Author: touringplans.com

There’s a saying I used to have when I was a Disney Cast Member: “the calm before and after the storm.” The time leading up to a busy period and the time immediate after was always so calm. This Labor Day weekend was the busiest weekend at Walt Disney World since reopening – which came as no surprise. Also no surprise is the days immediately following it have been extremely quiet. Wait times plummeted down to the low numbers to which we have grown accustomed.

The park hours have now been reduced, which while annoying, is also understandable. Our Lines App can help you make the most of the shorter park hours to make sure you maximize your time. The app uses real-time data to show Expected Wait Times compared to Disney’s Posted Wait Times and make recommendations as to when to visit each attraction so you save as much time as possible.

Let’s see how things looked at Magic Kingdom and EPCOT yesterday and Tuesday.

Wait Times at Magic Kingdom on Tuesday September 8, 2020

• Seven Dwarfs Mine Train 1:00 p.m. vs 3:00 p.m.
  • Posted Wait Time 45 / Expected 28
  • Posted Wait Time 35 / Expected 27
• Space Mountain 1:00 p.m. vs 3:00 p.m.
  • Posted Wait Time 10 / Expected 7
  • Posted Wait Time 15 / Expected 10
• Haunted Mansion 1:00 p.m. vs 3:00 p.m.
  • Posted Wait Time 30 / Expected 22
  • Posted Wait Time 30 / Expected 15
• Big Thunder Mountain 1:00 p.m. vs 3:00 p.m.
  • Posted Wait Time 30 / Expected 21 / Actual 14
  • Posted Wait Time 15 / Expected 13

Now, let’s head over to EPCOT to see how things looked on Tuesday, September 8, 2020. When looking at the Expected and Actual Wait Times below you’ll see that our Lines App showed wait times that were 10 – 15 minutes less than what Disney’s Posted Wait Times indicate.

• Frozen Ever After 1:00 p.m. vs. 3:00 p.m.
  • Posted Wait Time 35 / Expected 18
  • Posted Wait Time 45 / Expected 27
• Test Track 1:00 p.m. vs. 3:00 p.m.
  • Posted Wait Time 30 / Expected 23
  • Posted Wait Time 30 / Expected 23
• Soarin’ 1:00 p.m. vs. 3:00 p.m.
  • Posted Wait Time 10 / Expected 12
  • Posted Wait Time 10 / Expected 8
• Mission: SPACE 1:00 p.m. vs. 3:00 p.m.
  • Posted Wait Time 10 / Expected 8
  • Posted Wait Time 10 / Expected 8

In short, for both EPCOT and Magic Kingdom the longest expected wait times barely reached 30 minutes. However, some rides like Test Track, experienced some down times. This can cause a ripple effect and it helps to have our Lines app to be able to adjust your plans based on real-time information.

Yesterday our field team visited Magic Kingdom. Let’s see if wait times continued to stay low.

Wait Times at Magic Kingdom on Wednesday September 9, 2020

• Seven Dwarfs Mine Train 1:00 p.m. vs 3:00 p.m.
  • Posted Wait Time 35 / Expected 27
  • Posted Wait Time 30 / Expected 24
• Space Mountain 1:00 p.m. vs 3:00 p.m.
  • Posted Wait Time 10 / Expected 5
• Haunted Mansion 1:00 p.m. vs 3:00 p.m.
  • Offline at 1:00 p.m.
  • Posted Wait Time 20 / Expected 18
• Big Thunder Mountain 1:00 p.m. vs 3:00 p.m.
  • Posted Wait Time 25 / Expected 17 / Actual 11
  • Posted Wait Time 20 / Expected 13

When comparing Tuesday and Wednesday, wait times were slightly lower than the already low wait times at Magic Kingdom. Haunted Mansion did experience some down time and when it came back up the wait time was close to 20 minutes. Our Lines app recommended going to other attractions knowing from the data that the wait time would go down later on.

You can check historical wait times for any Walt Disney World attractions on our site. Here’s the full day’s worth of wait times at Haunted Mansion yesterday. The green dots show actual wait times experienced and submitted by users of our app, known as Liners. You can see that as of 4:30 p.m. Haunted Mansion was a walk-on, with practically no wait at all.

 

While the hype about Labor Day Weekend attendance was warranted, it is no surprise that crowds dropped off significantly right after. We anticipate things to be pretty quiet for the next few weeks in Orlando. We’ll continue to bring coverage and helpful information about Walt Disney World and other experiences.

Are you planning on visiting during this slow period at the parks? What do you think of these wait times?

The post No Need to Panic – Wait Times Dropped Significantly Following Labor Day Weekend appeared first on TouringPlans.com Blog.

From our friends at touringplans.com
Filed Under: Epcot, Magic Kingdom, Observations, Technology, Trip Planning, disney crowds, disney reopening, epcot rides, epcot wait times, magic kingdom rides, magic kingdom wait times

Pour out a Dufftoberfest: Halloween Horror Nights 2020 is not happening. In lieu of walking through the fog in real life, instead we will virtually relive the best of the past five years of Halloween Horror Nights! So pour a drink in a blinky cup, close those curtains, and turn up the volume as we relive the top haunted houses, scare zones, shows, advertisements, and ephemera of Halloween Horror Nights past.

P.S. If you are looking to book Halloween Horror Nights 2021 consider using TouringPlans Travel Agency for your booking needs! TouringPlans offers support for Universal, Disney, and more!

Warning: The photos and videos below feature flashing lights, creepy imagery, and simulated gore. Reader and viewer discretion is advised.

Announcements & Advertisements

Before the screams begin, the hype starts. Lovingly referred to as “announcement season” Universal drip-feeds HHN news and information out over months to entice guests to book a visit.

Last year HHN landed one of their biggest house properties: Ghostbusters. For the announcement, they created an equally impressive hype video.

At HHN25 Jack was back–this time with a new look and even more fiends at his disposal. This un-aired extended cut of that year’s television advertisement shows a last-minute nixed property: Scream.

In 2017, horror director Eli Roth filmed the HHN television advertisement, which featured properties from that year: Saw, American Horror Story, and The Shining.

For HHN28, Universal Orlando filmed a round-table discussion with entertainment to discuss that year’s event, answer fan questions, give a peek into the design process, and reveal the final house to terrorize guests: Scary Tales.

Scare Zones

Throughout the pedestrian areas of the park, Universal builds Scare Zones, themed areas that bend reality and attempt to scare you. Each year these areas change to highlight new characters, locations, and moods.

HHN25 brought the return of “icons”, original creations by Universal Orlando that set a tone and advertise the event for a year. In the Icons Unleashed scare zone guests would come face to face with icons of the past and their minions.

Mutilated demon pumpkin-human hybrids infest the woods. Based on an original tale by Universal Orlando, Twisted Tradition haunted Central Park with its massive pumpkin creatures.

What if all the popular kids from high school are actually vampires? Taking place during homecoming, Vamp ’55 is a fan favorite scare zone.

Killer Klowns from Outer Space scare zone brings the cult classic murderous alien clowns to HHN28. The Klowns returned the following year as a fully fledged haunted house.

The Shows

Shows root back to the first days of Fright Nights in 1991 and continue to be an important part of Halloween Horror Nights. We have seen magicians, musical acts, fire breathing robots, a parade of drums, a killer circus, and more.

Last year Universal debuted the incredible Marathon of Mayhem lagoon show. Taking inspiration from late-night basement VHS marathons, the show uses fountains, lights, lasers, and projections to bring cult horror classics to life.

Universal handed HHN25 to Jack the Clown who brought his maniacs to the event. A sequel to the original Carnival of Carnage from HHN17, The Carnage Returns stars Jack, his sidekick Chance, and their maniacs as they torment unwitting guests.

Last, but certainly not least, Bill & Ted said “catch you later audience dudes” at HHN27. After 26 years of shows, they hopped into their phone booth to catch up with their destiny of becoming the chosen ones. While they are gone we can relive the show’s history in this excellent Expedition Theme Park video.

The Houses

Haunted houses are the backbone of Halloween Horror Nights. Every year Universal builds brand new, E-Ticket-level walkthrough experiences for guests based on original concepts or existing properties. These walkthroughs are grand in scale and execution, on par or surpassing the most elaborate attractions designed by Disney or Universal.

To celebrate a quarter-century of spooks, Universal created their longest maze ever. Jack Presents: 25 Years of Monsters and Mayhem walks through HHN’s past by mashing up old house concepts into one epic attraction.

There are few shows with a larger cultural impact over the last decade than Stranger Things. Netflix partnered with Universal to bring the hit series to life at HHN28 and HHN29.

When announced for HHN28, fans wondered how Poltergeist would be interpreted as a house. The movie relied on suspense over jump scares. Universal figured it out: start at the end and walk into the light.

A dust bowl era farm is infested with killer Scarecrows out for vengeance. Scarecrow: The Reaping from HHN 27 is one of the highest-rated haunted houses from the past five years, for good reason. From incredible scare actor performances to amazing sets, this house had it all.

As a thunderstorm rolls through a western ghost town the spirits of the long lost town come back to relive their glory days. THAT’S MY GOLD!

Taking inspiration from schlocky movie previews at a drive-in, Slaughter Sinema brings half a dozen B-movie concepts to life. Run from swamp yetis, avoid demonic sorority girls, escape a werewolf biker bar, and dodge murderous kids at a pizza parlor.

…and more!

What is a night at Halloween Horror Nights without pulsating music? HHN always dials up the music to 11, but we think last year’s synth-heavy score that feels ripped out of the 80s is particularly inspired. Below is the 70-minute park-wide loop for last year’s event.

Is that growling you hear your stomach and not a zombie? Food channel Delish covers some of the specialty foods and drinks offered at HHN29. I was a personal fan of the bento box from the Starcourt Mall and I might have had one or two Pizza Fries during my visit.

The spooks, smoke, and screams might be gone this year one Halloween tradition continues on: the HHN Tribute Store. The store is created by the same team that works on the Potter shops and each room creates its own unique atmosphere.

What are your highlights of Halloween Horror Nights from the past five years? Leave your favorites in the comments below!

The post Virtual Halloween Horror Nights appeared first on TouringPlans.com Blog.

From our friends at touringplans.com
Filed Under: Universal Orlando Resort, Halloween Horror Nights

 

You can’t keep a football fan down–as long as games are being played, fans are going to want to watch. That includes when fans are on vacation! Thankfully, there are many places you can view football at Walt Disney World, from the comfort of your own hotel room to more public locations.

As the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in many operating changes throughout Walt Disney World, not all of the usual sports viewing locations are currently open. ESPN Club at Disney’s Boardwalk, the usual go-to football destination for both vacationers and locals, is closed. At other establishments like lounges and pool bars, bar seating is prohibited and food/drinks must be consumed at tables. Resort hopping for dining is also restricted, and making plans to “just stop by” to watch a game isn’t always an option. As a result, diehard sports fans will have their options for viewing (especially of out-of-market games) extremely limited during the pandemic.

It is unclear if AMC Cinema 24 at Disney Springs will be showing out-of-market games on the big screen this season. We reached out to them for comment but they said that they didn’t “have any details to share just yet” and suggested checking their website for updates. If a schedule is eventually posted, we will let you know.

The college football schedule will remain on the lighter side all season long as a number of conferences including the Big 10 and Pac-12 have cancelled/postponed their seasons. Nevertheless, other conferences will continue play.

While you’re here, make sure to subscribe to TouringPlans.com so you can customize your Walt Disney World touring plans to include a break in the middle of the day to catch a football game! Plus get complete access to all of our other great vacation-planning tools like the Crowd Calendar, Cheapest Ticket Calculator, Dining Reservation Finder, Hotel Room Request automator, and MORE! And did you hear we now have a TRAVEL AGENCY? Book a trip to see your favorite team live in person (assuming they allow that sort of thing) or vacation to Disney destinations or anywhere else in the world right here!

So what can you expect for viewing games at Walt Disney World? Here’s what this first week looks like.

LISTINGS FOR SEPTEMBER 8-14

All times EDT. Games and listings subject to change. Make sure to check back Sunday morning for updates.

 

NATIONAL FOOTBALL LEAGUE – WEEK ONE

Thursday, September 10

Houston Texans @ Kansas City Chiefs, 8:20 PM, NBC

Sunday, September 13

Seattle Seahawks @ Atlanta Falcons, 1:00 PM, FOX

Miami Dolphins @ New England Patriots, 1:00 PM, CBS

Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ New Orleans Saints, 4:25 PM, FOX

Dallas Cowboys @ Los Angeles Rams, 8:20 PM, NBC

Monday, September 14

Pittsburgh Steelers @ New York Giants, 7:10 PM, ESPN

Tennessee Titans @ Denver Broncos, 10:20 PM, ESPN

AMC Dine-In 24 Disney Springs – TBA

 

 

NCAA FOOTBALL

Saturday, September 12

12:00 PM

Arkansas State @ Kansas State, FOX

Louisiana Lafayette @ Iowa State, ESPN

Charlotte @ Appalachian State, ESPN2

1:30 PM

Louisiana Monroe @ Army, CBS Sports

2:30 PM

Duke @ Notre Dame, NBC

3:30 PM

Georgia Tech @ Florida State, ABC

Texas San Antonio @ Texas State, ESPN2

Campbell @ Georgia Southern, ESPNU

7:00 PM

Citadel @ USF, ESPNU

7:30 PM

Clemson @ Wake Forest, ABC

Tulane @ South Alabama, ESPN2

 

NFL LOOKING AHEAD

Projected Listings – Week of September 15-21

(Note: These are PROJECTIONS and all games are officially to be announced!)

Thursday, September 17

Cincinnati Bengals @ Cleveland Browns, 8:20 PM, NFL Network

Sunday, September 20

Carolina Panthers @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers, 1:00 PM, FOX

Jacksonville Jaguars @ Tennessee Titans, 1:00 PM, CBS

Baltimore Ravens @ Houston Texans, 4:25 PM, CBS

New England Patriots @ Seattle Seahawks, 8:20 PM, NBC

Monday, September 21

New Orleans Saints @ Las Vegas Raiders, 8:15 PM, ESPN

The post Football Season Kickoff: What You Need to Know at Walt Disney World appeared first on TouringPlans.com Blog.

From our friends at touringplans.com
Filed Under: Walt Disney World (FL), Football

Within the past month, it was announced that fall and Halloween activities would indeed be coming to the Walt Disney World Resort, with character cavalcades, the ability to dress up in costume while visiting the Magic Kingdom, and more. Today, Disney shared more details about some of the special entertainment offerings that Guests will be able to experience and they sound spooktacular!

First, while Guests won’t be able to catch Mickey’s Boo to You Parade during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party this year, they will still be able to see some of their favorite characters and floats from the fantastic parade. Throughout the day, special Halloween cavalcades will pop up on the parade route and head down Main Street, U.S.A. Guests may see Mickey Mouse and his pals, all dressed in Boo-tiful Halloween costumes. Or, you may even come across a cavalcade of Disney Villains, from Gaston and Maleficent to Queen of Hearts and Jafar, and even Jack Skellington!

Oh and one of my favorites are coming back! The Dapper Dans will be returning to the Magic Kingdom beginning September 20, performing as The Cadaver Dans.

Moving over to Disney’s Hollywood Studios, it was announced that Minnie’s Halloween Dine is coming back to Hollywood & Vine, beginning September 25. It will look a bit different though. Instead of a buffet, the meal will be served tableside and Guests will find Minnie Mouse, dressed as a witch, Goofy as a spooky cowboy, Mickey Mouse as a vampire, and Pluto, will be wearing a Halloween collar.

Halloween and fall events will take place at the Walt Disney World Resort from September 15 through October 31.

The post Special Halloween Entertainment Announced for Walt Disney World appeared first on TouringPlans.com Blog.

From our friends at touringplans.com
Filed Under: Halloween, News, Walt Disney World (FL), Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Magic Kingdom, Minnie Halloween Dine

Enjoying a meal you can’t get anywhere else is one of the joys of traveling. Orlando’s theme parks offer some unique dining options that are destinations themselves. Many of us prefer to dine outside right now, and options can be limited. We’ve previously discussed the best outdoor dining at Walt Disney World. Now, let’s head a few miles up Interstate 4 and review the best outdoor dining at Universal Orlando’s theme parks.

Best Outdoor Dining at Universal Studios Florida

The original park at Universal Orlando has changed quite a lot over the years. And with those changes to Universal Studios comes improvement in dining options. But some of the best outdoor dining is available at classic locations. Along the Universal Studios Lagoon is Lombard’s Seafood Grille, a table service restaurant that has been there since opening day. There are a limited number of tables outside on the back deck that overlook the iconic lagoon. If you want a relaxing meal at a classic Universal Studios venue, Lombard’s is a great choice.

Another classic venue also near the lagoon is Richter’s Burger Co. This earthquake-themed counter service burger spot is casual and full of details that definitely give nostalgia vibes from Universal’s early days. You won’t have the best meal ever here, but the views outside are lovely.

On the other side of the lagoon is personally one of my favorite lands, Springfield U.S.A., which re-creates the zany world of The Simpsons. Here you’ll find multiple quick service options under one roof. Fast Food Boulevard is exactly that, full of fast food favorites like burgers, pizza, fried chicken, and more. If you want a quick, casual meal that’s nothing fancy, in a fun atmosphere it is a good choice – personally I really enjoy the Krusty Burger. Of course, my love for The Simpsons may be causing some bias here. There’s a great outdoor seating area here overlooking Springfield U.S.A. You can also grab some tacos from Bumble Bee Man’s Taco Truck and enjoy the outdoor seating, or snag a table at Duff Brewery overlooking the lagoon.

Finally, the latest quick service restaurant at Universal Studios Florida offers some great corner cafe outdoor seating. Enjoy fresh breakfast and lunch favorites at TODAY Cafe. Sitting outside will afford you beautiful views of the park’s main avenue as guests come and go, excited about their day.

Best Outdoor Dining at Islands of Adventure

As scenic as Islands of Adventure is, it lacks an abundance of outdoor dining options for full service restaurants. However, there are lots of counter service options with outdoor seating. If you want to start your day with some baked goods, the cozy Crescent Moon Bakery has a limited number of chairs outside, overlooking the main avenue at Port of Entry.

Over at Lost Continent Fire-Eater’s Grill offers basic fare like chicken fingers but also gyros. It is a walk-up window so there is outdoor seating only. Tables and chairs sit among an exotic market. Around the bend is Hogwarts, the original Wizarding World of Harry Potter. This jaw dropping land offers a lot to experience, including a popular dining destination in the books and movies, The Three Broomsticks. The interior here is magnificent, but there is an outdoor seating area around the back with views of Hogwarts Castle and Jurassic Park.

Over at Jurassic Park itself is Thunder Falls Terrace. Prior to the arrival of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Thunder Falls was the most popular quick service spot in Islands of Adventure. The interior is an interesting dinosaur lodge theme, and the outdoor dining overlooks the energetic walkways of Jurassic Park. Also, it is near the epic splashdown of the Jurassic River Adventure Ride.

Finally two spots that are open seasonally and beloved by many are Wimpy’s in Toon Lagoon, and Green Eggs and Ham in Seuss Landing. Both are located in colorful, cartoon themed lands, and only have outdoor dining.

What are your favorite outdoor dining spots at Universal Orlando’s theme parks? Are there any that we missed? Let us know in the comments.

 

 

The post The Best Outdoor Dining at Universal Orlando’s Theme Parks appeared first on TouringPlans.com Blog.

From our friends at touringplans.com
Filed Under: Dining, In the Parks, Universal Orlando Resort, islands of adventure dining, universal orlando dining, universal studios dining, wizarding world of harry potter