SeaWorld Orlando is turning 60, and they’re celebrating in the best way possible: with FREE. BEER! That’s right, guests aged 21 and over can raise a frosty mug to this epic anniversary with a complimentary 7-ounce draft at the Waterway Grill Patio.
This beery bash kicks off on Friday, April 12th and runs for a limited time. So, gather your crew and head to SeaWorld Orlando! Between soaking up the shows, marveling at majestic marine life, and conquering heart-pounding coasters, you can take a refreshing break and toast to 60 years of unforgettable experiences.
SeaWorld Orlando Pass Members, get ready for an extra perk! Not only do you get to enjoy the park’s amazing attractions, but you also score double the free brews. Pass Members snag a whopping TWO complimentary 7-ounce drafts per day at the Waterway Grill Patio. Now that’s something to celebrate!
Need more refreshment after a day of thrills and chills? Every Wednesday is Happy Hour at SeaWorld Orlando! From 4pm until park close, you can score Buy One Get One FREE on ALL draft beers and cocktails at Glacier Bar and Waterway Bar.
So head over to SeaWorld Orlando, raise a glass to their 60th anniversary, and get ready for a splashtastic time filled with rides, shows, and refreshing brews! Here’s to 60 more years of making memories at SeaWorld Orlando!
Exclusive to Annual Passholders, the Passholder Lounge is a great place to unwind during a fun-filled day at EPCOT. Here, Passholders can:
Chill out in an air-conditioned area
Enjoy complimentary snacks and water
Charge mobile devices
Pick up a complimentary Passholder button
Plus, special friends may stop by to say hello!
Important Information
Subject to availability on a first-come, first-served basis.
To enter EPCOT, Annual Passholders must have valid admission and a theme park reservation for EPCOT; or Annual Passholders may visit EPCOT without a theme park reservation on a good-to-go day for that park, or after 2:00 PM. Theme park reservations are limited and are subject to availability and applicable pass blockout dates.
All offerings, dates, hours of operation and locations are subject to availability, change, closure or cancellation without notice.
Each Passholder must be present and show their valid Annual Pass card, linked MagicBand, MagicBand+ or Disney MagicMobile pass, and a government-issued photo ID to be eligible to enter the Passholder lounge.
Planning a Walt Disney World trip soon? We have some updated refurbishment news that may impact your stay. Disney has announced that some guest rooms at Disney’s Port Orleans French Quarter will be undergoing refurbishments from May 2024 through November 2024.
While this means you might hear some construction during your stay, most resort amenities will remain available for you to enjoy the full French Quarter charm. So don’t worry, you can still relax by the Doubloon Lagoon pool, indulge in delicious beignets at Scat Cat Lounge, or take a romantic carriage ride along the Sassagoula River.
What to Expect During the Refurbishment
Construction Noise: You may hear construction noise during the day, but Disney will limit this activity to daytime hours to minimize disruption.
Room Availability: Some rooms will be unavailable during the refurbishment. If you have an existing reservation for these dates, you may be contacted by Disney to discuss your options.
If you’re planning a stay at Port Orleans French Quarter during the refurbishment, here are some tips:
Request a room on a higher floor: This may help minimize noise from construction.
Be flexible with your room location: Since some rooms will be unavailable, be open to different room options if Disney contacts you about your reservation.
Pack your patience: A little construction noise is a small price to pay for a newly refreshed room on your next visit!
We’ll be sure to keep you updated on the latest news about the refurbishment, so stay tuned to Chip & Co. website and social media feeds!! In the meantime, start planning your magical stay at Port Orleans French Quarter and get ready to experience the Big Easy charm!
Ready to book your next magical vacation, but don’t know where to start? Want to enjoy a Walt Disney World vacation without the stress of planning, booking, and tracking trip changes and promotions? Contact me today! As an agent with Destinations To Travel specializing in Disney destinations, I can help you stress less and enjoy your vacation more! The best part? My services are provided at NO ADDITIONAL COST when you book your Disney vacation package through me!
Greetings, space travelers! Buckle up, because we’re blasting off on a journey to a galaxy far, far…well, not that far, but definitely out-of-this-world awesome! Universal Orlando Resort has just revealed more details about their two newest resort hotel additions: Universal Stella Nova Resort and Universal Terra Luna Resort!
Inspired by the Infinite Unknown: Universal’s Stella Nova resort, opening January 21, 2025, captures the vastness of space with swirling galaxies as a design theme. Tranquil teals and calming purples create a serene atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a day battling aliens (or riding rollercoasters).
Crash after a day of galactic fun in one of the comfy 750 guest rooms.
The Stella Nova resort-style pool will provide a refreshing escape during those hot summer days in Central Florida.
The Cosmos Café and Galaxy Bar offer delicious eats and refreshing drinks to keep you energized for your adventures.
Opening February 25, 2025, Terra Luna is designed for those who crave the excitement of space exploration, featuring an array of amenities including a resort-style pool. Get ready to explore uncharted territories with earthy greens and golds that evoke a sense of adventure!
This resort boasts 750 guest rooms, the perfect place to rest up before your next Universal Orlando adventure.
Savor tasty meals at the Omega Café and unwind with a drink at the Moonrise Bar.
Both resorts will offer an array of out-of-this-world amenities, including:
Giant Pools: Take a refreshing dip in the nearly 10,000 square foot pools, complete with hot tubs and comfy seating areas.
Fitness Centers: Stay in tip-top shape for all that zero-gravity maneuvering with state-of-the-art equipment.
Game Rooms: Challenge your crew to arcade games and video games for some friendly competition.
Universal Orlando Resort Stores: Stock up on souvenirs and theme park essentials.
Bonus Perks for Staying at a Universal Orlando Hotel:
Early Theme Park Admission: Be the first to experience the magic at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter or conquer the rapids at Volcano Bay before the crowds arrive!
Free Transportation: Hop on the complimentary shuttle bus to the parks and Universal CityWalk.
And More! Enjoy resort-wide charging privileges, convenient merchandise delivery, and other awesome benefits.
Universal Stella Nova Resort and Terra Luna Resort are cosmically close to the existing Universal Orlando theme parks and right next door to the upcoming Epic Universe (opening later in 2025 – stay tuned to the Chip and Co. website and social media feeds for more details!).
Ready to book your next epic vacation, but don’t know where to start? Want to enjoy a Universal Orlando vacation without the stress of planning, booking, and tracking trip changes and promotions? Contact me today! As an agent with Destinations To Travel specializing in Universal destinations, I can help you stress less and enjoy your vacation more! The best part? My services are provided at NO ADDITIONAL COST when you book your Universal vacation package through me!
Tiana’s Foods has officially taken up shop at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom! Imagineers are continuing to work on the attraction ahead of its Summer 2024 opening, with a great deal of attention being placed recently on the finishing touches and artistic elements to the exterior of the attraction.
One of the most obvious updates is the addition of a Tiana’s Foods sign above the windows on the entrance barn. We have watched the barn take on a new look thanks to fresh paint and an amazing mural over the past several months, and the addition of these signs provides a more cohesive look to the barns theming.
We are also seeing detailed elements being added to the attraction queue, including railings and walkway patterns.
The shrubs and greenery on the mountain have also been updated, with a more lush appearance appearing throughout the ride as Imagineers attempt to bring the bayou to central Florida.
The look and feel of the drop hill has been completely transformed, with lush greens replacing the briar patch that existed here previously.
Are you as excited as we are for the opening of this attraction? Keep your eyes on the Chip and Co website and social media feeds for continued updates on Tiana’s Bayou Adventure!
Ready to book your next magical vacation, but don’t know where to start? Want to enjoy a Walt Disney World vacation without the stress of planning, booking, and tracking trip changes and promotions? Contact me today! As an agent with Destinations To Travel specializing in Disney destinations, I can help you stress less and enjoy your vacation more! The best part? My services are provided at NO ADDITIONAL COST when you book your Disney vacation package through me!
Looking for a groovy day out in Hollywood?! To celebrate its monumental 60th anniversary, Universal Studios Hollywood is rolling out a collection of limited-edition merchandise that puts the spotlight on the legendary Glamor Tram. Hold onto your hats (and wallets) because this retro-themed treasure trove includes the must-have commemorative Glamor Tram popcorn bucket, plus a whole fleet of other nostalgic goodies!
The star of the show (and possibly your next Instagram post) is the commemorative popcorn bucket modeled after the original, vintage Glamor Trams. The bucket features Woody Woodpecker perched proudly in the driver’s seat, leading guests on a cinematic snack adventure. It’s the perfect way to fuel up for a day of thrills and spills on the world-famous Studio Tour.
But the popcorn bucket is just the first stop on this retro ride! Get ready to snag a whole fleet of 60th-anniversary merchandise, including:
Apparel: Rep your love for the park with everything from graphic tees and hats to cozy jackets and comfy blankets.
Souvenirs: Take home a piece of the park’s history with keychains, mugs, salt & pepper shakers, and even chocolates and candies!
Backpack Essentials: Pack your park day essentials in style with a limited-edition Glamor Tram backpack.
Snacks For Days: a selection of specially created, highly themed food and beverages, curated by the theme park’s Executive Chef Julia Thrash, will be available as part of the anniversary celebration.
Get ready to hop on board the merch train and celebrate Universal Studios Hollywood’s 60th anniversary in style! With this epic collection, you’ll be creating memories that are sure to last a lifetime.
Hyperspace Mountain Returns to Star Wars Season of the Force in Disneyland
Get ready to blast off into a galaxy far, far away! The beloved Hyperspace Mountain overlay has returned to Disneyland Resort for Season of the Force. Join the Rebellion and experience thrilling drops and twists as you navigate a hyperspace battle. May the Force be with you!
During Season of the Force, from April 5th to June 2nd, Disneyland Park transforms Space Mountain into this thrilling Star Wars overlay. Even better, this limited-time experience coincides with Star Wars Day on May the 4th!
While the iconic Space Mountain track remains unchanged, Hyperspace Mountain immerses riders in a whole new galaxy. Prepare for dazzling Star Wars visuals, heart-pounding drops, and the iconic John Williams score as you navigate a thrilling hyperspace battle alongside X-wings.
Hyperspace Mountain is just one of the exciting experiences guests can enjoy during Season of the Force. There’s also new scenes on Star Tours, limited time eats and drinks, new merchandise, and more!
Calling all Jedi Knights and Rebel sympathizers! Season of the Force is upon us at Disneyland, and it’s the perfect time to experience the magic of Star Wars. As a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, I can help you craft the ultimate Star Wars adventure. From Hyperspace Mountain thrills to exclusive character meet-and-greets, I’ll ensure your trip is out of this world (free planning services included!). Contact me today and let’s make your Season of the Force dreams a reality!
Jolly Good Burger by Chef Jon Ashton Coming to the Disney Wish
The Disney Wish on Disney Cruise Line isn’t just about enchanting experiences, it’s also about delectable dishes. Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with The Jolly Good Burger, a creation by Chef Ashton exclusively available at the Keg & Compass pub.
The Keg & Compass on Disney Wish is an Old World pub that celebrates the romance and escapades of life on the high seas. Guests can Kick back and watch live sports, news and major broadcast events while enjoying a specialized selection of beers—including 3 custom craft brews available exclusively aboard the Disney Wish. Plus, enjoy a curated food menu along with an assortment of liquors, wines and cocktails.
The Jolly Good Burger is an exclusive new menu item guests can enjoy while dining at Keg & Compass. It’s a handcrafted brisket burger that looks absolutely delicious!
The burger was crafted by Chef Jon Ashton. Jon Ashton honed his craft in prestigious English restaurants like the Derby Lodge Hotel and The Kirkfield Hotel. Driven by a lifelong passion for food, he then set his sights on the United States. There, he not only built a successful career but also found a platform to share his culinary expertise and make delicious food accessible to everyone.
His talent has graced the screens of The Today Show and The Tonight Show, showcasing his skills to a national audience. Beyond television appearances, Jon has collaborated with a wide range of respected brands, including Disney Cruise Line, Waring, and Four Seasons. This impressive list reflects the trust major players in the food industry have placed in his abilities.
Planning a Disney cruise can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. As a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, I can help you craft the perfect itinerary for your magical adventure. My services are completely free, so contact me and let’s start planning today!
Review: New Menu Items Debut at Mama Melrose in Hollywood Studios
Earlier this week we tried the new menu items at Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano in Disney’s Hollywood Studios! We experienced six (yes six!) new or updated appetizers, two entrées, and two desserts. Take a look at the foods and check out our review.
There are three new entree menu items: Braised Pork Osso Bucco, Rigatoni Bolognese, and Fettuccine Alfredo with Shrimp. We tried the first two but not the third as our waiter didn’t recommend it.
Braised Pork Osso Bucco – Creamy Polenta, Roasted Cipollini Onions, Sweet Peppers, Lemon Gremolata – this meat was so tender that it fell right off the bone. moist and delicious! $30.00
Rigatoni Bolognese – Ground Beef, Italian Sausage, Parmesan – we found this dish a bit heavy handed on the salt $26.00
We couldn’t finish our visit to Mama Melrose’s without some tasty treats! There are two new desserts we tried.
Goat Cheese Mousse Tart – Topped with Honeycomb and an Edible Flower served with Blackberries and a Cassis Compote – this was delicious! Loved the goat cheese and honey pairing and we were able to receive some extra honeycomb for some added sweetness. $10.00
Pasticciotti Cream Tart – House-made Tart with Pastry Cream and Frangipane dusted with Powdered Sugar served with an Amarena Cherry Compote – another perfect selection $10.00
Planning a Disney vacation is exciting, but navigating all the details can be tricky. That’s where I come in! I’m a Disney travel specialist with Destinations to Travel, and I’m here to guide you every step of the way. My services are free, so contact me today and let’s make your Disney dreams come true!
How Disney Helped ‘Bluey’ Become a ‘Global Phenomenon
The animated canine family comedy “Bluey” has become a global phenomenon, topping the charts on Disney+ and capturing the hearts of millions of viewers worldwide. A breakout hit on Disney+, “Bluey” now reigns supreme as the most-streamed show across all ages in the U.S. according to ratings, thanks to a global broadcasting partnership between Disney Branded Television and BBC Studios Kids & Family.
This heartwarming show follows the adventures of the Heelers, a playful Blue Heeler family living in Brisbane, Australia. Each episode revolves around the imaginative games and adventures of Bluey, a six-year-old pup, and her four-year-old sister, Bingo, alongside their endlessly patient and fun-loving parents. The show cleverly portrays the joys and challenges of family life, from the boundless creativity of playtime to the occasional squabbles and meltdowns. This relatable portrayal resonates with audiences worldwide, transcending cultural differences and language barriers.
The upcoming special episode airing on April 14th promises to be a big one for the Heelers, with major changes on the horizon. One of the show’s greatest strengths is its ability to tackle important topics without feeling preachy. Adults have found themselves just as engrossed in the show’s storylines as children. Parents especially appreciate how “Bluey” portrays the realities of parenthood, with all its imperfections. “They’re flawed,” says Dave McCormack, who voices Bluey and Bingo’s devoted dad. “Sometimes they don’t have the answer and they don’t know what to do. That’s what it’s like for parents in real life.”
This authenticity makes the Heelers all the more endearing. They’re not superheroes – they’re just a regular family doing their best. And that’s a message that resonates with everyone, regardless of age or background. So next time you’re looking for a show that’s funny, heartwarming, and surprisingly relatable, be sure to check out “Bluey.” You might just find yourself laughing, crying, and reminiscing about your own childhood adventures along the way!
Tune in to Disney Plus for the first extended-length Bluey special, “The Sign,” on Sunday, April 14, across Disney+ (12 a.m. PT), Disney Junior (7 a.m. ET/PT), and Disney Channel (7:30 a.m. ET/PT).
Despite a disappointing theatrical run, Disney’s “Wish” is finding new life on Disney+! The animated film, celebrating Disney’s 100th anniversary, debuted on the streaming service on April 3rd and racked up an impressive 13.2 million views in its first five days, according to Variety.
This places “Wish” among the top three most-streamed premieres for Walt Disney Animation Studios on Disney+. While the November theatrical release only managed $31.7 million in its opening window, the strong streaming numbers suggest audiences are finding magic in “Wish” at home.
The film centers around Asha (voiced by Ariana DeBose) who makes a life-altering wish upon a star, a symbol iconically woven throughout Disney’s history.
First Look: All-new dining experiences are coming to Downtown Disney District
Attention foodies! The Downtown Disney District at Disneyland Resort is serving up a fresh wave of delicious experiences. This spring, get ready to tantalize your taste buds with three brand new Mexican restaurants bursting with innovative flavors. Plus, Disney has shared exciting news about the arrival of Din Tai Fung, upcoming restaurant concepts, and even more sweet treats on the horizon!
Sneak Peeks of Paseo, Céntrico and Tiendita, Celebrating Opening in May
With a vibrant expression of his native food and culture, Mexico’s first Michelin-starred Chef Carlos Gaytán is bringing authentic Mexican fare to the Downtown Disney District. His dishes will take guests on a multi-sensory journey to the heart of his homeland of Huitzuco, Mexico, through three distinctive concepts opening in the next few weeks: Paseo, Céntrico and Tiendita!
A stunning staircase will lead you to Paseo’s show-stopping dining room and bar area lined with rich woods, tiles, textures, leathers and custom accents that celebrate Mexico’s craftsmanship culture. An extended upper patio will offer exceptional new views of the district!
Chef Gaytán’s connection to his homeland comes to life as he pairs his love of Mexico with French culinary style and technique. Standout Paseo menu items will include colorful ceviches, Mama’s cochinita pibil (roasted marinated pork), lamb barbacoa and the mejillones (mussels) pictured above.
Céntrico, the courtyard bar and restaurant, will be an energetic, central gathering place serving upscale Mexican cuisine and tequila-based cocktails. Its open, airy spaces designed with custom wood elements and lush greenery will welcome you into its outdoor canopy.
Céntrico’s featured dishes will include quesabirrias, chicken enchiladas, tlayuda (a Oaxacan shareable dish reminiscent of a pizza with a perfect crunch) and one of Chef Gaytán’s favorites, Caesar salad.
At Tiendita, you’ll experience Mexican heritage flavors and street-food staples on the go. Through a self-ordering kiosk, menu options will include esquites (roasted corn), fish tacos, ice cream- stuffed chocolate tacos, and breakfast favorites like chorizo breakfast burritos and chilaquiles (marinated tortilla chips with egg). You may even see the expert culinary team at work, adding to the experience!
Chef Gaytán recently led a cooking demonstration at the Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival giving festival-goers a first look at his tetelas, which are stuffed corn masa triangles that will be on the menu at Paseo. The Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival runs through April 22, 2024. Check out the Disney Eats Foodie Guide for a complete list of this year’s marketplaces and menu items!
Din Tai Fung Opening This Summer
Another delicious update! Din Tai Fung, a Michelin-awarded restaurant brand from Taiwan,will open this summer in the district, bringing their signature soup dumplings (Xiao Long Bao), wontons, noodles, steamed buns, bok choy, pork chop fried rice and other flavorful dishes served family style.
New Steakhouse and BBQ Concepts Coming to Downtown Disney
We’re excited to let you in on more mouth-watering plans we have underway! Two newrestaurant concepts – a steakhouse restaurant and an adjacent barbecue eatery – are in the works for the Downtown Disney District. These will be located on the footprint of the former Tortilla Jo’s. We look forward to sharing more, soon!
Expansion and Reimagination Coming to Marceline’s Confectionery
Something sweet is underway at Marceline’s Confectionery. We’re designing an all-new, expanded and completely reimagined confection experience featuring your favorite treats and fun new tasty offerings! While work on this location will soon be in progress, you can visit Marceline’s cart coming soon to the district to pick up your caramel apples, churro toffee and other handcrafted goodies.
During this transformation of Marceline’s, The Disney Dress Shop has temporarily moved to the WonderGround Gallery location, and select items from WonderGround Gallery may be found in Disney Home.
What are you looking forward to tasting?
Calling all Disney dreamers! Feeling overwhelmed by the planning process? Destinations To Travel can be your pixie dust! Our team of Disney experts, like myself, will be your one-stop shop for crafting your magical adventure. We’ll handle everything from booking the perfect vacation package to keeping you informed of any updates. And the best news? My services are absolutely free when you book through us! Let’s sprinkle some pixie dust on your trip, contact me today!
