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10 Free or Cheap Things to do outside WDW Parks

March 27, 2012

When families travel to Walt Disney World they they know they will spend lots of money. They spend money on transportation to WDW, hotel room(s), meals, souvenirs and more. But did you know there are many free or cheap things to do at the Walt Disney World Resort that won’t break the bank?

1. Downtown Disney– Downtown Disney is a shopping, eating and entertainment area on Disney Property. Along with shopping and eating there are several free things to do.

You and/ or your children can play in the interactive fountains to cool off on a hot Florida day. You can visit the Ghirardelli store and get a free sample of chocolate!
At the new Lego Imagination Center, you and your children can play with thousands of lego blocks to build something special- just don’t forget to snap a pictur
e of your finished product!
You can also ride the carousel for $2 a person. If you are 21 and over, you can enjoy free live music at House of Blues and Ragland Road (with the cost of a drink!).
At times, you can enjoy free entertainment (singing, concerts, dancers, etc) at the outdoor amphitheater outside of The World of Disney.

2. Fort Wilderness– movie, petting zoo, playgrounds, wagon Fort Wilderness Campground certain resorts for $8/adult, $5/child, ranch farm animals to see and pony rides for very small children from 10 am to 5 pm for $5

3. Electrical Water Pageant- This boat light parade, set to music, sails along The Seven Seas Lagoon and Bay Lake nightly, usually starting at 9:00, from The Magic Kingdom resort area. The pageant takes about an hour, passing each resort along the way: Polynesian, Grand Floridian, Wilderness Lodge, Ft. Wilderness and Contemporary.

4. Resort hopping– All of the resorts on Disney Property are beautifully themed! It’s fun to just visit different resorts to take in the sights and theming and take fun photographs.

The pools are only for resort guests, but I enjoy seeing the slides, waterfalls, bridges and geysers! Some of the deluxe lobbies offer entertainment, especially at Christmas.
Some of the resorts (Animal Kingdom Lodge, Wilderness Lodge, Grand Floridian and Yacht Club offer free tours to any Disney guest staying at any resort on property.
Other resorts offer hidden Mickey hunts and other activities for children. While you’re there, check out the fun playgrounds as well!

5. Boardwalk– The Boardwalk is located around Crescent Lake nestled between Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. You can find several resorts around Crescent Lake which are in walking distance to the Boardwalk entertainment district: The Swan, The Dolphin, The Yacht Club, The Beach Club and of course The Boardwalk. Once at the Boardwalk, you can shop and eat at several different stores and restaurants.

Some of the free and cheap things to do at the Boardwalk are watching the street performers, play some carnival style games (for a small cost), take a ride on the Friendship Boats or rent a pedal boats for less than $10 an hour.
If you are 21 and over, you can visit Jellyroll’s dueling piano bar for a $10 cover charge or visit Atlantic Dance Hall for dancing to DJ spun hits which usually has no cover.

6. Monorail/ Boat Rides– Most people ride the Monorail just to get from Epcot to the Magic Kingdom or from the Ticket and Transportation Center to the Magic Kingdom. But did you know you could hop on the Monorail and get view of other areas?

You can ride the resort loop from the Magic Kingdom to the Grand Floridian, Polynesian and Contemporary ending back at the Magic Kingdom. This is a great, free way to “resort hop” and see different resorts on property while enjoying the air conditioning on the Monorail!
Boat rides are other free ways to see new things on property. You can ride the Friendship Boats around Crescent Lake (see above #5) or the boats that cruise around the Seven Seas Lagoon in front of the Magic Kingdom. The Seven Seas Lagoon boats will take you to the same resorts the Monorail Resort loop will take you.
The last area where you can take a free boat ride is from Downtown Disney to Port Orleans along the Sassagoula River. This is my favorite boat ride as you pass Saratoga Springs, the Tree House Villas, Lake Buena Vista Golf Course, Old Key West and both Port Orleans Resorts.

7. YeHaa Bob– On Wednesday-Sunday nights at the River Roost Lounge at Port Orleans Riverside Resort, you can enjoy the free entertainment of Bob Jackson, aka YeHaa Bob from 8:30-midnight. YeeHa Bob is a musician, singer, comedian who will entertain the entire family. After the show he hangs around to sign autographs and take pictures.

8. Rent Entertainment- You can rent boats, canoes, and bikes at many different locations.

Most of the Moderate, Deluxe and Vacation Club resorts have a marina where you can rent various types of watercraft. A kayak, canoe or pedal boat will be less than $10 for a half-hour rental
All of the Disney resorts have some type of trail, but the trails around Wilderness Lodge and Ft. Wilderness are especially fun to rent a bike and explore. Bikes will cost $9.59 an hour.

9. Fishing– At all Disney fishing holes, the policy is “catch and release.” You can rent cane poles (worms are provided) at Port Orleans Riverside or Ft. Wilderness. The cost is $4 per half-hour per pole, or $9 for a full day per pole. For families, they run a special: $14 per half-hour for 4-6 poles.

10. Walking/ jogging trails- I believe all of the resorts on property have some sort of walking/ jogging trail, but some are more scenic than others! Here is a link to Disney’s list of jogging trails.

At The Polynesian, you can walk along the beach and through the gardens between the Great Ceremonial House and beach. From the beach, you can view the Electrical Water Pageant and the evening fireworks over Cinderella Castle.
At the Grand Floridian, you can walk around Seven Seas Lagoon and pass by the Wedding Pavilion. If there is not a wedding taking place, feel free to look inside!
The Contemporary Resort and Fort Wilderness both have Butterfly Gardens. At The Contemporary it is in the back by the pool. The garden at Fort Wilderness is outside the Outpost.
The Boardwalk has a beautiful path all around Crescent Lake that will also take you from Epcot to Disney’s Hollywood Studios. If you walk this path at night, you may be able to see parts of IllumiNations or Fantasmic!.
If you spend time at Wilderness Lodge, stroll back past the pool and see a geyser spout on the hour beginning at 7am and ending at 10pm. You can also explore the woods between Wilderness Lodge and Fort Wilderness.
It’s worth it to spend time at Animal Kingdom Lodge to view the savannah outside the main lobby. You can walk around and see the different African animals roaming free. At night you can find cast members who will let you view the animals through night vision goggles.

What other free or cheap things have you found at the Walt Disney World Resort?

The Best Things in the “World” are Free (chipandco.com)
Disney World Quick Tips – Ten FREE Things To Do At Disney World (chipandco.com)

10 Free or Cheap Things to do outside WDW Parks

Top 10 Romantic Walt Disney World Restaurants

Catie

March 27, 2012

Holding hands over a table in a quiet restaurant while you savor a delicious meal with the one you love…sounds perfect, right? Who wouldn’t want that while on vacation, especially since for a lot of people romance and spending time with your significant other is the main point of going on vacation in the first place!

Walt Disney World isn’t always the first place people think of when it comes to ‘romantic vacation getaways’, and what people don’t realize is they really DO cater to adults and couples as much as they do families, and when it comes to your restaurant options, there are a lot of places where you can enjoy a romantic, relaxing, quiet meal (well, relatively quiet anyway – there will most likely be families, children, and babies almost anywhere you go in WDW, it comes with the territory!)

So here are the Top Ten places to enjoy a romantic meal at Walt Disney World:

1.Hollywood Brown Derby – Located in Disney’s Hollywood Studios and modeled after the original Hollywood Brown Derby in Los Angeles, it’s classy and classic, with it’s old time-y Hollywood decor and caricatures all over the walls. It’s really like stepping back in time to vintage glamour and old movie charm, and it has great food too! Be sure to try their signature Cobb salad with grapefruit cake for dessert

2.Coral Reef – Head over to the Future World area of Epcot for some amazing seafood, and a gorgeous view of their huge aquarium, its full of beautiful aquatic life and provides a perfect backdrop for your night of romance! All the seats have great views of the fish and other creatures (the seating is tiered to allow for optimum viewing!), but if you can snag a table right next to the action then that’s even better! Try an “appetizer for two”, the lobster ravioli, and the famous Chocolate Wave dessert and you are in for an evening you AND your taste buds will enjoy!

3.Tutto Italia – Grab an outdoor cafe table at this Italian restaurant in the Italy area of the Epcot World Showcase , and do some people watching while you enjoy a leisurely meal. The setting makes you feel like you are really dining in one of Italy’s villages, and the food is authentic Italian too, dishes like fried calamari, lasagna, risotto with lobster and shrimp, plus amazing cannolis and gelato for dessert. They also serve some delicious italian cocktails, as well as some strong but delicious coffee. As far as I am concerned, nothing says ‘amore’ like an amazing Italian dinner!

4.Bistro De Paris – Above Epcot’s other French table service restaurant, Les Chef De France, sits Bistro De Paris, a quiet, intimate place for you and your significant other to experience an amzing 4 course tasting menu (with or without wine pairings), or you can order off of the a la carte menu as well – choose from seared scallops, roasted duck breast, and grilled beef ternderloin, and finish off your meal with a warm raspberry souffle. Another element that adds to the atmosphere here is the decor, which is reminiscent of early 20th century Paris, and what can be more romantic than that?

5.Plaza Restaurant – The < ahref=http://www.chipandco.com/planning/guide-to-disney-world/around-the-disney-world/hollywood-studios/>Magic Kingdom is a magical, amazing place full of rides, restaurants, and attractions. It is my favorite park in all of WDW, and that being said, I must admit – it isn’t exactly the most romantic place in the World. It tends to be crowded, loud, and full of screaming children (and adults!) having temper tantrums. Romance is not totally lost at the Magic Kingdom though, in fact it can be found right on Main Street, at the Plaza Restaurant, where you can grab lunch or dinner from a menu that includes mostly sandwiches and burgers. The food may not be fancy, but it is delicious (especially the Plaza Club sandwich, that’s my personal fave!), and they have some of the best ice cream at Walt Disney World – you and your love can linger over a banana split and simply enjoy each other’s company, I can’t think of a better way to spend an afternoon at WDW

6.Flying Fish Cafe – This restaurant serves up some amazing sushi and fish dishes, as well as a pretty good New York strip steak. The best thing about this place has to be it’s location, its located at Disney’s Boardwalk Resort, which is the most amazing place to take a post dinner stroll at night time – there are performers and lights and games and it is a beautiful setting for a romantic evening for two

7.California Grill – You definitely feel like a VIP as you ride the special elevator up to the 15th floor of Disney’s Contemporary Resort and enter the beautiful California Grill with it’s amazing views of the Magic Kingdom and Cinderella’s Castle. If you are lucky enough to get a window seat and a later dinner reservation, you will get quite the show as the fireworks show appears right in front of you! The California Grill specializes in fresh sushi, brick oven flatbread pizzas, and they have an extensive wine list too

8.Narcoossee’s – Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort is home to this restaurant serving up an amazing selection of fresh seafood (like a super creamy lobster/corn bisque, crab crusted mahi mahi, and a delicious seared grouper served over stir fry vegetables and rice), along with some unique desserts – my personal fave being the key lime creme brulee! The restaurant sits on the Seven Seas Lagoon, so you’ll want to make your dinner reservations for after dark so you can take full advantage of the breathtaking view of the nightly Wishes fireworks show from the Magic Kingdom.

9.Victoria and Albert’s – This is by far the ‘fanciest’ restaurant at Walt Disney World, and they are an 11 year recipient of the AAA Five Diamond Award, and their wine cellar is highly rated and award winning too, so when you dine at this restaurant in Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort, you really are getting the best of the best. The menu is different each night and is a 6 course ‘prix fixe’ menu of contemporary American creations. Amazing dishes like Holland White AsparagusAlaskan King Salmon, Minnesota Elk Tenderloin, Hawaiian Kona Chocolate Souffle have appeared on the menu, and at over $100 a person (plus an additional $60 per person for wine pairings), this is a truly special, once in a lifetime experience, and what better place to celebrate your love with your significant other than at the best restaurant at Walt Disney World?

10.Yachtsman Steakhouse – Head over to Disney’s Yacht Club Resort for arguably the best steak on WDW property, or if you aren’t into beef, try their king salmon or free-range chicken. But seriously, the steak is what you want to try when you come to this New England themed steakhouse. Enjoy a delicious and romantic meal in this elegant restaurant, and then share a creme brulee before taking a stroll around the beautiful Yacht Club Resort.

I included a variety of restaurants from around the World on the list, and I included both 1 and 2 Table Service credit meals so you can find something that suits your budget (not sure what a Table Service Credit is? Check out this information on the Disney Dining Plan to learn more)
Parents traveling with children to WDW are not out of luck when it comes to planning a romantic dinner for 2- Childcare/Babysitting services are available at various WDW locations – reservations are required so be sure to plan ahead!

This list may include some of the most romantic spots, and there are plenty of other places to have a romantic meal at WDW (heck even a character meal can be romantic with the right person!). So what are your fave spots to grab a romantic meal while vacationing at Walt Disney World??

Disney’s Magical Express – Helping Make Your WDW Vacation Easier (livinginagrownupworld.wordpress.com)
Top 10 Table Service Meals at the WDW Parks (chipandco.com)

Top 10 Romantic Walt Disney World Restaurants

Coming Soon: The Duckling Gets a Cookie!? By Mo Willems

Chip

March 27, 2012

The Pigeon, Mo Willems internationally best-selling and award-winning avian hero, returns for a fifth adventure in The Duckling Gets a Cookie!?

Duckling, in her first starring role, asks for a cookie—and gets one! Pigeon, who has been unsuccessfully asking for things for years, is NOT happy.

“The Duckling Gets a Cookie!? is probably my most research-heavy book to date,” said Willems. “As the creator, I had to ask tough questions, like ‘What kind of cookie?’ ‘How would the cookie taste?’ and ‘How would another one of the cookies taste?’ This hard work was not done by an assistant; I have the belly to prove it.”

The Duckling Gets a Cookie!? will be available wherever books are sold on April 3, 2012!!

About Mo Willems:

In April 2003, television writer and animator Mo Willems published his first children’s book, Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus!. What originated quietly as a doodle in a sketchbook for family and friends became a publishing phenomenon and an instant children’s classic. The Pigeon Finds a Hot Dog! followed in April 2004; Don’t Let the Pigeon Stay Up Late! in 2006; and The Pigeon Wants a Puppy! in 2008. Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! was awarded the prestigious Caldecott Honor by the American Library Association and was inducted into the Indies Choice Picture Book Hall of Fame. More than 4 million Pigeon books are in print in the US, with 13 foreign language editions around the world.

Mo Willems has been awarded the Caldecott Honor on two other occasions: for Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Tale and Knuffle Bunny Too: A Case of Mistaken Identity. In addition to picture books, he wrote the script and lyrics for Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Musical, commissioned by the Kennedy Center for its 2010 season. The production is currently touring the nation. Mo also created the Elephant & Piggie books, a series of easy readers, which were awarded two Theodor Geisel Medals and two Geisel Honors. He began his career on Sesame Street, where he garnered six Emmy Awards. Mo lives with his family in Massachusetts.

Disney Leads The Way In Digital Reading With Six New Apps Based On Favorite Chlildren’s Characters (chipandco.com)

Coming Soon: The Duckling Gets a Cookie!? By Mo Willems

“Disney Epic Mickey 2: The Power of Two” Coming to the Big 3 Video Game Consoles This Fall

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

March 26, 2012

“Disney Epic Mickey 2: The Power of Two” Coming to the Big 3 Video Game Consoles This Fall

The rumors are now confirmed! Disney Interactive Media Group formally announced “Disney Epic Mickey 2: The Power of Two” for release on the big three home gaming consoles for this fall. The original “Epic Mickey” was regarded as an instant classic becoming a hit with both critics, gamers and hardcore Disney fans alike. “Disney Epic Mickey 2: The Power of Two” players will be able to play as Mickey Mouse and for the first time ever, Oswald the Lucky Rabbit, Walt Disney’s first cartoon star. Created by video game industry luminary Warren Spector and Disney Interactive’s Junction Point game development studio, “Disney Epic Mickey 2: The Power of Two” will be available on the Nintendo Wii™ as well as the Xbox 360® from Microsoft and Sony’s PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system.

“As a life-long Disney fan, working with Mickey Mouse in the original ‘Disney Epic Mickey’ was a truly humbling experience,” said Warren Spector, creative director and vice president, Junction Point. “Millions of fans fell in love with Mickey as a video game hero and I know they’ll experience similar emotions when they get to interact with and actually play as Oswald the Lucky Rabbit in ‘Disney Epic Mickey 2: The Power of Two.’”

DREAM TAG TEAM – Mickey and Oswald
“Disney Epic Mickey 2: The Power of Two” has Mickey Mouse and Oswald joining forces in Wasteland, a world of forgotten Disney characters and theme park attractions. Spector and team revisit the “PlayStyle Matters” concept where every choice you make in the game has consequences effecting your story and gameplay.

EPIC MUSICAL
Disney is known for some of the world’s most memorable musical numbers and that will be reflected in “Disney Epic Mickey 2: The Power of Two.” There will be times during the game where players will be asked to participate in sing-along elements. Developers enlisted the help of Emmy award-winning composer James Dooley and noted lyricist Mike Himelstein to create these musical gameplay segments.

VOICES OF CHARACTER
This time out authentic Disney Character Voice talent will be used in the game. In fact Oswald The Lucky Rabbit will finally be heard and will speak directly to the player!

“In the first ‘Disney Epic Mickey title,’ fans embraced Mickey as a true video game hero and welcomed Oswald back into the Disney family with open arms,” said John Pleasants, co-president, Disney Interactive Media Group. “Now, as the vision for the “Disney Epic Mickey’ franchise advances, fans and gamers across all platforms will experience completely new ways to embrace the immeasurable vault of Disney characters and attractions.”

Development for “Disney Epic Mickey 2: The Power of Two” is being led by Disney Interactive’s Junction Point. Supporting the latest technology, the game will also feature full support for the PlayStation Move. The game currently is unrated by the ESRB. For more information, go to www.disney.com/disneyepicmickey.

Pre-order “Disney Epic Mickey 2: The Power of Two” available for the Nintendo Wii, X-Box 360 and Playstation 3 today via Amazon HERE. Release date is set for October 1st, 2012.

Disney Interactive Media Announces ‘Epic Mickey 2: The Power of Two’ (chipandco.com)
Coming to a console near you – Epic Mickey 2 (chipandco.com)

Disney World Quick Tips – What to do when it rains

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

March 26, 2012

What should I do if it rains while at Walt Disney World?

This is a question I am asked quite often. My family usually travels to Disney in the summer months (as do most families who have school-aged children).

Unfortunately, there are two constants with Orlando’s summer weather pattern:

It will be HOT
It will rain. I have never had a trip to Disney World where it didn’t rain.

Did I let it ruin our fun? HECK NO!!!

We have learned to embrace the rain at Disney over the years, and here’s how:

Rain is a Natural Crowd Reducer! The minute it starts raining, a lot of people immediately head toward the exits. But not us! We put on our rain gear (we buy before our trip to save money), and we stay at the parks.

The good thing about the rain in Orlando is that it is a warm rain, so if you don’t mind getting a little wet it isn’t uncomfortable, and you can still have a lot of fun!

Be Safe About It: Although Orlando does have pop up showers throughout the summer, it can also have some very severe weather. If a storm brings thunder and lightning, please remain indoors and take it seriously. The lightning can strike fast and furious, so be careful out there!

What to Do in the Rain?

Typically, the showers in Florida don’t last long, and they’re just pop up showers. In this case, we will shop around a bit, get a bite to eat, or enjoy a show in one of the indoor or covered arenas at the park.

If the day is going to be a total washout, you need to embrace it differently:

Ride a water ride! Hey, you are wet already, why not embrace it and just get a little more wet, right!?! We love riding Kali River Rapids or Splash Mountain in the rain. It heightens the experience for us. And my kids enjoy playing in the fountains at Epcot in the rain – they’re wet anyway, and may as well have some fun!
My favorite park for a rainy day is Epcot because of the many indoor activities like Innoventions East and West, where you can have fun inside without getting wet. If the forecast calls for rain the entire day, we always head to Epcot.

Don’t Let It Rain on Your Parade!

Some Disney World attractions close during storms or rain. The Fantasmic show at Hollywood Studios, for example, will cancel due to just a light rain (something to keep in mind when booking the Fantasmic Dinner Package ). Most of the parades will run if it’s raining lightly, but in a wash-out, they’ll be cancelled, too.

So, if you are headed to Orlando in the summer, expect a few showers here and there. But with the right attitude and the right game plan, you’ll still have a magical Disney vacation, come rain or shine!

“Want to same some money on your upcoming Disney vacation? Contact Lesley([email protected]) from Pixie Vacations, she offers Disney gift cards and generous on board credits for DCL !”

Check out her website at Destination Magic or Like her on Facebook.

My Top 5 Magic Kingdom Traditions (chipandco.com)
Escaping the Rain at Walt Disney World (chipandco.com)

Disney World Quick Tips - What to do when it rains

D23′s From the Vaults: Sister Act

Chip

March 26, 2012

D23 is happy to offer its members (and their guests) the opportunity to see the music-filled film at the historic Walt Disney Studios (presented in the state-of-the-art 400-seat Studio Theatre). And feel free to sing along with your favorite show-stopping moments!

Sister Act starring Whoopi Goldberg, the movie was one of the top 10 box-office hits of 1992. It was so successful that it spawned a film sequel (Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit) and a Broadway stage musical. The film also stars Maggie Smith, Harvey Keitel, Mary Wickes, and Kathy Najimy.

When second-rate lounge singer Deloris Van Cartier (Whoopi Goldberg) accidentally witnesses a murder at the hands of her mobster boyfriend, she’s placed into the witness protection program, hiding out in a convent of nuns.

The event will also feature a limited selection of D23 merchandise and a special gift just for each D23 Member who attends, as well as the opportunity to mix and mingle with your fellow D23 Members on the Studio Lot!

Event Information

DATES
Saturday, May 26, 2012

LOCATION
The Studio Theatre, The Walt Disney Studios, Burbank, California

TIME
Check-in begins at 1 p.m.; Screening begins at 2 p.m. (Please do not arrive at the Studio Lot before 1 p.m.)

TICKETS
Click here to purchase tickets

COST
FREE (There will be a $5 ticket processing fee.)

Coming to a City Near You – D23’S Disney Fanniversary Celebration! (chipandco.com)
D23 Day at The Walt Disney Studios and Archives (chipandco.com)

Free Mickey Ears in Celebration of Disney Store 25th Anniversary

Chip

March 26, 2012

On Wednesday, March 28 the Disney Store is giving away FREE Mickey Ears to first 250 guests! Celebrations continue all day with store wide savings.

*While supplies last. Event limited per session based upon store capacity. No lineups prior to 30 minutes before event begins. Event subject to change or cancellation without notice. Call store for more information.

Must be at least 3 years old to participate. No lineups prior to 30 minutes before event begins. Event subject to change or cancellation without notice. Call your local store for more details.

Thanks Couponing to Disney!

Disney Store 25th Anniversary Giveaway (chipandco.com)
Disney Store’s Exclusive 25th Anniversary Offer for D23 Members (chipandco.com)

Free Mickey Ears in Celebration of Disney Store 25th Anniversary

How to Tour the Parks – Visiting the Magic Kingdom in a Wheelchair

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

March 26, 2012

Visiting Walt Disney World in a wheelchair can be tricky. Disney does a good job with getting information out there but I still learn something new on every trip. There are a few things that are not in the guide book and some things are constantly changing. In this article, and the ones to follow, I am going to let you know a few things that I have learned on my visits to Walt Disney World. Disney is a magical place and I feel like they go above and beyond when it comes to wheelchair accessibility. So let’s start with the Magic Kingdom.

Main Street U.S.A

Walt Disney World Railroad
The Walt Disney World Railroad has stations on Main Street, in Frontierland, and in Fantasyland. All of the stations are wheelchair accessible. On Main Street the ramp will be on your right when you are facing the train station from inside the park.

How to Tour the Parks - Visiting the Magic Kingdom in a Wheelchair

The front of the train has a wheelchair accessible car. Once you are at the train station a Cast Member will lower a ramp for you. There are two benches inside. Just pull your wheelchair next to one, lock your brakes, and you are ready to go. You can see a video of the process here.

Adventureland

The Jungle Cruise
The Jungle Cruise is another wheelchair friendly attraction. Proceed to the wheelchair entrance that is to the left of the regular queue and let the Cast Members know that you would like to stay in your chair. There is one boat that is equipped with a lift. Wait times can vary depending on where the boat is or if there is another wheelchair user ahead of you.

Once you are ready to board, the Cast Members will help you onto the lift and then place some bumpers behind your tires to help keep you in place. Getting onto and out of the boat is easy but the Cast Members are more than willing to help if you need it. I have a video, its a little dark, but you can view it here.

The Magic Carpets of Aladdin
There is one carpet that is wheelchair accessible. They use a template to see if your wheelchair will fit. Unfortunately mine doesn’t and I don’t think most rigid chairs will. But if you have removable foot rests it might. Just ask the Cast Member for assistance and you can see if your chair will fit. If not you have to be able to transfer to experience the attraction.

How to Tour the Parks - Visiting the Magic Kingdom in a Wheelchair

Pirates of the Caribbean
Pirates of the Caribbean is another attraction that you must transfer from your wheelchair to experience. Since there is a drop on the ride they don’t have a wheelchair boat. When you enter, use the queue to the left. Once you get there let the Cast Member know that you would like to sit in the back. The edge of the boat is wider there and makes it easier to transfer.

My husband and I had some help (thankfully Chip was there with us) but it is possible. You have to sit on the edge of the boat and then lower yourself down into the seat. To get out, I had some help getting back onto the edge and then into my wheelchair. The Cast Members bring your wheelchair to the exit for you and then you use an elevator to get back up to Adventureland.

Swiss Family Tree House
Unfortunately this is an attraction that you have to be able to walk to experience.

Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room
For the pre-show, the Cast Members will show you to the front, this way you can see everything. Before they let everyone else in, a Cast Member will take you and your party inside. There isn’t really designated wheelchair seating but you will sit to the side of the benches. The nice thing is that you are right at the exit so you can get out easily.

Frontierland

How to Tour the Parks - Visiting the Magic Kingdom in a Wheelchair

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
Big Thunder Mountain is undergoing a refurbishment right now so the queue info might be changing but for now if you are in a wheelchair you enter through the exit of the attraction. There are a couple of train cars that have a transfer access vehicle so make sure you let the Cast Member know that you need one. The transfer access vehicle’s side opens and lowers making it easier to get on and off of the attraction.

Splash Mountain
For Splash Mountain, you enter through the standard queue. I have not been on this attraction recently because it is another one that is too hard to get in and out of. If you have the ability to stand and walk a short distance, it should not be too much of a problem, especially if you have someone there to help.

Tom Sawyer Island
Unfortunately, this is not a wheelchair friendly attraction. There is a pretty big step to get onto the raft so there is no way to get your wheelchair on it. The island itself is not really wheelchair friendly anyway so even if you were able to get over there I don’t think you would have much to see or do.

The Country Bear Jamboree
The theater has wheelchair seating in the front so you are front and center for the show.

Liberty Square

Liberty Belle Riverboat
On the side of the attraction near Frontierland, you enter through the exit. There is a ramp in place so that you can access the bottom level of the Riverboat. Hall of Presidents

How to Tour the Parks - Visiting the Magic Kingdom in a Wheelchair

The Haunted Mansion
The queue for the Haunted Mansion has been updated so that wheelchairs can now visit the Stretch Room instead of proceeding to the exit of the attraction. I was so excited about this! Once the pre show is over in the Stretch Room a Cast Member will then lead you to the exit of the attraction. If you can walk a short distance you can proceed onto the ride vehicles. If not let the Cast Member know that you need them to stop the attraction. There is a Doom Buggy that doesn’t have armrest on the side so you can get in and out easier.

The Hall of Presidents
The auditorium for the Hall of Presidents has a wheelchair seating area in the back. When you enter, the Cast Members will instruct you to enter through the doors on the far right. The seating area is raised a little so you have a great view.

So that get’s us through part of the Magic Kingdom. Stay tuned to Chip and Company for part two!

Can you use a Stroller as a Wheelchair? (chipandco.com)
Wheelchair Friendly Attractions – Journey into Imagination (chipandco.com)

How to Tour the Parks - Visiting the Magic Kingdom in a Wheelchair

Easter Sunday Worship at Walt Disney World

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

March 26, 2012

Easter Sunday Worship at Walt Disney World

In the past, Easter Sunday services have been held in the Fantasia Ballroom, located at Contemporary Resort: Catholic Mass at 8:00 a.m. and 10:15 a.m and a Protestant Service at 9:00 a.m. WDW has not released 2012 Easter Worship plans yet. Check with guest services at your resort to determine the best transportation options to get to the Contemporary Resort as parking at the monorail resorts has been restricted in years past.

If your family has transportation and wants to worship in a tradtional church and not at the Contemporary, here is a list of a few churches in the area listed alphabetically by denomination. Contact the church to confirm worship times on Easter morning.

Baptist
Lake Buena Vista Baptist Church
11551 State Road 535
Orlando, FL 32836
Phone: 407-239-6030 http://www.fbcwindermere.com
Catholic (Roman)
Mary Queen of the Universe Shrine Catholic Church
8300 Vineland Road
Orlando, Florida 32821
Phone: 407-239-6600 http://www.maryqueenoftheuniverse.org
Church of the Nazarene
Metro West Church-The Nazarene
11 S Hiawassee Road
Orlando, FL 32835
407-293-2781
Episcopal
Church of the Ascension- Episcopal
4950 South Apopka-Vineland Road
Orlando, FL 32819
Phone: 407-876-3480 http://www.ascension-orlando.org
Greek Orthodox
Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church
1217 Trinity Woods Lane
Maitland, FL 32751-3159
Phone: 407-331-4687 http://www.htgocorlando.org/
Lutheran
Salem Lutheran
7900 Apopka-Vineland Road
Orlando, FL 32819
Phone: 407-876-4000 http://www.salemlc.net/directions—map.html
Non-Denominational/Born-Again
Calvary Chapel of Orlando
746 Formosa Avenue
Winter Park, FL
Phone: 407-523-0800
Russian Orthodox
St. Stephen Orthodox Church
1895 Lake Emma Rd
Longwood, FL 32750
Phone: 407-260-6003 http://www.ststephenoca.com
Seventh-Day Adventists
Windermere Seventh-Day Church
4100 Mckinnon Road
Windermere, FL
Phone: 407-656-3544
United Methodist
St. Luke’s United Methodist Church
4851 South Apopka-Vineland
Orlando, FL 32819
Phone: 407-876-4991 http://www.st.lukes.org/

Unforgettable Disney Easter Memory at Walt Disney World Resort (chipandco.com)
Disney Resort Room Discounts. (everythingwdisneyworld.com)

Easter Sunday Worship at Walt Disney World

Disney’s Secret of the Wings comes to DVD & Bluray

Chip

March 26, 2012

The Walt Disney Studios unveils an all-new, original full-length CG-animated feature film, “Secret of the Wings,” starring Tinker Bell, one of Disney’s most beloved and iconic characters, along with her fairy friends (Fawn, Iridessa, Rosetta, Silvermist and Vidia) and introducing a sparkling new winter fairy, Periwinkle. Debuting on Blu-ray™ Combo Pack, DVD and Digital on October 23, 2012, the film marks the first time ever Tinker Bell will fly on Disney Blu-ray 3D.

For Tinker Bell and the other warm season fairies, the Winter Woods remains a mysterious and forbidden place. “Secret of the Wings” takes audiences on an amazing journey of discovery with Tink, into this forbidden world where she discovers a magical secret that changes her life forever.

A magical fairy adventure for the whole family, “Secret of the Wings” features a spectacular voice cast including Academy Award®-Winner Anjelica Huston (TV’s ‘Smash’), Timothy Dalton (TV’s ‘Chuck’, The Living Daylights), Lucy Liu (TV’s ‘Southland’, Charlie’s Angels), Raven-Symoné (TV’s ‘That’s So Raven’), Megan Hilty (TV’s ‘Smash’), Pamela Adlon (TV’s ‘Californication’), Matt Lanter (TV’s ‘90210’), Debby Ryan (TV’s ‘Jesse’) and Mae Whitman (TV’s ‘Parenthood’), and introducing the sparkling new winter fairy, PERIWINKLE, voiced by Lucy Hale (TV’s ‘Pretty Little Liars’). A DisneyToon Studios production, the film is directed by Peggy Holmes, co-directed by Bobs Gannaway, and produced by Michael Wigert. John Lasseter serves as Executive Producer.

“Secret of the Wings” is Disney’s highly-anticipated all-new movie in the Tinker Bell Disney Fairies film franchise. These beautifully-animated films have ranked at the top of the home entertainment charts every year they have been released.

In addition to the all-new feature film, the spectacular animated release includes a host of exciting bonus features that extend the viewing experience, taking audiences deeper into the magical world of Disney Fairies. (More details forthcoming)

To celebrate the upcoming release of “Secret of the Wings,” Disney has launched a new destination in Facebook for parents to stay updated on Disney Fairies news as well as receive the best new content and activities that they can share with their children. Audiences can become a fan now at: https://www.facebook.com/DisneyFairies.

For the latest information on “Secret of the Wings,” fans are also encouraged to:

Log-on to www.Disney.com/SecretofTheWings to view film clips, etc…

FILM SYNOPSIS:

Journey with Tinker Bell and her fairy friends into the forbidden world of the mysterious Winter Woods, where curiosity and adventure lead Tink to an amazing discovery and reveal a magical secret that could change her world forever.

Disney Fairies – Pixie Hollow Share the Magic Sweepstakes (chipandco.com)
Disney’s Photopass Service (disneyonwheelsblog.com)

Disney's Secret of the Wings comes to DVD & Bluray

Disney Fairies “Diamonds” Sweepstakes

Chip

March 25, 2012

Disney Fairies "Diamonds" Sweepstakes

They say diamonds are a pixie’s best friend. They could be yours, too, if you win the Pixie Hollow “Diamonds” Sweepstakes. We’re going to make one lucky winner sparkle and shine with a dazzling diamond necklace PLUS tons of Pixie Diamonds for their online Fairy. Will it be you?

One GRAND PRIZE winner will receive a real-life, 14-Kt. gold and diamond Tinker Bell necklace from the Disney Dream Collection and 1,000 Pixie Diamonds for their online Fairy! Five lucky First Prize winners will each receive 500 Pixie Diamonds!

To enter for a chance to win, simply click the button below and then log in between now and 12:01 P.M. PST on March 29, 2012. Good luck!

Click here for the Sweepstakes Rules and here to enter.

Disney Fairies – Pixie Hollow Share the Magic Sweepstakes (chipandco.com)
Disney’s Secret of the Wings comes to DVD & Bluray (chipandco.com)

Disney Quick Tips: Rules and Etiquette for Pin Trading

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

March 25, 2012

Disney Quick Tips: Rules and Etiquette for Pin Trading

I started trading pins at Walt Disney World, and then at Disneyland, a few years ago as an excuse to talk to Disney Cast Members and other guests. Because I’m not much of a shopper while visiting Disney theme parks, I also liked the idea of collecting small (thus portable) and inexpensive souvenirs during my trips that would become part of a larger collection at home – one that would be ever evolving.

Trading Disney pins is easy, with just a few rules to follow. And building a collection can be as simple or extensive as each individual pin trader decides to make it. But one of the real joys in Disney pin trading is the interaction.

Disney Pin Trading – The Basics
To get started with pin trading, purchase a starter set and a lanyard (either a neck or hip style worn at the waist). Pins and lanyards are available at various Disney locations in the parks, resorts, at Downtown Disney. Pins and starter sets are even on eBay.

Trading with Cast Members. Just approach a Cast Member who wears a lanyard and offer to trade. Choose one of the available pins, and offer one of your pins for one the one you’ve selected. It’s a one-for-one trade.

It’s as simple as that. Cast Members cannot refuse a trade, so long as it fits within Disney Pin Trading rules (below).

Trading with other Guests. Approach a guest wearing a lanyard and ask them if they are open to trading. If that person agrees, any pin that faces outward on the lanyard – as opposed to other places (e.g. hat, shirt) is generally available for a trade. With Guest-to-Guest trades, there’s a bit more room for negotiation – “You’d like this one? I’m interested in that one.” The flexibility adds to the fun and the conversation.

Disney Pin Trading – The Rules

Disney Pin Trading at Magic Kingdom — Pin Trading with a Disney Cast Member. Photo: D.K. Peterson

Disney Pin Trading rules and guidelines for have evolved since trading at the Disney theme parks began in 1999 as part of the Millennial Celebration.

Pins that may be traded include the following:
• Disney theme park pin from a place or location, event, character or icon;
• Pins from other divisions of the Walt Disney Company (i.e. ESPN, ABC, DVC); and
• Participating partner pins, so long as they have a Disney affiliation showing.

Some Disney pins can’t be traded:
• Non-metal pins (e.g. plastic or rubber pins,);
• Brooch-style or clasp pins;
• Personalized pins (whether ones with your name or Cast Member Name Tags); and
• Special Disney Cast Member pin (e.g. Service Awards, Spirit of Disneyland Awards, Disney Cast Member costume pins, or Partners in Excellence pins)

For fun, not profit. Disney pins may not be traded for monies, gifts or receipts, nor may these things be included as part of the trade. This applies to both Cast Member and Guest-to-Guest trades.

Make the Trade an Original. Don’t offer Disney Cast Members a duplicate of a pin currently on their lanyards.

One is fun, and twice is nice. Guests may trade up to two (2) pins per Cast Member per day. Trades between Guests don’t have the same restriction.

Disney Pin Trading – Etiquette
Most Disney Pin Trading falls under the “Golden Rule” and common sense – do what you can to make it a safe, fun, enjoyable experience for everyone.

Just for kids. Some Cast Members have lanyards just for trade with children (ages 3 – 12). At Walt Disney World, it’s Cast Members wearing green lanyards. At Disneyland, it’s those with teal lanyards.

Honor the spirit of the trade. Trading pins should be a fun, enjoyable experience for both parties.
• Be sensitive to new Disney Pin traders of all ages, particularly young children who may not understand all the rules.
• Some pins are designed as sets. Don’t break up a good relationship. If a single pin doesn’t create a complete image, trade the pins as a set.
• If a lanyard pin is turned backwards, with the pin back facing out, that pin is unavailable to trade.

Respect personal space. Look, but don’t touch, another person’s lanyard or pins. Oohing and ahhing is acceptable. If you need a closer look at a pin, as the person to show it to you – don’t get grabby.

Safety First. When trading pins, carefully remove them from a lanyard and replace the pin backs to avoid the Sleeping Beauty pinprick. Trade pins one at a time.

Disney Pin Trading – Some Unofficial Suggestions

Disney Trading Pins — A set of Disney trading pins. Photo: D.K. Peterson

Collect what you love. For some people, this will mean collecting limited edition pins and only those pins. For others, collecting favorite characters – I’ve seen lanyard dedicated to Tinker Bell or Disney Villains – or color are the focus. For yet other, focusing on Disney attraction pins or Disney movies. Others will focus on finding a set. There’s no “perfect” collection, except the one that makes you happy.

Each pin tells a story. For many people, it’s not the pins that are the primary attraction of the trade. It’s the opportunity to chat with other people. Help make each trade a memorable experience. Offer a story about your trip, about the pins, about you.

Rules are sometimes mean to be broken. On our last trip to Walt Disney World, a young child approached my husband. Fascinated by the pins on his lanyard, but without one of her own, she offered to trade her birthday button for one of his pins. He couldn’t take her button, of course, not on her special day. But he gave her a Princess Minnie pin that complemented her birthday sash and outfit. He didn’t get a pin in return, but a big smile. And we got a story that was in the very spirit of Disney Pin Trading.

For more information in Disney Pin Trading at Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Resorts and Disney Cruise Line, see the official Disney F.A.Q.

Kungaloosh! Debra Peterson enjoys seeking out for the interactive, immersive and innovative at Disney theme parks. When not writing for Chip and Company, Debra is the National Disney Travel Examiner. Put on your set of ears and join her in stalking the Mouse.

Disney Pin Trading 101 – The Basics (livinginagrownupworld.wordpress.com)
Beginners Guide to Disney Pin Trading (chipandco.com)

Disney Quick Tips: Rules and Etiquette for Pin Trading

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