Rock ‘N’ Roller Coaster Reopened Sooner than Expected

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July 1, 2024

Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith Reopens at Disney’s Hollywood Studios After Early Refurbishment

Great news for thrill-seekers visiting Walt Disney World! The fan-favorite Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith has reopened at Disney’s Hollywood Studios after a six-month refurbishment.

The coaster’s return comes sooner than anticipated. While a late July reopening was expected, diligent work by Disney Imagineering allowed them to complete the refurbishment ahead of schedule. This means guests can now experience the high-octane ride throughout the busy summer season!

Rock ‘N’ Roller Coaster Reopened Sooner than Expected

The refurbishment focused on the ride’s internal systems, ensuring a smooth and safe operation. The iconic Hollywood theme and electrifying music featuring Aerosmith remain unchanged. Opened in 1999, Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith offers a unique blend of music and thrills.

Guests join the legendary rock band on a wild ride through the streets of Los Angeles, propelled by a heart-pounding launch from 0 to 57 mph in just 2.8 seconds. The coaster takes riders on a high-speed journey filled with inversions, tight turns, and all set to the music of Aerosmith.

The Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith is now open for business! Park hours today are from 8:30 AM to 9:00 AM for Walt Disney World Resort hotel guests using early entry, and from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM for everyone else. So jump in your stretch limo, buckle up and get ready to rock ‘n’ roll on this exhilarating ride!

New Tiana’s Bayou Crunch now Available at the Main Street Confectionery

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Chris B

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July 1, 2024

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New Tiana’s Bayou Crunch now Available at the Main Street Confectionery

There’s an exciting new treat at Magic Kingdom’s Main Street Confectionery, and it’s called Tiana’s Bayou Crunch. This delicious snack can be found in Kernel Kitchen, located inside the Main Street Confectionery, and it’s quickly becoming a fan favorite.

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Tiana’s Bayou Crunch features a unique mix of Cajun Cheddar Popcorn, M&M’S, Peanut Butter Chocolate Candies, Cheddar Crackers, Pretzel Pieces, and a White Chocolate Drizzle. The Cajun popcorn adds a nice contrast to the sweet treats mixed in, making each bite a delightful surprise.

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One of the highlights of trying Tiana’s Bayou Crunch was watching the cast member make it right in front of us. They walked us through each step and even asked how much white chocolate drizzle we wanted. This personalized touch made the experience even more special. The serving size is very generous, perfect for sharing between two people, with enough left over to take home. Just be sure to grab plenty of napkins because it can get quite messy!

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Tiana’s Bayou Crunch is priced at $15.99, but we managed to pay a bit less thanks to a 20% Annual Passholder discount. While it is a bit of a splurge, we found it worth the price for the experience and the taste. The Cajun popcorn does have a mild spice in the aftertaste, so if you’re not a fan of spicy foods, you might want to keep that in mind. However, even a member of our group who doesn’t usually like spicy food enjoyed this treat. Overall, we highly recommend giving Tiana’s Bayou Crunch a try on your next visit to Magic Kingdom!

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!

Gideon’s Bakehouse Celebrates Summer with Limited-Edition Treats and Returning Favorites

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Chip

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July 1, 2024

Gideon’s Bakehouse Celebrates Summer with Limited-Edition Treats and Returning Favorites

Gideon’s Bakehouse, the beloved bakery with locations at East End Market and Disney Springs, is delighting fans this July with a lineup of limited-edition treats and returning favorites.

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Stuart and Bonnie, the bakery’s iconic couple, may be off on their world travels, but their signature cookies are back for the month. Indulge in the Orange Pecan Chocolate Chip, a vanilla bean cookie infused with orange essence and packed with chocolate, pecans, and candied orange peel. Or, savor the Lemon Poppy Crumb Cookie, a muffin lover’s dream filled with poppyseeds, white chocolate, and topped with lemon butter crumbs.

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For those seeking a refreshing caffeine fix, the Mocha Orange Nitro Cold Brew returns exclusively to Gideon’s Disney Springs location. This smooth and bright concoction combines oat milk, maple syrup, mocha, and fresh orange, making it a delicious vegan and gluten-free option.

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Adding to the summer excitement, Gideon’s introduces a new Flavors of Florida special treat: the Key Lime Pie Cake Bar. Created in collaboration with the bakery’s Flavors of Florida ambassador, Bartholomew the Skunk Ape, this handmade dessert features soft key lime cake, key lime cream cheese buttercream, and a key lime curd channel, all dipped in dark chocolate and topped with graham cracker crumble and sea salt.

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All these delectable treats are available throughout July, with the Key Lime Pie Cake Bar extending its availability until August 11th. Due to limited quantities, a maximum of two of each item per person applies.

Don’t miss out on these exclusive offerings at Gideon’s Bakehouse this summer! Whether you’re a local or visiting Disney Springs, treat yourself to a taste of Gideon’s signature flavors and celebrate the season with these delectable creations.

New Magic Kingdom Map Featuring Tiana’s Bayou Adventure and Country Bear Musical Jamboree

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Chris B

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July 1, 2024

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New Magic Kingdom Map Featuring Tiana’s Bayou Adventure and Country Bear Musical Jamboree

Walt Disney World has just released a new Magic Kingdom map, and it’s perfect for visitors who want to explore the park’s newest attractions. The cover features a beautiful shot of the newly opened Tiana’s Bayou Adventure in the center.

You can see a log ready to plunge down the ride’s thrilling drop on the cover, along with the logo for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is also displayed at the bottom, making it easy to spot. Inside the map, the “Fantasy Reigns” section highlights Tiana’s Bayou Adventure under the New Magic section, as well as the Country Bear Musical Jamboree as a ‘Reimagined!’ New Attraction. The map also features other attractions like the TRON Lightcycle / Run and the nighttime show “Happily Ever After” as well as the full interior map of the entire park.

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Do you enjoy grabbing a map as a collectible during your trips to Walt Disney World? 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!

Pack Your Park Style: Aloha Collection Opens at Disney Springs

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Sara

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July 1, 2024

Pack Your Park Style: Aloha Collection Opens at Disney Springs

Aloha fans rejoice! There’s a brand new spot to snag some tropical flair at Disney Springs. Aloha Collection, a haven for vacation-ready bags launched in 2014, has set up shop in The Landing. This mini-store sits right in front of Paddlefish, offering not just their signature bags but also a selection of stylish accessories and some apparel to complete your Disney Springs look.

Perfect for Florida’s sunny weather, these bags are built to handle the beach. They’re both water-resistant and sand-proof, making them a breeze to clean after a fun day out. Tote bags come with secure zip closures to keep your belongings safe, while fanny packs and wallets offer hands-free convenience for day trips when you want to travel light.

Aloha Collection infuses the spirit of Hawaii into their products, and that commitment extends beyond style. Each year, they dedicate 5% of their profits to conservation efforts in the Hawaiian Islands, ensuring the beauty they celebrate is protected for future generations.

This is their first Aloha Collection store to open in Florida. The store is hoping to sell some Disney Springs exclusives and a possible character exclusive merchandise soon as well.

The shop is owned and operated by two native Hawaiian women. They have a sale currently going on.

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Disney’s Live Action Snow White Has Officially Wrapped Filming

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Sara

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July 1, 2024

Disney’s Live Action Snow White Has Officially Wrapped Filming

Disney’s live-action Snow White remake has finished shooting, according to lead actress Rachel Zegler.

Disney’s live-action remake of Snow White has finished filming! This new take on the beloved fairy tale, originally brought to life in Disney’s groundbreaking 1937 animation, stars Golden Globe winner Rachel Zegler as Snow White.

While the film’s production faced delays due to industry strikes, fans can now look forward to seeing this fresh interpretation, aimed to captivate both longtime fans and newcomers.

Sharing her excitement on Instagram earlier this week, Rachel Zegler announced that filming for the live-action Snow White has concluded. In her since-expired story, she expressed her joy and pride, stating “That’s a wrap on ‘Snow White’ and I’m so freaking proud and emotional. I love these people so much.” A fan account on Twitter captured a screenshot of her post.

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— Rachel Zegler Daily (@ZeglerDaily) June 27, 2024

The classic tale of Snow White, a story of love, jealousy, and good conquering evil, gets a visually stunning makeover in this live-action remake. With cutting-edge technology and effects, audiences can expect a breathtaking reimagining of Snow White’s triumph over the wicked Queen, played by the formidable Gal Gadot.

The live-action “Snow White”, is set to hit theaters on March 21, 2025.

Are you looking forward to seeing the live-action Snow White in theaters?

Disney World Lightning Lane Passes Will Be Available for Purchase by Guests in Canada

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Chris B

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June 30, 2024

Disney World Lightning Lane Passes Will Be Available to Purchase by Guests in Canada cover

Disney World is making some exciting changes for guests from Canada, as Lightning Lane passes will soon be available for advanced purchase. This revamp of the Genie+ system aims to provide a more convenient and seamless experience, bringing it closer to the beloved FastPass+ system that many Disney fans fondly remember. Initially, the news about the update to the Genie+ System indicated advanced purchase of Lightning Lane passes would only be available for U.S. based guests, however this policy has since been updated to also included guests booking from Canada.

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The new system allows guests to purchase Lightning Lane Multi Passes or Single Passes in advance, ensuring access to some of the most popular attractions without the long waits. This change is set to enhance the overall park experience, and results from guest feedback about the usability of the Genie+ system. Somewhat ironically, the rollout of Genie+ as a same-day purchase resulted from guest feedback from the FastPass+ system which pointed towards a desire by guests to not plan all aspects of a Disney vacation in advance and a preference for the previous Disneyland Max Pass system.

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It’s important to note that this advanced purchase option is currently exclusive to guests based in the U.S. and Canada. Other international visitors will still need to wait until they arrive in the U.S. to buy their Lightning Lane passes. We do not have official news as to why the advanced purchase of Lightning Lane passes is limited to the U.S. and Canada, however international sales and banking can be quite complicated so this may be a temporary restriction while Disney navigates the complexities of adding sales options for international guests.

Kensington Tallman the Voice of Riley from Inside Out 2 Visits Pixar Plaza in Hollywood Studios

By

Chris B

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June 30, 2024

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Hollywood Studios recently experienced a wave of excitement and joy when Kensington Tallman, the talented voice behind Riley in the upcoming Pixar film Inside Out 2, paid a visit to Pixar Plaza. Kensington, known for her roles in various family-friendly shows and movies, brought a delightful energy that had everyone feeling all the right emotions. This special visit became a memorable highlight for the cast, adding an extra sprinkle of magic to their day.

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The news of Kensington’s visit was shared on the Disney Cast and Community Facebook page. Cast members at Hollywood Studios couldn’t contain their Joy as they spent time with Tallman, sharing laughs and stories and snapping pictures that captured these core Disney Cast Life memories.

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Inside Out 2, which takes us back into Riley’s emotions, this time during her teenage years, promises to be a heartfelt journey filled with moments of Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear, and Disgust. Kensington Tallman’s visit was a perfect reminder of the thrill and excitement that comes with being part of the Disney family. It was a day full of unforgettable moments, leaving the cast with memories to cherish and plenty of reasons to smile.

New Savory Bites Now Available to Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park

By

Chris B

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June 30, 2024

New Savory Bites Now Available to Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park has some tasty new treats for visitors to enjoy. At Eight Spoon Café, you can now find Barbacoa Beef on Baked Macaroni & Cheese. This dish has tender barbacoa beef on top of creamy baked macaroni and cheese, with crispy onions and green onions for extra flavor and crunch. It’s a warm and filling meal that’s perfect for a break during your park visit.

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Another new dish to try is the Barbacoa Beef Nachos at Smiling Crocodile. These nachos come with colorful tortilla chips loaded with barbacoa beef, creamy queso cheese, tangy lime crema, and fresh pico de gallo. The combination of flavors and textures makes every bite exciting and delicious.

These new food options at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park offer something special for everyone. Whether you love the creamy comfort of macaroni and cheese or the crunchy delight of nachos, these barbacoa beef dishes are worth trying. Make sure to visit Eight Spoon Café and Smiling Crocodile on your next trip to the park to enjoy these yummy new additions!

Universal Studios Hollywood Adds Interactive Wall to SUPER NINTENDO WORLD

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Sara

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June 30, 2024

Universal Studios Hollywood Adds Interactive Wall to SUPER NINTENDO WORLD

Get ready to level up your fun at Super Nintendo World! Universal Studios Hollywood just unveiled a brand new interactive wall in the Frosted Glacier area. This innovative addition lets you battle familiar Super Mario characters and rack up points. Wearing your Power-Up Band? You can even collect digital coins and stamps to track your progress and bragging rights!

The premise is simple. Guests begin by punching the ? Block where one of four Power-Up items – Fire Flower, Ice Flower, Super Mushroom or Super Star – appear on the screen. They then can tap the Power-Up item and use it by swiping or tapping to defeat Goombas and Red and Green Koopa Paratroopas or tapping brick blocks as they flash by which earns them coins. The goal is to collect as many points as possible before the timed activity concludes.

Universal Studios Hollywood continues to celebrate the one-year anniversary of SUPER NINTENDO WORLD since it opened on February 17, 2023. Other recent additions include a commemorative, special-release Golden Power-Up Band, the perfect addition to the existing six Power-Up Band design options available for purchase with character themes, as well as a complimentary 1-Year Anniversary Button, available while supplies last at Guest Relations, located inside the theme park.

The all-new Power Up Cafe, which opened earlier this year and is located on the Upper Lot of the theme park, invites guests to power up outside of SUPER NINTENDO WORLD.

This exciting original concept grab-and-go cafe serves a scrumptious menu of Super Mario Power Up themed menu items available exclusively at this permanent new cafe. Plus, guests can place their orders within the venue or via the official Universal Studios Hollywood mobile app to save time.

SUPER NINTENDO WORLD is a visually spectacular land, located within an expanded area of Universal Studios Hollywood. Within the vibrancy of colors and architectural ingenuity, the land features the groundbreaking “Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge” ride, as well as many interactive activities to engage the family within the captivating Mushroom Kingdom.

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Ready to book your visit to Universal Studios Hollywood? 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 an epic vacation!

Disney Legend Steve Martin Incognito at Disneyland Gets Noticed for Wordle Hat

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Sara

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June 30, 2024

Disney Legend Steve Martin Incognito at Disneyland Gets Noticed for Wordle Hat

Disneyland “Legend” goes unnoticed! Steve Martin’s elevator ride proves fame can be fleeting, but a cool hat is forever.

While riding in an elevator at Disneyland, a family of four noticed Martin but not because he is a celebrity. They commented on his hat that featured the Wordle logo.

Martin posted a photo of himself in the hat on Instagram with the following caption:

“I was just on an elevator at Disneyland and a family of four looked at me and said, “Oh my God! You’re wearing a Wordle hat!”’

Martin’s Disney connection goes back to 1955, his very first job being a guidebook salesman at the park. He spent time at the iconic Main Street Magic Shop and even witnessed the legendary Wally Boag perform at the Golden Horseshoe Revue. Fast forward to 1960, and the tables turned – Martin himself was performing magic and juggling for park guests!

Even after becoming a comedic and acting superstar, Martin’s ties to Disney remained strong. He lent his talents to several films, including “Father of the Bride,” “Fantasia 2000,” “Bringing Down the House,” and the Touchstone Pictures release, “Shopgirl,” based on his own novella. He even donned a special hat (one might say a “magic” hat!) to co-host “Disneyland: The First 50 Magical Years” with none other than Donald Duck! These days, you can catch him on Hulu’s hit series “Only Murders in the Building.”

Coffee House Officially Reopens at the Disneyland Hotel

By

Sara

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June 29, 2024

Coffee House Officially Reopens at the Disneyland Hotel

The Coffee House is back in business! Serving up a brand new menu at the Disneyland Hotel, they’re brewing up specialty coffees alongside a delicious selection of treats.

The Coffee House has reopened its doors, offering a convenient and delicious option to fuel your magical adventures. This quick-service stop boasts a brand new menu, perfect for grabbing a bite on the go. Whether you’re starting your day bright and early or need a midday pick-me-up, The Coffee House has you covered. Their specialty coffee selection promises to satisfy every craving, from rich lattes to refreshing iced coffees.

Alongside their enticing coffee selection, The Coffee House offers an assortment of tasty treats. Think fresh pastries and muffins for a quick breakfast, or choose from savory sandwiches and delightful snacks to keep you energized throughout the day. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for their occasional gourmet donuts – these melt-in-your-mouth creations are a true crowd-pleaser! So, next time you’re staying at the Disneyland Hotel, be sure to swing by The Coffee House for a delicious pick-me-up and a sprinkle of Disney magic.

Do you like to grab a drink and/or a bite at The Coffee House?

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