Tag Archives: Disney World

Sep 21 2016

Sneak Peek Of “Doctor Strange” Coming To Hollywood Studios

doctor-strange-2

Coming Soon!

doctor-strange-1For a limited time, beginning Friday, October 7, 2016, a sneak peek of “Doctor Strange” will be presented as a part of Walt Disney: One Man’s Dream at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The current finale of Walt Disney: One Man’s Dream will go on a brief hiatus during this time.

Marvel’s “Doctor Strange” follows the story of the talented neurosurgeon Doctor Stephen Strange (Benedict Cumberbatch) who, after a tragic car accident, must put ego aside and learn the secrets of a hidden world of mysticism and alternate dimensions. Based in New York City’s Greenwich Village, Doctor Strange must act as an intermediary between the real world and what lies beyond, utilizing a vast array of metaphysical abilities and artifacts to protect the Marvel cinematic universe.

Here’s a look at the new trailer for “Doctor Strange”!

Presented in Digital 3D™, Real D 3D and IMAX® 3D, “Doctor Strange” opens in U.S. theaters on November 4, 2016.

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 looking forward to the release of “Doctor Strange”?
Please leave a comment; I would love to hear from you!

Sep 20 2016

Coca-Cola Store Orlando In Disney Springs

coca-cola-7

Hey Coca-Cola fans, if you love Club Cool in Epcot than I have a place you’ve got to visit on your next Walt Disney World vacation! Head on over to Disney Springs to check out the incredible new Coca-Cola Store Orlando that opened this summer. Here’s the scoop about this new hot spot:

coca-cola-2Coca‑Cola Store Orlando opened on July 2 at Disney Springs, allowing guests to experience the world’s most iconic beverage brand at a new immersive retail destination. Just as Disney Springs is a one-of-a-kind Disney experience delivering great dining, shopping and entertainment, Coca‑Cola Store Orlando is uniquely designed to showcase Coca‑Cola branded merchandise and entertaining experiences that inspire the senses.

Coca‑Cola Store Orlando is modeled after a 1920s Coca‑Cola bottling plant. Celebrating the history of Coca-Cola, the inviting brick exterior gives a nod to the brand’s heritage while the glass-accented entry pays tribute to the iconic Coca‑Cola green glass bottle. Inside, guests are welcomed by a 30-foot-wide blown-glass chandelier crafted from repurposed Coca‑Cola bottles – just one example of how this unique retail experience was designed with the environment in mind. The store – one of only three retail locations operated by The Coca‑Cola Company in the United States – features a broad assortment of Coca-Cola branded merchandise. A line of sustainable fashion apparel and other handmade items crafted from recycled materials showcase the 5by20™ collection – an array of items created by women artisans from around the world.

coca-cola-5Guests can visit the refreshing rooftop beverage bar and taste an ice-cold Coca‑Cola while taking in the sights of Disney Springs. For the ultimate Coke experience, guests can choose from a variety of Coca‑Cola brands from around the world such as Beverly from Italy and Thums Up from India, frozen beverages and over 100 drink choices via Coca‑Cola Freestyle. A selection of specialty adult beverages is available in the evenings.

“Coca‑Cola shares much in common with Disney, including our ability to inspire unique moments of optimism and happiness for our fans,” said Russell Jacobs, General Manager of Retail and Attractions at The Coca‑Cola Company.

Stefanie Miller, Senior Vice President of Strategic Partnership Marketing added, “We’ve been a proud partner of The Walt Disney Company since 1942, and both brands hold a special place in people’s hearts and minds. Now we’re raising a glass to Coca‑Cola Store Orlando, where Disney and Coca‑Cola fans alike can truly ‘Taste the Feeling.’”

Beginning in August, guests can share a moment with the famous Coca‑Cola Polar Bear. Bear hugs, high fives and photos will all be welcome!

coca-cola-4About Coca‑Cola Store Orlando

Coca‑Cola Store Orlando is part of Disney Springs at Walt Disney World Resort. The store is located in Town Center, the district’s newest neighborhood where guests can find exceptional shopping and dining venues. Offering exclusive merchandise, unique experiences and true refreshment, Coca‑Cola Store Orlando provides the perfect way to cap off a discovery-filled day at Disney Springs.

coca-cola-6About The Coca-Cola Company

Company (NYSE: KO) is the world’s largest beverage company, refreshing consumers with more than 500 sparkling and still brands and more than 3,800 beverage choices. Led by Coca-Cola, one of the world’s most valuable and recognizable brands, the company’s portfolio features 20 billion-dollar brands, 18 of which are available in reduced-, low- or no-calorie options. Their billion-dollar brands include Diet Coke, Coca-Cola Zero, Fanta, Sprite, Dasani, vitamin water, Powerade, Minute Maid, Simply, Del Valle, Georgia and Gold Peak. Through the world’s largest beverage distribution system, they are the number one provider of both sparkling and still beverages.  More than 1.9 billion servings of their beverages are enjoyed by consumers in more than 200 countries each day. With an enduring commitment to building sustainable communities, their company is focused on initiatives that reduce their environmental footprint, create a safe, inclusive work environment for their associates, and enhance the economic development of the communities where they operate. Together with their bottling partners, they rank among the world’s top 10 private employers with more than 700,000 system associates.

Disney Springs 1About Disney Springs

Disney Springs is a one-of-a-kind Disney experience, treating guests by day and night to great dining, shopping and entertainment amid beautiful open-air promenades, flowing springs and waterfront charm. Offering an air of sophisticated grace and design that harkens to Florida’s waterfront towns at the turn-of-the-century, Disney Springs is home to four distinct, outdoor neighborhoods: The Landing, Town Center, Marketplace and West Side. Nearing completion in 2016, Disney Springs has been undergoing the largest expansion in its history to double the number of shops, restaurants and other venues for guests to explore, which will result in more than 150 establishments.

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:

Will you be visiting Coca-Cola Store Orlando in Disney Springs?
Please leave a comment; we would love to hear from you!

Sep 19 2016

Seven Disney Springs Hotels Offering Special Rates Through September 30

Can you believe summer is almost over and fall officially begins this week? If you’re like me and hoping to get in a quick last minute getaway to Walt Disney World before the cold weather sets in at home, check out this amazing deal being offered now through September 30!

Disney Springs 1There is still time to make plans to experience the special events being conducted at the Walt Disney World® Resort in Central Florida this fall, such as Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Magic Kingdom® Park and the Epcot® International Food & Wine Festival at Epcot®. A great way to experience these events is by taking advantage of the special “Forever Fun Rates” that are being offered by the seven Disney SpringsTM Resort Area Hotels for stays from now through September 30, 2016. In addition to the outstanding special events, the rates provide the opportunity to take in such exciting new offerings at the Walt Disney World® Resort as Star WarsTM Launch Bay and Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular at Disney’s Hollywood Studios®; Frozen Ever After and Soarin’ Around The World at Epcot®; Kilimanjaro Safaris® for a full day to night experience at Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Theme Park; and Mickey’s Royal Friendship Faire stage show at Magic Kingdom® Park.

Disney Springs 2Featuring an ideal location in the Walt Disney World® Resort, these seven Official Walt Disney World® Hotels are within an easy walk to the dramatically transformed and significantly expanded Disney SpringsTM, formerly known as the Downtown Disney® area. Inspired by Florida’s charming towns and natural beauty, the vibrant new waterfront Disney SpringsTM offers a high-quality diverse mix of shops, an impressive variety of new upscale and casual dining options, and exceptional live entertainment options, with more than 150 establishments across its four distinct outdoor neighborhoods.

In addition to featuring an ideal location at an outstanding value, the seven Disney SpringsTM Resort Area Hotels also provide shuttle transportation every 30 minutes to all four Walt Disney World® Theme Parks, two water parks, and to the Disney SpringsTM area.

Plus, as a bonus, guests at these hotels also receive the “2016 Disney SpringsTM Passport” booklet that features exclusive discounts and specials from Disney SpringsTM merchants on entertainment, shopping and dining. Among the coupons featured in the booklet are discounts at Splitsville Luxury LanesTM, House of Blues® Restaurant, and Ghirardelli® Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop.

The Disney SpringsTM Resort Area Hotels’ “Forever Fun Rates” for stays now through September 30, 2016 are:

  • B Resort & Spa – rates from $89 per room, per night
  • Best Western Lake Buena Vista Resort Hotel – rates from $67 per room, per night
  • Buena Vista Palace – rates from $89 per room, per night
  • DoubleTree Suites by Hilton – Orlando Lake Buena Vista — rates from $89 per suite, per night
  • Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista – rates from $89 per room, per night
  • Holiday Inn located in the Walt Disney World® Resort – rates from $99 per room, per night
  • Wyndham Garden Lake Buena Vista – rates from $62 per room, per night.  

For more information on the special hotel rates, or to make a reservation, please click here. The special rates are available for stays now through September 30, 2016, based on availability. Some blackout dates may apply, and availability may be limited. The rates do not include the Resort Services Fee or daily parking fee (if applicable), taxes or gratuities. The offer is not valid with any other special offers, promotions, existing reservations, or for groups.

Visiting provides the opportunity to take in such special events as:

  • Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party – select nights September 2 – October 31, 2016 at Magic Kingdom® Park
  • Epcot® International Food & Wine Festival – September 14 – November 14, 2016 at Epcot®.

Note that Theme Park admission is required, and some events require a separately priced ticket.

Other benefits of staying at one of the seven Disney SpringsTM Resort Area Hotels include:

  • The ability to purchase Disney theme park admissions at each hotel
  • Advance tee times and discounts at all Walt Disney World® Resort golf courses
  • Disney Merchandise store located in each hotel
  • The ability to book advance dining and dinner show reservations for all restaurants across the Walt Disney World® Resort.

D- Luxe Burger 1The reimagined Disney SpringsTM overflows with the sights, sounds and flavors that come together in a beautiful outdoor environment with a charming waterfront setting. Set amid beautiful open-air promenades and bubbling springs, this vibrant destination features four distinct outdoor neighborhoods:  The Landing, Town Center, Marketplace, and West Side.

Nearing completion of its transformation, Disney SpringsTM already has many new offerings that are open. Among these are 25 exciting new retail tenants that opened their doors in Town Center in May, which includes:  kate spade new york, Vera Bradley, Tommy Bahama, PANDORA, Under Armour Brand House, ALEX AND ANI, Sephora, UGG, TROPHY ROOM, and MAC Cosmetics.

Jock Lindsay's 6In addition, 11 new specialty dining locations also recently opened at Disney SpringsTM:  Celebrity Chef Rick Bayless’ Frontera Cocina, renowned Chef Art Smith’s Homecoming, Amorette’s Patisserie, STK Orlando, B.B. Wolf’s Sausage Co., D-Luxe Burger, Morimoto Asia Street Food, Sprinkles (cupcake bakery), The Daily Poutine, YeSake, and Aristocrepes.  This follows such other recent openings as the Indiana Jones-themed Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar, The Ganachery chocolate shop, Vivoli Il Gelato (serving Italian gelato like its sister shop in Florence, Italy), Dockside Margaritas, and Erin McKenna’s Bakery NYC (which specializes in gluten-free and vegan baked goods).

Also recently opened is Exposition Park, the home to Disney-owned food trucks, with delicious offerings from each of the Walt Disney World® Theme Parks. Plus, there are two new parking garages with a total of 6,000 spaces, and the new Village Causeway, which provides guests another path of travel through the area. Plus, a pedestrian bridge from the Disney SpringsTM Resort Area Hotels to the Disney SpringsTM area opened, making it even easier for guests.

Among the many other offerings open at Disney SpringsTM are:  World of Disney store, AMC Movies at Disney Springs 24, The Art of Disney, The LEGO® Store, Build-A-Dino® by Build-A-Bear Workshop®, Disney Design-A-Tee, Disney’s Candy Cauldron, Disney’s Wonderful World of Memories, Once Upon a Toy, Orlando Harley-Davidson (apparel and accessories), Steve Baker Caricatures, Pearl Factory, Starbucks® at Disney Springs Marketplace, and Shop for Ireland.

Disney SpringsTM Resort Area Hotels is a consortium of seven Official Walt Disney World® Hotels that includes:

  • B Resort & Spa — the stylish resort opened in June 2014 with 394 newly renovated guest rooms, the full-service B Indulged® AVEDA Spa, and features the new American Kitchen Bar & Grill
  • Best Western Lake Buena Vista Resort Hotel – the 18-story, 325-room resort overlooks scenic Lake Buena Vista and the Walt Disney World® Resort, and offers two restaurants, lounge, and wireless internet
  • Buena Vista Palace — situated on 27 lush acres, the 27-story contemporary hotel is just steps from the Disney SpringsTM area, and features a Character Breakfast every Sunday, sports grill and grab-and-go market
  • DoubleTree Suites by Hilton – Orlando Lake Buena Vista — the luxurious and newly renovated resort hotel features 229 spacious suites, and is the only all-suite resort hotel in the Disney SpringsTM Resort Area
  • Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista – the closest hotel to Disney SpringsTM, the resort offers two pools, a Disney Character Breakfast each Sunday, seven restaurants and lounges (including Benihana® Steakhouse), and 24-hour fitness center
  • Holiday Inn located in the Walt Disney World® Resort — offers the ideal setting to stay, meet and play, featuring modern Florida décor and no resort fees
  • Wyndham Garden Lake Buena Vista — featuring Disney Character Breakfast 3 days a week, 394 comfortable guest rooms, six dining options, and the Oasis Aquatic Pool Playground with interactive water features.

With nearly 30 food and beverage outlets and restaurants, over 3,700 rooms and an array of amenities, the Disney SpringsTM Resort Area Hotels offer a rate, space and menu to please every guest. Located in the heart of the Disney SpringsTM area, these properties are within walking distance of exceptional shopping, dining and entertainment venues.

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:

Considering a last minute getaway?
Which Disney Springs hotel do you like best? Please leave a comment!

Sep 18 2016

Disney World Enthusiast Weekly Round Up September 18, 2016

Here’s the Disney World Enthusiast Weekly Round Up for September 18, 2016!

Latest Disney World Enthusiast Articles

Considering A Disney World Vacation

Jennifer Hardy, a Disney Vacation Planner with Destinations in Florida, is the official travel partner of Disney World Enthusiast. She can help you book your next Disney vacation whether it is to Walt Disney World, Disneyland, or aboard the Disney Cruise Line. Currently Jennifer has some incredible deals for discounted travel to Walt Disney World that must be booked by October 8. For more information about Jennifer’s amazing and absolutely free services or to get a free no-obligation quote, please click here!

Star ToursTip Of The Week

If you want a better chance of being the rebel spy in the Star Tours attraction at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, don’t put on your 3D glasses until right when the ride begins, sit toward the middle, and face the front as much as possible before the ride starts.

Looking for more tips like this? Click here!

Photo Pass LogoDisney Did You Know

With millions of visitors annually, it’s no wonder the Disney parks are among the most photographed places in the United States.  On any given day, Disney’s PhotoPass photographers take between 100,000 and 200,000 photos of guests at Walt Disney World Resort. The PhotoPass service allows guests to view, share and order their Disney photos online and create Disney products such as PhotoBooks and mugs.

Walt DisneyWalt’s Words

“It’s kind of fun to do the impossible.”

501 WaysDisney World Enthusiast Giveaway

From now through Friday, September 30, 2016 at midnight, please enter daily to win an autographed copy of my book “501 Ways To Make The Most Of Your Walt Disney World Vacation”. Just click here and follow the instructions to be entered into the giveaway. Be sure to take advantage of the bonus entries, and please tell your friends and family to enter as well!

Behind The Magic Podcast

Be sure to catch up on this week’s episodes when Zeek, Rachel, and I discuss Disney news, rumors, and so much more.

  • Monday ~ Mouse Whispers More MagicBands

For more details about our podcast and to listen, please click here!

Featured Advertiser

BitbeltHave you heard of this incredible gadget – Bitbelt? If you aren’t familiar, this handy creation secures your MagicBand so that it doesn’t accidentally become lost. Anyone that carries a child, a backpack, or wears a jacket at Disney World knows how easily a MagicBand can become unclasped. That’s where this little beauty comes in! Simply place a Bitbelt on your MagicBand and save yourself the trouble of having to search for a lost band or take the time to get a replacement. Bitbelts come in a dozen different colors and in two sizes – adult and junior. They are only $4.99 each plus they offer discounted pricing when you purchase multiple Bitbelts in one order. And if you think Bitbelts are great for MagicBands, they are also available for your fitness trackers. Never lose a pricey Fitbit again! For more information about Bitbelt, please click here!

501 WaysFeatured Book

The difference between an average and an outstanding Walt Disney World trip is in the details. Kristi Fredericks helps make your dream vacation a reality with her numerous tips and tricks to save money, time, and sanity while at the happiest place on earth in her new book “501 Ways To Make The Most Of Your Walt Disney World Vacation”. For more information, to read an excerpt, or to purchase, please click here.

Considering A Disney World Vacation

Book Your Disney VacationJennifer Hardy, a Disney Vacation Planner with Destinations in Florida, is the official travel partner of Disney World Enthusiast. She can help you book your next Disney vacation whether it is to Disney World, Disneyland, or aboard the Disney Cruise Line. Currently Jennifer has some incredible deals for discounted travel to Disney World. For more information about Jennifer’s amazing and absolutely free services or to get a free no-obligation quote, please click here!

You’re Invited

Next Disney VacationJennifer Hardy, from Destinations in Florida, and I have teamed up to create a brand new Facebook Group called Next Disney Vacation! It is the perfect place to talk about your next Disney vacation, voice your opinions, ask your questions, get them answered, and share the magic. Whether it’s Disneyland Resort, Walt Disney World, or the Disney Cruise Line, Jennifer and I are ready to help. Everyday you’ll find posts, photos, trivia, tips, and more that we find all throughout the Disney Universe. If you’re counting the days until your next Disney vacation or just dreaming of one, we would love to have you join in the fun and conversation! Please click here to be a part of our group!

dwe logo small size white bkgdComing Up Next Week

Next week I’ll have some holiday and dining information plus all of the latest Disney World news!

Have a wonderful week!

Sep 17 2016

Behind The Magic Podcast Recap September 12 – September 16, 2016

Welcome to Season 6 of Behind The Magic Podcast!

This “snack credit” of podcasts is a unique 15-minute Disney podcast hosted by Zeek, Rachel, and myself. Every day Monday through Friday you can join us for entertaining Disney information, discussions, guests, games, and more. We’ll be surprising you each and every day with our funny stories and Disney insider knowledge. And of course, we’ll also keep you up-to-date on all of the latest Disney news and gossip.

Here’s a quick peek at what you can expect each day:

  • Monday ~ Mouse Whispers Mondays with all of the latest Disney gossip and rumors!
  • Tuesday ~ Topical Tuesdays with exciting Disney discussions!
  • Wednesday ~ With Us Wednesdays with celebrity guests from around the Disney Universe!
  • Thursday ~ Theme Park Thursdays with fun information, facts, and stories about the parks!
  • Friday ~ Feature Film Fridays with fun information, facts, and reviews of Disney films!

This Week’s Episodes

This week’s episodes include:

  • Monday ~ Mouse Whispers More MagicBands

For more details about each episode and to listen, please click here!

We hope you enjoy our show!