Curiouser and Curiouser: Explore the New Alice in Wonderland Harveys Collection!
You won’t be late for a very important date if you’re carrying the new Harveys Alice in Wonderland collection, now available at the Disney Store! This collaboration is a total trip down the rabbit hole, bringing some of the most iconic moments from the film to life in the most unique way. You’ll definitely want to drop out of the mainstream and into this curious collection.
The Harveys Alice in Wonderland Tote is a total showstopper! For $218, you get a bag that looks like a vintage storybook come to life, featuring the classic storybook cover art from the film. The signature seatbelt fabric is a perfect canvas for the design, and the bright pink Cheshire Cat-inspired stripes on the side are a fun, whimsical touch. It’s not just pretty, it’s practical too! It comes with a detachable and adjustable crossbody strap, so you can wear it however you like. Plus, there’s a dazzling Disney logo charm to add a little extra sparkle. You’ll be simply mad for it!
If you’re looking for something a little smaller, the Alice in Wonderland Crossbody Bag is a dream! Priced at $188, this bag features a cast of your favorite Wonderland characters, all in that gorgeous vintage storybook illustration style. Just like the tote, it’s made from that durable, signature seatbelt fabric. It also has an adjustable and detachable crossbody strap and a golden Disney logo charm. So, take some very good advice from Alice and grab this bag while you can!
Get Your Own Interactive Merqaal Plush From Star Wars!
Have you ever wanted your very own pet from the Star Wars universe? Well, now’s your chance! Disney has released a new interactive plush of a Merqaal, one of the main characters from the upcoming game Star Wars Outlaws. We found this adorable little critter at Hollywood Studios, and we have to say, it’s pretty impressive. At $54.99, it’s a must-have for any Star Wars fan or collector.
If you’re not familiar with a Merqaal, they’re basically the cutest little monsters you’ve ever seen. They’re known for being fluffy and cuddly, but don’t let that fool you! They also have sharp teeth and claws. The tag on the plush describes them as omnivores with no listed home planet, but they are fiercely loyal and curious, which is a big part of why they’re so lovable.
This plush is more than just a stuffed animal; it’s an interactive companion! It has a battery pack hidden in its belly, so you can bring this little guy to life. The attention to detail is amazing. The plush has bright green eyes and a mouth full of sharp teeth, just like the real deal. The fur on the legs and face is a vibrant mix of orange and red, and the scales running along its back are made of a soft, peachy fabric that feels much nicer than real scales would. It even has all three pairs of ears, with the top pair featuring a row of gray scales. So if you’re at Hollywood Studios, be sure to keep an eye out for this little Merqaal!
A First Look at the Newly Refurbished Rooms at Disney’s Bay Lake Tower!
The wait is over! We’ve just experienced the stunning new room updates at Disney’s Bay Lake Tower and WOW! Bay Lake Tower has been undergoing a much-anticipated refurbishment, and we’re so excited to report that the new rooms are a fantastic blend of modern luxury and classic Disney charm.
The refresh is beautiful, and from the moment you step in, it’s clear every detail has been thoughtfully redesigned. The spaces feel so modern and fresh, with sleek finishes and comfortable new furnishings. The updated color palette is vibrant and inviting, featuring beautiful Mary Blair-inspired artwork and subtle nods to the resort’s iconic theming.
We especially loved the new details that truly make the space pop:
Monorail Touches on the Bathroom Mirror: A beautiful etched design on the bathroom mirror pays tribute to the iconic monorail, a defining feature of the resort. It’s a sophisticated and subtle detail that guests who love the Contemporary will adore.
A Space Mountain Foldaway Bed: The new Murphy beds are not only a clever way to maximize space, but they also feature some incredible custom artwork. When the queen-sized pull-down bed is lowered, you’ll be treated to a piece of art inspired by Tomorrowland, featuring both Space Mountain and TRON Lightcycle / Run. This is a delightful surprise for any fan of the Magic Kingdom’s futuristic land..
✨ All the Fantastic New Artwork: The rooms are filled with vibrant, whimsical art by artist Joey Chou, which reflects the different lands and attractions throughout the Magic Kingdom. From a charming depiction of the Magic Kingdom with Dumbo and “it’s a small world” to a piece featuring Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, these new pieces add a huge dose of character and color to the rooms.
The refurbishment of the Bay Lake Tower villas, which began in September 2024 and is wrapping up this month, has been a huge success. The old sleeper sofas and chairs have been replaced with pull-down Murphy beds, which are not only more comfortable but also help to open up the living space. The bathrooms have been completely overhauled with new fixtures and a sleek, modern look.
If you’re planning a Walt Disney World trip, these rooms are a must-see! The combination of fresh style, new amenities, and those incredible views we all adore makes for a truly magical stay. Who’s ready to check in and experience the magic?
A New Oga’s Cantina Shirt Has Arrived at Hollywood Studios!
Have you been searching for the perfect way to show off your love for all things Star Wars? Well, you’re in luck! A brand-new Oga’s Cantina shirt has just landed at the Droid Depot in Hollywood Studios, and it’s a must-have for any fan. This isn’t just any old tee, it’s a stylish and subtle nod to the iconic watering hole in Batuu.
It retails for $34.99 and is available now at the Droid Depot, so be sure to grab one on your next trip!
This cool new shirt is an oatmeal color, which gives it a vintage, well-loved look right out of the box. On the front, over the left chest, you’ll find “Oga’s Cantina” printed in that same familiar, stylized font from the restaurant’s sign, but in a striking blue. It’s a great way to rep your favorite cantina without being too over-the-top. The real star of the show, however, is the back.
The back of the shirt features a large, eye-catching Oga’s Cantina logo, also in that same bold blue. It’s a fantastic design that perfectly captures the vibe of the cantina. Whether you’re grabbing a Fuzzy Tauntaun or just strolling through Galaxy’s Edge, this shirt is the perfect addition to your Star Wars wardrobe.
Poppy’s, an all-day dining spot, serves lighter, seasonal dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. The menu, developed by Hilton’s in-house brand incubator, StiR Creative Collective, is a nod to the hotel’s California roots. This theme is consistent throughout the entire renovation and new food and beverage offerings, which include Hansen’s Market, Poppy’s Lounge, Saltflower Social Kitchen, and more. With a focus on sustainability, the restaurant also has rotating seasonal specials.
“At Poppy’s, our inspiration is the colors and flavors of California: abundant seafood, fresh produce, and fragrant herbs, highlighting the mosaic of California’s spirit through food and showcasing the quality ingredients the region has to offer,” said Chef Prathapan. “Rooted in friendly and refined hospitality and with local, seasonal ingredients at the heart of everything we create, Poppy’s represents the greater transformation of the food & beverage program at Hilton Anaheim. We’re thrilled to finally unveil our culinary vision and for Poppy’s to become an unforgettable part of each guest’s stay.”
Veteran chef Prabeen Prathapan leads the kitchen. The breakfast menu features classics like Avocado Toast and a Warm Breakfast Grain Bowl. For lunch, highlights from the all-day menu include Tuna Poke Lettuce Wraps and a Route 66 Chicken Club.
Dinner brings heartier options like Imperial Wagyu Filet and Prime Bone-In Ribeye steaks. Don’t miss the Warm Poppy Seed Cake for dessert, a sweet tribute to the restaurant’s name.
Drinks with a Twist
Poppy’s drink menu complements the food with craft cocktails and mocktails, including the Golden Hour, a mix of Yellow Chartreuse, Velvet Falernum, and pineapple. The beer and wine list focuses on California’s best, with a rotating selection of regional craft beers and wines.
“Poppy’s is more than a restaurant; it’s an essential pillar of our hotel’s transformation,” said Sergio Bocci, general manager of Hilton Anaheim. “From the name, celebrating the wild history of California’s state flower, to the flavors found on the menu, it represents the future of Hilton Anaheim while reflecting the warmth & hospitality that we’ve shared with guests over the last 41 years.”
Poppy’s is located inside Hilton Anaheim, the largest hotel property in Orange County, located near the Disneyland Resort is now open. Reservations can be made at OpenTable. For more information, please follow Poppy’s on Instagram at @poppysanaheim.
Florida Residents Can Now Purchase a Special 3-Day, 3-Park Ticket Starting at $70 Per Day
Walt Disney World is offering Florida residents a new way to enjoy the magic of the holiday season with the new Florida Resident 3-Day, 3-Park Ticket. The special offer invites residents to experience the seasonal changes at a reduced rate during some of the most magical months of the year.
The ticket is valid for admission to Disney’s Hollywood Studios, EPCOT, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park only, for a total price starting from $210, plus tax, or approximately $70 per day. It is important to note that this ticket is not valid for admission to Magic Kingdom.
Florida residents must show proof of residency prior to the first use at a Walt Disney World park ticket window.
Kermit the Frog to Be Featured on Visit Mississippi’s 2026 Rose Parade Float
For the 2026 Tournament of Roses Parade, Kermit the Frog will be the visual centerpiece of Visit Mississippi’s float, which is titled “Mississippi: Where Creativity Blooms.”
The state of Mississippi is set to participate in the Tournament of Roses Parade for the second year in a row on January 1, 2026. The float, titled “Mississippi: Where Creativity Blooms,” will serve as a tribute to the state’s artists.
Visit Mississippi executive director Rochelle Hicks said, “We’re thrilled to showcase Mississippi’s creative heartbeat on a global stage. This float is more than a celebration – it’s a tribute to the artists, musicians, and storytellers who continue to inspire generations.”
Kermit the Frog will be the centerpiece of the float, serving as a tribute to Jim Henson, the Muppets’ creator and a Mississippi native. In the concept art, Kermit is shown holding a guitar, with a backdrop of books by Mississippi authors and various art supplies. The float will also feature a live performance by country music star Charlie Worsham, joined by a group of dancers.
The Magic Behind Ginger: Disney Cruise Line Reveals the Creation of the New Halloween Tree on the Disney Treasure
This fall marks the first-ever Halloween on the High Seas season aboard the Disney Treasure, which will feature all the delightful tricks and treats you expect from a Disney cruise. Guests can look forward to classic spooky fun, including costume parties and special movie screenings, all while a new, exclusive character makes its debut: Ginger, a one-of-a-kind Halloween centerpiece found only in the ship’s Grand Hall.
The Disney Treasure Pumpkin Tree Was Inspired by Genie
Alight with glowing gourds, twinkling lights, and intricate carvings, Ginger sets the Halloween vibe for your Disney Treasure sailing. She’s a unique species of tree, hailing from the fictional city of Agrabah as seen in Disney’s Aladdin.
Just as any magical pumpkin tree “grows” from a seedling to its great height, Ginger’s look and story evolved throughout the design process. The team had to figure out how to create enchanted foliage representative of the region of the world that inspired Aladdin’s hometown.
Philip Kelley, Show Director for Disney Live Entertainment, shared all about Ginger’s roots. “She started out as sort of as a banyan tree, and then more of a traditional tree with banyan tree inspiration.”
From there, Philip explained that the design of Ginger started to take shape. “The pumpkins elongated a little bit — they look like traditional pumpkins but have more of a look of the gourds that you may see in that region of the world.”
You’ll Help Ginger Light Up the Disney Treasure
During the first night of your sailing, don’t miss the opportunity to interact with Ginger as her story comes to life in The Tale of the Enchanted Pumpkin Tree.
The Disney Treasure storytellers, Coriander and Sage are going to be quite surprised that a tree has suddenly sprouted in the Grand Hall. Listen as they tell the tale of Ginger and learn how the carvings on her gourds were inspired by the transformations of the one and only Genie.
Philip shared, “With her design complete, Ginger’s story took a new turn. Halloween traditions are unfamiliar in her part of the world, so our storytellers, Coriander and Sage, introduce her to the fun of trick-or-treating. Together, they discover the joy of transformation and find that at this time of year, things aren’t always what they seem.”
Join in the story to help Ginger understand our trick-or-treat traditions and something sweetly magical might just happen throughout the Grand Hall.
After she’s lit, expect Ginger to glow throughout your cruise, adding that special touch of seasonal spirit with every visit to the Grand Hall.
As the full moon gleams and witches fire up their brooms, pumpkin trees takes root each Halloween on every Disney Cruise Line ship.
The trees aboard the Magic, Wonder, Dream, and Fantasy ships reflect a traditionally spooky tree one might expect along the dirt roads of Sleepy Hollow on a cold October night. Reap, Bog, Grim, and Muckelbones were inspired by the spirit of Ray Bradbury’s beloved story The Halloween Tree.
Each tree is watched over by a mysterious caretaker, who shares chilling tales of Halloween traditions and legends as guests gather beneath their glowing canopy. As the ship sets sail, these once quiet, twisted trees burst into life—glowing Jack-O’-Lanterns flicker to life among the branches, eerie lights dance, and a deep, haunting voice fills the air.
Boo, the Enchanted Tree on the Disney Wish
A very special tree grows onboard the Disney Wish, one that was blessed by the Wishing Star to grow very special carved pumpkins. Boo’s enchanting visage watches over the Grand Hall and legend has it that one of her pumpkins even grew to become the pumpkin carriage that carried Cinderella to the ball.
Halloween on the Disney Treasure
Will you be hopping aboard a Disney Cruise for a Halloween on the High Seas sailing this year? In 2025, Halloween on the High Seas sailings will be available on 7-night cruises departing from Port Canaveral, Florida.
Contact me today to get your Halloween voyage booked! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are free, and I’d love to help you plan a spooktacular vacation.
The Secrets to Disney’s Mountains Revealed in a New Imagineer That! Episode
The latest episode of Imagineer That! features special guest Michelle Khare, the popular host of the YouTube series Challenge Accepted. A self-described huge fan of Walt Disney Imagineering, Khare gets her long-awaited question answered by Tom Morrow 2.0: “How do Imagineers make mountains?”
Turns out, building a Disney Mountain is more complicated than you might think. Tammy, a Rockwork Engineer, explains the long process that begins with story.
Disney Mountains come in all shapes and sizes. Some are based on real mountains like the Matterhorn at Disneyland or Expedition Everest at Walt Disney World. Others are more fantastical like the floating mountains in Pandora – The World of Avatar.
Once Imagineers develop the story they want to tell, they make models that are scanned into digital structures. Tammy’s team designs the steel structures that are eventually covered in bent rebar, lath, and concrete.
An important part of this step is rockwork integration – the process of incorporating lights, speakers, foliage and technology seamlessly into the mountains and rocks. Finally, artisans make the mountains look real by carving and painting fine details into the concrete plaster.
ABC to Air 20/20 Special: “The Happiest Story on Earth” for Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary
As the Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration continues, a special edition of 20/20 will air, titled “The Happiest Story on Earth: 70 Years of Disneyland.” The special is scheduled to premiere on ABC on Sunday, September 21, at 8:00 p.m. ET.
The special commemorates seven decades of one of the most beloved theme parks in the world and includes –
Reflections on childhood visits to the park from Neil Patrick Harris, Jamie Lee Curtis, Jon Favreau, Patrick Warburton and Tiffany Haddish.
An exclusive message from Prince Harry and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, on what the park means to them and their family.
Observations from CEO Bob Iger on what the future holds for Disneyland Resort.
Rare insight from Bob Gurr, a former Disney Imagineer there on opening day, who reflects on working side by side with Walt Disney himself.
History of the iconic attractions including Jungle Cruise, Pirates of the Caribbean, and the Haunted Mansion.
Behind the scenes access to Disneyland’s legendary parades and nighttime spectaculars.
A look at the new, first-of-its-kind Audio-Animatronics figure of Walt Disney with the Imagineers who helped create “Walt Disney – A Magical Life.”
Reflections from Julie Andrews, who remembers visiting the park with Walt himself, and Josh Gad, who talks about “working” as a skipper at Jungle Cruise.
An exciting sneak peek at future Disney California Adventure Park attractions, including an expansion to Avengers Campus, a Coco attraction and the new Avatar destination.
Disneyland Resort has enchanted guests of all ages from near and far. Viewers will hear reflections on childhood visits to the park from some of Disney’s biggest fans including Hollywood’s Neil Patrick Harris, Jamie Lee Curtis, Jon Favreau, Patrick Warburton and Tiffany Haddish; observations from The Walt Disney Company Chief Executive Officer Bob Iger on what the future holds for Disneyland Resort; and an exclusive message from Prince Harry and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, on what the park means to them and their family.
The special celebrates the countless creators who have contributed to bringing the wonderful world of Disneyland to life and shares rare insight from Bob Gurr, a former Disney Imagineer there on opening day, who reflects on working side by side with Walt Disney himself.
The special also reveals the rich history of the iconic attractions that have fascinated visitors from around the world, including Jungle Cruise, Pirates of the Caribbean, and the Haunted Mansion; and takes viewers behind the scenes of Disneyland’s legendary parades and nighttime spectaculars. Cameras are granted access to the “World of Color” control room — an area typically reserved for working cast members only — offering a look at how these technological marvels come to life.
The special also provides a look at the new, first-of-its-kind Audio-Animatronics figure of Walt Disney with the Imagineers who helped create “Walt Disney – A Magical Life.” Additional appearances include Julie Andrews, who remembers visiting the park with Walt himself, and Josh Gad, who reflects on his dream come true of “working” as a skipper at Jungle Cruise.
In addition to honoring the past, “The Happiest Story on Earth: 70 Years of Disneyland” also looks toward the future of Disneyland Resort with an exciting sneak peek at future Disney California Adventure Park attractions, including an expansion to Avengers Campus, a Coco attraction and the new Avatar destination, giving viewers an inside look at how Disney continues to innovate and inspire new generations.
Scuba-Caper at Disney Springs: Deputies Say Paddlefish Was Robbed by a Diver Who Swam Away with Cash
In one of the most bizarre crimes ever to surface at Walt Disney World, deputies say a burglar in scuba gear targeted Paddlefish at Disney Springs in the early hours of Monday morning, September 15. The suspect reportedly swam up to the iconic steamboat-style restaurant, forced his way inside, and left with thousands of dollars in cash.
According to the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, the incident happened just after midnight. Two employees were in the manager’s office counting money from the night when the suspect entered. Reports indicate he told the workers to move into a corner and close their eyes. Some sources suggest he tied them up before taking between $10,000 and $20,000 in cash.
The burglar was described as slim, around 5’10”, wearing tight clothing and a blue beanie. A photo released to media appears to show him spray-painting a security camera. After grabbing the cash, investigators believe the man retrieved his scuba gear, jumped back into the lake at Disney Springs, and swam away into the night.
Despite the brazen theft, no employees were injured, and the suspect did not display any weapons. Paddlefish closed at its usual time Sunday evening and reopened right on schedule at noon Monday. The restaurant’s operator, Levy Restaurants, declined to comment to local news outlets, citing the active investigation.
Deputies searched the surrounding waters but did not locate the suspect. For now, the unusual case remains under investigation, leaving locals and Disney fans alike buzzing about one of the most outlandish getaway stories Orlando has seen in years.
Pinocchio Village Haus Fountain Dries Up for Refurbishment at Magic Kingdom
Fantasyland is known for its whimsical details, but one of its charming touches is currently out of commission. The water fountain outside Pinocchio Village Haus at Magic Kingdom has been turned off and partially covered, signaling that some refurbishment is underway.
Guests approaching the quick-service restaurant will usually spot the large stone fountain bubbling away near the entrance. But on a recent visit, the fountain was not running, and the lower half was wrapped in white scrim. While Disney hasn’t shared what exactly is happening, it’s clear that maintenance work is planned for the feature.
This isn’t the first bit of upkeep in the area. Just last year, the restrooms located between the Village Haus and the castle wall reopened after an extended refurbishment. Now, the fountain seems to be getting its own touch-up, possibly to refresh both the structure and its mechanics.
Pinocchio Village Haus remains open as usual, continuing to serve up guest favorites like flatbreads, Caesar salad, and the hearty chicken parmesan sandwich. Diners can still enjoy the charming indoor cottage-style seating or relax outside under colorful umbrellas. And of course, the upstairs seating area still offers a unique peek into the loading area of “it’s a small world,” one of the restaurant’s best-hidden gems.
