The sublime time of the Walt Disney World parks being quiet and empty seem to be behind us, at least on the weekends. Our team is in the parks every day making sure we have the latest information and data to provide you with accurate planning tools.
This weekend we’ve seen higher attendance levels than we have during other days since the parks have been reopened, which of course leads to long wait times. Our Lines app is now more valuable than ever as it uses real-time data to provide Expected Wait Times that are more accurate than Disney’s Posted Wait Times. Let’s take a look at the crowds and wait times we are seeing in the parks this weekend, and how our Lines app makes it possible to still save hours of time, despite the increased crowds.
Busy Main Street USA afternoon of September 26, 2020Cinderella Castle view afternoon of September 26, 2020
Expected Wait Times versus Disney’s Posted Wait Times – September 26, 2020
In order to keep social distancing practices in queues and on ride vehicles we’ve begun to see queue lines spill out into the main pathways, especially in Magic Kingdom. Thankfully Disney has set up extended queues with social distancing markers, and following these markers continues to go pretty well. Yesterday, the Expected Wait Times show in our Lines app average 10 -15 minutes lower than Disney’s Posted Wait Times.
Magic Kingdom Expected Wait Times in Lines App 9-26-20Magic Kingdom Expected Wait Times in Lines App 9-26-20Pirates of the Caribbean Expected Wait Time in Lines App 9-26-20
Average Observed Wait Times at Magic Kingdom – September 26, 2020
Each weekend gets busier and busier, especially at Magic Kingdom. Last weekend was the busiest since the parks reopened in July. Now, this weekend is topping it. You can look back at wait times of any past day on our website. Looking at yesterday, wait times were on average 10 minutes higher than the prior Saturday (September 19, 2020).
Magic Kingdom Observed Wait Times 09-26-2020Magic Kingdom Observed Wait Times 09-19-2020
With the increase in attendance we noticed the bypass along Main Street USA, which starts near Tony’s Town Square and leads to an open gate near the Plaza Restaurant and Tomorrowland, was open for guests to utilize.
Magic Kingdom Main Street “Backstage” Bypass Open on September 26, 2020
Wait Times at Walt Disney World So Far Today – September 27, 2020
Today continues to show busy wait times across all the Walt Disney World theme parks. For the most popular attractions, the average Expected Wait Times according to our Lines app are averaging 45+ minutes today.
Animal Kingdom Expected Wait Times in Lines App 9-27-20Flights of Passage Expected Wait Time in Lines App 9-27-20Hollywood Studios Expected Wait Times in Lines App 9-27-20
It is clear that Disney has expanded its availability of park reservations. It is now more important than ever that you be able to plan your trip well and save as much time is possible. Our Lines app makes it possible for you to adjust your day on-the-fly as changes happen inside the park.
Social distancing is still in place, and is still relatively easy to maintain even with the increase in attendance, but it does take individual diligence. Mask compliance continues to go well. We’ll continue to keep an eye on things are the situation continues to change.
Are you planning on visiting Walt Disney World soon? What planning questions do you have?
From our friends at touringplans.com Filed Under: Crowd Calendar, In the Parks, Lines 2.0, Observations, Technology, Trip Planning, disney covid, disney crowds, disney reopening, magic kingdom rides, magic kingdom wait times
It seems the end of an era has already arrived – crowds are back at Magic Kingdom. Finding places to enjoy some quiet time is becoming increasingly important and that has rekindled our love of Tom Sawyer Island. Come board a raft and drift across the Rivers of America to explore Tom Sawyer Island with us.
Tom Sawyer Island is the perfect escape inside Magic KingdomTom Sawyer Island is the perfect escape inside Magic Kingdom
Tom Sawyer Island affords great views of Frontierland and Liberty Square. If you’re looking for a midday break as crowds reach their peak, few places in the park are better than this little island.
Tom Sawyer Island is the perfect escape inside Magic KingdomTom Sawyer Island is the perfect escape inside Magic KingdomTom Sawyer Island is the perfect escape inside Magic Kingdom (photo by Erin Foster)
Our Lines app makes it possible for you to see real-time data about wait times and provides recommendations on when to visit each attraction to reduce your wait times. This way you know you can take a break and not miss out on visiting your must-do attractions. Sign up to become a TouringPlans Subscriber.
Have you explored Tom Sawyer Island? Do you enjoy taking a break here?
From our friends at touringplans.com Filed Under: Attractions, Dos and Don’ts, In the Parks, Magic Kingdom, disney covid, disney roepening, magic kingdom crowds, magic kingdom secrets, Tom Sawyer Island
We’re rediscovering lots of food favorites as many Disney resort restaurants are offering to-go and take out food. We’ve been gushing about ordering to go from Sanaa via the MyDisneyExperience app. While we wait, and hope, for other Disney resort restaurants to expand mobile ordering, let’s revisit a fan favorite that does not get enough attention: Olivia’s at Disney’s Old Key West Resort.
Our readers rate Olivia’s with a 92% thumbs up, and it is ranked at 21 out of 103 table service restaurants at Walt Disney World. Olivia’s is the hometown favorite of Old Key West. Opening with the resort back in 1991, Olivia’s is a place that holds decades of memories for Disney Vacation Club members.
The interior dining room feels like visiting your retired grandparents at their island home down in the Florida Keys. Homely décor mixed with old Florida tropical touches creates an atmosphere only Old Key West could provide.
Olivia’s dining room (pre-COVID)
Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Olivia’s is always there to feed your family. The menu is a nice mix of Southern comfort food with a few tropical twists. Our team picked up some dinner to go, ordering the Southernmost Buttermilk Chicken and Conch Fritters. Both were packed up nicely each in to-go boxes. The food would hold up well if traveling back to your Old Key West villa, or even to another Disney resort.
The Southernmost Buttermilk Chicken brings out the Southern side of the menu with mashed potatoes, Southern gravy, a biscuit, and green beans. The portion could be more than enough for one person, especially when paired with an appetizer. For $20.00 this entrée is a good value.
Conch Fritters are a Key West staple and showcase the island influence on the menu. The fritters were a little chewy, which is often the case with Conch Fritters, and have a mild onion flavor. The highlight of this appetizer are the dipping sauces of Key Lime-Mustard and Roasted Pepper Remoulade. For $12.00 there are a decent value, and if you’re curious about conch they are a good way to introduce yourself.
To order to-go from Olivia’s just head to the small, but beloved Gurgling Suitcase Libations and Spirits. You can order from the full Olivia’s menu here to-go. Might as well grab yourself a tropical libation while you’re here too.
Looking for more Disney dining hidden gems? We’ve got ratings and reviews for every Disney restaurant, and other valuable tools to make your trip a breeze. Become a TouringPlans Subscriber and have access to all our helpful resources.
Have you ever dined at Olivia’s? Do you enjoy order Disney food to-go?
From our friends at touringplans.com Filed Under: Dining, Disney Vacation Club, Observations, Resorts, disney dining, disney food review, disney food to go, Disney Resorts, Disney’s Old Key West Resort
The most recent addition to our collection of Disney Vacation Club properties at Walt Disney World Resort is the incredible Disney’s Riviera Resort. Inspired by the magic of Europe that Walt himself fell in love with during his travels, this beautiful resort represents relaxation by the Riviera with elegant architecture, stylish accommodations and, of course, deliciously exquisite food!
The resort features two casual dining restaurants: Primo Piatto for quick snacks, savory sandwiches, salads, and more and Le Petit Café for coffee, pastries, late-night drinks, and small plates. And sitting atop this elegant tower is the resort’s signature restaurant, Topolino’s Terrace – Flavors of the Riviera.
This amazing table-service restaurant offers a fun character breakfast (Breakfast à la Art with Mickey & Friends) as well as delectable dinner with sweeping views of Walt Disney World Resort. On the dinner menu, you’ll find a variety of French and Italian-inspired entrées and desserts including the fantastic Warm Chocolate Cake with a molten salted caramel center. Today, I’m sharing a special version of this recipe our chefs have created just for you that adds raspberry to the decadent caramel filling!
This yummy dessert is a perfect sweet ending to a family meal or a dinner with friends.
Stay connected with Disney Parks Blog for more delicious Disney recipes and be sure to share the magic with other Disney fans using the hashtag #DisneyMagicMoments. Happy cooking!
Warm Chocolate Cake with Molten Raspberry-Caramel Center
From Topolino’s Terrace – Flavors of the Riviera at Disney’s Riviera Resort, a Disney Vacation Club Property Serves 12
Place raspberries in food processor and purée until smooth.
Melt chopped chocolate in microwave-safe bowl on 50% power, stirring every 30 seconds until melted.
Combine sugar and water in small saucepan. Bring to boil over medium heat and cook until golden brown.
Remove from heat and whisk in heavy cream and puréed raspberries. Pour over melted chocolate and stir with spatula. Add butter and salt; stir until incorporated.
Set aside.
For Chocolate Cake Batter:
Sift powdered sugar, all-purpose flour, and salt into small bowl.
Melt butter and chopped chocolate in microwave safe bowl on 50% power, stirring every 30 seconds until melted.
Whisk eggs and egg yolk in medium bowl and add to chocolate mixture. Add in sifted powdered sugar mixture and whisk until smooth.
For Warm Chocolate Cake with Molten Raspberry-Caramel Center:
Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease 1/2 cup muffin tins or aluminum baking cups with unsalted butter.
Add 1/4 cup of cake batter into each tin. Top with 1 tablespoon of raspberry caramel and another 1/4 cup of chocolate cake batter.
Bake for 9-10 minutes, until edges are baked but center is still soft. Rest for 5 minutes before removing from pan.
Serve warm.
Cook’s Note:Serve with vanilla gelato or fresh berries.
Always use caution when handling sharp objects and hot contents. Please supervise children who are helping or nearby.
This recipe has been converted from a larger quantity in the restaurant kitchens. The flavor profile may vary from the restaurant’s version.
All recipes are the property of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts U.S., Inc., and may not be reproduced without express permission.
From our friends at disneyparks.disney.go.com Filed Under: Disney Dining, Disney Vacation Club, Hotels & Resorts, Walt Disney World Resort, DVC, Recipe, WDW
Everyone is afraid of something. Many folks are afraid of heights, or snakes, or spiders, or falling. Some people have niche phobias like tropical fish. (I shyly raise my hand.) As an adult, a trip to Walt Disney World can provide a gentle means for you to push the boundaries of your discomfort in a safe, friendly environment. For example, an adult with a fear of heights might try Soarin’, an attraction which gives riders the illusion of being much higher in the air than they actually are. For me, each time I dine at Epcot’s Coral Reef, I chip away at my fish phobia.
Here are some of the most common fears and a list of which Walt Disney World attractions might exacerbate your phobia. For each topic, I’ve noted whether the attraction is a LIKELY problem (very common for people with a particular phobia to be afraid) or whether the attraction is a POSSIBLE problem (less common for people with a particular phobia to be afraid, though this still might happen).
I have a fear of heights (acrophobia) or flying (pteromerhanophobia). Which Disney World attractions should I avoid?
The Skyliner may be an issue if you have a fear of heights
Epcot likely problem: Soarin’ (simulated hang glider)
Epcot possible problem: Test Track (outdoor portion of the ride is elevated like a bridge, but it goes quickly), Reflections of China film (you are on solid ground at all times, but the film may give you the illusion of flying), Canada Far and Wide film (you are on solid ground at all times, but the film may give you the illusion of flying), Mission: SPACE (though there is no actual flying, the simulated idea of flying may unsettle some)
Magic Kingdom likely problem: Astro-Orbiter (simulated rocket ship on a raised platform above Tomorrowland), The Barnstormer (initial climb is a steep upward), Space Mountain (initial climb is a steep upward), Big Thunder Mountain (initial climb is a steep upward), Seven Dwarfs Mine Train (initial climb is a steep upward)
Magic Kingdom possible problem: Dumbo the Flying Elephant (vehicle is raised above the ground), Magic Carpets of Aladdin (vehicle is raised above the ground), Peter Pan’s Flight (a brief period of gentle flight above London), Swiss Family Treehouse (use stairs to climb to the top of tree), Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover (vehicle is on a raised platform)
Animal Kingdom likely problem: Avatar Flight of Passage (simulated flying). Expedition Everest (initial climb is steep upwards)
Animal Kingdom possible problem: TriceraTop Spin (vehicle is raised above the ground)
Hollywood Studios likely problem: Tower of Terror (elevator drop with view high above the park), Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster and Slinky Dog Dash (initial climb is steep upwards)
Hollywood Studios possible problem: Millennium Falcon: Smuggler Run and Star Tours (simulated flying on a space ship)
Other likely problem: Skyliner transportation system (gondola system transports guests between resorts and theme parks), Aerophile (tethered hot air balloon ride over Disney Springs)
Other possible problem: Monorail transportation system (transports guests between resorts and theme parks)
I have a fear of falling (basophobia). Which Disney World attractions should I avoid?
Avoid Tower of Terror if you have a fear of falling
Epcot likely problem: Soarin’ (simulated hang glider – folks who don’t have a fear of flying might still have issues with the raising and lower of ride vehicle)
Epcot possible problem: Frozen Ever After (minor drop)
Magic Kingdom likely problem: All the roller coasters have drops – Big Thunder Mountain, Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, Splash Mountain, Space Mountain, Barnstormer.
Magic Kingdom possible problem: Pirates of the Caribbean (minor drop)
Animal Kingdom likely problem: Avatar Flight of Passage (ride vehicle tilts, giving the illusion you might fall off). Expedition Everest (large drops)
Animal Kingdom possible problem: Kali River Rapids (minor drop)
Hollywood Studios likely problem: Tower of Terror (the whole ride is giant drops), Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster (complete inversion), Slinky Dog Dash (drops)
Hollywood Studios possible problem: Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance (minor drop)
I have a fear of snakes (ophidiophobia). Which Disney World attractions should I avoid?
The Magic Kingdom snakes are mostly fake. The Animal Kingdom snakes are mostly real.
Epcot likely problem: none
Epcot possible problem: Living with the Land (there are often live eels in the aquaculture section which may remind some guests of snakes), Living Seas pavilion (some fish may have a tubular appearance that reads as snake-like)
Magic Kingdom likely problem: Jungle Cruise (room full of animatronic snakes)
Magic Kingdom possible problem: Tom Sawyer Island (live snakes are somewhat more likely to be seen here than in other park locations), Rubber snakes may be sold outside the Pirates of the Caribbean attraction
Animal Kingdom likely problem: There are live animal exhibits, including some snakes, at Conservation Station and on the Exploration Trails
Animal Kingdom possible problem: Snakes might be seen in any area with water and live animals
Hollywood Studios likely problem: Indiana Jones Stunt Spectacular (animatronic snakes in show)
Hollywood Studios possible problem: Rubber snakes sold near the Indiana Jones attraction
Other likely problem: Snakes are general wildlife in Florida. It’s fairly common to see them on walking paths around the resorts. To reduce your chance of encountering one, stay away from the water as you traverse the resorts.
I have a fear of insects (entomophobia). Which Disney World attractions should I avoid?
It’s Tough to Be a Bug at Animal Kingdom must be skipped if you have a fear of insects
Epcot likely problem: Living with the Land (there are images of insects in the ride)
Magic Kingdom possible problem: Jungle Cruise (fake spiders in the queue area)
Animal Kingdom likely problem: It’s Tough to Be a Bug (entirely about insects)
Animal Kingdom possible problem: There are live animal exhibits, including some insects, at Conservation Station and on the Exploration Trails
Hollywood Studios likely problem: none
Hollywood Studios possible problem: none
I have a fear of public speaking (glossophobia). Which Disney World attractions should I avoid?
At Monster’s Inc., animated Roz might upset a few people, but if you have a fear of public speaking, sit in the center of row to avoid be interviewed as part of the show.
Epcot likely problem: Turtle Talk with Crush (Crush interacts with guests; sit near the back if you don’t want to talk)
Epcot possible problem: Biergarten restaurant (during non-pandemic times, performers may ask for volunteers from the audience)
Magic Kingdom likely problem: Monsters, Inc. Laugh Floor (some guests may be interviewed and appear on screen)
Magic Kingdom possible problem: Enchanted Tales with Belle (some guests may appear in a small performance)
Animal Kingdom likely problem: The Up! Bird Adventure show takes audience volunteers in some sections.
Hollywood Studios possible problem: Indiana Jones Stunt Spectacular (some guests may volunteer to be on stage), 50s Prime Time Cafe (some guests may be involved in playacting with servers)
I have a fear of darkness (nyctophobia). Which Disney World attractions should I avoid?
Many attractions take place in a dim, or even fully dark, environment
Epcot likely problem: Journey into Imagination with Figment (a few moments of total darknesss). Mission: Space (the entire ride takes place in near darkness)
Epcot possible problem: Frozen Ever After (takes place in a dimmed environment). Film-based experiences such as Canada Far and Wide, the Pixar Short Film Festival, Reflections of China, Impressions de France, Awesome Planet, and Soarin’ all take place in a dimmed environment.
Magic Kingdom likely problem: Haunted Mansion (it’s dark throughout, there are ghosts). Enchanted Tiki Room (it’s dark throughout, there are animatronic birds and a simulated thunderstorm). Space Mountain (roller coaster completely in the dark)
Magic Kingdom possible problem: Jungle Cruise (one small section of the attraction takes place in complete darkness). Film-based attraction Mickey’s PhilharMagic takes place in a dimmed environment. Peter Pan’s Flight (takes place in a dimmed environment). Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh (one dim area).
Animal Kingdom likely problem: DINOSAUR (dimmed environment with big dinosaurs screeching at you). It’s Tough to be a Bug (dimmed environment with creepy crawlies everywhere)
Animal Kingdom possible problem: Na’vi River Journey (gentle ride in dimmed environment)
Hollywood Studios likely problem: Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster (dark areas), Tower of Terror (dark areas)
Hollywood Studios possible problem: Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway (dimmed environment, one dark scene), Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run (dimmed environment). Muppet*Vision 3D (dimmed environment)
Other possible problem: The parks can be disorienting at night if you are not familiar with the layout
I have a fear of guns (hoplophobia). Which Disney World attractions should I avoid?
The Stormtrooper blasters may be quite uncomfortable if you have a fear of guns
Epcot likely problem: none
Epcot possible problem: none
Magic Kingdom likely problem: Pirates of the Caribbean (active shooting in several scenes). Frontierland Shootin’ Arcade (toy guns, real-sounding noises), Jungle Cruise (shooting related jokes may occur)
Magic Kingdom possible problem: Big Thunder Mountain (gun noises), Buzz Lightyear Space Ranger Spin (toy cannons – not lifelike at all)
Animal Kingdom likely problem: none
Animal Kingdom possible problem: There may be mentions of hunting or poaching in conservation materials
Hollywood Studios likely problem: Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance (Stormtroopers with gun-like blasters), Stormtrooper characters walking through Galaxy’s Edge with gun-like blasters, Indiana Jones Stunt Spectacular (firing of prop guns)
Hollywood Studios possible problem: Toy Story Midway Mania (toy cannons, not lifelike at all), Star Tours (some randomized sequences may include Stormtrooper fire)
Are there any other triggers I should be aware of?
There are are as many possible fear inducers as there are individual people, so we can’t be 100% comprehensive there, but some things to consider that are not listed above are …
Epcot likely problem: Journey into Imagination with Figment (in addition to periods of total darkness there is a blast of wind, loud noise, and noxious smell that unsettle many young children). Frozen Ever After (snow monster, a brief ride backwards). Mission: SPACE may feel claustrophobic
Epcot possible problem: Living Seas pavilion (there are live sharks in the central tank and shark imagery throughout the pavilion)
Magic Kingdom possible problem: It’s a Small World (though the are tame and cherubic, the many small dolls upset some people)
Animal Kingdom likely problem: There are live animals throughout the park, many of which are intimidating to some guests: tigers, lions, gorillas, bird exhibits, etc.
Hollywood Studios possible problem: Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run may feel claustrophobic
Other likely problem: Many small children are afraid of characters.
What are you afraid of in the Disney World parks? What about your kids? Let us know in the comments.
