Hi there! Welcome to our weekly roundup of the most interesting news surrounding Disney and the Orlando theme parks.
This week’s highlights:
- Big news this week, or should I say tall news? Florida is set to have the distinction of being home to the world’s tallest roller coaster come 2016, with the addition of the so-called 520-foot-high Polercoaster, which will also feature a double decker restaurant and observation tower. A big question is where the coaster will be located, and although the designer isn’t saying now, an official announcement is expected in a few weeks. The bigger question is do you dare?
![Legoland Florida hotel]()
Expect to see more red, yellow, blue and green in Winter Haven, because LEGOLAND Florida has announced it's building a 152-room themed hotel expected to open in 2015. Tad saw the rendering and proclaimed it "very LEGO-Y!"- Height balloons were spotted over the proposed site of the Avatar-themed land planned for Disney's Animal Kingdom.
- Did you miss our big Thanksgiving news? We're giving away a $250 credit just by creating a Pinterest board dedicated to what you're thankful for when you visit the Orlando theme parks. Get the full details.
![Celebrate the Magic Frozen]()
Surely the most spectacular photo of the week was captured during the Magic Kingdom castle projection show Celebrate the Magic, which debuted a new scene from the upcoming Disney film “Frozen.”
- Your princesses can take in the castle projection show dressed as Anna or Elsa now that "Frozen" merchandise has come to the parks. I have a sneaky suspicion that the costumes are going to be very popular with Lily!
- It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas over at SeaWorld Orlando, where its annual Christmas Celebration begins this Saturday.
- And no matter what time of year, you can always find plenty of cheer at the Christmas shops inside of the theme parks. Orlando Informer rounds up the Top 5. What's the number one spot? I'll give you a hint -- it's at my favorite shopping destination!
![Downtown Disney]()
Speaking of, there has been a ton of change going on at Downtown Disney as it prepares for its transformation into Disney Springs. Here's a look at some of the recent happenings.
- I leave you with food for thought. Most of you couldn't imagine Disney World anywhere else, but 50 years ago today, Walt Disney chose Central Florida over St. Louis, Niagra Falls and Baltimore as the site for his beloved project. The Orlando Sentinel steps back in time to revisit Central Florida as Walt would have back in the day.
That’s all for this week. Have a great weekend!
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 planning pages.
— Mommy Frog
