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4/18/2023 • Blog, Tips, Walt Disney World •
After Hours Events at Walt Disney World offer a unique way for guests to experience the parks with special perks that aren’t available during regular operating hours. After attending the last After Hours Event at Magic Kingdom for the season, I’m here with the low-down on what to expect during these events and how to figure out if the cost is worth it for you. What are Disney After Hours Events? Disney After Hours Events are limited-capacity, special-ticketed three-hour events that occur after park closing and are offered at select parks on specific dates for a fee. No park pass reservation or additional theme park admission ticket required! Although details differ from park to park, these events provide the opportunity to experience several attractions with little to no wait, the opportunity to meet beloved characters, and enjoy unlimited snacks from cart locations throughout the parks. What happens during a Disney […]
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4/4/2023 • Reviews, Tips, Walt Disney World •
Since its opening in the Fall of 2021, a reservation at Space 220 Restaurant has been one of the more elusive Walt Disney World dining reservations to secure. But is this galactic restaurant worth the price tag? Space 220 is an immersive dining experience where you’ll be enjoying culinary delights while taking in views of the galaxy from the Centauri Space Station. When you arrive, you will be handed your boarding pass. When your group is called you will board the space elevator which will shoot you 220 miles up into space. Be sure to watch the windows below for incredible views of Florida as you rise higher and higher! Lunch and Dinner menus at Space 220 are both prix-fixe consisting of modern American cuisine. Lunch consists of an appetizer and entree. Dinner will be an appetizer, entree, and dessert. If you are looking for something lighter but still want […]
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3/17/2023 • Blog, Walt Disney World •
Did you know there is a professional photography studio at Disney Springs where you can have family and individual portraits taken? It's true! Located in the Marketplace of Disney Springs is where you'll find this not-so-hidden gem with unique backdrops and fun props. The best part is that it's free of charge if you have already purchased the Memory Maker photo package! No reservations are needed. Just stop by and get in line! My family popped in for a quick 15–20-minute session during our Disney Spring/break day and got some great shots. We arrived about 15 minutes before they opened and were second in line. By the time the studio opened, however; there were about 20 people behind us, so plan accordingly because it can get busy. Hours change daily, so be sure to check your My Disney Experience app before arriving. Even though the sessions are quick, the photographers […]
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2/28/2023 • Blog, Walt Disney World •
Planning a vacation to Walt Disney World is an exciting experience for the whole family, but it can also be stressful if you have family members who are not as enthusiastic about the trip as you are. Here are some tips on how to get everyone excited about your upcoming Walt Disney World adventure and make it a truly magical experience for everyone. Include everyone in the Planning Process Research Together Download the My Disney Experience app and view park maps, attractions, dining menus, and character meet and greets. Watch YouTube Videos Talk About Favorite Disney / Pixar / Star Wars characters and films! Is there a favorite character someone would LOVE to meet or see in a parade? If you have Star Wars fans, you’ll want to be sure to take a closer look at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios and plan for extra activities. Wish […]
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1/30/2024 • Tips, Universal Studios, Walt Disney World •
In the last 40 years, Walt Disney World has been the reason that millions of families visit Orlando each year. However, with the full Harry Potter experience and so many additions to Universal Orlando, many families want to do both, but don’t know where to start. This can get very expensive and overwhelming if you haven’t done your research. One of the questions I get asked most is “how much time do I need at Universal?” Several factors do come into play here, but I generally recommend 3:1. For people doing three days at Disney, add 1 day at Universal and for six days at Disney, add 2 days at Universal. Of course recommendations can change based on your family’s individual preferences, but it is certainly a good place to start. Another question asked frequently is “should we get tickets only or purchase a Universal package as an add on?” […]
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6/23/2023 • Blog, Reviews, Universal Studios •
Universal’s Aventura Hotel is one of Universal’s newer hotel options. It’s located between Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort and Loews Sapphire Falls Resort. It’s also within walking distance to Volcano Bay and offers views of all 3 Universal Orlando theme parks. Aventura is definitely a resort to consider when visiting Universal Orlando. Aventura is a smaller, modern resort with a lot to offer. Not only does it have standard rooms, deluxe rooms, and kids suites, but you can also upgrade to a Skyline View for breathtaking views from the highest floors of the tower building. With the upgraded view, you’ll be sure to see all of the parks from your window. It makes you feel more part of the excitement of being in the middle of it all! The food and drink offerings at Aventura are like none other. At the Urban Pantry food hall in the main lobby, you’ll […]
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11/22/2022 • Blog, Walt Disney World •
INCREDIBLE!! This is how I would describe my recent after-dark safari tour through the savannas at Animal Kingdom Lodge. It was kind of like that old cowboy song, you know...." Oh give me a home where the buffalo roam, Where the deer and the antelope play ". Okay, it’s not exactly like that, but you get where I’m going. From a giraffe who practically stuck her head inside our open-air safari vehicle, to a few zebras who had no intention of moving off our path, and the giant Ankole cattle who's only concern was finishing his dinner. My family and I were amazed at the amount of wildlife we saw during our 1-hour tour. The Starlight Safari is currently offered nightly, weather permitting, at 8:30 pm and 10:00 pm, and the cost is $75 - $89 per person, before tax. Reservations are required, and payment is due at time of […]
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11/8/2022 • Blog, Reviews, Universal Studios •
A trip to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Resort wouldn't be complete without enjoying a Butterbeer. A perfect day at Universal Studios Florida starts with a visit to Diagon Alley and a Butterbeer. We like to start our day with a ride on Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts when wait times are low due to our early access to the parks as a resort guest. Enjoying a Butterbeer at Universal is just one of the many ways to feel immersed in this magical world. Butterbeer comes in six delicious forms of tasty treats! Which version should you try? Each treat offers something unique, so the Me and The Mouse Team is here to give you a full breakdown of Butterbeer at Universal Studios and where to find it in the Wizarding World. COLD BUTTERBEER The traditional cold drink (secret recipe) is often described as a cream soda with butterscotch and shortbread flavors. It’s a sweet […]
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10/4/2022 • Tips, Walt Disney World •
We all want to share that special Disney magic with our children, but determining when is the right time to start visiting the Happiest Place on Earth can prove more complicated than a simple visit to meet Mickey Mouse. Here are some tips to help you decide if your child is ready to experience all the magic that the World of Disney has to offer! When is the right time? Everyone around you will offer differing opinions, but no one knows your child like you do. When determining if your child is ready, there are several things you should factor in: Does your little one require a nap? Do you have a schedule that is hard to stray from without major meltdowns? Does your child have any special requirements that will require extra planning or assistance? You can plan half days for playtime in the park which would accommodate naps back at the resort, or you […]
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9/20/2022 • Cruises, Walt Disney World •
Look up, look down, and pay attention to the detail created by Disney Imagineers and Cast Members because hidden surprises are around every corner. Looking for Hidden Mickeys is a fun activity and provides an opportunity to explore all the creativity the Imagineer’s put into designing Disney. They can be found throughout the resorts, parks, Disney Cruise Line, and even on some Disney products. Or, it can even be as simple as a Cast Member being creative with the placement of dinnerware on the tables at a restaurant. Our family makes a game to see who can find the most Hidden Mickeys. We noticed it forces us to slow down and truly enjoy our surroundings and appreciate the little touches of magic that goes into creating all the magic. Since there are thousands of hidden Mickey’s all over Disney World, there are enough to keep you busy to discover new […]
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