Hidden Details Inside Disney's Beak and Barrel Pirate Lounge
Disney shares the backstory of the new pirate bar coming to Magic Kingdom.
Disney released details about its newest pirate lounge opening soon at Magic Kingdom, the Beak and Barrel. This unique establishment was established by the legendary pirate rumrunner, Captain Meridian “Merry” Goldwyn, and her talkative first mate, Rummy.
This is an interesting choice - to choose a female pirate as the central character. Sure, it’s possible, but when we think of pirates, are we more likely to think of a Captain Jack Sparrow type? But then again, maybe that would have been too cliché.
As Merry’s trusted companion, Rummy takes on the role of quartermaster, keeping a vigilant watch over the tavern from his high perch atop the bar.
Rummy is more than just a mascot; he’s a dutiful crewman to his beloved Merry, making sure everything is ship-shape while sharing tales of piracy and leading the bar in a rousing toast or two.
Keen observers may notice that Rummy bears a striking resemblance to the original Barker Bird that once greeted guests at the entrance to the Pirates of the Caribbean ride, creating a charming nod to Disney history.
The lounge's central area was once the mess hall for Spanish soldiers and is now appropriately named “The Cove.” Here, a large bar serves as the centerpiece of the room, skillfully cobbled together from salvaged portions of a cursed shipwreck. Its skull-shaped stern boasts an impressive collection of grogs and brews, enticing guests to indulge in the pirate spirit.
Among the bar's highlights is the Enchanted Rum Bottle, a gift from the enchantress Tia Dalma to Merry. This mystical bottle seems to serve as the source of the tavern’s specialty brews. Patrons may spot Rummy hobbling along the bar’s ledge, greeting visitors and keeping a watchful eye on the crew while Merry is away, enhancing the immersive experience for guests.
For those seeking a touch of luxury, the Captains’ Quarters offers a more refined experience. Once the living quarters for the Spanish Comandante, this area is adorned with fine artwork and elegant drapery. However, traces of its tumultuous history are evident; slashing blades and burn marks reflect the rambunctious nature of pirate life. In some places, faded spots on the walls are all that remain of now-plundered portraits, adding layers of storytelling to this hidden gem.
Above the fireplace in the Captains’ Quarters, five miniature ships in glass bottles are mounted, each rumored to represent pirates from all corners of the world banding together to defeat tyranny. These mysterious bottles have a history of coming alive, delighting guests and adding an air of wonder to the lounge.
Every corner of Beak and Barrel is brimming with history and hidden details that reflect the adventurous spirit of its characters. Whether it's Rummy’s playful antics or the enchanting artifacts throughout the lounge, Beak and Barrel offers a treasure trove of experiences for every visitor to discover.
Disney has not yet announced when the Beak and Barrel will open in Magic Kingdom. I would bet on a late fall opening in 2025 based on the information that I have seen so far.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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Helios Grand Hotel at Universal Orlando: Full Review & Tour
Explore Universal Orlando’s new Helios Grand Hotel near Epic Universe. Get a full tour, review, and travel tips for your next family vacation.
Touring Universal's New Helios Grand Hotel at Epic Universe: Full Review
Universal Orlando has opened the doors to one of its most stunning and anticipated hotel projects yet: the Helios Grand Hotel, located just steps from the gates of the all-new Epic Universe theme park. I recently spent a full day and night experiencing everything this hotel has to offer—from the celestial-inspired design and rooftop views to the exclusive private park entrance and poolside relaxation. In this post, I’ll walk you through the highlights, surprises, and honest impressions from my stay.
If you prefer a video tour, be sure to check out my full walkthrough on YouTube here: [LINK TO VIDEO]
Helios Grand Hotel at Universal Orlando
First Impressions: Arrival at Helios Grand
Pulling up to the Helios Grand, it’s immediately clear this is not your typical theme park hotel. The architecture is sleek and modern, with celestial themes woven into every design detail. Golden accents, massive glass panes, and an airy, open feel make for a striking first impression. The hotel’s name, Helios—Greek for the sun—comes to life through abundant natural light and sky-themed motifs throughout the property.
Watch my video on Helios Grand here:
The Lobby: Small But Stylish
Despite its grand name, the Helios Grand’s lobby is relatively modest in size. It’s flooded with daylight and features tall columns, reflective surfaces, and a stunning solar-flare-inspired light fixture. A large central atrium creates an open, modern space, while details like stained glass artwork and subtle nods to astronomy create an upscale but inviting atmosphere.
Check-In & Early Park Admission Access
Check-in during opening weeks was a bit chaotic due to high demand and guests arriving early to access Epic Universe. Luckily, Helios Grand offers early park admission, and all you need is your room key to gain entry through the hotel’s private entrance to Epic Universe. Even if your room isn’t ready, you can still enjoy early access to the park—just grab your key cards and go.
I arrived around 8:30 a.m. to get my room key so that I could utilize Early Park Admission. Dozens of other guests were doing the same thing, and the line was out the door. I checked in online days before, but online check-in at Helios Grand is meaningless. I still had to wait in line, provide my credit card again, my driver’s license, and confirm all my information. What was the point of doing all this on my laptop at home?
The staff at Helios should have a separate line for online check-in, with key cards ready to go in envelopes. All the guests need to do is show their ID and take their envelope. Done.
Why has Helios Grand gone back to the 1990s with its check-in process?
Coffee Stop: Aurora Market
Before heading into the park, I grabbed a cappuccino from Aurora Market, the hotel’s grab-and-go cafe. The space is stylish and modern, offering coffee, pastries, and quick bites in a beautifully designed environment with white tiles, brass fixtures, and natural light.
I went to the warming oven to grab some breakfast sandwiches and coffee. The sandwiches sit on a shelf wrapped in foil, the shelves are labeled with the type of sandwich. For example, “Bacon egg and cheese” or “Egg and Cheese.” Well, the sandwiches were all on the wrong shelves, something that we didn’t realize until after we opened them. I paid $12 each for a bacon, egg, and cheese, but got sandwiches without the bacon. Isn’t bacon the best part?
I returned them to the cashier and selected 3 new sandwiches. These had bacon, but they had a tomato spread on them, which appeared to be mayonnaise-based, and was oozing out of the sandwich. I really don’t like mayo, so this was important to me.
So I had to wait in a long line again, and asked if all the sandwiches had that spread on them. The staff told me there is no spread - it’s just bacon, egg, and cheese. I opened the sandwich and showed them the pale orange goo coming out. It looked like mayo and ketchup. They didn’t know what it was.
I then asked for a refund. They told me it would 3-5 weeks to refund my money due to the account process they have. So I went to the front desk, and they refunded me instantly.
So we skipped breakfast and decided to find a snack in the park.
Super Nintendo World First Thing
Thanks to early admission, I headed straight into Super Nintendo World—one of the most popular lands in Epic Universe. This section often opens before the rest of the park, and arriving early paid off. With fewer crowds and a head start, it was a perfect way to begin the day.
Back at the Hotel: Design Details & Dining
Returning to Helios Grand after the morning rush, I was able to take in more of the hotel’s artistic details. The artwork behind the check-in desk and Universal Vacation Planning Center features stained glass inspired by planetary orbits and flowers.
Across from the lobby is the hotel’s signature restaurant: Flora Taverna, a Mediterranean-inspired dining space with both indoor and outdoor seating and beautiful views of Epic Universe. A wood-fired oven and sophisticated decor make this a standout dining option, though it's worth noting this is the only full-service restaurant on-site.
Fitness Center & Pool Area
To prepare for some pool time, I changed in the fitness center locker rooms—which were bright, well-equipped, and overlooked lush gardens. The fitness area includes cardio equipment, weight training space, and large windows to bring in natural light.
Outside, the pool deck is serene and spacious, with a uniquely curved pool lined by palm trees, private cabanas, and plush loungers. Even with its proximity to Epic Universe’s Dark Universe land, the pool area is calm and relaxing. There’s also a wading area for families and a Lotus Lagoon Bar nearby serving cocktails and small bites.
Hotel Transportation
Helios Grand provides transportation to Universal’s other theme parks and Volcano Bay via a shuttle bus. Buses arrive frequently and drop guests off at CityWalk, making it easy to explore the wider Universal Orlando Resort.
SkyBar: Rooftop Lounge with Epic Views
One of the hotel’s most impressive features is the SkyBar rooftop lounge. After a ride up in an elevator that features celestial projection mapping, guests arrive at a cozy, upscale bar under a domed ceiling with indoor and outdoor seating. The outdoor terrace offers panoramic views of the entire Epic Universe theme park, making this a must-visit spot during your stay.
Reservations for SkyBar are highly recommended and may even be required during peak times.
Our Theme Park View Room
Theme park view room, 4th floor
Finally, our theme park view room was ready. Located on the 4th floor, the room featured floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Epic Universe. The view was truly spectacular, especially as the sun set and the park began to glow.
The room design is elegant but smaller than I expected. It has gold tones, modern furniture, and thoughtful touches like a built-in desk, a Keurig coffee machine, and automated curtains. While the room was on the smaller side, it was comfortable and stylish. The split bathroom layout with a walk-in shower and backlit vanity was particularly nice.
Overall, it was a nice room, but it didn’t feel like a luxury hotel. Compare it to Disney’s Grand Floridian, Disney’s Beach Club, Universal’s Hard Rock Hotel - and you’ll see the difference. My nightly rate was similar to these hotels. These hotels are within walking distance to theme parks too.
Epic Universe at Night
One of the biggest perks of staying at Helios Grand is the ability to walk back into Epic Universe in the evening. The park comes alive after dark, with lands like Dark Universe and Super Nintendo World offering completely different experiences at night.
Watching the park from our room after 9 PM closing was magical. Seeing guests slowly trickle out while the lights continued to dance in the distance was a peaceful way to end the day.
Morning at Helios Grand
I woke up just before sunrise and took in the quiet beauty of the park from our room. Even at 3 AM, Epic Universe remained illuminated. Downstairs, the lobby and market were calm again, perfect for grabbing a final cappuccino and enjoying the reflective pool before checking out.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth the Price?
Our theme park view room cost $656 per night, which places the Helios Grand in the same price range as Universal’s Hard Rock Hotel and Portofino Bay—both of which offer complimentary Express Passes to Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure. Helios Grand does not offer Express Pass.
While the room was well-designed, it was also compact, and the layout is nearly identical to rooms at Stella Nova and Terra Luna, which cost around $150 per night. This raises a valid question: is Helios Grand worth the $500 premium?
There are a few missing elements that might make guests think twice—like the limited dining options, no water slide at the pool, and the absence of Express Pass benefits. However, what Helios Grand does offer is a feeling—of calm, convenience, and light-filled beauty. It’s an escape, even while being embedded in the center of the action.
Should You Book Helios Grand?
Book it if:
You want the closest hotel to Epic Universe.
You value a sophisticated, quiet atmosphere.
You’re excited about panoramic park views and rooftop lounges.
Consider alternatives if:
You’re looking for more space or family-style accommodations.
Express Pass is a priority.
You prefer more dining and recreation options on-site.
Watch the Full Tour
Want to see every space for yourself? Check out my full video tour of the Helios Grand on YouTube
For more Universal Orlando hotel reviews and Epic Universe previews, follow along at orlandoparksguy.com and subscribe to my YouTube channel for all the latest updates.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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I Just Spent the Day Touring Epic Universe at Universal Orlando. Here’s How it Went.
Tour Epic Universe with me. You won’t believe what Universal Orlando has created here!
This is Universal’s Epic Universe.
A brand new theme park here in Orlando, Florida.
And today, I’m taking you with me as I walk through it all, one land at a time.
But this isn’t just a tour. I’ll show you exactly what it’s like to visit this theme park from
from soaring roller coasters to dark rides, immersive new lands, and a whole new era of theme park restaurants.
Hello, everyone, and welcome back to the channel. I’m Darren from Orlando ParksGuy.com.
Epic Universe Entrance
See the video on YouTube now
INTRO: CELESTIAL PARK OPENING
I’m arriving at Universal's Epic Universe for Early Park Admission, a perk that I get for staying in a Universal Orlando hotel.[pause] Today, I have a digital ticket on my phone which will make thighs very easy. A big thank Universal for inviting me. So let's head straight over to the gate. Just like an airport, there’s a brief security check and I breeze right through.
Oh, and Universal is letting guests know that today is a filming day for the park, at first I thought that was just a prop.
Before me, the first portal that will lead us to the heart of Epic Universe - Celestial Park.
The water feature in the center is breathtaking. I mean, this is a theme park, but it’s absolutely unlike anything I’ve ever seen. Just beautiful - and in the background is Unviersal’s newest Signature hotel - the Helios Grand.
Here from here we can go to the left or to the right, this is like a gaint clock, and right now I’m standing at the park entrance, which is in the 6 o’clock position. But something tells me that I should head to the left. Each of the Portals, Like Super Nintendo World and Harry Potter - Ministry of Magic, are located around the figurative clock.
And look at this, here’s one of the featured restaurants at Epic Universe - Atlantic. I think it's ok to go in so let’s go in and have a look.
The ambiance is unlike anything I’ve experienced, with glowing aquatic colors that make the entire space feel like I’m beneath the sea. The ceiling and walls are adorned with intricate designs inspired by ancient Atlantis. The menu is filled with fresh seafood and steak options, or you can enjoy a drink at the Aquaria Bar. I can’t help but feel that is something right out of Las Vegas. Oh, and the fish hanging from the ceiling are made with iridescent metal tiles that shimmer when the lights hit them, giving the illusion that you’re underwater.
With Atlantic Restaurant and at least part of Celestial Park crossed off our list, it’s time to continue on.
As I continue to walk to my first portal, I find the Constellation Carousel. Guest carriages include celestial lions, dragons, and peacocks. Each carriage turns 360 degrees while lifting riders up to 6 feet in the air.
Continuing on, it’s a short walk along the water, and there it is - one that I think most people are looking forward to - Super Nintendo World.
SUPER NINTENDO WORLD PORTAL
Of course, this portal is a green warp pipe, straight out of the game. And the escalator is a bit interesting, I mean, when have you entered a land in a theme park that requires you to go up an escalator? The portal bursts with digital sound effects you probably havn’y heard in years, but will recognize immediately. There’s also lighting effects. We finally get to see what it’s like inside an actual warp pipe. At the top, there’s a big reveal. A few more steps, and we’re suddenly in the Mushroom Kingdom.
The kinetic energy here is extraordinary. Every surface moves. Coins spin. Piranha Plants move just like in Super Mario Brothers. The cinematic skybox here is carefully crafted to remove any hint of the real world. And this is just incredible, it's something of an emotional moment for me, I mean this is my childhood right here.
Super Nintendo World at Epic Universe - Orlando
Super Nintendo World is built for interaction. With a Power-Up Band on my wrist, mine is from my visit to Universal Hollywood in California but you can buy them here or at the Universal hotels. They link to the Universal app on your phone with a quick scan of a QR code.
With the Power-Up Band, I can punch blocks, collect digital coins, and trigger mini-games hidden across the land and keep track of my points in the Universal app.
There are two Headliner attractions here, Mario Kart Bowser’s Challenge and Donkey Kong: Mine Cart Madness. While checking wait times on the Universal app, I see that the lines for these two attractions are the longest within the entire park, so I’m thinking it was a good idea to come here first thing in the morning. I wish we could get inside Toadstool Cafe, but there’s a long line to get in for this preview, and honestly, there’s much I want to explore here, let’s keep going.
My first stop today is Donkey Kong: Mine Cart Madness which isn’t a traditional coaster. It uses a boom system that makes it appear like the cart jumps over broken tracks, just like the game. There are near-hits with swinging logs, collapsing bridges, and moments where your cart seems to go off the rails entirely. It’s a rough ride and pretty wild to be honest but it’s blast.
The most technologically advanced ride to me is Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge. It’s a mixed-reality dark ride where you race against Team Bowser using AR goggles. It’s competitive, fast-paced. This is probably THE most popular ride in Epic Universe.
Now is a good time to slow things down having done two major rides in a row. ror little ones and even adults, there’s Yoshi’s Adventure. Let’s hop on a Yoshi and go for a ride around Super Nintendo World. Ok, now we’re on the lookout for glowing eggs, which doesn’t make too much sense to me right now but I’m just enjoying the ride and checking out all the familiar Nintendo characters.
If you grew up playing Nintendo, just be ready to for the nostalgia to hit you. It’s pure Nintendo. And unlike anything else you’ll ever experience in a theme park!
DARK UNIVERSE PORTAL
I go back out to Celestial Park, and it’s a short walk over to the next Portal. But first, here’s an interesting restaurant called Pizza moon. The marque is pretty neat and draws me inside. It looks like an old theater that has been converted into a pizza restaurant. Reminds me of Johns Pizza in New York City.
A few steps away, is our portal. This is Dark Universe. Here the mood shifts completely from happy toads and Italian plumbers to dark and mysterious.
This portal is shrouded in mist. Gnarled stone arches, odd characters just roaming around. I hear high voltage electricity buzzing off in the distance. I can’t help but think that this must be amazing at night. This land pulls from Universal’s legacy of horror — Frankenstein, Dracula and The Wolf Man — but it’s not a kitschy haunted house park. This portal is a mood no cheap scares.
The centerpiece is Monsters Unchained, a dark ride that reimagines the Universal Monsters. But I’m not going to take you inside just yet.
The most amazing thing to me is the cast of characters here. Look how they are eerily summing us. They look friendly but something doesn’t feel right. They’re calling me over to that restaurant and I feel compelled to g.. One thing I’m looking forward to seeing the most today is Das Steakhouse, and I think this is it. Let’s go check it out. So, apparently it’s owned by Dracula, and we're supposed to look for paintings, and figures all depicting vampires as heroes rather than villains.
Das Steakhous is actually a quick-service restaurant featuring steak and pork options. I ordered the char siu pork. It comes with, mashed potatoes, roasted turnups and mushrooms. The char siu sauce, which is bright red by nature, not only tastes great, but ties in the vampire blood theme.
Quite full after that hearty meal, which was outstanding by the way, I want to check out the feature attraction here: Monsters Unchained. Now I’m a little nervous because I heard this attraction is similar to the ride system used at Harry Potter Forbidden Journey, which is one of the few rides that brought on a little motion sickness for me in the past.
Here, we board a mysterious contraption in Dr. Frankenstein’s lab. As the story unfolds, we find ourselves in a containment breach caused by Dracula himself that unleashes the monsters. The ride technology blends stunning visual effects with animatronic creatures. The ride vehicle reacts as you would react if you were on foot in here.
There, there’s no motion sickness on my end, and I’m going as to say this is one of the best attractions at Epic Universe.
Back outside in the fictional village of Darkmoore, I come across yet another attraction I wanted to see. Wait until you see what is about to happen. This is Burning Blade Tavern. The exterior draws inspiration from the fiery finale of the 1931 Universal Monsters film Frankenstein, where an angry mob surrounded the old mill, setting it on fire.
The windmill catches fire every 15 minutes.
This place is filled with detail inside and even a few Easter eggs for Universal monster lovers.
Next, we board the Curse of the Werewolf. This is a family-friendly coaster with some unexpected moves. It’s short and fast, and there’s even some light spinning involved. I won’t spoil the surprise, but just make sure you’re paying attention when you pass through the barn.
The land encourages you to slow down and take a look. Because this place isn’t about cheap scares. It’s about dark stories and secrets hiding in shadows.
Once again, I walk back into Celestial Park to seek out my portal, but there’s another restaurant. The Oak and Star Tavern is Epic’s Barbecue restaurant. I love barbecue, so let’s see inside.
This restaurant isn’t quite as busy as the others, but I love the atmosphere. It almost feels too sophisticated for a theme park, but that’s a good thing. Nothing is kitsch here, it’s all been designed to bring a little sophistication to the theme park world.
MINISTRY OF MAGIC PORTAL
It’s not long before I arrive at the the next portal. With this one, I immerse in France. I’m surrounded with spectacular architecture, a ride, shows and, yes, places to eat.
The world of Harry Potter has always been about discovering the extraordinary within the ordinary.
The headline attraction here is The Battle at the Ministry, a trackless dark ride that is like stepping into a film rather than boarding a ride. Guests are caught in a struggle between Aurors and rogue Death Eaters infiltrating the Ministry.
Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Epic Universe
Outside the ride, the land is a maze of alleyways. There’s a magical sweets shop.
The streets of wizarding Paris are home to delightful cafes, including this one, where you can dine inside or outside as you enjoy French baked goods and sandwiches. And of course, you can quench your thirst with Butterbeer along with a variety of non-alcoholic and alcoholic drinks, including beer, cocktails, and French wines.
This was another mind-blowing experience. In my head, I’m trying to think about which land I like best, but they are all equally over the top, I can’t decide. So, back out of the Celestial Park in search of my next amazing portal adventure.
ISLE OF BERK PORTAL
Through the next portal, the noise dims — and I emerge into wind and stone.
This is the Isle of Berk, from How to Train Your Dragon.
Wooden pylons. Viking sails. The smell of smoked meat and sea salt. This land feels open and rustic.
And yes — there are dragons. Everywhere.
The signature attraction is Hiccups Wing Gliders. I think this is a great ride; it’s a family-friendly coaster, but it’s fast. I wouldn’t say it’s a kiddie coaster, but rather one that everyone can enjoy together. No big drops, and it doesn’t go upside down.
For little ones, there’s Dragon Training Camp, an interactive area with games.
The Shops are themed like blacksmith forges and fishmongers.
Isle of Berk in Epic Universe is designed to be a place where you can interact with various characters from the How to Train Your Dragon franchise.
Berk’s Fyre Skool. Epic Universe
At Dragon Racer’s Rally, guests can practice aerobatic maneuvers and high-speed barrel rolls on a Viking-made dragon-riding trainer in hopes of becoming champion dragon-racers.
This high-thrill flying attraction features a ride system new to Universal. It looks a lot more intimidating than it is. There’s a way to make your ride vehicle move back and forth, but I’m not sure how to do it, so I just enjoy the ride.
Isle of Burk is also home to a show called the Untrainable Dragon. This live show features beloved characters. and a highlight includes Toothless flying directly overhead.
Going a little further into Isle of Burke, we find Berk’s Fyre Skool. In a very wet ride, you’re in a boat battle where teams of Vikings compete to outsoak each other while trying to hit over 130 moving targets found throughout the attraction.
Now I have to admit, How to Train Your Dragon Land wasn’t on the top of my list - if you notice I went o it last, well almost last because the big moment hasn’t been covered yet. But this whole land was far better than I could have imagined and I spent a lot of time checking things out.
Back through the portal to Celestial Park and now it’s time for the one attraction I want to more than any other. I’m a coaster fan and this next attraction is going to be… uh, Epic.
It’s late in the afternoon and suprisg;y there isn’t a long line Maybe because Starfall Racers is one of the most intimidating coasters in Orlando.
I’m required to store everything in a locker. And I mean everything - glasses, phones, I’m not allowed to have anything in my pockets and I pass through a metal detector.
The highlight? The amount of airtime you get on this coaster! , The dualing coasters leap into the sky at the same time and then twist away from each other in perfect sync. For a second, it’s like I’m weightless. It’s the most thrilling ride in in Epic Universe - very similar to Velocicoaster if you are familiar with that coaster at Universal’s Islands of Adventure park.
WOW!~ What a way to end the day at Epic Universe. And as I wander back toward the center of the park, I circle around, and see the portals in the distance — [build]
Each one glowing with its own adventure inside, starting with the magic of Nintendo World,
It’s then I realize — [soften] Epic Universe isn’t a theme park in the traditional sense. [pause]
It’s a constellation of worlds. [linger]
Each portal is a story.
A tone.
An emotion. [beat]
And Celestial Park… gives us room to breathe between them. [pause]
Thanks for joining me today on this tour of Epic Universe. And now, here comes another one of my videos that YouTube thinks you’ll really enjoy. I’ll see you over there.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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New Experiences Announced for the Disney Destiny
Disney Cruise Line provided some new details about the Disney Destiny. Here’s what we know so far.
Whether you’re Team Heroes or Team Villains, the Disney Destiny, Disney Cruise Line’s newest ship, has epic magic in store. From a Cruella de Vil-inspired piano bar to a “Disney Hercules” stage show, you’ll find all-new adventures at sea plus plenty of returning guest favorites. (Photo above: Disney Destiny Grand Hall.)
Disney Destiny Grand Hall
Disney Destiny will debut on Nov. 20 in Port Everglades, Fort Lauderdale. The ship will sail four- and five-day itineraries that visit Nassau and Disney's two private islands in the Bahamas, Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, and Castaway Cay.
As part of the media preview at the Disney Destiny Showcase, Disney offered a peek behind the scenes at some of the experiences onboard. Some are heroic, some are a little more nefarious, but all embrace the dynamic duality of every great Disney story. Here are a few of Disney Destiny’s must-dos.
Behind the Scenes at “Disney Hercules”
Disney offered a sneak peek at the all-new “Disney Hercules” show coming to the Disney Destiny. A panel of the creative team offered details on how this classic Walt Disney Animation Studios film is coming to life in the Walt Disney Theater. Show Director Kevin Wilson explained that “Disney Hercules” will feature all the same music and characters, but that “the music, we were able to make it a little more pop, contemporary.”
Disney Hercules show on the Disney Destiny
The show will also feature a new song, “Shooting Star,” which was originally supposed to be in the film but never made the final cut. The set, too, will juxtapose a modern aesthetic and a Grecian feel. Michael Serna, executive creative director, points out that staircases coming from stage right and stage left will propel scene transitions, lending a more modern touch. Meanwhile, there will be a Grecian aesthetic with pillars and a gazebo.
As for the costumes? Think fashion. Show Director Marcel Wilson shares that the gods and goddesses have “beautiful, enormous headpieces that are ornate, and dramatic draping. Even our Grecian townspeople, it’s not fashion, but it still gives a runway vibe, so we still have the Grecian aesthetic.” And of course, expect the Disney Destiny theme of light vs. darkness to appear here, too—some of the costumes will light up!
If you’ve seen “Disney The Tale of Moana” onboard the Disney Treasure, you’ll be familiar with the show’s puppets. Creative Director Jeff Conover explains: “We love puppetry. We love to play with scale. It brings the emotions to another level.” He shared a peek at a brand-new rendering showcasing Hercules battling the hydra, featuring puppets!
“The concept art here, for me, captures exactly what we’re trying to achieve,” said Conover. “Larger than life. We’re doing some really interesting stuff, not just with the hydra, but also with some of the titans from the film and utilizing some technology here at the Walt Disney Theater that has never been used before.”
Pride Lands: Feast of The Lion King
A new restaurant, Pride Lands: Feast of The Lion King, will debut aboard the Disney Destiny. From windows overlooking different times of day on the savanna to tranquil instrumental music playing in the background, this restaurant will reflect the heart of the “Lion King” story. “When you step into this space, you’re transformed into the Pride Lands,” said Show Director Paul Bryant. “Can you guys hear the soundscape? We really wanted to dive into the authenticity of the musicians and their instruments.”
Pridelands: Feast of The Lion King
Disney also offered a peek at cast costumes, place settings, and even a hyena sipper featuring Ed and a Timon popcorn bucket! As for the food and drink, Disney offered two drinks coming to Pride Lands: Feast of the Lion King—Can You Feel the Rum Tonight? and Smily Yet Satisfying (a sweet, gummy-inspired beverage perfect for the kids and the kids at heart). The food was inspired by the Pride Lands: Feast of the Lion King menu.
De Vil’s Piano Lounge: No evening is complete without a devilish drink or two with Cruella De Vil herself. A preview of De Vil’s lounge featured the Hollywood Regency architecture, glamorous cocktails, and a spotted piano that will be onboard the Disney Destiny. And just like at the lounge itself, this evening’s guests were recruited for a little musical mischief.
The lounge will feature strawberry shortcake popcorn and specialty cocktails. The Fashionista consists of strawberry and banana-infused tequila. The zero-proof Fearless Sir Galahad has a syrupy sweet scent and spicy flavor profile.
The Sanctum: Guests will be able to venture into a world of powerful sorcerers inside The Sanctum, a lounge inspired by Marvel Studios’ “Doctor Strange.” Designers were inspired by the New York Sanctum, with some details from the film’s Chamber of Relics, plus suspended spell books and other enchanting Easter eggs.
While the drinks themselves are impressive, even more breathtaking are the interactive elements that give this space an otherworldly feel. Said Sophie Leroux, assistant cruise director: “The first time I saw this [Circle of the Cosmos], I thought, ‘Is that glass supposed to be upside down?’ It is. That’s one of the coolest parts!”
Grand Hall: Another Marvel Super Hero makes an appearance in the Grand Hall: T’Challa, aka Black Panther. While the Grand Hall statue is the bronze sculpture typical of all Disney Cruise Line Grand Halls, this is the first time the team is bringing in silver accents, reminiscent of the Black Panther’s suit. You can also see purple accents, which is the vibranium activating in the Black Panther’s suit.
“This is a whole new look and feel,” said Walt Disney Imagineer Beth Burkhardt says of the Grand Hall. “Lighting is used in a new way, so we can completely transform the space…It’s going to be changing to each hero or, very possibly, some villains making their way to the Grand Hall.” Expect epic shifts in lighting for our heroes and a more eerie transformation for certain villains, plus a breathtaking chandelier inspired by the meteorite that brought vibranium to Wakanda.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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Epic Universe Express Passes - What You Need to Know
Express Passes at Epic Universe have different rules - here’s what you need to know before you go!
Epic Universe represents a new chapter in Universal Orlando’s evolution, bringing a fresh wave of excitement and immersive experiences to the theme park landscape. As the highly anticipated fourth theme park at Universal Orlando Resort, it is designed to transport guests into fantastical worlds inspired by beloved franchises. With this vast array of attractions, entertainment, and dining options, utilizing Universal Express Passes becomes an essential strategy to maximize enjoyment and minimize wait times.
In this article, we will explore the benefits of the Universal Express Passes at Epic Universe, ensuring you make the most of your visit.
Free Express Passes for Epic Universe?
At this time, Epic Universe is not included with the free Express Passes that are included with Portofino Bay, Hard Rock Hotel, and Royal Pacific hotels.
The only way to get Express Passes for Epic Universe is to purchase it as an add-on to your theme park ticket.
Does Helios Grand Hotel include Free Express Passes?
While Helios is a Signature hotel - up there with Portofino Bay Hard Rock and Royal Pacific, you need to know that a stay here does not include free Express Passes. It does offer other perks like being able to walk right into the park from the lobby, and of course, beautiful views if you have a theme park view room.
Epic Universe Express Passes are not Unlimited
Universal Orlando offers two kinds of Express Passes - single-use and unlimited. In most cases, the unlimited version makes more sense because it doesn’t cost that much more. However, single-use Express Passes are the only option for Epic Universe at this time.
List of Epic Universe Rides Offering Express Pass
Celestial Park
Constellation Carousel
Stardust Racers
Super Nintendo World
Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge
Yoshi’s Adventure
Dark Universe
Curse of the Werewolf
Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment
How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk
Fyre Drill
Hiccup’s Wing Gliders
The Untrainable Dragon
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic
Le Cirque Arcanus
(subject to change)
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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Disney Fantasy Upgrades Announced - Disney Cruise Line
Here’s a look at a few of the upgrades that the Disney Fantasy will be getting soon! Disney Cruise Line announced a new Tower Suite, upgraded spa and more.
Exciting updates are coming to the Disney Fantasy later this year! Beginning in December, Guests aboard the Disney Fantasy can look forward to a variety of new and updated spaces that promise to enhance your onboard experience.
One of the key highlights is the introduction of the new Tower Suite, offering remarkable views and luxurious accommodations. Guests will also enjoy delicious poolside tacos and bowls at Ramone's Cantina, providing fresh and flavorful options to enjoy while soaking up the sun.
Additionally, the concierge lounge has been updated to provide an even more exclusive experience for those seeking personalized service and comfort. These enhancements aim to create memorable experiences for all who sail on the Disney Fantasy, making your cruise a delightful adventure from start to finish.
Concierge Fantasy Tower Suite on Disney Fantasy
The Disney Fantasy is set to debut its luxurious Tower Suite, a unique addition that embodies the essence of opulence at sea. This stunning 2-story suite is located high above the upper decks within the ship’s iconic forward funnel—visually reminiscent of the enchanting 1940 Disney classic "Fantasia," specifically the memorable "The Sorcerer’s Apprentice" segment.
Spanning 2,030 square feet, the Tower Suite accommodates up to 8 guests comfortably. It features two main bedrooms, a library with a queen-sized wall bed, and a children’s room outfitted with bunk beds. The suite also boasts 4.5 bathrooms, a spacious two-story living area, a pantry with a wet bar, and generous walk-in closets, ensuring all the amenities for a lavish getaway.
It's important to note that the introduction of the Fantasy Tower Suite means guests who previously secured reservations for Category 1A Staterooms will now see a change to Category 1B. This adjustment is purely a result of the new suite's addition, and their stateroom types remain unaltered.
The Fantasy Tower Suite is now available for bookings for sailings starting December 4, 2025, offering an unparalleled experience for those seeking the ultimate in luxury while cruising.
The Disney Fantasy is set to unveil an array of exciting enhancements this fall, in addition to the luxurious new Concierge Fantasy Tower Suite. Here’s what guests can look forward to:
Ramone’s Cantina: Dive into a delicious menu featuring poolside tacos and bowls, perfect for a satisfying snack while soaking up the sun.
Senses Spa: Experience the ultimate relaxation in the updated spaces of Senses Spa, where refreshed amenities are designed to elevate your wellness experience.
Concierge Lounge: Step into an ethereal concierge lounge inspired by Hercules, offering a unique setting for guests to unwind and enjoy exclusive services.
Edge Relocation: The popular youth lounge, Edge, is relocating to Deck 5, accompanied by new, fun features that promise to enhance the experience for younger cruisers.
These enhancements ensure that guests of all ages will find plenty of enjoyable options aboard the Disney Fantasy, making for an unforgettable cruise experience.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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Disney+ Offer for Walt Disney World Summer 2025
Disney releases another offer for summer travel. This time it’s for Disney+ subscribers.
Disney+ subscribers can take advantage of summer savings with special rates on select Disney World hotels, starting from just $99 per night. This limited-time offer is available for stays of 2 nights or more, for most nights between June 29 and July 31, 2025. Here are the participating room types:
$99 Per Night: Standard Rooms at Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort
$169 Per Night: Woods View Rooms at Disney's Port Orleans Resort – Riverside
$229 Per Night: Cars Family Suites at Disney's Art of Animation Resort
$249 Per Night: Deluxe Studios at Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort
$339 Per Night: Savanna View Rooms at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge
Please note that proof of a Disney+ subscription is required and must be submitted through the designated online form. The Disney+ subscriber with an active subscription must be present during the stay.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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