungalows/Penthouses at the Polynesian, Little Mermaid Standard Rooms at Art of Animation, and all Suites at Moderate and Deluxe resorts.
Park Hopping Required: You must have the Park Hopper option on your tickets to qualify.
Limited Availability: The number of packages allocated for this offer is limited, and they often sell out quickly for popular resorts like the Boardwalk or Animal Kingdom Lodge.
Advance Reservations: While your meals are free, you still need to make your Table-Service dining reservations in advance (up to 60 days before your trip).
Are you planning to take advantage of Free Dining this year? Let our friends at Get Away Today help you! Just click here and enter your details, and someone will message you with more details!
Josh Gad Surprises Guests on Storybook Land Canal Boats
Disney Legend Josh Gad has stepped back into a Cast Member uniform, trading the snowy peaks of Arendelle for the charming waters of Disneyland’s Storybook Land Canal Boats. In a magical surprise for fans, the voice of Olaf took the helm as a guest skipper, bringing his signature wit and Disney expertise to the classic Fantasyland attraction.
Josh Gad is finally living out his “dream” of becoming a professional storyteller! The Disney Legend was spotted playfully dodging his own fame, hilariously responding with a confused “Where?!” when a stunned guest asked, “Is that Josh Gad?”
The video captures Gad taking the helm of a Storybook Land canal boat, where he treats a boatload of lucky fans to a one-of-a-kind tour. From cracking jokes about the miniature landscapes to adding his signature flair to the classic attraction’s script, it was a “little boat ride” no one will ever forget.
As the boat drifted past the Frozen village of Arendelle, Gad couldn’t help but lean into the irony. He deadpanned to the guests that he was “completely unfamiliar” with the area before pivoting to protect his snowy costar.
Pointing at the local Disney Ducks, he jokingly pleaded with them not to snack on his friends, noting that the characters in the miniature display have already “been through enough trauma!”
This isn’t Josh Gad’s first “day on the job”—he’s built quite the Disney resume! Before taking the helm at Storybook Land, the Disney Legend had already checked off a bucket list of iconic roles.
He’s previously lived out his lifelong dream as a Jungle Cruise Skipper, led guests through the savanna as a Kilimanjaro Safaris Guide, signaled the “all aboard” as a Disneyland Railroad Conductor, and even spent some time as a Caretaker at the Haunted Mansion.
Disney Confirms Treehouse Villas Refurbishment at Saratoga Springs Resort Through 2026
Disney has officially confirmed that the Treehouse Villas at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa will undergo a refurbishment project running in phases through mid-September 2026. The update follows a series of permits filed in December 2025 tied to the Treehouse Villas addresses, with Land-Ron Inc. listed as the contractor and permits that extend through early 2027, suggesting a sizable renovation effort.
Because the Treehouse Villas are made up of individual octagonal standalone buildings nestled throughout a wooded section of the resort, the refurbishment is expected to happen in phases. This means Disney will likely remove small groups of villas from inventory at a time rather than closing the entire Treehouse Villas area all at once. The villas originally opened in their current form in spring 2009 and notably were not part of the large Saratoga Springs room refurbishment completed around 2021, making this their first major refresh in more than a decade.
While Disney has not shared exact details about what will change, a typical Disney resort refurbishment often includes updates to furniture, fixtures, appliances, and décor. In some cases, projects also involve improvements to bathrooms, kitchens, or the overall layout of the rooms. The Treehouse Villas are known for their rustic cabin-style design tucked among the trees along the Sassagoula River, and many fans are hoping the update maintains that cozy woodland atmosphere.
Alongside the villa work, Disney has confirmed several temporary closures and operational changes around Saratoga Springs Resort during the project timeline. The tennis courts will close beginning March 23 for refurbishment and are expected to reopen in June 2026. The basketball court will also close during this same window.
Dining locations at the resort will also see adjustments. The Turf Club Bar and Grill and The Turf Club Lounge will undergo refurbishment beginning in early April and continuing through September 2026. During this period, The Turf Club Lounge will temporarily close from mid-April through early August.
The Turf Club Bar and Grill will remain open for much of the work with a modified menu and a temporary pop-up bar, although the patio will close for several weeks between early and mid-August. Later in the project, The Turf Club Bar and Grill will close from mid-August to mid-September while the lounge remains open.
The phased refurbishment will allow Disney to continue offering Treehouse Villa accommodations throughout the project while gradually refreshing the unique resort section. With their secluded forest setting and spacious multi-bedroom layouts, the Treehouse Villas remain one of the most distinctive lodging options available at Walt Disney World.
