• Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer
MousePlanet – your resource for all things Disney

MousePlanet - your resource for all things Disney

You are here: Home / Walt Disney World Resort Update / Walt Disney World Resort Update

Walt Disney World Resort Update

April 15, 2014 by Marie Rossiter

Update for April 15 – 21, 2014

Go directly to: News & Views | Join our Networks | Resort Events | Refurbishments and Attraction Closures | Discounts and Promotions | Comments

News and Views

New Ultimate Star Wars Weekends VIP tour announced | Star Wars D–Tech Me to offer new, personalized merchandise | “Epcot After-Hours Wind Down”–Hours begins April 17 | Disney offers two new looks at Seven Dwarfs Mine Train | ESPN Wide World of Sports to host Disney Trading Night | Earth Day celebrations coming to Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Epcot | Snapshots from around “the world” | This week at the Epcot Flower & Garden Festival | Quick takes | Crowd update

New Ultimate Star Wars Weekends VIP tour announced

Disney's Hollywood Studios Star Wars Weekends will introduce an ultimate day filled with the most sought after services and experiences for fans of all ages.

The Ultimate Star Wars Weekends VIP Tour provide visitors with exclusive opportunities for shopping, special event reserved seating, VIP access to rides and attractions, and more,  including:

  • Best seats in the house for shows at the Premiere Theater, including Stars of the Saga.
  • Expedited access to attractions, including Star Tours – The Adventures Continue, Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith, Toy Story Mania, and more.
  • Private continental breakfast at the Hollywood Brown Derby.
  • Reserved location to see the Legends of the Force Motorcade.
  • Table-service lunch inside Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
  • Shopping time at Darth’s Mall.

The new Ultimate Star Wars Weekends VIP Tour, beginning May, gives fans an unforgettable day-long experience that includes two meals, reserved seating for special events, and VIP ride access. Photo by Brian Bennett.

Once the VIP guides conclude the tour, participants have some free time to tour the park before the “perfect end” to the day, which includes VIP viewing and a dessert party for the new Symphony of the Stars fireworks show. Some other surprises may be included along the way.

The tour groups are limited to no more than 40 people, and the guided part of the tour ends around 4 p.m.

The tour costs $499 per person. plus tax, but does not include the cost of theme park admission. In comparison, a normal park VIP costs $355 per hour, with a minimum of six hours ($2,130).  The seven-hour Ultimate Star Wars Weekend VIP tour would cost a family of four $1,996 (before taxes), and includes two meals and the dessert buffet. 

Call (407) 934-7973 to reserve a space beginning Friday, April 11 at 9:00 a.m. EDT  

[Pricing and entertainment subject to change.]

Star Wars D–Tech Me to offer new, personalized merchandise

Disney Parks Blog announced last week that Star Wars Weekends visitors will have some new, personalized merchandise options at the Star Wars D-Tech Me experience, located in Soundstage 1 between Studio Backlot Tour and Toy Story Midway Mania.

This reservation-only experience provides visitors a chance to purchase Star Wars figurines made with their own faces. A high resolution, single-shot 3D face scanner captures the image, which is then sent to a high resolution 3D printer to create the souvenir.

New merchandise for Star Wars D-Tech Me offers visitors new options for personalized merchandise, such as the Alderaan Princess and X-Wing Pilot. Photo by Disney Parks Blog.

Last year, seven-inch figurines Carbon-Freeze Me and Stormtrooper launched the high-tech merchandise event. This year, Alderaan Princess and X-Wing Pilot join the “casted” characters.

D-Tech Me is also offer a 16-inch figuring for those looking to upsize their experience.

The seven-inch Star Wars D-Tech Me figurines are $99.95 each, plus shipping and handling and applicable sales tax. The 16-inch figurines are $1,499.95, plus shipping and applicable sales tax. All participants receive a specially designed button. Completed figures should arrive within seven to eight weeks after the experience if shipped domestically (longer for international shipping.)

Reservations are required, and you can make one by calling (407) WDW-TECH (407-939-8324). The D-Tech Me experience is only available for the general public during Star Wars Weekends dates. Anyone attending the May 15 Rebel Rendezvous event will be among the first visitors to experience D-Tech Me. Disney will send emails to registered guests with sign-up instructions. For more information on Rebel Rendezvous, visit the official Disney Parks Merchandise website.

“Epcot After-Hours Wind Down” begins April 17

Beginning April 17, 2014, Epcot visitors looking to relax and enjoy some food and drink after Illuminations: Reflections of Earth will have a variety of options to enjoy.

Disney Parks Blog announced “Epcot After-Hours Wind Down,” a reservation-only experience that allows park visitors to avoid the rush of park closing while sampling some of World Showcase's delicious dishes and beverages.

“Epcot After-Hours Wind Down” features four different dining experiences, including:

  • La Cava del Tequila, Mexico 
  • Spice Road Table, Morocco
  • Tutto Gusto, Italy
  • Rose & Crown Pub, United Kingdom

Visitors wanting to relax after Illuminations can enjoy food and drink at “Epcot After Hours Wind Down” starting April 17. Photo by Disney Parks Blog

Each location will have small bites paired with a beverage flight from 9:20 p.m. through 11 p.m. You can purchase additional beverages during the event.

“Epcot After-Hours Wind Down” begins April 17 and runs through September 15, 2014.

Cost is $35, plus tax and gratuity. Reservations are required, and can now be made by visiting the Epcot After-Hours Wind Down website, calling (407) WDW-DINE (407-939-3463), or checking in with Epcot Guest Relations for available space.

Disney offers two new looks at Seven Dwarfs Mine Train

Disney continues to ramp up the anticipation for the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train coaster opening, scheduled for sometime in May 2014, at the Magic Kingdom's New Fantasyland. 

This week, Disney released two videos to give fans a sneak peek at some of behind-the-scenes technology, as well as a digital ride-through of the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train.

In this first video, you can see some of the characters who come to life in the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train.


Disney posted a video showing some of the audio-animatronics used in the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, currently under construction in New Fantasyland at the Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World. Youtube video by Disney Parks.

You can also watch a CGI ride-through of the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train to see what the ride experience is like once the ride opens later this spring.


Disney also released this Seven Dwarfs Mine Train CGI ride-through of the coaster currently under construction in New Fantasyland at the Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World. Youtube video by Disney Parks/Yellow Shoes Creative Group.

ESPN Wide World of Sports to host Disney Trading Night

Are you a Disney pin trader or Vinylmation collector? Then you'll want to head over to the ESPN Wide World of Sports on April 22, 2014 for Disney Trading Night.

Located in the Sports Grill Restaurant area, this one-night event takes place from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. and gives trading fans a venue to meet, make friends, share collection items and even meet Disney Design Group artists.

A pin featuring Elsa from “Frozen” will be available at Disney's Trading Night on April 22 at the ESPN Wide World of Sports complex. Photo provided by Disney Parks.

The event features pins such as Elsa from Frozen (limit one per guest) and Jessica Rabbit from Who Framed Roger Rabbit.

Disney Trading Night, slated for April 22 at ESPN Wide World of Sports, will feature new Vinylmation figures including this Buzz Lightyear. Photo provided by Disney Parks.

Vinylmation highlights include Buzz Lightyear and Winnie The Pooh.

Scheduled to attend from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. to sign pins and Vinylmation figures are Disney Design Group artists Maria Clapsis, Derek Lesinski, Alex Maher, and Thomas Scott.

You need obtain an admission wristbands, distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, and merchandise is sold in the order that customers arrive. There are also purchasing limits.

Earth Day celebrations coming to Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Epcot

Disney's Animal Kingdom's Party for the Planet on April 22 is one of two Walt Disney World celebrations for Earth Day 2014. Photo by Disney Parks Blog.

Walt Disney World celebrates Earth Day on April 22, 2014 with special events at both Disney's Animal Kingdom and Epcot.

At Disney's Animal Kingdom, visitors can enjoy “Party for the Planet,” a fun, interactive experience for all ages that shows how to make backyards wildlife-friendly and discover ways to connect with and conserve wildlife. Party guests can get up-close with animals, playing games, making crafts, and other educational activities throughout the park.

The fun carries over to Rafiki's Planet Watch, where families can play a supermarket game and learn how purchases can make a significant difference for wildlife and habitats. Participants can also talk to cast members who work on conservation projects around the world, as well as enjoy a variety of nature activities. Face painters and caricature artists will also be there as part of the celebration.

Many Animal Kingdom's Earth Day activities educate visitors about Alaskan brown bears, which are featured in the upcoming Disneynature film Bears, scheduled for release this Friday, April 18. Special merchandise are available throughout the park, and, through April 30, you can buy a Safari-costumed Duffy the Disney Bear at Animal Kingdom. Disney is donate one dollar from each sale to the National Park Foundation through Disney's Worldwide Conservation Fund.

Over at Epcot, visitors can get a hands-on lesson on how to protect sea turtles at The Seas with Nemo & Friends by using a turtle extruder device, which helps sea turtles safely escape from fishing nets. Families can also learn about coral reef conservation, manatees, sharks, and other ocean creatures throughout the attraction.

The VISION House in Innoventions is a new, groundbreaking green show home exhibit where visitors learn about sustainable living through games, displays, and other activities.

For more information about Walt Disney World Earth Day 2014 celebrations, visit the Disney Parks Blog.

Snapshots from around “the World”

Each week, you can see new and exciting sights and activities throughout Walt Disney World.  We have some great shots to share with you from last week around the parks and resorts.

Magic Kingdom

Last week, the ABC morning show Good Morning America featured Walt Disney World's 50th anniversary celebration for “it's a small world”.  

International cast members from the Epcot pavilions and a children's choir sing in front of Cinderella castle as part of the ABC Good Morning America “it's a small world” 50th anniversary celebration. Photo by J. Jeff Kober.

Janice Jones shows off one of the children's costumes at “it's a small world”. Photo by J. Jeff Kober.

Preparations continue for the grand opening of the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train in Magic Kingdom's New Fantasyland.

No, it's not the dwarves coming home from work. Here, Reedy Creek emergency teams walk the attraction to become familiar with the ride and its systems. Photo by J. Jeff Kober.

Epcot

Epcot's World Showcase has a new interactive game for visitors to enjoy. The Muppet Bureau of Investigation has set up a temporary location there in search of new recruits to help solve mysteries and crimes.

Muppet Bureau of Investigation (MBI) recruits visitors to help solve one of two mysteries in World Showcase. Photo by J. Jeff Kober.

Each assignment invites guests to look for three sets of clues. This one leads you to an ornamental mask of Gonzo inside Italy. Photo by J. Jeff Kober.

Visitors complete an MBI passport with stamps received along the way and get to see where the Muppet has been arrested for deportation. Photo by J. Jeff Kober.

Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa Easter egg display

The third annual Grand Floridian Easter egg display showcases intricately decorated eggs featuring some of Disney's most popular characters.

For 18 years, Grand Floridian bakers have hand-decorated Easter eggs to display in resort restaurants. This year, the eggs are on display together for all visitors to see. Photo by J. Jeff Kober.

Nineteen cast members take three weeks creating the individual works of art. They are free to choose their design, such as these “The Little Mermaid” eggs. Photo by J. Jeff Kober.

Artists decorate eggs with edible products such as modeling chocolate, fondant, sugar floral, royal icing, and sculpted sugar art pieces. Most stand 16-20 inches tall. Photo by J. Jeff Kober.

This week at the Epcot Flower & Garden Festival

Epcot's Flower & Garden Festival is in full bloom and there are still many demonstrations, concerts and food booths to enjoy through mid-May. Our guide can help you find the everything the festival has to offer.

Tour information:

  • The Gardens of the World Tour –  is a three-hour tour led by a Disney Horticulturist. Theme park admission required and not included. Tickets are $64 per person, plus tax, and guests must be age 16 and up. Call 407-WDW-TOUR to make reservations, or check at Epcot Guest Relations for availability.
  • The English Tea Garden Tour  – is a no-cost 20-minute tour presented by Twinings of London. Sign up at the Tea Caddy. Space is limited.
Activity Time Location

Tuesday, April 15

   

Gardens of the World Tour

9:00 a.m. to noon

Epcot

“Gardening in Miniature – Small Trees and Plants that Work presented by Janit Calvo”

Noon

Designer's Stage

“Planting Pointers”

1:00, 4:00 p.m.

Festival Center

“Gardening in Miniature – How to Build a Garden that Lasts presented by Janit Calvo”

3:00 p.m.

Designer's Stage

English Tea Garden Tour

3:45, 6:15 p.m.

Tea Caddy

Wednesday, April 16    

“Gardening in Miniature – Small Trees and Plants That Work presented by Janit Calvo”

Noon

Designer's Stage

“Planting Pointers”

1:00, 4:00 p.m.

Festival Center

“Gardening in Miniature – How to Build a Garden That Lasts presented by Janit Calvo”

3:00 p.m.

Designer's Stage

English Tea Garden Tour

3:45, 6:15 p.m.

Tea Caddy

Thursday, April 17    

Gardens of the World Tour

9:00 a.m. to noon

Epcot

“Gardening in Miniature – Small Trees and Plants That Work presented by Janit Calvo”

Noon.

Designer's Stage

“Planting Pointers”

1:00, 4:00 p.m.

Festival Center

“Gardening in Miniature – How to Build a Garden That Lasts presented by Janit Calvo”

3:00 p.m.

Designer's Stage

English Tea Garden Tour

3:45,  6:15 p.m.

Tea Caddy

Friday, April 18    

Gardens of the World Tour

9:00 a.m. to noon

Epcot

“Shrub care presented by Homer Green and Jim Charlton”

11:00 a.m., 2:00 p.m.

Greenhouse Stage

“Planting Pointers”

1:00, 4:00 p.m.

Festival Center

John Gidding from Curb Appeal

Noon, 3:00 p.m.

Designer's Stage

English Tea Garden Tour

1:00, 3:45,  6:15 p.m.

Tea Caddy

Flower Power Concert Series: The Grass Roots

5:30, 6:45, 8:00 p.m.

American Gardens Theater

Saturday, April 19    

“Beyond Baskets presented by Linda Holland”

11:00 a.m.; 2:00 p.m.

Greenhouse Stage

“Planting Pointers”

1:00, 4:00 p.m.

Festival Center

John Gidding from Curb Appeal

Noon, 3:00

Designer's Stage

English Tea Garden Tour

1:00, 3:45, 6:15 p.m.

Tea Caddy

Flower Power Concert Series: The Grass Roots

5:30, 6:45, 8:00 p.m.

American Gardens Theater

Sunday, April 20    

“Horticulture Heritage presented by Debbie Mola and Eric Williams”

11:00 a.m., 2:00 p.m.

Greenhouse Stage

“Planting Pointers”

1:00, 4:00 p.m.

Festival Center

John Gidding from Curb Appeal

Noon, 3:00 p.m.

Designer's Stage

English Tea Garden Tour

1:00, 3:45,  6:15 p.m.

Tea Caddy

Flower Power Concert Series: The Grass Roots

5:30, 6:45,  8:00 p.m.

American Gardens Theater

Monday, April 21    

Gardens of the World Tour

9:00 a.m. to noon

Epcot

“Monarch Butterflies and Their Migration presented by Jaret Daniels”

Noon, 3:00 p.m..

Designer's Stage

“Planting Pointers”

1:00, 4:00 p.m.

Festival Center

English Tea Garden Tour

3:45, 6:15 p.m.

Tea Caddy

Quick takes…

…On April 20, 2014, the Elsa and Anna meet and greet will move from the Norway pavilion in Epcot's World Showcase over to Magic Kingdom's Fairytale Princess Hall in New Fantasyland. Reservations for this meet and greet can be made by visiting the Fastpass+ page on the official Walt Disney World website.

…You can enter to win a trip to the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin resorts by entering the Express Your Peepsonality Sweepstakes. The grand prize is a trip for four to the Swan and Dolphin including airfare, accommodations, round-trip transportation to and from Orlando International Airport, four 4-day park hopper tickets, and a $200 gift certificate to cover food and other expenses. Visit the Express Your Peepsonality Sweepstakes website for full details on the entry process. Entry deadline is April 30, 2014.

…Disney Parks launched a new Smart TV app to help people find park news and travel planning information. The Disney Parks Smart TV app will allow visitors to access Disney Parks videos, including information on special events, behind-the-scenes content and more; interactive theme park maps; photo galleries; trivia and fun facts about Disney Parks and highlights from Disney Parks-related official Instagram, Facebook and Twitter accounts. The Disney Parks Smart TV app is currently avaiable for Samsung smart TVs and will soon be available for LG Smart Tvs and Blu-ray players.

The MousePlanet Newsletter is here!

The newsletter contains a recap of the week's articles (in case you miss a day), news that may have developed since the weekly Updates were published, and tips about what's happening at the Disney theme parks for the coming weekend. We'll also include a fun MouseAdventure bonus, such as an Eye Spy or a trivia question. To subscribe to our free newsletter, just enter your e-mail in the box below.

Join the MousePlanet Newsletter
E-mail:

 border=

 

We are looking for you!

Do you write or blog about Walt Disney World or Disney-related topics? Do you have a Disney-related YouTube channel or independent website? If so, we want to meet you. MousePlanet is looking for established writers to cover new areas of the Disney universe, including the international Parks and Resorts.

If you are interested in learning how your blog or site can work with MousePlanet, or you have an idea for a great new column, please contact us—we'd love to hear from you!

Crowd Forecast

Advertisement

“Do more. Wait less.”

Large crowds are expected this week at Walt Disney World. Touringplans.com can help you avoid falling into the typical tourist pitfalls, and will help you avoid the dreaded tour groups with our per-park Crowd Calendar, Lines – Mobile Wait Times App that gives access to current and estimated wait times for attractions, and Touring Plans detailing the best plan of attack for hitting the attractions. Now, more than ever, it's a good time to subscribe to TouringPlans.com to plan your strategy to avoid the crowds!

Below are the predicted resort-wide crowd numbers for select days generated by the TouringPlans professional statisticians as measured for the upcoming week. For the access to the full year and per-park crowd level predictions, visit our Crowd Calendar.

Date Overall
Tuesday, April 15, 2014 9 / 10
Wednesday, April 16, 2014 9 / 10
Thursday, April 17, 2014 9 / 10
Friday, April 18, 2014 9 / 10



 

Check out the Disney World Park Crowd Levels page on TouringPlans.com for park-specific predictions and recommendations on which days to visit and avoid particular parks!

  • Saturday is the best day to visit the Magic Kingdom.
  • The resort crowd level on Friday 7 out of 10.
  • Following a Touring Plan is important when crowd levels spike at the park you're visiting!

 class=

Join our networks

Facebook

MousePlanet
 height=
MouseAdventure
 height=

Twitter

  • Follow MousePlanet on Twitter@MousePlanet
  • Follow MouseAdventure on Twitter@MouseAdventure
  • Follow MPMark on Twitter@MPMark
    (Mark Goldhaber)
  • Follow MousePlanetAVP on Twitter@MousePlanetAVP
    (Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix)
  • Follow MPSteven on Twitter@MPSteven
    (Steven Ng)
  • Follow MPStephanie on Twitter@MPStephanie
    (Stephanie Wien)
  • Follow MousePlanetJeff on Twitter@MousePlanetJeff
    (Jeff Kober)
  • Follow MPMox on Twitter@MPMox
    (Jeffry Moxley)
  • Follow MPAdrienneK on Twitter@MPAdrienneK
    (Adrienne Krock)
  • Follow MPDocKrock on Twitter@MPDocKrock
    (Kevin Krock)
  • Follow MPLaniT on Twitter@MPLaniT
    (Lani Teshima)
  • Follow MousePlanetJen on Twitter@MousePlanetJen
    (Jennifer Rich)


Don't keep it to yourself! Send us your news tips, rumors, and comments. Email Stephanie here.
Talk about these stories and more on our Walt Disney World discussion forum here.

Resort Events

2014

  • Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival – March 5 through May 18
  • Epcot EGG-stravaganza – April 10–20
  • Epcot After-Hours Wind Down – April 17 through September 15. Epcot, World Showcase. (reservations required)
  • Easter services at Walt Disney World – April 20.  Fantasia Ballroom of Disney's Contemporary Resort.

    • Catholic Mass: 8:00 a.m.
    • Protestant Service: 9:00 a.m.
    • Catholic Mass: 10:15 a.m.

    Parking at the Contemporary Resort will be restricted to guests with hotel reservations only, and all others must take Disney transportation to reach the Contemporary Resort. Guests staying at a hotel on the Monorail line (Grand Floridian or Polynesian Resorts), or who will park at the Transportation and Ticketing center can take the Resort Monorail to the Contemporary Resort. All other resort guests can take a bus from their Walt Disney World hotel to the Magic Kingdom, and from there transfer to a shuttle bus to the Contemporary Resort.

  • Earth Day 2014 Celebrations – April 22. Disney's Animal Kingdom and Epcot.
  • Disney Trading Night – April 22. 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. ESPN Wide World of Sports.
  • Seven Dwarfs Mine Train media event – April 30 through May 2. This may indicate the ride will open to the public May 1 or 2.
  • Expedition Everest Challenge – May 3
  • Perfect Petals Brunch featuring the Disney Collection by Vera Bradley– May 4
  • Star Wars Weekends Rebel Rendezvous – May 15
  • Star Wars Weekends

    • Weekend I: May 16–18
    • Weekend II: May 23–25
    • Weekend III: May 30 to June 1
    • Weekend IV: June 6–8
    • Weekend V: June 13–15
  • Car Masters Weekend – June 14–15 in Downtown Disney.
  • Disney Trade Celebration Imagination Gala September 5–7 at Epcot
  • Epcot International Food and Wine Festival – September 19 through November 10
  • Disney's Night of Joy 2014 – September 5–6.
  • Disney Fit Challenge – September 26–28. Registration opens Tuesday, March 18. More information on the Disney Sports website.
  • Twilight Zone Tower of Terror 10-Miler Weekend – October 3–4
  • Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic – October 31 and November 1. Tickets and packages now on sale.
  • Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend – November 7–8
  • Destination D: Attraction Rewind – November 22–23. Additional details expected to be released this spring. The event was originally announced for July 26–27, but was rescheduled.
  • Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party – 2014 event dates not yet announced.
  • Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party – 2014 event dates not yet announced.

2015

  • Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend – January 7–11, 2015.
  • Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend – February 19–22, 2015.

runDisney events

If you participate in (or are considering signing up for) runDisney events, visit our Team MousePlanet forum on the MousePad discussion board, where you can join our community of health-minded readers and staff.

2014

  • Expedition Everest Challenge – May 3
  • Twilight Zone Tower of Terror 10-Miler Weekend – October 3–4
  • Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend – November 7–8

2015

  • Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend – January 7–11, 2015. Registration opens April 22, 2014.
  • Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend – February 19–22, 2015. Registration opens July 15, 2014. No additional details available at this time.

For current information on registration dates and capacity, see Lorree Tachell's runDisney Race Capacity Updates in the Team MousePlanet forum.


Refurbishments and Attraction Closures

Magic Kingdom

  • Pirates of the Caribbean – closed April 28 through May 1 for refurbishment.
  • Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover – closed May 3 through June 30 for refurbishment.
  • Astro Orbiter – closed May 3 through August 20 for refurbishment.

Epcot

  • No known refurbishments at this time.

Disney's Hollywood Studios

  • No known refurbishments at this time.

Disney's Animal Kingdom

  • Festival of the Lion King – closed for move to its new theater, currently under construction. Estimated to be closed until July/August 2014.

Resorts

As reported in July, some refrigerators in non-Disney Vacation Club rooms at Walt Disney World are being replaced due to a product defect. All Walt Disney World Resort rooms with the exception of DVC Villas, the family suites at the Art of Animation and All-Star Movie resorts, and the cabins at Fort Wilderness are impacted. Disney says “the schedule for replacing the refrigerators at these Resorts is expected to last several months.”

In the interim, if you have a reservation at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel and need a refrigerator for medical reasons, we recommend contacting your resort directly to inquire about availability during your trip. The hotel should be able to arrange for one if your room does not yet have a new refrigerator, but supplies may be limited while they work to replace all of the malfunctioning units.

  • Polynesian – Never Land Club Children's Activity Center closed for refurbishment through January 1, 2015.
  • Polynesian – Refurbishment of the lobby is slated to begin March 14.
  • Polynesian – Captain Cook's closed for refurbishment March 14 through June 14.

Water Parks

  • No known refurbishments at this time.

Elsewhere

  • The Resort and Express monorail beam closes between 11:30 a.m. and 7 p.m. Monday – Friday starting on January 21 due to construction work at the Polynesian Hotel. The construction site is near the Monorail beam.
  • Disney Osprey Ridge Golf Course – permanently closed to play.
  • Downtown Disney Lots H, I, J, and K (in Westside area) closed until further notice for Disney Springs construction.
  • Downtown Disney Bridge 4 and restrooms on Pleasure Island are temporarily closed for ongoing construction work.
  • Cirque du Soleil La Nouba – performs Tuesdays through Saturdays.

Current Discounts & Promotions

Note: MousePlanet does not edit past Updates to reflect price increases; for up-to-date prices, check the most recent Walt Disney World Resort Update. For your convenience, we have grouped the discount offers based on the intended audience. Check out the category that best matches you, and pick the offer that works best for you. And keep those tips coming—let us know if you find a better or different offer, so we can share it with other readers!

Discounts for Everyone

Save up to 35%* on rooms at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels

Disney released a number of summer travel discounts covering arrivals between June 15 and August 28, 2014. They are tiered by resort and length of stay, with a 5% bonus for stays of 6 nights or longer

Offer Details:

 

  • Save from 30 percent (for 1–5 nights) to 35 percent (for 6+ nights) at Disney's Yacht and Beach Club Resorts, Disney's BoardWalk Inn & Villas, Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge (standard/pool view rooms), Disney's Polynesian Resort, Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa, Disney's Old Key West Resort, Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, and Disney's Wilderness Lodge (standard/woods view)
  • Save from to 20 percent (for 1&ndah;5 nights) to 25 percent (for 6+ nights) at Disney's Coronado Springs Resort, Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort, Disney's Port Orleans – Riverside,Disney's Fort Wilderness Cabins, Disney's Contemporary Resort, Disney's Beach Club Resort Villas, Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge (savanna/club rooms) & Villas, and Disney's Wilderness Lodge (courtyard/club rooms) & Villas
  • Save up from 15 percent (for 1–5 nights) to 20 percent (for 6+ nights) at Disney's All-Star Sports Resort, Disney's All-Star Music and Disney's Pop Century Resort
  • Save from 10 percent (for 1–5 nights) to 15 percent (for 6+ nights) at Disney's Art of Animation Family Suites

 


Memory Maker pre-arrival discount

Disney's PhotoPass service provides a discount on Disney Memory Maker pre-arrival packages. For $149 plus tax, Walt Disney World guests will be able to digitally download any photos associated with their Memory Maker account, including photos taken on attractions. The advanced purchase price is a $50 savings. Applicable taxes are charged to all orders.

This special offer is only available from this link, and must be made more than three days prior to arrival at the Walt Disney World Resort. All sales are final, and not eligible for an exchange or refund.


Discounts for Annual Passholders

Room discounts through April 12, 2014

Annual passholders enjoy a discount of up to 37 percent off regular room rates at select Deluxe and Deluxe Villa Resorts March 14–29. Advance reservations required; other discounts available during this time period. Must book before April 12.

As with all discounts, rooms available at these rates are limited, and minimum length-of-stay requirements may apply for Friday or Saturday arrivals. No group rates or other discounts apply. Campsites, three-bedroom Grand Villas, and standard rooms at Disney's Art of Animation Resort are not included. Discounts vary by accommodation type and date, and availability varies by date. Moderate and Deluxe Resort suites may be available at a lower discount—check with your travel agent. Full details on the offer website (annual passholder login required).

You can make your reservation through the Walt Disney World website or by calling (407) 939-7926 or your favorite travel agent. MousePlanet's preferred Disney travel providers are MouseEarVacations.com (link), Small World Vacations (link) and Get Away Today (link).

From March 6–13 (Spring Break travel):

  • Up to 20% off Value Resorts – Disney's All-Star Music, All-Star Sports, Pop Century.
  • Up to 25% off Moderate Resorts – Disney's Port Orleans Riverside, Coronado Springs, Caribbean Beach, the Cabins at Fort Wilderness.
  • Up to 35% off Deluxe Resorts – Disney's Yacht Club, Beach Club, BoardWalk Inn, Animal Kingdom Lodge (standard or pool view), Contemporary, Polynesian Resort, Grand Floridian, Wilderness Lodge (standard or woods view).
  • Up to 35% off Disney Vacation Club (Deluxe Villa) Resorts – Disney's Old Key West, BoardWalk Villas, Beach Club Villas, Saratoga Springs

From March 14–29:

  • Up to 25% off Value Resorts – Disney's All-Star Music, All-Star Sports, Pop Century.
  • Up to 30% off Moderate Resorts – Disney's Port Orleans Riverside, Coronado Springs, Caribbean Beach, the Cabins at Fort Wilderness.
  • Up to 37% off Deluxe Resorts – Disney's Yacht Club, Beach Club, BoardWalk Inn, Animal Kingdom Lodge (standard or pool view), Contemporary, Polynesian Resort, Grand Floridian, Wilderness Lodge (standard or woods view).
  • Up to 37% off Disney Vacation Club (Deluxe Villa) Resorts – Disney's Old Key West, BoardWalk Villas, Beach Club Villas, Saratoga Springs

Check with a travel agent or Walt Disney World for other rate discounts during this time period.


Discounts for Disney Rewards VISA & Debit Card Holders

Room and ticket discount for travel dates from February 24 through June 15

No discounts available March 6–14 and April 13–19. Buy a minimum four day ticket and get a day free.

Room discounts include:

  • 5% off All Star Movies, Port Orleans French Quarter, Bay Lake Tower, suites at Coronado Springs
  • 15% off Art of Animation family suites
  • 20% off select rooms at Wilderness Lodge & Villas, Contemporary, Grand Floridian and Animal Kingdom Lodge & Villas, Beach Club Villas
  • 25% off Caribbean Beach, Coronado Springs, Port Orleans Riverside, Cabins at Ft Wilderness
  • 30% off Saratoga Springs, Old Key West, Boardwalk Villas, Wilderness Lodge, Beach Club, Yacht Club, Polynesian Resort, Animal Kingdom Lodge

20% off select guided tours

Disney Visa cardholders receive 20% off the non-discounted price of selected guided tours for up to 10 people. The cardholder must participate in the tour, and pay with a Disney's Visa Card and/or Disney Rewards Redemption Card. Tours included:

  • Magic Kingdom Park

    • Disney's Family Magic Tour
    • Disney's Keys to the Kingdom Tour
    • Disney's The Magic Behind Our Steam Trains Tour
    • Walt Disney: Marceline to Magic Kingdom Tour
  • Epcot

    • Gardens of the World (offered seasonally)
    • The UnDISCOVERed Future World
    • Disney's Dolphins in Depth
    • Epcot DiveQuest
    • Epcot Seas Aqua Tours
    • Epcot Behind the Seeds (15% discount)
  • Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park

    • Wild by Design
    • Backstage Safari
  • Multiple Theme Parks and Backstage Areas

    • Backstage Magic
    • Disney's Holiday D-Lights (offered seasonally)
    • Disney's Yuletide Fantasy (offered seasonally)

10% off select restaurants

Disney Visa cardholders receive 10% off the check when you pay with a Disney's Visa Card and/or Disney Rewards Redemption Card (be sure to request the discount). Discount excludes alcohol.

  • Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge – Sanaa (Lunch)
  • Disney's Contemporary Resort – The Wave (Breakfast and Lunch)
  • Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground – Trail's End Restaurant (Breakfast and Lunch)
  • Disney's Old Key West Resort – Olivia's Café (Breakfast and Lunch)
  • Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa – Turf Club (Lunch)
  • Disney's Wilderness Lodge – Whispering Canyon Café (Lunch)
  • Disney's Yacht Club Resort – Captain's Grill (Breakfast and Lunch)

10% off merchandise

Disney Visa cardholders receive 10% off at participating Disney-owned retail location when you spend a minimum of $50 and pay with a Disney's Visa Card and/or Disney Rewards Redemption Card (be sure to request the discount). Read all of the restrictions on the Disney Visa website.


Free 5×7 character photo at a private meet and greet location at Epcot

Present your Disney's Premier Visa Card or Disney Rewards Visa Card for access to a private character meet and greet at Epcot for the cardholder and up to 5 guests. The event is hosted daily from 1pm – 7pm inside Innoventions West at Epcot. You'll receive one free 5 x 7 character photo per day.


Discounts for Florida Residents

Room discounts through April 8, 2014

Florida residents enjoy a discount of up to 37 percent off regular room rates at select Deluxe and Deluxe Villa Resorts from March 14 to 29, 2014. Advance reservations required; other discounts available during this time period. Must book before April 8.

As with all discounts, rooms available at these rates are limited, and minimum length-of-stay requirements may apply for Friday or Saturday arrivals. No group rates or other discounts apply. Campsites, three-bedroom Grand Villas, and standard rooms at Disney's Art of Animation Resort are not included. Discounts vary by accommodation type and date, and availability varies by date. Moderate and Deluxe Resort suites may be available at a lower discount—check with your travel agent. Full details on the offer website.

You can make your reservation through the Walt Disney World website or by calling (407) 939-7926 or your favorite travel agent. MousePlanet's preferred Disney travel providers are MouseEarVacations.com (link), Small World Vacations (link) and Get Away Today (link).

From March 6 to 13, 2014 (Spring Break Travel):

  • Up to 20% off Value Resorts – Disney's All-Star Music, All-Star Sports, Pop Century.
  • Up to 25% off Moderate Resorts – Disney's Port Orleans Riverside, Coronado Springs, Caribbean Beach, the Cabins at Fort Wilderness.
  • Up to 35% off Deluxe Resorts – Disney's Yacht Club, Beach Club, BoardWalk Inn, Animal Kingdom Lodge (standard or pool view), Contemporary, Polynesian Resort, Grand Floridian, Wilderness Lodge (standard or woods view).
  • Up to 35% off Disney Vacation Club (Deluxe Villa) Resorts – Disney's Old Key West, BoardWalk Villas, Beach Club Villas, Saratoga Springs

From March 14 to 29, 2014:

  • Up to 25% off Value Resorts – Disney's All-Star Music, All-Star Sports, Pop Century.
  • Up to 30% off Moderate Resorts – Disney's Port Orleans Riverside, Coronado Springs, Caribbean Beach, the Cabins at Fort Wilderness.
  • Up to 37% off Deluxe Resorts – Disney's Yacht Club, Beach Club, BoardWalk Inn, Animal Kingdom Lodge (standard or pool view), Contemporary, Polynesian Resort, Grand Floridian, Wilderness Lodge (standard or woods view).
  • Up to 37% off Disney Vacation Club (Deluxe Villa) Resorts – Disney's Old Key West, BoardWalk Villas, Beach Club Villas, Saratoga Springs

Check with a travel agent or Walt Disney World for other rate discounts during this time period.


Discounts for U.K. Residents

2014 Free Dining offer for U.K. residents

2014 Free Dining offers for U.K. residents have been released. From the information posted on the Virgin Holidays website, it appears the 2014 program offers free Quick Service Dining Plan plan when booking at a Moderate resort, and free Dining Plan when booking at Deluxe resorts, Old Key West or Saratoga Springs. There are also offers for a free $200 Disney Gift Card and/or a 14-day ticket for the price of a 7-day ticket depending on travel dates. These particular offers are valid for U.K. residents only.



Don't keep it to yourself! Send us your news tips, rumors, and comments. Email Stephanie here.

Author

  • Marie Rossiter
    Marie Rossiter

    View all posts

Filed Under: Walt Disney World Resort Update

Primary Sidebar

Categories

MousePlanet has a new home!

Welcome to the new home (and new look) of MousePlanet! We’re currently performing a long overdue replatforming of our site to utilize newer technology and provide a cleaner experience for you, our readers.

The site is still a work in progress. We know that some features are not fully operational yet, but our crackerjack team of ninja hamsters is working to bring the site back to full functionality as quickly as possible.

To sate the demands of those who can never get enough of MousePlanet, our decades of articles and park Updates are again available, but there remains work to be done, including getting many more of our images optimized and loading properly. Thanks for your support!

Ready to book your next Disney vacation?

As always, the experts at MousePlanet’s travel partner Get Away Today are ready to guide the way and help you plan the best vacation ever.

Book your travel

 

Footer

MousePlanet is your independent consumer guide to Disney travel and vacations, covering Disneyland, Walt Disney World and the Disney Cruise Line. Look to MousePlanet for daily news, weekly theme park updates, and detailed travel and resort guides for your favorite Disney destinations. As with any endeavor of this size and complexity, we couldn't hope to succeed without the assistance of our readers. We encourage you to submit news, updates and feedback from your Disney travels.

  • Facebook
  • X
  • YouTube
  • Instagram
  • About MousePlanet
  • Contact Us
  • Privacy Policy

MousePlanet is not associated in any official way with the Walt Disney Company, its subsidiaries. or its affiliates. The official Disney site is available at www.disney.com. This MousePlanet Web site provides independent news articles, commentary, editorials, reviews. and guides about the Walt Disney Co. All information on this site is subject to change. Please contact destinations in advance to confirm the most up-to-date information.

Copyright © 2025 Mouseplanet.com ยท Log in