Walt Disney World Resort Update for March 19-25, 2019
Writer's note: As a week with smaller bits of news, most new Walt Disney World Resort details are in our This and That… and Disney Springs sections this week. The Crowds Forecast says Walt Disney World Resort is in for a bit of reprieve this week, and, coincidentally, the weather forecast likewise says Central Florida will get a brief break from its early run of 80º and above days; but the higher temperatures are expected to start to return before our next Update.
We also do not have as many photos to share from around Walt Disney World Resort as usual this week, but with upcoming reservations to attend the DVC Moonlight Magic event at Disney's Hollywood Studios and the V.I.Passholder event at Epcot, photo opportunities may be plentiful in the week ahead. Since last week's Update, Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix and I discussed the recently-announced opening of Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge on both coasts with Garry Meier for a Garry Meier Show podcast that will be available starting tomorrow for free at GarryMeier.com, we would all appreciate it if you would listen in (and, as always, be aware that our segment is friendly for all audiences, but the rest of the show may contain some adult subjects or words not suitable for all ears, so listener discretion is advised).
News and Views
Headlines are auto-generated here
New Crêperie Coming to Epcot
As the expansion of the France pavilion at Epcot continues toward the 2021 opening of the new Remy's Ratatouille Adventure attraction, Disney has announced that a new crêperie will be located near the new attraction and will feature the cuisine of celebrity chef Jérôme Bocuse, the chef also responsible for Chefs de France brasserie and Monsieur Paul. The new location will offer both table service and quick service options, serving a menu inspired by the Brittany region of France and featuring both savory and sweet crepes.
A new crêperie will be located near Remy's Ratatouille Adventure attraction which is scheduled to debut at the France pavilion in time for the celebration of Walt Disney World Resort's 50th anniversary in 2021. Concept Art ©Disney.
The Disney Parks Blog post announcing the new restaurant also clarified that the “Beauty and the Beast” Sing-Along experience announced last fall as joining the existing “Impressions de France” film at the pavilion will also debut in time for the Resort's 50th anniversary celebration in 2021. Disney has also announced that the Guardians of the Galaxy-themed attraction under construction in Future World along with a new interactive “Play” pavilion in the former Wonders of Life/Festival Center pavilion building will also debut in 2021.
From Japan pavilion on the shore of World Showcase Lagoon, the sky-blue building that will house part of the future Guardians of the Galaxy-themed attraction rises toward the blue sky ahead of its expected 2021 opening. Construction also continues on the islands in the lagoon to support the new nighttime spectacular expected to debut at the park in 2020.
Epcot Concerts News & Calendar
The Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival is underway featuring the Garden Rocks Concert Series on the America Gardens stage three times nightly through June 3. This is the first time the concerts run seven nights a week for the length of the festival. Performers coming up on the schedule include Ambrosia, Magic Giant, Peabo Bryson, Eddie Palmieri, Dennis DeYoung (original member of STYX), Air Supply, Rick Springfield, Richard Marx and Starship, starring Mickey Thomas. Returning performers also include The Spinners and Herman's Hermits starring Peter Noone, and new to the Festival performers include TobyMac, Steven Curtis Chapman, Sister Sledge, and Colin Hay of Men at Work. For more information or for reserving dining packages with guaranteed concert seating, call (407) WDW-DINE or visit FreshEpcot.com. Passholders can save 10% on food and beverages (except alcohol and excluding tax and gratuity) on dining packages for themselves and up to three guests.
Tony Orlando and his band returned to Epcot last week for Garden Rocks Concert Series shows at America Gardens Theatre. The superstar of the 1970s included tributes to veterans and current armed forces troops during his performances. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
America Gardens Theatre is located on World Showcase Lagoon across from the entrance to The American Adventure. File Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
This summer, Guardians of the Galaxy-Awesome Mix Live! will return from June 14 through August 18. Star-Lord and Gamora (along with an “alien” band) will take a “musical journey” that showcases hits from Star-Lord's Awesome Mix tapes with multiple performances daily.
With Groot remotely patching “Awesome Mix” music into the headphones of of an alien band, Star-Lord tried to teach them how to become the “Galaxy's greatest cover band” during last summer's edition of the Guardians of the Galaxy-Awesome Mix Live! Concerts. Gamora seemed unimpressed. File Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
For the convenience of our readers, all of the scheduled Garden Rocks Concert Series performers at America Gardens Theatre are shown in our Google Calendar of Epcot Events. All of the Guardians of the Galaxy-Awesome Mix Live! dates are included as well. While our Google Calendar of Epcot Events includes a list of the scheduled performers, it is always best to check the My Disney Experience app, Times Guide, and, yes, sometimes even signs posted at the park entrances and at the theater noting last minute changes. You can add the whole Event calendar to any calendar that supports the iCal format (like iPhone and Mac) by copying this link and, indeed, if when we get additional information and update the calendar, the calendar will update on your subscribed device as well. The calendar is provided as a courtesy “as is, where is” without any guarantees. Given the effort it took to create it and keep it updated, we do respectfully request that you do not post our entire calendar on another site without first asking our permission. Walt Disney World Resort does provide schedules in the My Disney Experience app, but does not allow you to add dates to calendars outside the app itself.
Views Around the World
This week, we have more views from the 26th Annual Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival, including a batch of photos from Outdoor Kitchens by our Contributing Photographer Bonnie Fink. The New & Coming Soon to Disney Springs section (below) has additional new Views mixed in with the news this week too.
Re-striping underway along the eastern side of Epcot's parking lot, with a new pedestrian path leading farther to the east than before may indicate that the entrance area re-imagination construction and the attendant relocation of the “Leave a Legacy” plaques may begin soon. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
While cast members no longer dispatch guests on Agent P's World Showcase Adventure, a sign now instructs guests to visit a website or use the free Play Disney Parks app. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Photos by Alan S. Dalinka.
Trowel & Trellis Outdoor Kitchen, located in World Showcase Plaza, toward Mexico pavilion, is hosted by Impossible, the plant-based vegan-friendly meat manufacturer. The “Farmhouse Meatball” is not made from any animal products though tastes like meat. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Photos and Captions by Bonnie Fink.
This and That…
…After we published last week's Update, Orlando Sentinel and others reported that the newest Walt Disney World published prices for peak days from Christmas to New Year's eve set one-day base theme park tickets at $159 plus tax. Remember that the new pricing introduced back in October makes park ticket purchases date sensitive based upon not only the number of days the ticket will be used, but the specific first day guests intend to use the ticket. The lowest price single-day base ticket remains at $109 plus tax.
…The TRON-themed roller coaster coming to Magic Kingdom celebrated a major construction milestone this week with cast members signing one of the first steel support columns for the attraction. The attraction, still not officially named, is based on the TRON Lightcycle Power Run at Shanghai Disneyland and is scheduled to open in time for the park and Resort's 50th anniversary in 2021.
PHOTOS: A construction milestone at the TRON attraction was recently celebrated at Magic Kingdom Park! https://t.co/60NV8lb0fh pic.twitter.com/DPcJu4Iu3W
— Disney Parks (@DisneyParks) March 14, 2019
…With Lightning McQueen's Racing Academy due to open at Disney's Hollywood Studios on March 31, it seems that each week comes another new bit of information about the new interactive show featuring McQueen and his friends Cruz Ramirez, Tow Mater and others. This week, Disney Parks Blog revealed that John Ratzenberger, the star behind the voice of Mack the truck in each of the Cars movies (and, indeed, at least one character in every Disney-Pixar feature film so far), has again voiced Mack for the new attraction. Mack and Sally Carrera will welcome rookie racers entering the theater and test your knowledge of Lightning McQueen as you take your seat before showtime.
John Ratzenberger, Pixar's “lucky charm” has joined the voice cast for Lightning McQueen's Racing Academy, scheduled to open at Disney's Hollywood Studios on March 31, 2019. Video ©Disney.
…Whispering Canyon Café at Disney's Wilderness Lodge has added new skillets to its lunch and dinner “all-you-care-to-enjoy” seatings and will add breakfast skillets starting on March 26. Disney Parks Blog has posted photos and descriptions of some of the new (and coming soon) offerings, plus the sides, the Apple Pie, and some of the newly-themed adult beverages. Reservations are available online or by calling (407)WDW-DINE.
…Speaking of dining at resorts, Disney Parks Blog provides a preview of Topolino's Terrace—Flavors of the Riviera, the new signature rooftop dining experience planned for the upcoming Disney's Riviera Resort. It will feature modern interpretations of Italian and French textures, colors, and carvings with stonework resembling that of ancient European coastline villages. The open kitchen will feature a wood burning grill. The restaurant will also offer “an exclusive Disney character dining experience inspired by the Riviera” during breakfast (with details to follow). The highlight of the signature dining location in the evenings, no doubt, will be its outdoor terrace view of fireworks at both Epcot and Disney's Hollywood Studios.
…The newest Masai giraffe calf at Disney's Animal Kingdom, Jabari, who was actually born on the savanna of Kilimanjaro Safaris on January 14, now stands at seven-feet-tall and has officially joined the rest of the herd. His name is Swahili for “brave one” and he may be spotted when visiting the attraction. Masai giraffe population continues to decline in the wild due, in part, to poaching and habitat loss. Jabari's parents, Mara and George, were chosen to breed through the Species Survival Plan overseen by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.
Jabari, who is now two months old, has a heart-shape spot on his neck. Video ©Disney.
…Disney's Typhoon Lagoon water park opened for its 30th Season on Sunday, St. Patrick's Day, following its seasonal refurbishment. To celebrate, Disney Parks Blog posted a celebratory video with a bit of a St. Patrick's Day theme mixed in.
Disney's Typhoon Lagoon celebrates the opening of its 30th Season with a fun video. ©Disney.
…Starting in June, the Adventures by Disney Backstage Magic Tour at Walt Disney World will add a visit to the marina where the animal and lotus barges are prepared for the evening performance of Rivers of Light at Disney's Animal Kingdom. The tour will highlight some of the mechanical and technological “secrets” behind the show and will also add a private lunch at the park's Tiffins Restaurant which features a special menu accompanied by stories about the creation of the park. Back in the Walt Disney World Resort Update for November 28-December 4, 2017, we provided you with some of the highlights of the then-current edition of the Backstage Magic Tour (as seen through friend of MousePlanet Dave Kent who filled in for me on the special media-invited edition of the tour). Advertised highlights of the tour (which are always subject to change) continue to include behind-the-scenes looks at The American Adventure, Creative Costuming, Central Shops, the utilidor tunnels at Magic Kingdom. Textile Services, which has been a tour destination in the past, is only a scheduled stop through the end of May according to Disney Parks Blog. For more information call (407)939-8687.
…Walt Disney World Golf is offering Summer Instructional Golf Clubs for Juniors. A part of the PGA Junior League Initiative, Walt Disney World Golf offers weekly team practices and play for kids ages 7-17 in June, July and August, helping improve kids' golf games and help them reach their goals. More information, pricing and registration forms are available on this page of GolfWDW.com. Discounts are available for Military, Cast and Disney Vacation Club members.
…Beyond Walt Disney World, looking for a Spring escape to celebrate Mom or otherwise? Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa in Ko Olina, Hawai'i, is offering discounts of up to 30% for stays from March 22 through June 7, 2019 (with check-out on June 8) of five or more consecutive nights and discounts of up to 25% when staying for four consecutive nights. More information and availability can be found on this page of DisneyAulani.com. Rooms must be booked by May 8, 2019, and the offer excludes suites and 3-Bedroom Grand Villas.
…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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New & Coming Soon at Disney Springs
This section collects all of the Disney Springs retail and dining events we are aware of in one place along with our most recent views of the area (including those immediately under this paragraph). Event items NEW to the Update are marked accordingly.
Photos by Alan S. Dalinka.
Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
NEW – NOW OPEN Jaleo and Pepe by José Andrés
This past Sunday, Chef José Andrés' ThinkFoodGroup opened its newest Jaleo restaurant at Disney Springs on the West Side, having completely reimagined the building previously occupied by Wolfgang Puck Grand Café. This is the largest Jaleo and the first of its five United States restaurants to be located in Florida. Its name means “revelry” and its menu features tapas that it says are “reflecting the rich regional diversity of traditional and contemporary Spanish cuisine, as well as sangrias and a premier selection of Spanish wines.” The restaurant is open nightly for dinner and will add lunch service soon. Reservations are available by calling (321) 348-3211 and on OpenTable.
Spanish designer Juli Capella was responsible for the architectural form of the building housing both Jaleo and Pepe. ThinkFoodGroup says the building's look is “inspired by the bold, playful nature of Spain featuring petals that organically open, inviting guests to enter and experience the very best of Spanish cuisine. The petals themselves form pergolas, which extend toward the outdoors, allowing light to flow in and out.” Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
The new venue also includes a separate entrance for Pepe by José Andrés, the first brick and mortar location of the chef's Spanish food truck which has been serving Washington, D.C. for more than six years. This new quick-service location offers Spanish sandwiches or bocatas (both hot and cold), as well as gazpacho and salads to go. Spanish sangria (including sangria ice cubes to prevent the beverage from getting diluted by Central Florida's weather) is also available at the location which is now open for lunch and dinner.
Pepe has a separate entrance to the left of the entrance for Jaleo. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
The Raglan Road Mighty St. Patrick's Festival
The Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant featured its 2019 Mighty St. Patrick's Festival last weekend, March 15-17, and we were privileged to have been invited to the media preview on Thursday and shared some highlights on our Instagram Story and IGTV. Indeed, one of the items we previewed (shown below) will be coming to Cooke's of Dublin soon! And, even though the Mighty Festival has ended, Raglan continues to feature entertainment nightly, including some of the performers that participated in the Festival.
Cooke's of Dublin, the quick service location at Raglan Road, will soon offer Mini Chicken Sliders, crispy breaded chicken with bacon jam and pickled onions on a miniature bun. Photo from our Instagram Story by Alan S. Dalinka.
Photos by Alan S. Dalinka.
Ben Gunnery is an Irish Music superstar that has toured since age 14 and has been a solist for productions including “Riverdance” and films including “Lord of the Rings” and “Harry Potter.” Video by Alan S. Dalinka.
Three Irish sister-musician-songwriters dubbed “Ireland's next big thing” perform at Raglan Road Pub for the next several weeks. Video by Alan S. Dalinka.
Terralina Crafted Italian
On Saturday, March 23, from 2:30-4:30 p.m., a Terralina Crafted Italian Wine & Cheese Experience offers up four pairings to try for $45/person (tax and gratuity included but not EventBrite ticket fee). Full menu and tickets are available on this EventBrite page. All guests must be at least 21 years old to participate.
Meatball Monday continues this month with three dishes: a sandwich ($14), pizza ($15) or calzone ($14).
Happy Hour on the Patio is also available Sundays through Thursdays, from 4-6 p.m. and 9-11 p.m. It offers $15 Charcuterie Boards, half price wines by the glass, $5 beers and more.
Paddlefish
Paddlefish restaurant is now selling “a boozy chocolate popsicle that's fat free and under 100 calories.” The new Chocolate Raspberry Sorbeto Buzz Pop is $14, infused with premium bourbon, and is also vegan, gluten-free and certified kosher.
On Thursday, March 28, Paddlefish is celebrating National Food-On-A-Stick Day with a reception-style rooftop party on the 3rd deck. For $80/guest (including tax and gratuity but not EventBrite ticket fee), from 6:30 to 9:00 p.m. you can enjoy Lobster Corn Dogs, Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce, Lamb Shish Kabob with Tzatziki, Steak Brocheta with Salsa Roja, and Shrimp & Scallop Spiedino with Lemon & Olive Oil. Tickets are available on this EventBrite page and all guests must be at least 21 years old to attend.
Rooftop Late Night! continues with featured cocktails, craft beers and wines. On Fridays and Saturdays from 9 p.m. until Midnight there is also live entertainment on the rooftop.
Happy Hour at the Bar (2-4 p.m.) and On the Rooftop (9-11 p.m.) includes $20 bottles of Rosé, $5 draft beers and $8 appetizers.
The Edison
The Edison burger of the month for March is “The Luck of The Irish Burger,” featuring the signature Edison blend of sirloin, short rib, and brisket topped with corned beef, coleslaw, crispy potatoes and whole grain mustard. The burger pairs with The Edison's March drink special, “Paddy’s Coffee,” a spiked coffee with Bushmill Black Bush Irish Whiskey, St. George Nola Coffee Liqueur and Agave, chilled over iced then strained, served with Peruvian coffee beans smothered with dark chocolate.
The Luck of The Irish Burger is The Edison's March Burger of the Month. Image courtesy Patina Restaurant Group.
Enzo's Hideaway Tunnel Bar
Dates and beverages for the Smuggler's Series at Enzo's Hideaway Tunnel Bar have been published through October, starting with the March 23 showcasing Ron Abuelo Rum featuring four varieties of rum served in various presentations paired with a multi-course menu created by Chef John Miele, from 1 to 3 p.m.. Tickets and full menu for the $75/person (plus tax and gratuity) are available on this page of Patina Restaurant Group's website. NEW We have been invited to attend this March 23 session, so keep an eye on our social media accounts on Saturday afternoon for highlights! The rest of the published series schedule is:
Crooked Can Brewing Co.
Wednesday, April 17, 7 p.m.
$45 per person
Hendricks Gin
Saturday, May 4, 2 p.m.
$60 per person
Terrapin Brewing Company
Wednesday, June 19, 7 p.m.
$45 per person
Bourbon – Tim Hiesler, Bourbon ambassador for Jim Beam, Basil Hayden, Maker's Mark
Wednesday, July 17, 7 p.m.
$60 per person
Scotch, WM Grants – Balvenie & Glenfiddich
Wednesday, August 21, 7 p.m.
$60 per person
Crooked Stave
Wednesday, September 18, 7 p.m.
$45 per person
Tito’s Vodka
Wednesday, October 23, 7 p.m.
$60 per person
Morimoto Asia
Morimoto Asia in Disney Springs is hosting the Second Annual Sakura Festival through March 31, a celebration steeped in Japanese tradition and dedicated to the beauty of the cherry blossom. The restaurant is decorated with vibrant “Instagram-worthy” décor, showcasing the pink blooms of the Sakura. Similar to the festivals in Japan, guests can attend a series of ticketed events and enjoy menu specials inspired by the cherry blossom. There are two ticketed events remaining, with further information and tickets available on this page of Patina Restaurant Group's website.
Omakase with Chef Yuhi — on Friday, March 22, starting at 6:30 p.m., join Chef Yuhi Fujinaga for an exclusive and intimate dining experience featuring nine gourmet courses paired with wine and sake that evoke the tastes of the “Toyosu Fish Market.” Tickets are $250/person (plus tax and gratuity) and are available on this page of Patina Restaurant Group's website along with the event's menu.
Matsuri Festival — on Sunday, March 31, from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., the Sakura Festival’s grand finale ushers in spring with a family-friendly event featuring Pan-Asian street food stations, traditional Japanese carnival games, activities, origami and even personalized calligraphy artwork for guests to take home. Tickets are $45/ages 10-and-up; $17/ages 9-and-under, and are available on this page of Patina Restaurant Group's website along with the event's menu and games listing.
Status of Parking Availability at Disney Springs
We still have no official announcement on when the newest parking structure on Buena Vista Drive will open, but this week we have a new photo of the side of the pedestrian bridge near World of Disney store that connects across the street to the garage. Those who visit Disney Springs during the weekends or during busy times of the year at the Resort know that the two existing parking structures, Orange and Lime, often fill to capacity during those peak times. Even the flat lot on the West Side can fill up during very busy times! Keep an eye on the overhead signs along Buena Vista Drive directing cars to the garages and lots with availability, but, note, that the the existing garages themselves continue to have ongoing technology work upgrading the systems that indicate where spaces are available that sometimes results in partial closures of the garages.
Photos by Alan S. Dalinka.
Crowd Forecast
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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.
Just click the year you want to expand (or close).
2019 Resort Events
- Disney After Hours:(hard ticket required)
…at Magic Kingdom (entry at 7 p.m.):- March 21 & 28, April 4 & 11: event 10 p.m. – 1 a.m.
…at Disney's Hollywood Studios (entry at 7 p.m.):
- March 23 & 30: event 9 p.m. until midnight
- April 6 & 13: event 9 p.m. until midnight
…at Disney's Animal Kingdom (entry at 7 p.m.):
- March 20 & 27: event 8:30 p.m. – 11:30 p.m.
- April 3: event 8:30 p.m. – 11:30 p.m.
- V.I.Passholder Night (registration required)
…at Epcot: March 21: event 9 p.m. – 11 p.m. - Disney Vacation Club Moonlight Magic:(registration required)
…at Disney's Hollywood Studios- March 20 & 27, 2019 (registration filled)
…at Epcot
- May 13 & 20, 2019
- Registration opens for Members with Resort Reservations: April 3, 2019 at 9 a.m. Eastern
- Registration opens for all Members: April 10, 2019 at 9 a.m. Eastern
…at Disney's Animal Kingdom
- July 18, August 8 & 22, 2019
- Registration opens for Members with Resort Reservations: June 5, 2019 at 9 a.m. Eastern
- Registration opens for all Members: June 12, 2019 at 9 a.m. Eastern
…at Disney's Typhoon Lagoon
- September 18 & October 16, 2019
- Registration opens for Members with Resort Reservations: August 14, 2019 at 9 a.m. Eastern
- Registration opens for all Members: August 28, 2019 at 9 a.m. Eastern
- Mickey & Minnie's Surprise Celebration at Magic Kingdom – January 18 – September 30, 2019
- Party with Pixar Pals at Disney's Hollywood Studios – January 18 – September 30, 2019
- 25 Years of The Lion King at Disney's Animal Kingdom – January 18 – September 30, 2019
- Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival – March 6 – June 3, 2019
- Disney Dreamers Academy with Steve Harvey and ESSENCE Magazine – March 21-24, 2019
- Star Wars Rival Run Weekend – April 4-7, 2019
- Dapper Days at Walt Disney World (Unofficial Events) – April 26-28 and November 16-17, 2019
April 26: Disney Springs; April 27: Magic Kingdom; April 28: Epcot - Disney's Hollywood Studios 30th anniversary – May 1, 2019.
- Disney H2O Glow Nights at Disney's Typhoon Lagoon (hard ticket required)
Thursday & Saturday nights from May 30-August 24, 2019. - Gay Days at Walt Disney World (#RedShirtDays – unofficial events) – August 15-18, 2019
Disney's Animal Kingdom: August 15; Disney's Hollywood Studios: August 16;
Magic Kingdom: August 17; Epcot: August 18 - Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party at Magic Kingdom (hard ticket required)
- August 16, 20, 23, 27, 30
- September 2, 6, 8, 10, 13, 15, 17, 20, 22, 24, 27, 29
- October 1, 3, 4, 6, 8, 10, 11, 14, 15, 17, 18, 20, 21, 24, 25, 27, 29, 31
- November 1
- Epcot International Food & Wine Festival – Late Summer/Fall 2019 (Dates to be announced)
- Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend – October 31 – November 3, 2019
- Epcot International Festival of the Holidays – Late Fall/Winter 2019 (Dates to be announced)
- Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom (hard ticket required) — Late Fall/Winter 2019
(Dates to be announced)
2020 Resort Events
- Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend – January 8-12, 2020
- Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend – February 20-23, 2020
- MORE EVENTS COMING SOON!
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.
View the different areas of the Resort by scrolling horizontally and selecting the one you want to read about.
Magic Kingdom
- Casey Jr. Splash 'N' Soak Station – Closed for refurbishment.
- Captain Jack Sparrow's Pirate Tutorial – No longer listed in My Disney Experience (final show was September 29, 2018).
- Move it! Shake it! Dance & Play It! Street Party – Not scheduled.
Move It! Shake It! MousekeDance It! Street Party” is scheduled to debut January 18, 2019, featuring new arrangements of classic “Mickey Mouse Club” songs - Stitch's Great Escape – My Disney Experience lists as “available seasonally throughout the year”
Be aware that it is increasingly unlikely it will reopen; the attraction's lobby is usually used for greeting Stitch - Walt Disney World Railroad – Closed as of December 3, 2018 to accomodate TRON construction (reopening to be announced).
- Guests can visit a Walt Disney World Railroad train at Main Street Station.
- Tomorrowland Speedway – Closed as of January 2, 2019 for track adjustment to accomodate TRON construction (expected reopening mid-May).
Epcot
- The SpectacuLAB presented by Murata (in Innoventions) – no longer open or listed in My Disney Experience
- Ellen's Energy Adventure at Universe of Energy – Permanently closed on August 13, 2017.
Guardians of the Galaxy-themed roller coaster-type attraction opens in approximately 2021. - Circle of Life: An Environmental Fable – Closed February 3, 2018. (Theater to be repurposed).
- Illuminations: Reflections of Earth – Ending during the second half of 2019 for new nighttime spectacular.
Disney's Hollywood Studios
- Beauty and the Beast-Live on Stage – closed for refurbishment through March 9, 2019.
- Star Wars: Path of the Jedi – Currently only available during Star Wars Guided Tours
- The Great Movie Ride – Permanently closed August 13, 2017.
The new “Mickey and Minnie's Runaway Railway” attraction to open in Chinese Theatre in Fall 2019. - Disney Junior Live on Stage – Closed.
Disney Junior Dance Party debuted in its place on December 22, 2018.
Disney's Animal Kingdom
- Kali River Rapids – Closed for refurbishment. Likely reopening March 23 (based on checking for FastPass+ reservations).
- Flights of Wonder (Caravan Stage) – Show closed on December 31, 2017.
“UP! A Great Bird Adventure” starring Russell and Dug and their bird opened in its place on April 22, 2018. - Conservation Station – Rafiki's Planet Watch – Wildlife Express Train – Now closed – planned reopening Spring 2019
Disney Water Parks
- No known closures.
Disney Springs
- 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 has opened in its place. - 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. - Wolfgang Puck Grand Café – Closed August 1, 2017.
Location has been transformed into Jaleo, a restaurant featuring Spanish cuisine.
A new restaurant, Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill, is now open next door to the Coca-Cola Store.
Wolfgang Puck Express continues to operate in its existing location in the Marketplace.
Disney Resorts
- Caribbean Beach – The overall construction project at the Resort is expected to be completed 2019–20. The resort's new lobby, restaurants and other amenities, including Sebastian's Bistro, Centertown Market, and Banana Cabana are all now open.
- Coronado Springs
- The new 15-story “Gran Destino Tower” overlooking Lago Dorado, the resort's central lake, will open in July, 2019, adding 545 rooms, including 50 suites and concierge level services, and a rooftop dining facility that will include panoramic views of nighttime fireworks shows at the Theme Parks. The Gran Destino Tower will serve as the new main entrance point for the resort. Reservations are now open. The resort's more than 1,800 existing rooms have been fully updated with new fixtures, furniture and lighting. A second new restaurant is planned to open on an island in the middle of Lago Dorado with new walkways across the water. Disney Parks Blog posted the latest renderings of the project in an article on October 16, 2018.
- Iguana Arcade is closed for refurbishment.
- Disney's Art of Animation Resort – The Big Blue Pool will close for refurbishment beginning in Fall 2020.
Walt Disney World Golf
- No known closures.
Current Discounts and 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.
Walt Disney World Resort theme park tickets are rarely offered at deep discounts unless you are a resident of Florida or eligible for U.S. Military Personnel benefits. It is increasingly true that non-Florida residents tend to benefit the most by purchasing tickets in advance (and, of course, being mindful of the rules relevant to those tickets). As prices go up, it becomes even more important to pay heed: Don't get scammed! Never buy tickets from an unofficial or secondary outlet, such as through eBay or Craigslist. Never rent or purchase tickets from people approaching you outside Disney property stating they have remaining days or leftover tickets. This practice is against the terms of use for Walt Disney World Theme Park admissions, and may result in denial of entry. There is no way to determine if these tickets are valid until you try to use them to enter the parks. Only purchase Disney theme park tickets directly from Disney, an authorized seller, or a travel agency like MousePlanet travel partner Get Away Today.
Be sure to move the calendar to at least seven (7) days out, to see what ticket options and discounts are available for your planned visit.
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For Everyone
4-Park Magic Tickets
On January 18, Disney introduced a new four park ticket that provides one admission per theme park each day that must be used within 7 days of first use or by an expiration based upon price category, whichever comes first (Value: March 1; Select or Summer: September 30). To purchase, call (407)939-7646 or visit this page of DisneyWorld.com
Value | Select | Summer |
---|---|---|
Adult: $85/day ($340 plus tax) Child: $80/day ($320 plus tax) |
Adult: $89/day ($356 plus tax) Child: $84/day ($336 plus tax) |
Adult: $95/day ($380 plus tax) Child: $90/day ($360 plus tax) |
Valid only through 3/1/2019 | Valid through 3/14/2019, 3/27 to 4/9/2019, 4/27 to 5/27/2019 and 8/19 to 9/30/2019 |
Valid through 3/14/2019, 3/27 to 4/9/2019, 4/27 to 9/30/2019 |
Note that tickets are nontransferable and nonrefundable, do not include admission to hard ticket events and activities. If you purchase the 4-Park Magic tickets for higher-priced dates but use them on lower-priced dates, there will be no credits or refunds issued.
As further incentive to purchase park tickets in advance, for other ticket types, you can save $20 when you buy a 3-day or longer Disney Theme Park Ticket online compared to the price of the same ticket purchased at theme park ticket windows. Visit this page of DisneyWorld.com official ticket purchasing options.
Sun & Fun Room Offer
- Save up to 25% for stays most nights April 28 through May 27, 2019 when you book through May 27, 2019
- Save up to 30% for stays most nights May 28 through September 30, 2019 when you book through March 24, 2019
The Soak Up the Sun and Fun Offer varies by resort category and the savings depend upon dates which may also have length of stay requirements. In addition to the link, you can call (407)827-7393 for more information and availability, or you can contact your travel agent.
Save Up to 20% on Rooms
If your travel dates do not line up with the Sun & Fun Room Offer, you may still be able to save up to 20% on rooms for stays most nights through April 27, 2019, at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels. The number of rooms allocated for this offer is limited. Get more information and check availability this page of DisneyWorld.com, or call (407)939-2769 or your travel agent.
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.
For Annual Passholders
Expect to be required to show your Passholder Card and matching photo ID to receive a discount and other benefits. |
Passholders visiting Epcot during the 2019 Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival before April 10 can get a complimentary Pluto-themed passholder magnet at MouseGear or Port of Entry by showing your pass and matching photo ID (while supplies last). From April 11 to the end of the Festival on June 3 (or while supplies last), Passholders can also receive a complimentary Daisy Duck-themed passholder magnet at those locations. On April 11 only, Taste Track will sell a Passholder-exclusive Daisy-themed cookie for $4/each (while supplies last).
Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival runs through June 3. The Pluto Passholder magnet is available until April 10 (or supplies run out). File Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
For the most up-to-date list of locations offering dining discounts to Annual Passholders, visit this page of DisneyWorld.com. (You may need to sign in to see the full list applicable to your pass.) Don't forget about the dedicated V.I.PASSHOLDER SUPPORT service for questions about Passholder benefits and recommendations. Call (407)WDW-PASS or on-line chat (via chat button on this page of DisneyWorld.com) daily from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. Eastern, by email (via a web form), or in-person at Liberty Square Ticket Office in Magic Kingdom, Ticket Central at Disney's Hollywood Studios, or Ticket Corner at Disney's Animal Kingdom.
Many dining locations offer Passholders 10% discounts during some or all meal periods (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 percent discounts off regularly priced merchandise. Remember, not all merchandise locations at Walt Disney World are owned and operated by Disney, but some of the non-Disney participants (including restaurants) offer discounts between 10 and 20% to Passholders as well. Note, the current terms and conditions include, “Discount is for personal use only and may not be used to purchase merchandise with the intent to resell the 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.
For the current list of Passholder Extras visit this page of DisneyWorld.com. Passholder Extras include information about V.I.Passholder Perks, discounts on Disney After Hours events, Animal Encounter and tour discounts, Water Park discounts, Golf discounts, and more.
Magic Strollers, “a Disney featured stroller provider,” offers a $5 discount on stroller rental when staying at a Disney Resort Hotel and using coupon code WDWAP18 to arrange your rental. It is listed on the “Passholders Extras” page of the Passholder website (last checked February 4, 2019).
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.
If you know of an offer we haven't listed, please drop us an email with the details.
For Disney Rewards VISA Credit Card Holders
Reminder to MagicBand users: You must still show your Disney Visa credit card to receive discounts and other benefits. Discounts are not automatically applied even if you have linked your Disney Visa credit card to your MagicBand. |
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 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:
- Carriage Rides at Disney's Port Orleans Resort and Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground
- Horseback Trail Rides at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground
Free character photos at a private meet and greet location at Epcot
Present your Disney's 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 My Disney Experience smartphone application (or website).
Free character photos at a private meet and greet location at Disney's Hollywood Studios
Present your Disney's 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 My Disney Experience smartphone application (or website).
For Military Personnel
2019 Military Promotional Tickets
January 1 through December 19, 2019
- Four-Day Park Hopper Tickets –$241.00
- Four-Day Park Hopper Plus Tickets – $291.00
- Five-Day Park Hopper Tickets – $257.00
- Five-Day Park Hopper Plus Tickets – $307.00
Prices do not include tax and tickets must be used by December 19, 2019.
Prices may be lower at U.S. military base ticket offices.
U.S. military personnel can also purchase the Memory Maker product for $98 through December 19, 2019.
For more information, definitions and details, visit this page of DisneyWorld.com. Disney Military Promotional Tickets may be purchased at participating U.S. military sales outlets by eligible service members or their spouses (but not both), for use by themselves and only family members and friends, as provided by Disney's rules. These tickets may not be otherwise transferred, distributed or resold. Limit six (6) tickets purchased by the military personnel (or spouse), and one ticket must be used by that member of the military (or spouse). Each ticket must be used by the same person on any and all days.
Special pricing for Memory Maker is available at Walt Disney World theme park ticket windows when purchased by eligible service members or their spouses. No more than two Memory Maker products can be purchased by an eligible service member or their spouse. Usual Memory Maker restrictions apply and a MagicBand is required to receive some digital content.
Special Rates at Resort Hotels
U.S. military personnel can enjoy discounts at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels when booking by December 19, 2018, for stays most nights through April 13, and from April 26 through December 19, 2018. Offer excludes suites in Moderate and Deluxe Resort hotels, 3-bedroom villas, campsites, Cabins at Copper Creek at Disney's Wilderness Lodge, The Little Mermaid Standard Rooms at Disney's Art of Animation Resort, and Bungalows at Disney's Polynesian Village Resort. Call (407)939-4249 for information and reservations. Eligibility details are listed on this page of DisneyWorld.com.
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.
For Florida Residents
Park Tickets
Florida Resident Discover Disney Ticket
Walt Disney World Resort continues to offer Florida resident discount ticket programs. For the first half of 2019, the Discover Disney Ticket offer has returned. Visit this page of DisneyWorld.com for more information and purchasing options. Proof of Florida residence will be required at park entrance
- 3-Day Discover Disney Ticket – $175 plus tax
- 3-Day Discover Disney Park Hopper – $207.50 plus tax
- 3-Day Discover Disney Park Hopper Plus – $232.50 plus tax
- 4-Day Discover Disney Ticket – $195 plus tax
- 4-Day Discover Disney Park Hopper – $232.50 plus tax
- 4-Day Discover Disney Park Hopper Plus – $257.50 plus tax
Discover Disney Tickets are valid for admission to one park per day (unless Park Hopper is added) and can be used anytime through June 30, 2019, with no blockout dates. Tickets must be purchased by June 27, 2019. Proof of Florida residency required. Tickets exclude activities and events separately priced (i.e. “hard ticket” events and such).
The Park Hopper Plus Option permits visits to Disney Water Parks, select Disney Golf courses, and select other opportunities. The 3-Day Plus Option permits 3 visits; the 4-Day Plus Option permits 4 visits.
All tickets and options expire June 30, 2019. A wholly unused ticket can be applied to the purchase of a new ticket with an equal or higher price after the expiration date of the original ticket.
Other Florida Resident Offers
For special tickets, passes and offers available to Florida Residents, visit this page of DisneyWorld.com.
Spring Florida resident hotel rates starting at $88/person per day for a 3-night/4-day package for a family of 4 at a select Disney's All-Star Resort for travel through April 27, 2019, are available on this page of DisneyWorld.com.
If you know of an offer we haven't listed, please drop us an email with the details.
For Disney Vacation Club Members
Member Benefits and Discounts may be found on this page of DisneyVacationClub.com. Note: some benefits and discounts are only available to those with a valid Disney Vacation Club Membership Card which is only available to Members owning at least 75 Vacation Points purchased directly from Disney Vacation Development, Inc.
Disney Cruise Line is offering eligible Members a 30 percent discount off original points chart values for select Bahamian sailings aboard the Disney Dream out of Port Canaveral, Florida: 5-night sailings departing June 28, and July 7 and 12, 2019, each featuring two stops at Disney’s private-island paradise, Castaway Cay, as well as select Mexican Riviera sailings aboard the Disney Wonder out of San Diego, California: 7-night Halloween on the High Seas voyages departing October 20 and 27, 2019. More information and eligible itineraries are on this page of the DVC website. The offer is only valid on reservations made through DVC Member Services.
Adventures by Disney is offering eligible Members 20 percent off original points chart values for select river cruises and land-based trips including Danube River Cruises (featuring eight destinations in four countries – Germany, Austria, Slovakia and Hungary) departing June 6, July 12 and December 15, 2019, and Rhine River Cruises (featuring six destinations in four countries – Switzerland, France, Germany and the Netherlands) departing July 15, 22 and 29, 2019. This Adventures by Disney discount is also available for short escapes in the U.S. (with options in Boston, New York City, the American Southwest and more), and lengthier explorations of Europe, Asia, Central America and South America. Discount applies to reservations made entirely with vacation points, or through a combination of vacation points and cash. More information and eligible trips are on this page of the DVC website. The offer is only valid on reservations made through DVC Member Services.
Call DVC Member Services at (800) 800-9800 to take advantage of these offers.
If you know of an offer that you think most Members do not know about, please drop us an email with the details.
For New England Residents
The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort celebrates February's big football game victory by the team from New England by offering the “Champions Package” to residents of New Hampshire, Maine, Massachusetts, Vermont, Rhode Island, and Connecticut. For stays through December 24, 2019 (minimum stay of three nights required), the Champions Package includes $100 meal credit, which can be used at Shula's Steak House (named for NFL's winningest coach, Don Shula) or any other restaurant at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort. It also includes a “one category complimentary room upgrade that does not include suite upgrades.” Guests must have valid state identification at check-in from an eligible state. More information and details of the offer are available at this page of SwanDolphin.com. More information and reservations are available by calling (800)227-1500 and mentioning “CHAMPS.”
For Canada Residents
Canada residents can purchase an adult 4-day or longer base theme park ticket for as low as $316 (that is $79/day; US Dollars not including tax). Upgrades to the Park Hopper Option are also available. Tickets may be purchased on this page of DisneyWorld.com for Canada residents or by phone at (407)939-7648. This offer is available through March 15, 2019, and they may be used through September 27, 2019 (but are blocked December 24, 2018, to January 1, 2019). Tickets must be used within 14 days of first use or by September 27, 2019, whichever is earlier.
All adults using Canada resident tickets or passes must present valid proof of Canada 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. The offer itself requires advanced purchase; it is not available at Walt Disney World Resort theme park ticket windows. Tickets and options are nontransferable, nonrefundable and exclude events/activities separately priced. Admission is subject to capacity closures and to other restrictions.
Check https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/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.
For U.K. Residents
You can see the latest offers for U.K. residents on Disney World's U.K. packages website. It now features an offer where everyone on your booking dines for FREE during their entire stay when you book a Disney Moderate, Deluxe or Deluxe Villa Resort Hotel and Ticket package for a minimum of 5 nights in 2019; also enjoy FREE Breakfast if you stay in a Value Resort Hotel! Plus, enjoy speciality non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages during your stay!
If you know of an offer we haven't listed, please drop us an email with the details.
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