Awaken Summer at Walt Disney World 2016

Awaken Summer

New Excitement Awakens This Summer
Awaken Summer throughout the entire Walt Disney World® Resort and discover new and immersive experiences that will bring you to worlds that, up until now, you could only imagine. All new attractions and entertainment are currently scheduled to open throughout the summer.
Must-Do's in All Four Theme Parks...and Beyond!
Be there as the magic of nature comes alive both day and night at Disney's Animal Kingdom® Theme Park. Feel the Force as it's unleashed at Disney's Hollywood Studios®. Sail through a world of Frozen fun at Epcot®. And have a music- and magic-filled time at Magic Kingdom® Park.
But the excitement doesn't stop there. It continues through Disney Springs™ where you can enjoy an eclectic mix of unique boutiques, one-of-a-kind eateries and jaw-dropping entertainment. You'll even be able to participate in The Frozen Games at Disney's Blizzard Beach Water Park.
Prepare to Discover a Summer Unlike Any Other!

Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park

• The Jungle Book: Alive with Magic Show – Begins May 28, 2016! For the summer, Discovery River becomes the stage for music and pageantry in a limited-engagement show inspired by Disney's hit live-action film The Jungle Book. The Jungle Book: Alive with Magic is a live show filled with music and special effects that celebrates the new film and the classic songs, now infused with an Indian influence.
• Tree of Life® Awakenings – Begins May 27, 2016! The Tree of Life swirls with dramatic color throughout the evening as artistic projections tell stories of love, adventure, humor and culture.
• Discovery Island Carnivale – Begins May 27, 2016! When this nighttime dance party hits the streets, you'll get to revel in the splendor of all living things alongside stilt walkers, musicians and more.
• Harambe Wildlife Parti – Begins May 27, 2016! You'll be able to join singers, dancers, acrobats and musicians for a wild and wonderful street festival that kicks off when the sun sets.
• Kilimanjaro Safaris - Extended hours begin May 27, 2016! After the sun sets, you will be able to explore Kilimanjaro Safaris and see the nighttime behavior of the wildlife and better tune in to the unique vocalization of the animals like never before.
• Tiffins Restaurant and Nomad Lounge - Opens May 27, 2016! Tiffins, the newest Disney signature restaurant, features cuisine and beverages from places that inspired the creation of Disney's Animal Kingdom and is open for both lunch and dinner. The Nomad Lounge features waterfront views in addition to hand-crafted cocktails, beers, sustainable wines, specialty non-alcoholic beverages and small bites.

Disney's Hollywood Studios

• Star Wars Launch Bay – Now Open! It's the place to go for popular character encounters and more.
• Star Tours® – The Adventures Continue – Now Open! On this thrilling attraction, you'll travel to Jakku, an all-new destination from Star Wars: The Force Awakens.
• Jedi Training: Trials of the Temple – Now Open! Bring your Younglings to hone their Lightsaber skills in preparation to face the dark side.
• Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular – Begins June 17, 2016! Look to the skies for this nightly fireworks finale bursting with Star Wars™ music and magic.

Epcot

• Frozen Ever After – Opens June 21, 2016! This boating adventure through Arendelle features favorite Frozen characters, songs and a visit to Elsa's Ice Palace in the cool blue world of the North Mountain.
• Royal Sommerhus – Opens June 21, 2016! You'll have a royally good time as you meet Anna and Elsa in a charming Norwegian culture.
• Soarin' Around the World - Opens June 17, 2016! Get ready to soar over the Great Wall of China, Switzerland's Matterhorn mountain, and spectacular scenic wonders on every continent in this brand-new adventure. Your imagination can take flight in this epic re-imagining of an Epcot classic.
• Turtle Talk with Crush - Now Open! When Crush the sea turtle swims up to the "Human Tank" this summer, he'll be joined by Dory and some of her new friends from Disney•Pixar's "Finding Dory!"

Magic Kingdom Park

• Mickey's Royal Friendship Faire – Begins June 17, 2016! Music and magic arrive at the castle stage for a new show featuring Mickey Mouse and pals, along with characters from The Princess and the Frog, Tangled, and Frozen.
• Elena of Avalor - Debuts August 2016! Guests will be able to see Princess Elena, Disney's first princess inspired by diverse Latin cultures. Elena will debut in the Disney Channel series "Elena of Avalor" this summer.

Disney Springs

• Town Center – Now Open! Town Center, the newest neighborhood at Disney Springs, is officially open! Featuring Spanish revival architecture, gorgeous landscaping and several new fountains and water features, this new addition is home to exceptional shopping and dining experiences. Over 30 new tenants are now open, with more shops and restaurants opening throughout the summer!

Disney's Blizzard Beach Water Park

• The Frozen Games – From May 27 - August 21, 2016! Olaf and Kristoff host daily winter-themed activities for Guests of all ages, including Snowball Toss and Ski Pole Limbo. All activities are complimentary and Guests can sign up at the park entrance to participate.

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Want to stay during the magic? Book before June 10 and save up to 30% off your room rates this summer plus get the option of a special BB8 magic band that will do MAGICALY stuff while at Disney.
To view the offer, click here.

To get a quote, click here or call 818-903-0382.

For the first time ever, experience the magic of Disney’s Animal Kingdom at night beginning May 27!

 

©Disney

First-Ever Night Experiences at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Begin May 27

Beginning May 27, the park will awaken at night with new rich experiences under the stars and one day later, on May 28, The Jungle Book: Alive with Magic live show will debut at the park.

©Disney

 Beginning May 27, animal spirits will be brought to life each night by magical fireflies that reveal colorful stories of wonder and enchantment along with other amazing sights at the tree.

© Disney

After the sun sets, you’ll also be able to explore Kilimanjaro Safaris and see the nighttime behavior of the wildlife and better tune into the unique vocalization of the animals like never before. Among the new experiences, the village of Harambe in Africa will become the place to enjoy “Wildlife Parti” and the spirited community of Discovery Island will come together to celebrate their love of the natural world with the Discovery Island Carnivale.

© Disney

And the park’s Discovery River will awaken at night and become a stunning stage for performances of the limited-engagement show The Jungle Book: Alive with Magic, inspired by the hit live-action film Disney’s The Jungle Book. Shows will feature memorable moments from the film, including the iconic Shere Khan, and will be filled with music and special effects that celebrate the movie and classic songs, infused with an Indian influence.
FastPass+ and dining packages for Disney’s Animal Kingdom night experiences will become available beginning tomorrow, May 21.
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Walt Disney World In Park Fastpass Tips

1) If you wish to maximize your number of rides, use your first pass, and then try bumping your times up on the others (example: You have a 9am FP for Soarin and a 10am FP for Spaceship Earth. If you use your Soarin FP at 9:10, you can get on the app (even while waiting to board your hang glider!) and change your SE FP to 9:15). All based on availability, of course.

2) If you arrive at your FP ride, and the standby time is short, you can ride standby and change the FP to something else, or just ride twice.

3) At kiosks, take the soonest attraction you are happy with, and then immediately look for something better on the app. The kiosks don't show everything. Ex we always took the first one available usually Winnie the Pooh Ride but then would get on the app and switch it to something better like Pirates.

4) Make a note or take a picture/screenshot of your plans for the day and set it as your phone's home screen. This will cut down on excess battery use.

A look Inside Deluxe Resort Disney's Contemporary Resort

A Look Inside
Deluxe Resort

Disney's Contemporary Resort

©Disney

The Contemporary Resort is one of the tow original Walt Disney World Hotels. It is located between Bay Lake and the Seven Seas Lagoon. Within walking distance to the Magic Kingdom park, or you can catch the Resort Monorail as it breezes through the iconic A-frame Contemporary Tower. Described as ultra-modern with award-winning dining, white-sand beaches, spectacular views and dazzling pools. This resort has one of the lease amount of colors, the only real source of color in the atrium is a 90-foot mosaic depicting Native American children and nature.  The off-white central tower is augmented by a three-story Garden Building.

The 4th floor of the Tower is known as the Grand Canyon Concourse where you will find a variety of shops and restaurants as well as the monorail station. There is also a walkway to Bay Lake Tower (a DVC Resort). The Contemporary offers many recreation options and also houses large convention facilities.

There are several big advantages to staying at this resort. The first is location, location, location! As one of the monorail hotels the Contemporary Resort is very well located. The Magic Kingdom is only a short monorail ride (or walk) away and getting to Epcot simply requires transferring from one monorail to another one at the Ticket and Transportation Center (TTC). In addition, the Polynesian and Grand Floridian Resorts are easily accessed by the monorail and the Wilderness Lodge and Fort Wilderness are just a boat ride away. There are several dining options within the resort itself, and as we already said it boost one of the largest selections of recreational activities. The second biggest draw is the rooms at the Contemporary Resort are among the largest at Walt Disney World.

©Disney

©Disney

Disney's Contemporary Resort's Rooms Most of the Contemporary rooms are 394 square feet, which makes them some of the largest standard rooms in Walt Disney World, and have two queen-size beds, a daybed, and a table with two chairs.

Each Disney's Contemporary Resort room is furnished with the following:

©Disney

• Two queen beds
• Dresser with medium-size drawers
• Table with 2 chairs
• Nightstand digital alarm clock
• Full-length mirror (on bath door)
• WiFi wireless Internet access
• Flat-panel TV
• Mini fridge
• Coffee Maker
• Ironing board and iron
• Hair dryer
• Digital thermostat
• In-room safe
• Tiny bottle of H2O-brand shampoo, and bar soap

The mini-fridge is a dorm-style unit that sits under a counter or desk. It's more like a beverage chiller than a refrigerator in that it'll keep drinks cool, but you're not going to freeze Popsicle or make ice cubes in it.

The Contemporary Resort has two sections. The Tower is 14 stories tall and has approximately 500 guest rooms. The Tower rooms have 2 views, Bay Lake or the Magic Kingdom/parking lot. The South Garden Wing is located to the south of tower has approximately 250 rooms. The Garden rooms have either a water, garden or parking lot view. With that said which is better, the Tower or the Garden Wing? That depends on your taste. The Tower rooms are much more convenient to the shops, restaurants, front desk and monorail station. The rooms in the South Wing are closer to the marina and swimming pools. The Tower room are more expensive and some have complained of the noise from the monorail.

Concierge Services

The Concierge Floors - 12 and 14. Concierge services are identical on the two floors, the only difference is the 14th floor has suites.

The 12th floor Atrium Club Concierge and the 14th floor Tower Club Concierge offer the same services and food items. There is a nightly turndown service, and they leave a little chocolate Mickey (solid chocolate) on your pillow every night. The concierge is available from 7am to 10pm to make dining reservations, plan outings, answer questions, everything

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©Disney

Contemporary Pools

Contemporary has two pools. The largest, The Feature Pool, sits in the middle of the Contemporary tower and the Garden Wing. There is also a hot tub, kiddie pool and water player area.

The other smaller pool, the Bay Pool is located near the Feature. This pool is considered a "quiet pool," meaning that loud play and splashing around are discouraged.

Contemporary's pools range in depth from around 3 feet 6 inches to 4 feet 9 inches. Pool are open every day, including during winter. The pools are heated to 82°F/28°C throughout the year. We've swum in temperatures as cold as 40°F/4°C; the water was fine, but getting out was a shock. Contemporary also has a hot tub located near Silver Creek Springs Pool.

Feature Pool has one water slide that all ages are free to use. Guests can find showers, storage lockers, restrooms, and laundry facilities. Pool hours are at least 10AM to 10 PM, extending to as much as 8 AM to 12 AM during busy times. Feature Pool will have lifeguards during the pools' operating hours.

Restaurants and Dining

California Grill-High atop the Contemporary Resort, the award-winning California Grill sets the standard for Disney dining. But expect a boisterous crowd-the noise level makes quiet conversation difficult. Still, the view from the 15th floor is stellar, one of the best spots for watching the Magic Kingdom fireworks. It's so popular that the Grill no longer allows just anyone on the elevator for a ride to the top - you must have a dinner reservation. A show kitchen is the centerpiece of the airy dining room

©Disney

Chef Mickey's is an all-you-can-eat buffet with that features a colorful, open dining room with the monorail running overhead, this is one of the most popular Disney-character restaurants-mostly because you're guaranteed an audience with Mickey Mouse, who dons a chef's toque and visits every single table for photos. (Goofy, Minnie, Donald, and Pluto are on hand, too.) The buffet circles the center of the room. It's loud, crowded, busy, and fun for families. We rarely see anyone here without kids in tow.

The Wave...of American Flavors-On the first floor of the Contemporary just past the front desk, The Wave has one of the coolest lounges at Walt Disney World. This hip spot has the feel of an upscale coffee shop. Many of the items on the list are Organic including their beer and coffee. The Wave also serves up unusal drinks like the Antioxidant Cocktail and Supercharged Tropical Smoothie. With health breakfast buffet options of multigrain pancakes, make-your-own muesil. As well as healthy options for lunch and dinner.


Contempo Cafe-is the resort's conuter service restaurant. You place your order on a touch-screen kiosk, you can’t make modifications to your order on the touch screen but if you would like to 86’d the tomato on your sandwich just walk up to the pick-up window and ask. The food is made fresh and is tastier than most quick service restaurants. The seating area can be quite noisy with sounds from the nearby Chef Mickey.

Viewing the Fireworks from The Contemporary

Magic Kingdom Fireworks can be easily viewed from the resort. One of the Best spots for this is the 15th floor California Grill Lounge but you must have a dining reservation to view from this location. The music which accompanies the fireworks is piped into the lounge so guests don’t miss a thing. Guest with Tower Rooms facing the Magic Kingdom can also view the show from their terraces. If you are a guest on the 14th floor Concierge, you can watch the fireworks from the balcony off the lounge.

Actives to do

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Pirate and Pals Cruise-Take an unforgettable moonlit cruise of Seven Seas Lagoon, meet fearsome Never Land pirates and enjoy a fireworks finale.

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Contemporary Resort Campfire Head down to the beach for a fun evening of storytelling and s’mores around an open fire.

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Electric Water Pageant-Great sea creatures and twinkling flags cross the lagoon to electronic tunes in this playful nighttime water parade.The best viewing spot from the Contemporary of this water pageant is the beach on the Bay Lake side of the resort.

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There is also parasailing, personal water craft rentals, wakeboarding, motorized boating, fishing, tubing, beach volleyball, tennis, basketball, and jogging trails. Movie under the stars and a game station arcade are also available.

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Shops

Bayview Gifts - The front section, just off the escalator, offers refrigerated chocolates and fudge, homewares and photo collectibles. The middle section offers Ladies casual fashions, watches, jewelry and framed art collectibles. The end section offers men's fashions.

Fantasia - Offers Disney character merchandise and clothing. A wide selection of pins is located in the center of this shop.

Fantasia Market - Offers a variety of reading material (newspapers, magazines, etc.), liquor and refrigerated items. This shop also stocks health and beauty items guests may need.

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Commuting Times to the Parks Park Commuting Times Resort Transportation Magic Kingdom 12 min Epcot 21 min Hollywood Studios 29 min Animal Kingdom 25 min

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My Magic +, now unlimited Fastpass selections

Starting today, April 28, 2014 after guest have used their first three FastPass+ selections, which many will have been chosen before entering the park, you may visit a kiosks located in each of the Walt Disney World parks and select another FastPass+, after that one is used you may select another and another, even going to another park and selecting any that are still available.

For more information, check out our FastPass+ informational page.

FastPass+ System at Walt Disney World...How does it work?

Fast Pass+ Choices....
You may choose 3 choices from each park per day, up to the days of tickets linked to your account. If you are staying at a Walt Disney World Hotel you may start making your selections 60 days prior to arrival. You must create an account at mydisneyexperience.com and link your reservation to it.

If you are staying off property, or have an annual pass you may create an account at mydisneyexperience.com and link your annual pass or park tickets to your account, and then you may select your FastPass+ options 30 days prior to arrival. Those with tickets are limited to the number of days their tickets hold, those with annual passes may make up to 7 days of selections at the Parks in a 30 day period. 

 

Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom you can select any 3 FastPass+ attractions, for Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios they have tiered the FastPass+ selections where you choose 1 for group A and 2 from group B.

Magic Kingdom

•             Ariel's Grotto
•             The Barnstormer
•             Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
•             Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin
•             Celebrate the Magic (nighttime special effects show)
•             Dumbo the Flying Elephant
•             Enchanted Tales with Belle
•             Festival of Fantasy (afternoon parade)
•             The Haunted Mansion
•             it's a small world
•             Jungle Cruise
•             Mad Tea Party
•             The Magic Carpets of Aladdin
•             Main Street Electrical Parade (evening parade) 
•             The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh
•             Mickey's PhilharMagic
•             Monsters, Inc. Laugh Floor
•             Peter Pan's Flight
•             Pirates of the Caribbean
•             Princess Fairytale Hall: Meet Cinderella and a Visiting Princess
•             Princess Fairytale Hall: Meet Rapunzel and a Visiting Princess
•             Princess Fairytale Hall: Meet Anna and Elsa from Frozen (As of April 20, 2014) 
•             Seven Dwarfs Mine Train
•             Space Mountain
•             Splash Mountain
•             Tomorrowland Speedway
•             Town Square Theater Mickey Mouse Meet and Greet
•             Under the Sea: Journey of the Little Mermaid
•             Wishes Nighttime Spectacular

Epcot

Group A (Choose 1 attraction)

•             Epcot Character Spot
•             IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth
•             Maelstrom
•             Soarin'
•             Test Track 

Group B (Choose 2 attractions)

•             Captain EO
•             Journey Into Imagination With Figment
•             Living with the Land
•             Mission: SPACE Green
•             Mission: SPACE Orange
•             Spaceship Earth
•             The Seas with Nemo & Friends
•             Turtle Talk with Crush

Disney Hollywood Studio

Group A (Choose 1 attraction)

•             Beauty and the Beast - Live on Stage
•             Fantasmic! 
•             Rock 'n' Roller Coaster
•             Toy Story Mania!

Group B (Choose 2 attractions)

•             Disney Junior - Live on Stage!
•             Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular! 
•             Lights, Motors, Action! Extreme Stunt Show
•             Muppet*Vision 3D
•             Star Tours: The Adventures Continue
•             The American Idol Experience
•             The Comedy Warehouse Holiday Special (Seasonal)
•             The Great Movie Ride
•             The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror
•             Voyage of the Little Mermaid

Disney Animal Kingdom

•             DINOSAUR
•             Expedition Everest
•             Festival of the Lion King
•             Finding Nemo - The Musical
•             It's Tough to Be a Bug! 
•             Kali River Rapids
•             Kilimanjaro Safaris Expedition
•             Meet Favorite Disney Pals at Adventurers Outpost
•             Mickey's Jammin' Jungle Parade
•             Mickey's Jingle Jungle Parade (Seasonal)
•             Primeval Whirl

FAQ about FastPass+

What is the new FastPass+ System?

Disney’s FastPass+ service, is a new service Disney is offering guest. It has replace their old FastPass system, and is still in the testing phase at this time. You can make FastPass+ selections for attractions and entertainment experiences before you even leave home-and make changes on the go! (You can only make selections before you go if you are staying at a Walt Disney World Hotel or are a annual pass holder) For the first time, you can even choose select firework and parade viewing areas, shows, Disney Characters meet and greet and quick-service restaurants.
For Walt Disney World Hotel guest 60 days before you visit Walt Disney World you can log online and select up to 3 attractions a day (but you are limited to one park a day), you can choose the times too.
If you are staying off property, or have an annual pass you may create an account at mydisneyexperience.com and link your annual pass or park tickets to your account, and then you may select your FastPass+ options 30 days prior to arrival. Those with tickets are limited to the number of days their tickets hold, those with annual passes may make up to 7 days of selections at the Parks in a 30 day period.
If you don't make an account and buy your tickets at the park the day you arrive, you will find a kiosk at the park you are at, put your park ticket in and then you may select your 3 choices from the options that are left.

How many FastPass+ selections for attractions and entertainment am I allowed to make during my entire vacation?

The total number of FastPass+ experiences available to you during your visit depends on several factors including availability and the vacation package and tickets linked to your Disney account. Generally, FastPass+ eligible Guests are able to select one set of FastPass+ experiences each day for every valid theme park ticket linked to their account.
Depending on availability, you should be able to make up to 3 FastPass+ selections for attractions and entertainment each day at one theme park.

Is FastPass+ service like a restaurant reservation? Do I have to show up at a specific time for an attraction?

No-It’s better! For extra convince, you are assigned an arrival window-usually one hour long-for each attraction you select. Show up any time that you wish during this window. Don’t worry about rushing to finish up a meal or getting delayed at another show or attraction.

Do I need theme park tickets or just a room reservation to make my FastPass+ selections before I go?

In order to make your FastPass+ selections 60 days in advance you need to have a room confirmation and have theme park tickets confirmation tied to your account. You must have BOTH in order to make a selection

I’m concerned that my vacation will feel over-scheduled if I have to make Fastpass+ attraction selections in advance. Will I have the flexibility to change my mind when I arrive at the theme park?

Yes. You can modify your selections online with yoru mobile phone or at a FastPass+ kiok. For even more on-the-go flexibility, download the My Disney Experience mobile app to select and modify FastPass+ experiences-plus access yoru vacation details, maps and up-to-the-minute information.

Have a question you don't see here? E-mail us and we will gladly answer your question. No sales pitch or obligation.

For the latest updates check out our FastPass+ information page.

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Walt Disney World Announces new Ticket Prices starting today!

One Day & Multi-day ticket tickets:
Adult (10 and up):
1 day Magic Kingdom ticket went from $94 to $99. (Difference of $4)
1 day Epcot, Hollywood Studio, Animal Kingdom ticket went from $90 to $94. (Difference of $4)
2-day tickets went from $92 per day ($184) to $94 per day ($188).   (Difference $4 or $2 per day)
3-day tickets went from $87.34 per day ($262) to $91.31 per day ($274). (Difference $12 or $4 per day)
4-day tickets went from $69.75 per day ($279) to $73.50 per day ($294). (Difference $15 or 3.75 per day)
5-day tickets went from $57.80 per day ($289) to $60.80 per day ($304). (Difference $15 of $3 per day)
6-day tickets went from $49.84 per day ($299) to $52.34 per day ($314). (Difference $15 or $2.50 per day)
7-day tickets went from $44.15 per day ($309) to $46.29 per day ($324). (Difference $15 or $2.14 per day)
8-day tickets went from $39.88 per day ($319) to $41.75 per day ($334). (Difference $15 or $1.88 per day)
9-day tickets went from $36.56  per day($329) to $38.23 per day ($344). (Difference $15 or $1.66 per day)
10-day tickets went from $33.90 per day ($339) to $35.40 per day ($354). (Difference $15 or $1.50 per day)
Children (3-9):
2-day tickets went from $86 per day ($172) to $87.50 per day ($175).  (Difference $3 or $1.50 per day)
3-day tickets went from $81.34 per day ($244) to $85 per day ($255). (Difference $11 or $2.75 per day)
4-day tickets went from $65 per day ($260) to $68.50 per day ($274). (Difference $14 or $3.50 per day)
5-day tickets went from $54 per day ($270) to $56.80 per day ($284). (Difference $14 or $2.80 per day)
6-day tickets went from $46.67  per day ($280) to $49.00 per day ($294). (Difference $14 $2.33 per day)
7-day tickets went from $41.43 per day ($290) to $43.43 per day ($304). (Difference $14 or $2.00 per day)
8-day tickets went from $37.50 per day ($300) to $39.25 per day ($314). (Difference $14 or $1.75 per day )
9-day tickets went from $34.45  per day($310) to $36.00 per day ($324). (Difference $14 or $1.55 per day)
10-day tickets went from $32 per day ($320) to $33.40 per day ($334). (Difference $14 or $1.40 per day).


Add-ons :
No expiration option*:
2-day no expiration went from $35 to $40. (Difference $5)
3-day no expiration went from $45 to $50. (Difference $5 )
4-day no expiration went from $95 to $100. (Difference $5)
5-day no expiration went from $145 to $160. (Difference $15)
6-day no expiration went from $190 to $210. (Difference $20)
7-day no expiration went from $220 to $250. (Difference $30)
8-day no expiration went from $245 to $270. (Difference $25)
9-day no expiration went from $280 to $295. (Difference $15)
10-day no expiration went from $325 to $340. (Difference $15)
(Please note the No Expiration can be purchased at the parks or through a Disney Travel Agent, but can not be purchased directly online through Walt Disney World ticketing.)

Park Hopper:
1 day Park Hopper went from $39 to $40  (Difference $1)
2-day Park Hopper went from  $59  to $49 (A $10 decrease)
3-day to 10-day Park Hopper went up from $59 to $60 per person.  (Difference $1)
(I am noticing in the Park Hopper pricing the 2-day hopper is now LESS than the 2-10 day, until today all 2-10 day hoppers were a flat rate.)

Water-park and more:
Water-park and more went from $59 to $60 per person (Difference $1)
Park Hopper & Water Park Fun & More went from $84 to $86 per person. (Difference $2)

None Florida Rate Annual Passes:
Annual Passes for all ages went from $609 to $634. (Difference $25)
Premium Annual Passes for all ages went from  $729 to $754.  (Difference $25)

Disney Quest:
Quest 1 day tickets went DOWN though from $45 for adults to $37 (A $8 decrease)  , and $39 for children to $31 (A $8 decrease)

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge-A Closer Look Inside

©Disney

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge is a deluxe resort hotel adjacent to Disney’s Animal Kingdom. It opened April 16, 2001. The lodge itself is called the Jambo House. Designed by Peter Dominick, of Wilderness Lodge Fame. Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge was designed to feel of a South African wildlife reserve lodge. Rooms follow the Kraal African village design, a semicircle concept, offering a view of close to 100 grazing animals and 130 birds on the property and in the private savannas.

As you drive up to Disney’s Animal Kingdom you will see a small gathering of huts. The incredible size of the resort is hidden from the front, giving you the feeling of a true Krall African village. 

Animal Kingdom Lobby ©Disney

The Lodge is 6 stories tall. You enter the expansive lobby on the 3^rd floor of the resort.  There is a huge picture window which looks out upon 30 acres of land. From here, you can walk out onto an elevated viewing area of Arusha Rock and enjoy the roaming animals. 

There are three savannas, Sunset, Uzima, and Arusha, these savannas are special areas built specifically for the Animal Kingdom Lodge and are separate from Disney’s Animal Kingdom.  There are over 100 Sand Live Oak trees and 35,000 shrubs in the savannas. Seeds from many of the plants were supplied from Africa. 

Throughout the rest of the lobby, there are examples of authentic architecture and design, from thatched ceilings to golden tones reflecting the richness and diversity of an African landscape. Rich wood tones surround a large mud fireplace and natural lighting will celebrate dawn and dusk with features that accentuate spectacular sunrise and sunsets. 

In the hallways, there are alcoves with glass windows providing savanna overlooks.

Next to Animal Kingdom Lodge is Kidani Village, a Disney Vacation Club Resort. Kidani has it’s own parking, restaurant, and pool. It shares the Sunset Savannah with Animal Kingdom Lodge Jambo House and it’s own savannah called Pembe. 

Type of Accommodations

1st floor Balcony Savanna View ©Disney

The accommodations offered are finished in rich tapestries and vibrant colors. Guest rooms feature jewel tones and hand-carved furnishings. There is even a “Royal Suite” with a domed, hut-like living room fit for a king.

 

The following are the room: Stand View (facing the parking lot); Pool View Rooms; Savanna View; Deluxe Pool View; Deluxe Savanna View. The deluxe rooms are bigger than the standard rooms. There are also Presidential and Vice Presidential suites, as well as five one-bedroom suites and 12 two-bedroom parlor suites.

The standard rooms are on floors 1-4 and are 344 square feet. Deluxe rooms are on floors 5 and 6 and are 381 square feet. All rooms have balconies.

Some rooms feature on queen-size bed and bunk beds. Some rooms feature an additional dresser. There are 79 king bed rooms, and there are 65 accessible rooms with king bed, roll-in shower, accessible seat for toilet, TDD kit and ADA guide maps.

Concierge rooms have either savanna or a pool view.

Each room that is not ground level, no matter what the category or view, has a balcony that is long and narrow. 

The suites are located at the end of the animal trails. From the outside of the Lodge, they are the ones located within the rounded parts of the building, with the curved balconies, topped with thatch. They are located on the 2^nd, 3^rd, 4^th, and 5^th floors. Even the ones below the 5^th floor still have concierge access.

All rooms have a small safe in the closet to store valuables. It’s big enough for your plane tickets, cash/travelers checks and maybe some jewelry, but not much more. For storing larger valuables inquire at the front desk. In addition, you’ll also find a hairdryer, small coffee maker with packets of coffee and tea, iron and ironing board, a crib, and a small refrigerator. Valet parking, voice mail, complimentary Wi-Fi and room service are also available.

The Savanna

 

The Savanna
©Disney

The Animal Kingdom Lodge has three separate savannas (approximately 10 acres each) that are open 24 hours a day. The three savannas names are: Sunset, Arusha, and Uzima. 

Each savanna has its own unique look and feel. Not all savannas have all the animals. For instance, ostriches can only be found on the Sunset savanna, zebras are only located on the Arusha savanna, kudu are only found on the Uzima savanna. Giraffes are the only animal found on all three savannas.

At night, the savannas are illuminated by artificial moonlight as if a full moon was present. ““Safari Guides” are at the outside viewing areas and can answer your questions about the animals and birds.

Altogether, more than 200 mammals and birds of nearly three dozen species populate the 33-acre area. The savannas surround the lodge on three sides. You can view the birds and animals from resort balconies or from several viewing points—including a landscaped rock outcropping called the Arusha Rock—open 24 hours a day.

The following animals can be seen in at least one of the three Animal Kingdom Lodge Savannas:

Anikole Cattle, Bongo, Blesbok, Eland, Grant’s Zebra, Greater Kudu, Impala, Reticulated Giraffe, Thomson’s Gazelle, Waterbuck, Red River Hogs, and White-Bearded Wildebeest.

Abyssinian Ground Hornbill, Blue Crane, East African Crownded Crane, Greater Glamingo, Marabou Stork, Ostrich, Pink-Backed Pelican, and Ruppel’s Griffon Vulture

You are not permitted to touch or feed the animals.

Animal Kingdom Lodge Concierge 

Bunk beds ©Disney

Animal Kingdom Lodge concierge guest rooms are located on part of floor 5 and all of 6. The actual lounge and staff are located on the 6^th floor. The concierge rooms are identical to the deluxe rooms in terms of size and amenities. You cannot book a specific concierge view…they are either a pool view or Sunset or Arusha savanna view. For some odd reason, the lounge was not built with a savanna view and instead opens to the lobby on the 6^th floor. 

The lounge is large, and you are severed some unique snacks and even South African wines. 

A unique adventure can be booked when staying at the concierge level (for an additional fee). The Sunrise Safari Breakfast Adventure is available on Sundays and Thursday. You meet in the concierge lounge, then depart from the lodge to Animal kingdom at 7:30 am. The tour, along the Kilimanjaro Safari ride path in Animal Kingdom, last about 45 minutes and includes multiple stops so that you can stand up and take pictures. Each of the animals along the way are described in great detail, since there is plenty of time. After the Safari, you go to Pizzafari for a breakfast buffet, which includes both standard American and African items. Each person also gets a FASTPASS to Kilimanjaro Safari to experience in “the regular way.” The entire experience is approximately 2 hours. 

Restaurants at the Animal Kingdom Lodge

The restaurants offer a blend of African, Malaysian, Indian, Chinese and French cuisine with a dash of English served with a hint of classical flair. The menu reflects the perfect blend of sweet and savory international tastes. 

Jiko Restaurant ©Disney ­­­

Jiko-is a casual restaurant, serving dinner that features a taste of Africa in an atmosphere shaped by local traditions and customs. Focusing on simpler, lighter cuisine, it retains the spirit and refinement of a great restaurant while concentrating on the basics of cooking, with an emphasis on the freshest of products. The design represents an abstract view of Africa, with twin wood-burning ovens as the restaurant’s icon. 

Boma- A very popular family restaurant open for breakfast and dinner that captures the flavors of Africa and the essence of a vibrant life in the African marketplace. Served buffet style provides guests the ability to savor the African experience, which has multicultural influences. The restaurant showcases an exhibit kitchen, wood-burning grill and rotisserie. The dining areas are under thatched roofs. 

Sanaa-Experience the art of African cooking with Indian flavors, as exotic animals roam the Sunset Savanna before you. Enjoy a family-friendly feast with savory slow-cooked meats, zesty salads and vegetarian specialties. The atmosphere evokes a traditional spice market, as the decor is handcrafted wares under the graceful branches of an acaia tree.  

The Animal Kingdom also has a quick service restaurant called Mara, and a lounge called Victoria Falls, as well as a poolside bar.

Recreation at Animal Kingdom lodge

The Animal Kingdom Lodge offers guest a program of all the actives going on with the animals while you are on property. Outside, at the Arusha Rock, there is nightly African storytelling next to Ogun’s Fire pit. The Zawadi Marketplace is the retail shop but even it is something to see as the shop celebrates the romantic and adventuresome spirit of Africa through the stories and cultures represented in its merchandise. 

Uzima Springs Pool ©Disney

 Animal Kingdom Lodge has a themed pool, a wading pool, and two outdoor spas.

The Uzima Springs pool is the largest on Disney property, over 11,000 square feet. It is also a “Zero-Depth Entry” pool, meaning there is an entrance without steps. It has a 67-foot long slide and a kiddy wade pool area. The pool is opened 24 hours a day but the lifeguards go off duty at 10 pm, and they close the slide area. 

Commuting Times to the Park

Magic Kingdom                 36 minutes

Epcot                                  29 minutes

Hollywood Studios            26 minutes

Animal Kingdom               10 minutes

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email: info@RMHTravel.com
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Web Site: www.RMHTravel.com


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