There are 8 different designs to choose from so you will for sure find the perfect one for you. They are a great option to match with your friends or family during your next Disney vacation!
Disney Gossip: Frontierland Shootin Arcade to Close for New DVC Lounge
The Frontierland Shootin’ Arcade at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom is poised to close permanently this summer. The closure will make way for a new Disney Vacation Club (DVC) Member Lounge according to WDW Magic.
While Disney hasn’t officially confirmed the closure or replacement details, the move aligns with a January announcement about a new DVC lounge opening at Walt Disney World in 2024. Disney described the lounge as “a great place for members to relax and recharge during their day of fun!”
This isn’t the first time the arcade’s closure has been rumored. In 2021, operating hours were removed and the arcade switched to free play, but it ultimately remained open. This time, sources indicate the closure is imminent, pending Disney’s official statement.
The potential DVC lounge is part of a larger wave of changes coming to Frontierland. This includes the opening of the Country Bears Musical Jamboree this summer and a likely retheme of Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Cafe, possibly tying into the nearby Tiana’s Bayou Adventure.
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Disney recently hinted at further developments in a blog post, stating, “Hold your horses, we’re not done yet. We have a lot of growth and investment planned for our theme parks in the coming years and look forward to sharing more announcements about Frontierland โฆ so y’all come back now, ya hear?”
New Mickey Mouse Icon Plate Set Spotted At Hollywood Studios!
Add character and color to your meals with this Mickey Mouse Icon Plate Set we found at Hollywood Studios for $34.99, you can also find it online at the Disney Store!
This plate set includes 4 plates made with robust melamine in orange, blue, pink and green. They feature a raised lip to keep your food in place and can be stackable for easier storage.
You can take a closer look at it in our Instagram post:
Must Have Mickey And Minnie Summer Cooler Bag For Those Sunny Days!
Get ready for your vacation with this Mickey And Minnie Summer Cooler Bag filled with magic and perfect to keep your drinks cool all day. We found it at Hollywood Studios for $34.99, so if you see it, we highly recommend you to get it.
It features Mickey laying down on a hammock in the beach taking on the sun, on the opposite side, you will find Minnie and Mickey on beach chairs enjoying the view of the ocean. At the top “Less Monday, more Summer” text is there to remind you to relax and have fun this summer.
It also features blue handles and an adjustable strap to carry it with you on all your fun adventures! You can take a closer look at this bag in our Instagram post:
New Poster and More Critters Revealed for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Reveals More Musical Critters!
Get ready for more music and merriment as Disney shares new details about the talented animal cast joining Princess Tiana’s Mardi Gras celebration in Tiana’s Bayou Adventure.
Meet the Rara Musicians!
Following the introduction of the Zydeco-playing critters, we now spotlight the Rara musicians! Hailing from Haiti, Rara is a vibrant musical tradition deeply rooted in New Orleans’ diverse musical landscape. These critters bring unique sounds and instruments that perfectly complement the festive atmosphere.
Octavia the Bobcatย โ Octavia plays the vaksin, a single-note horn instrument popular in Rara music. Sheโs an adventurous bobcat kitten, and she loves climbing and hanging out in trees almost as much as she loves performing. This daredevil almost never gets scared.ย ย
Pawpaw the Bobcatย โ Not only is Pawpaw Octaviaโs devoted grandfather, but he also taught her how to play the vaksin! Pawpaw lives to make Octavia smile and has the view that everything has a way of working itself out โ heโs seen it all but isnโt jaded.ย ย
Claude the Louisiana Black Bearย โ Claude is a salt of the earth kind of bear (or, as they say in the bayou, โsalt of the moundโ) who plays his horn along with the other members of his family. Heโs a tinkerer who loves to create with things found in the forest, and is frequently funny without intending to be, especially when it comes to his home-grown creations.ย
Bernadette the Louisiana Black Bearย โ Bernadette loves to enjoy life, from splashing in the waters of her bayou home with her cub, Sebastiรกn, to playing the horn with her mate, Claude. Sheโs a clear thinker and is warm and supportive. Bernadette loves to sink into the bayou waters and munch on plants (so long as Sebastiรกn is clearly within sight).ย
Sebastiรกn the Louisiana Black Bearย โ Though heโs definitely a โmamaโs cub,โ Sebastiรกn charted his own musical course as a drummer, despite his parents being devoted horn players. Heโs happy to follow his friend Octaviaโs adventurous lead as they explore and play, and is fascinated with the small details in the bayou, like the insects and mushrooms.ย
Phina the Gray Fox โ Phinaโs enthusiasm extends beyond her drumming, as sheโs constantly thinking of new ideas with optimism and energy! This imaginative fox is continually starting new projects with excitement, and her friends accept and celebrate her unique thinking.
Not only will you meet these new friends as Audio-Animatronics figures throughout the attraction, but some of them will also appear in theย Walt Disney Worldย attraction poster, which you can find below! It looks like theyโre ready to put on quite a memorable performance, and a few more critters are left to be revealedโฆย
Stay tuned next week for the final group of talented animal musicians! Soon, you’ll be cheering them all on when Tiana’s Bayou Adventure opens at Walt Disney World Resort this summer and Disneyland Resort later this year.
Disneyland Plans to Replace Autopiaโs Gas-Powered Cars
According to theย LA Times, Disneyland is preparing to replace the gas-powered cars of Autopia.
โSince opening with Disneyland park in 1955, Autopia has remained a guest-favorite most popular with young kids experiencing driving for the first time,โ spokesperson Jessica Good said in an email to the Times. โAs the industry moves toward alternative fuel sources, we have developed a roadmap to electrify this attraction and are evaluating technology that will enable us to convert from gas engines in the next few years.โ
While Disney hasn’t confirmed the specifics of the Autopia revamp, the LA Times wonders if this shift signals a move towards electric vehicles or possibly even hybrids. Naturally, a fully electric approach would be the most environmentally friendly option.
Regardless of the exact direction, this change represents positive news. Ideally, it’s just the start of Disney’s commitment to clean energy and sustainability within Tomorrowland.
Disney legend Bob Gurr seems to echo this sentiment. When contacted about the Autopia update, he not only supported cleaner vehicles but also envisioned a broader Tomorrowland theme focused on renewable energy, public transit, and other advancements crucial for a sustainable future.
He emphasizes the importance of positive storytelling, saying, “This has to be done with positive urging, rather than attacking and criticizing.”
Calling all Universal Orlando Resort adventurers! As you plan your epic theme park quest, there’s a key update to keep on your radar: parking fees.
Universal Orlando recently adjusted their parking prices. Regular daily parking has seen a slight bump from $30 to $32. Don’t worry though, Prime Parking and RV/Bus parking remain steady for now, with Prime spots ranging from $50-$60 and RV/Bus parking at $42.
Here’s a quick cheat sheet for current parking fees:
Regular Parking: $32
Prime Parking: $50-$60 (seasonal pricing)
Prime Upgrade: $18-$28 (seasonal pricing)
RV/Bus Parking: $42
Valet Parking: Varies by duration and time of day (before/after 6 pm). Starts at $32 for the first 2 hours.
Even with the slight increase, there are ways to be a parking wizard at Universal Orlando:
Matinee Movie Magic: Catch a flick at Universal Cinemark between 11 am and 6 pm, and with two or more matinee tickets, regular parking becomes your free spell (restrictions apply).
Night Owl Ninjas: For those who are planning a trip to Citywalk for a bit of nightlife (after midnight on Halloween Horror Nights or after 6 pm on regular days), self-parking transforms into free parking!
Annual Passholder Perks: Don’t forget your annual passholder superpowers! Premier Passholders get complimentary self-parking, while Preferred Passholders snag 50% off valet parking after their first visit (subject to availability).
Remember: Pricing can change based on the season and the day you visit. For the latest intel, visit the official Universal Orlando Resort website before your trip.
Factor the varying parking options into your Universal Orlando budget. Note Prime parking may not always be available, and valet parking is in a different location from the main parking garage!
If you’re flexible, nighttime free parking can be a real money-saving spell.
Staying onsite at a Universal hotel often includes complimentary park transportation, eliminating daily parking fees altogether.
We hope this helps you navigate the parking situation at Universal Orlando! Now get out there and have a thrilling, magical adventure!
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!
Annual Passholder & DVC Discounts Now Accepted at Roundup Rodeo BBQ
Attention Annual Passholders and Disney Vacation Club Members! Good news! Roundup Rodeo BBQ in Toy Story Land at Disneyโs Hollywood Studios is now accepting your dining discounts. Enjoy 10% off your meal when you visit for lunch or dinner.
Previously, Roundup Rodeo BBQ in Toy Story Land didn’t participate in the usual dining discounts offered at table-service restaurants at Disney’s Hollywood Studios (typically 10-20% off). However, there’s good news for Walt Disney World Annual Passholders and Disney Vacation Club Members! You can now enjoy a 10% discount on your meal and non-alcoholic beverages when you dine at Roundup Rodeo BBQ for lunch or dinner.
Here’s a breakdown of the discount details:
Both Annual Passholders and Disney Vacation Club Members receive a 10% discount.
The discount applies to the regular-priced meal and non-alcoholic beverages only (tax and gratuity are not included).
Disney Vacation Club Members can extend the discount to up to three guests dining with them.
Special events and dining packages are not eligible for the discount.
Have you had a chance to dine at Roundup Rodeo BBQ yet?
If you’d like to plan your next visit to Disney’s Hollywood Studios, contact me today! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are FREE, and I’d love to help you plan a magical vacation.
Walt Disney Company & Nat Geo Announce New Earth Month Programs
The Walt Disney Company and National Geographic have teamed up to launch a global Earth Month campaign called ourHOME. This initiative aims to inspire people to protect, restore, and celebrate our planet through compelling storytelling and real-world action.
The campaign will feature captivating stories, including those that highlight Disney Planet Possible. This initiative showcases Disney’s commitment to taking measurable actions for a healthier planet. A new digital series will be released, featuring National Geographic personalities visiting Walt Disney World to witness Disney Planet Possible stories firsthand.
On Earth Day, April 22nd, 2024, Disney+ will premiere the newest installment of National Geographic’s Emmyยฎ Award-winning “Secrets Of…” franchise – “Secrets of the Octopus,” narrated by Paul Rudd. Additionally, Disneynature’s “Tiger,” narrated by Priyanka Chopra Jonas, will also be available for streaming. This film follows a young tigress raising her cubs in the forests of India.
“National Geographic…reminds people that the world is an amazing and miraculous place…We hope by sharing this passion we can also inspire others to protect, restore and celebrate our home,” says Courteney Monroe, President of National Geographic.
Here is a full list of all the incredible shows you can look forward to watching in celebration of Earth Month!
ourHOME Collection on Disney+ โ Disney+ is launching an ourHOME collection with content that celebrates the beauty, awe and wonder of our planet.
Eclipse Across America โ April 8, 2024, Nat Geo and ABC News partner for a two-hour live special to celebrate and capture the eclipse across the country.
Secrets of the Octopus โ Next installment of this franchise in partnership with James Cameron debuting out on Earth Day, narrated by Paul Rudd and premiering on Disney+ on Earth Day.
Disneynatureโs Tiger โ All-new feature film narrated by Priyanka Chopra Jonas streams on Disney+ beginning Earth Day, marking 15 Years since Disneynatureโs inaugural release, โEarth.โ
ourHOME-themed programming scheduled across National Geographic Channel, Nat Geo WILD, Nat Geo MUNDO, Disney Channel, Disney Junior, Freeform, FX and FXX.
A dedicated ourHOME spot featuring the voice of Morgan Freeman, airing throughout the month across all of Disney networks, Disney owned television stations and select digital platforms.
A special screening of the award-winning feature documentaryย JANEย at the Greek Theatre in Hollywood on April 3 to commemorate Jane Goodallโs 90thย birthday.
In addition to launching incredible programs to view, Disney is also showcasing their appreciation around the theme parks! Here are some ways you can see ourHOME come to life in the parks:
Disneyโs Animal Kingdom at Walt Disney World Resort will celebrate Earth Week, April 21-28, with specialty offerings and experiences that connect audiences with the magic of nature.
ourHOME Castle show at Disneyland Paris, highlighting scenes and images inspired by National Geographic explorers, will happen in the month of April.
Walt Disney World will also have Earth Month-themed food throughout the month of April.
Photo Activations โ Special photo activations for Park goers at Disneyโs Animal Kingdom and Disneyland Resort to celebrate the launch of Secrets of the Octopus.
Animation Academy โ Special drawing activity at Disney California Adventure tied to Secrets of the Octopus.
Shanghai Disney Resort will host theย ourHOMEย Nature Conservation Forum on April 22, joined by National Geographic Explorer Xi Zhinong and will see the return of the “Celebrate Earth โ Earth Month Fair” at Disneytown from April 19 through 22.ย
For over a century, Disney has captivated us with the magic of our world. National Geographic, for over 136 years, has sparked a deep appreciation for our planet. This powerful collaboration, ourHOME, celebrates our beautiful planet and empowers each of us to be a force for positive change. Be sure to check out all of the trailers for a first glimpse of these incredible stories!
Celebrate Earth Month with these Photopass Photo Ops
Capture Earth Month Magic with Disney PhotoPass at Animal Kingdom! Spring is here, and Earth Month is in full swing! To celebrate our amazing planet, Disney PhotoPass Service at Disney’s Animal Kingdom is offering some limited-time photo opportunities you won’t want to miss.
Throughout April, Disney PhotoPass photographers will be capturing special Earth Month Magic Shots at various locations within the park. These unique photos will add a Disney twist to your Earth Day celebration and create lasting memories.
But that’s not all! Animal Kingdom offers over 20 additional Magic Shots available all year round. These fun photo ops feature everything from playful feathered friends to fascinating creatures.
Curious to see what kind of magical shots you can capture? Head over to the Disney PhotoPass website (click here!) to find out where each Magic Shot is located in the park!
Whether you’re visiting Animal Kingdom in person or celebrating Earth Month from home, Disney PhotoPass Service is here to help you connect with the magic of nature through the power of photography!
Walls are down outside Ye Olde Christmas Shoppe as Refurbishment is Almost Complete
Magic Kingdom’s Ye Olde Christmas Shoppe is getting a festive refresh! The beloved Christmas shop is currently undergoing refurbishment, promising an upgraded shopping experience for guests.
Disney fans visiting Magic Kingdom will be delighted to see that the refurbishment of Ye Olde Christmas Shoppe is progressing well. The shop’s side entrance has received a fresh coat of paint, and the previously blocked-off area behind the building is now accessible, offering guests a more open and inviting space to explore.
Magic Kingdom’s Ye Olde Christmas Shoppe is undergoing a refurbishment that began in December 2023. The beloved Christmas shop remains open for guests to browse and purchase ornaments, decorations, and other holiday merchandise while the refurbishment progresses.
The central entrance and its courtyard are no longer covered in scrim and blocked by rolling planters.ย The sleigh is also available again for guests to sit on for photo ops.
Disney World Installs New Frontierland Props in the Magic Kingdom
Walt Disney World Railroad fans will be happy to see some fresh details emerge in Frontierland at Magic Kingdom. As construction for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure progresses, new props have been placed near the Frontierland Station. These period-specific additions, like themed crates and barrels, create a more immersive railroad experience for guests.
These themed crates and barrels, perfect for capturing the spirit of the area, create a more immersive experience for guests passing by the currently fenced-off queue for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure.
The meticulously crafted crates and barrels contain a variety of themed items, including lanterns, soap, railroad spikes, and even a possible nod to moonshine with a barrel marked “XXX”. Other interesting finds include horseshoes, whiskey, a humidor, lumber, and flintlock rifles. The “Fragile” markings on some crates add a touch of humor to the scene.