Tag Archives: Shopping

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!

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!

Mar 16 2015

The Latest On The New Shopping Locations At Disney Springs

Disney Springs Town Center

So many changes are happening during the transformation of Downtown Disney to Disney Springs. New parking garages and roads are being built, many new restaurants are planned, and several new shops are now open. In case you haven’t heard, here’s the latest from Disney:

Trendy new retail shops are just the beginning of an entirely re-imagined Downtown Disney. With everything from sun hats and stylish flip-flops to customized headphones and gluten-free cupcakes, Downtown Disney has become a shopper’s oasis for all to enjoy. The new offerings are part of an expansion that will double the number of shopping, dining and entertainment experiences available as the area transforms into Disney Springs.

New shopping at Downtown Disney includes:

The Art of Shaving

A boutique retail offering that sells high-end shaving supplies and related grooming products for the modern man. Founded by a husband and wife in a Manhattan apartment, The Art of Shaving has grown to a worldwide organization. Guests can receive expert shaving advice on products and techniques, or make an appointment for a luxurious grooming experience at the Barber Spa.

Apex by Sunglass Hut

A first-of-its-kind sunglass store that was built with the athlete in mind. This retail location showcases the industry’s best selection of sport performance and lifestyle eyewear including Oakley, Ray-Ban, and Under Armour. In order for guests to choose a lens to best suit their needs, Apex has developed environmental simulators so guests can test out how a specific lens will perform under a variety of light conditions.

Chapel Hats

A fashion forward shop that specializes in an assortment of hats for guests of all ages.  The location carries stylish hats including fedoras, cowboy hats, floppy hats, outdoors hats, kid’s hats and more. Every Chapel Hats location is themed to a different time period and is built by using old pieces of shops, factories, schools, pubs and The Downtown Disney location is themed to the 1920s.

Havaianas

A Brazilian-based shoe store that offers fashionable flip flops made with the highest quality rubber — with hundreds of styles to choose from. This store will feature a large assortment of colorful Havaianas for women, men and children, plus kids’ rain boots. There’s also the “Make Your Own Havaianas” and “Embellish Your Own Havaianas,” option, where guests can customize this casual footwear.

Sanuk

Innovative, fun and comfortable footwear with more than 175 designs will be available at this 1,000-square-foot venue. Taking its name from the Thai word for “fun,” Sanuk strives to make more innovative products that are as much about funk as they are about function. Favorite styles including Yoga Mat Sandal Collection and its patented “Not-A-Shoe” Sidewalk Surfers will be showcased.

Sound Lion

A new retail concept that offers the latest technology in headphones, docking stations, wireless music players and other products. Before purchasing a product, guests can hang out at their Listening Bar and find which product works best for them.

Erin Mckenna Bakery NYC

A unique bakery with savory offerings and an all-vegan and gluten-free menu. Look for a full selection of award-winning donuts, cupcakes, cookies, bagels with vegan butter, and other delicious items daily. Some of their fan-favorite cupcakes from their flagship bakery in New York and sister bakery in Los Angeles include vanilla cupcakes with zesty lemon frosting, red velvet cupcakes with creamy vanilla frosting and brownie cupcakes with rich chocolate frosting.

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 locations?
Please leave a comment!

Mar 13 2015

Enchanting Epcot International Flower And Garden Festival Merchandise

Epcot Flower & Garden Festival

For anyone that is going to be attending the Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival this year, be sure to bring money! Disney is offering lots of unique merchandise during this event that is being sold exclusively in Epcot. Take a look of some of the fabulous selections!

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:

What about you? See any souvenirs you must have?
Please leave a comment!

Jan 9 2015

Celebrating Valentine’s Day Disney Style

Disney World Valentine's Day

Last weekend while I was shopping with my family at Target, I was amazed to see that right next to the Christmas clearance section was an area filled with everything imaginable for Valentine’s Day. It’s hard to believe that we are already well into January with February 14 less than six weeks away! If you are one of those lucky people who will be celebrating in Disney World this year, you have lots of romantic options available and if you are like so many of us far away from that magical place, I have a few ideas for you to bring a little Disney magic into your celebration as well as some gift ideas.

Here are just some of the many possibilities available at Disney World from WDW News:

The Couple that ‘Spas’ Together… – What’s more enjoyable than a luxurious spa treatment? Imagine sharing it with that special someone.  The new Senses – A Disney Spa at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort or Senses – A Disney Spa at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort, both feature a “couples room” where guests can enjoy specialized spa treatments – such as massages and facials – with the one they love. For information about spa treatments, call 407-WDW-SPAS.

Make like Aladdin and Jasmine – Fly through the sky with your special someone on an adventurous tandem parasail over Bay Lake. Those looking to soar to new heights can spend 10 minutes soaring high above Disney and get a bird’s-eye view of Magic Kingdom and its neighboring resorts. Contact Sammy Duvall’s Watersports Centre at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, or call 407-939-0754 for reservations for a tandem flight.

Sunset in the Sky – A very different kind of flight is aboard a tethered balloon rising gently into the Florida sky. Located on the waterfront at Downtown Disney, Characters in Flight gives romantics a chance to take their love to new heights.  Operating daily, the giant balloon provides breathtaking sights from 400 ft. up in the air with an unparalleled, 360-degree view of the Vacation Kingdom and beyond. Flights take place between 8:30 a.m. and midnight (weather permitting) and last approximately 8-10 minutes. Romantics who time their flight to sunset or fireworks bursting above the parks are in for a special treat. Tickets can be purchased at Downtown Disney West Side; tickets are $12.00 per child and $18.00 per adult.

Magical Resorts – From the tropical splendor of Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort to the Victorian era of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, the mood is set for an enchanting stay at a Walt Disney World resort hotel. Disney’s fantasy hotels transport couples to faraway places with lavish theming, picturesque views and superior service. For reservations, call 407-W-DISNEY.

The Love Boat – The Grand Floridian’s Grand 1 – an elegant 52-foot yacht – can give couples, or parties up to 18, a stunning view of “Wishes” fireworks showering above Magic Kingdom during select evening cruises along Seven Seas Lagoon and Bay Lake. Private butler service and gourmet meals also are available. Romantic evening cruises include a captain and private deck hand. Reservations may be made up to 90 days in advance by calling 407-WDW-PLAY. Callers to that same number can ask about Magic Kingdom or Epcot fireworks cruises aboard gently floating pontoon boats. To turn up the romance, lovebirds can order up champagne and chocolate-covered strawberries for their fireworks viewing.

Disney Dining Serves Romance – Couples find Disney dining infused with romance in settings ranging from subdued to spectacular.

  • Indulge in a romantic dinner for two at California Grill atop Disney’s Contemporary Resort. Situated on the 15th floor of the resort, the onstage, market-inspired kitchen boasts breathtaking views of the Magic Kingdom, Seven Seas Lagoon and nightly fireworks.  The menu is creative, seasonal, sophisticated and fun.
  • Beneath shimmering chandeliers, lovebirds can dine in fairy tale elegance at Be Our Guest Restaurant in New Fantasyland. Known as the place where Belle and Beast fell in love, the grand ballroom in Beast’s Castle is the perfect setting for romance as ‘snow’ falls on the French countryside outside the windows and guests dine on French-inspired cuisine and fine wines.
  • One of the most romantic dinner spots at Walt Disney World Resort is a table for two at Victoria & Albert’s at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. The elegant restaurant has been honored with the Five-Diamond Award from AAA for its gourmet cuisine. Combining Royal Doulton china, Cristofle silver and personalized menus, Victoria & Albert’s is the “crown jewel” of the Grand Floridian’s dining destinations. Soft harp music fills the air in the intimate dining room. Ladies also receive a long-stemmed red rose. For the ultimate romantic experience, an evening at the Chef’s Table is unsurpassed. Couples are seated at a cozy table in Victoria & Albert’s kitchen and treated to a culinary feast custom-tailored to their palates by Chef Scott Hunnel.
  • Guests who prefer to dine in an even more intimate setting at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa need only to pick up the closest telephone. The Grand Floridian can arrange a private dinner for two, served against the elegant backdrop of the Grand Floridian beach – or aboard the Grand 1 – on a sunset excursion along Seven Seas Lagoon and Bay Lake. Certain menu items can be specially prepared for the evening. Seven-day notice is requested.
  • There’s nothing more romantic than a champagne toast with classical French cuisine. Monsieur Paul restaurant at the France pavilion at Epcot pays homage to one of France’s most celebrated chefs, Paul Bocuse with upscale French creations. The second floor vantage point of the newly redesigned restaurant offers stunning views of the nightly IllumiNations fireworks display.

For all Walt Disney World dining information, guests can call 407-WDW-DINE.

Nature Lovers – A horseback ride through one of the backwoods trails at Walt Disney World Resort is just the thing for couples who share a love of nature and each other. Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground offers wrangler-led tours (45 minutes) through the deep, pine-scented woods that make up part of the Vacation Kingdom’s 40 square miles. Tours leave several times daily from Trail Blaze Corral, and may be reserved by calling 407-WDW-PLAY.

Romantic Evening – Horse-drawn carriage rides through the wilderness of Walt Disney World Resort are a romantic treat for couples looking for a secluded nighttime outing. The antique carriages depart from Pioneer Hall at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground and traverse throughout the scenic landscape of the 750-acre rustic resort. Or guests can choose a relaxing old-fashioned carriage ride through Disney’s Port Orleans Resort-Riverside with pickup at Boatwright’s Dining Hall. Each nightly excursion is 25 minutes long. For reservations, guests can call 407-WDW-PLAY.

Looking to bring a little Disney magic into your Valentine’s Day celebration at home? Here are a few of my Disney inspired ideas that would work not only for a romantic evening for two, but for the whole family as well.

  • Decorate the space like a rustic Italian restaurant, make a simple spaghetti or lasagna dinner, open a bottle of wine, put on some romantic music like Andrea Bocelli, and then after the meal pop in Lady and the Tramp.
  • Decorate the space like an old library, make some easy French desserts like cream puffs or éclairs, add a little French wine and music, and follow it up with Beauty and the Beast.
  • Decorate the space like you are “under the sea”, make a tasty seafood meal, turn on some lively Caribbean music, and watch The Little Mermaid.
  • And of course, for those Frozen fans out there, decorate the space like a winter wonderland, make a delicious chocolate fondue and cut up fruits and cakes for dipping, and don’t forgot some yummy hot chocolate while watching the movie.

Looking for a Valentine’s Day gift for that special Disney fan in your life? Here are a few of my favorites from the Disney Store. Just click the images for more information about each item and if you place an order, be sure to use promo code SHIPMAGIC to receive free shipping on purchases over $75. This is just a small sampling of what is available. The Disney Store has items for Princesses and Prince Charmings of every age and prices range from just a few dollars to thousands (contains affiliate links)!

Mickey Mouse Dangling Icon Earrings by ArribasMickey Mouse Dangling Icon Earrings – $19
Mickey puts the ear in heart with these Mickey Mouse Icon Earrings. His distinctive silhouette features a large Swarovski crystal and dangles from a heart on this pair of sparkling earrings by the renowned Arribas Brothers.

Minnie Mouse Icon Necklace by ArribasMinnie Mouse Icon Necklace – $39.50
Minnie’s iconic outline is crafted with Swarovski crystals and accented with her fa-mouse bow on this dazzling necklace. Crystals add extra sparkle to the polka dots on this glamorous reminder of your visit to the Park.

Disney Sketch Wristlet by Dooney & BourkeDisney Sketch Wristlet by Dooney & Bourke – $88
Carry your small essentials in this strapping handbag by Dooney & Bourke. Mickey’s fine fashion fun-purse comes to you direct from the Disney Parks and the designer label you love.

Mickey Mouse Icon RingMickey Mouse Icon Ring – $175 (Silver)
Mickey puts his head together and comes up with this contemporary styled ring. Part of the Disney Dream Collection, this band of alternating Mickey icons is available in a choice of sterling silver ($175) and gold ($1500) so Mickey will always be on hand.

Happy Valentine’s Day!