EPCOT’s The Seas with Nemo & Friends pavilion is thrilled to announce the arrival of its newest resident: Tanimura, a baby manatee! This adorable addition joins the pavilion’s esteemed manatee rehabilitation program, offering guests a unique opportunity to observe and learn about these incredible marine mammals.
The newest resident at The Seas with Nemo & Friends in EPCOT is a delightful manatee named Tanimura! Just two days after her arrival, she was already spotted gracefully swimming and happily munching on lettuce.
Tanimura is estimated to be about one year old and weighs approximately 300 pounds. Manatees typically remain with their mothers until they are one to two years old, so it’s uncertain if Tanimura was orphaned. While her full backstory isn’t yet known, she’s likely at The Seas for a short-term stay, as the facility has transitioned to providing more short-term care for manatees.
Tanimura is already out and exploring, interacting with her much larger counterparts, Cider (840 pounds) and Mermaid (620 pounds).
You can observe the manatees in their tank from both the first and second floors of the SeaBase Aquarium. Information about these gentle giants is available on a chalkboard in the second-level viewing area, and Cast Members are always happy to share more details about the animals. Additionally, signs throughout the area provide valuable information on how to help protect this vulnerable species.
A fresh look has arrived at EPCOT’s The Seas with Nemo & Friends pavilion! The Coral Reef Restaurant now boasts a newly installed sign, enhancing its entrance.
The new sign for the Coral Reef Restaurant now mirrors the iconic exterior mural of The Seas Pavilion, featuring two prominent wave lines and green fish that mimic the artwork. The restaurant’s name is prominently displayed in white text against a blue background, all framed within a crisp white oval.
The previous sign, in contrast, was predominantly coral-colored, a direct nod to the restaurant’s name. It featured a wave composed of various shades of blue that appeared to crash directly onto the text.
The updated design of the Coral Reef Restaurant’s new sign also echoes some of the artwork found beneath the restaurant’s awning, creating a more cohesive look. This contrasts with the old sign’s coloring, which was more aligned with other Coral Reef Restaurant art located near the entrance.
In other news, it appears new elements are also being added to what could be a new sign above the SeaBase Gift Shop. Scrim was installed on the shop’s exterior overhang earlier this month, followed by the addition of a new curved element that extends from the existing overhang, forming a full arch over the doorway.
This work appears to be part of broader, ongoing improvements at The Seas pavilion. Earlier, crews also wrapped up an interior refurbishment of the SeaBase Aquarium.
“Walt Disney – A Magical Life” Attraction in Disneyland Debuts New Marquee
Disneyland Park fans woke up to an exciting reveal this morning as @DisneyParks shared a photo of the new marqueenow on display outside the Main Street Opera House. This installation sets the stage for the highly anticipated debut of the “Walt Disney – A Magical Life” attraction, set to open its doors to guests on July 17, 2025.
“Walt Disney – A Magical Life” promises a captivating cinematic presentation of Walt Disney’s incredible journey, culminating in a unique visit with Walt himself in his office, brought to life through the magic of Audio-Animatronics storytelling.
Adding a new chapter to the Main Street Opera House’s history, this new attraction won’t be a standalone feature. After its initial run, “Walt Disney – A Magical Life” will play in rotation with the beloved “Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln.”This marks the very first time the marquee will display two titles simultaneously, boldly announcing in its center, “Opera House now featuring two dramatic theater presentations!” “A Magical Life” will appear above Walt Disney’s name on the left, while “Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln” will be featured on the right.
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Seriously Obsessed: The Mickey Mouse Yellow Sweatshirt Is Here!
Let’s talk about a piece of Disney magic that’s got me totally obsessed: the Mickey Mouse Yellow Sweatshirt! Seriously, if you’re a Disney style fan, you absolutely need to check this out. It’s available right now online at the Disney Store for just $54.99, and trust me, it’s worth every penny.
What makes this sweatshirt a must-have? First off, that color! This vibrant yellow is just perfection, and it’s the kind of shade that brings instant cheer. Then there’s the design: it’s super simple, yet totally magical. This isn’t just any old sweatshirt; it’s a warm, heavyweight pullover crew that feels amazing. It’s got that trendy, fashion-forward baggy fit with cool dropped shoulders and a seamed back, making it both comfy and stylish.
But the real showstopper? The Mickey Mouse portrait appliqué! It’s made of a fuzzy chenille fabric that adds such a fun, tactile element. And below Mickey, there’s a fancy embroidered logo that gives the whole thing a cool, collegiate vibe. This sweatshirt is practically begging you to lead the team cheers and shout, “Hooray for Mickey Mouse!” It’s the perfect way to show off your Disney love in a subtle yet spirited way.
Dreamfinders, Rejoice! The Cutest Baby Figment Plush Has Arrived!
You guys, I just found the cutest, most dream-inspiring piece of Disney merchandise, and I have to tell you about it! If you’re a Figment fan (and honestly, who isn’t?), you’re going to want to get your hands on the new Baby Figment Plush with Blanket Pouch. Seriously, prepare for an “awww” overload.
This little guy is all about letting your imagination soar, just like our favorite purple dragon. He’s part of the Disney Babies line, which means he’s extra cuddly and designed to make your heart melt. But here’s the best part: he comes swaddled in this super fuzzy, ridiculously soft blanket pouch. It’s like a built-in cozy nest for your new best friend!
Priced at a reasonable $34.99, this Baby Figment is not just a plush; he’s an invitation to inspire your inner dreamfinder. Whether you’re looking for something to snuggle up with on the couch or a reminder to create that “great big beautiful tomorrow,” this little guy delivers. You can snag him at Epcot (perfect for a park souvenir!) or, if you’re like me and prefer to shop from your pajamas, he’s also available online at the Disney Store. Don’t walk, run to get yours!
Fanning Out Over the New Hercules Muses Hand Fan at the Creations Shop!
Talk about a blast from the past! We just stumbled upon the most epic accessory at the Creations Shop in Epcot, and trust us, you’re going to want to get your hands on this. For a cool $16.99, you can snag the brand-new Hercules Muses Hand Fan, and it’s everything we’ve ever dreamed of.
This isn’t just any hand fan; it’s a vibrant tribute to our favorite goddesses of song and storytelling! The fan features the iconic Muses, Calliope, Clio, Melpomene, Thalia, and Terpsichore looking as fabulous as ever. They’re set against a stunning purple background, subtly accented with a darker Greek key, or meander, pattern, adding that perfect touch of ancient flair. And of course, it wouldn’t be complete without the legendary phrase “Zero to Hero” emblazoned on the bottom left, a nod to their show-stopping anthem from the movie.
But wait, there’s more! Attached to the fan’s rivet is an awesome keychain featuring a rubber portrait of Hercules himself. Our main man’s face is front and center against a sleek black background, making this fan not just a way to beat the heat, but a true collector’s item. Whether you’re fanning yourself on a hot Florida day or just want to show off your love for Hercules, this Muses hand fan is an absolute must-have!
Spooky Styles Alert! First Halloween Merch Hauls Arrive at Walt Disney World!
Hold onto your Mickey ears, folks, because the spooky season has officially landed at Walt Disney World, and with it, some seriously cool new merchandise! Forget summer, it’s time to get your fall on, and your wallet ready, because each of these awesome tees is ringing in at a sweet $29.99. Let’s dive into some of the must-haves that just popped up!
First up, for all you ghoulishly good Disney fans, we’ve got the Ghost T-Shirt. This black beauty features a super cute ghost rocking a Mickey ear hat, chilling in a yellow circle that’s got some cool faux weathering going on. White stars twinkle around the image, and “Walt Disney World” is splashed in red lettering above our spectral friend. Oh, and get this, the ghost is even holding a Disney soda cup and a classic Jack-o’-Lantern popcorn bucket. Talk about a multi-tasking phantom!
Then there’s the “Fall Vibes” T-Shirt, and let me tell you, this one just screams autumn cozy. This beige tee is absolutely packed with all the fall feels. “Fall Vibes” is front and center in orange lettering, with “Walt Disney World” in black at the bottom. But the real star here are the images, mostly in gorgeous shades of orange, featuring everything from a Mickey cupcake and football to a Mickey waffle, pretzel, and even a Mickey Jack-o’-Lantern. You’ll also spot a Mickey pie, a Disney coffee cup, adorable ghosts in Mickey ears, candy corn-inspired ice cream cones (yum!), leaves, and acorns. It’s basically a fall festival on a shirt!
But wait, there’s more! If you’re all about that “Peace, Love, Halloween” life, then this Halloween heather gray T-shirt is calling your name. It features a classic Mickey glove hand throwing up the peace sign, followed by an orange heart with a cool black spiderweb design. Next to that, you’ll find a black Cinderella Castle with its windows glowing orange, surrounded by barren trees for that extra spooky touch. Orange stars, a full moon, and black bats are flying above the castle, with “Walt Disney World” in orange lettering below. It’s spooky, it’s sweet, it’s perfect!
For those who want to boldly declare their love for all things Halloween at Disney, check out the “Halloween Walt Disney World” T-Shirt. This black tee spells out “Walt Disney World” across the chest, with “Walt” in yellow, “Disney” in orange, and “World” in white. The background is decked out with purple spiderwebs and bats, including one little guy hanging upside down from the “y” of “Disney.” It’s a simple yet striking design that’ll let everyone know you’re ready for frightfully fun times.
And finally, for the villains at heart, there’s the “Pick Your Poison” T-Shirt. This heather black tee features “Pick Your Poison” in purple letters, with the last word turning a wicked green. Below the phrase, you’ll find some of Disney’s most iconic baddies: the Evil Queen from “Snow White,” Ursula from “The Little Mermaid,” and Maleficent from “Sleeping Beauty,” all gathered around their cauldrons, brewing up some sinister concoctions. Pumpkins and falling leaves are scattered around their bubbling brews, and a subtle spiderweb design lurks in the background. It’s the perfect shirt for embracing your inner Disney villain!
So there you have it, folks! The first wave of Walt Disney World’s Halloween merchandise has arrived, and it’s looking pretty fantastic. Head on over to grab your favorites before they disappear like a ghost in the night! Happy haunting, and happy shopping!
Get Ready to Roam with Dolores: Universal Orlando’s New Interactive Aquilops Shoulder Pet!
Guess what, dinosaur fans? Universal Orlando Resort just dropped the cutest, most interactive new shoulder pal, and you’re going to want to get your hands on it ASAP! Say hello to the Aquilops shoulder pet, directly inspired by the adorable Dolores from the upcoming “Jurassic World Rebirth.” And let me tell you, this little girl is packed with personality!
For just $55, you can bring home your very own Dolores, a spunky yellow-orange Aquilops who has a serious sweet tooth for licorice, and yes, a plastic version of her favorite treat is even included with the toy! She’s designed to perch perfectly on your shoulder thanks to a magnetic, adjustable silicone pad, so you can take her on all your adventures around the parks (or just around your house!).
But here’s where the magic really happens: Dolores isn’t just a cute accessory. Flip the on/off switch on her side, and get ready for some serious dino interaction! Pet her, and she’ll happily move her head and eyes, and even make those adorable Aquilops sounds. Plus, you can articulate her little arms and legs for all sorts of fun poses. And remember that licorice? Hold it up to her nose, and watch her react with even more sounds and movements.
It’s like having your own miniature, living dinosaur companion! Seriously, if you’re a fan of “Jurassic World” or just love super cool, interactive toys, the Aquilops shoulder pet is a must-have.
Get ready to update those Genie+ game plans! With the newly reimagined Test Track 3.0 set to reopen at EPCOT on July 22, Disney is giving the Lightning Lane Multi Pass tiers a bit of a tune-up, and Test Track is officially revving into the top spot.
Starting July 22, Test Track joins Tier 1 of the Lightning Lane Multi Pass selections. That means when booking, guests can now choose one of the following top-tier attractions:
Test Track (beginning July 22)
Frozen Ever After
Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure
Meanwhile, Soarin’ Around the World will be demoted to Tier 2 on the same day, joining attractions like:
So, what does this mean for parkgoers? For starters, it should ease a bit of the crowding around Frozen and Remy, which have been the top Lightning Lane picks for EPCOT guests and routinely vanish within minutes of booking windows opening. With Test Track reentering the lineup, guests now have a new high-demand option in Tier 1, giving everyone a better shot at snagging a coveted early return time.
⚾🍬 Casey’s Corner Swings for the Sweet Tooth with a Fresh Take on the Baseball Brownie
There’s a new treat sliding into Magic Kingdom, and dessert lovers are going to want to step up to the plate. The fan-favorite Baseball Brownie at Casey’s Corner has been reimagined—complete with a new look and a tasty lineup of flavors—and it’s ready to hit a home run with guests.
Gone is the simple square brownie with basic frosting. In its place? A playful dome-shaped dessert dressed to impress with white chocolate coating, a swirl of dulce de leche, and a generous helping of caramel corn mousse. And for the finishing touch, a few caramel popcorn kernels make it look like it rolled right out of a concession stand in the best way possible.
At $5.99, this treat leans more toward novelty than nostalgia, but it’s definitely a glow-up from its previous version. The mousse adds a lighter, more dynamic texture, and the red stitching on the chocolate shell gives it that ballpark-ready presentation that makes it almost too cute to eat… almost.
While the flavor mix is fun, the outer shell can be a little too firm and waxy for some, and the caramel popcorn may not always be at peak crunchiness. Still, it’s a creative, shareable dessert that’s perfect for snapping a photo before heading off to your next Main Street adventure.
Get ready to accelerate through time! We’re taking a thrilling first look at the NEW queue for Test Track at EPCOT, and it’s a journey of innovation that will transport you to the cutting edge of automotive design. With its official reopening set for July 22nd, 2025, excitement is building as Cast Member and Annual Passholder previews are currently underway.
The updated queue for Test Track 3.0 immerses you in the fascinating story of automotive evolution. Gone are the bright neon lights of the previous iteration, replaced by a sleek, futuristic showroom filled with concept cars and high-tech displays.
You’ll journey from early designs, through modern vehicles, and all the way into the cutting-edge innovations of the future. This fantastic prelude sets the stage for the high-speed thrill ride to come, leaning into a new vibe that blends “World of Motion” nostalgia with tomorrow’s technology. The queue even features a 1969 GM concept vehicle and actual concept art from GM on display.
One of the most significant changes in Test Track 3.0 is the official removal of the beloved build-your-own SIM car feature. While many guests enjoyed designing their custom vehicles, Disney has opted for a more streamlined and immersive experience. Now, guests will head straight to the loading area after experiencing the enhanced queue, where they’ll board refreshed ride vehicles that maintain their iconic shape but boast updated aesthetics.
New Scenes, Classic Echoes, and a Fresh Scent
The ride itself has been significantly updated with six new show scenes. One notable addition is a scene that illustrates how vehicles use advanced cameras and sensors to “see” the world, brought to life with over 29,000 points of light.
You’ll also encounter a gorgeous dome projection of a futuristic city and even a subtle nod to the classic EPCOT attraction, Horizons. And for those who appreciate Disney’s attention to sensory detail, expect a new, pleasant pine scent piped into the ride. Don’t worry, the ride still reaches a thrilling 65 mph, making it the fastest attraction at Walt Disney World!
Lightning Lane Updates for Test Track 3.0
With Test Track’s grand reopening on July 22nd, Disney is also updating its Lightning Lane Multi Pass tiers. Test Track will join the top-tier lineup alongside Frozen Ever After and Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure. Consequently, Soarin’ Around the World will move down to Tier 2 on the same day. It’s also been confirmed that Test Track will operate with a standby line and Lightning Lane Multi Pass, but will not utilize a Virtual Queue upon reopening.
Will you miss designing your own ride, or are you ready to race into this bold new version that promises a fresh perspective on automotive innovation? Get ready to accelerate through time and experience the newly renovated Test Track at EPCOT!
Planning a trip to the most magical place on Earth often involves dreaming of proximity, comfort, and a touch of extra enchantment. Our recent stay at a Fun Stay Homes condo in the Windsor Hills Resort in Kissimmee delivered all that and more, proving to be the perfect home base for a Central Florida adventure.
One of the immediate benefits of choosing THIS Fun Stay Home is its prime location. Windsor Hills Resort is renowned for being one of the closest resorts to Walt Disney World, making those early morning park visits and late-night fireworks experiences incredibly convenient. We spent less time in traffic and more time enjoying the magic!
What truly sets Fun Stay Homes apart, however, is their dedication to creating an immersive and exciting atmosphere right within your accommodation. Stepping into our condo was like entering a world of imagination. Our specific unit was brilliantly themed, and it’s clear Fun Stay Homes offers a variety of options to delight every member of the family. From Disney and Star Wars to Harry Potter and Minions, these themed condos add an extra layer of fun to your vacation, making downtime just as exciting as park time.
Beyond the wonderfully themed interiors, the access to Windsor Hills Resort’s incredible amenities is a game-changer. As guests of Fun Stay Homes, we had FREE access to everything the community has to offer. This included the fantastic water park, which was a huge hit for cooling off after a day in the sun. The double Olympic-sized pool provided ample space for swimming and lounging, and the various children’s play areas kept the younger ones entertained for hours. We also appreciated the convenience of the on-site gym for keeping up with our fitness routine, the cinema for a relaxing evening, and the tennis courts for some friendly competition. The convenience store on-site was also incredibly helpful for quick necessities.
What truly elevated our experience was the exceptional guest care. Fun Stay Homes genuinely treats every guest like family, offering amazing 24/7 care and support from start to finish. Knowing that assistance was just a phone call away provided immense peace of mind, allowing us to fully relax and enjoy our vacation.
We highly recommend Fun Stay Homes for anyone looking for a magical and comfortable stay near Walt Disney World or Universal Orlando. With their themed condos and villas, access to top-notch resort amenities, and unparalleled guest support, they truly make your vacation dreams a reality. Be sure to check out all of their listings on their website; they offer everything from 2-bedroom condos, which we stayed at, to 10 Bedroom-Villas! Additionally, if you are looking for places to stay in the Ft Lauderdale, Miami area, they also have Fun Stay Miami.
