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You are here: Home / Walt Disney World Resort Update / Walt Disney World Resort Update for May 2-8, 2017

Walt Disney World Resort Update for May 2-8, 2017

May 2, 2017 by Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix

Walt Disney World Resort Update for May 2–8, 2017

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

Writer's note: While Alan is off chasing adventure in the great wide somewhere, I'm back at the helm of the Walt Disney World Update for a few weeks, with local photo support by Bonnie & Donald Fink. Like you, we're all eagerly awaiting his return to the writer's desk – Adrienne


News and Views

Prepare for Pandora-mania as cast member previews begin | Pixar in Concert comes to Walt Disney World | Is driverless Disney transportation on the horizon? | Mickey Mouse Celebration Cakes available starting May 17 | The Rock says he plans to redo Jungle Cruise | Views around the World | One Passholder's Tip | This and That | Crowd Forecast

Prepare for Pandora-mania as cast member previews begin

Walt Disney World is in the midst of a major media campaign to promote the May 27 opening of Pandora – The World of Avatar, but until now the buzz has been largely through approved media outlets invited for an advance look inside the new land. This week, the gates open a little wider, as Walt Disney World cast members not already assigned to the new land get their first look at the 12 acre expansion of Disney's Animal Kingdom park, staring Friday, May 5.

Disney employees will be under strict orders not to share spoilers from the new land on social media, but Disney itself has put out a ton of content about Pandora, both through the Disney Parks Blog and through Disney-owned media outlets like ABC News.

First look at Disney World's Pandora – The World of Avatar | ABC News

Cast member previews are currently scheduled May 5 & 6, then from May 8-12. May 13 is the start of 10 days of previews for annual passholders and Disney Vacation Club members. The media event for Pandora – The World of Avatar runs May 23–25, which doesn't leave much time for public soft openings before the May 27 grand opening.

MousePlanet has our first look into the new land during a local media event on May 12, and we look forward to sharing our thoughts and impressions with you.

Meet The Na'vi Shaman of Songs | Pandora – The World of Avatar

Pixar in Concert comes to Walt Disney World

Back in 2012, the San Francisco Symphony debuted Pixar in Concert, a multi-media presentation combining a live orchestra, projected visuals and the music of Randy Newman and Michael Giacchino. The show visited Los Angeles that summer, and has since become an international touring production. The 2017 lineup includes stops in Omaha, Ohio, Australia and Korea.

Not listed among the 2017 tour stops is Walt Disney World, but it seems visitors to Disney's Hollywood Studios this summer have a chance to see a scaled-down version of the show in the just-announced The Music of Pixar concert series. While there no indication that Pixar in Concert is officially involved in the theme park show, the description leaves little doubt that this is intended as a family-friendly sampler of the original show.

The Music of Pixar concerts take place in the Theater of the Stars, and are performed by a live orchestra. The show is said to be about 40 minutes long, perhaps a bit long for the youngest members of the family, but look for frequent appearances by the Pixar characters to spark interest. The concert also ends with a sing-along, which we know from the Frozen phenomenon is a great way to engage restless children.

The concerts begin May 26, and as of this writing are scheduled through August 27. with three performances scheduled each night.

In keeping with recent trends, Disney has also announced a dining package for The Music of Pixar. Prices range from $39 to $65 per adult, $18 to $35 per child, with options for breakfast, lunch and dinner. There are three restaurants to choose from: Hollywood & Vine, Mama Melrose's or The Hollywood Brown Derby. This dining package is eligible for the Disney Dining Plan.

Book online via the Disney World website, or call (407) 939-3463. It appears there is also a package which would offer seating for both The Music of Pixar and Fantasmic; call Disney for more informaiton.

Is driverless Disney transportation on the horizon?

The Orlando Sentinel reports that Disney is in negotiations with the makers of self-driving vehicles to operate shuttles at Walt Disney World. According to the report, Disney would initially use the shuttles to move cast members around the resort, and may expand the offering in 2018 if the program is successful.

Mickey Mouse Celebration Cakes available starting May 17

If you're looking for a new way to celebrate a birthday or special event at a Walt Disney World restaurant, a duo of new Mickey Mouse Celebration Cakes might be just what your sweet tooth ordered. Looking like a simplified version of the Disney character cakes offered at Amorette’s Patisserie in Disney Springs, the new Mickey cake is available in decadent chocolate or sweet white chocolate. Limited personalization is available on the chocolate ears of the cake, which you can order with a message that reads “Happy Birthday” or “Congratulations.” No other personalization is available at this time, but you can opt to leave the ears blank if neither of those options suit your occasion.

The cakes are $35, and serve 4-6 people, and are available only at Disney owned-and-operated table service restaurants in Walt Disney World. To ensure a cake is waiting for your party, call (407) 939-3463 to add a cake onto your dining reservation. If you forget, you may be able to request a cake when you dine, but it's best to reserve one where possible.

If Mickey isn't your character, you have a specific dietary restriction or if you'd just like something more elaborate, Disney still offers their selection of custom cakes through the Cake Hotline, 407-827-2253. These cakes start at $55 and can run into the several hundreds of dollars, but Disney's bakers are standing by to make your cake dreams come true.

The Rock says he plans to redo Jungle Cruise

Earlier this month, actor Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson took control of a Jungle Cruise book at the Magic Kingdom, a trip that most assumed was to research his role in an upcoming film. In a post the actor made on Instragram this weekend, he implied involvement goes way beyond the silver screen. Johnson posted that he will ” partner with Disney's brilliant Imagineers to help re-engineer and re-design the #JungleCruise ride in all the Disney theme parks around the world.”

Will The Rock really get to leave his mark on the Jungle, or did Johnson perhaps overstate his role with Disney? While confirming the visit to Walt Disney Imagineering, a spokesperson told the Orlando Sentinel that Disney has no plans at this time to change the rides at this time.

 

Grateful SOB to have Walt and Mickey watching over my shoulder as @danygarciaco and I embark on this amazing project. For our big #JungleCruise creative meeting at DISNEY's highly secure R&D facilities, me and @danygarciaco were escorted into THE VAULT. A legitimate vault where all of Disney's biggest secrets and plans are kept. Curtains were pulled back for us to reveal the actual drawn up plans that Walt Disney had his brother, Roy Disney take to New York to present to the bankers in 1950 for the potential loan to build what's now known as Disney Land. Cant imagine what that meeting with bankers was like. Roy: Alright gentlemen, so me and my brother Walt, want to build the greatest multiple theme park attraction in the world. Banker: Oh that seems fun, Mr. Disney. Roy: *smiles in a playful mischievous manner, Oh yes my good man, it will have a few things that are in fact, fun. Well, clearly I don't know how the hell men were actually talking in the 50's, but what I do know is being able to star in and produce #JungleCruise is a dream come true. BUT what takes this to the next level, is that we'll partner with Disney's brilliant Imagineers to help re-engineer and re-design the #JungleCruise ride in all the Disney theme parks around the world. A very special opportunity for us and our @sevenbucksprod to create an unforgettable and fun EXPERIENCE for families around the world. And as Walt Disney himself would say… it's magical. Next step is finding our visionary director. Exciting times. #JungleCruise #TheExperience #DisneyStudios #Imagineers #SevenBucksProds #WaltAndRockWouldveBeenBesties #AndWorkoutBuddies #WaltWouldveLovedMyJackedUpPickUpTruck 😉🤙🏾

A post shared by therock (@therock) on Apr 29, 2017 at 9:59am PDT

Views Around the World

This week's Views Around the World include all Four Parks, Disney Springs, and more of the on-going road construction projects around the Resort.

Magic Kingdom

The Monorail station at the Magic Kingdom is covered in scaffoldign during refurbishment. The Monorail service does not appear to be affected by this work. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Cosmic Ray's Starlight Cafe in Tomorrowland looks closed, but it's open for business. Workers are adding more covered outdoor seating and expanding the restrooms. Construction is expected to conclude later this summer. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

The Prince Charming Regal Carrousel in Fantasyland is closed for refurbishment. It is expected to open again on May 18th, 2017. Photo by Donald Fink.

Disney's Animal Kingdom

Construction is under way for an added bus stop at Disney's Animal Kingdom. Here, part of the fence was down so we got a quick peek at its progress. Photo by Donald Fink.

It's time for the International Flower and Garden Festival at Epcot, and it's also time to put out the orchids at Disney's Animal Kingdom. Photo by Donald Fink.

Resort Hotels

Dry conditions continue in central Florida as seen in the grassy area of Fort Wilderness Campground. That's right, this area is supposed to be grass and is normally mowed once a week. Photo by Donald Fink.

We're not sure when Disney replaced all the conventional garbage cans with these new bear proof boxes, but it is certainly a welcome site. Bears are not common in Fort Wilderness, but they wander through occasionally. When people make it difficult for bears to obtain food from the garbage cans, they'll usually move on. This is the responsible way to manage a potential bear issue. More communities in central Florida could benefit from this example. Photo by Donald Fink.

One Passholder's Tip

This section of the Update provides our MousePlanet readers with the benefit of my years of experience as a longtime Walt Disney World Four Parks Annual Passholder, and lots of personal trial and errors, one (hopefully weekly) tip at a time.

One Passholder's Tip: Week 15

This week's Passholder Tip comes from reader Tom Linn:

Do you love the Tonga Toast served at the Kona Cafe in the Polynesian but can't get or don't want a reservation? Want it cheaper as well? Then head downstairs one level to Captain Cooks quick serve restaurant to get it. They also have Dole Whips as well. It doesn't get any better if you adore these two treats.

 

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

This and That

iCan is a new interactive robot in Tomorrowland. He moves around on a hoverboard, interacting with guests and even has the ability to call them by name. Appearance times are not published yet, but he seems to make appearances more in the mornings, at least for now. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

…Tomorrowland has a new resident robot. iCan roams round the land, greeting visitors and trading jokes. While the technology behind the robot is not new – there are videos online of the device in use dating back to at least 2010 – iCan provides the type of diversion missing since PUSH the talking trash can was retired.


Watch iCan, Disney's robot from outer space as he makes one of his frequent appearances in Tomorrowland at the Magic Kingdom, Orlando, Florida. Video by Bonnie Fink.

…James Beard award-winner and Top Chef Master, Tony Mantuano has been named as the chef behind a new Italian restaurant under development to replace the now-closed Portobello Country Italian Trattoria in Disney Springs. Portobello closed last month for renovation, and the new concept is expected to open in early Fall, 2017.

…All campfires and charcoal barbecues are currently banned in Disney's Fort Wilderness Campground. This is because of the burn ban in Orange County due to the extremely dry conditions in central Florida. Disney has placed a propane barbecue in each camping loop plus three extra at the pavilion at the Meadows for the use of campers who didn't bring a gas grill with them.

Disney has placed propane grills at Disney's Fort Wilderness Campground for guests to use during the Orange County burn ban. Photo by Donald Fink.

…Medical marijuana users, take note: Walt Disney World has added marijuana to the list of Prohibited Items in the Walt Disney World Resort Park Rules.

…Disney Vacation Club members receive a free gift with a purchase of $50 or more at Sugarboo & Co. in Disney Springs throughout the month of May 2017.

Last week, Alan Dalinka mentioned that beginning on May 3, DVC members will receive special treatment at a selected store each Wednesday at Disney Springs. This week it's 15% off purchases at kate spade new york. The following week, on May 10th, it's another 15% off purchases at Origins. Photo by Donald Fink.

…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 e-mail in the box below.

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Crowd Forecast

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

Date Overall
Tuesday, May 2, 2017 3 / 10
Wednesday, May 3, 2017 4 / 10
Thursday, May 4, 2017 3 / 10
Friday, May 5, 2017 6 / 10
Saturday, May 6, 2017 6 / 10

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

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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 e-mail (link).

2017 Resort Events

  • Star Wars Experiences – Opened December 1, 2015 (ongoing)
  • Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival – March 1 – May 29, 2017.
  • Dapper Day Outing (unofficial events)– November 18, 2017 at Magic Kingdom; November 19, 2017 at Epcot
  • GayDays | #RedShirtDay (unofficial events) – June 1, 2017 at Disney's Animal Kingdom; June 2, 2017 at Disney's Hollywood Studios; June 3, 2017 at Magic Kingdom; June 4, 2017 at Epcot
  • Epcot International Food & Wine Festival – August 31 – November 13, 2017.
  • 35th Disney Night of Joy at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex – September 8 and 9, 2017
  • Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic – October 27–28, 2017
  • Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party – August 25, 29; September 1, 7, 10, 12, 15, 17, 19, 22, 24, 26, 29;
       October 1, 3, 5, 6, 9, 10, 12, 13, 15, 17, 19, 20, 22, 24, 26, 27, 29, 31; November 1
  • Holidays at Walt Disney World –Dates TBD
  • Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party – November 8, 9, 12, 14, 16, 17, 26, 28;
       December 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 10, 12, 14, 15, 17, 19, 21, 22
  • Holidays Around the World at Epcot –Dates TBD
  • Candlelight Processional at Epcot –Dates TBD

2018 Resort Events

  • Epcot International Festival of the Arts – “Early” 2018
  • 25th Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival – “Spring” 2018

runDisney events

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

2017

  • Virtual Running Shorts – June 1-August 31, 2017 (Virtual). Registration now open.
       No proof of time required.
  • Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend – November 2–5, 2017. Registration opens January 17, 2017.
       Proof of time must be submitted by August 1, 2017.

2018

  • 25th Anniversary Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend – January 3-7, 2018. Registration now open (some events sold out). Proof of time deadline October 3, 2017.
  • 10th Anniversary Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend – February 22–25, 2018. General Registration opens May 2, 2018. Proof of time deadline TBD.
  • Star Wars Half Marathon – The Dark Side Weekend – TBD.
  • Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend – TBD

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


Refurbishments and Attraction Closures

Note: Not all attraction closures have been officially confirmed by Disney, and are all subject to change at any time. 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

  • Wishes: A Magical Gathering of Disney Dreams – has its final showing on May 11, 2017, to make way for the May 12 premier of the new fireworks show named Happily Ever After.
  • Stitch's Great Escape – closed except for occasional “seasonal” openings.
  • The Hall of Presidents – closed January 17, 2017, through June 29, 2017, to add an audio-animatronic figure of the 45th president of the United States.

Epcot

Scheduled closure:

  • Mission:SPACE – June 5, 2017 through late July, 2017

Permanently closed:

  • Innoventions West (except Character Meet and Greets)
  • Innoventions East (except Colortopia and a Passholder shop)
    …including Sum of All Thrills and Storm Struck

Disney's Hollywood Studios

Permanently closed:

  • Streets of America
  • Premiere Theatre
  • The Writer's Stop
  • Lights, Motors, Action! Extreme Stunt Show
  • Honey, I Shrunk the Kids Movie Set Adventure
  • Studio Catering Co.
  • Meet & Greets: Mike and Sulley, Phineas and Ferb, Mater and Lightning McQueen
  • Magic of Disney Animation
  • Academy of Television Sciences Hall of Fame

Disney's Animal Kingdom

  • No known closures at this time!

Blizzard Beach

  • Runoff Rapids. Expected completion: TBA.

Typhoon Lagoon

  • No known closures at this time!

Disney Springs

Portobello is now closed for refubishment. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.

  • Portobello Country Italian Trattoria – Closed April 24, 2017 for enhancements through Fall 2017
  • Disney Quest – scheduled to close July 3, 2017 to make way for The NBA Experience.
  • La Nouba by Cirque du Soleil – ends its run on December 31, 2017. Next use of the theater on the West Side TBA.

Resorts

  • Caribbean Beach – Centertown, the resort's marketplace, will be expanded with new waterfront dining and retail shopping areas. As construction gets underway, it is possible some existing venues will close. The project is expected to be completed 2019-20.
  • 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.
  • Wilderness Lodge and Villas – Hidden Springs pool, resort beach, and playground closed. The opening of Disney Vacation Club's Copper Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney's Wilderness Lodge is expected July 17. In the meantime, Roaring Fork is also closed and continue to expect construction-related closures and noise due to construction. Read more about it in my article published on MousePlanet yesterday.

Elsewhere

  • Disney Osprey Ridge Golf Course – permanently closed.

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.


Travel Discounts for Everyone

DisneyWorld.com has released its Fall 2017 Free Dining offer. Get a free dining plan when you purchase a non-discounted 5-night/6-day Magic Your Way room and ticket package with a Park Hopper or Park Hopper Plus Option. Book through July 7, 2017.

2017 Travel Dates

  • August 21 – September 30
  • November 14 – 20
  • November 25 – 27
  • December 8 – 23

Packages require advance reservations and include:

  • Room
  • Theme Park ticket(s) with Park Hopper or Park Hopper Plus (Minimum 2-Days required)
  • Dining Plan (Disney Dining for Deluxe & Deluxe Villas; Quick Service for Value & Moderate Resorts)

Details & Restrictions:

  • Tickets and options must be used within 14 days of first use
  • Children ages 3-9 must choose from cildren's menu (if available)
  • Rooms allocated for the offer are limited.
  • Some table-service restaurants may have limited or no availability at time of package purchase.
  • Cannot be combined with other discounts or promotions.
  • Excludes alcohaolic beverages and gratuities.
  • Everyone in the same room must be on the same package.
  • Offer excludes campsites, 3-bedroom villas, Disney's Art of Animation Resort Little Mermaid Standard Rooms and Bungalows at Disney's Polynesian Villas & Bungalows.

Additional restrictions and exclusions may apply. Thanks to Mary Kraemer of Masterpiece Travels for the tip.


Our friends at Small World Vacations let us know that Disney has a made a summer discount offer where you can save up to 25% on rooms at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels for stays most nights May 28-Aug. 31, 2017 when you book March 27-July 14, 2017. You can also see all of Disney's current special offers on DisneyWorld.com.


Memory Maker pre-arrival discount

Disney's PhotoPass service provides a discount on Disney Memory Maker pre-arrival packages. For $169 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 $149, a $20 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. All sales are final, and not eligible for an exchange or refund.

Travel Discounts for Annual Passholders


Kick Off Your Spring room offer

Passholders can book rooms at the Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort starting at $86 per night under this offer. The discount is valid most Sunday through Thursday nights, April 23 through May 25, 2017. Additional resorts and dates are available for stays April 9 through April 22 and May 26 through June 10, 2017, with rates from $101 at the All-Star Resorts to $292 per night at Disney's BoardWalk Inn

Booking Window – Must book by June 9, 2017

Travel Window – Most nights from April 9, 2017 through June 10, 2017

Terms and Conditions:

  • Passholder must present a valid Walt Disney World Pass at check-in.
  • Advance reservations required.
  • Maximum – 14 nights
  • Cannot be combined with any other discount or promotions.
  • Offer excludes the following room types: campsites, 3-bedroom villas, Disney's Art of Animation Resort – The Little Mermaid Standard Rooms and Bungalows at Disney's Polynesian Villas & Bungalows.

Visit the Annual Passholder website for details, or call 407-939-7676 to book by phone.

If you know of an offer we haven't listed, please drop us an email with the details!

Discounts for Disney Rewards VISA Credit Card Holders


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. Tours included:

  • Magic Kingdom Park
    • Disney's Family Magic Tour
    • Disney's Keys to the Kingdom Tour
    • Disney's The Magic Behind Our Steam Trains Tour
    • Walt Disney: Marceline to Magic Kingdom Tour
  • Epcot
    • Gardens of the World (offered seasonally)
    • The UnDISCOVERed Future World
    • Disney's Dolphins in Depth
    • Epcot DiveQuest
    • Epcot Seas Aqua Tour
    • Behind the Seeds
    • World Showcase: DestiNations Discovered
  • Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park
    • Backstage Tales
  • Multiple Theme Parks and Backstage Areas
    • Ultimate Day of Thrills VIP Tour
    • Ultimate Day for Young Families VIP Tour
    • Ultimate Day at Epcot International Food & Wine Festival
    • Backstage Magic
    • Disney's Holiday D-Lights (offered seasonally)
    • Disney's Yuletide Fantasy (offered seasonally)
    • Wilderness Back Trail Adventure


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). Discount excludes alcohol.

Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge and Villas:

  • Boma
  • Jiko (see restrictions)
  • Sanaa

Disney's BoardWalk Inn and Villas:

  • ESPN Sports Club
  • Flying Fish Cafe (see restrictions)

Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort:

  • Shutters at Old Port Royale

Disney's Contemporary Resort:

  • The Wave

Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground:

  • Trail's End Restaurant

Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa:

  • Citricos (see restrictions)
  • Grand Floridian Cafe
  • Narcoossee's

Disney's Old Key West Resort:

  • Olivia's Cafe

Disney's Port Orleans Resort:

  • Boatwright's Dining Hall

Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa:

  • The Turf Club Bar and Grill

Disney's Wilderness Lodge:

  • Artist Point (see restrictions)
  • Whispering Canyon Cafe

Disney's Yacht Club Resort:

  • Captain's Grille
  • Cape May Cafe

Disney's Hollywood Studios:

  • The Hollywood Brown Derby (see restrictions)
  • Hollywood & Vine (see restrictions)

Epcot:

  • Biergarten Restaurant (see restrictions)
  • Coral Reef (lunch only)
  • Le Cellier (lunch only)
  • Rose & Crown Dining Room (lunch only)

ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex:

  • ESPN Wide World of Sports Grill

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 Disney Visa website.

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 and Marrakesh Emporium Arts & Crafts.


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 listed below:

Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

  • Senses – A Disney Spa
  • Ivy Trellis Salon

Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa

  • Senses – A Disney Spa

Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge and Villas

  • Zahanati Massage & Fitness Center

Disney's Contemporary Resort

  • Olympiad Fitness Center

Disney's Coronado Springs Resort

  • La Vida Health Club
  • Casa de Belleza Salon

Disney's Wilderness Lodge

  • Sturdy Branches Health Club

Disney's Yacht & Beach Club Resorts

  • Ship Shape Massage Salon Fitness

10% 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 photo at a private meet and greet location at Epcot

Present your Disney's Premier Visa Card or Disney Rewards Visa Card for access to a private character meet and greet at Epcot for the cardholder and up to 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 one free character photo download per day.


Travel Discounts for Military Personnel

2017 Military Salute – 4-Day or 5-Day Military Promotional Ticket discount

Through December 19, 2017, active and retired U.S. military personnel (including active and retired members of the United States Coast Guard, National Guard and Reservists) or their spouses can purchase:

  • Disney 4-Day Military Promotional Tickets with Park Hopper Option for $209 each, plus tax
  • Disney 4-Day Military Promotional Tickets with Park Hopper and Water Park Fun and More Options for $246 each, plus tax.
  • Disney 5-Day Military Promotional Tickets with Park Hopper Option for $224 each, plus tax
  • Disney 5-Day Military Promotional Tickets with Park Hopper and Water Park Fun and More Options for $261 each, plus tax.

Walt Disney World Resort tickets may be used January 1 through December 19, 2017. Thanks to our reader Dr. Smith who alerted us that the website militarydisneytips.com notes that April 9-23 are no longer listed as blockout dates for Disney's Armed Forces Salute.

Active and retired U.S. military personnel can purchase Disney Military Promotional Tickets for themselves and up to five additional family members or friends. No more than six Disney Military Promotional Tickets may be purchased by any eligible member of the U.S. military (or spouse) pursuant to this offer. All tickets and options are non-transferable and must be used by December 19, 2017.

Military Salute – Hotel discount

Disney does not publish the actual discounted rates offered to service members under this program, and instead asks eligible U.S. military personnel to call 407-939-7830 to check pricing, availability and to make reservations. The website Military Disney Tips.com says the offer is 30-40 percent, based on room category.

The 2017 offer is valid most nights from January 1 through December 19, 2017.

Travel Discounts for Florida Residents


La Nouba by Cirque du Soleil – Subject to availability, Florida residents can get discounts for groups of three or more tickets for shows now through April 29. With the discount, a family of four can purchase tickets for as low as $32.25 per ticket for Category 3 seating. Discounted Family Pack tickets are also available for Category 1, Category 2 and Front and Center. For tickets, call (407)939-7328 or visiting the La Nouba box office. (Proof of Florida residency required for discount.)

If you know of an offer we haven't listed, please drop us an email with the details!


Travel Discounts for Canada Residents

MousePlanet reader Scott S. alerted us to an offer for Canadian residents. Canadian residents receive a 25% discount on 4-day or longer tickets purchased. The discounted rate for a 4-Day adult base ticket is $244.00 USD, compared to $325.00 USD when purchased at the gate. A 10-day adult base ticket is $300 USD, a savings of $100 from the main gate price. Scott S. just alerted us that the offer has been extended to tickets purchased through May 20, 2017.

This offer is only good for Canadian citizens with valid passport, or residents of Canada with valid proof of Canadian residency. The tickets are sold as an exchange certificate, and must be exchanged for park ticket upon arrival. There is no expiration date on the unused tickets, but once activated the tickets must be used within 14 days of first entry.

You can see the full details on the Walt Disney World website. Thanks Scott for the heads up!

If you know of an offer we haven't listed, please drop us an email with the details!


Travel Discounts for U.K. Residents

Reader Stuart D. let us know about Disney's 2018 free dining offer for folks traveling from the U.K. You can see the offers on Disney World's U.K. packages website. There are lots of details about the free dining, a $200 Disney Gift Card, a 14-Day Ticket for the price of 7 (including Water Parks and Memory Maker) and a lot of fine print. Here are the highlights of the 14-night packages during summer 2018 holidays and all include Memory Maker photos, 14-Day Ultimate Ticket for the price of a 7-Day ticket (including FastPass+), and 12-month DisneyLife subscription:

Disney Value Resorts

  • Disney's All-Star Movies Resort
  • Disney's All-Star Music Resort
  • Disney's All-Star Sports Resort
  • Disney's Art of Animation Resort
  • Disney's Pop Century Resort

Packages from £809 GBP

Also includes:

  • Free Breakfasts

Disney Moderate Resorts

  • Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort
  • Disney's Coronado Springs Resort
  • Disney's Port Orleans Resorts
  • The Cabins at Disney's Fort Filderness Resort

Packages from £1156 GBP

Also includes:

  • Free Quick-Service Dining Plan
  • $200 Disney Spending Money*

Disney Deluxe Resorts

  • Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge
  • Disney's Beach Club Resort
  • Disney's Boardwalk Inn
  • Disney's Contemporary Resort
  • Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
  • Disney's Polynesian Village Resort
  • Disney's Yacht Club Resort

Packages from £1572 GBP

Also includes:

  • Free Disney Dining Plan
  • $200 Disney Spending Money*

Disney Deluxe Villas

  • Bay Lake Tower at Disney's Contemporary Resort
  • Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney's Wilderness Lodge
  • Disney's Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village
  • Disney's Beach Club Villas
  • Disney's Boardwalk Villas
  • Disney's Old Key West Resort
  • Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa

Packages from £1331 GBP

Also includes:

  • Free Disney Dining Plan
  • $200 Disney Spending Money*

Sample package prices are for 2 adults and 2 children (aged 3-9) , including a two-week stay, arriving 27th May, 2018 – 5th September, 2018, for new bookings only, subject to availability. Additional terms and conditions on Disney's U.K. website, but a few more details follow.

Free Dine and Free Breakfast Offers are available to book 6 April, 2017 – 6 July, 2017, for selected arrivals 1 January – 18 March, 2018 and 6 April – 30 November, 2018. Minimum length of stay is 5 consecutive nights, and a maximum of 21 consecutive nights. Dining plan must be selected for all members of the traveling party aged 3 and over. In addition to the minimum stay, Disney Tickets for the whole party must be booked to qualify. Gratuities are not included.

*$200 Disney Spending Money Offer is available to book 6 April, 2017 – 6 July, 2017, for selected arrivals 1 January – 18 March, 2018 and 6 April – 30 November 2018. Booking must include 5 nights minimum stay at a Moderate Resort or participating Deluxe Resort or Villa. Spending money will be in the form of a Disney Gift Card valid at Walt Disney World and select U.S. Disney Stores only.

If you know of an offer we haven't listed, please drop us an email with the details!


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  • Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix
    Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix

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Filed Under: Walt Disney World Resort Update

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