Guests attempting to utilize the accessible parking area at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom often found themselves struggling to find a parking spot, as the number of spaces have historically been limited and filled quickly. Disney has addressed these concerns by adding an entire new section of accessible parking to the Zurg parking area.
The accessible parking expansion is located directly to the East of the original accessible parking area. The addition was placed in an area that previously contained Prime parking spots, and had traditionally been used as a defacto ‘overflow’ area for those seeking to use accessible parking but found the lot full.
The transformation of the previous parking spaces in this area to accessible parking ensures there are additional spots for those utilizing a lift van, ensuring all guests have the access needed to enjoy a magical day at Disney’s Magic Kingdom.
The Duke and Duchess Are Reunited: A Happy Haunting at Magic Kingdom’s Haunted Mansion
Fans of the Haunted Mansion at Magic Kingdom can finally breathe a sigh of relief – the Duchess has returned to join her beloved Duke! After a year-long absence, the ghostly couple has been reunited at their picnic table in the Graveyard scene, ready to once again enjoy their spectral wine and serenade guests with their posh rendition of “Grim Grinning Ghosts.”
The Duke and Duchess, so named for their distinctively refined singing voices (originally provided by Bill Lee and Betty Wand), have been a staple of the Haunted Mansion experience for years. Despite their sometimes-misattributed vocal tracks, these two British ghosts have charmed guests with their playful banter and eerie elegance.
The Duke’s return last week was met with excitement, but fans were left wondering where his companion had gone. Now, with the Duchess back by his side, the Haunted Mansion is truly complete. Their presence adds a touch of whimsy and romance to the otherwise spooky Graveyard scene, reminding us that even in the afterlife, love and companionship can endure.
So, next time you find yourself gliding through the Haunted Mansion, be sure to keep an eye out for the Duke and Duchess, enjoying their eternal picnic and adding a touch of spectral sophistication to the 999 happy haunts.
Muppet Labs Photo Op Removed from EPCOT Food & Wine Due to Guests Destroying Display
The International Food & Wine Festival debuted on August 29, 2024, with The Muppets Brew-Wing Lab in the Odyssey showcasing a novel and entertaining photo opportunity that was swiftly removed, having been available to guests for less than 72 hours.
Last year, the International Food & Wine Festival introduced the Brew-Wing Lab at the Odyssey, a popular destination for guests seeking air-conditioned comfort and culinary delights. The iconic and viral pickle milkshake made a triumphant return alongside a selection of spicy wings. The Odyssey, already a beloved spot with ample seating, gained even more popularity with the addition of The Muppets theme.
This year, a meticulously designed photo opportunity was installed beneath the screen at The Muppets Brew-Wing Lab, allowing guests to capture themselves participating in the culinary experience. However, due to numerous reports of unsupervised children mishandling props and causing damage to the set, Disney was forced to remove the photo op shortly after the festival commenced.
The only remnant of the photo opportunity is the spotlight, a poignant reminder for the select few guests who had the chance to experience this enhancement. While Disney is a place for enjoyment, it’s essential to maintain respect and preserve the environment for future visitors to enjoy.
All we have left for a Muppets photo op is a magic shot available outside of the Odyssey pavilion.
Did you get to enjoy the photo op inside the Brew-Wing Lab before it was removed?
Ready to explore the Epcot Food & Wine Festival? Let’s plan your magical vacation together! As a complimentary travel agent with Destinations to Travel, I’m here to assist you in creating an unforgettable experience.
Triple Digit Heat Wave Coming to Southern California and Disneyland this Week
Southern California is preparing for a scorching heat wave this week, with triple-digit temperatures expected to engulf much of the region. Driven by a combination of weak offshore winds and a heat dome hovering over the southwestern United States, temperatures are forecast to steadily rise throughout the week. By the weekend, parts of the Los Angeles Basin could experience temperatures as high as 113 degrees Fahrenheit, while the Coachella Valley could potentially reach a blistering 119 degrees.
“We are in what’s already the hottest time of the year climatically, and we are going to be 10 to 15 degrees above normal, in almost every area from the beach to the deserts,” said meteorologist Ryan Kittell of the National Weather Service’s Oxnard office.
Labor Day was already sweltering in many parts of Southern California. The San Gabriel Valley was expected to reach 100 degrees, while the western San Fernando Valley could experience temperatures as high as 103. Coastal neighborhoods in Los Angeles were anticipated to enjoy more moderate conditions in the 80s and low 90s.
Woodland Hills, renowned as the hottest area in Los Angeles, was forecast to have temperatures of up to 109 degrees on Tuesday, rising to 110 on Wednesday and peaking at 113 degrees on Thursday before dropping slightly to 111 degrees on Friday.
“The most densely populated parts of Ventura, L.A., Orange County and San Diego — really all those counties west of the mountains — saw a summer that was right in the middle of the historical distributions,” UCLA climate scientist Daniel Swain said.
While the peak of summer typically brings the hottest temperatures inland, coastal California often experiences its most scorching weather in September or October, as this week’s heat wave exemplifies.
The city will establish cooling centers throughout the city and “climate stations” specifically in Skid Row, offering residents cold drinks and shaded areas to escape the heat. The Department of Water and Power is proactively mitigating the risk of power outages and has crews on standby to address any potential service interruptions.
“Make plans now for how you are going to stay cool,” Kittell said.
Temperatures will experience a slight respite over the weekend, but the duration of the heat wave remains uncertain.
While uncomfortable, this week’s heat is not anticipated to break records. The record for the first week of September was established in 2020, when temperatures soared to 121 degrees Fahrenheit in Woodland Hills.
LEGO Disney Advent Calendar Brings Holiday Magic to Life
The countdown to Christmas just got a whole lot more exciting with the release of the new LEGO Disney Advent Calendar at the Disney Store. This charming calendar is filled with 24 delightful surprises, perfect for keeping little ones entertained and eager for the big day.
The LEGO Disney Advent Calendar is now available at the Disney Store online for $44.99. Don’t miss out on this must-have holiday gift!
Behind each of the 24 doors, kids will discover a fun-filled toy gift. From buildable items to adorable minifigures, there’s something special waiting for them every day. Five LEGO Disney micro doll figures, including Tiana, Ariel, Moana, Elsa, and Mirabel, will spark imaginative play. And with the addition of Snowgie, Sven, and Pua minifigures, the possibilities for adventure are endless.
But that’s not all! The calendar itself transforms into a magical game board, taking kids on an exciting journey to the Disney Castle. As they explore the board, they’ll encounter familiar characters and discover hidden treasures.
With so much to make, create, and play with, the LEGO Disney Advent Calendar is sure to bring holiday cheer to any home. It’s the perfect way to make the countdown to Christmas extra special and create lasting memories.
A Taste of Magic: Exclusive Annual Passholder Food and Wine Merchandise at EPCOT
EPCOT is gearing up for another exciting Annual Passholder Food and Wine Festival merchandise collection that is sure to delight fans. Featuring iconic characters like Mickey, Minnie, and Figment, these exclusive items are a must-have for any Annual Passholder.
For those who love a casual look with a touch of Disney magic, the Mickey and Minnie Annual Passholder Tee is a perfect choice. Priced at $34.99, this gray tee showcases Mickey and Minnie enjoying a picnic at the World Showcase, with Spaceship Earth as the stunning backdrop. The phrase “Taste your way around the world” adds a festive touch, making it a great souvenir from the festival.
Complete your festival look with the stylish Annual Passholder Hat. This black baseball cap features a patch on the front featuring Chef Figment indulging in a delicious treat, along with Epcot icons and the festival logo. Priced at $29.99, this hat is both functional and fashionable.
Collectors will love the Figment Passholder Pin and Mickey & Minnie Passholder Pin. Both pins feature the same artwork as their corresponding apparel items, making them the perfect additions to any pin collection. Priced at $19.99 each, these pins are a must-have for Annual Passholders.
Remember: To purchase these exclusive items, you’ll need to show your Annual Pass at checkout. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to add a touch of magic to your wardrobe and commemorate your visit to the Annual Passholder Food & Wine Festival.
Remy Food and Wine Festival Lug Bag: A Must-Have for Epcot Foodies
Get ready to add a touch of culinary charm to your Disney adventures! The latest addition to the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival merchandise lineup is sure to be a hit with food enthusiasts: the Remy Food and Wine Festival Lug Bag.
This adorable and functional bag is the perfect way to carry your festival snacks, souvenirs, and essentials while exploring the world-class cuisine at Epcot. Priced at $65, the bag features a charming design featuring a smiling Remy, the beloved rat from the movie Ratatouille.
The blue/gray color scheme gives the bag a sophisticated look, while the main zipper compartment and smaller front pocket provide ample storage space for your belongings. The back of the bag proudly displays the Lug logo and the inscription “EPCOT International Food and Wine Festival 2024” in black and white embroidery, making it a collectible item for Disney fans.
One of the standout features of this Lug bag is its detachable strap, offering versatility and convenience. Whether you prefer to carry it on your shoulder or by the handles, you can customize your carrying style to suit your needs.
Don’t miss out on this must-have accessory for your next Epcot visit! The Remy Food and Wine Festival Lug Bag is available for purchase at Epcot, so be sure to stop by and grab yours before they’re gone.
Transform Your Shower into a Magical Experience with the New Harry Potter Body Wash Collector’s Set
Immerse yourself in the wizarding world with the enchanting new Harry Potter Body Wash Collector’s Set. This limited-edition set features four luxurious body washes, each inspired by a different Hogwarts class. With their captivating scents and powerful natural ingredients, these body washes will turn your shower into a magical experience.
The Harry Potter Body Wash Collector’s Set is available exclusively at the Every Man Jack website for $44.99.
Potions: Zesty Lemon, Crisp Greens, Jasmine and Berries
Defense Against the Dark Arts: Black Pepper, Dark Pine and Charcoal
Herbology: Fresh Herbs, Earthy Rhubarb and Peppered Sage
Each body wash contains Glycerin, a powerhouse ingredient that draws moisture to the skin and hair for super hydration. And Sodium Coco-Sulfate, a coconut derived ingredient that provides foam to cleanse skin gently.
Every Man Jack is a leading brand of men’s grooming products. They are committed to using only the finest natural ingredients in their products. Every Man Jack products are also cruelty-free and vegan.
The Harry Potter Body Wash Collector’s Set is the perfect gift for any fan of the wizarding world. With its luxurious scents and powerful natural ingredients, this set will make your shower a truly magical experience.
Spooky Style: Nightmare Before Christmas Apparel at Hot Topic!
Get ready to haunt your wardrobe with these new Nightmare Before Christmas apparel from Hot Topic! From backpacks to plush toys, there’s something for every fan of Tim Burton’s iconic Halloween classic.
Let’s start with the Jack & Sally Pumpkins Mini Backpack ($34.99), this adorable mini backpack features chibi Jack and Sally surrounded by pumpkins and Sally’s apothecary jars. Perfect for carrying your graveyard date essentials! Another fun option is the Jack & Sally Pin Collector Coffin Mini Backpack ($31.93), you can show off your love for The Nightmare Before Christmas with this coffin-shaped mini backpack featuring Jack, Sally, and Zero. The front has a pin collector panel and comes with a Deadly Nightshade enamel pin.
These Nightmare Before Christmas items are the perfect way to add a touch of spooky style to your wardrobe. Head to Hot Topic today to shop the collection!
A Fromage Montage: A Cheesy Adventure at Epcot’s Food & Wine Festival
Cheese lovers, rejoice! The EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival is back, and this year’s Fromage Montage is sure to be a cheesy delight. We teamed up with Remi’s brother Emile for a delightful stroll around Epcot, indulging in a Fromage Montage at the International Food & Wine Festival!
Emile’s Fromage Montage is a special cheese crawl that allows you to explore the festival’s best cheese-inspired dishes. By trying at least five participating food items, you’ll earn a stamp on your festival passport. Once you’ve collected five stamps, you’ll receive an exclusive prize at Shimmering Sips Marketplace hosted by CORKCICLE.
They were all amazing but I’d have to say the Cheesecake was our absolute favorite! So decadent and unique!
These are just a few of the many cheesy delights waiting for you at this year’s festival. So, grab your passport, explore the culinary world of Epcot, and embark on a Fromage Montage you won’t forget!
The Fry Basket is Back! Indulge in Flavorful Fries
The Fry Basket is back by popular demand, serving up some of the most delicious fries we’ve ever had! Whether you’re craving classic flavors or something a bit more adventurous, The Fry Basket has something to satisfy every palate.
Fry Flight: Experience a trio of delicious fries with the Fry Flight. Enjoy Truffle-Parmesan Fries, Barbeque Bacon Fries with Smoked Aioli, and Sweet Potato Casserole Fries.
Sweet Potato Casserole Fries: Sweet potato fries are topped with a sweet and savory sweet potato casserole mixture, pecans, toasted marshmallow cream, and a hint of bourbon and maple syrup.
The Fry Basket is located in World Discovery, across from Refreshment Station.
Prices:
Adobo Yuca Fries: $5.75
Fry Flight: $8
We tried an order of Yuca Fries and a fry flight and they were amazing! It was plenty to share between 2 people. They were all different and delicious, but our favorite had to be the Yuca Fries!
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to indulge in these delectable fries! Visit The Fry Basket today at Epcot’s International Food & Wine Festival and treat yourself to a truly unforgettable culinary experience!
Hilton New York Times Square Unveils The Lion King Royal Suite
Hilton New York Times Square announced the extension of its collaboration with Disney Theatrical Group by introducing a unique accommodation experience – The Lion King Royal Suite. Designed by renowned Broadway dressing room designer Devin Sparkles Design, the suite is a tribute to Disney’s acclaimed Broadway production, The Lion King.
Guests staying in this immersive suite will be transported to the heart of Pride Rock, all from the comfort of their room. The suite’s design is inspired by the iconic imagery and themes of The Lion King, offering a unique and unforgettable stay for fans of the show.
The hotel’s prime location, just three blocks from the Minskoff Theatre, where The Lion King is performed, makes it even more convenient for guests to experience the magic of Broadway. This collaboration between Hilton New York Times Square and Disney Theatrical Group promises to elevate the guest experience for theater-goers and Disney enthusiasts alike.
“Each detail of THE LION KING’s Royal Suite has been meticulously curated to create a truly one-of-a-kind experience completely inspired by Disney Theatrical Group’s iconic musical,” said Thomas Caska, general manager, Hilton New York Times Square. “At Hilton New York Times Square, we’re committed to providing guests and families with an innovative stay from check-in to check-out. Whether guests are staying with us to experience either of our two Disney on Broadway suites, witness the magic of the theatre or simply take in all that Times Square has to offer, our property offers a memorable home away from home in the heart of the Big Apple.”
The awe-inspiring spacious one-king one-bedroom deluxe suite allows guests to experience the peace and beauty of the Pride Lands. Upon arrival to the suite, guests are immediately transported to the Serengeti with details paying homage to Disney’sTHE LION KING on Broadway, including large woven basket art, plants nodding to the sweeping grass that spreads across Africa’s plains, hand-painted Rafiki-inspired patterns that embellish the room’s furnishings and a large Rafiki sketch print framing the suite’s entryway. Guests will also encounter fabrics used in the musical displayed on soft goods including rugs, pillows and bedding, with wood touches decorating the space.
Throughout the suite, Pan-Asian-inspired woven baskets adorn the walls, bird puppets fly from the ceiling and hand-painted patterned chairs provide a soft place for guests to land while taking in framed costume sketches from the musical throughout the suite. In the bathroom, guests will find a lush, vibrant jungle oasis with artificial plants, contrasted by the warm Serengeti elements in the room.
THE LION KING’s Royal Suite experience package includes:
One round of two Hakuna Manhattan cocktails or two Serengeti Sunrise mocktails
A wake-up call from the Broadway musical’s own Rafiki, Tshidi Manye
A thematic sleep mask, specialty memento item – a one-of-a-kind autographed costume rendering from one of the musical’s actors, and complimentary Disney’s THE LION KING on Broadway merchandise
Thematic Simba S’mores dessert amenity
Daily full breakfast buffet for two people
Daily parking
Available for purchase, guests staying in the suite will receive access to a special rate exclusive to guests of this suite for Premium Seats for Disney’s THE LION KING on Broadway.
Available now, guests can visit the hotel’s website, contact [email protected] or call (212) 913-9488 to reserve the suite. Rates for THE LION KING’s Royal Suite start from $500 per night. Terms and conditions apply.
During their stay, guests can also experience the hotel’s reimagined lobby and food and beverage offerings. Designed by Chicago-based firm, The Gettys Group, the interior public space design is inspired by old and new NYC – The Gilded Age meets MoMA in the heart of Times Square. Upon arrival to the hotel, the transformed ground and sky lobbies feature seasonal art installations curated by Celine Mo of Dinner Gallery, a contemporary gallery dedicated to developing and presenting emerging artists.
As guests take the journey to the sky lobby 15 floors above Times Square, they will be welcomed into a brand-new bar and lounge, 42nd & Sky, which overlooks Times Square and features craft cocktails and an elevated bar menu from Executive Chef Jason Routzahn. Here, guests can also indulge in the Hakuna Manhattan and Serengeti Sunrise. Additionally, the hotel has introduced Long Acre Market, an expansive gourmet market with a barista bar featuring La Colombe products, as well as freshly made and made-to-order breakfast, lunch and dinner items.
For fans of Disney’s THE LION KING on Broadway, all guests of Hilton New York Times Square can celebrate the magic of the show and enjoy the musical-inspired thematic cocktails, a Rafiki wake-up call upon request and purchase special merchandise from the show at Long Acre Market.
THE LION KING’s Royal Suite complements the hotel’s Aladdin’s Times Square Palace Suite celebrating Disney’s Aladdin the Musical. The suite launched last July also in partnership with Disney Theatrical Group and is designed by Devin Sparkles Design. Hilton offers several themed suites across its properties globally, and these two showcase why it matters where guests stay when visiting The Crossroads of the World.
Hilton New York Times Square participates in Hilton Honors, the award-winning guest loyalty program for Hilton’s 24 world-class brands. The hotel is located at 234 West 42nd Street, New York, New York 10036. For reservations, please visit Hilton.com or call (212) 913-9488.
