Bird’s Eye View: Cool Ship Refurbishment Takes Off in Magic Kingdom’s Tomorrowland
It’s a construction zone, but make it space-age. The Cool Ship refreshment stand in Tomorrowland at Magic Kingdom has been grounded since late May, and we snagged some new aerial photos that show the full extent of the refurbishment now underway.
From above, it’s clear this isn’t just a tune-up for the ship’s soda dispensers. The entire Cool Ship structure, including the attached Cool Scanner misting station, has been completely dismantled. All that remains is a fenced-off construction pit with construction equipment, exposed groundwork, and framing underway, hinting that something more significant might be brewing behind those silver walls.
According to the Walt Disney World website, Cool Ship is “temporarily closed for refurbishment and is expected to reopen later this year.” However, no official explanation has been given as to why the entire structure had to be razed instead of simply refreshed. That mystery has fans buzzing — could a new design, function, or interactive element be on the launchpad?
Cool Ship has long been a staple in Tomorrowland, serving up bottled water, fountain drinks, and theme park favorites like cotton candy and popcorn. Positioned right near the Tomorrowland Speedway and under the gaze of the Astro Orbiter, it’s also a favorite pitstop to cool down before jumping back into intergalactic fun.
We’ll be keeping a close eye on this evolving construction site as the refurbishment rockets forward — and we’re especially curious to see if a brand-new ship will emerge by the end of the year.
Doll-Scure Horror: “Dolls: Let’s Play Dead” Joins the Terrifying Toybox at HHN 34
Ready to play dead? Universal Orlando just pulled the string on its fifth haunted house announcement for Halloween Horror Nights 34, and it’s equal parts adorable and absolutely unhinged. “Dolls: Let’s Play Dead” is the third original concept to be revealed for this year’s event, and it’s turning childhood nightmares into a life-sized (or should we say doll-sized?) house of horrors.
In this deeply twisted dollhouse of doom, guests will be shrunken to toy-size and dropped into the eerie imagination of a deranged little girl. Expect to run for your life from melted fashion dolls, patchwork monsters stitched together in shadowy corners, and a Victorian playroom crawling with undead porcelain fiends. Basically, Toy Story if it were directed by Guillermo del Toro… after a week without sleep.
“Dolls: Let’s Play Dead” joins four previously announced houses:
Fallout – Based on the hit Prime Video series, this house throws you into the radioactive ruins of Los Angeles. Follow Lucy through vaults and wastelands as you battle raiders, dodge The Ghoul, and maybe catch a glimpse of that hulking T-60 power armor.
Jason Universe – Grab your sleeping bag and start praying, because Jason Voorhees is back and bloodier than ever. This slasher saga takes you from creepy cabins to his childhood summer camp, with machetes and mayhem guaranteed.
El Artista: A Spanish Haunting – A gothic, ghostly tale set in 19th-century Spain, where the tortured works of a cursed artist don’t just come to life… they reach out to drag you in.
Hatchet and Chains: Demon Bounty Hunters – Cowboys vs. Hellspawn? Yeehaw! This demonic Old West romp pits guests against lava-drenched demons and puts hope in the hands of two mystical bounty hunters named (appropriately) Hatchet and Chains.
Five Nights at Freddy’s is still lurking in the shadows of the HHN lineup, though we don’t yet know whether Freddy and friends will be coming via haunted house, scare zone, or something entirely unexpected. But with five houses now officially revealed, and more on the way, HHN 34 is already shaping up to be one of the most chilling lineups yet.
When and Where to Face Your Fears
Dates: Select nights from August 29 to November 2, with an exclusive Premium Scream Night kicking things off on August 28.
Tickets are on sale now! From single-night admission to behind-the-scenes Unmasking the Horror tours, there are tons of ways to customize your terror. Want to skip the lines or dine in frightful delight? Go for Universal Express, RIP Tours, or Premium Scream Night with included food and shorter waits.
The fog is rolling in fast, and so is the dread — whether you’re new to the screams or an HHN veteran, this year’s event is not to be missed. Dolls, demons, and doomsday await…
Your 20th Anniversary Guide to Visiting Hong Kong Disneyland!
Get ready for “The Most Magical Party of All”! Hong Kong Disneyland Resort is gearing up for its spectacular 20th-anniversary celebration, and there’s never been a better time to plan your visit. Whether you’re a seasoned Disney traveler or dreaming of your first trip to this vibrant park, this guide will help you navigate everything from arrival to attractions!
Your journey to Hong Kong Disneyland will likely begin at Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA). Conveniently located less than 10 miles from the Resort, it’s a quick and easy hop to the magic. For the 20th anniversary, keep an eye out for special themed décor and even a nearly 10-foot-tall Mickey Mouse statue welcoming you at the airport!
From Airport to Enchantment: Getting to the Resort
Once you’ve landed, you have a few excellent options to get to Hong Kong Disneyland Resort:
Mass Transit Railway (MTR): The city’s efficient train system boasts its very own Disneyland Resort Line. This specially themed line will whisk you from the airport to the park in about 30 minutes with just one transfer. Listen closely for surprise announcements from Mickey and friends, adding an extra touch of magic to your ride! If you’re staying at one of the resort hotels, a complimentary shuttle is available next to Disneyland Resort Station.
Bus: For a budget-friendly option, take the ‘A’ or ‘E’ bus routes from the airport to the Lantau Link Interchange. From there, transfer to Route R8, which offers regular service directly to the resort.
Taxi: The quickest and most direct route is by taxi, a mere 15-minute ride from the airport to the park. Simply follow the terminal signs to the taxi stand.
Where to Stay: Your Home Away From Home
Hong Kong Disneyland Resort offers three enchanting hotel options, each providing a unique experience for every type of Disney fan:
Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel: Immerse yourself in Victorian elegance at this charming hotel, just a 10-minute walk from the park’s main entrance. It’s a perfect blend of classic Disney storytelling and luxurious comfort.
Disney’s Hollywood Hotel: Experience the art of Disney filmmaking at this newly renovated hotel, where Hollywood glamour meets Hong Kong vibrancy. Don’t miss the Super Hero-themed bar, an ideal spot to unwind after a day of park adventures.
Disney Explorers Lodge: Embark on a global adventure! This hotel features rooms themed to the diverse tropical climates of Asia, Oceania, South America, and Africa. Guests can also savor international cuisines at its four distinct dining options.
Park Tickets: Your Key to the Celebration
Guests can easily purchase 1-day and 2-day tickets to Hong Kong Disneyland Resort directly on their official website. To help you choose, here are a few available options:
1-Day Ticket: Perfect for those seeking one magical day at Hong Kong Disneyland Resort.
1-Day with Free 20th Anniversary SouvenEAR Mini Party Hat: Available from June 28, 2025, to September 27, 2025, this special ticket includes your park admission and a complimentary 20th-anniversary SouvenEAR Mini Party Hat – a fantastic souvenir to commemorate the occasion!
Non-stop 2-Day Fun Ticket: If you crave more time to explore, this two-day ticket is ideal. It also comes with a merchandise discount voucher valid until December 31, 2025.
There’s truly never been a better time to visit Hong Kong Disneyland Resort than during “The Most Magical Party of All”! With your travel details sorted, it’s time to dive into mapping out your 20th-anniversary festivities. Be sure to check out the complete guide to everything you can’t miss, from a brand-new daytime parade and a special edition nighttime spectacular to all-new delectable eats crafted just for the celebration!
Disney fans can start planning their ultimate August getaway! D23, the Official Disney Fan Club, has officially released the detailed schedule for Destination D23: A Journey Around the Worlds of Disney, sponsored by Lug. The highly anticipated event will take place from Friday, August 29, through Sunday, August 31, 2025, at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort.
Attendees are in for a weekend packed with exclusive shopping, engaging presentations, and unique evening events celebrating all things Disney.
The D23 Shopping Spree promises an array of exclusive merchandise for attendees:
The Walt Disney Company Store: D23 Gold Members will find official Destination D23 merchandise, new D23 Member-exclusive items, and unique products from the TWDC Store. Limited-edition trading pins for the event will be available exclusively through an RSP opportunity.
Mickey’s of Glendale: The Walt Disney Imagineering campus store returns with a pop-up featuring specialty merchandise. Trading pins will also be offered via an RSP opportunity.
Disney Studio Store Hollywood: Making its first appearance at the event, this pop-up will offer new apparel, accessories, and pins, with limited-edition trading pins available through RSP.
Ink & Paint Marketplace: This marketplace will showcase a variety of products from fan-favorite brands and friends of Disney, including Lug, the event sponsor.
Engaging Panels and Presentations
The programming throughout the weekend will feature insightful panels and presentations with Disney archivists, historians, Imagineers, cast members, filmmakers, Disney Legends, and luminaries. These sessions will delve into the attractions, entertainment, and experiences that define Disney theme parks and cruise ships.
Highlights previously announced include:
The Walt Disney Archives Presents: Charting the Course, Disney’s Global Stories & Inspirations: An all-new exhibit celebrating global influences on Disney storytelling, featuring photography, artwork, and artifacts that trace the journey from inspiration to vivid concepts. This exhibit will culminate in a dynamic showcase of models, props, and costumes reflecting diverse cultures and landscapes. The Walt Disney Archives will also commemorate the 80th anniversary of “The Three Caballeros” and explore “the Disney you didn’t know” with astonishing discoveries and little-known facts.
Unforgettable Evening Experiences
Destination D23 boasts two spectacular evening events:
D23 Kuzcotopia Night at Typhoon Lagoon: All Destination D23 2025 ticket holders are invited to celebrate 25 years of Disney Animation’s “The Emperor’s New Groove” at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon water park. This exclusive after-hours party will include special tributes to Disney’s water parks, complimentary snacks, photo opportunities, special activities, and exclusive entertainment.
Disney ’80s-’90s Celebration in Concert: Presented by Disney+, this musical extravaganza will cap off the weekend with a throwback to the best hits of these fan-favorite decades. Broadway and Disney Animation stars will perform showstopping renditions of songs from beloved films and TV shows, including “Hercules,” “A Goofy Movie,” “Toy Story,” “The Little Mermaid,” “Aladdin,” “Mulan,” “Beauty and the Beast,” “Pocahontas,” “The Lion King,” The Disney Afternoon, and more.
Additional D23 Member Events
Coinciding with Destination D23, but open to all D23 members, is “A Goofy Movie” Throwback Premiere on Thursday, August 28, at the Disney Springs AMC Theater. Further details on this separately ticketed event will be released later.
Additionally, D23 Nights at Disney Springs will take place throughout the week leading up to the event, offering a variety of fun activities and offers.
D23 has also teased “a spooktacular event” on August 29, promising a “wicked good time!” More information on this mysterious addition is expected soon.
With its fun filled schedule of exclusive opportunities and captivating events, Destination D23 is poised to be an unforgettable “Journey Around the Worlds of Disney” for fans of all ages!
Walt Disney World Annual Pass Down Payment Returns to $205 for Florida Residents
Walt Disney World’s Annual Passholder Florida Resident Monthly Payment Program has adjusted its down payment requirement, returning to $205 after a three-month period at a reduced $99. This change impacts new enrollments in the popular monthly payment option.
The temporary lower down payment, which was initially introduced in March, had concurrently resulted in higher monthly payment installments for Passholders. With the down payment now re-established at $205, the corresponding monthly payments for all tiers of the Annual Pass have decreased.
The $205 down payment applies universally across all available Annual Pass tiers for Florida residents utilizing the monthly payment program. Here is a breakdown of the new monthly payment prices, alongside their full annual costs:
Pixie Dust Pass: $25 per month (Annual Price: $469)
Pirate Pass: $57 per month (Annual Price: $829)
Sorcerer Pass: $79 per month (Annual Price: $1,079)
Incredi-Pass: $121 per month (Annual Price: $1,549)
It is important to note that the monthly payment plans for Walt Disney World Annual Passes remain exclusively available to Florida residents. The availability of each pass tier varies by residency and membership status: the Pixie Dust and Pirate Passes are reserved solely for Florida residents. The Sorcerer Pass is accessible to both Florida residents and qualifying Disney Vacation Club members, while the Incredi-Pass is available for purchase by all guests, regardless of residency or membership.
EPCOT Begins Tantalizing Tease for 2025 International Food & Wine Festival
It’s the most delicious time of the year… almost! EPCOT is already firing up the prep kitchen for the 2025 International Food & Wine Festival, and that means one thing: the Global Marketplaces are starting to pop up around the park like perfectly seasoned mushrooms after a rainstorm.
From Belgium to Brazil, booths have emerged from their summer hibernation and are slowly but surely transforming into foodie hotspots. We spotted fresh signage at favorites like Greece, The Alps, and India, while Swirled Showcase stands firm as a returning staple after its 2023 debut, still swirling sweet treats into our hearts (and snack credits).
Many of the booths never truly go away—some just get a wardrobe change between festivals. Others, like the quaint Australia kiosk, are now back in proper booth form after operating under a tent or in alternative spaces in recent years. But not every structure is labeled yet, leaving us wondering what culinary surprises might still be in the oven. Will Forest & Field, Milled & Mulled, and Bramblewood Bites return from last year’s debut, or will we be tasting something brand-new?
Here’s what we’ve seen in the early prep stages:
Confirmed Returning Booths with Signage: Belgium, Greece, India, The Alps, Swirled Showcase
🧀 Emile’s Fromage Montage is back to send cheese lovers on the ultimate snacking quest 🧒 Remy’s Hide & Squeak Scavenger Hunt returns for families ready to play and explore 🎶 Eat to the Beat Concert Series promises nightly entertainment to go with your global bites 🌿 Living with the Land gets seasonal updates for your festival float-through
Mark your calendars: the 2025 EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival kicks off August 28 and runs through November 22—that’s 87 glorious days of global flavors, international flair, and foodie fun.
Stay tuned as menus drop, booths open, and we bring you every sizzling detail and savory sip!
Pirates of the Caribbean Returns to Standby Queue Only at Disneyland
Sad news, Disneyland adventurers! Pirates of the Caribbean is bringing back its traditional standby queue, meaning the Lightning Lane option will no longer be available for the attraction.
Pirates of the Caribbean was initially added to the Genie+ service (later rebranded as Lightning Lane Multi Pass and Single Pass) in January 2024. This was a “temporary” measure while other nearby attractions were undergoing refurbishment. In April 2025, the attraction briefly became unavailable for Lightning Lane Multi Pass, leading to speculation that this was a test run for its complete removal from the paid-access option.
The Disneyland website has now confirmed that June 30, 2025, will be Pirates of the Caribbean’s last day as a Lightning Lane Multi Pass selection. Starting July 1, the classic attraction will return to offering only a standby queue.
Will this change impact your next visit to Disneyland?
Journey Again: Save $5,000 on Nat Geo Private Jet Adventures
Dreaming of an extraordinary adventure in 2025 or 2026? Nat Geo Expeditions is offering incredible savings on select private jet departures, making those once-in-a-lifetime journeys more accessible than ever. Whether you’re a seasoned Nat Geo traveler or embarking on your first grand expedition, there are significant savings waiting for you.
Returning National Geographic Expeditions Private Jet travelers can save a remarkable $5,000 per person when booking select 2025 and 2026 departures. It’s their way of saying thank you for your continued wanderlust and loyalty.
For those new to the unparalleled experience of a National Geographic private jet journey, there’s still great news: new travelers can save $2,500 per person on these eligible expeditions.
But don’t wait too long to secure your spot—this exclusive offer is only valid for bookings made through October 31, 2025.
Eligible Expeditions and Departure Dates
Seize this opportunity to explore the world in unparalleled comfort and style on one of these incredible itineraries:
Around the World by Private Jet
October 30, 2025
January 1, 2026
March 28, 2026
Across the Continents
January 15, 2026
Wildlife of the World
March 16, 2026
Ancient Traditions & Natural Wonders
April 30, 2026
Circumnavigating the North
May 25, 2026
African Discovery
July 12, 2026
These meticulously crafted expeditions offer an immersive way to experience diverse cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and incredible wildlife, all while enjoying the convenience and luxury of private jet travel. Don’t miss your chance to turn your travel dreams into a reality with these exceptional savings.
Contact me today to get your private jet adventure booked! I’m a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are free, and I’d love to help you plan a wonderful vacation.
D23 Gold Members: Get an Exclusive First Look at “Walt Disney: A Magical Life”
Calling all Disney enthusiasts! D23 is thrilled to offer its Gold Members a truly enchanting opportunity: an exclusive morning viewing of Disneyland Park’s brand-new show, “Walt Disney – A Magical Life.” This special event takes place on July 18, 2025, and promises an unforgettable start to your day at the park.
“Walt Disney – A Magical Life” introduces the latest Audio-Animatronics® addition to the iconic Lincoln Theater. Guests will be transported into a re-created version of Walt Disney’s studio office for a magical presentation of his life and career, complete with stunning remastered audio and video footage.
An Exclusive Pre-Show Introduction
As a D23 Gold Member, your experience will begin with a special pre-show introduction by Jeff Shaver-Moskowitz, Walt Disney Imagineering Portfolio Executive Creative Producer. He’ll share insights into the creation of this magical experience and the fascinating process of bringing Walt to life through the show.
Tickets and Park Entry Information
Tickets for this exclusive event are $75 per person, plus a $3 processing fee.
Important Note: A park reservation and valid admission for Disneyland on July 18, 2025, are required for each guest ages 3 and older and are not included in the price of this event experience. There is no fee for guests aged 2 and under to attend. Park reservations are limited and subject to availability, so it’s strongly recommended that you book your theme park reservations for Disneyland before purchasing your event ticket.
Bookend Your Day with Nighttime Spectaculars
After the special morning preview, you’ll have the entire day to enjoy the parks. Then, to truly bookend your magical day, you can return in the evening to enjoy reserved viewing areas for one of Disneyland Resort’s incredible nighttime spectaculars!
At the time of ticket purchase, you’ll be able to choose between:
Disney California Adventure Park’s waterfront spectacular, World of Color Happiness!
Disneyland Park’s Paint the Night parade and Wondrous Journeys nighttime spectacular.
Please note that quantities are limited for each experience option, so make your selection promptly.
If you choose the World of Color Happiness! viewing option, you and your guest will need a valid Park Hopper ticket for admission and a valid reservation starting in Disneyland on July 18, 2025. A Park Hopper ticket will not be provided with the purchase of this event ticket.
Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to delve into the magic of Walt Disney’s life and career. Secure your tickets now for an exclusive experience that will make your Disneyland day even more enchanting!
SeaWorld Orlando’s Biggest Sale Just Got Even Better
SeaWorld Orlando is making waves with an incredible enhancement to its highly anticipated 4th of July Sale! For a limited time this week only, not only can guests save up to 55% on Tickets, Fun Cards, and Annual Passes, but new and existing Annual Passholders will also receive an ADDITIONAL FREE single-day bonus ticket to use through the end of June.
This fantastic bonus ticket comes on top of the already extensive list of benefits that make a SeaWorld Orlando Annual Pass the best value in town. Passholders enjoy UNLIMITED visits, FREE parking, exclusive access to the Pass Member Lounge, unparalleled animal experiences, invitations to special VIP events, and significant savings on food, merchandise, and more.
This is the perfect opportunity to grab a pass and bring a friend to experience the ALL-NEW Expedition Odyssey: The Most Immersive Multi-Sensory Arctic Flying Theater Experience Ever Created. This groundbreaking attraction combines next-generation dynamic motion, breathtaking all-real visuals, and real-world up-close animal encounters. Expedition Odyssey doesn’t just show riders the Arctic; it truly transports them there on an adventure that seamlessly blends simulation and reality. Guests will embark on an exhilarating journey through towering glaciers, across vast tundra, and plunging into the icy depths of the Arctic Ocean, encountering some of the planet’s most awe-inspiring wildlife along the way.
The excitement doesn’t stop there! SeaWorld’s Summer Spectacular is currently in full swing, promising an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. Guests can dive into exhilarating attractions, encounter incredible animals, and be delighted by summer celebrations throughout the park.
Highlights include the ALL-NEW Ignite Drone Show & Fireworks Spectacular, an electrifying cirque-style show called ALL-NEW Hydro Surge, and the triumphant return of the beloved Shamu & Crew Parade.
Foodies will rejoice with the ongoing summer flavors and the return of Bands, Brew & BBQ, offering mouthwatering BBQ, over 130 different craft brews and cocktails, and one-of-a-kind concerts every weekend. Plus, guests aged 21+ can enjoy FREE ice-cold beer throughout the summer with one complimentary draft beer per visit at the Waterway Grill Patio (Pass Members can raise their glasses twice, with two free draft beers per day!). As the sun sets, the park comes alive with pulsating dance parties, cutting-edge shows, and an irresistible wave of good vibes.
This enhanced 4th of July Sale is available now for a limited time. Don’t miss your chance to unlock a year of adventure and incredible perks at SeaWorld Orlando!
Permit Party in Paradise: Tropical Americas Takes a Major Step Forward at Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Looks like things are heating up in the jungle—and not just because it’s summer in Florida! Walt Disney Imagineering has filed three new construction permits tied to the ambitious transformation of DinoLand U.S.A. into the all-new Tropical Americas land at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. With work accelerating behind the construction walls, this is one more exciting step toward the land’s grand debut in 2027.
The newly filed permits, stamped with the classic “General Construction and Area Improvement” label, come with a 12-month expiration timeline. They’re all assigned to Whiting-Turner Contracting Company—Disney’s go-to firm for big builds like this.
Here’s a quick breakdown of what these permits cover:
Two permits apply to previously backstage areas of Animal Kingdom, now being pulled into the footprint of Tropical Americas.
One permit is for the former Chester & Hester’s Dinosaur Treasures retail space, which officially closed in January 2025.
The Dino-Rama area has already bitten the dust (RIP Primeval Whirl, gone but not forgotten), and now those behind-the-scenes spaces are getting ready for their moment in the sun.
What’s Still Open (For Now)?
While construction continues, you can still catch a few last roars in DinoLand U.S.A. through the rest of 2025:
DINOSAUR is still operating
Restaurantosaurus is still serving up those theme park burgers
The Boneyard will remain open until September 2, 2025, so let your little paleontologists dig in while they can
Once complete, this tropical transformation will span 11 lush acres and bring two headliner attractions to the park:
A ride-through adventure inspired by Encanto, giving fans the chance to step into the magical world of the Madrigal family
A brand-new Indiana Jones experience that promises thrills worthy of the Temple of Doom
Disney has yet to reveal the full scope of these rides, but with two big IPs anchoring the land and construction shifting into high gear, it’s clear the park is set for one of its most immersive expansions yet.
New Oogie Boogie Bash VIP Tour Announced for Disneyland Resort
Exciting news for this year’s Oogie Boogie Bash at Disney California Adventure! Guests will now have the option to book a brand-new VIP Tour during the highly anticipated annual Halloween event.
This exciting new VIP tour offers a comprehensive experience, including Park Hopper admission and event tickets to Oogie Boogie Bash. Guests will be personally escorted through both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure by a dedicated VIP Tour Guide. The tour provides expedited access to attractions, entry to select treat trails, reserved seating for the “Frightfully Fun Parade,” and additional exclusive perks.
For parties of up to eight guests, the VIP tour offers a comprehensive package, including Park Hopper and event admission to Oogie Boogie Bash. You’ll enjoy expedited access to Villains Grove and select treat trails, along with a private VIP Tours Character Greeting. The experience also features reserved VIP seated viewing of the Frightfully Fun Parade, complete with complimentary beverages and both sweet and savory treats. As an added touch, you’ll receive an exclusive VIP Tours Oogie Boogie Bash amenity and complimentary Valet Parking at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa.
For details on pricing or to book this experience, simply call (714) 300-7710 or email DisneylandVIPTours. If you’re under 18, just make sure to get a parent or guardian’s permission before calling.
