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Menus Released for Planet Hollywood Observatory

We recently shared some amazing new milkshakes that will be coming to the Planet Hollywood Observatory called Supernova Shakes, which guests loved, and are excited to be able to try once Planet Hollywood re-opens this Fall after a lengthy refurbishment. There is also great news for guests who are anxiously awaiting the release of the full menus, as Disney put out an official press release with some exciting new information, including menus and photos of the new offerings at The Observatory:

 

Planet Hollywood, America’s preeminent restaurant destination dedicated to celebrating the entertainment industry, reveals today the new menu for its transformed Orlando flagship location, set to reopen this fall as Planet Hollywood Observatory in Disney Springs at Walt Disney World Resort. New dining options will highlight Planet Hollywood’s classic dishes; introduce savory selections by dynamic chef, restaurateur and television personality Guy Fieri; and add a lineup of over-the-top sweets.

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“We’ve spent an enormous amount of time developing new menu offerings for Planet Hollywood Observatory and striking a balance with keeping our favorites in place,” said Robert Earl, Founder and Chairman, Planet Hollywood International. “We’re excited to offer even more options for our guests, ranging from appealing starters, to light and healthy salads, to indulgent steak and lobster—and everything in between. And they really must save room for dessert—I always do!”

Fans will embrace the return of classics such as World Famous Chicken Crunch with Creole mustard sauce playfully plated in a chicken-shaped dish; Nachos Grande piled high with chipotle chicken, cheese and black bean sauce, cruda salsa verde, pico de gallo, queso fresco and sour cream; L.A. Lasagna a fried take on this comfort food favorite with Bolognese sauce, roasted garlic cream and tomato basil sauces; and the epic High Roller Platter, a celebration of “best-ofs” with the Chicken Crunch, Texas Tostados, Buffalo Wings, Cheesy Spinach Dip, Peri-Peri Shrimp served in a uniquely designed Ferris-wheel dish.

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For those drawn to delicious indulgences, head straight for Fieri’s new “Big Bite Burgers” and “Knuckle Sandwiches.” The six burger choices, which are not to be missed, include Fieri’s award-winning Bacon Mac-N-Cheese with applewood smoked bacon, six-cheese mac-n-cheese, cheddar, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickle, crispy onion straws, Fieri’s signature Donkey Sauce, garlic-buttered brioche bun; The Mayor of Flavortown seasoned pastrami, swiss cheese, caraway slaw, pickles, Dijon mustard and Donkey Sauce on a garlic-buttered pretzel bun; and the Prime Time American Kobe with American-style kobe beef, smoked gouda, cheddar, caramelized onion jam, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickle, crispy onion straws, Donkey Sauce, garlic-buttered brioche bun .

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A Lobster Feast Fra Diavolo, a spaghetti favorite served in a whole lobster shell and a Sesame Ginger Salmon with cilantro rice are two of eight gussied-up specialty offerings. Steak and rib selections – including the 20 ounce, bone-in NY Strip Steak for two served with roasted garlic and herb butter, steak fries and green bean blend – can now be upgraded to “surf & turf” status with the accompaniment of a whole steamed lobster.

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Vegetarians will rejoice with Fieri’s take on the scratch-made Morgan’s Veggie, a burger of black and white beans, chickpeas, oats, artichokes, roasted red pepper with cilantro aioli, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickle, toasted wheat bun and a Pimento Grilled Cheese six-cheese mac-n-cheese, pimento cheese, garlic-buttered sourdough. Healthy options for guests include a selection of five fresh salads like the Citrus Kale, a combination of kale, julienned broccoli, slivered Brussels sprouts and cabbage, feta, grapefruit, oranges, cranberries, sunflowers seeds, agave dressing; and Spinach & Berries with candied walnuts, bleu cheese crumbles and balsamic vinaigrette.

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For a sweet finish “Hand-Dipped and Whimsical Milkshakes” include Chocolate Comet and Strawberry Borealis. The dessert menu is filled with goodies such as the Cosmic Cream Challenge, a blind tasting of 12 flavors of house-made ice creams and sorbets; Planet Melt Down, a chocolate hardshell dome, melted tableside by hot chocolate sauce to reveal double chocolate fudge cake, fresh strawberries and whipped cream; and Brownie Sundae Martini, 12 decadent chunks of freshly baked brownies layered with six scoops of vanilla and chocolate ice cream with toppings.

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Relax amongst the stars and enjoy live music in an all-new Stargazers Lounge. A dedicated menu is focused on Florida craft beers from breweries like Funky Buddha, Bold City, Cigar City and Swamp Head and has hand-crafted cocktails made with local fresh ingredients, like the Cosmic Mule New Amsterdam vodka, Limoncino Bottega & Real ginger-infused syrup. Keeping in theme with Planet Hollywood’s whimsical nature, spirits are given equal attention with monstrous beverages served in souvenir vessels including the Halley’s Comet served in a 45 oz. Planet-bowl and the Planetary Punch Monkey served in a 21 oz. Comet Glass.

ABOUT PLANET HOLLYWOOD

Planet Hollywood International, Inc. is the creator and worldwide developer of a consumer brand that capitalizes on the universal appeal of movies, television, sports, music and other leisure-time activities. The company’s worldwide operations offer products and services in the restaurant, retail, lodging, leisure and entertainment sectors. For more information, visit www.planethollywood.com

ABOUT DISNEY SPRINGS

Disney Springs is a one-of-a-kind Disney experience, treating guests by day and night to great dining, shopping and entertainment amid beautiful open-air promenades, flowing springs and waterfront charm. Offering an air of sophisticated grace and design that harkens to Florida’s waterfront towns at the turn-of-the-century, Disney Springs is home to four distinct, outdoor neighborhoods: The Landing, Town Center, Marketplace and West Side. Nearing completion in 2016, Disney Springs has been undergoing the largest expansion in its history to double the number of shops, restaurants and other venues for guests to explore, which will result in more than 150 establishments. Disney Springs is part of Walt Disney World Resort, the number one family vacation destination in the world, located in Lake Buena Vista.

If you would like to visit Disneyland or Walt Disney World, but are unsure of where to begin, contact me today to take advantage of my FREE vacation planning services! I specialize in Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, Disney Aulani resort in Hawaii, as well as Adventures by Disney. Email me today at [email protected] for a free quote, or you can follow along on Facebook here.

Disney World Refurbishment Schedule for November 2016

Disney World Refurb

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The following is a comprehensive list of attractions, resorts and restaurants at Walt Disney World that are currently undergoing refurbishment during the month of November or will be during the months ahead:

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The Walt Disney World® Resort Monorail System is undergoing refurbishment through December 3, 2016 and may be on modified service and/or routes. If Guests plan to use this form of transportation during their visit they should check to be sure of the best option available on their day of travel, as alternative transportation options will be available.

Magic Kingdom

  • Big Thunder Mountain – Reopening November 18, 2016
  • Liberty Square Riverboat – January 3 – 12, 2017
  • Walt Disney World Railroad – January 9 – February 16, 2017
  • Hall of Presidents – January 17 – June 29, 2017
  • Haunted Mansion – November 28 – December 1, 2016
  • Splash Mountain – December 7, 2016
  • The Magic Behind Our Steam Trains Tour – January 1 – February 28, 2017

Hollywood Studios

  • Rock “n” Roller Coaster – Reopening November 9, 2016
  • Pizza Planet – Reopening as PizzeRizzo on November 18, 2016
  • Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular – November 14 – December 31, 2016
  • Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular Dessert Party – November 14 – December 31, 2016

Epcot

  • Infrastructure Work – September 28 – December 17, 2016

Animal Kingdom

  • Dinosaur – Reopening November 19, 2016
  • Dino Institute Shop – Reopening November 19, 2016
  • Kali River Rapids – January 3 – 29, 2017

Disney Springs 

Blizzard Beach

  • Annual Refurbishment October 16 – December 24, 2016

Typhoon Lagoon

  • Annual Refurbishment December 25 – March 11, 2017

Golf Courses/Miniature Golf 

  • None

Walt Disney World Resort Hotels

  • Grand Floridian Resort & Spa: Gasparilla island Grill – Reopening December 14, 2016
  • Yacht Club Resort: Room refurbishments beginning January 2017. Guests may see or hear work in progress and certain pathways may be unavailable. Work will be limited to 9:00am – 5:00pm in an attempt to minimize disruptions.
  • Yacht & Beach Club Convention Center – Expansion work until February 1, 2018. Work will be limited to 9:00am – 9:00pm in an attempt to minimize disruptions.
  • Pop Century Resort: Computer Pool reopening January 3, 2017. Hippy Dippy Pool closed January 13 – 20, 2017. Hard goods refurbishments from November 2 – March 26, 2018 between 10:00am and 4:00pm.
  • All Star Sports: Grand Slam Pool closed from October 10 – December 13, 2016. Guests may use the Surfboard Bay Pool, located near the main lobby during this time.
  • All Star Music: Piano Pool closed from December 12 – February 3, 2017. Guests may use the Calypso Pool located near Melody Hall during this time.
  • Port Orleans French Quarter: Sassagoula Floatworks & Food Factory Refurbishment – Closed until Late Fall 2016 More Info
  • Coronado Springs: Hard Goods Refurbishment beginning November 2016. Guests may see or hear construction taking place, or encounter alternative paths of travel throughout the Resort hotel. All work with the most potential for noise will be limited each day between 9:00am and 5:00pm in order to minimize any possible disruptions.
  • Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Vallage: Soft goods refurbishment until January 2017
  • Old Key West: Sandcastle Pool closed from January 2 – February 24, 2017. The leisure pools located at Old Turtle Pond, South Point and Miller’s Road will remain available.
  • Wilderness Lodge & Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney Wilderness Lodge: General resort refurbishments through 2017. Hidden Springs leisure pool, beach, marina, playground and Teton Boat & Bike Rental closed. Cub’s Den (children’s activity center): Unavailable through 2017.

Contact me to start planning your Walt Disney World adventure. I’m a Travel Agent with MickeyTravels, along with a writer for Chip and Company, and would love to help book and plan your next magical vacation. Email [email protected] or visit my Facebook page here

Donald Trump is coming soon to Disney’s Hall of Presidents

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It is now official Donald Trump is our next President of the United States. With every election Disney will temporarily close down the Hall of Presidents in the Magic Kingdom to add the new animatronic President.

According to the Disney World Refurbishment Calendar, The Hall of Presidents is scheduled to be closed from January 17th, 2017 through June 29, 2017 to add Trump.

There is no word on if his role will be a speaking role of he will just stand on stage with the other Presidents.

One thing to note the legendary Disney Imagineer Blain Gibson who is the creator of the newest Animatronic designs is no longer with us. He passed away on July 5th in his home in California.

Get ready for the newest resort at Universal Studios Orlando the Universal’s Aventura Hotel!

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Trying to decide where you will be vacationing in 2018, well Universal Studios Orlando will be opening a new 16 story value resort in the summer of 2018! Universal’s Aventura Hotel will be a soaring building will feature all glass exterior and modern style guest’s rooms.

The resort will include a bar in the lobby, floor to ceiling windows, a magnificent pool including a children’s splash area, a poolside hot tub and poolside bar. There will be a Starbucks located in the lobby for a quick cup of Joe. As far as restaurants, on the lobby level there is a food hall including 5 different options for you to choose from.  There is also a rooftop bar with a views of all Universal has to offer.

The resort will be located near Loews Sapphire Falls Resort just steps from all the fun! There will be a walking path and complimentary shuttle service to Universal Studios, Universal’s Island of Adventures and the new Universal’s Volcano Bay opening in the summer of 2017. Also include in your stay at this new beautiful resort will be Early Park Admissions to the theme parks.

In just a few months you will be able to book this amazing resort and enjoy everything Universal has to offer! Contact me and we can start planning today!

Photo credit: universalorlando.com

Taping of ABC Holiday Specials This Week Result In Magic Kingdom Cancellations and Schedule Changes

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Visitors to Walt Disney World over the next few days will notice some disruptions to park schedules, particularly at the Magic Kingdom to allow for the ABC TV Holiday Specials to be filmed.

Here’s a list of the changes that we know of so far:

Wednesday,  November 9th: 

  • The performances taking place on Cinderella’s Castle forecourt stage will be cancelled including Mickey’s Royal Friendship Faire, Princess Elena Royal Welcome, A Frozen Holiday Wish and Once Upon a Time.
  • The Main Street Trolley Show and the Move It! Shake It! Dance and Play It! Street Party will also be suspended for the day.
  • The Festival of Fantasy Parade will take place however it will be moved from 3pm to 5pm and the Flag Retreat will be moved to 4:30pm.

Thursday,  November 10th: 

  • Mickey’s Royal Friendship Faire and Princess Elena’s Royal Welcome will be cancelled.
  • The Main Street Trolley Show and Move It! Shake It! Dance and Play It! will not be having performances.
  • Festival of Fantasy Parade will move from 3pm to 5pm and the Flag Retreat will be moved to 4:30pm.

Friday, November 11th: 

  • Mickey’s Royal Friendship Faire and Princess Elena’s Royal Welcome will be cancelled.
  • The Main Street Trolley Show and Move It! Shake It! Dance and Play It! will not be having performances.
  • Festival of Fantasy Parade will move from 3pm to 5pm and the Flag Retreat will be moved to 4:30pm.

Saturday, November 12th: 

  • The performances taking place on Cinderella’s Castle forecourt stage will be cancelled including Mickey’s Royal Friendship Faire, Princess Elena Royal Welcome, A Frozen Holiday Wish and Once Upon a Time.
  • The Main Street Trolley Show and the Move It! Shake It! Dance and Play It! Street Party will also be suspended for the day.
  • The Festival of Fantasy Parade will take place however it will be moved from 3pm to 5pm and the Flag Retreat will be moved to 4:30pm

As always, changes to the above schedules can occur so guests to the Magic Kingdom are advised to consult the Times Guide for the latest update.

Planning a trip to Disney? Fill out our form below to receive your FREE quote.

 

Find articles like this helpful? Then why not consider booking with an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner? As an agent with MickeyTravels, I’ll be on hand to help you with everything from finding your perfect resort to nabbing those hard-to-get dining and Fastpass reservations.  Best of all, my services are absolutely FREE. Get in touch at 1.800.801.4025, via email at [email protected] or follow along on Facebook. 

 

 

Seven ‘Disney Springs Hotels’ in Florida Offering Special ‘Holiday Rates’ in November & December

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There is still time to make plans to experience the special events being conducted in the Walt Disney World Resort in Central Florida in November and December, such as Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom Park, and Holidays Around The World along with the Candlelight Processional at Epcot. It is also the ideal time to check out the dramatically transformed Disney Springs area, formerly known as the Downtown Disney Area. Inspired by Florida’s charming towns and natural beauty, the vibrant new waterfront Disney Springs offers a high-quality diverse mix of shops, an impressive variety of new upscale and casual dining options, and exceptional live entertainment options, with more than 150 establishments across its four distinct outdoor neighborhoods.

A great way to experience these events and Disney Springs is by taking advantage of the special “Holiday Rates” that are being offered by the seven Disney Springs Resort Area Hotels for stays from November 9-December 22, 2016. Featuring an ideal location in the Walt Disney World Resort, these seven Official Walt Disney World Hotels are within an easy walk to the significantly expanded Disney Springs. In addition to featuring an ideal location at an outstanding value, the seven Disney Springs Resort Area Hotels also provide shuttle transportation every 30 minutes to all four Walt Disney World Theme Parks, two water parks, and at night to the Disney Springs area.

The special rates also provide the opportunity to take in such exciting new offerings at the Walt Disney World Resort as Star Wars Launch Bay and Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular at Disney’s Hollywood Studios; Frozen Ever After and Soarin’ Around The World at Epcot; Kilimanjaro Safaris for a full day to night experience at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park; and Mickey’s Royal Friendship Faire stage show at Magic Kingdom Park.

Plus, as a bonus, guests at these hotels also receive the “2016 Disney Springs Passport” booklet that features exclusive discounts and specials from Disney Springs merchants on entertainment, shopping and dining. Among the coupons featured in the booklet are discounts and special offers at Splitsville Luxury Lanes, House of Blues Restaurant, Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop, STK Orlando, and Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea.

The Disney Springs Resort Area Hotels’ “Holiday Rates” for stays November 9-December 22, 2016 are:

  • B Resort & Spa – 30% off best rate
  • Best Western Lake Buena Vista Resort Hotel – 3rd Night Free, with rates from $89 per room, per night. Also, “Kids Eat Free” at the hotel (valid for one child 10 and under per paying adult).
  • DoubleTree Suites by Hilton – Orlando Lake Buena Vista — rates from $119 per suite, per night
  • Hilton Orlando Buena Vista Palace – rates from $109 per room, per night
  • Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista – rates from $95 per room, per night
  • Holiday Inn located in the Walt Disney World® Resort – rates from $99 per room, per night
  • Wyndham Garden Lake Buena Vista Disney Springs Resort Area – rates from $72 per room, per night.

For more information on the special hotel rates, or to make a reservation, visit DisneySpringsHotels.com, specifically disneyspringshotels.com/special-offers/limited-offers/holiday-sale/ (or http://bit.ly/dsrah2016 ). The special rates are available for stays November 9-December 22, 2016, based on availability. Some blackout dates may apply, and availability may be limited. The rates do not include the Resort Services Fee or daily parking fee (if applicable), taxes or gratuities. The offer is not valid with any other special offers, promotions, existing reservations, or for groups.

Visiting provides the opportunity to take in such special events as:

  • Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party – November 7-December 22, 2016 at Magic Kingdom Park
  • Holidays at Disney Springs – November 11, 2016-January 8, 2017 at Disney Springs
  • Holidays Around the WorldNovember 25-December 30, 2016 at Epcot
  • Candlelight ProcessionalNovember 25-December 30, 2016 at Epcot.

Note that Theme Park admission is required, and some events require a separately priced ticket.

Other benefits of staying at one of the seven Disney SpringsTM Resort Area Hotels include:

  • The ability to purchase Disney Theme Park admissions at each hotel
  • Advance tee times and discounts at all Walt Disney World® Resort golf courses
  • Disney Merchandise store located in each hotel
  • The ability to book advance dining and dinner show reservations for all restaurants across the Walt Disney World® Resort.

The reimagined Disney Springs area overflows with the sights, sounds and flavors that come together in a beautiful outdoor environment with a charming waterfront setting. Set amid beautiful open-air promenades and bubbling springs, this vibrant destination features four distinct outdoor neighborhoods:  The Landing, Town Center, Marketplace, and West Side.

Among the many new offerings that are open at Disney Springs are such outstanding retail tenants as kate spade new york, Vera Bradley, Tommy Bahama, PANDORA, Under Armour Brand House, ALEX AND ANI, Sephora, UGG, TROPHY ROOM, and MAC Cosmetics.

In addition, Disney Springs features such new specialty dining locations as Celebrity Chef Rick Bayless’ Frontera Cocina, renowned Chef Art Smith’s Homecoming, Amorette’s Patisserie, STK Orlando, B.B. Wolf’s Sausage Co., D-Luxe Burger, Morimoto Asia Street Food, Sprinkles (cupcake bakery), The Daily Poutine, YeSake, and Aristocrepes.

Among the other appealing offerings which opened during the past year are the Indiana Jones-themed Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar, The Ganachery chocolate shop, Vivoli Il Gelato (serving Italian gelato like its sister shop in Florence, Italy), Erin McKenna’s Bakery NYC (which specializes in gluten-free and vegan baked goods), and Exposition Park(the home to Disney-owned food trucks, with delicious offerings from each of the Walt Disney World® Theme Parks).

Plus, there are two new parking garages with a total of 6,000 spaces, and the new Village Causeway, which provides guests another path of travel through the area. In addition a pedestrian bridge from the Disney Springs Resort Area Hotels to the Disney Springs area is now available, making it even easier for guests.

Among the many other offerings open at Disney Springs are:  World of Disney store, AMC Movies at Disney Springs 24, The Art of Disney, The LEGO Store, Build-A-Dino by Build-A-Bear Workshop, Disney Design-A-Tee, Disney’s Candy Cauldron, Disney’s Wonderful World of Memories, Once Upon a Toy, Orlando Harley-Davidson (apparel and accessories), Steve Baker Caricatures, Pearl Factory, Starbucks® at Disney Springs Marketplace, and Shop for Ireland.

Disney Springs Resort Area Hotels (DisneySpringsHotels.com) is a consortium of seven Official Walt Disney World Hotels that includes:

  • B Resort & Spa — the stylish resort opened in June 2014 with 394 newly renovated guest rooms, the full-service B Indulged® AVEDA Spa, and features American Kitchen Bar & Grill
  • Best Western Lake Buena Vista Resort Hotel – the 18-story, 325-room resort overlooks scenic Lake Buena Vista and the Walt Disney World® Resort, and offers two restaurants, lounge, and wireless internet
  • DoubleTree Suites by Hilton – Orlando Lake Buena Vista — the luxurious and recently renovated resort hotel features 229 spacious suites, and is the only all-suite resort hotel in the Disney SpringsTM Resort Area
  • Hilton Orlando Buena Vista Palace (formerly known as the Buena Vista Palace) situated on 27 lush acres just steps from the Disney SpringsTM Area, the 27-story hotel just completed an extensive multi-million-dollar renovation, and features a Character Breakfast every Sunday.
  • Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista – the closest hotel to Disney Springs, the resort offers two pools, a Disney Character Breakfast each Sunday, seven restaurants and lounges (including Benihana® Steakhouse), and 24-hour fitness center
  • Holiday Inn located in the Walt Disney World Resort — offers the ideal setting to stay, meet and play, featuring modern Florida décor and no resort fees
  • Wyndham Garden Lake Buena Vista Disney Springs Resort Area — featuring Disney Character Breakfast 3 days a week, 394 comfortable guest rooms, six dining options, and the Oasis Aquatic Pool Playground with interactive water features.

With nearly 30 food and beverage outlets and restaurants, over 3,700 rooms and an array of amenities, the Disney Springs Resort Area Hotels offer a rate, space and menu to please every guest. Located in the heart of the Disney Springs area, these properties are within walking distance of exceptional shopping, dining and entertainment venues. Visit DisneySpringsHotels.com .

The Walt Disney Family Museum had its 2nd Annual Gala

ANAHEIM, CA - NOVEMBER 01: Actor Neil Patrick Harris and Recipient of Diane Disney Miller Lifetime Achievement Award, Marty Sklar attend The Walt Disney Family Museum's 2nd Annual Gala at Disneys Grand Californian Hotel & Spa at The Disneyland Resort on November 1, 2016 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Joe Scarnici/Getty Images for The Walt Disney Family Museum)
Neil Patrick Harris and Recipient of Diane Disney Miller Lifetime Achievement Award, Marty Sklar (Photo by Joe Scarnici/Getty Images for The Walt Disney Family Museum)

At the Disneyland resort, on Tuesday, November 1st, the Walt Disney Family Museum celebrated the next generation of creative talent by honoring Marty Sklar with the second annual Diane Disney Miller Lifetime Achievement Award.

The celebratory evening was led by the energetic and talented master of ceremonies Neil Patrick Harris alongside presenters John Lasseter (Cars; Toy Story films), Richard Sherman (The Lion King; The Jungle Book), Daniel Lawrence Whitney (Larry The Cable Guy; Cars; Cars 2) and the grandchildren of Walt Disney (Chris Miller, Jennifer Goff, Joanna Miller, Tammy Miller and Walter Miller). Guests also enjoyed special performances by Jenifer Lewis (Cars; Cars 2), and Anika Noni Rose (The Princess and the Frog; Dreamgirls). Additional notable attendees included David Parnes (Million Dollar Listing Los Angeles), Eden XO (Singer), Frankie Grande (Style Code Live), Jake Wall (Project Runway), Jessica Sanchez (American Idol), Johnny Wujek (Creative Director, E Style Collective), Paige Hurd (Hawaii Five-0), among many others.

ANAHEIM, CA - NOVEMBER 01: Master of Ceremonies, Neil Patrick Harris (L) and Composer Richard Sherman speak onstage during The Walt Disney Family Museum's 2nd Annual Gala at Disneys Grand Californian Hotel & Spa at The Disneyland Resort on November 1, 2016 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Joe Scarnici/Getty Images for The Walt Disney Family Museum)
 Master of Ceremonies, Neil Patrick Harris (L) and Composer Richard Sherman (Photo by Joe Scarnici/Getty Images for The Walt Disney Family Museum)

Gala guests enjoyed an after-hours private viewing of World of Color — Celebrate! in Disney California Adventure® Park. The show originally launched in 2015 as part of the Disneyland Resort’s 60th Anniversary celebration and returned for this viewing on the special gala evening.

2017 Disney Dining Plan Breakdown

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With many guests’ 2017 Walt Disney World Vacations getting nearer, many want to know what is included in their Disney Dining Plan purchase, what the cost is, and how it works.

 

Disney offers 3 different dining plans, allowing guests to choose the one that meets their personal needs/budgets.

  • Quick Service Dining Plan
  • Plus/Standard Dining Plan
  • Deluxe Dining Plan

The Dining Plans work on a pre-paid meal credit system. When you dine at a Disney parks/resorts location, your server will scan your magic band and they will take the appropriate number and type of meal credits for you and your family members. Gratuities are not covered, so at the end of your meal you will be responsible for those, as well as any additional items you order that are not covered. You can pay your balance with cash or a credit card linked to your magic band.

 

Entitlements for the 2017 Quick Service Dining Plan include the following for each guest (ages 3 and over) per night of your package stay:

  • Two Quick Service Meals (includes one entree and one non-alcoholic beverage)
  • Two Snacks
  • One Refillable Resort Mug
  • $46.34 per adult per night, $20.18 per child per night

Entitlements for the 2017 Plus/Standard Dining Plan include the following for each guest (ages 3 and over) per night of your package stay:

  • One Table Service Meal (includes one entree, one non-alcoholic beverage, and one dessert OR one full buffet)
  • One Quick Service Meal (includes one entree and one non-alcoholic beverage)
  • Two Snacks
  • One Refillable Resort Mug
  • $67.33 per adult per night, $24.22 per child per night
  • You can view more info about the Standard dining plan here.

Entitlements for the 2017 Deluxe Dining Plan include the following for each guest (ages 3 and over) per night of your package stay:

  • Three Meals (redeemable interchangeably at Quick Service or Table Service locations)
  • Two Snacks
  • One Refillable Resort Mug
  • $103.57 per adult per night, $37.62 per child per night

 

A few more notes about the Dining Plan:

  • All guests on a room reservation must have the dining plan, you cannot split it so that some have it and some don’t. It’s all or nothing.
  • You must be a guests of a Disney Resort to purchase the Dining Plan.
  • You have up until 2 days prior to the start of your vacation to add the Dining Plan to your reservation.
  • The Dining plan can save you money on your dining experiences, particularly with Character Dining, as the plan more than pays for itself with one character meal a day.
  • Gratuities/alcohol/appetizers at sit down meals are not included, and must be paid for separately at the end of the meal.
  • Not all locations on Disney property accept the Dining Plan, but most do. Always check before making your reservations.

Happy Dining!

If you would like to visit Disneyland or Walt Disney World, but are unsure of where to begin, contact me today to take advantage of my FREE vacation planning services! I specialize in Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, Disney Aulani resort in Hawaii, as well as Adventures by Disney. Email me today at [email protected] for a free quote, or you can follow along on Facebook here.

photo: Disney

DisneyQuest to Remain Open Until 2017

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Rumors of DisneyQuest closing have been making the rounds for months and months, with no actual closing date ever officially scheduled. Now we hear from The Orlando Sentinel that Disney Employees were sent an email regarding the continuing operation of the 5 story video game attraction at Disney Springs. The email that was sent out said that the entertainment venue “will be operating into 2017, with no closing date to mention…We will be running the operation as normal until we hear otherwise.”

There has been no more information about the NBA Experience, which is supposed to open in DisneyQuest’s place when it closes. The NBA Experience is reported to be an NBA-themed attraction that would include high-tech experiences, a restaurant, and a store. A Disney Spokesperson had nothing to say except that the NBA attraction is still planned for the site, while an NBA spokespoersn could not be reached for comment.

We will be sure to keep you posted if we learn more.

If you would like to visit Disneyland or Walt Disney World, but are unsure of where to begin, contact me today to take advantage of my FREE vacation planning services! I specialize in Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, Disney Aulani resort in Hawaii, as well as Adventures by Disney. Email me today at [email protected] for a free quote, or you can follow along on Facebook here.

photo: disney

Ride Technician dies while working on Men in Black ride at Universal Studios Orlando

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Authorities and Universal Studios Orlando are investigating the death of a ride technician who was working inside the Men in Black attraction at the Orlando theme park early Tuesday morning. The crew member was found without a pulse in the rafters of the ride and emergency crews were dispatched around 2:30am.

According to WESH the incident had nothing to do with the ride itself or the safety of the guests and Universal Studios Orlando is working with authorities to determine what happened to the technician.

No other details have been released in this developing story.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to their family.

Photo credit Universal Studios Orlando

 

The Many Colors of Cinderella’s Castle Holiday Lights

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Have you ever had to opportunity to discover the many colors of Cinderella’s Holiday Castle Lights?  While the lights themselves are all a clear white bulb, the background color of the castle changes throughout the evening.  The results are truly stunning and quite magical.

The blues, greens, pinks and purples are gorgeously beautiful.  One of the most wonderful things you can do while enjoying an evening at the Magic Kingdom, is to simply sit in front of Cinderella’s Castle and watch as the castle changes colors.  You can easily pass an hour, or more, sitting quietly with others around you.  I was quite surprised at how quiet the atmosphere was as others stared in wonderment at the magnificence that is the Cinderella’s Castle Holiday Lights.

What do you think of the colors of Cinderella’s Castle Holiday Lights?  Please leave your comments in the box below.

Photo & Video tour of Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party

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Last night was the first Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party of the season. In case you missed all the posts on the Chip and Co Facebook page I am going to put them all together in one big post here on the website including all of her live videos.

If you are going this year be sure to check out our Park Map article and learn where all the new Free & Paid Treats are!

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party takes place select dates in November and December at Magic Kingdom Park, and requires separate admission ticket.

Now lets take a look at all the Parades, Castle Shows and More posted Live last night on our Facebook page!

Walking in to the Magic Kingdom

Mickey’s Once Upon A Christmastime Parade

Mickey’s Once Upon A Christmastime Parade Part 2

Mickey’s Most Merriest Celebration

Holiday Wishes-Celebrate The Season

Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade

As an added bonus Lindsay from the Disney Fashionista was there as well checking out all the fun Merchandise. Here are some of her videos too!

Christmas Party Pins

Christmas Party Shirts

The Super Pin!

Frozen Castle Lighting

MVMCP Exclusive Magic Band

It’s snowing on Main Street!

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Parade

Mickey’s Most Merriest Celebration