Walt Disney World Resort Update for May 23-29, 2017

by Alan S. Dalinka, staff writer
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Walt Disney World Resort Update for May 23–29, 2017

Go directly to: News & Views | Join our Networks | Resort Events | runDisney Events | Refurbishments and Attraction Closures | Discounts and Promotions

Writer's note: With Walt Disney World Resort hosting the global press (including me) starting later today through Thursday for a preview and dedication of Disney's Animal Kingdom's brand new land, Pandora–The World of Avatar, and to introduce the rest of the Resort-wide summer offerings, plus Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales opening in U.S. Theaters on May 26, then Pandora opening to the public on May 27, and the 2017 Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival concluding its long run on Memorial Day, Monday, May 29, there is very little news to report from the past week. Of course, we are betting there will be a lot going on around Disney's property in the coming days, so be sure to keep an eye on our Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram for updates during the week and, when technology permits, live reports. If you are planning to visit, keep in mind that as more school kids start their summers, crowds around the Resort are sure to grow and add to those coming out to see the new land and Happily Ever After at Magic Kingdom; also note that the daily high temperatures already have started topping 90° and the dry season is showing signs of ending.

Now, on with the Update, and, as usual, be sure to read the captions of the Views Around the World for a few bits of news sprinkled in there too.

The Rusty Cutlass Band entertained Disney Parks Blog readers attending a preview screening of "Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales" on Sunday morning at Disney Springs. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.


News and Views

Pandora–The World of Avatar Officially Opens This Saturday | Pirates Activity Packet Available to Celebrate the Latest Film | Views around the World | One Passholder's Tip | This and That | Crowd Forecast

Pandora–The World of Avatar Officially Opens This Saturday

Unless this is your first visit to MousePlanet or have not watched commercials on television the past several months, you are probably aware that Pandora–The World of Avatar makes its official debut this Saturday, May 27, at Disney's Animal Kingdom. It has been nearly six years since Disney announced it was partnering with filmmaker James Cameron to create a whole new land at Disney's Animal Kingdom based on the fictional off-Earth setting of Cameron's 2009 blockbuster film Avatar. After more than three years of construction following the closing of the park's Camp Minnie-Mickey area, previews of the new land began several weeks ago; early reviews (including our Donald Fink's and my own) have been extremely positive (with the caveat noted in the next paragraph).


See some of the scenic beauty of the new land during a Passholder Preview. Video by Alan S. Dalinka.

Designed by Walt Disney Imagineering under the creative direction of Joe Rohde and by Lightstorm Entertainment with Avatar filmmakers Cameron and Jon Landau consulting (under a licensing agreement that also includes Fox Filmed Entertainment, the film's distributor), the highly-themed new land includes two brand new attractions: Na'vi River Journey, a gentle, family-friendly boat ride showing the many (mostly friendly and never menacing) lifeforms of Pandora, including what has to be the most advanced Audio-Animatronic character ever created; and Avatar Flight of Passage, a simulated ride aboard a banshee using some of the latest in theme park technology and effects to create very realistic physical sensations from little bits of actual physical movement. As I wrote last week, note that while I thoroughly enjoyed Flight of Passage, it is not a ride for everyone: be aware that it is amongst the most aggressive-feeling rides yet built at Walt Disney World (Orange-side Mission Space and the backward-moving portion of Expedition Everest have been used by some as comparisons), where all guests will feel like they are at a great height (and some are), and guests must transfer to the seat where guests may not fit within the safety restraints.

Pandora also includes what Disney is calling a "fast-casual" restaurant named Satu'li Canteen. As we have previously mentioned, it is the first restaurant at Walt Disney World to give guests the opportunity to use Mobile Order to select menu items and pay by credit card before even entering the restaurant. Mobile Order is found within the My Disney Experience App, though folks with specific dietary needs or, for now, folks using Disney Dining plans will need to order the old-fashioned way.

Disney Parks Blog announced that since many guests will head to Pandora at park opening, Satu'li will also offer a breakfast menu including Vegetable Goat Cheese Frittata with Wood-Fired, Herb-Crusted Beef and Chimichurri, Pork Shoulder Potato Hash with Chorizo Sausage and Natural Jus, and Steamed Pod (bao bun) with Scrambled Egg, Bacon, Spinach and Pickled Vegetables. There will also be sweet breakfast options for all and three child-menu meal choices for those 9 years old and under.

Pandora's specialty beverage and snack stand is Pongu Pongu. It offers several adult beverage options, as well as a very sweet (but tasty) frozen non-alcoholic concoction, plus water and themed snacks.

Pongu Pongu is Pandora's specialty beverage and snack stand. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.

The Night Blossom is a non-alcoholic frozen beverage available at Pongu Pongu. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.

Windtraders is Pandora's primary retail store. A large array of Pandora-themed merchandise has been created to stock the shelves. At least for now, if you are searching for Mickey and friends plush toys, you will not find them here. The land also includes a kiosk named Colors of Mo'ara for themed face-painting and related accessories.

Windtraders is the Pandora retail store. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.

Colors of Mo'ara is a themed face-painting and accessories kiosk. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.

Beginning with the opening of Pandora on Saturday, guests entering the land will also be able to use "Connect to Protect" within the My Disney Experience App to participate in conservation "missions" with a digital scientist while exploring its Valley of Mo'ara. The virtual ecological specialist, Fitsimti "Fits" Buckley is your guide. Complete a mission, and Disney Parks will contribute $10 through the Disney Conservation Fund (or $5 just for discussing conservation) toward helping protect or restore habitats of threatened animals here on Earth.

Finally, #DisneyParksLIVE plans to live stream the dedication "moment" at 9:25 a.m. Eastern Daylight Time on Wednesday, May 24. The "moment" is not open to the public, but the media has been invited, so again, keep an eye on our Facebook and Twitter feeds for our coverage too.

Pirates Activity Packet Available to Celebrate the Latest Film

With Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales opening in U.S. Theaters this Friday, May 26, Disneynature Educational Team launched an activity packet to celebrate. Including several puzzles, crafts and games to inspire "outdoor exploration and adventure," the packet highlights not only the film (of course), but some of the ocean animals the Disney Conservation Fund helps protect.

Guests that attended Disney Springs previews' of the film received paper copies of the packet. More likely will show up around the Resort throughout the week. Disney Parks Blog provided this link to download a copy at home.

Epcot's Mouse Gear store features a display of "Pirates" merchandise celebrating the new film. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.

Like The Rusty Cutlass Band's appearance at the film preview noted at the top of this week's Update, it would not be surprising to find a few other Pirates touches around the Resort this week though nothing specific has been announced. One Man's Dream at Disney's Hollywood Studios continues to show the extended preview trailer version of the film in the Walt Disney Theater.

Views Around the World

In this week's Views Around the World, I visited Epcot (a few times), and went for a nice walk from International Gateway over to and around Disney's Hollywood Studios and back. As usual of late, I have a road construction photo to share here too.

Epcot

The 2017 Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival concludes after just one more "Disney Weekend" (Friday through Monday), on Memorial Day, May 29. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.

With summer approaching and the Flower & Garden Festival winding down, some of the permanent foliage around the park is coming into full bloom. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.

Thanks to Disney's horticultural team, the Future World flower beds appear in full bloom even as the 2017 Flower & Garden Festival heads toward its final days. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.

As reported at the beginning of this year's Flower & Garden Festival, the Easter egg hunt remains available even as Memorial Day approaches. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.

The Spinners will be the final act of this year's Garden Rocks Concert Series at America Gardens Theater. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.

Flower & Garden Festival musical staple Herman's Hermits starring Peter Noone performed over this past weekend. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.

As always, Peter Noone engaged the capacity America Gardens Theater crowd during Herman's Hermits Garden Rocks concerts over this past weekend. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.


Enjoy a bit of Herman's Hermits starring Peter Noone from our Facebook Live presentation during Monday's first (of the night's three) Garden Rocks concert. Video by Alan S. Dalinka.

New designs now appear on trash and recycling cans around The American Adventure and America Gardens Theater on the World Showcase Promenade. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.

As summer approaches and the sun sets later in the evening, the nighttime spectacular, Illuminations: Reflections of Earth begins during twilight. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.

While the sign still says "Bead Outpost," this stand on the World Showcase Promenade at the African Outpost between China and Germany has reopened, but now features only Flower & Garden Festival merchandise. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.

Disney's Hollywood Studios

Newly installed construction scrims now line the walkway from the Buena Vista Drive bridge/underpass to the Disney's Hollywood Studios parking lot. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.

The construction scrims also skirt the Disney's Hollywood Studios parking lot entry lanes from Buena Vista Drive. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.

The large red crane rises above Disney's Hollywood Studios likely in approximately the future Toy Story land area of the park. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.

Beyond the Sorcerer Mickey Topiary, construction cranes rise above the Star Wars land construction in the park. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.

Construction cranes working in the future Star Wars land are visible from Center Stage. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.

Walt Disney and Mickey Mouse no longer appear atop the entrance of One Man's Dream as facade construction is underway on the former soundstage next door approaching the Pixar archway. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.

The former studio tour catwalk is the only facade in this area that is not under wraps. It is likely this area will serve as the future gateway to Toy Story land. Immediately to the left of the vantage point of this photo is the Pixar arch and Toy Story Mania. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.

As mentioned in the last caption, the former soundstage just before the Pixar archway is now entirely under construction scrims. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.

With Moana's meet and greet closed last month, One Man's Dream now hosts a Marvel "Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2" meet and greet. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.

Star-Lord and Groot from Marvel's "Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2" meet and greet guests in a newly themed area. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.

The construction wall is now closer to the exit of Toy Story Mania and no longer displays any concept art for the future Toy Story Land. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.

Last time we posted photos from near the construction wall beyond the exit of Toy Story Mania, this area was much larger. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.

The snack and beverage wagon across from Toy Story Mania now offers several adult beverage options that we have not previously seen at this location before. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.

Tatooine Traders at the exit of Star Tours and the construction of the future Star Wars land comes into full view when approaching from Commissary Lane after passing the SciFi Dine In Theater Restaurant. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.

Looking back toward Commissary Lane, the former Writer's Stop shop building is now under a construction scrim, leaving just one small section of the former New York Street facade in place. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.

Tatooine Traders at the exit of Star Tours provides an elevated view of the on-going transformation of the former Streets of America into the future Star Wars land. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.

Lots of vertical construction is now underway in the future Star Wars land area. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.

From the upper outdoor seating area of PizzeRizzo, blooming trees are starting to limit the view into the Star Wars land construction area. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.

Very little has visibly changed around the exit to Muppet Vision 3D and its souvenir store. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.

Muppets souvenir store cast members created a makeshift photo opportunity with props displayed on the bench outside the store. While no Disney PhotoPass Photographer was on hand during my visit, a store cast member asked folks if they wanted to pose for photos taken with personal cameras. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.

On the Sunset Boulevard side of the park, the Star Wars land construction cranes are visible as well. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.

One window display area of Reel in Vogue on Sunset Blvd. appears like it may next contain a Cars 3 merchandise/promotional display. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.

Road Construction

The construction crane in the road construction site between the Magic Kingdom parking toll plaza and the parking lot towers over the temporary sign directing Disney's Animal Kingdom Cast Members to park nearby. Given the likely crowds headed to the upcoming opening of Pandora, "DAK Cast" are being transported by buses from Magic Kingdom parking over to Animal Kingdom. 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 (hopefully weekly) tip at a time.

One Passholder's Tip: Week 17
Stay hydrated!

At several locations around Disney's Hollywood Studios this weekend, as temperatures topped 90°, water and cups were set up on tables for guests. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.

Staying well-hydrated when visiting the parks is important for a whole host of health reasons that you did not come here to read about. But, I would bet that you do want to get the most out of your day or days in the parks. To do that, you really do need to keep yourself and your family or group well-hydrated.

Our bodies lose a lot of water to sweat, especially in the heat of Central Florida. Add in some salty snacks or meal options too. Then mix in the fact that adult beverages that those of legal age may decide to buy and consume are actually also further dehydrating, and the human ability to keep going (and going, and going) will start to wear down. Water helps stem that tide.

As I have mentioned in a previous Tip, I usually have a bottle carrier on my belt for that purpose. Water stations like that shown above and water fountains are also plentiful around the parks. If those sources do not seem filtered enough for you but you do not want to repeatedly pay for Disney's bottled water options, the counter-service restaurants that sell fountain beverages also provide cups of water, free of charge. Sure, you really are supposed to wait in line with everyone else to get them, but they are FREE!

Be governed accordingly, but unless you are part-camel, for this Tip, I do not think your mileage may vary.

Don't keep it to yourself!
Send us your news tips, rumors, and comments.

This and That

…Beyond the parks, but sometimes departing from nearby Port Canaveral, Disney Cruise Line's Disney Dream will premier a new stage version of "Beauty and the Beast" this fall. Read more about the show and its creation on Disney Parks Blog.

…Also speaking of DCL, Disney Fantasy just completed a round of major enhancements with a new Star Wars: Command Post for kids to train with heroes of the saga to go up against the First Order, a new ice cream shop, a new Tiffany & Co. jewelry store and a Mavel Super Hero Academy, among its highlights. Read more on Disney Parks Blog

…Cross-promoting where due, I am a regular listener, subscriber and occasional (unpaid) correspondent to The Garry Meier Show, a podcast hosted by the Radio Hall of Fame inductee of my former hometown of Chicago, Illinois. On Friday last week, he mentioned me and MousePlanet's upcoming coverage of the opening of Pandora–The World of Avatar. Monday, Wednesday and Friday, his podcasts are free! Friday's show is embedded below and our mention starts 8:07 into the program.


Radio Hall of Fame Member and now podcaster Garry Meier reads one of my emails and discusses Pandora–The World of Avatar.

…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 e-mail in the box below.

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Crowd Forecast

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Below are the predicted resort-wide crowd numbers for select days generated by the TouringPlans professional statisticians as measured for the upcoming week. For the access to the full year and per-park crowd level predictions, visit our Crowd Calendar.

Date Overall
Tuesday, May 23, 2017 6 / 10
Wednesday, May 24, 2017 6 / 10
Thursday, May 25, 2017 6 / 10
Friday, May 26, 2017 7 / 10
Saturday, May 27, 2017 7 / 10

Check out the Disney World Park Crowd Levels page on TouringPlans.com for park-specific predictions and recommendations on which days to visit and avoid particular parks!

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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 e-mail (link).

2017 Resort Events

  • Star Wars Experiences – Opened December 1, 2015 (ongoing)
  • Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival – March 1 - May 29, 2017.
  • Dapper Day Outing (unofficial events)– November 18, 2017 at Magic Kingdom; November 19, 2017 at Epcot
  • GayDays | #RedShirtDay (unofficial events) – June 1, 2017 at Disney's Animal Kingdom; June 2, 2017 at Disney's Hollywood Studios; June 3, 2017 at Magic Kingdom; June 4, 2017 at Epcot
  • Epcot International Food & Wine Festival – August 31 - November 13, 2017.
  • 35th Disney Night of Joy at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex – September 8 and 9, 2017
  • Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic – October 27–28, 2017
  • Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party – August 25, 29; September 1, 7, 10, 12, 15, 17, 19, 22, 24, 26, 29;
       October 1, 3, 5, 6, 9, 10, 12, 13, 15, 17, 19, 20, 22, 24, 26, 27, 29, 31; November 1
  • Holidays at Walt Disney World –Dates TBD
  • Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party – November 8, 9, 12, 14, 16, 17, 26, 28;
       December 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 10, 12, 14, 15, 17, 19, 21, 22
  • Holidays Around the World at Epcot –Dates TBD
  • Candlelight Processional at Epcot –Dates TBD

2018 Resort Events

  • Epcot International Festival of the Arts – "Early" 2018
  • 25th Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival – "Spring" 2018

runDisney 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.

2017

2018

For current information on registration dates and capacity, see Lorree Tachell's runDisney Race Capacity Updates in the Team MousePlanet forum on our MousePad discussion board.


Refurbishments and Attraction Closures

Note: Not all attraction closures have been officially confirmed by Disney, and are all subject to change at any time. 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

  • Wishes: A Magical Gathering of Disney Dreams – had its final showing on May 11, 2017, and has been replaced by the new fireworks show: Happily Ever After.
  • Stitch's Great Escape – closed except for occasional "seasonal" openings.
  • The Hall of Presidents – closed to add an audio-animatronic figure of the 45th president of the United States. My Disney Experience App says the closure is through June 29, 2017, but one cast member outside the attraction last week said it may not reopen until September.
  • Prince Charming Regal Carrousel – closed for refurbishment through mid-May.
  • The Incredibles Super Dance Party – closed. The Rockettower Plaza Stage is being refurbished for "The Cosmic Dance Party" that our friends at TouringPlans.com say to expect to open as early as, perhaps, May 19, 2017.

Epcot

Scheduled closure:

  • Mission:SPACE – June 5, 2017 through late July, 2017

Permanently closed:

  • Innoventions West (except Character Meet and Greets)
  • Innoventions East (except Colortopia and a Passholder shop)
    …including Sum of All Thrills and Storm Struck

Disney's Hollywood Studios

Permanently closed:

  • Streets of America
  • Premiere Theatre
  • The Writer's Stop
  • Lights, Motors, Action! Extreme Stunt Show
  • Honey, I Shrunk the Kids Movie Set Adventure
  • Studio Catering Co.
  • Meet & Greets: Mike and Sulley, Phineas and Ferb, Mater and Lightning McQueen
  • Magic of Disney Animation
  • Academy of Television Sciences Hall of Fame

Disney's Animal Kingdom

  • No known closures at this time

Blizzard Beach

  • Runoff Rapids. Expected completion: TBA.

Typhoon Lagoon

  • No known closures at this time

Disney Springs

  • Portobello Country Italian Trattoria – Closed April 24, 2017. Will reopen in Fall 2017 with a new concept from James Beard award-winner and Top Chef Master Tony Mantuano.
  • Disney Quest – scheduled to close July 3, 2017 to make way for The NBA Experience.
  • La Nouba by Cirque du Soleil – ends its run on December 31, 2017. Next use of the theater on the West Side TBA.

Resorts

  • Caribbean Beach – Centertown, the resort's marketplace, will be expanded with new waterfront dining and retail shopping areas. The project is expected to be completed 2019-20. Due to the work, the following food service and retail locations are 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. Construction around some of the bus stops started earlier this month. The resort also plans to refurbish current resort rooms and transform some of its landscape. The project is expected to be completed 2019-20.
  • Wilderness Lodge and Villas – Hidden Springs pool, resort beach, and playground closed. The opening of Disney Vacation Club's Copper Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney's Wilderness Lodge is expected July 17. In the meantime, Roaring Fork is also closed.

Elsewhere

  • Disney Osprey Ridge Golf Course – permanently closed.

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.


Travel Discounts for Everyone

DisneyWorld.com has released its Fall 2017 Free Dining offer. Get a free dining plan when you purchase a non-discounted 5-night/6-day Magic Your Way room and ticket package with a Park Hopper or Park Hopper Plus Option. Book through July 7, 2017.

2017 Travel Dates

  • August 21 - September 30
  • November 14 - 20
  • November 25 - 27
  • December 8 - 23

Packages require advance reservations and include:

  • Room
  • Theme Park ticket(s) with Park Hopper or Park Hopper Plus (Minimum 2-Days required)
  • Dining Plan (Disney Dining for Deluxe & Deluxe Villas; Quick Service for Value & Moderate Resorts)

Details & Restrictions:

  • Tickets and options must be used within 14 days of first use
  • Children ages 3-9 must choose from cildren's menu (if available)
  • Rooms allocated for the offer are limited.
  • Some table-service restaurants may have limited or no availability at time of package purchase.
  • Cannot be combined with other discounts or promotions.
  • Excludes alcohaolic beverages and gratuities.
  • Everyone in the same room must be on the same package.
  • Offer excludes campsites, 3-bedroom villas, Disney's Art of Animation Resort Little Mermaid Standard Rooms and Bungalows at Disney's Polynesian Villas & Bungalows.

Additional restrictions and exclusions may apply. Thanks to Mary Kraemer of Masterpiece Travels for the tip.


Our friends at Small World Vacations let us know that Disney has a made a summer discount offer where you can save up to 25% on rooms at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels for stays most nights May 28-Aug. 31, 2017 when you book March 27-July 14, 2017. You can also see all of Disney's current special offers on DisneyWorld.com.


Memory Maker pre-arrival discount

Disney's PhotoPass service provides a discount on Disney Memory Maker pre-arrival packages. For $169 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 $149, a $20 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. All sales are final, and not eligible for an exchange or refund.

Travel Discounts for Annual Passholders


Kick Off Your Spring room offer

Passholders can book rooms at the Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort starting at $86 per night under this offer. The discount is valid most Sunday through Thursday nights, April 23 through May 25, 2017. Additional resorts and dates are available for stays April 9 through April 22 and May 26 through June 10, 2017, with rates from $101 at the All-Star Resorts to $292 per night at Disney's BoardWalk Inn

Booking Window – Must book by June 9, 2017

Travel Window – Most nights from April 9, 2017 through June 10, 2017

Terms and Conditions:

  • Passholder must present a valid Walt Disney World Pass at check-in.
  • Advance reservations required.
  • Maximum – 14 nights
  • Cannot be combined with any other discount or promotions.
  • Offer excludes the following room types: campsites, 3-bedroom villas, Disney's Art of Animation Resort – The Little Mermaid Standard Rooms and Bungalows at Disney's Polynesian Villas & Bungalows.

Visit the Annual Passholder website for details, or call 407-939-7676 to book by phone.

If you know of an offer we haven't listed, please drop us an email with the details!

Discounts for Disney Rewards VISA Credit Card Holders


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. Tours included:

  • Magic Kingdom Park
    • Disney's Family Magic Tour
    • Disney's Keys to the Kingdom Tour
    • Disney's The Magic Behind Our Steam Trains Tour
    • Walt Disney: Marceline to Magic Kingdom Tour
  • Epcot
    • Gardens of the World (offered seasonally)
    • The UnDISCOVERed Future World
    • Disney's Dolphins in Depth
    • Epcot DiveQuest
    • Epcot Seas Aqua Tour
    • Behind the Seeds
    • World Showcase: DestiNations Discovered
  • Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park
    • Backstage Tales
  • Multiple Theme Parks and Backstage Areas
    • Ultimate Day of Thrills VIP Tour
    • Ultimate Day for Young Families VIP Tour
    • Ultimate Day at Epcot International Food & Wine Festival
    • Backstage Magic
    • Disney's Holiday D-Lights (offered seasonally)
    • Disney's Yuletide Fantasy (offered seasonally)
    • Wilderness Back Trail Adventure

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). Discount excludes alcohol.

Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge and Villas:

  • Boma
  • Jiko (see restrictions)
  • Sanaa

Disney's BoardWalk Inn and Villas:

  • ESPN Sports Club
  • Flying Fish Cafe (see restrictions)

Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort:

  • Shutters at Old Port Royale

Disney's Contemporary Resort:

  • The Wave

Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground:

  • Trail's End Restaurant

Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa:

  • Citricos (see restrictions)
  • Grand Floridian Cafe
  • Narcoossee's

Disney's Old Key West Resort:

  • Olivia's Cafe

Disney's Port Orleans Resort:

  • Boatwright's Dining Hall

Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa:

  • The Turf Club Bar and Grill

Disney's Wilderness Lodge:

  • Artist Point (see restrictions)
  • Whispering Canyon Cafe

Disney's Yacht Club Resort:

  • Captain's Grille
  • Cape May Cafe

Disney's Hollywood Studios:

  • The Hollywood Brown Derby (see restrictions)
  • Hollywood & Vine (see restrictions)

Epcot:

  • Biergarten Restaurant (see restrictions)
  • Coral Reef (lunch only)
  • Le Cellier (lunch only)
  • Rose & Crown Dining Room (lunch only)

ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex:

  • ESPN Wide World of Sports Grill

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 Disney Visa website.

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 and Marrakesh Emporium Arts & Crafts.


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 listed below:

Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

  • Senses – A Disney Spa
  • Ivy Trellis Salon

Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa

  • Senses – A Disney Spa

Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge and Villas

  • Zahanati Massage & Fitness Center

Disney's Contemporary Resort

  • Olympiad Fitness Center

Disney's Coronado Springs Resort

  • La Vida Health Club
  • Casa de Belleza Salon

Disney's Wilderness Lodge

  • Sturdy Branches Health Club

Disney's Yacht & Beach Club Resorts

  • Ship Shape Massage Salon Fitness

10% off select recreation experiences

Disney Visa cardholders receive 15 percent off the non-discounted price of the recreation experiences listed below:

  • Carriage Rides at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort and Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground
  • Horseback Trail Rides at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground

Free character photo 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 one free character photo download per day.


Travel Discounts for Military Personnel

2017 Military Salute – 4-Day or 5-Day Military Promotional Ticket discount

Through December 19, 2017, active and retired U.S. military personnel (including active and retired members of the United States Coast Guard, National Guard and Reservists) or their spouses can purchase:

  • Disney 4-Day Military Promotional Tickets with Park Hopper Option for $209 each, plus tax
  • Disney 4-Day Military Promotional Tickets with Park Hopper and Water Park Fun and More Options for $246 each, plus tax.
  • Disney 5-Day Military Promotional Tickets with Park Hopper Option for $224 each, plus tax
  • Disney 5-Day Military Promotional Tickets with Park Hopper and Water Park Fun and More Options for $261 each, plus tax.

Walt Disney World Resort tickets may be used January 1 through December 19, 2017. Thanks to our reader Dr. Smith who alerted us that the website militarydisneytips.com notes that April 9-23 are no longer listed as blockout dates for Disney's Armed Forces Salute.

Active and retired U.S. military personnel can purchase Disney Military Promotional Tickets for themselves and up to five additional family members or friends. No more than six Disney Military Promotional Tickets may be purchased by any eligible member of the U.S. military (or spouse) pursuant to this offer. All tickets and options are non-transferable and must be used by December 19, 2017.

Military Salute – Hotel discount

Disney does not publish the actual discounted rates offered to service members under this program, and instead asks eligible U.S. military personnel to call 407-939-7830 to check pricing, availability and to make reservations. The website Military Disney Tips.com says the offer is 30-40 percent, based on room category.

The 2017 offer is valid most nights from January 1 through December 19, 2017.


Travel Discounts for Florida Residents

An "Enchanting Staycation" for Florida Residents booking through June 4, offers a limited number discounted room rates. Check out DisneyWorld.com for details.

Florida Residents can still purchase Discover Disney 3-Day Tickets for $139 plus tax or the Discovery Disney 4-Day Tickets for $159 plus tax. The tickets may be used to visit one park per day through June 5 (and the days do not need to be consecutive). Note, however, the tickets are not valid after May 27 for Disney's Animal Kingdom admission.

If you know of an offer we haven't listed, please drop us an email with the details!

Travel Discounts for Canada Residents


If you know of an offer we haven't listed, please drop us an email with the details!

Travel Discounts for U.K. Residents


Reader Stuart D. let us know about Disney's 2018 free dining offer for folks traveling from the U.K. You can see the offers on Disney World's U.K. packages website. There are lots of details about the free dining, a $200 Disney Gift Card, a 14-Day Ticket for the price of 7 (including Water Parks and Memory Maker) and a lot of fine print. Here are the highlights of the 14-night packages during summer 2018 holidays and all include Memory Maker photos, 14-Day Ultimate Ticket for the price of a 7-Day ticket (including FastPass+), and 12-month DisneyLife subscription:

Disney Value Resorts

  • Disney's All-Star Movies Resort
  • Disney's All-Star Music Resort
  • Disney's All-Star Sports Resort
  • Disney's Art of Animation Resort
  • Disney's Pop Century Resort

Packages from £809 GBP

Also includes:

  • Free Breakfasts

Disney Moderate Resorts

  • Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort
  • Disney's Coronado Springs Resort
  • Disney's Port Orleans Resorts
  • The Cabins at Disney's Fort Filderness Resort

Packages from £1156 GBP

Also includes:

  • Free Quick-Service Dining Plan
  • $200 Disney Spending Money*

Disney Deluxe Resorts

  • Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge
  • Disney's Beach Club Resort
  • Disney's Boardwalk Inn
  • Disney's Contemporary Resort
  • Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
  • Disney's Polynesian Village Resort
  • Disney's Yacht Club Resort

Packages from £1572 GBP

Also includes:

  • Free Disney Dining Plan
  • $200 Disney Spending Money*

Disney Deluxe Villas

  • Bay Lake Tower at Disney's Contemporary Resort
  • Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney's Wilderness Lodge
  • Disney's Animal Kingdom Villas - Kidani Village
  • Disney's Beach Club Villas
  • Disney's Boardwalk Villas
  • Disney's Old Key West Resort
  • Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa

Packages from £1331 GBP

Also includes:

  • Free Disney Dining Plan
  • $200 Disney Spending Money*

Sample package prices are for 2 adults and 2 children (aged 3-9) , including a two-week stay, arriving 27th May, 2018 - 5th September, 2018, for new bookings only, subject to availability. Additional terms and conditions on Disney's U.K. website, but a few more details follow.

Free Dine and Free Breakfast Offers are available to book 6 April, 2017 - 6 July, 2017, for selected arrivals 1 January - 18 March, 2018 and 6 April - 30 November, 2018. Minimum length of stay is 5 consecutive nights, and a maximum of 21 consecutive nights. Dining plan must be selected for all members of the traveling party aged 3 and over. In addition to the minimum stay, Disney Tickets for the whole party must be booked to qualify. Gratuities are not included.

*$200 Disney Spending Money Offer is available to book 6 April, 2017 - 6 July, 2017, for selected arrivals 1 January - 18 March, 2018 and 6 April - 30 November 2018. Booking must include 5 nights minimum stay at a Moderate Resort or participating Deluxe Resort or Villa. Spending money will be in the form of a Disney Gift Card valid at Walt Disney World and select U.S. Disney Stores only.

If you know of an offer we haven't listed, please drop us an email with the details!


 

Comments

  1. By wdwchuck

    I noticed that they are serving alcohol in another place they didn't before. I wonder why Disney is not following what is happening with the airlines? They are paying the price for using alcohol to bolster their bottom line and they are paying a huge public relations price for it. I know for me and my family we are very concerned with all the drunk people we see at Epcot, drinking themselves around the World. It really takes away from our enjoyment of the parks and I know Walt Disney would not approve. I know Disney corporate is for making a buck at all costs, but making a few bucks off of people's weakness is going to backfire on them. It already has.

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