Walt Disney World Starting Standby Queues for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure and Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind
Exciting news for Walt Disney World guests! Starting February 25th, 2025, both Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at Magic Kingdom and Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind at EPCOT will be accessible via standby queues. This means no more scrambling for virtual queue reservations!
Guests will have the option to experience these popular attractions by simply joining the standby line or utilizing the Lightning Lane paid option, subject to availability.
Virtual queues were implemented for both attractions upon their openings – May 22nd, 2022 for Cosmic Rewind and June 28th, 2024 for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure – to manage high demand and minimize wait times. While virtual queues have proven helpful for new attraction launches, Disney suggests they may return for select experiences in the future.
This change follows a similar move at Disneyland, where the virtual queue for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure was discontinued in December 2024. It also marks a quicker transition to standby queues compared to TRON Lightcycle / Run, which opened in April 2023 but didn’t offer a standby line until September 2024.
With the removal of virtual queues, guests will have more flexibility in planning their park days and enjoying these popular attractions.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom is officially saying goodbye to more of Chester & Hester’s Dino-Rama, as the iconic entrance sign and its supports have disappeared seemingly overnight. This demolition marks a major turning point since the roadside-style carnival area permanently closed on January 12. While green construction walls are blocking off the view of the area, the sign that was visible above the walls has been removed.
In place of Dino-Rama, guests can look forward to the new Tropical Americas area—anchored by Pueblo Esperanza—which will include Disney’s first “Encanto” attraction, a nature-inspired carousel, and a retheme of DINOSAUR into an Indiana Jones experience. The rest of DinoLand U.S.A. remains partially open for now, with access to DINOSAUR, The Boneyard, and Restaurantosaurus still available around the construction site. Rumors suggest these remaining spots may close in early 2026 as the overhaul continues.
Although it’s bittersweet to see yet another part of Dino-Rama fade away, the rapid progress signals big things ahead for Animal Kingdom. Are you mourning the loss of the vibrant dino-themed sign, or are you excited for the fresh experiences taking shape? Let us know what you think!
Walt Disney World Releases Early March 2025 Operating Hours: Extended Evenings & Earlier Starts
If you’re planning a March visit to Walt Disney World, take note! Disney has just announced a series of updates to the operating hours for both Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Magic Kingdom, including extended evening hours, earlier openings, and more chances to pack in extra magic during your trip. Here’s a full rundown of all the changes heading your way.
March 2–3: Extended closing time from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm
March 4 & 7: Extended closing time from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm
March 8: Extended closing time from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Revised Operating Hours
March 2–3: 8:00 am – 8:00 pm
March 4 & 7: 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
March 8: 8:00 am – 8:00 pm
What This Means for You: You can explore Pandora – The World of Avatar later into the evening, watch the sunset on Kilimanjaro Safaris, and indulge in more time for late-day adventures with the animals!
Magic Kingdom
Early Entry Changes
March 2–3: Early Entry now begins at 7:30 am (instead of 8:30 am)
If you’re staying at a Disney Resort hotel, you can jump into the fun an hour earlier, grabbing those coveted front-of-the-line opportunities at your favorite rides before general park guests even arrive.
March Hours & Closings
March 2:
Park opening: 8:00 am (moved up from 9:00 am)
Closing: 11:00 pm (extended from 9:00 pm)
March 3:
Park opening: 8:00 am
Closing: 10:00 pm
March 4:
Park hours: 9:00 am – 11:00 pm (closing extended from 9:00 pm)
March 5–6:
Park hours: 9:00 am – 10:00 pm (closing extended from 9:00 pm)
March 7–8:
Park hours: 9:00 am – 11:00 pm (closing extended from 9:00 pm)
Extended Evening Hours
March 5: Extended Evening Hours now run from 10:00 pm – 12:00 am (previously 9:00 pm – 11:00 pm)
What This Means for You: Even more time to explore your favorite Magic Kingdom lands, enjoy nighttime parades or fireworks, and snag souvenirs from Main Street, U.S.A. By kicking off the day earlier and staying later, you’ll have ample opportunity to experience the park at different times of day—including those magical nighttime hours when Cinderella Castle shimmers under the lights.
Arrive Early: With some Magic Kingdom days now starting at 8:00 am, arriving bright and early can help you hit top attractions like Seven Dwarfs Mine Train and Space Mountain before the crowds.
Stay Late: Take advantage of the extended hours to catch After-Hours Entertainment, unique nighttime views of your favorite attractions, or that last spin on Big Thunder Mountain Railroad (if it’s open!) before closing.
Check for Special Events: If you’re a Disney Resort hotel guest, remember to plan around your Extended Evening Hours on March 5 to maximize your nighttime fun.
Leverage Lightning Lane and Genie+: With longer days, you can strategize your attraction reservations to spread out your must-do rides and shows.
Final Thoughts
Between sunrise safaris at Animal Kingdom and late-night fireworks at Magic Kingdom, there’s never been a better time to squeeze a little more pixie dust into your Walt Disney World vacation. Keep these hour changes in mind as you put together your itinerary—then get ready for a truly memorable March adventure, from dawn ‘til long after dusk.
Splish, Splash, and Shine After Dark: Universal Volcano Bay Nights Debuts This Spring!
Pack your swimsuits and your sense of adventure—Universal’s Volcano Bay is about to turn up the heat with its first-ever nighttime event! On select Saturday nights this spring—April 12, 26, and May 3, 10, and 17—you can bask in the glow of the iconic volcano, enjoy lower wait times on your favorite rides, and dance the night away under the stars. This limited-capacity celebration promises a tropical getaway unlike anything you’ve experienced before.
Craving adrenaline under moonlit skies? Look no further! Favorites like:
Krakatau Aqua Coaster
Ko’okiri Body Plunge
Kala and Tai Nui Serpentine Body Slides
…will be open for nighttime splashes—meaning you can catch epic views of the illuminated volcano as you slide and glide through Volcano Bay after dark.
Island Beats & Coastal Treats
When you need a breather from the slides, head to Waturi Beach where a live DJ will be spinning tunes to keep the energy high. Feeling nostalgic? Jump in on classic backyard games like limbo and hula hoop—just imagine those photos with Krakatau towering in the background!
And the fun doesn’t stop there:
Complimentary island-inspired bites like Spicy Island Shrimp and Cheesy Cliffside Seashell Pasta will be served up throughout the event.
Unlimited refills of Coca-Cola® beverages in a complimentary Volcano Bay Freestyle Souvenir Cup.
Specialty menu items available for purchase at spots like Kohola Reef Restaurant and Social Club, Dancing Dragons Boat Bar, and Koka Poroka Ice Cream Kona.
Meet the DreamWorks Stars
For a touch of movie magic, you’ll also get to meet beloved DreamWorks characters, including:
Shrek & Fiona
Puss in Boots & Kitty Soft Paws
Alex & King Julien from Madagascar
Poppy, Branch & Guy Diamond from Trolls
Capture a fun photo, share a laugh, and add a little star power to your evening in paradise.
Ticket Info & Passholder Perks
Tickets for Universal Volcano Bay Nights are on sale now for $99.00 plus tax—and event parking is included! Gates open at 4:00 p.m. so you can enjoy regular park hours before your exclusive after-hours adventure begins at 7:00 p.m..
Passholder Discount: Universal Orlando Annual and Seasonal Passholders can save 10% off the ticketed price when they show a valid pass and photo ID.
Want to feel like a true island VIP? You can upgrade your evening by snagging a private cabana starting at $249.99. These are booked on a first-come, first-served basis at the concierge huts inside the park on the day of the event, so plan accordingly if you want your own personal island retreat.
Make a Splash This Spring!
Don’t miss your chance to be part of Universal Volcano Bay’s newest tradition. With lively entertainment, shorter wait times, delectable treats, and the unique experience of playing in the park after dark, Volcano Bay Nights is set to be the talk of the season. Gather your crew, dive into the fun, and create unforgettable memories under the shimmering Orlando stars!
Ready to ride the waves after dark?Click here to grab your tickets now!
Haunted Mansion Construction Permit Filed at Walt Disney World: Could Changes Be Coming Soon?
The eerie glow emanating from the Magic Kingdom’s Haunted Mansion may soon reveal more than just happy haunts. Disney recently filed a new commencement of construction permit for 1600 Magic Kingdom Drive—the address of The Haunted Mansion in Magic Kingdom Park. While the official project description simply states “general construction,” the listed contractor is raising some spectral eyebrows among fans and insiders alike.
Traditionally, smaller refurbishments or maintenance tasks at Disney Parks are handled in-house by Walt Disney Imagineering. This new permit, however, names MLC Theming Inc. as the contractor—a specialty construction company known for scenic painting, weathered aging, rock work carving, and intricate façade fabrications.
The filing of this permit suggests the upcoming project may involve highly detailed set or scene changes rather than a routine ride refurbishment. MLC Theming’s expertise in creative theming, textures, and artful touches lines up more with major visual changes than standard mechanical or operational fixes.
Timing and Disneyland’s Haunted Mansion Updates
This permit arrives only a few weeks after Disneyland’s Haunted Mansion reopened following an extended refurbishment. Out west, guests have seen fresh scenes like digital Hitchhiking Ghosts, plus an updated Bride character that replaced Constance Hatchaway. While this new permit is not definitive proof that a similar overhaul is coming, the timing of this permit—right on the heels of substantial updates at Disneyland—does spark speculation. Could we see the same changes to the Hitchhiking Ghosts or the Bride’s storyline at Walt Disney World?
It’s still early in the process, and “general construction” leaves plenty of room for speculation. However, the return of the Hitchhiking Ghosts with advanced digital tech, a more contemporary take on the Bride, and other scene evolutions could be on the table. With MLC Theming’s signature touch, the Haunted Mansion at Magic Kingdom might emerge with fresh illusions and a few new surprises lurking in its shadowy corridors.
As always, Disney has been mum on any big refurbishment details—so keep your ears open for official announcements. Until then, rest in peace, foolish mortals—knowing that changes, big or small, may soon be materializing at Magic Kingdom’s iconic Haunted Mansion.
Permits have been approved for the demolition of the Rivers of America in Magic Kingdom
Bittersweet news is in store for Magic Kingdom fans: the demolition permit for the iconic Rivers of America has finally been approved, signaling the end of beloved classics like the Liberty Square Riverboat and Tom Sawyer Island. While it’s sad to bid farewell to these iconic pieces of Walt Disney World history, there’s also plenty of excitement on the horizon. This newly approved permit clears the path for a grand transformation—bringing a “Cars” themed land to the space once occupied by Frontierland staples and expanding the park into a new 14-acre Villains-themed realm.
Walt Disney World initially filed the permit in August 2024, seeking approval to revamp Frontierland and expand the Magic Kingdom beyond Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. A central part of the application highlighted the need to alter the flow of water in the park—specifically due to shutting down the Rivers of America—and to build a new stormwater management facility.
In September, the SFWMD issued a multi-page response listing concerns about potential wetland impact, changes to water drainage, and wildlife protection measures. Disney was asked to clarify several points, including how they planned to mitigate environmental harm. While Disney had a December deadline to provide additional details, a deadline extension allowed more time to address the District’s questions thoroughly.
This recent approval indicates that Disney has successfully provided the required environmental and engineering details. With SFWMD satisfied, the project can move forward more confidently.
Farewell, Frontierland… Hello, “Cars” Land!
In a surprising twist, Disney has announced that both the Rivers of America and Tom Sawyer Island will be closed permanently. Instead of the classic Frontierland atmosphere, guests can look forward to a brand-new “Cars” themed area. Although specific details are still under wraps, fans anticipate immersive settings and attractions inspired by Radiator Springs and the beloved characters from Pixar’s Cars franchise.
The Villains Are Coming
Beyond Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, the Magic Kingdom will expand by an additional 14 acres—an entirely new realm dedicated to Disney Villains. While rumors and speculation have circulated for months, Disney’s approval for land expansion confirms that this new area, full of favorite baddies, is in the works. Recent reports hint that construction on this Villains land could begin as soon as March 2025.
With most permits now approved, Disney is poised to share more details on these forthcoming additions in the months ahead. Here’s a quick recap of the key points we know:
Rivers of America & Tom Sawyer Island: Permanently closing to make room for “Cars” land.
Magic Kingdom Expansion: Extending beyond Big Thunder Mountain Railroad into a new 14-acre Villains-themed land.
Environmental Approval: SFWMD’s concerns have been addressed, clearing the project to move forward with new stormwater management systems.
Construction Timelines: Rumors suggest Villains land construction may start in March 2025.
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad: Currently closed for refurbishment, with no scheduled reopening date in 2025.
This is a major moment of transformation at Walt Disney World, promising fresh experiences while saying goodbye to some iconic elements of Frontierland. Whether you’re eager to see Lightning McQueen in person or intrigued by the potential of a Villains-themed land, the future of Magic Kingdom looks like it will be bigger—and bolder—than ever.
Bringing Joy to Eleuthera: Disney Cruise Line and love.fútbol Open Six Playgrounds
Hundreds of students across Eleuthera will soon have access to new outdoor play and sports facilities, thanks to Disney Cruise Line’s $1 million commitment to building entertainment spaces across the island. This initiative, part of Disney’s The Play Project, has seen Disney partner with the non-profit organization love.fútbol to create playgrounds and sports spaces, marking a significant investment in Eleuthera’s communities and children.
Wemyss Bight Primary School recently celebrated the grand opening of its new playground with a special community event. Students, teachers, local leaders, Disney Cruise Line cast members, and love.fútbol volunteers were all on hand to unveil the exciting new facility. The playground, complete with slides, swings, and a jungle gym, provides students with a much-needed space for play and physical activity.
This month, additional playgrounds and sports spaces will open at Green Castle, PA Gibson, Deep Creek, Tarpum Bay, and Rock Sound Primary Schools. In addition to the playgrounds, the schools will also receive revamped basketball courts and areas for long jump and high jump. To further support students’ recreational activities, the non-profit Good Sports is donating hundreds of pieces of sports equipment.
The initiative also includes “build days,” bringing together community members, school staff, students, and Disney volunteers to beautify the new spaces by painting courts, assembling benches, and planting flowers.
This is just one of the ways Disney is staying involved in local communities.
New Stage Shows and Immersive Experiences Await on the Disney Adventure
The Disney Adventure is preparing to set sail from Singapore later this year, and Disney recently revealed a host of new, never-before-seen experiences awaiting guests. Guests will enjoy new stage shows, a Marvel experience, Duffy & Friends, and more!
At the all-new Marvel Style Studio, guests of all ages will celebrate fan-favorite Marvel Super Heroes with hair, makeup and clothing options inspired by the larger-than-life icons from the Marvel Universe. From Iron Man, Spider-Man and Captain America to Captain Marvel, Thor and Black Panther, the looks will be super. At select times during the cruise, the sleek space will transform into an adults-only lounge offering bookable beverage tastings.
After your Marvel styling is complete, you can continue your epic Avengers-level adventure at Marvel Landing for fun on the ship’s three new attractions – Ironcycle Test Run, Pym Quantum Racers and Groot Galaxy Spin.
Spend the Day with Duffy
Duffy and Friends fans, get excited! The beloved friends are taking to the high seas for the first time with an all-new show, delightful character encounters, specialty retail shop and more.
Debuting on the Disney Imagination Garden stage, “Duffy and The Friend Ship” will bring you on a journey filled with joy, inspiration and original new songs. Guided by the seagull Tippy Blue, Duffy and Friends will set off on an imaginary voyage to explore the seas on a charming adventure.
You’ll also be able to meet and take photos with Duffy and his cheery group of friends. Make sure to stop by the Duffy and Friends Shop where you’ll find a variety of items featuring your favorite characters and pick up a guide for the Duffy and Friends Discovery Quest. During this ship-wide journey, you’ll follow the clues to help Duffy and his friends find their missing items and earn a special commemorative gift that’s perfect for a cruise adventure.
Experience the Royal Treatment
Hear ye, Hear ye! Children onboard the Disney Adventure will be cordially invited to a charming royal tea party with some favorite Disney Princesses at the all-new Royal Society for Friendship and Tea. An enchanting afternoon of scrumptious treats, captivating stories and whimsical music will teach children the society’s values of kindness, bravery and determination. Each royal guest will conclude this majestic experience by taking home official society membership keepsakes.
Disney Cruise Line favorite Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique will return to provide an enchanted salon experience for younger guests ages 3 to 12. From elegant royalty to adventurous sea captains, Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique will make any child’s storybook fantasy come to life with magical transformations featuring a variety of costumes, hairstyling, makeup and accessories.
Yo ho! Live a Pirate’s Life
Join Captain Jack Sparrow and his band of pirates as they battle with an ink-squirting giant squid and hunt for a rare, dazzling treasure during “Captain Jack Sparrow & The Siren Queen.” This all-new show coming to the Disney Imagination Garden stage will have swashbucklers of all ages singing a hearty “Yo ho!” as you’re recruited for a thrilling journey with the sea’s most charming, yet roguish, captain and his pirate crew.
Are you looking forward to sailing on the new Disney Adventure? Contact me today to get your next Disney cruise 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 voyage!
Epcot’s Garden Grows: New Topiaries Sprout for 2025 Festival
Epcot’s 2025 International Flower & Garden Festival is shaping up to be a spectacular display, with Disney installing even more topiaries and floral arrangements. Among the new additions is a beloved set returning after an eight-year hiatus.
Phineas and Ferb have joined the growing collection of topiaries at EPCOT for the 2025 International Flower & Garden Festival. Guests can find the dynamic duo behind Spaceship Earth, near the pathway to the Imagination! pavilion. This is the first time since 2017 that Phineas and Ferb will be at the festival. Their return likely coincides with the animated show’s revival on Disney+ later this year.
Phineas strikes a familiar pose, one hand on his hip and the other pointing skyward, sporting his signature striped shirt, shorts, sneakers, and bright red hair. Beside him stands Ferb, equally recognizable in his collared shirt, high-waisted pants, sneakers, and distinctive green hair.
Near the Mexico pavilion entrance to World Showcase, guests can find Miguel and Dante from Pixar’s “Coco,” returning as topiaries after their debut last year. Miguel is depicted in his mariachi finale outfit, complete with sombrero and yellow bowtie, holding his grandfather’s white guitar. Dante’s vibrant alebrije form sits atop a colorful floral display inspired by the “Coco” bridge to the Land of the Dead. While Dante made history last year as Disney’s first projection-mapped topiary, the projection element has not yet been installed for this year’s festival.
The 2025 EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival runs from March 5 to June 2, 2025, featuring exciting new additions like resort hotel-themed food booths and a playground, a horticulture gallery inside CommuniCore Hall, an “Inside Out 2” garden, and much more.
What are you looking forward to experiencing at the festival this year?
Just before President’s Day, Jenna Bush Hager, daughter of former President George W. Bush, visited EPCOT to see her father’s “Portraits of Courage” exhibit and spend time with veteran cast members.
The more than 60 patriotic portraits were painted by President Bush, honoring members of the U.S. military who have served our nation with honor since 9/11, and whom he has come to know personally.
At the event, Jenna shared her personal connection to this community, reflecting on the selfless service of both her father and grandfather. The entire Bush family has deep roots in military service and supporting veterans.
Jenna was presented with a flag flown over EPCOT in her honor, and a special SALUTE military challenge coin, in recognition of her dedication to supporting the military community.
The group was also greeted by a special guest, Mickey Mouse, dressed in red, white and blue!
Jenna, her family and friends were joined by Walt Disney World Ambassador Shannon-Smith Conrad, who comes from a military family, Walt Disney Imagineering cast members who helped create the exhibit at EPCOT, and members of Disney SALUTE, our employee resource group that honors and empowers our cast members with military backgrounds, families, and those with an affinity for military service.
While SALUTE has been key in fostering a sense of community and support for over a decade, our enduring admiration for the military community started with our founders, Walt and Roy O. Disney, who both served their country during World War I.
A Timeless Classic: The Mickey Mouse Varsity Jacket by Her Universe Brings Vintage Disney Charm to Your Wardrobe
Looking for a way to show off your Disney devotion in style? The Mickey Mouse Varsity Jacket is a must-have for any fan. This classic piece, available online at the Disney Store, retails for $90 and offers a touch of vintage charm with a distinctly modern feel. It’s the perfect way to add a bit of playful sophistication to your wardrobe.
This isn’t your average varsity jacket. Her Universe has designed a true all-star look, celebrating the one and only Mickey Mouse. The jacket boasts vintage-inspired Mickey embroidered appliqués on both the front and back, showcasing the iconic character in all his glory. These detailed embellishments bring a touch of nostalgia and make a bold statement about your love for Disney.
Adding to the varsity aesthetic is a stylish chenille “M” appliqué, a classic element of this timeless style. But the Disney details don’t stop there. Other embroidered elements, like Mickey’s signature white glove, round out the design, adding subtle yet significant touches that true fans will appreciate. It’s these thoughtful details that elevate this jacket from a simple piece of outerwear to a cherished collectible.
The Mickey Mouse Varsity Jacket is more than just clothing; it’s a conversation starter, a way to express your personality, and a celebration of a beloved character. Whether you’re heading to the parks, hanging out with friends, or simply want to add a touch of Disney magic to your everyday life, this jacket is sure to earn an enthusiastic thumbs up from fellow fans and fashion enthusiasts alike. Don’t miss out on this winning piece – grab yours today at the Disney Store online!
Jaq and Gus Plush Keychains from Cinderella Arrive at Ever After in Disney Springs After Japan Exclusive Release
Those adorable Jaq and Gus Plush Keychains, originally a Japan Disney Store exclusive, have finally made their way stateside! You can now find these charming little mice at the Ever After store in Disney Springs at Walt Disney World.
These keychains are the perfect way to add a touch of Cinderella magic to your keys, bag, or backpack. Each keychain retails for $14.99, making them a delightful and affordable souvenir or gift.
Jaq’s plush keychain captures his timid personality perfectly. He appears a bit startled, perhaps by the looming presence of the large Lucifer plush that can be spotted nearby in the store. He’s dressed in his signature red shirt and long brown jacket, complete with a matching hat. Don’t miss the detail of his long brown tail peeking out from beneath the jacket’s hem! This plush is a must-have for any fan of Cinderella’s loyal little friend.
Gus’s plush keychain mirrors Jaq’s expression, showing him looking equally surprised or possibly a little frightened, perhaps by something he sees above him. He sports his classic yellow shirt, brown shoes, and jaunty green hat. Just like Jaq, Gus’s long mouse tail is also attached to the back of his plush, adding to his whimsical charm.
These Jaq and Gus keychains are a delightful reminder of the beloved Disney classic and are sure to bring a smile to your face. Hurry down to the Ever After store in Disney Springs before they’re all gone!
