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5/30/2023 • Blog, Walt Disney World •
Did you know that Disney is more than theme parks and cruises? Disney has beach destinations in Vero Beach, FL, Hilton Head Island, SC and Aulani in Ko Olina, HI. After spending a few days in the parks, my family looks forward to some time relaxing and a little beach time. Disney’s Vero Beach Resort is heaven on earth. It is perfect for a getaway or adding on a few days before or after a Walt Disney World Park vacation or a Disney Cruise Line vacation. Vero Beach is a 2-hour drive from Orlando and 1 ½ hours from Port Canaveral cruise port. There are multiple places tucked away to enjoy a good book, a cocktail or just a nap. You will find rocking chairs, hammocks, and lounge chairs throughout the resort enjoy the sea breeze and the ocean view. To end the evening, you can join other families beside […]
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5/9/2023 • Blog, Walt Disney World •
After five long years of anticipation, Magic Kingdom’s newest attraction is finally open! Tron Lightcycle Run is a fast-paced coaster that launches you right into the grid on a motorcycle-type ride vehicle. How to Ride There are currently only two ways to ride this attraction: Virtual queue or Individual Lightning Lane. There is a 7 am and 1 pm virtual queue available and one additional 6 pm virtual queue for guests staying at a deluxe Walt Disney World Resort. Tips for Joining the Virtual Queue: · Log in to the My Disney Experience app and select Join Virtual Queue from the home screen. · Disable the wi-fi and use your phone’s data. · Select your party BEFORE 7 am. · Start hitting refresh at 6:59 am until you are accepted in the virtual queue and assigned a boarding group. It’s not unusual for the virtual queue to fill up within […]
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9/17/2024 • Blog, Universal Studios •
Do you have a Jurassic Park fan in your family? I have two in mine. If you love the movies like we do, visiting Universal's Islands of Adventure is a must. Inside the Jurassic Park area you will find 4 quick service restaurants, shops, and several attractions including 3 rides. The three rides within this area are perfectly themed. First is the classic Jurassic Park River Adventure being a water ride that takes you through the original story line, with an 85-foot drop at the end. You must be at least 42 inches to ride. Second is Pteranodon Flyers. This attraction takes guests in the air suspended from the wings of a Pteranodon. You must be between 36 and 56 inches to enjoy this attraction, however for those guests under 48 inches an adult is allowed to ride with them. The third and newest ride in this area is the […]
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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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