Photo Tour: Gran Destino Tower at Walt Disney World
Tour Gran Destino Tower at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort
Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort has just become my favorite Moderate resort and not just because of Gran Destino Tower, but as a whole.
Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort - Gran Destino Tower
Gran Destino Tower has all the characteristics of a Disney Deluxe hotel, but at Moderate resort prices. Club Level here is a bargain, it’s about 50% cheaper than Club Level at the Polynesian or Beach Club and just as nice.
Transportation
Disney has made several improvements to the roadways surrounding Coronado Springs Resort. Of course, it has always been close to Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park and Disney’s Hollywood Studios, but with a new entrance to World Drive, Coronado has faster access to Epcot and Magic Kingdom Park.
What makes Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort different from other Moderate hotels:
Rooms in the original section of the resort have central air. Other Moderate resorts have window units.
It’s the only Moderate Resort to offer Club-Level services. Guests who book a Club Level room can visit the Chronos Club, a bright, comfortable lounge where they can relax and enjoy light refreshments throughout the day or take advantage of vacation-planning services.
Peloton Fitness Center. Coronado is the only Moderate Resort to have a gym on site.
Rooms throughout the resort have upgraded softgoods.
Numerous dining and lounge options from casual to upscale.
Rooms in Gran Destino Tower do not have bathtubs, but they do have rain showers with excellent water pressure. Rooms in the original section of the resort do have bathtubs.
Tower rooms have interior hallways. Other Moderates have exterior hallways.
New arrival and reception experience featuring a modern two-story lobby. Plenty of comfortable seating to gather with friends / family or to get some work done.
Offers an upscale yet casual rooftop restaurant, Tolédo – Tapas, Steaks and Seafood.
To request a quote for Disney’s Coronado Springs and/or Grand Destino Tower, please contact me using the Walt Disney World Quote Form.
Disneyland’s Secret Red and White Lightbulb
Disneyland electricians set out to install the light fixtures, but they noticed a major flaw in their work. It was Walt himself who thought of the solution.
When Walt Disney was working on Main Street in Disneyland with his Imagineers, he felt strongly that the Refreshment Corner restaurant should have red and white alternating lights above the doorway.
As the electricians set out to install the light fixtures, they noticed a major flaw in their work.
And it was Walt Disney himself who came up with the solution.
Here’s what happened.
When electricians were installing the lights, they forgot to count the number of bulbs needed in advance.
Once they finished, there was an odd number of bulbs.
This mattered because Walt Disney wanted alternating red and white bulbs but two bulbs somewhere in the lineup would be the same color. There was no way around it. There were going to be two red bulbs side-by-side, or two white bulbs side-by-side.
The electricians brought the mistake to Walt’s attention and asked if they should start over.
But the construction of Disneyland was running behind schedule and Walt was desperate to get other projects finished.
Suddenly Walt thought of the solution. You could say It was a bright idea!
He instructed the electricians to take one bulb and paint half of it red and the other half white. Can you spot this unique lightbulb in the picture?
Over the years the problem could have been fixed but Walt loved to point this out to his guests and make them laugh.
The red and white bulb is still there today.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Darren is a Disney-focused travel agent with Magical Vacations Travel and has over 13 years of experience. Readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World rate him as a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent. Darren is also an Orlando-based travel writer with topics ranging from theme parks to cruise lines.
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Complete Guide to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando
There are two unique lands to explore at Universal Orlando Resort – Hogsmeade, located in Universal’s Islands of Adventure, and Diagon Alley in Universal Studios Florida.
There are two unique lands to explore at Universal Orlando Resort – Hogsmeade, located in Universal’s Islands of Adventure, and Diagon Alley in Universal Studios Florida. Each land has unique attractions, experiences, food, and merchandise inspired by the Harry Potter films and books.
Whether you’re a big fan, or this is your first taste of the Wizarding World, there’s so much to do and see!
You’ll want to plan on a few days to experience it all along with reading this guide where I’ve listed each and every activity you can enjoy during your Orlando vacation.
ATTRACTIONS AT WIZARDING WORLD OF HARRY POTTER
Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure
Location: Universal’s Islands of Adventure
Fly deep into the Forbidden Forest, beyond the grounds of Hogwarts castle as you join Hagrid on a thrilling roller coaster ride to discover magical creatures you’ve never faced before.
Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
Location: Universal’s Islands of Adventure
Soar above the castle grounds as you join Harry Potter and his friends on an unforgettable thrilling adventure while encountering an array of magical creatures.
Pro Tip: Take your time in the queue for this one so you can appreciate all the details of the Hogwarts corridors, including Dumbledore’s office, the Defense Against the Dark Arts classroom, the Gryffindor common room, and more.
Flight of the Hippogriff
Location: Universal’s Islands of Adventure
Bow to Buckbeak as you board this family-friendly roller coaster that spirals and dives around the pumpkin patch, and then swoops past Hagrid’s hut.
Pro Tip: This ride is great for little witches and wizards who might be a bit spooked by Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey or Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts.
Hogwarts Express: Hogsmeade Station
Location: Universal’s Islands of Adventure
Board the famous train and head toward King’s Cross Station in London. (You’ll need a park-to-park ticket for this one.)
Pro Tip: The experience is completely different on the way back from King’s Cross Station to Hogsmeade (see below), so you’ll want to ride it twice. Learn more about riding the Hogwarts Express.
Hogwarts Express: King’s Cross Station
Location: Universal Studios Florida
Enter King’s Cross Station and walk straight through a solid brick wall onto Platform 9 ¾ to board the Hogwarts Express. Remember, you’ll need a park-to-park ticket to board the train in either direction.
Pro Tip: If you want to journey in Harry’s footsteps, do some shopping in Diagon Alley and then hop on the Hogwarts Express toward Hogsmeade to start your next term!
Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts
Location: Universal Studios Florida
Take a journey aboard this mind-blowing, multi-dimensional ride through the cavernous passageways of Gringotts Bank. You may even find yourself coming face-to-face with Harry Potter’s biggest foes!
Pro Tip: For those looking for a more intense ride, ask the attendant if they can accommodate you toward the back of the ride vehicle. However, all seats offer a thrilling adventure!
EXPERIENCES AT WIZARDING WORLD OF HARRY POTTER
See a Wand Choose a Wizard at Ollivanders
Location: Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida
Step inside this iconic shop and watch an Ollivanders wandkeeper go through the process of pairing a witch or wizard with just the right wand.
Pro Tip: Play your cards right and you might be the lucky witch or wizard chosen. (Note: The person chosen has the option whether or not to purchase their wand.)
Cast Spells With Your Interactive Wand
Location: Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida
Look for medallions on the ground throughout Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley for opportunities to practice your magic. Simply follow the spell directions at your feet and look out for amazing surprises.
Pro Tip: You’ll need an interactive wand for this one, and inside the box is a map telling you where all the spells are located. Check out our guide on all of the interactive wands you can get and how to use them.
Meet the Hogwarts Express Conductor
Location: Universal’s Islands of Adventure
Oftentimes you can find this jolly gentleman next to Hogsmeade Station welcoming you to Hogsmeade.
Pro Tip: Take a photo with him to remember your Hogwarts Express journey.
Send a Letter Through Owl Post
Location: Universal’s Islands of Adventure
Here, you can mail a letter complete with a special wizarding world postmark.
Pro Tip: This is a great way to let your friends and family know you’re thinking about them during your trip in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
Meet the Knight Bus Conductor
Location: Universal Studios Florida
On the London embankment, you’ll find this three-storied bus and its amiable driver.
Pro Tip: You can also chat up the shrunken head hanging over the steering wheel.
Exchange Your Muggle Money at the Gringotts Money Exchange
Location: Universal Studios Florida
Have a conversation with the goblin behind the counter before trading your U.S. currency for Gringotts bank notes in $10 or $20 denominations.
Pro Tip: The banknotes can be used for purchases within Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade, and at select locations throughout Universal Orlando Resort.
Check Out Dark Magic in Knockturn Alley
Location: Universal Studios Florida
Inside Knockturn Alley, you can get a taste of the dark magic in the wizarding world. Visit Borgin and Burkes for gruesome trinkets, and use your interactive wand on some secret spells that are only visible in the darkness.
Pro Tip: Try and keep your eyes peeled for all kinds of subtle, hidden details like singing shrunken heads and a wanted poster for Bellatrix Lestrange.
Get Your Moving Photograph at Shutterbutton’s
Location: Universal Studios Florida
Create a portrait of yourself that actually moves and purchase a collectible photo album in commemoration of your trip.
Pro Tip: Borrow props and costumes or bring your own. Explore more of the experience.
FOOD & DRINK AT WIZARDING WORLD OF HARRY POTTER
Butterbeer
Location: Universal’s Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida
You simply can’t come to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and not try Butterbeer! This concoction is reminiscent of butterscotch and shortbread. Find it at many of the restaurants listed below and various snack stands throughout Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley.
Pro Tip: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter has several ways to enjoy that delicious Butterbeer flavor, so prepare your taste buds in advance.
Three Broomsticks
Location: Universal’s Islands of Adventure
This cozy, snow-capped inn offers tasty British fare including Fish and Chips, Shepherd’s Pie, Cornish Pasties, Turkey Legs, and Fresh Vegetables. View a breakfast menu and a lunch and dinner menu.
Highly Recommend: The Great Feast – A platter of scrumptious food for four, featuring fresh garden salad tossed with a signature vinaigrette dressing, rotisserie smoked chicken, spareribs, corn on the cob, and roast potatoes.
Hog’s Head
Location: Universal’s Islands of Adventure
This pub in the back of the Three Broomsticks is the perfect place for a Butterbeer and Pumpkin Juice, along with domestic and imported beers, the pub’s exclusive Hog’s Head Brew, Gillywater (bottled water), specialty drinks, wine, spirits, and mixed drinks.
Pro Tip: Pay attention to the stuffed hog’s head over the bar — it just might snarl at you.
Leaky Cauldron
Location: Universal Studios Florida
A small, grubby-looking pub and inn where you’ll find foods like Bangers and Mash, Fisherman’s Pie, Toad in the Hole, Ploughman’s Platter, and more. View a breakfast menu and a lunch and dinner menu.
Highly Recommend: Ploughman’s Platter – A selection of English cheese, crusty bread, field green salad, roasted tomatoes, cornichon pickles, apple beet salad, branston pickle and scotch eggs. Perfect for sharing!
Florean Fortescue’s Ice-Cream Parlour
Location: Universal Studios Florida
In this ice-cream parlour, witches, wizards and Muggles of every age can indulge in scoop and soft-serve ice-creams with fantastic flavors like Butterbeer, Sticky Toffee Pudding, Chocolate and Raspberry, and more.
Pro Tip: Keep an open mind…some unusual flavors may surprisingly delight you! Our recommendation is to try the Chocolate Chili or the Earl Grey and Lavender for something different.
The Hopping Pot
Location: Universal Studios Florida
Nestled within Diagon Alley, you can cool off with a variety of delicious drinks at this walk-up counter like Butterbeer, Tongue Tying Lemon Squash, Otter’s Fizzy Orange Juice, Fishy Green Ale, and more.
Pro Tip: This is a great place to grab a snack while watching a show in Carkitt Market.
Fountain of Fair Fortune
Location: Universal Studios Florida
Named for one of the fables in The Tales of Beedle the Bard, this location serves a variety of beers, like the exclusive Wizard’s Brew, Dragonscale, and a handful of non-alcoholic beverages.
Pro Tip: You can also get Butterbeer ice cream here.
Eternelle’s Elixir of Refreshment
Location: Universal Studios Florida
Here, you can try a variety of colorful elixirs. All you need to do is choose your elixir, pour it into Gilly Water, and watch it transform into a tasty beverage. You can pick from Fire Protection Potion, Babbling Beverage, Draught of Peace, and Elixir to Induce Euphoria.
Pro Tip: Not only are they delicious, but they’re a fun gift to bring home for your Muggle friends.
London Taxi Cart
Location: Universal Studios Florida
Before hopping aboard the Hogwarts Express or wandering into Diagon Alley, stop by this cart for a Jacket Potato snack. Choose from Loaded, Broccoli and Cheddar, Bean and Cheese, or Shepherd’s Pie toppings.
Pro Tip: After getting your potato, check out the buildings behind you. You may see a familiar face peeking out the windows.
SHOPPING AT WIZARDING WORLD OF HARRY POTTER
Ollivanders
Location: Universal’s Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida.
In search of the most essential wizarding item? Look through the thousands of boxes filled with wands waiting to choose their wizard.
Pro Tip: There are many variations of wands in addition to character wands, and make sure to check out the interactive options.
Dervish and Banges
Location: Universal’s Islands of Adventure
This shop offers it all from brooms, Hogwarts clothing, journals, and stationery to magical items like the flying Golden Snitch and Quidditch supplies like Quaffles.
Pro Tip: Discover your Hogwarts house before arriving so that you’ll know which product will best show your house pride.
Honeydukes
Location: Universal’s Islands of Adventure
The shelves of this legendary sweet shop are lined with all manner of colourful treats including Acid Pops, Cauldron Cakes, Fizzing Whizzbees, Chocolate Frogs, and Bertie Bott’s Every-Flavour Beans.
Pro Tip: Every Chocolate Frog comes with a wizard trading card, so look out so you can collect them all!
Filch’s Emporium of Confiscated Goods
Location: Universal’s Islands of Adventure
Peruse items taken from students who got on the wrong side of the school’s resident caretaker, Argus Filch. You’ll find Hogwarts t-shirts, shoulder bags, caps, scarves, house crest banners, and stationery.
Pro Tip: Keep your eyes peeled for the Marauder’s Map and watch as inhabitants move about Hogwarts castle.
Owl Post
Location: Universal’s Islands of Adventure
Here, you’ll find correspondence materials like stationery, quills, seals, and ink. This is also where you can send a letter with a special Hogsmeade postmark.
Pro Tip: You can even pick out your very own owl to take home.
Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes
Location: Universal Studios Florida
This colourful emporium is the novelty joke shop run by identically ingenious prankster twins Fred and George Weasley. Shop for all manner of mischief such as magical jokes, tricks, and toys. Check out our 9 must-haves!
Pro Tip: Don’t miss the dazzling display of never-ending fireworks exploding on the ceiling and a few other fun finds you may recognize from the films.
Madam Malkin’s Robes for All Occasions
Location: Universal Studios Florida
Build your wizarding wardrobe at this cheerfully appointed shop. You can buy authentic replicas of Hermione’s Yule Ball gown. You’ll also find Hogwarts uniforms, ties, scarves, hats, and cardigans as well as jewelry.
Pro Tip: Model your potential purchase in front of the mirror and it just might talk back to you.
Magical Menagerie
Location: Universal Studios Florida
Purchase a variety of plush toys including Crookshanks, Fang, Buckbeak, Fluffy, and Scabbers. Also available are Cornish pixies, ferrets, Pygmy Puffs, and an assortment of owls, including Pigwidgeon and Hedwig.
Pro Tip: Try out your Parseltongue when you peek in at the snake in the window from outside the store.
Borgin and Burkes
Location: Universal Studios Florida
This dark and dusty Knockturn Alley shop is infamous for shady patrons. As you walk among the dimly lit shelves and displays teeming with malevolent relics, you’ll find Death Eater masks, skulls, apparel, accessories, jewelry, and collectibles.
Pro Tip: Look (and listen) for the Vanishing Cabinet just like the one Draco Malfoy once used to sneak Death Eaters into Hogwarts.
Quality Quidditch Supplies
Location: Universal Studios Florida
This is the destination for everything you need to play the most popular sport in the wizarding world, including Quidditch sweaters, brooms, Golden Snitches, Bludgers, Bludger bats, Quaffles, and more.
Pro Tip: You can even pledge your allegiance to professional teams like the Holyhead Harpies or the Chudley Cannons, Ireland or Bulgaria.
Sugarplum’s Sweet Shop
Location: Universal Studios Florida
Discover a wealth of wizarding treats. Every nook is stocked with tasty temptations like Bertie Bott’s Every-Flavour Beans, Acid Pops, Exploding Bonbons, Pink Coconut Ice and more.
Pro Tip: Feed Bertie Bott’s Every-Flavour Beans to unsuspecting friends and family and brace yourself as they just might end up with a flavor like earthworm or earwax.
Scribbulus
Location: Universal Studios Florida
Find all the authentic writing supplies a witch or wizard could need including ink and inkwells, feather quills, parchment, journals, stationery sets, seals, bookmarks, and backpacks.
Pro Tip: Everything here is perfect for back-to-school or your office.
Wiseacre’s Wizarding Equipment
Location: Universal Studios Florida
Browse a variety of apparel and accessories from your Hogwarts house, as well as a variety of fun Butterbeer-themed items.
Pro Tip: You can have packages delivered to the front of the park or your Universal Orlando hotel room so that you don’t have to carry them all day.
Wands by Gregorovitch
Location: Universal Studios Florida
This long-time rival to Ollivanders also creates some exceptional wands. Here, you can choose from a wide assortment of Harry Potter character wand replicas.
Pro Tip: Boxes with gold labels are interactive and will help you practice magic in-park.
Globus Mundi
Location: Universal Studios Florida
Globus Mundi is a travel agency of the wizarding world. Stop into their shop over by Carkitt Market where you can get all your travel essentials for your next magical journey like luggage tags, wallets, sweatshirts, and more.
Pro Tip: Look around the shop and you’ll see a gorgeous wall of ticking clocks representing different time zones and some of the coolest posters and maps from around the world.
SHOWS AT WIZARDING WORLD OF HARRY POTTER
Hogwarts Frog Choir
Location: Universal’s Islands of Adventure
Hear the vocal stylings of this small choir of Hogwarts students, accompanied by the smooth bass rumbles of their giant throaty frogs.
Pro Tip: Look in your park map or on the official Universal Orlando Mobile App for times.
Triwizard Spirit Rally
Location: Universal’s Islands of Adventure
Cheer on the colourful procession of students from the legendary wizarding schools of Hogwarts, Beauxbatons, and Durmstrang as they lead the excitement for the Triwizard Tournament.
Pro Tip: Stick around after the show for a potential meet-and-greet opportunity.
The Tales of Beedle the Bard
Location: Universal Studios Florida
Watch as adept players perform a trunk show using stylized scenic pieces, props, and puppetry. See them retell two famous tales of Beedle the Bard, a 15th-century author of wizarding fairytales, including The Fountain of Fair Fortune and The Tale of the Three Brothers.
Pro Tip: This stage is right near The Hopping Pot in Carkitt Market (see above), so grab a snack and enjoy!
Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees
Location: Universal Studios Florida
Sway and groove to the dulcet tones of wizarding world sensation, Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees. The swinging show features never-before-heard songs including “A Cauldron Full Of Hot, Strong Love,” “You Stole My Cauldron But You Can’t Have My Heart,” and “You Charmed The Heart Right Out Of Me.”
Pro Tip: Visit during the holidays and enjoy four hits from Celestina’s chart-topping holiday album, including “My Baby Gave Me a Hippogriff for Christmas.”
SECRETS AT WIZARDING WORLD OF HARRY POTTER
Call the Ministry of Magic
Location: Universal Studios Florida
Try entering the telephone booth in London and dialing 62442 (`MAGIC`) to see what you get connected to.
See 12 Grimmauld Place
Location: Universal Studios Florida
Keep an eye out for the Black family`s loyal house-elf, Keacher – you might just see him.
Watch Out for The Monster Book of Monsters
Location: Universal’s Islands of Adventure
A Book with Bite! Stop inside Dervish and Banges to view this beastly required reading for Hogwarts students taking the Care of Magical Creatures class. It’s caged for a reason.
Discover the Heavily Jeweled Shell of a Fire Crab
Location: Universal’s Islands of Adventure
Fire Crabs are one of the magical creatures that Hagrid used to create Blast-Ended Skrewts. You may be able to catch a glimpse of one of these creatures’ massive jeweled shells in the queue of Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure.
Be sure to keep an eye out for all the hidden gems inside The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Resort.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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Breaking Down the Expenses: What You Need to Know About the Cost of a Disney World Vacation
How much does Walt Disney World cost?
If you're planning a trip to Disney World, it's no secret that it can be a costly adventure. But just how much does a Disney vacation really cost?
Breaking down the expenses can help you better understand what to expect and plan accordingly.
From park tickets to accommodations, dining, and transportation, there are a lot of factors to consider.
However, with some careful planning and budgeting, you can make your dream Disney vacation a reality without breaking the bank.
In this article, we'll take a closer look at the various expenses that come with a Disney World vacation and provide tips for managing and reducing your costs.
So whether you're a seasoned Disney-goer or a first-time visitor, read on to learn all you need to know about the cost of a Disney World vacation.
Understanding the Different Expenses
Before we dive into the specifics of each expense, it's important to have a general understanding of what you can expect to pay for a Disney World vacation.
The cost of a Disney vacation can vary greatly depending on a number of factors, including
time of year you visit
length of stay
type of accommodations you choose
dining plans
park tickets
How much does Walt Disney World cost?
I made this chart to give you an idea of what a 4-night vacation will cost, based on a family of 4. The prices represented on this chart are averages, not actual prices, that are intended to give you a ballpark figure of what Disney World costs.
Disney World packages are customizable so the price could more or could be less, depending on dates, party size, ticket type, dining plan, and other factors.
I like to include the dining plans because they are intended to help you figure out the total cost of your vacation. The dining plans are Disney’s way of competing with all-inclusive resort destinations in the Caribbean and of course, cruises. They are not necessarily intended to be discount food plans but they likely won’t cost you more money than paying out of pocket.
I find they are pretty accurate in terms of what you’ll spend anyway.
The advantage of a Disney dining plan is that you’ll have peace of mind on vacation knowing that most of your dining costs are already paid for.
And with children, you can save up to 20% on dining costs - especially if you plan on doing a character meal or two.
It's also important to note that Disney World offers a variety of ticket options, ranging from one-park-per-day tickets to multiple parks on the same day (Park Hopper) tickets. You can also add on Disney water park visits too.
The cost of these tickets can vary greatly depending on the time of year you visit, with peak season tickets being more expensive than off-peak season tickets.
Peak season includes holiday periods and spring break. Value season is summer and fall.
The more days you add to your Disney World ticket, the cheaper the per-day price gets. So, the longer you stay, the cheaper it is to play. A 7-day day ticket costs less than a 6-day ticket (per day). See more on Disney World ticket prices >
OrlandoParksGuy: Travel agent for Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Orlando area cruises
Accommodation Expenses
One of the biggest expenses of a Disney World vacation is hotel accommodations. Disney World offers a variety of on-site and off-site accommodations, ranging from value resorts to deluxe villas. See more on Disney World hotels here >
On-site accommodations range from around $100 to over $1,000 per night depending on the type of room and resort. See Disney World average nightly hotel rates >
However, staying on-site offers a number of benefits, including early access to the parks, Evening Extra Magic Hours for guests staying at Deluxe hotels on select nights, and free transportation to and from the parks.
Off-site accommodations can be less expensive, with prices ranging from around $50 to $300 per night. For safety and convenience, I recommend the Disney Good Neighbor hotels at Disney’s Flamingo Crossings or at Disney Springs.
However, these accommodations may require a rental car, Uber/Lyft, or shuttles to get to the parks, which can add to your overall costs.
Many off-site accommodations offer free breakfast.
To save money, consider visiting during an off-peak season like summer and fall.
Disney World Souvenir and Merchandise Expenses
Finally, souvenir and merchandise expenses can add up quickly at Disney World. From t-shirts and hats to collectibles and toys, there are plenty of opportunities to spend money on souvenirs and merchandise.
To save money on souvenirs and merchandise, consider setting a budget before your trip and sticking to it. You can also look for discounts and deals on merchandise, if you have a Disney Visa card.
You can also save money with your Magical Extras card (a discount card that’s included with your Disney World package).
How to Save Money on a Disney World Vacation
Now that we've covered the various expenses of a Disney World vacation, let's take a look at some tips and tricks for managing and reducing your costs.
Plan ahead: Research your options and create a budget before your trip to avoid overspending. Travel during a value season (summer and fall), avoid major holiday weeks like President’s Day, Easter and Christmas, and avoid spring break season (March and April).
Use a travel agent: Disney travel agents are professionals and they are free! I provide expert answers to all your questions at no cost to you. The advice is free. The service is free! Plus, I monitor discounts every day, even after my clients book with me. If there’s a better price, I’ll find it and let you know.
Bring your own snacks and drinks: Avoid purchasing expensive snacks and drinks in the parks by bringing your own. 1 bottle of water in the parks is $5.50. A case of 48 bottles of water at Costco is $4. Here’s my easy guide to grocery delivery at Disney World >
Budgeting for a Disney World Vacation
Budgeting for a Disney World vacation can be a daunting task, but with some careful planning and research, you can make your dream vacation a reality without breaking the bank.
To create a budget for your Disney World vacation, start by researching the cost of park tickets, accommodations, transportation, and dining. Then, factor in other expenses such as souvenirs and merchandise. A Disney travel agent is an excellent resource for this.
Once you have a general idea of your expenses, create a budget that takes into account how much you can afford to spend. Be sure to prioritize your expenses based on what is most important to you and your family.
For example, do you prefer a more convenient Deluxe hotel with a shorter stay, or a longer stay at a value hotel?
Contact me today for professional, insider help with your Disney World vacation.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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Orlando Theme Park Update - Aug. 29, 2023: Monitoring Hurricane Idalia
Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando will be operating as normal but with minor adjustments on August 30th due to Hurricane Idalia.
Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando will be operating as normal but with minor adjustments on August 30th due to Hurricane Idalia.
Updated 6:47 PM
Walt Disney World Resort - Hurricane Idalia
Due to forecasted weather, Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon water park and miniature golf courses will be closed on Wednesday, Aug. 30.
The remainder of Walt Disney World Resort continues to operate under normal conditions.
Disney leadership is closely monitoring the path of the projected weather from Hurricane Idalia and will continue to prioritize the safety of Guests and Cast Members.
Change and Cancellation Fees
Fees imposed by Disney World will be waived for check-in dates of Aug. 28, 2023, through Sept. 4, 2023.
Guests currently staying at Walt Disney Resort hotels whose travel plans have been impacted by the storm may receive a discounted rate to extend their stay through the evening of August 31, if needed, by visiting the front desk.
Universal Orlando Resort - Hurricane Idalia
Universal Orlando Resort theme parks including Universal Studios Florida, Universal Islands of Adventure, and Universal Volcano Bay are planning to open and operate as normal at 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 30.
However, Universal will not offer Early Park Admission
Universal Orlando hotels remain operational.
For more information, visit Universal’s severe weather policy frequently asked questions page.
OrlandoParksGuy: Travel agent for Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Orlando area cruises
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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The Test Brick Wall at Disneyland: A Magical Experiment in Perfection
Conceived by a team of ingenious Imagineers, the Test Brick Wall serves as a testament to Disney's unwavering commitment to attention to detail.
Nestled amidst the enchanting realm of Disneyland, hidden away from the prying eyes of eager guests, lies an inconspicuous structure that plays an essential role in crafting the perfect theme park experience.
Known simply as the "Test Brick Wall," this unassuming, brick-laden structure exists as an experimental masterpiece, embodying the relentless pursuit of perfection that defines this magical wonderland.
Conceived by a team of ingenious Imagineers, the Test Brick Wall serves as a testament to Disney's unwavering commitment to attention to detail.
This nondescript wall undergoes continuous modifications and rigorous trials, serving as a testing ground for potential additions and transformations throughout the park. Experimentation with different brick textures, colors, and patterns occurs at the Test Brick Wall, ensuring that every element of Disneyland harmoniously blends together, weaving an immersive and cohesive narrative for each visitor.
Walt Disney wanted to see the difference between a more rustic brick pattern for his turn-of-the-century Main Street versus a more polished look.
Imagineers created a test wall with each type of brick.
It’s unknown as to why Disney didn’t tear down the test wall and rebuild it. Perhaps it was a budget issue, or maybe he was in a rush to get the park opened.
Why do you think this was never replaced? Use the comments below.
OrlandoParksGuy: Travel agent for Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Orlando area cruises
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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Universal Orlando Debuts Death Eaters in Diagon Alley in Wizarding World
An ominous presence returns to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Resort this fall as Death Eaters appear for the first time ever in Diagon Alley on select dates from Sept. 1 through Nov. 4.
Death Eaters at Wizarding World of Harry Potter | Universal Orlando
An ominous presence returns to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Resort this fall as Death Eaters appear for the first time ever in Diagon Alley on select dates from Sept. 1 through Nov. 4.
Diagon Alley is located in Universal Studios theme park.
A sinister energy will fill the air in Diagon Alley as guests encounter the villainous Death Eaters, devoted followers of Lord Voldemort who do not shy away from the practice of the Dark Arts.
This interactive live entertainment experience puts guests face-to-face with these fanatic witches and wizards as they roam through London, lurking their way through the cobbled streets of Knockturn Alley and challenging guests to join the Dark Lord.
While visiting Diagon Alley, guests also can shop for a variety of Death Eater-themed merchandise to embrace their sinister side.
From dining at the Leaky Cauldron to taking home a unique wand from Ollivanders or even experiencing the multi-dimensional thrill ride, Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts, there are many ways for guests to immerse themselves in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter-Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida.
For more information, see my Universal Wizarding World of Harry Potter page.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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Disney World To Restore Parking Tram Service
Disney World has announced the long-awaited return of its parking Trams to two of its parks Sunday.
Disney World has announced the long-awaited return of its parking Trams to two of its parks.
Parking lot tram at Walt Disney World Resort
Parking Trams will return in September – saving parkgoers from the long and brutally hot walk from the parking lot to the front gate.
The Tram is returning to EPCOT and Disney's Hollywood Studios.
This is the first time the services will be offered at all four parks since 2020.
An exact date has not been announced yet.
OrlandoParksGuy: Travel agent for Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Orlando area cruises
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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Why Disney World Fans Will LOVE Disneyland
Some have told me that they think Disneyland is too small. That’s right it is small, but not too small. And Disneyland has nearly twice the attractions as Magic Kingdom.
I speak to a lot of people who love Disney World but have yet to make it out to see Disneyland Resort in California.
Some have told me that they think Disneyland is too small. That’s right it is small, but not too small.
And Disneyland has nearly twice the attractions as Magic Kingdom.
A plus is that everything is within walking distance at Disneyland. Others tell me that California is out of their comfort zone and that Florida just seems easier.
Well, Disneyland is surprisingly easy especially when you book with a travel advisor.
So this is Disneyland for those who love Disney World. And it’s coming up right now.
There are two theme parks that sit directly across from each other. Disneyland of course and Disney’s California Adventure.
But in this article, I really want to focus on Disneyland because she’s Magic Kingdom’s big sister. But I’ll touch on California adventure too.
So here’s Disneyland for people who love Walt Disney World (or watch the video below).
Walt’s Lamp on Main Street U.S.A.
Walt Disney never got to see his Florida park but at Disneyland, you can literally feel his presence here.
He designed it, walked it, and even slept here. His family's apartment is located above the firehouse.
Cast Members knew Walt was in the park when they saw the light on in the window. The light is constantly lit today because it symbolizes Walt is always with us.
“it’s a small world”
“it’s a small world” at Disneyland is pretty close to the Walt Disney World version with a few exceptions.
First, it’s the original. The one that was made for the 1964-1965 World’s Fair in New York.
The queue and load area are outside which is different that Disney World’s version.
Inside is similar but there are enough differences that make it a must-see.
Some of the rooms are completely different and you may even spot a few Disney characters along the way like Alice in Wonderland, Woody from Toy Story, and Lilo, and Stitch, just to name a few.
Autopia
Autopia is Disneyland’s version of Tomorrowland Speed Way. Both have miniature gas-powered cars that you drive around a track, but Disneyland’s version is part freeway, part race track, and part dirt road with hills and bridges.
It has a lot more theming than the Tomorrowland Speedway and it kind of makes Disney World’s version seem a little bland.
Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage
If you’re a Disney World fan, Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage will be like going back in time to days when we had 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea in Magic Kingdom.
Disneyland still has this attraction but with a Finding Nemo overlay.
The story and augmented reality animations that are very similar to Finding Nemo at Epcot. I know so many people wish Magic Kingdom still had this attraction, myself included.
But if you miss 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea at Magic Kingdom, or wondered what it was like, this is an attraction you want to do.
Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters
Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters is very different from Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin in Magic Kingdom. The rooms are completely different and even the targets are different.
Your blaster isn’t attached to the ride vehicle so you have more control over where to aim.
As with Space Ranger Spin, it’s tricky to figure out where you’re pointing your laser but you can get the hang of it pretty quickly.
Space Mountain
Space Mountain at Magic Kingdom is one of the few attractions that opened in Florida before its counterpart opened in California.
So to me, Space Mountain is really a Magic Kingdom orginal.
However, Disneyland’s version is quite different.
The queue for example has you walk outside onto the roof.
The ride vehicles have you sit in rows of two whereas at Disney World you sit one behind the other.
Disneyland’s version is set to this spacey-rock music.
Disney World has no music, just a few sound effects. And the track at Space Mountain Disneyland is incredibly smooth and faster than Disney World's version.
Big Thunder Mountain
Big Thunder Mountain at Disneyland is very similar to Disney World’s version except that it’s much smoother and less jerky.
But Disneyland’s version has an added special effects scene on the third lift hill.
As you climb the final hill you’ll see that a number of dynamite fuses have been lit and are ready to explode any second.
The effect uses sounds and projection mapping to simulate a large blast in the mine.
Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride
One of my absolute favorite things about Disneyland is that it still has Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride.
The Magic Kingdom version was removed in 1998 to make way for the Many Adventures of Winnie The Pooh.
Going on this ride at Disneyland is like going back in time.
It’s a classic Disney dark ride with a very simple ride design and plywood cutouts, but there’s just something about this ride that brings me back.
I love the part where Toad gets hit by a train and then goes to hell. It’s hysterical. And it will leave you saying, wait, why don't we have this in Walt Disney World??
Haunted Mansion
Disneyland is home to the original Haunted Mansion.
The Walt Disney World version is nearly identical except that the exterior facade is beastly different.
Oh, and Disneyland’s stretching room is a real elevator whereas in Disney World it’s just special effects.
Pirates of the Caribbean
Pirates of the Caribbean is perhaps one of Disneyland’s most popular attractions. Disney World fans will love this one especially because it’s nearly twice as long.
Yeah, the Disney World version is about 8 minutes long while Disneyland’s is about 15 minutes long.
Disneyland has so many scenes that we just don’t have in World.
They both have the scene where the jailed pirates are trying to call the dog holding the keys.
But in Disney World, this part marks the end of the attraction. In Disneyland, this scene comes up about halfway through.
Davy Crockett Explorer Canoes
The Davy Crockett Explorer canoes were at one time operational in Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World on the Rivers of America, even before Tom Sawyer Island was built.
Aside from some special Cast Member events, the canoes have not operated since the early 1990s. But Disneyland still offers the Canoes!
The guides are pretty funny too, similar to Jungle Cruise skippers. Which is also here in Disneyland by the way.
Matterhorn
Some people say the closest match to Matterhorn at Disneyland would be Expedition Everest in Disney’s Animal Kingdom but they are very different rides. Matterhorn would be closer to Space Mountain in terms of ride technology.
Matterhorn Bobsleds is the first Disney coaster ever built and the first tubular steel coaster in the world.
And watch out for the Yeti - he’s terrifying. No joke, he’s really scary.
Mickey’s Toon Town and Star Wars
Mickey’s House
Disneyland has several different lands than Disney World like New Orleans Square, home to Pirates of the Caribbean, Critter County formally home to Splash Mountain, but even more notably Mickey’s Toontown and Star War’s Galaxys Edge.
Disney World had a toon town at one point but it later became part of Storybook Circus in New Fantasyland.
Toontown is home to Mickey and Mnnies houses which are character meet and greets but also Runaway Railway.
The queue for Mickey’s Runaway Railway is very different from the Walt Disney World version which takes place in the Chinese Theater at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge is located in Disneyland - at Disney World, it's part of Disney’s Hollywood Studios of course.
The lands are very similar. In fact, at one point I forgot I was in California! Weird.
Sleeping Beauty Castle
Disneyland is of course the first castle park with Sleeping Bueaty Castle serving as the centerpiece of the park.
But did you know that you can actually go inside?
See in Walt Disney World you can only go inside if you want to dine in Cinderalla’s Royal Table.
Other than that, there isn’t much to experience.
But in Sleeping Beauty’s Castle, there’s a walk-through attraction where you can explore winding passageways where the tale of Princess Aurora is told.
Inside you’ll find 3-dimensional displays and special effects.
Don’t miss the climactic final scene, when Maleficent transforms into a fire-breathing dragon.
OrlandoParksGuy: Travel agent for Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Orlando area cruises
Disney’s California Adventure Park
Now let's park hop over to Disney’s California adventure. It’s located right next to Disneyland, no transportation is required.
You just walk across the plaza.
This park has a few Disney World favorites like Soarin’ and The Little Mermaid - Ariel's Undersea Adventure which aside from having different queues, are nearly identical.
Guardians of the Galaxy Mission Breakout
But DCA is your chance to ride a different version of the Tower of Terror.
Instead of Tower of Terror, we have Guardians of the Galaxy Mission Breakout.
This used to be the Tower of Terror but it was given a Guardians overlay.
The drop sequence will feel similar to you but it has an entirely different theme and story.
WEB SLINGERS: A Spider-Man Adventure
WEB SLINGERS: A Spider-Man Adventure is definitely something we don’t have in Disney World. The only attraction that might be remotely similar is Toy Story Midway Mania which is also located here in DCA. WebSlingers is part interactive game and park dark ride attraction.
Web Slingers is located in Avengers Campus where you can take in shows meet some characters or dine in the Pym Test Kitchen
Cars Land
One of the most beautiful sections of Disney’s California Adventure is Cars Land. Home to so many great attractions like Luigi’s Rollicking Roadsters and especially Radiator Springs Racers.
To Disney World fans you’ll recognize the ride vehicles, they are similar to Test Track in Epcot.
Like Test Track this is part dark ride and part high-speed thrill ride.
The final scene has you race another car through Radiator Springs.
I think this is one of the best rides in the park.
And here’s a little secret.
If you stand in the middle of the street in Cars Land at sunset (be sure to check your phone’s weather app to get the official sunset time) you can watch Cars Land come to life in neon lights.
After the neon goes on, be sure to walk down the path behind Flo’s V8 cafe to see Radiator Springs lit up as well.
It’s one of the most beautiful parts of any Disney park anywhere so don’t miss it. And Not too many people know about this pathway so you may just have it all to yourself.
Now of course I didn’t cover everything there is to see and do at Disneyland in California but I hope you Disney World fans saw enough about what makes this resort truly unique.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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Drury Plaza Hotel Orlando at Walt Disney World
As an Official Walt Disney World Hotel, this upscale property features amenities that are on par with Disney World Deluxe Resorts like spacious rooms, convenient transportation, a family-friendly pool and splash pad, scenic views, and a fitness center.
Drury Plaza Orlando Review
The Drury Plaza Hotel Orlando is located within the Disney Springs Resort Area, on Disney World property, in Lake Buena Vista. It opened on December 7, 2022, on the site of the form Best Western Hotel complex.
As an Official Walt Disney World Hotel, this upscale property features amenities that are on par with Disney World Deluxe Resorts like spacious rooms, convenient transportation, a family-friendly pool and splash pad, scenic views, and a fitness center.
Dury Plaza Hotel in Disney Springs | Walt Disney World
Drury Plaza Vacation Package - Walt Disney World
What’s included
Complimentary breakfast buffet each morning
Complimentary afternoon snacks
Complimentary Kickback Service each evening
Theme park tickets
Transportation to the four Walt Disney World Theme Parks
Accomodations at the Drury Plaza Hotel
Dury Plaza Hotel in Disney Springs | Walt Disney World
Can you walk from the Drury Plaza to Disney Springs? Yes! The Drury is located about .5 miles, or about a 10-minute walk from Disney Springs.
How far is the walk from Drury hotel from to Disney Springs? It’s about a 1/2 mile, or 10 minute walk.
The Drury’s new tower was completed in the spring of 2023 for a total of 604 guest rooms and 78 two-room suites.
The Drury Plaza Hotel Orlando located within the Disney Springs Resort Area also has 17,000+ square feet of meeting and event space for up to 250 people.
Arrival and Lobby Areas
I arrived by car and found plenty of parking, self-parking is $25 per night.
This is typical for the hotels in Disney Springs, they charge between $20 and $30 per night to park.
The lobby is bright and modern, and a well-staffed check-in desk.
There’s plenty of seating in the lobby so you can get some work done, and enjoy a snack from the hotel’s grab-and-go pantry or the Kitchen + Bar lounge, both are located close to the lobby.
The Marketplace has snacks, Starbucks coffee, cold beverages, and even a Pizza Hut Express.
At first, I thought this was where the complimentary breakfast and evening snacks were served because the lobby is so spacious.
But later found out that there’s an entire section dedicated to this on the second floor, but more on that in a moment.
Just off the lobby, there’s a fully equipped video arcade for the kids and a nearby complimentary coffee stand for adults.
Room Categories
After some exploring of the lobby and amenities, it was time to check out the room.
Check-in is a 4 pm but you can enter a request with your reservation for early check-in.
This is a complimentary service and you may be able to get your room assignment as early as 10 am.
Early check-in isn’t guaranteed, however, but the hotel told me they will contact you the day before if they are unable to accommodate an early check-in for you.
When you make your reservation, be sure to let your travel agent know what time you expect to arrive at the Drury.
If your room isn’t ready when you arrive, you are welcome to use the pool and head off to a theme park or Disney Springs.
There are a number of room categories at the Drury Plaza Hotel. The most common are standard rooms with 1 king or 2 queen bed arrangements and family suites.
Drury Plaza Hotel - Standard Room
Standard rooms come with and without terraces.
I recommend a terrace room as long as you're not afraid of heights (because this is a tower hotel).
The terrace rooms offer spectacular views of the Disney Springs area, and the terrace rooms are a little bigger.
Some guests shared with me that they are able to see Disney fireworks from their balcony, but I did not have that view myself.
Drury Plaza Hotel - Family Suite
If you need more room, the spacious, two-room suite features a bedroom, separate from the living area, as well as a pull-out queen sofa sleeper for additional guests.
The Queen suite sleeps up to six people. The King suite sleeps up to five.
There are no hidden resort fees at the Drury.
Many of the Disney Springs Area hotels, including the Swan and Dolphin in the Epcot Resort Area love to nickel and dime you with hidden resort fees, so it’s nice to see Drury isn’t playing that game with its guests.
Drury Plaza Hotel Room Rates
Nightly room rates at Drury Plaza Hotel are similar to the Disney World value hotels like Disney’s All Stars Resort and Disney’s Pop Century Resort, so rates are between $150 and $200 per night depending on the time of year.
I like to book this hotel through Disney, specifically a Walt Disney World Travel Company Package because the room and tickets are included with a $200 deposit.
With a Disney World vacation package, your deposit is fully refundable up to 30 days prior to arrival.
Without the package, you’ll need to purchase your tickets separately, pay for them in full, and they are non-refundable.
And from a technology point of view, Disney’s glitchy mobile app works a lot better when you link a Walt Disney package reservation number rather than trying to link a Disney Springs resort reservation number.
Room Amenities
In-room amenities include a 55” smart flat screen television, mini refrigerator, microwave, alarm clock with Bluetooth and charging station, executive workspaces, and in-room safe.
Hotel Services
The Drury Plaza Hotel participates in Morning Extra Magic hours just like the Walt Disney World hotels.
This means you’ll be able to enter the Disney theme parks before they open to the public.
The fitness center is amazing - this is a value-priced hotel but it has a better gym than Disney’s Contemporary Resort! And comparably priced Disney hotels don’t even have a fitness center.
Drury’s gym has treadmills, bikes, ellipticals, weights and more.
Onsite guest laundry is available 24 hours in the laundry room located on the 2nd floor.
Detergent can be purchased in The Market Place located in the lobby.
One thing I’m not a fan of is that housekeeping is only offered once per week.
And this is not exclusive to the Drury - it’s a growing problem across the hotel industry.
I get that I might not need new towels every day and new bed sheets, but isn’t it part of the hotel experience to have the bed made for you and the trash can emptied?
Why do hotels assume we don’t mind overflowing trash cans and messy beds?
But if you would like to request housekeeping, during your stay, just contact the front desk for options.
Pool and recreation
Just off the lobby, there’s an outdoor resort-style pool complex. There’s a salt-water feature pool, whirlpool, and a splash pad for little ones.
Lounge chairs and a few cabanas are available poolside as well.
Dining Options
One of my favorite things about the Drury Plaza is that each morning a complimentary breakfast is served in The Commons, a large space located on the second floor with great views.
And I’m not talking about pre-packaged bagels here. I mean an actual breakfast buffet including a pancake bar, eggs, breakfast potatoes, sausage, a cereal bar, and fruit.
Coffee, juice, and soft drinks are also complimentary.
Between 4 pm and 8 pm, free popcorn and soft drinks are served on the second floor in The Commons and from 5:30 to 7:30 pm, the Drury offers hot appetizers and snacks.
Complimentary coffee, juice, and soft drinks are available as well. This is a terrific benefit.
If you were to get these perks at a Disney World-owned hotel, you’d need to stay in a Club Level category room and the nightly rate would be hundreds of dollars more per night.
Disney’s Value hotels do not serve a complimentary breakfast so this is another great perk of the Drury.
The Kitchen + Bar is located in the lobby and offers quick, casual meals from 5 pm to 12 pm.
Lakeside Bar and Grill is a full-service restaurant bar located right next to the pool.
It has seating in the shade or in the sun, tables or lounge furniture - whichever you prefer.
Theme Park Transportation
Complimentary transportation is provided to each of the Walt Disney World theme parks and water parks.
I recommend that you make a reservation for the buses when you check in so that you’re guaranteed a spot.
Buses run frequently and on a set schedule which changes monthly. Current schedules will be available in the lobby and online.
They run frequently so you won’t have to alter your schedule too much to catch the bus.
During our visit in July, they were running every hour.
When traveling to Magic Kingdom, the bus will drop-off and pick-up a the Ticket and Transportation Center. From there you can take a monorail or ferry to Magic Kingdom.
Disney Springs is within walking distance and located about a half-mile away. Walking at an average pace, you’ll be there in about 10 minutes.
There’s a sidewalk leading directly to Disney Springs and it’s located on the same side of the street, so you won’t have to cross Hotel Plaza Blvd. which is a very busy roadway.
Darren is a Disney-focused travel agent with Magical Vacations Travel and has over 13 years of experience. Readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World rate him as a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent. Darren is also an Orlando-based travel writer with topics ranging from theme parks to cruise lines.
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First Look: Universal Orlando's Newest Attraction Villain-Con Minion Blast
Universal Orlando Resort said Minion Land on Illumination Avenue will officially open to guests and clients on Aug. 11, 2023
I had a chance to experience Universal Orlando’s newest attraction, Villian-Con Minion Blast which is set to open at Universal Studios Florida. It was, well, a blast!
In Villain-Con Minion Blast you’ll blast their way to supervillain stardom. This first-of-its-kind attraction puts guests’ villainous skills to the test to see if they have what it takes to become a member of the Vicious 6—a notorious group of supervillains from the hit film “Minions: The Rise of Gru.”
It’s not only hilarious but really fun! It’s one of the most creative and immersive attractions that has come to any Orlando theme park in a long time. As soon as I got off, I wanted to go again.
This attraction is still in “technical rehearsal” or what Disney might call “soft opening” so I cannot show you everything just yet. But here are a few highlights to give you an idea of what to expect when it officially opens on August 11, 2023.
If you recall from the film Minions: Rise of Gru, the characters travel to Orlando, Florida for Villian-Con, an annual convention for villains. As funny as that is, and of course this being the real Orlando, Universal Creative actually made the queue for this attraction, the convention center.
There are posters for exhibitors as you enter the convention center. They are really setting the scene that you’re attending Villian-Con in Orlando.
Just before entering the attraction, you’ll be issued a blaster. IT has a regular trigger and then a front trigger that’s used to deliver an even strong blast.
You begin by standing on a slow-moving conveyor belt that winds its way through different rooms.
In a way, YOU are the ride vehicle here. Your goal is to aim your blaster at as many moving targets as you can to rack up points. There are lots of Minion shenanigans, of course.
This new ride technology is a game-change for Universal, which can sometimes rely too much on motion simulators. This is not a motion simulator thankfully and it’s one of the best new attractions I’ve experienced here in Orlando.
And in true Oralndo-style, all good attractions empty out into a themed gift shop. But that’s not all. MinionLand is a whole new section of Universal Studios Florida.
Bake My Day Minion Bakery
Bake My Day has Minion-themed desserts, candy, and pastries.
Minion Cafe
You can fuel up for the mayhem with a unique dining experience, Minion Café, a new eatery run by the Minions featuring inventive fare for every guest. Pop-A-Nana, a kiosk featuring banana-flavored popcorn; Freeze Ray Pops, a walk-up window serving refreshingly colorful frozen treats;
Minions Cafe is themed to the Minion’s break room. Lots of funny gags everywhere you look.
Where the Minions clock in for their shift.
There are motivational posters on the wall. They were among my favorite details.
The locker room is filled with gags and hidden details. Be sure to look inside.
Minion’s Cafe dining room has penty of seating.
The guitar and teddy bear from the end scene in the animated movie are on the wall in the dining room.
Pap-A-Nana Popcorn
Pop-A-Nana, a kiosk featuring banana-flavored popcorn, Freeze Ray Pops, a walk-up window serving refreshingly colorful frozen treats.
Minion popcorn buckets are available at Minionland as well. Popcorn is banana flavored.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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New Florida Resident Ticket Offer for Walt Disney World
Disney 2-Park Explorer Ticket is a special 2-day ticket that’s valid for admission to EPCOT and Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park only. It's $159 plus tax.
Disney World has released another summer offer, this time enticing Florida residents to visit the 2 lowest-performing theme parks: Epcot and Disney’s Animal Kingdom with a decent discount.
The Offer:
Disney 2-Park Explorer Ticket is a special 2-day ticket that’s valid for admission to EPCOT and Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park only. It's $159 plus tax.
Limit one theme park per day—for a total of 2 admissions, on 2 separate days. Theme park reservations are required and are subject to availability.
Florida residents can also add Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon water park for $35 more plus tax. The water park visit can be on the same day as one of the theme parks or on a separate day.
Tickets and add-on options expire on September 29, 2023.
I have a feeling this is more about boosting attendance at Animal Kingdom than anything else.
To sweeten the deal, Florida Residents can also visit Epcot - the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival is currently taking place if you don’t mind the never-ending gardening project taking place in the middle of the park.
Epcot has been walled off now for 4 years. Instead of offing discounts, they need to work day and night now to get this project finished so people can enjoy the park.
OrlandoParksGuy: Travel agent for Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Orlando area cruises
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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Disney has started piloting an airport luggage assistance program at select Disney World hotels!