As part of “Cool Kid Summer” at Disney World guests can enjoy new Magic Shot Photo Guides in the parks! These guides show you where to find the special Magic Shots in each Walt Disney World theme park.
The guide shares where to find some of the favorite Magic Shot locations at each theme park. There are seven favorites in each though the guide also says there are over 100 Disney PhotoPass spots at Walt Disney World Resort!
Each park map is featured in the guide book and the seven favorite Magic Shots are numbered on the map.
There are also example photos depicting each of the listed Magic Shots. You can collect all of the Magic Shots in each park!
These photo guides can be found at:
Town Square Theater in Magic Kingdom
Pin Traders in Epcot
Garden Gate Gifts in Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Sid Cahuenga’s One-Of-A-Kind in Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Jimmy Buffett’s Hemisphere Dancer Returns to Universal CityWalk—Refurbished, Re-Christened, and Ready to Wow
It’s 5 o’clock somewhere—and right now, it’s right outside Margaritaville Orlando. After a year-long refurbishment, Jimmy Buffett’s iconic seaplane, the Hemisphere Dancer, is back and looking better than ever at Lone Palm Airport in Universal CityWalk Orlando. The fan-favorite plane, famously flown by Buffett himself, was officially re-Christened during a celebration on July 13, 2025, bringing tropical vibes and Buffett spirit back to the CityWalk lagoon.
Jimmy Buffett’s personal plane, the Grumman HU-16C Albatross, was originally built in 1955 and once served the U.S. Navy. Buffett restored the aircraft in the ’90s, gave it its whimsical name, and took it on countless adventures—including the infamous “Jamaica Mistaica” incident in 1996, where it was mistakenly fired upon by Jamaican authorities while carrying passengers like Bono and Island Records founder Chris Blackwell.
Here’s a peek under the wings of this tropical treasure:
Model: Grumman HU-16C (Albatross)
Fuselage Length: 60′ 7″
Wingspan: 80′ 0″
Height: 24′ 5″
Empty Weight: ~20,000 lbs
Max Takeoff Weight (Land): 33,000 lbs
Max Takeoff Weight (Water): 29,500 lbs
Fuel Capacity: 1,075 gallons (plus 300 gal optional drop tanks)
Engines: (2) Curtiss-Wright R-1820-76, each producing 1,425 HP
Located next to Margaritaville Orlando, the Lone Palm Airport bar offers tropical drinks, quick eats, and plenty of outdoor seating to unwind and soak in the vibes. Kids can play in the Parakeet Beach area while grown-ups sip margaritas with their toes in the sand. It’s the kind of place where flip-flops are practically a dress code.
And of course, the main attraction—the Hemisphere Dancer herself—is now fully reinstalled and ready for photos, stories, and nostalgia.
Originally opening alongside CityWalk in 1999, Margaritaville’s laid-back oasis remains a staple of Universal’s dining and entertainment scene. And with the return of this flying icon, the vibes just got even more “Buffett-approved.”
Universal Theme Parks: The Exhibition Coming to The Franklin Institute in 2026
Clear your calendars, theme park fans, because Universal is bringing the thrills off the ride track and straight into the heart of Philadelphia! Announced today, Universal Theme Parks: The Exhibition will make its world premiere at The Franklin Institute on February 14, 2026, just in time for the city’s big semi-quincentennial celebrations. With this move, Universal Destinations & Experiences is opening the vault and inviting fans into the magic like never before.
This first-of-its-kind exhibition is a massive 18,000-square-foot immersive experience, bursting at the seams with eight themed galleries, over 100 original artifacts, and 25 interactive experiences from some of Universal’s biggest franchises—including Jurassic World, How to Train Your Dragon, Universal Monsters, and more.
So, what can guests expect to see and do?
🦖 Step into the Action – Experience the thrills of Universal’s attractions firsthand with environments designed to make you feel like you’re inside the story.
🎢 Unleash Your Inner Creator – Ever wanted to build your own roller coaster? Design a monster mask? Program an animatronic? Now you can—with real theme park tools and tech!
🎭 Get Up Close with the Icons – Check out costumes, ride vehicles, and props from legendary rides and shows, from Toothless and Po to Jurassic giants and the classic Monsters.
🎇 Explore the Tech Behind the Thrills – Learn how storytelling, special effects, and cutting-edge science come together to create heart-pounding, jaw-dropping attractions.
📸 Strike a Pose – Snap Insta-worthy photos with authentic props and themed backdrops throughout the exhibit.
The exhibition is more than a celebration of thrills—it’s a deep dive into the art, innovation, and teamwork that make Universal theme parks so iconic. From storyboard artists and animators to engineers and visual effects wizards, the showcase brings their behind-the-scenes magic front and center.
📍 Location: The Franklin Institute, Philadelphia 📅 Dates: February 14, 2026 – September 7, 2026 🎟️ Pre-sale sign-ups: Now live at www.fi.edu for early access to tickets and exclusive updates!
Universal collaborated with award-winning design firm MDSX to bring the exhibition to life, and with support from Comcast NBCUniversal and PECO, this world premiere is destined to be one of 2026’s must-see events.
If you’ve ever screamed on VelociCoaster, marveled at the animatronics in Forbidden Journey, or smiled your way through Minion Mayhem, this exhibit is calling your name. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime look into how the parks we love are built—and a true love letter to the world of immersive entertainment.
Save Big on Florida Tolls with Visitor Toll Pass™ at Orlando International Airport
Planning to rent a car on your next magical trip to Central Florida? Whether you’re zipping down to Walt Disney World, cruising over to Universal Orlando, or exploring Florida’s scenic beaches, toll roads are part of the journey. But here’s a secret that’ll keep your road trip budget on track: Visitor Toll Pass™ is available at Orlando International Airport (MCO) Terminals A, B, and C! 🚗✨
This FREE, temporary toll pass is designed just for rental car customers traveling roundtrip through MCO—and it can save you up to 80% on tolls compared to those sneaky rental car toll programs.
Here’s why Visitor Toll Pass™ is the hero your Florida vacation needs:
It’s completely free to reserve
No hidden fees or surprise charges
Always pay the lowest toll rate in Florida—like a true local!
Works on all toll roads and most bridges across the Sunshine State
Compatible with all major rental car companies at MCO, including Alamo, Hertz, Enterprise, Avis, and more
Easy pickup and return right at the airport: 📍 Terminal A – Level 1 📍 Terminal B – Level 1 📍 Terminal C – Level 4
All you need to do is download the Visitor Toll Pass™ app from the App Store or Google Play, reserve your hangtag, and hang it on your rearview mirror when you pick up your rental. That’s it!
🛑 One important note: Make sure you decline your rental car company’s toll program at the counter. Otherwise, you could be charged twice—and no one wants that kind of surprise.
Reminder: You must return the hangtag at the end of your trip or there’s a $10 charge. But hey, that’s a small trade-off for saving potentially 80% on tolls during your Florida adventures!
Be Our Guest Unveils New Menu Offerings at Magic Kingdom Starting July 16
Tale as old as time… tastes as fresh as ever! Starting July 16, Walt Disney World is pulling back the enchanted curtain on an updated lineup of delicious dishes at Be Our Guest Restaurant in Magic Kingdom—and we must say, it’s a feast worthy of a royal ball.
Whether you’re a Gaston-level carnivore or more of a Belle-style plant-based foodie, this new menu has a little something for everyone. So grab your napkin (and maybe Lumière for dramatic flair), and let’s take a bite out of what’s cooking!
Here’s what’s being served up in the Beast’s enchanted castle:
French Onion Soup au Gratin – A rich, soul-warming beef broth infused with sherry wine and topped with melted Swiss cheese. It’s as classic as Belle’s ballgown.
Mixed Greens Salad (Plant-based) – Light, refreshing, and delightfully simple with tomato, cucumber, and a zesty dijon vinaigrette.
Endive and Walnut Salad – For those who like a little bite in their greens, this one comes with Roquefort, green apple, radicchio, and a bubbly champagne vinaigrette.
Steak Frites – Bonjour, meat lovers! A slow-roasted butcher’s steak served alongside house-cut French fries and finished with a luscious red wine sauce. Gaston would absolutely approve.
Pan-Roasted Arctic Char – This under-the-sea stunner is paired with roasted potatoes, charred tomatoes, shaved fennel, and a bright citrus-caper brown butter.
Poulet Rouge Chicken – A tender roasted chicken dish that brings the flavor with stewed pepper pipérade and a sweet corn velouté. It’s like summer in every bite!
Crème Brûlée Tart – A twist on the classic, this one features an orange custard base, passion fruit meringue, and chantilly cream for a citrusy-sweet ending.
Blooming Rose – It’s back and as beautiful as ever: a chocolate cake topped with The Grey Stuff. (It’s delicious. Don’t believe us? Ask the dishes!)
Reservations for Be Our Guest Restaurant are strongly recommended—especially once word spreads about these reimagined offerings. So whether you’re celebrating a magical moment or just want to dine like royalty, this is the place to be.
Fuzzy & Fabulous! Discover the New Disney Pom Pom Earrings!
Get ready to squeal with delight because the Disney Store just dropped the most adorable new merchandise online: Disney Pom Pom Earrings! And let me tell you, they are every bit as cute as they sound. Retailing at a super reasonable $16.99 a pair, these little beauties are an easy way to add a playful pop of Disney magic to any outfit.
First up, we’ve got the iconic duo themselves, Mickey and Minnie! The Minnie Mouse Pom Pom Earrings are an absolute cheer-full dream. Imagine soft, plush red pom-poms (Minnie’s signature color, of course!) dangling from the cutest Minnie charms with sweet enamel details. They’re just so incredibly charming and a perfect splash of vibrant color for your ears. Not to be outdone, the Mickey Mouse Pom Pom Earrings are equally dapper. Fuzzy little pom-poms hang from shiny rose goldtone chains, with Mickey himself looking spiffy at the top, complete with enamel details. They’re a simply wonderful way to bring some playful charm to your look.
But the cuteness doesn’t stop there! If you’re a fan of the Hundred Acre Wood, you’re in for a treat. The Winnie the Pooh Pom Pom Earrings are as sweet as a drop of honey. These dangle earrings feature fuzzy little pom-poms and our favorite silly ol’ bear, all with enameled features and shiny goldtone details. They’ll definitely add a dose of color and charm that’s just irresistible. And for those who appreciate a bit of charming melancholy, the Eeyore Pom Pom Earrings are here to make you smile, rain or shine. With fuzzy blue pom-poms dangling from sweet enameled Eeyore charms, these drop earrings are proof that sometimes “blue” can mean totally happy!
So, which adorable pair will you be adding to your collection? These are sure to sell out fast, so hop over to the Disney Store online and snag your favorites before they’re gone!
Cute as a Button! The New Disney Buttons Dooney and Bourke Collection Just Dropped!
You know that feeling when something so utterly adorable drops, and you just have to tell everyone? Well, buckle up, Disney fans, because the new Disney Buttons Dooney and Bourke Collection has officially landed online at the Disney Store, and it’s basically a cuteness overload! If you’re a fan of whimsical designs and that signature Dooney & Bourke quality, get ready to open your wallet.
First up, let’s talk about the Disney Buttons Dooney & Bourke Ear Headband, priced at a delightful $198. Seriously, “cute as a button” is an understatement! This headband features an allover print absolutely covered in Disney-inspired buttons. We’re talking Mickey, Tinker Bell, Baloo, Ariel, basically all your faves are there in button form, making for the most charming accessory ever. And because it’s Dooney & Bourke, you know it’s crafted with genuine leather for the bow and band, plus all that authentic Disney magic we crave. Imagine rocking these ears at the parks, instant compliments guaranteed!
But wait, there’s more! For those who need a little more space for their park essentials (or just their everyday magic), the Disney Buttons Dooney & Bourke Tote Bag is here for $298. This tote is also “cute as a button” (sensing a theme here?) with that same adorable allover print of Disney-inspired buttons. Mickey, Donald, Pluto, Ariel, Thumper, the gang’s all here, ready to bring a smile to your face every time you grab your bag. This beauty is a Disney Store exclusive, so you know it’s extra special. And, of course, it boasts that impeccable Dooney & Bourke craftsmanship and attention to detail we all know and love.
So, if you’re looking to add a pop of playful Disney charm to your wardrobe, the Disney Buttons Dooney & Bourke Collection is an absolute must-see. Head over to the Disney Store online now and get ready to fall in love with these button-tiful new arrivals!
Nostalgia Alert! Classic Disney Fisher Price Toys Just Dropped Online!
Holy moly, Disney fans and toy enthusiasts, clear your schedules and get your wallets ready because something truly magical just dropped online at the Disney Store! We’re talking about a blast from the past, a wave of nostalgia, and a whole lot of playtime fun with the new Disney Fisher Price toys, and let me tell you, they are everything.
First up, get ready to spin some tunes with the Mickey Mouse Music Box Record Player for just $34.99. If you remember this gem, you know the pure joy it brings. It’s back and better than ever, bringing that vintage vibe with five “records” featuring 10 songs. Seriously, how cool is that? With colorful art of Mickey, Minnie, and Pluto, this retro beauty is about to become your new favorite screen-free activity. Get ready for some serious sing-alongs and dance parties!
Then we have a classic that’s sure to make some noise: the Mickey Mouse and Friends Fisher-Price SEE ‘N SAY® Farmer Mickey Says for a sweet $24.99. Remember asking “What does the cow say?” and pulling that string? Well, Farmer Mickey is here to answer with 12 different animal sounds! Spin the arrow, pull the cord, and get ready for giggles and learning. This toy is something to crow about, or moo, or meow, you get the picture!
And who’s a good boy? The Mickey Mouse and Friends Little Pluto Pull Toy for only $14.99! This adorable pull-toy, inspired by the classic, brings Mickey’s loyal pal Pluto to life. Just pull his string “leash,” and watch him wobble along on his wheels, tail wagging and ears swinging. Trust me, taking Pluto for a walkie is going to be the highlight of your little one’s day. He really is the goodest boy!
Get ready to open up shop with the Mickey Mouse Cash Register for $34.99. This beloved favorite is back to inspire a whole new generation of future entrepreneurs! Modeled after the classic, this colorful retro toy is perfect for ringing up sales, making change, and that satisfying bell sound when you turn the crank. Business and playtime fun? Booming!
Last but certainly not least, tune into some fun with the Mickey Mouse Two Tune TV at $34.99. This classic is back to entertain a whole new generation. Just turn the dial and watch as the image behind the screen rotates while music plays. Featuring the timeless tunes of “London Bridge” and “Row, Row, Row Your Boat,” with Mickey, Minnie, and Pluto appearing in adorable scenes, complete with lyrics for all your sing-along needs. It’s pure, simple, screen-free entertainment at its best.
So what are you waiting for? These fantastic Fisher-Price Disney toys just dropped online at the Disney Store, and they’re bringing all the retro feels and endless fun. Go snag them before they’re gone, your inner child (and your actual child!) will thank you!
Scream with Delight: We Found the Cutest Monsters Inc Plush Ear Headband at Hollywood Studios!
Get ready to scream with delight, because we just stumbled upon the cutest accessory at Hollywood Studios: the Monsters Inc Plush Ear Headband! Seriously, if you’re a fan of Mike, Sulley, or even little Boo, you’re going to want to get your hands on this gem.
For just $34.99, you can rock a little piece of Monstropolis wherever you go. This isn’t just any ear headband; it’s packed with adorable details that true fans will appreciate. Front and center is a super soft, lavender terry cloth-like bow, complete with two eyes and even some twine hair. Sound familiar? That’s right, it’s a super sweet nod to the iconic costume Boo wears when Sulley is trying to keep her under wraps in the “Monsters, Inc.” movie. How clever is that?
But of course, you can’t have a Monsters Inc. headband without the monsters themselves! One of the “ears” is a fuzzy green ball, perfectly capturing Mike Wazowski’s lovable one-eyed charm, complete with his little horns. And on the other side, you’ve got a blue ear with purple dots and horns, clearly representing everyone’s favorite big, cuddly monster, Sulley. Even the headband itself is in on the fun, with a blue exterior and a green interior, seamlessly matching Mike and Sulley’s colors.
Honestly, this headband is a must-have for any Disney Parks visitor or Monsters Inc. enthusiast. It’s comfy, it’s cute, and it’s full of those little details that make Disney merchandise so special. So next time you’re at Hollywood Studios, keep an eye out for this fantastic find, it’s definitely going to add some monstrously good fun to your day!
Uncovering Magic at Marshalls: A Treasure Trove of Disney Home Merchandise
For any Disney enthusiast, the thrill of the hunt for unique merchandise is a joy in itself, and Marshalls consistently proves to be a hidden gem for discovering magical finds. From charming home decor to practical kitchen items, and even clothing and beauty products, Marshalls offers a constantly rotating selection of Disney-themed goods that add a touch of whimsy to any collection.
On a recent visit, we stumbled upon an array of delightful items that truly showcased the enchanting possibilities at Marshalls. Here are some of the standout magical finds:
Belle Dinner Plates: Imagine dining with royalty! We found beautiful Belle dinner plates, each featuring the beloved princess at its center with the word “Enchanting” gracefully inscribed underneath. The plates were beautifully bordered with intricate designs of roses, classic books, and the iconic magic mirror, making every meal a fairytale.
Ariel Cookie Jar: Bring a piece of the undersea world to your kitchen with this adorable Ariel cookie jar. Featuring Ariel on the front, the lid is adorned with a charming pink seashell, making it the perfect vessel for your favorite cookies or any other kitchen treats you wish to store with a splash of mermaid magic.
Winnie the Pooh Wall Clock: This wasn’t just any wall clock; it was a giant, whimsical watch! Designed in a playful red and white, the clock face proudly displayed Winnie the Pooh and his beloved honey pot. Adding to its charm, the “watch band” was decorated with smaller pictures of Pooh and his friends, ensuring you’ll always know the time with a smile.
Chip Cup: Straight out of Beast’s castle, we discovered the cutest Chip cup from Beauty and the Beast. This charming purple cup featured lively illustrations of Chip having fun and blowing bubbles, instantly transporting you to the beloved animated classic.
Beauty and the Beast Salt and Pepper Shakers: Elevate your dining experience with these enchanting salt and pepper shakers. Crafted as miniature figures of Belle and the Beast, they are not only practical for seasoning your dishes but also serve as delightful decorative pieces, adding a touch of elegance and whimsy to your table.
Cinderella Carriage Sugar Bowl: Add a sprinkle of fairytale dreams to your morning coffee or tea with this adorable blue pumpkin carriage sugar bowl. Designed to resemble Cinderella’s iconic carriage, this sweet addition brings a dash of enchantment to your sugar, making every moment a little more magical.
Marshalls continues to be a go-to destination for those looking to infuse their homes with the magic of Disney without breaking the bank. These recent finds are just a glimpse of the many cute and unique items waiting to be discovered, proving that a touch of Disney magic is always within reach. Happy hunting!
Scream-tastic Style: Rocking the Monsters University Sweater and Jacket!
Get ready to unleash your inner monster (in the most fashionable way possible, of course!). We just stumbled upon some seriously cool gear at Hollywood Studios that’ll have you feeling like you just stepped off the Monsters University campus. If you’re all about repping your favorite scare school, you’re gonna want to check these out!
The Varsity Jacket: For the Ultimate Scream Team Member!
First up, let’s talk about the Monsters University Varsity Jacket from Her Universe, clocking in at $149.99. And let us tell you, this jacket is everything. It’s a total shout-out to the iconic collegiate look, but with a monstrously fun twist. You’ve got these super vibrant and playful appliqués, including the names of all those legendary fraternities and sororities, splashed across the contrasting sleeves. How cool is that? Plus, the esteemed Monsters University logo is boldly embroidered on the back, making it clear you’re part of the “fright stuff.” Seriously, whether you’re heading to class (scare class, that is!) or just out and about, this jacket is a perfect way to show your school spirit.
The Crop Sweater: A Cozy (and Cute!) Campus Vibe
And to complete your Monsters University ensemble, or just for a comfy and stylish standalone piece, we spotted the Monsters University Crop Sweater for $79.99. This one is a real gem! It’s a crisp white with a super cute touch of blue and green argyle stripes running down each side of the chest. The dark blue V-neckline, hem, and cuffs give it that classic collegiate feel, and right in the center, you’ll find those iconic dark blue embroidered “MU” patches with their crisp white borders. It’s the perfect blend of cozy and chic, and honestly, we’re obsessed with how it totally captures that M.U. campus vibe.
So, if you’re hitting up Hollywood Studios and looking to add some Monsters, Inc. flair to your wardrobe, keep an eye out for these awesome pieces. They’re definitely going on our must-have list! Which one are you grabbing first?
ABC News and Disney+ Announce New Daily Show ‘What You Need To Know,’ Premiering Next Week
Get ready to kickstart your mornings with essential headlines and in-depth analysis, as ABC News and Disney+ today announced “What You Need to Know,” a new daily news program set to premiere exclusively on Disney+ on Monday, July 21st. This marks ABC News’ first original daily news show created specifically for the streaming platform, offering a fresh perspective on the day’s top stories.
“What You Need to Know” will deliver a concise and compelling news experience, dropping new episodes every weekday at 6 a.m. ET. The short-form series aims to be the go-to source for viewers looking to stay informed on everything from breaking news and major events to entertainment buzz and viral content, all designed to help audiences stay ahead of the conversation.
Anchoring this innovative new series will be two familiar and trusted faces from ABC News: Chief International Correspondent James Longman and Senior Political Correspondent Rachel Scott. Their combined expertise will provide viewers with insightful context and analysis on the most pressing issues.
Almin Karamehmedovic, president of ABC News, expressed his enthusiasm for the new venture, stating, “We are proud to launch this innovative series with Rachel and James, who meet viewers where they are with essential news, context and analysis to help them better understand the world around us. This new effort expands ABC News’ significant footprint on Disney+, allowing us to reach and connect with new and diverse audiences on the platform.”
Alisa Bowen, president of Disney+, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the show’s unique approach to news consumption. “‘What You Need to Know’ is reimagining what a news experience can look like for Disney+ subscribers — delivering smart, bite-sized commentary on the stories that matter most,” said Bowen. “With the trusted voices of ABC News at the helm, this show marks an exciting evolution of our news offering.”
Longman and Scott, in a joint statement, shared their excitement about the pioneering nature of the program: “We are excited to embark on this journey with Disney+, a show that reimagines how you get your news. ‘What You Need to Know’ is built for the speed of the scrolling era, cutting through the noise by offering essential news in an easily digestible and accessible package wherever you are.”
“What You Need to Know” episodes will be available on demand on Disney+ for 24 hours, ensuring viewers can catch up on the day’s crucial information at their convenience.
This new addition further strengthens ABC News’ robust presence on Disney+, which already includes around-the-clock programming such as “Good Morning America: First Look” at 4:00 a.m. ET, “Prime with Linsey Davis” at 7:00 p.m. ET, “World News Tonight with David Muir” at 10:00 p.m. ET, and continuous streaming content from the ABC News Live channel.
