A.J. Wolfe's Blog

There are a lot of rules when visiting Walt Disney World. Some official, some not. However, there’s one that drives parents crazy.

©Amazon

I’ve been covering Walt Disney World’s theme parks for 7 years, and in that time, I’ve spoken to a lot of parents about visiting the parks with their children. In many of those conversations, the same rule comes up over and over…

Anyone who has visited a Walt Disney World park in the last few decades is likely familiar with the security process that accompanies any of the resort’s theme parks. There are bag checks and metal detectors before reaching the tapstyles. These entry points can be especially frustrating for parents pushing young children in strollers.

Magic Kingdom entrance

To enter through security, all children need to leave their strollers. Yes, that includes kids who are all buckled in, or even those who are napping. That can obviously chuff some parents, especially those who are hoping for their youngster to get a bit of rest before the metaphorical (and sometimes literal) sugar rush of being in a Disney park.

EPCOT’s entrance

Children being required to leave a stroller as it goes through security isn’t the only stroller rule at the “Most Magical Place on Earth.” According to Disney, the following guidelines are also in place:

Strollers larger than 31” (79 cm) in width and 52” (132cm) in length are not permitted. Stroller wagons are also not permitted.Strollers are not allowed on escalators. Use of strollers is permitted on elevators and ramps, available at certain locations.A child must be removed from his or her stroller while riding on a parking lot tram.Do not leave personal belongings in an unattended stroller.Strollers may be moved by a Cast Member due to operational needs.

Not acceptable stroller parking

While this security rule is understandable and necessary, it does tend to bother parents trying to bring their children into Walt Disney World’s theme parks. Stay tuned to DFB for more on Disney’s rules.

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WE KNOW DISNEY.

YOU CAN, TOO.

Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.

Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!

GET YOUR GUIDE NOW

Is there a Disney rule that bugs you? Let us know in the comments below.

The post The One Rule That Will Make Parents Resent Disney World first appeared on the disney food blog.

You guys, it’s a seriously good year for Universal Orlando Resort.

Celestial Park in Epic Universe

Back in May, the resort opened up a brand-new theme park, Universal Epic Universe. The new park has been received fairly well with its popular IPs, unique rides, and shockingly delicious theme park food. But did you know Epic Universe has several offerings that are award-worthy? Yep, the theme park was recognized multiple times by the Golden Ticket Awards. 

In total, Universal Orlando was recognized five different times by the Amusement Today Golden Ticket Awards. “We are honored to have received five 2025 Golden Ticket Awards this year,” said Karen Irwin, President and COO of Universal Orlando Resort. “We are committed to developing the most innovative, immersive experiences imaginable and creating a vacation experience like no other. Our amazing team members take tremendous pride in delivering exceptional experiences to our guests every day, and this incredible recognition is a result of their hard work and dedication.”

Universal Orlando

The first of the awards goes to Volcano Bay, which won Best Water Park. This is noteworthy because it’s the first new winner in that category in 26 years. This park is generally a fan-favorite water park in the Central Florida area due to its theming, incorporation of technology, and innovative attractions.

Volcano Bay at Universal Orlando

The other four awards all go to Epic Universe. Best New Coaster was awarded to Stardust Racers in Celestial Park. The thrilling ride reaches speeds up to 62 mph and heights up to 133 feet. It’s definitely not one for the faint of heart!

Stardust Racers

Best New Dark Ride goes to Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment. This ride has received a LOT of praise since Epic Universe opened because of its massive (and very impressive) animatronics and incredibly themed queue.

Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment

In similar fashion, the Best New Theme Concept goes to Darkmoor, the fictional village where Dark Universe takes place. This space has a creepy and ominous vibe that you feel as you walk through the graveyard, dine inside the crypt of Das Stakehaus, or stroll through the halls of Frankenstein Manor.

Welcome to Darkmoor

Finally, the Best New Attraction Installation goes to Epic Universe’s most popular ride, Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry. This ride often has a multi-hour wait, and many have called it the best ride in the park.

Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry

So if you’re planning a trip to Universal Orlando, make sure to check out these award-winning offerings during your vacation! Congrats to Universal for these accomplishments.

Stay tuned to DFB for more Universal Orlando news.

Click Here to See the Best Things to Eat in Epic Universe!Read more: DFB's complete guide to Universal’s Epic Universe >>

Have you visited any of these things in Universal Orlando? Tell us in the comments!

The post Epic Universe Just Won FOUR Major Theme Park Awards first appeared on the disney food blog.

Don’t look now, but in a few months, Disney’s first ship to set sail out of Singapore will go on its maiden voyage.

©DisneyCruiseLine

Get ready for December 15th, as that’s the day the Disney Adventure embarks on its first voyage. This new ship will feature seven themed areas, a ton of dining experiences, and new attractions. You know what else the brand-new ship will offer? Merchandise! Speaking of, we got a first look at a piece of merch exclusive to the Disney Adventure, and Marvel fans are going to love it!

Disney Cruise Line and Marvel took to Instagram to reveal a first look at the Disney Adventures original comic book. The reveal featured colored cover art for the Special Edition First Issue of AMAZING ADVENTURES. This comic book is 32 pages, and will be sold exclusively on the Disney Adventure during its first year of sailing!

©DisneyCruiseLine

Disney wrote about the comic book in the caption, stating, “Tony Stark is hosting a tech showcase on the Disney Adventure to celebrate his new Arc Reactor-powered Ironcycle. But Doc Ock has other plans and sabotages a Molecular Duplication Device. It’s up to the Super Heroes on board to save the day!” You can view the teaser video below.

View this post on Instagram

 

The cover art was done by Leinil Francis Yu, and the penciler was Ron Lim — who is best known for the Infinity Gauntlet series, Thanos Quest, and Silver Surfer Rebirth. Pretty cool!

©DisneyCruiseLine (Avengers Assemble Show)

The Disney Adventure will have lots of exclusive merchandise to offer guests. The Disney Adventure will not only be the first Disney Cruise Line ship to set sail from Singapore, but it will also be the first Disney Cruise Line ship to have a World of Disney store onboard.

©DisneyCruiseLine

This World of Disney onboard is said to carry Disney Cruise Line-specific merchandise. Something that’s very exciting is that Disney has said the merchandise will have a “wide range of never-before-seen designs inspired by the rich natural beauty and cultural icons of Southeast Asia.”

©Disney

You’ll get tons of opportunities for shopping on the Disney Adventure, as it will have nearly 17,000 square feet of retail space. Of course, we mentioned World of Disney, but the ship will feature so many shops that have never been seen on a Disney Cruise before. This includes the first-ever National Geographic Store at sea and the first-ever Duffy and Friends Shop.

©Disney

Palace Treasures and 3 Wishes will offer an “elevated shopping experience” to Concierge guests. You’ll find things like luxury goods, fine jewelry, clothing, souvenirs, and more!

[image error]

©Disney

We’re really excited for the Disney Adventure to set sail for the first time. We can’t believe it’ll be in a few months. For more Disney news and updates, be sure to stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog.

See the Staterooms on the Disney Adventure Cruise Ship

What You Need to Know About Disney Cruise Line

Learn All About Disney Cruise Line and Its Various Ships

Explore Disney’s Mega Cruise Ship – The Wish

A Full List of What You CAN’T Bring on a Disney Cruise

These Are the BEST Times to Book Your Disney Cruise

The Best Ways to SAVE SPACE in Your Tiny Cruise Cabin

10 Things You NEED on Your Next Cruise (That You Won’t Think to Pack!)

What It’s Like to Live on a Cruise Ship for 6 Months

Join the DFB Newsletter To Get All the Latest Disney News Delivered Right to Your Inbox! Click here to Subscribe

Are you going to set sail on the Disney Adventure? Let us know in the comments!

The post FIRST LOOK: There's Only ONE Place to Grab This New Exclusive Disney Souvenir first appeared on the disney food blog.

Hot Disney World days are no joke — we’ve been there time and time again, and we know firsthand that having a way to cool down during the day is incredibly important.

Let’s stay cool!

We’ve tried lots of different ways to keep cool in the parks — cooling towels, cooling fans, and handheld fans, but with as hot as it is, we decided to kick it up a notch. We tried a Waist Fan, and let’s just say — this thing is POWERFUL!

DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission.

Want A Powerful Fan To Keep Cool? This Waist Fan is FOR YOU!

Waist Fan

This Waist Fan costs just $25 on Amazon, and while it’s a little bulky, it’s totally worth it for its cooling power. This will work best for someone who carries a lot of heat around the middle of their body, as you can clip it to your clothes or use the belt to attach it to you, but you can also put it on the lanyard and wear it around your next if you feel like you frequently overheat on your face.

It worked great for us!

While we think this works fantastic outside, you can also use it inside — for us, it amplified the AC so much, it was almost overwhelming! This has three different modes, but we really think it’s only worth it on its highest level for those supremely hot days. If you’re someone who overheats easily for any reason, we also think this is a must-grab.

It does so much!

However, we do see where it could be a little heavy for those with smaller frames, and if you’re someone who would be bothered by the sound of the fan all day, it may not be the best fit for you. But if staying extra cool is most important above all else, this is the way to go!

Grab it here!

We’re always trying out new products in the park to help you grab what you need to make your trip the biggest success, so stay tuned to DFB!

[image error]

The post I Never Thought I Would Wear This to Disney World, But It Made My Day 1,000X Cooler first appeared on the disney food blog.

A very special holiday is coming soon that we love to celebrate in Disney World!

Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind

Nope, it’s not Halloween (though those celebrations are underway in Disney World), and it’s not Christmas (though that season is coming up soon). It’s something far more specific…September 21st! And if you’re visiting EPCOT that day, you’ll be able to hear the song “September” by Earth, Wind & Fire ALL day at Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind.

Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind is a popular roller coaster in EPCOT that opened in 2022. Since it’s themed to the Guardians of the Galaxy films, you know that it has to have an awesome soundtrack…and it does! Typically, when riding the coaster, you’ll get a randomized song from a list of six different choices.

Cosmic Rewind entrance

One of the songs on that list is “September,” and it’s often thought of as the “best” of the group, so fans tend to get pretty excited when they get that one in particular. The song tells the story of the 21st night of September, so to honor that date in a fun way, Disney will be playing “September” all day long for the ride. That’s right, it’ll be the ONLY song you can get that day.

Cosmic Rewind

So if you’re not a fan of this song, you’ll need to visit on literally any other day of the year. If you do, the other songs that rotate through, in addition to “September,” are as follows:

“Disco Inferno” by The Trammps“Conga” by Gloria Estefan“Everybody Wants to Rule the World” by Tears for Fears“I Ran” by A Flock of Seagulls“One Way or Another” by Blondie

Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind

Disney World did this same September 21st offering last year, so we’ll be interested to see if it becomes an annual thing. The only other time they’ve altered the song list was during the holiday season in 2022, when there was a seasonal Christmas song remix that played for every ride.

Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind Pre-Show

For those hoping to do this ride on their next trip, we’ve got the perfect shirt! This Cosmic Rewind Mixtapes Tee is available in the DFB Store right now.

©DFB Store

We’ll keep you updated — are you going to ride on September 21st?

Stay tuned to DFB for all the Disney World news and updates.

Click Here to See Our Ranking of the Rides in EPCOT!Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe!



WE KNOW DISNEY.

YOU CAN, TOO.

Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.

Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!

GET YOUR GUIDE NOW

Have you ridden Cosmic Rewind before? Tell us in the comments!

The post Disney CONFIRMS a BIG Ride Change Coming to EPCOT on September 21st first appeared on the disney food blog.

If it’s your first visit to Disney World, there are some mistakes you’ll want to avoid when booking your hotel stay!

Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort

There are quite literally dozens of hotels in Disney World, and while it may be easy to choose one based on its pricepoint or a fun theme, there’s SO much more to booking than just those surface-level things. We’ve stayed in Disney World Resorts hundreds of times, and we’re here to help you out — this is WHY first-timers keep booking the wrong Disney World hotel (and how you can avoid doing just that!).

I’ll start this list with the caveat that some of these problems may apply to you, and some may not. You may find that a certain hotel is worth the long bus ride or the hefty walk to the lobby and pool, and that’s totally okay. We’re just here to warn you about some of the problems that people encounter when they haven’t stayed at a Disney World Resort before.

They Choose Resorts That Are Too Spread Out

If you’re planning some long days in the theme parks, you’re probably going to need a resort that doesn’t make your step count even more difficult with a long slog back to the hotel room at the end of the night. And unfortunately, there are several Disney World Resorts with this problem.

Coronado Springs map

Some of the hotels on the property are fairly compact, while others are spread out over many acres and dozens of buildings. Those larger resorts often have internal bus loops, so even if you don’t have to trek back to your room from the lobby, you may be sitting on a bus waiting through several different stops before you can get off. The Resorts that are the biggest offenders of this are Caribbean Beach Resort, Coronado Springs Resort, Old Key West, Saratoga Springs, and Port Orleans Resort — Riverside.

Old Key West

Now, if you have a vehicle that you’re planning on driving to and from the parks, these resorts might not be a bad option (you could just park near your hotel room). But for those hoofing it on foot and relying on Disney transportation, it’s an entirely different ball game.

They Choose a Room View OVER a Room Location

When booking your hotel room at your chosen resort, you may find that there are multiple room type options for you to choose from. Several resorts offer rooms with specialty views, like “water view” or “theme park view.” And while some of these views can be really great, others probably aren’t worth it.

Savanna view

A theme park view room is spectacular if you want to watch fireworks from your balcony at night, and a savanna view room is a real treat at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, but other than that, we don’t often push people to get specialty views since they can add a lot to your overall cost. However, we DO encourage you to upgrade to a better room LOCATION if it’s possible. 

Disney’s Pop Century Resort

Some of the hotels offer preferred location rooms, and these will be closer to the lobby, the pool, the transportation, and/or the dining. Sometimes these can cut out a half-mile’s worth of walking at the end of the night when you get off the bus, especially if you’re staying at one of the Value Resorts. If you’re going to splurge, this is worth it for many folks.

Not Truly Enjoying Your Fancy Hotel

When booking your Disney World hotel, you’ll quickly learn that there’s a wide price range between the cheapest option and the most expensive. If you decide to go with a Deluxe Resort, you’ll be paying more, but your hotel will also have more to offer you. Deluxe Resorts often come with nicer pools, fitness centers, higher-end dining options, and a more luxurious experience in general.

Grand Floridian Resort

One mistake first-timers often make is that they book the fancy hotel with the great amenities and then pack their schedule so full of theme park visits that they never get to actually enjoy their resort. It’s totally fine to go to the parks every day of your trip, but if you’re only using your resort as a place to sleep at night, then you could save a TON of money by doing a Value Resort or Moderate Resort instead.

Copper Creek Villas

Now, don’t get us wrong, even if you’re just sleeping at your hotel, the Deluxe hotel rooms are typically a lot nicer, and those resorts tend to come with better locations and transportation options. It’s up to you to price it out and decide what your priorities are.

Going in Blind with Transportation Options

For those who are first-timers to Disney World Resorts, transportation can be super overwhelming. Only a select number of hotels have access to the Monorail, the Disney Skyliner, or boat transportation. In fact, the vast majority of the time, you’ll be using a Disney bus to get where you want to go.

Disney bus

The Monorail is available at the Grand Floridian, Polynesian Village, and Contemporary Resorts, while the Disney Skyliner only goes to the Caribbean Beach, Pop Century, Art of Animation, and Riviera Resorts (although you can access it by walking to the EPCOT station from some other nearby hotels). Several other hotels have boat access to Magic Kingdom, Hollywood Studios and EPCOT, or Disney Springs. You’ll want to check your resort’s transportation availability before you travel so you know how to get around.

Lack of Elevators

Finally, something that’s important to know when choosing a hotel is the availability of elevators. Caribbean Beach Resort doesn’t have elevators in any of its buildings, and Port Orleans Resort — Riverside and Old Key West Resort are lacking elevators in some of their buildings.

Caribbean Beach Resort

If you’re using a wheelchair, scooter, ECV, or stroller in the parks, this could present a problem when going to and from your hotel room. This can also be an issue if you plan to bring a hefty amount of luggage with you — carrying suitcases up and down stairs is not a lot of fun.

Port Orleans

So there you go — some things to double-check and research before booking your first-ever Disney World hotel stay. And if you’re planning a trip, we recommend booking through our friends at Small World Vacations. Their planning services are complimentary, and they’re experts with years of experience planning vacations!

Stay tuned to DFB for more Disney World updates.

Going to Disney World for the First Time? Start Here. 
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So book that trip now, then sit back and enjoy planning your Disney World Trip with a DFB-approved expert! Click here for a no obligation price quote today, and let them know DFB sent you

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When is your next trip to Disney World? Tell us in the comments!

The post Why Disney First Timers Keep Booking the Wrong Hotel first appeared on the disney food blog.

2025 has been a year of Change in Disney World as several beloved attractions have closed to make way for future expansion, while an iconic favorite has returned from a massive refurbishment.

Magic Kingdom

Disney World currenttly has new lands coming to Magic Kingdom (PLUS a Frontierland expansion), Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. A new version of Test Track in EPCOT, and a new nighttime parade in Starlight!. Of course, with all this change, a lot of things will closed this year. So there are a lot of things you’ll do – or already have done –  in Disney World in 2025 for the last time.

If you visit Disney World in 2025, make sure to do these things because, by the end of the year, they will be gone forever.

See Tom Sawyer Island

Tom Sawyer Island closed forever in July to make way for the Cars expansion Piston Peak that’s coming to Frontierland in Magic Kingdom. Many fans were unhappy to see this opening day part of the Magic Kingdom close forever, but – to quote an attraction we’ll see later in this list – “that’s progress for ya.”

Tom Sawyer Island

Disney has not yet confirmed when construction will begin, but permits have already been filed to begin work on the Cars expansion.

The Complicated Reason We’re Not Sold on the New Cars Land at Magic KingdomRide Liberty Square Riverboat

Rivers of America also closed in July to make way for the Cars expansion in Magic Kingdom. That means the Liberty Square Riverboat went be permanently going out of commission, with the last riders sailing on July 6th.

Liberty Square Riverboat

Everything That Has to Permanently Close to Make Way for the ‘Cars’ Expansion in Disney WorldSee It’s Tough To Be A Bug

It’s Tough To Be A Bug in Disney’s Animal Kingdom is closed on March 17th, 2025. It’s being replaced by a Zootopia film, Better Zoogether.

It’s Tough To Be A Bug

Zootopia: Better Zoogether! is expected to open in winter 2025, so there is at least one thing you’ll be able to do for the first time in Disney World, too.

Will These Closures Make Disney’s Animal Kingdom A Half Day Park?Ride Dinosaur

Over in DinoLand, U.S.A. in Animal Kingdom, several rides and shops have already closed to make way for construction on a new land, Pueblo Esperanza. The good news is that Dinosaur is still open…for now.

Dr. Grant Seeker will be unemployed soon

Disney recently revealed that Dinosaur will be closing on February 2nd, 2026, with the final rides the day before, February 1st.

3 Game-Changing Updates Announced for Disney’s Animal Kingdom in 2025Eat at Restaurantosaurus

Speaking of DinoLand, U.S.A., Restaurantosaurus will also be closing to make way for Pueblo Esperanza. Now, this might not mean you’ll be dashing to Animal Kingdom to eat here one last time, but we will mourn for the loss of all the cool details you’ll find at this dining spot.

Restaurantosaurus

REVIEW: Sometimes, You Just Want a Simple, Easy Meal in Disney World. Restaurantosaurus Got You.See Muppet*Vision 3D

Okay, this one HURTS. Muppet*Vision 3D in Disney’s Hollywood Studios closed its doors forever on June 7th. Yes, the last Muppets project that Jim Henson worked on is closing (although Disney has promised that it’s trying to figure out how to carry on the legacy of the attraction).

Muppet*Vision 3D

All of Muppets Courtyard will be closing to make way for construction on a new Monsters, Inc. land — and we’re not okay.

When Is Demolition Day at Muppets Courtyard in Disney’s Hollywood Studios?Ride the Aerosmith version of Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster

There is some good news about the Muppets, though. They’ll still have an attraction in Hollywood Studios — the Muppets will be moving over to Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster to replace Aerosmith. So if you love the Aerosmith version of the ride, you’ll want to go for a spin on it before it goes away forever.

Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster

If you miss the last ride on that stretch limo, though, maybe the Muppets version of the ride will feature at least one Aerosmith song covered by Dr. Teeth and the Electric Mayhem.

The Problem with the NEW Closure of Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster at Disney’s Hollywood StudiosEat at Mama Melrose’s and PizzeRizzo

Yes, we’d previously compared Mama Melrose’s to Olive Garden (and we have ZERO regrets because sometimes Olive Garden hits JUST SO), but we’re going to miss having a meal here from time to time when it also goes away to make way for the Monsters, Inc. land. Also, you know how we feel about PizzeRizzo…seriously, it’s a pizza joint owned by a rat, but still…nostalgia will have us miss it. The restaurants closed in May and June respectively. 

PizzeRizzo

Experience the 1994 Carousel of Progress for the Last Time

At the 2025 Destination D23 Event, Diseny announced that the Carousel of Progress would be undergoing a massive refurbishment, including the addition of a new preshow featuring a Walt Disney animatronic. While the attraction isn’t going away forever, anyone who wants to experience the 1994 finale one more time should do so in 2025!

[image error]

©Disney

See the Current Castle Colors

Also at the D23 event, Disney announced that Cinderella Castle would be returning to it’s original color scheme. While that led to many fans rejoicing, anyone who wants to see the current pink color scheme should so ASAP!

[image error]

©Disney

 

You’ll want to head to Disney World this year if you want to catch a last ride or last meal at these spots. Soon, they’ll all only be a distant memory. Stay tuned to DFB for more.

These Disney World Hotels Will Have BRAND NEW ROOMS in 2025Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe!



WE KNOW DISNEY.

YOU CAN, TOO.

Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.

Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!

GET YOUR GUIDE NOW

Will you be heading to Disney World to visit these things one more time this year? Let us know in the comments!

The post The 10 Things You'll Do In Disney World in 2025 For The Last Time first appeared on the disney food blog.

It’s time we had a little chat y’all — and I’m afraid I’ve contributed to this widespread problem taking over EPCOT.

Look at that line!

One of the most popular EPCOT festivals is finally here and while we’ve already had a chance to eat and experience EVERYTHING there is to do at this year’s festival, it’s just getting started! But, there’s one particular phenomenon that we’ve spotted taking over EPCOT’s Food & Wine Festival that isn’t really all that necessary and we need you to hear us out.

 

There’s a widespread problem I’ve noticed taking EPCOT by storm lately, and I fear I’m partially to blame for it. One of my favorite times to visit EPCOT is during the festivals, and right now, my absolute favorite, EPCOT’s Food & Wine Festival, is happening throughout the park and the World Showcase. During this festival, you’re treated to a multitude of rich cultures and flavors through food and drink options, and it may take you several visits to fully accomplish your list of eating everything you plan to savor around the park.

2025 Food and Wine Signs!

But it doesn’t seem like I’m Food & Wine’s only fan. I’m lucky enough to work with DOZENS of folks here in our office that are just as passionate about this festival as I am and work hard to ensure that we give you our honest opinions of each year’s food and drink offerings so you know how best to spend your money and time to experience it during your vacation, too!

Germany offerings

Here’s where this gets a little tricky, though. It’s no secret by now that we’re “those” Disney fans who are willing to stake out our first booths of the day well in advance of their opening on the first day of the festival, and I fear that has translated beyond just those first-day eager vibes. I’ve been reporting on Disney World news and festivals for several years now, and it still blows my mind how even after the first day of the festival, so many of EPCOT’s visitors are STILL willing to do the same!

Milled and Mulled Food and Wine booth

It’s wild to me how many people I’ve spotted waiting around a food booth for around an hour before it opens, while the Cast Members and chefs are preparing their inventory for the opening rush. This just speaks volumes about how well Disney World has continued to build on such a popular festival over the last several decades and still can draw such a crowd in anticipation of its offerings well after the festival’s opening day. However, since we’re a few weeks into the festival’s operation now, it’s not entirely necessary to stake out so far in advance of the booth’s opening to order what you’re after. However, I can recognize that getting a jump start on your festival plans might be the only way to accomplish your entire list for the day, and to that I bid you all the best on your quest!

Get a Tray!

So if I happen to see you staking out your first EPCOT Food & Wine Festival booth of the day well before its opening, just know I’m inclined to throw a nod of approval your way from one Disney World foodie to another. It’s not every day that you get to enjoy one of EPCOT’s best festivals (unless you work alongside us here at DFB), so I’m wishing you all the best from afar on your festival journey throughout your day and hope you’ve packed your tray for carrying it around, too!

Be sure to stay tuned with us right here at DFB for all the latest Disney news, updates, reviews, and more.

JUST ANNOUNCED: Details Revealed for Seminars at Disney World’s OTHER Food & Wine Festival


IT'S WINE & DINE TIME!

Food & Wine Festival can be a bummer. You stand in line waiting for what looks like the perfect treat, and it's a bust. But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE EPCOT Food & Wine Festival experience.

If you're planning a day or a week at the festival, we've got every performance, activity, and tasty nosh detailed out so you can make the most of your time and money. Listen, it's a tough job eating and documenting the nearly 200 bites and sips, but we do it all for YOU!

GET YOUR GUIDE NOW

Learn More About the EPCOT Food and Wine Festival!

Food and Wine Festival 101



Eat to the Beat Concert Updates



EPCOT Food and Wine Festival - Fans Facebook Page



Wine and Dine Half Marathon Details



Get More Updates, Tips, and Tricks to Help You Conquer the Food & Wine Festival







Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe!

Which of this year’s EPCOT Food & Wine booths are you planning to visit? Tell us what’s on your pick up list in the comments below!

The post We Need To Chat About This Unnecessary EPCOT Food & Wine Festival Problem first appeared on the disney food blog.

Each week, we scour Amazon to find the latest Disney merchandise and steepest Disney deals the massive e-tailer has to offer.

©Disney

This week, we’ve got a treat for millennials: T-shirts representing many of the most memorable films of the 1990s Disney Renaissance!!

DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission.

The Little Mermaid Tee

©Amazon

Be part of Ariel’s world with this Little Mermaid tee, featuring the titular redhead as well as Eric, Sebastian, Flounder, Ursula, and King Triton!

SHOP HERE

Beauty and the Beast Belle Tee

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Who needs a beast when you have books? This tee features the ever iconic “beauty but a funny girl” wearing her iconic yellow dress and reading a good book with Mrs. Potts and Chip!

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Hercules Tee

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You can go the distance with this Hercules tee, as the titular hero of the 1997 film is presented in all his Greek half-godly glory!

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Aladdin Genie Tee

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Anyone who wears this tee celebrating Robin Williams’ iconic Genie performance will have a friend in us.

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The Lion King Tee

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Represent the “Hakuna Matata” lifestyle with this tee, emblazoned with “No Worries” along with Simba, Timon, Pumbaa, and Zazu.

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Pocahontas Tee

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Dream of the colors of the wind with this tee, featuring the titular heroine of the 1995 film as well as her good buddy Meeko.

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Mulan Mushu’s Bed & Breakfast Tee

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Mulan’s fast-talking sidekick’s iconic sense of humor is emblazoned all over this tee in a way fans of the 1998 film are sure to love!

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If any of these shirts warm your 90s heart, head over to Amazon ASAP! Stay tuned to DFB each week for more of the best Amazon has to offer!

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The post These Disney Renaissance Era T-shirts Are On Sale On Amazon Today first appeared on the disney food blog.

It’s almost time for a NEW Disney Cruise Line ship to set sail!

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The Disney Destiny is taking its maiden voyage later this year, and it’s going to be different than any cruise ship we’ve seen before. What’s new? Well, we’re breaking down all the changes you can expect when you set foot on board.

Heroes & Villains Theme

One of the first big differences between the Disney Destiny and other Disney Cruise Line ships is that the Destiny will have a “Heroes & Villains” theme. This theme is echoed throughout all the ship’s offerings — the character meets, the entertainment, the dining options, and even the staterooms.

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To fit this theme, the Grand Hall will feature a sculpture of T’Challa, the Black Panther, and the stern of the ship will have artwork of Spider-Man. Even Captain Minnie is getting a new outfit to fit the theme — doesn’t she look like a hero?!

Get a Closer Glimpse at the Disney Destiny Here!A Restaurant for The Lion King

When it comes to dining, there are some big changes as compared to other Disney Cruise Line ships. The biggest difference is the new Pride Lands: Feast of The Lion King restaurant! This dinner show will be part of the ship’s rotational dining offerings.

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The animals and nature that make up the African savanna will be “brought to life” in unique ways through lighting and special effects, like the sunrise and sunset in the windows. The focal piece of the space will be tiered risers made to resemble African drums. A cast of live musicians and storytellers will “present a musical journey through the award-winning soundtrack as you dine.” Sounds like a great meal!

Get a Sneak Peek at the New Restaurant Here!Worlds of Marvel Update

Another dining change you can expect is at Worlds of Marvel. This rotational dining spot is already available onboard the Disney Wish, but it will feature a new storyline on the Disney Destiny, starring Groot!

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Groot is trying to throw a surprise party for Rocket, so you know it’s going to be a blast. During dinner, you’ll be listening to an “awesome mix” of songs, while answering trivia questions to test your Marvel knowledge!

Learn More About Worlds of Marvel Here!New Cafes & Lounges

When it comes to dining spaces outside of the traditional rotational dining, there are some new options as well! Cask & Cannon is a Pirates of the Caribbean-themed lounge that originates with this ship, inspired by versions of the attraction at Disney Parks around the world. The space is filled with “acquired” treasures from mischievous pirates.

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DeVil’s Piano Lounge will be another new lounge inspired by 101 Dalmatians and Cruella, where you can enjoy trendy martinis, chic cocktails, and glamorous wines and bubbles.

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The Sanctum is Disney Cruise Line’s first lounge inspired by Doctor Strange and his “mystical arts.” It will be home to activities for all ages, and it will have a “mesmerizing array of spellbinding cocktails, spirits, and coffee drinks available at the bar.”

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The Sanctum ©Disney

And for those with a sweet tooth, you can stop by Edna Á La Mode Sweets, where you’ll find specialty desserts and baked goods. It’s themed to the legendary designer Edna Mode from The Incredibles. 

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And we can’t forget about Café Megara and Café Merida, the two new heroine-themed coffee shops coming to the ship.

Sneak Peek at the New Doctor Strange Lounge Here!Hercules Musical

For entertainment while you’re onboard, one of the new offerings is a Hercules musical stage show! The show will feature beloved songs including “Go the Distance,” “Zero to Hero,” and “I Won’t Say I’m in Love” in live renditions with new musical arrangements.

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One big highlight of this show will be the MASSIVE Hydra puppet designed by Award-winning puppet designer Michael Curry. It’s going to be a spectacle of epic proportions!

Go Behind-the-Scenes of the New Show Here!New Version of AquaMouse

If you’ve ridden AquaMouse on the Disney Wish or the Disney Treasure, then you’ll be excited to know that the attraction is getting a new version for the Disney Destiny. The AquaMouse is a 760-foot-long water ride that has a different signature short film on each Wish Class ship.

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On the Destiny, the short is titled “Sing a Silly Song.” In it, Mickey and Minnie will lead guests to the top of Villain Mountain, where you’ll “employ a silly song — and a bit of pixie dust — to transform each chilling encounter into a wacky surprise.”

See What the AquaMouse Is Like on the Disney Treasure Here!Different Character Meets

Since the ship is themed to heroes AND villains, there are going to be some special character meet-and-greets that you don’t typically see at sea. Passengers can expect to see LOTS of famous Disney Villains, including Maleficent, Hades, Cruella de Vil, Captain Hook, Mr. Smee, and Oogie Boogie. Disney has also confirmed that Dr. Facilier will make appearances.

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Captain Jack Sparrow, Bruno from Encanto, and Loki will all be making appearances, as well as characters from The Lion King, 101 Dalmatians, and Hercules. Bring those autograph books, folks!

New Stateroom Themes

Finally, we have to mention the new stateroom designs onboard. There are 1,256 staterooms, each with custom artwork themed to “depicting the epic journeys of famous Disney legends.” Movies featured in the rooms include Brave, Hercules, and Mulan. 

Oceanview Staterooms ©Disney

For a higher price, you can book one of the Incredisuites themed to The Incredibles, or even the Destiny Tower Suite themed to Tony Stark. Sounds fancy!

That’s a wrap on the changes coming to the Disney Destiny. We can’t wait to set sail soon!

Stay tuned to DFB for more Disney Cruise Line news!

Click Here for All the Disney Destiny Details!

Are you planning to sail on the Disney Destiny? Tell us in the comments!

The post 8 Major Changes Announced for Disney's Newest Cruise Ship, and They Matter More Than You Think first appeared on the disney food blog.