Walt Disney World Resort generated $40 billion in economic impact across Florida and more than a quarter of a million total jobs in fiscal year 2022, according to a new study from Oxford Economics announced Nov. 14, 2023
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Planning a trip to Walt Disney World in 2024? You may want to get in touch with your favorite travel agent and/or keep your eyes on the Walt Disney World website, as an all new offer is coming on January 3rd!
The Disney+ perks page notes “A special offer is coming to Walt Disney World® Resort, just for Disney+ subscribers. Check back here on January 3, 2024 for details.”
We do not yet know all of the details on the new offer, other than the fact you need to be a Disney+ subscriber to access it. This is not the first Disney World offer exclusive to Disney+ subscribers, so we do know Disney does confirm the reservation is held by someone with an active Disney+ subscription in order for the discount to be applied.
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!
EPCOT has been getting a ton of attention lately, with updates occuring on both ends of the park. We recently noted some progress on the Canada pavilion refurbishment, as some scaffolding has been removed from Hotel du Canada.
The scaffolding is in place as the Hotel du Canada undergoes refurbishment. With the scrim and scaffolding coming down, guests can finally start to see the improvements to the exterior of the hotel that were made during the refurbishment.
The image on the right was taken at the time the scaffolding was going up back in July, while the image on the left was recently taken as the scaffolding is going down. The side by side comparison is striking, revealing all of the hard work that was put in during the refurbishment.
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!
Our final installment in our reflection on the most popular rides at Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort in 2023 takes us to Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Based on data from queue-times.com, we’ve compiled a list of the top rides at the park, ranked by their average wait times. Whether you were soaring through Pandora or journeying through the African savannah, here is were you queued up the longest this year!
Avatar Flight of Passage – 92 Minute Average, 136 Minute Max
Leading the pack is Avatar Flight of Passage with an average wait time of 92 minutes, peaking at 136 minutes. This breathtaking ride lets you soar on a banshee over the stunning world of Pandora. The immersive experience and thrilling sights continues to make it a top pick for visitors.
Na’vi River Journey – 65 Minute Average, 103 Minute Max
Next up is the Na’vi River Journey with a 65-minute average wait time and a max of 103 minutes. Glide through a bioluminescent rainforest in this gentle boat ride. It’s perfect for all ages and offers a mesmerizing look at Pandora’s incredible landscape and creatures, including the beautiful Na’vi Shaman of Songs.
Meet Favorite Disney Pals at Adventurers Outpost – 40 Minute Average, 73 Minute Max
Looking to meet some beloved Disney characters? Head to Adventurers Outpost. With a 40-minute average wait and a 73-minute max, it’s your chance to get up close and personal with Mickey and Minnie dressed in their safari best!
Kilimanjaro Safaris – 36 Minute Average, 73 Minute Max
Embark on a real-life safari adventure with Kilimanjaro Safaris. Traverse the African savannah and spot real animals like lions, elephants, and giraffes in their natural habitats. Each safari is unique, making this a must-do for animal lovers.
Expedition Everest – Legend of the Forbidden Mountain – 28 Minute Average, 51 Minute Max
Hold on tight for Expedition Everest, a thrilling roller coaster adventure with a 28-minute average wait, hitting a max of 51 minutes. As you seek the legendary Yeti, prepare for high speeds, steep drops, and a surprise twist that will leave you breathless!
Kali River Rapids – 25 Minute Average, 47 Minute Max
Cool off on the Kali River Rapids, where the average wait time is 25 minutes, and the max is 47 minutes. This wild water ride takes you through lush jungle scenery and down exciting rapids. Be ready to get soaked and have a blast!
DINOSAUR – 23 Minute Average, 46 Minute Max
Travel back in time with DINOSAUR, averaging 23 minutes with a peak of 46 minutes. This prehistoric adventure takes you on a thrilling race to bring back a dinosaur before the meteor strikes. It’s a bumpy, exciting journey filled with close encounters of the dinosaur kind!
It’s Tough to be a Bug! – 10 Minute Average, 14 Minute Max
Discover what it’s like to be a bug in this fun-filled 3D show with a 10-minute average wait, maxing out at 14 minutes. Located inside the Tree of Life, this attraction offers laughs and surprises as you learn about the life of insects through the eyes of Flik from “A Bug’s Life.”
Wildlife Express Train – 10 Minute Average, 12 Minute Max
Take a relaxing ride on the Wildlife Express Train, which averages 10 minutes and peaks at 12 minutes. This train takes you to Rafiki’s Planet Watch, where you can learn more about animals and conservation efforts.
TriceraTop Spin – 8 Minute Average, 15 Minute Max
Finally, TriceraTop Spin is perfect for the little ones, with an 8-minute average wait and a 15-minute max. This friendly dinosaur-themed ride lets you control your Triceratops as you spin and soar around a giant top.
Were you surprised by any of our rankings? Leave us a comment to let us know!
Ready to book your next magical vacation, but don’t know where to start? Want to enjoy a Walt Disney World vacation without the stress of planning, booking, and tracking trip changes and promotions? Contact me today! As an agent with Destinations To Travel specializing in Disney destinations, I can help you stress less and enjoy your vacation more! The best part? My services are provided at NO ADDITIONAL COST when you book your Disney vacation package through me!
Ring In The New Year At House of Blues In Disney Springs
Celebrate the arrival of the New Year in style by dancing the night away in the enchanting Courtyard at the House of Blues Orlando! DJ Rincon will be spinning an exhilarating mix of Top 40 hits and your favorite Yacht Rock tunes throughout the night.
After the clock strikes midnight, revel in a delightful breakfast buffet, complimentary with the purchase of exclusive tables! The festivities kick off at 10:00 PM and continue until 1:30 AM. Please note that attendees must be 21 or older to purchase VIP Packages, and a valid ID will be required on the night of the event. Here are the VIP packages offered for this event.
VIP Table for Up to Four Guests – $500 (plus tax & gratuity)*
Includes a 750ml Bottle of Möet Imperial Brut
Vintner’s Grazing Board featuring the chef’s selection of fresh fruit, cheese & charcuterie
(4) HOB Branded Koozies
(4) Breakfast Buffet Vouchers**
Party Favors
VIP Table for Two Guests – $300 (plus tax & gratuity)*
Includes a 750ml Bottle of Möet Imperial Brut
Vintner’s Grazing Board featuring the chef’s selection of fresh fruit, cheese & charcuterie
Don’t miss out on the delicious Breakfast Buffet, which starts just after the stroke of midnight. Indulge in a scrumptious spread featuring Scrambled Eggs, Waffles, Bacon, Biscuits, Sausage Gravy, Brunch Potatoes, and a delightful Fruit Tray. Grab your friends and join the House of Blues for an unforgettable New Year’s celebration to ring in 2024! Happy New Year!
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort is renowned for offering guests a tropical paradise inspired by the laid-back spirit of the islands. If you’re planning a visit in early 2024, there’s an important update to consider: the resort’s beloved feature pool, Fuentes del Morro Pool, is scheduled to close for refurbishment from January through late March.
Fuentes del Morro Pool is well-loved for its immersive pirate fortress theme, complete with waterslides that wind through the fort’s walls. This central hub of the Caribbean Beach Resort experience is often a highlight for families looking to soak up the sun in a unique setting.
Due to the year-round operations at Walt Disney World, attractions and experiences need to be taken off line to allow for refurbishments during otherwise normal operating periods, such as touching up paint and performing extended maintenance. An exact date for the closure of the Fuentes del Morro Pool has not yet been announced. Guests will still have access to the resorts quiet pools while the feature pool is undergoing refurbishment.
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!
ShopDisney has expanded upon the recent announcement of the upcoming Disney Eats Merchandise Collection and Stitch Attacks Snacks Collection by releasing the themes for each month! With the first Disney Eats item set to drop on January 16th 2024, and the first Stitch Attacks Snacks item coming on January 9th, these all new collectables will be ready for purchase before you know it!
For the Stitch Attacks Snacks collection is a “one-of-a-kind 12-part series features snackable spins on your favorite indestructible and completely irresistible alien” according to ShopDisney. While only January has been confirmed in name, with the other 11 months appearing only as symbols, the themes for the 12 items appear to be:
For the Disney Eats Snacks Collection, which according to Shop Disney is a “collection brings together a host of delicious treats with a dash of Disney Magic,” the following themes will be released each month:
January: Disney Eats Snacks
February: Pizza Collection
March: Macaron Collection
April: Lollipop Collection
May: Ice Cream Collection
June: Donut Collection
July: Shaved Ice Collection
August: Pineapple Swirl Collection
September: Caramel Apple Collection
October: Churro Collection
November: Gingerbread Collection
December: S’mores Collection
Keep an eye out each month for these enchanting releases and make every day a little more magical!
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!
As we bid adieu to 2023 and gear up for another exciting year at Hollywood Studios, let’s take a look back at the rides that kept us coming back for more! Based on data from queue-times.com, here are the top 10 rides of the year that had guests waiting with anticipation, ranked by their average wait times.
Average Wait Time: 88 minutes Average Max Wait Time: 129 minutes This family-friendly coaster is part of Toy Story Land, making guests feel as if they’ve shrunk down to the size of a toy. Riders zigzag and coast their way around a track designed by Andy himself, featuring delightful drops and curves that are fun for all ages.
Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance
Average Wait Time: 85 minutes Average Max Wait Time: 133 minutes As one of the most advanced and immersive attractions ever created by Disney, this ride puts guests in the middle of a battle between the First Order and the Resistance. It combines trackless vehicles, holographic technology, and a towering AT-AT walker battle to create an unforgettable experience.
Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith
Average Wait Time: 65 minutes Average Max Wait Time: 113 minutes Guests launch from 0 to 57 miles per hour in 2.8 seconds, as they take a high-speed limousine journey to an Aerosmith concert. The indoor coaster is known for its inversions, rock music soundtrack, and neon-lit street signs, offering a thrilling ride from start to finish.
The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror
Average Wait Time: 58 minutes Average Max Wait Time: 109 minutes This ride is a thrilling drop tower dark ride themed around the eerie television series “The Twilight Zone.” Guests enter the Hollywood Tower Hotel, ride a haunted elevator, and experience random drop sequences while uncovering the mystery of the hotel’s ghostly inhabitants.
Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway
Average Wait Time: 57 minutes Average Max Wait Time: 90 minutes
Opened in 2020, this is the first Disney ride-through attraction featuring Mickey Mouse and friends. The ride uses trackless vehicles and stunning visual effects to bring cartoon world to life, inviting guests on a wacky and unpredictable journey with Mickey and Minnie.
Toy Story Mania!
Average Wait Time: 56 minutes Average Max Wait Time: 99 minutes
This interactive 4D ride takes guests through a series of carnival games hosted by the Toy Story characters. Using spring-action shooters, riders aim for targets and compete for the highest score in this lively, competitive attraction.
Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run
Average Wait Time: 55 minutes Average Max Wait Time: 105 minutes
Pilot the Millennium Falcon on a thrilling interactive smuggling mission. As part of the Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge land, this attraction allows guests to take control of the iconic spaceship, with each role from pilot to gunner impacting the outcome of the mission.
Meet Disney Stars at Red Carpet Dreams
Average Wait Time: 38 minutes Average Max Wait Time: 90 minutes
Guests have the chance to meet Mickey Mouse in his magician outfit and Minnie Mouse in her starlet gown. It’s a personal interaction filled with photo opportunities and memories, especially for the little ones meeting their favorite characters for the first time.
Alien Swirling Saucers
Average Wait Time: 31 minutes Average Max Wait Time: 59 minutes This spinning ride is designed as a toy play set Andy got from Pizza Planet, featuring aliens flying around in their toy flying saucers pulling along guests in their rocket ship toys. It’s a light-hearted, spinning attraction suitable for younger guests.
Average Wait Time: 19 minutes Average Max Wait Time: 42 minutes
In this meet and greet, guests can hug and take pictures with Olaf from “Frozen.” It’s a warm (despite him being a snowman!) and friendly encounter, especially for fans of the lovable character.
Any of these ranking surprise you, like Rise of the Resistance not taking the top spot? Leave us a comment to let us know!
Ready to book your next magical vacation, but don’t know where to start? Want to enjoy a Walt Disney World vacation without the stress of planning, booking, and tracking trip changes and promotions? Contact me today! As an agent with Destinations To Travel specializing in Disney destinations, I can help you stress less and enjoy your vacation more! The best part? My services are provided at NO ADDITIONAL COST when you book your Disney vacation package through me!
Adam Driver Confirms He’s Done Playing ‘Star Wars’ Villain Kylo Ren
In a conversation on the “Smartless” podcast, Adam Driver, famous for portraying Kylo Ren in the “Star Wars” sequel trilogy, confirmed that he would no longer be reprising the role. Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, and Will Arnett inquired about the future of the “Star Wars” franchise, to which Driver responded, “They’re doing stuff, but not with me. I’m not doing it anymore.”
When further questioned about whether he was concluding his involvement because the character’s arc was complete, he succinctly affirmed, “Yeah.” Reflecting on his connection to the franchise, Driver shared, “I was a fan. My dad was more of a ‘Star Trek’ fan than a ‘Star Wars’ fan, but I did have a couple of ‘Star Wars’ toys that we got at a garage sale. Still, I was a fan of the movies.”
Adam Driver has built a diverse filmography with standout performances in various genres. He gained early recognition with roles in films such as “J. Edgar” (2011) and “Lincoln” (2012). Driver showcased his versatility in projects like “Inside Llewyn Davis” (2013) and “Hungry Hearts” (2014).
His portrayal of the complex character Kylo Ren in the “Star Wars” sequel trilogy, starting with “Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens” (2015), solidified his presence in blockbuster franchises. Driver continued to make waves with his roles in critically acclaimed films such as “Paterson” (2016) and “BlacKkKlansman” (2018), earning accolades for his performances. In addition to his cinematic ventures, he ventured into the streaming world with “Marriage Story” (2019), a Netflix film that earned him widespread acclaim and award nominations.
Driver was initially hesitant to accept the role of Kylo Ren for fear of being “bad” in the film. Many fans found Ren to be one of the best additions to the sequel trilogy, despite Kylo Ren having a totally different arc than was created in The Rise of Skywalker. Driver said that Ren was never originally was not intended to be redeemed, but was to have an opposite arc to that of Darth Vader, leaning further into the dark side by the trilogy’s end.
At this point, Driver’s comments don’t come as a surprise given Kylo Ren’s demise in the final film, however, you never know when another “somehow…he returned” could miraculously bring a dead character back from the grave. It seems like Driver is putting an end to any talk of dark science or cloning talk for Kylo Ren.
The Force Awakens, The Last Jedi, and Rise of Skywalker are streaming now on Disney+ and are available for purchase on Digital and physical media. Share your thoughts on Driver’s interview in a comment. Check back for more Star Wars-related news and future developments.
During Halloween Time, Guardians of the Galaxy–Monsters After Dark! — guests will discover artifacts from the Super Hero universe as they tour the Tivan Collection as part of the Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! attraction, but this time, something has gone terribly wrong. The epic new adventure blasts guests straight into the “Guardians of the Galaxy” inspired story, alongside characters from the blockbuster films and comics. (Disneyland Resort)
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As 2023 draws to a close, we’re taking a moment to reflect on the thrilling rides and unforgettable experiences that defined California Adventure this year. From heart-racing coasters to immersive themed attractions, the park has been abuzz with excitement and long queues. Armed with data from queue-times.com, we’re about to journey back through the year’s most sought-after rides, exploring why these attractions captured the hearts of visitors and consistently drew the longest waits.
Leading the pack is Radiator Springs Racers with an average wait time of 77 minutes and a max wait of 114 minutes. This high-octane adventure through the scenic vistas of Cars Land offers an immersive experience that’s both thrilling and charming. No wonder it’s at the top of the list!
Taking the second spot is the thrilling Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT!, averaging a 50-minute wait and peaking at 88 minutes. This drop tower dark ride combines the excitement of free fall with the humor and action of the Guardians of the Galaxy films.
In third place is Toy Story Midway Mania! with an average 47-minute wait and an 85-minute max. This interactive 4D ride lets guests shoot at targets and compete for the high score, making it a hit with families and friends alike.
Swinging into fourth is WEB SLINGERS: A Spider-Man Adventure, with an average wait of 44 minutes and a max of 76 minutes. This innovative ride allows guests to sling webs like Spider-Man and experience what it’s like to be a superhero!
Soaring into fifth place is Soarin’ Around the World, with an average wait of 40 minutes and an 83-minute max. This breathtaking flight simulator takes guests over wonders of the world, providing stunning views and an exhilarating sense of flight.
Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue! takes the sixth spot with an average wait of 34 minutes and a max of 61 minutes. This delightful dark ride takes guests through the story of the beloved film, making it a must-visit for fans.
With a 33-minute average wait and a 59-minute max, Goofy’s Sky School is a wild ride in seventh place. This wild mouse coaster offers twists and turns that mimic Goofy’s attempt at teaching flight school.
Tied for seventh is the Incredicoaster, also with a 33-minute average wait but with a slightly higher 66-minute max. This high-speed roller coaster takes guests on a race to catch the elusive Jack-Jack, featuring characters from The Incredibles.
Ninth place goes to Pixar Pal-A-Round – Swinging with an average wait of 27 minutes and a max of 50 minutes. This Ferris wheel offers both stationary and swinging gondolas, providing a unique experience with spectacular views.
Rounding out the top ten is Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters, with an average wait of 26 minutes and a max of 41 minutes. This spinning trackless attraction offers a whimsical ride experience in the heart of Cars Land.
Every year brings exciting changes to the happiest places on Earth, with fresh attractions opening, beloved classics making triumphant returns, and some experiences taking their final bow. Whether you’re a die-hard Disney fan or planning your first magical trip, join us as we explore the roller coaster of openings, re-openings, and closures that have redefined the Disney parks around the globe this year.
Kicking off our list of 2023’s changes in Disney Parks around the globe is the delightful addition of Donald’s Dine ‘n Delights at Shanghai Disney, which opened its doors on January 17th. This whimsical dining experience is themed around everyone’s favorite hot-tempered duck, Donald! Guests can indulge in a culinary adventure featuring a menu as vibrant as Donald’s personality, all while enjoying the colorful and cheerful ambiance. It’s a perfect spot for families and fans alike to dive into delicious dishes and create magical memories with one of Disney’s most iconic characters.
Next up, Disneyland Paris welcomed The Royal Pub to its array of dining experiences. This new establishment offers a cozy retreat for guests looking to relax and refuel in a setting fit for royalty. With its elegant decor and a menu of hearty fare and refreshing beverages, The Royal Pub is quickly becoming a favorite for park-goers seeking a bit of luxury and comfort during their magical adventures. Whether you’re toasting to a successful day of rides or kicking off an evening of entertainment, The Royal Pub invites you to raise a glass in true royal fashion!
In April 2023, Disneyland Paris guests experienced a taste of the Italian Riviera with the Luca expansion to the Pizzeria Bella Notte Restaurant. Inspired by the charming and sunny adventures of Disney and Pixar’s “Luca,” this expansion brings a splash of Portorosso to the heart of the park. Visitors can now enjoy an enhanced dining experience with decor and dishes that celebrate the story of friendship, acceptance, and pasta! With its vibrant atmosphere and delightful menu, the Luca-themed expansion adds a new layer of storytelling and culinary delight to an already beloved dining spot.
Disneyland Paris added a vibrant new addition to its dining scene with the opening of Casa de Coco – Restaurante de la Familia in July. Inspired by the beloved Disney and Pixar movie “Coco,” this restaurant brings the colorful and spirited world of the film to life. Guests are invited to step into a lively atmosphere reminiscent of the Land of the Dead, decorated with marigolds and papel picado, offering a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
Tokyo Disneyland introduced a dazzling new entertainment dining experience with “The Diamond Variety Muster” in September at the Diamond Horseshoe. This addition brings a fresh sparkle of excitement to the Western-themed venue, known for its immersive atmosphere and hearty meals. “The Diamond Variety Muster” offers guests a chance to enjoy live entertainment as they dine, featuring a variety of performances that might include music, comedy, and other thrilling acts, all inspired by the frontier spirit.
On July 4, 2023, Tokyo DisneySea introduced “Duffy and Friends’ Wonderful Friendship” at Cape Cod Cook-Off, offering guests a charming new way to dine and delight in the company of Duffy the Disney Bear and his adorable friends. This addition brings a fresh and friendly atmosphere to the already popular Cape Cod Cook-Off, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the world of Duffy and his friends through themed meals and decor. As guests savor their delicious meals, they can enjoy the heartwarming tales of Duffy, ShellieMay, Gelatoni, and friends, celebrating the magic of friendship in a cozy, seaside setting.
On October 16, 2023, Hong Kong Disneyland unveiled a new addition to its landscape, the Dream Makers statue, as a tribute to the magic makers of Disney. This statue is not just a visual treat but a symbol of inspiration, celebrating the creativity and imagination that go into crafting the enchanting stories and experiences found in Disney parks. Strategically placed within the park, the statue features Walt and Mickey taking in the sights on a park bench.
In November, Hong Kong Disneyland took its guests into the enchanting world of Arendelle with the grand opening of the World of Frozen. This immersive new land expands the park’s magical realm, allowing visitors to step right into scenes from the beloved Disney movie “Frozen.” It’s a dream come true for fans of Elsa, Anna, and their friends, offering a full range of experiences from thrilling rides to character encounters.
In December 2023, Shanghai Disney Resort became the envey of Disney fans around the world with the opening of the highly anticipated Zootopia land. This eagerly anticipated expansion is the first of its kind dedicated entirely to the hit Disney movie “Zootopia,” inviting guests to step into the mammal metropolis where anyone can be anything. It’s a bustling and vibrant area that captures the spirit, humor, and diversity of the movie’s urban landscape.
As 2023 brought new experiences and excitement to Disney parks globally, it also saw the end of some beloved attractions and venues. One such closure was the iconic Planet Hollywood at Disney Village in Disneyland Paris, which shut its doors for the last time on January 7, 2023. This restaurant has been a staple for many visitors, known for its Hollywood memorabilia and American-style cuisine, offering a unique dining experience that combined the glitz and glam of the movies with hearty meals.
Just a day after bidding farewell to Planet Hollywood, Disney Village at Disneyland Paris saw another closure with King Ludwig’s Castle. King Ludwig’s Castle was renowned for its enchanting, medieval-themed dining experience, offering guests a royal feast in an atmosphere inspired by the historic Bavarian castles. This restaurant was a beloved spot for visitors seeking a unique dining ambiance, complete with hearty German cuisine and an impressive selection of beers.
In September 2023, Disneyland Paris bid farewell to “Dream… and Shine Brighter,” a vibrant daytime show that captivated guests with its energy, music, and the beloved Disney characters. This spectacle was a colorful celebration of dreams, encouraging everyone to believe in themselves and shine in their own unique way. Set against the backdrop of the iconic Sleeping Beauty Castle, it was a dazzling display of choreography, costumes, and uplifting melodies that brought the magic of Disney storytelling to life.
As we look back on the whirlwind of openings, returns, and closures at Disney Parks around the globe in 2023, it’s clear that the magic of Disney is ever-evolving. While we may bid adieu to some beloved attractions and welcome exciting new ones, the essence of Disney’s storytelling and imagination continues to thrive. Here’s to the magic of the past, present, and future at Disney Parks around the world!
If you are planning a trip to the Universal Orlando resort in the new year, you will want to be sure you have the Universal app downloaded and updated. Starting January 1st, Universal Orlando is taking a big step into the future by saying goodbye to paper maps.
Starting in January, Universal Orlando will no longer find the traditional paper park maps at the entrance or throughout the park. Instead, everyone is encouraged to use the Universal Orlando App or the digital kiosks scattered around the park. These digital options are designed to make navigating the park easier and more interactive.
If you’re used to the paper maps, don’t worry! The Universal Orlando App is user-friendly and free to download. It includes an interactive map that you can zoom in and out of, just like on your phone’s map app. If you do not have a Smartphone, or just don’t want to use the app, the Universal Orlando Theme parks provide plenty of signage to help you navigate your way around the parks.
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!
As we call a wrap on 2023 and begin to celebrate the beginning of a New Year, we are continuing our reflection on the most popular attractions at Disney parks this past year, ranked by average wait times. Using data from queue-times.com, we have the list for EPCOT compiled and ready for you!
Top of the list is Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, whisking you away into the world of our favorite little chef! With an average wait time of 70 minutes and a max wait time of 113 minutes, it’s clearly a must-see attraction. Just be sure to plan ahead!
Frozen Ever After
Not far behind is Frozen Ever After, taking guests on a magical journey through Arendelle. The average wait is 69 minutes, with a max wait of 100 minutes. Whether you’re a Frozen fan or not, the ride’s popularity is as cool as Elsa’s powers!
Test Track
Zooming into third place is Test Track, the attraction that invites you to design your own vehicle and then take it for a test drive. With an average wait time of 59 minutes and a max of 90, it’s a thrilling experience you won’t want to miss.
Soarin’
Soaring into fourth place is Soarin’, a breathtaking ride that takes you over landscapes and wonders around the world. With an average wait of 38 minutes and a max of 71, it’s worth the wait for those stunning aerial views.
Meet Anna and Elsa at Royal Sommerhus
Taking the fifth spot is the only meet and greet on our list: meeting Anna and Elsa at Royal Sommerhus. The average wait time is 33 minutes with a max of 56. It’s a magical moment especially for the little ones!
Mission: SPACE
Blast off with our sixth place attraction with Mission: SPACE! Whether you choose the intense or less intense training, you’ll experience what it’s like to be an astronaut. The average wait time is 19 minutes with a max of 45 minutes.
Spaceship Earth
Journey through time in the iconic geosphere of Spaceship Earth! With an average wait time of 15 minutes and a max of 33, it’s a classic dark ride that’s not to be missed.
Turtle Talk With Crush
Dude! Swim into eighth place with Turtle Talk With Crush. This interactive experience has an average wait of 15 minutes and a max of 18. It’s perfect for a quick, fun break in your day.
Journey Into Imagination With Figment
Let your imagination run wild with Figment! With an average wait time of 12 minutes and a max of 25, this EPCOT classic is a whimsical ride for all ages.
Finally, dive into The Seas with Nemo & Friends, where you’ll find an average wait time of 11 minutes and a max of 27. It’s a relaxing ride through the big blue world!
As you plan your next EPCOT adventure, remember these are average times and your wait time will vary, so it’s always good idea to keep an eye on your MyDisneyExpereince app. And remember, if you can read this, thank a Phoenician!
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!
