Early Morning Magic - Disney's Hollywood Studios
Disney's Hollywood Studios Early Morning Magic
I recently shared with your that Magic Kingdom Park would be offering Early Morning Magic Hours. Today, I can share news with you that beginning Aug. 1, 2016, a select number of Walt Disney World Guests can experience Disney Early Morning Magic at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
You can experience Star Tours – The Adventures Continue, Toy Story Mania!, Pixar Place character greetings (with Woody and Buzz), and Mickey and Minnie on Commissary Lane and Olaf at Celebrity Spotlight – all with little to no wait before the park opens. And to get fueled up for the rest of the day, you can partake in a hearty all-you-care-to-enjoy breakfast at ABC Commissary from 8-10 a.m. Disney Early Morning Magic at Disney’s Hollywood Studios takes place Mondays and Wednesdays from 7:45-10 a.m.
Please note Disney Early Morning Magic will be offered on different days than Extra Magic Hours. Disney Early Morning Magic requires a separate ticket - $69 for adults and $59 for children ages 3-9 (plus tax), in addition to regular theme park admission.
Darren Wittko - Specializes in Disney Destinations with Magical Vacations Travel.
The Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique at Disney Springs has Moved
Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique - Disney Springs has new location.
The Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique - Disney Springs- has moved from it's former home inside the World of Disney Store to a new location near Earl of Sandwich and Once Upon a Toy in the Marketplace district. Fairy Godmothers-in-Training will continue to make magical transformations for Guests ages 3-12. Girls can choose a hairstyle then add make-up, nail color and accessories – even a Disney princess costume. Boys can join in the fun too, as they’re transformed into gallant knights. View a current map of Disney Springs
Darren Wittko - Specializes in Disney Destinations with Magical Vacations Travel. He is rated aBest of the Best Disney Travel Agent by readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World
January - February Magical Deals Now Available
January - February Magical Deals Now Available to book www.saveatwdw.com/resorts
Today I'm pleased to share that the January and February 2017 Magical Deals from Magical Vacations Travel have been posted to Save at Walt Disney World. Stay tuned for more 2017 Magical Deals coming soon.
NEW YEAR'S OFFER - MAGICAL DEAL
Travel Window: January 2 through January 9, 2017 >>Learn More
EARLY FEBRUARY OFFER 2017 - MAGICAL DEAL
Travel Window: January 29 through February 5, 2017 >> Learn More
PRESIDENT'S DAY OFFER 2017 - MAGICAL DEAL
Travel Window: February 12 through February 24, 2017 >> Learn More
Darren Wittko - Specializes in Disney Destinations with Magical Vacations Travel. He is rated aBest of the Best Disney Travel Agent by readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World
Book The Living Seas Pavilion for your next event
How would you like to book your special event inside The Living Seas Pavilion at Epcot? This dynamic private event venue serves as the perfect backdrop for an elegant dinner or awards presentation and can accommodate up to 500 attendees. The Living Seas Pavilion boasts a 5.7-million-gallon saltwater aquarium that holds over three thousand varieties of sea life, there is plenty to see at this one-of-a-kind space
Living Seas Salon Lounge
Just steps away from the attraction floor is the Living Seas Salon Lounge, one of the most sophisticated and astounding event venues. The room flows with soft and curving lines, representing of the motion of the sea. Acrylic panels line the walls to display the ever-changing backdrop as guests explore the variety of sea life.
Imagine how magical would it be to have your event here!
Darren Wittko - Specializes in Disney Destinations with Magical Vacations Travel. He is rated aBest of the Best Disney Travel Agent by readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World
Booking the 2017 Princess Half Marathon Just Got Easier
Princess Half Marathon at Walt Disney World Resort
Did you know that 2017 Magic Your Way Packages and Run Disney race registrations can be handled by your travel agent? Race registrations for the 2017 Disney’s Princess Half Marathon Weekend events listed below can now be included with a Vacation Packages.
Sunday, Feb. 26, 2017
Disney’s Princess Half Marathon – Here's the run that's fit for a Princess – a 13.1 mile magical course.
Saturday, Feb. 25, 2017
Disney Princess Enchanted 10K – This event will take you on an enchanted journey throughout Epcot® before having a magical finish fit for a princess, or prince.
Saturday, Feb. 25 and Sunday, Feb. 26, 2017
Glass Slipper Challenge - A 19.3-mile adventure held over two days, participants will run the Disney Enchanted 10K on Saturday, followed by the Disney Princess Half Marathon on Sunday.
Friday, Feb. 24, 2017
Disney Princess 5K – A royal opportunity to share the magic as a family.runDisney Kids Races – Every Prince & Princess is a winner during the runDisney Kids Races!
Friday, Feb. 24-25, 2017
runDisney Kids Races – Every Prince & Princess is a winner during the runDisney Kids Races!
Darren Wittko - Specializes in Disney Destinations with Magical Vacations Travel. He is rated aBest of the Best Disney Travel Agent by readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World
NEW! Shanghai Disneyland Exhibit in Epcot
New Epcot exhibit features Shanghai Disneyland
One of my favorite things to do at Epcot is to explore the cultural exhibits in World Showcase. They are usually tucked away in a quiet, off-the-beaten-path area of the pavilions but inside you'll discover a museum quality display of artifacts.
Here in Epcot's China pavilion you can now get a taste of the world’s newest Disney Park with the “Inside Shanghai Disney Resort” exhibit. It has just opened its doors in the House of the Whispering Willows Gallery.
The gallery showcases exclusive artwork, as well as a look at the classic and cutting-edge attractions within Shanghai Disneyland’s six lands of fantasy and thrilling adventure.
Darren Wittko - Specializes in Disney Destinations with Magical Vacations Travel. He is rated aBest of the Best Disney Travel Agent by readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World
Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort - Weekend Getaway
Here's a recipe for a quick weekend getaway at Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort (and it doesn't involve the Theme Parks!) Book a spa treatment (or two), make a dinner reservation at Disney Springs and check into Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa. Your work is done for a relaxing getaway.
When you book a massage, facial or other services at the beautiful Senses Spa, you can check in early, then head to the spacious High Rock Spring Pool or fitness center to start the day. Just before treatment time, shower and head to the spa’s whirlpool, steam room and luxurious heated lounge chairs for a catnap. The quiet spa feels worlds away from the bustle of the theme parks.
As the sun sets, stroll over to the boat dock behind the check-in area for boat ride to Disney Springs – dinner, live music, shopping, Cirque Du Soleil, Splitsville bowling – you can make an evening of it, or just relax with an evening stroll and dinner. Personally I recommend Morimoto Asia’s steamed Peking Duck or the lobster roll at The BOATHOUSE. The new Disney Springs offers such diverse cuisine. An after-dinner cupcake or ice cream at Sprinkles is the perfect ending to an indulgent day.
The ferryboats run regularly across the water, so it’s an easy return to tuck in for the night at beautiful Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa – the convenience might just be the biggest treat of all.
To book a stay, call your travel agent or visit the Walt Disney World website.
Darren Wittko - Specializes in Disney Destinations with Magical Vacations Travel. He is rated aBest of the Best Disney Travel Agent by readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World
New Magic Kingdom Dining Package Available. Is it worth it?
Is this Magic Kingdom Dinner Package Worth it?
Now you can take a mid-day break as you indulge in a three-course lunch, including your choice of appetizer, entrée, dessert and a beverage. Choose from favorites like Chicken Parmigiana, Spaghetti with meatballs or Margherita Pizza. And for dessert, there’s the classic Tiramisú or a decadent chocolate cake layered with a chocolate-hazelnut filling.
During the meal, you'll receive a voucher for reserved viewing of the Main Street Electrical Parade later that evening.
The cost is $45 for adults, $17 for children plus tax and gratuity. It is one table-service entitlement on the Disney Dining Plan.
Is this a good deal?
Tony's Town Square restaurant is comparable to your local Olive Garden Restaurant (only not as good). Still, it's a popular restaurant with guests and it does book up quickly.
So, is $45 for the dinner package worth it? Yes it is! Here's a sample order for one adult:
Caesar Salad appetizer $10.00
Chicken Parm entrée $26
Tiramisu dessert $8.00
Soft drink $3.50
Total Spent: $47.50 (Dinner Package $45 - Savings $2.50 + Parade Voucher)
The Dinner Package is appropriately priced at $45 because that's what most people would spend anyway, but you're also getting a voucher for a reserved section to view the Main Street Electrical Parade. It doesn't appear that Disney is charging a premium for the package. So get this one booked, especially if you're on the Disney Dining Plan, the extra perk definitely adds some value.
Darren Wittko - Specializes in Disney Destinations with Magical Vacations Travel. He is rated aBest of the Best Disney Travel Agent by readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World
2017 Disney World Packages Available June 21, 2016
2017 Walt Disney World Packages Coming June 21, 2016
The 2017 Walt Disney Travel Company vacation packages for the Walt Disney World Resort will be available to book beginning June 21, 2016. These packages will be available for arrivals beginning Jan. 1, 2017. The last date of your vacation can not be booked more than 499 days in the future (most airlines can not be booked more than 331 days in the future).
Darren Wittko is the creator of Save at Walt Disney World and a Disney Destinations SpecialistatMagical Vacations Travel. Voted "best of the best Disney travel agent" by readers of the 2015Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World. He is also the creator of The Best of Walt Disney World blog.
Best Disney Travel Agents 2016
Darren Wittko named a Best of the Best Disney Travel agent once again for 2016.
I am so honored to announce that I have once again been rated a "Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent" by readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World. The rating comes from my loyal clients who were kind enough to send in such positive feedback about their experience in working with me. So, a big thank you to all of you who took the time to do that, it means so much to me!
I love Walt Disney World and getting recognized for something that is a true passion for me is really special. Getting to interact with fellow Disney fans and even first time visitors it so much fun. Thank you all so much! TouringPlans.com just published a great article about all the agents who made the list this year. There you can read a little bio about me and discover what my specialties are. Be sure to check out a massive list of exclusive offers for Walt Disney World Resort here on this site. You can contact me here if you would like a quote or if you have any questions.
Thank you,
~Darren
Tiffins Restaurant at Disney's Animal Kingdom - Reservations now available.
Beginning May 28, 2016 Disney will open its newest signature restaurant at Walt Disney World Resort – Tiffins at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, featuring cuisine and beverages from places that inspired the creation of the Park. Reservations open May 21, 2016.
Open for both lunch and dinner, Tiffins is situated near Pizzafari on Discovery Island, near what will be the entrance to Pandora – The World of AVATAR, when it opens in 2017. (“Tiffin” is an Indian English word for a midday meal or a type of container used to carry food while traveling). Adjacent to Tiffins, Nomad Lounge features waterfront views in addition to hand-crafted cocktails with African, Asian and South American flavors; beers, and sustainable wines from those regions, plus specialty non-alcoholic beverages and small bites.
Here's a look at Tiffin's Menu
The park’s culinary team is working on special dining packages which will begin May 28 at Tiffins and Tusker House Restaurant for the new limited-engagement nighttime show, The Jungle Book: Alive With Magic.
Similar to the popular Fantasmic! Dining Packages at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, the Dining Package includes reserved seating for the nighttime show. At all-you-care-to-eat Tusker House Restaurant, you can choose the breakfast, lunch or dinner buffet on the day of the show (but you have to dine at least 2 1/2 hours before the show). Breakfast is $37, $23 ages 3-9, plus tax and gratuity; lunch and dinner, $49, $30 ages 3-9, plus tax and gratuity. Tusker House Restaurant is on the Disney Dining Plan and counts as one table-service meal.
At Tiffins, the package includes the choice of appetizer, entrée, dessert and non-alcoholic beverage at either lunch or dinner. The Dining Package is $67 for adults, $32 ages 3-9, plus tax and gratuity. Tiffins is on the Disney Dining Plan and counts as two table-service meal credits.
Reservations will open May 21, 2016 for Tiffins restaurant as well as Dining Packages for The Jungle Book: Alive With Magic nighttime show, and can be made by visiting DisneyWorld.com/dine or by calling 407-WDW-DINE.
Darren Wittko is the creator of Save at Walt Disney World and a Disney Destinations Specialist atMagical Vacations Travel. Voted "best of the best Disney travel agent" by readers of the 2015Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World. He is also the creator of The Best of Walt Disney World blog.
Frozen Ever After FastPass Available Today - What You Need to Know
Today (May 21, 2016) FastPass+ becomes available for the new Frozen Ever After attraction at Epcot. Frozen Ever After will officially open on June 21, 2016 at 9 A.M.
I shared with you earlier this week that FastPass selections will now open at 7am. Eastern Time each day. Previously guests could make selections at midnight ET, or 3am PT if you lived on the west coast. This is more convenient I think - it give the advantage to the early birds (like me) not the night owls.
Related:
Sneak Peek: Frozen Ever After Attraction at Epcot
Epcot's Frozen attraction takes you up the North Mountain
More Details on the Opening of Frozen Ever After
Finally, Frozen Characters Come to Disney's Blizzard Beach Water Park
Where to Find the Frozen Characters at Walt Disney World
Frozen Ever After - Epcot
Of course this big news is that Frozen Ever After boat ride is opening June 21, 2016. Fastpasses are now available! Disney promises you'll be singing "Let it Go" long after you exit the attraction. Remind you of another Disney boat ride with a catchy tune?
MORE PLACES TO MEET ANNA, ELSA, Olaf and Christoff
ROYAL SOMMERHUS OPENING
The royal sisters will be available for greeting opportunities at the new Royal Sommerhus located next to the Frozen Ever After Attraction inside Epcot.
FESTIVAL OF FANTASY PARADE
You can also spot Anna and Elsa over at Magic Kingdom Park in the “Festival of Fantasy Parade” each day at 3pm.
NEW CASTLE STAGE SHOW - MICKEY'S ROYAL FRIENDSHIP FAIRE
And the new “Mickey’s Royal Friendship Faire” show coming to Cinderella Castle Forecourt Stage at the Magic Kingdom. Check the My Disney Experience app for the latest locations and times for any Disney Character.
Olaf and christoff at DISNEY'S BLIZZARD BEACH WATER PARK
This summer, Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park at the Walt Disney World Resort will play host to the inaugural Frozen Games where you can meet Christoff and Olaf from Frozen.
Frozen sing-a-long Celebration
Join your Frozen friends—like Anna, Elsa and the newly-appointed royal historians of Arendelle—for a sing-a-long stage show at Disney's Hollywood Studios.
Darren Wittko - Specializes in Disney Destinations with Magical Vacations Travel. He is rated aBest of the Best Disney Travel Agent by readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World
New Star Wars Fireworks Spectacular Coming in June
This new nighttime show, which will be the most elaborate fireworks display in this park’s history, will begin nightly performances on June 17, 2016. This elaborate show will combine fireworks, pyrotechnics, special effects and video projections that will turn the park’s Chinese Theater and other buildings into the twin suns of Tatooine, a field of battle droids, the trench of the Death Star, Starkiller Base and other Star Wars destinations. And the show, which will feature music from throughout the film franchise, will be punctuated with a tower of fire and spotlight beams, creating a massive lightsaber in the sky.
Related:
Most Elaborate Fireworks in Park History Coming to Disney's Hollywood Studios
Darren is the creator of Save at Walt Disney World and a Disney Destinations Specialist with Magical Vacations Travel. For discounts, offers, ways to save money, visit SaveAtWDW.com
Mickey's Royal Friendship Faire Coming to Magic Kingdom
Recently, I shared some details about “Mickey’s Royal Friendship Faire,” coming to the Cinderella Castle Forecourt Stage at Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort, and today I'm pleased to tell you this fantastically fun new show will make its debut on June 17, 2016!
“Mickey’s Royal Friendship Faire” celebrates the unique stories of the citizens who make up this magical kingdom and the wonderful things that can happen when we try new things, go to new places and get to know new friends.
Darren is the creator of Save at Walt Disney World and a Disney Destinations Specialist with Magical Vacations Travel. For discounts, offers, ways to save money, visit SaveAtWDW.com
Soarin' Over California Returning to Epcot
Epcot Guests will enjoy farewell flights when the classic Soarin’ returns to The Land pavilion in Future World starting May 27, 2016. The attraction reopens at Epcot in Walt Disney World Resort before the new film, Soarin’ Around the World, debuts next month Disney parks in Shanghai, California and Florida.
Disney FastPass+ service will be available starting today for this limited opportunity to enjoy the classic Soarin’ experience at Epcot.
The new film, Soarin’ Around the World, debuts June 17 at Epcot.
Related:
FastPass Date Set for new Soarin' Around the World at Epcot
Behind the Scenes: Making Soarin' Around the World
Darren Wittko is the creator of Save at Walt Disney World and a Disney Destinations Specialistat Magical Vacations Travel. Voted "best of the best Disney travel agent" by readers of the 2015Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World.
FastPasses Available Now for Disney's Animal Kingdom Nighttime Events
FastPass+ and dining packages for Disney’s Animal Kingdom night experiences are available now!
Kilimanjaro Safaris and Harambe Village
After the sun sets, you will be able to explore Kilimanjaro Safaris and see the nighttime behavior of the wildlife and better tune in to the unique vocalization of the animals like never before. Among the new experiences, the village of Harambe in Africa will become the place to enjoy “Wildlife Parti” and the spirited community of Discovery Island will come together to celebrate their love of the natural world with the Discover Island Carnivale.
Tree of Life
Beginning May 27, animal spirits will be brought to life each night at the Tree of Life by magical fireflies that reveal colorful stories of wonder and enchantment along with other amazing sights and lighting effects at the tree.
DISCOVERY RIVER
At Disney's Animal Kingdom, Discovery River will become a stunning stage for performances of the limited-engagement show The Jungle Book: Alive with Magic, inspired by the live-action film Disney’s The Jungle Book. Shows will feature memorable moments from the film, including the iconic Shere Khan, and will be filled with music and special effects that celebrate the movie and classic songs, infused with an Indian influence.
Related
Animal Kingdom Nighttime Attractions
Tiffins Restaurant Coming to Disney's Animal Kingdom
Sneak Peek at Avatar at Disney's Animal Kingdom
Darren Wittko is the creator of Save at Walt Disney World and a Disney Destinations Specialist at Magical Vacations Travel. Voted "best of the best Disney travel agent" by readers of the 2015 Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World.
Royal Sommerhus Opening Date Set
As recently shared, the highly anticipated meet and greet area with Anna and Elsa will be opening June 21, 2016 at Epcot. FastPass+ for the Royal Sommerhus are not yet available. Anna and Elsa will also make appearances over at Magic Kingdom Park in the new "Mickey's Royal Friendship Faire" castle stage show.
Related:
Disability Access Service at Walt Disney World
The Disability Access Service (DAS) at Walt Disney World is available if a disability makes it difficult to wait in a conventional queue environment, providing the opportunity to receive a return time similar to the posted wait time for the given attraction. Once you receive a return time, you are free to enjoy other theme park offerings such as meeting a character, grabbing a bite to eat, enjoying entertainment or even visiting another attraction until your designated
return time. This service can be used in addition to Disney FastPass+ service.
If you need any assistance during your upcoming visit, including issuance of the DAS, please visit a Guest Relations location once you arrive at any Disney Park. Our Guest Relations Cast Members will work directly with you to discuss your overall needs, and they are ready to help.
In the meantime, to help you plan your visit, we've developed a guide for our Guests with Disabilities that provides pertinent information as well as answers to many Frequently Asked Questions. You can access this guide by visiting the following link:
https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/guest-services/guests-with-disabilitie
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More Details on the Opening of Frozen Ever After
UPDATE: Frozen Ever After will premiere June 21, 2016 at Epcot
Recently I shared with you that Disney added Frozen Ever After to the Epcot attraction page on the official website. In various literature from Disney we are learning that the opening date will be set sometime in June. Prior to this we were reading that Frozen Ever After would opening "this summer." Disney has also hinted that guests will be singing "Let it Go" long after they exit the attraction, so it would appear this cinematic hit will be featured.
Related
Darren Wittko - Specializes in Disney Destinations with Magical Vacations Travel. He is rated aBest of the Best Disney Travel Agent by readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World