Our ultimate guide to Rivers of Light is has some great info and tips for a successful evening in Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
…Ultimate Guide to Rivers of Light | Animal Kingdom
Attractions
Ultimate Guide to Fantasmic, Walt Disney World
Each of Walt Disney World’s 4 theme Parks has their own evening spectacular. Fantasmic is Hollywood Studio’s Nighttime show. Based on the 1940 film Fantasia and hosted by Sorcerer Mickey, Fantasmic brings countless Disney movies to life in a unique and fascinating way.
There are 4 different ways to enjoy Fantasmic on any given night; Fantasmic Dining Package (FDP), Desert and VIP viewing experience, Fastpass tickets and standard queues. Each of these options comes with their own set of seats, expectations and preparation tips.
This is our guide to all things Fantasmic. Be sure to watch until the end to view a DIY Fantasmic project to further enhance your experience.
How do I prepare for Fantasmic?
There can be long lines waiting for the show doors to open. Guests must be seated 15 minutes before the show starts. The Hollywood Hills Amphitheater has bench seating with no backs or padding.
The Hollywood Hills Amphitheater opens 90 minutes before show time for seating, and food is allowed inside. Get in line at least 45 minutes before the show time. This 30-minute show is usually performed two nights a week except during holidays and peak season when it’s held more frequently with two showings each night. During the holidays and peak season, take advantage of the second showing of Fantasmic!
To get a little perspective, Hollywood Studios has a max capacity of roughly 75,000 people. Fantasmic can fit 11,000 people.
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Fantasmic Dinner Package
The Fantasmic Dining Package is a set dining reservation at Hollywood Studios before the show, in which you receive a VIP seating voucher. While this sounds amazing and why wouldn’t everyone be on this immediately, there are a few cons to counter the pros.
Dinner won’t cost
Here’s the rundown of the FDP restaurant options.
Hollywood Brown Derby
- Available for lunch or dinner
- Package includes an entree, dessert, drink and seating voucher
- $62.99 for adults; $21.99 for children
- Costs 2 Table Service credits on the Disney Dining Plan
Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano
- Available for lunch or dinner
- Package includes an entree, dessert, drink and seating voucher
- $44.99 for adults; $17.99 for children
- Costs 1 Table Service credit on the Disney Dining Plan
Hollywood & Vine
- Available for dinner
- Package includes an all-you-can-eat buffet and seating voucher. Minnie and pals are at dinner.
- $53.99 for adults; $32.99 for children
- Costs 1 Table Service credit on the Disney Dining Plan
The package, which includes the Fantasmic! seating
Fantasmic Dining Package cancelation policy
You will be given guaranteed seating within 5 days. To attend on another night, valid theme park admission is required.
Per the website: In the event of a show cancelation due to inclement weather, guaranteed seating will be made available for an alternative performance within 5 days of the date you were originally scheduled to attend. Valid theme park admission is required. Please note that your dining experience will still take place, even in the event that your entertainment experience is canceled.
If you plan to visit more than one park
FDP know before you go
- Entrance tickets are required
- Arrive at least 25 minutes before the show to take your seat.
- Seats are not assigned. There is such a thing as better or worse VIP seats
- The entrance is on Sunset
blvd
How do I book the Fantasmic! Dining Experience?
You can book the package now for dates up to 180 days in advance by calling 1-407-WDW-DINE, or online at Disneyworld.com
This is not the same as booking ADR through the app. You need to select the package. If you already have the dining reservation selected, be sure to call and book the Fantasmic dining package, then remove the separate dining reservation from your My Disney Experience.
Fantasmic Dessert and VIP viewing experience
Unlike the desert parties at Magic Kingdom or Epcot, guests are given a box of Fantasmic themed sweet and savory deserts, a bottle of water and a drink (alcoholic or non-alcoholic), and a VIP seating pass.
This costs $39 per adult and $19 per child, and will be seated in the same VIP section as Fantasmic Dining Package guests. This is not covered by the Disney Dining Plan.
Fantasmic Fast pass+
Fantasmic also offers FP+ tickets for those not interested in the dining or desert package. These are not recommended as your first round of fast pass selection since they will not be used until park closure, which means no more selections throughout the day.
However, once you have used your initial, feel free to FP+ Fantasmic closer to the end of the evening.
Where to sit
As any amphitheater, there are no ‘bad’ seats. There are, however, best and better seats. Get as close to the middle as possible, and half way back. Getting too close to the front row means you run the risk of getting wet, but you will take amazing photos of the passing boats.
Also, it tends to get hot in the front row during the pyrotechnics.
Glow with the show
Disney has come up with some amazing technology over the years and now they have created these amazing EARS!!
Choose from 5 Made with Magic items, including:
- 3.0 Connected Ear Hat – Glow with the flow with this new hat that lights up and interacts with select Disney in-park and home entertainment experiences.
- Minnie Mouse Headband
- Sorcerer Mickey Wand
- Rivers of Light Totem Glow Wand
All Made with Magic accessories are programmed to light up at key moments, matching the colors and flashing to the beat throughout a variety of popular evening shows, including:
Park Experiences
- Fantasmic! at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
- Happily Ever After fireworks show at Magic Kingdom
- Once Upon A Time at Magic Kingdom
- Rivers of Light at Disney’s Animal Kingdom
- Select concerts at the America Gardens Theatre in the American Adventure Pavilion at Epcot
World Showcase at Epcot
Stroll along World Showcase promenade and watch with wonder as your Made with Magic items light up with the colors of each country’s flag.
The glow must go on! Guests can now use Bluetooth functionality and the in-app Color Remote from the Shop Disney Parks app to adjust the colors and speed of the strobe on their Made with Magic: 3.0 Connected Ear Hats, as well as others
Want To Make Your Backpack Magically Glow Along With Disney’s Light Shows?
As with all things Disney, I have once again fallen down the rabbit whole while researching Fantasmic and came across this wonderful piece of information.
YouTuber “Estefannie Explains It All” was able to convert her Minnie Magically Glow Along ears into a glowing backpack with a little engineering know-how. Making things even cooler, she had Mickey’s Sorcerer Wand (also part of the Made with Magic product line) which enabled her to control the bag’s LEDs while walking around. Take a look.
Fun Facts
- In the grand finale, 26 Disney characters cruise across the moat aboard a replica of the “Steamboat Willie” boat. At 80 feet long, it’s larger than Christopher Columbus’ Nina, Pinta and Santa Maria.
- To create a surface on which animation can be projected, water screens pump 2,400 gallons of water into the air every minute
Your Thoughts...
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Disney’s Hollywood Studios has so much movie magic to offer. With movies stars, and Hollywood glitz and glam. Let’s take a look at the thrill rides of this Disney Park.
…Things to Do with Kids While Waiting in Line at Disney
Waiting in line is never easy for young children, but after a long day of fun and excitement at Disney, it can be especially challenging for them. Being prepared with some simple activities children can do while standing in line can make the wait much easier for everyone
Keeping Kids Entertained while Waiting in Line at Disney World
Games & Apps
Sometimes the lines are too long to just stand around and not long enough to really get into a game. Or they just have zero interest in talking to you and just want to mindless watch/play something before flipping out from over-stimulation. This was the case when we lined up for Mickey and the Magician at Disneyland Paris. It was almost her nap time so holder her was not an option – but we did want to get in line early enough to get good seats.
Out came the iPhone with 20GB Data plan and no roaming fees across Europe. I opened YouTube and played a few episodes of Peppa Pig and everyone was happy. We even caught the attention of a few other children and they all started to gather around my little 5.5 inch iPhone screen. I bet those parents were happy that I came prepared just as much as I was.
Hidden Mickeys
Mickey is ALL OVER the Disney parks. In fact, there’s a whole guidebook devoted to finding them in obscure places. Even if there isn’t one near you or in your queue, let them look and make up their own. Who are they hurtin?
Bubble Fun
We always have small bottles of bubbles stowed in our touring bag. It doesn’t need to be big, just large enough entertain for 30-45 minutes while in the queue. Though I would suggest, only using them when outside in the queue, or in a covered outdoor queue. Blowing bubbles inside can lead to stickiness and overall a poor experience for others.
Take & Look at Pictures
Interactive and themed queues are amazing to look at and we love taking pictures of everything in the line up. It’s also great to take pictures of the kids in the queue or the wall art itself. The kids will also probably be curious about all those pictures you have been taking throughout the day and this is a great time to go through them and free up some space by deleting the bad images.
Study Your Paper Disney Map
Even before he could read, he loved to study the maps. He would check out the pictures and try to identify the rides, and ask about each one. If we were traveling more than a few feet to get to the next attraction, we let him carry his own map and “navigate” our way there.
Snack Break
Kids gotta eat, why not kill two birds with one stone and snack while in the line. This was taken while waiting for the Disneyland Railroad, but we have been known for having them finish their lunch (especially if one or both fell asleep before they could eat), snack on today’s purchase of popcorn or whatever I had packed in our lunch bag.
While we were waiting for Ratatouille one year, the family in front of us whipped out a massive haul of sweeties and treats for their kids to eat while waiting in the 45 minute queue. It was the first ride of the day and we didn’t feel they needed snacks at this time, 20 minutes later they said there was a problem and we would have to wait a little longer before boarding… those snacks started to look pretty appealing. Lucky for us, I did have something in my bag, or I would have been asked to grab something at a near by vendor; “why is she having a snack and we can’t?” Sound familiar?
Interactive Queues
There are several Magic Kingdom attractions with interactive queues. My two favourites are Pirates of the Caribean and Star Tours. The kids have something to focus on, and the lines tend to move fast enough that they aren’t bored with the one scene before it’s time to move on to another. Buzz Lightyear Ranger Spin comes in at a close 3rd place; they love Toy Story!
Light-up toys (at night)
Once the sun goes down, it’s time to bring out the light-up toys. Everyone is going to have some sort of toy or glow stick so there is no way to get away from that conversation – by providing your own from home, you can save a little money for something more important… like a souvenir for yourself.
Apply Sunscreen
So this one is pushing it a little but it needs to be done. Check out our suggestions for best sunscreen for kids while your on that train of thought.
Play a Disney-Inspired Game
There are a handful of games that will tap into a child’s imagination and it requires little to no prep. Pictionary just requires a piece of paper and a pen, which you should have anyway if you are planning on journaling. I have a set in my bag at all times because I have no idea when and where I will need to take notes or when the kids will want to draw something. Who Am I? is another great game to play with the kids; describe a character from a movie they have seen and see how long it takes for them to guess correctly. I Spy also works great too with the little ones; helps them learn their colours.
Journal Your Memories
If the kids are asleep in the carrier or they are interested in helping out (or have their own journal to
Printable Games
Download some Disney word search and crosswords. You can find a handful of them in our new shop.
Plan Your Next Meal
If you haven’t made Advanced Dining Reservations for each meal, take this time to ask the kids when and where they would like to have their next meal or snack. You may have already made a decision, in which case, reviewing the menu and even doing some Mobile Ordering is a great way to pass the time.
Take a Nap?
Depending on the expected length of the queue, and the gear you have brought along with you, it is completely reasonable to allow a little one to nap while in long lines. Ideally, one would have a soft carrier and front carry the toddler.
Play with a Toy
I know that I have always said that we leave lovey’s in the hotel room but sometimes little cheap toys manage to find their way out of the room. They hide out in mommy’s park bag until they are desperately needed, then go right back in just before boarding the attraction. Minimizing the amount of time the toy is out of the bag greatly reduces the chances that it will be lost. This does, however, increase the chances of another child wanting to play too.
When he was only 2 years old, we took him to Disneyland Paris for the first time. We bought him a Jake and the Neverland Pirate figurine set, Captain Hook pictured below. Between the store and the hotel, we decided to ride the Disney Railroad. We opened the bag and let out a few of the figures. Another little boy was waiting patiently with his family sans entertainment. It didn’t take long for him to make his way over to use and ask to play along. Surprisingly, mine didn’t have a problem with sharing and they played very well for the 20 minutes it took for the train to arrive.
He can share with a stranger but not his sister?
Don’t forget to Download this free PDF Checklist. So you never have to think about what to do while waiting in line, it’s already planned out and waiting.
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How to Use FastPass at Walt Disney World
One of the biggest mysteries surrounding your Disney World vacation is FastPass+. What are Fastpasses, how do you reserve them and what do you do once you’ve arrived at Walt Disney World? We will answer all of these questions and more.
FastPass+ (“FastPass Plus” or “FP+”)
Who can make FastPass+ reservations at Disney World?
Disney’s FastPass+ is a system for reserving attraction times in the Walt Disney World theme parks. Guests staying at Walt Disney World Resort hotels, including the Walt Disney World Swan & Dolphin hotels, can make FastPass+ reservations up to 60 days in advance of check-in for their entire length of stay. Guests staying offsite can make reservations; up to 30 days in advance of each day of their theme park visit. In other words, one day at a time.
FastPass+ replaced the original FASTPASS system in the parks, and physical FASTPASS tickets are no longer distributed. Your FastPass+ selections are stored with your My Disney Experience profile accessible via your RFID plastic tickets or MagicBands.
What Does This Cost?
There is no fee to use FastPass+ — it’s available to everyone and free with park admission.
What are MagicBands?
Magic Bands are a handy, rubber bracelet, that controls everything you do while at Walt Disney World.
Your MagicBand serves as your room key, park entrance ticket, Memory Maker and can be used to make purchases at the resort during your hotel stay. Everything that your My Disney App can do, is accessible from your Magic Band.
Do I need a MagicBand?
It is not necessary to own or purchase a set of Magic Bands. Disney gives them out for ‘free’ when staying onsite but offsite guests will receive RFID plastic cards for their entrance tickets. These are easy enough to use and serve the same purpose.
How do I get a MagicBand?
If you are staying at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel, all members of your party will be given MagicBands free of charge. Depending on how far in advance you book your resort stay, you will have the option of choosing the colors of your bands and having them shipped to you.
If you are not staying at a resort, you have the option of purchasing the bands starting at $12.95 + tax in the park or online.
How far in advance can I make a FastPass+ reservation?
FastPass+ reservations can be made up to 60 days in advance of check-in for their entire length of stay. Guests staying offsite can make reservations up to 30 days in advance of each day of their theme park visit. In other words, one day at a time.
How do I make FastPass+ reservations?
The first thing to do is make sure you’ve already purchased tickets. You will also need to create an account on Disney World’s My Disney Experience website in order to make FastPass+ reservations. Your tickets need to be linked to your My Disney Experience account. This is how Disney knows how many people are on your reservation, how to allocate each reservation to each family member, and how many days you are allowed to book a FastPass+.
Have a plan in place. Decide which time to book your fast passes. Know which days you will be in each park, though this was probably decided when making Advanced Dining Reservations at 180 days before check-in.
On the day your booking window opens, you’ll be able to get FastPass+ starting at 7 a.m. EST. Once online, you can book your three daily reservations one at a time. You also get to see all of the available time slots in the morning, afternoon or evening. We suggest booking any group rides together; attractions in which the whole group will be riding, as opposed to attractions that you will be splitting up.
To make or change FastPass+ selections while you’re at the parks, use the app or an in-park terminal.
Does the group need to stick together?
No. If part of the group (on the account you are managing) wants to do something else, simply book them elsewhere. There are no rules regarding all members having the same FastPass+ selections. When booking, you will be prompted to select which family member wants a reservation for each ride.
Keep note of age limits and seat capacity. We don’t want to be leaving mum alone with more children than can fit in a single carriage. Other rides have a minimum age requirement for riding alone. All of this should be researched before your selection date, as you will be allowed to make the reservations, they just won’t be honoured at the attraction entrance.
How many FastPass+ do I get per day?
Guests can make three advance reservations for rides and experiences per day via the My Disney Experience website, the app or the in-park kiosks. Those three reservations must be made for use in one park only.
Note that at Epcot, Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Disney’s Hollywood Studios a tiered structure is in place for the most in-demand attractions. Guests can only make one selection from the Tier 1 attractions and entertainment and two selections from the Tier 2 list at those parks. You can make additional FastPass+ reservations after you’ve used your first three (or the return times have passed) in the park.
Where Are the In-Park Terminals?
FastPass+ terminals can be found at kiosks in the following locations
Note: locations sometimes change
Magic Kingdom FastPass+ Kiosks
Adventureland / Frontierland: In the covered pathway that connects the two. The entrances are across from the Swiss Family Treehouse and next to the Diamond Horseshoe.
Adventureland: Next to the Jungle Cruise entrance
Fantasyland: Outside Mickey’s PhilharMagic
Storybook Circus: In the tent near Pete’s Silly Sideshow
Tomorrowland: Near the Buzz Lightyear Space Ranger Spin entrance
Tomorrowland: Near Stitch’s Great Escape
Epcot FastPass+ Kiosks
Future World West: In the breezeway across from Epcot Character Spot
Future World East: In the breezeway on the way toward Mission: SPACE
World Showcase: At the International Gateway
Disney’s Hollywood Studios FastPass+ Kiosks
Hollywood Boulevard: At the corner of Hollywood and Sunset
Sunset Boulevard: At the split between Tower of Terror and Rock n Roller Coaster
Pixar Place: Just to the right of the Toy Story Mania entrance
Disney’s Animal Kingdom FastPass+ Kiosks
Discovery Island: Near the Island Mercantile store
Asia: Near the entrance to Kali River Rapids
Africa: Near Dawa Bar and Tusker House restaurant
How Does a FastPass+ Work When I’m in the Theme Parks? How do I use FastPass+ in the park?
Most FastPass+ ride reservations specify a one-hour window during which you may enter the attraction.
When you arrive at an attraction with your FastPass+, you’ll be directed to a separate, shorter “FastPass+ Return” line. To enter the line, you must validate your reservation by touching your MagicBand or RFID ticket to a reader at the FastPass+ Return entrance.
What if I am late/need to modify my reservations?
Technically, guests have a 1-hour window to check in to the FastPass queue. If you are a few minutes late, it becomes up to the Cast Member at the FastPass entrance to decide if you may ride. More than just a few minutes late, and we recommend modifying your selection to something else.
While not showing up doesn’t cost you anything, it will still come out of your allotted 3 initial selections. Modifying is always better than just letting it slip.
Can I Make Reservations for Every Ride?
No, not all rides have FastPass+ capability. Disney only offers FastPass+ at select popular attractions. Specific FastPass+ information for each theme park is linked below.
- Magic Kingdom FastPass+ Advice and Tips
- Epcot FastPass+ Advice and Tips
- Hollywood Studios FastPass+ Tips and Advice
- Animal Kingdom FastPass+ Tips and Advice
Obtaining More FastPass+ Reservations In the Parks
Make use of extra FastPass+ reservations after you have used your first three. Once you have used these 3 pre-selected FastPasses, you can then make additional FastPass+ reservations, one at a time, while you are at Walt Disney World, through your smartphone app or at an available Kiosk.
For your initial 3 FastPasses, you are required to make them all within the same park. After that, you are able to move on to another park and pre-select another FastPass for later that day.
Attention, Park Hoppers!
You can only make advanced FastPass+ reservations in one park per day, we just covered that. So if you’re planning on starting the day in one park and hopping over to another in the afternoon, know that you can only make advance FastPass+ reservations at one park. We recommend you use FastPass+ at the second park you’re headed to since you will be starting the first park when crowd levels are at their lowest.
FastPass+ and Rider switch
Technically, the policy is that everyone must have a FastPass is utilizing FastPass+ in conjunction with Rider Switch. There are certain rides that they are not enforcing this as much as others, but there is no guarantee that it will not be an issue when the new electronic system for Rider Switch comes into play.
They are closing the loophole and requiring FastPass+ for everyone if the first group uses FastPass+. They do still allow the second group to have up to 3 guests ride alone, so it is definitely Rider Switch and that is actually what the system was designed for was to allow one parent in the first group to enjoy the ride with the older kids and then the second parent in the second group to enjoy with the older kids. So yes, there is the perk that the older children (or any guests up to 3) get to enjoy the ride a second time so that the person who waited with the little one is not riding alone.
Rules About Selecting FastPasses
In addition to limiting the number of FastPass+ you can have, Disney has several other rules related to FastPass+ selection.
- Disney prevents guests from obtaining certain combinations of FastPass+ reservations. For example, you cannot schedule more than one pre-planned FastPass+ per attraction.
- FastPass+ times may not overlap.
- Disney limits the combinations of FastPass+ reservations you can have. The practice, known informally as “FastPass+ Tiers,” is in effect at Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom.
What are the fast pass tiers for the parks?
At Magic Kingdom Park, you may book the first 3 FastPass+ entitlements from any of the participating FastPass+ attractions there. When selecting your initial 3 FastPass+ choices at the other 3 Disney theme parks, you may pick one attraction from the FastPass+ Tier 1 category and then 2 from the FastPass+ Tier 2 group. Below is the current list of tiered attractions and entertainment options.
Our FastPass strategy
You should use FastPass+ no matter how empty you think the parks will be when you visit.
You will still see the lowest waits of the day in the first few hours of rope drop. We recommend riding the highest priority attractions with the lowest wait times when crowds are lowest and saving your FastPass+ selections until late morning and early afternoon when crowds are at their peak.
If you arrive before park opening, you’ll be in prime position to ride most of the major attractions before lunchtime and maybe have used one of your FastPasses.
When traveling with children, this is also a great way to reduce the amount of time they are in line while tired, as well as using a Rider Switch/Fastpass hybrid touring plan while they are napping in the parks.
Choose your FastPass+ selections wisely
Disney more than doubled the number of attractions that accept FastPass+ over the previous FastPass system. We’re all in favor of more choices, but all attractions aren’t created equally. You want to make sure you use your FastPass+ selections on your favorite rides and those priority attractions with the longest wait times. To help you out, we made a list of priority attractions.
Check out our Fastpass+ priority list here
Choose the rides that are important to YOU and YOUR FAMILY
There is only so much planning we can do for you before it is time to make a choice and select your FastPasses.
If you’re traveling with young children who aren’t 40 inches tall, character experiences might be your priority. Or you have a couple of thrill seekers that want to do them all a few times per day; then rope drop the priority rides and select FastPasses for the afternoon.
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Be among the first Guests to enjoy select attractions—and an all-you-care-to-enjoy breakfast!
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To which I earn a small commission, at zero cost to you!
Find more info in our Privacy Policy.
Disney seems to be ramping up their “add-ons” and some of them are better than others. Early Morning Magic was recently introduced and it seems to be popular with those that have tried it.
During regular opening hours, Early Morning Magic allows paying guests to enter the parks early and experience unlimited access the most popular Fantasyland/Toy Story Land attractions during the duration of the event. Because you have just spent the last 1-2 hours on the top 3 popular rides in each park, your Fastpass selections can reflect as such – choosing rides or shows that you love, but otherwise would have put off in favor of Tier 1 attractions.
Instead of purchasing Club-Level Rooms or Suites and VIP Tour Guests just to have access to additional Fastpasses, why not take that and invest it in purchasing Early Morning Magic. Between the Magic Kingdom and Hollywood Studios, these hours are available on days that Early Magic Hours are not offered – they are not stacking one early entrance day with another.
It gets better! Now that you have had your fill (if that’s possible) of these amazing rides, you are now starting your day that much further ahead from the crowd during rope drop. While you are finishing up breakfast and heading to ride #4 on your bucket list, the hoards of people behind you are rushing to Seven Dwarfs Mine Train or Toy Story Mania!
Please note: regular theme park admission is also required.
For reservations, please make your purchase online or call the Disney Reservation Center at (407) 827-7350 for assistance.
Disney Early Morning Magic; The Magic Kingdom, Fantasy Land
Disney Early Morning Magic access to Fantasy Land takes place from 7:45 AM to 10:00 AM on select Sundays and Tuesdays. Admission is available for $69 per adult and $59 per child.
Starting at 7:45 AM, event Guests will be admitted into the park and guided into Fantasyland. Guests arriving after 7:45 AM should check in inside the park at Liberty Square Bridge.
Be sure to check out Is Early Morning Magic worth the extra expense? – The Trip Report
Greet the day the early-morning-fun way with these 7 iconic Fantasyland attractions:
- The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh
- Seven Dwarfs Mine Train
- Peter Pan’s Flight!*
- Princess Fairytale Hall
- “it’s a small world”
- Mad Tea Party
- Under the Sea ~ Journey of the Little Mermaid
From 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM, breakfast will be available at Pinocchio Village Haus.
Pro Tip; Arrive for breakfast closer to 9:30 am. This allows for plenty of solo rides, maximizing your EMM time, while not forfeiting your free and included breakfast.
In addition to having access to favorite Fantasyland attractions, a breakfast buffet at Pinocchio Village Haus is also included and features some of the following breakfast items:
- Chilled juices, coffee, and teas
- Seasonal fruit and berries
- Freshly baked pastries
- Cheese and cured meats
- Scrambled eggs with assorted toppings
- Vegetable Frittata
- Smoked bacon
- Pork and chicken sausages
- Fried potatoes with caramelized onions
- French toast
- Assorted Yogurts
Starting on Dec. 2, Early Morning Magic will be bigger and better than ever! The number of attractions available for you to experience will double, adding Princess Fairytale Hall, “it’s a small world”, Mad Tea Party, Under the Sea – Journey of the Little Mermaid.
Amongst other changes starting December 2, breakfast will be served at Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café.
This newly expanded Early Morning Magic will take place select Tuesdays and Sundays and will cost $79 for adults and $69 for children (regular theme park admission is also required). Admission will be limited, so be sure to book your reservation as soon as possible!
Disney Early Morning Magic Hollywood Studios – Toy Story Land
Exclusive Disney Early Morning Magic access to Toy Story Land takes place on select Mondays and Wednesdays from 7:30 AM to 8:45 AM.
Breakfast will be available until 10:00 AM. Breakfast will be available from 8:30 AM to 10:00 AM. Breakfast is included in the event ticket price and features a continental buffet with yogurt, fruit, pastries, and assorted cereal, as well as the choice of a main dish like smashed Avocado Toast Egg Plate or fried chicken, served with a cronut, Mexican Corn Chilaquiles and Eggs Bowl, Shrimp and Southern Grits Bowl, Fried Chicken and Cinnamon Sugar French Donut Bowl or Breakfast Charcuterie Platter.
Special event admission is available for $79 per adult (ages 10 and older) and $69 per child (ages 3 to 9); tax not included. Please note: regular theme park admission is also required.
During this special event, the only attractions available will be Slinky Dog Dash, Alien Swirling Saucers and Toy Story Mania! along with opportunities to meet Buzz, Woody, and Jessie.
Guests must be 38” or taller to experience Slinky Dog Dash and 32” or taller to experience Alien Swirling Saucers.
Reservations can be made online or by calling the Disney Reservation Center at (407) 827-7350.
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What to expect when you are expecting… at Walt Disney World
There is no reason to avoid Walt Disney World just because you are pregnant. There are still plenty of rides and activities to keep you busy and entertained. Knowing in advance what types of rides to avoid while pregnant will save walking time and disappointment.
[thrive_text_block color=”teal” headline=””] Important! The tips below apply to most healthy pregnancies but you should always consult with your doctor about specific cautions relating to visiting the Disney theme parks during your pregnancy. [/thrive_text_block]
Why the restrictions?
As mentioned in my Disneyland Paris while Pregnant article, the Disney Company is concerned about the baby that mum is carrying and the types of complications that can arise from using their attractions.
This rigorous activity creates additional jarring forces within the uterus that may lead to premature separation of the placenta from the wall of the uterus, which is called placental abruption.
It also has to do with accessibility guidelines. We’ve all seen those videos of attractions breaking down while guests are riding them. Some rides, however, require guests to climb down on ladders and through narrow tunnels to get out of the attraction safely. While the ride itself may be perfectly suited for mum and her bundle of joy, the emergency exit is not.
Choosing the right rides – What to ride at Disney World when you’re pregnant?
If it’s safe for little ones, it is likely safe for you as well. That is to say, most rides without height restrictions are suitable for pregnant women.
There are some rides that say are not allowed for pregnant women but are suitable for toddlers. These are the types of rides that Disney fans would constitute “use at your own risk” rides. They are physically safe for both mum and baby, but pregnant women may not able to physically fit or get down to the ride. These are arguably suitable for those in the early months of their pregnancy. Again, consult a doctor and use your own judgment.
Walt Disney World rides to avoid during pregnancy
Rides all have signs posted near the entrance warning of any exclusions or limitations for physical considerations; these attractions will have a red triangle next to them on the Disney theme park map. This means
According to Disney themselves:
Walt Disney World Resort offers many shows and attractions that expectant mothers may not be able to experience. Be sure to consult the signage posted at each attraction—which includes height requirements, health and safety advisories, and accessibility guidelines.
Rides with height restrictions, any ride that has bumps, jerks, drops or high speeds and avoid rides where kids are in control ie Tomorrowland Speedway.
Since there are more rides that you can ride, than can’t, here is are the official Walt Disney World Resort shows and attractions that expectant mothers may not be able to experience. Be sure to consult the signage posted at each attraction—which includes height requirements, health and safety advisories, and accessibility guidelines.
For information on attractions, entertainment and more that expectant mothers can enjoy at Walt Disney World Resort, please call (407) 939-5277.
Thank you, Kayla, at mommyofaprincess.com for the photo
Tips for doing Walt Disney World while Pregnant
Disney Disability Access Pass doesn’t affect pregnant women
- Unlike Disneyland Paris, Walt Disney World does not consider pregnancy to be a “temporary disability or limitation”. This means all pregnant women must wait in the traditional queue, regardless of the heat or length of the wait. Keep this in mind when making your touring plans and FastPass+ selections
Use the wait time to rest
While you can’t bring a chair or stool into the parks, there are ways of waiting for rides without standing around all day. Depending on the length of the queue, we have a few suggestions.
- Use Rider Swap to get access to the FastPass lines after our partner has to wait in the standby line. This requires you to have one or more children with you.
- “Line jump”. Some would consider this suggestion as line jumping, though I disagree. If partner and the family are all waiting in the standby line, while mum waits quietly on a park bench in the shade. When the family is close enough to the front, mum politely makes her way to the front. This requires everyone you are passing to accept your “jumping” and for there to be enough room in the queue for you to pass without bumping your bump.
- There have been stories of Cast Members allowing expectant mothers to meet their family at the boarding area, after having walked up via Fastpass or Disability lane, while they use the standby queue. Similar to the “line jump” option, just without the unpleasant people passing. As long as everyone else has used the standby line, there shouldn’t be a problem.
Again, these are just anecdotal suggestions and the final verdict comes down to the Cast Member in charge of the attraction entrance.
Visit during the offseason
This will help you to avoid crowds and the heat.
Follow the map
Even after months of planning, there is usually something that has been forgotten. Consult the map early and often to see the rides with height restrictions and pregnancy limitations.
Thank you, Marcie, at marcieinmommyland.com for the photo
Consider deluxe resorts
Deluxe resorts offer more amenities within their hotel rooms, the locations are that much closer to two major Disney Parks and transit from these resorts tend to be less crowded. All good things when expecting.
Shoes
When pregnant at Walt Disney World, it is doubly important that expectant mothers have proper shoes. Your feet are already swollen and sore from the pregnancy, add to that the hard work of touring all day and you have a recipe for pain at bedtime. Check out our guide for the best shoes for touring Walt Disney World and get a few tips about foot care at the same time.
Snacks
Just like a toddler is always hungry, so will mum. Bring snacks and don’t be afraid to bring them out whenever you are feeling a little hungry. It is important to keep your energy up.
Hydration
Hydration is another great way to keep the swelling down and energy up. Keep hydrated with these reusable water bottles and learn the signs and symptoms of dehydration to prevent any unforeseen complications while on vacation.
Know where the bathrooms are
Every expectant mother can attest to this tip. Know where the bathrooms are in relation to every ride and go whenever you get the chance. I’m not saying people will allow pregnant women to jump the queue for the loo but it has been known to happen, especially if she is doing the peepee dance.
Plan your rest stops
It is important to have breaks, especially during the summer months, to keep the strain off your feet and back. Plan for a few rides that you can’t get on, in between the rides you can.
When this isn’t possible, or you feel that a nap is warranted, try clumping all of the inaccessible rides together and make a plan to rejoin the family for dinner. Having a nap in the quiet, cool, hotel room is always better than 20 minutes breaks on a park bench twiddling your thumbs. This is when having a hotel near the Parks come in handy.
There is lots of walking involved in a Walt Disney World Resort vacation, so be sure to wear super comfy shoes, stay hydrated, and take breaks to rest. You may want to consider pampering yourself with a relaxing pregnancy massage at one of Disney’s spas while you’re here, too!
Don’t forget to wear awesome maternity shirts like these.
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25 Things to Know About Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge
With all the details coming from Disney about Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, and you can click here to read the latest details. For those who are unfamiliar with Galaxy’s Edge, the new attraction will take you inside the world of Star Wars with your own story and missions which is more immersive than just an open theme park where you wander around to various shops and rides.
Disney’s Galactic Nights event at Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World in May 2018, added new details. Our list includes details from the December 2017 panel which pre-dates Mouse Travel Matters.
Mouse Travel Matters presents 25 Things to Know about Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.
- The action takes place on the new planet of Batuu.
- Specifically, it is set to be a remote frontier outpost that has become the perfect home for the underworld and a thriving spaceport.
- The village you’ll be visiting is called Black Spire Outpost.
- Your Star Wars Story will be yours to discover as you walk through the attraction.
- Its size and scale are unprecedented. The accuracy and detail level on everything is a big deal. With the movies, it is easy to cheat they scale a 360-degree experience does not allow for that. It has to look ‘for reals’ from every angle.
- A full-sized Millennium Falcon will be docked at the spaceport, so you don’t have to worry.
- You will not only be behind the controls of the Millennium Falcon in one of the stories, you will board the Falcon itself! It is set to be a focal point of the new park.
- Another ship will represent the resistance and have its own ride attraction placing you in a battle between First Order and Resistance forces.
- Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is rapidly advancing on a 14-acre development.
- The global scale of this project is epic with 5000 people globally working on bringing this project to life at both Disneyland and Walt Disney World from constructing vehicles to props to set design and more.
- They’ve been working with fabrication shops and experts in Asia and around the world to have things built to size and scale.
- They have built full-size AT-ATs. Yes—plural. They promise to be imposing and intimidating.
- Like any good Star Wars story, not everything is going to go according to plan on your mission.
- There will be another ship in addition to the Millennium Falcon, a Resistance troop transport.
- There are two ships at Galaxy’s Edge, you can take a journey on. But there will be more than two ships to discover in the land.
- When you call someone about Star Wars it’s not tough to get people and companies to pitch in. One of the panellists noted, when Disney calls about Star Wars, there is “nobody that doesn’t want to take that call”.
- Galaxy’s Edge content is being developed alongside the movie production in the UK, so you will be seeing film-accurate prop reproductions and set dressings when you visit.
- Props and set dressings are being gathered from all over the world from California scrapyards to markets in Asia.
- A special character Nien Nunb returns to join you on your adventure. Nien Nunb, a fan favourite, was previously in Return of the Jedi and The Force Awakens.
- Disney has pulled out all the stops including finding the original voice actor for this character, travelling as far as Kenya to get the original Nien Nunb voice actor to record new lines.
- The Disney Imagineers have stated. The challenge is doing it as well as the hardcore fans who have been doing Star Wars props such as blasters, helmets, costumes, and fan art for 40 years “We are trying to keep up with you (The Fans)”. And to the fans, it was stated: “We are trying to do it as good as you.”.
- They will have a come to life creature stall in the shopping market and you might even get to take one home. Also, bringing a loth-cat to life and perhaps you can bring one home.
- Characters that have never existed before outside the books and animated series, will be brought to life.
- Disney Imagineering’s goal is to make Black Spire Outpost feel like a real location.
- This is the largest land most cutting-edge expansion Disney has ever done.
Coming to Disneyland and Walt Disney World in 2019. “Why build one, when you can build two at twice the price.”
They imagined there used to be mammoth trees and then those trees petrified and became rock. There’s on central spite that was unique and blacker and became a waypoint for criminals. This is where your adventure begins.
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge arrives at Disneyland Resort in summer 2019 and at Walt Disney World in fall 2019.
Watch the full Galaxy’s Edge presentation from Galactic Nights below:
Excellent coverage via BigFatPanda
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Please share your thoughts in the comments or reach out on social media...We would love to hear from you.
