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10/24/2025 • Blog, Reviews, Universal Studios Orlando •
If you love grilled food and are hoping for a great one during your next Universal Orlando vacation, look no further than Bigfire. Located in Universal Citywalk, Big Fire is home to all things cooked over an open flame, and just a short walk from either of the two theme parks. My husband and I love a steak, so we knew we had to give this a try on our most recent trip. We were seated upstairs near a faux fireplace. Luckily it didn't give off any real heat as we were hot from the Florida sunshine. We began our meal with the hearth oven baked bread. This bread is served with an herbed butter and peach preserves. We also tried the wood charred brussels sprouts. I love brussels sprouts and these did not disappoint. They are served over a toasted almond puree which added a nice contrast in texture. […]
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10/23/2025 • Blog, Tips, Walt Disney World •
12 EPCOT Photo Locations You Need to Visit! EPCOT is full of amazing locations to capture fantastic memories for your family photo album or your social media accounts. While some are easy to identify, like Spaceship Earth, there are many hidden gems throughout the park that make spectacular backdrops for your vacation photos. Checkout these 12 photo spots on your next visit to Epcot! 1. Spaceship Earth - The icon of this park, Spaceship Earth can be seen and photographed in various locations in the park due to its size (It's 180 feet tall!!). With themed garden beds as you enter the park, this always makes this location a "must do" on any visit to Epcot. Plan to get pictures both during the day and night as it twinkles and changes colors at night. 2. Bubble Gum Wall (#bubblegumwall) - This location continues to be a trend for park goers and their photos! […]
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![Taking a Disney Vacation with Grandchildren – Where Should We Go?]()
10/15/2025 • Adventures by Disney, Aulani, Blog, Cruises, Disneyland, Walt Disney World •
You know you want to travel with your grandchildren (and maybe their parents!) on a Disney vacation, but which Disney destination is going to fit your family’s personality best? From Walt Disney World in Florida, to Disneyland in California, from Disney’s Aulani Resort & Spa in Hawaii to the Disney Cruise Line, and even Adventures by Disney trips around the globe—each option has something magical to offer for multigenerational families. The key is to match the experience to your family’s travel style, the ages of the kids, and how active you want your trip to be. Let’s explore which one fits your family best! Walt Disney World—The Ultimate Adventure for Active Families Walt Disney World is the best choice for very active grandparents with plenty of energy and time to travel. With four major theme parks (Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom) plus two water parks, you could […]
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10/7/2025 • Blog, Disneyland, Tips, Walt Disney World •
Nothing quite compares to seeing Cinderella's Castle for the very first time...except maybe seeing it through your grandchild’s eyes. That spark of wonder, the unfiltered joy, the gasp of recognition when they spot their favorite character - this is the heart of Disney magic. And as a grandparent, you have the incredible opportunity to be part of those moments, right beside them. Even the youngest guests will delight in the music, colors, and surprises around every corner, and with thoughtful planning, this trip can become a memory they’ll remember forever - one filled with laughter, discovery, and you at the very center of it all. As someone who grew up visiting Disneyland with my grandmother, I can tell you firsthand: those trips leave a mark on your heart. Every memory of my childhood at the parks includes her whistling along to the music, chatting with the horticulturists outside "it’s a […]
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9/30/2025 • Walt Disney World •
Do you want to live like a pirate? You now have your chance in the all-new Beak and Barrel Tavern located right outside the Pirates of the Caribbean ride. This is a 45-minute immersive experience where you can enjoy a variety of specialty drinks focused on a pirate’s favorite beverage – rum. This experience does require advanced dining reservations, but note, this is not a meal. But you can order snacks off the menu, which provides 4 different options from the galley. We had the “Island Provisions” Plantain Chips, Blue Corn Tortillas, and Toasted Flatbread served with Mango Chutney, Garlic Chimichurri, Spiced Guava, and Zesty Cilantro Cream Dips, which was very good and definitely enough for 2 people as a snack. You may also not be given a seat during your experience. In fact, the location we were given was the bar, which was standing only. It worked fine for […]
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9/23/2025 • Blog, Cruises •
“I don’t think a cruise is for me…” I hear this all the time, and I get it! Maybe you picture cramped cabins, endless buffets, or being stuck in the middle of the ocean with nothing to do. But here’s the thing: a Disney Cruise is completely different from what most people imagine a cruise to be. It’s the perfect blend of relaxation, fun, and Disney magic—and it just might be your family’s favorite vacation ever. Here’s why a Disney Cruise is truly the perfect fit for every family, even if you’ve never cruised before. 1. It’s All-Inclusive and Stress-Free From the moment you step onboard, nearly everything is included: • Incredible meals at themed restaurants • Unlimited soft drinks, coffee, and even 24-hour room service • Broadway-caliber live shows • Kids’ clubs packed with immersive activities • Deck parties, character meet-and-greets, and nightly entertainment Instead of planning every detail […]
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9/16/2025 • Blog, Disneyland, Reviews •
As a frequent visitor to the Disneyland Resort, I’ve had the chance to dine at nearly every location across the property, from character breakfasts and seasonal experiences to signature dining and everything in between. I have to say, during my most recent visit, Great Maple at Pixar Place Hotel truly surprised me…in the best way possible. Located inside the newly reimagined Pixar Place Hotel, Great Maple is a stylish and modern American eatery that strikes just the right balance between comfort food and culinary creativity. It's a convenient stop for guests staying at any of Disneyland's three resort properties or guests venturing out in the Downtown Disney District. The Standout Meal of the Week I was previously invited to a tasting session of the entire menu, and I was both thrilled and impressed with the flavors of everything from the appetizers to their signature doughnuts. I returned recently for a […]
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9/13/2025 • Tips •
REAL ID: Are You Ready for Your Next Adventure? ✅ Domestic flights: REAL ID license/ID or valid passport. ✅ International flights: Passport required; REAL ID won’t get you on an international flight. ✅ Kids under 18: No ID needed with an adult (domestic). REAL ID in effect since May 7, 2025. As of May 7, 2025, travelers 18+ must have a REAL ID–compliant license/ID or another acceptable ID (like a U.S. Passport) to board domestic flights in the U.S. Headed to Disneyland, Universal Orlando, or another family vacation? Get your travel documentation in order before you pack your ears and MagicBands. What is REAL ID? REAL ID is a set of federal security standards for state driver’s licenses and ID cards. It’s still your state license/ID—it just meets federal rules for flying and going to certain secure federal facilities. REAL ID cards usually have a star on the front. Do […]
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9/2/2025 • Adventures by Disney, Blog •
Imagine standing at the foot of the Acropolis in Athens, gazing up at the Parthenon as stories of gods and goddesses come alive around you. Or picture yourself strolling through Santorini, whitewashed villages cascading down cliffsides, while the sky turns pinks, and gold at sunset. This isn’t just a vacation, it’s a journey into history, culture, and indescribable beauty. Greece had always been on our dream list, and this journey turned it into a story we’ll never stop telling. We got to experience Greece through an Adventure by Disney guided tour, and it was unlike any other trip we’ve taken. Disney takes care of every detail, so you can fully be present in the magic of the destination. Athens: Walking Through Ancient History Your adventure begins in Athens, where ancient ruins and lively modern streets blend seamlessly. With Disney’s expert, friendly guides leading the way, you’ll explore the Acropolis, hear […]
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8/26/2025 • Blog, Universal Studios Orlando •
Planning a trip to Universal Orlando Resort? Keep in mind, you’ll be busy walking, riding, laughing, exploring, making memories, and working up a thirst! That’s where Universal’s refillable mug options come in handy. Whether you're staying at a Universal hotel or heading into the parks, there are ways to save on drinks and stay refreshed. Resort Refillable Mugs If you're staying at a Universal hotel, you can purchase a refillable resort mug for unlimited drinks at your hotel only. That includes soda, coffee, tea, and slushies at the resort’s self-serve stations. How it works: *Buy once, refill throughout your stay *Use only at your hotel (not in the theme parks and not at other resorts) *Great for coffee in the morning or a soda by the pool *Cost: Usually $10–$20, depending on length of stay* Park Refillable Freestyle Cups Inside the theme parks and CityWalk, you’ll find Coca-Cola Freestyle refillable […]
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