This Valentine’s Day, ICON Park is presenting a special date night experience that combines the thrill of illusions and the excitement of interactive adventures. The Museum of Illusions and Max Action Arena, two popular attractions located at ICON Park, are joining forces to offer a one-of-a-kind evening for couples.
The event, designed for those looking for an adventurous and fun-filled date, will be available on Wednesday, February 14, and every Friday throughout February. The package is priced at $47.98 plus tax, providing a unique opportunity for couples to explore and enjoy together.
The special package includes:
Two admission tickets to the Museum of Illusions Orlando.
A guided tour of the museum, offering a chance to dive into a world of optical illusions and mind-bending exhibits.
Two complimentary drinks (choice of alcoholic or non-alcoholic) at Max Action Arena.
Access to one attraction at Max Action Arena at a discounted rate of $15.00.
Unlike traditional museums, visitors to the Museum of Illusions Orlando are encouraged to touch and interact with the exhibits. With more than 50 engaging exhibits, the museum promises a hands-on experience that challenges the mind and sparks curiosity.
For more information about the Museum of Illusions Orlando or to book tickets for this exclusive Valentine’s Day experience, interested parties can visit the museum’s website at https://moiorlando.com/.
Ready to book your next epic vacation, but don’t know where to start? Want to enjoy an 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 Orlando 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 Orlando vacation package through me!
Disney recently unveiled an exclusive display of artifacts from the Disney+ original series “Percy Jackson and the Olympians” at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The exhibit offers fans an inside look at the series, which follows the thrilling journey of Percy Jackson, Annabeth Chase, and Grover Underwood in their quest to find Zeus’ Master Bolt. The cast of the show recently visited Walt Disney World Resort to experience the exhibit as well as take in the sites and sounds of the Disney theme parks.
Walker Scobell (Percy), Leah Sava Jeffries (Annabeth), and Aryan Simhadri (Grover) toured various attractions within the resort, extending their visit beyond the themed exhibit. Their journey included stops at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, and EPCOT, bringing to life the adventurous spirit of their on-screen characters.
The cast’s visit to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios was a highlight, with Leah Jeffries leading the group on the Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run. Their experience mirrored the strategic and intellectual prowess displayed by their characters in the series.
Transitioning from the galactic adventure, the cast made their way to Toy Story Land, where they enjoyed a memorable moment with iconic characters Woody, Jessie, and Buzz Lightyear from Pixar’s Toy Story films.
At Disney’s Animal Kingdom, the group embarked on Kilimanjaro Safaris. Aryan Simhadri, in a manner akin to his character Grover, shared insightful facts about the animals, adding an educational twist to the excursion.
Continuing their journey, the cast visited The Animation Experience at Conservation Station. Here, they participated in drawing sessions in line with National Geographic’s new Disney+ series, “A Real Bug’s Life,” showcasing their artistic talents.
Their adventure culminated at EPCOT, where the trio captured a memorable selfie in front of Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, marking Aryan Simhadri’s favorite ride at the park. Additionally, Walker Scobell demonstrated his demigod-like talents at Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana, offering a nod to his character’s abilities.
This visit by the cast of “Percy Jackson and the Olympians” not only highlights the crossover appeal of Disney’s diverse themes and attractions but also serves as an invitation for fans to explore the magic of Walt Disney World Resort.
Visitors can experience the magic of the series and its characters, retrace the steps of the cast, and enjoy the Disney+ original series, now streaming.
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!
Disney Honors 50-year Cast Member by Naming Rare Baby Okapi After him
In a heartwarming tribute to 50 years of dedicated service, Disney celebrates the remarkable cast member, Elijah. Since joining the enchanting realms of the Magic Kingdom in June 1973, Elijah has woven his magic through the park’s tapestry. In 1998, he seamlessly transitioned to the horticulture department at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, becoming an integral part of maintaining the diverse animal habitats.
From the majestic rhinos to the elusive okapi and every creature in between, Elijah’s unwavering commitment and love for the animal kingdom have left an indelible mark. Recognizing his cherished role, the Disney family has chosen to honor him in a unique and heartwarming way – by naming a rare baby okapi after this beloved cast member.
This adorable baby okapi, now known as Okapi Elijah, stands as a living testament to the decades of passion and care Elijah has poured into his role.
For those enchanted by Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail is the place to be. Stop by to witness the bond between Elijah and the baby okapi, a living symbol of dedication and love.
Chita Rivera, the adored Broadway icon renowned for her roles in West Side Story, Chicago, and Kiss of the Spider Woman, passed away yesterday in New York after a brief illness at the age of 91. The news of her passing was shared by her daughter, Lisa Mordente, who conveyed that Rivera’s death occurred peacefully.
As one of America’s leading Latina artists, Rivera made significant strides in her career, captivating both critics and audiences with groundbreaking performances in iconic Broadway numbers like “America” and “A Boy Like That” from West Side Story, as well as “All That Jazz” from Chicago. A prominent figure in Tony Award history, she earned 10 nominations, securing victory twice (for The Rink and Kiss of the Spider Woman) and receiving the 2018 Special Tony Award for Lifetime Achievement in the Theatre.
In 1953, Rivera skyrocketed to stardom with Guys and Dolls, solidifying her position as a leading lady on Broadway in 1954 with Can-Can, followed by Mr. Wonderful in 1956. However, it was in 1957 that she attained both a personal signature and a revered place in Broadway history by portraying Anita in the original Broadway production of West Side Story—a role she reprised in London.
Additional career milestones encompass leading roles in Bye Bye Birdie (1960), Jerry’s Girls (1985), and the inaugural Broadway ensemble of Seventh Heaven (1955). Rivera also headlined in touring renditions of Born Yesterday, The Rose Tattoo, Call Me Madam, Threepenny Opera, Sweet Charity, Kiss Me Kate, Zorba, and Can-Can alongside The Rockettes.
Rivera is survived by her daughter, the singer, dancer, and choreographer Lisa Mordente, born during her marriage to West Side Story co-star Tony Mordente from 1957 to 1966. Additionally, she is survived by her siblings Julio, Armando, and Lola del Rivero, along with numerous nieces and nephews.
Celebrate the life of Chita Rivera by letting us know your favorite film or show in a comment.
Ooh la la! Starbucks has done it again! Introducing the 2 newest love-able drinks added to the Starbucks lineup just in time for Valentine’s Day. Say hello to the Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Crème Frappuccino and the Chocolate Hazelnut Cookie Cold Brew. The delectable drinks are available to order starting January 30, and will have you in love at first sip!
The Chocolate-Covered Strawberry sweet treat features a blend of ice, milk, strawberry puree and rich java chips, layered on top of a splash of strawberry puree and topped with whipped cream. Yum!!
We also can’t wait to try the new Chocolate Hazelnut Cookie Cold Brew! This new cold drink features hazelnut syrup and is topped with chocolate cream cold foam and a chocolate cookie crumble topping. This amazing chocolatey coffee creation is sure to make your tastebuds soar!
Starbucks also announced that on Jan. 30 that its Oleato beverages will be available at all cafes across the country, along with a new beverage featuring a new type of foam. The New Oleato Golden Foam Iced Shaken Espresso with Toffeenut! This drink features Starbucks Blonde espresso combined with toffee-nut flavor and oat milk and is topped with Oleato Golden Foam. (vanilla sweet cream cold foam infused with Partanna extra-virgin olive oil)
Starbucks has also released their new Valentine’s Day merchandise you can view by clicking here. We can’t wait to try all of these new drinks! Which one will you try first?!
Walt Disney World recently transformed into an exclusive celebration venue to honor over 5,000 cast members who reached milestone anniversaries. Magic Kingdom closed its gates early, creating an enchanting atmosphere just for these dedicated individuals and their families. The red carpet was rolled out for the cast members, providing them with a night filled with memorable experiences.
The event, aptly named the #DisneyCastLife party, treated attendees to a host of delights, including delectable food, special character greetings, access to beloved attractions, live entertainment, and a breathtaking fireworks display. The gesture aimed to express gratitude for the remarkable achievements and years of service these cast members have dedicated to Disney.
Congratulations were extended to these extraordinary individuals, recognizing their integral role in making the magic happen at Disney and contributing to the cherished memories of countless visitors. The #DisneyCastLife party served as a heartfelt acknowledgment and celebration of the exceptional cast members who continue to create enchanting moments within the Disney community.
We were on hand that night as we have a Disney Cast Member in our family. Disney really went all out to celebrate their Cast Members. From amazing food, to live entertainment we had a blast!
For us, one of the BIG highlights was all of the rare Disney Character Meet & Greets. We even got a couple of videos you can check out below.
We were able to meet Wall-E for the first time ever! The tea party with Alice and the Mad Hatter was adorable, and getting to meet Jiminy Cricket, Pinocchio, and Geppetto was a highlight of the night.
We would love to give a special shout-out to all of the Disney Cast Members. To the real-life sorcerers of joy, the heart and soul behind the magic – a big thank you to Disney Cast Members! Your enchanting spirit turns every visit into an unforgettable adventure. Here’s to the dream-makers, the smile-bringers, and the true magic behind the ears! 🌈✨
Dollywood’s Heartsong Lodge was Named One Of National Geographic’s “Hotels We Love For 2024”
National Geographic, a globally esteemed publication, has bestowed the honor of naming Dollywood’s HeartSong Lodge & Resort among the top 22 hotels worldwide for 2024. Additionally, in a notable recognition, Dolly Parton has been acclaimed as one of National Geographic’s nine “Travelers of the Year,” earning the title of the “Hospitality Queen.”
HeartSong Lodge & Resort secured its place on the prestigious “Best Hotels” list, falling under the new “Worth a Trip” category in National Geographic’s Best of the World. This category highlights top establishments recommended for the upcoming year. The comprehensive Best of the World 2024 guide was collaboratively created, researched, reported, and written by National Geographic’s international editorial teams, which serve a vast readership through their magazines and websites globally. The full list can be explored at NatGeo.com/BestOfTheWorld.
Among the chosen properties in the United States and Canada, only four made the esteemed list: HeartSong Lodge & Resort (Pigeon Forge, Tennessee); Kona Village (Island of Hawai’i); Under Canvas North Yellowstone (Livingston, Montana); and Hacienda at Armendaris (Truth or Consequences, New Mexico). Notable international resorts include Pink Palm Hotel (St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands); Wilmina (Berlin, Germany); Raffles London at the OWO (London, England); Singita Mara River Tented Camp (Tanzania); Kurulu Bay (Ahangama, Sri Lanka); and Southern Ocean Lodge (Kangaroo Island, Australia).
This year’s travel guide not only spotlights must-visit destinations but expands its scope to provide a comprehensive and authoritative guide featuring must-do, must-stay, and must-consume recommendations. National Geographic’s experts invite travelers to engage more deeply and meaningfully with these destinations. For the first time, Best of the World recommendations encompass a selection of top wellness retreats, hotels, cultural gems, and restaurants that are deemed “worth building a trip around.”
“We just opened HeartSong Lodge in October, so I’m honored to know that it is already receiving such outstanding recognition as this one,” Dolly said. “Like I always say, though, we don’t do what we do to win awards. As we’ve continued to grow and expand our parks and resorts, we’ve taken a lot of great care in making sure our guests feel like a members of our family and that they are making precious memories they’re always going to remember. But that’s just one part of it. We’re also blessed to be right here in the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains. After all my traveling around the world, I still feel like the Smokies are one of the most beautiful places God created.”
Dollywood Parks & Resorts President Eugene Naughton said the new designation further showcases the company’s commitment to growth, part of a plan that was first announced in 2021.
“In June 2021, Dolly and I announced HeartSong Lodge & Resort as part of a half-billion dollar investment strategy that will sustain our growth for a 10-year period. To continue the momentum from the success of DreamMore Resort and Spa—as well as the rave reviews we’ve already received from guests staying at HeartSong Lodge & Resort—our plan calls for a total of five resorts and an outdoor resort to be constructed here in the heart of the Smokies. The various properties will provide different lodging options for families to select an experience that truly caters to their specific needs.”
According to the article, “The best hotels offer more than somewhere to lay your head. They connect you to local communities and provide the kind of memory-making activities that tempt you to extend your stay…National Geographic’s editors, writers, photographers and explorers scoured the globe in search of new hotels and lodges that embrace this sense of place.”
“At National Geographic, we know that travel has the power to move you. That the experiences you have can make you see the world—and yourself—in a new light. Our expanded Best of the World franchise is the ultimate guide to the exceptional experiences that we and our global community of experts are most excited about right now, whether that’s hiking to the El Vallede Antón volcano in Panama or listening to live music in Kyoto or bear-watching in Alaska,” said Nathan Lump, National Geographic’s editor-in-chief.
“This year, we wanted to give travelers more ideas than ever before to jump start their travel planning for 2024 and beyond, so we grew our lists to include hotels, restaurants, cultural spots we believe are worth getting on a plane for, and gear that makes your travels smoother. And because we know that people can also be a great source of inspiration, we’re sharing our picks for Travelers of the Year—those individuals who, through their example, make us all want to get out there and experience something new.”
Dolly, called the “Hospitality Queen” in the Travelers of the Year category, was recognized as one of “nine game changers making a difference.” The article says, “our nine Travelers of the Year inspire us to experience the best of the world and, once we’re out the door, help make our journeys more meaningful. They are explorers, boundary breakers, and changemakers who know a thing or two about where and how to travel right now.”
Dollywood’s HeartSong Lodge & Resort, and its sister property Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa, have truly made Dollywood a leading vacation destination for families seeking a memory-making experience in a warm and friendly atmosphere. Dollywood Parks & Resorts boasts world-class roller coasters, award-winning entertainment, delectable Southern-inspired culinary options, and one of the world’s “most beautiful water parks” all in a place where everyone feels like part of the family.
Dollywood’s 2024 season opens on March 9. This season features the much-anticipated opening of The Dolly Parton Experience, which includes multiple experiences in a newly designed area of the park. Opening in the area surrounding and including the former Chasing Rainbows museum, The Dolly Parton Experience will allow guests a behind-the-scenes look at Dolly’s iconic status and immerse themselves in her incredible story. The area is scheduled to open in May.
For more information about Dollywood Parks & Resorts, please visit dollywood.com or download the Dollywood app.
Bing Bong will be Exclusively Greeting Guests at Pixar Place Hotel
An unexpected character is getting a meet & greet! Bing Bong from “Inside Out” will be exclusively greeting guests at the Pixar Place Hotel at the Disneyland Resort.
This is the first time that Bing Bong will have a meet and greet! Joy and Sadness from “Inside Out” have both appeared in the parks but guests haven’t seen Bing Bong. He and Joy were present at the opening ceremony for Pixar Place Hotel yesterday.
Guests at the hotel can encounter Bing Bong every day near the pool deck, adjacent to the Pixar Shorts Court. He’s situated on a synthetic grass area resembling the Luxo ball, accompanied by his rocket wagon.
If you don’t already know, Bing Bong is Riley’s childhood imaginary friend in the animated movie “Inside Out.” He is part cat, part elephant, part dolphin, and made of cotton candy.
Are you excited to get to meet Bing Bong?
If you’d like to plan your next stay at Pixar Place Hotel, 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, stress free vacation!
This new nighttime show will debut on September 20, 2024, at the Tokyo Disney Resort. Characters from Disney Animation, Pixar, and for the first time ever, Marvel, will come to life in the spectacular!
The show will consist of pyrotechnics, lights and special effects. Guests will see some of their favorite Disney stories and characters come to life on Cinderella Castle.
Pixar Place Hotel is Now Open at Disneyland Resort
The reimagined Pixar Place Hotel is officially open at the Disneyland Resort! The 15-story high-rise overlooking Disney California Adventure Park boasts comfortable and contemporary guest rooms that celebrate the artistry of Pixar Animation Studios, new dining options by Great Maple, a relaxing rooftop pool area and play court, renovated fitness center and more.
Pixar Place Hotel is designed to evoke the inspiration and humor in every Pixar film, while celebrating the artistic process. Showcasing early sketches to finished design, the décor depicts memorable moments from Pixar stories and reveals some never-before-seen artwork.
The redesigned lobby is landmarked by a large sculpture of the iconic Pixar Lamp balancing atop its ball. Floating from the skylight above, a mobile represents the beginning stages of Pixar filmmaking – and guests’ stays – with character designs made of basic shapes and colors.
At select times, Joe Gardner from “Soul” may be found playing the piano near the hotel’s staircase. Appearing for the first time at any Disney property, Bing Bong from “Inside Out” may be found creating core photo memories with guests at select times.
From concept art on the headboards to pillows inspired by the Pixar Ball, and more, the reimagined guest rooms incorporate whimsical nods to the world-renowned animation studio. Some of the art was created by Pixar Animation Studios artists especially for Pixar Place Hotel. When final touches are complete later this year, Pixar Place Hotel will have 479 total guest rooms, including two new, two-bedroom themed signature suites, plus a new concierge lounge.
The colorful Coco Suite will pay tribute to Miguel and his family’s legacy through vibrant Oaxacan art, while the midcentury modern Incredibles Suite will feature Parr family memorabilia with a spy-fi twist. The Creators Club concierge lounge on the second floor will honor the partnership between Walt Disney Imagineering and Pixar Animation Studios with attraction posters, concept art and music from Pixar experiences in Disney parks around the world.
Upgraded rooftop recreation areas create an oasis for play and relaxation. A great location to view fireworks on select nights, the rooftop deck is a cozy gathering space with plush couches and fire pits themed to hotheaded Pixar characters. The nearby Pixar Shorts Court offers outdoor games themed to Pixar short films. Guests can also lounge by the Pixel Pool; frolic in the “Finding Nemo”-themed splash pad, Nemo’s Cove; or take a ride on the 186-feet-long Crush’s Surfin’ Slide.
Mike and Sulley from “Monsters University” can be spotted on treadmills in a mural at the expanded fitness center. A nod to the film “WALL-E,” the STOR-E retail location in the lobby offers Pixar-themed apparel and toys, along with Disneyland Resort souvenirs and sundries.
The creativity and comfort of Pixar Place Hotel is also reflected in new, upscale culinary offerings. Guests can savor elevated takes on American classics at three delectable dining locations operated by Southern California-based Great Maple.
Accessible to hotel guests, local diners and theme park goers, the 6,500 square-foot Great Maple restaurant on the ground floor serves breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. Signature dishes include buttermilk fried chicken and maple bacon doughnuts, Cajun shrimp and cheddar biscuit benedict, and soda pop-braised baby back ribs.
The grab-and-go lobby coffee shop, The Sketch Pad Café, offers assorted pastries, coffee and tea. When the rooftop pool bar Small Bytes opens in early March, a selection of beverages, salads, wraps, cheese plates and more will be available with an incredible view of Disneyland Resort. In addition, Great Maple will provide food and beverage service to the Creators Club concierge lounge when it opens.
Many unique benefits and unmatched amenities are included in stays at Pixar Place Hotel, Disneyland Hotel and Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, such as early entry 30 minutes prior to regular theme park opening into a designated park to enjoy select attractions, dining and shopping locations.
Pixar Place Hotel is conveniently located within close walking distance to the Disneyland Resort theme parks and Downtown Disney District, and overnight guests have access to the hotel’s dedicated entrance to Disney California Adventure Park located across the street. Park admission and reservations are required for park entry.
Additional conveniences include the ability to check in and make select charges to hotel rooms with the Disneyland app, plus preferred access to a limited number of dining reservations at select hotel table-service restaurants. At select times during the year, Disneyland Resort Hotels feature seasonal décor and special activities.
What do you think of the rethemed Pixar Place Hotel?
If you’d like to plan your next stay at the Pixar Place Hotel, 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!
The bow is made with light purple sparkly cotton fabric and features “Best Day Ever” and floating lantern embroidered on it and a sun embroidery in the middle, so cute! The Barrette is 4 inches and will keep it securely in your hair all day long.
New Ariel Inflatable Splash Pad Your Kids Will Love!
Your kids will get a jump on summer fun with this Ariel Inflatable Splash Pad! Imagine having your own enchanted lagoon with a slide and an arch with streamers on your backyard, so much fun! You can get it online at shopDisney for $54.99.
This bright and colorful splash pad features Ariel on the slide and an inflatable Flounders that sprays out water when you connect the splash pad to a garden hose. It’s the coolest way to have a world of fun.
