Walt Disney World Resort Update

Update for June 11 – 17, 2013

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News and Views

Registration opens for runDisney Princess Half Marathon weekend events today | Disney World introduces Segway alternative for guests with disabilities | Disney Vacation Club announces Villas at the Grand Floridian | Quick takes | Crowd update

The weekly Walt Disney World Update is now published on Tuesdays.

Registration opens today for runDisney Princess Half Marathon weekend events

Registration opens today for the runDisney Princess Half Marathon weekend events scheduled February 20–23, 2014, including the Princess Half Marathon, Enchanted 10K, Royal Family 5K and the new Glass Slipper Challenge, which combines the 10K and half marathon into a two-day competition that offers finishers a special medal. Runners looking to participate in the inaugural Glass Slipper Challenge should register as soon as possible—all available spaces filled up during the early registration period offered to annual passholders, Disney Vacation Club members, and Disney Visa cardholders, and demand for this new event is expected to be extremely strong. Registration costs are:

• Disney Princess Half Marathon
  • $160 – by August 13, 2013
  • $175 – between August 14 and November 19, 2013
  • $190 – on or after November 20, 2013
• Disney Enchanted 10K
  • $95 – by August 13, 2013
  • $110 – between August 14 and November 19, 2013
  • $125 – on or after November 20, 2013
• Glass Slipper Challenge
  • $270 – by August 13, 2013
  • $290 – between August 14 and November 19, 2013
  • $310 – on or after November 20, 2013
• Cinderella Royal Family 5K – $60 per participant
• runDisneyKids Races
  • $15 – per Kids Dash participant
  • $30 – per One Mile Run participant
• Pasta in the Park Party Tickets
  • $52  for adults ages 10 and up ($28 for children ages 3 – 9); children under 3 are free
• Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend Breakfast
  • $37.50 for adults ages 10 and up ($17.50 for dhildren ages 3 – 9); children under 3 are free
• ChEAR Squad
  • Bronze – No Charge
  • Silver – $39 per package
  • Gold – $65 per package
  • Platinum – $115 per package
• Race Retreat – $120 per participant

Starting today, runners can also take advantage of “very limited” early registration for runDisney's new Coast to Coast challenge. If you complete both the Tinker Bell Half Marathon at the Disneyland Resort and the Princess Half Marathon in Walt Disney World in 2014,wyou earn a new pink-toned Coast to Coast medal. MousePlanet contributor Lorree Tachell spoke with runDisney representatives at the Rock 'n' Roll San Diego race expo, and said the new C2C medal, “actually looks better in person than I thought it would.”

To snag a spot in the Tinker Bell Half Marathon before registration opens to the public on July 9, you must register for either the 2014 Princess Half Marathon or Glass Slipper Challenge, then on the first registration screen, scroll down to the section titled, “Tinker Bell Half Marathon – Special Promotion” and click “Yes.” This adds the 2014 Tinker Bell Half Marathon and $175 to your Princess registration.

There is also an option to purchase the commemorative Tinker Bell event pin, but not the other add-ons that are usually offered with race registration, like the commemorative necklace or Pasta in the Park party. You may need to purchase those items separately when Tinker Bell Half Marathon registration officially opens in July.

Participants who complete the new Coast to Coast Challenge in 2014 will earn a new pink-toned Coast to Coast medal. MousePlanet contributor Lorree Tachell spoke with runDisney representatives at the Rock 'n' Roll San Diego race expo, and said the new C2C medal, “actually looks better in person than I thought it would.” She also got the scoop on a question that has been bugging runners since Disney announced the new medal: is it possible for one runner to earn both version of the C2C medal in 2014, since runDisney has previously said you can only earn one Coast to Coast medal no matter how many races you run in a calendar year? Fortunately, the answer is “yes.” If you complete both the Tinker Bell and Princess Half Marathons in 2014, you'll earn the pink C2C medal. If you then also complete the 2014 Disneyland Half Marathon and any other marathon or half marathon at Walt Disney World in 2014, you will also earn the regular Coast to Coast medal.

It appears 2014 is the only year the new pink C2C medal will be offered – it's probably a “one and done.”

Disney World introduces Segway alternative for guests with disabilities

Following a years-long legal roller coaster that has included rulings, appeals, dismissals, and settlements, Walt Disney World has very quietly rolled out (pardon the pun) a small fleet of Electric Standing Vehicles (ESVs) for use in the theme parks. The rental vehicles are part of a settlement regarding the use of privately owned Segway Human Transport devices by guests with certain disabilities who prefer to use a standing mobility conveyance rather a seated electric wheelchair or scooter (electric conveyance vehicle, or ECV).

Disney successfully fought to maintain its ban on the use of such devices, which can travel up to 12 miles per hour, more than double the speed of the ECVs the company rents for use in the parks. Disney cited safety concerns about the use of the vehicles in the theme parks, despite offering guided Segway tours of Disney's California Adventure and Epcot during park hours, and allowing certain cast members to use the devices inside the theme parks.

As part of the settlement, Disney modified the standard ECV by extending the steering column, placing the storage basket on the back of the unit, and configuring the seat cushion to serve as a back rest. The four-wheeled ESV has the same “footprint” as the standard Disney scooter, travels at the same speed, uses the same toggle bar control, and has the same 450-pound weight limit.

Don't expect to see dozens of the devices rolling down Main Street, U.S.A. anytime soon. MousePlanet learned the devices were due to arrive over a month ago, but until this weekend, none of our staff had been able to find one in use in the parks. Cast members are extremely reluctant to discuss the devices, referring all inquiries to a manager. We did learn that each of the four theme parks has at least one unit (an Epcot CM said the park has two), and the rental fee is the same $50 per day, plus $20 key deposit charged for ECVs.

Magic Kingdom guest Ricardo was the operator of the ESV we spotted in the Magic Kingdom, and was happy to answer our questions about the device. He said that in order to rent Disney's ESV, he has to bring his personal Segway personal transporter to the entrance of a theme park, where security escorted him inside to the wheelchair rental counter. There, a manager was summoned to handle the transaction. Ricardo left his Segway with Disney, where it was kept in the stroller and wheelchair storeroom, and checked out the ESV.

He said the unit is much slower and more difficult to steer than his personal Segway, and that he would still prefer to use his own device, which he has customized with colored lights and music. When we met him, he was demonstrating his makeshift sound system for the ESV, using a Bluetooth-enabled portable speaker balanced on the front of the device and controlled by his iPad. Disney also prohibits amplified music in the parks, but Ricardo is clearly a regular and the Magic Kingdom manager seemed unconcerned by the personal enhancements.

The units were also reportedly delivered to Disneyland and Disney California Adventure parks, but we have yet to hear of one in use at either park.

After posting a photo of the device this weekend, many readers questioned why anyone would choose to use a Segway instead of a seated wheelchair or scooter. MousePlanet reader Lindsay Contreras is one of the thousands of people who use a Segway as a mobility aid, and explained on our Facebook page, “I have spina bifida and EDS [Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, group of inherited disorders that affect your connective tissues]. I can stand usually for a while but walking long distances is nearly impossible because it requires more muscle tone, which, due to my EDS, is impossible to accomplish because the disease depletes it. I can sit but it is not very comfortable to sit for a long period of time, [as] my legs will twitch, and my docs prefer I stand long as possible before breaks of sitting.”

What do you think of the new device? Is this another victory for visitors with disabilities, or an accident waiting to happen? Join the discussion in the comments below.

Disney Vacation Club announces the Villas at the Grand Floridian

For years, Disney Vacation Club based its marketing campaign around being the “best-kept Disney secret,” so it's somewhat ironic how much the now-obsolete slogan is when it comes to information about the newest DVC property, the Villas at the Grand Floridian Resort and Spa. Disney posted a video on Facebook on May 20 announcing that existing members could purchase points at the new property during an advance sale period starting May 23, but there seemed to be little or no other communication about the property.

A DVC owner myself, I never received an email or mailing about the pre-sale, (though I did just just receive an advertisement for the member cruise aboard the Disney Dream, so DVC certainly knows where to find me) and the property still does not appear on the official DVC website. It could be that there was an interest list for this property as there was for the smaller Grand Californian Resort, or it may just be that the ongoing makeover of the DVC member services system has something to do with the surprising lack of communication.

Regardless, current DVC members can purchase points at the new resort for $145 per point until June 18. Call your DVC guide or 888-603-4169 to for help.

An across-the-board price increase takes effect on June 19, the first day non-members can buy points at the Grand Floridian. Points for the Grand Floridian, Villas at Animal Kingdom Lodge, and Aulani (the Disney Vacation Club resort Hawai'i) increases to $150 per point. Call 888-603-4169 for help.

Quick takes…

…The final piece of track for the new Seven Dwarfs Mine Coaster Train ride in New Fantasyland was laid last week. There is still no opening date announced for the ride.

…We had the opportunity to enjoy a scoop at the new L'Artisan des Glaces Ice Cream and Sorbet Shop in Epcot's France Pavilion this weekend, though the untimely demise of a digital camera's SD card means we don't have photos to share with you just yet. The new shop replaces the former bakery, and feels so much roomier due to the removal of the entire second serving line. Instead of parallel counters, there is just one long counter with two stations, one to pay, and a second to select your flavors and receive your treat. There are 10 house-made ice cream and sorbet flavors offered daily, from classics like chocolate to less-common blends like salted caramel ice cream and pomegranate sorbet (get the lemon sorbet—trust me). Single scoops are $3.99. Adult ice cream “floats,” (two scoops of ice cream, served in a martini glass and topped with a selection of liquors), are also on the menu. We feel awful about the lack of photos, and will force ourselves to make a second trip. And maybe a third.

…Pecos Bill's in the Magic Kingdom is offering a souvenir clear plastic Lone Ranger boot filled with frozen root been for $8.99. The root beer slush is also available without the mug for $3.99, and counts as a snack credit on the Disney Dining Plan.

…Car Masters Weekend returns to Downtown Disney June 15 and 16 for Father's Day. The event is open from 9:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. both days, and features a car show, a Cars movie marathon at the AMC theater, special merchandise and autograph opportunities, and a Cars meet-and-greet with Lightning McQueen, Mater, and Finn McMissile. More details at the event website.

Crowd Forecast

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

Talk about these stories and more on our Walt Disney World discussion forum here.

Resort Events

2013

• Night of Joy – September 6–7
• Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party – September 10, 13, 17, 20, 24, 27, 29; October 3, 4, 6, 10, 11, 14, 17, 18, 20, 22, 24, 25, 27, 29, 31; and November 1.
• Epcot International Food & Wine Festival – September 27 to November 11
• Twilight Zone Tower of Terror 10-Miler Weekend – October 4–5
• EasyWDW.com reports that Disney Hollywood Studios will close at 6 p.m. on October 26 due to a private event for the American Academy of Pediatrics.
• Holiday Time at Walt Disney World – begins November 8
• Opening night for Osbourn Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights – November 8
• Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party – November 8, 11, 14, 15, 17, 21, 22; and December 1, 3, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, 13, 15, 17, 19, 20.
• Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend – November 8–9
• MouseAdventure World Explorers V – November 16–17. Keep an eye on our MouseAdventure Facebook page, and register for our MouseAdventure Newsletters for more details as they are announced.

2014

• Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend – January 9–12
• Disney's Princess Half Marathon Weekend – February 21–23

runDisney events

2013

• Twilight Zone Tower of Terror 10-Miler Weekend (October 4–5) – Registration is open for the Tower of Terror 10-Miler, Happy Haunted 5K Trail Run, Kids Races, Disney Villains Hollywood Bash.
• Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend (November 8–9) – The Wine & Dine Half Marathon is now sold out. Registration is still open for Mickey's Jingle Jungle 5K, Kids' Races, Wine & Dine Finish Line Party.

2014

• Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend (January 9–12) – Sold out: Walt Disney World Half Marathon, WDW 10K, Disney Family Fun Run 5K, Dopey Challenge, Runner's World Challenge. Registration is still open for the Walt Disney World Marathon, Goofy's Race and a Half Challenge, Family Reunion Breakfast and Pasta in the Park Party.
• Disney's Princess Half-Marathon Weekend (February 21–23) – Registration opens on Tuesday, June 11. Events include Disney's Princess Half Marathon individual and team events, Disney Royal Family 5K, Kids Races, post-5K Breakfast, and Pasta in the Park Party. runDisney has announced a special achievement for those running both the Princess and Tinker Bell half marathons.

Do 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.

Refurbishments and Attraction Closures

Magic Kingdom

• Main Street Bakery – closed through June 18 for conversion to Starbucks location. Expected to open June 19, 2013.
• Big Thunder Mountain Railroad – closed June 22 & 23 for refurbishment.
• Pirates of the Caribbean – closed June 27–30 for an “animation refurbishment.”
• Prince Charming Regal Carousel – closed August 1–21 for refurbishment.
• Liberty Belle – closed August 5–9 for refurbishment.
• Jungle Cruise – closed August 19 through September 30 for refurbishment.
• Cinderella's Royal Table – closed September 10–13 for refurbishment.
• Princess Fairytale Hall – opens 2013.
• Seven Dwarfs Mine Train – opens 2014.

Epcot

• Fountain View Ice Cream – closed through early September for conversion to Starbucks location.
• New rest room between America and Japan pavilions – scheduled to open Fall 2013.

Disney's Hollywood Studios

• Muppet*Vision 3D – closed August 6 through September 2 for refurbishment.
• Both parades (Disney Channel Rocks and Pixar Pals Countdown to Fun Parade) have ended their run. No new parades have been announced.

Animal Kingdom

• No known refurbishments.

Resorts

• All Star Movies – feature icons refurbishment through September 20.
• All Star Music
  • Feature icons refurbishment through September.
  • Billboard replacement on Broadway buildings 7 & 8 – June 7–27
  • Melody Hall guest check in parking renovation – June 13 through August 7
• All Star Sports
  • Feature icons refurbishment through September 20.
  • Soft goods replacement in guest rooms through June 7
• BoardWalk – guest parking lot renovation through June 20
• Caribbean Beach – Jamaica Village building painting and repairs through June 28
• Disney's Contemporary Resort
  • California Grill closed through late summer for refurbishment.
  • Second floor lobby wall covering replaced through June 24
  • Renovation of the 14th floor suites and concierge lounge through June 28
  • Soft goods replacement in Contemporary Tower and south Garden Wing guest rooms through July 5
  • Guest elevator renovations – through December 8
• Fort Wilderness – Bridge 80 replacement scheduled through June 3
• Disney's Grand Floridian Resort and Spa
  • Beach area closed through mid-June for refurbishment.
  • Beach pool slide was scheduled to be closed May 27 through June 1 for refurbishment, and the entire Beach pool area closed May 30 through June 1. The Courtyard pool remains open.
• Polynesian – soft goods replacement in guest rooms through October 4
• Pop Century
  • Feature icons refurbishment through October 2
  • '70s and '80s guest parking areas refurbishment June 17–28
• Port Orleans French Quarter
  • French Quarter Square brick refurbishment through June 6
  • Atrium and lobby renovation through June 23
  • Bridge and bus stop vine removal and painting through August 30
• Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa
  • Spa closed through summer for conversion to Senses – A Disney Spa at Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort. The spa at the Grand Floridian remains open during this time.
• Wilderness Lodge
  • Soft goods replacement in presidential and vice-presidential suites through June 28
  • Main building exterior repairs through August 5

Water Parks

• Typhoon Lagoon – closed October 27, 2013 through January 4, 2014 for refurbishment.

Elsewhere

• Cirque du Soleil La Nouba – performs Tuesdays through Saturdays. Will not be performed on the following dates in 2013:
  • July 23
  • September 17–21
  • November 5–6

Current Discounts & Promotions

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