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Disney Resorts

Food and Wine Weekends at Hilton Bonnet Creek and Waldorf Astoria

9 October 2019 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

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Hilton Bonnet CreekI’ve written before about the wonderful hotel options at the Hilton Bonnet Creek and Waldorf Astoria Orlando. We stayed there back in 2015 for their Race Weekends package, and I’d been there before with my friend Amanda, on a girls weekend getaway, full of fun, food, and sunburn in my case. Back then, I called these hotels the “best kept secret in Walt Disney World,“ and while I think that word has gotten out, there are still many people that don’t even know where these resorts are located. Food and Wine Weekends may just change that.

A great way to get introduced to these beautiful properties is one of the many event weekends they have going on throughout the year. The aforementioned Race Weekends are a great option for runDisney races; they really give you extra fun for your races, with all sorts of great amenities to enjoy. They also have Florida Resident rates, breakfast included packages, and more. Last night we were invited to experience a taste of their Food and Wine Weekends. These weekend menu options extend the “Magical Dining” menus that happen all over Orlando in September, with proceeds going to various charities, and are a perfect complement to the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival.

Food And Wine Weekends Breakdown:

The Food and Wine Weekends offer special tasting menus at 3 of the restaurants throughout the Hilton Bonnet Creek and Waldorf Astoria. The best part (for me and many of my friends) is that they also offer full vegan menu options at each of these locations.

A couple of weeks ago, I enjoyed the vegan Magical Dining menu at Zeta Asia, and it was truly amazing. I was very happy Amanda made that reservation because I didn’t know it existed and I’m still thinking about the menu items we had (I am officially in love with the vegan Bao Buns and the Bibimbap)!

Vegan Bao Zeta Asia

You can find ALL of the Food and Wine Weekends menu options, including Peacock Alley’s “Bar du Chocolat and Champagne tasting” and the Myth Bar’s “Pop Culture” with house made fresh fruit popsicles, organic ice pops, and “poptails” for the adults, in this guide from Hilton Bonnet Creek.

 

Vegan Options:

Last night, we were treated to the vegan Cauliflower Salad from La Luce, the Vegetable Fricassee from Bull & Bear, and the Impossible Bibimbap from Zeta Asia. These were all wonderful choices, and honestly, I was full after the first option, and absolutely stuffed by the 3rd. I somehow made room for the two vegan desserts we were offered, a dark chocolate and passion fruit dessert from Bull & Bear, and the special request dessert available in the hotels when you request a vegan dessert: fresh fruit sauce over a coconut tart, with fresh berries and whipped non-dairy cream. They were both SO wonderful, it definitely didn’t feel like a thrown-together vegan option, which is often the case with desserts. Check out photos in the gallery below from the evening and some of the hotel properties. Just click to enlarge any photo:

Cauliflower Salad La Luce
Vegetable Fricassee Bull and Bear
Impossible Bibimbap
vegan desserts Waldorf Astoria
Peacock Alley botanicals
Peacock Alley Creations
Bee's Knees Peacock Alley
Nitrogen chocolate Waldorf Astoria
Peacock Alley Cocktail Creations
Vegan Tasting Menu Hilton Bonnet Creek Waldorf
Waldorf Astoria Orlando
Waldorf Astoria Orlando front desk
Waldorf Astoria Orlando front desk
Hilton Bonnet Creek Myth Bar

 

We were also treated to a vegan cocktail, since the one they were serving that night had sheep’s milk in it. We were given a modified “Bee’s Knees” with agave instead of honey. It was very floral and lovely. You can order this at Peacock Alley any time! You can watch the bartender create this drink for us, as well as chefs creating the amazing nitrogen-cooled chocolate pictured above, any time on my Food and Wine Weekends Instagram story highlight.

Bee's Knees vegan cocktail Peacock Alley

I hope I’ve tempted you a bit to head over to the Waldorf Astoria Orlando or Hilton Bonnet Creek and experience their Food and Wine Weekends for yourselves. It really is a wonderful experience, and such a nice, relaxing, crowd-and-line-free way to enjoy some culinary delights. I was hosted for our tasting experience, but I truly do love these properties and think they are such a nice getaway from the hustle and bustle of the nearby Disney hotels. Did I mention the lazy river? 

Hilton Bonnet Creek lazy river

If you’ve never been, enjoying a Food and Wine Weekends tasting menu is a great way to get over and explore the properties before staying the night (but staying the night is also a great way to end your Food and Wine Weekends evening!).

Have you stayed at either of these properties, or enjoyed their Food and Wine Weekends, or their stellar dining options?

 

I’d love to hear your thoughts or if you plan to check it out. Let me know in the comments below or drop me a line on social media, I’d love to chat about it! Thanks for reading.

Disclosure: As mentioned, I was hosted by Hilton for this tasting event, but my thoughts and opinions are, as always, my own. 

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Food and Wine Weekends Hilton Bonnet Creek Waldorf Astoria
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Filed Under: Orlando Area Resorts, Top Stories, Travel, Travel, Theme Parks, and Resorts Tagged With: #FoodAndWineWeekends, Bonnet Creek Resort, Bull & Bear, Disney Resorts, Harvest Bistro, Hilton Bonnet Creek, Hilton Bonnet Creek Food and Wine Weekends, Hilton Bonnet Creek review, La Luce, Magical Dining, Orlando area hotels, Orlando area resorts, Orlando Staycation, Vegan dining, Vegan Dining Orlando, Waldorf Astoria, Waldorf Astoria Food and Wine Weekends, Waldorf Astoria Orlando, Zeta Asia

Easter Egg Masterpieces at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort

24 March 2016 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

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Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2016Seeing the completely edible Easter egg displays put together by Walt Disney World’s pastry chefs at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort has become a rite of Spring for this local. I love wandering through the lobby, looking at what must be countless hours of work and workmanship  – and did I mention they’re all edible??

 

The team of chefs are given complete creative freedom to come up with and execute their egg designs, and some of them have been creating Easter eggs for over 20 years! These designs took 3 weeks to create and will be on display until April 4th this year.

 

This season, we see some favorites from last year’s Easter Egg Display return, along with some new, captivating favorites. I was glad to see that Disney is able to save these creations and bring them back – so much work, I’d hate for them to be on display only once for a few weeks! Below I’ll share all of the amazing creations, in groups of characters and Disney favorites, as well as incredible sugar works of art. I bet you can’t pick just one favorite!

 

 

Disney character and movie Easter egg creations: 

 

 

Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2016
Queen Elsa in egg form
Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2016
Hans – not a nice guy
Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2016
Princess Anna
Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2016
Olaf, Sven and Kristoff
Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2016
The Toy Story gang (and the edge of the Stitch egg)
Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2016
Another from last year returns
Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2016
Rapunzel and Maximus
Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2016
Flynn & Rapunzel
Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2016
Mulan’s beautiful egg changes color
Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2016
The sugar flowers on this egg are incredible!
Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2016
Beast’s enchanted rose
Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2016
Tink returns this year
Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2016
Amazing that she’s made out of edible bakery ingredients!
Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2016
The front of the Good Dinosaur egg
Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2016
The back of the Good Dinosaur
Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2016
An overview of the front lobby
Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2016
Copper and Todd from Fox & the Hound
Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2016
The backside of Fox & the Hound
Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2016
BB-8 joins the family along with a Steampunk Mickey
Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2016
Love the Robin Hood egg this year!
Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2016
the back of Robin Hood
Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2016
Brave egg with Merida
Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2016
Merida’s brothers in bear form
Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2016
Lady & the Tramp and Inside Out
Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2016
The back of Inside Out and Lady & the Tramp
Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2016
Neverland!

 

Sugar artistry statement Easter eggs: 

 

Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2016
The sugar flowers on this egg are incredible!
Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2016
Better lighting on the flower egg
Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2016
I love how this blue egg is reminiscent of a ceramic egg that opens
Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2016
This was one of my favorites, just gorgeous
Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2016
Simple. Elegant
Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2016
I remember last year people thinking this was a tribute to Meet the Robinsons, lots of fun art deco touches
Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2016
I wasn’t sure if this was supposed to be Pixie Hollow or not, but it’s amazing regardless!
Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2016
Post modern egg
Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2016
Another of my favorites…
Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2016
Just look at the rope-work details! Incredible
Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2016
Another from last year returns
Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2016
I think this puppy was here last year too. Cute.
Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2016
Another of my favorites, love the clean lines that look like fabric and the flowers. Just beautiful.

And this chicken – this Spring Chicken gets its own little gallery. It is AMAZING! Look at the feathers! This is all in chocolate or sugar or something edible. Unbelievable!

 

Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2016
A real Spring Chicken!
Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2016
Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2016
Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2016
It may not be a golden egg she laid, but impressive nonetheless. I’d be guarding it too, girl! 😉

 

 

Can you pick just one favorite?? Big thanks to Walt Disney World and their amazing chefs for sharing these incredible creations with the world!

 

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Filed Under: Disney Dining, Disney Holidays, Disney Parks, Resorts, & Entertainment, Disney Resorts Tagged With: chocolate art, Disney chefs, Disney Easter, Disney Easter eggs, Disney holidays, Disney pastry chefs, Disney Resorts, Disney's Grand Floridian Resort, edible Easter eggs, Grand Floridian, Grand Floridian Easter egg display, Grand Floridian Easter eggs, sugar flowers

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort Edible Art Easter Egg Display Will Amaze

21 March 2015 by Suzannah Otis 1 Comment

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Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2015I was scrolling through instagram and saw a photo in my feed of the penguin statue in the lobby of the Grand Floridian Villas (it just happened to be the fabulous @rbrent from the Disney Parks Blog!). I was about to double tap to like the picture (who doesn’t love penguins?), when I kept reading and saw that it said “(ps, this is made of chocolate!)” and I stopped and went “huh?” and re-looked at the photo. It was then that I noticed the giant bird cage in the background and said to myself, “oh! that’s the regular Grand Floridian lobby!” What I was seeing was one of the jaw-dropping creations made by Disney chefs for Easter on display around the main lobby. This is the fourth year that the Grand Floridian is showcasing these edible Easter egg works of art, and it’s hard to pick just one favorite. I headed over last night for a late dinner at the Polynesian to see the construction updates over there, and ended up at the Grand Floridian to see all the eggs first hand. I only wish I could also share the intoxicating chocolate scent that swirled around the displays. Heavenly.

Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2015The egg creations are placed in six different spots around the perimeter of the main lobby, with a few of them being accessible from all sides. Three of the displays are a bit hard to view from the back, but if you are visiting, do try to see them all, because many have incredible details on all sides. I’m not sure if perhaps they’ll rotate some of the eggs to give all of them a chance at being seen in full, but I’ve tried to capture them all here for you anyway, in case you can’t make it down in person. They definitely put me in the mood for Easter and Spring (and in the mood to see a few favorite Disney movies). Be sure to click on any image to see it larger – and let me know in the comments which one is your favorite (or favorites if you can’t decide like me!). The Easter Egg display will be up until April 10, 2015. Happy Spring to all – and thanks to the incredible bakers and pastry chefs at Disney for sharing their hard work with everyone.

 

Click to enlarge and view all:

Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2015
Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2015
Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2015
Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2015
Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2015
Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2015
Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2015
Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2015
Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2015
Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2015
Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2015
Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2015
Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2015
Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2015
Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2015
Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2015
Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2015
Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2015
Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2015
Grand Floridian Easter Eggs 2015
Grand Floridian Easter Egg Display 2015
Grand Floridian Easter Egg Display 2015
Grand Floridian Easter Egg Display 2015
Grand Floridian Easter Egg Display 2015
Grand Floridian Easter Egg Display 2015
Grand Floridian Easter Egg Display 2015
Grand Floridian Easter Egg Display 2015
Grand Floridian Easter Egg Display 2015
Grand Floridian Easter Egg Display 2015
Grand Floridian Easter Egg Display 2015
Grand Floridian Easter Egg Display 2015
Grand Floridian Easter Egg Display 2015
Grand Floridian Easter Egg Display 2015
Grand Floridian Easter Egg Display 2015
Grand Floridian Easter Egg Display 2015
Grand Floridian Easter Egg Display 2015
Grand Floridian Easter Egg Display 2015
Grand Floridian Easter Egg Display 2015
Grand Floridian Easter Egg Display 2015
Grand Floridian Easter Egg Display 2015
Grand Floridian Easter Egg Display 2015
Grand Floridian Easter Egg Display 2015
Grand Floridian Easter Egg Display 2015
Grand Floridian Easter Egg Display 2015

 

 

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Filed Under: Disney Holidays, Disney Resorts, Photos From the Parks, Walt Disney World Tagged With: chocolate art, Disney chef Easter eggs, Disney Easter eggs, Disney holiday displays, Disney Resorts, Disney's Grand Floridian Resort, easter, Easter egg art, Easter eggs, Grand Floridian, Grand Floridian Easter egg display, Grand Floridian Easter eggs, sugar art

The Best Kept Secret in WDW’s Backyard: Hilton Bonnet Creek and Waldorf Astoria Orlando

29 January 2015 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

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Waldorf Astoria Orlando lobby
Waldorf Astoria Orlando lobby

I’ve been lucky enough to stay at, tour, and even just visit more than my fair share of hotels and resorts, especially in the last 6 years with this site. While staying at an official Disney resort has its perks, I must say [whispers so Mickey doesn’t hear], there are some resorts nearby to give Disney a run for the money. Now before you die-hard Disney resort fans start protesting, please just keep reading and see if you agree when all is said and done. This should be of special interest to all of you runDisney racers out there, because in addition to being a relaxing, amenity-filled, comfiest-beds-ever resort, the Hilton Bonnet Creek has completely ridiculous Marathon Weekends packages that will blow your mind. In the best possible way. I promise.

 

So I first heard about the Hilton Bonnet Creek through my wonderful friend and fabulous blogger, Amanda Tinney. Amanda had been going to Hilton Bonnet Creek both as an invited guest and on her own time and dime for a while when she invited me over for a girls weekend over the last summer. We had such a great time (despite my getting sunburnt to a crisp because I seem to always forget that people with skin like Merida from Brave need SPF 500) lounging by the pool, being wined and dined at the Bull & Bear, and sleeping in. And it was $99 a night for our room at a special End of Summer rate. That’s Disney Value Resort pricing, people, and this is NOT a value resort in terms of anything BUT price. I still have to write about the exquisite dinner we had at Bull & Bear…I can close my eyes and still taste it, even months later.

Amanda’s and my room at the Hilton Bonnet Creek over the summer
The start of our meal at the Bull & Bear

What I want to tell you about now, however, is Marathon Weekends at Hilton Bonnet Creek and the Waldorf Astoria. While I don’t consider myself a “runner” (yet…) though Amanda would argue that I am, I have been cheering and attending Disney races for the last 4 years or so. I’ve done 4 5k’s and just completed my first 10k during the Walt Disney World Marathon 2015 weekend. I’ve recently lost 50lbs (and still going), so this last race weekend was really my first serious foray into the world of Disney races. While I may not have been running a half or full marathon (or all 4 races for the Dopey medal), I’ve been around enough runners to know what they appreciate and the ins and outs of runDisney races. Hilton Bonnet Creek impressed me from check-in to check-out. If you are a local looking for a great place to lay your head and be close to the action, or flying in just to race, the Hilton Bonnet Creek will treat you like royalty. I know just posting the photos that I did on my social media accounts, I was getting people right and left that said they were going to book their next race weekend there. Which made me SO happy, because we had such a wonderful time there, and I want everyone to experience it first hand!

Here is the run-down of the Bonnet Creek Marathon Weekends amenities:

Two of the “Carb Loading” pasta options from Harvest Bistro at the Hilton Bonnet Creek
Crazy huge breakfast set-up & cheering for runners at Marathon Weekends!

 

 

A Special Experience For Runners

As our guest during Marathon Weekends at Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek, you’ll receive the following:

  • Complimentary bus transportation to and from the race venue
  • Carb-Load Pasta Dinner options
  • Personalized assistance from our Runner’s Concierge … and even dip into their Runners’ Survival Kit!
  • Complimentary snacks and beverages before the races!
  • Encouragement & recognition from our Marathon cheerleaders … even at 2:30 am!

A Special Marathon Rate For Runners

To get the most out of your weekend, we recommend the Marathon Weekend rate, which includes:

  • Special rate on accommodations exclusive to marathon runners
  • Complimentary bus transportation to and from the race venue
  • 10% food & beverage savings card to be used during your stay
  • A Welcome Runner’s Amenity

I’m just going to put this question here…what do the Walt Disney World Resorts do for runDisney racers staying on property? Well…if you stay at one the hotels they tell you to…they’ll send a bus for you before the races. That’s…pretty much it. The rest of the benefits to running a runDisney race are associated with the race itself and available to everyone running, no matter where you stay. So deciding whether or not to stay at the Bonnet Creek Resort is really a no-brainer, yes? Yes.

 

Marathon Weekends logo outside the Hilton Bonnet Creek
Waldorf Astoria Orlando lobby
Waldorf Astoria Orlando lobby
I love the colors of the Waldorf Astoria
Dining area in the Deluxe Suite
Coffee/wetbar area in the Deluxe Suite
This was in our room when we checked in! 😀
Runner’s Amenity bag for the Marathon Weekends package
Sleepsofa in the living room area
View back at the kitchen area in the Deluxe Suite
The wonderful, wonderful bed in the Waldorf Astoria
This looks pretty inviting, right?
Turndown service with the next day’s weather
3 real roses on the night stand!
TV and desk in the bedroom
New lobby bar Myth at the Hilton
La Luce by Donna Scala at the Hilton Bonnet Creek
Harvest Bistro at the Hilton

ADD to all of the above, the absolutely incredible guest rooms both at the Hilton and the Waldorf Astoria. Since I’d stayed at the Hilton Bonnet Creek over the summer, I was excited to experience all the Waldorf Astoria had to offer after hearing only good things from Amanda. Well, let me tell you, it did not disappoint. I pretty much wanted to move in and never leave. The beds were SO comfy, that is really the only downside…any wee hours of the morning 3am wake-up calls will seem like cruel and unusual punishment after basically being wrapped in a cloud all night in your Waldorf bed. We were lucky enough to be treated to a King suite at the Waldorf for our stay, and as a result I’m pretty much spoiled for life and only want to stay here from now on.

The Waldorf Astoria Orlando is actually, like all Waldorf properties, more of a boutique style hotel, which means excellent service for you, and the intimate feeling of a boutique hotel, with the benefits of the award-winning Bull & Bear, Peacock Alley lounge (which is gorgeous and I want to live there too), the other Waldorf amenities and pool – PLUS, all of the amenities at the Hilton Bonnet Creek, which is right next door, and connected by the convention center so you can walk in comfort inside between the properties. And of course guests staying at the Hilton can also enjoy the restaurants and bars of the Waldorf Astoria too. It really does have it all.

Checking in at the Waldorf was seamless. I was asked for my cell so the concierge could text me with any information and I could ask them for anything, at ANY time! I have to say, that was the coolest feature of all. Being able to ask a question by text (which is my preferred method of communication for the record), and get an instant answer, was heaven I tell ya. We felt so welcomed and at home, it really was an amazing weekend. I know it will be the first of many stays at the Waldorf. The level of guest service we experienced in every corner of both resorts was unparalleled.

In addition to the wonderful Marathon Weekends, the resort offers several special events throughout the year, including one of Amanda’s favorites, Cupcake Lovers Weekend in June, which I feel like I must experience first-hand, for research purposes. They also have spa packages, romance, tea for two, and so many more special experiences. Hopefully I’ve convinced you to look into the Bonnet Creek Resort and stay at the Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek and the Waldorf Astoria Orlando (I mean, you have to stay at both to get the full experience, I think). Did I mention how convenient it is to all the Walt Disney World parks, Downtown Disney, and I-4 if you’re headed to other Orlando destinations? It’s pretty much perfect. I think I need to check out some dates for a weekend getaway…how about you?

Rates for the Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek’s Marathon Weekends start at just $149/night. A little more and you get the added luxury of the Waldorf Astoria. There are constantly specials and offers going on, and if you’re a Hilton Honors member, there are double points weekends too. Click the links above to check on availability.

Disclaimer: I was an invited guest at the Waldorf Astoria Orlando for Marathon Weekends and was provided with a complimentary Deluxe Suite, daily breakfast buffet at Oscars, and a $100 room credit. That said, all of the opinions above are my own, and if we had a bad time, I’d have told you that too. But we didn’t. It was amazing. In fact, I need to tell you more things about our stay, and I haven’t even mentioned the lazy river at the Hilton Bonnet Creek or the spa or the brand new Myth Bar that just opened, but I’ll save that for future posts. So come back and check for those! 

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Filed Under: Disney Movie News & Reviews, Orlando Area Resorts, Reviews, RunDisney, Top Stories, Travel Tagged With: Bonnet Creek Resort, Bull & Bear, Disney Resorts, Harvest Bistro, Hilton Bonnet Creek, Hilton Bonnet Creek Marathon Weekends, Hilton Bonnet Creek review, La Scala, Myth bar, Orlando area hotels, Orlando area resorts, Orlando Staycation, Waldorf Astoria, Waldorf Astoria Orlando, Waldorf Astoria Orlando review

A Fort Wilderness Ode to the Vacation Kingdom of the World

11 September 2014 by Suzannah Otis 7 Comments

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Fort Wilderness vintage post cardDuring a visit to Walt Disney World’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground a few months back, I was filled with an epic case of nostalgia regarding what our beloved Walt Disney World was like when it opened in 1971. I instantly wanted to put fingers to keyboard and reminisce about these times. Granted, I wasn’t born when the resort opened, but a handful of years later, I’d be celebrating my first visit to the Vacation Kingdom of the World. Moved by a more recent visit to celebrate Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue’s 40th anniversary, I was reminded that I really needed to put my thoughts into words.

Fort Wilderness at Walt Disney World’s Opening

What I personally love so much about Fort Wilderness and its restaurant offerings (Trail’s End, Crockett’s Tavern and Hoop-Dee-Doo Revue) is that this area is really unlike any other part of WDW. You walk down the dirt path from the Tri-Circle-D Ranch and you forget all about My Magic+ and Fastpass+ and the hustle and bustle that comes with a Disney vacation these days. You are brought back to a time when families journeyed to tropical and alluring Florida and the Walt Disney World Resort as a respite from the real world and reality itself.

Shortly after Fort Wilderness opened, the Fort Wilderness Railway was finished being built and began service around the property. This is often discussed among the nerdiest of Disney nerds as one thing we all wish we’d gotten to enjoy, or could enjoy again. Sadly, the swampy land proved less-than-ideal for holding up train tracks, and the upkeep became too much to keep the railway active. Winding through some of the long forgotten pathways at Fort Wilderness on foot, you may spy a few railroad ties here and there as a marker of days long gone.

In addition to its own railway, River Country, the first themed water park, opened at Fort Wilderness in 1976. I have wonderful memories of going there with my parents, and riding all the water slides and the tube ride with my dad. River Country, along with Discovery Island, both of which are now closed and abandoned to various states of disrepair, were once the “must-do’s” of our Disney vacations. I do believe both would still be popular today if there were a way to keep them up to date and in shape. While the two current water parks and Animal Kingdom offer more modern, themed, versions than River Country and Discovery Island, there is something to be said for the sweet simplicity of an “ol’ swimming hole” and an exhibit of native Florida flora and fauna.

Other than those two spots, the Marshmallow Marsh area of Fort Wilderness is also now no longer accessible to guests. Marshmallow Marsh was originally a ticketed night-time event, where guests boarded canoes and paddled to a faraway corner of Fort Wilderness alongside Bay Lake. While paddling, they sang old Americana songs, which continued when they arrived at the marsh, around a campfire. Marshmallows could be roasted and a perfect viewing of the Electrical Water Pageant was enjoyed, as it stopped near Fort Wilderness’ banks. Guests would then paddle back to the other side to get back to their campsites. Marshmallow Marsh events ended in the early 80’s, but the area was still able to be reached by a bridge until very recently.

Despite those few changes, Fort Wilderness was, and still is, a wilderness; a place to commune with nature and the real Florida, mixed with some fun western expansion/frontier themes like Crockett’s Tavern and Pioneer Hall. It absolutely boggles my mind that there is a place in Walt Disney World where you can sleep in a tent, while your neighbor at the Magic Kingdom gate may be staying in a deluxe two-bedroom villa at the Grand Floridian. And the fact that those two things CAN coexist, is why people keep coming back and have so much varied and passionate history with the Walt Disney World Resort. The unique ability to experience a little bit of the timeless innocence of the Vacation Kingdom in the 1970’s is why Fort Wilderness is such an important place to so many.

Vintage Fort Wilderness
A vintage Fort Wilderness post card from the 70’s

The Vacation Kingdom of the World

Imagine a time when Walt Disney World consisted of just the Magic Kingdom as its only park. What else would families have to do on their vacation to Orlando, Florida? Well, back then, they may have been more likely to venture beyond Orlando to see Daytona Beach, or even Silver Springs and its glass-bottom boats, or the mermaids of Weeki Wachee. But Walt Disney World knew they had some very special 43 square miles on their hands, and went on to create a genuine vacation kingdom.

Vintage WDW guide
Descriptions of the original three resorts of Walt Disney World in a 1970’s guide. (click to enlarge and enjoy) (image courtesy Vintage Disneyland Tickets)

Great emphasis was placed on relaxation and recreation. Swimming, boating, golf, tennis; all of these things were reasons to come and stay at Walt Disney World. By the mid-1970’s, there were enough monorail trains, ferry boats, resorts and even the Lake Buena Vista Shopping Village, to encourage you to stay on property and leave the real world (and the rest of Florida) behind. The resort even boasted an official PGA-sanctioned golf tournament, the Walt Disney World Classic played on the Palm and Magnolia courses, begun in 1971.

The lure was not with rides, rides, rides, or even dining or shopping, but a lovely mix of it all. Spend a day in the Magic Kingdom, a day on the links, or enjoying the fun at River Country. End your night with an authentic Polynesian Luau, or dinner and a Broadway-style show at the Top of the World, where California Grill now resides in the Contemporary Resort. If that wasn’t your scene, you could head to Fort Wilderness and enjoy the hoopin’ and hollerin’ known only as the Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue. It was truly, and in every sense of the definition, a place to relax and enjoy pure family fun.

Present-Day Walt Disney World

Of course, decades later, Walt Disney World Resort is still known for family fun and escaping the real world, but it has become a much different place to do so. With the addition of dozens of new hotel and villa properties, Walt Disney World was faced with the need for transportation for the millions of guests visiting each day. To keep those millions entertained and not all crowded into one theme park, water parks, deluxe dining, spas, shops, movie theatres, and more were added, making Walt Disney World one of the busiest and most diverse places to vacation.

Rather than coming to Walt Disney World to relax and escape, families were now coming to “do it all” and making sure they got the absolute most out of every minute of their vacation. It is hard to sell a vision of relaxing in the Florida sun when there are so many attractions that are must-do, special events to coincide with your visit, places to eat, and things to buy to remember it all when you go home.

Fort Wilderness today
The remnants of the Marshmallow Marsh area, now inaccessible to guests.

At the end of the day, we all know that Walt Disney World is a business, and while that business may involve making magic for every family that walks through its gates (or touchpoints), you can bet your corn dog it also involves making sure you are spending money and coming back to spend even more next time. Is that goal different than it was in 1971? Of course, but at the same time, even in the 70’s, profit was still a goal.

While Walt Disney himself said, “Disneyland is a work of love. We didn’t go into Disneyland just with the idea of making money,” we all know, Walt Disney World Resort is not Disneyland. Although Walt may have had very different ideas for what he originally envisioned with his Florida Project, what was created was a mecca of sorts for families from all over the world to experience the now-renowned Disney magic, and stay put to experience everything else the resort had to offer. Times were different, vacationing was different, and certainly technology was different than today.

How Can We Recapture the Walt Disney World of the Past?

So is that simple innocence of Walt Disney World in the 1970’s still possible? The answer from me is an unequivocal YES. Places like Fort Wilderness are where you will find the purity and “Disney Difference” in theming and surroundings, which many of us grew up experiencing and now long for. For some, the Disney Difference is found with the deluxe Bibiddi Bobiddi Boutique package or Villains Soiree special ticketed-event-within-a-ticketed-event. I’m sure many have visited the parks and other resorts for years and never even stepped foot into Fort Wilderness! Each guest or family has its own wants and needs from a Disney vacation and certainly my ideal may be completely different from yours. Let’s also not forget; every Cast Member has the opportunity to uphold the ideals that Walt envisioned for his parks, and make each guest’s experience a magical one.

Parks and Cast Members aside, if you want to be transported to a different time – standing on its own as a testament to Disney Imagineers, their theming, and creativity – head to Fort Wilderness. Walk around. Away from buses, away from hula hoops and golf carts, further in to the wilderness for which this place was named. Listen to the silence that engulfs you. Soon you hear the wind blowing through the cypress, pine, and oak trees. You hear the native birds singing to each other from high up on those tree tops. In the distance, if the breeze is just right, you may hear the Walt Disney World Railroad whistle.

There is a whole other hustle and bustle of attractionsfoodshoppingbuyingfastpassing going on across the lake, but you’ve left all of that behind to be surrounded by tall trees, winding paths, and even a working ranch with horses. You may choose to go fishing, ride your bike, swim in the pool, or even go for a horse-drawn wagon ride. The fact that attractionsfoodshoppingbuyingfastpassing is going on across the lake, is perhaps why this place is so very important to Walt Disney World history and its future. There is a reason why people go on family road trips to explore the countryside or visit our National Parks. The simple pleasure and renewal of spirit found in nature – and Fort Wilderness is a perfect example of that.

Magic Kingdom from Fort Wilderness
A Kingdom in the distance from the Fort Wilderness marshes

By the same token, there is also a reason so many of us today are tiki fans, or love mid-century modern architecture and decor, or 70’s retro style. We long for a simpler time, when all of these things were new and undiscovered. A family from a city in the 70’s (or today) may never have known the enjoyment of camping under the stars. A family from New England or middle America may never have been exposed to Polynesian culture, music and food. Walt Disney World’s themed lands and attractions  were always a place to experience places or things you may not have ever known existed, without stepping too far away from reality and the safety of a Walt Disney vacation.

The original Walt Disney World resorts just expanded on that idea, letting guests stay in a Polynesian village (with air conditioning), or an old west fort and campsite (with great food and entertainment nearby), or a modern A-frame building with a futuristic train running through it. In a world (and a World) that is constantly changing and improving and trying to do and be the next best thing, it’s comforting and peaceful to have a place where none of that matters. A place where it could be 1971, or 2021, and the feelings evoked are the same.

River Country Sign
The sign, still in perfect condition, welcoming you back to Fort Wilderness from the now abandoned River Country.

So where does this leave us? Should everyone abandon their favorite resort and stay at Fort Wilderness? Maybe not, but at least visit! Should we stop trying to do/see/eat/buy it all and take a more laid back approach to a family vacation? Well, honestly, in my opinion, yes. But I will admit that as a local, and someone who has been to Walt Disney World thousands of times, my view of a Disney vacation may be very different from that of a family that has saved 5 years for a once in a lifetime trip, or even a once a year trip.

At that point, because you are investing a lot of money and precious vacation time, of course the priorities shift. You have to make your 5 year-old and your 15 year-old happy, or make adjustments for your grandma that’s coming along, or your in-laws that are joining you, or even just your friend that wants to do nothing but thrill rides. There is a lot to consider and plan and prepare for. I’m sure a rainy day, which equals a resort day, chilling out and wandering the grounds for me, may mean crying children and frustrated parents that feel like they’ve thrown an entire day and hundreds of dollars out the window. So I get that, trust me.

Take a Step Back

Consider a time where vacation success wasn’t built upon how many rides you got to do. Where you made memories outside of the ride queues and souvenir purchases? Even when I was living in Massachusetts and we’d drive or fly down for a 7-10 days in the 80’s, we would have at least one day of doing just nothing but relaxing. We’d rent a boat, or hang out at the pool, or River Country, or even spend some time at the Village (which was very different than the Downtown Disney of today). I also distinctly remember my parents having “quiet time” every day where they would relax with a book and a stiff drink and I’d entertain myself for a bit.

There’s nothing that says a Disney vacation must be some sort of a “do-or-die” checklist. Disney has these places, these nooks & crannies and off-the-beaten-path activities or spots for you to experience and enjoy. Take some time to appreciate the very different resorts and grounds at Walt Disney World. Appreciate and enjoy your travel-mates and family. Go on a stroll or a jog by yourself and savor your time away from the hustle and bustle of what a Disney vacation has come to mean.

And certainly Fort Wilderness does not own the market of places where you can relax and unwind, or appreciate your surroundings. I could spend all day hanging out at Wilderness Lodge or the Polynesian Resort. The Boardwalk Resort is one of my favorite places during the holidays, because of the 1940’s music playing in the background and the decorations that remind me of my grandmother’s house at Christmas.

Disney’s Port Orleans Resorts, both French Quarter and Riverside, offer some of the best grounds, walking paths and theming of any Disney resort, in my opinion. Not to mention unique food offerings (but seriously, turn the old Bonfamille’s into Tiana’s Place already – it’s a no-brainer!). I’m sure we all have our favorite resorts for different reasons but some are definitely more conducive to a quieter, gentler Disney vacation where you can and should stop and take time to enjoy the details that have sprung up around you as explore.

Look at the success of the Little Orange Bird‘s triumphant return to his roost. We clamor for vintage attraction merchandise – so much so that they created multiple lines on both coasts and an entire shop dedicated to selling it here in Orlando. Our Disney obsession is with finding a Disney that lets us experience the feelings we did when we were younger, and felt those feelings for the first time. Fort Wilderness is that Disney – a precious time capsule that we get to open every time we visit the Vacation Kingdom of the World. We owe it to ourselves to appreciate this special place unlike any other in the Walt Disney World Resort.

 

Also, you seriously can’t beat the cornbread at Trail’s End and Hoop-Dee-Doo. Trust me.

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Filed Under: Commentary Land, Disney Parks, Resorts, & Entertainment, Disney Past, Disney Resorts, Places to Stay, Walt Disney World Tagged With: Crockett's Tavern, Discovery Island, Disney Hidden Gems, Disney past, Disney Resorts, Fort Wilderness, Fort Wilderness Railway, Hoop Dee Doo, Marshmallow Marsh, River Country, The Vacation Kingdom of the World, Trail's End, vintage disney, vintage Walt Disney World, Walt Disney World history, WDW history

NEW Concept Art for Trader Sams and Polynesian Village Resort

15 May 2014 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

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If you were following along during the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train media event, you heard about the changes to Disney’s Polynesian Resort. This is a location full of passionate fans who are a little concerned that their beloved lobby waterfall will be removed for new changes. Disney has tempered that concern with the gift of returning the resort to its original 1971 name: Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort – including the original font as well. I think the Polynesian Lobby is a gorgeous place, and I love the waterfall, but I am hopeful that the changes will be well done and handled with care. From the concept art, it looks as though tiki love will be found throughout, and with the refurbishment of the volcano pool and addition of Trader Sams Grog Grotto, I think the scenic views may best be found outside, with some still to be seen in the lobby as well.

Today the Disney Parks Blog released two new unseen images of the new Polynesian Village Resort lobby and Trader Sams:

Trader Sams Grog Grotto concept art
Trader Sams Grog Grotto concept art ©Disney

 

Trader Sams Grog Grotto concept art
Trader Sams Grog Grotto concept art ©Disney The Grotto will have a nautical theme – think 20,000 leagues! Note the drink vessel on the bar!

 

Trader Sams Grog Grotto concept art
Trader Sams Grog Grotto concept art ©Disney Looks like lots of fun Tiki action will be happening!

 

Disney's Polynesian Village Resort
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort will be renamed in 2015 concept art ©Disney

 

Disney's Polynesian Village Resort
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort lobby concept art ©Disney

 

Disney's Polynesian Village Resort
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort lobby concept art ©Disney

 

 

I understand the need for changes and updates, and I look forward to seeing these in action. I will miss the waterfall, but am excited about other places to hang out and experience some south seas fun. What do you think?

 

 

 

 

 

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Filed Under: Disney News, Disney Resorts, Top Stories Tagged With: Disney resort refurbishment, Disney Resorts, Disney's Polynesian, Disney's Polynesian Village Resort, Polynesian, Polynesian lobby, Polynesian waterfall, Tiki, tiki bar, Trader Sams, Trader Sams Grog Grotto

Disney’s Art of Animation Celebrates its First Christmas

27 November 2012 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

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Disney's Art of Animation Christmas twinkling tree

With such a colorful entrance into the Disney resort family, Art of Animation resort was in my sights to check out for the holidays to see just what Disney had up its sleeve to decorate their newest resort. Being a Value, or Value Plus resort, of course the Christmas decorations will be a little more low-key than say the Deluxe resorts. Still, it was fun to see and the decor definitely fits into the resort’s capture of the animation process.

Like the overall theme of Disney’s Art of Animation, the Christmas decor starts off colorless, like a blank page, with sketches. As you progress through the lobby, color is added and as a fan of rainbow colors and white Christmas trees, I was in heaven! It’s a very fun, colorful display, that just makes you happy. All that’s missing are those fun rainbow candy canes my mom always used to get!

 

 

 

Here is a gallery overview of the holiday decorations and details of Disney’s Art of Animation resort – click any photo to view as a slideshow:

Disney's Art of Animation Christmas twinkling tree
Disney's Art of Animation Christmas
Looking back at the check-in area from Ink & Paint Shop
Disney's Art of Animation Christmas
Swag within Ink & Paint Shop
Disney's Art of Animation Christmas
Decorations within the Ink & Paint merchandise shop.
Disney's Art of Animation Christmas
Crush was the only representative from Finding Nemo.
Disney's Art of Animation Christmas
Disney's Art of Animation Christmas
Above the exit to the pool area and guest room buildings. There are more sketches in the swag.
Disney's Art of Animation Christmas
The one sketch on the tree that was not Ariel or Young Simba.
Disney's Art of Animation Christmas
Disney's Art of Animation Christmas
Disney's Art of Animation Christmas
Disney's Art of Animation Christmas
Disney's Art of Animation Christmas
Disney's Art of Animation Christmas
Disney's Art of Animation Christmas
The lobby tree at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort. Looks like a multi-colored tree, but upon closer inspection, you’ll find familiar sketches nestled within the branches.
Disney's Art of Animation Christmas
Pretty pink background and green wreath!
Disney's Art of Animation Christmas
Blue swag in the middle of the check-in area.
Disney's Art of Animation Christmas
Had to use the flash on this one, so you could see the adorable pink wreath!
Disney's Art of Animation Christmas
Disney's Art of Animation Christmas
The check-in area features colorful wreaths contrasting the color on the walls behind them.
Disney's Art of Animation Christmas
Small tree in the kids area of the lobby.
Disney's Art of Animation Christmas
Multi-colored wreath inside the lobby.
Disney's Art of Animation Christmas
Inside the lobby, the color begins.
Disney's Art of Animation Christmas
Disney's Art of Animation Christmas
Disney's Art of Animation Christmas
Here, all the decorations are pure white, with no color, just like the sketches-to-painted cells progression within the lobby.
Disney's Art of Animation Christmas
The outside of the resort as you approach.

 

 

 

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Filed Under: Disney Holidays, Disney Resorts, Top Stories Tagged With: AoA, Art of Animation, Art of Animation Christmas, Christmas, Christmas decorations, Disney, Disney Christmas, Disney Christmas decorations, Disney holidays, disney resort, Disney Resort holiday decor, Disney Resorts, Disney resorts holidays, Disney's Art of Animation Resort, holiday decoration

Art of Animation Promises A Resort With Character In Late Spring

3 April 2012 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

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Art of Animation ResortI realized I hadn’t really posted about the Walt Disney Resort’s newest Value resort, Disney’s Art of Animation Resort and thought I would remedy that. While Value resorts aren’t usually my first choice, they have always been a great go-to choice for economy with Disney’s famous amenities and service. Additionally, as a family of five whose youngest member is no longer an infant, we have officially outgrown most of the room options at Disney resorts. The Art of Animation Resort offers a great alternative to booking two rooms or upgrading to a more costly DVC property with multiple bedrooms. The new resort will feature 112o Family Suites, accommodating up to 6 guests and featuring the following amenities:

  • 3 separate sleeping areas, including a master bedroom with queen-size bed
  • A full-size sleeper sofa
  • A convertible table bed—a dining or work table that transforms into a comfortable bed
  • 2 separate bathrooms
  • A kitchenette that includes a compact refrigerator, microwave and coffeemaker
  • A table and chairs
  • 2 flat panel TVs

So that alone makes it a great choice for our family, and I’m sure many others as well. I’ll be getting a chance to preview these suites and the resort later this month, and will provide a complete report at that time. Until then, here are some of the official releases on the Art of Animation resort to tide you over:

 

Opening in phases, each of the four wings celebrates rich storytelling, spirited characters and playfulness with colorful icons and whimsical theming inspired by each beloved film depicted. 

The wings dedicated to the popular films featured at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort will now be opening than sooner than expected after the resort hotel’s grand opening May 31.

“We are excited that the Cars, The Lion King, and The Little Mermaid wings at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort will all open earlier than we originally planned, bringing more permanent resort jobs to Central Florida sooner,” said Kevin Myers, vice president of resort operations for Walt Disney World Resort. “Demand for family suites exists in the marketplace today and the new opening dates reflect how optimistic we are about tourism in Central Florida.”

Art of Animation Resort
Art of Animation Resort's Finding Nemo Family Suites will be opening first, May 31, 2012

 

Art of Animation Resort
Finding Nemo Family Suite living area

 

The Finding Nemo wings of the resort will open May 31; Cars will now open June 18 instead of July 31; The Lion King will open August 10 instead of September 30. The value rooms at The Little Mermaid wings on September 15 instead of at the end of this year.

Art of Animation Resort
Art of Animation Resort's Cars Family Suites will be the next to open up, June 18, 2012. This table shows where the convertible bed will be.

 

The three-story resort will immediately put guests into the worlds of favorite Disney characters and animated films beginning at check-in as pixilated patterns and wavy ribbons of color decorate the resort’s exterior. Pencil drawings of Ariel, Lightning McQueen, Nemo and Simba adorn the entryway, and a cleverly created chandelier composed of animation storyboards enhance the lively and modern lobby.

Art of Animation Resort
Art of Animation Resort sketches in the lobby

 

“Our goal is to make guests feel like they have been immersed in the artistry and enchantment of Walt Disney and Disney•Pixar animated classics,” said Walt Disney Imagineer Frank Paris.

Giant sketchbooks filled with favorite characters seem to come to life as they pave the way to each storyline revealed. Scenic settings, icons—including a brightly-colored coral landscape, a 35-foot-tall model of King Triton, a towering Mufasa and more—immerse guests into the playful world of animation. At the Cars wing, a freshly paved road leads to the Cozy Cone Motel complete with a Cozy Cone pool and cone-shaped cabanas. It’s a journey through an African landscape in The Lion King complete with an elephant graveyard play area that invites youngsters to seek hakuna matata time. Treasures from the human world fill Ariel’s grotto in an under the sea kingdom in Little Mermaid courtyard.

Art of Animation Resort
Art of Animation Resort's Little Mermaid Value rooms

 

From linens and carpeting to fixtures and furniture, all details of the guestroom tie to the storyline. In Finding Nemo, there’s coral-shaped chairs and bubble ceiling lights; Zazu takes center stage on the headboards in The Lion King, while Pumbaa and Timon decorate the shower curtain.

Art of Animation Resort
Art of Animation Resort's Lion King Family Suites

 

Kids of all ages can make a splash at the “Big Blue” pool, the largest resort swimming pool at Walt Disney World Resort measuring 11,859 square feet. Guests enter scenes from the animated world and can explore the colorful reef with a giant-sized Mr. Ray whose wings span 27 feet, pose for a picture with Crush or frolic with Squirt in the Righteous Reef, a children’s play area. An arcade and two additional pools round out the fun.

Art of Animation Resort
Art of Animation Resort's "Big Blue" pool area

 

In size and scope the construction of Disney’s Art of Animation Resort is a major project at Walt Disney World Resort. The project has created 800 construction jobs and once open later this year, Disney’s Art of Animation Resort will create 750 permanent resort hotel jobs.

The Lion King, Cars and Finding Nemo buildings will be entirely family suites, with 1,120 suites between them. The Little Mermaid buildings will feature 864 rooms in the “value” room category.

Art of Animation Resort
Art of Animation Resort's Cars Family Suite living area

 

The construction of family suites at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort is an innovative approach to a changing marketplace.  Today more and more multi-generational families are traveling together for various celebrations, including family reunions. These families not only want to play together, they want to stay together, which has created tremendous demand for family suites.

  • Disney also unveiled the look of new Cast Member costumes at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort.
  • Each front desk Cast Member will wear a unique splattered-ink vest representing an animator’s unique creative process as part of their costume.

Also, as Guests move from the check-in area to Merchandise and Food & Beverage locations, Cast Members in those locations will be wearing colorful costumes that represent the color being added to animation.

Dining options were revealed earlier this year from Disney food writer Pam Brandon:

“Better-for-you” options at five mini shops serving breakfast, lunch and dinner is the overarching theme of the new Landscape of Flavors food court still being tweaked for Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, opening in May. The new restaurant will be adjacent to the lobby.

“The idea is that you customize your choice,” says Chef Ed Wronski, Director, Food & Beverage Concept Development, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. “From burgers to pasta, salads, ethnic flavors, omelets, even parfaits and gelatos, everything is made fresh as you order.”

There’s a big focus on beverages, too. Fresh fruit smoothies are made to order, ditto for lemonade and pomegranate limeade. They’re stocking organic teas, beer (including gluten free), wine, coffee and juices. You can get a plain cup of coffee or a French vanilla or mocha iced. And half bottles of wine are paired with cuisine from the food shops.

We got a sneak peek at the menu, and here are some of the highlights:

  • The Soup-Salad-Sandwich Shop lets you create your own salad (with beef or chicken) and offers a caprese sandwich with fresh mozzarella and tomatoes on focaccia, or a Buffalo-style turkey sandwich with arugula and a blue cheese-Buffalo sauce-mayo spread. Both are served with delish house-made potato chips.
  • The World Flavors Shop adds Indian-African flair to breakfast, too, with scrambled eggs, tandoor potatoes, Portuguese sausage, slab bacon and a mini-naan; or a veggie flatbread sandwich on naan with cauliflower, spinach and paneer. Lunch and dinner is a choice of tandoori chicken or shrimp, Mongolian beef with vegetables, mahi mahi, Portuguese sausage or roasted acorn squash served with sides and naan bread.
  • The Pizza Shop features make-your-own pasta, cheese and pepperoni pizzas and meatballs on ciabatta bread. Room delivery is an option, too.
  • The Burger Shop includes a breakfast burger with chicken breakfast sausage, cheese and scrambled eggs on a multi-grain bun, and a steak-and-eggs breakfast burger with a burger topped with fried eggs, cheese and bacon. Besides the traditional burgers, lunch and dinner includes a surf and turf burger with crab cake and fried popcorn shrimp, and a pastrami cheeseburger topped with pepper jack cheese and a slice of fried green tomato.
  • The “grab ‘n go” Market Shop offers drinks, yogurt, bagels, pastries, gourmet cupcakes, cookies and gelato.

The food court will be part of the Disney Dining Plan, details to follow.

 

I can’t wait to see the finished Art of Animation Resort and share photos with you here.

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Filed Under: Disney Resorts, Official Disney, Walt Disney World Tagged With: Art of Animation dining options, Art of Animation food court, Art of Animation Resort, Cars Family Suites, compact refrigerator, Disney Resorts, Disney's Art of Animation Resort, economy rooms, family resort, Family Suites, Finding Nemo Family Suites, flat panel tvs, full size sleeper sofa, kitchenette, lion king, Lion King Family Suites, little mermaid, Little Mermaid rooms, master bedroom, queen size bed, value resort, walt disney resort

The Disney Wedding Podcast-One Stop Spot for Romantic Disney Planning

8 March 2012 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

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Disney Wedding PavilionAlthough I have been happily married for going on 16 years, and did enjoy a Walt Disney World Dolphin reception, something that will always be on my “bucket list” is having a Disney wedding. I love all things about wedding planning: wedding shows, wedding blogs, wedding photos…it’s fun to get inspiration and plan your own dream ceremony (or renewal in my case!). That’s actually how I came to know the name behind the all-new Disney Wedding Podcast, Carrie Hayward. Somehow I stumbled upon her wedding planning and trip photos from her amazing ceremony at Epcot’s Morocco pavilion and I knew then, she was me hero.

After meeting Carrie at the last Social Media Moms Celebration in February 2010, I asked her to write a guest post about the Disney’s D23 Expo and share her experiences with us. Carrie’s Disneyland and Walt Disney World knowledge is astounding and matched only by her creativity and ability to plan amazing events at Disney parks. I am excited to share news of Carrie’s newest venture, The Disney Wedding Podcast and hope you will give it a listen. Whether you are planning your own event, or just daydreaming like me, you won’t be disappointed by the tips and information found within the podcast. Here is all the official info:

 

“The Disney Wedding Podcast” is released weekly on Wednesday and is available via iTunes worldwide at http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/disney-wedding-podcast/id503483435. The program is also available at http://disneyweddingpodcast.com/ and on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Disney-Wedding-Podcast/355079001189132. The show’s Twitter account is @DisneyWedCast.

“I’m so happy to hear that Carrie Hayward is bringing us the all-new ‘Disney Wedding Podcast,'” said The Disney Wedding Blog founder Carly Morgan. “Carrie is a past Disney bride and the absolute Disney wedding expert, having penned the must-have Disney wedding guide, ‘PassPorter’s Disney Weddings and Honeymoons.’ I can’t wait to hear the info, interviews and insider information she has lined up!”

About The “The Disney Wedding Podcast”

“The Disney Wedding Podcast” is the only program dedicated to weddings, honeymoons, anniversaries and other romantic occasions at the Disney parks and resorts. Each week, Carrie Hayward takes a look at what’s new and exciting in the world of Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings. Topics range from the latest news, planning information and money-saving tips to in-depth interviews and event coverage. The program also features special guests, including industry experts, wedding vendors and real Disney brides and grooms.

About Carrie Hayward

Print and broadcast journalist Carrie Hayward is the author of “PassPorter’s Disney Weddings & Honeymoons,” a guidebook and bridal organizer for weddings, vow renewals, commitment ceremonies and honeymoons at Walt Disney World and on the Disney Cruise Line. She is also the E-Book Editor at PassPorter Travel Press, an independent publisher of best-selling Disney park guidebooks. She was married at Walt Disney World in 2008.

I hope you’ll check it out – and happy planning!

 

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Filed Under: Disney Planning Tagged With: Carrie Hayward, Disney parks, disney podcasts, Disney Resorts, Disney special occasion planning, disney wedding, Disney weddings, Romantic Disney planning, The Disney Wedding Podcast, Walt Disney World, wedding expert, wedding planning

Photo Tour of Disney’s Beach Club Presidential Suite

4 January 2012 by Suzannah Otis 7 Comments

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One of my dearest Moms Panel family members is Kay, who is like a mom to us all and keeps us all full of magic and pixie dust year round. Kay was kind enough to let us visit her suite at the Beach Club last month, when a flock of ‘old’ moms came down to visit and welcome the ‘new’ moms for the 2012 class. With Kay’s permission, I took some photos of this amazing suite, since I know I’ll probably never step foot in it again! I thought I’d share them here with my readers to see all the lovely details and amenities Disney provides.

Enjoy the tour and big thanks again to Kay for sharing her suite with us!

 

Many people have asked for the music used in the video above, it’s from Poppin’ Guitars: A Tuneful of Sherman, which is a great CD! Check it out below:

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Filed Under: Commentary Land, Disney Resorts, Walt Disney World Tagged With: #wdwmoms, Beach Club Presidential Suite, Disney, Disney Presidential Suite, Disney Resorts, Disney videos, Disney's Beach Club Resort, Epcot Resorts, Kay Belin, Photo Tour, Resort tour, Walt Disney World

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