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Carousel Construction Advances in Animal Kingdom’s Tropical Americas as Rockwork Expands

Carousel Construction Advances in Animal Kingdom’s Tropical Americas as Rockwork Expands

Tropical Americas Construction Reaches New Milestone as Carousel and Rockwork Begin Taking Shape at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

The transformation of DinoLand U.S.A. into the new Tropical Americas land at Disney’s Animal Kingdom is moving full steam ahead, and Disney fans can finally start seeing more than just steel beams and dirt. Fresh aerial photos from bioreconstruct on X reveal major progress throughout Pueblo Esperanza, including the future carousel, the Encanto attraction, and the Indiana Jones adventure, as the ambitious expansion continues to come to life.

Related: Opening Night and Five Other Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Dates Are Sold Out

Carousel Construction Advances in Animal Kingdom’s Tropical Americas as Rockwork Expands

One of the biggest changes is the future carousel, where the circular foundation and surrounding structures are now clearly visible. When it opens in 2027, the attraction will sit beneath a large canopy and feature beautifully hand-carved wooden animals inspired by Disney characters, including Kevin from Up. Located near the northern entrance to Pueblo Esperanza, it looks like the carousel will become one of the land’s signature landmarks.

Over at the future Encanto attraction, construction is entering an exciting new phase. Crews have begun installing the wire mesh that will eventually become themed rockwork, helping disguise the massive show building behind natural-looking scenery. Additional masonry, retaining walls, and elevated pathways are also beginning to take shape around the attraction, while landscaping has started with the addition of a mature tree near one of the land’s entrances.

Carousel Construction Advances in Animal Kingdom’s Tropical Americas as Rockwork Expands Carousel Construction Advances in Animal Kingdom’s Tropical Americas as Rockwork Expands

The Indiana Jones attraction, which is replacing DINOSAUR, continues to see steady progress as steel framing expands across the exterior. The framework will eventually support the attraction’s towering Maya temple facade, giving guests an all-new adventure while reusing the existing ride system beneath the scenes.

Carousel Construction Advances in Animal Kingdom’s Tropical Americas as Rockwork ExpandsCarousel Construction Advances in Animal Kingdom’s Tropical Americas as Rockwork Expands

Elsewhere in the land, Restaurantosaurus is continuing its transformation into a new dining location, with new walls, roof trusses, and structural additions now visible. Behind the scenes, Imagineers are also testing themed wall panels, sculpted rockwork, and architectural finishes in an outdoor mock-up area to ensure the materials can withstand Florida’s challenging weather before they are installed throughout the land.

Carousel Construction Advances in Animal Kingdom’s Tropical Americas as Rockwork Expands

While Disney has only confirmed that Tropical Americas will open in 2027, each new construction update makes the vision of Pueblo Esperanza feel a little more real. With the carousel taking shape, rockwork beginning on Encanto, and Indiana Jones steadily rising from the former DinoLand U.S.A., Animal Kingdom’s biggest expansion in years is clearly starting to look like the concept art fans have been dreaming about.

Related: Wine Bar George Celebrates Best Short Wine List Award at Disney Springs

Carousel Construction Advances in Animal Kingdom’s Tropical Americas as Rockwork Expands

If you’re already looking forward to exploring Pueblo Esperanza when it opens, our friends at Get Away Today can help you start planning your next Walt Disney World vacation with great prices on resort stays, tickets, and vacation packages.

Orlando Fire Department Rescues 70 Stranded Riders at Universal Orlando This Past Weekend

Orlando Fire Department Rescues 70 Stranded Riders at Universal Orlando This Past Weekend

70 Guests Evacuated from Race Through New York After Power Outage at Universal Studios Florida

A routine day at Universal Studios Florida took an unexpected detour this weekend when guests riding Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon were evacuated following a power outage at the resort.

Related: Universal Studios Hollywood New Fast & Furious Hollywood Drift Coaster Drawing Noise Complaints

Orlando Fire Department Rescues 70 Stranded Riders at Universal Orlando This Past Weekend

According to the Orlando Fire Department, approximately 70 guests were on the attraction when it lost power on Saturday, July 18. Riders remained seated in the attraction’s motion simulator vehicles, which stayed in an upright position while Universal Team Members worked to assess the situation.

One guest told local media that the ride came to a sudden stop before repeated announcements assured riders that the attraction would resume shortly. As time passed, those updates eventually changed, and guests were informed that an evacuation would be necessary instead.

The evacuation was carried out with assistance from the Orlando Fire Department. Videos shared on social media show firefighters using harnesses, safety ropes, and ladders to safely escort guests from the ride platform.

@stephbuffamonte

Orlando firefighters used harnesses, safety ropes, and ladders to help stranded riders get off the Jimmy Fallon ride at Universal Studios on Saturday. Universal said the attraction was stopped due to a power outage at the resort. #orlando #florida #universalstudios

♬ original sound – Stephanie Buffamonte

Thankfully, no injuries or medical issues were reported during the incident.

Universal later confirmed that the attraction stopped operating because of a resort-wide power outage. While ride evacuations are uncommon, attractions are designed with procedures to safely remove guests whenever an unexpected shutdown occurs.

Related: Universal Orlando Resort Celebrates National Ice Cream Day on July 19th

Ragtime Gals Performance
Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon gives guests the ultimate “Tonight Show” experience and gets them up close and personal with the show’s most hilarious segments before taking off on an action-packed race through New York against Jimmy Fallon himself. The ride is officially open to guests as of April 6, 2017. More information is available at UniversalOrlando.com.

Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon opened at Universal Studios Florida in 2017 and combines motion simulation with large projection screens to send guests racing through the streets of New York City alongside Jimmy Fallon and characters from The Tonight Show.

If you’re planning your next visit to Universal Orlando Resort, our friends at Get Away Today can help you save on vacation packages, hotel stays, and park tickets so you’re ready for your next adventure, hopefully with a little less unexpected downtime!

Disney Developing Live-Action Tiana Movie with Writers Colman Domingo and Robert O’Hara

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Live-Action Tiana Movie in the Works at Disney with Award-Winning Writers

We’ve got some absolutely magical news straight from the bayou! If you thought Disney might slow down on their live-action projects after recent box office bumps, think again. But this time, they are trying something completely fresh, creative, and highly requested.

According to a new report from Deadline, Disney is actively developing an original live-action movie centered on Princess Tiana from the 2009 animated classic The Princess and the Frog.

Even more exciting? The studio is currently in talks with two-time Oscar nominee Colman Domingo (Sing Sing, Rustin, Euphoria) and Tony-nominated Broadway director and playwright Robert O’Hara (Slave Play) to co-write the screenplay!

tiana

Unlike the traditional, scene-for-scene remakes like The Little Mermaid or the recently released Moana, this untitled Princess Tiana project is being billed as an original live-action spinoff.

Instead of watching Tiana and Prince Naveen turn into frogs and navigate the Louisiana swamp all over again, this film will tell a brand-new story expanding Tiana’s world. It’s a creative strategy similar to the live-action Gaston project Disney also has in the works.

Why this matters: Tiana spent a massive portion of the original 2009 film in her frog form. A live-action spinoff gives Disney a chance to keep Tiana in her human form, showcasing her life, her thriving restaurant Tiana’s Palace, and her adventures in 1920s New Orleans.

This creative pivot comes at a crucial time. Following underwhelming box office returns for the live-action Snow White and Moana, audiences have signaled a bit of “remake fatigue.” Crafting a fresh story with an established, beloved character like Tiana might be exactly what the House of Mouse needs.

tiana frog

Princess Tiana has been getting a massive amount of love across the Disney ecosystem lately. While the previously announced Disney+ animated series Tiana was unfortunately shelved last year as Disney scaled back on long-form streaming projects, her presence in the theme parks is bigger than ever:

  • Tiana’s Palace Restaurant opened to rave reviews at Disneyland in 2023.
  • Tiana’s Bayou Adventure officially replaced Splash Mountain at both Walt Disney World and Disneyland, keeping her story moving forward.
princess

Because the project is in its absolute infancy, negotiations are still ongoing, and no official cast, director, or release date has been set. However, fans on social media are already dreaming up their perfect cast lists, with names like Coco Jones and Jayme Lawson swirling around for the titular role of Tiana. Some are even hoping that multi-hyphenate creator Colman Domingo might step in front of the camera to play the villainous Shadow Man, Dr. Facilier!

We will be keeping a very close eye on this project as it develops. What do you think about an original live-action movie starring Princess Tiana?

Everything Coming to Hulu and Disney+ in August

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Here is Your Disney+ and Hulu August Streaming Guide

If you thought the summer heat was intense, just wait until you see the streaming lineup heading to Disney+ and Hulu this August. The Walt Disney Company has officially dropped its massive release schedule for August 2026, and it is packed with nostalgic throwbacks, highly anticipated expansions to favorite franchises, and can’t-miss new series.

From a return to Camp Rock to new Star Wars adventures, let’s break down the biggest highlights you’ll be adding to your watchlist next month!

Related – Star Wars Visions presents The Ninth Jedi arrives August 5 on Disney+ and Hulu

camp rock

The Big Highlights You Can’t Miss

  • Camp Rock 3 (Premiere – August 14): Grab your microphones, because we are heading back to the lake! An all-new generation of campers is arriving at Camp Rock. Get ready to meet the bold Sage, her easygoing brother Desi, camp bad boy Fletch, and an intimidating influencer named Madison. Expect killer choreo and a whole new soundtrack to get stuck in your head.
  • Star Wars: Visions Presents – The Ninth Jedi (Premiere – August 5): Lucasfilm is kicking off a brand-new “Visions Presents” banner designed to tell longer-form stories. This limited series picks up right after the fan-favorite Visions short. We will follow Lah Kara as she continues her Jedi training under Margrave Juro on an epic quest to save her father and stop a rising Sith leader.
  • The Simpsons: “Yellow Mirror” Exclusive Episode: Springfield is getting a special standalone event! Keep your eyes peeled for Yellow Mirror, a brand-new exclusive Simpsons episode dropping late in the month.
  • Disney+ Hulu Throwbacks Podcast (Premiere – August 6): Feeling nostalgic? Disney+ and Hulu are launching a joint podcast series celebrating classic Millennial and Gen-Z Disney properties. The weekly episodes will dive deep into the making of Camp Rock, The Cheetah Girls, and High School Musical.
  • LION (Premiere – August 20): From The Lion King director Jon Favreau and BBC Studios comes a stunning, four-years-in-the-making nature docuseries. It follows an adorable lion cub named Kio on his dramatic, real-life journey to survive and become a king.
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Here is a quick-glance roadmap of the month’s biggest premieres so you don’t miss a thing:

DateTitlePlatform
August 3Futurama (Season 14 Premiere)Hulu / Hulu on Disney+
August 4CoComelon Playdates with Sanrio FriendsDisney+
August 5Star Wars: Visions Presents – The Ninth JediDisney+ & Hulu
August 5FX’s The Shards (Series Premiere)Hulu / Hulu on Disney+
August 6Disney+ Hulu Throwbacks PodcastDisney+ & Hulu
August 14Camp Rock 3 (Original Movie Premiere)Disney+
August 17FX’s It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia (Season 18)Hulu / Hulu on Disney+
August 20LION (Docuseries Premiere)Disney+ & Hulu
August 22Big City Greens (Season 5 Premiere)Disney+
August 27FX’s Adults (Season 2 Premiere)Hulu / Hulu on Disney+

Animation fans are getting a massive treat this month. Beyond The Simpsons and Star Wars, Hulu subscribers get a two-episode premiere of Futurama Season 14 on August 3, promising more space pirates, lab-grown meats, and the return of Dr. Zoidberg’s lost love. Meanwhile, younger viewers can look forward to new episodes of Sofia the First: Royal Magic (August 19) and a massive 5-episode drop for Big City Greens Season 5 (August 22).

Grown-ups looking for premium drama should watch out for FX’s The Shards on August 5—a seductive 1980s LA thriller executive produced by Ryan Murphy—and the highly anticipated return of FX’s comedy royalty with It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia Season 18 on August 17.

What are you most excited to stream this August?

New Popcorn Kiosk Now Open at Disney Springs

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Disney Springs Welcomes a Brand-New Popcorn Kiosk

Get your tastebuds ready, Disney snack lovers! A brand-new custom treat experience has officially arrived at Walt Disney World just in time for the peak summer crowds.

If you’ve ever dreamt of designing your perfect bucket of gourmet Disney popcorn, your wish has been granted. Goofy’s Candy Company at Disney Springs has just launched an interactive Create-Your-Own Popcorn experience, bringing customizable, sweet-and-savory snacking right to the Marketplace.

Related – Wine Bar George Celebrates Best Short Wine List Award at Disney Springs

popcorn

If this concept sounds familiar, it’s because it heavily mirrors the massively popular Kernel Kitchen experience found inside the Main Street Confectionery at Magic Kingdom. Now, you don’t even need a park ticket to build your own masterpiece.

The building process is incredibly straightforward. Guests can mix, match, and customize their bags using a multi-step checklist:

1.Pick Your Popcorn Base: Select up to two.

Choose from traditional Buttered, rich Caramel, or the vibrant and fruity Citrus popcorn.

2. Choose Your Chocolate Drizzle: Select up to two.

The cast members will smother your popcorn base in your choice of Milk Chocolatey, White Chocolatey, or Dark Chocolatey coatings.

3. Load Up on Toppings: Mix and match your favorites.

Pile it high! The topping bar includes heavy hitters like M&M’s (both Milk Chocolate and Peanut Butter versions), Peanut Butter Chips, Chocolate Chips, Mini Marshmallows, Crushed Chocolate Cookies, Pretzels, Chopped Peanuts, Sprinkles, and Fruity Candy Bits.

oranges

Not feeling creative? Goofy has you covered. The new station also debuts with pre-determined signature blends. Headlining the menu is a tribute to a Florida icon: the Orange Citrus Popcorn Mix ($17.99).

Inspired by the beloved Orange Bird, this bright mix features orange citrus-flavored candy popcorn tossed with mini marshmallows, fruity candy bits, a heavy white chocolatey drizzle, and actual orange candy slices. For the savory-and-sweet crowd, there is also a Peanut Butter Pretzel Mix running for a limited time.

Whether you’re crafting a chocolate-covered pretzel caramel dream or trying out the sweet zest of the Orange Bird mix, this new addition solidifies Disney Springs as the ultimate destination for Disney foodies this summer.

Goofy’s Candy Company is located in the Marketplace section of Disney Springs.

Ready to book your next Walt Disney World trip? Contact our partners at Get Away Today!

Opening Night and Five Other Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Dates Are Sold Out

halloween

Six Mickey’s Halloween Party Dates Sold Out

Ghouls, ghosts, and Disney fans, listen up! If you are planning to attend Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Magic Kingdom this year, you might want to stop reading this right now and purchase your tickets immediately.

Walt Disney World has officially sold out of opening night (Friday, August 7) for Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. Despite carrying an opening-night premium price tag of $159, eager guests snapped up every last ticket to be among the first to see the Headless Horseman ride down Main Street, U.S.A.

Opening night is the sixth date to completely hit capacity this year. With demand pacing exactly like last year’s record-breaking sellout track, dates are melting away faster than a candle in a jack-o’-lantern.

halloween party

Tickets initially went on sale to select Disney Resort hotel guests in early May, followed by the general public on May 12. Halloween night, predictably, vanished within hours of opening to the public. Since then, the budget-friendly August nights and a prime October date have joined the sold-out list.

As of right now, these are the six dates you can no longer book:

  • Friday, August 7 (Opening Night)
  • Tuesday, August 11
  • Friday, August 14
  • Tuesday, August 18
  • Tuesday, October 13
  • Saturday, October 31 (Halloween Night)

With the entire first two weeks of August completely booked solid, the spillover effect is real. Disney travelers who missed out on these early dates are already shifting their plans to the remaining dates in late August and early September.

pumpkin

If we look at past trends, the dominoes fall quickly once opening night sells out. Last year, the entire month of August was completely sold out by August 26, followed immediately by heavy sellouts in September. By late September, the entire season was completely gone.

If you are looking for the lowest price tags or want to secure your spot, here are the dates you should target right now before they disappear next:

  • Remaining August Dates: August 21 and August 23 are currently the most affordable nights left on the calendar at $139. August 25 ($144), August 28, and August 30 ($149) will quickly follow.
  • Late October Dates: The days leading up to Halloween (ranging from $219 to $224) traditionally sell out next as families look to maximize their actual holiday week vacations.
sisters

Don’t miss out on the Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular, the Boo-to-You Halloween Parade, and all the trick-or-treating you can handle! Contact our partners at Get Away Today to secure your tickets before your dates disappear into thin air!

Universal Studios Hollywood New Fast & Furious Hollywood Drift Coaster Drawing Noise Complaints

Universal Studios Hollywood New Fast & Furious Hollywood Drift Coaster Drawing Noise ComplaintsUniversal Studios Hollywood New Fast & Furious Hollywood Drift Coaster Drawing Noise Complaints

Neighbors Sound Off as Universal’s Fast & Furious Coaster Testing Sparks Noise Complaints

Universal Studios Hollywood’s upcoming Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift coaster is already making plenty of noise… and not everyone is thrilled about it. Residents in the neighboring Toluca Lake community have reportedly begun raising concerns after recent human testing of the park’s first-ever outdoor roller coaster filled the air with screams echoing well beyond the park’s boundaries.

Related: Ozzy Osbourne Haunted House Reportedly Leaked for Halloween Horror Nights 35

Universal Studios Hollywood New Fast & Furious Hollywood Drift Coaster Drawing Noise ComplaintsUniversal Studios Hollywood New Fast & Furious Hollywood Drift Coaster Drawing Noise Complaints

The new attraction, set to open later this summer, reaches speeds of up to 72 mph along more than 4,100 feet of outdoor track while utilizing groundbreaking rotating ride vehicles that simulate drifting cars. During recent employee preview testing, neighbors reported that the screams carried across the adjacent Lakeside Golf Course and into surrounding neighborhoods, with some describing the sound as nearly constant throughout the day.

Several residents told FOX 11 they moved to the area expecting a peaceful neighborhood and now worry that the coaster’s noise could permanently change that atmosphere. While one resident noted the employee preview wasn’t overly disruptive, others expressed concern that the volume could increase significantly once the attraction begins operating with full trains of guests every day.

Universal is already working on several mitigation measures before the ride officially opens. According to the report, engineers are constructing sound walls around portions of the track, using specialized gravel beneath the coaster to reduce mechanical vibrations, and even programming the spinning ride vehicles to face away from nearby homes during the loudest sections of the experience. The park also says it is continuing to monitor sound levels and welcomes feedback from the surrounding community as testing continues.

Related: Universal Orlando Resort Celebrates National Ice Cream Day on July 19th

Universal Studios Hollywood New Fast & Furious Hollywood Drift Coaster Drawing Noise ComplaintsUniversal Studios Hollywood New Fast & Furious Hollywood Drift Coaster Drawing Noise Complaints

Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift is expected to be one of Universal Studios Hollywood’s biggest additions in years, featuring fully rotating ride vehicles themed to iconic cars from the blockbuster film franchise. While excitement for the coaster continues to build among theme park fans, Universal will be hoping its noise mitigation efforts are just as successful as the attraction itself before opening day arrives.

Planning your own Universal vacation? Our friends at Get Away Today can help you save on Universal Studios tickets, hotel stays, and vacation packages, so you’ll be ready to experience Hollywood Drift for yourself when the engines finally roar to life.

ESPN’s My Wish Series Celebrates 20th Anniversary by Fulfilling Five Sports Dreams

ESPN’s My Wish Series Celebrates th Anniversary by Fulfilling Five Sports DreamsESPN’s My Wish Series Celebrates th Anniversary by Fulfilling Five Sports Dreams

ESPN Celebrates 20 Years of ‘My Wish’ With Five Inspiring Sports Dreams Coming True

For two decades, ESPN’s My Wish has been reminding viewers that some of the greatest moments in sports happen far away from the scoreboard. This month, the beloved series returns for its 20th anniversary with five unforgettable wish-granting stories that celebrate the power of hope, resilience, and the magic of sports.

Related: New Rope Drop Procedures Being Tested at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

ESPN’s My Wish Series Celebrates th Anniversary by Fulfilling Five Sports Dreams

Created in partnership with Make-A-Wish, the Emmy Award-winning series has granted nearly 100 sports-themed wishes since debuting in 2006 for children living with critical illnesses. This year’s lineup pairs five remarkable young fans with some of the biggest names in sports, creating once-in-a-lifetime experiences that are sure to inspire viewers.

The 2026 season kicks off Sunday, July 19, during the 8 a.m. ET hour of SportsCenter, with a new story airing each morning through July 23. Featured athletes include WNBA superstar A’ja Wilson, world No. 1 golfer Scottie Scheffler, WWE Superstar Seth Rollins, San Diego Padres slugger Fernando Tatis Jr., and the Tennessee Volunteers football team. Each athlete spends time creating unforgettable memories with children who have overcome extraordinary medical challenges, from transplant recipients to young cancer survivors.

ESPN’s My Wish Series Celebrates th Anniversary by Fulfilling Five Sports Dreams

A special “Best of My Wish” recap will air on July 25, while each feature will also be available on ESPN’s YouTube channel and social media platforms. To celebrate the milestone season, ESPN has also introduced a new animation package for the series, refreshed its online My Wish hub, and once again features Rascal Flatts’ emotional anthem “My Wish” as the signature song.

Over the past 20 years, My Wish has become one of ESPN’s most meaningful traditions, shining a spotlight on courage, perseverance, and the incredible impact athletes can have beyond the field of play. If you need a reminder that sports can change lives, this week’s SportsCenter is a great place to find it.

Related: King Arthur Carrousel Welcomes Back Guests at Disneyland Resort

ESPN’s My Wish Series Celebrates th Anniversary by Fulfilling Five Sports Dreams

Planning your next vacation? Whether you’re chasing Disney magic or another unforgettable adventure, our friends at Get Away Today can help you create memories worthy of a wish come true with great savings on tickets and vacation packages.

Wine Bar George Celebrates Best Short Wine List Award at Disney Springs

Wine Bar George Celebrates Best Short Wine List Award at Disney Springs

Wine Bar George at Disney Springs Earns Prestigious North American Wine Award

There’s another reason to toast your next visit to Disney Springs! Wine Bar George has been recognized by The World of Fine Wine as the winner of the 2026 Best Short Wine List Award in North America, adding another impressive accolade to the popular dining destination’s already overflowing wine cellar.

Related: New Rope Drop Procedures Being Tested at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Wine Bar George Celebrates Best Short Wine List Award at Disney Springs

The honor recognizes restaurants that offer exceptional wine programs with thoughtfully curated selections, and Wine Bar George certainly fits the bill. The Disney Springs favorite features more than 200 wines available by the ounce, glass, or bottle, giving guests the opportunity to sample everything from everyday favorites to rare vintages without committing to a full bottle. The restaurant credits its knowledgeable servers and sommeliers for helping guests discover new wines in an approachable and welcoming atmosphere.

The celebrations may not be over just yet. Wine Bar George has also been nominated for The World of Fine Wine’s global Best Short Wine List award, with the winner set to be announced on September 21. A victory would mark the restaurant’s fifth “Best in the World” title, further cementing its reputation as one of the premier wine destinations anywhere.

Related: Construction Continues as Top Deck Is Added to Fourth Magic Kingdom Ferry

Wine Bar George Celebrates Best Short Wine List Award at Disney Springs

This latest recognition comes on the heels of another major honor. Earlier this year, Food & Wine named Wine Bar George the No. 1 wine bar to visit in the United States, praising its outstanding wine selection, relaxed atmosphere, and shareable menu curated by Master Sommelier George Miliotes. Whether you’re stopping in for a quick glass, a wine flight, or a full meal featuring charcuterie, small plates, and entrées, Wine Bar George continues to prove that some of Disney Springs’ biggest experiences come by the glass.

Planning your next Walt Disney World getaway? Our friends at Get Away Today can help you save on tickets, resort stays, and vacation packages, leaving you with a little extra in the budget for that special bottle or wine flight at Disney Springs!

Construction Continues as Top Deck Is Added to Fourth Magic Kingdom Ferry

Construction Continues as Top Deck Is Added to Fourth Magic Kingdom Ferry

New Magic Kingdom Ferryboat Reaches Major Construction Milestone as Top Deck Takes Shape

A brand-new Magic Kingdom ferryboat is looking more like the finished product every day. Construction crews have now added the top deck to Disney’s fourth ferryboat, marking another major milestone as work continues behind the scenes near Disney’s Contemporary Resort.

Related: New Rope Drop Procedures Being Tested at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Construction Continues as Top Deck Is Added to Fourth Magic Kingdom Ferry

New aerial photos from bioreconstruct show the vessel, officially named the Meg Gilbert Crofton, with its third level now in place. Two square openings remain in the deck where staircases will eventually connect guests between levels once construction is complete. Around the ferry, cranes, construction vehicles, ladders, and additional components are scattered throughout the work site as crews continue assembling the massive vessel piece by piece.

The Meg Gilbert Crofton first arrived at Walt Disney World in sections earlier this year, with assembly beginning in May. Disney previously shared that construction is expected to take about a year before the ferry is fully assembled, painted, and ready to begin transporting guests across Seven Seas Lagoon. Once complete, it will join the current ferry fleet alongside the Admiral Joe Fowler, General Joe Potter, and Richard F. Irvine. The new vessel is named in honor of Meg Gilbert Crofton, who served as the fourth president of Walt Disney World.

The construction site also offers a reminder of how much Magic Kingdom transportation is evolving. Nearby, the retired Liberty Belle remains docked north of Disney’s Contemporary Resort after leaving service when Rivers of America closed to make way for the future Piston Peak National Park expansion. At the same time, Disney has also begun expanding the Magic Kingdom ferryboat dock, preparing the transportation hub for the park’s continued growth.

Related: Lorcana’s New Curator’s Collection Celebrates Classic Disney Heroines

Construction Continues as Top Deck Is Added to Fourth Magic Kingdom Ferry

With another ferry joining the fleet and improvements underway at the docks, guests can look forward to smoother transportation across Seven Seas Lagoon in the years ahead.

Planning your next Walt Disney World adventure? Our friends at Get Away Today can help you save on tickets, hotel stays, and vacation packages, making it even easier to set sail toward the magic.

Ozzy Osbourne Haunted House Reportedly Leaked for Halloween Horror Nights 35

ozzy HHN

Leaked Pandora Ad Reveals Ozzy Osbourne Haunted House Coming to Halloween Horror Nights 35

The Prince of Darkness is seemingly ready to take over Halloween Horror Nights.

A leaked advertisement from Pandora appears to have revealed another major haunted house coming to Halloween Horror Nights 35 at Universal Orlando Resort, and this one is inspired by none other than rock legend Ozzy Osbourne.

Related: Universal Orlando Resort Celebrates National Ice Cream Day on July 19th

Ozzy Osbourne Haunted House Reportedly Leaked for Halloween Horror Nights 35

The ad, which was first shared by fans on Reddit, includes the line: “Scream through the Prince of Darkness’ kingdom in a haunted house based on the music of Ozzy Osbourne.” While Universal has not officially announced the house, the leak adds another huge name to what is already shaping up to be one of the most stacked Halloween Horror Nights lineups in years.

This would not be Ozzy’s first trip into the fog. Back in 2013, Universal Studios Hollywood debuted Black Sabbath: 13-3D, a haunted maze inspired by the band’s music and imagery. The attraction brought some of Black Sabbath’s darkest songs to life with elaborate sets, creatures, and 3D effects. At the time, Ozzy himself praised the concept, saying he was excited to see Universal transform the band’s music into a haunted experience.

If the leak proves accurate, the Ozzy Osbourne house will join an impressive lineup that already includes Stranger Things 5, Sinners, Hellraiser, Jack & Oddfellow: Chaos & Control, H.R. Bloodengutz Presents: A Halloween Fright-Tacular!, MADLANDS: Caged Cannibals, Cybergoria, and Sideshow of Decay. With only a couple of houses left to be officially revealed, Halloween Horror Nights 35 is looking like a celebration worthy of its milestone anniversary.

Related: Killer Klowns From Outer Space Returning to Halloween Horror Nights 35

ozzy HHN

Universal has not commented on the leaked advertisement, but with announcement season in full swing, it may not be long before fans can officially step into the Prince of Darkness’ kingdom.

Whether you’re a lifelong metal fan or just looking for another unforgettable scare, this house could be one of the event’s biggest headbangers.

If you’re planning to brave Halloween Horror Nights 35, our friends at Get Away Today can help you score great vacation packages, hotel deals, and park tickets so you can spend less time planning and more time surviving the fog.

Nine Rehabilitated Sea Turtles Returned to the Wild by SeaWorld Orlando

Nine Rehabilitated Sea Turtles Returned to the Wild by SeaWorld Orlando

SeaWorld Orlando Returns Nine Rehabilitated Sea Turtles to the Atlantic Ocean

Nine more sea turtles are back where they belong thanks to the dedicated work of SeaWorld Orlando’s Rescue Team.

This week, SeaWorld Orlando successfully released nine rehabilitated green sea turtles into the Atlantic Ocean at River to Sea Preserve in Marineland, located in Flagler County. The release marks another important milestone in the park’s ongoing conservation efforts to rescue, rehabilitate, and return injured and ill marine animals to the wild.

Related: SeaWorld Hits Major Milestone with 43000 Animal Rescues

Green Sea Turtle Release July

Most of the turtles were rescued earlier this year after Florida experienced an unusually cold winter. They were suffering from cold stress and severe malnutrition when they arrived at SeaWorld Orlando’s rescue facility. Over the course of several months, the turtles received around-the-clock veterinary care that included medical diagnostics, nutritional support, and specialized rehabilitation. One of the turtles even underwent extensive shell repair before being cleared for release.

With the turtles fully recovered, SeaWorld’s rescue team transported them to the Atlantic coast, where they made their long-awaited return to the ocean.

So far in 2026, SeaWorld Orlando has rescued 38 sea turtles and successfully returned 27 of them to their natural habitat. The park’s rescue program continues to play a vital role in protecting Florida’s marine wildlife, responding to animals affected by weather events, injuries, illness, and other environmental challenges.

Related: SeaWorld San Diego Lights Up the Sky with All‑New Drone Show

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Watching these resilient sea turtles paddle back into the Atlantic is a reminder that every rescue has the potential for a happy ending, and SeaWorld Orlando’s conservation team continues to make a meaningful impact on wildlife throughout Central Florida and beyond.

If you’re planning a visit to SeaWorld Orlando to learn more about the park’s incredible rescue and conservation efforts, be sure to contact our friends at Get Away Today, who can help you plan an unforgettable Florida vacation.