food IS a theme park
Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom, the world’s most popular theme park, is in the midst of a MASSIVE transformation.
Cinderella Castle
The former Rivers of America and Tom Sawyer Island are in the process of trans forming into the Cars-themed Piston Peak expansion, while Villains Land is preparing to rise “Beyond Big Thunder Mountain.” However, those projects might just be the tip of the iceberg, as we have a feeling that another big announcement is in the works!
It’s no secret that we love a great Disney World hack. These tips can often save time, sometimes even money, and in general improve your day at the “Most Magical Place on Earth.” However, sometimes things can go a bit too far and end up leaving us scratching our heads.
TRON Lightcycle/Run
Simply put, Disney World tips vary in their usefulness. Unfortunately, we’ve come across some “hacks” online that have become viral to the detriment of people who discover them. Sometimes we even come across tips that used to actually work, but are now outdated. The next time you visit Magic Kingdom, don’t fall for these overused and misguided Disney World hacks.
The Contemporary Resort has been a Disney World icon since the beginning. Literally, the beginning. Along with the Polynesian, the iconic A-frame building opened as one of the resort’s first hotels on opening day, October 1st, 1971.
Disney’s Contemporary Resort
The hotel is well-known for its unique architecture – the monorail literally goes right through the building, its beautiful views of the Magic Kingdom, the massive Grand Canyon Concourse, and its five-legged goat, and some beloved eateries including Steakhouse 71. However, what many don’t know is that Steakhouse 71 has its very own lounge.
Several years ago, a brand new theme park – designed by Disney Imagineering veterans was announced to be coming to Oklahoma longtime theme park fans like myself were intrigued by the prospect, if a bit confused at the location, theme, and financials behind the park.
©American Heartland
Turns out, we were right to be skeptical of this $2 billion theme park, as the project turned from blue sky to boondoggle, ending in nothing but lawsuits.
As anyone who has visited Walt Disney World knows, the resort has an elaborate transportation system including buses, boats, and Skyliner gondolas.
EPCOT Bus Depot
Given all those transportation options, it can sometimes be tricky to try and plan the BEST possible ways to get from point A to point B with time to spare.
Hollywood Studios is in the midst of a MASSIVE transformation, but that’s going to change the face of the park… for the better in the minds of some.
New artwork on the walls!
Currently, there are two MAJOR construction projects happening at the park that was once known as the Disney-MGM Studios, with two more game-changing ride refurbishments scheduled for 2026. Perhaps that will make it more popular amongst these guests… though further change may actually make them think less of the park!
There are so many new and exciting additions coming to Animal Kingdom!
©Disney
One of the ones we’re most excited about is the new Zootopia: Better Zoogether! show coming to the Tree of Life Theatre! This new show will debut on November 7th, along with a new meet and greet with Nick Wilde and Judy Hopps just outside the Tree of Life area, but we’ve wondered for a while if there will be any previews for Annual Passholders or DVC members. Now, we finally have our answer!
Way back at the 2024 D23 Ultimate Fan Event, Disney announced that a NEW Cars-themed area was coming to the Magic Kingdom. In the many months since, they’ve revealed that the new installation will be the national park-themed Piston Peak, and will be located within Frontierland.
Piston Peak ©Disney
The area, which will be replacing the Rivers of America and Tom Sawyer Island, both of which closed in July 2025, will include two new rides. While we are super excited for Piston Peak to come to Magic Kingdom, we have some bad news about the rally race ride that will be part of this expansion.
It’s no secret that Walt Disney World vacations are expensive. From tickets and accommodations to travel and dining expenses, it can be tempting to try to save as much as possible to make the whole experience more cost-effective. However, some perks might be worth the splurge.
Cinderella Castle
There’s booking at a Deluxe Resort to take advantage of Extended Evening Hours, where on select nights each week, one of the parks stays open two hours past park close, or staying at a Value Resort like Art of Animation Resort or Pop Century Resort, the difference between a standard and preferred room is around a $25 up-charge, depending on the time of year. Then there’s the $185 Memory Maker package, a dream addition for those who want a large collection of professional photos documenting their trip, with a dash of Disney magic and pixie dust thrown in.
Attention Disney Visa Cardmembers: There are a lot of perks you NEED to be aware of!
Our Disney Visa!
From savings at Disney World and Disneyland, to Disney Cruise Line bookings and even discounts for National Geographic subscriptions, Disney on Broadway shows, and even trips to Aulani, countless benefits come with being a Cardmember, but there are two unique offers that we had no idea about!
Our handy (and portable!) ebook guides make sure you get the best deals and can plan a vacation of a lifetime.
