If you’ve been dreaming of a summer getaway to the Happiest Place on Earth, your wish just came true! There is nothing quite like staying right in the heart of the magic, and now you can do it while keeping a little extra “jingle” in your pocket.
From May 22 through September 7, 2026, guests can take advantage of special savings on select room types at the hotels of the Disneyland Resort. Whether you’re looking for the craftsman elegance of the Grand Californian or the playful vibes of Pixar Place, there is a deal waiting for you.
This offer is valid for stays Sunday through Thursday nights, making it the perfect excuse for a mid-week escape to beat the weekend crowds.
Save Up to 15%
Experience the pinnacle of Disney luxury and nostalgia with a 15% discount on both Standard and Premium room types at:
Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa
Disneyland Hotel
The Villas at Disneyland Hotel
Save Up to 10%
Step into the world of artistry and animation with a 10% discount on select rooms at:
Pixar Place Hotel
With the summer season kicking off on May 22, these rooms will likely fill up fast! Whether you want to explore the newly reimagined Pixar Place or soak in the classic charm of the Disneyland Hotel, now is the time to book.
Let our friends at Get Away Today help you book your next Disneyland Vacation. They are the preferred Travel Agency of Chip and Company and Disney Addicts, and the one we use ourselves.
Hitch a Ride with the Newest BoxLunch Exclusive Haunted Mansion Figural Backpack
If you’re a Foolish Mortal with a growing collection of Disney bags, pull up a tombstone, because BoxLunch just dropped something that might actually make you want to hurry back to their site. We’re talking about the The Haunted Mansion Figural Mini Backpack, and it’s a total breath of fresh air for fans who are a little tired of the usual neon green and purple color palettes.
Related – Materialize Your Style: The Haunted Mansion Her Universe Collection Is Here
First off, can we talk about this blue? Most Haunted Mansion merch leans heavily into that wallpaper purple or eerie graveyard green, but this bag opts for a stunning, sophisticated blue that makes the mansion’s architecture really pop. It’s still spooky, sure, but it feels a bit more elevated, like something you could actually wear out without looking like you just stepped off a dark ride. It’s an exclusive find that retails for $84.90, which is pretty standard for the high-quality figural bags BoxLunch is known for.
The real spirit of this bag is in the construction. It’s shaped exactly like the iconic Disneyland mansion facade, but the front pocket is where the magic happens. It features a magnetic door applique starring our favorite trio: the Hitchhiking Ghosts! But don’t just leave them hanging; when you swing those doors open, you’re greeted by the infamous stretching portraits. It’s such a clever nod to the actual ride experience, and it’s bound to be a conversation starter while you’re waiting in line for a churro.
BoxLunch didn’t stop at the doors, though. The attention to detail extends all the way to the plaque zipper pull, which adds that perfect metallic clink and an extra layer of authenticity to the whole look. Whether you’re a die-hard ghost host or just a fan of really cool, functional art, this mini backpack manages to be both a collector’s piece and a practical park accessory. Just try not to let any ghosts follow you home while you’re wearing it!
Royal Runs and Magical Miles Await With The New Disney Athletic Dress Collection!
Calling all fitness fashionistas and park-bound princesses! If you’ve been dreaming of a wardrobe that works as hard as you do while still looking like a total fairytale, your wish has officially been granted. The latest drop from Her Universe has arrived at the Disney Store, and it is the ultimate game-changer for anyone who wants to add a dash of pixie dust to their activewear. These online exclusives retail for $69.99 each, and trust us, they are the perfect blend of performance and Happily Ever After.
Fairytale Fitness: The Disney Princess Athletic Dress
First up, let’s talk about the Disney Princess Athletic Dress. This isn’t just a workout outfit; it’s a tribute to our favorite heroines! The lightweight, stretchy fabric features an allover print of colorful royal icons that will have you feeling like you can conquer a marathon or just a very long line for Dole Whip. It comes with attached shorts and a built-in sports bra, so you get all the support you need for on-court competition or a brisk morning jog through the kingdom. It’s functional, flexible, and completely enchanting.
Desert Chic: The Mickey Mouse Icon Tiered Athletic Dress
For those who love a bit of adventure, the Mickey Mouse Icon Tiered Athletic Dress is bringing all the Southwest vibes. This subtle, stylish pattern combines Mickey icons with cacti and mountain silhouettes for a look that is totally Disney West. What makes this one stand out is the tiered skirt, which gives it a flirty, versatile edge. It’s got the same built-in bra and shorts for comfort, but the silhouette is so cute you could easily wear it from a workout straight to a night out under the stars.
Checkered Charm: The Mickey Mouse Icon Athletic Dress
If you’re a fan of the classics with a modern twist, the Mickey Mouse Icon Athletic Dress is calling your name. This dress features a trendy, allover checkered print punctuated by iconic Mickey silhouettes. It’s designed for high-performance flexibility, making it the perfect choice for hitting the gym or sprinting toward your favorite attraction. It’s timeless, sporty, and sleek—basically the little black dress of the Disney fitness world!
Since these are online exclusives, you won’t find them in the parks just yet! Make sure to head over to the Disney Store website to snag your favorite style before they disappear like Cinderella at midnight.
This is the Way…to Your New Favorite Scent: The Mandalorian and Grogu Bath and Body Works Collection Has Arrived!
If you’ve ever wondered what a galaxy far, far away actually smells like, Bath & Body Works just dropped the answer. To celebrate the upcoming The Mandalorian and Grogu movie, they’ve released a 26-item collection that is basically a dream come true for anyone who wants to smell less like a scruffy-looking nerf herder and more like a high-end bounty hunter.
This is the brand’s first-ever Star Wars collab, and they didn’t hold back on the vibes, blending “Beskar sea salt” with “cosmic sage” to give us scents that feel surprisingly sophisticated for merch.
The collection is anchored by two main scents that perfectly capture our favorite duo. First up is Bounty Hunter, which is the “Mando” of the group, it’s rugged, woody, and a little bit edgy. It features notes of Beskar sea salt (very metal), solar woods, and protective patchouli. It’s definitely a bit more masculine and earthy, perfect for when you’re heading out on a mission or just trying to survive a Monday. Then you’ve got Force Flow, the Grogu-inspired counterpart. This one is much fresher and brighter, with green apple, salted lavender, and cosmic sage. It’s got that curious, balanced energy that makes it a great daily scent if you want something clean but unique.
But let’s be real: the accessories are the real stars of the show here. The Grogu & The Mandalorian PocketBac Holder is an absolute must-have, it literally coos and keeps the little guy right on your bag. There’s also a Mandalorian Wallflower Heater and a super cool 3-Wick Candle Pedestal that makes your coffee table look like it belongs in a Jedi Temple. For the hardcore fans who signed up for the rewards program, there’s even an exclusive Ice Planet candle (think frozen cypress and amber) and a Grogu Snacks Collectible Tin that is almost too cute to actually use.
Whether you’re grabbing the 3-in-1 wash because you’re a minimalist like Din Djarin or stocking up on the Force Flow body cream to keep your skin from feeling like Tatooine sand, there’s plenty to choose from. The collection officially hit shelves and the website in May 2026, so you might want to secure your “bounty” before it’s gone. This is the way… to a much better-smelling bathroom.
The NEW Mandalorian and Grogu Collection is out now at @Bath & Body Works We had to drop by to see how good it smelled and pick up a few items. #starwars#mandalorian#bathandbodyworks
Bluey’s Wild World at Conservation Station is a playful and immersive experience sure to leave you smiling. With mates all around, familiar tunes will get you moving and grooving all with an animal twist! The newest addition to Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park opens on May 26 in time for Cool KIDS' SUMMER.
Everything You Need to Know About Bluey Arriving at Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Get ready for a “Cool KIDS’ SUMMER” because the Heeler family is heading to Walt Disney World! Starting May 26, Disney’s Animal Kingdom will welcome Bluey, Bingo, and several animal friends from Australia. From new interactive play areas to themed snacks, here is your complete guide to all the Bluey-inspired fun arriving at the park.
Bluey’s Wild World at Conservation Station is a playful and immersive experience sure to leave you smiling. With mates all around, familiar tunes will get you moving and grooving all with an animal twist! The newest addition to Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park opens on May 26 in time for Cool KIDS’ SUMMER.
Bluey’s Wild World and New Animal Encounters
The heart of the celebration takes place at Conservation Station, which will transform into Bluey’s Wild World. This immersive experience allows fans of all ages to play and explore the world of the hit show. Additionally, guests can visit Jumping Junction to see kangaroos and wallabies hopping around in a newly shared habitat, bringing a touch of the Australian outback to Florida.
How to Join the Virtual Queue
To manage the excitement, Disney will implement a virtual queue for Bluey’s Wild World at Conservation Station. This queue will be required to access the experience, the Wildlife Express Train, Jumping Junction, and animal care activities at Conservation Station.
7:00 AM Entry: You can request to join from anywhere as long as you have valid admission and a park reservation for Animal Kingdom.
10:00 AM Entry: You must be inside Disney’s Animal Kingdom to request a spot in the queue.
Note that a standby line will not be available during the initial opening period, though it may be introduced later.
Play Time with Bluey and Bingo
Bluey’s Wild World is designed to be high-energy and interactive. Fans can look forward to moving and grooving to familiar tunes and participating in iconic games from the show. Prepare to play a round of Keepy Uppy or experience the “transformative” effects of the Magic Asparagus. To top off the fun, the Heeler sisters will lead a celebratory bubble finale.
Explore Animal Care at Conservation Station
While visiting for Bluey, guests are encouraged to explore the returning animal care experiences at Conservation Station. You can peek into the Veterinary Treatment Room to see medical procedures, visit the Animal Nutrition Window to see how diets are prepared, or check out the Science Center to see what researchers are studying.
Meet the Marsupials at Jumping Junction
At Jumping Junction, you can learn all about the animals native to Bluey’s home country. This new habitat features both kangaroos and wallabies. While they are both marsupials that carry their “joeys” in pouches, you can tell them apart by their size—kangaroos are much larger, while wallabies are typically about half the size.
Exclusive Bluey Merchandise
If you want to take a piece of the magic home, a new merchandise collection will be available at Island Mercantile and Conservation Station. Highlights include:
Youth Apparel: Playful rain jackets and pullovers featuring Bluey and Bingo.
Adult Gear: T-shirts and sweatshirts for grown-up fans.
Coming Soon: “Create Your Own” plush toys and character headbands will arrive later this summer.
Conservation Station will also stock essential baby care items like wipes and sunscreen for visiting families.
Bluey-Inspired Treats and Drinks
You won’t have to say “Oh, biscuits!” because you’re hungry. Several locations are offering themed food:
Fairy Bread Cake: Vanilla cake dipped in white chocolate and sprinkles (at Pizzafari).
Wackadoo Fruit Freeze: A frozen fruit punch treat (at Pizzafari).
Bluey’s Berry Lemonade: A refreshing berry blend available at Pizzafari and Eight Spoon Café.
Pretzel’s Pretzels: Soft mini pretzels served with cheese and blueberry-mustard sauces (at Isle of Java).
Bluey Sipper: A collectible super-sized sipper available while supplies last.
New Magic Shots from Disney PhotoPass
Keep an eye out for Disney PhotoPass photographers at the park entrance and along the Discovery River. They will be offering three exclusive Magic Shots:
Grannies: Get your “Granny” on with Janet and Rita.
Keepy Uppy: Catch a butterfly with Flappy and Bluey.
Dance Mode: Turn on “Dance Mode” with Bluey and Bingo.
FØØD by Swedish Chef Debuting Refreshed Look and New Menu at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
The courtyard at Disney’s Hollywood Studios is about to get a lot more flavorful—and a bit more chaotic! FØØD by Swedish Chef, the popular quick-service spot located just steps from the exit of Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster, is officially rolling out a refreshed look and an updated menu starting May 26th.
As the Muppets continue to make their presence known in this corner of the park, FØØD by Swedish Chef is striking a new chord with a redesigned aesthetic and a lineup of all-new snacks and drinks. These updates are designed to keep the high-energy vibes of the neighboring attraction going long after guests exit their “Super Stretch” limos.
Grand Opening and Foodie Guide
The official opening date for the updated location is set for May 26, 2026. While the full list of ingredients (and likely a few Muppet-style kitchen mishaps) is still under wraps, Disney is expected to release a full Foodie Guide in the coming days. This guide will provide a detailed breakdown of the new specialty items and beverages guests can expect to find.
Whether you’re a fan of the Electric Mayhem or just looking for a post-ride pick-me-up, the Swedish Chef is ready to headline the Hollywood Studios food scene. Stay tuned as we bring you more updates once the kitchen officially opens!
Queue Refurbishment Underway at Twilight Zone Tower of Terror in Hollywood Studios
Refurbishment has officially begun in the outdoor queue area of The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Guests visiting the Hollywood Tower Hotel will notice construction boxes and scrims wrapped around several decorative columns throughout the garden and lobby-approach areas of the queue.
The work appears to be focused on the bases and structural integrity of the columns that line the outdoor waiting area. This refurbishment follows a construction permit recently filed by Disney’s Facility Asset Management team for the attraction.
While some columns remain untouched, showcasing the usual weathered, “dilapidated” aesthetic of the hotel, others are now fully enclosed in gray scrims.
Impact on Guests
The good news is that The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror remains open and fully operational during this maintenance. Currently, the work is not obstructing the primary guest walkway, though visitors should keep an eye out for potential temporary re-routes if the refurbishment expands to more central parts of the queue.
Maintenance like this is a regular occurrence at Walt Disney World to ensure that even “abandoned” hotels stay in top-notch condition for guests. Be sure to check back for more updates as we continue to track construction and refurbishments across Disney’s Hollywood Studios!
Get ready for a “For Real Life” moment! Starting May 21, the Emmy-winning stars of Bluey are officially invading Apple Arcade for a massive, limited-time crossover event. The Heeler family is moving into five fan-favorite titles—Crossy Road Castle, stitch., puffies., Suika Game+, and Disney Coloring World+—with exclusive updates that fans will love. Best of all, because it’s Apple Arcade, families can enjoy all the fun together without a single ad or annoying in-app purchase in sight.
Marina Mello, BBC Studios’ Global Director of Gaming & Interactive, noted that the goal was to capture the show’s signature playfulness. She shared that Apple Arcade’s focus on quality and safety makes it the perfect home for these “frictionless” experiences designed to bring parents and kids together.
Think you can handle the “trifficult” stairs? Head over to Crossy Road Castle for an incredibly fun obstacle course set right in Bluey and Bingo’s house! Designed for one to four players, you can team up with friends and family to dodge bouncy yoga balls and pesky garden gnomes in a race to the top.
The fun doesn’t stop there—new characters will join the Heeler sisters every two weeks, and by completing challenges, you can unlock your favorite show regulars (including some top-secret surprises!). Best of all, once you unlock the iconic Bluey house, it’s yours to keep in your permanent collection even after the event ends.
The fun continues across even more fan-favorite titles! Players can join Bluey in Suika Game+ to match fruits and watch the pile grow, or head over to stitch. to complete beautiful, hand-crafted hoops inspired by the show. If you’re feeling artistic, you can bring vibrant scenes to life in Disney Coloring World+.
The adventures don’t stop there—starting June 10, puffies. joins the party, inviting players to solve charming puzzles based on iconic Bluey episodes and build up a digital sticker collection of their very own!
Don’t let the “keepy uppy” stop! Make sure to catch these limited-time events before they disappear. Here is the schedule for when the fun wraps up:
June 24:stitch.
July 8:puffies.
July 21:Crossy Road Castle, Suika Game+, and Disney Coloring World+
Ahsoka’s Next Chapter Premieres on Disney+ in 2027
Pack your bags for the World Between Worlds, Star Wars fans, but you might want to settle in for a long wait. During Disney’s upfront presentation this Tuesday, Rosario Dawson dropped some major news that has the galaxy buzzing—though it might not be the news fans were hoping for regarding the timeline.
While many fans speculated that Ahsoka would return to Disney+ in 2026, Dawson confirmed that Season 2 isn’t slated to premiere until early 2027. With the first season wrapping in late 2023 and filming reportedly finishing late last year, the three-year gap is a bit of a surprise, but it sounds like Lucasfilm is using that time to go bigger than ever before.
The delay comes with a massive silver lining. Series creator and Lucasfilm Chief Creative Officer Dave Filoni teased that the scale of Season 2 is expanding, and a legendary Rebellion hero is finally entering the fray.
“He’s going head-to-head with [Grand Admiral] Thrawn,” Filoni revealed, confirming that Admiral Ackbar will be a major player in the new season.
For longtime fans, this is a dream scenario. Watching the tactical genius of Grand Admiral Thrawn (Lars Mikkelsen) clash with the Rebellion’s most famous mastermind, Admiral Ackbar, promises the kind of high-stakes space warfare that Star Wars does best. Rosario Dawson doubled down on the hype, promising, “This season, the battles are bigger, and the stakes are higher.”
When we last saw our heroes, the board was set for a massive conflict. Thrawn successfully escaped his exile on Peridea and returned to the main galaxy, accompanied by Ezra Bridger (Eman Esfandi). While Ezra managed to reunite with Hera Syndulla (Mary Elizabeth Winstead) to warn the New Republic of the Imperial Remnant’s resurgence, Ahsoka Tano and Sabine Wren (Natasha Liu Bordizzo) remain stranded in the distant galaxy.
Season 2 will also have to navigate the mysterious path left behind by Baylan Skoll. It was recently confirmed that Rory McCann will take over the role of Baylan following the tragic passing of Ray Stevenson. Alongside Shin Hati (Ivanna Sakhno), the search for the ancient Force power on Peridea remains one of the show’s most intriguing unanswered questions.
While 2027 feels far away, the Star Wars calendar is filling up. We still have The Mandalorian & Grogu hitting theaters in 2026 to keep us fed. Once 2027 hits, it’s going to be a monumental year for the franchise, featuring Ahsoka Season 2, a theatrical re-release of the original Star Wars, and the debut of Star Wars: Starfighter.
Disneyland Removes Dedicated Pin Trading Benches & Updates Official Rules
Disneyland introduced a significant change for the pin trading community yesterday by officially removing the designated pin trading area in Frontierland. Coinciding with the physical removal of the trading benches, the resort updated its official website to reflect the new policy and eliminate references to the specific gathering spot.
For years, the benches and tables located near Frontierland’s Westward Ho Trading Co. served as the unofficial headquarters for the pin-trading community. As the park’s premier destination for new pin drops, this area became a hub where collectors would line the benches with open portfolios, inviting fellow guests to browse their collections.
However, that long-standing tradition has come to an end. The latest updates to the Pin Trading FAQ on the Disneyland website indicate a major policy shift, signaling that the era of sprawling portfolio displays in this iconic spot is officially over.
Under the updated guidelines, Disneyland has explicitly prohibited the “use of benches, chairs, or tables” for trading activities, further clarifying that “pins are not allowed to be displayed.” Collectors must now limit their trading inventory to “lanyards and small handheld pin-trading accessories,” a move that directly targets the large portfolios that have become a staple of the community. It remains to be seen how strictly these rules will be enforced against those who carry larger collections into the parks.
The impact of these changes on the Downtown Disney District is also currently unclear. While groups of traders frequently gather near Disney’s Pin Traders outside the theme parks, it has not yet been confirmed if these restrictive new rules will extend to guests trading in the shopping and dining district.
What is your take on the closure of the Frontierland trading hub and these new restrictions on how pins can be displayed?
Jeff Vahle to Retire as President of Walt Disney World Resort
An era is coming to a close at the Most Magical Place on Earth. Jeff Vahle, who has served as the President of the Walt Disney World Resort since 2020, has officially announced his retirement. His departure marks the end of an impressive 36-year career with The Walt Disney Company.
Jeff Vahle took the helm of Walt Disney World during one of the most challenging periods in the resort’s history—the global pandemic. Throughout his tenure, he was credited with successfully navigating the resort’s reopening, managing the historic 50th Anniversary celebration, and overseeing the debut of major attractions like Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind and TRON Lightcycle / Run.
Before stepping into the role of President, Vahle served as the President of Disney Signature Experiences, where he oversaw Disney Cruise Line, Disney Vacation Club, Adventures by Disney, and Aulani. His deep roots in the company’s operations and his reputation for being a “Cast-focused” leader made him a respected figure among employees and fans alike.
While Vahle’s retirement is a significant shift for the Florida resort, Disney has not yet named a successor. As the company prepares for massive future investments—including the “Beyond Big Thunder” expansion at Magic Kingdom and the transformation of DinoLand U.S.A. at Disney’s Animal Kingdom—the next President will have a busy slate ahead.
Vahle is expected to stay on through a transition period to ensure a smooth handoff to the next leader of the resort.
Throughout his time as President, Vahle was frequently seen in the parks, often stopping to talk with Cast Members and recognize their hard work. In his retirement announcement, he expressed deep gratitude for the teams that make the magic happen every day, noting that the people of Walt Disney World have been the highlight of his three-and-a-half-decade career.
Disney Resort Guests Can Enjoy A Free Day At Either Blizzard Beach or Typhoon Lagoon This Summer
Summer 2026 at Walt Disney World is bringing twice the water slide chaos, twice the lazy river lounging, and twice the chances to forget where you left your flip-flops at Walt Disney World. 💦☀️
Starting May 12, 2026, both Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon and Disney’s Blizzard Beach are officially operating together for the summer season, giving guests the choice between tropical island vibes or snow-covered summit splashes during their Disney vacation.
While Disney operated both water parks simultaneously last summer as well, the return of the dual-park setup signals that Disney is continuing to lean heavily into water park offerings during the hottest months of the year.
And this summer, Disney Resort hotel guests are getting an extra perk tossed into the wave pool.
Guests staying at eligible Disney Resorts Collection hotels with check-in dates from May 26 through September 8, 2026, will receive complimentary water park admission on their arrival day as part of their stay.
That means your Disney vacation can now officially begin with a waterslide instead of standing around waiting for your hotel room text notification. 🌊
The perk is valid on check-in day only and can be used at either Disney water park that is operating that day. Since both Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach are currently open, guests can choose whichever park best fits their vacation style.
Want giant waves, tropical scenery, and the legendary Crush ‘n’ Gusher water coaster? Typhoon Lagoon is calling.
Prefer snowy ski resort theming mixed with Summit Plummet and Toboggan Racers? Blizzard Beach is ready to melt your sunscreen.
Disney says guests do not need to wait for their hotel room to be ready before heading to the water park. Resort guests can go directly to the parks upon arrival using their MagicBand, MagicBand+, Disney MagicMobile pass, or Key to the World Card for entry.
Since luggage is not permitted inside the water parks or on Disney transportation buses, Disney recommends utilizing Bell Services at resort hotels for bag storage until rooms become available.
Guests can also rent lockers at the water parks for smaller items and take advantage of complimentary towel rentals available for Disney Resort hotel guests.
Disney additionally shared several planning reminders for guests using the check-in day benefit:
• The perk is only available to registered overnight guests listed on the reservation • The benefit cannot be transferred to another day • Water parks remain subject to weather, refurbishment, and capacity closures • Parking at Disney water parks is complimentary • Minnie Van service through Lyft is available for transportation around Walt Disney World Resort
Disney also confirmed the free water park check-in day perk will return again in summer 2027 for eligible Disney Resort hotel guests.
Between two operating water parks, free admission perks, and peak Florida heat arriving right on schedule, Disney is basically turning arrival day into a full-on pool party this summer. 🏖️
