Exciting new details have been announced for the Island Tower, currently under construction at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort and slated to open later this year. Among the highlights are four exclusive island-themed terrace gardens that will offer guests a serene escape with stunning views.
Each garden will feature unique artwork, lush foliage, and themed seating areas, making them the perfect spot for families to gather and enjoy picturesque views of Disney’s Oak Trail and Magnolia Golf Courses or the Seven Seas Lagoon. Best of all, these terraces will provide prime vantage points for viewing the Magic Kingdom fireworks.
As we previously reported, additional new details recently released by Disney include the Wailulu Bar & Grill, a Polynesian-inspired dining experience named after the Hawaiian words for “water” and “calm.” This restaurant will offer indoor and outdoor seating with breathtaking views of the Seven Seas Lagoon and Cinderella’s Castle.
Additionally, the Island Tower will boast a brand-new zero-entry Cove Pool and Moana’s Voyage splash area, where little ones can play alongside life-size sculptures of Moana and her iconic canoe. Both Disney Vacation Club members and guests at the Polynesian Village Resort will have access to these new aquatic features.
Disney announced during the recent D:23 event that Rivers of America and Tom Sawyer Island in Magic Kingdom will soon make way for a new cars-themed expansion. Reaction to the news has been mixed, with many Disney fans welcoming the upgrade and addition to Magic Kingdom, while others wishing the planned expansion was planned in a way that did not sacrifice two classic attractions.
Since construction permits have been recently filed, we can expect work in this area to begin in the coming weeks. X User bioreconstruct shared some arial photos of the area ahead of the beginning of the demo work, affording us perhaps our last glimpse of the land as it currently stands.
Aerial photo of Frontierland. Disney recently announced that Tom Sawyer Island and Rivers of America will be replaced by a Cars attraction. Concept art shows a guest walkway connecting the Big Thunder area and the Haunted Mansion area. pic.twitter.com/Dfkp15FODb
The arial photos show the Liberty Square Riverboat making a voyage around Rivers of America, with Tom Sawyer Island in the center. Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is present in the top of the photo, with Big Thunder Mountain Railrod visible to the right side. Along the left side of the photo you can see the show building for Country Bear Jamboree as well as the Frontier Trading Post. The bottom right section of the photo shows the covered outdoor queue for Haunted Mansion, with the Mansion itself not readily apparent behind the trees.
What are your thoughts on the Cars expansion coming at the expense of Rivers of America and Tom Sawyer Island? Is this a welcomed change, or are you sad to see more classic Disney attractions being sacrificed to make way for new lands? Leave us a comment to let us know!
Next time you are strolling through Adventureland in Disney’s Magic Kingdom Park, you may want to take a few moments to look down. A newly themed pavement section has been introduced just beyond the bridge leading into Adventureland, right outside the exclusive Club 33 location. This new pathway, with its green, mossy texture, is drawing comparisons to the lush walkways found in Pandora – The World of Avatar over at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
The attention to detail in this new pavement is impressive. Not only does it feature a rich, earthy design, but it also includes various embellishments such as cracks, embedded rocks, and animal prints, adding to the land’s storytelling.
These embellishments are reminiscent of those found in Fantasyland’s Storybook Circus, where the pathways are adorned with circus animal prints and scattered peanuts. In Adventureland, however, the prints are a nod to the various animals that inhabit the area, such as the famous key-holding dog from Pirates of the Caribbean, the myriad birds that Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room home, and the various animals that inhabit the legendary Jungle Cruise.
This is not the only upgrade to the pavement in Adventureland over the past few years, with the pavement outside of the former Shootin Arcade receiving an upgrade recently, and sections of green embellshed pavement installed back during the 50th anniversary celebration in 2021.
Tourist Sues Disney World Over “Stampede” Injury at Magic Kingdom
A Pennsylvania tourist, Debra O’Steen, is suing Walt Disney World after she was allegedly injured in a “stampede” of people at Magic Kingdom on June 25th. The lawsuit, filed last week in Orange County, claims that Disney was negligent in managing the large crowds, leading to O’Steen being “knocked over” and sustaining injuries.
The incident reportedly occurred on Main Street during a busy day at the park, with two major events – the Festival of Fantasy Parade and the Happily Ever After fireworks show – taking place. The lawsuit doesn’t specify which event the crowd was rushing towards.
O’Steen claims to have suffered bodily injury, pain and suffering, disability, disfigurement, and incurred hospitalization expenses and lost wages as a result of the incident. She is seeking damages and a jury trial.
While Disney’s website outlines various security measures in place at its parks, including uniformed police officers and crowd control measures, it doesn’t provide specific details on crowd management protocols.
FOX 35 has reached out to Walt Disney World for comment on the lawsuit and further information regarding their crowd control safety procedures, but has not yet received a response.
Pirates of the Caribbean Clock Tower Refurbishment Complete in the Magic Kingdom
The iconic Torre del Cielo clock tower at Pirates of the Caribbean has been fully restored! As this beloved landmark shines once again, construction on the highly anticipated new Pirates tavern continues. We can’t wait to see this exciting addition to the ride experience.
The scrim surrounding Torre del Cielo has been removed, marking the completion of the clock tower’s restoration. This extensive project lasted approximately eight months.
The clock tower now boasts a fresh coat of brown paint, seamlessly blending with the Castillo del Morro building that houses Pirates of the Caribbean. This new look replaces the previous off-white color with weathered accents.
The refurbishment of Pirates of the Caribbean has also included a significant change to the roof. The blue shingles have been replaced with maroon tiles, creating a more cohesive appearance with the Castillo del Morro building.
Construction at Pirates of the Caribbean has impacted Adventureland operations. The Jack Sparrow meet and greet was temporarily relocated to the outside of Tortuga Tavern, which has since reopened as Tortuga Treasures. While initial speculation suggested that the Pirates tavern would replace Tortuga Tavern, ongoing construction indicates otherwise.
Celebrate the Harvest Festival at Galaxy’s Edge with these Tasty Treats
Get ready for a galactic feast! Disney Eats has unveiled a new menu of delicious treats coming to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland for the Batuu Harvest Festival.
A classic returns! The Endorian Roasted Chicken Salad is back on the menu at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge for Batuu Harvest Festival. This flavorful salad features marinated chicken, mixed greens, roasted veggies, quinoa, pumpkin seeds, and a tangy green curry ranch.
One new item at Batuu Harvest Festival is the Surabat Valley Harvest Board. It features torched sourdough bread, aji verde-infused pork spread, and spicy salsa criolla. It’s a flavor explosion you won’t want to miss!
Indulge in the new Jogan Seed Oi-Oi Puff! This delightful dessert features a green cream puff with a green crunch and ube creme. It’s the perfect way to finish off your Batuu Harvest Festival meal.
Ready to plan an out of this world trip to the Disneyland Resort? Contact me today to get started! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel and my services are FREE.
Sip, Dream and Explore With The New Pocahontas Owala Water Bottle!
Get ready to add a touch of magic to your hydration routine with Owala’s newest Color Drop: Pocahontas. Inspired by the Disney classic, this limited-edition Pocahontas Owala water bottle captures the spirit of the film’s iconic heroine.
The Pocahontas Color Drop will be available for purchase on August 27th at 10am CST on the Owala website.
The Pocahontas Color Drop features a mesmerizing ombre design, transitioning from a vibrant purple to a soft peach. To complete the enchanting look, colorful leaves dance around the bottle, reminiscent of the wind carrying Pocahontas’ spirit. The lid echoes the same captivating color palette, showcasing a mix of peach, purple, and green hues.
This special Color Drop will be available exclusively in the popular 32oz style, ensuring you stay hydrated throughout your day. Priced at $37.99, the Pocahontas Owala is a must-have for Disney fans and anyone seeking a touch of whimsy in their everyday life.
Mark your calendars! Don’t miss out on this opportunity to own a piece of Disney magic!
Mischief is in Your Hands With The Stitch Inspired Playing Cards by Bicycle!
Get ready to add a touch of Hawaiian mayhem to your next game night with the all-new Stitch Inspired Playing Cards by Bicycle.
For just $7.99, you can bring the spirit of “Ohana” (family) home and unleash some playful chaos with this unique deck. Head over to bicyclecards.com to snag your set before they’re gone!
Forget the standard, boring card case. Here, Stitch makes a dramatic entrance, literally tearing through the tuckbox in a burst of mischievous energy. It’s a clear sign that playtime with this deck is anything but ordinary!
The fun doesn’t stop at the tuckbox. Stitch, everyone’s favorite blue genetic experiment, makes his presence known throughout the entire deck. Prepare to find him causing playful havoc among the pips on the number cards. You might even catch him interacting with his “boojiboo,” Angel, on the custom-designed court cards!
This isn’t just a novelty deck. Bicycle is renowned for its quality playing cards, and the Stitch deck is no exception. Crafted with the brand’s signature Air Cushion Finish™, these cards offer smooth handling and superior performance, ensuring a delightful playing experience alongside the Stitch-themed thrills.
So, gather your friends and family, shuffle up the deck, and get ready for a game night filled with laughter and a touch of Stitch’s unique brand of mischief. With the Stitch Inspired Playing Cards by Bicycle, every hand is an adventure!
Disney has announced new details about the Island Tower at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows, the latest addition to the Disney Vacation Club, set to open in December 2024. The Island Tower will introduce exciting new features, including the Wailulu Bar & Grill, a dining venue offering a blend of Polynesian-inspired dishes and classic American fare. With its flowing water features, lava rock-inspired bar, and views of Cinderella Castle and Seven Seas Lagoon, Wailulu Bar & Grill is set to become a standout destination for guests looking to enjoy a meal or a drink in a beautiful setting.
In addition to the new dining experience, the Island Tower will bring enhanced amenities to the resort. The Cove Pool area will offer a serene escape with a sandy beach courtyard, a whirlpool spa, and picturesque views of the lagoon. Families will be thrilled by Moana’s Voyage, a new splash area featuring a playful Moana figure and interactive water elements, perfect for younger guests.
These additions will complement the existing amenities at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows, including the Lava Pool with its volcano, waterfall, and 142-foot-long waterslide, as well as the tranquil Oasis Pool. Guests can enjoy a variety of activities, from volleyball and guided fishing excursions to motorboat rentals on Seven Seas Lagoon. Evenings will continue to be magical with campfire activities, the Magic Kingdom fireworks, and the enchanting Electrical Water Pageant on the lagoon.
Disney has provided a first look at the construction progress in their first Storyliving Community
Construction is moving swiftly at Cotino, Disney’s first Storyliving community in California’s Coachella Valley. Located in Rancho Mirage, this new neighborhood is beginning to take shape with the completion of key elements.
The first model homes, built by Shea Homes, are nearly finished and showcase three distinct design collections. The Agrarian Collection combines natural materials with contemporary design, while the Oasis Collection draws inspiration from mid-century modern architecture. Nearby, Woodbridge Pacific Group is also constructing homes in the Aspiron Collection, featuring modern materials and vibrant colors.
The main entrance to Cotino, set against the San Jacinto mountains, is under construction, offering a welcoming blend of natural and man-made elements. Within the community, Longtable Park is coming to life as a central gathering spot, inspired by Walt Disney’s love for the Coachella Valley.
The Artisan Club, a future social hub for residents, is also progressing, with plans to include a pool, dining options, and fitness facilities. As construction advances, Cotino is quickly transforming into a vibrant community that blends Disney magic with desert living. Stay tuned for more updates as Cotino prepares to welcome its first residents.
Star Wars Fans Petition Disney to Renew the Acolyte
Despite its recent cancellation, fans of the Disney+ Star Wars series “The Acolyte” are not giving up without a fight. A Change.org petition has been launched, aiming to persuade Disney and Lucasfilm to reverse their decision and renew the show for a second season.
The petition, which has garnered thousands of signatures in a matter of days, highlights “The Acolyte’s” unique position within the Star Wars universe. It emphasizes the show’s exploration of the High Republic era, its diverse cast, and its focus on the rise of the dark side from a fresh perspective.
Many fans argue that the show’s cancellation after just one season is premature, especially considering its initial strong viewership and the positive reception it received from a significant portion of the fanbase. The petition’s creator emphasizes that the series was a “beacon for representation that many fans have felt was lacking in the Star Wars universe for decades.”
While it remains to be seen whether the petition will sway Disney and Lucasfilm, the passionate response from fans demonstrates the show’s impact and the desire for its continuation. Social media platforms have also seen an outpouring of support, with the hashtag #RenewTheAcolyte trending as fans voice their disappointment over the cancellation and their hopes for a second season.
The future of “The Acolyte” hangs in the balance, but one thing is certain: the fans are not ready to let go of this unique and promising addition to the Star Wars galaxy.
Universal Helios Grand Hotel at Epic Universe Will Begin Welcoming Guests in 2025
A new era of luxury and immersion is on the horizon as Universal Orlando Resort unveils exciting new details about the Helios Grand Hotel, a Loews Hotel, set to open in 2025. This spectacular 500-room resort will be the crown jewel of the highly anticipated Epic Universe theme park, promising guests an unparalleled blend of relaxation, entertainment, and convenience.
Rising majestically above the lush gardens and serene waters of Celestial Park, the Universal Helios Grand Hotel is a Mediterranean-inspired escape brought to life by the award-winning Universal Creative team. Co-owned and operated by Loews Hotels & Co, this palatial resort is designed to offer a seamless blend of immersion and relaxation, making it much more than just a place to stay—it’s the pinnacle of Universal Orlando’s hotel experiences.
As guests step into this radiant sanctuary, they will be transported into a fantastical world within the palace of Helios, the Greek god of the sun. The hotel’s design is adorned with celestial patterns, dazzling constellations, and elegant Mediterranean elements, creating a serene yet luxurious atmosphere. Through the lobby’s magnificent floor-to-ceiling windows, guests will be treated to breathtaking views of Celestial Park, offering some of the best vistas of Epic Universe by day and night.
The Universal Helios Grand Hotel features a variety of accommodations to suit every guest’s needs, from serene guest rooms to spacious suites. Each room is bright, inviting, and evokes the tranquility of a blissful garden, with many offering fantastic views of Epic Universe. Families with little ones will be particularly enchanted by the How to Train Your Dragon-themed Kids’ Suites, where children can drift off to sleep in a colorful room inspired by the Viking village of Berk.
One of the standout amenities of the Helios Grand Hotel is its dedicated entrance to Universal Epic Universe, providing guests with direct, convenient access to the theme park (valid theme park admission required). After a day of adventure, guests can unwind at Bar Helios, the hotel’s sparkling rooftop lounge. Offering creative tapas, specialty cocktails, and unmatched 360-degree views of Epic Universe and beyond, Bar Helios is the perfect spot to relax in the evening.
For those looking to cool off, the resort-style zero-entry pool is the ultimate spot for rest and relaxation. Complete with underwater speakers, poolside cabanas, a hot tub, and even poolside movies, the pool area offers a haven of tranquility. Guests can also enjoy a variety of recreational activities, making it a perfect retreat for the entire family.
Dining at the Helios Grand Hotel is an experience in itself. The Flora Taverna, a full-service restaurant, serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a light and airy atmosphere. With an open-style kitchen, Mediterranean comfort foods, and al fresco seating overlooking Celestial Park, Flora Taverna is sure to delight every palate. For a quick snack or a caffeine fix, Aurora Market offers freshly-roasted coffees and grab-and-go food items. And for those lounging by the pool, Lotus Lagoon serves up refreshing cocktails and casual fare like burgers, salads, and sandwiches.
Guests of Universal Helios Grand Hotel will also have access to a state-of-the-art fitness center, a game room filled with arcade games, and a Universal Orlando Resort Store for all their shopping needs. Additionally, guests can take advantage of exclusive theme park benefits, including Early Park Admission and complimentary shuttle bus transportation to Universal CityWalk and the other theme parks.
With the addition of Universal Helios Grand Hotel, Universal Orlando Resort’s portfolio now boasts 11 hotels with a total of 11,000 guest rooms. This expansion introduces three reimagined hotel categories: Signature Collection, Prime Value Hotels, and Value Inns and Suites, making it easier for guests to choose a hotel that best fits their style and budget.
As the opening of Universal Epic Universe approaches, the Universal Helios Grand Hotel stands ready to welcome guests into a world where light, life, and laughter abound. Stay tuned to the Chip and Co website and social media channels for more details about how to book your stay at this extraordinary resort, and prepare to make Universal Helios Grand Hotel your place in the sun!
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!
