Tag Archives: Downtown Disney

Jul 8 2015

The Planet Hollywood Redesign

Planet Hollywood Observatory

Another exciting change is coming to Downtown Disney aka Disney Springs – Planet Hollywood is getting a complete redesign! Scheduled to close on January 1, the transformation process should be complete by summer 2016. Here’s what is in store for us when it reopens:

  • The restaurant will be reimagined to become an observatory to fit the turn-of-the-century mining town theme of Disney Springs.
  • Planet Hollywood ObservatoryThe name will be changed to Planet Hollywood Observatory.
  • Once complete, the globe will be surrounded by a brick exterior.
  • Outside, the neon Planet Hollywood Sign will be reworked into a water tower.
  • An outdoor terrace and bar space called Stargazers will be added and will feature live entertainment.
  • The music in the main dining room is to feature a DJ.
  • The interior will be changed and will feature a high-tech planetarium with constellations and stars on the ceiling.
  • Hollywood movie features will still be able to be played to hold true to the restaurant’s original vision.
  • Both the restaurant and lounge will continue to showcase Hollywood costumes and props to keep with a “Dine Amongst the Stars” theme.
  • The food menu will also get an overhaul; keeping some classic favorites as well as adding some new flavors.
  • Look for a revamped beverage menu to include an eclectic mix of sodas, shakes, smoothies, beer, wine, and cocktails.
  • The price point should remain about $20 per person.

Heading to Disney World soon?

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Are you excited about the reimagined Planet Hollywood Observatory?
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Jun 26 2015

Disney World Reality Versus Rumor – June 2015 Edition

Welcome to the June 2015 edition of Disney World Reality vs. Rumor where we’ll take a look at the stories that are currently circulating to see which ones are confirmed and which ones are purely speculation.

Disney World Reality

  • It has been confirmed that the former Walt Disney World Speedway site will be repurposed to expand the Magic Kingdom parking lot.
  • Disney has announced more new additions to Disney Springs including two new restaurants The Edison and STK Orlando.
  • Disney recently unveiled plans to add a new location to Disney Springs called the “NBA Experience”. The plans include a retail store, restaurant, and interactive activities.
  • The Orlando Sentinel confirmed this week that Disney has filed plans to build 26 new cabins along the shore of Bay Lake in addition to a boardwalk, bar grill, and pool at its Wilderness Lodge Resort. These cabins are expected to be similar to the new bungalows at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort.
  • Work is well under way on the additional Soarin’ theatre. It has been confirmed that the attraction will also receive a redesigned and themed queue that will make use of some of the old Kitchen Kabaret space.
  • Disney has filed plans to build a new theatre between Rock ‘n Roller Coaster and Tower of Terror at the end of Sunset Boulevard in Hollywood Studios.

Disney World Rumor

  • Rumors abound that DisneyQuest will be closed and replaced by the new “NBA Experience” in Disney Springs.
  • Speaking of closing places; a new rumor says that Bongos in Downtown Disney may be closing soon to make way for a new Mexican restaurant operated by Splitsville.
  • Some people are speculating that Hollywood Studios may be reimagined with an adventure and heroes theme to better encompass the existing attractions plus Star Wars and Marvel.
  • It is being reported that the Magic of Disney Animation at Hollywood Studios will soon undergo a refurbishment that would expand the Animation Academy.
  • Rumors are flying about the complete redesign of Hollywood Studios. The latest is that in addition to a Star Wars Land, a new Toy Story/Pixar themed land may be in the works to take over the long closed Backlot Tour attraction space. There are said to be three attractions planned for the area including a Toy Story themed car ride similar to the one replacing Luigi’s Flying Tires at Disney’s California Adventure.
  • There are rumors that Animal Kingdom may be adding a new interactive camel experience to the park. Word on the street is that said camels are currently being walked through the park at night to get them acclimated to the surroundings.
  • Recently travel agents received their Disney World operations schedule for January 2016 and it did not show any Extra Magic Hours listed for any of the parks. Rumors are flying that this could mean an end to one of the best perks of being an on-site guest. Another take is that Disney may be considering adjusting the schedule like they did back in 2013 when they reduced the nighttime Extra Magic Hours from three to two. Sources think they may reduce the number of days each week that the Extra Magic Hours are available or only have them offered at one park per day. Here’s hoping this rumor is NOT true!
  • Another rumor that I would hate to see become a reality is the new admission ticket scenario. Disney recently sent out a survey to guests to get feedback on offering tiered-ticket prices based on seasons and days of the week similar to the way their hotel rooms are currently priced. In other words, if you plan to visit Disney World for the winter holidays, you’ll need a second mortgage or to sell a kidney!

Look for another edition of Disney World Reality vs. Rumor in August 2015!

Behind The Magic LogoNeed more Disney gossip?

Remember I’ll be joining the Behind The Magic Podcast beginning on Friday, July 3 and every Friday after that as the resident Disney “Gossip Girl” dishing on all of the latest dirt on my weekly “Mouse Whispers” segment. Please check us out here!

Heading to Disney World soon?

501 WaysIf 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 excited about any of these changes – real or rumored?
Please leave a comment!

May 27 2015

More Dining And Shopping Locations Coming To Disney Springs

Disney Springs

Downtown Disney is really making progress in its transformation into Disney Springs. We’ve already seen a parking garage, pedestrian walkway, restaurants, and shops open, but now Disney has announced even more to come. Here’s the latest information from Disney:

Exciting new high-profile tenants, including fashion retailers Zara, Tommy Bahama, Lilly Pulitzer, UNIQLO and PANDORA, are the latest to sign on as Downtown Disney continues its expansion into Disney Springs at Walt Disney World Resort.

A total of 13 new tenants were announced, including eight retail shops. With new retailers already aboard and new restaurants either open or coming soon, Downtown Disney is transforming into an exciting new waterfront district for world-class shopping, unique dining, and high-quality entertainment.

By the time it’s complete in 2016, Disney Springs will double the number of shops and restaurants currently found at Downtown Disney and grow to more than 1 million square feet, including 350,000 square feet of new leasable space. Disney Springs will include four distinct, outdoor neighborhoods with a high-quality, diverse mix of retailers – including premium, affordable luxury and fast fashion options. Sophisticated restaurants will provide experiences for families and convention-guests alike.

“Over the past few months we have opened several new dining and retail locations, which have quickly become the top producers in their chains,” said George A. Kalogridis, president of Walt Disney World Resort. “This type of momentum builds on the historical strength of the Downtown Disney area and its popularity with our guests from around the world as it evolves into Disney Springs,” he said.

Coming to Disney Springs:

RETAIL

Zara: Owned by the Inditex Group, one of the world’s largest fashion retail groups. Zara is known for its men’s, women’s and children’s clothing and accessories, and how it expertly interprets current fashion and style trends of the season, delivering original designs to the consumer in a matter of weeks.

Tommy Bahama: Iconic island lifestyle brand Tommy Bahama embodies relaxed sophistication. The hallmarks of this casual collection include island-inspired sportswear, denim, and swimwear for men and women in luxuriously soft silks and cottons, richly woven textures and eclectic prints.

Lilly Pulitzer: The authentic American resort wear brand, Lilly Pulitzer, is landing in the heart of Disney and will be offering their clothing and accessories, optimistic outlook, and happy prints to those who’ve loved the brand for years and new Lilly Girls out there. 

UNIQLO: Leading global retailer UNIQLO designs, manufactures, and sells casual apparel that comes from the company’s Japanese values of simplicity, quality and longevity. The simplest design hides the most thoughtful details in clothing that is constantly being innovated to bring more warmth and lightness, better design and comfort to people’s lives.

PANDORA: Building on its existing relationship with Disney Parks, the popular jewelry brand offers classic yet modern charm bracelets, along with necklaces, rings and earrings, as well as a line of exclusive Disney-themed jewelry.

UGG: The UGG® brand is recognized as a premium lifestyle brand offering men’s, women’s and kid’s footwear as well as loungewear, outerwear, home products, cold weather accessories and handbags.

L’Occitane en Provence: L’Occitane en Provence is an international skincare and beauty line celebrating the culture and beauty of Provence, France.

Edward Beiner: A leading eyewear designer, purveyor and retailer, Edward Beiner offers today’s aspiring lifestyle-oriented customer the world’s most original, authentic and innovative designer, fashion and high performance eyewear.

DINING

Edison: Inspired by The Edison venue in Los Angeles, this lavish “Industrial Gothic” -style restaurant, bar and nighttime destination is themed to a 1920s-period power plant, recalling an exuberant era of invention and imagination. It will feature exceptionally good classic American food, craft cocktails and live entertainment including cabaret and music.

Sprinkles: The world’s first cupcake bakery, as named by Food Network and others, serves up handcrafted cupcakes, slow churned ice cream and homemade cookies. Their innovative Cupcake ATM satisfies sweet-toothed epicureans 24/7.

Blaze Fast-Fire’d Pizza: Blaze Fast-Fire’d Pizza is a modern day “pizza joint” known for its custom-built artisanal pizzas, freshly made salads, blood orange lemonade and s’more pies. The fast-casual restaurant features an interactive assembly-line format that allows guests to customize their pizza, choosing from over 40 fresh, artisanal toppings – all for one price. The generously sized, 11-inch pizzas are “fast-fired” in a blazing hot open-flame oven and ready to enjoy in just 180 seconds.

Vivoli Gelateria: Vivoli Gelateria serves expertly crafted gelato made with fresh, seasonal ingredients, panini sandwiches and espresso drinks.

Tea Traders Café by Joffrey’s: Tea Traders Café by Joffrey’s specializes in premium loose-leaf teas (hot, iced, blended) featuring customs blends, accessories and packaged teas from all over the globe; created to go or for a tea experience in the café.

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:

Excited about any of the new shopping or dining locations?
Please leave a comment!

May 14 2015

Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar Coming To Downtown Disney

Hangar Bar

Exciting news for fans of drinking and Downtown Disney! A new aviation-themed lounge, Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar, is coming to Downtown Disney. Here’s what we know so far courtesy of the Disney Parks Blog:

With a prime location along Lake Buena Vista and seating for 150, the venue will feature unique cocktails – such as the “Hovito Mojito” with Barsol Quebranta Pisco, fresh lime juice and simple syrup – and small plates such as “Air Pirates Everything Pretzels” with house-made mustard and beer cheese fondue. The design team has gone to great lengths to ensure that every element – from the propeller-based ceiling fans and diving bell “booth” to the “Rolling Boulder Meatballs” on the menu – fits within the storyline.

Hangar BarAnd just what is that story? Ardent fans of the “Indiana Jones” films may recognize Jock Lindsey as Indy’s frequent pilot; he’s also the owner of a pet snake named Reggie – an important detail, trust me on this! In the main room, guests will discover an expansive bar, aviation decor filling the room, vintage travel posters covering the walls and correspondence between Jock, Indy and their fellow adventurers on display. Guests can eat, drink and be merry outside as well, in Jocks’ old steamboat, now in permanent dry dock and aptly named “Reggie;” and in nearby seating on the adjacent deck.

Look for Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar to open in Downtown Disney this fall!

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 excited to try Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar?
Please leave a comment!

Apr 26 2015

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!