Home Blog Page 860

Pixar Place Hotel is Now Open at Disneyland Resort

IMG_8583
Pixar Place Hotel

Pixar Place Hotel is Now Open at Disneyland Resort

The reimagined Pixar Place Hotel is officially open at the Disneyland Resort! The 15-story high-rise overlooking Disney California
Adventure Park boasts comfortable and contemporary guest rooms that celebrate the artistry of Pixar Animation Studios, new dining options by Great Maple, a relaxing rooftop pool area and play court, renovated fitness center and more.

Related – First Look at the Updated Rooms at Pixar Place Hotel

Pixar Place Hotel is designed to evoke the inspiration and humor in every Pixar film, while
celebrating the artistic process. Showcasing early sketches to finished design, the dรฉcor depicts memorable moments from Pixar stories and reveals some never-before-seen artwork.

The redesigned lobby is landmarked by a large sculpture of the iconic Pixar Lamp balancing
atop its ball. Floating from the skylight above, a mobile represents the beginning stages of Pixar filmmaking โ€“ and guestsโ€™ stays โ€“ with character designs made of basic shapes and colors.

At select times, Joe Gardner from โ€œSoulโ€ may be found playing the piano near the hotelโ€™s
staircase. Appearing for the first time at any Disney property, Bing Bong from โ€œInside Outโ€ may be found creating core photo memories with guests at select times.

From concept art on the headboards to pillows inspired by the Pixar Ball, and more, the
reimagined guest rooms incorporate whimsical nods to the world-renowned animation studio. Some of the art was created by Pixar Animation Studios artists especially for Pixar Place Hotel. When final touches are complete later this year, Pixar Place Hotel will have 479 total guest rooms, including two new, two-bedroom themed signature suites, plus a new concierge lounge.

The colorful Coco Suite will pay tribute to Miguel and his familyโ€™s legacy through vibrant
Oaxacan art, while the midcentury modern Incredibles Suite will feature Parr family memorabilia with a spy-fi twist. The Creators Club concierge lounge on the second floor will honor the partnership between Walt Disney Imagineering and Pixar Animation Studios with attraction posters, concept art and music from Pixar experiences in Disney parks around the world.

Upgraded rooftop recreation areas create an oasis for play and relaxation. A great location to view fireworks on select nights, the rooftop deck is a cozy gathering space with plush couches and fire pits themed to hotheaded Pixar characters. The nearby Pixar Shorts Court offers outdoor games themed to Pixar short films. Guests can also lounge by the Pixel Pool; frolic in the โ€œFinding Nemoโ€-themed splash pad, Nemoโ€™s Cove; or take a ride on the 186-feet-long Crushโ€™s Surfinโ€™ Slide.

Mike and Sulley from โ€œMonsters Universityโ€ can be spotted on treadmills in a mural at the
expanded fitness center. A nod to the film โ€œWALL-E,โ€ the STOR-E retail location in the lobby offers Pixar-themed apparel and toys, along with Disneyland Resort souvenirs and sundries.

The creativity and comfort of Pixar Place Hotel is also reflected in new, upscale culinary
offerings. Guests can savor elevated takes on American classics at three delectable dining
locations operated by Southern California-based Great Maple.

Accessible to hotel guests, local diners and theme park goers, the 6,500 square-foot Great Maple restaurant on the ground floor serves breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. Signature dishes include buttermilk fried chicken and maple bacon doughnuts, Cajun shrimp and cheddar biscuit benedict, and soda pop-braised baby back ribs.

The grab-and-go lobby coffee shop, The Sketch Pad Cafรฉ, offers assorted pastries, coffee and tea. When the rooftop pool bar Small Bytes opens in early March, a selection of beverages, salads, wraps, cheese plates and more will be available with an incredible view of Disneyland Resort. In addition, Great Maple will provide food and beverage service to the Creators Club concierge lounge when it opens.

YouTube player

Many unique benefits and unmatched amenities are included in stays at Pixar Place Hotel, Disneyland Hotel and Disneyโ€™s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, such as early entry 30 minutes prior to regular theme park opening into a designated park to enjoy select attractions, dining and shopping locations.

Pixar Place Hotel is conveniently located within close walking distance to the Disneyland Resort theme parks and Downtown Disney District, and overnight guests have access to the hotelโ€™s dedicated entrance to Disney California Adventure Park located across the street. Park admission and reservations are required for park entry.

Additional conveniences include the ability to check in and make select charges to hotel rooms with the Disneyland app, plus preferred access to a limited number of dining reservations at select hotel table-service restaurants. At select times during the year, Disneyland Resort Hotels feature seasonal dรฉcor and special activities.

What do you think of the rethemed Pixar Place Hotel?

If youโ€™d like to plan your next stay at the Pixar Place Hotel, contact me today! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are FREE, and Iโ€™d love to help you plan a magical vacation!

Beautiful Rapunzel Bow For A Magical Hairstyle!

Rapunzel Bow
Rapunzel Bow

Beautiful Rapunzel Bow For A Magical Hairstyle!

Have the best day ever with this Rapunzel Bow created by PeachKraft on Etsy for $25. You can order yours here!

Related – Custom Minnie Mouse Jewelry Box For Your Next Trip!

The bow is made with light purple sparkly cotton fabric and features “Best Day Ever” and floating lantern embroidered on it and a sun embroidery in the middle, so cute! The Barrette is 4 inches and will keep it securely in your hair all day long.

Credit: Etsy

New Ariel Inflatable Splash Pad Your Kids Will Love!

Ariel Inflatable Splash Pad
Ariel Inflatable Splash Pad

New Ariel Inflatable Splash Pad Your Kids Will Love!

Your kids will get a jump on summer fun with this Ariel Inflatable Splash Pad! Imagine having your own enchanted lagoon with a slide and an arch with streamers on your backyard, so much fun! You can get it online at shopDisney for $54.99.

Related – New Little Mermaid Float Debuts at Swirls on the Water

This bright and colorful splash pad features Ariel on the slide and an inflatable Flounders that sprays out water when you connect the splash pad to a garden hose. It’s the coolest way to have a world of fun.

Credit: shopDisney

Custom Minnie Mouse Jewelry Box For Your Next Trip!

Custom Minnie Mouse Jewelry Box
Custom Minnie Mouse Jewelry Box

Custom Minnie Mouse Jewelry Box For Your Next Trip!

super cute custom Minnie Mouse jewelry box created by LegendaryLeatherX on Etsy for $12.87. You can order yours here!

Related – New Disney World Icons Light Up Ear Headband Spotted At Hollywood Studios!

This jewelry box is made with vegan leather available in different colors, bright or neutral and feature Minnie Mouse plus your personalized message or name. They are great to organize all your accessories for your next trip or as a gift idea to the Disney fan in your life!

New Mickey Mouse Ice Cream Sandwich Scented Pillow Spotted At Hollywood Studios!

Mickey Mouse Ice Cream Sandwich Scented Pillow
Mickey Mouse Ice Cream Sandwich Scented Pillow

New Mickey Mouse Ice Cream Sandwich Scented Pillow Spotted At Hollywood Studios!

This Mickey Mouse Ice Cream Sandwich Scented Pillow might never melt but it for sure will melt your heart! You can find it at Hollywood Studios, as well as, online at shopDisney for $44.99.

Related – New Disney Home Collection Available At Hollywood Studios!

The pillow is shaped like the classic Mickey Mouse ice cream sandwich we all love from the parks, plus is vanilla scented to give a comfort feeling every time you hold it.

Take a closer look at this adorable pillow in our Instagram post:

New Disney Home Collection Available At Hollywood Studios!

Disney Home Collection
Disney Home Collection

New Disney Home Collection Available At Hollywood Studios!

This Disney Home Collection is perfect if you want to add a touch of magic to your house while still be neutral and subtle. We found these pieces at Hollywood Studios but you can also find some of them online at shopDisney!

Related – New Disney World Icons Light Up Ear Headband Spotted At Hollywood Studios!

Just imagine how beautiful this Mickey Mouse and Home decorative pillow will look on your couch or bed? Complete the look with a Mickey Mouse throw blanket both in neutral colors.

Moving on to the kitchen, you can storage your food in the beautiful glass containers with a bamboo lid and subtle Mickey icons in white, so cute! You can also have your favorite hot beverage in a Cinderella Castle Home mug, protect your tables with the Home coasters, add magic to dining time with the Mickey Mouse mat placements and serve the most delicious treats on the Mickey Mouse serving tray.

Your kitchen or bathroom will look enchanting with this Mickey Mouse white and gold soap dispenser and Mickey icons white towel, so magical!

The collection also features plenty of beautiful pieces to use as home decor like a Mickey Mouse or Home wall decor piece, a very classic Mickey Mouse picture frame, Mickey Mouse flower base, Mickey Mouse desk lamp, Mickey Mouse flower base trio and Mickey Mouse statue.

Finally, you can relax while writing on this pretty Micke Mouse journal and have a Mickey Mouse candle going or use your favorite essential oil on this Mickey Mouse diffuser!

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

Celestial Park Restaurants and Attractions Revealed for Epic Universe

celestial-park-overlook
celestial-park-overlook

Are you ready for an adventure that’s literally out of this world? Epic Universe, the newest theme park on the block, is set to open its gates, and at its heart is Celestial Park, a world of wonder and excitement! Let’s dive into what makes Celestial Park a must-visit destination.

Related: First Look at Universal Orlandoโ€™s Helios Grand Hotel in Epic Universe

celenstial-park-luna-overlook

Celestial Park isn’t your average theme park area. Universal notes Celestial Park is brining the ‘park’ back to the term theme park via a bevy of beautiful gardens, meandering waterways, and pathways perfect for a leisurely stroll. It’s a place where the beauty of nature meets the thrill of adventure, all wrapped up in stunning architecture inspired by the stars and myths. This area of the park will be the home of several attractions and dining destinations!

celestial-park-coaster

Get ready for the ride of your life with Starfall Racers, the crown jewel of Celestial Park. This isn’t just any roller coaster; it’s a dual-launch racing coaster that’ll have you zooming through the sky at 62 mph and soaring up to 133 feet high! Covering 5,000 feet of track, this coaster features the mind-blowing โ€œCelestial Spinโ€ where two coaster cars do an inverted crisscross. Talk about an adrenaline rush!

celestial-park-constellation

For something a little more laid-back but no less magical, check out the Constellation Carousel. It’s the grand centerpiece of Celestial Park, where you can hop on a constellation and glide through a starry dance, complete with music and twinkling lights. Whether you’re young or just young at heart, this ride promises a magical experience.

celestial-park-pan-asian

Hungry after all that excitement? Celestial Park has got you covered with a range of dining experiences. A highlight is The Blue Dragon Pan-Asian Restaurant, where you can indulge in authentic Chinese, Japanese, and Thai dishes. The neon dragons and mystical lanterns add to the ambiance, making your meal a journey through Asia.

celestial-park-atlantis

If you’re in the mood for something more luxurious, visit Atlantic, a full-service “surf and turf” restaurant set in a Victorian aquarium. Imagine dining with stunning views of Celestial Park and an array of underwater life swimming by. It’s an experience that’s as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the taste buds.

Related: Universal Releases Details on Themed Lands Coming to Epic Universe

YouTube player

With its unique blend of natural beauty, heart-pounding rides, and diverse dining options, Celestial Park is shaping up to be the highlight of any theme park enthusiast’s visit. So, get ready to embark on a journey of discovery and excitement at Epic Universe’s heart!


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!

Full List of Menus Revealed for 2024 Universal Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval

Screenshot 2024-01-30 at 10.23.22 AM
Mardi-Gras-food-2

Mardi Gras is upon us, and Universal Orlando fans know that means it is time to tantalize your taste buds! Universal Studios Florida has just released the full list of menus for its much-awaited event, the 2024 Universal Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval. Running from February 3 to April 7, 2024, this event promises an unforgettable culinary journey around the world.

Related: Elle King Replaced with Nessa Barrett for Universal Orlando Mardi Gras Concert Series

Mardi-Gras-food-6

Indulge in Belgium Delights

  • Sweet & Savory Gouda & Onion Waffle ($8.99): A crystalized waffle with smoked gouda, beer-braised onions, and black forest ham, perfectly paired with Delirium Red.
  • Cookie Butter Liege Waffle (Vegetarian, $7.99): A warm crystalized waffle adorned with cookie butter, whipped topping, and Biscoff cookies.

Quench Your Thirst

  • Hoegaarden Beer: Available in a 20-ounce souvenir cup ($15) with refills ($11), or a 20-ounce serving ($12).
  • Delirium Red Beer: Offered in a 20-ounce souvenir cup ($17) with refills ($13), or a 20-ounce serving ($14).

Brazilian Flavors

  • Shrimp Moqueca (Gluten-Sensitive, $7.99): A shrimp and coconut cream stew, served with white rice, paired with Mango Caipirinha.
  • Pao de Queijo (Gluten-Sensitive, Vegetarian, $6.99): Brazilian cheese bread.
  • Brigadeiros (Gluten-Sensitive, Vegetarian, $6.49): A Brazilian chocolate delight with condensed milk and Mardi Gras sprinkles.

Brazilian Beverages

  • Mango Caipirinha: A mix of cachaรงa, curaรงao, lime, syrup, and mango, available in a 20-ounce souvenir cup ($17) with refills ($13), or a 12-ounce serving ($13).

Canadian Specialties

  • Candied Bacon & Onion Poutine ($10.49): Spiced curly fries with onion gravy, cheese curds, and bacon, paired with La Fin Du Monde.
  • Vegan Wild Mushroom Poutine (Vegan, $9.99): Curly fries with vegan cheddar, mushroom gravy, and truffle oil.

Canadian Drinks

  • Fire Cider: Fireball whiskey and apple cider, served in a 20-ounce souvenir cup ($17) with refills ($13), or a 12-ounce serving ($13).
  • LaBlatt Blue Light and La Fin Du Monde Draft: Available in various sizes and souvenir cup options.

Chinese Cuisine

  • Szechuan Noodle Salad (Vegan, $5.99): A spicy cold noodle salad with cucumbers, peanuts, cilantro, and scallions.
  • Spicy Smashed Cucumber (Vegan, $5.99): Marinated cucumbers with a spicy kick.
  • Potstickers ($5.49): Pork potstickers served with a flavorful dipping sauce.

Chinese Beverages

  • Lucky Buddha Beer ($10.75): A 12-ounce bottle of refreshing beer.
  • Hong Kong Boba Tea (Vegan, $9): Oolong milk tea with boba and cheese foam.

Colombian Cuisine

  • Colombian Burger ($9.99): A grilled burger with cheese, pineapple slaw, and garlic sauce, paired with Aguardiente Punch.
  • Arepa de Choclo (Vegan, $8.49): A sweet corn cake with cheese and honey butter.
  • Oblea (Vegetarian, $6.99): A wafer filled with dulce de leche and strawberries.

Colombian Drinks

  • Aguardiente Punch: A mix of liquor, lime, syrup, and blackberry, available in a 20-ounce souvenir cup ($17) with refills ($13), or a 12-ounce serving ($13).

French Cuisine

  • Bananas Foster Creme Brulee Crepe (Vegetarian, $11.99): Banana caramel and vanilla cream crepe, paired with Grand Framboise Slush.

French Beverages

  • Grand Framboise Slush ($15): A decadent blend of vodka, crรฉme de framboise, raspberry purรฉe, and chocolate syrup.
  • Various Wines: Selections include Charles De Fรฉre Cuvee, Patient Cottat Sauvignon Blanc, and others.

German Delicacies

  • Chicken Schnitzel ($8.99): Fried chicken with mustard and lemon, paired with Weihenstephaner Hefe Weissbier.
  • Currywurst (Gluten-Sensitive, $7.99): German bratwurst with curry ketchup.
  • Kasespatzle (Vegetarian, $4.99): Cheese spรคtzle with crispy onions.
  • Bavarian Pretzel with Obatzda (Vegetarian, $11.49): A warm pretzel with beer cheese dip.
  • Mutzen (Vegetarian, $6.99): Lemon-vanilla fritters with powdered sugar.

German Beverages

  • Beer Flight ($12.50): A selection of German beers.
  • Various Beer Options: Including Schรถfferhofer Grapefruit Radler and Warsteiner Pilsener in souvenir cups.

Italian Flavors

  • Roman Suppli ($7.99): Risotto with cheese and vodka sauce.
  • Zabaglione with Berries (Gluten-Sensitive, Vegetarian, $5.99): A dessert with anglaise and berries.

Italian Drinks

  • Aperol Spritz Sorbet ($14): Aperol with blood orange sorbet.
  • Wine Selections: Including Bollini Pinot Grigio and Bertani Valpolicella.

Mexican Delights

  • Chilaquiles Verdes (Gluten-Sensitive, $7.49): Tortillas with braised chicken and salsa verde, paired with Gran Aรฑejo Margarita.
  • Quesabirria ($8.99): Birria beef in a tortilla with cheese and broth.
  • Churro Loops & Chocolate (Vegetarian, $7.99): Churros with chocolate dipping sauce.

Mexican Drinks

  • Classic Margarita and Gran Aรฑejo Margarita: Available in various sizes and souvenir cup options.
  • Jose Cuervo Aรฑejo Tequila and Modelo Beers: Including Modelo Chelada Lime and Pineapple.

New Orleans Classics

  • Beignets (Vegetarian, $6.99): Fried pastry with powdered sugar.
  • King Cake Mini (Vegetarian, $6.49): Traditional cake with cinnamon icing.
  • Crawfish Etouffee ($7.49): Crawfish stew over rice.
  • Chicken & Andouille Jambalaya ($7.49): Mixed rice with meats and vegetables.
  • Fried Green Tomato Poโ€™Boy (Vegan, $12.49): Sandwich with fried tomatoes and Cajun remoulade.
  • Shrimp Gumbo ($7.49): Shrimp and andouille stew over rice.
  • Shrimp & Crawfish Boil (Gluten-Sensitive, $14.49): A mixed bag of seafood and vegetables.

New Orleans Beverages

  • Category 5 Punch: Rum blend with juices, available in various sizes.
  • Espresso Martini ($14): Coffee, espresso liqueur, vodka, and syrup.
  • Chicory Coffee ($8): Coffee with marshmallow syrup and foam.

Philippine Cuisine

  • Pancit Bihon ($8.49): Rice noodles with chicken and vegetables, paired with Buko Juice.
  • Crispy Lumpia ($7.49): Pork-filled rolls with dipping sauce.
  • Pandan Cheesecake ($6.99): Cheesecake with coconut topping.

Philippine Drinks

  • Buko Juice ($12): Coconut water and milk in a souvenir coconut cup.
  • San Miguel Beer ($10.75): A European-style pale lager.

Puerto Rican Flavors

  • Pastelon (Gluten-Sensitive, $8.99): Plantain and beef casserole, paired with Piรฑa Colada.
  • Bacalaitos ($7.99): Salt cod fritters with mayo ketchup.
  • Pastelitos de Guayaba (Vegetarian, $5.99): Guava-filled puff pastry.

Puerto Rican Beverages

  • Piรฑa Colada: Rum blend with juices, available in various sizes.
  • Fanta Piรฑa Colada ($4.99): A non-alcoholic tropical treat.

Spanish Delicacies

  • Ensalada de Pulpo (Gluten-Sensitive, $8.99): Octopus salad, paired with Sangria Rosado.
  • Papitas Bravas (Gluten-Sensitive, Vegan, $5.99): Crispy potatoes with aioli.
  • Crema Catalana (Gluten-Sensitive, Vegetarian, $6.49): Citrus milk custard with orange peels.

Spanish Drinks

  • Sangria Flight ($17): A selection of red, white, and rosรฉ sangrias.
  • Various Sangria Options: Including Sangria Tinto, Rosado, and Blanco.

Thai Cuisine

  • Green Papaya Salad with Shrimp (Gluten-Sensitive, $8.49): Shrimp salad with Thai dressing, paired with Butterfly Pea Blossom Tea.
  • Green Curry with Chicken (Gluten-Sensitive, $6.99): Spicy curry with chicken and vegetables.
  • Chicken Satay ($8.99): Grilled chicken skewer with peanut sauce.

Thai Beverages

  • Butterfly Pea Blossom Tea: Gin blend with matcha and syrups, available in various sizes, including a mocktail option.

Related: Universal Orlando Mardi Gras Roundup!

Mardi-Gras-food-4

Special Offers and Discounts

Donโ€™t forget to grab the Universal Mardi Gras Food and Beverage Card. Purchase it for $65, and enjoy $75 worth of food and drinks at the Mardi Gras food booths. Passholders save even more!

Premier and Preferred Passholders will receive additional discounts with a valid Annual Pass when paying with their Universal Orlando Resort Food and Beverage Card. These cards can be purchased at various locations throughout Universal Studios Florida.

With a vast array of international cuisines and drinks, there’s something for everyone to savor and enjoy. Make sure to mark your calendars and join the festivity at Universal Studios Florida!


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 Look at Universal Orlando’s Helios Grand Hotel in Epic Universe

helios-1
helios-1

The Universal Helios Grand Hotel, nestled inside the much-anticipated Epic Universe theme park, is gearing up for its grand opening in 2025. This awe-inspiring hotel promises to take guests on an extraordinary journey where the cosmos and earth meet.

Related: Universal Releases Details on Themed Lands Coming to Epic Universe

helios-2

Located at the end of the stunning Celestial Park within Epic Universe, the Helios Grand Hotel is shaping up to be a portal to a magical experience. Designed with a unique theme that blends the wonders of the heavens with the beauty of our world, this hotel is sure to be a hit with guests of all ages.

Each of the hotel’s 500 rooms will be crafted to provide a unique view, ensuring every guest has a special experience. As an in-park hotel, the Helios Grand Hotel boasts its very own dedicated entrance into the Epic Universe theme park! This means guests can step directly from their celestial haven into a world of thrilling rides and attractions, making the adventure seamless and more exciting.

Related: What Disney World Can Learn from the Universal Orlando Annual Pass Program

YouTube player

We cannot wait to stay at Universal Orlando’s Helios Grand Hotel! Will you be booking a stay here? Leave us a comment to let us know!


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!

Universal Releases Details on Themed Lands Coming to Epic Universe

epic-universe-map-15
epic-univere-14

The countdown is on for the opening of the brand-new Epic Universe at Universal Orlando Resort! Set to open in 2025, this theme park is shaping up to be Universal’s most ambitious theme park yet. In what is perhaps the most exciting update since the construction of the park was confirmed, Universal has just announced the exciting names and details of the themed lands that will be a part of Epic Universe!

Related: Aerial Look at the Progress being made on Epic Universe at Universal Orlando

epic-universe-17

At the heart of Epic Universe is Celestial Park, a mesmerizing world that combines the beauty of nature with imaginative design. Here, visitors will find themselves wandering through lush gardens, alongside shimmering waterways, and exploring pathways that offer both tranquility and adventure. Celestial Park isn’t just a feast for the eyes; it’s a hub for thrilling experiences like the shooting comet roller coaster, unique dining options, and exclusive shopping opportunities.

epic-universe-13

The excitement doesn’t stop there. Universal Epic Universe will feature a variety of themed lands, each offering a transformative experience. Guests will travel through majestic portals to explore worlds such as The Wizarding World of Harry Potter โ€“ Ministry of Magic, where they can stroll through 1920s Paris and experience the British Ministry of Magic.

epic-universe-12

Fans of video games will be thrilled to know that SUPER NINTENDO WORLD is part of the lineup. Here, guests can step into the iconic green pipe and immerse themselves in the worlds of Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, and Donkey Kong.

epic-universe-super-nitendo-store-2

The Nintendo fun will extend to an all-new Super Nintendo Store! The store will feature a full lineup of merchandise themed to Super Nintendo World.

epic-universe-11

For those who love adventure, How to Train Your Dragon โ€“ Isle of Berk offers a chance to soar with dragons in a vibrant world inspired by the popular film franchise. And for those who enjoy a touch of mystery and mythology, Dark Universe will take them on a journey through a shadowy landscape filled with mythological creatures and enigmatic characters.

epic-universe-10

Guests of the classic Universal monsters will LOVE the all-new Dark Universe Landโ€“ where they will encounter everything from the experiments of Dr. Victoria Frankenstein to a shadowy landscape where monsters roam in a world of myth and mystery!

epic-universe-16-1

One of the attraction highlights guests will find in Celestial Park is Starfall Racers, a dual-launch racing coaster that promises an adrenaline-fueled experience. With speeds up to 62 mph and heights up to 133 feet, this coaster is set to be the park’s most thrilling ride. The coaster features unique maneuvers like the โ€œCelestial Spin,โ€ where coaster vehicles perform an inverted crisscross, giving riders an exhilarating experience.

epic-universe-14

Another attraction guests will find in Celestial Park is the majestic Constellation Carousel. This enchanting attraction invites visitors of all ages to embark on a magical journey aboard constellation-themed carriages. These carriages gracefully move forward, glide backward, and even spin in full 360-degree rotations, mimicking a journey through the Milky Way. Accompanied by a symphony of music and illuminated by a soft starlight, the Constellation Carousel is a captivating dance of celestial beauty and whimsy.

celestial-park_atlantic-exterior-1024x430-1

Dining options at Epic Universe will cater to every taste, from full-service restaurants to quick-service eateries. One notable dining experience is Atlantic, a full-service โ€œsurf and turfโ€ restaurant set inside a Victorian aquarium, offering stunning views of Celestial Park.

epic-universe-pan-asian

Another restaurant option announced today is the Blue Dragon Pan-Asian Restaurant. This dining location promises to take diners on “a culinary journey across Asia as they enjoy authentic Chinese, Japanese, and Thai fare in this full-service restaurant accented with neon dragons and ethereal lanterns.”

Related: Universal Orlando Mardi Gras Roundup!

epic-universe-map-15

As Universal Orlando Resort prepares for the 2025 opening of Universal Epic Universe, more details about this groundbreaking theme park are expected to be revealed.

YouTube player

This park is poised to redefine theme park entertainment, offering guests an epic adventure like no other.


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!

Celebrate the Year of the Dragon at Disneyโ€™s Grand Californian Hotel

year of the dragon
year of the dragon

Celebrate the Year of the Dragon at Disneyโ€™s Grand Californian Hotel

Guests celebrating the Year of the Dragon at the Disneyland Resort can extend their celebration to the Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel! For the first time ever, the hotel is displaying new lobby decor โ€” including a giant red dragon.

Related – New Lunar New Year 2024 Minnie Ears To Celebrate The Year Of The Dragon!

In the lobby, a showcase features three dolls adorned in customary Lunar New Year attire. Among them is a Chinese doll elegantly dressed in a qipao, a garment traditionally worn during Chinese New Year and other significant celebrations. The qipao, often red in color, symbolizes good luck.

Displayed in the showcase, the Vietnamese doll is attired in a traditional ao dai, complemented by a coordinating headpiece. Ao dai, worn by both men and women, holds significance for special events, including Tet, also recognized as Vietnamese New Year.

Also in the showcase, the Korean doll is portrayed donning a hanbok, the traditional attire reserved for special occasions and Seollal, the Korean New Year. The doll is also depicted clutching a bokjumeoni, a traditional Korean lucky bag used to hold gifts of money.

photo-op

In the lobby, a partition adorned in red and gold is cordoned off with stanchions. While guests can use this area for a photo opportunity, Cast Members said that it might also serve as a potential space for performers.

signs

Adjacent to the photo opportunity, there are signs providing information on how Lunar New Year is celebrated in Chinese, Korean, and Vietnamese cultures. The sign alongside the English one conveys the same information but in their respective languages.

The Grand Californian Great Hall Cart is offering Lunar New Year treats. There is a Year of the Dragon Mickey cookie showcasing Mushu, a rice cereal treat featuring Mushu, and some pretzel sticks coated in icing.

We can’t forget the dragon in the room. For the first time ever, a massive dragon is on display in the lobby! The red and gold dragon fully extends the length of the lobby, hanging from the ceiling.

The dragonโ€™s face features red and gold fuzzy accents, white teeth, and a long golden beard. His form consists of numerous circular pieces adorned with intricate gold filigree art, all interconnected with a rope-like material. Every circular element is embellished with gold and red feathers, culminating in the dragon’s tail that resembles a red flame.

The Lunar New Year Celebration is in full swing at the Disneyland Resort. If you’d like to join in the celebration, contact me today! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are complimentary, and I’d love to help you plan a magical vacation!

100 Outstanding Students Set to Dream Big at 2024 Disney Dreamers Academy

Disney Dreamers Academy
Disney Dreamers Academy

100 Outstanding Students Set to Dream Big at 2024 Disney Dreamers Academy

The 100 students set to attend the 2024 Disney Dreamers Academy have been announced! They want to build rocket ships that soar through the galaxy; teach people nationwide how to make better nutritional choices; and spread even more magic at The Most Magical Place on Earth. They are high school students from the 2024 class of Disney Dreamers Academy, and they all have the same thing in common โ€“ Big Dreams!

Related – Students Revealed for the 2024 Disney Dreamers Academy at Walt Disney World Resort

academy

The new class of 100 students from around the country was revealed on the Martin Luther King Day holiday by Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, where the annual mentoring program was created to broaden career awareness and inspire teens from Black and underrepresented communities to dream beyond their wildest imaginations.

DDA

The selected students were featured during a live TV segment on ABCโ€™s โ€œGood Morning America.โ€™โ€™ The segment highlighted one of the selected students,16-year-old Sophia of South Orange, New Jersey, who is involved with her local YMCA, Girls Scouts, orchestra, lacrosse and the math team, and aspires to become an aerospace engineer.

At the four-day program at Walt Disney World, Sophia and the other Disney Dreamers will engage with business leaders, Disney executives, celebrities and educators, who will immerse them in workshops and seminars designed to supercharge their career dreams. The students will also explore a wide range of career disciplines while also learning essential skills, such as effective communication techniques, leadership and networking strategies.

parade

And, of course, they will spend plenty of time experiencing the magic of Walt Disney World.

“We eagerly anticipate the arrival of another exceptional group of high schoolers from all corners of the country for our 17th year!” remarked Tracey Powell, Senior Vice President of Consumer Insight, Measurement & Analytics and Executive Champion of Disney Dreamers Academy. โ€œThese future leaders are poised to embark on a transformative journey, gaining an experience of a lifetime that will propel them towards achieving their dreams.โ€

Each year, the Disney Dreamers are selected from thousands of applicants who answer essay questions about their personal stories and dreams for the future. The students and a parent or guardian enjoy an all-expenses paid trip to Walt Disney World. The program is an important part of Disneyโ€™s commitment to support diverse communities by encouraging the next generation to think and dream big.

Since 2008, Disney Dreamers Academy has inspired more than 1,600 students from across the country by fueling their dreams and showing them a world of possibilities as they prepare for their futures. In the years following, graduates have become storytellers, artists, engineers, innovators, journalists and more, and have transitioned into mentors to the Disney Dreamers who follow them.

You can see the full list of the 2024 students here.