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If you’ve visited Downtown Disney at Walt Disney World Resort lately, you’ve most likely noticed the many changes underway as the area transforms into Disney Springs – it’s the largest expansion in Downtown Disney history and, when completed, will double the area’s number of dining and retail options. Through this expansion, guests can continue to enjoy more than 70 themed and immersive shopping, dining and entertainment venues day and night. One of my personal favorites is the new Marketplace Co-Op, which has unique Disney boutique shops and has been featured several times here on the Disney Parks Blog. The surrounding roadways and parking areas at Downtown Disney are growing too and will eventually offer easier access to the area. Today we have two new renderings to share with you that showcase the work that is already underway, which includes widening Lake Buena Vista Drive from seven to 10 lanes and constructing two multilevel garages (the first of which, pictured above, is set to open by late 2014 to offer 4,000 parking spaces). Two pedestrian bridges are also planned that will help lead guests into Disney Springs near the current Marketplace side, while the other will offer access in through the West Side. As you can see above, the changes will also include a new I-4 interchange that will offer guests direct access to Disney Springs. All of this work is part of the area’s transformation into Disney Springs, which will continue into 2016. The first phase of the expansion, an area called The Landing, will open in 2015 to offer lakefront shopping and dining. In the meantime, if you are planning to visit Downtown Disney for activities with set times, such as Cirque du Soleil performances, concerts or movies, early arrival is suggested. Be sure to stay tuned to the Disney Parks Blog for future updates. For more on Disney Springs at Walt Disney World Resort, click the link below: Announcing Disney Springs at Walt Disney World ResortConnecting All That’s New at Downtown DisneyTop Tips to Make the Most of Your Downtown Disney Visit at Walt Disney World ResortNew Renderings Offer A Glimpse at the Future Access to Disney Springs by Jennifer Fickley-Baker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Outside the snow isn’t falling, but friends are calling, “Yoo hoo… Now is the time to make your reservations!” You may think it’s too early, but now is a great time to book your holiday sleigh ride at the Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground! Holiday sleigh rides begin on November 28th and run nightly through December 30th. Each sleigh holds up to 4 adults (or two adults and 3 children). The 25-minute sleigh ride is $70 per sleigh and includes 1 collector’s pin per reservation. As we await the holiday season, the Tri-Circle-D Ranch offers plenty of year round activities to keep you busy. Guests over nine years old can enjoy a 45-minute horseback ride through Florida’s natural wilderness, and for the younger riders, pony rides are a great introduction to our 4-legged equine friends! If you just can’t wait until the holiday season to relax, carriage rides are offered throughout the year at Disney’s Fort Wilderness and Campground and Port Orleans Resort! Book your favorite equestrian activity by calling 407-WDW-Play! For more from the “Wildlife Wednesday” series, check out the posts below: Wildlife Wednesday: The Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund Is Helping Preserve Hisssss-tory Wildlife Wednesday: When You Think of Elephants at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. . . Think Big! Wildlife Wednesday: Get Outside This Weekend by Participating in the Great American Backyard Campout Wildlife Wednesday: It’s Lovely Weather To Book A Sleigh Ride Together With You at Walt Disney World! by Mark Beatty: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

The Wilderness Lodge at Walt Disney World is a fabulous escape! Even if you’re not staying at this inspiring resort, we highly recommend making an Advance Dining Reservation for the Whispering Canyon Café. Today, guest author Rebecca Elliott shares a breakfast review. Learn About: Whispering Canyon CafeDisney World RestaurantsWe like to eat breakfast at the Whispering Canyon Café when we stay at the Wilderness Lodge. It’s convenient, the portions are hearty, and there’s usually no wait for a table. (Even so, get the Advance Dining Reservation – just in case! You never know!) AtmosphereMy family and I love staying at the Wilderness Lodge. The hotel is modeled after the Old Faithful Inn in Yellowstone National Park, a historic landmark built in 1904. Its lobby is inspired by the Pacific Northwest and is absolutely stunning. Like most of Disney’s deluxe hotels, the Wilderness Lodge has three levels of dining options: counter service, family-ish, and fancy schmancy. Whispering Canyon Café is the moderately priced (for Disney) family restaurant located just off the hotel lobby. The View of the Breath Taking Wilderness Lodge Lobby The Dining Features Graphics and Elements of a Child’s Playroom in the 50′s The décor of the Whispering Canyon Café reminds me of a little boy’s bedroom in the 50’s. It’s decked out in a cowboy and Indian motif with a Lincoln log-like ceiling and a floor that looks like a homemade quilt. The Chairs Are Adorned with Cowboys and Indians Here Are the Cowboys and Lincoln Log Ceiling The wait staff take on the persona of wayward cowboys out to have a good time. They encourage diners to take part in their hijinks, which include singing, pony races, and general tomfoolery. Chandeliers are Adorned with Buffalo Cut Outs Here’s where I am going to abide by the old honesty-is-the-best-policy rule: I’m not a huge fan of the wait staff’s antics. Many, many people (including my husband and daughter) love it. They play along and find the jokes entertaining. I hate to say it, but they’re just not that funny to me. Not all of the servers are good at improvisation, so watching a non-funny person trying to be funny can be uncomfortable. When They Say Large, They Mean LARGE The entertainment can also be physical, and some people don’t like that. The servers throw straws and napkins on diners; if you order ketchup, they bring you all the bottles in the restaurant; they also slap diners on the back and try their best to throw funny insults. The good news for me is, the shtick doesn’t start until after 8:45am. Every time I’ve eaten breakfast there, it hasn’t been too crazy. I’ve heard that diners can ask not to participate in the hijinks, but I’ve also heard that can backfire and cause even more unwanted attention. Beware! (Editor’s Note: If you’d rather not take part in the antics, let the cast member know at check-in that your table wants to be left out of the “fun.” It’s not Disney’s goal to make their guests uncomfortable, and the cast member should pass your wishes on to your server.) Ready for Service! EatsWe’ve eaten breakfast at Whispering Canyon Café many times, and every time it’s been good. Drinks are served in mason jars and meals at lunch and dinner are served in cast iron skillets! Despite my ambivalence about their style, the servers are all efficient, excellent at answering questions about the menu, and very accommodating of special dietary needs. Here’s what we had on our last visit: My daughter ordered the Belgian waffle. We’re all huge fans of Mickey waffles, so we were thrilled to see it was a giant one. And it was smothered with maple butter and candied pecans – even better! I don’t know how they do it so consistently, but the waffles are always crisp on the outside and moist on the inside. Delicious! You can choose bacon or sausage on the side. Belgian Waffle with Maple Butter and Candied Pecans. And Bacon, of Course! Without fail, every time my husband eats at Whispering Canyon Café, he orders the all-you-care-to-enjoy breakfast platter. It’s served on an oblong dish and loaded with scrambled eggs, western home fries, bacon, sausage, waffles, buttermilk biscuits, and sausage gravy. They allow you to customize your plate, so my husband usually just gets eggs, waffles, bacon and potatoes. It feeds an army, and satisfies every food craving you could possibly have – salty, sweet, rich, creamy, starchy. It’s amazing. The Breakfast Platter, Which You Can Customize to Include Only Your Favorites In a fit of health consciousness, I ordered the egg white omelet. I’m so glad I did! It was loaded with spinach, goat cheese, and chipotle pico and served with fresh fruit and a biscuit. It was satisfying and allowed me to enjoy my morning in the park without feeling sluggish from a heavy meal. Eating a Little Lighter? The Egg White Omelet is Loaded with Spinach Another healthier item we ordered — mostly to say we ate fruit on vacation — was the fresh fruit with ginger yogurt and granola. It was amazing! Mixed berries with creamy yogurt made zingy with ginger and a little granola for texture. We all enjoyed it. A Refreshing Alternative to a Heavy Breakfast- Fresh Fruit with Ginger Yogurt and Granola OverallBreakfast at the Whispering Canyon Café is a pleasant dining experience. Portions are generous, the food is tasty, and if you like semi-witty banter with the servers, you’re in for a good time. If you’re looking for a nice, quiet breakfast, I’d suggest a different venue. One thing is for sure – you won’t leave hungry! Rebecca Elliott writes and hosts the food blog Home Cooks Unite! She is a dedicated foodie and Disney enthusiast whose latest trip to the Magic Kingdom included some incredible dining experiences. What’s your favorite breakfast item at Whispering Canyon Cafe? Are you an a la carte or platter person? Chime in; the comments are below! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com!Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our NewsletterFollow us on TwitterBecome a Facebook Fan Related posts: Review: Whispering Canyon Cafe at Wilderness LodgeReview: Dinner at Whispering Canyon Cafe in Disney’s Wilderness LodgeReview: New Lunch Menu at Whispering Canyon Cafe in Disney’s Wilderness Lodge View the full article

What’s summer without a road trip? Where did my travels take me? Well, most recently Radiator Springs in Cars Land at the Disneyland Resort. If you’re planning to cruise through Cars Land yourself this summer, here are a few things that are rolling into locations that you should keep an eye out for. The new car culture couture lifestyle collection featuring ‘Pinstriping by Ramone’ can be found at Ramone’s House of Body Art. You’ll love the fine pin-striping detail that appears on adult and youth tees, fleece, hats and more, bringing Disney•Pixar “Cars” characters like Mater, Lightning McQueen and Sally to life with a little bit of an edge. Need something to help you get your motor running in the morning? Check out these brand new mugs detailed in a metallic paint finish that will surely help shift gears to a productive and successful day! Look for them on store shelves towards the end of summer. Something else you might want to are the Kitschy Piston Cup and Decal inspired collections which you will find on tees, tanks, beach towels, tumblers, hats and more at Radiator Springs Curios. If pins are more your speed, then be sure to race in to pick up the new Mystery Collection, available now. What will drive home with you? First Look at New Cars Land Pinstriping Merchandise at the Disneyland Resort by Michelle Harker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

My Adventures by Disney journey through Costa Rica has, sadly, come to an end. However, I wanted to share with you some final memories from this unique trip. Our last evening in Central America was truly spectacular, including mojito making lessons (with a non-alcoholic cocktail option for the teens!), a delicious farewell dinner and lively regional music. We even enjoyed a live performance from local dancers dressed in the traditional wardrobe of Guanacaste in Costa Rica. Best of all, the performance was capped off with a dance lesson for the entire group! But, what truly made our adventure so remarkable was our Adventure Guides Ron (or, as we called him, “Ponce de le Ron”) and Frankie (with his trusty sidekick Teddy). It was these guys who really made the trip magical! From leading us through the rainforest and keeping us entertained during rain storms, to feeding us, guiding us, sharing stories of the local culture and filling us all with laughter, Frankie and Ron went above and beyond to make this an adventure we’ll always remember. Thank you for following along on my Adventures by Disney journey this past week. I hope you enjoyed hearing about my Costa Rican adventure as much as I enjoyed sharing my stories (and photos)! For more on this adventure in Costa Rica with Adventures by Disney, visit the posts below: Catamaran Water Fun in Costa Rica with Adventures by DisneyA Wet and Wild Rafting Excursion With Adventures by Disney in Costa RicaThrills Chills and Hot, Hot Springs on an Adventures by Disney Costa Rica VacationBidding a Bittersweet ‘Adios’ to Costa Rica With Adventures by Disney by David Roark: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Once again, if you’re planning to visit Walt Disney World during the month of September, you can take advantage of Orlando Magical Dining Month! And this year, the discounts actually start six days early during a brand-new Preview Week! Mark your calendars for August 25 — September 30. During that time, guests can enjoy prix-fixe menus at more than 75 Orlando Area Restaurants — including a few at Disney-area spots! Dinners at all of the restaurants will feature three courses from a set menu for $33. And even better — $1 from each dinner will go to benefit the Foundation for Foster Children! La Luce Butterscotch Pudding – YUM! If you’re Disney-bound during this time and would like to take advantage of the savings while dining on property, check out the offerings from these participating restaurants! Il MulinoIl Mulino, located at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin, offers some of the best Italian fare that we’ve enjoyed in Walt Disney World. Check out a review of our recent visit! Il Mulino Magical Dining Menu La Luce by Donna ScalaYou’ll find La Luce by Donna Scala at Hilton Bonnet Creek Resort. The menu features inventive, market-fresh dishes with an Italian flair. And you’ve gotta try the Butterscotch Pudding! La Luce by Donna Scala Magical Dining Menu Todd English’s bluezooIncredibly inventive dishes which push the envelope and are always on trend — that’s what you’ll enjoy in this sleek restaurant, which is located at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin. bluezoo is a great place to unwind for cocktails and small plates, too! (See our recent review here.) Todd English’s bluezoo Magical Dining Menu For more details and a full list of participating restaurants and their menus are available online at Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining Month. Eat well, do good — it’s the best of both of both worlds! Will you be participating in Orlando Magical Dining Month this year? Leave a comment and let us know which restaurant you’ll choose! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com!Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our NewsletterFollow us on TwitterBecome a Facebook Fan Related posts: Details on Orlando’s Magical Dining Month This September!News! Magical Dining Month in Orlando Returns September 2013News! Orlando Magical Dining Month Details View the full article

Our celebration of the 20th anniversary of The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror continues with a new mobile/desktop wallpaper. It’s probably my favorite of the year so far – created by Disney artist Mike Britton especially for Disney Parks Blog readers. Enjoy! Be sure to check out the terms of use about using the wallpaper before you download it. Download our Disney Parks Twilight Zone Tower of Terror Wallpaper by Thomas Smith: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror at Walt Disney World Resort has been dropping guests down an elevator shaft for 20 years. View the full article

Now in its 44th year at the Disneyland Resort, the fan-favorite All-American College Band is back to entertain guests with their signature dance moves and memorable tunes, including Disney favorites like “Under the Sea” and the latest hit, “Let it Go.” The All-American College Band, composed of college students from across the country who have competed for a coveted spot, provides a hands-on music education experience that prepares them for careers in the music industry. This summer, the students are joined by a series of successful music mentors, such as Sal Lozano, a band alumnus who played for hit TV shows such as “Dancing with the Stars” and “American Idol.” The current program is directed by former band member Dr. Ron McCurdy, who teaches jazz at USC’s Thornton School of Music. If you haven’t yet experienced the energy the All-American College Band brings to the Disneyland Resort – you’ll want to make sure you check them out. Below is a video highlighting the Band’s 40th anniversary celebration – take a look! The band plays at Disneyland Resort Tuesdays through Saturdays until August 15: 1:50 p.m. – Hollywood Backlot Stage, Disney California Adventure park4:30 p.m. – Sleeping Beauty Castle, Disneyland park5:10 p.m. – Town Square on Main Street, U.S.A., Disneyland park6:00 p.m. – Main Street, U.S.A., Disneyland park7:15 p.m. – Town Square on Main Street, U.S.A., Disneyland park(Times and locations subject to change.) The All-American College Band Returns for the Summer at Disneyland Resort by Melanie Vogel: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

On July 22, the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror celebrates 20 years at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This attraction has quickly become my son’s favorite thing to do in all of Walt Disney World. We’ve watched nearly every episode of the television show together, and love finding the little nods to the series hidden throughout the attraction every time we “drop in.” To commemorate this year’s anniversary, we are releasing a T-shirt on our Disney Parks online store from July 22-27, 2014. The shirt will be printed on a Hanes Beefy tee and will be available for both adults and youth. Please allow 4-6 weeks for delivery (no express shipping is available). You can place an order for the shirt starting July 22 at http://www.DisneyStore.com/ParkEvents. I have, however, some even more exciting news to share for this anniversary. David Soliman, Franchise and Brand assistant for Disney Theme Park Merchandise, gave me a first look at a new art program called “Hollywood Tower Hotel Authentic.” David said that the recent Haunted Mansion art program served as its inspiration. “In early 2015, new merchandise will be coming to the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror attractions in both Florida and California,” explained David. “We loved what was done with the ‘Haunted Mansion Authentic’ art program, and thought we could apply similar merchandise design philosophies to another classic Disney attraction. The Disney Design Group team did an amazing job creating the artwork which will be used on a variety of apparel items, souvenirs, home goods and more.” Graphic designer Tyler Dumas from Disney Design Group was one of the lead artists on this program which was started about a year ago. When creating the art, the Disney artists imagined what kind of merchandise the Hollywood Tower Hotel would have produced during its heyday. The results left me speechless! There were a few artists who contributed designs including Randy Noble, Richard Terpstra, Caley Hicks and Fabiola Garza Villalobos. My favorite design (shown above) is from Casey Jones and features a nod to the first episode I ever showed my son. In the coming months, I will share some additional looks at the actual merchandise that Guests will find at Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resort beginning next year. The Twilight Zone® is a registered trademark of CBS, Inc. and used with permission pursuant to a license with CBS, Inc. Merchandise Celebrates 20th Anniversary of Twilight Zone Tower of Terror at Walt Disney World Resort by Steven Miller: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Today we’re celebrating a special milestone on the Disney Parks Blog – it’s the 20th anniversary of The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror! In honor of today’s milestone, here are 20 fun facts about the attraction. Our Walt Disney Imagineers viewed 156 episodes of “The Twilight Zone” for inspiration when creating The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror.The ride vehicle is an elevator car.The storyline of the attraction sets the date as Halloween night – October 31, 1939. The architecture of the tower was inspired by multiple Southern California landmarks, such as the Biltmore Hotel and the Mission Inn.The building features 27,000 roof tiles.The outdoor queue area features the songs “Inside” by Fats Waller and “Mood Indigo” by Duke Ellington. The grounds of the Hollywood Tower Hotel were inspired by the look of California’s Griffith Park and Elysian Park. The lobby of the Hollywood Tower Hotel was outfitted with antiques and furniture purchased at Los Angeles-area auction houses. Some of the sculptures featured in the lobby are the work of 19th century sculptor Auguste Moreau.A copy of “Four Pages of Hilarious Star Caricatures by Walt Disney” is featured in Photoplay Magazine on the lobby’s concierge desk. The Library room features a hidden nod to Mickey Mouse in this sheet music, which is for the song “What! No Mickey Mouse?” The clip of film in which Rod Serling introduces the attraction was taken from a “Twilight Zone” episode called “It’s a Good Life.”While actor Rod Serling appears in the film in the Library room, the voice you hear is actually voice actor Mark Silverman.The young girl who disappears in the elevator carries a Mickey Mouse doll.The attraction’s “Fifth Dimension” scene was inspired in part by the “Little Girl Lost” episode of “The Twilight Zone.”The attraction offers a 13-story drop.The drop sequence for each elevator car is selected at random by the attraction’s computer system. Measuring 199 feet tall, Tower of Terror is one of the tallest attractions at Walt Disney World Resort. There are now four Tower of Terror attractions at Disney Parks: Disney’s Hollywood Studios (Walt Disney World Resort), Disney California Adventure park (Disneyland Resort), Walt Disney Studios Park (Paris), and Tokyo DisneySea (Tokyo – pictured above) each have their own version.The attraction will take center stage during runDisney’s Tower of Terror 10-Miler Weekend this fall, which will feature a The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror 10-Miler, a 5K fun and kids races.The Twilight Zone® is a registered trademark of CBS, Inc. and used with permission pursuant to a license with CBS, Inc. 20 Facts For The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror’s 20th Anniversary by Jennifer Fickley-Baker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

We are checking out some new finds — and taking a look at an old favorite! — at Kringla Bakeri og Kafe. Learn About: Kringla Bakeri og CafeEpcot Restaurants Disney World RestaurantsThis quaint (read: tiny) spot in Epcot’s Norway Pavilion has a big cult following for interesting pastries and sandwiches. And it’s a great spot to try something a little out of the ordinary on your Drink Around the World stroll — Aquavit! But today, we’re a sampling a few sweet treats that are new to us, plus one snack that we absolutely can’t visit Kringla without getting! Three guesses? Let’s take a closer look. Frozen Bundt CakeOur first item is another entry into the wildly popular Frozen food team! It’s a Frozen-themed Bundt Cake. You’d have to imagine that Elsa and Anna had a hand in putting this one together, since they both love chocolate. (Smart women that they are.) It doesn’t look all that spectacular, does it? Just rich, Dark Chocolate Cake, Blue Icing, Coarse Sugar for a little crunch, and a Frozen Souvenir Ring in the shape of a snowflake. Frozen Bundt Cake But it’s ah-MA-zing! I was shocked. I left it to eat until last as I thought it would be forgettable. But it super wasn’t. In fact, I still haven’t forgotten about it, and hope it’s there when I go back to Disney World next! Frozen Bundt Cake — Cross Section Just look at the dense, decadent cake! You actually don’t need frosting. (Whaaaa? Did I just say that??) It’s almost like a cross between a cake and fudge. So good! Brown Goat Cheese WaffleThe next new treat I tried was the Brown Goat Cheese Waffle. I love Cheese, and I love the Waffles here at Kringla. So hey, why not? The waffle is filled and topped with a traditional Norwegian Cheese called Ekte Geitost. It’s a type of Brunost, or “Brown Cheese” made from goat’s milk. The cheese is produced by boiling together milk, cream, and whey, until the sugars caramelize, giving the cheese its distinctive brown color and sweet flavor. See? You learned something today! Brown Goat Cheese Waffle Display Here’s my Brown Goat Cheese Waffle, freshly made. You can see the Goat Cheese on top and between the layers of warm, just-from-the-iron Waffle. Brown Goat Cheese Waffle And, you know…kudos to Kringla for bringing another traditional dish to the bakery. These kinds of authentic experiences are what keep us noshing our way around the World! Brown Goat Cheese Waffle — Up Close But, well, I didn’t love this. It’s just not a flavor profile I enjoy. I get the (somewhat) sweetness of the cheese, but I was overwhelmed by the strong flavor. Brown Goat Cheese Waffle — Inside I think that I’ll stick with ordering the Waffle with Jam. I really love that version. S’moresNext up was a dessert simply called S’more. It was sort of like a Parfait made with Mousse. It looked pretty good, and all the flavors of Milk Chocolate, Marshmallow, and Graham Crackers were there… S’mores But I found the texture to be a little strange. The middle was more liquid than mousse, which somehow just didn’t really compute with me. S’mores — Inside It was fine once, but I don’t think it will become a favorite for me. And of Course…School Bread!Because — this! Nothing that I’ve tried here has come close to knocking School Bread out of its number one spot! (Well, except that weird Frozen bundt cake. That was just awesome.) The slightly sweet Yeast Bun, flavored with Cardamom, is filled and topped with a simple Vanilla Custard. Toasted Coconut sprinkled on top of the Icing Garnish completes the picture. School Bread It’s just a classic. School Bread — Inside It’s a completely unique treat, and it still takes the prize as my favorite snack here! Want to try it at home? Here’s a handy recipe to replicate it! Want Even More Epcot Snack Details?Let’s face it: snacks are a big deal during your Disney vacation. And we’ve got all the info you need to get the biggest bang for your buck! The DFB Guide to Epcot Snacks e-Book, 2014 Edition helps you to make the most out of your trip. Our fully guaranteed, convenient e-Book format is available for instant download and use on any mobile device, so you’ll be able to enjoy it immediately! Inside the DFB Guide to Epcot Snacks e-Book you’ll find full-color photos and reviews of over 250 of our favorite Epcot snacks, pricing and dining plan info, bonus items, and more! And for a limited time only, we’re thanking you for supporting this blog by offering the Guide for a $3 discount! To secure the discount, use code Epcot2014 at check-out. And all of our DFB Guides come with a 100% money back guarantee, so you have nothing to lose! Which Kringla Bakeri og Kafe Snack looks best to you? Leave a comment and let us know! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com!Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our NewsletterFollow us on TwitterBecome a Facebook Fan Related posts: Recipe: School Bread from Norway’s Kringla Bakeri Og KafeSnack Series: NEW Viking Mousse from Kringla Bakeri Og Kafe in Epcot’s NorwayReview: Lefse and Waffles at Epcot’s Kringla Bakeri Og Kafe View the full article

Over the weekend we learned of the passing of Oscar-nominated actor James Garner. In an award-winning career that spanned six decades, his work with Disney included The Castaway Cowboy and Atlantis: The Lost Empire. Today we’re looking back at a special memory Mr. Garner made at the Disneyland Resort. I had the honor and pleasure of meeting James Garner a few times during his run on the ABC comedy “8 Simple Rules.” He was friendly, funny and obviously very much a grandfather figure to his younger co-stars. In September 2004 he appeared with the cast of the show at an event at Disney California Adventure park called ABC Primetime Preview Weekend. During this event, I gave Mr. Garner a copy of a photo we have in our archives of him with his wife, Lois, celebrating their daughter Gigi’s birthday at Disneyland in 1965. We believe the photo was taken at the Tahitian Terrace. When I handed him this photo backstage before a media appearance, Mr. Garner said, “Oh my, it’s my Gigi! Oh, I can’t wait to show this to Lois!” He had never seen the photo before, and he thanked me warmly before excitedly gathering the cast around him to see the picture. What he surely couldn’t have known that afternoon was that while he was recalling a fond Disney memory from long ago, he had just made a brand new one for me. Remembering James Garner at the Disneyland Resort by George Savvas: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

You can’t buy a copy until September, but we wanted to give blog readers a sneak peek at the new Epcot cookbook that debuts just in time for the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival (September 19-November 10). Instead of an annual cookbook just for that festival, the new book – even the title is still in the working stages – will feature, for the first time ever, recipes from Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, winter’s Holidays Around the World and the springtime Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival. Here’s a picture of Disney photographer Matt Stroshane and stylist Laurel Ainley as they shot the new food photos for the book. Long days and lots of prep create pretty dishes we hope will make you hungry. GalleryNew Epcot Cookbook to Feature All Three Festivals view allMeanwhile, here’s a few photos from the book and one of our favorite recipes from this year’s Epcot International Food & Wine Festival to get you started. Grilled Verlasso Salmon with Quinoa Salad and Arugula Chimichurri Serves 6 Salmon 1 teaspoon garlic salt 1/4 cup lemon juice 1/4 cup olive oil 6 (5- to 6-ounce) Verlasso salmon fillets, skin removed Chimichurri Sauce 1/2 bunch fresh cilantro, including stems, coarsely chopped (about 1 cup) 2 cups coarsely chopped fresh arugula 1/2 cup olive oil 1/4 cup packed fresh mint leaves 3 tablespoons lime juice 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes 1 teaspoon minced garlic 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar Coarse salt, freshly ground pepper, to taste Quinoa Salad Dressing 1/2 cup olive oil 1/4 cup lime juice 1 teaspoon minced garlic 1 teaspoon white wine vinegar 1/4 teaspoon cumin Coarse salt, freshly ground pepper, to taste Quinoa Salad 3/4 cup uncooked quinoa, cooked per instructions (makes approximately 3 cups cooked), cooled 1/2 red pepper, diced 1/2 green pepper, diced 1/2 red onion, diced 1 small tomato, diced 1/4 cup corn kernels 1/4 cup chopped cilantro Coarse salt, freshly ground pepper, to taste For salmon: Combine garlic salt, lemon juice, and olive oil in small bowl. Place salmon in large zip-top bag and add liquid, turning fillets to evenly coat.Refrigerate for 30 minutes. Remove salmon from refrigerator at least 10 minutes before cooking.Preheat oven to 400˚ F. Cover 15 x 10-inch baking sheet with aluminum foil and lightly spray with non-stick cooking spray. Place salmon on baking sheet in a single layer, evenly spaced.Bake 15 minutes or until the salmon easily can be flaked apart with a fork.For chimichurri sauce: Place all ingredients in blender or food processor. Blend for about 10 seconds on medium speed or until ingredients are evenly blended. Season with salt and pepper. Store in a sealed container and refrigerate until ready to use.For quinoa salad dressing: Whisk all ingredients together in a small bowl. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside.For quinoa salad: Mix all ingredients together in large bowl and toss with Quinoa Salad Dressing.To serve: Equally divide Quinoa Salad between serving plates, top with salmon fillet and drizzle with Chimichurri Sauce. Cook’s note: Verlasso salmon is sustainable and farm-raised; you can use any fresh, high-quality salmon in this recipe. New Epcot Cookbook to Feature All Three Festivals by Pam Brandon: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Now playing at Walt Disney World! The all-new Festival of Fantasy Parade is a larger than life summer must-see at Magic Kingdom park. http://di.sn/qfY Celebrate the stories you know and love...From:Disney ParksViews:8012ratingsTime:00:48More inTravel & Events

Walt Disney World Resort today announced it is giving discounts on four-day tickets to active and retired U.S. military personnel or their spouses for a little more than a year. View the full article

It looks as though the Millennium Falcon will have some company in the "Star Wars: Episode VII" hangar. View the full article

Are you a fan of ABC’s “Scandal”? Actor Joe Morton, who plays the mysterious “Papa Pope” on the show, recently stopped by the Walt Disney World Resort to narrate a performance of “The Lion King: Concert in the Wild” during Harambe Nights at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. During his visit, Joe, who is nominated for an Emmy for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama for his role on the show, shared with us what he and his family love about Disney Parks. Be sure to check out the video below. ‘Scandal’ Actor Joe Morton Visits Walt Disney World Resort by Jennifer Fickley-Baker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Actor Joe Morton, who plays Olivia Pope's mysterious father, Rowan Pope, on the ABC's "Scandal," stopped by the Walt Disney World Resort to narrate a performance of Harambe Nights. Experience...From:Disney ParksViews:30128ratingsTime:01:15More inTravel & Events

We’re in Epcot’s Italy Pavilion, and that means it’s GELATO TIME!!! Unless, of course, it’s pizza time, but for now we’re just going to focus on the sweet stuff . Italy’s simple Gelato Stand is located just before you enter the Pavilion coming from Germany. Gelato Stand We’ve enjoyed grabbing Gelato Ice Cream Sandwiches during a stroll or two around World Showcase, and you can always get a scoop of your choice of gelato in a cone or cup. Gelato Selections But there are some additional items on the menu as well. For instance, the Coppa Delizia pretty much rocked our world. Given that bit of awesomeness, we were curious to try one of the other “Gelato Creations” (designated as such on the menu): the Espresso Gelato “Affogato.” Gelato Stand menu I’m going to steal the description directly from the menu: this creation is “Italian Espresso poured over Fior di Latte Gelato topped with chocolate coffee beans.” And here’s what it looks like: Espresso Gelato Affogato You’re getting a few treats in one here: a scoop of vanilla gelato, a shot of espresso, and several accompaniments: two simple cookies, chocolate coffee beans, and a wafer “straw”. By the way, am I right that the cookies stuck just so into the scoop of gelato make a Mickey? Is that you, Mickey? Affogato means “drowned,” and that pretty much sums up the consistency of this gelato creation. The weird thing is, even though it says “drowned” on the menu, I still wasn’t quite prepared how very liquefied it would be. You can see in the pictures how the gelato nearly floats in the espresso. “Drowned” Gelato Between the generous pour of espresso and the typically muggy FL weather, this dish becomes “gelato soup” very quickly. I was drinking as opposed to scooping it by the end! Which, thanks to the very intense coffee flavor from the espresso and the coffee beans, didn’t feel entirely unusual. I almost wonder why it’s not served in a tall plastic glass. Overall — while this is a high-quality, well-crafted dessert – it’s still difficult to recommend it at its price point of $9.75, even considering how many components go into it. Where the Coppa Delizia is GIGANTIC and can be easily shared between two people (potentially bringing a tremendously satisfying dessert to about $5 apiece), the Gelato Affogato doesn’t have that same power of portion. Plus, I don’t know about you, but any cold, sweetened (in this case by gelato) coffee beverage lasts about 10 seconds in my presence. It’s over too quickly to justify spending close to 10 dollars for it. In any case, though, we’ve had some gelato and learned a little Italian, to boot. Life is still good in the Italy Pavilion . Ciao, for now, friends! Want Even More Epcot Snack Suggestions?Let’s face it: snacks are a big deal during your Disney vacation. And we’ve got all the info you need to get the biggest bang for your buck! The DFB Guide to Epcot Snacks e-Book, 2014 Edition helps you to make the most out of your trip. Our fully guaranteed, convenient e-Book format is available for instant download and use on any mobile device, so you’ll be able to enjoy it immediately! Inside the DFB Guide to Epcot Snacks e-Book you’ll find full-color photos and reviews of over 250 of our favorite Epcot snacks, pricing and dining plan info, bonus items, and more! And for a limited time only, we’re thanking you for supporting this blog by offering the Guide for a $3 discount! To secure the discount, use code Epcot2014 at check-out. And all of our DFB Guides come with a 100% money back guarantee, so you have nothing to lose! Would you try any of the “Creations” at Italy’s Gelato Stand? Please let us know with a comment! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com!Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our NewsletterFollow us on TwitterBecome a Facebook Fan Related posts: Snack Series: Gelato Ice Cream Sandwiches in Epcot’s ItalySnack Series: Coppa Delizia from Italy’s Gelato Stand in EpcotReview: Via Napoli in Epcot’s Italy Pavilion View the full article

We’ve been making Mondays happier for our online fans and guests this summer, and now we want to know … what makes you happiest about the Happiest Place on Earth? From now until September 1, we’re inviting you to share photos on Instagram showing what makes you happy about the Disneyland Resort for a chance to win a vacation! Entering is easy. Just snap a photo of something that makes you happy about Disneyland Resort. The characters? The rides? The food? Get creative and share photos from the parks or at home! Post your photo on Instagram with the hashtag #GetHappierContest in the description for a chance to win. Each week, one lucky fan will win a Disneyland Resort gift basket. And the grand prize is a trip for four to the Disneyland Resort – including airfare, transportation, hotel and 3-Day Park Hopper tickets! For more information, visit GetHappierContest.com. NO PURCHASE OR PAYMENT NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. The Disneyland® Share What Makes You Happy Contest begins 12:00:00 PM ET on 7/21/14 and ends 11:59:59 PM ET 9/1/14. Promotion consists of 6 separate contest periods, each with its own entry phase and judging phase. Open to eligible legal residents of 50 U.S./D.C., who are at least 18 years old or the age of majority in their jurisdiction of residence at time of entry. Void elsewhere and where prohibited. Click on Official Rules for details on entry instructions, entry phase and judging phase dates, judging criteria, prize details, restrictions, etc. Sponsor: Disney Destinations, LLC, P.O. Box 10000, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830. Please see the Official Rules for complete prize details. Show Us What Makes You Happy About Disneyland Resort on Instagram by Erin Glover: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Today, we’re announcing new special pricing on theme park tickets and accommodations for active duty U.S. military personnel at Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort. Here’s a look at the details: At Walt Disney World Resort – from August 25, 2014, through September 30, 2015, active and retired U.S. military personnel (including active and retired members of the United States Coast Guard, National Guard and Reservists) or their spouses can purchase: Disney 4-Day Military Promotional Tickets with Park Hopper Option for $177 each, plus taxDisney 4-Day Military Promotional Tickets with Water Park Fun and More Option for $177 each, plus taxDisney 4-Day Military Promotional Tickets with Park Hopper and Water Park Fun and More Options for $207 each, plus tax.Walt Disney World Resort tickets may be used September 28, 2014, through October 3, 2015, except that the tickets may not be used December 22, 2014 – January 2, 2015 and March 29 – April 9, 2015. For information on Disney 4-Day Military Promotional Tickets for admission to Walt Disney World Resort, or to make room reservations at Walt Disney World Resort, military personnel may call 407-939-7830 or participating U.S. military base ticket offices. At the Disneyland Resort – from August 25, 2014, through October 1, 2015, active and retired U.S. military personnel (including active and retired members of the United States Coast Guard, National Guard and Reservists) or their spouses can purchase: Disney Military Promotional 3-Day Park Hopper Tickets for $132 eachDisneyland tickets may be used September 28, 2014, through October 3, 2015, except that the tickets may not be used December 25, 2014 – January 4, 2015 and March 29 – April 9, 2015. Active and retired U.S. military personnel can purchase Disney Military Promotional Tickets for themselves and up to five additional family members or friends. No more than six Disney Military Promotional Tickets may be purchased by any eligible member of the U.S. military (or spouse) pursuant to this offer. All tickets and options are non-transferable and must be used by October 3, 2015. Active and retired U.S. military personnel can also take advantage of specially priced rooms at select Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resort hotels.* This offer is valid for stays most nights from September 28, 2014, through October 3, 2015, except for: November 27 – November 29, 2014December 24 – December 31, 2014March 30 – April 4, 2015For information regarding Disney 3-Day Military Promotional Tickets for admission to the Disneyland Resort, or to make room reservations at the Disneyland Resort, military personnel may call 714-520-7088 or participating U.S. military base ticket offices. Information is also available at disneymilitaryoffers.com. Here are some other details you should know about: Disney Military Promotional Tickets may be purchased at participating U.S. military sales outlets ONLY by Eligible Service Members (defined below) or their spouses (but not both), for use by themselves and other family members and friends, as provided herein. These Tickets may not be otherwise transferred, distributed or resold.“Eligible Service Members” are active or retired members of the U.S. military, including the National Guard, Reservists and the U.S. Coast Guard.The actual prices charged at the individual U.S. military base ticket offices for Disney Military Promotional Tickets may be less than the prices set forth above.Participating military sales outlets must require that Eligible Service Members (or their spouses) present valid military identification to purchase Disney Military Promotional Tickets.Disney 4-Day Military Promotional Tickets for admission to the Walt Disney World Resort are not valid until activated by the Eligible Service Members (or their spouses) at Walt Disney World theme park ticket windows. Tickets and options expire and may not be used after October 3, 2015. Valid military identification will be required for purchase and use.Disney 3-Day Military Promotional Tickets for admission to the Disneyland Resort expire and may not be used after October 3, 2015. Valid military identification will be required for purchase and use.No more than six (6) Disney Military Promotional Tickets may be purchased and (if applicable) activated by any Eligible Service Member or spouse (regardless of the place of purchase and whether purchased by that person or that person’s spouse). In addition, one of the six (6) Tickets purchased must be used by the Eligible Service Member or his/her spouse.Each Disney Military Promotional Ticket must be used by the same person on any and all days.*The number of rooms allocated for this offer is limited. Minimum length of stay requirements may apply. Valid Military ID will be required upon check-in, and military member (or spouse) must stay in the room. No group rates or other discounts apply. Advance reservations required. Additional per-adult charges apply at the Walt Disney World Resort if there are more than two adults per room. Other restrictions apply. Disney Parks Salutes U.S. Military with Special Ticket, Room Rates by Thomas Smith: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Once again we’re teaming up with runDisney for another Castaway Cay Challenge. This time, we’re calling all princesses! Runners who complete the Castaway Cay 5K during the February 23-27 Disney Dream voyage, in addition to one 5K event or longer during the 2015 Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend, will earn the Castaway Cay Challenge finisher medal. This is only the second opportunity ever for Disney cruisers to take on this challenge. If you’ve never joined us for the 5K on Castaway Cay, you’re in for a treat! You’ll be one of the first off the ship once we dock at our private island for amazing views of the pristine lagoons and beaches. And of course, like any Disney race, you’ll be thrilled with surprise magical moments and entertainment throughout the race. Registration opens tomorrow at noon ET. Head over to runDisney.com for all of the details, and then grab your running shoes and swim suit for what’s sure to be an incredible week of fun! If you missed our announcement of the inaugural Disney Castaway Cay Challenge in January 2015, take a look back at all the details here. We’re so excited to be partnering with runDisney on these two exclusive events for Disney cruisers! Announcing the New Disney Castaway Cay Challenge by Jonathan Frontado: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Check out this week’s “Caption This” photo, which was snapped in 1986 at the Central Reservations Office at Walt Disney World Resort. No doubt that this was fancy computer technology at the time! What do you think is on the slip of paper that Mickey is examining? You tell us. Go ahead and “Caption This” image! Caption This: Mickey Takes Reservations by Jennifer Fickley-Baker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Today, we are taking in lunch at one of Disney’s newer counter service locations, Landscape of Flavors at the Art of Animation Resort. Learn About: Landscape of FlavorsDisney World RestaurantsLandscape of Flavors took Walt Disney World by storm when it opened a couple of years ago. It was similar to other value resort counter service spots and food courts, in that it offered quick service food from various stations. But right from the start, Landscape of Flavors offered fresh flavors and customizable options that set it apart. And with it, there came a bit of a wait. Today, we’re heading back to see what is the same, what has changed, and if the wait times for food that we feared have come to pass. Let’s head in! AtmosphereOne of the most interesting things about Landscape of Flavors is its entrance. You actually access the restaurant through the Ink and Paint Gift Shop. You Shop Your Way Through the Ink and Paint Shop to Get to Landscape of Flavors Go past the wares, and here you are! Landscape of Flavors Sign Seating is ample, to say the least. More than 500 spots await you once you receive your food, and there are more tables and chairs outside. Seating The beautiful lights overhead are painted to represent scenes from each of the four films highlighted at the resort: Finding Nemo, Cars, Lion King, and The Little Mermaid. Overhead Lights I know that was a pretty quick tour of the surroundings, but I promise you there’s a lot to look at in the ordering area! So let’s get to it. EatsLike many other Disney food court-type counter service spots (think Everything Pop or Sunshine Seasons), Landscape of Flavors offers different stations for different types of food. The difference here is that the options have an international flair that’s a little more interesting than some other spots. But don’t worry; there are flavors to appeal to picky and discriminating eaters alike. During breakfast, stations change up with morning meal options. Today, we’re taking a look at a few of the stations you’ll find for lunch and dinner. I was visiting for lunch at the time. The name of the game here is customization! Nearly everything can be made according to what you like. You can order a custom salad from the Salad Station. Salad Station I absolutely love their Create Your Own Pasta Station! I had one of my favorite meals here on a recent trip. Create Your Own Pasta Station I also snapped a picture of the Stir-Fry Station chef  at work — it’s always so cool to watch them, and the food looks fresh and delicious! Stir Fry Station — Always Entertaining! A few of the stations are opened all day, like the Smoothie Station and the Gelato Station. Smoothie Station Gelato at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort After looking around a bit, we figured out that we wanted to try the Tandoori Station. Tandoori Menu — Click to Enlarge The tandoori options come with your choice of two sides, which include an assortment of Roasted Vegetables. Vegetables at the Tandoori Station We also thought the Burgers from the Burger and Sandwich Station looked interesting. Burger Options on the Menu — Click to Enlarge We placed our orders with the staff at each station, waited for our food, and then had a look around at Grab and Go options. There is a Bakery Case that holds an assortment of Breakfast Pastries as well as Bakery Dessert Items, like Cookies, Tarts, and the like. Bakery Case They also stock Gluten Free Goodies made by Babycakes NYC! If you’re missing the treats from the bakery since its closure at Downtown Disney, this is a good place to pick up some things. Gluten Free Babycakes Cupcakes in Grab and Go There’s an assortment of beverages and food in the Grab and Go area as well. You’ll find bottled options, including Wine and Beer. You’ll also find customary fountain stations beyond the check out area for fountain drinks. This is where you’ll grab refills using your Souvenir Refillable Mugs. Grab and Go Beverages If you aren’t in the mood to wait around for food, you’ll find Sushi and other items — packaged and ready to go! Grab and Go Sushi The use of real plates and silverware also sets this spot apart. While most of the other counter service locations around Walt Disney World still use disposable items, you’ll find real utensils and plates here. Real Silverware! Once you have your made to order and grab and go items, pick up your utensils and head to the cashier to pay for everything. Registers and Ordering Area So, what did we decide on? Glad you asked! At the Tandoori Station, we went with the Tandoori Chicken. The dish came with Rice Pilaf and Naan (one of our favorite snack values!), and we could choose two sides. We went with Roasted New Red Potatoes and Sauteed Spinach with Curried Tofu. Since everything was pretty much ready to go at this station, we had our food quickly here. This station offers consistently delicious and interesting food, and we were very happy with our selection. Tandoori Chicken Our other item was a completely different matter, though. I went with the House-Made Vegetable Burger…and proceeded to wait half of forever for them to make it. Seriously. It was like 20 minutes for me to get it. And once I did, it tasted okay. But by that time, the rest of the food was cold. House-Made Vegetable Burger with Fries With Pepper Jack Cheese, a Fried Green Tomato Slice, and a Brioche Bun, it’s definitely a cut above your garden variety veggie burger. It’s also served with your choice of a side of Fries or Cole Slaw. House-Made Vegetable Burger — Under the Bun After a lunch plagued with bad timing, we turned our attention toward a sweet ending. We decided to try one of the grab and go options — the Frozen Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cheesecake on a Straw. Frozen Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cheesecake on a Straw I told you all about this one a while back. Lemme just say — it returned the smile to our faces! It was such a fun dessert item. Frozen Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cheesecake on a Straw — Cross Section And I got to take the Mickey Straw with me for later! OverallI seriously love a stroll through Landscape of Flavors. All of the food is so interesting here. From the stations to the grab and go options, you can see that they are striving to offer guests something that’s a cut above typical food court food. However, the issue that we were concerned about during our very first visit has certainly come to fruition. With so many stations and customizable options (and many fancy garnishes, like fried green tomato slices), the wait times for items can be long. If you’re in a situation where you stay together as a group, and move from station to station to get items, someone will invariably end up with cold food. And the cumulative wait can be ridiculously long. I’m not sure what the answer is, but I would definitely recommend that you try and split up to order if possible and eat at slower times if your schedule permits it. With a little forethought, I’m confident that you’ll enjoy a trip to Landscape of Flavors. Is Landscape of Flavors one of your favorite spots to dine? Leave a comment and tell us what you think! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com!Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our NewsletterFollow us on TwitterBecome a Facebook Fan Related posts: Guest Review: Landscape of Flavors at Disney’s Art of Animation ResortSnack Series: Pumpkin Pecan Tart at Art of Animation Resort’s Landscape of FlavorsReview: Gelato Bar at Art of Animation’s Landscape of Flavors View the full article