Hi there! Welcome to our weekly roundup of the most interesting theme park news around the Walt Disney World Resort, the Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld Orlando and other theme parks.
- Downtown Disney District is currently undergoing a major transformation that has already brought (and continues to add) new and reimagined restaurants to the shopping, dining and entertainment center of Disneyland Resort. Disney released new details about upcoming additions, including opening timeframes for three Mexican dining experiences (all opening in May), and Din Tai Fung (opening in summer 2024). Michelin-starred Chef Carlos Gaytán will spearhead Paseo, Céntrico and Tiendita — three original concepts that feature authentic Mexican cuisine ranging from mejillones (pictured above) to street fish tacos. Additionally, a steakhouse and a barbecue eatery will replace the former Tortilla Jo's, and Marceline's Confectionery is getting an expansion.
- Disney Parks is updating its Disability Access Service (DAS) at both Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resorts in the coming months. Starting May 20 at Disney World and June 18 at Disneyland, DAS will introduce changes including 1) virtual chat-only registration at Disney World and a new in-person Accessibility Service window at Disneyland; 2) adjustment of the maximum party size to the DAS holder and three other guests (except for immediate family members) and 3) an extension of the enrollment period from 60 days to 120 days. Disney also updated the language that further clarifies eligibility: "Disability Access Service (DAS) is one of our programs offered at Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort theme parks intended to accommodate guests who, due to a developmental disability like autism or similar, are unable to wait in a conventional queue for an extended period of time."
- Disney introduced us to the final group of critters along for the ride on Tiana's Bayou Adventure — and obviously, the best was saved for last. Representing the jazz sounds of Afro-Cuban music, guests will meet Felipe, Mayra, Mondo and Isabel — four frogs (!!!) who play the piano, trumpet and conga drums. Do you ever get the feeling that someone's watching you? Keep an eye out for Gloria and Delores, who are BFFs (best frog friends) and like to watch folks floating on logs down the bayou. Last but not least, Lari the mischievous armadillo tends to pop up when you least expect him to. Also, Disney released a first look at two retail locations — Critter Co-Op and Tiana's Bayou General — coming to Tiana's Bayou Adventure.
- Our froggy wish came true! 1900 Park Fare has officially reopened at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort and Spa with a new theme and character cast of wish makers. During the all-you-care-to-enjoy breakfast or dinner buffet, you can meet Cinderella, Mirabel, Tiana and Aladdin — all known for making their wishes come true. This beloved character dining location also saw the return of the famous Strawberry Soup and Big Bertha. Hop over to our review where we share our breakfast experience since its grand reopening!
- Disney dropped the Pixar Fest foodie guide, and it's an incredible one! There will be over 80 new food, drink and novelty items to enjoy during the festival, so in the spirit of Pixar's common theme of friendship, you'll definitely want to bring your friends along for the culinary adventure. There are even select food items that you may find beyond the festival once it ends Aug. 4. You can discover the full menus in our Pixar Fest food guide and find more general info about Pixar Fest in our main guide.
- Universal Orlando Resort has revealed a few new details about Universal Stella Nova Resort and Universal Terra Luna Resort, the two sister hotels opening in early 2025 ahead of the adjacent Universal Epic Universe (opening later in 2025). We got a closer look at the dining options and amenities that will be available at the hotels, as well as a virtual tour.
That's it for theme park news this week.
Hoppy planning!
