First Look at the All New Disney Springs Park Map & Photos

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May 15, 2016

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The Town Center at Disney Springs officially opened today and we have a first look at the new park maps and photos from around the area.

Check out the complete listing of openings today at Disney Springs!

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Special thank you to Disney Addict Jeffrey Burke for sharing the photos with us.

With all of the changes at Disney Springs Disney has released an all new park map.

Contact [email protected] or visit my Facebook page here to start planning your next Walt Disney World vacation, including a visit to Disney Springs. All of my planning services are 100% FREE.

Top 10 Disney World Rides to experience at Night

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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May 15, 2016

I’m a big proponent of getting to rope drop, taking advantage of early extra magic hours and getting on as many rides as you can in the morning before the crowds, but there is a different kind of Magic at night. The energy is different at nighttime when the lights come on and the parks are extra beautiful. Especially at Magic Kingdom, the music seems a little louder, the scents from Main Street are more fragrant and of course the brilliant lighting of Wishes fireworks and the Main Street Electrical Parade give an ambiance that just can’t be replicated during the day.

Here are my top picks for rides not to miss when the sun goes down:

DUMBO. When Dumbo was moved and capacity doubled they also did an entirely new lighting scheme. The way the light bounces off the water is electric and the ride is the perfect speed and height to take in all the beauty of Fantasyland and parts of Tomorrowland all lit up.
BIG THUNDER MOUNTAIN RAILROAD. The spectacular lighting on this ride at night gives it an entirely different feel from the daytime as many of the details come to life and it almost seems faster! The best tip about riding this attraction at night is be sure to check the guide for when Wishes is taking place and hop on the wildest ride in the wilderness for one of the best Wishes views in the park.
SPLASH MOUNTAIN. After you ride Big Thunder Mountain Railroad trot next store to Splash Mountain. Make sure you keep your eyes open at the top of drop, it’s one of the best views of the Magic Kingdom, you can even see Cinderella’s Castle. Are you brave enough to have your camera ready?
TWILIGHT ZONE TOWER OF TERROR. You think this ride is scary during the daytime? Try it at night! There is nothing quite like those doors opening and you see Hollywood Studios glowing before you in the darkness…..then you plummet.
JUNGLE CRUISE. This ride in the daytime is a pretty tame boat ride through the jungle with some corny jokes, but at nighttime I would say this ride may even scare your little ones. Something about total darkness on a boat in the jungle is sure to give you chills. You may even hear some different jokes!
TOMORROWLAND TRANSIT AUTHORITY PEOPLEMOVER. This is an elevated 10 minute tour of Tomorrowland where you can just sit back, relax and take in the beauty of the night.
SEVEN DWARFS MINE TRAIN. Well let’s be honest, it’s nice to get on this ride any time of day when visiting Magic Kingdom but if you are lucky enough to go on at night I think you will like it even more. It’s the perfect location being right in the middle of Fantasyland. With every twist and turn you can see a different view of Fantasyland, and the final scene of the Dwarves’ home is so much more Magical and detailed at night.
EXPEDITION EVEREST. With the new nighttime magic and extended hours coming soon to Animal Kingdom we are really going to be able to get some extra thrills from the Yeti at night!
KILIMANJARO SAFARI. This ride was previously off limits to guests after sundown but starting Memorial Weekend this ride will be open at night! You will be able to venture out onto the savanna for a nighttime safari tour and see the animals in a whole new light. (even some new animals) During the nighttime safari there will be strategically placed lighting so you will get to view the rarely seen nocturnal habits of the reserve’s animals.
TEST TRACK. I can’t leave out a ride at Epcot to experience at night. While this ride starts our indoors, the thrill factor takes place outdoors. Zippin’ around that track at night just makes you want to put both hands up in the air and scream as you whip around those turns. Try timing this ride with Illuminations for some seriously amazing views.

Remember, FastPass+ has new enhancements including once you use your first three FastPass+ selections you can now go on your MDE app and add more, you can even select your preferred time of day, so pick some of these attractions to experience at night.

If you need help planning your next Disney World vacation contact me, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner at MickeyTravels, for all your needs. Not only will I book your FastPass+ rides for your 60 days out, I can help you with dining reservations, tours, shows, and more along with answering any and all Disney questions you have to make your trip the most Magical possible. Did I mention my services are FREE? Contact me at [email protected]. We have some Amazing specials going on!

11 people hurt in bus accident outside Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

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Disney News

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May 14, 2016

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Eleven people were hospitalized after a head on collision on Sherberth Road about a mile from Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge Resort around 6:40 p.m. tonight.

An Isuzu SUV was heading southbound on Sherberth Rd and hit a bus owned by Super Transportation of Florida LLC holding 16 passengers then both cars caught on fire.

Two adults and one child from the SUV were brought to the hospital as well as eight passengers from the bus.

According to one of our Facebook fans the bus in the accident was the J-Bus for the Disney College Program cast members.

Youtube user chapstickgypsy caught the fire on video:

Photo Credit chapstickgypsy

Carry Your Summer Gear in This Cute Lilo & Stitch Beach Bag

By

Danielle

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May 14, 2016

Warm weather is here, and it’s time to start packing up and heading to the pool, beach or water parks! Of course we’re going to need something to carry all of our summer fun essentials in, and that’s where this reversible Lilo & Stitch Beach Bag from WithLoveFromSoCal comes in handy.

Pack up your towels, sunglasses and more in this fantastic cotton tote bag, that features a reversible design. One side features our favorite beach buddies surfing it up, and the other is a montage of Stitch’s different emotions on a background of Lilo’s dress pattern in blue. This tote bag is not only cute, but sturdy too! Each bag is lovingly handmade and over a foot tall to fit all of your summer going accessories. I love the ability to flip the bag inside out to show off a different print, it’s like having 2 bags in one! You can check out this adorable Lilo & Stitch Beach Bag on Etsy here, and be sure to check out some of her other fun Disney designs featured below, too!

What do you think about the idea of reversible Disney beach bags?

Luxurious Rentals is a New Preferred RV Rental Vendor at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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May 14, 2016

The Walt Disney World Resort has recently added Luxurious Rentals to its short list of preferred RV rental providers at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground. The luxury recreational vehicles feature some of the same amenities you’d find at a Resort hotel and could be the perfect compromise between a campsite and a cabin. Rates start at $1,795 per week for the RV rental in addition to the nightly rate at Fort Wilderness, which starts at $69.00 per night, excluding tax, for a full hook-up campsite.

The company is in the process of adding a special new line of Disney-only units, which can be delivered straight to Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground. An RV rental reservation can be made by contacting Luxurious Rentals directly at 1-800-561-8538 or email [email protected] for more information.

“Exciting things are happening at Luxurious Rentals, and we are growing very fast,” says Robert Lemon, CEO & Founder. “We can’t believe some of the amazing celebrity clientele that have been in our RVs over the past 14 months, and we have added some new production units to serve this industry as well. We are looking forward to our new partnership with Disney and the Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground and are very proud to have been selected as a preferred RV rental vendor.”

Luxurious Rentals has over 20 years’ experience in the RV rental industry and provides some of the most reliable and cleanest units available in the United States. Not only are they an exclusive RV Rental provider for Walt Disney World Parks but they also provide RV rentals Nationwide. You’ll find their RVs on some of the hottest movie sets from Florida to California as they provide production RVs and Star Coaches for some of today’s hottest stars and shows.

Contact [email protected] or visit my Facebook page here to start planning your next Walt Disney World vacation, including a stay at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground. All of my planning services are 100% FREE.

Source: http://www.prnewswire.com

Swim on the Dark Side with the Disney Villains Towel

By

Danielle

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May 14, 2016

Sure I may be a princess by day, but I absolutely LOVE Disney Villains. I was very excited to find that this Disney Villains Towel from the Disney Store is part of the Disney Parks Merchandise discount going on this weekend. Select Disney Parks Merchandise items are on sale for 25% off, PLUS free shipping with the promo code PARKDEALS this weekend only!

Disney Villains Beach Towel

Don’t let this thick and thirsty swim towel, boasting a dramatic assembly of dastardly Disney Villains, dampen your spirits. It’s the ultimate accessory for drying off after an escape through the castle moat, or moon-bathing by the beach or pool.

So if you’re looking for a beautiful and unique towel for your summer fan, this Villains towel is a marvelous choice. Each villain is showcased in a brightly monochromatic colored panel, with a comic book appeal. The towel features many favorite villains Cruella, Ursula, Maleficent, Captain Hook, The Evil Queen and last but certainly not least Chernobog! You really don’t see him featured much outside of Fantasia merchandise, so it’s a great touch.

Mickey Mouse Insulated Zip Cooler Tote - Summer Fun

Don’t forget that Disney Store online is also still running the deal on the Mickey Mouse Insulated Zip Cooler Tote, it’s just $12.00 with ANY purchase! Mickey will helps keep things cool with this brightly colored tote. While he tugs playfully at the colorful stripes, your food and drinks will be kept fresh in the insulated upper and base compartments of this spacious and sturdy bag. I’m personally obsessed with this bag and it’s become my go to pool and beach accessory!

Don’t forget that you have until Sunday to nab the villains beach towel, as well as many other Disney Parks exclusive items for 25% off, plus free shipping on your order with the code PARKDEALS!

Do you like to have Disney themed towels for your fun summer activities?

Disney Dollars are Officially Discontinued as of Today, May 14th

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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May 14, 2016

It’s official folks. Disney Dollars are no longer available to purchase as of today, Saturday May 14th.

The popular form of Disney currency has been collected and enjoyed by guests for the past 29 years. The use of Disney gift cards and other forms of payment have apparently made the souvenir item obsolete. Existing Disney Dollars in circulation will still be accepted as payment at both Walt Disney World and Disneyland.

“It’s a testimony to the enthusiasm and heart of Disney guests and collectors that Disney Dollars remain collectible today,” the Disneyland statement said. “We continue to offer many ways to collect cherished Disney memories in tangible ways.”

Circulation of Disney Dollars began on May 5, 1987 under the watch of Disneyland’s first President, Jack Lindquist. The fun currency was offered in response to the growing popularity of the Anaheim and Orlando theme parks in the mid 80’s. Disney characters appeared on the face of the bill and were available in denominations of $1, $5, $10, $20 and $50.

Lindquist’s memoir, “In Service to the Mouse” stated “We set the criteria that our Disney money would always be tied to the price of the U.S. currency, so if a dollar is worth a dollar, a Disney Dollar would be worth a U.S. dollar. That way, the money could be spent in the parks, the same way U.S. currency is.”

Contact [email protected] or visit my Facebook page here to start planning your next Walt Disney World vacation. All of my planning services are 100% FREE.

Top 10 Unique Experiences at Walt Disney World

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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May 14, 2016

Walt Disney World truly has something for everyone. Whether you are travelling with children, as a family reunion, or taking an adults only trip – you can be sure to find unique experiences all over the park. Check out my top 10 unique experiences at Walt Disney World and add a little extra magic to your next Disney Vacation.

Take a Behind the Scenes Tour: One of my new favorite things to do at Walt Disney World is take a behind the scenes tour. Tours range in price from super affordable to extravagant (at least for my budget). On my last trip to WDW I did the Keys to the Kingdom Tour at Magic Kingdom and the Behind the Seeds Tour at Epcot. Both were incredible experiences that I would definitely suggest to any die-hard Disney fan. On my next trip, I plan on taking a more in-depth tour of Epcot and the Animal Kingdom tour is on my Disney Bucket List.

Book a Dessert Party: Shame on me, but until my last trip to Disney, I did not know about the dessert parties! We debated between Magic Kingdom and Epcot for quite awhile, but really it came down to availability for us – we could only get in to the Epcot party. Which to be honest was our first choice because of the alcohol offerings. Come to these events hungry! There were so many dessert options we could not even try them all.

runDisney: If you are a runner, these events are totally cool. I am not a runner, but these runDisney events make me want to become one. I love a good themed event and from Princess, to Tinker Bell, to Star Wars, runDisney events offer a theme for everyone! Even better, these events offer exclusive merchandise. Do you think it would be wrong to sign up just for the merchandise?

Golf Outing: Do you have a golfer in the family? Did you know that there are 3 golf courses offering 18 holes of championship layouts at Disney World? Well, now you do. Whether you are looking for a championship course, or a more relaxed 9 hole walking course, Walt Disney World has got you covered. You can be sure to spot some Mickey shaped sand traps too – a great photo op for the Disney golfer.

Resort hop at Christmas Time: Spending Christmas at Disney does not have to break the bank or skimp on traditions. Spend a day taking the monorail and bus system to the different deluxe resorts and check out the holiday splendor. Resorts such as the Grand Floridian really go all out for the holidays and will have you in the Christmas spirit in no time!

Jellyrolls: Ready for a more adult atmosphere after the parks? Check out Jellyrolls, the dueling piano bar located at Disney’s BoardWalk. Jellyrolls serves guest 21 and over – so raise a glass, sing along, and let the good times roll!

Scat Cat’s Club: Located in Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter, this jazz-themed club with transport you to New Orleans with the music, drinks, and appetizers. Scat Cat’s Club opens at 4pm and keeps the party going until 1am. This is the perfect stop for an adult-only trip.

Wishes at California Grill: I LOVE Wishes! It is my favorite fireworks show on property. Although I have never had a chance to experience it from California Grill, this is another one on my Disney Bucket List. Lights dim as the music is piped into the restaurant—immersing Guests in the magic of the night. Dining before the fireworks? Bring your receipt to the check-in desk on the 2nd floor for reentry to California Grill. Then, enjoy the show either from California Grill Lounge or the outside observation deck. Guests with a dining reservation after the fireworks are also invited to watch the show from the lounge or observation deck.

Pirate Cruise: Great for parties with children, scallywags 4 to 12 years of age can set sail on a pirate adventure for approximately 2 hours, following clues to discover hidden treasure. Sailing to exotic “ports of call” (Resort marinas), they’ll hear legends of pirates past and discover clues that may just lead to a bountiful treasure chest. With four different Pirate Adventures to choose from, there is something for every pirate in training.

Characters in Flight: Take flight at Disney Springs and soar high above in a tethered hot air balloon. Characters in Flight is available most days and nights throughout the year and is a great one of a kind experience.

What is your favorite one-of-a-kind Walt Disney World activity? Are there any hidden gems that we should know about? Share your thoughts in the comments.

Monica is an Alumna of the Disney College Program. When she is not walking down the middle of Main Street USA you can find her wandering the World Showcase, or enjoying a Dole Whip while racing to her favorite attractions. When she is forced to endure life outside of Walt Disney World, you can find her in Ann Arbor, Michigan where she lives and works. You can visit her Disney lifestyle blog here.

Reedy Creek Fire Fighters Association demonstrating outside of Disney Springs this weekend

By

Disney News

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May 13, 2016

If you plan on heading out to Disney Springs this weekend you may find yourself in the middle of a demonstration for the Reedy Creek Fire Fighters Association Local 2117. This association represents the emergency workers at Walt Disney World. They will be picketing Sunday morning in and around the Disney Springs parking lots.

Since the 1970’s the union’s labor was not allowed to protest on Disney property due to a firefighter’s demonstration along a road that lead to Magic Kingdom. However in 2013 the union won the right to picket there again.

Reedy Creek which is the Disney-controlled government agency that employs firefighters and paramedics serving the resort contract negotiations have stalled. The firefighters and paramedics have been working without a contract for over a year and the two sides cannot agree on pay and insurance.

Union president Tim Stromsnes said the opening of the second garage as the perfect opportunity they have been looking for:

“Here we are asking for peanuts, and Reedy Creek spent millions of millions of dollars on these parking garages, and they won’t even work with me on a contract,”

The picket signs will mostly focus on the structure of government of Reedy Creek.

Although the Union representatives said Reedy Creek gave them a permit allowing up to 100 people to demonstrate on Friday, the Reedy Creek District Administrator John Classes said they missed the deadline (requiring 15 days’ notice to demonstrate) but they will be allowed to picket anyway.

Updated with photos from the protest on 05/15/16 from Twitter user The Firemannurse

The Edison Restaurant in Disney Springs Opening Spring 2017

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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May 13, 2016

The Edison will be opening at Disney Spring’s Landing district in Spring 2017, according to new signage located at the construction site. The restaurant was originally anticipated to open in 2016. In the meantime, guests can enjoy the seven new eateries that are scheduled to open at the new Town Center area of Disney Springs this Sunday, May 15th.

The Edison, a lavish “Industrial Gothic”-style restaurant, bar and nighttime destination will feature exceptional classic American food, artisanal craft cocktails and unparalleled live entertainment.

Similar to it’s sister location on the west coast, The Edison at Disney Springs will be dedicated to a resurgence of old-world style, sophistication and romance. Themed to a 1920’s-period electric company, the space will recall an exuberant era of invention and imagination. With 35-foot ceilings and a range of themed areas to explore, The Edison will feature nightly entertainment including contortionists, palm readers, DJ’s and more.

Contact [email protected] or visit my Facebook page here to start planning your next Walt Disney World vacation. All of my planning services are 100% FREE.

Dreamworks Pictures – The Light Between Oceans Trailer Released

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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May 13, 2016

The upcoming Dreamworks Pictures’ film “The Light Between Oceans” is a drama based on the best-selling novel by M.L. Stedman. The story is about a couple who have lost their own children, and by stroke of miracle find a baby lost at sea and raiser her as their own. The story goes through many heart-breaking twists, challenging the couple’s morals and emotions.

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“The Light Between Oceans” features a stellar cast, including Michael Fassbender, Alicia Vikander, Rachel Weisz, Bryan Brown and Jack Thompson. Derek Cianfrance is the director, and adapted the story for screen.

You can check out the just-released trailer below:

The film hits U.S. theaters September 2nd, 2016.

Complete List of Disney Springs Restaurant and Stores Opening on May 15th

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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May 13, 2016

The new Town Center district at Disney Springs is finally opening this Sunday, May 15th along with seven new eateries and a bunch of new retail shops. Even more restaurants and stores are expected to open in stages over the next few months. Here is a quick summary of what to expect this weekend:

New Restaurants Opening May 15th

D-Luxe Burger: Grab a classic cheeseburger or go for something indulgent like the El Diablo Burger with chorizo, fried banana peppers, pepper jack cheese, lettuce, tomato and chipotle mayo. There’s a veggie burger too. Plus gelato shakes, fresh-cut fries and more from the Disney chefs.

Amorette’s Patisserie: Classic and contemporary cakes and pastries are the stars in this high-end pastry shop where guests can watch pastry chefs decorate signature cakes in the on-stage finishing kitchen. From a classic macaron or crisp, light pavlova to the ultimate chocolate-chocolate chunk cookie, Amorette’s is a dessert lover’s dream come true.

The Daily Poutine: This kiosk brings the Canadian classic to guests with four varieties of toppings on hot, crispy French fries: Classic, with beef poutine gravy and Cheddar Cheese curds; Latin with fried yucca, black beans, pulled pork and queso fresco; Italian with bocconcino mozzarella and Bolognese sauce, and French with mushroom cream sauce and Gruyere cheese. Pair them with a lemonade, draft beer, sangria or fountain sodas.

B.B. Wolf’s Sausage Co.: A kiosk with artisan sausages by Disney chefs – the Three Little Pigs with a Reuben dog, black bean salsa and chili cheese; Portuguese Sausage with pickled vegetable slaw and chili mustard; Sweet Hot Sausage with peppers, onions and marinara; Bavarian Sausage Sandwich with a mini-meterwurst, braised red cabbage and spicy brown mustard on a pretzel roll, and Italian Veggie Sausage with peppers, onions and marinara. Add a draft beer or fountain soda.

YeSake: At this unique kiosk, try a Sake Cosmo Freeze or Sake Bourbon Slush among other offerings. Global eats range from the Great Wall with Chinese-style pulled pork to a Sombrero with ground beef, pico de gallo, guacamole, cheese and corn chips. Cold beer too.

Morimoto Asia Street Food: A new walk-up window on the patio offers sushi, donburi rice bowls and bao tacos, plus snacks: such as takoyaki (octopus, nori, okomiyaki sauce), Morimoto sticky ribs, curry rice croquettes, pork egg rolls and taiyaki (snapper-shaped pancake filled with sweet adzuki red been paste). Also on the menu: popping boba tea and an assortment of Asian-influenced beers and beverages.

Sprinkles: Look for handcrafted cupcakes, slow-churned ice cream and homemade cookies at Sprinkles, dubbed the first cupcake bakery by the Food Network. Options include vegan, gluten free and sugar free, and seasonal flavors. There will even be a Cupcake ATM! Be sure to sign up for Sprinkles Perks in order to receive a free cupcake and other perks.

Also, two favorites are still there: They’re not missing, they just moved to new spots — Wetzel’s Pretzel’s and Haagen Dazs ice cream are now located across from Orlando Harley-Davidson on the West Side.

New Retail Stores Opening May 15th

Savannah Bee Company
Filthy Rich
Alex and Ani
American Threads
Edward Beiner
Everything But Water
francesca’s
Johnston & Murphy
kate spade new york
Kipling
Lilly Pulitzer
L’Occitane en Provence
Lucky Brand
MAC Cosmetics
Melissa Shoes
Na Hoku
PANDORA
Sephora
Sperry
Tommy Bahama
UGG
Under Armour Brand House
UNOde50
Vera Bradley
Volcom
Zara

The second parking garage (Lime Garage) behind the World of Disney store will finally open this weekend, which should help ease congestion and parking issues. There is a pedestrian walkway on the second floor connecting the garage to Town Center. Wheelchair and stroller rentals will be available at the garage.

The Welcome Center will serve as Guest Relations with walk up counters to assist guests with dining reservations, purchasing tickets and FastPass selections. The new Disney bus transportation terminal will also be opening on May 15th.

Contact [email protected] or visit my Facebook page here to start planning your next Walt Disney World vacation and experience the newly updated Disney Springs. All of my planning services are 100% FREE!