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State Agreement Requires Disneyland to Retire Gas-Powered Autopia Cars by February 2027

State Agreement Requires Disneyland to Retire Gas Powered Autopia Cars by February

Disneyland Faces February 2027 Deadline to Ditch Gas Engines on Autopia

Disneyland has been given a firm deadline to phase out the traditional gas-powered vehicles on Autopia, with a mandate requiring the classic Tomorrowland attraction to officially transition away from gasoline engines by February 1, 2027.

State Agreement Requires Disneyland to Retire Gas Powered Autopia Cars by February

According to KTLA, an agreement with the California Air Resources Board mandates that Disneyland must retire its current fleet of gas-powered Autopia vehicles by February 1, 2027.

This deadline offers the most definitive timeline to date for the future of the classic Tomorrowland attraction, which Disneyland had previously confirmed will be converted to feature entirely electric vehicles.

Disneyland officials have already shared that the resort is actively designing, engineering, and testing a fully electric prototype for the ride. Although the attraction is slated to undergo a major update as part of this eco-friendly overhaul, Disneyland has not yet announced an official closing date for the conversion or a timeline for when the ride will reopen to guests.

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The February 2027 deadline is the result of a 2024 settlement reached between Disneyland and the California Air Resources Board. Disneyland paid a $56,250 penalty following a disclosure that the Honda engines used for the attraction were running without certified emissions controls. Resort officials noted that the situation stemmed from an administrative oversight, which was subsequently corrected without causing any environmental impact.

Under the terms of the agreement, Disneyland committed to phasing out the existing gas-powered engines and transitioning the ride to electric vehicles. Autopia has utilized gasoline-powered cars since its debut on Disneyland’s opening day in 1955. As one of the park’s few remaining original opening-day experiences, the classic attraction allows guests to steer vehicles along a guided scenic roadway through Tomorrowland.

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The transition to electric vehicles also aligns with the Disneyland Resort’s broader commitment to environmental sustainability. The resort has established a goal to achieve net zero emissions by 2030 and continues to invest in cleaner energy and eco-friendly initiatives throughout the entire property.

Ready to book your next visit to Disneyland? Contact our partners at Get Away Today!

Barack and Michelle Obama’s Higher Ground and Disney Developing Animated Fantasy Series

Disney Partners with Barack and Michelle Obama's Higher Ground for Upcoming Animated Fantasy Project

Disney and the Obamas’ Higher Ground Team Up for Animated Fantasy Show

An original animated fantasy series entitled Journey is in development from Higher Ground and Disney, slated to stream exclusively on Disney+. The creative production company behind the project, Higher Ground, was founded by former President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama.

Related – National Geographic’s Tucci in Great Britain is coming soon to Disney+

Disney Partners with Barack and Michelle Obama's Higher Ground for Upcoming Animated Fantasy Project

The newly greenlit show will mark the first project for Higher Ground since it became an independent entity from Netflix. The series was created by Matt Munn, whose prior credits include Spies in DisguiseFerdinand, and The Peanuts Movie. The narrative centers on a young heroine named Journey who is forced to venture outside the safety of her home after its protective energy shield fails.

Ayo Davis, president of Disney Kids & Family, praised the project in a statement, describing Journey as an epic adventure anchored by a remarkable young heroine whose courage inspires those around her. Davis added that at its core, the series is a story about resilience, self-discovery, and the power of believing in something bigger than oneself—universal themes that have defined Disney stories for generations.

Disney Partners with Barack and Michelle Obama's Higher Ground for Upcoming Animated Fantasy Project

Munn will serve as an executive producer alongside Steve Loter, known for Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur and Kim Possible. They are joined by Jessie Dicovitsky, who executive-produces on behalf of Higher Ground.

Dicovitsky, who serves as the Head of Television for Higher Ground, noted that by combining adventure, imagination, and music, Journey is a true original that takes bold swings. She expressed pride in partnering with Disney on the fantastical series, noting that it builds on Higher Ground’s history of delivering fun and meaningful stories for kids and families. The production company’s previous animation portfolio includes projects such as We the People and Ada Twist, Scientist.

What do you think about this new show?

Not to be Missed Toy Story 5 Food, Drinks and Novelties at Disney World & Disneyland

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The Ultimate Toy Story 5 Food, Drinks, and Novelties Coming to Disney Parks

Disney Parks are bringing the magic of the toy box to life with an exciting new lineup of Toy Story 5 themed food and beverage options at both Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resort. Guests can look forward to a playful variety of character-inspired treats, colorful specialty drinks, and must-have collectible novelty items that celebrate Woody, Buzz, and the rest of the gang.

Toy Story 5

Saddle up for a salty snack with the all-new Bullseye Bucket, available starting June 18 at Disneyland Resort in Disney California Adventure park and coming soon to Walt Disney World at Magic Kingdom and Disney’s Hollywood Studios (limit two per person, per transaction; available while supplies last). Modeled like everyone’s favorite loyal steed from Toy Story, this fun collectible is the perfect way to bring a little Wild West charm to your snack time.

Guests can enjoy a lineup of returning Toy Story-inspired treats at Disneyland Resort, including a Forky Cake Pop available at Bing Bong’s Sweet Stuff in Disney California Adventure, plus a Moonliner Macaron and The Green Drink at Alien Pizza Planet in Disneyland park. Plus, the Little Green Men Jetpack Sipper has touched down in both Tomorrowland in Disneyland park and Pixar Pier in Disney California Adventure. Talk about an out-of-this-world way to stay refreshed!

There’s even more to discover over at Walt Disney World. From the Yodel-ay-hee-hoo! Cheesecake at Amorette’s Patisserie in Disney Springs to the Lilypad Lunch Box Tart at Woody’s Lunch Box in Disney’s Hollywood Studios, themed treats are popping up across the resort.

Which item(s) do you want to try? If you’d like to book your next Disney vacation, contact our partners at Get Away Today!

Multiverse Collision! Magic: The Gathering Marvel Super Heroes Takes Over Disney Store Times Square!

The Gathering Marvel Super Heroes

Multiverse Collision! Magic: The Gathering Marvel Super Heroes Takes Over Disney Store Times Square!

If you happen to be walking through Times Square, prepare to see two massive fandoms collide in the best way possible. The Disney Store Times Square is pulling out all the stops for an epic in-store celebration to mark the highly anticipated launch of Magic: The Gathering Marvel Super Heroes. Whether you are a seasoned planeswalker or a casual Marvel fan who has never picked up a trading card in your life, it is time to assemble your crew and check out the action.

Related – Shopping the Magic: Everything You Need to Know About Disney Store Times Square

The Gathering Marvel Super Heroes

The event organizers are ensuring nobody walks away empty handed. Just for showing up, attendees score a free welcome deck at the door to jump start their collection. Even better, if you pick up any Magic product during your visit, you will snag an exclusive promo card to flex during your next match. If the thought of deck building sounds a bit intimidating, do not sweat it; the welcome decks feature beginner friendly formats packed with already revealed cards, meaning you can open the box and start playing immediately.

The Gathering Marvel Super Heroes

For those completely new to the game, the store is hosting “Learn to Play” tables all day long. Friendly, knowledgeable hosts will be on standby to guide you through the basics and run interactive demos, taking you from a total novice to a confident player in a flash. Beyond the tabletop action, comic and card art enthusiasts are in for a massive treat. Acclaimed artists David Polabo and Jim Cheung, the masterminds behind some of the collection’s stunning visual components, are hanging out in the upstairs gazebo from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. for exclusive postcard signing sessions.

The immersive experience wraps up with plenty of fun fan perks. You can strike a pose at a specially themed in-store photo op to upgrade your social media feed, connect with fellow Marvel and TCG fans, and grab a unique souvenir S.H.I.E.L.D. dossier to take home. It is a fantastic opportunity to get an up close look at the fresh artwork, products, and brand-new gameplay mechanics before anyone else.

The Gathering Marvel Super Heroes

The launch event takes over the Disney Store Times Square during regular store hours on Friday, June 19, serving as the ultimate preview party before the full set officially drops on June 26. If you cannot make it out to the heart of New York City, you do not have to miss out on the action entirely. Magic: The Gathering | Marvel Super Heroes is currently available for preorder at local game shops, Amazon, TCGplayer, and anywhere else Magic cards are sold.

Credit: Disney Parks

Animals at Disney Takes Over Dr. Mark Penning’s Social Media Channels

Animals at Disney Takes Over Dr Mark Penning's Social Media Channels

‘Animals at Disney’ Rebrands Dr. Mark Penning’s Channels

The Animals at Disney initiative is taking center stage as the social media account previously operated by former Disney executive Dr. Mark Penning enters a new chapter.

Related – Dr Mark Penning Retires as Vice President of Disney Animals Science and Environment

Animals at Disney Takes Over Dr Mark Penning's Social Media Channels

In a recent video shared on Instagram, Dr. Mark Penning announced that his longtime social media platform will officially transition to @AnimalsAtDisney following his retirement from The Walt Disney Company.

Over the years, the account has established itself as a highly popular destination for updates on animal births, global conservation efforts, advanced veterinary care, and exclusive behind-the-scenes stories from across the Walt Disney World Resort and beyond. Penning consistently utilized his platform to showcase the incredible dedication of Disney’s animal care teams while sharing engaging photos and videos of the thousands of unique animals under Disney’s stewardship.

Animals at Disney Takes Over Dr Mark Penning's Social Media Channels

While the account’s name is changing, Disney indicated that the core focus of the page will remain the same. Future posts will continue to spotlight Disney’s animals, animal care experts, conservation initiatives, and environmental stewardship efforts.

The transition follows Penning’s retirement from Disney earlier this year. It was recently announced that he would be stepping into a new role as the director of the North Carolina Zoo.

This Nightmare Before Christmas Stained Glass Backpack Is Simply Meant to Be in Your Closet!

Nightmare Before Christmas Stained Glass Backpack

This Nightmare Before Christmas Stained Glass Backpack Is Simply Meant to Be in Your Closet!

Boys and girls of every age, wouldn’t you like to see something strange? If your wardrobe is feeling a little dead, it’s time to wake up the dead and make some room in your closet! The The Nightmare Before Christmas Stained Glass Backpack is finally here, and honestly, it is simply meant to be in your collection. This stunning Loungefly style piece is a BoxLunch Gifts exclusive that retails for $84.90, and it is worth every single penny for anyone who loves a good holiday mashup.

Related – Best Day Ever! The New BoxLunch Exclusive Tangled Sketched Collection Has Arrived

This debossed mini backpack features your favorite Halloween Town residents framed beautifully amid vibrant, faux-stained glass details. The color combination is absolutely bone-chilling in the best way possible, mixing eerie gothic vibes with a gorgeous pop of color that ensures you’ll stand out, whether you’re strolling through Christmas Town or just hitting up your local mall. The stained glass portraits of Jack, Sally, and the rest of the crew make this bag a stunning and unique piece that will absolutely turn heads.

It is so gourd-geous, it’ll practically skele-run right out of stores, so you definitely don’t want to lose your head by waiting too long to grab one. Whether you’re filling it with tricks, treats, or just your daily essentials, this bag is a total scream. Head over to BoxLunch and snag yours before Oogie Boogie gambles it away!

Credit: Boxlunch Gifts

Best Day Ever! The New BoxLunch Exclusive Tangled Sketched Collection Has Arrived

Tangled Sketched Collection

Best Day Ever! The New BoxLunch Exclusive Tangled Sketched Collection Has Arrived

If you’ve been waiting for the perfect reason to add some fresh magic to your collection, BoxLunch just dropped an absolute dream of a release. The new Loungefly Disney Tangled Sketched Collection has officially arrived, and because it is a BoxLunch Gifts exclusive, you won’t find these gorgeous pieces anywhere else. Featuring beautiful sketch style artwork, delicate textures, and a heavy dose of Corona charm, this lineup is a must have for your next park day or daily routine.

Related – Add a Touch of Fairytale Magic to Your Style With The Girls Crew Fantasyland Castle Jewelry

First up is the showstopper: the Tangled Rapunzel Sketched Mini Backpack ($84.90). This bag is packed with intricate detailing that completely captures the romantic aesthetic of the film. Rapunzel takes center stage surrounded by stunning appliqué floating lanterns, embroidered florals, and premium embossed details that give the bag beautiful texture. But the magic is really in the hidden details. If you check out the side panel, you’ll find a charming portrait of Flynn Rider, and the back features an adorable painting brush graphic that nods perfectly to Rapunzel’s artistic spirit.

Of course, no bag is complete without the ultimate matching accessory. Enter the Tangled Pascal Sketched Zip Wallet ($39.90), starring everyone’s favorite sassy sidekick. The front showcases a bold Pascal appliqué sitting perfectly amidst lovely embroidered details. It is the absolute cutest way to keep your cards and cash organized while keeping the Corona vibes strong.

Tangled Sketched Collection

Whether you treat yourself to the backpack, the wallet, or secure both as the ultimate matching set, this exclusive collection is bound to fly off the shelves. Head over to BoxLunch to grab yours before they vanish into the lantern lit sky!

Credit: BoxLunch Gifts

New Drink Menu Debuts at Satu’li Canteen in Disney’s Animal Kingdom

New Drink Menu Debuts at Satu'li Canteen in Disney's Animal Kingdom ()

Satu’li Canteen Debuts Refreshing New Drink Menu

Satu’li Canteen at Disney’s Animal Kingdom has completely refreshed its drink menu, dropping its previous wine options entirely in favor of an all-new selection of rum-based cocktails. Perfect for cooling off in the park, these new alcoholic additions are conveniently available all day long across the breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus.

As part of the menu refresh, two Banshee selections—the Chardonnay and the Pinot Noir, which were both priced at $14—have been officially removed from the lineup. Taking their place is a quartet of creative, rum-infused alcoholic beverages, each available for $15.50:

  • Chai Cold Brew with Rum: An adventurous blend combining spiced rum, triple sec, mango purée, orange juice, chamoy, and ginger beer. It is served in a distinct chili-lime-rimmed glass and beautifully garnished with a dehydrated blood orange wheel.
  • Cold Brew with Rum and Sweet Cream: A classic and refreshing pick featuring rich Joffrey’s cold brew coffee mixed with velvety sweet cream and topped with a smooth float of Bacardí Silver Rum.
  • Ube Cold Brew with Rum: A vibrant, eye-catching purple treat that layers Joffrey’s cold brew coffee with earthy ube sweet cream. It is finished with a butterfly pea whipped topping and a sprinkle of freeze-dried raspberries, all elevated by a float of Bacardí Silver Rum.
  • Pandoran Sunrise with Rum: A tropical, boozy spin on a park favorite, blending DOLE pineapple juice and Minute Maid limeade with the fruity flavors of melon and fruit punch POWERADE, all crowned with Bacardí Superior Rum.
New Drink Menu Debuts at Satu'li Canteen in Disney's Animal Kingdom ()

For guests looking to skip the alcohol, Satu’li Canteen has introduced a new Specialty Chai Cold Brew ($6.29). This refreshing non-alcoholic option blends chai tea, oat milk, and Joffrey’s cold brew, all beautifully finished with a dollop of whipped cream and a dusting of chai spice.

However, the menu refresh does mean saying goodbye to a few favorites. Along with the departure of the wine options, both the Specialty Cold Brew Flight ($9.29) and the Specialty Matcha Cold Brew ($6.29) have been officially removed from the lineup. On the bright side, the popular Ube Cold Brew is sticking around, though it features a newly reformulated recipe that swaps in ube sweet cream and a striking butterfly pea tea whipped topping, sprinkled with vibrant freeze-dried raspberries.

New Drink Menu Debuts at Satu'li Canteen in Disney's Animal Kingdom ()

On the food side of the menu, a savory new option has arrived for lunch and dinner. Guests can now order the Spicy Pork Steamed “Pods” ($14.29), which come served with a side of crispy root vegetable chips and a refreshing, crunchy vegetable slaw.

Which drink do you want to try first? Contact our partners at Get Away Today to get your next visit booked!

Our Honest Review of Universal Kids Resort Ahead of Its July 1 Opening

Universal Kids Resort

Our Review: Is Universal Kids Resort Worth Visiting?

Universal Kids Resort

Universal Kids Resort officially opens on July 1, 2026, but we were invited to Frisco, Texas for a special media preview to experience the park before opening day. Since this was a preview event, some attractions, entertainment offerings, operations, and other elements may change before guests arrive next month.

Related: Stranger Things 5 Haunted House Coming to Halloween Horror Nights

Universal Kids Resort

After spending time exploring the park, riding attractions, sampling the food, and taking in everything Universal has created, one thing became very clear: Universal Kids Resort knows exactly who its audience is. This isn’t Universal Orlando. It isn’t Epic Universe. And it isn’t trying to be. Instead, this is a park designed specifically for younger children and their families, with what we believe is a sweet spot of kids under the age of 8.

The park itself is relatively compact, which may actually be one of its biggest strengths. Parents of young children know that spending an entire day trekking across a massive theme park can sometimes be exhausting. Universal Kids Resort offers a more manageable footprint that allows families to experience most of the park without feeling like they’re running a marathon in the Texas heat. That said, we did find ourselves wishing there was more shade throughout the park.

Universal Kids Resort

While some areas provide relief from the sun, additional covered spaces and mature landscaping would go a long way toward improving the overall guest experience. Some sections of the park also felt a bit light on theming compared to what many guests have come to expect from the Universal name, especially given the incredible theming throughout Epic Universe as well as the theming in many of the lands at Islands of Adventure.

When it comes to attractions, younger guests are absolutely the stars of the show. Families will find several fun rides, play areas, splash zones, character encounters, and live entertainment offerings spread throughout the park. Older kids, teens, and adults may not find a lot of must-do attractions, but that’s by design. Universal built this park around kids first, and it shows in nearly every decision throughout the resort.

One area where Universal truly exceeded our expectations was the food. The dining options were a pleasant surprise and easily one of the highlights of our visit. Parents will likely appreciate the variety and quality of offerings available throughout the park while their kids are busy meeting favorite characters and enjoying attractions. In a park built for children, it’s nice to see that the adults weren’t forgotten when it came to dining.

The biggest factor in determining whether Universal Kids Resort is worth visiting may ultimately be the price. If Universal were charging Orlando-style theme park prices, this would probably be a much tougher recommendation. However, with tickets starting at just $55, the value proposition becomes much more appealing. For families with young children looking for a fun day out together, we can absolutely see Universal Kids Resort finding its audience.

At the end of the day, Universal Kids Resort isn’t trying to compete with Universal Orlando’s blockbuster attractions or the absolutely beautiful Epic Universe. It’s a smaller-scale experience designed specifically for younger kids, and viewed through that lens, it largely succeeds. While we’d love to see additional shade, more immersive theming in certain areas, and continued growth as the resort matures, we think many families with younger children will have a genuinely good time here.

Related: All-New Merch Inspired by Stranger Things Halloween Horror Nights Haunted House

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Would we travel across the country just to visit Universal Kids Resort? Probably not. But if you’re in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, or have kids who fall squarely into that under-8 age range, this could be a fun family outing that delivers exactly what it promises.

And if you’re planning a visit after the park officially opens on July 1, be sure to contact our friends at Get Away Today for help planning your Universal vacation adventures.

We would be remiss if we did not thank Universal for their hospitality in hosting us at Universal Kids Resort!

@chipandcompany

✨ A little bit of everything from an unforgettable time at Universal Kids Resort. 10/10 recommend! 🌟🏨 #UniversalKids #FamilyTime #AdventureAwaits #UniversalKidsResort @Universal Kids Resort

♬ original sound – Nostalgia Reviver

Disney World Annual Passholder Good-to-Go Days Return for Summer 2026

Disney World Annual Passholder Good to Go Days Return for Summer

Walt Disney World Adds First Summer 2026 Good-to-Go Days for Annual Passholders

Walt Disney World Annual Passholders have a few more reasons to celebrate this summer. Disney has added the first Good to Go Days of the 2026 summer season, giving eligible Passholders the chance to visit the parks without needing to make a park reservation on select dates.

Related: Meet the Disney Imagineering Team Behind Cinderella Castle’s Royal Makeover

Disney World Annual Passholder Good to Go Days Return for Summer

The newly announced Good to Go Days are June 25, June 28, and June 29. These dates mark the return of the reservation-free benefit after a stretch without any available Good to Go dates and could provide a welcome bit of flexibility for Passholders looking to squeeze in a summer park visit.

For those unfamiliar with the program, Good to Go Days allow Annual Passholders to enter Walt Disney World theme parks without securing a park reservation in advance. Standard pass blockout dates and park capacity limits still apply, but on designated Good to Go Days, Passholders can simply head to the parks and enjoy their day without the extra planning step. If you already have a park reservation booked for a date that later becomes a Good to Go Day, Disney automatically removes the reservation and it no longer counts toward your reservation hold limit.

Disney World Annual Passholder Good to Go Days Return for Summer

Disney has released Good to Go Days throughout 2026, with dates appearing in January, February, March, April, and now June. Additional dates could be added later in the year depending on projected attendance levels.

Passholders also have another option for reservation-free visits. Annual Passholders can enter any Walt Disney World theme park after 2 p.m. without a reservation, except for Magic Kingdom on Saturdays and Sundays, where reservations are still required before 2 p.m.

Related: New Lounge and Shopping Experience Coming to Disney’s Boardwalk

Disney World Annual Passholder Good to Go Days Return for Summer

If you’ve been waiting for the perfect excuse to make a spontaneous Disney day happen, these new summer Good to Go Days may be just the ticket. And when you’re ready to plan your next Walt Disney World getaway, be sure to contact our friends at Get Away Today for expert vacation planning and great deals on Disney vacations.

Sam Eagle-Inspired Shortcake and Patriotic 1776 Drink Arrive at EPCOT

sam eagle cake

Sam Eagle Salutes America with New Patriotic Treats at EPCOT

As Walt Disney World continues celebrating America’s 250th anniversary, Sam Eagle is taking center stage with two new red, white, and blue offerings at Regal Eagle Smokehouse: Craft Drafts & Barbecue in EPCOT’s American Adventure pavilion. The patriotic pair includes the Sam Eagle Star-Spangled Shortcake and a colorful non-alcoholic beverage called The 1776.

Related: New Lounge and Shopping Experience Coming to Disney’s Boardwalk

Sam Eagle Inspired Shortcake and Patriotic Drink Arrive at EPCOT ()

The Sam Eagle Star-Spangled Shortcake features vanilla cake topped with strawberries, blackberries, blueberries, whipped cream, star-shaped sprinkles, and a chocolate coin featuring everyone’s favorite patriotic Muppet. We found the dessert refreshing and flavorful, especially on a warm EPCOT afternoon. The fresh berries paired nicely with the light cake and whipped cream, creating a sweet treat that wasn’t overly heavy. Our only complaint was that Disney was a little too generous with the fruit. With the amount of berries included, we found ourselves wishing the cake portion was just a bit larger to better balance everything out.

Sam Eagle Inspired Shortcake and Patriotic Drink Arrive at EPCOT

The 1776 combines blue raspberry flavor, Sprite, and strawberry fruit juice-filled pearls for a colorful patriotic beverage that looks as good as it tastes. Unlike some novelty drinks that focus more on appearance than flavor, we genuinely enjoyed this one. The fruit pearls add a fun texture and the drink is refreshing, especially during a hot Florida summer day. However, much like the shortcake, we were left wanting a little more. The cup size feels somewhat small once you factor in the ice and fruit pearls, and a slightly larger serving would have allowed for more of the actual beverage.

Related: Meet the Disney Imagineering Team Behind Cinderella Castle’s Royal Makeover

Sam Eagle Inspired Shortcake and Patriotic Drink Arrive at EPCOT

Both offerings are now available at Regal Eagle Smokehouse inside The American Adventure pavilion and are part of Walt Disney World’s growing lineup of America250-inspired food and beverage items. While neither item is a must-have destination snack, they are fun, festive additions that fit perfectly with EPCOT’s patriotic celebration. If you’re spending the day exploring World Showcase, they’re worth checking out for a refreshing summer treat and a little red, white, and blue Disney magic.

If you’re planning a visit to EPCOT to sample these patriotic bites and sips, be sure to contact our friends at Get Away Today to help plan your Walt Disney World vacation and celebrate America’s 250th birthday in Disney style.

Disney Shares First Look and Details for The Wetlands at Disney Lakeshore Lodge

DSE Lakeshore Lodge Rendering

First Look at The Wetlands at Disney Lakeshore Lodge, Opening Summer 2027

Disney has shared a first look at The Wetlands, the expansive outdoor recreation area coming to the new Disney Lakeshore Lodge when the resort opens at Walt Disney World in summer 2027. Nestled along the shores of Bay Lake, this nature-inspired oasis will blend relaxation, adventure, and Disney storytelling into one unforgettable resort experience.

Related: Meet the Disney Imagineering Team Behind Cinderella Castle’s Royal Makeover

First Look at The Wetlands at Disney Lakeshore Lodge x

Located just beyond the resort lobby, The Wetlands will offer guests multiple ways to enjoy the outdoors. Families with younger children will find plenty to explore in themed play areas inspired by Disney’s Pocahontas. Drawing inspiration from the iconic song “Colors of the Wind,” Heron Shores will feature imaginative climbing and play structures, while Otter Springs will provide interactive water play areas where kids can splash, slide, and cool off under the Florida sun.

One of the most exciting additions is Daydream River, a lazy river winding through the recreation area. Guests can float along at a leisurely pace while taking in scenic views of the surrounding wetlands and Bay Lake. The experience appears designed to encourage guests to slow down and embrace the natural beauty that serves as the heart of the resort’s theme.

Lakeside Lagoon at Disney Lakeshore Lodge x

At the center of The Wetlands will be Lakeside Lagoon, the resort’s zero-entry feature pool. The family-friendly pool will include a spiral waterslide and plenty of space for guests of all ages to enjoy a day in the water. Meanwhile, guests looking for a quieter escape can head to Perspective Pond, a leisure pool and whirlpool spa tucked away on the opposite side of the resort. Disney says this area will offer prime views of Magic Kingdom fireworks in the evening.

Beyond the pools and water attractions, The Wetlands will feature walking paths filled with educational details about local plants and wildlife. Disney is also teasing a special plaque honoring a beloved attraction that once occupied this location, sparking speculation among longtime Walt Disney World fans about possible references to River Country.

Related: New Lounge and Shopping Experience Coming to Disney’s Boardwalk

Lakeside Lagoon at Disney Lakeshore Lodge x

Disney Lakeshore Lodge will feature 967 guest rooms, including studios, suites, and new waterfront Lake Houses. The resort’s design will celebrate nature through the lens of Disney storytelling, drawing inspiration from films like Bambi, Pocahontas, and Brother Bear. Large windows, natural materials, and stunning Bay Lake views will help bring the outdoors inside throughout the property.

With a lazy river, multiple pools, interactive play areas, waterfront accommodations, and easy boat transportation to Magic Kingdom, Disney Lakeshore Lodge is shaping up to be one of Walt Disney World’s most unique resort destinations when it opens in summer 2027. And when you’re ready to plan your future stay at this beautiful new resort, be sure to contact our friends at Get Away Today for help creating the perfect Walt Disney World vacation.