What Disney Doesn't Want You Know about Disney Springs
Disney Springs | Walt Disney World Resort
It was getting painful to watch Downtown Disney slowly die on the vine at Walt Disney World. Pleasure Island, the once popular nightclub district had closed in 2008. By 2012, after more closures, the three sections of Downtown Disney felt disconnected and it was suffering badly. Eventually, after weathering economic uncertainty for several years, Disney went ahead with the project and Disney Springs opened to guests in 2015 - a much needed and aesthetically pleasing refurbishment to Downtown Disney. Disney Springs has a connected backstory now and a true “Disney” feel. Major improvements have also been made to parking with new “smart” parking garages (signs notify drivers where to find open spaces) and traffic congestion on Buena Vista Drive has been addressed with dedicated car and bus lanes.
However some of the feedback about Disney Springs is that the stores are, “pricey” or “just like the mall we have back home.” To be fair, tourists generally like to shop while on vacation so it’s not a far-fetched idea to offer a shopping district at Walt Disney World. But you might not know that there's actually a better place to shop while in Orlando if you're looking for great deals.
What Disney Doesn't Want you to Know
Orlando Vineland Outlet Mall
While Disney Springs is certainly fun, you'll find a more comprehensive shopping experience just 3 miles away at the Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets. This outlet mall has over 100 name brand stores offering big bargains compared to regular retail locations - although much of the merchandise today is made specifically for outlet retailers. But the Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets are located just five minutes from Disney Springs and it even has some of the same stores as Disney Springs - here's what they have in common:
- Kate Spade
- Kipling
- Oakley
- Tommy Bahama
- Ugg
- Under Armour
- Vera Bradley
There's also an official Walt Disney World outlet store, Disney's Character Warehouse. The prices are deeply discounted compared to the retail locations on property and it's a true outlet store (overstocks, past-season, etc).
I do think everyone should take a day or perhaps just an evening to explore Disney Springs. Highlights are The Boathouse Orlando restaurant, Morimoto Asia (try the Peking Duck) the World of Disney Store, and even enjoy some of the live music and entertainment. If you're into bowling, try Splitsville Luxury Lanes.
But if you're a shopper and looking for a some deals to take back home, then it's worth a short ride over to the Orlando Vineland Outlet Mall.
Orlando Vineland Outlets Address
Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets Address: 8200 Vineland Ave, Orlando, FL. 32821. Located just off Route 535, about 3 miles from Disney Springs. Taxi fare is an estimated $15-$20 each way from Walt Disney World hotels. Uber, about $10 each way. With traffic, it could take about 10 minutes.
Finding your way around
Additional Orlando Outlet Mall
If you want an even bigger selection of savings at the outlet stores, travel a little further to the Orlando International Premium Outlets. Located about 20 minutes from Walt Disney World on I-4 East, Exit 75A, you’ll find an even larger outlet mall, also offering many of the same stores as Disney Springs mentioned above.
Video:
The Story Behind 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
New Restaurant Coming to Disney Springs
The Polite Pig coming to Disney Springs in spring 2017
I am a huge fan of smoked pork so I'm very excited to share with you that The Polite Pig will coming to Disney Springs at Walt Disney World Resort in spring 2017. A sister restaurant to The Ravenous Pig of Winter Park, FL, The Polite Pig will feature a variety of wood-fired smoked and grilled items as well as an innovative beverage program that serves all drinks on tap, including locally-brewed Cask & Larder beer, wine and cocktails.
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Disney Adds New Feature to My Disney Experience App
Now you can navigate Walt Disney World® Resort with the help of “Get Directions” – a new way finding feature on the My Disney Experience mobile app*.
“Get Directions” allows you to conveniently navigate to your favorite Walt Disney World destination whether walking or taking Walt Disney World Resort Transportation. Using GPS navigation, this new feature provides Guests with turn-by-turn walking directions to destinations across the Walt Disney World Resort including Theme Parks, Water Parks, select Walt Disney World Resort Hotels, Disney Springs and many other locations such as Restrooms, Guest Services, shopping locations and more.
How to use the new GPS feature in My Disney Experience
The “Get Directions” feature also provides information on transportation routes to and from Parks and select Walt Disney World Resort Hotels, along with bus, monorail and watercraft transit options.
I would like to remind you to please remain aware of your surroundings at all times while using “Get Directions” to avoid potential safety hazards.
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
Muppets Fans Take Note: PizzeRizzo Coming This Fall
First Look: PizzeRizzo Coming to Disney's Hollywood Studios this fall.
PizzeRizzo will open this fall in Muppets Courtyard at Disney’s Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World Resort. Rizzo The Rat owns and operates the pizzeria, which is located in the former Toy Story Pizza Planet. Here, you'll enjoy a casual Italian-American dining experience in a whole new way, through the eyes of the lovable, wisecracking Muppet.
Walt Disney Imagineering hid hints of Rizzo, his extended family and friends who have visited PizzeRizzo over the years throughout the two-story quick-service location. In addition to the expansive indoor and outdoor seating area, you'll be able to dine in a “cheesy” banquet room, or take five in a special booth designated just for Rizzo’s celebrity friends.
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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
Club Villain Returns to Hollywood Studios
First Look: Club Villain returns to Disney's Hollywood Studios in 2016
Club Villain returns Fridays and Saturdays from September 2 – October 29, 2016 with an additional offering on Halloween, Oct. 31. This two-hour show experience will take place at 5:15pm and 8:30pm nightly inside the Sunset Showcase. Guests can check-in 30 minutes prior to the right of the entrance to Rock 'n' Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith.
The price is $129 per person (tax and gratuity included) and includes decadent delicacies with alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Advance reservations are recommended and can be made up to 90 days in advance by calling 407-WDW-DINE or online at Disneyworld.com/Dine. A separate ticket admission to Disney’s Hollywood Studios is required.
Club Villain provides a spellbinding evening for you to enjoy fiendish concoctions from the Potions Bar, savor culinary delights from New Orleans and beyond, mingle with the villains and dance the night away!
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
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Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular Dessert Party at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
STAR WARS: A GALACTIC SPECTACULAR DESSERT PARTY AT DISNEY’S HOLLYWOOD STUDIOS
After enjoying an assortment of sweets — including themed cupcakes, cookies and brownies and a selection of savory snacks including cheese and flatbread and dip (as well as alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages) — you'll be escorted to a VIP viewing area for the Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular.
Dessert party check-in takes place in front of Star Wars Launch Bay, located in the Animation Courtyard at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Check in begins at 7:30 p.m., and Guests can enter the party at 8:15 p.m.
The cost for Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular Dessert Party is $69 for adults, $39 for children age 3-9. Admission to Disney’s Hollywood Studios is required to attend, and is not included in the price of Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular Dessert Party.
Darren Wittko - Specializes in Disney Destinations with Magical Vacations Travel.
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.
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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
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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!
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
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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.
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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
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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