Walt Disney World Brings Back the Magic
In response to guest feedback, Disney has announced exciting updates to make the experience more magical.
Welcome to Walt Disney World, the most magical place on earth. (PHOTOS COURTESY OF WALT DISNEY WORLD RESORT)
2022 was a banner year for Walt Disney World Resort. Not only did Disney celebrate its 50th Anniversary of the opening of Orlando’s Magic Kingdom, but it also debuted its newest, groundbreaking attraction with Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind and reopened beloved experiences from “Fantasmic!” to the Walt Disney World Railroad.
And there are even more exciting changes in store for 2023. There’s the triumphant return of the “Happily Ever After” nighttime spectacular, the opening of TRON Lightcycle/Run at Magic Kingdom and EPCOT’s exciting Journey of Water, inspired by “Moana.”
Amidst the celebrations and openings, the most significant change is behind the scenes. Bob Iger is back as Disney’s CEO, and he has hit the ground running.
Though 2022 was a year of celebration for Disney, it also presented its share of challenges. In response to fan feedback, Disney has announced a few updates to improve the guest experience.
(PHOTOS COURTESY OF WALT DISNEY WORLD RESORT)
Enjoy complimentary self-parking when staying at a Disney Resort hotel
Overnight self-parking is now offered complimentary to guests staying at Disney Resort hotels at Walt Disney World. This is a Disney difference many have asked to bring back, and Disney is listening. They’re happy to reintroduce it to make vacations a little easier and more affordable—whether you’re road-tripping across the country, renting a car, or vacationing as a local Florida resident.
Disney Resort hotel guests will continue to receive complimentary standard parking at Walt Disney World theme parks, daily early theme park entry (with valid admission and a park reservation), and complimentary on-site transportation options such as buses, monorails, and Disney Skyliner.
Good news for Walt Disney World Annual Passholders
Beginning in the next few months, Walt Disney World Annual Passholders will be able to visit the theme parks after 2 p.m. with no park reservation, except on Saturdays and Sundays at the Magic Kingdom Park. Pass block-out dates will continue to apply.
Passholders will also receive access to Disney PhotoPass lenses and one complimentary Cinderella Castle Mural of Memories experience (age restrictions apply).
From complimentary self-parking to the new Disney Springs Kids Club, Bob Iger is putting the magic back in the Magic Kingdom. (PHOTOS COURTESY OF WALT DISNEY WORLD RESORT)
Attraction photo downloads will be included with the Disney Genie+ service
Beginning in the next few months, guests purchasing Disney Genie+ service will also receive digital downloads of their Disney PhotoPass attraction photos, taken in the park on the day of their purchase, at no additional charge.
Attraction photos are taken in the parks at more than a dozen popular attractions, including Space Mountain, Slinky Dog Dash, Test Track, and Expedition Everest. Treasured by guests, they are a delightful way to remember your theme park visit.
(PHOTOS COURTESY OF WALT DISNEY WORLD RESORT)
Disney Springs Kids Club; a brand-new family-friendly experience
Saturday mornings at Disney Springs are even more exciting with the addition of the Disney Springs Kids Club. Instead of spending Saturday mornings mowing the lawn and watching cartoons, families can now boogie to live music and enjoy fun-filled activities.
The official Disney blog says, “Our entertainment team has been hard at work curating a lineup of high-energy, engaging performers to get the whole family up on their feet, moving and grooving.”
The new Kids Club opened on Jan. 28, located at Waterview Park, between The BOATHOUSE and Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar, where families can take part in games, singalongs, and much more.
Disney Springs Kids Club offers a variety of groups and activities, so families can attend each week and enjoy a different experience.
“These unique, family-friendly acts will vary each week,” says the Disney blog. “New entertainment will frequently be added to the lineup.”
For more information, visit DisneyWorld.com/Offers for more details, including a few offers they launched to kick off the new year. Visit planDisney.com for helpful tips and advice on planning your next visit to Walt Disney World.
