Dick Van Dyke at 100: Legend Still Chasing One Last Big Role!
Legendary stage and screen actor Dick Van Dyke is set to celebrate his monumental 100th birthday on December 13th! Despite reaching centenarian status, the iconic star shows no signs of slowing down, making it clear that retirement is simply not in his vocabulary.
During an exclusive interview with TODAY’s Al Roker, legendary actor Dick Van Dyke passionately explained why he refuses to retire: “I don’t want to. I mean, it’s my hobby. It’s my life. I love it.” In fact, he adds, “I’m looking for work right now.” His job hunt may have to wait, however, as Van Dyke is currently busy promoting his new book, “100 Rules for Living to 100: An Optimist’s Guide to a Happy Life,” a fitting title given his lifelong embodiment of optimism.
“I’ve decided people are born with a certain personality and a certain outlook, a certain perspective,” says Van Dyke. “I tend to look on the good side of things.”
Reflecting on his remarkable 75-year career, Dick Van Dyke expressed immense gratitude to Al Roker, noting, “I got to do for a living what I would have done for nothing.” While he admits he might not be as happy if he had been stuck at a desk, the veteran actor says he’s far from finished. Van Dyke still has one major piece of “unfinished business”: “I always wanted to play ‘Scrooge,'” he admits, adding playfully, “I could do it. It’s just November. I’ve still got time.”
When asked about his legacy after nearly a century of life and hundreds of credits, Dick Van Dyke told Al Roker his work speaks for itself: “I think it’s about an attitude toward life, to look at the bright side.” He expands on this idea in his new book, writing that he cares less about being personally remembered than the survival of what he shared—”humor, compassion, a zest for living, a love of music.”
He concludes beautifully that as long as children are singing “Chim Chim Cher-ee” or proudly belting out “supercalifragilisticexpialidocious,” “the most important part of me will always be alive.”
Undead & Festive! Snag the New Zombie Holiday Mug at Trader Sam’s!
Tiki fans rejoice! The new, festive Zombie Holiday Mug launched yesterday, November 18, at Walt Disney World Resort, and coast-to-coast collectors will be happy to know it’s also making its way to Disneyland Resort later this week!
The highly anticipated Holiday Zombie Mug, first revealed in August, is a festive and frightful new version of Trader Sam’s classic zombie tiki mug. This year’s collector’s item features the undead head wearing a red Santa hat adorned with stitches and holly, and notably includes a candy cane spiked through its forehead, along with red stitches over the eyes and mouth.
The mug is sold with the Mistletoe Mishap beverage (Ghost Reposado Tequila, DOLE Pineapple Juice, coconut milk, and lemon) at Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto in Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, with a strict limit of two per person.
Note: The Disneyland Resort version, available starting Friday, November 21, features a unique golden thread instead of red.
Banshee Popcorn Bucket and More Novelties Landing for Avatar: Fire and Ash
Get ready to link up with your ikran because movie theaters are pulling out all the stops for the premiere of James Cameron’s highly anticipated sequel, Avatar: Fire and Ash! As the third installment in the groundbreaking franchise prepares to hit theaters on December 19, 2025, major cinema chains have unveiled an impressive lineup of food and beverage collectibles, led by a stunning Banshee Popcorn Collectible.
These otherworldly novelties will be available on or around the film’s release date, and fans will want to act fast—supplies are expected to be limited!
The must-have item this season is the Banshee Popcorn Collectible, modeled after the blue, winged creature known to the Na’vi as an ikran. This elaborate collectible features a faux woven basket on its back, perfectly sized to hold your popcorn.
Regal Cinemas revealed they will have this Banshee Popcorn Collectible at select locations while supplies last. Regal did not announce pricing.
The Banshee will also be available at Cinemark. There, it will be priced at $79.99 and comes with an XL popcorn on the side and free same-day refills!
AMC Theatres will also have a limited quantity of the banshee popcorn bucket.
In addition to the highly-coveted Banshee, theaters are offering a range of collectible drinkware and tins:
Cinemark will also have a 44 oz cup for $7.75, a 20 oz tumbler for $17.95, and a massive 130 oz popcorn tin for $15.00, all including same-day refills.
AMC Theatres will also feature themed cups and banshee toppers (including a large drink), a popcorn tin (including a large popcorn), a totem cup and lid (including a large drink), and the “Adventure Combo” which includes two drinks, snacks, and a popcorn. They will also debut Avatar-inspired beverages.
At Alamo Drafthouse, fans can pre-order a limited-edition 16 oz Avatar: Fire and Ash pint glass with their tickets. The glass must be picked up within 30 days of the showtime.
New Animal Kingdom Park Map Features Zootopia: Better Zoogether
A fresh update has officially landed at Disney’s Animal Kingdom! Following the November 7th opening of the all-new 4D show, Zootopia: Better Zoogether, a refreshed park guidemap has debuted, putting the popular police duo, Nick Wilde and Judy Hopps, front and center.
The vibrant new guidemap replaces the previous version and serves as the official introduction of Zootopia to the park’s offerings.
The new cover artwork captures the excitement of the new show, featuring Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde celebrating in front of the iconic Tree of Life, which is cleverly adorned with other beloved Zootopia characters.
Immediately upon opening the map, guests are greeted with a dedicated advertisement for the new show, which is located inside the Tree of Life Theater. The map highlights key park experiences, including:
Rafiki’s Planet Watch
Stage Shows
Wilderness Explorers
Animal Trails
Tiffins and Tusker House dining
A panel detailing the My Disney Experience app features.
The fully unfolded map displays the park split into its themed lands: Oasis, Discovery Island, Pandora – The World of Avatar, Africa, Asia, and DinoLand U.S.A. While the Tree of Life remains the central focal point, Zootopia: Better Zoogether has been added to the map’s legend and is now designated as number 5.
The attraction’s number is clearly positioned at the show’s entrance, near the Tree of Life.
Show Description:
Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde are on the case for a wild and wooly adventure across Zootopia as animals of all shapes and sizes celebrate their shared connection in this 4D film spectacular.
DinoLand U.S.A. Reflects Upcoming Changes
The new map also subtly reflects the ongoing transformation of DinoLand U.S.A. Ahead of its complete closure in 2026 for a reimagined land, the map only features the remaining attractions and dining options:
DINOSAUR
Finding Nemo: The Big Blue… and Beyond
Restaurantosaurus
The Dino Institute Shop
A T. rex animal highlight
The official debut of the new guidemap coincides with the successful launch of Zootopia: Better Zoogether on November 7th, following its week-long cast member and Annual Passholder previews. Be sure to grab a copy of the new map on your next visit to navigate the latest addition to Disney’s Animal Kingdom!
Universal Orlando Extends Epic Universe Annual Pass Perks Through 2026
Universal Orlando just dropped some great news for Passholders, and it’s the kind of update that deserves a celebratory Butterbeer. While Epic Universe will not offer its own dedicated Annual Pass in 2026, Universal confirmed that Passholders will still get a long list of perks inside the brand-new park all the way through December 31, 2026. You’ll still need separate admission to get in, but once you’re through the gate, the perks keep rolling.
Let’s break down what Universal is offering for the next era of Passholder fun at Epic Universe.
Premier Passholders get the big one: free Valet or Prime self-parking after their first visit, now valid at the new Epic Universe garages, too. Preferred Passholders enjoy free self-parking after visit one, plus discounts on Prime and Valet. Power Passholders score 50 percent off regular daytime parking and can upgrade to Prime at a prorated rate. Every parking perk specifically includes Epic Universe, which is huge considering how busy those garages will be once the park officially opens.
Dining perks carry over in full force. Premier Passholders get 15 percent off at Universal-owned restaurants and carts, while Preferred Passholders get 10 percent. And yes, the list of participating locations inside Epic Universe is long. Whether you’re grabbing a toasty bite at Oak & Star Tavern, slurping up something magical at Bièraubeurre, heading into Toadstool Cafe, or sampling a drink under the stars at Bar Zenith, your pass discount applies. More than two dozen Epic Universe restaurants and quick-service spots are included.
Shopping discounts remain the same: 15 percent for Premier Passholders and 10 percent for Preferred. Epic Universe has one of the most stacked retail lineups Universal has ever assembled, from Mario Motors and the Nintendo Super Star Store to Toothless’ Treasures, How to Treat Your Dragon, Cosme Acajor Baguettes Magique, the Guild of Mystics, and more. If you’re planning to outfit your whole crew in new-lane drip, the discount will absolutely come in handy.
There are even perks inside the lands themselves, like a 10 percent Passholder discount at the Darkmoor Monster Makeup Experience and on VIP Experiences across Epic Universe. Photo fans get My Universal Photos discounts and cheaper Coke freestyle recharges, too.
It’s worth repeating that all these perks apply through the end of 2026, even though Passholders must buy separate admission for Epic Universe visits next year. That means Universal wants Passholders in the new park, even if the pass structure hasn’t expanded to include full Epic Universe access quite yet.
For Passholders itching to explore the Dragon’s Roost, take their first spin on Starfall Racers, wander Celestial Park, step through portals to Nintendo, the Wizarding World, or Darkmoor, or finally feast their eyes on that stunning Oak & Star Tavern décor, these perks make those visits just a little sweeter.
2026 Disney Princess Half Marathon Medals Revealed
The highly anticipated 2026 Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend medals have arrived, revealing a design unlike any before! Each medal features a stunning stained glass window look that beautifully captures the magic of beloved Disney Princess stories. Whether you are running the Disney Princess 5K, challenging yourself in the 10K, getting “tangled up” in the Half Marathon, or tackling the Disney Fairytale Challenge, every finisher will earn a uniquely luminous and royal medal.
Disney Princess 5K
Embrace your fate—or change it—during 3.1 miles featuring the brave Merida. And with the finish line as your target, you don’t need a bow and arrow to hit it.
Disney Princess 10K
See how far you’ll go (hopefully 6.2 miles) as part of this race hosted by Moana. And don’t worry about wayfinding. The course is clearly marked.
Disney Princess Half Marathon
Get tangled up in the fun of this 13.1-mile journey with Rapunzel. And since runDisney knows best, please leave the frying pans at home.
Disney Fairytale Challenge
Go beast mode by taking on the challenge inspired by everyone’s favorite beauty, Belle. Made up of both the 10K and the half marathon, being our Guest for these 19.3 miles will earn you three treasured medals!
The MUST-TRY Holiday DOLE Whip Sampler Arrives at Disney Springs!
The most wonderful time of the year just got a whole lot sweeter! The iconic Holiday DOLE Whip Sampler has officially dropped at Swirls on the Water in Disney Springs, bringing a festive flight of tropical flavors perfect for celebrating the season.
For only $8.99, you can indulge in a trio of soft-serve swirls that capture the essence of a Disney holiday—from a comforting classic to a winter-themed escape!
This year’s sampler features a magical mix of refreshing and indulgent flavors:
Classic Refresh: The original favorite! This cup features DOLE Whip Pineapple swirled with Vanilla Soft-serve and is garnished with a fresh pineapple wedge. A perfect, tangy-sweet starter!
Festive Flair: Deck the halls with pomegranate and chocolate! This rich holiday swirl combines DOLE Whip
Pomegranate with Chocolate Soft-serve and is topped with bright, festive sprinkles.
Winter Escape: Your ticket to a tropical winter wonderland. Enjoy DOLE Whip Lime swirled with Coconut Soft-serve and topped with graham cracker crumbs and toasted coconut flakes for a cozy, comforting finish.
This limited-time treat is an absolute must-try for any Disney snack connoisseur and is the perfect accompaniment to your holiday shopping adventure at Disney Springs.
📍 Where:Swirls on the Water at Disney Springs (located near the Marketplace Co-Op)
📅 When: Available now through January 4th!
Make sure to stop by before these delightful, seasonal flavors melt away!
No Reports, No Photos, No Notes: Questions Grow Around State Inspectors’ Role After Epic Universe Coaster Death
A new report from Orlando’s News 6 is raising fresh questions about what exactly state ride inspectors did (and didn’t do) after the death of a guest on the Stardust Racers coaster at Universal’s Epic Universe. While inspectors were present at the park for more than 15 hours over several days, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) now confirms that the department has no documentation of their visit. Not a single note, report, photo, email, or internal communication.
The explanation from the state is straightforward on paper. Universal invited FDACS to observe ride testing after Kevin Rodriguez Zavala was found unresponsive on September 17. Observe is the word doing the heavy lifting here. Because Universal is a major theme park with its own full-time safety inspection team, FDACS has no legal authority to conduct ride investigations on property. They cannot inspect, cannot interview, cannot collect evidence, and cannot initiate any kind of enforcement action unless the law gives them jurisdiction.
In other words, they weren’t there as investigators, only as guests of a company choosing to share information.
But this is where things get complicated. Even if FDACS inspectors were not acting as investigators, they were still there on official state time, representing a state agency, gathering observations, and ultimately contributing to a public statement FDACS leadership issued five days later. That statement said the agency’s “current findings align with Universal’s,” even though, according to FDACS, no documentation of those findings exists.
That discrepancy is now at the heart of News 6’s report. If the inspectors were present in an official capacity — even strictly as observers — how is it that there is no record whatsoever of their work, especially when those observations helped inform a public statement?
Meanwhile, FDACS was never the lead investigative body for this incident. The only agency with true governmental investigative authority was, and still is, the Orange County Sheriff’s Office. That criminal investigation remains active, and it is the reason both the Sheriff’s Office and the medical examiner have withheld public records, including the full autopsy report. Under Florida law, criminal investigative information can remain sealed if investigators reasonably anticipate an arrest or prosecution.
Those records could eventually show whether negligence, human error, or a medical complication contributed to Zavala’s death.
What we do know right now is that Universal reopened Stardust Racers on October 4, citing its own internal review and days of testing that FDACS staff watched but could not formally participate in. The attraction reopened with updated disability access guidelines and strengthened warnings for guests with back and neck conditions.
Zavala’s family, represented by attorney Ben Crump, continues to call for greater transparency and accountability, arguing that reopening the coaster before full investigative findings were available was premature.
In the middle of all of this, the state’s lack of documentation remains an unresolved question. FDACS inspectors had no legal power to investigate, but they were still there representing the state. And when a deadly incident occurs at a brand-new, high-profile attraction, the absence of any written record — even from observers — is unusual enough to raise eyebrows.
For now, the only official investigation with legal teeth continues at the county level. Until those findings are released, the full picture of what happened on Stardust Racers remains incomplete.
Santa and Friends Bring Dino-Sized Holiday Cheer to Disney’s Animal Kingdom
If you hear jingle bells and dinosaur roars echoing through Disney’s Animal Kingdom this season, don’t panic. That’s just Santa trading in his sleigh for a little prehistoric flair over in DinoLand U.S.A. The holidays have officially gone Cretaceous, and the character meet and greets might be the cutest this side of the fossil record.
Let’s take a little stroll through the park and check out who’s decking the trails with boughs of holly and a whole lot of personality.
Santa is holding court one last time on the patio at Restaurantosaurus, rocking his classic red velvet suit while surrounded by the most delightfully quirky decorations. Think flannel patchwork, presents, garland, and yes, a Christmas tree topped with a dinosaur. Santa swapping reindeer for raptors is exactly the kind of holiday chaos we can get behind.
Donald and Daisy are next door showing off fresh upgrades to their beloved Dino-Bash outfits. Donald is leaning into the season with a deeper green jacket layered over a red waistcoat, plus a brand-new light-green sash dotted with holly. Even the feathers on his cap have been replaced by sprigs of greenery. Daisy is serving full dino-diva energy with a bold new green-and-red scale blouse and a festive fringed shawl that’s basically perfect for a holiday runway. Their meet-and-greet spot on Cretaceous Trail now sparkles with rose-gold Christmas trees and matching décor.
Chip ‘n Dale wandered a little further down the Upper Cretaceous Trail and somehow found a way to make their purple and green dino suits even more adorable. Dale wrapped his Triceratops horns in Christmas lights, while Chip went full Rudolph with reindeer antlers perched over his scales. Their area glows with twinkling lights they apparently put up themselves, so give them some appreciation for their decorating hustle.
Over near The Oasis, Pluto may not be sporting a dino outfit, but he’s rocking a holiday collar lined with Christmas lights that tangle perfectly with his explorer gear. Our good boy is always ready for festive adventure.
These meet and greets feel extra special this year since DinoLand U.S.A. will officially close in February 2026 to make way for Tropical Americas. That means this is one of your final chances to snap a selfie with these pals in their prehistoric holiday best.
So which character is making your Christmas card shortlist? Santa with a dino tree topper? Holly-styled Donald and Daisy? Chip ‘n Dale with their dino-flare? Or Pluto with those light-up vibes?
Scar and Ed Roar Into Disney’s Animal Kingdom With Fierce New Novelties
Hakuna your wallets, friends, because Disney’s Animal Kingdom just unleashed two brand-new novelties that will have Lion King fans ready to pounce. Scar and Ed have officially clawed their way into the park in the form of a fierce new popcorn bucket and a wildly goofy sipper, and these two are already the mane event of the day.
These two aren’t just merch items. They’re a whole mood.
The Scar Bucket is the kind of thing that makes you gasp, laugh, and go, “Well… I have to buy that.” His sculpt is spot-on menacing, with a stone-cold glare and light-up eyes that make him look like he’s moments away from breaking into “Be Prepared.” You even get popcorn included, which feels very circle-of-life appropriate since Scar is known for… well… eating things.
The bucket comes with an adjustable strap so you can strut around the park like you’re the true leader of the pack, even if you’re just heading to Festival of the Lion King hoping Timon picks you to dance.
Meanwhile, the Ed Hyena Sipper is pure chaotic energy. The facial expression? Unhinged in the best way. It’s like he heard a joke only he finds funny and now he can’t stop cackling. He’s the ultimate sipper for anyone who wants their hydration strategy to also double as a personality trait.
Fill him with whatever you’re sipping that day and get ready for strangers to stop you constantly saying, “Oh my gosh, where did you get that?”
Both novelties can be found at Mahindi, The Feeding Ground, Chakranadi, and Trek Snacks, with Ed also popping up at ice cream carts. There’s a two-per-guest limit, which is probably for the best because if not, someone would absolutely walk out with a whole hyena clan.
Collectors, Disney Eats fans, villain stans, Lion King lovers, and anyone who considers Scar an underrated Disney icon are going to be all over these. They’re fun, they’re fierce, and they’re the kind of merch that becomes instant park legend.
If you want one, don’t wait. These things are going to disappear from shelves faster than Scar tossed Mufasa off that cliff. Too soon? Maybe. Still true.
Universal Destinations & Experiences has unveiled the complete slate of attractions, shows, food and beverage, and merchandise experiences slated for the all-new Universal Kids Resort. Set to open in Frisco, Texas, in 2026, this regional theme park is specifically designed and engineered for families with young children.
Universal Kids Resort will feature seven immersive themed lands based on beloved franchises, including: DreamWorks’ Shrek’s Swamp, Jurassic World Adventure Camp, Nickelodeon’s SpongeBob SquarePants Bikini Bottom, Illumination’s Minions vs. Minions: Bello Bay Club, DreamWorks’ TrollsFest, DreamWorks’ Puss in Boots Del Mar, and the Isle of Curiosity, which serves as the park’s gateway.
Molly Murphy, President of Universal Creative, emphasized the unique design philosophy behind the park: “When creating Universal Kids Resort, we leaned into that childlike curiosity and invited play to be our guide. Every detail was designed through a child’s eyes from signs at their height to colors that invite them in. The result is a park that celebrates the joy of being a kid — where imagination isn’t just encouraged, it’s embedded in every attraction, space, and experience.”
This detailed look at the new offerings gives families their first real glimpse into the highly anticipated park, promising a variety of low-height rides, interactive play areas, and unique character encounters tailored for its youngest guests.
At Jurassic World Adventure Camp, the curious Ankylosaurus, Bumpy, has gone missing, so families will zoom through twists, turns, peaks and valleys on Jurassic World: Cretaceous Coaster to help find her. Mr. DNA’s Double Helix Spin will take families on a twisting and turning journey. Kids and their grown-ups can also enjoy the Pteranodrop, an exciting ride that gives brave adventurers a bird’s eye view of the park from high above.
The Jurassic World Canteen will help tame T. rex-sized appetites for carnivores and herbivores alike. Jurassic World Outfitters will offer families the chance to gear up for some dinosaur-sized adventures with toys, accessories and more. From meeting a newly hatched baby dinosaur to climbing up the Jurassic World Lookout Towers play area or having fun at Paddock Play, kids and their grown-ups will have many ways to explore.
Nickelodeon’s SpongeBob SquarePants Bikini Bottom
Jellyfish Fields Jamboree will be a vibrant attraction where kids and their families hop aboard their very own Jelly Angler to bounce around with the one and only SpongeBob SquarePants. Barnacle Bus will showcase Bikini Bottom’s sights and residents while Bobbing Barrels will feature water cannons for families to blast water at each other as they spin around. Of course, no day would be complete in Bikini Bottom without a boating lesson, so Mrs. Puff’s Boating School will have the class taking a spin through her specially designed course.
Then for hungry Bikini Bottom visitors, Goofy Goober’s will offer guests chicken sandwiches, salads, hot dogs and sky-high sundaes. A sunken wooden treasure chest will be the home of Barg’N-Mart for all the nautical nonsense anyone could wish for, including sunny day apparel, toys, plush and more. With opportunities to meet SpongeBob SquarePants, Patrick Star and Sandy Cheeks, explore Mussel Beach for some rest and more, it’ll be the best day ever.
DreamWorks’ Shrek’s Swamp
The attraction Shrek & Fiona’s Happily Ogre After will take kids and their families on a special ride through the story of how Shrek met Fiona. Built by Shrek for their triplets, families will ride along to relive the quest to rescue Princess Fiona, with help from Donkey of course.
For ogre-sized appetites, Shrek’s triplets’ favorite eats will be served at Swamp Snacks including the Shrekzel. For swamp apparel, accessories and plush for the whole family, Triplets Treasures will allow parents to shop for themselves along with matching and complementary outfits for their growing ogres. Kids and their grown-ups will also have a chance to meet Shrek and Fiona. Two interactive play areas, Shrek’s Swamp Rompin’ Stomp and Shrek’s Swamp Splash & Smash, will allow kids to stomp and/or splash away.
Illumination’s Minions vs. Minions: Bello Bay Club
Next, guests step into the mayhem of a spirited water battle, full of unexpected surprises that only Illumination’s iconic Minions can deliver. Grab a water blaster and join the action.
A game of golf and a boat cruise are far from relaxing at the Minions Bello Bay Club. Find yourself in the splash zone on the Bello Bay Cruise as you witness the antics between the Yellow Minions and their Purple counterparts.
Then, take the wheel and hold on tight as the competition spins out of control at the Bello Bay Golf Cart Derby.
Choose your side with pride by visiting Bello Bay Boutique and fashion yourself with Team Yellow, Team Purple, and other themed merchandise. And after all that mischief, you can recharge at Bello Bay Bites with some tasty Minion-themed snacks. Capture the fun with photos at the Minion meet and greet, discover playful Minion moments, and experience surprising water features at Illumination’s Minions vs. Minions: Bello Bay Club.
DreamWorks’ TrollsFest
For even more fun, kids and their families can move, giggle and groove at King Trollex Techno Dance Party, an indoor interactive experience, or lead sound check and learn dance moves at a Trolls-themed amphitheater stage show. They can also hop on board Rhonda’s TrollsFest Express to twist and turn through the festival grounds on an armadillo bus ride, and they can soar above TrollsFest on the colorful ride Hair in the Clouds, featuring a mix of flower-faced balloons.
Then for TrollsFest food, Trolls Eatz! will serve up a symphony of flavors in family-approved bites. BroZone Cones will offer ice cream from TrollsFest’s coolest boy band. To get ready to take center stage, Sparkle Shine Glitter Glow will offer the unique Troll-ify Me! experience, the ultimate Trolls makeover for kids’ and grown-ups’ hair to be in the clouds and their sparkles to be loud via headbands, apparel, make-up and more. For those looking for a more subtle look, Mr. Dinkles’ Market will feature colorful, concert-ready t-shirts, souvenirs and more. Families can also meet Poppy, Branch and the rest of the DreamWorks’ Trolls gang, and two interactive play areas, Poppy’s Playland and Trolls Critter Crawl, will offer good Trolls-fashioned fun.
DreamWorks’ Puss in Boots Del Mar
Small heroes unite at DreamWorks’ Puss in Boots Del Mar where Swings Over Del Mar will have guests flying high. Kids and their families can also enjoy Mama Luna’s Adopt a Kitty Day! where they’ll be able to see Puss in Boots in his greatest adventure yet as he returns to the village of Del Mar for a spectacularly silly puppet performance.
For small heroes’ appetites, Comidas y Leche will serve up Puss in Boots’ approved eats. Then, purr-fect apparel awaits in Mercado de Perrito while candies and treats will make Tienda de Dulces the sweetest spot in Del Mar. Families can also meet the fearless hero himself along with Mama Luna, Perrito and friends. In addition to the park’s many play areas, Universal Kids Resort will feature multiple sensory gardens designed to give children and families opportunities to pause, reset, and connect.
Isle of Curiosity
The Isle of Curiosity will serve as the gateway to the other themed lands at Universal Kids Resort. Gabby’s Cat-Tastic Dance Party! will allow kids and their families to boogie with Gabby from DreamWorks’ Gabby’s Dollhouse. Cakey’s Cupcakes will serve up a variety of cupcakes in chocolate, vanilla and rainbow while the Universal Kids Resort Café will be a colorful spot to fuel up whether it’s sitting down and relaxing or grabbing bites for the road. The flagship Universal Kids Resort Store will be the one-stop-shop for gearing up for the day or finding best-of-the best from each themed land and a variety of merch inspired by Gabby’s Dollhouse to dress the part for their meow-zing adventures ahead.
“Universal Kids Resort is a place where kids are accepted just as they are, free to dance, dream, and play without limits or judgment,” said Brian Robinson, Executive Vice President and Chief Creative Officer at Universal Creative. “For many, it will be the first time the worlds they’ve only seen on screen come vividly to life — moments that ignite creativity, confidence, and joy. It celebrates all the best parts of being a kid, the laughter, the curiosity, the courage to be unapologetically yourself, and in doing so, invites a new generation into the incredible thrills of Universal.”
Universal Kids Resort Hotel
As a place to stay and relax just steps away from the park, Universal Kids Resort Hotel was designed with families in mind. Rooms will sleep up to five or six guests. Standard Queen, Deluxe Queen, and Signature Queen rooms will each offer a twin-over-full bunk bed and a queen bed. Family suites will offer a king bed in a separate bedroom, a queen pullout sofa, and a twin-over-twin bunk bed, along with an eating area.
Curiosity Café will be a quick-service restaurant offering hotel guests meals throughout the day. A full-service bar, outdoor pool, fitness room, and a game room will round out the hotel amenities.
To stay updated on all of Universal Kids Resort’s newest developments, visit UniversalKidsResort.com.
Walt Disney Imagineering has signaled the continuation of a major project for Big Thunder Mountain Railroad at Magic Kingdom by filing a new Notice of Commencement. With Coastal Steel Inc. listed as the contractor and the scope defined as general construction, this is the third filing for what is shaping up to be the most extensive refurbishment the classic attraction has received since it debuted in 1980.
Despite the project nearing its final phases, the latest Notice of Commencement filed for Big Thunder Mountain Railroad confirms that general construction work remains active. The continued involvement of Coastal Steel suggests that additional structural work is still underway, even as the attraction begins its transition toward systems testing and final detailing in the refurbishment timeline.
In a major step forward toward reopening, the refurbishment project has reached a critical milestone: ride system testing is now underway! A newly refurbished train has been spotted cycling the track, allowing Imagineers to focus on validating essential elements like safety systems, braking, lift hill mechanics, and overall train dynamics across the updated track layout.
While visible progress and ride testing are underway, Disney has not yet set an official reopening date for Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, though a return in 2026 remains the official timeline. However, recent permit filings valid through April 2026 suggest work may extend well into next year.
When the “Wildest Ride in the Wilderness” finally returns, guests will once again be caught in the turbulent gold rush saga of Barnabas T. Bullion, whose mining efforts caused the mountain itself to rebel. Among the most exciting new additions, riders will be thrust into a mysterious underground scene—a cavern glowing with phosphorescent pools and shimmering with iridescent stalactites and stalagmites, showcasing the mountain’s unpredictable power.
The new underground scene pays homage to Disneyland’s classic Rainbow Caverns from the Mine Train Through Nature’s Wonderland attraction, blending nostalgic visual effects with modern storytelling. While guests may initially be enchanted by the glowing, peaceful appearance of the caverns, Disney teases that a “menacing rumble” deep inside is a warning: the mountain itself is making it clear that riders are not entirely welcome in this seemingly beautiful, but dangerous, space.
