Walt Disney World Resort Update for February 6 – February 12, 2018
Go directly to: News & Views | Join our Networks | Resort Events | Refurbishments and Attraction Closures | Discounts and Promotions
Writer's note: Two things Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix wrote about yesterday in our Disneyland Resort Update for February 5-11, 2018, are also relevant to Walt Disney World Resort: 1) it is time for the traditional annual speculation about ticket price increases, and 2) Chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Bob Chapek announced several promotions in the executive ranks. As I know of no immediate changes relevant to guests planning vacations brought about by executives gaining new responsibilities and others gaining new direct reports or bosses, I will leave that discussion to others for now.
On the price hike speculation, it is always just a matter of time before there is another hike in ticket prices. So far, we have really nothing more than an educated guess: we know, for example: costs rise, cast and unions are negotiating new contracts, and the company is expending very large amounts of capital to build new lands and attractions. We know that Toy Story Land opens this summer and that Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge opens in 2019. You have seen us list a whole host of other things that are said to be in the works around Walt Disney World, including Epcot's promised (but unspecified) transformation to come. To paraphrase what Walt said in his famous 1966 film about the Florida Project, all of the plans may change many times between their introduction until their realization (or, in some cases, perhaps, cancellation). Of course, we know that there is always more Disney Parks will attempt to accomplish, but everything comes with a price and shareholders demand (at minimum) reasonable profit.
In other words, we may see a ticket price increase any day, and we may get no advance notice. If you are planning to visit, buy your tickets in advance. Be sure to read the rules relevant to your tickets to see how long you have to use them, of course.
With that, as we keep reporting, crowds in the parks continue to be large. This weekend, I visited a busy Epcot that reminded me of weekends during Food & Wine Festival (so, congratulations to the Festival of the Arts team). I drove past Magic Kingdom's main parking lot, and it was quite full too. Like I said last week, this time of year no longer seems to fall under the “slow season” label any more. In the not too distant future (and next up in our Update): an Incredible summer.
Only a rainy Sunday evening tempered the size of the Epcot International Festival of the Arts crowd a bit. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
News and Views
Summer 2018: Incredible | Super Bowl LII MVP Nick Foles Went to Disney World | Mobile Order Now Accepts Dining Plans | Epcot Concert News & Calendar | Views around the World | This and That | Crowd Forecast
Summer 2018: Incredible
The big announcement this week is for this coming summer's overall marketing theme. Walt Disney World Resort says it will be “an incredible summer,” and it is launching new attractions and entertainment around that theme in all four theme parks.
Like the Disney•Pixar themed focus out at Disneyland Resort, some of this summer's highlights will focus on films and characters from that part of the company. For example, at Magic Kingdom, Mr. Incredible, Elastigirl, and Frozone from Disney•Pixar's The Incredibles and upcoming Incredibles 2 will lead the “SUPER” dance parties in Tomorrowland at the Rocket Tower Stage. For the first time, Edna Mode, “the greatest superhero costume designer,” will join them. They will also appear and interact with guests throughout the land. (Incredibles 2 opens in theaters nationwide June 15, 2018.)
Walt Disney World is promoting an “Incredible Summer” in 2018. Image ©Disney
Over at Epcot, the continued introduction of the Marvel Universe will see Guardians of the Galaxy characters Star-Lord and Gamora join an alien band on the stage of the America Gardens Theatre. While their permanent installation in the former Universe of Energy building is still a few years off, this summer they will present hits from “Awesome Mixtapes 1 and 2,” some of the songs featured from the two Guardians movies' soundtracks.
Disney's Animal Kingdom celebrates its 20th anniversary on Earth Day, April 22. The celebration will continue this summer with a “dino-tastic” take over of Dinoland U.S.A. by Donald Duck along with prehistoric elements in a new character celebration. The recently closed Caravan Stage, formerly home to Flights of Wonder, will debut its new “Explorers Meet UP! A Great Bird Adventure,” where Senior Wilderness Explorer Russell and his dog friend Dug, from the Disney•Pixar film Up, discover species of birds from around the world.
Renovations continue at the Caravan Stage ahead of the opening of the new “Explorers Meet UP!” A Great Bird Adventure show expected to open in time for the park's anniversary. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
While we still do not know the exact date, we do know that Disney says that as “summer gets into full swing, the capstone of Incredible Summer at Walt Disney World” will be the opening of Toy Story Land at Disney's Hollywood Studios. The new 11-acre land takes guests into the world of Andy's backyard, and includes two brand new attractions: Slinky Dog Dash, a family-friendly coaster which will send riders dipping, dodging and dashing around turns and drops that Andy has created to stretch Slinky and his coils to the max; and Alien Swirling Saucers, a “Pizza Planet toy play set” where aliens circling about in flying saucers pul rocket ships full of guests all around “the Claw.” The existing Toy Story Mania! will be incorporated into the new land with a new entrance. Woody's Lunch Box will be the land's quick-service kiosk with meals and old-fashioned soda floats.
Construction walls appear to have been shifted around at the future entrance to Toy Story Land at Disney's Hollywood Studios. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
As summer gets closer, we expect we will learn additional details and we will pass those along. Stay tuned.
Super Bowl LII MVP Nick Foles Went to Disney World
Yesterday, Magic Kingdom carried on the Disney Parks tradition that goes back to 1987, when New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms was the first to shout “I'm going to Disney World!” during a post-championship celebration and television commercial. After the Philadelphia Eagles defeated the New England Patriots 41-33 in Super Bowl LII on Sunday night, Super Bowl MVP Nick Foles, quarterback of the Eagles, shouted the iconic phrase that, within hours, found its place into a brand new ad, and placed him on a float past Cinderella Castle and down Main Street U.S.A. at Magic Kingdom.
Within hours of the end of Super Bowl LII, Disney had its latest “What's Next?” ad completed. Video ©Disney.
The parade route was lined with many park guests wearing Eagles team jerseys and colors. Led by a row of cheerleaders, Foles rode high atop a float with Mickey Mouse dressed in his own football uniform. They were accompanied by Goofy in his football uniform and Minnie Mouse in her new cheerleader outfit, along with “referees” Chip 'n' Dale. Green and white balloons decorated the central plaza, and Foles' pass in front of Cinderella Castle included green and white confetti blasts (along with a few miniature silver Lombardi Super Bowl trophy shapes in the mix).
Cheerleaders lead the parade celebrating the Philadelphia Eagles victory in Super Bowl LII. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Mickey and friends joined Super Bowl LII MVP Nick Foles in a celebratory parade past Cinderella Castle and down Main Street U.S.A. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Super Bowl MVP Nick Foles rode high atop a float in the Magic Kingdom parade saluting the Philadelphia Eagles' Super Bowl LII victory over the New England Patriots. Video by Alan S. Dalinka.
During his brief interview live on Disney Parks Blog from atop the float Foles shouted “To be at Disney World is unbelievable.” During the game on Sunday night, Foles passed for three touchdowns and caught a fourth touchdown pass (which had never previously been done by a quarterback in Super Bowl history). His becoming MVP of Philadelphia's upset victory in the Super Bowl really does fit the theme of Disney storytelling, particularly in the Magic Kingdom: it was a fairytale of sorts since he was merely backup quarterback for most of the season and only stepped into the starter's role in December.
After his parade down Main Street U.S.A., Foles met with the media during the Disney Festival of Fantasy Parade. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Mobile Order Now Accepts Dining Plans
Since before its introduction with the opening of Satu'li Canteen in Pandora–The World of Avatar last spring, we have written about the convenience of using Mobile Order within the My Disney Experience App at quick service dining locations all around Walt Disney World Resort a number of times. Until this past week, however, the convenience was reserved only to guests paying by pre-registered credit card.
With an update to the My Disney Experience App last week, guests with Disney Dining Plans may now redeem meals and snacks in Mobile Order. Mobile Order is now available at 23 locations throughout the theme parks and Disney Springs. Using the feature, you may select menu items and pay in advance, thus skipping the ordering lines. Special order and dietary requirements still require in-person ordering, as the App only provides for very limited customization of certain menu items.
Disney Parks Blog posted a video demonstrating how to use the latest version of Mobile Order in the My Disney Experience App. Video ©Disney.
Epcot Concert News & Calendar
The America Gardens Theatre on the shore of World Showcase Lagoon opposite the entrance to The American Adventure is home to numerous shows throughout the year. During the Epcot International Festival of the Arts, the Disney on Broadway Concert Series takes the stage three times nightly on Fridays through Mondays until February 19. Remember that Passholders still can get wristbands at The American Adventure Pavilion on a first-come, first-served basis, at least one hour prior to the show that you wish to attend, for up to four reserved seats for the Disney on Broadway Concert Series performances (annual pass card and a valid photo ID required). All guests can get guaranteed reserved seating with a dining package.
Passholder wristbands are distributed inside the lobby of The American Adventure. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
The Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival gets underway on February 28, and its Garden Rocks Concert Series kicks off at the America Gardens Theatre on March 2. Returning acts include Night Ranger (“Sister Christian”) which opens the series March 2-5, and The Spinners, known for “Working My Way Back To You,” the final Festival weekend May 25-28. Several new bands will perform at Epcot for the first time: Foghat (“Slow Ride”); Smash Mouth (“All Star”); Lonestar (“Amazed”); and Don Felder, formerly of The Eagles (“Hotel California”). Other bands new to the Garden Rocks series will be Rick Springfield (“Jessie's Girl”), Survivor (“Eye of the Tiger”) and Jo Dee Messina (“Stand Beside Me”).
For the convenience of our readers, we list all of the performances in our Google Calendar of Epcot Events. You can also add it to any Calendar that supports the iCal format (like iPhone and Mac) by copying this link.
The calendar is provided “As is, where is” and without any guarantees, as a courtesy. Given the effort it took to create it, we do respectfully request that you do not post our entire calendar on another site without first asking our permission. We do not know why Walt Disney World Resort has not created this sort of functionality outside of the My Disney Experience app itself.
Kissy Simmons and Alton Fitzgerald White performed concerts the past two weekends during the Epcot International Festival of the Arts. More photos from one of their concerts are below in the Epcot section of this week's Views. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Views Around the World
I had a chance to visit all four theme parks this week and Disney Springs. For those of you with the latest version of iOS installed on your devices, have you tried the latest ways to modify a “Live” photo? I have included a few here, and will explain the technique in a new One Passholder's Tip: Photo Fun edition next week.
Magic Kingdom
The Main Street Philharmonic Band entertained the crowd waiting for the Super Bowl parade on February 5, 2018. Video by Alan S. Dalinka.
Using one of the new features for displaying a “Live” photo in iOS, the finale fireworks of Mickey's Royal Friendship Faire can seem endless. (Your browser may or may not cooperate when you press the “Play” icon.) Video by Alan S. Dalinka.
Epcot
The rain soaked entry of Epcot for the Festival of the Arts still looks great. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
At Epcot's “back door” (the International Gateway), construction of the Disney Skyliner is visible from inside the park. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Kissy Simmons and Alton Fitzgerald White previously performed together at the America Gardens Theatre during last year's Festival of the Arts. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
The America Gardens Theatre is home of the Disney on Broadway Concert Series through the end of the Epcot International Festival of the Arts. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Kissy Simmons, one of last weekend's Disney on Broadway Concert series stars, is a Florida native. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Alton Fitzgerald White, one of last weekend's Disney on Broadway stars, performed the role of Mufasa in Disney's “The Lion King” over 4,000 times. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Additional signage in the Future World plaza near the Fountain points to the Enemy Ink kiosk inside Future World West where you can purchase custom-printed t-shirts celebrating the Epcot International Festival of the Arts. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
The mural that guests have an opportunity to paint-by-number has changed a number of times during this week's Festival. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
By Sunday, the mural that guests have an opportunity to paint-by-number changed again. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Remember that the “Art Walk” encourages guests to visit some of the out-of-the way museum installations around World Showcase, as well as the model railroad next to the Germany pavilion (shown here). Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Using the same new features for displaying a “Live” photo in iOS as shown in the Magic Kingdom section above, a monorail can also seem endless. (Your browser may or may not cooperate when you press the “Play” icon.) Video by Alan S. Dalinka.
Another of the new features for displaying a “Live” photo in iOS is a version of a long exposure photo. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka
Rose Gold Cupcakes are now sold at Sunshine Seasons in The Land pavilion. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Mirrors de los Muertos inside the Mexico pavilion nearly looked operational this week. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
A new sign in the Mexico pavilion explains the relationship between Mirrors de los Muertos and the Disney-Pixar film “Coco.” Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Looking ahead, installation of one of the Epcot International Flower & Garden children's play areas is underway along the path between Future World West and World Showcase. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Disney's Animal Kingdom
In promoting the Incredible Summer, even Walt Disney World recognized the continued popularity of Pandora–The World of Avatar. HDR Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
The popularity of Pandora–The World of Avatar is often reflected in very long standby times for Avatar Flight of Passage. Long Exposure Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Given its size, a giraffe rarely sits down; giraffes even tend to sleep while standing. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Don't forget that you may sometimes be able to spot members of the bachelor group of silverback gorillas at the viewing area immediately adjacent to the exit stations for the Kilimanjaro Safaris vehicles. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Purple martin habitats can be seen in between the tram loading area and the Resort Bus loop just outside the gates of the park. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
MousePlanet's Stephanie Wien alerted me to the new signs explaining the purple martin habitats and their migration habits. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Marvel's “Black Panther” merchandise began appearing in stores around Walt Disney World this week, including at Disney's Animal Kingdom. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Disney Springs
Marvel's “Black Panther” is featured on the photo backdrop outside the AMC 24 Dine-In Theatres. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
A new version of a dress featuring Orange Bird is now available at The Dress Shoppe on Cherry Tree Lane inside the Marketplace Co-op. HDR Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
It is increasingly common to spot the food trucks in different spots around Disney Springs rather all together in one spot on the West Side. Here, a food truck is located next to World of Disney in the Marketplace. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
New steel work has been added to the structure that will become Jaleo on the West Side. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Vertical construction is becoming apparent at the new Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill under construction next door to the Coca-Cola store. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Window installation has begun at Wine Bar George in the Landing neighborhood. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Construction of the new exterior of Terralina Crafted Italian continues next door to Paddlefish. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Congratulations to Paddlefish on its one year anniversary. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
This and That
…Disney Vacation Club Members have a one-night-only opportunity to attend a reception with Disney on Broadway Concert Series stars Ashley Brown and Josh Strickland on February 17. The special event includes guaranteed seating at the America Gardens Theatre for the 6:45 p.m. concert, then continues with an Illuminations dessert party at the United Kingdom pavilion before heading over to the DVC Members Lounge in the Imagination Pavilion for the reception. Reservations are required with tickets priced at $70/adults; $40/for those ages 3-17 (Epcot admission required and not included in the price). Call DVC Member Services at (800)800-9800 for reservations; DVC Membership Card with photo ID will be required for your group to check in.
…For Disney Vacation Club Members just looking for Beverage Tastings, the Series at Top of the World Lounge in Bay Lake Tower at Disney's Contemporary Resort has posted its schedule through June 2018 on this page of the DVC Members Website. The Series is now offered on select Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., includes classes in wine, martini, mixology, tequila, bourbon, beer, and vodka. Each tasting session is $40/person (including tax and gratuity) and reservations are required by calling Member Services at (800)800-9800. All guests must be 21 years old or older with photo ID to consume alcohol; guests under age 18 may attend only when accompanied by a paying participating parent or guardian. Dining Plan Entitlements cannot be used for these events.
…And still speaking of Disney Vacation Club, as part of U.S. Travel Association's Project: Time Off National Plan for Vacation Day, DVC released survey results showing that its members are more likely than most Americans to plan vacation time in advance, as well as ensure that they take annual vacations. DVC says that 95% of members plan and take vacations annually, while only 54% of Americans do the same! Indeed, I can personally vouch for the planning piece, having planned my regular DVC Member visits to Walt Disney World Resort the full 11 months in advance all those many years I lived in Chicagoland to ensure I took my annual vacations and protect my calendar. DVC Members seem to plan so well, in fact, that on the evening of January 30, I was only able to get a waitlist for a Studio at Disney's BoardWalk next December 30, as every Studio category was already sold out!
…In furtherance of last week's item from our “just about everything gets a day” department, the February 9 celebration of National Pizza Day at Walt Disney World Resort will also include Pizza Ponte at Disney Springs offering a free Sicilian square slice of 4 Cheese or Pepperoni pizza when you purchase a cold beverage from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. The other new Patina Restaurant Group complex locations are all now accepting reservations for their Valentine's Day seatings: The Edison (with its “Patented Prix Fixe Dinner”, Maria & Enzo's Ristorante, and Enzo's Hideaway Tunnel Bar.
…Nearby, also at Disney Springs, Paddlefish is now offering $5 draft beers from 9 p.m. to 11 p.m. every day for the rest of February (but only on its rooftop deck). Earlier this week, the restaurant celebrated its first anniversary.
Through the end of February, draft beers sold on the rooftop deck of Paddlefish from 9-11 p.m. are $5 each. Photo courtesy of Paddlefish.
…The Atlanta Braves announced that they have extended their Spring Training agreement with ESPN Wide World of Sports at Walt Disney World Resort through next April, 2019. The Braves have a new facility under construction in West Villages in the City of North Port, Sarasota County, so 2019 will be their final Spring Training at the complex. The Braves have held their Spring Training at Wide World of Sports since 1998, and have a full schedule set for this year, including games at Champion Stadium.
…Now that we know the outcome of the big football game, residents of Pennsylvania can book the “Champions Package” at Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort. It includes a $100 credit for “a championship-caliber meal” at any restaurant at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort and a complimentary room upgrade. The Champions Package is valid for stays through December 24, 2018, with a minimum of three nights. For additional information, visit the offer page of SwanDolphin.com or call (800)227-1500 and mention CHAMPS. Valid state identification will be required at check-in, and taxes, resort fees and gratuities are not included; the promotion cannot be combined with other special offers or promotions and will not be applied to existing reservations or groups.
…The window opens for the SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket launch today, February 6, at 1:30 p.m. Eastern from the Space Coast. Weather permitting, it may provide quite a sight over Walt Disney World Resort (well, looking to the East, that is). As Orlando Sentinel describes it, this is expected to be “one of the biggest, brightest launches in recent years.” With three SpaceX Falcon boosters tied together, this launch vehicle is described as having “more lift capacity than any U.S. launch since the last Saturn V in the 1970s.”.
…A special reminder to our Canadian resident readers: the Canadian-resident ticket offer for 4-day or longer Magic Your Way Tickets for the theme parks at Walt Disney World Resorts ends on February 10. (Disneyland Resort park tickets may be purchased through February 28, 2018.) Tickets may be used through December 31, 2018. For more information, visit Disneyworld.ca/Tickets or call (407)939-4230.
…And, finally, starting next Monday, February 12, TV's “Wheel of Fortune” begins airing a week of episodes (check your local listings) recorded at Epcot back in October. As you may recall, I was invited to attend the episodes scheduled to air February 12 and 13, and have some additional photos that I will share next week on our social media platforms after those episodes air.
Vanna White chatted with the audience during a break in recording episodes at Epcot back in October.
File Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
…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 bonus, such as an Eye Spy or a trivia question. To subscribe to our free newsletter, just enter your email in the box below.
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Resort Events
Check here to see if a park event might fall during your next trip to the Walt Disney World Resort. If you know of any in-park events, official or unofficial, that should be listed here, please send us an email.
2018 Resort Events
- Epcot International Festival of the Arts – January 12 – February 19, 2018
- Disney After Hours at Magic Kingdom – January 30; February 8 & 15; March 1 & 8.
- 10th Anniversary Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend – February 22–25, 2018.
- MouseAdventure (unofficial event) – March 3, 2018. See mouseadventure.com for more information.
- 25th Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival – February 28 – May 28, 2018
- Star Wars Half Marathon – The Dark Side Weekend – April 19 – 22, 2018.
- Dapper Day – Magic Kingdom: April 28, 2018; Epcot: April 29, 2018; Park TBD: November 27-18, 2018
- Star Wars: Galactic Nights event at Disney's Hollywood Studios – May 27, 2018
- Gay Days at Walt Disney World 2018 (“#RedShirtDays” – unofficial events) – Disney's Animal Kingdom: May 31;
Disney's Hollywood Studios: June 1; Magic Kingdom: June 2; Epcot: June 3 - Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party at Magic Kingdom – TBA
- Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend – November 1-4, 2018
- Epcot International Food & Wine Festival – TBA
- Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic – October 26-27, 2018
–Sunday Bubbles Brunch – October 28, 2018. - Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom – TBA
- Holidays at Walt Disney World – TBA
- Epcot International Festival of the Holidays – TBA
- Candlelight Processional at Epcot – TBA
2019 Resort 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. For current information on runDisney registration dates and capacity, see Lorree Tachell's runDisney Race Capacity Updates in the Team MousePlanet forum on our MousePad discussion board. |
2018 Disney Vacation Club Moonlight Magic Events (Including Event Reservation Opening Dates)
- Moonlight Magic at Magic Kingdom – February 6, 2018
- Moonlight Magic at Disney's Animal Kingdom – March 21; April 17; May 16, 2018
Members with Resort Reservations: February 8, 2018
All Members (pending remaining availability): February 22, 2018 - Moonlight Magic at Disney's Typhoon Lagoon – May 30; June 11, 2018.
Members with Resort Reservations: April 19, 2018
All Members (pending remaining availability): May 3, 2018 - Moonlight Magic at Epcot – July 16; August 13, 2018
Members with Resort Reservations: June 6, 2018
All Members (pending remaining availability): June 20, 2018 - Moonlight Magic at Disney's Hollywood Studios – September 19 & 26; October 3, 2018
Members with Resort Reservations: August 30, 2018
All Members (pending remaining availability): September 13, 2018
| Introduced in 2017 as part of Membership Magic Ever After, complimentary Moonlight Magic events invite Disney Vacation Club Members (that are eligible for the Membership Extras benefits) and their guests to visit Disney Parks at the end of their regular operating hours and after the park has closed to the public. Members (and their parties) with reservations find shorter-than-usual wait times on popular attractions, meet rare characters, enjoy complimentary refreshments, have dance parties, and more. Please note that, in order to allow as many Members as possible to enjoy Moonlight Magic, only one event date for each participating park is available per Membership. Visit disneyvacationclub.com during specified reservation windows to (attempt to) secure access to the event as well as to find additions to the Moonlight Magic event slate, updated party hours, and transportation information. |
Refurbishments and Attraction Closures
Note: Not all attraction closures have been officially confirmed by Disney, and are all subject to change at any time. All refurbishment schedules are estimates only. We recommend checking for updates as you plan your visit. All information is subject to change without notice. To get the most recent updates, visit DisneyWorld.com or use the MyDisneyExperience App on your iOS or Android device.
Magic Kingdom
- Pirates of the Caribbean – will close for refurbishment scheduled from late February through mid-March 2018.
- Liberty Square Riverboat – closed for refurbishment.
- Stitch's Great Escape – My Disney Experience lists as “available seasonally throughout the year.”
Epcot
Refurbishment of The American Adventure is expected to be complete soon. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
- The American Adventure – closed for refurbishment scheduled through early February 2018.
- Ellen's Energy Adventure at Universe of Energy – Closed August 13, 2017
Guardians of the Galaxy-themed attraction in approximately 2021. - Circle of Life: An Environmental Fable – closed February 3, 2018. Theater to be repurposed.
“Circle of Life” had its final showing at 7 p.m. on February 3, 2018. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Disney's Hollywood Studios
- The Great Movie Ride – Closed August 13, 2017.
Mickey and Minnie's Runaway Railway attraction to open in Chinese Theatre at a date to be announced.
Disney's Animal Kingdom
- Kali River Rapids – Closed for refurbishment January 2 until early February 2018.
- Flights of Wonder (Caravan Stage) – Show Closed on December 31, 2017.
New show starring Russell and Dug from “Up” and their bird friends coming in Spring 2018
Blizzard Beach
- No known closures at this time.
Typhoon Lagoon
- Seasonal Refurbishment scheduled to end March 18, 2018.
Disney Springs
- World of Disney – portions closing in phases for refurbishment beginning mid-February.
The Disney Corner opening in Town Center in mid-February to offer select merchandise during refurbishment. - DisneyQuest – Closed as of July 3, 2017.
The NBA Experience expected to open Summer 2019. - Portobello Country Italian Trattoria – Closed April 24, 2017.
Terralina Crafted Italian expected to open early 2018. - Wolfgang Puck Grand Café – closed August 1, 2017.
Location is being transformed into Jaleo, a restaurant featuring Spanish cuisine, expected to open 2018.
A new Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill is under construction next door to the Coca-Cola Store, expected to open 2018.
Wolfgang Puck Express continues to operate in its existing location in the Marketplace. - La Nouba by Cirque du Soleil – Show closed on December 31, 2017.
A new Cirque du Soleil show is now in development with its premiere date to be announced.
Resorts
- Caribbean Beach – Centertown, the resort's marketplace, will be expanded with new waterfront dining and retail shopping areas. The first phase of the project is expected to be completed in Summer 2018, with the overall project completed 2019-20. Due to the work, the following food service and retail locations are currently closed:
- Old Port Royale Food Court
- Shutters at Old Port Royale
- Banana Cabana Pool Bar
- Calypso Trading Post
- Coronado Springs – A new 15-story tower overlooking Lago Dorado, the resort's central lake, will add 500 rooms featuring suites and concierge level services, and a rooftop dining facility that will include panoramic views of nighttime fireworks shows at the Theme Parks. The resort also plans to refurbish current resort rooms and transform some of its landscape. The project is expected to be completed 2019-20.
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.
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Travel Discounts for Everyone |
Characters in Flight Tethered Balloon Ride by Aerophile For a limited time, Groupon is selling individual rides for $11.50 and two person rides for $23. The Groupon certificate cannot be redeemed until 24 hours after purchase, is valid for 90 days, but only on flights from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. (weather permitting). This offer was still available last night (February 5), but could end at any time. Memory Maker pre-arrival discount Disney's PhotoPass service provides a discount on Disney Memory Maker pre-arrival packages. For $199 plus tax, Walt Disney World guests can digitally download any photos associated with their Memory Maker account, including photos taken on attractions. The advanced purchase price is $169, a $30 savings. Applicable taxes are charged to all orders. Purchase must be made more than three days prior to arrival at the Walt Disney World Resort for the discount. All sales are final, and not eligible for an exchange or refund. Both the immediate and discount version of Memory Maker can be purchased at this page of DisneyWorld.com. |
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Travel Discounts for Annual Passholders |
For the most up-to-date list of locations offering dining discounts to Annual Passholders, visit this page of DisneyWorld.com. Many dining locations offer Passholders 10% discounts during some or all meal periods (also excluding alcoholic beverages, tax and gratuity). The latest information on this page of DisneyWorld.com lists discounts at many merchandise locations across Walt Disney World Resort, including locations that continue to offer 20% discounts off regularly priced merchandise. The latest information on this page of DisneyWorld.com lists discounts for special events and tours at locations around Walt Disney World Resort. The latest information on this page of DisneyWorld.com lists discounts for sports, recreation, and spas around Walt Disney World Resort. Passholders can receive a complimentary commemorative artwork celebrating the 35th Anniversary of Epcot during the 2018 Epcot International Festival of the Arts (while supplies last). To receive the artwork, from January 12 to February 19, from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Passholders must visit The American Adventure Pavilion and show their annual pass card and valid photo ID. Limit one per Passholder during the run of the 2018 Festival. Magic Strollers, “a Disney featured stroller provider,” is continuing to honor its $5 discount on stroller rental when staying at a Disney Resort Hotel and using coupon code WDWAP17 to arrange your rental. It is once again listed on the Passholder website and, at least as of January 8, 2018, the coupon code still includes “17” rather than “18.” Visit the DisneyWorld.com Special Offers page (filtered for Passholders) and log in with a My Disney Experience account linked to your Annual Pass for information, or call (407) 939-4232 to book by phone. Additional information about available “Passholder Extras” are available here, including discount game tickets to the NFL Pro Bowl at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, an Orlando Magic Jersey Offer for purchasing or renewing an Annual Pass at Amway Center in Orlando, a 15% discount on the Ultimate Nights of Adventure VIP Tour at Disney's Animal Kingdom, Spa & Salon Discounts around Walt Disney World Resort, Amphicar Tour discounts at Disney Springs, runDisney Early Registration discounts, Best Friends Pat Care discounts, Children's Activity Centers discounts, and more. Away from the Resort, Passholders can use code DANCEPARTY to get 20% off of tickets to the new Disney Junior Dance Party on Tour in Jacksonville, Melbourne, Clearwater, and Sarasota Florida, for house seats while supplies last. Visit disneyjuniortour.com for more information and tickets. If you know of an offer we haven't listed, please drop us an email with the details! |
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Discounts for Disney Rewards VISA Credit Card Holders |
To conserve space, we have eliminated some of the participating location details of the Disney Visa Rewards offers from this section. Visit Disney Visa Rewards website for the latest participating location information. 20 percent off Joffrey's coffee/tea kiosks Disney Visa cardholders receive 20 percent off their entire purchase at Joffrey's coffee/tea kiosks throughout Walt Disney World, including Tea Traders Café by Joffrey's, and online at Joffreys.com with code: VISABEANS 15 percent off select guided tours Disney Visa cardholders receive 15 percent 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. Discounts are not available on Premium VIP tours, programs exclusive to groups, or group team building programs. 10 percent off select restaurants Disney Visa cardholders receive 10 percent off the check when you pay with a Disney's Visa Card and/or Disney Rewards Redemption Card (be sure to request the discount). Offer excludes alcoholic beverages, merchandise, tobacco, room service, holiday buffets, tax and gratuity. Discount does not apply to the following dates: 12/31/17, 1/1/18, 2/14/18, 4/1/18, 5/13/18 and 7/4/18, and may not be available at all meal times. Visit this page of disneyrewards.com for the latest list of restaurants and restrictions. 10 percent off merchandise Disney Visa cardholders receive 10 percent 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 this page of disneyrewards.com. Cardholders also receive 10% off select merchandise purchases of $50 or more at the following Walt Disney World Resort Operating Participant merchandise locations including Basin, Basin White, Chapel Hats, Good Fortune Gifts and House of Good Fortune, kidsHeritage, Luxury of Time, Marrakesh Emporium Arts & Crafts, Joffrey's coffee/tea kiosks and Tea Traders Café by Joffrey's, Sperry and Volcom. 15 percent off all Disney spa and salon services Disney Visa cardholders receive 15 percent off the non-discounted price of any salon treatment valued at $45 or greater or any 50-minute or longer spa service most days at the spas and salons at Walt Disney World Resort. Visit this page of disneyrewards.com for participating locations and restrictions. 10 percent off select recreation experiences Disney Visa cardholders receive 15 percent off the non-discounted price of the recreation experiences listed below:
Free character photos 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 five guests. The event is hosted daily from 1:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Imagination Pavilion at Epcot (enter near the jumping fountains near the exit to the Magic Eye Theater). You'll receive complimentary downloads of your photos (one time per day), which may be accessed in the MyDisneyExperience App (or website). Free character photos at a private meet and greet location at Disney's Hollywood Studios Present your Disney's Premier Visa Card or Disney Rewards Visa Card for access to a private character meet and greet at the Star Wars Launch Bay in the Animation Courtyard at Disney's Hollywood Studios for the cardholder and up to five guests. The event is hosted daily from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. You'll receive complimentary downloads of your photos (one time per day), which may be accessed in the MyDisneyExperience App (or website). |
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Travel Discounts for Military Personnel |
Thanks to our reader Dr. Smith who alerted us to the website militarydisneytips.com. 2018 Armed Forces Salute Tickets January 1 through December 19, 2018
NOTE: Spring Blockout Dates are March 25 through April 5. Tickets must be used by December 19, 2018. Read more information at militarydisneytips.com, visit your base ticket office, or when at Walt Disney World, visit Shades of Green. If you know of an offer we haven't listed, please drop us an email with the details! |
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Travel Discounts for Florida Residents |
Discover Disney TicketsFlorida Resident Discover Disney Tickets are back: $159/person plus tax for the Discover Disney 3-Day Ticket; $179/person plus tax for the Discover Disney 4-Day Ticket. Tickets must be purchased by June 20 and may be used on any day until June 24, 2018. Park Hopper Option is available for an additional $30/ticket plus tax for the 3-Day Ticket; $37.50/ticket for the 4-Day Ticket. Further information is available and tickets may be purchased on this page of DisneyWorld.com. Disney Select TicketsAt a higher price, but with more flexibility, Florida Residents save 30% with the 4-Day Disney Select Ticket (compared to the price of a 4-Day Magic Your Way ticket). There is a smaller discount for a 3-Day Select Ticket, and there is also a discount for 1–Day Tickets with the Park Hopper Option only. For more information visit this page of DisneyWorld.com.
Spring into 2018 rates for Florida Residents are available for most nights through April 14, 2018. Visit this page of DisneyWorld.com for information or call (407) 939-2752. If you know of an offer we haven't listed, please drop us an email with the details! |
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Travel Discounts for Canada Residents |
Canadian Residents can now receive special pricing on theme park tickets to Walt Disney World Resort in Florida until February 10, 2018. Save 20% on advance purchase of 4-Day or Longer Magic Your Way Tickets Savings compared to the price of the same ticket sold online at Disneyworld.ca. Tickets are valid for one Theme Park per day unless Park Hopper option is purchased. Tickets and options must be used within 14 days of first use. First use must be on or before December 31, 2018. Proof of Canadian residency required. Offer not valid at Theme Park ticket window. All adult Guests who will use Canadian resident tickets or passes must present valid proof of Canadian residency that includes government-issued photo ID to exchange the certificate for a valid ticket at the Theme Park ticket window or Guest Relations prior to first use. Tickets and options are nontransferable, nonrefundable and exclude events/activities separately priced. Admission is subject to capacity closures and to other restrictions. Check disneyparks.ca for the latest offers from Disney. If you know of an offer we haven't listed, please drop us an email with the details! |
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Travel Discounts for U.K. Residents |
The website GetWestLondon.co.uk has an updated list of some of the offers available to folks planning ahead to holiday at Walt Disney World Resort from the United Kingdom. You can see the latest offers for U.K. residents on Disney World's U.K. packages website. If you know of an offer we haven't listed, please drop us an email with the details! |
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