Updated News from Around the “World” for the Week Ending February 8, 2015

Last Chance! Book these Spring Adventures by Disney Itineraries Now!

Time is running out to book the following Adventures by Disney® departures. These exciting itineraries are the perfect option for your Clients looking for an adventurous spring break vacation!

England & France

March 20-27 and March 30-April 6, 2015

You can immerse themselves in history as they explore castles and cathedrals in London and soak up the art and culture of Paris on this 7-night itinerary.

Italy

March 26 – April 3 and April 16-24, 2015

This 8-night itinerary allows you to travel through an Old World country steeped in traditions, glorious history and unparalleled culture as they experience the people, flavors and landscapes of Italy.

Cambodia, Vietnam  & Laos

April 13-24, 2015

On this 11-night itinerary, you can discover the beauty and magic of Southeast Asia through the splendor of Cambodia, Vietnam & Laos – from the art of regional cuisine and the basics of Tai Chi to the beauty of the Cambodian countryside. 

These departures will be closing out in the next 30-60 days. Book today!

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Walt Disney World Resort Hotels and Aulani Receive Travelers’ Choice Awards 

Five Walt Disney World® Resort hotels, as well as Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa, were recently honored as top hotel choices in the U.S. for families by TripAdvisor’s 13^th annual Travelers’ Choice awards.

Among the Walt Disney World Resort hotels recognized were Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Resort, Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside and Disney’s Beach Club Resort.

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The Trolley Car Café Now Open at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

You can now enjoy favorite Starbucks menu items at The Trolley Car Café located on the corner of Hollywood Boulevard and Sunset Boulevard at Disney’s Hollywood Studios®.

Themed to a classic trolley car station from early 20^th century Hollywood, The Trolley Car Café serves Disney baked goods and Starbucks La Boulange™ pastry items, as well as Starbucks coffee and espresso beverages.

The Trolley Car Café is the third in-park location serving Starbucks products at the Walt Disney World® Resort. Locations are already open at Magic Kingdom® Park and Epcot®, as well as Downtown Disney®.

A new location will open this summer at Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Theme Park. Creature Comforts is being re-imagined and will also serve Starbucks coffee and espresso beverages, as well as Frappuccino blended beverages and signature breakfast sandwiches and pastries.

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Lunch Reservations Coming Soon to Be Our Guest Restaurant

Be Our Guest Restaurant at Magic Kingdom® Park has been a Guest favorite at the Walt Disney World® Resort since opening during theNew Fantasyland® expansion. 

Beginning Feb. 25, 2015, reservations can be made for the fast-casual lunch experience at Be Our Guest Restaurant. You will also have the option to pre-order their meal 30 days prior up to 5 minutes before their reservation.

Lunch is served daily from 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Reservations can be made beginning Feb. 25, 2015 by visiting My Disney Experience, or by calling 407-WDW-DINE. 

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News

Magic Kingdom

•  The dates and artists have been announced for Night of Joy.  They are:  
  Friday, September 11 – ­ TobyMac, MercyMe, Jeremy Camp, Colton Dixon, Big Daddy Weave, Francesca Battistelli, Rend Collective, and I Am They
  • Saturday, September 12 -­ Skillet, Lecrae, For King & Country, Mandisa, Matt Maher, Jamie Grace, Seventh Time Down, and Veridia

.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

• Daisy Duck will be meeting guests across from the former Creature Comforts.

Disney Resorts

• Breakfast at Whispering Canyon Cafe will be taking place at Artist Point from February 5-12.  Lunch and Dinner will remain at Whispering Canyon, as usual. 

Downtown Disney

• APEX by Sunglass Hut and Chapel Hats have soft opened. 

General Walt Disney World News

• The Walt Disney World Resort Monorail System will be operating revised routes from 11:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m. on select dates, including: February 3 – 5, February 9 – 12, February 23 – 26, March 2 – 5.

  • Monorails on the Resort beam will stop at Magic Kingdom, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort and Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort only.
  • Monorails on the Express beam will stop at the Magic Kingdom, Transportation and Ticket Center and Disney’s Contemporary Resort.
  • Those wishing to get to Epcot will need to use the Express beam in order to first get to the Transportation and Ticket Center and then change to the Epcot beam. Alternatively, direct buses will serve the resorts for travel to Epcot.

News from around the “World” for the week ending January 11, 2015!

News

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

• Guests will be able to catch a sneak peek of Cinderella from January 17 until March 21 at the ABC Sound Studio. In addition, guests will be able to take photographs with the coach from the movie on the Streets of America from February 1 through April 11.
• Wondering Oaken’s Trading Post has closed.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

• During Flame Tree Barbeque’s refurbishment, guests can pick up the treats sold at this location normally in other areas around the park. 
  • Jumbo Turkey Legs and Pork Sandwich are available at Trilo-Bites
  • Half Chicken, St. Louis Style Ribs can be found at Beastly Kiosk and the Garden Kiosk 

Disney Resorts

• The Disney Vacation Club property located at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort will go on sale beginning January 12 for current DVC Members and on February 9 for all other guests.  The first phase of the DVC will open April 1. 

General Walt Disney World News

• The print photo packages have been discontinued now at Cinderella’s Royal Table and Akershus.  Guests will now receive their photos online in their My Disney Experience account, since these photos will be associated with a guest’s MagicBand or RFID enabled card
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New Tasting Experience Aboard Disney Cruise Line

Adult Guests aboard the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy can enjoy a new premium culinary experience at Remy, one the fine dining specialty restaurants aboard Disney Cruise Line.

Petites Assiettes de Remy, or Small Plates of Remy, is a brand-new progressive culinary journey that allows you to sample small plates of Remy’s gourmet cuisine and fine wine as you travel throughout the restaurant. 

Offered during the early evening hours on the first day of each cruise, this one-of-a-kind event includes six dishes from the restaurant’s seasonal menu, along with wine pairings for each course. You can start off by enjoying blinis with Californian caviar and Champagne in Remy’s spectacular wine room. For the next four courses, they’ll move to the main dining room where they are presented with a delicious French-inspired dish, such as grilled salmon with smoked salmon cream and Kobe beef with turnip and potato gratin, along with a specially selected glass of wine at each station. This unique experience concludes with a sophisticated dessert and the final wine pariing in the private Chef’s Table dining room.

Petites Assiettes de Remy is $50 per person and includes a wine pairing with each course. 

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Book IllumiNations Sparkling Dessert Party for January and February 2015

             

You can start off the new year in a dazzling, delicious way with IllumiNations Sparking Dessert Party in Epcot® at Walt Disney World®Resort.

Featuring an array of delectable desserts and sparkling wines from around World Showcase, the IllumiNations Sparkling Dessert Party takes place Wednesday, Friday and Saturday evenings at Showcase Plaza – an exclusive setting perfect for viewing IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth.

The menu includes tempting treats, such as Moroccan baklava, Italian tiramisu, French chocolate ganache tarts and more.

Reservations are now available for January and February 2015. The cost is $49 per adult and $29 per children ages 3-9.

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Disney Wonder Bedding Update

               

Over the next few months, the bedding in staterooms on the Disney Wonder will be replaced with queen beds

These new beds are standard throughout the Disney Cruise Line fleet and offer Guests the option of more storage space for luggage under the bed. Please note the new beds do not split into two twin beds.

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2015 Vacation Packages

 

What’s New for 2015!

Magical Extras

• New! Joffrey’s Coffee and Tea Company®: 20% discount at select locations throughout the Walt Disney World® Resort
• New! Walt Disney World Tours: 15% discount on select tours at Magic Kingdom® Park, Epcot® and Disney’s Fort WildernessResort & Campground
• New! Bongos Cuban Café® located at Downtown Disney® West Side: 15% discount on food, nonalcoholic beverages and merchandise
• New! Paradisio 37 located at Downtown Disney West Side: 20% discount on food and nonalcoholic beverages for lunch
• New! Arribas Brothers located at Downtown Disney Marketplace: 10% discount on purchases (restrictions apply)
• New! The Hair Wrap Company: Receive one charm with a value of $5.00 with purchase of a hair wrap at select Walt Disney World locations
• New! Hoypoloi® Gallery located at Downtown Disney West Side: 10% discount on merchandise (restrictions apply)
• New! Pop Gallery located at Downtown Disney West Side: 10% discount on merchandise (restrictions apply)
• New! Something Silver located at Downtown Disney West Side: 15% discount on merchandise
• Enhanced! Planet Hollywood®: $15.00 voucher for food and nonalcoholic beverages and one keepsake souvenir per package located at Downtown Disney West Side (valid for dine-in only)
• Enhanced! Basin: 10% off entire purchase at Basin located at Downtown Disney Marketplace or Basin White at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

Magic Your Way Packages with Dining

• Removed – Disney PhotoPass photos at Cinderella’s Royal Table and Akershus Royal Banquet Hall Character Breakfasts

Premium Package

• Removed – Magic Kingdom Wishes Nighttime Spectacular fireworks viewing and Epcot IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth viewing (may now be booked through My Disney Experience.)

Platinum Package

• Removed – Magic Kingdom Wishes Nighttime Spectacular fireworks viewing and Epcot IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth viewing (may now be booked through My Disney Experience.)

Please note that the last date of a  2015 Magic Your Way Package may not be more than 499 days in the future.

Updated Refurbishment list for The Walt Disney World Resort!

Items in Red are new  

Items in Purple are updated

Magic Kingdom

• New – Adventureland Island Supply has reopen as Island Supply by Sunglass Hut. The location will sell a range of high-end sunglasses such as Ray Ban and Oakley. 
• Cinderella’s Royal Table will be closed for refurbishment through March 6, 2015.  During this period, a similar princess meal will be offered at Citricos at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa.
• Updated – Liberty Square Riverboat will close for refurbishment from January 23 through January 27 and from August 4 through August 10
• Under the Sea ~ Journey of the Little Mermaid will close for refurbishment from February 2 through March 6,. 
• Harmony Barber Shop on Main Street U.S.A. will be closed for a refurbishment February 2 through March 30.
• “it’s a small world” is closed for refurbishment from March 10 through March 13
• New – Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is closed for refurbishment from March 4 through March 7. 
• New – Jungle Cruise will close for refurbishment from April 13 through May 8.  
• New – Dream Along with Mickey will close for refurbishment from April 13 through May 20. 
• New – Liberty Tree Tavern will close for refurbishment from July 6 through November 20
• Main Street USA work is being done as part of a large project that will create a second ring around the current hub that adds more walkways and dedicated viewing areas for Magic Kingdom fireworks and parades, as well as sculpted gardens. This enhancement project will be completed sometime in 2015.

Epcot

• New – THINK by IBM at Inventions West has closed. There is no word on what a replacement might be. 
• New – Test the Limits Lab at Inventions East has closed. There is no word on what a replacement might be.
• Maelstrom has closed to make way for a new Frozen attraction.

 

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

• Updated – The Sorcerer’s Hat, at the center of Disney’s Hollywood Studios, is slated for removal beginning January 7.

 

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

• Creature Comforts will be closed for refurbishment through June 14. The merchandise location is expected to be converted to a new Starbucks location.
• Flame Tree Barbecue will be closed for refurbishment through early April 2015. Work will include the addition of more covered seating areas and the installation of covered walkways. Some Flame Tree Barbecue items may be available at other Quick Service eateries throughout the park.
• New – Kali River Rapids will close for refurbishment from January 20 through February 4 and from March 10 through March 13
• Disney Parks has announced a long-term relationship with James Cameron’s Lightstorm Entertainment and Fox Filmed Entertainment to bring the fantasy world of AVATAR to life at Animal Kingdom Park. The new Avatar land will feature multiple attractions, entertainment, merchandise locations, restaurants and other immersive elements to bring the world of Pandora to life. Construction is expected to end in 2017.

 

Water Parks

• Blizzard Beach is closed for refurbishment through March 14.

Downtown Disney

 

• Construction has begun on the new Disney Springs project.  For more information about this project, please read this blog post.

Disney Resorts

 

Disney’s Art of Animation Resort:

• Big Blue Pool will be closed from January 12 through January 14.
• Little Mermaid Flippin Fins Pool will be closed from January 15 through January 16.
• Finding Nemo Schoolyard Wet Play Area: will be closed for refurbishment from May 26 through June 29

 

Beach Club Resort:

• Guest Room Renovations will take place through August 22. Rooms will be refurbished with new hard and soft goods. Some public areas are also expected to be renovated. The resort will remain open throughout this work.

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa:

• Beach Water Activity Pool will undergo refurbishment from March 6 through April 9

 
Polynesian Resort:

• Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto is a new lounge, based on the popular themed lounge at the Disneyland Hotel in Anaheim, CA, which will be opening at the Polynesian resort in Spring 2015.
• The Volcano Pool will be closed through March 2015
• Resort Renovations are taking place that will enhance the entire resort. The renovation will impact views from some rooms in buildings 5, 9, 10 and 11. Also, a portion of the east parking lot nearest to building 11 will temporarily close. In addition to that, access to the beach area on the east side of the resort, as well as Sunset Pointe will be unavailable.

 

 

Elsewhere at Walt Disney World

• The Walt Disney World Monorail System will operate on a new time table to accommodate work on automation upgrades with more efficient service and enhanced safety. The following schedule will be in place indefinitely:  Magic Kingdom Resort Beam –7:00 a.m. to 1 hour after park close.  Magic Kingdom Express Beam – 8:30 a.m. to 1 hour after park close. Epcot Beam – 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. or 1 hour after Magic Kingdom closes (whichever is earliest) Additional buses and watercraft will be available during periods when the monorail is not in operation.

Planning is where the Magic Begins

The Latest News from Around the World!

Join the Disney Princesses for Breakfast and Brunch at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa 

The Disney Princesses will welcome Guests to Cítricos at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa Jan. 8 – March 2015 while Cinderella Royal Table at Magic Kingdom® Park is under refurbishment.

Cinderella will greet Guests as they arrive, and the Disney Princesses will visit each table for photos and autographs during the dining experience. Guests can even participate in a “Magical Wishing Ceremony” with the Disney Princesses during their meal.

Breakfast and brunch hours are 8 a.m. – 2:20 p.m. The cost is $49.99 per adult; $31.99 per child (ages 3-9). This Character dining experience is available on the Disney Dining Plan and requires two entitlements.

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New Fantasmic! Viewing Options at Disneyland Park

Disneyland® Park Guests will soon be able to enjoy new viewing options for the popular nighttime spectacular Fantasmic!

Beginning. Dec. 12, 2014, a Fantasmic! FASTPASS ticket will be required to gain access to the show’s reserved viewing section.

When Disneyland Park opens each day, Fantasmic! FASTPASS ticket distribution will take place along Big Thunder Trail in Frontierland. Tickets will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis until one hour before showtime, or while supplies last. Each FASTPASS ticket will indicate the assigned showtime, suggested return time and the assigned viewing section. A non-ticketed stand-by viewing area will also be available for the show each night on a first come, first served basis.

FASTPASS tickets for Fantasmic! will also be included with the purchase of Fantasmic! dining packages. Reservations for the Fantasmic! dining package with FASTPASS tickets will be available beginning Nov. 12, 2014. Participating locations include Blue Bayou Restaurant, special table-service seating at River Belle Terrace, Hungry Bear Restaurant dessert party, Aladdin’s Oasis on-the-go options and more.

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Holiday Season Arrives at Walt Disney World Resort

‘Tis the season for fun and cheer at the Walt Disney World® Resort! With sparkling décor, special holiday entertainment and festive Guest favorites, it’s the most magical time of year to visit!

As we recently mentioned, this year you can enjoy a new holiday show at Magic Kingdom® Park. “A Frozen Holiday Wish” features Elsa, Anna, Kristoff and Olaf from the popular Disney animated film “Frozen.” The festive show culminates as Queen Elsa uses her powers to transform Cinderella Castle into a glimmering ice palace for the holidays. “A Frozen Holiday Wish” is presented nightly through Dec. 31, 2014 at 6:15 p.m.

“Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party” returns to Magic Kingdom Park on select nights through Dec. 19, 2014. This after-hours event features live entertainment, character greeting opportunities, spectacular fireworks and an oh-so-jolly holiday parade. “Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party” requires a separate admission ticket.

Over at Epcot®, a holiday tradition in sight and sound continues as Candlelight Processional returns to America Gardens Theatre through Dec. 30, 2014. A full orchestra, choir and special celebrity guest narrator take the stage for the stirring retelling of the Christmas story. While your Clients are exploring Epcot, they can travel around the globe as World Showcase comes to life with a host of international holiday customs – including tastes of seasonal treats from around the world.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios® plays host to a holiday favorite this season. The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights return to the Streets of America through Jan. 4, 2015. This holiday extravaganza features glittering lights perfectly synchronized to holiday music.

And, as we recently shared, Downtown Disney® Marketplace features great holiday shopping, new holiday décor and even an opportunity to meet Santa Claus!

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Save up to 20% on Premium Rooms at a Disneyland Resort Hotel on Select Sunday-Thursday nights

You can save up to 20% on premium rooms at a Disneyland® Resort Hotel for stays most Sunday through Thursday nights from Oct. 26-Dec. 18, 2014. Book through Nov. 19, 2014.

Booking Window: Now-Nov. 19, 2014

Travel Window: Oct. 26-Dec. 18, 2014

*Savings based on the non-discounted price for the same room at the same hotel for select Sunday through Thursday nights between 10/26/14 – 12/18/14. Book from 9/17/14 through 11/19/14 with travel completed by 12/19/14. Blockout dates of 10/31/14, 11/1/14, 11/7/14, 11/8/14, 11/13/14 through 11/16/14 and 11/21/14 through 12/13/14 apply. 20% savings available on Premium, Deluxe and Woods/Garden/Courtyard rooms; select Concierge rooms; and Paradise, Artisan and Regal suites. Ask about savings in other room types. Not valid on previously booked rooms. Advance reservations required. Subject to availability as the number of rooms allocated for this offer is limited. Excludes applicable fees and taxes. Limit two (2) rooms per reservation and five (5) people maximum per room. Not valid in combination with any other hotel discounts or offers. Subject to restrictions and change without notice. Separate Theme Park admission required to enjoy the Parks.

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Official Poster Released For “Star Wars Celebration 2015″ in Anaheim

Here is the first look at the new poster for the upcoming official Star Wars convention, Star Wars Celebration 2015 (aka as Celebration VII).

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Themed Hotels and Disneytown Announced for Shanghai Disney Resort

New details have been released about Shanghai Disney Resort including details on two new themed hotels and an area called Disneytown – a shopping, dining and entertainment district. The first of the two hotels is the Shanghai Disneyland Hotel which is an Art Nouveau-inspired hotel which will be nestled against the lake in front of Shanghai Disneyland. The second of the two hotels is the Toy Story Hotel which will transport guests into the Disney•Pixar world of “Toy Story”.

Disneytown, which will be located near the park and two hotels, will be unique shopping, dining and entertainment district which which will feature the Walt Disney Grand Theatre – home to The Lion King Broadway. Located at the very heart of Disneytown will be the marketplace where you’ll be able to find specialty shops with Disney merchandise, musicians and entertainers. Spice Alley will be an area near the marketplace that will be offering a variety of popular Asian cuisines in a casual, yet romantic environment. Broadway Boulevard at Disneytown will have stylish boutiques that create an upscale atmosphere.

Near Disneytown will be the resorts central lake that will be offering guests from Shanghai and around the world an opportunity to commune with nature, surrounded by peaceful greenery and a beautiful lake. The area includes a walking path and various beautiful gardens, which present guests with awe-inspiring natural views and beautiful sunsets.

Shanghai Disneyland Hotel

Toy Story Hotel

Walt Disney Grand Theatre at Disneytown

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“Toy Story 4″ To Be Released In 2017 And Directed By John Lasseter

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Walt Disney CEO, Bob Iger, announced today that “Toy Story 4″ is in development and will be released in 2017. John Lasseter is to direct the 4th installment of the “Toy Story” franchise. Bob Iger made this announcement to Wall Street analysts while discussing Disney’s 4th quarter results. Very little is known other than that the movie will come out in 2017 and that John Lasseter will direct the movie. John Lasseter directed the very first “Toy Story”, which was also the very first Disney and Pixar co-production. Lassester later went on to direct “Cars” and “Cars 2″ and is now the head of Pixar and Walt Disney Animation Studios. It should be very interesting to see John Lasseter go back to the franchise that started his career.

Updated Refurbishment List for week of November 16th, 2014

 

REFURBISHMENTS:

Magic Kingdom® Park

The Magic Carpets of Aladdin

Haunted Mansion

Splash Mountain

Cinderella’s Royal Table

Liberty Square Riverboat

Under the Sea ~ Journey of the Little Mermaid

Harmony Barber Shop

Epcot®

None

Disney’s Hollywood Studios®

Fantasmic!

Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Theme Park

Pangani Research Center – Aviary and Hippo viewing closed

Affection Section

Kali River Rapids

Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park

Closed for Annual RefurbishmentOct. 26, 2014 – Jan. 3, 2015

Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park

Closed for Annual RefurbishmentJan. 4 – Mar. 14, 2015

 

RESORTS:

Disney’s All Star Music Resort

Intermission Food Court

Note’able Games Arcade will serve as a temporary location for grab-and-go meals

such as sandwiches, salads, and bakery items. Transportation will be provided for

Guests who wish to dine at Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort or Disney’s All-Star

Movies Resort. Pizza and other items available for in-room delivery daily from 3 p.m.

to 1 a.m.

Music Melody Hall Food Court

Note’able Games Arcade

Guests may visit the arcades available at Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort and Disney’s

All-Star Movies Resort.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge – Jambo House

Uzima Pool Slide

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village

Kidani Samawati Pool Slide

Disney’s Art of Animation Resort

Big Blue Pool Nov. 17 –

Little Mermaid Flippin Fins Pool Nov. 20 –

Cozy Cone Pool Nov. 24 –

Finding Nemo Schoolyard Wet Play Area

Disney’s Beach Club Resort

Guest Room Renovations

Guest rooms will be refurbished with new hard and soft goods. Guests will not be

accommodated in the affected areas but it is possible that some noise could travel

while work is in progress (between 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily).

Stormalong Bay Pool – Waterslide

During this time, the waterslide and the waterway from the slide to the first bridge of

Stormalong Bay will be unavailable. The remaining portions of the pool will remain

available to Guests.

Stormalong Bay Pool – Lazy River

During this time, bridges three and four will be under refurbishment and the lazy

river/snorkel area will be closed. The remaining portions of the pool will remain

available to Guests.

Disney’s Coronado Spring Resort

Dig Site Slide

La Vida Health Club and Beauty Salon

Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground

Meadow Pool Slide

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

Beach Water Activity Pool

Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

General Construction

The east portion of the beach (near the Transportation and Ticket Center) and Sunset

Point are being refurbished and are unavailable. Guests may see or hear work in

progress.

Great Ceremonial House – Lobby

The atrium is being reimagined to highlight the cultural elements of Polynesia and

provide more expansive views. At certain times of day, there may be some noise and

alternative paths of travel may be needed throughout the Great Ceremonial House.

To enhance the check-in experience, Guests are encouraged to participate in Online

Check-In.

Nanea Volcano Pool and Slide

The main pool and slide will be closed for enhancements. Guests who stay at

Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort while the main pool is closed will receive one

complimentary ticket for each member of their party to visit Disney’s Blizzard Beach

Water Park during their stay.

Disney’s Saratoga Spring Resort & Spa

Paddock Pool Slide

High Rock Springs Pool Slide

Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

Silver Creek Springs Pool

The main pool and slide will be closed for enhancements. During this time, the leisure

pool at The Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge will remain open. Guests will also

have the opportunity to visit either the Main Pool at Disney’s Contemporary Resort

or the Meadow Swimmin’ Pool at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground.

Complimentary transportation will be provided to both of these neighboring resorts.

Trout Pass Pool Bar

Disney’s Yacht Club Resort

Stormalong Bay Pool – Waterslide

During this time, the waterslide and the waterway from the slide to the first bridge of

Stormalong Bay will be unavailable. The remaining portions of the pool will remain

available to Guests.

Stormalong Bay Pool – Lazy River

During this time, bridges three and four will be under refurbishment and the lazy

river/snorkel area will be closed. The remaining portions of the pool will remain

available to Guests.

Walt Disney World Swan Hotel

Guest Room Renovations

Renovation work is scheduled to take place between 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. daily. No guests

will be accommodated in the renovation area as to minimize impact on the guest

experience.

Downtown Disney® Area

Roadwork on Buena Vista Drive

Due to heavy roadwork, expect delays on Buena Vista Drive. It is recommended

that Guests use complimentary Walt Disney World Resort transportation from

Parks and Resorts to Downtown Disney and plan to arrive early for reserved dining

and entertainment experiences.

Parking Lots – Entrance 2 – Lots A-G

Loss of parking lot Entrance 2 to Guest/Cast traffic and associated lots A-G in

preparation for the construction of Town Center and the East Garage.

Golf Courses/Miniature Golf

None

Updated Refurbishment Schedule for The Walt Disney World Resort!

Magic Kingdom® Park

Walt Disney World Railroad  

Sep. 29 – Nov. 7, 2014

The Magic Behind Our Steam Trains Tour

Sep. 29 – Nov. 7, 2014

The Magic Carpets of Aladdin

Nov. 10 – 21, 2014

Haunted Mansion

Dec. 1 – 19, 2014

Splash Mountain

Jan. 4 – 30, 2015

Cinderella’s Royal Table

Jan. 5 – Mar. 6, 2015

Liberty Square Riverboat

Jan. 23 – 27, 2015

Under the Sea ~ Journey of the Little Mermaid

Feb. 2 – Mar. 6, 2015

Harmony Barber Shop

Feb. 2 – Mar. 30, 2015

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Epcot®

None

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Disney’s Hollywood Studios®

Fantasmic!

Nov. 19 – 21, 2014

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Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Theme Park

Pangani Research Center – Aviary and Hippo viewing closed
Affection Section
Kali River Rapids

Sep. 2 – Nov. 14, 2014
Oct. 7 – Nov. 15, 2014
Jan. 20 – Feb. 2, 2015

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Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park

Closed for Annual Refurbishment

Oct. 26, 2014 – Jan. 3, 2015

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Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park

Closed for Annual Refurbishment

Jan. 4 – Mar. 14, 2015

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Disney’s All Star Music Resort

Intermission Food Court
Note’able Games Arcade will serve as a temporary location for grab-and-go meals such as sandwiches, salads, and bakery items. Transportation will be provided for Guests who wish to dine at Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort or Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort. Pizza and other items available for in-room delivery daily from 3 p.m. to 1 a.m.

Aug. 4 – Dec. 19, 2014

Note’able Games Arcade
Guests may visit the arcades available at Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort and Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort.

Jul. 26 – Dec. 19, 2014

Disney’s Art of Animation Resort

Big Blue Pool

Nov. 17 – 19, 2014

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Little Mermaid Flippin Fins Pool

Nov. 20 – 21, 2014

Cozy Cone Pool

Nov. 24 – 26, 2014

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Disney’s Beach Club Resort

Guest Room Renovations
Guest rooms will be refurbished with new hard and soft goods. Guests will not be accommodated in the affected areas but it is possible that some noise could travel while work is in progress (between 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily).

Oct. 13, 2014 – Aug. 22, 2015

Stormalong Bay Pool – Waterslide
During this time, the waterslide and the waterway from the slide to the first bridge of Stormalong Bay will be unavailable. The remaining portions of the pool will remain available to Guests.

Jan. 5 – Feb. 2, 2015

Stormalong Bay Pool – Lazy River
During this time, bridges three and four will be under refurbishment and the lazy river/snorkel area will be closed. The remaining portions of the pool will remain available to Guests.

Feb. 2 – Mar. 3, 2015

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Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

General Construction
The east portion of the beach (near the Transportation and Ticket Center) and Sunset Point are being refurbished and are unavailable. Guests may see or hear work in progress.

Dec. 2013 – Mar. 2015

Great Ceremonial House – Lobby
The atrium is being reimagined to highlight the cultural elements of Polynesia and provide more expansive views. At certain times of day, there may be some noise and alternative paths of travel may be needed throughout the Great Ceremonial House. To enhance the check-in experience, Guests are encouraged to participate in Online Check-In.

Mar. – Dec. 2014

Nanea Volcano Pool and Slide
The main pool and slide will be closed for enhancements. Guests who stay at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort while the main pool is closed will receive one complimentary ticket for each member of their party to visit Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park during their stay.

Jul. 28, 2014 – early 2015

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Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

Silver Creek Springs Pool
The main pool and slide will be closed for enhancements. During this time, the leisure pool at The Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge will remain open. Guests will also have the opportunity to visit either the Main Pool at Disney’s Contemporary Resort or the Meadow Swimmin’ Pool at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground. Complimentary transportation will be provided to both of these neighboring resorts.

Sep. 3 – Nov. 27, 2014

Trout Pass Pool Bar

Sep. 3 – Nov. 27, 2014

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Disney’s Yacht Club Resort

Stormalong Bay Pool – Waterslide
During this time, the waterslide and the waterway from the slide to the first bridge of Stormalong Bay will be unavailable. The remaining portions of the pool will remain available to Guests.

Jan. 5 – Feb. 2, 2015

Stormalong Bay Pool – Lazy River
During this time, bridges three and four will be under refurbishment and the lazy river/snorkel area will be closed. The remaining portions of the pool will remain available to Guests.

Feb. 2 – Mar. 3, 2015

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Walt Disney World Swan Hotel

Guest Room Renovations
Renovation work is scheduled to take place between 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. daily. No guests will be accommodated in the renovation area as to minimize impact on the guest experience.

Aug. 20, 2014 – TBD

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Downtown Disney® Area

Roadwork on Buena Vista Drive 
Due to heavy roadwork, expect delays on Buena Vista Drive. It is recommended that Guests use complimentary Walt Disney World Resort transportation from Parks and Resorts to Downtown Disney and plan to arrive early for reserved dining and entertainment experiences.

Through Mar. 2016

Parking Lots – Entrance 2 – Lots A-G
Loss of parking lot Entrance 2 to Guest/Cast traffic and associated lots A-G in preparation for the construction of Town Center and the East Garage.?

Dec. 1, 2014 – Aug. 1, 2016
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Golf Courses/Miniature Golf

None

Updated Refurbishments at Walt Disney World

Updated Refurbishment List is here!

Magic Kingdom

Updated – The Yankee Trader in Liberty Square has reopened into a Haunted Mansion gift shop called Memento Mori.

Walt Disney World Railroad is closed through November 8.

The Magic Carpets of Aladdin will be closed for refurbishment from November 10 through to November 21.

The Haunted Mansion will be closed for refurbishment from December 1 through December 19.

Cinderella’s Royal Table will be closed for refurbishment from January 5 – March 6, 2015.

Harmony Barber Shop on Main Street U.S.A. will be closed for a refurbishment February 2 through March 30, 2015.

Main Street USA work is being done as part of a large project that will create a second ring around the current hub that adds more walkways and dedicated viewing areas for Magic Kingdom fireworks and parades, as well as sculpted gardens. This enhancement project will be completed sometime in 2015.

Epcot
Updated – Maelstrom has closed to make way for a new Frozen attraction.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

New – Studio Backlot Tour closed permanently on September 27. A portion of the Studio Backlot Tour is being used to for the Wandering Oaken’s Trading Post. Disney is also working other developments for that area and will share details soon.

Fantasmic! will be closed for refurbishment from November 19 through November 21.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Pangani Forest Exploration Trail will have the Aviary and Hippo viewing areas closed through November 14.

New – Affection Section at Rafiki’s Planet Watch will be closed through to November 10. The other areas of Conservation Station will continue to operate as normal.

Disney Parks has announced a long-term relationship with James Cameron’s Lightstorm Entertainment and Fox Filmed Entertainment to bring the fantasy world of AVATAR to life at Animal Kingdom Park. The new Avatar land will feature multiple attractions, entertainment, merchandise locations, restaurants and other immersive elements to bring the world of Pandora to life. Construction is expected to end in 2017.

Water Parks

Typhoon Lagoon will be closed for refurbishment from October 26 through December 20

Blizzard Beach will be closed for refurbishment from January 4 through March 14.
Downtown Disney

Construction has begun on the new Disney Springs project. For more information about this project, please read this blog post.

Disney Resorts

Disney’s All-Star Music Resort:

Intermission Food Court will undergo refurbishment through December 20. During the refurbishment a temporary grab ‘n’ go location will be setup in the Melody Hall lobby arcade area. Offerings will include salads, sandwiches and desserts, as well as a Refillable mug station. The Singing Spirits bar will also provide food options and a refillable mug station. Transportation to Disney’s All Star Sports Resort will also be provided to guests who would like to dine at the recently refurbished End Zone Food Court.

Note’able Games Arcade will be closed through December 20. Guests may visit the arcades available at Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort and Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort.

Animal Kingdom Lodge:
The Sunrise Safari at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge will be discontinued permanently beginning December 28

Disney’s BoardWalk Resort:
Kouzzina Restaurant by Cat Cora has closed. A new Italian restaurant will open at the BoardWalk called Trattoria al Forno in December 2014. In the interim, the Flying Fish Cafe at Disney’s BoardWalk Resort will be offering breakfast for a limited period until and December 7, with seating from 7:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Polynesian Resort:
Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto is a new lounge, based on the popular themed lounge at the Disneyland Hotel in Anaheim, CA, which will be opening at the Polynesian resort in Spring 2015.
Pineapple Lanai serving Dole Whips, has now opened.
Great Ceremonial House Lobby will be under refurbishment through December 15.
Trader Jack’s and Samoa Snacks is scheduled for refurbishment through December 31
The Volcano Pool will be closed through March 2015
Resort Renovations are taking place that will enhance the entire resort. The renovation will impact views from some rooms in buildings 5, 9, 10 and 11. Also, a portion of the east parking lot nearest to building 11 will temporarily close. In addition to that, access to the beach area on the east side of the resort, as well as Sunset Pointe will be unavailable.

Wilderness Lodge Resort:

Silver Creek Springs Pool will undergo refurbishment through November 27. During this time, the quiet pool will remain open. Guests will also be able to use the pools at both Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground and Disney’s Contemporary Resort, with transportation provided to both. Guests who inquire at check-in may also receive a complimentary ticket to Blizzard Beach for each member of their party checking into the resort.
Trout Pass Pool Bar will undergo refurbishment through November 27
Elsewhere at Walt Disney World

The Walt Disney World Monorail System will operate on a new time table to accommodate work on automation upgrades with more efficient service and enhanced safety. The following schedule will be in place indefinitely: Magic Kingdom Resort Beam – 7:00 a.m. to 1 hour after park close. Magic Kingdom Express Beam – 8:30 a.m. to 1 hour after park close. Epcot Beam – 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. or 1 hour after Magic Kingdom closes (whichever is earliest)Additional buses and watercraft will be available during periods when the monorail is not in operation.

WILDLIFE WEDNESDAYS: A New Addition at Disney’s Animal Kingdom!

• Wildlife Wednesday: Welcome a New Western Lowland Gorilla to Disney’s Animal Kingdom!

  Posted:Wed, 24 Sep 2014 17:00:04 +0000

  ‘Ni kijana!’ is Swahili phrase that means ‘It’s a boy!’ This exciting exclamation was heard on September 3rd when we celebrated the arrival of a new baby in the gorilla family troop at Disney’s Animal Kingdom! Our avidDisney Parks Blog readers might be thinking, “Didn’t you just announce a new gorilla baby?” Yes, we did! This is the second gorilla birth this year, and the fifth in the park’s history. The first gorilla birth at Disney’s Animal Kingdom occurred in 1997 before the park opened, the second baby arrived in 1999 and the third was born in 2010.
  

  Western lowland gorillas are born with dark brown to black hair, black skin, and brown or reddish hair on their head. Mature males of breeding age develop silver or gray coloring on their backs and are consequently known as “silverbacks.” Juvenile and young-adult male gorillas are called “blackbacks” because they have yet to develop the silver markings. The diet of Western lowland gorillas is very diverse, including over 200 distinct species of plants, mainly leaves, buds, shoots, roots, bark and fruit. In the tropical rainforests of western Africa where they live, termites and ants are also great snack options. Unfortunately, West African rainforests are shrinking due to human encroachment and land clearing connected to agriculture and other pressures. Coltan is a mineral used in the production of cell phones, and mining for this mineral makes habitats unsuitable for gorillas and other wildlife. Recycling old cell phones and other electronics is a great way to reduce the need for coltan mining and, in turn, help conserve these amazing animals and their habitat.

  

  All Western lowland gorilla babies born at Disney’s Animal Kingdom have been a part of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ (AZA) Species Survival Plan (SSP), which ensures long-term survival of species by helping AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums manage species’ genetic diversity through detailed records of individual animals. Western lowland gorillas are a critically endangered species that face threats that include disease and illegal bushmeat hunting in the wild. In addition to supporting the gorilla SSP, Disney also contributes to gorilla conservation through the Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund (DWCF), which has provided more than $700,000 in conservation grants to 14 nonprofit organizations focused on research and conservation of Western lowland gorillas, cross-river gorillas, Grauer’s gorillas and mountain gorillas.
  

  While we celebrate and welcome the newest baby gorilla here at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, remember that you can join us in taking action to help gorillas and other wildlife. Recycle old cell phones to protect gorillas’ habitats from mining, and visit Disney.com/conservation to learn more about Disney’s conservation efforts and discover new ways to support conservation near you!

  If you missed the last gorilla baby announcement, click here to view the story and catch up on all the excitement!

  Wildlife Wednesday: Welcome a New Western Lowland Gorilla to Disney’s Animal Kingdom! by Rachel Daneault: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog