Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Adding a Third Hotel Tower
This week, it was announced that the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort will be expanding with the addition of a third hotel tower. The hotel will be built over the current location of the tennis courts and plans are to break ground this fall. The new tower is expected to open in 2020 with 349 guest rooms. This expansion follows the completion of a three year renovation project and the current $3 million update to the Swan lobby, fountains, and coffee bar.
Minnie Van Service Changing Price Structure, Expanding to Select Area Hotels
Walt Disney World Minnie Van Service will soon be expanding their service locations to select area hotels close to Disney property. Guests staying at Bonnet Creek, Flamingo Crossing, and Hotel Plaza Boulevard resorts will be able to request Minnie Van service via the Lyft app on their smartphones. Along with the expansion announcement, Minnie Van Service is also changing its pricing structure based on distance and location instead of one flat rate.
“Dancing with the Stars” Announces Cast Lineup
It’s almost time for season 27 of the hit reality show to start and ABC has announced which stars will be dancing for the coveted Mirrorball Trophy. As always, there’s an excellent mix of athletes, actors, business moguls, and musicians. Fans can tune in on Monday, September 24th to watch their favorite celebrities competing for the ultimate title.
Coco Returns to El Capitan for A Special Engagement
Fans of Coco will have another chance to see the Oscar winning film on the big screen at the world famous El Capitan in Los Angeles. The beloved movie is returning to the theatre for a limited engagement from September 27-October 7. Every showing of Coco will open with a family friendly on-screen Disney Junior Vampirina sing along. Additionally, select showings will feature the live talents of the Mariachi Divas and Ballet Folklórico de Los Ángeles.
Downtown Disney to Reopen Earl of Sandwich for a Limited Time
Grab your bloomers, petticoat, and powdered wig…it’s time to party like it’s 1762! Disney has announced the return of Earl of Sandwich to the west end of the Downtown Disney District. According to the Disney Parks Blog, beloved sandwich shop will be “soon” reopening their Downtown Disney location “for a limited time.” Huzzah!
Other Stories of Note
ABC is now releasing daily episodes of The View as a podcast. Catch up and stay current with what’s happening in the world with this brand new format for the show. Now that it’s available as a podcast, fans don’t have to worry about ever missing an episode!
Maria and Enzo’s and Enzo’s Hideaway at Disney Springs offering lunch specials. Walt Disney World Passholders can enjoy a savings of 40% off (lunch only) at both of these Disney Springs restaurants now through December 31, 2018.
Wreck-it-Ralph Virtual Reality experiences coming to The Void. Both Disney Springs and Downtown Disney will be adding a new VR experience starring the lovable destruct-o to The Void. Theses new adventures join the current Star Wars offerings at the VR playground.
Kermit the Frog and Marissa Jaret Winokur will star in The Wonderful Winter of Oz. The incredible duo will take the stage for a special limited engagement at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium. The Lythgoe Family Panto is producing and managing the show that promises to be a fantastic family outing.
Adventures by Disney adds three new Short Escape itineraries to their 2019 vacation lineup. Explore new and exciting adventures on during a magical 2- to 4- night Short Escape in Boston, London, and Vancouver.