New Details Revealed for Epic Universe Attractions

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March 9, 2025

New Details Revealed for Epic Universe Attractions

Universal Epic Universe: The Future of Theme Parks Arrives in 2025

Universal’s Epic Universe is set to open on May 22, 2025, and if early details are any indication, this park is poised to revolutionize the theme park industry. In a recent deep dive from The Hollywood Reporter, ten women from Universal Creative shared exciting insights into the park’s massive scope, cutting-edge technology, and immersive storytelling. Spanning 750 acres, Epic Universe features five intricately designed lands—The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, Dark Universe, Super Nintendo World, and Celestial Park—each pushing the boundaries of innovation and theming.

According to Gabriela Lander, Director of Architecture and Engineering Design at Universal Creative, the scale of Epic Universe is unprecedented. “To put it in perspective, this is pretty much a small city,” Lander said. “There are over 100 venues. I can tell you there are small towns that don’t have 100 houses.” The attention to detail in each land is evident, with Universal Creative blending elements from film with new, original concepts designed to fully immerse guests.

Soaring with Dragons, Running from Monsters, and Racing Through Space

Among the standout lands is How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, which brings the Viking world of DreamWorks’ beloved franchise to life. “Out of the four [major IP] worlds, we’re the largest,” said Katy Pacitti, Assistant Director and Executive Producer for Isle of Berk. The land is designed to feel “lived in, active, and kinetic,” featuring dragon encounters, Viking-themed entertainment, and six attractions. Hiccup’s Wing Gliders, a thrilling coaster, skims the lagoon and cuts through Berk’s cliffs, while static and animated dragon figures—such as a full-scale Grump breathing fire in the Forge—bring the world to life.

Dark Universe, meanwhile, taps into Universal’s Classic Monsters legacy with Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment, a ride centered around Victoria Frankenstein, a new original character. “We’re going to bring to life one of the first original lead female characters with this iconic [Classic Monsters] IP,” said Frances Franceschi, Production Designer. The ride will blend animatronics, projection effects, and an innovative ride system that reacts to guests in real-time. Outside the attraction, visitors will find macabre dining locations, including Das Stakehaus, a vampire-themed restaurant where “the cutlery in our universe is black, the plateware is very dark and very worn, and the napkins are not your typical white. They’re red,” according to Sueann Cotanche, Vice President of Food and Beverage.

Magic, Mayhem, and Celestial Wonders

For Harry Potter fans, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic will transport guests from 1920s Paris to the British Ministry of Magic via the Metro-Floo system, which uses fireplaces and immersive effects to “transport” guests between locations. The headline attraction, Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry, features a new ride system and cutting-edge show elements. “Typically, we try to do one or two cool new things to always push the envelope,” said Anisha Vyas, Assistant Director of Projects. “This attraction has taken it to another level where literally every system has something new.”

At the heart of Epic Universe is Celestial Park, a lush, futuristic landscape that connects all the lands through grand portals. Featuring over 200 fountain jets, synchronized lighting, and cosmic architecture, it creates a constantly evolving experience from day to night. “Celestial Park is going to be one of the most technically advanced theme parks of all time,” said Gina Scheraldi, Show Director, explaining how synchronized lighting and water effects shift as the day progresses. Guests can take in the spectacle from The Atlantic, a Victorian aquarium-inspired restaurant, or experience high-tech thrills on Stardust Racers, a dueling coaster that emulates the flight of comets.

With Epic Universe, Universal isn’t just opening a new theme park—it’s creating an entirely new level of immersive storytelling and innovation. Will you be visiting on opening day? Let us know which land you’re most excited to explore!

The Troll Horn is BACK in EPCOT for the Flower & Garden Festival

By

Chip

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March 9, 2025

The Troll Horn Returns to EPCOT with a Delicious Chocolatey Twist

Fans of Norwegian treats at EPCOT rejoice! The Troll Horn, a beloved pastry with a whimsical name, has made its triumphant return to Kringla Bakeri Og Kafe in the Norway Pavilion. But this time, it’s back with a delicious new twist.

Forget the traditional sweet cream filling. This year’s Troll Horn features a rich and decadent chocolate cream filling, nestled inside a flaky pastry shell and topped with a crunchy coffee crumble.

This updated classic is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. You can find it at Kringla Bakeri Og Kafe for $4.79.

So next time you’re exploring the World Showcase, be sure to stop by the Norway Pavilion and give the new Troll Horn a try. Your taste buds will thank you!

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Duffy & ShellieMay Coming to Disneyland 70th Anniversary Celebrate Happy Cavalcade

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Sara

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March 9, 2025

Duffy & ShellieMay Join Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary Cavalcade

Get ready to celebrate! Disneyland has revealed that Duffy and ShellieMay will be featured in a new cavalcade for its 70th anniversary. This celebration kicks off on May 16, 2025, and continues through the summer of 2026.

Duffy & ShellieMay Coming to Disneyland 70th Anniversary Celebrate Happy Cavalcade

Disneyland’s 70th anniversary celebration will feature a brand-new character cavalcade, taking to the familiar parade route. Guests can expect to see Mickey and Friends sporting special 70th anniversary costumes, Goofy joined by his son Max, and Duffy and ShellieMay riding in their own uniquely decorated carts at the forefront of the vibrant procession.

Though Duffy’s 2002 debut as the Disney Bear at Walt Disney World’s Once Upon a Toy was met with limited enthusiasm, his story took a remarkable turn. The Oriental Land Company, responsible for Tokyo Disney Resort, recognized his potential and introduced him in 2005, where he became a sensation. This success fueled the growth of the Duffy and Friends franchise worldwide, with ShellieMay among the additions. This year, Tokyo Disney Resort celebrates Duffy’s 20th anniversary.

Are you excited to see Duffy and ShellieMay come to Disneyland for the 70th anniversary celebration?

Disneyland Adding ‘Coco’ to “it’s a small world” and 70th Anniversary Nods in Toy Story Midway Mania

By

Sara

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March 9, 2025

“Coco” Joins “it’s a small world,” Toy Story Mania Gets 70th Anniversary Touches

To celebrate its 70th anniversary, Disneyland Resort is infusing beloved attractions like “it’s a small world” and Toy Story Midway Mania with special enhancements, adding a touch of celebratory magic for guests.

Disneyland Adding ‘Coco’ to “it’s a small world” and 70th Anniversary Nods in Toy Story Midway Mania

Prepare to be enchanted as Miguel and his spirited alebrije, Dante, join the children of the “it’s a small world” Mexico scene, crossing a beautiful marigold bridge. This magical addition will debut when the attraction reopens on April 25, 2025. Furthermore, the iconic facade will transform nightly with “Tapestry of Happiness,” a dazzling 70th anniversary projection show. This spectacle of light, music, and projection effects will weave together cherished Disneyland attractions and moments in the distinctive style of Mary Blair, set to the celebratory sounds of “Celebrate Happy” and familiar Disneyland melodies.

Toy Story Midway Mania! at Disney California Adventure will join the 70th anniversary festivities with themed enhancements. Concept art depicts Buzz and Woody holding up targets that prominently feature the sparkling blue, purple, and silver “70” anniversary logo.

Are you looking forward to experiencing these enhanced attractions during the 70th anniversary? Contact me today to start planning your next visit! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are free, and I’d love to help you plan a magical vacation.

Disneyland Unveils 70th Anniversary Decorations, Including Giant Castle Sculpture

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Sara

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March 8, 2025

A Glimpse of Magic: Disneyland Reveals 70th Anniversary Decorations and Castle Sculpture

Get ready for a festive transformation! Disney has announced on the Disney Parks Blog that new decor will grace Disneyland this year for its 70th anniversary celebration.

Disneyland Unveils 70th Anniversary Decorations, Including Giant Castle Sculpture

A striking 50-foot sculpture, inspired by Sleeping Beauty Castle, will become a centerpiece of the 70th anniversary celebration. It will be situated in the esplanade between Disneyland and California Adventure, and its design will feature vibrant glass panels and golden charms symbolizing Disneyland’s five original lands.

Inside Disneyland’s gates, a floral Mickey will create a visually stunning welcome with its array of vibrant flowers. Multi-colored banners and bunting will add to the festive atmosphere at the Disneyland Railroad Main Street U.S.A. station, where a large “70 Celebrate Happy” sign will be placed atop the flowerbed.

To further enhance the celebratory atmosphere, Main Street U.S.A. will be adorned with decorations, and a charming display featuring Mickey and Minnie will be the focal point of Town Square.

Sleeping Beauty Castle will proudly display an elegant medallion featuring the number “70,” marking the anniversary. Over at Disney California Adventure, Carthay Circle Restaurant will be adorned in the 70th-anniversary color palette. As evening falls, the restaurant’s exterior will transform, inviting guests to “celebrate happy” with a special moment featuring music, lights, and projection effects synchronized to the “Celebrate Happy” theme. Carthay Circle and Buena Vista Street will be bathed in twinkling lights, dynamic projections, and vibrant colors.

The 70th-anniversary decor will extend to the Downtown Disney District and the Disneyland Resort hotels.

Are you excited to celebrate Disneyland’s 70th anniversary this year? Contact me today to get your trip on the books! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are free, and I’d love to help you plan a magical vacation.

New Avengers Campus Attractions Unveiled at SXSW with Surprise Robert Downey Jr. Appearance

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Chip

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March 8, 2025

Robert Downey Jr. Crashes Disney Experiences Panel with Avengers Campus Updates

During “The Future of World-Building at Disney” panel at SXSW, Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige and Walt Disney Imagineering President Bruce Vaughn revealed exciting details about the upcoming attractions coming to Avengers Campus at Disney California Adventure.

The panel showcased two distinct experiences: Avengers Infinity Defense, an epic battle against King Thanos across multiple worlds, and Stark Flight Lab, an immersive workshop experience within Tony Stark’s lab.

Avengers Infinity Defense will allow guests to team up with iconic Avengers like Black Panther, Ant-Man, and Hulk to save the universe. Stark Flight Lab, on the other hand, will offer a hands-on experience with Stark’s latest technology.

The panel was punctuated by a surprise appearance from Robert Downey Jr., who praised the Imagineers as “the living embodiment of the Stark Enterprises mission statement.” He highlighted their “curiosity, the passion, the inventiveness, the occasional flair for the dramatic,” and their drive to “put something good out into the world.” Downey also expressed his excitement at being involved with Imagineering, jokingly referring to their headquarters as “the Area 51 of fun!”

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Stark Flight Lab will feature “gyro-kinetic pods” that transport guests along a track before being hoisted into the air by a giant robotic arm. This innovative system will allow guests to experience high-speed maneuvers inspired by Iron Man and other Avengers. Vaughn emphasized the groundbreaking nature of this technology, stating, “Transferring from a track to a robot arm and then back again – nothing like this has ever been done before in a theme park, and we’re so excited about it.” He also noted that technology will be a central part of the story, rather than hidden behind the scenes.

Downey’s visit to Imagineering influenced the attraction’s design, as he pointed out the resemblance of the robotic arm to Tony Stark’s robotic assistant, DUM-E. Imagineers are using motion capture and “virtual mirrors” to ensure the robots in Stark Flight Lab feel lifelike.

Downey expressed his enthusiasm for continued collaboration with Imagineering, suggesting that this is “not a one-time deal” and that “You need more me.” This sentiment was met with enthusiastic applause from the audience.

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Disney Imagineering Develops Innovative Ride Vehicle for New Cars Land at Magic Kingdom

By

Chip

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March 8, 2025

Disney Imagineering Develops Innovative Ride Vehicle for New Cars Land at Magic Kingdom

Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom is gearing up for an exciting new addition: a Cars-themed land that will take guests on an off-road racing adventure. Announced at last year’s D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event, this new land will see Lightning McQueen, Mater, and the rest of the Radiator Springs crew venturing into the frontier for a thrilling test of their off-road capabilities.

Disney Requests 60-Day Extension to Update Carsland Permit in the Magic Kingdom 2

During “The Future of World-Building at Disney” panel at SXSW, Pixar Chief Creative Officer Pete Docter and Imagineer Michael Hundgen revealed that the attraction will feature a brand-new, custom-designed ride vehicle, specifically engineered to convey the feeling of an off-road rally race.

“Our primary goal is creating an emotional experience for our guests,” Hundgen explained. “For this Cars attraction, we need to invent a new type of ride vehicle. No one builds these in a factory because it has to do so much more than just carrying you from one place to another. We have to create a car that conveys a feeling when you ride in it.”

To capture the authentic experience of off-road driving, the Imagineering team embarked on a research trip to the Arizona desert, testing real off-road vehicles on rocky terrain. They also collaborated with a motocross company to build a dirt track, gathering data on vehicle movement and responsiveness.

“We’re using a customized production vehicle,” Hundgen continued. “It has sensors all over it, and we’re taking it for test drives on our dirt track to gather data on how the vehicle responds to different terrain. This is where we turn that feeling we want into real-world engineering.”

Disney Requests 60-Day Extension to Update Carsland Permit in the Magic Kingdom 1

Adding to the excitement, Docter shared concept sketches of new race car personalities that will feature in the attraction. “Each vehicle in the ride will have its own name and number, just like a real race,” Docter teased, promising a unique and immersive Cars experience for guests.

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Disney Reveals First Look for Monsters Inc. Coaster

By

Chip

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March 8, 2025

Disney Reveals First Look for Monsters Inc. Coaster

Disney Parks to Bring Monstropolis to Life with Innovative Monsters Inc. Coaster

The collaborative magic between Pixar Animation Studios and Walt Disney Imagineering is set to transport guests to the vibrant world of Monstropolis, as revealed during “The Future of World-Building at Disney” panel at SXSW.

Pixar Chief Creative Officer Pete Docter and Imagineer Michael Hundgen shared insights into the development of the immersive space coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios, a project first announced at last year’s D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event. Docter explained that Pixar’s creative process often includes a key question: “Is this something Imagineers could create, and we could walk into?” If the answer is yes, a partnership with Imagineering is born.

The upcoming Monstropolis land will feature a signature attraction that brings the iconic door vault scene from “Monsters, Inc.” to life. “Imagineers have been itching to turn that moment into an attraction ever since we saw it for the first time,” Hundgen teased.

This innovative coaster will be Disney’s first-ever suspended coaster and will utilize a first-of-its-kind vertical lift system. A new animatic revealed at the panel showcased the load area, where guests will board vehicles and be hoisted into the air, mirroring the film’s memorable scene.

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“It’s going to be an experience that’s as memorable and fun as the film,” Hundgen continued. Docter echoed this sentiment, stating, “I can tell you that everyone at Pixar is excited about how this is coming together. It really is like a dream come true for us.”

The collaboration between Pixar and Imagineering promises to deliver an immersive and thrilling experience for guests, further blurring the lines between animated storytelling and real-world adventure.

New Details for Mando and Grogu’s Millennium Falcon Smugglers Run Mission Revealed for Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge

By

Chip

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March 8, 2025

New Details for Mando and Grogu’s Millennium Falcon Smugglers Run Mission Revealed for Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge

New Mission Coming to Millennium Falcon Smugglers Run

During the “The Future of World-Building at Disney” panel at SXSW, Jon Favreau, creator of The Mandalorian and Disney Legend, joined Imagineers Leslie Evans and Asa Kalama to unveil upcoming developments for Batuu.

Favreau shared, “One of the cool things about Disney is how we can tell our stories in so many different formats. We’re already taking Mando and Grogu from the TV screen to the movie screen, and at the same time, [The Mandalorian executive producer] Dave [Filoni] and I are working with Asa to bring this story to the Disney parks, too.”

This unique cross-platform storytelling, a hallmark of Disney, aims to deepen the connection between Star Wars fans and the stories they cherish through Disney Parks’ innovative magic. The upcoming “The Mandalorian and Grogu” movie and the updated Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run attraction will both debut on May 22, 2026.

Kalama added, “Opening an attraction and such a massive movie on the same day wouldn’t be possible without the relationships we have inside Disney. Jon and Dave have shared their story with us, and now we’ve all worked together to come up with a new mission for Smugglers Run that plays into this narrative.”

Working alongside The Mandalorian team, the Imagineers captured scenes for the attraction on the movie set, and you might see some familiar (and beloved) Star Wars locations aboard the Millennium Falcon. Care for a trip to Cloud City, anyone?

But, that’s not the only thing making the jump from the parks to the movies, and vice versa. You might have seen the playful BDX droids puttering around Disneyland before, and soon they’ll make a trip around the world to visit Walt Disney World, Tokyo Disneyland, and Disneyland Paris. And that’s in addition to the little droids appearing in The Mandalorian and Grogu film, too.

Going from Imagineering to the parks, to their feature film debut, is a lot for the droids. With all this work, they’re sure to need a tune-up eventually and don’t worry, Imagineering already has the right creature for the job.

As previously seen in Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker and the latest season of The Mandalorian, say hello to an Anzellan named Otto, who specializes in tuning up droids. Just maybe don’t make him too cranky.

May the Force be with you. See you onboard the Falcon, on May 22, 2026.

Inside Out Emotion Garden Debuts at Flower & Garden Festival

By

Chip

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March 8, 2025

Inside Out Emotion Garden Debuts at Flower & Garden Festival

New Inside Out Emotion Garden Blooms at EPCOT’s 2025 Flower & Garden Festival!

Spring at EPCOT just got a whole lot more emotional! As part of the 2025 EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival, a brand-new Inside Out Emotion Garden is making its debut, bringing Riley’s emotions to life in a vibrant and meaningful way. Inspired by Inside Out 2, this unique garden in World Celebration explores how different plants can evoke a variety of feelings—just like the emotions inside our own minds.

Step Inside Riley’s Emotional Headquarters—In Garden Form!

Each section of the Inside Out Emotion Garden represents one of Riley’s emotions through colorful plants and themed pots, letting guests explore how nature and feelings are deeply connected. Familiar favorites Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear, and Disgust are back, but they aren’t alone—Riley’s Headquarters is undergoing a major teenage upgrade, with new emotions like Anxiety, Ennui, Envy, and Embarrassment making their debut!

A Festival First That’s More Than Just Beautiful Blooms

The Inside Out Emotion Garden isn’t just about stunning floral displays—it’s a thoughtful and immersive way to explore how emotions shape our experiences. Much like how plants need care and attention to grow, our emotions do too. This new addition is sure to resonate with guests of all ages, whether they’re learning about feelings for the first time or navigating the whirlwind of teenage emotions just like Riley.

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With Inside Out 2 introducing a whole new layer of emotional complexity, EPCOT’s latest festival feature offers a fun and interactive way to engage with the film’s themes while surrounded by the beauty of nature. So grab your Flower & Garden Festival Passport, take a stroll through Riley’s mind in bloom, and see which emotion you connect with most!

Which garden are you most excited to see? Let us know in the comments! 🌸✨

First Look: New Butterbeer Treats Coming to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Epic Universe

By

Chris B

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March 8, 2025

First Look: New Butterbeer Treats Coming to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Epic Universe

A Très Magique Twist: Butterbeer Heads to Paris in Universal’s Epic Universe!

Hold onto your wands, witches and wizards—Butterbeer is getting a French makeover when it debuts at Universal Epic Universe on May 22, 2025! The Wizarding World is expanding once more, and this time, guests will step into Place Cachée, a 1920s Parisian magical district straight out of Fantastic Beasts. This stunning new area will be part of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, bringing the iconic British Ministry and Parisian wizarding culture to life. And what better way to toast to the occasion than with a frothy mug of Bièraubeurre—yes, that’s Butterbeer en français!

A Butterbeer Feast Worthy of a Gringotts Vault

We already knew about the Butterbeer crêpe from Café L’Air De La Sirène and the classic Butterbeer from the Bièraubeurre Cart, but Universal just hit us with a spellbinding surprise—a full lineup of Butterbeer-inspired treats! Prepare your taste buds for flavored macarons, rich truffles, Butterbeer candy bars, and caramel-filled chocolate barrels. If you’ve ever wished for a Galleon’s worth of sweet, buttery goodness, Epic Universe is making your dreams come true.

And for those looking to sip their Butterbeer in true wizarding elegance, the park is also introducing a brand-new stemmed stein—a must-have for collectors and anyone hoping to drink like a dignified member of the Ministry of Magic. No Confundo charm needed—this is the Butterbeer merch we really want!

Butterbeer Season is Brewing at Universal Orlando

The magic isn’t stopping at Epic Universe! Right now, Butterbeer Season is in full swing at Universal Orlando Resort, running through May 31. Guests can get a head start on the celebration with exclusive Butterbeer-themed treats and merchandise, making it the perfect way to prepare for the enchanting expansion coming next year.

So, are you ready to raise a glass of Bièraubeurre and say Accio Butterbeer? Epic Universe is shaping up to be très magique, and we can’t wait to apparate into this spellbinding new world. Will you be visiting Place Cachée when it opens in 2025? Let us know in the comments!

Watch 4 Hours of Walt Disney World Monorail Ambience

By

Chris B

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March 8, 2025

Watch 4 Hours of Walt Disney World Monorail Ambience

All Aboard! Disney Declares March 6 as National Monorail Day

For many Disney fans, the iconic whoosh of the monorail gliding through Walt Disney World is as magical as Cinderella Castle itself. Since opening in 1971, the monorail has transported millions of guests between Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, and nearby resorts, becoming a beloved part of the Disney experience. Now, Disney has given this legendary mode of transportation its very own holiday—March 6 is officially National Monorail Day!

To mark the occasion, Disney Parks released a four-hour Monorail ambience video on YouTube, offering fans the chance to virtually ride the rails from home. The video, filmed entirely aboard a Mark VI monorail, loops around EPCOT and the Transportation and Ticket Center, letting viewers soak in the sights and sounds of this futuristic transit system. While it doesn’t include the Resort or Express lines to Magic Kingdom, it’s still a relaxing ride through Disney nostalgia.

Walt Disney World’s Monorail System has been a staple of the resort since day one, with its original Mark IV trains serving guests until the current Mark VI fleet debuted in 1989. Today, twelve monorails operate across three service lines: Express (direct to Magic Kingdom), Resort (serving Magic Kingdom-area hotels), and EPCOT. The system remains one of the most unique and efficient ways to travel around Disney’s sprawling property, embodying the innovative spirit of Walt Disney himself.

Whether you’re a longtime monorail fan or just love a good Disney deep cut, National Monorail Day is the perfect excuse to appreciate this classic piece of Disney magic. So, next time you hear “Please stand clear of the doors” (or “¡Por favor manténganse alejado de las puertas!”), take a moment to enjoy the ride! Will you be celebrating by hopping aboard the monorail or watching Disney’s new ambiance video? Let us know in the comments!