DisneyDawgs

Tag: Attraction

  • The Original 1971 Magic Kingdom Rides Still in Operation Today

    The Original 1971 Magic Kingdom Rides Still in Operation Today

    When Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom opened its gates to the public on October 1, 1971, it introduced visitors to a world of fantasy, adventure, and cutting-edge attractions. Over the decades, the park has evolved, but several beloved opening-day rides have stood the test of time, delighting generations of guests. These original attractions remain iconic, embodying the spirit and creativity that made Disney’s theme parks legendary. Here, we take a deep dive into the classic rides that have been in continuous operation since 1971, including their histories, changes over the years, and interesting facts.

    1. Jungle Cruise

    Originally designed as a serious adventure through exotic rivers, the Jungle Cruise quickly gained its signature humor when Disney Imagineers introduced witty skippers who deliver comedic narrations throughout the journey. Inspired by Disney’s True-Life Adventure films and the 1951 movie The African Queen, the ride takes guests through the Amazon, Nile, and Mekong rivers, encountering animatronic wildlife and perilous rapids.

    Interesting Facts:

    • The ride’s script has evolved over the years to include pop culture references and updated jokes.
    • It was one of Walt Disney’s personal projects for Disneyland and was later adapted for Magic Kingdom.
    • In 2021, Disney made cultural updates to remove outdated portrayals and added a new storyline.

    2. The Haunted Mansion

    A fan-favorite, The Haunted Mansion invites guests into a spooky yet humorous tour through a ghost-filled estate. Featuring 999 happy haunts, this dark ride combines eerie illusions, innovative special effects, and unforgettable characters such as the Hatbox Ghost and Madame Leota.

    Interesting Facts:

    • The ride was one of the last attractions overseen by Walt Disney before his passing.
    • The stretching room effect was adapted for the Magic Kingdom’s version, differing slightly from Disneyland’s.
    • The “Doom Buggies” ensure a continuous, smooth ride experience and allow for creative scene transitions.

    3. It’s a Small World

    Originally created for the 1964-65 New York World’s Fair, It’s a Small World was an instant hit before being moved to Disneyland and later replicated for Magic Kingdom. Featuring a song composed by the Sherman Brothers, the attraction takes guests on a slow-moving boat ride through colorful sets depicting global cultures.

    Interesting Facts:

    • The ride’s message of unity and world peace remains timeless.
    • All the dolls were designed in the same artistic style by Disney Imagineer Mary Blair.
    • The attraction receives festive overlays in other parks during the holiday season, though Magic Kingdom’s version remains unchanged.

    4. Pirates of the Caribbean

    Though not part of the initial opening day lineup, Pirates of the Caribbean debuted at Magic Kingdom in 1973 due to overwhelming guest demand. The ride quickly became one of the most beloved attractions in Disney history, inspiring a blockbuster film series starring Johnny Depp.

    Interesting Facts:

    • The ride was never originally planned for Magic Kingdom, as Disney believed Florida visitors wouldn’t be as intrigued by pirate lore. Guest feedback proved otherwise.
    • Captain Jack Sparrow was added to the ride in 2006, with actor Johnny Depp occasionally making surprise appearances in character at the attraction.
    • The auction scene underwent changes in 2018, replacing the controversial “Bride Auction” with a female pirate, Redd, leading the sale of goods.

    5. Peter Pan’s Flight

    One of the most popular dark rides in Fantasyland, Peter Pan’s Flight takes guests on a magical journey over London and into Neverland aboard suspended pirate ships. The attraction remains famous for its innovative use of perspective and immersive storytelling.

    Interesting Facts:

    • The ride consistently holds some of the longest wait times due to its nostalgic appeal and relatively low ride capacity.
    • The 2014 queue redesign introduced interactive elements, including Tinker Bell’s playful effects in the Darling family’s nursery.
    • The flying effect was revolutionary for its time, creating the illusion that guests are soaring over London and Neverland.

    6. The Tomorrowland Speedway

    A staple of Tomorrowland, the Tomorrowland Speedway lets guests drive gasoline-powered race cars around a winding track. Originally called the Grand Prix Raceway, it has undergone various track modifications over the years but remains a favorite for young drivers eager to get behind the wheel.

    Interesting Facts:

    • The original track was much longer and has been shortened multiple times to accommodate park expansions, including the construction of Space Mountain and the TRON Lightcycle Run.
    • The ride is often criticized for its outdated gasoline engines, leading to ongoing discussions about possible electric vehicle replacements.
    • Despite its simplicity, it remains a rite of passage for many young guests experiencing their first time “driving.”

    7. Walt Disney World Railroad

    Encircling Magic Kingdom, the Walt Disney World Railroad serves as both a scenic tour and a convenient way to travel between lands. Inspired by Walt Disney’s lifelong passion for trains, the railroad features authentic steam-powered locomotives from the late 19th century.

    Interesting Facts:

    • The locomotives were originally built between 1916 and 1928 and were restored for use in the park.
    • The train makes stops in Main Street, U.S.A., Frontierland, and Fantasyland.
    • The attraction was closed for four years due to TRON Lightcycle Run construction and reopened in 2022 with updated narration.

    While many attractions have come and gone since 1971, these original rides continue to enchant guests, preserving the magic that made Magic Kingdom a world-renowned destination. Whether it’s the nostalgia of Peter Pan’s Flight, the humor of Jungle Cruise, or the ghostly charm of The Haunted Mansion, these classic experiences stand as testaments to Disney’s innovative storytelling and timeless appeal. As the park continues to evolve, these opening-day attractions remind visitors of the creativity, artistry, and imagination that define the Disney experience.

  • Top 10 Rides at Disney World’s Magic Kingdom

    Top 10 Rides at Disney World’s Magic Kingdom

    Okay, let’s talk Magic Kingdom! You know, that iconic Disney World park that’s basically a bucket list destination for anyone who loves a little bit of pixie dust. Now, I know everyone has their own personal Mount Everest of favorite rides, and honestly, that’s part of the magic! But, I’m here to share my take on 10 of the most popular and critically acclaimed rides you absolutely NEED to experience. Think of it as a starting point for your own magical adventure.

    TRON Lightcycle / Run

    TRON Lightcycle / Run: “Okay, let’s start with the futuristic thrill ride: TRON Lightcycle / Run. You literally become part of the game! These sleek, motorcycle-like vehicles launch you forward like a shot of lightning. Trust me, the speed and the way you lean into the turns is unlike anything else. Just be prepared for a potential wait, because everyone wants a piece of this futuristic action.”

    Space Mountain

    Space Mountain: “Next up, the classic: Space Mountain. This indoor coaster is a total blast! You’re hurtling through the darkness, twisting and turning, and you never really know what’s coming next. It’s a classic for a reason, but be warned: if you’re prone to motion sickness, this might be a bit much.”

    Haunted Mansion

    Haunted Mansion: “Now, let’s get spooky! The Haunted Mansion is a must-do. That stretching room alone is iconic. You’ll encounter ghostly hitchhikers, eerie sounds, and some seriously impressive special effects. It’s a spooky good time for the whole family (well, maybe not the littlest ones).”

    Pirates of the Caribbean

    Pirates of the Caribbean: “Set sail for adventure on Pirates of the Caribbean! This classic boat ride takes you through a swashbuckling world of pirates, treasure, and mischievous spirits. The music is legendary, and you’ll find yourself singing along. Plus, who doesn’t love a good pirate story?”

    Big Thunder Mountain Railroad

    Big Thunder Mountain Railroad: “Hold on tight for Big Thunder Mountain Railroad! This runaway mine train is a wild ride with thrilling drops and turns. You’ll feel the wind in your hair and the excitement building with every twist and turn. It’s a classic for a reason, but be prepared for a bit of a rough ride.”

    Seven Dwarfs Mine Train

    Seven Dwarfs Mine Train: “Looking for something a bit gentler? The Seven Dwarfs Mine Train is perfect for families. You’ll swing through the mine in these adorable mine cars, and the scenery is straight out of a fairytale. It’s a charming ride with just the right amount of thrills.”

    Peter Pan’s Flight

    Peter Pan’s Flight: “Now, this is pure magic. Peter Pan’s Flight takes you soaring over London and into the magical world of Neverland. The views are simply breathtaking, and you’ll feel like you’re flying with Peter and the Lost Boys. Just be prepared for a long wait, because this is a popular choice.”

    Jungle Cruise

    Jungle Cruise: “Get ready for a hilarious journey on the Jungle Cruise. Your witty skipper will keep you entertained with their puns and jokes as you navigate the jungle. It’s a relaxing ride with a touch of unexpected humor.”

    It’s a Small World

    “it’s a small world” “No trip to Magic Kingdom is complete without a ride on “it’s a small world.” This classic boat ride is a sensory explosion of color, music, and cultural representations from around the globe. The iconic song will be stuck in your head all day (in the best way possible!).”

    Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover

    Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover: “Need a break from the thrill rides? Hop on the Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover. This slow-moving train gives you a unique perspective of Tomorrowland, and it’s a great way to relax and people-watch. Plus, you might even catch a glimpse of some parades or shows.”

    So, there you have it! 10 of the must-ride attractions at Magic Kingdom. Now, remember, this is just my opinion, and the “best” rides are totally subjective. What thrills one person might not thrill another. The beauty of Magic Kingdom is the sheer variety – there’s something for everyone!

    To make the most of your time, consider using Genie+ or Lightning Lane to book your spots on these popular rides. And don’t forget to arrive early to take advantage of shorter wait times.

    Most importantly, have fun! Soak in the magic, embrace the excitement, and create memories that will last a lifetime. And hey, if you have your own top 10 list, I’d love to hear about it in the comments below!

  • D23 Recap of Amazing Announcements

    D23 Recap of Amazing Announcements

    Disney’s D23 Annual convention has come and gone. D23 is the official fan club for The Walt Disney Company, created to bring Disney enthusiasts closer to the magic of Disney’s films, theme parks, television shows, and other entertainment ventures. The name “D23” refers to the year 1923, when Walt Disney founded the company.

    D23 is known for several key activities and benefits:

    1. D23 Expo: The D23 Expo is a biennial event that serves as the ultimate Disney fan experience. Held in Anaheim, California, the Expo features exclusive presentations, panels, and exhibits. Fans get sneak peeks at upcoming Disney projects, including films, theme park attractions, and more. It’s also a place where Disney unveils major announcements.
    2. Membership Tiers: D23 offers different levels of membership, including free and paid options. Paid members receive special perks like exclusive merchandise, collectible items, a subscription to Disney twenty-three magazine, and access to special events.
    3. Exclusive Events: D23 hosts various events throughout the year, ranging from film screenings and tours to exclusive meet-and-greets with Disney legends and creatives. These events are often held at Disney parks and studios, offering members unique behind-the-scenes experiences.
    4. D23 Website and Magazine: The D23 website features news, articles, and exclusive content for Disney fans. Members receive the Disney twenty-three magazine, which includes in-depth stories about Disney history, upcoming projects, and more.
    5. Disney Archives: D23 often collaborates with the Walt Disney Archives to bring rare and historical Disney artifacts to its events and exhibitions, offering fans a deep dive into Disney’s storied past.

    In essence, D23 is the ultimate club for Disney fans, providing them with a direct connection to the company and its rich history, as well as a community of like-minded enthusiasts who share a love for all things Disney.

    This Year’s Announcements

    This year’s announcements were nothing short of amazing if you are a fan of Disney World in Florida. For the first time in, well, forever… Disney World received the majority of the focus of new rides and attractions. Here is a list of the major announcements that were made from the Honda Center in Anaheim, CA on Saturday, August 10, 2024.

    Disney Starlight

    Coming in the Summer of 2025, a NEW Nighttime Parade in Magic Kingdom, “Disney Starlight”. This will be the first nighttime parade in Magic Kingdom since “Disney’s Electrical Light Parade” last performed on September 1, 2022.

    Disney Starlight is described to continue the nighttime spectacular legacy started by the “Main Street Electrical Parade” using the latest technology to tell new stories about the characters you love. All of this is brought to life by the magic of the Blue Fairy, in addition to beloved characters from Walt Disney Animation Studios films “Peter Pan,” “Encanto,” “Frozen,” and more.

    Tropical Americas Coming to Disney’s Animal Kingdom

    Disney will be revamping the Dinoland section of AK with a new theme, two new attractions and a revamped attraction.

    Dinoland in AK has always seemed to have been an afterthought from when the park was originally built. With only one attraction and one quick-service restaurant, it was not a prime destination in the park. Disney hopes to change this by re-imagining Dinoland into “The Tropical Americas”. The new land will have lush tropic flowers and greenery that will make you feel as though you were transported into the jungles of Central and South America.

    The only current attraction in the Dinoland section of AK, “Dinosaur”, will be re-imagined into a new Indiana Jones ride with a new story line set in the Tropical Americas. In this new venture, the man with the hat has recently discovered a perfectly preserved Maya temple, and that can only mean one thing: it’s time to explore it. He’s heard rumors about a mythical creature deep within the temple — and he’s got to see it for himself. So, he brings us along on the adventure… but will there be snakes? We’ll just have to wait and see.

    A brand new carousel will also be coming the the Tropical Americas. The space will be lush and sprawling, featuring a large fountain in the center where the villagers like to gather and tell stories. Additionally, a woodcarver has created a giant working carousel featuring his favorite animals from Disney stories. It’s a new take on a classic attraction that young families are going to love.

    Encanto

    If you’re a fan of drawers, floors, and doors, let’s go! The first-ever “Encanto”-themed ride-through attraction is coming to Animal Kingdom, featuring the beloved Madrigal family from the Walt Disney Animation Studios film. Inside the Casita, Antonio has just received his special gift — the ability to communicate with animals — and his room has transformed into a rainforest. It’s time to go explore alongside him, and you never know what member of the family you might bump into…

    Construction on the Tropical Americas will start soon and the land is expected to open in 2027.

    CHECK BACK SOON FOR PART 2 OF THE D23 ANNOUNCEMENTS

  • Extinct Attractions in Magic Kingdom

    Extinct Attractions in Magic Kingdom

    Splash Mountain
    Splash Mountain in Frontierland in Magic Kingdom

    Here’s a list of rides, attractions, shows, and restaurants that no longer exist at Disney World’s Magic Kingdom, along with descriptions, opening and closing dates, and reasons for closure:

    1. 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea: Submarine Voyage
      • Opening Date: October 14, 1971
      • Closing Date: September 5, 1994
      • Description: This attraction allowed guests to board submarines and embark on an underwater adventure inspired by Jules Verne’s novel “20,000 Leagues Under the Sea.” Guests encountered sea creatures and explored a mysterious underwater world.
      • Reason for Closure: The attraction closed due to high maintenance costs and low ridership.
    2. Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride
      • Opening Date: October 1, 1971
      • Closing Date: September 7, 1998
      • Description: Guests rode in Toad’s motorcar and experienced a wild journey through the English countryside, encountering various scenes and characters from Disney’s “The Wind in the Willows.”
      • Reason for Closure: The attraction was replaced by The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh to better fit the park’s themes.
    3. Snow White’s Scary Adventures
      • Opening Date: October 1, 1971
      • Closing Date: May 31, 2012
      • Description: This dark ride took guests through scenes from Disney’s “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,” including encounters with the Evil Queen and the Seven Dwarfs.
      • Reason for Closure: The ride was reimagined and reopened as “Snow White’s Enchanted Wish” with updated technology and storytelling elements.
    4. The Timekeeper
      • Opening Date: November 21, 1994
      • Closing Date: February 26, 2006
      • Description: This 360-degree film experience, hosted by the Timekeeper (voiced by Robin Williams), took guests on a journey through time and space, visiting historical moments and futuristic landscapes.
      • Reason for Closure: The attraction closed due to declining popularity and the desire to introduce new experiences.
    5. Skyway
      • Opening Date: October 1, 1971
      • Closing Date: November 9, 1999
      • Description: Guests rode in gondolas suspended in the air, offering panoramic views of Magic Kingdom as they traveled between Fantasyland and Tomorrowland.
      • Reason for Closure: The Skyway closed for safety reasons and to make way for new attractions and developments.
    6. The Enchanted Tiki Room (Under New Management)
      • Opening Date: April 5, 1998
      • Closing Date: January 12, 2011
      • Description: This version of the classic Enchanted Tiki Room featured new characters, including Iago from “Aladdin” and Zazu from “The Lion King,” who took over the show and added comedic elements.
      • Reason for Closure: The attraction reverted to its original format as the “Enchanted Tiki Room” due to guest feedback and a desire to return to its classic roots.
    7. Stitch’s Great Escape!
      • Opening Date: November 16, 2004
      • Closing Date: January 6, 2018
      • Description: Guests experienced an interactive show where they were “captured” by Experiment 626 (Stitch) and experienced his mischievous antics in a sensory-enhanced theater.
      • Reason for Closure: The attraction closed permanently due to low guest satisfaction and operational challenges.
    8. Tomorrowland Speedway (Original Version)
      • Opening Date: October 1, 1971
      • Closing Date: January 2, 2019
      • Description: Guests drove gas-powered cars on a track through Tomorrowland, simulating a futuristic race experience.
      • Reason for Closure: The attraction underwent renovations and reopened as the “Tomorrowland Speedway” with updated theming and environmentally friendly electric cars.

    Splash Mountain also closed in 2023 to make room for “Tiana’s Bayou Adventure” which is expected to open in the Summer of 2024.

    These attractions and experiences, while no longer available at Magic Kingdom, hold a nostalgic place in Disney’s history and showcase the park’s evolution over the years.

  • Big Thunder Mountain Railroad

    Big Thunder Mountain Railroad

    Hold on to your Stetsons, folks, because we’re about to take a wild ride through the dusty canyons of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad!

    Hold on to your Stetsons, folks, because we’re about to take a wild ride through the dusty canyons of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad!

    This iconic runaway mine train coaster at Magic Kingdom in Disney World, Florida, is more than just a thrill ride; it’s a legendary escape into the heart of a gold-rush gone bust. So buckle up, partners, as we delve into the history, secrets, and hair-raising fun of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad!

    From Dynamite to Disney: A Blast from the Past

    Big Thunder Mountain Railroad opened its rusty gates on September 22, 1980, as part of the grand opening of Fantasyland in Magic Kingdom. Imagine the throngs of excited adventurers lining up to be the first to hurtle through the abandoned Thunder Mesa Mining Company!

    But the story goes back even further. The mountain itself is themed after Tumbleweed, a once-booming mining town that met its demise when a greedy prospector struck a vein of fool’s gold instead of the real deal. Legends say the town is haunted by the ghosts of disgruntled miners, adding an extra layer of spooktacular fun to the ride.

    Trivia Tidbits to Impress Your Posse

    • Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is actually longer than its Disneyland counterpart, clocking in at a spine-tingling 2,889 feet!
    • Look closely as you race through the mineshaft – you might spot hidden geysers erupting along the tracks!
    • The iconic laughing skull you see near the end of the ride belonged to a real Imagineer, Marc Davis, who worked on the attraction. Talk about leaving your mark!
    • Keep an ear out for the ghostly yodeling echoing through the canyons – it’s said to be the lament of the restless miners.
    • Did you know there’s a hidden “chicken exit” near the loading area? It’s for those who, well, get a little cold feet before the big plunge.

    A Thrill Ride for All Ages

    Big Thunder Mountain Railroad might pack a punch, but it’s suitable for thrill-seekers of all ages. The coaster zips along at a max speed of 36 mph, offering plenty of twists, turns, and drops to keep your heart racing. But it’s not all about adrenaline; the detailed Western setting, complete with rickety mine carts and geysers spewing “volcanic mud,” brings the Wild West to life in a charmingly spooky way.

    So, whether you’re a seasoned thrill-seeker or a wide-eyed adventurer, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad promises an unforgettable journey through the heart of Tumbleweed. Just remember to hold on tight, scream if you must, and most importantly, have a blast!

    Ready to experience the legend for yourself? Hop aboard Big Thunder Mountain Railroad on your next visit to Magic Kingdom and prepare to be swept away on a rollicking adventure through the Wild West!

    P.S. Don’t forget to grab a pair of cowboy ears before you set off – they’re the perfect accessory for channeling your inner gunslinger!

    Have you ever ridden Big Thunder Mountain Railroad? What’s your favorite part of the ride? Share your wildest Wild West memories in the comments below!

    I hope this blog post satisfies your Big Thunder Mountain Railroad cravings! Let me know if you have any other Disney World-related questions. Until next time, happy trails!

  • Nemo and Friends

    Nemo and Friends

    Nemo and his friends have a popular presence in Epcot, a theme park located in Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. In Epcot, you can find their interactive attraction called “The Seas with Nemo & Friends.” This experience takes you on a journey with Nemo, Dory, and their underwater pals from the beloved Disney-Pixar film “Finding Nemo.”

    Inside “The Seas with Nemo & Friends,” you embark on a clamobile ride that combines both animated scenes and real aquariums. As you join Nemo in search of his father, Marlin, and encounter Dory, you’ll explore colorful coral reefs, witness impressive marine life, and even come face to face with a massive aquarium showcasing a diverse array of aquatic creatures.

    In addition to the attraction, you can also explore the larger “The Seas with Nemo & Friends” pavilion in Epcot. This pavilion houses one of the world’s largest saltwater aquariums, offering an opportunity to observe a variety of marine species up close, including sea turtles, sharks, and rays. The pavilion also includes educational exhibits and interactive displays that provide insights into marine life and conservation efforts.

    So, if you’re a fan of Nemo and his friends, visiting “The Seas with Nemo & Friends” in Epcot can be a delightful and immersive experience, combining entertainment and education about the wonders of the ocean.

  • Expedition Everest Closing for Refurb

    Expedition Everest in Disney’s animal Kingdom is getting ready to close for refurbish. This refurbishment is reported to last into the summer of 2022.

  • Disney to Announce ReOpening Plans

    Disney World officials have announced a press conference scheduled for 10am on Wednesday, May 27th to announce plans that have been submitted to Florida Government and Health officials on their plans to reopen Disney World.

    Follow DisneyDawgs for a recap of the press conference and what the specific plans for the parks will be.

  • Disney Trip Update

    Universal Orlando has announced an opening date!

    Now the waiting game for those of us that have Disney vacations scheduled for this Summer begins.  We originally had scheduled our vacation for April, but Covid-19 took care of that.  Beginning of May it was looking as though Disney would be reopening the parks in Orlando sometime in the beginning of June, so we rebooked our vacation for the last week of July.  So with the Universal Orlando announcement last week of an opening date, we were hopeful that Disney would follow, but nothing.  With Disney Springs opening 3rd party resturaunts and stores on May 20th we thought there would be an announcement, but nothing.  We thought with Disney opening Disney stores in Disney Springs on May 27th there would be an announcement, but nothing.

    As of the time of this post, Disney has cancelled all reservations up until June 15th and with the smaller theme parks in the Orlando area opening this past week (Gatorland and Fun Spot) we are assuming that Disney Parks will open on or around June 15th.  We understand that Disney World will take a little longer to open than the other parks in the Orlando area, including Universal, due to the share size of Disney.  There are so many working parts that they need to get perfect in order to open during the pandemic.  If one thing goes wrong and an outbreak is traced back to one of the Disney Parks, the damage could be unrecoverable.  Remember a few years ago when a Mumps outbreak was traced back to Disneyland? The bad PR toward the Disney Corporation took months to recover from, even though the outbreak was not Disneyland’s fault.

    I am quite sure that Disney is crossing its T’s and dotting its I’s to make sure that they are doing everything possible to keep their Guests and Castmembers are safe as possible from the Covid-19 virus.

    Our Vacation

    That being said, we are still waiting for word on when the parks are going to open and when we can start to book FastPasses and Dinner Reservations.  We would also like information on whether the NBA will be playing the remainder of their games and playoffs at the Disney World of Sports Complex near Pop Century and Art of Animation.  We would also like to know if the rumor that the players will be housed in the Disney Resort Buildings and how that would effect those of us whom had reservations for months in those buildings.

    Even with this, as long as the virus is held in check, my family is still planning on visiting Disney World at the end of July.  We have a couple of celebrations that will be well overdue to celebrate.

    If the virus does not behave or if there is a spike of Covid-19 cases in Orange and Osceola Counties, then we will be forced to, out of abundance of caution, cancel our Disney Vacation once again.

    Check out our Vlog regarding our July Disney Vacation with several other factors that are giving us optimism that the Disney World Theme Parks in Florida are very close to opening.

     

    Check out our Blog regarding rebooking our trip from April until July HERE

  • Tearjerker from “At Home with Olaf”

    Nope, this didn’t get me misty…  Someone must be cutting onions here.

    A new video released by DisneyMagicMoments.com under “At Home with Olaf” will make you want to grab some tissues.

    A very touching song for our times that we are going through right now.

  • Shanghai Disneyland reopens with anti-virus controls

    Visitors with face masks entered Shanghai Disneyland this morning for the first time since January 25th.  Nearly five months after the Disney park closed due to the COVID-19 outbreak in China, guests were welcomed back into the park, with conditions.

    All guests must wear face masks and have their temperatures taken at the park’s security entrance.  Social distancing will be enforced within the parks and extra staff was hired and will be constantly wiping down and sanitizing all surfaces of the park.  As of right now, the park will be operating at a maximum of 30% of capacity.  Many hand-washing and sanitizing stations have been installed for guests to use.

    It is believed that the Disney Corporation will monitor the information coming out of the Shanghai, China park and use the strategies that work on their other parks throughout the work.  Disney has already announced that 3rd party restaurants will be allowed to open on May 20th, with very strict rules and regulations to limit large crowds.

    Disney, and the rest of the world, will be monitoring to see if the opening of Shanghai Disneyland causes another wide-scale outbreak in the area.  If it does, everyone is back at square one until a reliable vaccine is developed.  If an increase does not occur, then we will most-likely see other entertainment and sports venues start to very slowly open their businesses back up to customers.

    As a huge fan of Disney, we here at DisneyDawgs are crossing our fingers and hoping with all of our being that this quite be the beginning of the end of this pandemic that has brought to world to a standstill.

  • Planning a Disney Trip… Take Two

    DisneyDawgs is in the process of re-booking our 2020 Disney World Vacation and we are crossing our fingers that this one will happen.

    Our first attempt to get to Orlando was thwarted by the COVID-19 virus and cancelled and we thought that our last change at a family vacation was taken from us.  But, Disney has announced plans for reopening the parks in stages and we are taking a guess that the first stage will take place on or around June 1, 2020.  There will be strict distancing guidelines with only 50% of normal capacity allowed within the parks and extreme changes on how Castmembers and Guests interact.  If all goes well, phase two will loosen up on some restrictions and allow parks 75% of capacity.

    After reviewing the guidelines and the estimates of the transmission of the virus after June 1 we decided that the first week of August would allow us the safest and fullest Disney experience that we could have this Summer.

    Before re-booking even crossed our minds, we currently have Southwest ticket credits and 6 day Magic Your Way tickets for the four members of my family that we would loose if we do not use them… Well over $3,000.  So we are booking for August.  Don’t get me wrong, if it is not safe for my family to travel from Rhode Island to Orlando in August, I will cancel the trip in a heartbeat.  My family’s health and well-being is the most important thing.  To be honest, I would not be surprised if the parks are not open at all this Summer.

    Well, hoping for the best, this is what we have done so far…

    AIRLINE TICKETS

    Our original flights from Rhode Island (PVD) to Orlando (MCO) and back home were cancelled in early April.  This gave us a credit for the price of the flights to be used at a later time.  A little heads up for anyone booking flights with Southwest Airlines, if you choose and pay for the Early Boarding Option ($25 ticket) and you cancel your flight, you do not get that money back either as a refund or a credit. So keep that in mind if you are thinking of purchasing this option when flying with Southwest Airlines and you are not 100% sure that you will be on that flight.

    So we used the credit and now we have flights books from Rhode Island to Florida.  We fully know that if we do have to cancel our trip that we will again be credited for the amount of the tickets only with a limited time to use those funds.

    HOTEL ROOM

    Undercover TouristFor our original trip, we booked our hotel and tickets through Undercover Tourist.  We saved almost $600 booking through them over going directly through Disney.  My family has been using Undercover Tourist now for over ten years to purchase our park tickets and have never had any problems.  When Disney closed, I was worried because we did not purchase through Disney and thought that it was going to be a hassle to cancel the reservations.  It was quite the opposite.  I sent an email to Undercover Tourist asking what needed to be done.  This was just after Disney closed down and I thought that it was going to take a few days to get a response… Nope, within an hour I had a response letting me know that there was nothing that needed to be done and that we should receive a credit on our next bank statement, which we did.  Undercover Tourist emailed me again to confirm that the credit was issued and to thank us for using them.

    With the great customer service that we received from Undercover Tourist, how could we not use them again to book our hotel room.  I also found out that Disney’s All-Star Resort has suites…  My family has been going to Disney for fifteen years now and never knew that…  You have to understand, I have two daughters.  My oldest will be 18 at the time of the trip and my peanut will be 16, they are both quite tall (over 5’9″) and not the little girls like when we started going to Disney World.  I knew that having them both sleep in the same bed this year, as we always did, would not work.  It would have resulted in two miserable pups (have you dealt with two teenaged girls that did not have enough sleep, enough said), which would have resulted in one major miserable Papa Dawg. We decided to spend the extra money and get the suite.  Through Undercover Tourist, the suite was not that much more per night than the what we paid for the original room and viewing a video on YouTube, they look quite nice and roomy.  If we do go on this vacation, I will do a full review of the room and let you know if I think that it was worth the extra cost.

    TICKETS

    Our park tickets have already been purchased and are non-refundable so we will be using them for when we go down in August.  The only issue that I think that we will have is that the tickets were purchased to be used April 15 through April 20.  We are now going down in August and I think that there is a price difference between April and August, but I am not sure what I will need to do for this.  I will try call the WDW-DISNEY phone number and see if they can give me any guidance on this issue.

     

     

    CAR RENTAL

    I will begin looking into car rental prices shortly.  Prices for rentals are quite high right now, I think due to the State of Florida discussing starting to reopen the economy as early as May 4th.  When to rent a car in Orlando is quite a gamble.  You have to really keep an eye on the trends at the parks and if there is anything special going on in the Orlando Metro area.  This is a little different.  I think if people are hesitant going to the parks this Summer, prices will drop as they did in late March and early April.  But if people flock to Central Florida, the price of renting a car could be astronomical.  I am guessing that I test the waters sometime around the second week of June

    WHAT’S NEXT?

    What’s next?  That is a really good question.  I guess that it is based on what the COVID-19 virus does this Summer.  If the outbreaks dissipate like all of the government models suggest they will, then it is full steam ahead and we hope to have a great vacation.  If not, then we will be right back where we started and I will be cancelling the above reservations again.  I hope the latter is not true.

    Second to the deaths and illness that 2020 has brought us is the disappointment and confinement that everyone has faced for the past eight weeks.  The cancellation of the remainder of the school year has been disheartening for students, let alone the High School Seniors that have lost their Proms, Senior Activities and Graduations.  Setting up and booking the airline and hotel room last night helped my pups forget about what is going on in the world, even if it was only for about and hour.

    This is where DisneyDawg stands on another attempt to visit Disney World in Orlando.  I will keep you up to date on any steps that are taken or any news regarding the opening of the parks.

    Thank you for taking the time to read this post.  May you and your families stay safe and healthy through these extraordinary circumstances.