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Walt Disney World Resort Update for February 13-19, 2018
Go directly to: News & Views | Join our Networks | Resort Events | Refurbishments and Attraction Closures | Discounts and Promotions
Writer's note: Just last week, we gave you a heads-up that a ticket price increase was likely coming (based on past years), and, indeed, on Sunday, Disney Parks raised prices at its domestic parks. Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix posted the full run-down on Sunday, February 11, 2018, when the new rates went in to effect, and you can read all of the details here. Both resorts maintained the seasonal flex pricing structure implemented two years ago, with the price of one-day tickets based on which of three seasons—Value, Regular, and Peak—the ticket is used. The highest priced Peak Season one-day, one-park ticket remains Magic Kingdom, that increased $5 to $129 plus tax; the one day Park Hopper increased $10 to $184, and the one day Park Hopper plus is now $202 (an increase of $18). Annual pass prices also increased, with the Premier Passport, which is valid at both Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort, increasing 10% to $1,579/year.
We already know that later this year, the seasonal flex pricing structure that applies currently to one-day tickets will expand to all ticket durations (from one to ten day tickets). In other words, Disney will introduce date-specific multi-day tickets with all of its prices published in advance with a calendar. Our early thinking on the analogy for the pricing model to come is that it will be akin to looking up hotel room rates, where some days of your stay may be priced higher or lower than other days of your stay. Indeed, Tokyo Disneyland Resort has long had ticket options which provided single park entry to guests on days one and two, followed by park hopping privileges on day three; it is certainly possible we can see something like that come to Walt Disney World. We can imagine a number of other park hopping limitations, but we have no solid clues yet what Disney Parks will implement in the future.
A bit more quietly, Walt Disney World Resort also increased the parking rates at the parks for day guests: general car parking increased $2 to $22/day; preferred parking increased $5 to $45/day. Minnie Van service, the fairly new, on-demand point-to-point personal transportation option, also increased $5 to $25/ride.
If you want to jump to our Discounts and Promotions discussion now, I will include a link at the end of that section to bring you right back here. While the Florida Resident Select ticket prices increased along with the general admission prices, that category ticket seems to have gained a little bit of additional flexibility for new purchasers: Florida residents have 180 days to use all of the days of the ticket, and the first day of use can be all the way out to December 31, 2019! On the other hand, the Florida Resident Discover Disney Ticket prices have not increased and still must be used in their entirety by June 24, 2018.
As you keep seeing us report, crowds in the parks continue to be large during periods that used to be more quiet. While no one "likes" a price increase, this round of Walt Disney World Resort increases are, generally, lower than Disneyland Resort's, and not particularly likely to curb that increasing crowd trend as we get to the kickoff of the "Incredible Summer," which will include the opening of Toy Story Land at Disney's Hollywood Studios. Of course, 2019's opening of Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge probably will re-write the rules around here just like it already has started to do out in Anaheim. Stay tuned.
News and Views
D23 Expo Japan Presents Details of Walt Disney World Projects | Epcot's American Adventure Updates Debut Soon | Epcot Concert News & Calendar | Views around the World | One Passholder's Tip | This and That | Crowd Forecast
D23 Expo Japan Presents Details of Walt Disney World Projects
Like he did at D23 Expo in Anaheim, California back in July, earlier this week during D23 Expo Japan 2018, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Chairman Bob Chapek again took center stage to share details about expansion projects in the works around the globe and including, of course, relevant to this Update, Walt Disney World Resort leading up to its 50th Anniversary in 2021.
Toy Story Land Approaches its Summer Opening
While Chapek did not personally provide new details about the new 11-acre land opening at Disney's Hollywood Studios this summer, he highlighted the big-picture details: guests will feel as though they have been "shrunk" to the size of Woody, Buzz, and the rest of Andy's toys as they visit his backyard. The land will feature two new attractions: Slinky Dog Dash, a family-friendly coaster; and Alien Swirling Saucers. The land will include the new entrance for the existing, highly popular Toy Story Mania!
Ahead of Chapek's appearance in Japan, Disney Parks Blog revealed the latest artwork for Alien Swirling Saucers while, at long last, also quelling the constant rumors that the park would undergo another name change:
In response to questions we have been receiving, we also want to let fans know that the Disney’s Hollywood Studios name will remain the same for the foreseeable future since we are immersing our guests in a place where imagined worlds of Hollywood unfold around them from movies and music, to television and theater.
Toydarians Among the Characters Coming to Galaxy's Edge
Chapek shared a sneak peak at the merchandise that the Toydarian's street market in the new Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge will offer for sale. As we discussed after the Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge panel at the Star Wars: Galactic Nights event back in December at Disney's Hollywood Studios, in the world of Star Wars, Toydarians are a species of small, flying creatures who are immune to Jedi mind tricks. The best-known Toydarian is Watto, a junk dealer and slave trader from The Phantom Menace who owned the young Anakin Skywalker.
We have long expected that the Star Wars Launch Bay would close once Galaxy's Edge debuts in 2019. Chapek said that the new land would provide guests an opportunity to interact with Chewbacca, BB8, and members of the First Order, all of whom currently occupy spots in that building.
The Star Wars-themed Hotel Will "Seamlessly" Connect to "Galaxy's Edge"
After Chapek caused a stir when he announced that Walt Disney World would build a completely immersive Star Wars-themed hotel back in July, we had heard and seen very little about that project. At D23 Expo Japan, he re-lit the stir around the project by announcing that the new resort will be "seamlessly connected" to Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge at Disney's Hollywood Studios, providing for a total "Star Wars experience" for guests staying in that resort.
The "first-of-its-kind resort" will be a "complete immersion into an authentic Star Wars story". Video ©Disney.
He did not, however, announce a timeframe for construction or when we may see the new resort open. With the amount of construction going on at Disney's Hollywood Studios (in the park, in the parking lot, across World Drive, over on Osceola Parkway, and in the rest of the surrounding area), right now we are just left to speculate whether and where construction has begun on this new resort. Since the resort's windows are said to all have views of the Star Wars universe rather than the Walt Disney World Resort, there are any number of possibilities as to how it may be "seamlessly" attached to the new land.
Mickey & Minnie's Runaway Railway to Open in 2019
Just after D23 Expo in July, Disney's Hollywood Studios closed The Great Movie Ride inside the Chinese Theatre to make way for the first ever Mickey Mouse ride-through attraction in a Disney Park, Mickey & Minnie's Runaway Railway. At D23 Expo Japan, Chapek announced that the new attraction will also debut in 2019.
Guardians of the Galaxy Attraction at Epcot is a Roller Coaster
At D23 Expo in July, Chapek announced the then-imminent closing of Ellen's Energy Adventure at Epcot's Universe of Energy to make way for a new Guardians of the Galaxy-themed attraction to open in time for Walt Disney World Resort's 50th Anniversary in 2021. Since then, rumors began circulating that the new attraction would be a roller coaster.
At D23 Expo Japan, Chapek confirmed that the attraction will, in fact, be one of the longest enclosed roller coasters in the world. The new "one-of-a-kind family attraction" will feature an innovative ride system that is another step forward in the announced transformation of Epcot into "a place that"s more family, more relevant, more timeless and more Disney," as we have heard a number of times from Chapek over the past couple of years.
20th Anniversary of Disney's Animal Kingdom Will Include Debut of A New Show
At the end of 2017, Disney's Animal Kingdom ended the run of the "Flights of Wonder" show at the Caravan Stage to make way for a new show featuring Wilderness Explorer Russell and his "furry friend" Dug from Disney-Pixar's animated feature Up. Chapek announced that the duo's new family-friendly show will find them discovering bird species from around the world starting at the park's 20th Anniversary on April 22.
Epcot's American Adventure Updates Debut Soon
A few weeks ago, The American Adventure show closed for a brief refurbishment. This week we learned about some of the enhancements we will see when it reopens later this month (perhaps, as early as this week based on the My Disney Experience's description of the refurbishment ending in "early" February). Although the show has seen some minor changes and updates over the years, it is, in essence, a Day One attraction, dating back to the park's opening 35 years ago in October 1982.
Refurbishment of The American Adventure is expected to be complete soon. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
The theater is being converted to an all-digital projection system, which includes a new screen and new speakers. The finale has been updated with notable faces from America's recent history including music composer John Williams, astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson, and ballerina Misty Copeland. The song "Golden Dream" has been re-recorded with all-new orchestration as well.
Some American Adventure merchandise celebrates the states. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Walt Disney and I both have (at least) one thing in common. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
We will report the attraction's reopening on Facebook and Twitter.
Epcot Concert News & Calendar
The final 2019 Disney on Broadway Concert Series concerts are scheduled to take the stage three times nightly this Friday through Monday on The America Gardens Theatre on the shore of World Showcase Lagoon opposite the entrance to The American Adventure. The stars are Ashley Brown and Josh Strickland. Passholders still can get wristbands at The American Adventure Pavilion on a first-come, first-served basis, at least one hour prior to the show that you wish to attend, for up to four reserved seats for the Disney on Broadway Concert Series performances (annual pass card and a valid photo ID required). All guests can get guaranteed reserved seating with a dining package.
The Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival gets underway on February 28, and its Garden Rocks Concert Series kicks off at the America Gardens Theatre on March 2. Returning acts include Night Ranger (“Sister Christian”) which opens the series March 2-5, and The Spinners, known for “Working My Way Back To You,” the final Festival weekend May 25-28. Several new bands will perform at Epcot for the first time: Foghat (“Slow Ride”); Smash Mouth (“All Star”); Lonestar (“Amazed”); and Don Felder, formerly of The Eagles (“Hotel California”). Other bands new to the Garden Rocks series will be Rick Springfield (“Jessie’s Girl”), Survivor (“Eye of the Tiger”) and Jo Dee Messina (“Stand Beside Me”).
For the convenience of our readers, we list all of the performances in our Google Calendar of Epcot Events. You can also add it to any Calendar that supports the iCal format (like iPhone and Mac) by copying this link.
The calendar is provided "As is, where is" and without any guarantees, as a courtesy. Given the effort it took to create it, we do respectfully request that you do not post our entire calendar on another site without first asking our permission. We do not know why Walt Disney World Resort has not created this sort of functionality outside of the My Disney Experience app itself.
Views Around the World
I had a chance to visit all four theme parks again this week, including an invited Family Media Day at Disney's Animal Kingdom (just shy of three months ahead of its 20th Anniversary Celebration). We start off, though, with the highlight I hoped for last week when I wrote the Update - a view of the SpaceX Falcon Heavy launch right over the top of Space Mountain at Magic Kingdom.
Magic Kingdom
Some refurbishment is now underway on the east side of Main Street U.S.A. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Epcot
Disney's Hollywood Studios
Disney's Animal Kingdom
"Be Prepared" for a fire performer in the Festival of the Lion King show. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Disney's Animal Kingdom celebrates its 20th Anniversary on April 22. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
One Passholder's Tip
This section of the Update provides our MousePlanet readers with the benefit of my years of experience as a longtime Walt Disney World Four Parks Annual Passholder, and lots of personal trial and errors, one (at least monthly) tip at a time.
One Passholder's Tip #41: Photo Fun Edition #9
Creating and Posting A Looping Photo with iOS!
The video demonstrates all of the steps necessary (as of today) for posting Loops using iOS on Facebook and Twitter. Video by Alan S. Dalinka.
This is how the final posted looping video (described above) appears on Facebook. Video by Alan S. Dalinka.
Last week in our Views Around the World, I included several images using some of the new features Apple included in iOS 11 that create Loops from “LIVE” photos. Several friends and colleagues asked how I created and posted these images on our social media platforms, so last week I promised this week’s Tip.
As you may know, the operating system that runs Apple’s iPhone and iPad smart devices is named iOS, and through several versions over the past few years, iOS has included a photo feature called “LIVE” mode. In essence, a “LIVE” photo includes a few moments of video before and after the instant of the shutter click that represents the moment in time captured by a traditional photo. Until recently, the “LIVE” photo could often only be shared with other IOS and Mac OS devices.
At some point last year, Facebook began allowing users to post “LIVE” photos from devices running iOS and the latest version of the Facebook App. Some but not all devices could then playback the “LIVE” photos on a Facebook newsfeed; other devices just showed the keyframe of the “LIVE” photo: the still image.
With Apple’s recent release of iOS 11, iPhone and iPad users that installed it, can now edit live photos in several ways. Users can now select the specific frame that is the “LIVE” photo’s keyframe (still), the duration of the “LIVE” photo playback, and, relevant to this week’s tip, create Loop, Bounce, or Long Exposure images from the “LIVE” file.
As with many things in the on-line world, posting the latest-format images to social media or websites is not yet fully supported. (Indeed, depending on the device you are using to read this Update, the images may not display as a loop.) After Texting back and forth with MousePlanet’s Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix over the past couple of months, I have figured out a reliable way to post the Loops on Facebook and Twitter (and, the good news is that the same technique works for the Bounce images; no special steps are required for posting Long Exposure images).
For now, as I describe in the Tip Video above, the key steps are: 1) create the “LIVE” image; 2) convert to LOOP; 3) use the iOS iMessages App (and, specifically, not Facebook Messenger) to send/Text it to someone (or even yourself); 4) save the image from iMessages “as Video” back to your camera roll; 5) post that saved video to Twitter or Facebook.
Last week, the Views Around the World included this "Long Exposure" created from a "Live" photo in iOS. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka
We shared this "Loop" on Instagram and other platforms this week, but creating it in a format accepted on Instagram requires extra steps. Video by Alan S. Dalinka.
I would love to see some of your Disney Parks-related Loops and Bounce images. Tweet them to @MousePlanet and we will retweet the ones that catch our attention.
Anyway, the only constant in the digital and internet age is change, so all these features could change again at anytime: our mileage will vary. Everything worked last night when we prepared the Update for publication.
This and That
…Also in connection with the 20th Anniversary of Disney's Animal Kingdom coming up this Spring, the park is offering a new behind the scenes tour paired with VIP viewing of Rivers of Light from April 1 to May 5. The $59/person tour (discounts available, including Disney Vacation Club, for example), will visit a behind-the-scenes look at the Animal Nutrition Center at Rafiki's Planet Watch, an exploration of birds nests by checking on the purple martins, a one-hour Caring for Giants tour, plus the Rivers of Light show from premium seat. Call (407) WDW-PLAY for information and reservations.
…But, while we note Disney Vacation Club discounts and Events here and there (and I have been a DVC Member since this week back in 2000, having purchased points directly from Disney), a new rule is coming into effect for the various "Membership Extras" benefits (like certain vacation options, discounts, and even events like Moonlight Magic, to name just a few) where Members must show their Disney Vacation Club Membership Card in order to participate. Effective February 25, 2018, to even obtain a Disney Vacation Club Membership Card, according to the DVC website, "Members must accumulate a total of at least 75 Vacation Points purchased directly from Disney Vacation Development, Inc." We will reach out to DVC for clarification as to how this may impact existing Members (if at all). Even before this change, Disney and Concierge Collections options are not available for ownership interests not purchased directly from Disney Vacation Development, Inc. after March 21, 2011, and, effective April 4, 2016, Members who have not purchased an ownership interest directly from Disney Vacation Development, Inc. do not have access to Membership Extras.
…Enzo's Hideaway Tunnel Bar at Disney Springs is celebrating "Carnevale" tonight, Fat Tuesday, February 13, from 5 p.m. until 11 p.m. with complimentary Amuse-Bouche and music. Maria & Enzo's Ristorante is celebrating from 5 p.m. until 10 p.m. as well.
…For those that like commemorating Disney Parks vacations with year-specific merchandise, Disney Parks Blog has your rundown of the 2018 assortment now available around Walt Disney World Resort (as well as Disneyland Resort, ShopDisney.com and the Shop Disney Parks App).
Mouse Gear at Epcot has some 2018 themed merchandise for sale. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
…For the runDisney participants who mark their mileage with more than just the medals and sense of achievement, Disney Parks Blog provides a preview of the 2018 Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend merchandise. The merchandise and more will be available at the runDisney Health & Fitness Expo at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, open to all guests on Thursday, February 22 (noon to 8 p.m.); Friday February 23 (10 a.m. to 7 p.m.); and Saturday, February 24 (9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.). VIP Race Retreat Package purchasers get early Expo access (online registration closes this Thursday, February 15). The 2018 Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend is February 22-25.
…As we noted a few weeks ago, Meg Donnelly and Milo Manheim were on hand for the ribbon cutting of The Arena at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex to promote their upcoming Disney Channel original movie Zombies. It premieres this week: February 16, 2018.
…Starting yesterday, February 12, TV's "Wheel of Fortune" began airing a week of episodes (check your local listings) recorded at Epcot back in October. As you may recall, I was invited to attend the episodes scheduled to air February 12 and 13, and have some additional photos that I will share later this week on our social media platforms after both episodes air. If you tune in, there is a sweepstakes underway that includes an opportunity to win a Walt Disney World vacation.
…Looking ahead to March, Raglan Road St. Patrick's Festival brings three days of "non-stop live Irish music, family fun and late-night revelry" to Disney Springs with eight award-winning bands on the pub's Grand Room and Patio stages from March 16-18. The Raglan Road Irish Dancers will also perform throughout the Festival. On March 17, St. Patrick's Day, guests will be seated on a first-come, first served basis with a $10 cover charge for guests 18-and-older. Reservations can be booked for the other Festival Dates by calling (407)938-0300.
…Vivoli il Gelato at Disney Springs, the world-famous, family-run gelato shop from Florence, Italy, has new sundaes for Valentine's Day and throughout the entire month of February:
- Cherry Pie Sundae - Three scoops of vanilla gelato, cherry sauce, graham cracker crumbles, cherries and whipped cream
- Nuts for Love - Two scoops of pistachio gelato, hazelnut, gelato, crushed hazelnuts, crushed pistachios, chocolate sauce and whipped cream
- Mango my Passion - Mango sorbet, passion fruit sorbet, vanilla gelato, strawberry sauce, and whipped cream
- Bowl of Chocolates - Chocolate gelato, chocolate chip gelato, chocolate hazelnut gelato, chocolate chips, chocolate sauce and whipped cream
…Speaking of Japan (as we were above in the news), Adventures by Disney announced a new Japan vacation is coming in 2019 featuring Kyoto and Tokyo. Details are expected later this Spring when booking opens.
…And, finally, Orlando Sentinel reports that the President of the United States may visit Orlando this Friday, February 16. Nothing has been confirmed by the White House, but if he visits, be aware that there will be flight restrictions imposed in Orlando, and there may also be temporary road closures (on top of the usual I-4 delays). If you plan to arrive or depart Orlando (or travel a significant distance to get on to Disney Property), be sure to check Central Florida news sources for advisories so that you can plan travel accordingly.
…The MousePlanet Newsletter is here! The newsletter contains a recap of the week's articles (in case you miss a day), news that may have developed since the weekly Updates were published, and tips about what's happening at the Disney theme parks for the coming weekend. We'll also include a fun bonus, such as an Eye Spy or a trivia question. To subscribe to our free newsletter, just enter your email in the box below.
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Resort Events
Check here to see if a park event might fall during your next trip to the Walt Disney World Resort. If you know of any in-park events, official or unofficial, that should be listed here, please send us an email.
2018 Resort Events
- Epcot International Festival of the Arts – January 12 - February 19, 2018
NOTE: FESTIVAL ENDS ON MONDAY FOLLOWING THIS WEEKEND! - Disney After Hours at Magic Kingdom – February 15; March 1 & 8.
- 10th Anniversary Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend – February 22–25, 2018.
- MouseAdventure (unofficial event) – March 3, 2018. See mouseadventure.com for more information.
- 25th Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival – February 28 - May 28, 2018
- Star Wars Half Marathon – The Dark Side Weekend – April 19 - 22, 2018.
- Dapper Day – Magic Kingdom: April 28, 2018; Epcot: April 29, 2018; Park TBD: November 27-18, 2018
- Star Wars: Galactic Nights event at Disney's Hollywood Studios – May 27, 2018
- Gay Days at Walt Disney World 2018 ("#RedShirtDays" – unofficial events) – Disney's Animal Kingdom: May 31;
Disney's Hollywood Studios: June 1; Magic Kingdom: June 2; Epcot: June 3 - Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party at Magic Kingdom – TBA
- Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend – November 1-4, 2018
- Epcot International Food & Wine Festival – TBA
- Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic – October 26-27, 2018
–Sunday Bubbles Brunch – October 28, 2018. - Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom – TBA
- Holidays at Walt Disney World – TBA
- Epcot International Festival of the Holidays – TBA
- Candlelight Processional at Epcot – TBA
2019 Resort Events
| If you participate in (or are considering signing up for) runDisney events, visit our Team MousePlanet forum on the MousePad discussion board, where you can join our community of health-minded readers and staff. For current information on runDisney registration dates and capacity, see Lorree Tachell's runDisney Race Capacity Updates in the Team MousePlanet forum on our MousePad discussion board. |
2018 Disney Vacation Club Moonlight Magic Events (Including Event Reservation Opening Dates)
- Moonlight Magic at Disney's Animal Kingdom – March 21; April 17; May 16, 2018
Members with Resort Reservations: February 8, 2018
All Members (pending remaining availability): February 22, 2018 - Moonlight Magic at Disney's Typhoon Lagoon – May 30; June 11, 2018.
Members with Resort Reservations: April 19, 2018
All Members (pending remaining availability): May 3, 2018 - Moonlight Magic at Epcot – July 16; August 15, 2018 (note date change!)
Members with Resort Reservations: June 6, 2018
All Members (pending remaining availability): June 20, 2018 - Moonlight Magic at Disney's Hollywood Studios – September 19 & 26; October 3, 2018
Members with Resort Reservations: August 30, 2018
All Members (pending remaining availability): September 13, 2018
| Introduced in 2017 as part of Membership Magic Ever After, complimentary Moonlight Magic events invite Disney Vacation Club Members (that are eligible for the Membership Extras benefits) and their guests to visit Disney Parks at the end of their regular operating hours and after the park has closed to the public. Members (and their parties) with reservations find shorter-than-usual wait times on popular attractions, meet rare characters, enjoy complimentary refreshments, have dance parties, and more. Please note that, in order to allow as many Members as possible to enjoy Moonlight Magic, only one event date for each participating park is available per Membership. Visit disneyvacationclub.com during specified reservation windows to (attempt to) secure access to the event as well as to find additions to the Moonlight Magic event slate, updated party hours, and transportation information. |
Refurbishments and Attraction Closures
Note: Not all attraction closures have been officially confirmed by Disney, and are all subject to change at any time. All refurbishment schedules are estimates only. We recommend checking for updates as you plan your visit. All information is subject to change without notice. To get the most recent updates, visit DisneyWorld.com or use the MyDisneyExperience App on your iOS or Android device.
Magic Kingdom
- Pirates of the Caribbean – will close for refurbishment scheduled from late February through mid-March 2018.
- Liberty Square Riverboat – closed for refurbishment.
- Stitch's Great Escape – My Disney Experience lists as "available seasonally throughout the year."
Epcot
- The American Adventure – closed for refurbishment scheduled to be complete soon (likely this week!).
- Ellen's Energy Adventure at Universe of Energy – Closed August 13, 2017
Guardians of the Galaxy-themed attraction in approximately 2021. - Circle of Life: An Environmental Fable – closed February 3, 2018. Theater to be repurposed.
"Circle of Life" had its final showing at 7 p.m. on February 3, 2018. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Disney's Hollywood Studios
- The Great Movie Ride – Closed August 13, 2017.
Mickey and Minnie's Runaway Railway attraction to open in Chinese Theatre at a date to be announced.
Disney's Animal Kingdom
- Finding Nemo - The Musical – Closed for refurbishment through late February 2018.
- Flights of Wonder (Caravan Stage) – Show Closed on December 31, 2017.
New show starring Russell and Dug from "Up" and their bird friends coming in Spring 2018
Blizzard Beach
- No known closures at this time.
Typhoon Lagoon
- Seasonal Refurbishment scheduled to end March 18, 2018.
Disney Springs
- World of Disney – portions closing in phases for refurbishment beginning mid-February.
The Disney Corner opening in Town Center in mid-February to offer select merchandise during refurbishment. - DisneyQuest – Closed as of July 3, 2017.
The NBA Experience expected to open Summer 2019. - Portobello Country Italian Trattoria – Closed April 24, 2017.
Terralina Crafted Italian expected to open early 2018. - Wolfgang Puck Grand Café – closed August 1, 2017.
Location is being transformed into Jaleo, a restaurant featuring Spanish cuisine, expected to open 2018.
A new Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill is under construction next door to the Coca-Cola Store, expected to open 2018.
Wolfgang Puck Express continues to operate in its existing location in the Marketplace. - La Nouba by Cirque du Soleil – Show closed on December 31, 2017.
A new Cirque du Soleil show is now in development with its premiere date to be announced.
Resorts
- Caribbean Beach – Centertown, the resort's marketplace, will be expanded with new waterfront dining and retail shopping areas. The first phase of the project is expected to be completed in Summer 2018, with the overall project completed 2019-20. Due to the work, the following food service and retail locations are currently closed:
- Old Port Royale Food Court
- Shutters at Old Port Royale
- Banana Cabana Pool Bar
- Calypso Trading Post
- Coronado Springs – A new 15-story tower overlooking Lago Dorado, the resort's central lake, will add 500 rooms featuring suites and concierge level services, and a rooftop dining facility that will include panoramic views of nighttime fireworks shows at the Theme Parks. The resort also plans to refurbish current resort rooms and transform some of its landscape. The project is expected to be completed 2019-20.
Current Discounts & Promotions
Note: MousePlanet does not edit past Updates to reflect price increases; for up-to-date prices, check the most recent Walt Disney World Resort Update. For your convenience, we have grouped the discount offers based on the intended audience. Check out the category that best matches you, and pick the offer that works best for you. And keep those tips coming—let us know if you find a better or different offer, so we can share it with other readers.
Walt Disney World Resort theme park tickets are rarely offered at deep discounts unless you are a resident of Florida or eligible for U.S. Military Personnel benefits. It is increasingly true that non-Florida residents tend to benefit the most by purchasing tickets in advance (and, of course, being mindful of the rules relevant to those tickets). As prices go up, it becomes even more important to pay heed: Don't get scammed! Never buy tickets from an unofficial or secondary outlet, such as through eBay or Craigslist. Never rent or purchase tickets from people approaching you outside Disney property stating they have remaining days or leftover tickets. This practice is against the terms of use for Walt Disney World Theme Park admissions, and may result in denial of entry. There is no way to determine if these tickets are valid until you try to use them to enter the parks. Only purchase Disney theme park tickets directly from Disney, an authorized seller, or a travel agency like MousePlanet travel partner Get Away Today.
In fact, although Get Away Today does not know how long they will be able to continue selling tickets at the prices on its website today, now is a great time to check out the discounts available at the site. Be sure to move the calendar to at least seven (7) days out, to see what ticket options and discounts are available for your planned visit.
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Travel Discounts for Everyone |
Characters in Flight Tethered Balloon Ride by Aerophile For a limited time, Groupon is selling individual rides for $11.50 and two person rides for $23. The Groupon certificate cannot be redeemed until 24 hours after purchase, is valid for 90 days, but only on flights from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. (weather permitting). This offer was still available last night (February 5), but could end at any time. Memory Maker pre-arrival discount Disney's PhotoPass service provides a discount on Disney Memory Maker pre-arrival packages. For $199 plus tax, Walt Disney World guests can digitally download any photos associated with their Memory Maker account, including photos taken on attractions. The advanced purchase price is $169, a $30 savings. Applicable taxes are charged to all orders. Purchase must be made more than three days prior to arrival at the Walt Disney World Resort for the discount. All sales are final, and not eligible for an exchange or refund. Both the immediate and discount version of Memory Maker can be purchased at this page of DisneyWorld.com. |
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Travel Discounts for Annual Passholders |
For the most up-to-date list of locations offering dining discounts to Annual Passholders, visit this page of DisneyWorld.com. Many dining locations offer Passholders 10% discounts during some or all meal periods (also excluding alcoholic beverages, tax and gratuity). The latest information on this page of DisneyWorld.com lists discounts at many merchandise locations across Walt Disney World Resort, including locations that continue to offer 20% discounts off regularly priced merchandise. The latest information on this page of DisneyWorld.com lists discounts for special events and tours at locations around Walt Disney World Resort. The latest information on this page of DisneyWorld.com lists discounts for sports, recreation, and spas around Walt Disney World Resort. Passholders can receive a complimentary commemorative artwork celebrating the 35th Anniversary of Epcot during the 2018 Epcot International Festival of the Arts (while supplies last). To receive the artwork, from January 12 to February 19, from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Passholders must visit The American Adventure Pavilion and show their annual pass card and valid photo ID. Limit one per Passholder during the run of the 2018 Festival. Magic Strollers, "a Disney featured stroller provider," is continuing to honor its $5 discount on stroller rental when staying at a Disney Resort Hotel and using coupon code WDWAP17 to arrange your rental. It is once again listed on the Passholder website and, at least as of January 8, 2018, the coupon code still includes "17" rather than "18." Visit the DisneyWorld.com Special Offers page (filtered for Passholders) and log in with a My Disney Experience account linked to your Annual Pass for information, or call (407) 939-4232 to book by phone. Additional information about available "Passholder Extras" are available here, including discount game tickets to the NFL Pro Bowl at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, an Orlando Magic Jersey Offer for purchasing or renewing an Annual Pass at Amway Center in Orlando, a 15% discount on the Ultimate Nights of Adventure VIP Tour at Disney's Animal Kingdom, Spa & Salon Discounts around Walt Disney World Resort, Amphicar Tour discounts at Disney Springs, runDisney Early Registration discounts, Best Friends Pat Care discounts, Children's Activity Centers discounts, and more. Away from the Resort, Passholders can use code DANCEPARTY to get 20% off of tickets to the new Disney Junior Dance Party on Tour in Jacksonville, Melbourne, Clearwater, and Sarasota Florida, for house seats while supplies last. Visit disneyjuniortour.com for more information and tickets. If you know of an offer we haven't listed, please drop us an email with the details! |
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Discounts for Disney Rewards VISA Credit Card Holders |
To conserve space, we have eliminated some of the participating location details of the Disney Visa Rewards offers from this section. Visit Disney Visa Rewards website for the latest participating location information. 20 percent off Joffrey's coffee/tea kiosks Disney Visa cardholders receive 20 percent off their entire purchase at Joffrey's coffee/tea kiosks throughout Walt Disney World, including Tea Traders Café by Joffrey's, and online at Joffreys.com with code: VISABEANS 15 percent off select guided tours Disney Visa cardholders receive 15 percent off the non-discounted price of selected guided tours for up to 10 people. The cardholder must participate in the tour, and pay with a Disney's Visa Card and/or Disney Rewards Redemption Card. Discounts are not available on Premium VIP tours, programs exclusive to groups, or group team building programs. 10 percent off select restaurants Disney Visa cardholders receive 10 percent off the check when you pay with a Disney's Visa Card and/or Disney Rewards Redemption Card (be sure to request the discount). Offer excludes alcoholic beverages, merchandise, tobacco, room service, holiday buffets, tax and gratuity. Discount does not apply to the following dates: 12/31/17, 1/1/18, 2/14/18, 4/1/18, 5/13/18 and 7/4/18, and may not be available at all meal times. Visit this page of disneyrewards.com for the latest list of restaurants and restrictions. 10 percent off merchandise Disney Visa cardholders receive 10 percent off at participating Disney-owned retail location when you spend a minimum of $50 and pay with a Disney's Visa Card and/or Disney Rewards Redemption Card (be sure to request the discount). Read all of the restrictions on the this page of disneyrewards.com. Cardholders also receive 10% off select merchandise purchases of $50 or more at the following Walt Disney World Resort Operating Participant merchandise locations including Basin, Basin White, Chapel Hats, Good Fortune Gifts and House of Good Fortune, kidsHeritage, Luxury of Time, Marrakesh Emporium Arts & Crafts, Joffrey's coffee/tea kiosks and Tea Traders Café by Joffrey's, Sperry and Volcom. 15 percent off all Disney spa and salon services Disney Visa cardholders receive 15 percent off the non-discounted price of any salon treatment valued at $45 or greater or any 50-minute or longer spa service most days at the spas and salons at Walt Disney World Resort. Visit this page of disneyrewards.com for participating locations and restrictions. 10 percent off select recreation experiences Disney Visa cardholders receive 15 percent off the non-discounted price of the recreation experiences listed below:
Free character photos at a private meet and greet location at Epcot Present your Disney's Premier Visa Card or Disney Rewards Visa Card for access to a private character meet and greet at Epcot for the cardholder and up to five guests. The event is hosted daily from 1:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Imagination Pavilion at Epcot (enter near the jumping fountains near the exit to the Magic Eye Theater). You'll receive complimentary downloads of your photos (one time per day), which may be accessed in the MyDisneyExperience App (or website). Free character photos at a private meet and greet location at Disney's Hollywood Studios Present your Disney's Premier Visa Card or Disney Rewards Visa Card for access to a private character meet and greet at the Star Wars Launch Bay in the Animation Courtyard at Disney's Hollywood Studios for the cardholder and up to five guests. The event is hosted daily from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. You'll receive complimentary downloads of your photos (one time per day), which may be accessed in the MyDisneyExperience App (or website). |
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Travel Discounts for Military Personnel |
2018 Armed Forces Salute Tickets January 1 through December 19, 2018
NOTE: Tickets must be used by December 19, 2018. U.S. Military personnel can also purchase the Memory Maker product for $98.00 through December 19. Disney Military Promotional Tickets may be purchased at participating U.S. military sales outlets by Eligible Service Members (as defined on Disney World.com) or their spouses (but not both), for use by themselves and only family members and friends, as provided by Disney's rules. These Tickets may not be otherwise transferred, distributed or resold. Limit six (6) tickets purchased by the military personnel (or spouce), and one ticket must be used by that member of the millitary (or spouce). U.S. Military personnel can enjoy discounts at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels when booking by December 19, 2018, for stays most nights from January 1 through March 24, 2018, and April 6 through December 19, 2018. Offer excludes moderate and deluxe resorts. Call (407)939-5684 for information and reservations.
Read more information at militarydisneytips.com, visit your base ticket office, or when at Walt Disney World, visit Shades of Green. If you know of an offer we haven't listed, please drop us an email with the details! |
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Travel Discounts for Florida Residents |
Discover Disney TicketsFlorida Resident Discover Disney Tickets are back: $159/person plus tax for the Discover Disney 3-Day Ticket; $179/person plus tax for the Discover Disney 4-Day Ticket. Tickets must be purchased by June 20 and may be used on any day until June 24, 2018. Park Hopper Option is available for an additional $30/ticket plus tax for the 3-Day Ticket; $37.50/ticket for the 4-Day Ticket. Further information is available and tickets may be purchased on this page of DisneyWorld.com. Disney Select TicketsAt a higher price, but with a whole lot more flexibility that came along with the price increases of February 11, 2018, Florida Residents can also save with the 4-Day Disney Select Ticket (compared to the price of a 4-Day Magic Your Way ticket). There is a smaller discount for a 3-Day Select Ticket, and there is also a discount for 1–Day Tickets with the Park Hopper Option only. For more information visit this page of DisneyWorld.com.
Spring into 2018 rates for Florida Residents are available for most nights through April 14, 2018. Visit this page of DisneyWorld.com for information or call (407) 939-2752. If you know of an offer we haven't listed, please drop us an email with the details! |
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Travel Discounts for Canada Residents |
All adult Guests who will use Canadian resident tickets or passes must present valid proof of Canadian residency that includes government-issued photo ID to exchange the certificate for a valid ticket at the Theme Park ticket window or Guest Relations prior to first use. Tickets and options are nontransferable, nonrefundable and exclude events/activities separately priced. Admission is subject to capacity closures and to other restrictions. Check https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/ca/ for the latest offers from Disney. If you know of an offer we haven't listed, please drop us an email with the details! |
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Travel Discounts for U.K. Residents |
The website GetWestLondon.co.uk has an updated list of some of the offers available to folks planning ahead to holiday at Walt Disney World Resort from the United Kingdom. You can see the latest offers for U.K. residents on Disney World's U.K. packages website. If you know of an offer we haven't listed, please drop us an email with the details! |
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If you want to jump back to the end of the Writer's Note, here is your Jump Link!
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