Blog Posts Categorized Walt Disney World

Beyond the Parks: Family Adventures Around Central Florida

4/22/2026 • Blog, Universal Studios Orlando, Walt Disney World • A trip to Central Florida does not have to begin and end at the theme parks. Some of the best family memories happen between the park days when everyone slows down just enough to discover a different side of Orlando. For families with young kids, tweens, and teens, adding one or two extra adventure days can bring balance to your vacation while giving everyone something new to talk about long after you get home. Here are some of our favorite family-friendly adventures outside the parks. Meet Real Florida Wildlife at Gatorland Gatorland is one of those classic Central Florida experiences […]

Disney World Arrival & Departure Day Tips

4/15/2026 • Tips, Walt Disney World • How to Make the Most of Your Arrival & Departure Days at Disney World When planning a Walt Disney World vacation, most travelers focus on their park days—but your arrival and departure days at Disney World can be just as magical. With the right planning, these “in-between” days can add extra fun and relaxation to your trip without feeling rushed. At Me and The Mouse Travel, we specialize in custom Disney vacation planning, helping families make the most of every moment—from arrival to departure. Plan Your Disney World Arrival Day Your arrival day at Disney World sets the tone for […]

Traveling on a Budget to Disney and Universal!

2/25/2026 • Tips, Universal Studios Orlando, Walt Disney World • Planning on a Budget — Disney & Universal Tips That Save Thousands Let’s bust a myth right now: You do not have to spend a fortune to take your family to Walt Disney World or Universal Orlando Resort. As a travel advisor, one of the biggest things I hear is, “We’d love to go… but it’s just too expensive.” The truth? With the right strategy, planning timeline, and ticketing approach, a magical vacation can absolutely fit into your budget. Here’s how to plan a budget-friendly Disney or Universal vacation without sacrificing the magic. 1. Start With a Clear Vacation Plan […]

2026 Walt Disney World Updates: What’s New, Refurbishments & Events

1/13/2026 • Blog, Tips, Walt Disney World • Walt Disney World is always evolving, and 2026 is shaping up to be an exciting year filled with refreshed attractions, limited-time events, and exciting glimpses into the future. While a few areas of the parks will be under refurbishment, these updates are all part of Walt Disney’s vision that the parks are never truly finished. From classic rides getting a magical refresh to brand-new entertainment and seasonal celebrations, here’s an overview of what’s happening across all four Walt Disney World theme parks in 2026. Magic Kingdom Park Magic Kingdom continues to blend timeless favorites with exciting updates in 2026. Cinderella […]

What is Jollywood Nights?

12/17/2025 • Blog, Holidays & Events, Tips, Walt Disney World • Jollywood Nights is Disney’s new after-hours holiday celebration at Hollywood Studios on select nights from early November to late December. This separately ticketed event blends old-Hollywood glamour with festive cheer, live entertainment, exclusive shows, holiday décor, fun food & drinks, characters, and even lower wait times on popular attractions. My family and I experienced Jollywood Nights this year for the first time, and we loved every minute of it! Hours: Enter as early as 5:30 PM, with the party running from 7:30 PM to 12:30 AM. Tip: Some early nights sell out — like opening night! 🎉 Festive Entertainment for […]

The Pirate’s Adventure – a Swashbuckling Treasure Hunt at Walt Disney World!

11/4/2025 • Blog, Reviews, Walt Disney World • Ahoy, mateys! Arrr ya ready to set sail on a pirate's adventure? Deep within the heart of Adventureland at the Magic Kingdom lies a treasure hunt that even Captain Jack Sparrow himself would envy - A Pirate’s Adventure: Treasures of the Seven Seas! If you’ve ever dreamed of joining a crew, following secret maps, and uncovering hidden surprises, this is your chance to live out that swashbuckling fantasy, no eye patch required. With four unique maps to choose from, each one leads you on a different quest across Adventureland. You’ll uncover clues, decipher pirate symbols, and trigger magical effects hidden […]

12 EPCOT Photo Locations You Need to Visit!

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 […]

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 […]

Through Their Eyes: 10 Magical Moments to Share with Your Grandchildren at Walt Disney World

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 […]

The Beak and Barrel – Magic Kingdom

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 […]