Universal Orlando Raises Parking Prices

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April 2, 2024

Calling all Universal Orlando Resort adventurers! As you plan your epic theme park quest, there’s a key update to keep on your radar: parking fees.

Universal Orlando recently adjusted their parking prices. Regular daily parking has seen a slight bump from $30 to $32. Don’t worry though, Prime Parking and RV/Bus parking remain steady for now, with Prime spots ranging from $50-$60 and RV/Bus parking at $42.

Need a Parking Breakdown? We Got You Covered!

Here’s a quick cheat sheet for current parking fees:

Regular Parking: $32
Prime Parking: $50-$60 (seasonal pricing)
Prime Upgrade: $18-$28 (seasonal pricing)
RV/Bus Parking: $42
Valet Parking: Varies by duration and time of day (before/after 6 pm). Starts at $32 for the first 2 hours.

Even with the slight increase, there are ways to be a parking wizard at Universal Orlando:

Matinee Movie Magic: Catch a flick at Universal Cinemark between 11 am and 6 pm, and with two or more matinee tickets, regular parking becomes your free spell (restrictions apply).
Night Owl Ninjas: For those who are planning a trip to Citywalk for a bit of nightlife (after midnight on Halloween Horror Nights or after 6 pm on regular days), self-parking transforms into free parking!
Annual Passholder Perks: Don’t forget your annual passholder superpowers! Premier Passholders get complimentary self-parking, while Preferred Passholders snag 50% off valet parking after their first visit (subject to availability).

Remember: Pricing can change based on the season and the day you visit. For the latest intel, visit the official Universal Orlando Resort website before your trip.

Planning Pointers for Parking Success:

Factor the varying parking options into your Universal Orlando budget. Note Prime parking may not always be available, and valet parking is in a different location from the main parking garage!
If you’re flexible, nighttime free parking can be a real money-saving spell.
Staying onsite at a Universal hotel often includes complimentary park transportation, eliminating daily parking fees altogether.

We hope this helps you navigate the parking situation at Universal Orlando! Now get out there and have a thrilling, magical adventure!

Ready to book your next epic vacation, but don’t know where to start? Want to enjoy a Universal Orlando vacation without the stress of planning, booking, and tracking trip changes and promotions? Contact me today! As an agent with Destinations To Travel specializing in Universal destinations, I can help you stress less and enjoy your vacation more! The best part? My services are provided at NO ADDITIONAL COST when you book your Universal vacation package through me!

Annual Passholder & DVC Discounts Now Accepted at Roundup Rodeo BBQ

By

Sara

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April 2, 2024

Annual Passholder & DVC Discounts Now Accepted at Roundup Rodeo BBQ

Attention Annual Passholders and Disney Vacation Club Members! Good news! Roundup Rodeo BBQ in Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios is now accepting your dining discounts. Enjoy 10% off your meal when you visit for lunch or dinner.

Previously, Roundup Rodeo BBQ in Toy Story Land didn’t participate in the usual dining discounts offered at table-service restaurants at Disney’s Hollywood Studios (typically 10-20% off). However, there’s good news for Walt Disney World Annual Passholders and Disney Vacation Club Members! You can now enjoy a 10% discount on your meal and non-alcoholic beverages when you dine at Roundup Rodeo BBQ for lunch or dinner.

Here’s a breakdown of the discount details:

Both Annual Passholders and Disney Vacation Club Members receive a 10% discount.
The discount applies to the regular-priced meal and non-alcoholic beverages only (tax and gratuity are not included).
Disney Vacation Club Members can extend the discount to up to three guests dining with them.
Special events and dining packages are not eligible for the discount.

Have you had a chance to dine at Roundup Rodeo BBQ yet?

If you’d like to plan your next visit to Disney’s Hollywood Studios, contact me today! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are FREE, and I’d love to help you plan a magical vacation.

Walt Disney Company & Nat Geo Announce New Earth Month Programs

By

Catherine

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April 1, 2024

Walt Disney Company & Nat Geo Announce New Earth Month Programs

The Walt Disney Company and National Geographic have teamed up to launch a global Earth Month campaign called ourHOME. This initiative aims to inspire people to protect, restore, and celebrate our planet through compelling storytelling and real-world action.

The campaign will feature captivating stories, including those that highlight Disney Planet Possible. This initiative showcases Disney’s commitment to taking measurable actions for a healthier planet. A new digital series will be released, featuring National Geographic personalities visiting Walt Disney World to witness Disney Planet Possible stories firsthand.

On Earth Day, April 22nd, 2024, Disney+ will premiere the newest installment of National Geographic’s Emmy® Award-winning “Secrets Of…” franchise – “Secrets of the Octopus,” narrated by Paul Rudd. Additionally, Disneynature’s “Tiger,” narrated by Priyanka Chopra Jonas, will also be available for streaming. This film follows a young tigress raising her cubs in the forests of India.

“National Geographic…reminds people that the world is an amazing and miraculous place…We hope by sharing this passion we can also inspire others to protect, restore and celebrate our home,” says Courteney Monroe, President of National Geographic.

Here is a full list of all the incredible shows you can look forward to watching in celebration of Earth Month!

ourHOME Collection on Disney+ – Disney+ is launching an ourHOME collection with content that celebrates the beauty, awe and wonder of our planet.
Eclipse Across America – April 8, 2024, Nat Geo and ABC News partner for a two-hour live special to celebrate and capture the eclipse across the country.
Secrets of the Octopus – Next installment of this franchise in partnership with James Cameron debuting out on Earth Day, narrated by Paul Rudd and premiering on Disney+ on Earth Day.
Disneynature’s Tiger – All-new feature film narrated by Priyanka Chopra Jonas streams on Disney+ beginning Earth Day, marking 15 Years since Disneynature’s inaugural release, “Earth.”
ourHOME-themed programming scheduled across National Geographic Channel, Nat Geo WILD, Nat Geo MUNDO, Disney Channel, Disney Junior, Freeform, FX and FXX.
A dedicated ourHOME spot featuring the voice of Morgan Freeman, airing throughout the month across all of Disney networks, Disney owned television stations and select digital platforms.
A special screening of the award-winning feature documentary JANE at the Greek Theatre in Hollywood on April 3 to commemorate Jane Goodall’s 90^th birthday.

In addition to launching incredible programs to view, Disney is also showcasing their appreciation around the theme parks! Here are some ways you can see ourHOME come to life in the parks:

Disney’s Animal Kingdom at Walt Disney World Resort will celebrate Earth Week, April 21-28, with specialty offerings and experiences that connect audiences with the magic of nature.
ourHOME Castle show at Disneyland Paris, highlighting scenes and images inspired by National Geographic explorers, will happen in the month of April.
Walt Disney World will also have Earth Month-themed food throughout the month of April.
Photo Activations – Special photo activations for Park goers at Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Disneyland Resort to celebrate the launch of Secrets of the Octopus.
Animation Academy – Special drawing activity at Disney California Adventure tied to Secrets of the Octopus.
Shanghai Disney Resort will host the ourHOME Nature Conservation Forum on April 22, joined by National Geographic Explorer Xi Zhinong and will see the return of the “Celebrate Earth – Earth Month Fair” at Disneytown from April 19 through 22.

For over a century, Disney has captivated us with the magic of our world. National Geographic, for over 136 years, has sparked a deep appreciation for our planet. This powerful collaboration, ourHOME, celebrates our beautiful planet and empowers each of us to be a force for positive change. Be sure to check out all of the trailers for a first glimpse of these incredible stories!

Celebrate Earth Month with these Photopass Photo Ops

By

Catherine

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April 1, 2024

Celebrate Earth Month with these Photopass Photo Ops

Capture Earth Month Magic with Disney PhotoPass at Animal Kingdom! Spring is here, and Earth Month is in full swing! To celebrate our amazing planet, Disney PhotoPass Service at Disney’s Animal Kingdom is offering some limited-time photo opportunities you won’t want to miss.

Throughout April, Disney PhotoPass photographers will be capturing special Earth Month Magic Shots at various locations within the park. These unique photos will add a Disney twist to your Earth Day celebration and create lasting memories.

But that’s not all! Animal Kingdom offers over 20 additional Magic Shots available all year round. These fun photo ops feature everything from playful feathered friends to fascinating creatures.

Curious to see what kind of magical shots you can capture? Head over to the Disney PhotoPass website (click here!) to find out where each Magic Shot is located in the park!

Whether you’re visiting Animal Kingdom in person or celebrating Earth Month from home, Disney PhotoPass Service is here to help you connect with the magic of nature through the power of photography!

Walls are down outside Ye Olde Christmas Shoppe as Refurbishment is Almost Complete

By

Sara

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April 1, 2024

Walls are down outside Ye Olde Christmas Shoppe as Refurbishment is Almost Complete

Magic Kingdom’s Ye Olde Christmas Shoppe is getting a festive refresh! The beloved Christmas shop is currently undergoing refurbishment, promising an upgraded shopping experience for guests.

Disney fans visiting Magic Kingdom will be delighted to see that the refurbishment of Ye Olde Christmas Shoppe is progressing well. The shop’s side entrance has received a fresh coat of paint, and the previously blocked-off area behind the building is now accessible, offering guests a more open and inviting space to explore.

Magic Kingdom’s Ye Olde Christmas Shoppe is undergoing a refurbishment that began in December 2023. The beloved Christmas shop remains open for guests to browse and purchase ornaments, decorations, and other holiday merchandise while the refurbishment progresses.

The central entrance and its courtyard are no longer covered in scrim and blocked by rolling planters. The sleigh is also available again for guests to sit on for photo ops.

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Is Ye Olde Christmas Shoppe a must-see when you visit Magic Kingdom?

Ready to plan your next trip to Magic Kingdom? Contact me today! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel and my services are FREE.

Disney World Installs New Frontierland Props in the Magic Kingdom

By

Sara

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April 1, 2024

Disney World Installs New Frontierland Props in the Magic Kingdom

Walt Disney World Railroad fans will be happy to see some fresh details emerge in Frontierland at Magic Kingdom. As construction for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure progresses, new props have been placed near the Frontierland Station. These period-specific additions, like themed crates and barrels, create a more immersive railroad experience for guests.

These themed crates and barrels, perfect for capturing the spirit of the area, create a more immersive experience for guests passing by the currently fenced-off queue for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure.

The meticulously crafted crates and barrels contain a variety of themed items, including lanterns, soap, railroad spikes, and even a possible nod to moonshine with a barrel marked “XXX”. Other interesting finds include horseshoes, whiskey, a humidor, lumber, and flintlock rifles. The “Fragile” markings on some crates add a touch of humor to the scene.

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What do you think about the Frontierland station area?

Ready to book your next visit to Magic Kingdom? Contact me today! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel and my services are FREE!

New Up Ear headband Now At The Disney Store!

By

Ana Leal

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April 1, 2024

New Up Ear headband Now At The Disney Store!

Adventure is out there! This Up Ear headband is a must have in all your adventures and it can be yours for $34.99, you can get it now online at the Disney Store, but hurry up before it flies away.

It features simulated leather ears with embossed artwork featuring Carl’s house with balloons and “Adventure is out there” text on one ear and a compass on the other. The details are adorable, like the Grape Soda pin on one ear and a bow made to look like the one Carl wears.

Speaking of the bow, you can choose to remove it and wear this ear headband without it, or add it back for an extra girly touch super cute!

Credit: Disney Store

Retro Oliver & Company T-shirt Available At Hollywood Studios!

By

Ana Leal

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April 1, 2024

Retro Oliver & Company T-shirt Available At Hollywood Studios!

We found this adorable Oliver & Company T-shirt at Hollywood Studios and thought it was a must have! Is not every day we find Oliver & Company merch so we highly recommend getting it if you spot it at the parks.

It features a dark gray color with artwork featuring Georgette, Francis, Dodger, Oliver and Tito plus Disney’s Oliver & Company logo in orange.

You can take a closer look at this shirt in our Instagram post:

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Toy Story Alien Stainless Steel Water Bottle Landed At Hollywood Studios!

By

Ana Leal

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April 1, 2024

Toy Story Alien Stainless Steel Water Bottle Landed At Hollywood Studios!

You will be eternally grateful to have this Toy Story Alien Stainless Steel Water Bottle by your side to help you stay hydrated all day! You can find it at Hollywood Studios, as well as, at the Disney Store for $29.99!

This fun water bottle features a blue stainless steel bottle with artwork of the green aliens, Pizza Planet logo, space icons and text like “Who will be chosen?”, “Oooooh the claw” and “eternally grateful” all around. At the top, a green alien head takes place of the lid to make sure your drink is safe!

You can take a closer look at this water bottle in our Instagram post:

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New Disney Eats Ornaments Set Spotted At Hollywood Studios!

By

Ana Leal

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April 1, 2024

New Disney Eats Ornaments Set Spotted At Hollywood Studios!

Add a tasty touch to your Christmas tree this year with this Disney Eats Ornaments Set we found at Hollywood Studios for $49.99! We know the holidays are still months away but is never too early to start getting ready for it.

The set includes 6 ornaments inspired in famous Disney snacks like a pizza slice with Mickey shaped pepperoni, Mickey ice cream sandwich, Mickey lollipop, Mickey donut, Mickey shaved ice and Mickey macaroon.

You can take a closer look at this set in our Instagram post:

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Star Wars Pet Jedi Robe Spotted At Hollywood Studios!

By

Ana Leal

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April 1, 2024

Star Wars Pet Jedi Robe Spotted At Hollywood Studios!

Transform your pet into an adorable Jedi master with this Star Wars Pet Jedi Robe we spotted at Hollywood Studios for $39.99!

The robe is inspired in the iconic brown robes worn by Qui-Gon Jinn, Yoda and Anakin Skywalker featuring the Jedi order symbol on the back and Padawan Pet Academy and “0800-STAR-WARS” text on the front.

On one of the sleeves you will find “Sit and stay you will” text in black ink, if only your pet will listen to that right? But who knows, maybe this robe will help them achieve that!

The robe is available in sizes xs through xl so you can pick the one that fits your furry friend the best. Check out our Instagram post for a closer look at this Star Wars robe:

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Disney Files Patent for Updated Soarin’ Style Flying Theater Ride

By

Chris B

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April 1, 2024

new-patent-disney-world-soarin-attraction-1

Disney Imagineers are renowned for their ability to weave innovation and storytelling into unforgettable theme park experiences. A recent patent filing suggests they might be taking their signature Soarin’ attraction to a whole new level!

new-patent-disney-world-soarin-attraction-3

This recently filed patent points toward a potential revamp of the flying theater technology that powers Soarin’. The patent details depict a reimagined ride vehicle with a wider range of motion that allows for a more “aggressive” ride experience, including dips, dives, rolls, and even simulated turbulence. Once onboard the ride, a system of cables will propel riders along a curved track, allowing the vehicle to tilt, pitch, and even roll, mimicking the unpredictable nature of flight.

Related:

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The patent offers two intriguing loading options. The first mirrors the current Soarin’ experience, while the second takes things to new heights (literally!). Guests could potentially board “above” the superstructure, experiencing a heart-pounding launch over the edge before transitioning into the main show area.

Disney Files Patent for Updated Soarin’ Style Flying Theater Ride

While this is just a patent filing, it offers a glimpse into the exciting possibilities Disney Imagineers are exploring. This new flying theater concept could pave the way for an all-new attraction or even an upgrade to the beloved Soarin’ experience.

The base technology for Soarin’ has already been adapted for Avatar Flight of Passage at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. This patent filing suggests Imagineers are pushing the boundaries even further. Soarin’ 2.0 (or whatever form this concept takes) promises to be an exhilarating and unforgettable addition to the Disney theme park experience, and we cannot wait to see this concept become reality!

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!