Behind the Magic: How to Travel Through Time at Magic Kingdom
Today I have a special guest writer, my son Martin who’s in 4th grade. He has been helping with my Behind the Magic posts and wanted to share one of his favorite hidden details at the Magic Kingdom. We hope you enjoy our Behind the Magic post for today!
We have all been to Liberty Square at Magic Kingdom, but if you look very closely you can see some hidden detail that are pretty cool.
This is the Liberty Bell, over by Hall of Presidents in Liberty Square. It was made from the same mold as the original Liberty Bell in Pennsylvania.
Walking through Liberty Square towards Frontierland, you travel through time from the when the American Revolution took place to the Gold Rush era over by Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. You can tell what year you’re in by reading the building numbers as you walk by.
But first, one of my favorite hidden details in Liberty Square: Look in a round brick building near Columbia Harbour House restaurant and you can see two lanterns in the window. Those are supposed to be Paul Revere ‘s famous signal.
Just outside Columbia Harbour Hous , you’ll notice a tower with two lanterns in the window.
Two lanterns remind us of Paul Revere. Remember the saying, “Two if by sea?”
As you walk toward Frontereland look up at the buildings, you can see that there are numbers on some of the buildings. But did you know the numbers are trying to tell you something? They are telling you what year you are in. If the number says 1876, it means that you are in the year 1876.
Here we see building number 1871, but it also represents the year we are in: 1876.
Look at the top of Pecos Bill, you can see 1878.
Then we get to my favorite ride, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. This is a mine train rollercoaster in Frontierland. By the time you reached Big Thunder Mountain, you traveled west from Liberty Square by the Haunted Mansion and Hall of Presidents to the Gold Rush period.
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad marks the end of Frontierland at the Gold Rush period in time.
When you start at Haunted Mansion and walk towards Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, you’re walking east to west in American history.
So that’s my Disney World secret for today. I hope you can check this out when the Magic Kingdom opens.
This Disney secret has been brought to you by Darren Wittko’s son, Martin.
Behind the Magic: Go Away Green Paint
You've probably never realized this (because that’s the whole point!) but some of the no-so-pretty parts of Disney theme parks, like fire hydrants, show buildings, construction fences and some backstage areas, are all painted a lackluster shade of green known as "Go-Away-Green."
Color experts figured out that by using different shades of green paint, some objects do go unnoticed by guests. For more information on Disney using the magic of just the right color, view my post on why many of the sidewalks are stained red at Walt Disney World.
For those of you who like to use Disney colors in your home, the most common green used is Pear Cactus, made by PPG Paints. However, Disney often uses variations of Go Away Green to match a particular area.
Related:
Behind the Magic: Why The Sidewalks are Red at Magic Kingdom
Why did Disney choose red concrete for the sidewalks of Main Street USA at Walt Disney World? Some say it’s to represent a red carpet as you enter the show. Others say it was chosen to make photos look better. Still, others claim it is supposed to represent brick. So who’s right?
Red sidewalks on Main Street USA inside Magic Kingdom create a vibrant contrast with their surroundings.
There are a few reasons actually. When the Magic Kingdom was being built, Disney turned to Eastman Kodak, a research and development company and a leader in photography, for help in choosing the right color.
First, grey sidewalks would be highly unimaginative. We expect more from Disney and grey cement just wouldn’t cut it.
Florida is, of course, the Sunshine State and sun glare off light-colored concrete would cause people to squint. So the color of the sidewalks needed to absorb sunlight rather than reflect it.
Kodak, who was to be a major sponsor of Walt Disney World, performed a study to identify which colors would absorb sunlight, blend in with the surroundings, and yet, make things “pop” in photographs. And maybe, if they got it right, people would love their photos so much, they would buy Kodak film for their cameras once again.
I think they nailed it with the color red they chose. Just look at the contrast between the sidewalks and the gardens. Brilliant! Most visitors don’t stop to question why the sidewalks are red, they just know that their digital photos look visually stunning, even if they have never heard of Kodak Film before.
Related:
Behind the Magic: Secrets of Walt Disney World
FastPasses & Dining Reservations Now Available for June 1st & 2nd, 2020
I’ve been checking for FastPass availability over the past few days to check on some rumors of Walt Disney World opening June 1st were true. My Disney Experience showed no availability for any date in May or June.
However, I just checked again this afternoon and I was able to select FastPasses for both June 1st and June 2nd. FastPasses were showing available in each of the four Theme Parks.
My Disney Experience shows FastPass+ availability for June 1st and 2nd, 2020.
I was also able to make dining reservations for both days as well. Dining options showed available at each of the 4 parks.
Disney has not officially released a reopening date for the parks and they remain closed until further notice. However, this could potentially be a little insight into a possible reopening date. I’ll update this post if I receive any notifications from My Disney Experience.
As soon as Disney makes an official statement as to the reopening of Walt Disney World Resort, I will post it here on SaveAtWDW.com
Behind The Magic: Why Disney Doesn't Follow U.S. Flag Code on Main Street USA.
Main Street USA | Magic Kingdom Park
Did you ever notice how many flags and buntings there are throughout Main Street USA at Magic Kingdom Park? In this fictional town, modeled after Walt Disney’s childhood home of Marceline, Missouri, we see red, white, and blue just about everywhere. You may even see the mayor, fire chief, the Dapper Dans, Main Street Philharmonic, and other characters interacting with guests on the street. The entire town has come out to celebrate. Why all the excitement? Because it’s the 4th of July on Main Street USA. In Fact, everyday is the 4th of July, even in March!
Maybe that explains why we have a parade every afternoon and fireworks each evening, hmm.
Every day is the 4th of July on Main Street USA.
With so many flags presented all over Main Street USA, how does Disney honor the U.S. Flag Code? Here’s a secret: most of the flags we see, are not official U.S. flags, they’re props. They don’t have 13 stripes and are missing a few stars. These fake flags do not need to be taken in during inclement weather nor do they need to be illuminated at night allowing Disney to tell the same story consistently every day. It gets a little confusing during Halloween and Christmas but that’s another article.
The flags on Main Street USA are not official U.S. Flags, they’re props.
Flag Retreat at Walt Disney World
Speaking of flags on Main Street USA, since opening day at Walt Disney World, there has been a flag-lowering ceremony in Town Square every day. Yes, this flag is official, that’s why it’s lowered each afternoon. The ceremony often invites an honorary veteran to assist with the flag retreat.
It’s a very touching and moving ceremony, one that is truly a must-see event at the Magic Kingdom. The ceremony will start with a child volunteer who recites the Pledge of Allegiance with the help of the Dapper Dans. The Main Street Philharmonic will be there to play “God Bless America” and the National Anthem. I promise you won’t regret taking the time to go see it.
How do you get selected to participate in the Flag Retreat ceremony at Magic Kingdom? First, you should be a veteran of the United States Armed Forces. Go to City Hall on Main Street USA first thing in the morning and mention that you would like to volunteer for the Flag Retreat. Here’s a great article on AllEars.net written by a veteran who participated in the event. He walks you through the entire process.
Have you participated in this the Flag Retreat at Walt Disney World? If so, share your story below!
> Check out current exclusive offers for Walt Disney World Resort
Related:
Behind the Magic: Secrets of Walt Disney World
View special offers for Walt Disney World
NBA Could Finish Season at Walt Disney World Resort
ESPN Wide World of Sports at Walt Disney World
NBA commissioner Adam Silver said that the league is considering scenarios that would allow the current basketball season to resume, and according to a report on Wednesday, one option would include using the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida as the primary location.
There are 12 basketball courts at Disney’s ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at Walt Disney World Resort
Walt Disney World Resort has 12 on-site basketball courts -- two of which are already set up for broadcasting games. There’s also a number of hotels that could easily house players, staff, officials and even television crews.
There would be no shortage of hotels, restaurants and entertainment, which makes quarantining players for an extended period of time more feasible.
Still, the NBA will have to consider the likelihood of league-wide testing and the time needed for players to get back in game-playing shape.
Orange County Florida Task Force to Discuss Reopening Plan Today
According to WFTV9, The Orange County Task Force is meeting twice Tuesday to figure out when it will be safe to reopen as the clock ticks on Florida’s stay-at-home order.
By Thursday, Gov. DeSantis has to decide what businesses will open and what will say has to stay closed.
Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings outlined three things he’d like to focus on this week: Getting the community ready for businesses to open, getting the county read for public buildings to reopen and more testing.
He is waiting for the governor to decide if the state’s stay at home order will be lifted before he can lift the one of his own.
“That order goes until April 30,” said Demings. “We are waiting direction from the governor whether or not he will extend the order or not (and) hopefully we will get that information in the next day or so and so until that time we are still under that order.”
This could have a profound impact on Disney Springs which is rumored to be the first part of Walt Disney World to reopen.
Walt Disney World Behind The Magic: Smellitzer Machines
Have you ever noticed the smell of grass in the elephant scene of Soarin’ or the smell of burning wood in the Rome scene of Spaceship Earth?
Imagineers at Walt Disney World sometimes use scents to help immerse guests into their story with smellitizers and other devices.
In the picture above, a fan in the Main Street Confectionary vents out towards the sidewalk at Disneyland Resort.
Next time you’re on Main Street USA at Magic Kingdom Park, you may notice the enhanced smell of popcorn. The entrance to Magic Kingdom is modeled after the lobby of a theater, so it’s only fitting that you would smell popcorn. Walk by the Main Street Confectionary, you’ll notice the smell of cinnamon and sugar, hoping to attract a few customers.
Scents are also used in few hotels: the lobby of Disney’s Contemporary Resort smells like green aloe and you’ll smell hibiscus flowers in Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort.
If you want to bring your favorite scent from Walt Disney World to your home, check out Magic Candle Company, it makes a full line of Disney parks scents.
Do you have a favorite scent from somewhere in Walt Disney World? If so, share below!
Related:
Florida Task Force Hints at Walt Disney World Reopening Steps
According to Spectrum News 13 here in Orlando, Florida Governor Ron Desantis met with a sub-committee tasked with developing a plan for reopening Central Florida theme parks on Friday, April 24th.
Florida is rapidly approaching Phase One, of the White House’s 3-phase reopening guidelines, slightly ahead of predictions.
The special committee is working to create a timeline for reopening Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando based on current health data and to determine the first potential steps.
Although there is limited information on what the special committee recommended today, reports suggest that the opening of the 2 theme parks will be gradual and will likely first open to local and Florida residents first.
The special committee is expected to have final recommendations sometime next week.
There is no current timeline that suggests when Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando will reopen at this time.
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2021 Walt Disney World Ticketless Packages Explained
Disney World Policies in Post COVID 19 Might Be a Welcome Improvement
Book With Confidence! Walt Disney World Deposit & Cancellation Policy Review
Watch Here: Virtual Viewing of ‘Happily Ever After’ at Walt Disney World Resort
Tonight, Disney Parks is bringing more #DisneyMagicMoments to everyone at home with a virtual viewing of one of the most spectacular nighttime shows ever created at Walt Disney World – “Happily Ever After.”
Happily Ever After | Walt Disney World Resort
Florida Task Force Meeting — April 24, 2020
The Re-Opening Florida Task Force has been meeting multiple times this week to discuss how to go about allowing businesses to start accepting customers again and what a timeline for that could look like. Although the reopening of Walt Disney World and Universal Resort Orlando have not yet been discussed in detail, we can get a little insight as to how things might look at least from a food and beverage and hotel standpoint.
Here are some key points from the meetings however they are still vague at this point.
Restaurants
Required to thoroughly clean and sanitize all areas
Make hand sanitizer readily available to guests
Modify floor plans to allow for social distancing and not allow guests to congregate in waiting areas or bars.
Taking employee’s temperatures is optional
Hotels in Central Florida
Frequent cleaning and sanitation of guest areas and rooms must occur
Signs encouraging social distancing will be posted
Hand sanitizers and wipes must be provided in public areas
Hotels are also encouraged to utilize online check-in and check-out processes, at Walt Disney World, this can be arranged through the My Disney Experience mobile app. Hilton and Marriott also offer similar technology
Finally, there was a lot of discussion on the idea of consistency across the industries. The Task Force wants all restaurants, hotels, and theme parks to adopt uniform guidelines so that guests feel safe. If they don’t feel safe, they won’t come out.
Related:
Florida Task Force Hints at Walt Disney World Reopening Steps
Disney World Policies in Post COVID 19 Might Be a Welcome Improvement
Book With Confidence! Walt Disney World Deposit & Cancellation Policy Review
UCA National High School Cheerleading Championship at Walt Disney World - Book Now!
The UCA High School Cheer Nationals are being held on February 12-14, 2021 at Walt Disney World Resort. This is President’s Day weekend as well as Mardi Gras, so I do expect Walt Disney World hotels to sell out in record time.
Photo: UCA National High School Cheerleading Championship
The good news is that you can book your room today! Popular hotels at Walt Disney World for this event are Disney’s All Star Sports, Disney’s Pop Century, Art of Animation and Disney’s Coronado Springs and Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort.
Can I book my room, tickets, and dining now?
You can book a ticketless package for right now (just the room), and add tickets and dining on as soon as they become available from Disney. Probably in June or July of 2020.
Are there any room discounts available now?
Not yet, but I do expect winter room offers to become available later this year. We might even an Agency Exclusive Offer here at Magical Vacations Travel, as we typically have offers that cover President’s Day weekend. I can automatically apply an offer or discount if one becomes available for your reservation type.
Should I book now or wait for a discount?
The UCA National Cheerleading Championship falls on one of the busiest weekends at Walt Disney World of the year. As a travel advisor, I am already booking room reservations for February 2021. For the best availability and to get the hotel you want, I would not wait to book.
Can I adjust my dates after I book?
Yes, the cancellation modification policy will be explained to you on your quote, but changes are subject to availability.
How do I get a quote?
Get your quote today by filling out the Quote Form.
#UCAnationals #WaltDisneyWorld
Disney Bedtime Hotline is Back!
It’s official! Disney has announced the return of its beloved Disney Bedtime Hotline to help bring a little pixie dust to fans and families everywhere.
Now fans can hear messages from favorite Disney characters before falling asleep – all from the comfort of home. Call 1-877-7-MICKEY for one of five special messages for little ones from Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Daisy Duck or Goofy.
Click here to view special offers for Walt Disney World Resort
Darren Wittko - Orlando, FL
5 Tips for Bringing a First-Timer To Walt Disney World
Bringing someone to Walt Disney World for their first visit, especially when you’re a seasoned pro, is a lot fun. It’s exciting to play tour guide and show them around the happiest place on earth. It’s even more fun if they are reluctant to go, because you and I both know they will love it once they see it! It’s definitely not Six Flags, right?
Based on my own experiences and the feedback I get from numerous clients, here are my 5 tips to ensure they will have a great time at Walt Disney World.
Pirates of the Caribbean | Magic Kingdom Park
Expect to make new memories together
You may have great memories of Walt Disney World and maybe even some traditions. For me, Magic Kingdom had to be our first and last park. But it’s perfectly ok to write a new chapter together. They shouldn’t feel like they are just tagging along on your vacation.
Let them have a say in the planning
Of course, you’re the expert and they are probably looking to you for expert planning. But make them a stakeholder in the planning too, they will enjoy the parks even more if they are involved on some level. And be careful you don’t object to their ideas. Even if you know that Swiss Family Treehouse isn’t all that exciting, if they think it looks cool, let them check it out.
Go at their pace
If your companion is not quite the Disney fan you are, a grueling pace through the parks can wear them out. Walt Disney World is physically and mentally exhausting. The parks are of course massive and as guests, we are all on sensory overload. The “sleep when you're dead” style of touring might not be for everyone unless they are uber Disney fans too. Allow them time to rest and to process all the mental stimulation they are being bombarded with at Disney World. Schedule breaks, a little more time at the pool, shopping, or going back to the room early on some nights.
Be careful not to overhype experiences
Think of watching a movie with your friend. You’ve never seen it before and yet they know the entire script by heart. Every few minutes they say, “oh watch this part, it’s so funny!” That can get a little annoying, you just want to watch the movie and take it in for yourself. And maybe they hype up a scene so much, that it falls short of your expectations.
Share the reasons why you like an attraction so much rather than try to convince your friend that they will love it too.
Expect the unexpected
The best memories and traditions come from the unexpected. Walt Disney World does require an incredible amount of planning, but it’s also designed to be a place of discovery and adventure. Leave room to do something that is not in the plans. Maybe an unexpected street performance at Epcot or Hollywood Studios or you find a path in Animal Kingdom - see where it goes! So, go ahead and smell those proverbial roses, it’s ok!
2021 Walt Disney World Ticketless Packages Explained
Walt Disney World is making it easy for guests to book 2021 reservations right now!
Book a 2021 Walt Disney World Ticketless Package now!
To book a 2021 reservation, first contact your travel advisor, because you cannot do this online. The advantage is that you can lock in your room today with the $200 package deposit. You’ll be able to add tickets and/or dining plans to your reservation later, without any additional deposit due.
Disney is now accepting reservations through the summer of 2021.
This is a big deal because, in previous years, Disney would not allow you to book a package reservation until ticket and dining prices had been determined, usually by June or July. You would also have to adjust the nightly room rate once those had been determined.
But this year, Disney has already determined room rates through the end of summer 2021 so there won’t be an adjustment after you book your room. Plus you can add tickets and dining very easily once they become available.
How it Works
Book your room reservation now as a ticketless package, availability is wide opened
Add tickets and/or a dining plan when they become available, probably in June or July of 2020. No additional deposit is due when adding tickets/dining.
Apply a future offer if/when one becomes available.
Why You Should Book Your Room Now
Most people want the best available rate at Walt Disney World Resort hotels. Most often this is standard view, and garden view. These room categories are among the first to sell out because they are the cheapest. Upgraded room categories like preferred rooms, tower rooms, theme park views, and water view rooms cost significantly more.
As a travel advisor, I always recommend booking early to lock in a cheaper room category. Those who want an upgraded room like Tower, Magic Kingdom View at Disney’s Contemporary Resort should book early some are extremely popular despite the cost and they do often sell out, especially on holidays.
The World’s Most Magical Celebration -Walt Disney World 2021
2021 Walt Disney World Ticketless Package FAQ
What is a Ticketless Package?
This is a room reservation that is left open-ended so you can add tickets and/or a Disney Dining Plan later on.
What’s the benefit of a Ticketless Package?
There are a few benefits.
You can add tickets and or dining later on without having to rebook your room reservation as a package reservation.
You can book your reservation with the $200 package deposit rather than the Room-Only deposit amount.
You lock in the room category and resort you want before the masses begin booking reservations.
What Happens if Disney releases a discount for 2021, will I be eligible?
Generally yes, Disney will allow you to apply offers and discounts to existing reservations, subject to offer type and availability. Your travel advisor will let you know if you need to make some changes in order to get the discount.
What is the cancellation policy on a Ticketless Package?
You can cancel or modify your reservation up to 30-days prior to arrival.
Can I add a dining plan without tickets?
Yes! Tickets are not required.
Can I add tickets but no dining plan?
Yes! Dining plans are not required.
How do I book a 2021 Ticketless Package?
You should contact your travel advisor who will walk you through the steps and the policies. Ticketless Packages cannot be booked online.
When will Disney publish ticket and dining prices?
This can happen at any time, but historically they publish rates for the following year in June or July.
2021 promises to be a big year at Walt Disney World, specifically October 1, 2021, the official anniversary date. But many new attractions are coming online like Tron, Star Wars Galaxy's Edge, and numerous new attractions coming to Epcot. Disney is planning on record attendance levels, especially now that so many people are rebooking their 2020 trips. So don’t wait, get your 2021 Walt Disney World quote today!
Disney World Policies in Post COVID 19 Might Be a Welcome Improvement
During an interview last week Bob Iger acknowledged that shifts in health protocols at the parks will be similar to the security enhancements added since 9/11 and the Pulse Nightclub shooting. Touchless temperature checkpoints are likely, either via handheld thermometer or walk-in booths that look similar to metal detectors. Some grocery stores are already implementing this technology right now.
Rumors have suggested Disney is considering phasing out its touch ID systems at Theme Park entrances. The biometric scanners never worked well anyway so I’m sure guests won’t miss them.
Many theme parks and stadiums already use facial ID systems for admission from companies like Alibaba and Siemens Group. These systems are also are extremely reliable compared to the troubled fingerprint readers.
The new Universal Studios theme park under construction in China will use facial recognition for admissions, payments and queueing. Universal has not officially stated whether or not it will bring this technology to the Orlando parks, however.
Based on what I’m hearing from some insiders at Walt Disney World, we may also see:
Increased access to mobile ordering at quick-service restaurants. I began using it exclusively in the parks even before I was concerned about COVID, it’s a great system.
Guests may be encouraged to use Online Check-in for hotels to limit contact. And why wait in line in the lobby to check-in? With online check-in, Disney texts you the room number and you’re good to go.
The use of Boarding Groups on more rides especially those with indoor queues. Boarding Groups began at Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge and despite some setbacks with overwhelming demand, it’s a great idea. Disney was likely going in this direction anyway, at least on a few of its attractions. Standing in line for 60 minutes isn’t fun and with Boarding Groups, you won’t have to.
Character meals may no longer offer buffets and will probably go with table-service instead. There has always been concerns about airborne pathogens landing in open trays of food, even before COVID-19. Table-service would be safer and besides, most of us really overdo it at buffets anyway. I’m looking at you, fried chicken at Trail’s End!
While this is not official information coming from Disney, I think we all understand that there will need to be adjustments as we embrace “the new normal.” It’s still too early for us to fully know how Walt Disney World will adapt, but I’m sure it will be fine. I don’t know about you, but I am very eager to get back into the parks.
Book With Confidence! Walt Disney World Deposit & Cancellation Policy Review
During these uncertain times, I find that many people still want to visit Walt Disney World Resort, but are a little uncertain about the deposit and cancellation policies should they need to cancel or postpone their trip.
First, I would not hesitate to book, every day I am hard at work running quotes and booking summer and fall travel, even amidst a pandemic. One thing the Disney fans know, you can’t book a Walt Disney World trip last-minute!
These days, the most popular question I get is about the Walt Disney World cancellation policy. Followed by, “when will Disney World reopen?” No one knows when it will open, but I can provide some general information on the deposit and cancellation policies that might put you at ease if you’re thinking of traveling to Disney World this year.
Walt Disney World Deposit Policies
On Resort Packages (when you combine hotel, tickets, and dining), the deposit is $200.
Room-Only reservations have a deposit amount that is equal to the cost of 1 night’s lodging.
Agency Exclusive Offers from Magical Vacations Travel have a deposit amount that is equal to the cost of 1 night’s lodging.
Theme Park Passes (not part of a Resort Package) require full payment at the time of order.
Walt Disney World Cancellation Policies
Under normal conditions, Resort Packages would need to be canceled outside of 30-days prior to arrival for a full refund. Due to the pandemic, Disney World is waiving cancellation fees and penalties through June 30th. This will likely be extended if Disney World continues to remain closed.
Agency Exclusive Offers from Magical Vacations Travel, have a cancellation policy of 5-days prior to arrival for a full refund on the room, even if the reservation is paid in full.
Room-Only reservations can be cancelled up to 5-days prior to arrival for a full refund.
Walt Disney World Ticket Orders - tickets are generally non-fundable once purchased. However, tickets with unused days and date-specific tickets with a valid use period that falls within the closure period can be used through December 15, 2020. They can also be saved and used towards the cost of a ticket on a future visit to Walt Disney World.
It’s worth noting that not one of my clients lost any money during this entire pandemic for having to change or cancel their reservations. Disney has been very understanding, it’s really nice to see.
So now is a great time to plan your visit to Walt Disney World. Bookings are way up for fall travel in particular and many of the Agency Exclusive Offers are beginning to sell out.
With such flexible deposit and cancellation policies, there’s no reason to wait! View the Current Offers page for exclusive discounts throughout 2020 and get started today.
Sunrise Over Star Wars Galaxy's Edge
Good morning, I hope you enjoy these sunrise views from a galaxy far, far away! #DisneyMagicMoments
May the Force be with you, always.
New Updates From Walt Disney World
Some important news coming from Walt Disney World today:
New Walt Disney World Vacation Package Offered to Select Guests
There is a new offer available for Walt Disney World guests who booked a vacation package or room reservation from March 16 through May 31, 2020.
Disney World Introduces Summer Recovery Package for Eligible Guests
Eligible Guests can take advantage of a Walt Disney World package offer that includes accommodations at a select Disney Resort hotel, park admission and one of the Disney dining plans. While some unofficial websites are reporting this is a free Disney dining offer, I have not heard that officially.
This offer is valid for arrivals most nights June 1 through September 30, 2020 and you must book by May 31, 2020. The reservation, regardless of your previous reservation, can be between 2 and 14 nights. I minimum 2-day theme park ticket is required.
This offer is subject to availability. Everyone in the same room must be on the same package.
Sun & Fun Offer Extended for all Guests
Disney has also extended the Sun & Fun Offer that was intended to entice spring travelers. Now everyone can take advantage of this offer through August 31, 2020. Guests can save up to 25% on rooms at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels.
Offer excludes the following room types: campsites, 3-bedroom villas, Cabins at Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge and Bungalows at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows. Click here to get a quote today!
Update on Final Payments
Also, Disney has announced that for those Walt Disney Travel Company packages with final payments coming due 30 days prior to arrival, guests will have until 7 days prior to arrival to make final payment until further notice.
For other Walt Disney World discounts, visit the Walt Disney World Current Offers Page.
What’s life like in Orlando? An FAQ with a Travel Advisor
During this difficult time, I have received so many wonderful emails from my clients, many who aren’t currently booked to visit Walt Disney World, just checking on me, the status of Walt Disney World, and even our agency. It’s been wonderful to see how many people care about us!
I have been getting a lot of questions from people so I thought it would be a good idea to share them out for anyone who is curious about what life is currently like in Orlando. Here’s a quick FAQ I put together today while social distancing:
So how’s it going in Orlando? What’s it like down there?
Well, it’s like most places, almost everything is closed. Restaurants are either closed or take out only. All the entertainment venues on I-Drive and 192 like mini-golf and gift shops are closed. I-4 which is usually stop-and-go traffic is wide-opened. It’s really a ghost town. Most of the hotels are closed, all of the Walt Disney World hotels and restaurants are closed.
Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Is there anything to do in Orlando right now?
No. Literally nothing to do. I’m hearing that a lot of folks from New York, New Jersey and Connecticut want to come down and enjoy the Sunshine State. And those of you living in a stay-at-home community have that for a reason, right? This is not the Florida you would recognize and I would highly encourage people to save their money and come back when the time is right.
Have you been to Walt Disney World since it closed? What’s it like?
I live 2 minutes from Walt Disney World and drive through every other day just to get out to do something. There’s no one around except for security and police who are patrolling. Security has the hotel entrances blocked off with cones, no cars on the roads and parking lots are empty except for the fleet of WDW buses.
Is Disney using this time to get work done in the parks?
There are some small construction projects taking place, the old entrance to Disney’s Hollywood Studios is coming down for example. No work can be seen on the new Tron ride. I’m told that Disney is following CDC recommendations to avoid gatherings, so that would include most construction projects.
When do you think Disney will reopen?
I wish I could say for sure, we are all waiting on that news. The Orange County mayor will enact a stay-at-home order on Thursday March 25th. This means that all non-essential businesses, public parks, and government offices are to close through April 19, 2020. While we have not yet heard anything from Disney, Universal Orlando has announced it will adhere to the mayor’s order and remain closed.
Disney already canceled the Star Wars Half Marathon that was set to take place in May. But it’s worth noting that this event is poorly attended anyway compared to the other Disney races that sell out in minutes.
What do you think the parks will be like when they reopen?
Hard to say but I do know Disney is very good about making things work. When the time is right, Disney will have something in place to reassure guests that they are taking every precaution. I don’t think we are there yet, but once we see things getting back to normal, I expect to see some new policies in place.
Should I hold off on booking my summer or fall vacation to Walt Disney World?
No. I have so many clients rebooking and I am already seeing very limited availability in summer and fall dates, even without discounts. The cancellation policy on a package is 30-days prior to arrival for a full refund of the $200 deposit. On room-only reservations, the cancelation policy is 5-days prior to arrival for a full refund of the deposit. The deposit on a room-only reservation is equal to one night’s lodging.
I am still booking Walt Disney World vacation packages. Visit the Current Offers page to see what we have for special rates.
I know we cannot wait for all this to be over, to know that we are safe to travel again and to have fun once again at Walt Disney World. And please remember to support small businesses as much as you can, like restaurants, food delivery, mom and pop stores, and travel advisors! We are all eager to get back to work.
If you have a question, feel free to ask. I’ll do my best to answer it.