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.
Here are this week’s theme park highlights:
Universal Studios Hollywood, with a little help from Evanna Lynch's Luna Lovegood, announced the official opening for the Wizarding World of Harry Potter — April 7! Modeled after Hogsmeade, the headliner will be a 3D version of Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey. We frogs got a few pics of construction on our last visit. Can't wait!
For those of you headed to Disney World this busy holiday season, we put together our ultimate survival guide. Inside, though, was a little surprise for the tadpoles that you might have missed. We crafted this awesome coloring page packing list that you can download and print so the little ones can help with the planning!- For all of you Walt fans, his office was been lovingly restored — with original furnishings, his piano, awards and some of his miniature collectibles — in the Animation Building at the Walt Disney Studios lot in Burbank.
- Cupid has come early for mouse fans. A new dating site, MouseMingle.com, is helping Disney fans find true love. Users can fill out a profile with details such as favorite Disney park, favorite Marvel franchise in addition to the usual dating questions.
- The Macy's Holiday Parade has taken to the streets at Universal Studios Florida, and if you've ever wondered more about how the parade units are chosen or even get into the park (deep breath in, Santa), here is your chance to learn.
New Marvel merchandise has made its way to the Disneyland Resort. Among the offerings are customizable phone and other device cases, ear hats and, of course, these delectable Spider Man caramel apples.- One of Disney California Adventure's most popular hangouts, the Cove Bar, is being expanded. Its prime location overlooking Paradise Bay makes it the perfect place to stop for a drink or plate of lobster nachos. Here are the other refurbishments and closings at Disneyland Resort.
That’s it for the theme park news this week. Have a great weekend!
Hoppy planning!
If you’re thinking about a trip to Disney World, make sure to check out the other news, tips and information we post to the blog throughout the week. If you’re ready to plan your trip, we recommend you start with our Orlando Planning Guide.
