Spring has arrived at the Magic Kingdom, and with it comes a fresh look for the beloved Dapper Dans! The iconic barbershop quartet is turning heads with their new springtime outfits, showcasing a perfect blend of vibrant colors and classic designs.
The Dapper Dans are known for their harmonious tunes and charming presence on Main Street, U.S.A. But now, they’re also making a fashion statement. Their new outfits feature a delightful mix of bright hues and dapper details, capturing the essence of spring.
From the soft pastels to the eye-catching patterns, each element of their attire has been carefully chosen to reflect the joy and renewal of the season. The next time you’re strolling down Main Street, U.S.A., be sure to keep an eye out for the Dapper Dans and their stunning new spring outfits. It’s the perfect way to embrace the season and add a touch of magic to your day!
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!
Merlin Entertainment Buys The Wheel at Icon Park and Renames it ‘The Orlando Eye’ Again
Merlin Entertainment, a leading provider of branded entertainment destinations globally, is making significant strides in expanding its presence in Orlando and Central Florida. The company recently acquired The Wheel at ICON Park, previously known as the tallest observation attraction on the U.S. East Coast. Renamed as The Orlando Eye by Merlin Entertainments, this iconic attraction is now part of the company’s portfolio of family-friendly attractions and theme parks in the region.
Alongside The Orlando Eye, Merlin Entertainments also operates SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium and Madame Tussauds Orlando, both situated within ICON Park. Additionally, the company’s offerings in Central Florida include LEGOLAND® Florida Resort and Peppa Pig Theme Park Florida.
This expansion reflects Merlin Entertainment’s commitment to providing diverse and exciting entertainment experiences for visitors to Orlando and Central Florida, further enhancing the region’s reputation as a premier tourism destination.
The attraction is the first acquisition made under the leadership of Merlin Entertainments’ CEO Scott O’Neil and demonstrates the company’s strategic focus on expanding its Gateway ‘mega-clusters’ of attractions in leading tourist cities throughout the world. “Today’s acquisition of the Orlando Wheel in the vitally important tourist hub of Orlando demonstrates our Gateway strategy in action and serves to replicate our successful London Gateway formula, whereby we have clustered four of our branded attractions alongside the iconic anchor that is The London Eye,” states CEO, Scott O’Neil. Similarly, The Orlando Eye by Merlin Entertainments will become an unmissable stop on visitors’ itineraries, delivering an elevated experience with unobstructed 360-degree views of the ICON Park area and beyond. We look forward to connecting guests to our wider portfolio of premium attractions and resort theme parks in and around Orlando as well, including our SEA LIFE aquarium, Madame Tussauds, LEGOLAND Florida Resort and Peppa Pig Theme Park” states Scott O’Neil, CEO, of Merlin Entertainments.
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ICON Park’s President and CEO Chris Jaskiewicz said Merlin’s expansion plans fit well with its own growth strategy of continuing to sign quality restaurant, live entertainment and attraction tenants to its 20-acre destination in the center of the Orlando Entertainment District on International Drive. “We successfully built and developed it into a famous Orlando landmark, and now welcome The Orlando Eye by Merlin Entertainments as one of our outstanding ICON Park tenants. We’re proud that Merlin recognized the global appeal of this attraction, and of ICON Park as a destination, in selecting us as the site to expand their popular brands in Central Florida.”
“Merlin’s newest attraction, The Orlando Eye by Merlin Entertainments, is located in the heart of Orlando where visitors will experience breathtaking 360-degree views of Central Florida, including nearby theme parks and attractions, downtown Orlando, and Kennedy Space Center on Florida’s east coast,” said General Manager of Madame Tussauds Orlando, Paul Gould. “We’ve brought together a wonderful mix of attractions within walking distance from each other to appeal to domestic and international tourists traveling to our city.”
Located in ICON Park, in the center of International Drive, the 400-foot-tall Orlando Eye by Merlin Entertainments features 30 air-conditioned glass capsules. Each capsule has room for up to 15 guests to enjoy a serene 20-minute journey above the scenic landscape where they can enjoy a sense of calm as they are lifted away in a bubble of serenity above the hustle and bustle of Orlando.
In 2023, 27% of guests who visited Merlin’s Orlando-based Madame Tussauds also visited Merlin’s SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium. Similarly to Merlin’s expanding cluster of Orlando-based attractions, the world-leader in branded entertainment destinations owns and operates several of London’s most iconic and popular entertainment attractions including the 443-foot-tall London Eye, SEA LIFE London Aquarium, Madame Tussauds London, The London Dungeon, and Shrek’s Adventure London. According to figures by VisitBritain and Merlin guest data, more than one-quarter of tourists who come to London visit at least one of Merlin’s attractions.
Of the 16 U.S. states boasting Merlin attractions, Florida is now home to five attractions, and was the site of Merlin’s first Peppa Pig Theme Park, which opened in 2022. In 2023, Merlin announced the construction of America’s second Peppa Pig Theme Park, set to open in Dallas-Fort Worth in summer 2024; which is one of two Peppa Pig attractions currently under construction globally. Merlin’s three U.S.-based LEGOLAND Resorts in Florida, California, and New York are some of the most popular and most visited of Merlin’s 10 LEGOLAND theme parks open globally.
Tickets to The Orlando Eye by Merlin Entertainments are available at ICON Park, located at 8375 International Drive, Orlando, FL 32819 and online. Visit TheOrlandoEye.com for information or to purchase entry to The Orlando Eye and Merlin’s other Orlando-based attractions, SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium, and Madame Tussauds Orlando.
Nestled in Duluth, Georgia, this mansion was meticulously crafted by its original owner, Mark Hurt, mirroring the iconic design of Disneyland’s classic attraction. Listed at $2.2 million, it boasts six bedrooms and six bathrooms spread across more than 9,000 square feet of luxurious space.
If you’ve ever fantasized about strolling along the upper porch of the Haunted Mansion, the lucky owner of this property can indulge in just that, as the main bedroom grants access to a private upper porch. What’s more, the cast iron elements were meticulously crafted in the same foundry utilized for the Disneyland mansion.
Despite its imposing size, the interior of the home exudes modern elegance rather than haunted vibes. Boasting a chef’s kitchen, butler’s pantry, grilling deck, sunroom, and a two-tier entertainment space, among other distinctive features, it offers a luxurious living experience.
“Wondrous Journeys” returns to Disneyland Park, captivating audiences until April 14, 2024. The show originally debuted as part of the Disney100 Celebration at the Disneyland Resort on January 27, 2023, and had its final performance on August 31, 2023. It returned to Disneyland on March 22.
After concluding its 2024 stint on April 14, it will make way for a brief engagement of “Mickey’s Mix Magic” until April 25, succeeded by “Together Forever – A Pixar Nighttime Spectacular,” scheduled to run until August 4, seamlessly transitioning into the Halloween season. We’re hoping Wondrous Journeys will return briefly between the end of Pixar Fest and the start of the Halloween season on August 23.
This nighttime extravaganza celebrates Walt Disney Animation Studios by transforming Sleeping Beauty Castle, Main Street U.S.A., and the facade of “it’s a small world” into vibrant projection canvases. With fireworks illuminating the sky, guests are transported into the enchanting worlds of beloved animated characters.
Have you had a chance to experience Wondrous Journeys at Disneyland?
Ready to book your Disneyland trip? Contact me today to start planning! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are FREE, and I’d love to help you plan a magical and stress-free vacation.
Royal Beach Club Cozumel Experience Coming in 2026
Royal Caribbean International is introducing a fresh beach club encounter. The Royal Beach Club Cozumel, situated in Mexico, marks the second installment in the Royal Beach Club Collection, set to open its doors in 2026.
With its stunning beaches, array of sun-filled activities, and spacious pools catering to every mood, the Royal Beach Club Cozumel promises to offer vacationers the epitome of a beach day in Mexico. Expect nothing less than Royal Caribbean’s hallmark dedication to detail throughout the experience, service, and design.
Visitors will relish a blend of experiences, ranging from laid-back moments to thrilling adventures. Dive into swim-up bars, unwind at dedicated pools for both relaxation seekers and families, indulge in private cabanas, and explore activities such as snorkeling and kayaking. Additionally, to savor the essence of Mexico and beloved beach day delights, an array of dining options awaits, including a restaurant, a bar and lounge boasting scenic vistas and rich flavors, a street market infused with authentic Mexican cuisine, and hands-on encounters like tequila tastings and cooking classes.
Ready to plan your next cruise with Royal Caribbean Cruise Line? 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 wonderful vacation!
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure in Magic Kingdom Ride Testing Signs Installed
Disney’s highly anticipated Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at Magic Kingdom is steadily progressing, with recent updates that show its exciting developments. Crews worked overnight to install new signs around the flume, signaling that the ride is in the testing phase and not yet open to guests.
The signs, featuring Louis the alligator, a key character in Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, boast a design that harmonizes with the Mardi Gras posters adorning the construction walls. Positioned strategically at the bottom of the flume loop, these signs provide a playful nod to the upcoming attraction’s theme and characters.
Progress on the ride itself has been notable, with water testing beginning in early February and the arrival of refurbished Splash Mountain log ride vehicles. These vehicles, now equipped with new lap bars, underwent testing on the ride’s drop with water dummies, hinting at the thrilling experiences awaiting future riders!
Outside the ride, enhancements continue with the installation of more real and realistic plants, including ferns and flowers surrounding the artificial trees near the mountain-turned-salt-mine. The transformation of the former briar patch into a Louisiana bayou has been confirmed, showcasing the immersive storytelling Disney is known for.
Disney is dedicated to creating an immersive and enchanting experience for guests with the exciting new ride opening this summer. As work continues both inside and outside Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, anticipation builds for the day when guests can finally embark on this magical journey through the bayou with Princess Tiana and her friends. We can’t wait!
The new DVC Tower and Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort is slated to open this year. Construction progress on the exterior of the resort has continued, with details such as paint and exterior embellishments being installed recently.
The paint scheme reflects the artist rendering that was released back when the resort was first announced, and really softens the overall look of the resort building.
The exterior roof overhang have been installed on the side of the building that faces the Seven Seas Lagoon, and paint trim is being added to give the resort a wood look. The resort is slated to open in late 2024, and will be part of the current Disney Vacation Club association when it opens.
What are your thoughts on this new addition to the Polynesian Village Resort? Leave us a comment to let us know!
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!
As the 2025 opening day of Epic Universe continues to inch closer, we have a construction update to share with you. Thanks to X user bioreconstruct, we have photos on the progress of the show fountain that will be located in the Celestial Park area.
Aerial photo of the Epic Universe show fountain. A thin layer of accumulated rain is reflecting Helios Grand Hotel. In foreground is construction of splash pad. pic.twitter.com/jzySzKGt5Y
The show fountain, located in the heart of Celestial Park, is set to be a large water feature in front of the in-park Helios Grand Hotel. The fountain is destined to be an eye-catching feature of the park, especially at night!
Celestial Park is described as the cosmic heart of Universal’s Epic Universe; place where thrilling rides, entertainment, dining, shopping, and the Universal Helios Grand Hotel all come together to create an amazing world of discovery and excitement. Set to open in 2025, Celestial Park promises lush greenery, tree-lined walkways, and dancing fountains that will captivate guests and transport them to a world between worlds full of sensory delights.
Among the attractions to look forward to in Celestial Park are the Starfall Racers, a breathtaking dual-launch coaster that reaches incredible speeds of up to 62 mph. Riders will board a comet and rocket to the furthest reaches of the stars, racing along 5,000 feet of track and experiencing an inverted crisscross known as the “Celestial Spin.” Additionally, the Constellation Carousel offers a whimsical ride on celestial lions, dragons, bears, and more, as the constellations themselves take physical form in this imaginative, cosmic carousel.
With its promise of cosmic adventures, thrilling rides, and enchanting attractions, Epic Universe is set to be a must-visit destination for families, thrill-seekers, and anyone looking to embark on a journey of discovery and excitement. We cannot wait for the park to open next year!
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!
Mr. & Mrs. Easter Bunny have officially hopped back into Magic Kingdom for the 2024 Easter season! Visitors to the park can meet this adorable duo at the “Bunny Lane Garden,” located at the Enchanted Glade Gazebo in Liberty Square. This special meet-and-greet opportunity is a must for anyone looking to add a touch of magic to their Easter celebrations.
Guests who visit Mr. & Mrs. Easter Bunny will receive a complimentary autograph card. The front of the card features a cheerful “Happy Easter!” message along with the iconic Magic Kingdom logo. On the back, you’ll find the signatures of Mr. & Mrs. Easter Bunny themselves—a special keepsake to remember your magical encounter.
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!
Star Wars Celebrates 25th Anniversary The Phantom Menace” with Theatrical Re-release
Lucasfilm is commemorating the 25th anniversary of “Star Wars: The Phantom Menace” with a special theatrical re-release starting on May 3. Fans can purchase tickets now for screenings happening everywhere tickets are sold.
In addition to reliving “The Phantom Menace” on the big screen, viewers will enjoy an exclusive preview of “Star Wars: The Acolyte.” This highly anticipated Disney+ series, set around 100 years before “The Phantom Menace,” is set to premiere exclusively on Disney+ on June 4.
And…on May 4, in honor of both the film’s anniversary and the Star Wars fan holiday, fans will have the opportunity to see all nine episodes of the Skywalker Saga in theaters for a premium marathon event.
Did you see the video of Star Wars Taking Over the Empire State Building in New York City from earlier this week in honor of Star Wars Day? Check it out below!
Dollywood Parks & Resorts has achieved a significant milestone by being named a recipient of the prestigious 2024 USA Today Top Workplaces USA award. This recognition places Dollywood at the 86th position on the national list among organizations with more than 2,500 employees. Notably, Dollywood stands out as the sole representative from the theme park industry to secure a spot on this esteemed list.
The Top Workplaces program, with a commendable 15-year history, conducts extensive surveys encompassing over 20 million employees to identify and honor top organizations across 60 markets with regional Top Workplaces awards. Top Workplaces USA specifically celebrates organizations with 150 or more employees renowned for fostering exceptional workplace cultures. A staggering 42,000 organizations were invited to participate in the Top Workplaces USA survey, making this recognition highly competitive and significant.
The accolade is a testament to Dollywood’s commitment to cultivating a positive work environment and prioritizing employee satisfaction and engagement. The Top Workplaces USA award is based solely on feedback gathered from employees through an employee engagement survey conducted over 12 months in 2023.
As Dollywood Parks & Resorts continues to experience rapid growth and expansion, the recognition as a Top Workplace further reinforces the company’s strong reputation for delivering exceptional customer service and fostering a thriving organizational culture. This recognition not only showcases Dollywood as an exemplary workplace but also positions it as an attractive destination for top talent seeking to be part of a dynamic and fulfilling work environment.
“The awards we’ve received during the last several years really are humbling,” said Susan Loveday, Dollywood Vice President of Human Resources. “We take pride in our host culture, and we seek to provide our team with great benefits that show them we appreciate the work they do to make Dollywood the most unique and welcoming theme park experience in the entire world. When you consider that the results of this award are derived from survey results of our own hosts, it illustrates their belief in our host culture and their pride in the place they work.”
Energage, a purpose-driven organization that develops solutions to help build top workplaces, administers the survey. Results are calculated by comparing the survey’s research-based statements, including 15 “culture drivers” that are proven to predict high performance against industry benchmarks.
“Earning a Top Workplaces award is a badge of honor for companies, especially because it comes authentically from their employees,” said Eric Rubino, Energage CEO. “That’s something to be proud of. In today’s market, leaders must ensure they’re allowing employees to have a voice and be heard. That’s paramount. Top Workplaces do this, and it pays dividends.”
Dollywood’s award-winning host experience translates directly to the guest experience. In December 2023, Forbes ranked Dollywood Parks & Resorts in the top 1% (#27) or more than 3,000 US brands rated for exemplary customer service. Dollywood was the second-highest ranked travel company on the Forbes Best Customer Service 2024 list, placing two spots behind Hawaiian Airlines. The only other theme park in the top 300 was Legoland parks (#179).
Positions are available on several teams including Dollywood’s award-winning culinary and merchandise teams, park operations positions including ticketing, transportation, house and grounds, and more. Among the openings at Dollywood’s Splash Country are house and grounds, lifeguards and culinary services positions. Dollywood’s lodging properties also have a number of openings available including food and beverage, front desk, bell/valet and housekeeping positions.
Interested applicants may view opportunities, as well as job descriptions and basic requirements for each position, at dollywoodjobs.com.
Dollywood Parks & Resorts employees receive a variety of unique benefits including 100% free tuition through Herschend’s GROW U. program, access to the Dollywood Family Healthcare Center, and complimentary Dollywood and Dollywood’s Splash Country admission for family and friends. Hosts are provided a free lunch every working shift and also take part in Dollywood’s Park Perks program, which provides free or reduced admission to a large number of regional attractions, theaters and experiences. A comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision, is available for qualified full-time employees. Dollywood also pays a portion of childcare costs for hosts whose children are cared for at an Upwards-affiliated provider. Numerous opportunities also are available to help employees develop leadership skills, including an apprenticeship program in conjunction with Walters State Community College.
Hong Kong Disneyland Celebrates Duffy & Friends at Ultimate Fan Festival
Fans of Duffy & Friends can celebrate those characters at Hong Kong Disneyland now through June 10! Guests can see Duffy and his friends dressed in all new outfits, experience the new “The Joy of Sharing” show, CookieAnn’s “Sharing is Sweet” surprise moment, the return of “StellaLou’s Wonderful Wishes Ballet” and more!
Dressed in outfits inspired by Duffy and Friends, fans from far and wide gathered to kick off the festivities and spread their love for Duffy and his friends. They were invited to be some of the first to immerse themselves into the Duffy Fans-tasy. Let’s take a look at what they experienced and get all the details for when you arrive at the resort for your own Duffy and Friends journey!
New Entertainment
Set in front of the Castle of Magical Dreams, fans sang and danced along with Duffy and his friends as they enjoyed the all-new Duffy and Friends “The Joy of Sharing” show! In their new spring-themed outfits, the performance was a cheerful montage of color set to an upbeat musical score.
And over at Duffy and Friends Play House, the literal dream home for any Duffy and Friends fan, they met Duffy, ShellieMay, StellaLou, Gelatoni, CookieAnn, ‘Olu Mel and LinaBell.
CookieAnn even whipped up a special “Sharing is Sweet” surprise moment featuring her friends. During their visit to Duffy and Friends Play House, some fans couldn’t help but showcase their fandom through their rare collections and hand-made themed accessories.
And while fans will have to wait until April 5, “StellaLou’s Wonderful Wishes Ballet,” which first debuted last year, is worth the wait. This heartwarming story sees StellaLou overcome challenges and achieve her dreams of putting on a recital — all with the help of her good friends, Duffy, LinaBell and Gelatoni.
Adorable Decor
Fans couldn’t help but notice the incredible Duffy floral, right at the Main Street Train Station, followed by sculptures of Duffy and his seven friends in Town Square! And when they stepped foot into Duffy and Friends Play House, they were wow-ed by the all-new decorations that are just perfect for spring.
Delicious Treats and Must-Have Goodies
Let’s face it, good food is a must during festive times! Fans were first to try out all the tasty treats including the Hokkaido 5.0 Milk with White Peach Flavored Soft Serve, CookieAnn’s Waffle Marshmallow and the seven different colors of Duffy and Friends Donuts. Talk about yummy!
And like any true Duffy and Friends fan, you’re always looking to up your merch game. With new plushes in spring outfits, apparel, homeware and more, the Duffy and Friends Spring Series makes for the best keepsake.
