Category Archives: Walt Disney World

Disney World’s Nighttime Shows

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IMG_5038Visitors to Disney World have wonderful opportunities to experience amazing, truly magical nighttime shows in three of the four parks.  (RUMOR:  Animal Kingdom may be getting a nighttime show of its own in the next couple of years.)  Most people, after seeing them all, tend to have a favorite and may argue strenuously over which is the best – but everyone will agree on one thing:  These shows are spectacular and for Disney fans, remarkably touching – the embodiment of all that we love about Disney World.

If you’re headed to Disney World for the first time, please make sure to see at least one (if not all) of these major events included with the price of your park admission.  TIP:  If your child is frightened by loud noises it would be worth the effort to try to work through that prior to attending a show with fireworks at Disney World.  Disney goes all out – spares nothing for the sake of amazing and thrilling visitors.  Unfortunately, this means some very loud BOOMs sprinkled throughout the displays.

Epcot’s Illuminations: Reflections of Earth –  While this one is my least favorite (don’t judge – it can be your favorite and I won’t think less of you), it is unique (sorry, I don’t have a picture of the action).  Disney’s description is “Behold the past, present and future of Earth at this stunning fireworks show that celebrates the spirit of humanity.”  That’s pretty deep for the young ‘uns among us – so, here’s my take:  The show is IMG_2971actually in the middle of the World Showcase Lagoon, so position yourself strategically well ahead of show-time.  Guard your spot zealously or a family with small children will infiltrate your camp by squeezing their smallest members between you and the fence – the parents will eventually follow and block your view completely – beware!   Officially, the show is divided into three parts.  Part 1:  The Earth is Born.  Part 2:  The Triumph of Life.  Part 3:  Hope for the Future. – all played out on and around a 350,000 lb. Earth Globe – the “world’s first spherical video display system”.  You kinda do need to see it at least once to understand how this all works – it’s worth the effort and while small children my not understand the deeper meaning, they’ll enjoy the special effects.  The show is narrated by Jim Cummings (voice of Pooh, Tigger, and more).

DSCN2620Fantasmic at Disney’s Hollywood Studios – This show uses a multitude of special effects in the most creative, unbelievable way and incorporates live and projected (on water) characters to enchant and thrill spectators. Oh, you’ll hear whining here and there from people who don’t like the fact that this show is so popular, you’ve got to arrive for a seat at least 90 minutes before show-time.  Those whiners are also complaining that the show is tired, the same-old-thing and needs a re-fresh.  I say Oh, puh-leeeze.  If you think this Studios sensation has lost any of its shine, just take someone with you who’s never seen it before.  Fantasmic is fantastic and if you just cannot stand the idea of “wasting” so much time to get a seat, the solution is the “Fantasmic Dinner Package” – info here and here.  You should know – the reserved seating area for the dinner package guests is on the far right of the action.

IMG_5031Magic Kingdom’s Wishes:  My personal favorite!  The voice of Jiminy Cricket over the park’s speakers kick this show off (cue goose bumps).  Then, weather permitting, Tinker Bell will actually fly down from atop Cinderella Castle before the most amazingly beautiful fireworks show begins.  Get a spot down Main Street toward the front of the park (not too close to the Castle) and prepare to be amazed, astounded, and awed – you will say “ahhhhh”!  Sentimental sorts, prepare to be teary-eyed – this show gets me every time.  Watch carefully as the pyrotechnics will be unlike any you have ever seen (sappy me – getting choked up while I’m typing this – I’m not even there!).  You go see Wishes and tell me you are not profoundly touched…the only thing that will ruin it for you is the guy blocking your view by filming the show on his Smartphone/mini-cam/iPad (devices vary) – which he holds up, right in the way, the entire time.  Move away from that guy.  Give him the stink-eye as you go.

TIP:  If your little one just can’t stand loud noises – the fireworks are still enjoyable from afar.  Some restaurants at resorts on Bay Lake/Seven Seas Lagoon often offer Wishes-viewing-while-dining options.

There is actually one more show I need to mention, but you can only see it if you’re staying at a Magic Kingdom resort (Contemporary, Polynesian, or Grand Floridian, Wilderness Lodge, Fort Wilderness).  It’s the Electrical Water Pageant.  This little light-parade-on-water makes its way around Bay Lake and the Seven Seas Lagoon.  It’s like a bed-time story – a little something special at the end of the day to say good-night and wish you sweet dreams.  Starts around 9pm (visible at the Poly) and goes to around 10:20pm (passes the Contemporary last) – viewing depends on where you are.  Note the cheerfully snappy musical accompaniment!

Time to weigh in – which nighttime show at Disney World is your favorite?

Epcot’s The Seas with Nemo and Friends

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IMG_0979When you hear “Epcot”, what’s the first thing that comes to mind?  Spaceship Earth?  Soarin’?  Test Track?  The World Showcase, perhaps?  I don’t immediately think of any of those things.  I automatically think about The Seas with Nemo and Friends.  You don’t?  Well maybe it’s time to give it another try.  There’s so much packed under one roof in this (to me) underappreciated area in Epcot’s Future World (West).  I encourage you to take a closer look and give it a bit more consideration.  It’s a whole lot more than just place to escape for a while from the hot Florida sun or an afternoon rain shower…

“Oh, my God, Nemo’s shwimming out to shea!” – Nemo’s classmate, Finding Nemo

The Seas with Nemo and Friends began as The Living Seas in 1986 and was originally IMG_0981sponsored by United Technologies (until 2001).  Hydrolators (pretend under-seas elevators) took guests “down” to Seabase Alpha.  A pre-ride movie explained how the Earth’s oceans were formed before vehicles called Seacabs took visitors on a tour of coral reefs.  In the early 2000’s, the exhibit lost its sponsor and The Living Seas faded in popularity before being reinvigorated and re-named in 2006.

“Just keep swimming, just keep swimming, just keep swimming, swimming, swimming. What do we do, we swim, swim, swim.” – Dory, Finding Nemo

Today visitors to The Seas with Nemo and Friends will find an exciting, fun, and educational IMG_0980array of exhibits and attractions that offer something for everyone, every age to enjoy.  At the entrance, don’t miss the seagulls that yell “Mine!”  Great photo ops start outside the building’s entrance.

Here are the FIVE best things about The Seas with Nemo and Friends:

“It’s awesome, Jellyman. Little dudes are just eggs, we leave ’em on the beach to hatch, and then — koo-koo ka-choo! — they find their way back to the Big Ol’ Blue.” – Crush, Finding Nemo

IMG_28091.  Turtle Talk with Crush – DUDE!  This fantastically entertaining show provides guests an opportunity to interact with the coolest turtle in the seven seas.  Amazing technology allows Crush to see and talk to individual audience members – he tries to educate people about the lives of sea turtles while also asking people to explain strange and unknown things about humans to him.  Guaranteed laughs.  Amazing technology – No, I don’t want to know how it works…it’s magic!

2.  Manatees!  And other live animal exhibits allow visitors the chance to get up close with the likes of sharks, dolphins, rays, and more.  I particularly love the manatees (second level) – if you’re lucky, you’ll be there at the right time to listen to a Cast Member presentation about these endangered gentle giants.  Feeding time is also a lot of fun!  If you IMG_2776read my post on the Kilimanjaro Safari, then you know what happens when I see live animals.  Yep – I could stay right there and take pictures all day.  I have almost as many manatee pictures as I do of giraffes eating.  Don’t miss Mr. Ray’s Lagoon (first floor) for an up-close view of stingrays.

3.  Clamobiles!  Jump on into your ride vehicle and check out your favorite Finding Nemo characters as Marlin once again searches for his lost son – the show’s characters swim alongside real fish in the aquarium.

Ohhhh, let’s name the zones, the zones, the zones, let’s name the zones of the open sea! – Mr. IMG_2774Ray, Finding Nemo

4.  Bruce!  Our favorite shark in all the seas has his own exhibit next to the Turtle Talk entrance.  Bruce’s Sub House is a adorably crafted play area with many excellent photo ops – including posing as Bruce’s lunch!  Anchor and Chum are there, too, in this great place to learn and explore.  A great opportunity for little ones to enjoy a break from the confines of a stroller and burn off a little energy!

“I am a nice shark. Not a mindless eatin’ machine. If I am to change this image, I must first IMG_2008change myself. Fish are friends. Not food.” – Bruce, Chum, and Anchor, Finding Nemo 

5.  Coral Reef Restaurant – Enjoying a meal in this restaurant’s multi-level seating area is both a tasty and entertaining experience.  The main focal point for diners is a breathtaking view of The Sea’s aquarium.  While food reviews have been mixed (and disappointing) of late, the menu offers a wide variety of options with and without seafood as a main ingredient.  We have dined here (usually lunch) on several occasions and have never had a bad meal.  Make an informed dining decision with info here from All Ears.Net.  I will add that if you’re on the dining plan, Coral Reef uses one table service credit.

So?  You ready to give it another look?  If you’ve been to The Seas With Nemo and Friends lately, what did you think about it?

 

Top 10 New Year’s Resolutions – Disney Style

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Happy New Year Disney Fans!  I’m thankful for all the new friends I’ve made this year and appreciate every one of you for choosing to stop by here and join me in my Disney life.  To ring in the New Year properly, I think it calls for a declaration.  Ladies and Gentlemen of the Earhat-wearing variety….I give to you my Top Ten New Year’s Resolutions – Disney Style:      

General Dis Pics 12.26 0151.  See These Movies:

  • Muppets Most Wanted (3/21/14) – Been a huge fan my whole life – this is a can’t-be-missed movie for me!  The unresolved romance between Kermit and Piggy keeps me coming back for more.
  • Captain America:  The Winter Soldier (4/4/14) – I’m diggin’ all the Marvel movies and I think the Cap’s aces.
  • Million Dollar Arm (5/16/14) – I am just a girl who cannot resist a good baseball movie.
  • Maleficent (5/30/14) – Looks darkly intriguing – I think we will love to hate her!
  • Into the Woods (12/25/14) – Have heard so much about this show – can’t wait to see it!

2.  Book a Cruise – I’ve got a place-holder (aka “dummy”) cruise burning a hole in my pocket.  Since August when we re-booked onboard (while sailing on the Magic in the Mediterranean) – We are anxiously waiting to DSCN0685see what the rest of 2015’s sailings look like before making a final decision.  Wishing for Baltic (tie in to Frozen).

3.  Attend Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party – I have wanted to do this forever.  2014 is the year!

4.  Buy a Fancy New Earhat – sounds easy enough, but I have the most difficult time deciding on one – I always walk away with a Disney baseball cap instead.  Not this year.  No, sir.

5.  Eat This Food – I’m up for passing up old favorites and trying out some new places in 2014.  I’m thinking about these:

  • Be Our Guest – I know, right?  Everyone’s clamoring to get in there – I’ll be lucky to score a visit, but I’ve heard so much great stuff about it.  I’m at least resolving to try my best to get in!
  • Flying Fish – I’ve never eaten here.  Chime in if you think I should ditch this plan in favor of something else.
  • 1900 Park Fare – For a character meal it has always been Chef Mickey’s but now that we have “adult” children, I thought Lady Tremaine and the Steps might be a bunch of fun.
  • Hollywood Brown Derby – We have never eaten here and have always heard great things.  IMG_2382Even if we just sit in the new outdoor patio lounge – I’d like to give it a go.

6.  Find and Trade a Pin to Complete This Set!  I love pin trading and in 2014 I’m gonna be in-it-to-win-it!  Yeah, Baby!  Watch out flying Orange Bird – you are mine!

7.  Ride the Seven Dwarfs’ Mine Train – Ugh.  Feels like the Fantasyland expansion has been going on forever!  I am riding this ride, dadgummit – get out of my way.

8.  Try These Recipes:  (You may have seen my other posts on cooking Disney food here and here and here)  I like to cook – why not make it Disney food?  Thanks to AllEars.Net for the recipes.

9.  Try a Dole Whip:  They say confession is good for the soul – so now you know my darkest Disney Secret (one of them anyway)…I hid it way down here at #9 so maybe no one will notice.  I have never eaten a single bite of Dole Whip in my life.  Don’t judge me.

10.  Take Better Disney Pictures!  To my shame, my Disney pictures are mediocre at best.  The great computer crash of 2009 cost me dearly and I just need to learn to be a better photographer overall.  I buy really small cameras because they’re easy to carry.  I’m not sure if I’ll actually dish out more cash on yet another camera, but I’ll do what I can to make the most of what I’ve got.  Promise.

Well – that wraps up my top 10 resolutions for 2014!  What about you?  Whatcha got?  Did any of these make it to your list?  If starting a rigorous exercise program or going on a diet seem too strenuous for you, join me on my 2014 Disney resolution journey and we’ll conquer the World together. 

Wishing you a Happy, Healthy and Pixie-Dusted New Year….Lisa

Disney World – Best Time? ANYtime!

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IMG_3280As difficult as the transition to “Empty Nest” status has been, I’ve discovered one really great perk!  We can now go to Disney World any time we want to.  Any time of the year!  We are no longer tied to summers and school breaks – we can go during any season, any month, any special event!  We can plan our trip to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler weather if we want to or…not!  Okay, this empty-nest thing is looking UP!!!

In my heart I believe that ANY time at Disney World is better than just about anytime elsewhere, so I’ve put together a list of reasons to go to Disney World and things to do for every month in 2014.

January and February –

Two great months for runDisney fans and also a great time to take advantage of lower crowd levels and cooler, drier weather.  Average high temperatures are in the low 70’s, average lows are around 50-degrees and rainfall averages are around 2.5″ a month (compared to over 7″ per month in the summer).

The Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend is January 8-12, 2014  and offers participants the opportunity to run a 5k, 10k, and both a half and full marathon!  In February, runners flock to the Disney Princess Half Marathon and Princess 10k (Feb. 20-23).IMG_2746

Planning Note:  Unless you’re going to cheer on your loved one, non-runners may want to avoid those race weekends as those very popular events boost crowd levels tremendously.

March and April –

Epcot Flower and Garden Festival.  Even if you are ambivalent to horticulture, you will still be delighted by the many magical touches and pixie-dusted details that abound in Epcot in the spring.  The Flower Power Concert Series is part of the Festival and you would not BELIEVE the awesomeness of the bands in 2014’s lineup! (The Guess Who, Herman’s Hermits and The Lovin’ Spoonful – need I say more?)  New in 2014 – Kermit and Piggy will star! – immortalized in all the topiary glory those Epcot wizards have become famous for.  Also, if you’re there, don’t miss out on the IMG_2750Butterfly exhibit – an absolute must-do if you have little ones.

May –

As Flower and Garden wraps up in Epcot (ends May 18th), over at Disney Hollywood Studios, Star Wars Weekends are just getting started (weekends, May 16-June 8).  While I’m not a Star Wars geek, I’m enough of a fan to get a big kick out of all the Stars Wars-goings-on during this summer-long event.  Your little Jedi (under 12) can attend the Jedi Training Academy and you can meet (and get autographs from) some of the most famous Star Wars IMG_3531superstars in the world.  The Storm Troopers on top of the Studios’ entrance are SO cool – and not above providing a little fun photo op if you can get their attention.

June –

School’s out for summer and June’s a great time to visit Disney World!  The last Star Wars Weekend is June 8-10 then the Sounds Like Summer Concert Series at Epcot runs from about the second week of June to the last week of July.  This musical gathering of tribute bands offers guests some fantastic opportunities to have a rocking good time – included in Epcot park admission.

Expect afternoon thunderstorms and be prepared with rain ponchos (a good attitude doesn’t hurt either).  There are plenty of fun activities you can still enjoy even if the weather isn’t perfect.  At least those summer showers are usually short in duration and you can right back out photointo the action.

July –

It’s HOT, it’s crowded (with a ton of tour groups from our South American neighbors), but, with a little extra planning, you can still have an awesome Disney vacation.  Especially if you’re patriotic!  As with all holidays, Disney does Independence Day right!  While the official celebration activities have not been announced yet, you can bet that the Magic Kingdom fireworks will be spectacular!  Guaranteed to bring a tear to any red-white-and-blue-blooded American lucky enough to find a viewing spot on Main Street!  For anytime patriotic pleasure – go see the Voices of Liberty at the American Adventure in Epcot.  This a capella group is simply amazing and the acoustics in the rotunda are perfect!  Teary eyes and goose bumps guaranteed.

August –

IMG_0639As all the kiddos head back into the classroom – it’s still hot and sunny in Florida!  The second week in August is an ideal time to head to the World.  Crowds are much lower and one of the very best events in Disney World begins – Epcot’s International Food and Wine Festival.

Imagine if you will:  A morning spent hanging out by the very un-crowded resort pool to catch a few rays (sunscreen, people!) before heading over to  your massage appointment at one of the many resort spas at Disney World.  (Raymond recommends the “Custom Firm-Pressure Massage” at the Contemporary Resort’s Olympiad Fitness Center.)  After a quick, light lunch spend the rest of the afternoon on the attractions at your favorite park.  Finally, enjoy a relaxing evening out for dinner and drinks before taking in your favorite nighttime show – like Illuminations at Epcot or Wishes at the Magic Kingdom.  IMG_0062

September and October –

What a fantastic time to visit with and without children.  The parks get all decked out for Halloween and Magic Kingdom presents Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party on select dates through the first week of November.  Epcot’s International Food and Wine Festival is in full swing offering guests the chance to sample culinary treats (and special beverages) from around the world.

RunDisney Event Alert! 

  • October 4-5 is the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror 10-Miler Weekend
  • November 8-9 is the Wine and Dine Half Marathon Weekend

November and December –

Over at the Magic Kingdom, Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party helps you get into the holiday IMG_1044spirit on select dates beginning around the second week of November.  Spectacular holiday decorations are everywhere.  All the parks and every resort show off their seasonal best for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s celebrations.  Epcot presents Christmas Around the World as well as the Candlelight Processional (select dates).

Crowds are at their absolute extremes during these two months.  If you avoid Thanksgiving week and the Christmas to New Year’s Day period, you can find some less crowded days to enjoy.  If you go during school break expect capacity crowds – careful planning is a must but you can still make a visit during this wonderfully crazy time a very magical vacation indeed.

Are you taking a Disney vacation in 2014?  What time of year are you going?