Security Plaza Closes at Downtown Disney for Demolition
The Downtown Disney District security plaza closest to Disneyland Hotel is now closed temporarily. Located between Din Tai Fung and the former ESPN Zone building, this plaza was a popular and convenient entry point. It offered a direct path from the Disneyland Hotel to the Downtown Disney District and the entrances of both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure.
Guests will now need to use the newer security plaza that opened to the south last year. Signs are posted on the Disneyland Hotel side of the former entrance, directing guests to the updated access point.
While the blue canopy roof remains, all security scanners have been removed. An excavator is already on-site, signaling significant construction. Disney has confirmed that this is a temporary closure and the security checkpoint will reopen in the future.
While the security checkpoint is closed, guests can still exit the Downtown Disney District from this area. The west side of Downtown Disney has been a major focus for change over the past few years, with a new stage, a green space, and the critically acclaimed Din Tai Fung opening last June. The lululemon store is set to take over the former ESPN Zone space as the area continues to be transformed.
Disney Dreamlight Valley’s Wishblossom Ranch Expansion
Saddle up! A new paid expansion, Wishblossom Ranch, is coming to Disney Dreamlight Valley this November. Get ready to explore a brand-new ranch-themed biome and care for new animal friends on all platforms.
Wishblossom Ranch is now the third major expansion for Disney Dreamlight Valley since its launch. This expansion brings a highly-anticipated feature to the game: horses! Get ready to explore a beautiful new landscape and care for your very own equine companion.
The gameplay trailer gives us a first look at the new Wishblossom Ranch, which players will be able to build from the ground up in a breathtaking Alpine setting. You’ll get plenty of help from some familiar faces, with Snow White, Tinkerbell, Mickey Mouse, Goofy, Daisy, Jasmine, Alice, and Stitch all lending a hand.
Naturally, the main attraction of this expansion is the introduction of horses. The trailer confirms that players will be able to befriend, tame, and ride a variety of horses that roam freely in the new biome, including the beloved Maximus.
For more information about the Wishblossom Ranch expansion, be sure to tune into the Disney Dreamlight Valley Showcase Stream on October 15. The expansion is set to be a paid release this November, though pricing details have not yet been announced.
Disney Dreamlight Valley is available for play on Mac, iOS, Nintendo Switch/Switch 2, PlayStation 4/5, Steam (PC), and Xbox One and Series X/S.
Disney Files Permit for Grand Floridian Entrance Updates Tied to World Drive Project
Big changes are on the horizon for Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. A new permit filed with the South Florida Water Management District reveals that Disney is preparing to reconfigure the iconic resort’s entrance and parking areas as part of a broader roadwork initiative tied to World Drive improvements.
The permit, filed under the name Grand Floridian Modification Project C, details three key updates:
Main Entrance Reconfiguration: The Grand Floridian’s main entrance will be adjusted to connect seamlessly with two of the brand-new roundabouts being built as part of the World Drive Phase 3 (WDN3) project. This will streamline access and improve overall traffic flow.
Wedding Pavilion Access Shift: With the WDN3 roadwork affecting the current Wedding Pavilion lot, a new driveway is planned slightly further south to maintain guest access to the popular wedding venue.
New Back-of-House Parking: Cast Members will see improvements too, with a new employee parking lot included in the plans.
The updates are part of the larger World Drive Phase 3 overhaul, which is already reshaping the main northern gateway into Magic Kingdom and its nearby resorts. The integration of these changes at the Grand Floridian will not only modernize the flow of traffic but also help the resort keep up with the evolving infrastructure around Walt Disney World’s busiest entry points.
While no timeline was included in the filing, guests and Cast Members alike should anticipate construction activity around the resort in the future. For now, it’s clear that Disney is working to ensure the Grand Floridian — often considered the crown jewel of Walt Disney World resorts — continues to welcome visitors in style, while keeping up with the pace of the surrounding road network updates.
Epic Ride: Peacock’s New Docuseries Puts Universal Theme Parks in the Spotlight
Peacock is about to take Universal fans on an Epic Ride. The brand-new three-part docuseries, Epic Ride: The Story of Universal Theme Parks, drops Monday, September 29, and promises to be a must-watch for theme park lovers and movie buffs alike.
Building on the NBC special Inside the Worlds of Epic Universe, this deep dive will showcase Universal’s incredible journey from silver screen to scream machines. The series will trace Universal’s cinematic legacy and spotlight the ambitious creation of its newest park, Universal Epic Universe, which opens with fully immersive lands themed to Shrek, How to Train Your Dragon, Harry Potter, and Despicable Me.
What makes Epic Ride extra special is the unprecedented behind-the-scenes access. Viewers will see the engineers, designers, choreographers, and performers who are bringing these worlds to life, racing against time to deliver the theme park of the future. You’ll also hear from the Hollywood icons who helped shape Universal’s story. Interviews include Steven Spielberg, Kathleen Kennedy, Frank Marshall, Jon M. Chu, Bryce Dallas Howard, Michelle Yeoh, Vin Diesel, and Donna Langley, among others.
From Jurassic Park to Fast & Furious, Wicked to Back to the Future, the documentary ties together Universal’s blockbuster films with the rides and attractions that let fans step into their favorite worlds. And thanks to rare archival footage, insider stories, and a countdown to the grand opening of Epic Universe, fans will be front row for the creative magic.
The trailer teases the stakes and the spectacle, with Spielberg noting, “Some of these rides are done so realistically, you get to experience your favorite cultural phenomenons as a participant.”
With Universal’s most ambitious park ever just around the corner, this series couldn’t come at a better time. Mark your calendars for September 29, grab some popcorn, and get ready to experience the ultimate ride through Universal history.
Disneyland Abu Dhabi Castle Will Rise from the Water in Stunning New Design
Disney’s newest castle is making waves, literally. During the latest episode of We Call It Imagineering, Disney Imagineer Zach Riddley shared fresh details about the centerpiece of the upcoming Disneyland Abu Dhabi, and it sounds unlike any castle we’ve seen before.
For the first time in Disney history, a castle will incorporate water as part of its design. Riddley explained, “Abu Dhabi is a city on the water, and so we’re really excited about being able to incorporate water for the first time in the design of one of our castles.” That means guests can expect a dazzling structure that doesn’t just rise from the desert sand, but also reflects and glimmers alongside a waterfront setting.
Disney CEO Bob Iger has already teased that this will be the company’s “first real modern castle,” describing it as a bold new vision. “You start thinking about what is possible, actually envisioning a castle rising up in this case from the sand and also being on the water,” Iger said.
The futuristic design promises to be the crown jewel of what Disney is calling its “most technologically advanced park” to date. The project is being developed in partnership with the Miral Group, who will own and operate the property. And while we’ve seen breathtaking concept art showcasing vibrant colors and glowing spires, what makes this park even more unique is that it will be an indoor theme park, designed to bring Disney magic to Abu Dhabi while accommodating the region’s climate.
The name “Disneyland Abu Dhabi” has not yet been confirmed as official, but Disney has registered several potential names for the resort. No matter the final branding, this new park is shaping up to be a landmark addition to the Disney family of destinations.
We Call It Imagineering: Building Castles Now Streaming on YouTube
The latest episode of the Walt Disney Imagineering YouTube series, We Call it Imagineering, has arrived. The new episode gives Disney fans an in-depth look at all of Disney’s magical castles located around the globe.
During the “Beyond the Spires: An Insider Look at Disney Castles” panel at Destination D23, it was revealed that the fifth episode of the Walt Disney Imagineering YouTube series, We Call It Imagineering, would soon be available. The new episode, titled “Building Castles,” is now out, giving Disney fans an in-depth look at the magical castles located around the globe, exploring their unique creations and contents.
The episode begins with a look at the original Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland, where former Imagineer Tom Morris reveals that the film that inspired it was not even released until four years after the park’s opening. The documentary then highlights Cinderella Castle at Walt Disney World, including its prestigious Cinderella Castle Suite.
The episode also features the whimsical design of Le Château de la Belle au Bois Dormant at Disneyland Paris, with Imagineers Michel Den Dulk and Keith Rector offering their insight. Additionally, it explores how Hong Kong Disneyland’s Castle of Magical Dreams evolved from a replica of Sleeping Beauty Castle and touches on Tokyo Disneyland’s Cinderella Castle, which boasts a unique walk-through attraction. The show also covers the Enchanted Storybook Castle at Shanghai Disneyland, which serves as a tribute to all Disney Princesses.
Looking ahead, the episode concludes with a peek into the future of castle design. It showcases the new castle-style park planned for Abu Dhabi, which will integrate the area’s natural waters into its design, and reveals a castle concept for the upcoming Disney Adventure cruise ship.
It has been confirmed that the castle in Disneyland Abu Dhabi will incorporate water into its design, making it the first Disney castle to do so. Imagineer Zach Riddley explained that the decision was inspired by the city’s location. “One of the first decisions we made as a company was to think…we’re gonna create a castle park here. A park that’s based on our Magic Kingdom-style of storytelling,” he said. Riddley added, “Abu Dhabi is a city on the water, and so we’re really excited about being able to incorporate water for the first time in the design of one of our castles.”
Universal Epic Universe dominated the 2025 Golden Ticket Awards, with its new ride dethroning Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance for the Best Dark Ride honor. Additionally, Universal Volcano Bay was named the Best Water Park.
The Golden Ticket Awards by Amusement Today are designed to “shine a spotlight on the amusement park industry and attractions by recognizing the ‘Best of the Best’.” In the 2025 awards, there were 22 categories, and Universal Epic Universe earned four wins, in addition to several runner-up positions.
Tim Baldwin, the Golden Ticket Awards Communications Coordinator, stated, “It was Universal’s year, unquestionably. There was so much build-up to this park’s opening, dating back before the pandemic. And they pulled it off. The awards alone demonstrate that Universal really delivered the goods.”
Stardust Racers was built by Mack Rides and “bedazzled” by Universal Creative, according to Amusement Today. The magazine described the ride as a “masterpiece in Universal’s portfolio,” noting that the “mesmerizing attraction features racing trains that intertwine in fascinating ways” and adds a “cool factor” with its night lighting.
“It is a huge honor to be named Best New Roller Coaster, and we’re so excited that Stardust Racers has earned this recognition,” said JC Loward, assistant director/executive producer at Universal Creative. “Our team set out to create an ‘out-of-this-world’ dual-launch coaster that feels like you’re riding aboard a comet, and to see the positive guest reactions since we’ve opened has been amazing. Reaching speeds up to 62 mph and heights up to 133 feet, Stardust Racers is definitely a must-do for any thrill seeker visiting Epic Universe.”
“Stardust Racers was in development for several years — a true passion project,” Maximilian Roeser with Mack Rides said. “The fusion of our launch coaster system with Universal’s spectacular design is simply stunning. The attention to detail and immersive theming make this coaster a benchmark for what’s possible when great engineering meets visionary storytelling.”
The flagship Wizarding World attraction at Epic Universe earned Best New Attraction Installation. Amusement Today stated that this “one-of-a-kind attraction dazzles from the moment guests step into the queue. Inside, the theming is immersive, and the ride system almost defies description.”
Eileen Stephens, Senior Director of Projects for Universal Creative, commented on the ride’s ambition: “Just the sheer scale of this attraction is unbelievable and unlike anything else.” She added that the adventure begins the moment guests travel from wizarding Paris to the British Ministry of Magic via Métro-Floo. “You encounter so much in this ride — massive, breathtaking environments, unprecedented ride technology, lifelike animated figures and so much more — all while trying to bring Dolores Umbridge to justice. This ride is a true gamechanger and so far, our guests have been blown away.”
The “Best New Theme Concept” category, which was introduced last year to “acknowledge new ideas regardless of budget,” was awarded to the Universal Monsters-themed area of Epic Universe.
Pete Carsillo, Senior Creative Director at Universal Creative, commented on the new area: “Universal’s earliest blockbusters were the classic monster films, and to be able to continue that legacy has truly been an epic experience.” He described the village of Darkmoor as a place “where the stories of the Universal monsters come together and come to life,” allowing guests to be a part of it. “We’re bringing these timeless monsters and stories to the present day within this ravaged village that has so much mystery and thrill throughout,” he added. Carsillo noted that the positive reactions from guests are “a testament to how special these characters and stories are and how this world truly is for everyone.”
Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment, located in Dark Universe, was named Best Dark Ride, beating out Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This is a significant win, as Rise of the Resistance had previously won the award for two consecutive years.
”Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment is one of the most thrilling and terrifying attractions we’ve ever built,” said Carsillo. “There are so many innovative elements that come together to bring this attraction to life, including an original story featuring new and classic characters, state-of-the-art ride technology, massive sets and the most technologically-advanced, life-like animated figures that we’ve ever created. A lot of the creative team behind the attraction are monster fans themselves, and it feels amazing to create such a unique experience that allows guests to encounter the Universal monsters in a whole new way.”
Have you had a chance to experience Epic Universe yet?
A Brand-New Taste: Enzo’s Hideaway to Host Non-Alcoholic Pairing Event with Aplós
A brand-new twist on a pairing event is coming to Disney Springs with the launch of the Mindful Midday Pairing at Enzo’s Hideaway. On October 11, guests are invited to an innovative culinary experience that combines the celebrated Italian cuisine of Enzo’s Hideaway with the innovative non-alcoholic spirits from acclaimed brand Aplós.
This harmonious afternoon will feature a curated three-course Italian lunch, with each dish thoughtfully matched to an Aplós-based, alcohol-free cocktail. The event offers a unique opportunity to explore sophisticated flavor pairings without the presence of alcohol, creating a truly mindful and refreshing dining experience.
Guests will not only savor the delicious food and beverages but also gain insight directly from the creators. Executive Chef Ben Dodaro of Enzo’s Hideaway and Aplós Liquid Creative Director Lynnette Marrero will be on hand to share the inspiration and creative process behind their respective creations. This intimate setting allows for a deeper appreciation of the artistry involved in crafting both the dishes and the drinks.
The event, which is limited in capacity, will take place in the restaurant’s exclusive private space starting at 1 p.m. While the menu is entirely alcohol-free, the event is reserved for guests 21 and over. Tickets are priced at $75 per person, plus tax and a 20% prepaid gratuity.
The full menu for the event promises a delightful journey through Italian flavors:
Antipasto
Beverage: Classic Americano
Food Pairing: Porchetta con Insalata – Crispy porchetta, arugula, fennel, citrus, white balsamic and tangerine extra virgin olive oil
Primo
Beverage: Coriander Sky
Food Pairing: Lumache alla Vodka con Gamberi – Housemade pasta, grilled shrimp, tomato cream, ‘nduja, parmigiano-reggiano and salsa verde
Dolce
Beverage: Granita al Melone
Food Pairing: Melon shaved ice and mint
This exclusive pairing event at Enzo’s Hideaway marks a new chapter in elevated dining at Disney Springs, offering a sophisticated and inclusive option for guests seeking a special culinary experience.
The Paper on Peacock Drops a Bombshell for Fans of The Office
The good folks of Scranton are no more — at least not at Dunder Mifflin.
In a surprising crossover twist that’s already lighting up fan forums and social media, The Paper, a new comedy from Peacock, has delivered what may be the final blow to one of television’s most beloved fictional companies. Dunder Mifflin Paper Company, the beleaguered but enduring office setting of NBC’s long-running hit The Office, has officially been declared out of business. And the news wasn’t delivered by a somber corporate memo or a final prank by Jim Halpert — it was broken by none other than Scranton legend Bob Vance (of Vance Refrigeration), who appears in the series premiere of The Paper.
“Dunder Mifflin? Yeah they’ve been gone for a while,” Vance says casually in a cold open. Fans will be happy to learn that Phil and Stanley still keep in touch – they both have Schnoodles.
The moment is quick, but the impact is immediate. For fans who spent nine seasons watching Michael Scott fumble his way through management, Pam and Jim navigate love across the cubicles, and Dwight Schrute fight tooth and nail to climb the company ladder, the death of Dunder Mifflin marks the end of an era — not with a bang, but with a chilling update in a new show set hundreds of miles away.
But The Paper isn’t content to ride the coattails of The Office. In fact, it’s carving out a voice all its own.
Set in present-day Toledo, Ohio, The Paper stars Domhnall Gleeson as (N)ed Sampson, the idealistic and heartwarmingly chipper editor-in-chief of The Truth Teller, a struggling local newspaper that refuses to fold in the age of digital burnout and algorithm-driven clickbait. Ned believes that real journalism still matters, even if his readership seems to disagree. The character is a far cry from Gleeson’s darker roles (The Revenant, Ex Machina), and he plays Ned with a boundless optimism that borders on delusion — which is exactly what the newsroom needs.
The ensemble cast includes Sabrina Impacciatore (The White Lotus), who steals scenes as the paper’s lovable villain, and Chelsea Frei (The Moodys), who plays the hard-nosed investigative reporter trying to keep the operation afloat. But it’s the return of Oscar Nuñez as Oscar Martinez — yes, that Oscar — that ties the new series to its NBC sibling in more ways than one. Oscar, a reluctant part-time freelance columnist, full-time accountant, recently relocated to Toledo, brings a familiar world-weariness to The Paper, still smarting from the collapse of Dunder Mifflin and offering occasional references to the life he left behind in Scranton.
Tonally, The Paper blends the heart of Parks and Recreation with the tongue-in-cheek absurdity of The Office, but tempers both with a timely commentary on the decline of local news. Each of the ten episodes (now streaming in full on Peacock) explores a different ethical or logistical crisis faced by the staff of The Truth Teller.
For longtime fans of The Office, the news of Dunder Mifflin’s closure may come as a gut punch. But The Paper offers something else — not a revival, but a spiritual successor. It’s a show that, much like the fading industry it spotlights, insists on meaning something. With sharp writing, memorable characters, and a few well-placed cameos, it asks a familiar question: What do we do when the world moves on without us?
In the case of The Paper, we write anyway. All ten episodes of The Paper are now streaming exclusively on Peacock.
Disney Lorcana Artist Denies Viral AI Artwork Accusations
The Disney Lorcana community has been buzzing after artist James C. Mulligan became the subject of viral accusations claiming he used AI-generated elements in his trading card artwork. Mulligan, who has worked with Disney for decades, is pushing back firmly against the claims.
Mulligan has created official art for three Disney Lorcana cards: Flounder – Collector’s Companion and Transformer Chef – Castle Stove from the Ursula’s Return set, and White Rabbit – Royal Herald from Shimmering Skies. The controversy began when a social media user attending Anime NYC alleged that Mulligan lied about not using AI in his work and then sold expensive prints under false pretenses. Their post has since gained millions of views, sparking heated debate online.
The accuser pointed to Mulligan’s reluctance to provide a Procreate timelapse of his process as proof of wrongdoing. Mulligan later blocked the user on social media, escalating the situation further. At one point, Mulligan’s wife responded, claiming they had shared proof with organizers and their legal team.
Rumors quickly spread that Disney Lorcana and Ravensburger had blacklisted Mulligan, though neither company has issued confirmation. In fact, a Ravensburger employee noted publicly that the game has a strict no-AI policy, and that it’s not uncommon for fans to jump to conclusions about art.
Mulligan has now broken his silence with a lengthy Facebook post. In it, he categorically denies ever using AI for Lorcana or other Disney work. He emphasized his long career as a traditional artist, noting that he’s awaiting permission from Ravensburger to share his layered source files to prove his process.
“I understand completely the hatred for artists using generative AI and passing it along as hand-painted work,” Mulligan wrote. “AI has its uses, but I believe it will be incredibly destructive for society. I did NOT use it, nor have I been contacted by Ravensburger or Disney about this matter.”
The artist also revealed he has faced threats against himself and his family since the controversy went viral. Still, he remains committed to transparency once he is allowed to release his files. For now, he says his decades of work should speak louder than accusations.
Guests Can Unlock the Magic Each Morning at World of Disney in Disney Springs
Disney Springs has added an extra sprinkle of pixie dust to mornings with a brand-new daily opening ceremony at the World of Disney store. Guests who arrive early have the chance to be part of the magic by helping unlock the largest Disney merchandise location in the world.
The tradition is a nod to the much-loved Disney Store openings of the past. Each morning, Cast Members set up a themed “lock” just outside the main entrance. Right now, with Halloween season in full swing, the lock has a spooky style complete with a Mickey pumpkin, fluttering bats, and eerie purple accents. Even the announcement that kicks off the ceremony is Haunted Mansion inspired. Cast Members shared that the podium and theme will change with the seasons, keeping the ceremony fresh throughout the year.
One lucky guest — often a child or a family — is chosen by Cast Members to hold the oversized Disney key. The whimsical key features a handle shaped like the Disney “D,” a castle design on the opposite end, and a middle section that sparkles with colored lights. With a ceremonial turn in the giant lock, the World of Disney officially opens for the day.
As the doors swing open, guests are welcomed by a red carpet entrance, cheerful Cast Members, and bubble wands filling the air. It’s a grand opening moment worthy of a Disney stage show, and one that creates lasting memories before any shopping even begins.
The chosen “Keyholder” doesn’t just leave with bragging rights. They also receive a commemorative certificate reading “I unlocked the magic at World of Disney,” complete with a golden seal, magical designs, and a Walt Disney quote reminding us that “It takes people to make the dream a reality.”
According to Cast Members, this special ceremony will take place every morning for at least the next year — not just weekends. So if you’re planning a Disney Springs rope drop, you just might be the one to start the day with a key to the magic.
Taking Flight with The Rescuers Down Under Loungefly Collection!
You know that feeling when you’re just a little bit of a troublemaker, but your heart is in the right place? The mischievous sparkle in your eye, the daring spirit that makes you want to explore the world? That’s what the latest Loungefly collection, inspired by Disney’s The Rescuers Down Under, is all about. This collection is a tribute to those who are brave enough to stand up for what’s right and are ready for their next big adventure.
If you’re looking for a new sidekick for your daily escapades, the The Rescuers Down Under Mini Backpack is the perfect choice. This bag, priced at $90, puts the daring Jake front and center, with a debossed and appliqued design that really makes him pop. Above him, you’ll spot the classic duo, Bernard and Miss Bianca. The faux leather has a cool, cowboy vibe, and even the top handle is braided to really lean into that adventurous style. Plus, the side pockets show off even more of the beloved animal friends from the movie.
For those who are ready to take flight, the The Rescuers Down Under Albatross Air Canvas Tote Bag is a must-have. For just $38, this tote bag is the ultimate nod to the iconic Albatross Air. The front features the official logo, complete with the “Albatross Air” banner and the slogan, “A Fair Fare from Here to There.” The sides are stamped with “Express” and other symbols, adding to that vintage, well-traveled feel. And if you spin the bag around, you’ll find another “stamp” for Australia. This tote is a great size for all your essentials, so you can head off on your own daring adventure.
And for a truly unique piece that captures the quirky charm of the film, check out the The Rescuers Down Under Frank Crossbody Bag. Shaped like a circle and priced at $75, this bag features Frank himself on the front, with his neck frill extending up to add a cool, dimensional detail. Behind him, you’ll find subtle, debossed designs of Bernard and Miss Bianca. The back of the bag features more of that same debossed detailing, including a silhouette of an albatross in flight. It’s a fun and stylish way to show your love for one of the most memorable characters from the movie.
This collection is a fantastic way to celebrate a classic Disney film and the adventurous spirit it embodies. Whether you’re a long-time fan or just love the unique and playful designs, these pieces are a great way to show off your style and your adventurous side.
