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Mother’s Day Dining at Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel

April 22, 2015

The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel has some great offerings for Mother’s Day.

Garden Grove: Complete with Disney character interactions under a whimsical, 25-foot oak tree centerpiece, dining at Garden Grove is something the whole family will enjoy. From 7-10 a.m., a special Mother’s Day breakfast menu includes hand-crafted bacon, open-faced crab sandwiches, potato gratin Dauphinoise and yogurt mousse parfaits. Additionally, a special Mother’s Day brunch menu, served from 10 a.m.-6 p.m., features herb-crusted prime rib, quiche and green been almandine. Mother’s Day dining options are $35.99 for adults, $19.99 for children (ages 3-9) and free for kids under three.

Breakfast menu :http://www.swandolphinrestaurants.com/menus/holiday/mothersday/gg_mothers_breakfast.html

Brunch menu: http://www.swandolphinrestaurants.com/menus/holiday/mothersday/gg_mothers_brunch.html

Todd English’s bluezoo: Moms can enjoy fresh seafood and coastal cuisines from around the world at Todd English’s bluezoo, where guests will receive a $25 gift certificate and a rose for every two adult entrees purchased on Mother’s Day. To make reservations, please call 407-934-1111. For more information on Todd English’s bluezoo, please visit www.thebluezoo.com

Sounds good! You need to take your mom1

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Maria

The Swan and Dolphin are beautiful resorts. Once you see it you will wish you had a room there! If you would like to book a room please contact [email protected].

Animal Kingdom Cast Members Show Their Love of Nature Through Creativity

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

April 22, 2015

Cast Members at Animal Kingdom combined creativity with their passion for wildlife and decorated reusable rain barrels to raise awareness for water conservation and support the Disney Conservation Fund to help save animals from extinction.

As part of an annual Earth Month tradition, Cast Members raised more than $1,300 for the Disney Conservation Fund. Artistic Cast Members depicted a variety of wildlife and nature scenes – from Sumatran tigers to sea turtles – on the 55-gallon barrels. Fellow Cast Members eyed the creative designs and voted for their favorites with spare change.

“This is the second year I have participated in this unique event,” said TJ Chimento, a custodial host at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park. “The fact that I can take my passion for drawing and help save animals in the wild, that’s the best combination for me.”

Not only will contributions be sent to support the fund, but the barrels can be reused to collect rainwater for washing cars or watering lawns and gardens. The use of rain barrels helps conserve water and can even help reduce water bills.

“The Cast are really talented, but the underlying difference they’re making is what I hope they’ll never forget,” said Dr. Mark Penning, director of Animals, Science and Environment for Walt Disney Parks and Resorts.

The Disney Conservation Fund was founded on Earth Day in 1995 and has awarded more than $25 million to conservation programs in 114 countries. All funded programs are committed to saving species and natural habitats while helping kids develop lifelong conservation values through nature exploration.

Have you donated to the Disney Conservation Fund? Not only are you helping the animals but you get a cool pin!

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Maria

If you are an animal lover you need to check out the Animal Kingdom. Many people think it is just a zoo, but I assure you it is way more than a zoo. I am an Independent Travel Agent with World of Magic Travel Services. Contact me at [email protected] for your FREE no obligation quote. Let me work my magic for you!

Join the ‘Party for the Planet’ Begining Earth Day at Animal Kingdom

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

April 22, 2015

If you will be at Disney World soon you should plan a visit to Animal Kingdom, get on the Wildlife Express Train, and head on over to Conservation Station at Rafiki’s Planet Watch. Not only is it a nice relaxing ride and a chance to sit down but once you get there you can learn about conservation projects, some are supported by the Disney Conservation Fund, and others supported by Disney’s Animal Programs researchers and educators.

On April 22, you can participate in exclusive Earth Day at the “Party for the Planet” Earth Day celebration. There will be interactive activities, limited time merchandise, and you can interact with animal and education experts from Disney’s Animals, Science and Environment and the Disney Conservation Fund team about conservation projects that are currently going on.

There will be 2 exclusive “research stations” at Rafiki’s Planet Watch and the Main Entrance of Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

At the research stations you will be able to see behind-the-scenes footage from the newest Disneynature film, “Monkey Kingdom.” You can also explore how technology is used to make conservation efforts better. There will be opportunities to get an up-close look at the technology that scientists use to learn about animals.

Every ticket sold opening week (April 17-23, 2015) for “Monkey Kingdom”, Disneynature will make a donation to Conservation International. The Disneynature “Monkey Kingdom” research station at Rafiki’s Planet Watch will be open April 22 – May 20.

I love Rafiki’s Planet Watch it is the hidden gem of the Animal Kingdom. Make sure you visit it on your next Disney trip.

Download this free family activity packet for more information and fun activities for the family.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Maria

Animal Kingdom is sometimes the forgotten park. Remember to take a day and visit Animal Kingdom. Not only will you see some beautiful animals but you can also get some education on Disney’s conservation efforts and how they help animals around the world. Contact me at [email protected] for your FREE no obligation quote.

Top 6 Disneyland Attractions For First Timers

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

April 21, 2015

Visiting the Happiest Place on Earth for the first time can be both exciting and overwhelming! There are so many wonderful things to do and see and you may not know where to start. I’ve put together a list of must-do Disneyland attractions to help you out:

1. It’s a Small World

Originally created for the 1964 New York World’s Fair, this ride is now a classic at Disneyland. Take a boat ride through many different countries from around the world. Listen-or sing along-as adorable small children sing about our small world. This ride is loved by adults and children alike, but be prepared to have the song stuck in your head for a while!

2. Haunted Mansion

Haunted Mansion is the ride version of a spooky haunted house. Climb aboard your very own “doom buggy” and tour this dark, eerie house. Home to 999 “happy haunts”, you’ll be invited to become the 1000th. This classic ride is sure to send shivers up and down your spine. Make sure to “hurry back”!

3. Pirates of the Caribbean

The ride that inspired the movies that in turn re-inspired the ride. Board your boat ye scallywags and enter the adventurous world of pirates! You’ll come face to face with rum-drinking sailors and sing along as they serenade you with the classic anthem “Yo Ho, Yo Ho (A Pirate’s Life for Me)”. You’ll even spot Captain Jack Sparrow along with other characters from the movies.

4. Indiana Jones Adventure

Unique to Disneyland, this ride provides unbelievable thrills! Hop aboard your troop transport for an exciting trip through the dangers of the Temple of the Forbidden Eye. From undead mummies to lava eruptions to a giant venomous snake, there’s no shortage of suspense on this attraction. Just when you think you’ve made it through the worst, you come face to face with a giant rolling boulder. Who will save you? Indiana Jones of course!

5. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad

Known as the “Wildest ride in the Wilderness”, this ride is sure to please! Race through the ghost town of Big Thunder in a runaway mine car. You’ll speed through a dark tunnel and dip and drop into canyon and caves. Big Thunder Mountain is not to be missed!

6. Star Tours-The Adventures Continue

If you’ve ever wanted to tour the Star Wars universe, then this is definitely the ride for you! Board your interstellar space vehicle with your 3-D glasses and take your voyage to alien worlds like Tatooine, Naboo or Hoth. Through a series of mishaps, C-3PO takes control of your vehicle and you all become members of the Rebellion. You’ll come face to face with the likes of Yoda, Princess Leia, or even Darth Vader. Will you make it back to safety or will you be captured? May the Force be with you!

There are so many other rides and attractions to see and do at Disneyland – these are just the ones you should absolutely make sure to do! I’d like to know, what are your must-do rides at Disneyland?

I’m an Independent Travel Agent with World of Magic Travel. Contact me today to book your next magical Disney vacation!

A New Cove Coming to Port Canaveral!

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

April 21, 2015

Over the weekend, it was announced that behind the scenes planning is underway to create a multi-million dollar district in Port Canaveral, that many are comparing to Downtown Disney/Disney Springs. The purpose behind this development is to attract more people from Central Florida to Brevard County.

Port Canaveral Commission Charmain Jerry Allender says “It’s going to be unique to any port in the country.” This is awesome news, especially for those planning to set sail on the Disney Cruise Line. The first phase, planned at 13 acres, will include restaurants, retain, entertainment and an upscale hotel- connecting Exploration Tower to the new cruise terminal 1. More than $70 million is being invested by Sooner Investment and Collett for this project.

The ultimate goal of the Cove is to appeal to local residents in Brevard County, along with the greater Central Florida community. This will give them reason to come and visit the port area. Plus, it will also serve as an amenity for cruise passengers who arrive at Port Canaveral on a daily basis as a port of call. Port commissioners do not want this to be another large-scale restaurant-retail complex that takes tourists away from exploring other Space Coast businesses. They want it to be a tourist attraction!

Streetscaping for the project could begin as early as this Fall, with the major construction on the complex beginning in Spring 2016.

Stay tuned to Chip & Co for more details on this new project. We’ll be reporting them as we get them! In the meantime, why not start planning your reason to come down to Port Canaveral. A Disney Cruise is a great starting point!! Email me at [email protected] to plan your magical getaway and be sure to follow me on Facebook to keep up with everything Disney and beyond!

Coming this Fall: Enhancements to the Disney Dream

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

April 21, 2015

As if taking a trip on the Disney Cruise Line isn’t exciting enough, now families, especially the kids, have even more to be excited about. Disney Cruise Line recently announced some awesome new enhancements coming to the Disney Dream this Fall!

The most exciting enhancements are two new, interactive youth areas, themed after Star Wars and Disney Infinity, a whimsical sweet shop serving up handmade gelato and the super-popular Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique!! Cruisers can expect to see these changes after the Disney Dream goes through its dry dock from October 2-24, 2015. Here’s a little more at what these enhancements entail…

Disney’s Oceaneer Club, for kids ages 3-12, will transport guests to a galaxy far, far away with Star Wars: Millennium Falcon, featuring a Force-filled play area inspired by the legendary ship it was named after. Kids can join the Rebel Alliance in the never-ending battle of good versus evil by helping with the navigation of this powerful spaceship. They can also let their creativity shine though Star Wars themed crafts, activities and games, watch episodes of “Star Wars Rebels” as seen on Disney XD and join the rebellion at gaming stations featuring favorite Rebels characters. Best of all, there will be a version of the Jedi Training Academy, as seen at Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Disneyland Park, to train young Jedi padawans in using lightsabers and the Force in a final face off against Darth Vader.

Also at the Oceaneer Club, a high-tech, interactive space themed after the Disney Infinity toy/video game offers even more fun for kids. In the Disney Infinity Toy Box area, kids can enjoy playing together through virtual and immersive activities, such as customized, on-screed adventures that bring their favorite Disney characters to life. And, they are able to unlock exclusive Disney Cruise Line content that they can continue to play at home after their cruise, on Disney Infinity. How cool is that?

Have a sweet tooth? Then visit Penelope’s Sweets & Treats, themed after the whimsical candy land of the Sugar Rush racing game in “Wreck-It Ralph.” These sweet treats will keep tummies happy, featuring handmade gelato and ice cream, an assortment of candy and tasty treats for purchase. Deck 11 will smell of the freshly baked waffle cones and the shop will feature two entrances, one inside Cabana’s restaurant and the other outside by the pool deck.

Your little princesses and knights will also be excited about the opening of Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, on Deck 5. Young guests, ages 3-12, will be transformed into royalty with the help of a fairy godmother in training. On Pirate Party nights, this boutique becomes The Pirates League where pirates of all ages will have the opportunity to unleash their inner buccaneer.

Adults, don’t fret. There are some enhancements coming for you too! On Deck 13, exclusively for adults, a new water feature called Satellite Falls, will help you relax in this circular splash pool with benches and a gently falling rain curtain that provides cool comfort. Adult guests can also soak up the warm sun on one of the lounge chairs or enjoy a nap in the shade under a canopy.

First to debut all of these amazing enhancements will be the 4-Night Bahamian cruise, which departs Port Canaveral on October 26th. Who is ready to set sail? I know I am! My oldest son is going to love all of these enhancements, especially the Star Wars ones. I would love to help you family set sail on an amazing adventure. Email me at [email protected] to begin planning and be sure to follow me on Facebook to keep up with all Disney updates, promotions and tips. Happy sailing!

Get these Disney Outlet items before they are gone…

Chip

April 21, 2015

Our friend Courtney at Mouse to your House picked up some fun items at the Disney Outlet this past weekend that she wanted to pass onto us. Her stock is limited so if you see something you like be sure to order them before they sell out!

WDW String Bags – Show off your Disney Style with this Mickey Mouse Walt Disney World Drawstring Cinch Sack for only $15!
Complete set of Snow White Tsum Tsums – Who wouldn’t want a Snow White and the Seven Dwarves Tsum Tsum Set of 8 for only $49
Ursula Headband – These Mickey/Minnie style ears are a steal at $15!
Disney WDW towel – This would be great this summer at the pool and now only $15!

Just click the links above to learn more and to order!

McFarland USA Coming to Blu-ray on June 2nd!

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

April 21, 2015

With the weather getting warmer in the Northeast, the upcoming release of McFarland USA has me ready to lace up my running shoes! This movie is based off a true story of an underdog team overcoming huge obstacles. This drama will definitely pull at your heartstrings and follows a group of novice runners who aim to create a cross-country team under Coach Jim White (played by Kevin Costner) in their mainly Latino high school. The teammates and Coach have a lot to learn about each other, but when the Coach realizes the great potential these boys have in running, things change. Beyond their talent, it’s the power of family, commitment to each other and strong work ethic that transform these boys into champions- helping them achieve their own American dream.

Notable cast members include Kevin Costner (Dances with Wolves, The Untouchables), Diana Maria Riva (NCIS: Los Angeles, Castle) Maria Bello (A History of Violence, Prisoners), Carlos Pratts (Paranormal Activity: The Marked Ones, Out of the Fire) and Morgan Saylor (TV’s Homeland, Cirque du Freak: The Vampire’s Assistant).

This film is directed by Niki Caro (Whale Rider) and produced by Mark Ciardi and Gordon Gray. Releasing on June 2nd, McFarland USA will be available on Blu-ray Combo Pack (BD + Digital HD), Disney Movies Anywhere, DVD, Digital HD/SD and On-Demand. Bonus features include McFarland Reflections, deleted scenes, extended scenes and more.

Rated PG, this 129 minute film will inspire and warm your hearts. More to come!

Full House Spinoff “Fuller House” is Officially Coming To Netflix In 2016!

Chip

April 21, 2015

John Stamos, who played Uncle Jesse on the popular ABC comedy of 80’s Full House confirmed rumors of Full House spinoff called Fuller House yesterday on ABC’s Jimmy Kimmel Live, telling the host Netflix had ordered 13 episodes of the new comedy. See the video and press release below!

Netflix, the world’s leading Internet TV network, has ordered a 13-episode season of a new multi-camera comedy from Warner Horizon Television, Miller-Boyett Productions and Jeff Franklin Productions. Fuller House is the long-awaited sequel to the iconic hit series Full House. Created by original Full House creator Jeff Franklin, Fuller House will premiere exclusively across all Netflix territories in 2016.

Candace Cameron-Bure, Jodie Sweetin and Andrea Barber are set to star in Fuller House, with fellow Full Housestar John Stamos set to produce and reprise his original role of Uncle Jesse as a guest star in the new show. Discussions with Full House stars Bob Saget, Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen, Dave Coulier and Lori Loughlin regarding guest appearances in Fuller House are ongoing.

In Fuller House, the adventures that began in 1987 on Full House continue, with veterinarian D.J. Tanner-Fuller (Cameron-Bure) pregnant and recently widowed, living in San Francisco. D.J.’s younger sister/aspiring musician Stephanie Tanner (Sweetin) and D.J.’s lifelong best friend/fellow single mother Kimmy Gibbler (Barber), along with Kimmy’s feisty teenage daughter Ramona, all move in to help take care of D.J.’s two boys — the rebellious 12-year-old J.D. and neurotic 7-year-old Max — and her soon-to-arrive baby.

“As big fans of the original Full House, we are thrilled to be able to introduce Fuller House’s new narrative to existing fans worldwide, who grew up on the original, as well as a new generation of global viewers that have grown up with the Tanners in syndication,” said Cindy Holland, Vice President of Original Content for Netflix.

In a joint statement, executive producers Robert L. Boyett, Thomas L. Miller and Jeff Franklin said: “The continued support of Full House fans of all ages for the last 28 years has been astounding. It is an honor and a thrill to catch up with these beloved characters and explore their lives today. The love you saw on the show was real. The cast has remained a loving family off screen all these years. We are as excited as our fans to finally bring Full House back to life.”

Fuller House is from Miller-Boyett Productions and Jeff Franklin Productions in association with Warner Horizon Television for Netflix. Robert L. Boyett, Thomas L. Miller and Jeff Franklin are the executive producers of the series, which was created by Franklin. John Stamos is a producer.

Universal Orlando’s 25th Anniversary Concert Series May 23 – June 20th

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

April 21, 2015

Universal Orlando is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year with a very exciting event, and for all of those that love music this is not to be missed! In addition to all of your favorite theme park rides, shows and attractions you will be treated to a special concert series while visiting the theme park. On select nights May 23-June 20th the stage at Universal Studios will come alive with some exciting live performances.

What a better way to kick of the summer vacation season than with an amazing set of artist performing some of your favorite songs. This is one event I’m excited about because I’m an old school girl who LOVES Huey Lewis and The News! You get to enjoy two of Orlando’s amazing theme parks by day, and then rock the evening with a concert by one of today’s hottest artists.

Event occurs rain or shine. No rain checks, returns or refunds. Prices, dates, times, attractions and entertainment subject to availability and may change without notice. Other restrictions may apply.
The concert series is included with your theme park admission to Universal Studios Florida or with your Annual Pass, however, blackout dates apply if you have the Power Pass.

For more information about planning a magical Universal Orlando vacation with an On-Site Hotel + Ticket Packages contact me anytime. I would love to help you plan the best summer vacation ever!

My name is Leigh Saleh. I’m a Travel Agent with World of Magic Travel. I’m a Universal OrlandoSpecialist, SeaWorld Parks Specialist, Legoland Florida Specialist and a Disney Destination Specialist as well as many more destinations including cruise lines. Email me today at[email protected] to book your next “Magical” family vacation to your favorite destination.

You can also visit my Facebook page, click here for more details, and updates on special offers to your favorite travel destinations. You will also find a ton of pictures from Walt Disney World, Disney Cruise Line, SeaWorld, Universal Orlando, and Legoland Florida.

**Photographs provided by Universal Orlando**

Unique Dining, Shopping and Interactive Street Entertainment Add to the Fun of Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

April 20, 2015

I know that what I am most looking forward to with the Disneyland Resort 60th celebration, in addition to the new fireworks show and parade, is the FOOD! Disney always does it right when it comes to specialty treats for events, and the 60th celebration will be no exception.

The Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration will touch every aspect of the guest experience, beginning May 22, 2015. As guests enjoy the spectacular, new shows highlighting the celebration, they’ll also encounter brilliant décor, special entertainment throughout the parks and countless opportunities to amplify the Diamond Celebration fun with food, beverage and souvenir offerings.

Guests Invited to Join the Entertainment

In addition to the “Paint the Night” parade, immersive “Disneyland Forever” fireworks spectacular and new “World of Color – Celebrate!” shows, opportunities for guests to become part of the musical magic of Disneyland will be found throughout the resort.

At Disneyland:
- Guests may join a daily Diamond March-Along up Main Street, U.S.A., with the Disneyland Band and Disney characters in their sparkling, new Diamond Celebration costumes. The cavalcade concludes with a Diamond Sing-Along at Town Square in Disneyland Park.
- Also on Main Street, U.S.A., the Dapper Dans quartet will invite guests to join Diamond Sing-Alongs, while the Straw Hatters band will encourage Diamond Dance-Alongs. Every musical group across the Disneyland Resort is incorporating special Diamond Celebration moments into its shows.

At Disney California Adventure Park:
- Guests may Dream-Along with Mickey Mouse and the Red Car News Boys, as Mickey shares a whole new song about his vision for the Happiest Place on Earth. When the Five & Dime arrive on Buena Vista Street, guests will be immersed in a joyous Dance-Along with Dime, Goofy and the boys.
- Mad T Party returns to Disney California Adventure beginning May 22, as guests are invited down the rabbit hole to experience the Diamond Mad T Party, a nighttime entertainment party inspired by Tim Burton’s “Alice in Wonderland” motion picture.
- The Mad T Party main stage will feature a live band, performing contemporary and classic rock favorites as well as newly mashed-up Disney tunes given a rare Mad T Party twist. When the band isn’t onstage, the White Rabbit DJ takes over and plays the latest, hottest dance tunes.
- Also for Mad T Party, the Hottest Deck in Town dance crew will perform their high-energy show with a new look at a new location, the Hollywood Backlot Stage.
- Diamond Mad T Party guests will also play interactive games, take photos or just chill out with a cold drink from the Drink Me Bar or Chiller truck. A new photo location combines the fantastical spirit of the Mad T Party with a tribute to Disney’s past.
Dazzling Merchandise and Souvenirs

Disneyland fans and collectors desiring a beautiful Diamond Celebration memento will find plenty to excite them at Disneyland Resort merchandise locations. More than 500 merchandise items will be available, including apparel, accessories, art, collectibles, headwear, home décor, jewelry, pins, souvenirs, toys and more.
- Headwear will include a Diamond Celebration ear hat, Minnie Mouse rhinestone-embellished headband, and youth and adult baseball hats. Also being introduced from the Diamond Collection is a crystal-encrusted Minnie Mouse headband and Mickey Mouse ear hat.
- Home Décor items will include frames, snow globes, mugs, a dinner plate, dessert plate, trivet, napkin, drinkware and bottle topper, as well as a beach towel, throws and pillow.
- Toys will include an array of plush, a fashion doll, a Diamond Celebration truck hauler, train set, playing cards, puzzles, Sleeping Beauty Castle playset and more.
- Open and limited edition pins, trading accessories, boxed pin sets and framed pin sets will be available.
- Collectors also will be interested in limited release, limited edition and crystal embellished Vinylmation.
- Art & Collectibles will include notable brands such as Precious Moments, Lenox, Highland Mint and Arribas Bros. Over the course of the celebration, fans will find artwork by Dave Avanzino, Disney Design Group (Costa Alavezos, Tyler Dumas, Susan Foy, Caley Hicks, Alex Maher, Randy Noble), Liana Hee, Ink & Paint artists, Brian Jowers, Lisa Keene, Jerrod Maruyama, Kurt Raymond, Tim Rogerson, SHAG, Javier Soto and The Thomas Kinkade Studios and Gregg Visintainer, among others.
- Made with Magic: Newly designed Diamond Celebration ear hats, wands and paint brushes will light up to accompany the big, new after-dark shows.
Diamond Celebration Food and Beverage

The Disneyland Resort is filled with a variety of popular dining options. For the Diamond Celebration, some new specialties will join the classic favorites, served in colorful Diamond Celebration souvenir containers.
- Special Diamond Celebration Cupcakes will be found at the Jolly Holiday Bakery Café (lemon flavored) in Disneyland and the Fiddler, Fifer and Practical Café (orange flavored) in Disney California Adventure.
- Appropriately sparkling for the Diamond Celebration, a Pomegranate Silver Sparkler, topped with lemon-lime foam and garnished with silver flakes, will be served at the Jolly Holiday Bakery Café on Main Street, U.S.A., in Disneyland.
- At the Lucky Fortune Cookery in Disney California Adventure, a special Lucky Fortune Tea will feature mango, pineapple and passion fruit flavoring.
- Exotic new Diamond Celebration beverages will also be available at Disneyland Resort hotel locations: a Longboard Lemonade at the PCH Grill in Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel, and a Wild Raspberry Rapids Lemonade at White Water Snacks in Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa.
- Diamond Celebration Crisped Rice Treats, Caramel Corn and Cotton Candy will be available at select locations in the parks.
Select Attractions Glisten with New Magic

Disneyland Resort takes pride in keeping the guest experience sparkling and fresh, restoring and refreshing attractions on a regular basis. As the Diamond Celebration debuts, several attractions closed for renovations will reopen with some exciting changes.
- At Disneyland:
  - The Hatbox Ghost, which appeared in the Haunted Mansion for a short period around the time the attraction opened in 1969, will materialize once again when the popular Mansion reopens to guests this spring in New Orleans Square. Guests will discover the ghost just before they descend into the cemetery, where the Hatbox Ghost performs an eerie trick.
  - Matterhorn Bobsleds will reopen for the Diamond Celebration with new special effects. The Abominable Snowman, more exciting and ferocious, will appear in new and animated ways. A new scene will reveal some lost treasure the Snowman has been hoarding inside the mountain.
  - Also reopening in May is Peter Pan’s Flight, featuring new special effects that make this classic and beloved attraction sparkle with new life. In a reimagined nursery scene, the Darling children have discovered the magic of flight as Tinker Bell flits overhead, sprinkling them with Pixie Dust. Guests will marvel at moonlit London Town and Never Land will glow in beautiful new ways.
- At Disney California Adventure:
  - Grizzly Peak is expanding into the former Condor Flats area with new building exteriors, landscape features and more. A new quick-service food location, Smokejumpers Grill, opened in March, 2015, inspired by the brave men and women who fight wildfires in the California forests. When the entire area reopens on Friday, May 15, lush pine trees will bring cool areas of shade to the expanded Grizzly Peak, making guests feel as if they have been transported to California’s High Sierras. Soarin’ Over California will reopen with updates to its screen and projection system, bringing a visually enhanced experience.
Additional information about the Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration will be shared in the coming months at www.Disneyland.com and www.DisneyParksBlog.com.

I’m Stephanie – Disneyland news writer for Chip & Co and Premier Annual Passholder to both Disneyland and Walt Disney World. I am also an Annual Passholder for Universal Studios Hollywood. Along with being a HUGE Walt Disney fan and entertainment junkie, I am an Independent Travel Consultant with World of Magic Travel, the preferred Travel Agency of Chip & Co. When I am not planning my next trip to Disneyland, you can find me tinkering on various craft projects, training for my next runDisney race and working in my home office. Who am I kidding – I am always planning my next Disney trip!

Contact me today for your FREE quote for Disney and other magical destinations at [email protected]. There is always time to book that last minute Disneyland trip for the 60th celebration! I look forward to helping you make some vacation magic very soon!

Top Mid-Day Break Spots at Magic Kingdom

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

April 20, 2015

Florida’s heat and humidity can be brutal in the peak summer months and nothing will drag your day down quicker than a mid-day meltdown. With all the excitement that the park has to offer, there are also many places to slip away and enjoy a mid-day break. Catch some air conditioning, relax your body and your mind, and give your tired feet a rest. Here are my top spots to take a mid-day break at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom.

The People Mover: Jump on the Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover and experience the park from a whole new view. The whole experience takes 10 minutes, but if you or your little ones need a longer break, you can stay on for another loop. I also suggest taking another ride once it gets dark for a different view of the park.

Hall of Presidents: With a run time of 23 minutes, a dark and air-conditioned room, and comfortable seats, this attraction is a great place to let everyone rest and cool down during the peak heat hours of the day. Located in Liberty Square, this attraction is a great choice to check out after lunch. Let your food digest and take a break before plummeting down Splash Mountain.

Carousel of Progress: I really love this attraction, and do suggest trying to stay awake for the 20 minute show. However, this is another dimly lit, air-conditioned show that allows you to take a break and be transported to a “great big beautiful tomorrow.” You will walk away from the show humming a new tune and ready to tackle the rest of your day.

Main Street USA: Take some time to wander through all the shops while your kids are taking a nap in their strollers, or the rest of your group is waiting for the parade to start – just make sure they save you a seat! Sometimes it’s really nice to just wander around without feeling rushed, and pick up a souvenir for yourself while you’re at it.

Mickey’s PhilharMagic: This is one of my favorite attractions and I usually like to try to get here around mid day. This is another air-conditioned and dark show, with usually very short wait times. Donald Duck will lead you on an adventure during this 12 minute 3-D concert movie.

Shady Benches: All around the park, especially in Fantasyland you can find shady benches to relax and people watch. I almost always opt-out of riding the Tea Cups and instead choose to relax in the shade and enjoy the moment.

Whether you are looking for a quiet spot in the shade to take a little snooze, or a relaxing show to watch while you cool down from the heat, Magic Kingdom is filled with spots to take a mid-day break. The next time you are feeling a little overwhelmed and everyone is starting to get a little cranky, head to one of these spots and recharge yourself. Even Mickey Mouse has to take a cheese break every now and then.

Be sure to check out all 4 of my Mid Day Break Spot articles; Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Animal Kingdom and Hollywood Studios.

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.

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