More Metal Detectors Arrive at Universal Orlando Parks This Week

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April 12, 2015

A few weeks ago Universal Orlando installed metal detectors for Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit at Universal Studios Florida as an added security for loose articles that guests might have in their pockets that they didn’t stow-a-way in a locker.

Well now they have now added the metal detectors to two other rides the first is located in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter-Hogsmeade, Dragon Challenge which is a high-speed coaster where you’ll ride one of two fire breathers. Back in the day it was called “Dueling Dragon’s” and both of the coasters would soar together giving you a thrilling feeling riding the Dragon, however, that all ended in 2011 when an older gentlemen suffered a lacerated right eye from an object hitting him while he was riding the coaster. Now the coasters are dispatched at random times. So since that incident I can understand the need for the installation of the metal detectors. It would be really great if they could go back to dueling!

The second ride to have metal detectors installed is at The Incredible Hulk Coaster where you’ll launch from zero to 40 mph in two seconds flat, and flip upside-down! If you have anything in your pockets before you board the ride you will not once you get off which is why you can see nets filled with hats, sunglasses, cellphones, and coins. I don’t care how good you think you are you just can NOT hold on to stuff while riding this ride……well at least I can’t!

Universal Hulk Metal Detector Touring Plans — Universal Hulk Metal Detector, Picture by Touring Plans

What you need to know, before you go:

As you approach the rides they have warning signs telling guests to place all loose items from their pockets into a locker, and they can’t bring anything onto the ride.This is not something new! This has ALWAYS been the rule.
You get to use the locker for FREE while on the ride. One free use per person, per day. To “rent” the locker you have to use your index finger as an ID to open the locker. Don’t forget your locker number! And if you do just ask the attendant for help.
Just prior to entering the line for these rides guests will go through a metal detector, and if you should trigger the detector then they will also use the handheld wand too. So no cheating!

Dragon Challenge Line for the lockers, Picture by Touring Plans

For now Universal is just testing out the metal detectors for an added security measure. It hasn’t been announced if they plan to keep the metal detectors as permanent additions to attractions just yet. I think it will!

This has also caused a bit of discussion from park goers as to “what” is considered appropriate for ride security. Many guests are saying that they feel this is a violation of privacy, and rightly so some fear it will cause problems for guests with internal medical devices or those with sub-dermal metal plates, screws or pins. While we haven’t had confirmation from Universal several of my friends that are Universal employees are stating that they are taking this very seriously and if you have any concerns please let them know, so that they can address them immediately.

I can tell you right now that I am not happy, but I totally understand why they feel the need to add them. I’ve personally seen many guests in the lines for these rides with “loose” items and my first thought is “I hope I don’t get hit with them!”

This new policy has been a big shock for those spending the day at one of Universal’s theme parks, but this is nothing new for those that attend Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights because just to enter the theme park you must go through a metal detector as well as have ALL bags searched. However, having them in front of the rides might cause some problems with even longer lines on those extremely busy nights.

What are your thoughts about having metal detectors on coasters? Do you think they will stay permanently or be removed before the busy summer season?

My name is Leigh Saleh. I’m a Travel Agent with World of Magic Travel. I’m a Universal Orlando Specialist, 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 Touring Plans**

Agents Of Shield Gets A Spinoff!

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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April 12, 2015

News out of the Walt Disney and Marvel Studios continues to bring more action packed adventures to fans. The latest coming from the Marvel camp is that along with a possible third season to the popular Agents of SHIELD tv series, there seems to be a spinoff in the developmental stages for ABC.

While the spinoff is still in its infancy stage with no clue as to who the characters might be, Disney has brought Agents of Shield executive producer, Jeffrey Bell and writer, Paul Zbszewski, together and that makes the possibilities endless. One detailed we do know is that stories from this season’s Agents of SHIELD will most likely be used to set up the new series, but first ABC needs to confirm that third season. I wonder what character(s) will be part of the spinoff?

Loretta Garcia is the Entertainment Writer for Chip and Co bringing you all the news and updates about your favorite Disney characters.

The Boathouse: Waterfront Dining at the New Disney Springs

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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April 12, 2015

The Boathouse is opening Spring 2015. It will be an upscale, waterfront dining experience featuring spectacular floating artwork: dream boats from the 30’s, 40’s & 50’s.

The incredible culinary experience of The Boathouse will be showcased in an expansive restaurant with 3 distinctive bars including The Captain’s Raw Bar, The Admiral’s Club Bar and The Dock Bar, which is built over the water. Other spectacular nautically-themed rooms include The Runabout, Twin Transoms, and The Lake House. There will also be two private dining rooms for special events, conventions and presentations: The Regatta and The Trophy Room. The Boathouse restaurant will be managed by internationally renowned and award-winning Gibsons Restaurant Group, celebrated for exceptional food and extraordinary service (recently named Best Steak House in Chicago). Guests will enjoy a gourmet menu served daily until 2 a.m. featuring steaks, chops, fresh seafood and a raw bar.

The Boathouse restaurant will immerse guests both on land and on water with live music and romantic Captain’s guided tours aboard The Venezia, a beautifully crafted 40-foot wooden Italian Water Taxi featuring champagne toasts and chocolate-covered strawberries. There also will be the exhilaration of guided Amphicar rides that launch from land, entering the water with a splash, taking guests on a 20-minute tour of the landmarks of Disney Springs.

The Harbor Master will orchestrate daily flag ceremonies, accompanied by a lively musical performance of beloved bugle songs, performed aboard a classic 1800’s antique steam boat.

Authentic nautical items, custom engraved paddles, distinctive lake-themed merchandise, and other unique items “Made on Earth™” will be available at The Ship’s Store, adjacent to The Boathouse restaurant.

“Combining dining with interactive entertainment, The Boathouse helps bring to life our vision of Disney Springs as a welcoming place for guests of all ages to enjoy with their friends and family amid the charm of a waterfront town center,” said George A. Kalogridis, president, Walt Disney World Resort.

Check out the menu:

Green Grass and High Tides

Beach and Sea Lobster Bake (For 2) $60
The Boathouse Surf and Turf Table (For 4) $160

Steak Chops and Provisions

Filet Mignon 8 ounce $39
Bone-In Fillet Mignon 14 ounce $49
New York Strip 14 ounce $48
Bone-In New York Strip 20 ounce $52
Porterhouse for Two 28 ounce $60
Tomahawk Long Bone Rib Chop for Two 32 ounce $115
Berkshire Pork Chop 12 ounce $27
Filet 8 ounce with provisions Oscar type $53

Raw Bar

Oysters on the Half Shell $3.50
Yellowfin Tuna Poke $16
Wild Caught Baja Cocktail Shrimp $4
Laughing Bird Shrimp Ceviche $16
Crab and Avocado $15
Anastasia gold Caviar $100

Field Day

The Plank $12
The Galley $21
Seared Tuna $21
Sirloin Steak $23
Buffalo Chicken $17
Caesar $21
Garden $8

Fish or Cut Bait

Coriander Seared Tuna $32
Broiled Atlantic Swordfish $31
Cedar Planked Salmon $29
Wild Baja Shrimp de Jonghe $48
Broiled Canaveral ‘Bouy Line’ Tripletail $34
Hoisin Glazed Florida Wahoo $42

Launch

Firecracker Shrimp $19
Coconut Frog Legs
Crispy Chili Calamari $18
Peel and Eat Shrimp $17
Florida Bay Chowder $21
Seared NY Strip Carpaccio $18

Stem to Stern

Jumbo Lump Crab Cake $24
Half Rotisserie Amish Chicken $26
Seared Georges Bank Scallops $32
Baked Crab Stuffed Lobster $38
Garden Pasta Shells $19
Grilled Tacos $21
Gibson “Sandwich King” Burger Hop Champion $20

Sides

Fresh Cut Fries $9
Sea Salt Baked Potato $7
Shrimp and Andoille Mac’ N Cheese $17
Grilled Asparagus $21
Cut from the Cob Roasted Sweet Corn $10
Roasted Wild Mushrooms $21

The Not So Bitter End

Key Lime Pie in a Jar $9
Whiskey Caramel Cornbread Cake $10
Mango Sorbet with Plant City Strawberries $8
S’mores Baked Alaska (for 4) $40
Ice Cream Floats $10

Kids Entrees

Make your own Tacos- Grilled Chicken or Fish $10
Blue Star Angus Cheeseburger $10
Popcorn Shrimp $10
Mac and Cheese $10
Pig in a Blanket $10
Sticks and Stones – Chicken Tenders and Fresh Fish Nuggets $10

Kids Desserts

Icee Brain Freeze Float $10
Oreo Chocolate Fudge Sundae $10
Fresh Fruit Cup $10
Sorbet with Fruit $10

Kids Beverage

Icee in Lighthouse Cup $10

That is quite the menu! What do you think?

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Maria

If you will be on a Disney World vacation soon, you should take at least one day to relax and try some good food and drinks, not to mention some shopping, at Downtown Disney/Disney Springs. If you don’t have a vacation planned, I can help. Contact me at [email protected] for your FREE no obligation quote.

62 Million People Visited Orlando in 2014

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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April 11, 2015

The Tourism Officials recently said that 62 million people visited Orlando last year. Can you believe that? I live in Orlando and I know a lot of tourists visit here, but wow I never would have guessed it was that much! That is 5% more than last year!

That number made an all new milestone for tourism.

They say the rise in tourism numbers has to do with theme parks expansions and remodels at our world famous theme parks. With more tourists comes more money, of course. The rise in tourism brought in $200 million in hotel taxes for Orange County last year, which was also a record.

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Maria

Were you one of those tourists that contributed to last year’s record breaking numbers? Even though the parks might be packed the magic is still there. I love planning Disney World vacations. I would love to help you plan your next magical getaway. Contact me [email protected] for your FREE no obligation quote.

Tsum Tsum Tuesday is Making a Splash in May 2015

By

Danielle

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April 11, 2015

Tsum Tsum Tuesday in May 2015 is going Under the Sea for a new Little Mermaid collection, that is just begging to be part of your world!

Ever since Tsum Tsum was launched globally I’ve been absolutely smitten. Each Tuesday the Disney Store will be launching a brand new collection of characters to warm our hearts, and even a villain or 2 to keep us on our toes. The newest collection coming in May has me ready to jump in the bath and sing AAA aaa AAA with The Little Mermaid! 8 new characters will be splashing down starring the determined princess Ariel! Joining her on this new voyage will be her father King Triton and true love Prince Eric, as well as her adorable sidekicks Flounder, Sebastian, and Scuttle. But be weary Ursula will be lurking around too, ready to make a deal with any poor unfortunate Tsums!

I don’t know about you, but Tsum Tsum Tuesday is marked on my calendar and I can’t wait to get my flippers on these guys! What has been your favorite collection so far?

You can find Tsum Tsums at your local Disney Store, Disneystore.com, Disney Parks, and select characters are even available at some Target Store locations!

Great Restaurant Choices for First Time Visitors To WDW – Resort Edition

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Catie

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April 11, 2015

Last week I wrote about the best theme park restaurants for first timer travelers to WDW, all of which offer delicious meals that are great to grab while you’re at the Disney Parks – but there’s a whole other side to Disney Dining – so I invite you to step outside the Parks and head to one of these amazing WDW Resort Restaurants:

Boma: Head over to Disney’s beautiful Animal Kingdom Lodge for some authentic African cuisine. Not sure what “African Cuisine” entails? Well, here’s what you can expect at this bountiful buffet-style meal: fresh carved meats and fish, an assortment of soups and fresh salads, hummus and pitas, plenty of bobotie (a delicious quiche-like dish with spiced beef and lamb), and a large dessert selection too. The atmosphere is pretty amazing too – the restaurant looks out over the resort’s savannah area – where you can watch the animals graze – an animal lover’s dream come true! I recommend you spend some extra time at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge if you can – there are animal experts on hand to answer all your questions, and there’s a great bar and gift shop in the Resort lobby too – it’s a great place to visit (and to stay, too!)

Landscape of Flavors: Ok, so chances are pretty good that you won’t be frequenting this food-court style counter service restaurant unless you happen to be staying at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort – but if you get the chance, I highly recommend you grab a meal here (and if you’re staying here, which I also highly recommend, then grab a bunch of meals here!). Disney really tried some new and inventive things here – a gelato station, Mongolian grill station, different burger and sandwich options, and more – and their creativity has paid off in a big way – the food is fresh and well prepared, and everything I have had there has been super tasty – from the breakfast “burgers” to the freshly made naan bread to the smoothies – it’s all delicious and a definite change from typical “Theme Park food”

Beaches and Cream: You’ll find this little gem over at Disney’s Beach Club Resort, a soda shop straight out of the 1950’s – serving up burgers, salads, sandwiches, and of course – ICE CREAM – which is really the main attraction here. Classic banana splits, old-fashioned and specialty sundaes (like the No Way Jose – a peanut butter and hot fudge concoction that is to die for!), and the infamous Kitchen Sink are all on the menu – and you’ll definitely want to save room for the dessert here!

Chef Mickey’s: Take a monorail ride from the Magic Kingdom to Disney’s Contemporary Resort, where you can dine with the Mouse himself – in fact the Fab 5 is all here for breakfast and dinner – Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Goofy and Pluto circulate the dining room (in their chef’s gear!) for hugs, autographs, and photos. Kids (and adults) will love getting to interact with the characters, and since it’s a buffet-style meal, you can help yourself to as much food as you want! Breakfast offers a pretty standard assortment of Mickey waffles, eggs, potatoes, and fruit, and dinner includes Mickey shaped ravioli, carved meats, salads, and a kids station featuring Mickey mac and cheese and pizza. The food here is not gourmet by any means – but the buffet will please the picky eaters in your family, and there’s a make your own ice cream sundae bar for dessert – every kids dream come true!

Citricos: Another stop on the Magic Kingdom monorail route is Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort – a beautiful sprawling complex with a grand, Victorian air that is worth coming early for so you can take a stroll around the lushly landscaped grounds. This Resort is home to Citricos – a Mediterranean themed restaurant where you can dine in elegance and style on dishes like braised veal shank, wild striped bass, and oak-fired filet of beef. They have an award-winning wine list where you’re bound to find the perfect vino to pair with your meal, but don’t worry about bringing the kids here – as they have a kid’s menu too. You have to dress up a bit (basically the rules are no tank tops, cut offs, hats, or bathing suits, and anything else goes – but khakis for men and capris and a nice shirt for women seem to be the norm), but its worth it to experience all that this fine restaurant has to offer – and if you time it right, you can even catch a pretty good view of the Magic Kingdom’s nightly fireworks!

‘Ohana: Disney’s Polynesian Resort is a great place to stay – with its tropical theme and relaxed atmosphere, and they also have some pretty great places to eat there too! ‘Ohana is one of WDW’s more popular dining spots – they serve up breakfast and dinner “family style” – meaning not only do you get served as much food as you can handle, but they treat you like ‘family’ too – since “’Ohana means family, and family means no one gets left behind – or forgotten” – a famous line from Disney’s Lilo and Stitch that they take pretty seriously here! Breakfast comes complete with eggs, Mickey waffles, Hawaiian sweet breads, biscuits, fruit, sausage, bacon – and CHARACTERS – that’s right – Lilo, Stitch, Mickey and friends are on hand for hugs and photos, and what’s great about the “family style” setting is that the food is brought to you – no need to get up 10 times to go to the buffet and risk missing those precious moments with the characters. Dinner is not a character meal, but offers delicious grilled meats (shrimp, beef, chicken, and pork) along with noodles and veggies, and chicken wings and potstickers for appetizers. The food here was SO amazing – and the atmosphere was great too, a perfect place to unwind after a long day of touring the Parks

Whispering Canyon Café: Just take the boat over from the Magic Kingdom to Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Resort and you’ll have found the perfect place to take the kids for a fun meal! They serve up breakfast, lunch and dinner daily – and the menu is full of hearty styles fit for a hungry cowboy or cowgirl – from house made banana bread French toast and an all-you-care-to-enjoy breakfast skillet filled with eggs, potatoes, biscuits and sausage gravy on the morning menu, and then in the evening the skillet is still on the menu, but includes pulled pork and roast chicken, baked beans and mashed potatoes, and corn on the cob. Not in the mood for sharing a giant skillet? Then dig into entrees of steak, fish, and meatloaf – and make sure you order a milkshake here (they’re bottomless!). The best part about this restaurant is the atmosphere – the servers like to play little tricks on you, like bringing you 20 bottles of ketchup when you ask for some, and engaging you and your kids in pony races. It’s a loud, fun place to eat – and a must-do for first time visitors to WDW!

There are a LOT of Disney Dining options to choose from out there – so hopefully this list will help you first time visitors narrow it down and pick some fun and yummy places to eat!

Pinocchio Is Next In Line For Live Action Movie

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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April 10, 2015

Walt Disney Studios is taking all their classics out of the vault and turning them into live action movies. Along with the recent release of Cinderella and the announcement of many others, including Mulan, Winnie the Pooh, The Jungle Book, and Beauty and the Beast to name a few, now comes the story of our favorite wooden puppet that turns into a real boy!

Peter Hedges is taking the classic we are all familiar with and like the other live action movies, putting a bit of a twist into the story or rather focusing on a different part of the story – the relationship between Pinocchio and his father.

How will Disney portray Monstruo as a real live action character? Or turn little boys into donkeys? What about Pleasure Island? And of course, Jiminy Cricket needs to be front and center. Whether Walt Disney Studios uses real or CGI animals, it will be something still to be determined as with the other announcements, little is known except that Pinocchio and his band of fellow characters are coming our way!

Walt Disney Studios And IMAX Continue Partnership

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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April 10, 2015

Enjoy Star Wars Weekends with a Stay at The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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April 10, 2015

The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel is offering you the chance to enjoy the month-long Star Wars Weekends celebration at Hollywood Studios, May 15-June 15.

Guests staying at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin are within walking distance or short complimentary boat ride to all the festivities taking place at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Star Wars Weekends will be held every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, May 15-June 14. The 2015 event will feature Star Wars characters roaming the theme park for meet-and-greet opportunities, star conversations with Star Wars celebrities, a Star Wars motorcade through the park, interactive activities, exclusive merchandise and more.

In addition to staying within walking distance of Hollywood Studios, guests at the Epcot Resort-area hotel will receive exclusive theme park benefits, such as complimentary transportation throughout Walt Disney World Resort, Disney FastPass+ service, which allows you to reserve up to three select theme park experiences up to 60 days in advance of their visit, and the extended park hours benefit, which allows guests to spend extra time and enjoy select attractions in one of the four Walt Disney World Theme Parks each day.

For more details about savings at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel, visit www.swandolphin.com/offers. To make room reservations, call 1-800-227-1500 and mention “STARWARS.” Rates start at $185 per night. Taxes, resort services fee and gratuities not included. Not valid with any other special offers, promotions, or for existing reservations or groups; offer is based on rate schedule availability.

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Maria

I suspect this offer will be very popular. At World of Magic Travel Services we love to work our magic and make your vacations extra magical. If you would like to book this offer contact [email protected].

Disney Finds – Portable Stitch Speaker

By

Chip

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April 10, 2015

Everyone loved the Bluetooth Minnie Mouse Speaker I posted the other day and while I was on Amazon one of the recommended items was this little guy. The Stitch Mini Portable Speaker is as cute as he can be! At only $9 he would be great as a portable speaker to use around the house or on the go.

My 2 biggest complaints is that it takes batteries and that it isn’t bluetooth. Other than that you can’t be it for $9. Click here to learn more.

Before Tomorrow Land Coming to Bookstores Soon!

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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April 10, 2015

BEFORE TOMORROWLAND is a prequel novel to Walt Disney Studios’ Tomorrowland, which hits theaters on May 22, 2015. This all-new, original story comes straight from the minds of the film’s creators and gives readers a glimpse into the secrets behind the world of Tomorrowland.
The story begins in the year 1939, when a secret society of extraordinary geniuses is about to reveal an incredible discovery with the world. But a misguided enemy–half man, half machine–will stop at nothing to prevent the group from giving this forbidden knowledge to humanity. Meanwhile, a mother and son on vacation in New York City are handed a comic book infused with a secret code that will lead them straight into the crossfires of the conspiracy. Filled with action and adventure, BEFORE TOMORROWLAND will show the origins of how Tomorrowland came to be.

The book will also feature a 20-page full color comic insert, bringing to life the comic that plays an integral role in the story.

ABOUT THE AUTHORS

Brad Bird is the Academy Award winning writer and director known for hit films such as The Incredibles, Ratatouille, and The Iron Giant.

Damon Lindelof is the co-creator, executive producer, and head writer for the critically-acclaimed ABC show, Lost. He is also the writer of the 2006 comic book miniseries Ultimate Wolverine vs. Hulk.

Jeff Jensen is a senior writer for Entertainment Weekly. His true crime graphic novel, The Green River Killer: A True Detective Story garnered rave reviews, including the following quote from Stephen King: “Terrific. It’s got the scariest opening sequence I’ve read in years, and the novel as a whole makes compelling stay-up-late reading. Great, creepy stuff.”

Jonathan Case is an artist and writer based in Portland, Oregon. His work includes the graphic novel, Dear Creature, illustrations for the Batman ’66 comics, and art for multiple Dark Horse Comics publications, such as The Green River Killer, The Guild, and House of Night. His art is also featured in the Eisner Award-winning anthology, Comic Book Tattoo.

BEFORE TOMORROWLAND Written by Jeff Jensen and Jonathan Case; Story by Brad Bird, Damon Lindelof and Jeff Jensen; Illustrated by Jonathan Case Disney Press; Paper Over Board; $16.99 US/$17.99 CAN; Ages 12 and up; ISBN 978-1-4847-0421-9; eBook ISBN 978-1-4847-1160-6 ;( On sale: April 7, 2015)

Also available…

TOMORROWLAND JUNIOR NOVEL (original eBook) By Elizabeth Rudnick
Disney Press; original eBook; $5.99 US/$6.50 CAN; Ages 8–12; eBook
ISBN 978-1-4847-1123-1 On sale: May 19, 2015

Stay tuned for a review!

25 Ways to Do Walt Disney World Resort Alone and Have the Time of Your Life

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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April 10, 2015

I don’t know about you, but there is something so appealing about visiting Walt Disney World by myself. If visiting Walt Disney World Resort solo never crossed your mind, think again. There are so many ways to enjoy Disney’s world-class theme parks, resorts and more all by yourself.

Ride your favorite attraction more than once, shop till you drop, indulge in over-the-top treats, learn something new and make friends along the way.

Here are 25 ways you can discover another side of the magic on your own:

Epcot

Shopping. For all its great attractions, one reason for many to hit Epcot World Showcase is to shop. Spend an afternoon at your own pace browsing and buying. Pop into boutiques stocked with French perfumes (France pavilion), silk kimonos (Japan pavilion) and artisan crafts (Mexico pavilion). Solo shoppers have eight other countries brimming with authentic merchandise to explore.
Interactive Attractions. Many of Walt Disney World’s attractions are designed for interactive fun, so you won’t be a single rider in a space configured for two. Play interactive games along with others as you work your way through the waiting area to board Soarin’, a hang-gliding simulator experience over California, where the seating accommodates multiple riders.
Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival. Here’s an opportunity for those with a penchant for gardening to join others and hear horticulturists share their tips. Seminars are held throughout this spring festival, and speakers and topics change so you can pick and choose.
Epcot International Food & Wine Festival. Seminars, cooking demonstrations and wine tastings held throughout the park offer guests a chance to watch, listen and learn together, and since you’re seated next to others with the same interest, it’s easy to strike up a conversation. It’s an annual rite of fall at Walt Disney World Resort.
Food and Drink. There’s always room at the bar! So grab a beer and a bite at the Rose & Crown Pub in the United Kingdom pavilion. Known for drawing a rousing crowd, the pub is the place to make new friends and sing along with the piano player. If a tequila cocktail is more your thing, the La Cava del Tequila in the Mexico pavilion welcomes you— with a fine collection of tequilas, plus house-made guacamole.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Live Entertainment. Big spacious theaters at Disney’s Hollywood Studios make catching a show effortless. Choose from Beauty and the Beast – Live on Stage; “Lights, Motors, Action! Extreme Stunt Show” and the “Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular!”
Play cartoonist and draw up some fun. Take a drawing lesson with the pros at the Magic of Disney Animation. In a room tucked away from the crowd, artists teach you how to draw your favorite Disney character. Paper and pencils are provided, and you’ll walk away with artwork for your wall.
Daring Rides. If your past traveling mates were too chicken to ride two of Walt Disney World Resorts’ most thrilling attractions, now’s your chance to let loose alone on the “Twilight Zone Tower of Terror” and the “Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith.”
Sugar Fix. Indulge without feeling guilty and hit the sweet shop on Sunset Boulevard for those chocolate-covered Mickey pretzels, huge caramel apples with the works and other sugar-coated delights.
Be a History Buff. Hop aboard the Great Movie Ride to track Hollywood’s past through audio-animatronics, narration and film. Twentieth-century films from Tarzan the Ape Man and Casablanca to Alien and Raiders of the Lost Ark tell the history of the silver screen. Then poke into the attraction Walt Disney: One Man’s Dream. Artifacts, from early animation storyboards to Mickey Mouse Club props, and a film featuring an interview with Walt bring the legacy of the man behind the magic to life.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Architecture Buff. As you meander the park’s pathways, look up to check out the Asian- and African-inspired architecture of the buildings, where both authentic and whimsy are on display. Rustic temples with hammered copper detail resemble those found in the Himalayas while colorful folk-art carvings of lizards decorate rooftops.
Animal Sightings. Waiting for Mother Nature’s creatures to run, jump, play and eat sometimes requires patience. On your own, you can spend more than a few minutes observing the animals (population about 1,500). Start on the Pangani Forest Exploration Trail where a self-guided tour on foot provides the lowdown on the animals; highlights include picnicking gorillas and swimming hippos.
Broadway Style. Festival of the Lion King brings a bit of Broadway to Walt Disney World Resort. With so much eye-popping pageantry, music, dance and puppetry—innovative portrayals of Mufasa, Simba and other characters—to entertain you, who needs company? Another spectacular production you can enjoy on your own is Finding Nemo – The Musical.
Off the Beaten Path. Make new friends when you join a small intimate group on the Wild Africa Trek. With this premium add-on to a day at the park, a guide takes trekkers deep into the heart of the Africa section of the park for close-up visits with hippos, harnessed walks across swaying rope bridges with crocodiles looming below and Africa-inspired edibles overlooking the savanna.
For the Curious. A visit to the Conservation Station is a chance to learn what it takes to keep the animals happy and healthy, from hands-on veterinary care to nutrition as well as conservation efforts. Spend as long as you want here observing the professionals at work; experts provide answers and educate folks on how the animals in the park—and worldwide—are protected.

Magic Kingdom

Flashback! With a young-at-heart attitude, this is the place to relive childhood memories beginning with some of the longest-running attractions such as Pirates of the Caribbean and the Jungle Cruise.
Secret Stops. On your own time you can poke into spots off the beaten path of Main Street, U.S.A., including Harmony Barber Shop and The Chapeau, where you can get your name embroidered on a pair of ears inspired by you-know-who.
The Performers. Strolling the park you’ll come upon song and dance. Look for the Dapper Dans performing throwback tunes on Main Street, U.S.A. On the Castle forecourt stage, watch a full musical production with elaborate costumes, music, special effects and Disney characters from princesses and pirates to Mickey Mouse
Sightsee. Two relaxing, fun ways to see Magic Kingdom is (1) to take the complete looping excursion on Walt Disney World Railroad’s vintage steam train to get the lay of the land, and (2) board the elevated Tomorrowland Transit Authority People Mover for views from above the crowd.
Innovations. Trace the technological advances at the Magic Kingdom beginning with The Hall of Presidents where longtime audio-animatronic figures updated for the 21^st century create lifelike portrayals of the country’s 43 leaders. Then don a pair of “opera glasses” at Mickey’s PhilharMagic and be dazzled by the latest 3D effects played out on a huge wraparound screen as special effects tease the senses—plus music from the film Fantasia and more recent Disney hits.

Beyond the Parks

Spa-aaaaaah. After the theme parks, find R&R at one of the Senses spas. At the Saratoga Spring Resort & Spa, the choice signature treatment is the bamboo fusion massage, and at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, the duo aromatherapy massage and body wrap is sheer bliss.
Hone Your Golf Game. Taking a lesson with a PGA or LPGA pro at Disney’s Magnolia Golf Course is a great way to step up your game, or if you’d rather just work on your swing, grab a bucket of balls and hit the driving range at Disney’s Palm Golf Course. If the urge to play a round is too strong to resist, the staff will happily pair you with available golfers.
A Fresh-Air Stroll. Soak up the scene at Disney’s BoardWalk. Reminiscent of 1940s ocean-side entertainment, the wide waterfront promenade is designed for old-school fun with arcade games and vendors. Enjoy a margarita from Joe’s Marvelous Margaritas at an alfresco table or check out the home-brewed beers from a seat at the bar inside the Big River Grille & Brewing Works. Sing along with other guests at Jellyrolls piano bar or pop into the ESPN Club to join sports enthusiasts for the latest games.
Dream Car. It’s just you and your Lamborghini — or Ferrari or Porsche. Take your pick and then hop in one of these outrageously stylish and expensive cars with price tags in the six figures and go for a spin. At the Walt Disney World Speedway’s Exotic Driving Experience, it’s all about getting behind the wheel of the ultimate vehicle. A professional instructor sitting shotgun teaches you how to use the paddle shift as you hug the track’s curves and straightaway.
Show and Shop. Chances of finding the best seat in the house increase a hundredfold when you only need one ticket. Hit the theater in Downtown Disney for Cirque du Soleil’s La Nouba show and be mesmerized by the amazing acrobats and high-wire acts, surreal music and costumes that push the creative limits of the artists. Then browse the nearby shops for the ultimate Disney souvenir, from framed limited-edition prints of your favorite character to jewelry tastefully designed with – what else? – iconic Mouse ears.

Have you taken a solo trip to Disney World? What do you look forward to most when exploring Disney World alone? Make sure you let us know in the comments below!

Thanking of taking a solo trip to Walt Disney World? Let me help you make it a magical experience! I am a Travel Magician with World of Magic Travel, the preferred agency of Chip and the Disney Addicts. Email me today at [email protected] to start planning your “Magical” vacation!