TouringPlans – Tips For Making Rope Drop With Young Kids

If you are planning a Disney World vacation you’ve probably already heard the all important tip…”If you do nothing else, you must make it to Rope Drop!” Frequent visitors to Disney World will tell you that those first two hours of the day in the parks are absolutely critical to maximizing your vacation fun. If you are anything like most of us parents after you heard this, you thought to yourself…”How the heck am I supposed to get my entire family up, ready, fed, out the door, and to the park so early in the morning? This is never going to happen!” Well, stress not, fellow parent! Click to read my latest TouringPlans article – Tips for Making Rope Drop with Young Kids to learn simple tricks for an easier morning and an awesome viewing spot up front at the Magic Kingdom Welcome Show.

Do you make rope drop with your young kids? Do you have any helpful hints for your fellow travelers? Please share; we would love to hear from you!

Zuri’s Sweets Shop Now Open And The New Poop Treats

Zuri's Sweets Shop

Updated June 27, 2015: It is being reported that Disney has removed the new poop treats from Zuri’s Sweets Shop as of today.

Have you heard the news? Zuri’s Sweets Shop is now open in the new Harambe Marketplace of Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Here are the latest details courtesy of Disney:


Guests can take their taste buds on a mouth-watering safari with a visit to Zuri’s Sweets Shop at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. This new merchandise location at Harambe Market in the Africa section of the park offers an assortment of wild new treats and eats.

Zuri's Sweets ShopZuri’s Sweets Shop features 80 exclusive food items inspired by the sights, sounds and flavors of Africa. Guests can purchase themed decorative candy apples, assorted bulk trail mixes, uniquely flavored chocolate bars and delectable popcorn with a touch of African spices. Guests with a taste for barbeque also can find the signature sweet and spicy sauce from the park’s popular Flame Tree Barbecue.

This unique location also includes a colorful confectionary case filled with a variety of candies and baked treats. Guests with a sweet tooth will be thrilled to find tiger-shaped sugar cookies, elephant-shaped caramel apples and colorful giraffe marshmallow pops alongside Disney confectionary classics, such as Mickey Mouse chocolate chip cookies and tasty chocolate fudge.

In addition to the festive themed food items, Zuri’s Sweets Shop also offers items for the home, such as decorative “Blessing Baskets” and African-inspired dinnerware and décor.


Now what Disney’s press release doesn’t happen to mention is that Zuri’s Sweets Shop is home to the new poop treats. That’s right folks, if you haven’t already heard this unbelievable news, Disney is selling treats that look like animal poop! The official name is “Match The Species Treats” and they come in elephant, giraffe, hippo, and cotton top tamarin varieties. From what I hear, if you can get past what they look like they are all tasty chocolate desserts. Here are the descriptions:

  • Zuri's Sweets ShopElephant Poop – Chocolate peanut butter fudge with sweet rolled oats and coconut flakes.
  • Giraffe Poop – Rolled chocolate fudgy brownie and freshly made caramel.
  • Hippo Poop – Chocolate fudge caramel brownie with peanut butter and rolled oats.
  • Cotton Top Tamarin Poop – Pretzel pearls coated in chocolate peanut butter fudge with sweet rolled oak flakes.

Zuri's Sweets ShopThese treats are just $3.99 a poop (I mean, a pop 😉 ) or one Disney Dining Plan Snack Credit. My money is on the giraffe variety. I think it is the only one I could get myself to actually try!

Will you be trying Zuri’s Sweets Shop on your next visit?
What do you think about the poop treats? Please leave a comment!

Frozen Summer Fun Returns Next Month

Frozen

Great news for fans! Frozen Summer Fun is returning to Hollywood Studios this summer running from June 17 through September 7 during the “Coolest Summer Ever“. Here’s the latest information courtesy of Disney Parks Blog:

Frozen“Frozen” Summer Fun makes its majestic return to Disney’s Hollywood Studios on June 17. You can once again enjoy the huge, frosty fun entertainment—with all-new offerings! This year, you can cool off with Olaf as he appears in his own show, Olaf’s Summer Cool Down, on the event stage. Everyone’s favorite snowman will also be joining the “Frozen” Royal Welcome on Hollywood Blvd. A new float—inspired by Elsa’s ice palace—has been added to the procession. Plus, it will now run twice daily, doubling your chances to catch Anna, Elsa, Kristoff, Olaf and their Arendelle friends.

FrozenFor the First Time in Forever: A “Frozen” Sing-Along Celebration moves to a new home during the Coolest Summer Ever in the Hyperion Theater in the park’s Center Stage area. Also look for some new special effects that just might surprise you!

FrozenAnd when the sun dips behind the horizon? Enjoy the high-energy DJ Dance Party and the sky-high “Frozen” fireworks spectacle that lights up the night.

If you are looking for even more Frozen fun consider booking the Frozen Summer Fun Premium Package. Each package includes:

  • See Anna and Elsa in the reserved viewing for Frozen Royal Welcome, complete with regal refreshments—water, a selection of soft drinks, and ice cream
  • Reserved seating for your choice of one show time of For the First Time In Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration
  • Frozen Fireworks viewing with dessert party, a dazzling nighttime display of fireworks paired with Frozen-themed desserts as well as specialty alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages

All of this Frozen fun is only $69 for adults and $39 for children age 3 to 9 (tax and gratuity are included). Reservations can be made online or by calling 407-939-3463. Remember to book quickly – package availability is limited!

501 WaysHeading to Disney World soon?

If you are planning a vacation to Disney World, be sure to check out these valuable resources to help you save time and money:

Are you a Frozen fan? Will you joining in on the fun?
Please leave a comment!

Cinderella-Inspired Fun At Disney World

Wishes Fireworks

Do you have a Cinderella fan in your family? If so, Disney has you covered! Here’s a list of 11 ways to have Cinderella-inspired fun during your Walt Disney World vacation courtesy of WDW News:

1. Feel Regal and Meet Cinderella at Princess Fairytale Hall

Elegantly finished rooms welcome you to the home for visiting royalty in the Magic Kingdom at Princess Fairytale Hall where you can meet Cinderella and other princesses. Here you can take photos, get royal autographs and hear stories from Disney princesses many adventures in a spacious gallery adorned with portraits of the princesses, and even catch a glimpse of Cinderella’s infamous glass slipper.

2. Dine like Royalty at Cinderella’s Royal Table

Meeting Cinderella in her royal castle is a dream come true at Cinderella’s Royal Table, where you can dine with Cinderella and her royal friends. Specializing in feasts fit for royalty, this one-of-a kind dining experience will make you feel like you’re living a fairytale. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are offered daily. Reservations can be made up to 180 days in advance by calling 407-WDW-DINE (407-939-3463) or by visiting DisneyWorld.com/dining.

3. Stay in a Royal Guest Room at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort Riverside

Marvel at the magical details in one of the Royal Guest Rooms at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort. Fit for a prince or princess, the themed rooms immerse you in favorite Disney fairytales with touches of gold and elegant crystals in the décor, as well as special headboards that create a magical “fireworks” display and special mementos left behind by Disney princesses. Reservations can be made by calling 407-939-5277 or by visiting DisneyWorld.com/resorts.

4. Get Magical Makeovers at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique

A Fairy Godmother-in-training will transform the little princess in your life with a wave of her magic wand. Girls ages 3-12 can select their hairstyle, make-up, nail color accessories and a Disney princess costume, if they wish, in this enchanted beauty salon. Little princes can even join in on the fun too, as Fairy Godmothers-in-training can transform them into heroic knights. There are two boutique locations to choose from, one inside Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom and one at Downtown Disney inside the World of Disney retail store. Reservations can be made by calling 407-WDW-STYLE (407-939-7895).

5. Pick up Your Favorite Cinderella-themed Merchandise

Pick up some favorite items to tell your Cinderella story, including costume dresses and accessories, a Cinderella Castle play set, dolls and mugs as well as unique items such as a custom phone case at D-Tech on Demand in the Marketplace Co-Op at Downtown Disney Marketplace, a new premium popcorn bucket shaped like Cinderella’s carriage, and a Cinderella-themed retail MagicBand that is coming to Walt Disney World stores this spring.

6. Kick Off the Glass Slippers and Enjoy a Pedicure at Senses Spa

Sit back, relax and choose from signature pedicures such as a 50-minute pedicure that uses organic oils to ease stress and tension at one of the Senses – A Disney Spa locations: either Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort or Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort. You can enhance the rejuvenation session with add-ons such as aromatherapy oil and firming leg treatments, or go big and add on a facial or full body massage. Reservations can be made by calling 407-WDW-SPAS (407-939-7727).

7. Take a Stroll Through the New Central Plaza area at Magic Kingdom

Feel like a prince or princess yourself by taking a relaxing stroll or a selfie in the new Magic Kingdom Central Plaza area designed to be reminiscent of castle gardens. The sculpted gardens, charming fountains and new pathways are part of the ongoing transformation surrounding Cinderella Castle in the Magic Kingdom.

8. Find Fabulously Fashionable Footwear at Downtown Disney

If a glass slipper isn’t quite your thing, head to Downtown Disney where the shoe options are unlimited. Find stylish flip flops for men, women and kids made with the highest quality rubber at Havaianas, with hundreds of styles to choose from. There’s even “Make Your Own Havaianas,” where you can customize the casual footwear. Or stop in Sanuk, with more than 175 fun and comfortable designs that are funky and functional. Favorite styles including Yoga Mat Sandal Collection are available for purchase.

9. Getting Married? Have Your Fairy Tale Wedding at Walt Disney World

Couples looking for a truly magical wedding venue can look to Disney Fairytale Weddings for the perfect backdrop to their special day. From arriving in Cinderella’s Coach to taking wedding photos in front of Cinderella Castle, the options are endless for brides looking to live out the fairy tale. Brides-to-be also can channel Cinderella’s timeless elegance in a new Cinderella-inspired gown from America’s foremost bridal company, Alfred Angelo. The new limited-edition gown is in honor of Walt Disney Studios’ live-action feature “Cinderella,” and joins the 2015 Disney Fairytale Weddings bridal collection. Brides can find the Cinderella gown starting Mid-April at Alfred Angelo stores across the U.S. and specialty retailers worldwide. 

10. Spend Supper with Cinderella at Cinderella’s Happily Ever After Dinner

You’re the honored guest of Cinderella and Prince Charming at this enchanting dinner buffet at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa’s 1900 Park Fare restaurant. The Princess’ storybook friends join in the festivities as you choose from delectable seafood, salad, pasta and beef dishes, representing several “kingdoms” from around the globe, plus kid-friendly options as well. Reservations are available by calling 407-WDW-DINE (407-939-3463) or by visiting DisneyWorld.com/dining.

11. ‘Wishes’ Come True Every Night at Cinderella Castle

Well before the clock strikes midnight, you can watch the nightly dazzling “Wishes” fireworks display at Magic Kingdom. The night sky plays host to a wish-granting fireworks spectacular synchronized to an unforgettable musical score. Brilliant colors wash over Cinderella Castle as bursts of light and pyrotechnic effects take center stage high above the castle.

501 WaysHeading to Disney World soon?

If you are planning a vacation to Disney World, be sure to check out these valuable resources to help you save time and money:

Are you a Cinderella fan? Have your tried any of these yet?
Please leave a comment!

New Donald’s Safari Dinner At Tusker House

Tusker House

New Character Dining At Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Beginning last month, Donald Duck, Daisy Duck and their friends began welcoming guests for a fun-filled character dinner at Tusker House Restaurant at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Donald’s Safari Dinner offers guests the opportunity to meet some of their favorite characters, including Donald and Daisy while enjoying a delicious selection of all-you-care-to-enjoy spit-roasted carved meats, unique salads, creative vegetarian offerings, hearty stews, and delicious desserts – all with an African touch. If you are interested in dining here, you can making reservations by calling 407-WDW-DINE or by clicking here. The food looks delicious and the characters are always fun for everyone!

The Dinner Buffet Menu Currently Offers (subject to change):

Peri-Peri Marinated Baked Salmon
Kenyan Coffee BBQ Pork Loin
Berbere-rubbed Spit-roasted Beef Striploin
Spit-roasted Chicken
Seafood Stew with Tamarind BBQ Sauce
Deli Meats and Cheeses
Cape Malay Curry Chicken
Oven-roasted Red Skin Potatoes with Rosemary
Mashed Potatoes
Brown Gravy
Curried Rice
Horseradish Cream
Vegetable Samosa
Mango Chutney
Sautéed Green
Corn Medley
Macaroni & Cheese
Corn Dog Nuggets
Apple Sauce
Saffron-infused Root Vegetables and Cabbage
Sweet Plantains
Pearl Couscous with Sweet Basil
Jollaf Rice
Spiced Vegetable Tofu
Orzo Pasta
Basmati Rice with Lemon, Cinnamon, and Cardamon
Quinoa Salad with Shrimp
Watermelon and Feta Salad
Curried Rice with Golden Raisins
Seasonal Fresh Fruit
Smoked Salmon
Hard-boiled Eggs
Chickpea and Cucumber Salad
Toasted Couscous Salad with Ocean Spray Craisins
Tossed Ceasar Salad
Mixed Greens
Tomato and Cucumber Salad with Mint Yogurt Dressing
Spicy South African Preserves
Blatjangs
Sambals – Mango Chutney, Mixed Fruit Chutney
Hummus
Taboulleh
Whole Grain Breads and Rolls
Mealie Cornbread
Glazed Donut Holes
Chocolate Volcano Cake
Carrot-spiced Cake
Baklava
Strawberry Mousse
Lemon Bars
Passion Fruit Tart
Coconut Macaroon
Chocolate Chunk Cookie
Oatmeal Raisin Cookie
Chocolate Turtle Brownies
Cherry-Apple Cobbler
Banana-Cinnamon Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce

501 WaysHeading to Disney World soon?

If you are planning a vacation to Disney World, be sure to check out these valuable resources to help you save time and money:

Have you tried Donald’s Safari Dinner yet? Are you planning to?
Please leave a comment!