Hard Rock Hotel at Universal Orlando Lit Up in Pink to Support PINKTOBER

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October 12, 2023

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Hard Rock Hotel at Universal Orlando Paints It Pink for Breast Cancer Awareness in October

The iconic Hard Rock Hotel at Universal Orlando is going all out in its support for breast cancer awareness throughout the month of October with a series of “PINKTOBER” activations.

PINKTOBER Highlights

The front of the prestigious hotel and its iconic guitar fountain are bathed in a radiant pink glow, symbolizing their dedication to the cause.
Select guest rooms have been transformed into pink havens with pink sheets adorning the beds. A commendable gesture, as the hotel pledges to donate a portion of each night’s room rate to charity for every booking of these special rooms during October. Guests are encouraged to request a stay in one of these distinctive pink-sheeted rooms upon their arrival.
For the musically inclined, pink co-branded Gibson guitars are available for guests to borrow, strum, and harmonize within the comfort of their rooms.
The Rock Shop is proudly showcasing limited-edition PINKTOBER merchandise, and a percentage of the proceeds from these sales will be channeled towards charitable causes.
Guests can savor specially crafted pink drinks at the Beach Club, The Kitchen, and Velvet Bar, with a fraction of the cost being donated to charity, amplifying their commitment to the cause.

Hard Rock International and the Seminole Tribe of Florida have collaborated with the American Cancer Society to commemorate tribal member Nancy Frank’s incredible 20th anniversary of breast cancer survival. A special, limited-edition pin, designed by tribe member and Native American artist Victoria Billie Osceola, is now available. The heartwarming part is that 100% of the proceeds from this commemorative pin, available throughout October and Indigenous People’s Month in November, will be directed to the American Cancer Society.

Hard Rock International offers exclusive limited-edition merchandise, including a PINKTOBER-themed Hard Rock t-shirt, hat, water bottle, and tote bag. These items not only serve as tokens of support for breast cancer awareness and research but also contribute to the cause. Through the Hard Rock Heals Foundation, a share of the proceeds will go to charities dedicated to raising awareness and funding for breast cancer research.

For those interested in supporting this heartfelt cause, the PINKTOBER commemorative pin and 2023 retail collection are now available in stores and online at Rock Shops.

About Hard Rock Heals Foundation

The Hard Rock Heals Foundation is a registered 501(c)(3) charitable organization that oversees all philanthropic outreach for Hard Rock International. Their belief in the power of music to stir emotions, inspire, connect, and restore is at the core of their mission. Since its inception in 1971, Hard Rock International has united people worldwide through the power of music and has collaborated with artists from emerging talents to iconic figures in support of charitable efforts globally. The Hard Rock Heals Foundation extends grants and assistance to individuals with the common goal of healing through the power of music. Their partnerships with like-minded, music-centric organizations serve as a conduit to improve lives and promote wellness.

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!

First Homebuilders Announced for Cotino, a Storyliving by Disney

By

Catherine

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October 12, 2023

First Homebuilders announced for Cotino, a Storyliving by Disney community

Disney’s Cotino community will welcome homeowners of all ages, offering single-family residences. Some residences will be located on home sites specifically designated for those 55+. And, in the future, condominiums will be available within the community.

Disney magic will touch many aspects of this thriving home environment and be on full display with the Cotino community’s: Stunning home collections, designed and built by builders who are known for their quality homes and excellence in developing communities. Parks, pathways, and a promenade that will reflect the imagination of Disney Imagineering Designated home sites that will be a haven for adults 55+ will surround its namesake, Longtable Park – an exclusive park for its residents.

The enchantment of Disney will permeate many facets of this thriving residential environment, prominently on display within the Cotino community, which boasts:

Exceptional Home Collections: The community features a range of stunning home collections, designed and constructed by reputable builders renowned for their quality homes and excellence in community development.

Picturesque Parks and Pathways: Parks, meandering pathways, and a charming promenade are designed to reflect the creative ingenuity of Disney Imagineering, ensuring that the entire community exudes a touch of Disney magic.

Longtable Park for 55+: Surrounded by designated home sites, Longtable Park stands as an exclusive haven for residents aged 55 and above. The park’s centerpiece is a grand, elongated table inspired by Walt Disney’s cherished vision of communal breakfast gatherings that bring people together.

Some of the park’s key features include:

Lush desert landscaping
A grove of palo verde and olive trees encompassing the area
Shaded seating areas for relaxation
Bocce ball courts for recreational enjoyment
Barbecue grills for outdoor cooking and social gathering

Disney Imagineers will play a pivotal role in shaping the magic of Storyliving by Disney communities, ensuring that each community embodies the essence of a dream living destination. With captivating architecture, an array of amenities, and a diverse range of activities, these communities are envisioned to be havens where residents can truly live their dreams.

The focal point will be a large, long table inspired by Walt Disney’s love of community breakfast to bring people together. Park features will include: Beautiful desert landscaping A surrounding grove of palo verde and olive trees Shaded seating areas Bocce ball courts Barbeque grills Disney Imagineers will be the visionaries behind the magic of Storyliving by Disney™ communities—and will help make each one the kind of beautiful haven where people dream of living, with delightful architecture, amenities and activities.

The Cotino community lifestyle will thrive in an abundance of wonderful places where you can enjoy yourself, such as promenades and parks—some with spectacular views of the water and mountains. With Artisan Club membership, you will be able to access special venues for activities and entertainment, such as a members-only clubhouse, and a refreshing area at Cotino™ Bay and the beach.

Cotino Bay will be the jewel of the Cotino community and will feature the clearest turquoise waters with Crystal Lagoons® technology. It will be enhanced by a promenade with striking views of the oasis and the mountains beyond, while the beach with its inviting white sands offers a variety of activities.

Festive Fall Bites and Cocktails You Don’t Want to Miss at Disney Springs

By

Chris B

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October 12, 2023

Don’t Miss out on these Spooky Season Specials at Disney Springs

The Fall season has arrived here in Central Florida, and Jaleo Disney Springs, Maria and Enzo’s at Disney Springs, and The Edison at Disney Springs are celebrating with some limited-time menu items. Read on to learn more about the delectable eats and amazing sips being served up at these three amazing restaurants!

Jaleo Disney Springs

Embrace the autumn spirit at Jaleo Disney Springs with their signature mocktail, the Apple & Saffron, available all season long. This cocktail combines Seedlip Garden, apple juice, lemon, saffron, and Fever-Tree Club Soda. Guests can also dive into a range of delectable new menu items inspired by the flavors of the season. Try the Mero con Calabaza, featuring Florida Atlantic Red Grouper with butternut squash puree, fennel, and pumpkin seeds, or the Atun crudo con piparras, a thinly sliced tuna with Piparra dressing and fresh lemon. And, of course, various Spanish-style tapas and signature paellas are available for your enjoyment.

Maria and Enzo’s at Disney Springs

The landmark Disney Springs Italian Eatery is getting into the Spooky Season spirit with a Poe-Inspired Culinary Adventure. After 4 pm, indulge in a selection of signature cocktails and mocktails that pay homage to the famous American mystery and horror writer:

Red Death – $22: Espolon, combier, lime juice, sour mix, hibiscus syrup, garnished with a masquerade mask.
Tell-Tale Martini – $22: Vanilla vodka, Chambord, pama, lemon juice, grape simple, and a candy eye.
Raven’s Glare – $22: A lemon cookie margarita featuring Espolon, combier, lemon juice, sour mix, cookie syrup, and garnished for the season.

Don’t miss the opportunity to try all three dark and dreamy Halloween creations with the Cask of Halloween Spirits flight for $31, which includes:

Fall of the House of the Apples – $22: A pear and apple brandy cocktail with St. George Spiced Pear Liqueur, absolut pear, apple juice, ginger ale, and an apple gummy garnish.
Black Bird Brew – $17: A fruity and festive mocktail with sour apple, grape, sprite, a glow cube, and Halloween garnish.

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The Edison at Disney Springs

Step back into the opulent era of the 1920s at The Edison and experience their unique Halloween cocktail, “The Blood Donor,” throughout October. This chilling libation is served in a blood bag and combines Aperol, Solerno, Espolòn Silver, lime juice, and simple syrup to create a vivid crimson concoction that’s both eerie and utterly delicious.

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Morimoto Asia at Disney Springs

Morimoto Asia the delectable Asian Fusion etery, is serving up the Toyko Ghoul cocktail. This drink, which costs $18, features made with Hendrick’s Gin, midori, cointreau, yuzu, lemon, monin agave and ginger bitters.

I have tried several items on this list, and every item I tried was more amazing than the last! Don’t miss out, head over to Disney Springs to try these menu items before they vanish!

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 Shares First Look at Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Mural

By

Chip

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October 12, 2023

Disney Shares First Look at Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Mural

As Disney progresses with the development of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at both Magic Kingdom Park and Disneyland, a sneak peek has been unveiled, showcasing a new mural crafted by Louisiana artist Malaika Favorite. Known for her work displayed in the halls of the Baton Rouge Gallery, which delves into the cultural heritage of African Americans, Malaika brings her artistic touch to this upcoming attraction.

Continuing the narrative from the animated film “The Princess and the Frog,” Malaika’s mural for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure presents a captivating collage of scenes adorning two exterior walls of the building’s entrance within the indoor queue. These scenes vividly capture Tiana’s transformative journey and the inception of Tiana’s Foods.

This masterpiece by artist Malaika Favorite will decorate the walls as part of the queue of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, an attraction inspired by the animated film, “The Princess and the Frog,” opening at Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort next year.

Second Night of Jollywood Nights Sold Out at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

By

Chris B

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October 12, 2023

Another night of Jollywood Nights has Sold Out

If you are planning on attending the new Jollywood Nights at Hollywood Studios but have not yet bought your tickets, you may want to consider grabbing them ASAP: a second evening of the new after-hours holiday party has sold out!

Here is the updated list of Jollywood Nights availability and pricing:

Saturday, November 11 – SOLD OUT
Saturday, November 18 -SOLD OUT
Monday, November 20
Monday, November 27
Wednesday, November 29
Monday, December 4
Wednesday, December 6
Saturday, December 16
Monday, December 18
Wednesday, December 20

Jollywood Nights runs from 8:30 PM to 12:30 AM each evening. Event tickets are $159 to $179 per ticket, plus tax (prices vary by event date), with a $10 discount available on select nights for Annual Passholders and Disney Vacation Club Members.

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Ticket holders can enter Disney’s Hollywood Studios as early as 7:00 PM on the valid date of their ticket. These date-specific event tickets do not require an additional day theme park ticket or theme park reservation.

Have you purchased your tickets yet for Jollywood Nights? Leave us a comment to let us know what aspect of the party you are most excited about!

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!

New Menu Items Debut at Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater

By

Chris B

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October 12, 2023

Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater has added new menu items

Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater, the 50s-style r drive-in “theater at Hollywood Studios, is known for serving up delicious eats and cool treats, enjoyed inside a Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater will now have some new menu items to choose from!

The following new menu items have been added at Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater:

Bánh Mì Burger: Grilled house-made pork patty topped with roasted pork belly, pickled vegetables, cucumber, herbs, and a sriracha aïoli
Feature Film Burger: Signature beef blend with house-made seasoning on a brioche bun with shaved pastrami, lettuce, heirloom tomato, and a Carolina-mustard sauce
Sci-Fi Impossible Nachos: Fried tortilla chips topped with plant-based black bean chili, avocado cream, pico de gallo, and cilantro
Pesto Penne Pasta: Pasta tossed in house-made pesto sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, rainbow cherry tomatoes, grilled artichoke hearts, onions, and spinach (Plant-based)

About Sci-Fi Dine-In

Buckle up for a dining experience like no other at the Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant. Nestled within a Hollywood-style soundstage, this unique establishment offers a fusion of delectable cuisine and heart-pounding sci-fi thrills. As you pull into your car-shaped booth or table, you’ll be transported to a bygone era, complete with kitschy vintage decor and the soft glow of tail lights from fellow diners.

The main attraction? A continuous reel of sci-fi scenes featuring attacking aliens, marauding mummies, rampaging robots, and more – all while you indulge in a sumptuous meal. Remember, no screaming with your mouth full! For those yearning for nostalgia, there are road-ready picnic tables reminiscent of a classic drive-in theater at the back of the venue, complete with an old-fashioned concession stand.

New Menu Items Debut at Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater

21 or over? Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater provides a stellar lineup of adult beverages. Sip on Long Island Lunar Tea, savor a Habanero Lime Martian Margarita or indulge in Orbiting Oreos. The drinks even come with glow-in-the-dark ice cubes for an otherworldly touch! If you prefer something more down-to-earth, choose from an array of wines and beers, both on draft and bottled.

Have you had a chance to check out any of these new menu items? If so any among your favorites? Leave us a comment and 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!

SAG-AFTRA Suspend Negotiations

By

Marc Valentine

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October 12, 2023

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SAG-AFTRA Suspend Negotiations

Talks between SAG-AFTRA and major studios have collapsed due to the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers’ statement on Wednesday, citing an insurmountable divide between the parties.

In a late-night communication to its members, the union accused the studios of employing aggressive tactics and stated that the studios had abandoned negotiations by declining to respond to the union’s latest proposal.

The union expressed profound dismay at this recent turn of events and encouraged its members to stand in solidarity by joining picket lines.

The primary obstacle revolves around a union proposition to share in streaming revenues, which the AMPTP claims would amount to $800 million annually. SAG-AFTRA contended that this figure was overstated by 60% and maintained that its proposal would cost streaming platforms just 57 cents per subscriber each year.

SAG-AFTRA also seeks a portion of streaming earnings for all union-protected content, spanning productions created exclusively for streaming platforms, as well as movies and television series licensed from other sources. This initiative goes beyond the achievement-oriented bonus secured by the Writers Guild of America.

🧵To Our Fellow #SagAftraMembers:

It is with profound disappointment that we report the industry CEOs have walked away from the bargaining table after refusing to counter our latest offer. (1/11) pic.twitter.com/nd2PfpDH4F
— SAG-AFTRA (@sagaftra) October 12, 2023

“We have negotiated with them in good faith, despite the fact that last week they presented an offer that was, shockingly, worth less than they proposed before the strike began,” SAG-AFTRA told its membership. “These companies refuse to protect performers from being replaced by AI, they refuse to increase your wages to keep up with inflation, and they refuse to share a tiny portion of the immense revenue YOUR work generates for them.”

“The companies are using the same failed strategy they tried to inflict on the WGA – putting out misleading information in an attempt to fool our members into abandoning our solidarity and putting pressure on our negotiators,” the union said. “But, just like the writers, our members are smarter than that and will not be fooled.”

To keep pace with inflation, SAG-AFTRA is also seeking an 11% increase in minimum rates. The AMPTP is offering the same deal it gave the Writers Guild, a 5% increase, followed by increases of 4% and 3.5%.

As unions like SAG-AFTRA strive to secure fair compensation for their members in the digital age, and with streaming platforms becoming increasingly dominant, these negotiations are emblematic of the challenges faced in achieving a balanced and equitable industry for all stakeholders.

The implications of these talks extend beyond the negotiation table, shaping the future of how content creators are compensated and how entertainment is distributed in an ever-changing media landscape. The outcomes of these discussions will continue to shape the industry’s trajectory in the years to come. It seems like the two sides remain far apart, meaning that work will not resume in Hollywood for quite some time.

Disney World and AT&T Rolling Out New Character Experiences at Disney World

By

Sara

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October 12, 2023

Disney World and AT&T Rolling Out New Character Experiences at Disney World

New character experiences are coming to Walt Disney World guests! AT&T is introducing a new, interactive photo experience for Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort and Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort guests. Disney Character Clicks will create new and meaningful memories for those guests.

Fueled by AT&T 5G, visitors can seamlessly participate in this complimentary digital photo opportunity through the My Disney Experience app in the lobbies of Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort and Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort. Those using a MagicBand, Disney MagicMobile Pass, or Key to the World card can unlock the experience and connect their photos to their Disney account.

Guests have the chance to strike a pose alongside beloved Disney characters, including Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, elegantly attired in their special Disney100 attire to commemorate The Walt Disney Company’s 100th anniversary. Afterward, they can effortlessly download and share these images directly on their social media platforms.

“Disney PhotoPass Service is always looking for new ways to create unique photo experiences for guests to take home cherished vacation memories. Disney Character Clicks combines collaboration and technology to give our guests at Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort and Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort a new way to capture memories with some of their favorite characters,” said Dan Hamer-Hodges, director of digital experience of Disney PhotoPass Service.

What do you think about this new character experience at Walt Disney World?

Ready to plan your next Disney World trip? Contact me for a free vacation quote! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are complimentary, and I’d love to help you plan a magical vacation.

Disney World Resort & Theme Park Tours Increase Prices

By

Sara

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October 11, 2023

Disney World Resort & Theme Park Tours Increase Prices

Among the recent price increases at Walt Disney World, the prices of resort and theme park tours have also increased. Pricing for tours is now date-based rather than a flat rate. While in some cases this might be a better deal for some, for the most part this is another price increase.

Take a look at the tours guests can book across the resort and what the new pricing is:

Magic Kingdom

Disney’s Keys to the Kingdom Tour – $109.65 – $149 (Was $114)

EPCOT

Behind the Seeds – $39 – $45 (Was $35)
EPCOT Seas Adventures – DiveQuest – $229 – $249 (Was $219)
EPCOT Seas Adventures – Dolphins in Depth – $209 (Was $199)

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Wild Africa Trek – $219–$229 (Was $199)
Caring for Giants – $39 (Was $35)
Up Close with Rhinos – $49 (Was $45)

Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort

Wilderness Back Trail Adventure – $90–$99 (Was $90)

Have you ever experienced a tour at Walt Disney World? Which one and what did you think?

Ready to plan your next visit to Walt Disney World? Contact me for a free vacation quote! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are complimentary, and I’d love to help you plan a magical vacation.

Reservations for Holiday Time at the Disneyland Resort Guided Tour Now Open

By

Sara

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October 11, 2023

Reservations for Holiday Time at the Disneyland Resort Guided Tour Now Open

Guests wanting to experience the Holiday Time at the Disneyland Resort guided tour can book their spot now! You can celebrate the most magical season of all with a fun guided tour through both theme parks.

Hear heartwarming Holiday stories about Walt and the Disney family—and journey down memory lane as you trace the joyous holiday moments held across the parks. Throughout the tour, Guests will also learn about the rich tapestry of holiday traditions from all around the globe.

Take a delightful journey through both theme parks, where you’ll experience the enchanting holiday season up close. Your expert guide will lead you on a 2.5-hour walking tour, revealing cherished Disneyland holiday customs inspired by festivities from around the globe. Along the way, you’ll enjoy reserved seats for the A Christmas Fantasy Parade, indulge in delectable seasonal snacks, embark on a magical winter voyage aboard “it’s a small world” Holiday, and much more.

The Holiday Time at the Disneyland Resort Guided Tour is available daily throughout the holiday season at Disneyland Resort. This cherished tradition sees elements of the tour updated annually, ensuring that returning Guests can relish their beloved moments while also uncovering fresh delights.

The holiday season at the Disneyland Resort begins November 10, 2023, and run through January 7, 2024.

Please note that all offerings, experiences, and collectible souvenirs may change without prior notice. Remember, a valid theme park admission and a park reservation are necessary but are not included in the tour price.

Ready to plan your holiday trip to the Disneyland Resort? Contact me for a free vacation quote! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are complimentary and I’d love to help you plan a magical vacation.

Daredevil Born Again Writers and Directors fired by Disney

By

Marc Valentine

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October 11, 2023

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Disney Releases Writers and Directors for Daredevil Born Again

Daredevil Born Again Writers and Directors fired by Disney

Variety has officially confirmed that “Daredevil Born Again” is undergoing a significant creative transformation. Marvel Studios’ Disney+ series has recently parted ways with its head writers, Chris Ord and Matt Corman. Currently, the production is in the process of recruiting new writers to give the show a fresh perspective. It’s worth noting that Ord and Corman will retain their titles as executive producers. The Hollywood Reporter first broke the “Daredevil” news.

Furthermore, due to the SAG-AFTRA strike beginning before completing just under half of the 18-episode order for the series, Marvel has also made changes in the directorial lineup for the remaining episodes of the season. While some elements from the already filmed material will be incorporated into future episodes, Marvel is actively seeking to take the show in a different and innovative creative direction.

“Daredevil Born Again” is currently unable to resume full-scale production due to ongoing actor strikes. However, negotiations are underway between the actors and the studios with the hope of reaching an agreement for their return to work. Notably, the Writers Guild of America has recently resolved its strike through a new deal with the studios. This agreement received overwhelming support, with 99% of the guild’s members voting in favor earlier this week. J

Charlie Cox is set to reprise his role as Matt Murdock, also known as Daredevil, in the upcoming series, alongside Vincent D’Onofrio as Wilson “Kingpin” Fisk. Notably, the duo previously shared the screen in the Marvel-Netflix “Daredevil” series, which aired from 2015 to 2018. on Bernthal will reprise his role as the Punisher and appear in the series as well.

Marvel Studios’ recent television releases encompass Season 2 of “Loki,” which achieved an impressive 10.9 million views within its initial three days on Disney+.

Looking ahead, the future is bright for the Marvel Cinematic Universe, as we anticipate the arrival of shows like “Echo” and “Agatha: Darkhold Diaries” in 2024. The Marvels is set to hit theaters on November 10, 2023. Marvel fans can expect an array of compelling stories and characters to captivate their screens in the coming years.

New Dining Experiences Coming to Downtown Disney

By

Sara

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October 11, 2023

New Dining Experiences Coming to Downtown Disney

Downtown Disney at the Disneyland Resort is being transformed and new dining experiences are coming to the area! Today Disney shared a look at the latest experiences, including plans for the new Parkside Market, plus a new stage and lawn, and more!

Announcing Plans for Parkside Market!

Plans are underway for Parkside Market, a new, curated collection of diverse culinary concepts brought to life by Levy, with all four offerings under one roof as part of the expansion on the west end. Let’s whet your appetite with a bit more about what offerings are coming to this all-new location!

Seoul Sister is a fast-casual modern eatery that will serve a Korean-forward menu based on bibimbap(Korean rice bowls) with a California twist. Executive Chef Kelly Kim will showcase bold Korean flavors through marinated meats, colorful vegetables and savory sauces over rice, noodles or salad, plus appetizers, an Asian-inspired breakfast menu, and hand-crafted drinks.

Sip & Sonder, from founders Amanda-Jane Thomas and Shanita Nicholas, is a Black women-owned brand that has been recognized as one of the best cafés in L.A. by the Los Angeles Times. Guests in the district can expect to enjoy Sip & Sonder’s signature lattes, as well as fresh treats, frozen drinks and Caribbean-inspired bites.

GG’s Chicken Shop, from Boka Restaurant Group, was founded by James Beard Award-winning restaurateurs Rob Katz and Kevin Boehm, alongside Michelin Star Chef Partner Lee Wolen. Affectionately named after Wolen’s mother Geri, the shop will serve a family-friendly menu of chicken sandwiches, salads, and classic dinner table sides. The first brick-and-mortar GG’s Chicken Shop opened earlier this year in Chicago and this new location in Downtown Disney District will be its first on the West Coast.
A second story bar will be an al fresco spot offering great views to sip signature craft cocktails and mocktails from mixologists who infuse, muddle, stir, shake and swizzle the freshest mixes using local ingredients and artful garnishes. Refreshing selections will include frozen lemonades, frozés, espresso martinis, shareable cocktails and spirit-free elixirs.

Later this year, Downtown Disney will open a new stage and lawn for special events, activities, musical entertainment and more on the west end of the district. In this brand-new area, you’ll also be able to see a soaring new sculptural tower designed by Nikkolas Smith. This new tower will pay tribute to the sublime work of pioneering architects of color in Southern California during the mid-20^th century with unique geometric patterns in the sculpture, evoking the famed mid-century buildings they created. We look forward to this beautiful new outdoor space!

Future plans for the district will also bring Din Tai Fung, a world-renowned Chinese restaurant known for its soup dumplings and noodles, plus masterful Mexican cuisine by Michelin-starred Chef Carlos Gaytán at Paseo and Céntrico, and the popular California-Cuban cheese rolls and pastries to come from Porto’s Bakery and Cafe.

You’ll want to visit again and again, as it’s always an exciting time to eat, shop and explore in Downtown Disney District.

Ready to plan your next visit to the Disneyland Resort? Contact me today for a free vacation quote! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are free, and I’d love to help you plan a magical vacation.