As we welcome guests back to Walt Disney World Resort hotels, there are many convenient technologies helping us deliver magical experiences. Whether it’s limited-contact check-in, virtual chat, keyless room entry, or even virtual fireworks on demand, we offer features you may not know about.
Guests staying at Walt Disney World Resort hotels now have virtual fireworks at their fingertips. Our popular pre-recorded #DisneyMagicMoments viewing of one of the most spectacular nighttime shows ever created at Disney Parks – “Happily Ever After” is currently streaming on demand in resort rooms.
The benefits of using Disney technology at our resort hotels really begins before check-in with the My Disney Experience app. When you arrive, the app feature allows you to skip the front desk! After checking in online, you’ll receive a notification and can use a MagicBand or My Disney Experience digital key for limited-contact entry.
If you haven’t used it yet, the digital key is the latest in the evolution of keyless room entry. The service turns a Bluetooth®-enabled phone into a digital key that unlocks a room door, hotel entrance gate and other common area doors requiring a key. Check our earlier digital key story for details.
During your stay, Disney technology also allows you to virtual chat with a resort cast member at your convenience. This feature, which is also found in the My Disney Experience app, offers support nearly anytime—so there’s no need to visit the lobby or stand in line.
Of course, there are many more convenient technologies to be discovered – so, be sure to download the latest version of My Disney Experience for your next stay at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel.
From our friends at disneyparks.disney.go.com Filed Under: Hotels & Resorts, Walt Disney World Resort
Is this haunted room actually stretching? Or is it your imagination?
Long before the Haunted Mansion was inhabited by a lively collection of 999 happy haunts, Disney Imagineers began materializing ideas for the attraction during the initial planning of Disneyland park. Disney Legend Rolly Crump joined an Imagineering design team working on early concepts for the attraction about 10 years before the doors of the Haunted Mansion creaked open in August 1969.
After Imagineers created new technologies for the 1964-65 New York World’s Fair, and the exterior of the Haunted Mansion was built, Rolly contributed hundreds of sketches he’d previously created for the attraction. These early sketches helped with the design of the attraction as we know it today, which is neither too scary nor too light-hearted.
Rolly recounts the beginnings of the Haunted Mansion in this video celebrating the attraction’s 51st anniversary. He will be your ghost host for rarely heard stories behind this classic attraction that is filled with stunning special effects, haunting show sets and ethereal music!
If you are looking for Haunted Mansion-inspired gear, the all-new Disney Parks Haunted Mansion Collection features a variety of products from a new spirit jersey, two new bags by Loungefly, a tie-back blouse by Her Universe and cloth face mask all inspired by the most spirited attraction! Coming this month to Walt Disney World Resort, Downtown Disney District at Disneyland Resort and online at shopDisney.com.
From our friends at disneyparks.disney.go.com Filed Under: Disneyland Park, Disneyland Resort, DL, DLR, Haunted Mansion, Video
Wearing a face covering has become part of our new normal. It’s also an important piece of Disney’s multi-layered approach to health and safety, and one of the ways to reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19.
Today we’re excited to share a peek behind the magic and an innovative way our cast members are helping their fellow cast stay comfy and protected with stylish and functional new face coverings, designed for cast, by cast.
Designed in partnership across the Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World costuming teams – Disney Parks Live Entertainment, Worldwide Safety Services and Global Applied Technology – these face coverings were developed remotely through a bi-coastal effort between cast members at both resorts.
“Over the past several months, we’ve spent significant time and brainpower to provide our cast members with face coverings that are both functional and comfortable, and I’m proud of the incredible results,” said Dr. Pamela Hymel, Disney Parks Chief Medical Officer. “They fit well, feel great and can last for more than 50 washes.”
Drawing from their own experience, the project stemmed from a need for a more unified and breathable face covering. With the full support of their leaders at Disney, this group seized the opportunity to create the unique, reusable face covering, specifically made for cast members at Disneyland Resort, Walt Disney World Resort and Aulani – a Disney Resort & Spa.
“The unified design speaks to the fact that we are still one unified Cast, one Disney ‘world,’” shared Yonit Olshan, Costume Designer, Disneyland Resort Costuming. “As a creative team, we gained so much from each other’s experience and exposure to different types of problems and projects.”
Offered exclusively for cast members in two styles, pleated and contoured, and in multiple sizes, the design team sourced and tested a wide range of fabrics, styles and features with a focus on comfort and function. Both styles feature adjustable spandex over the ears, extended nose pinch to the face, contoured shape under eyes, and lightweight, quick-drying material.
Drawing inspiration from classic Disney characters, films and television shows, the pattern unifies what every dreamer and cast member have in common – joy, magic, and a little pixie dust. They sparkle with pixie dust and Mickey constellations, recalling that the second star to the right shines in the dreamy night and reminds us to keep wishing upon that evening star.
Together, as a Disney family, there are many important ways that we can all help promote each other’s safety. We want to thank our guests and cast members for all they do to care for one another and doing their part.
From our friends at disneyparks.disney.go.com Filed Under: Aulani, Disneyland Resort, Walt Disney World Resort, BtS, DLR, Merchandise, WDW
Hello Adventurers! I hope you have been enjoying our collection of at-home virtual trips inspired by beloved Adventures by Disney destinations. Today we’ll escape modern life and dive into the wilderness of America’s Last Frontier as we discover the natural wonders and experience the rich culture of Alaska.
1. Explore the Wild
It’s time to explore the rugged and untamed natural wonders of Alaska… from the comfort of your home. We partnered with Disney+ to develop the ultimate Alaska playlist, including feature films and documentaries that will immerse you in the majestic wonders of America’s Last Frontier.
Togo – The exhilarating and uplifting true story of a man and his lead sled dog.
Life Below Zero – Follow the drama experienced by Alaskan households in different corners of this merciless territory as they battle to live life on their own terms.
Alaska’s Grizzly Gauntlet – In Alaska’s Grizzly Gauntlet, survival expert Les Stroud explores the world of Alaska’s most formidable wildlife and uncovers the secrets to their survival in America’s final frontier.
Dr. Oakley, Yukon Vet. – Meet Dr. Michelle Oakley, vet to pretty much everything that moves in the Yukon, making house calls across thousands of square miles, helping animals wild and domestic.
Alaska Animal Rescue (coming soon) – Alaskan heroes rescue, rehabilitate, research and celebrate the wild animals of America’s last frontier.
2. Gooey and Sweet, What a Treat!
Get ready to bring the fun of the outdoors into your kitchen with these decadent Frying Pan S’mores. This yummy treat, from the chefs at Disney Family, only requires six ingredients and is the perfect addition to your at-home Alaskan adventure.
3. Play Time!
Today’s virtual adventure features a family game draws inspiration from the fun activities organized by the Adventure Guides during our itineraries. Gather your crew, print this game guide and prepare to have a wild time playing Adventures by Disney Act it Out: Alaska Edition!
4. Beyond Your Dreams
Display your spirit of adventure during your next video conference with Adventures by Disney virtual backgrounds. These images from our Alaska itinerary capture the vast amount of beauty, nature and charm in our 49th state.
To use the backgrounds, just right-click on the images and save them to your computer. Be sure to check out the terms of use about using the background before you download it. Then, follow the conferencing platform’s instructions to add some Adventures by Disney magic to your video conferencing.
Don’t forget to check out our growing collection of Adventures by Disney destinations featured in the Adventures at Home series. Travel to Greece, the land of powerful gods and extraordinary heroes; explore the majestic natural wonders of Iceland; set sail on a river cruise through the South of France; join a safari to South Africa or experience the beauty Montana and Yellowstone National Park.
Stay tuned to the Disney Parks Blog for even more #DisneyMagicMoments and experience the magic of Disney wherever you may be.
Summertime is a fun time to enjoy the sunshine in Downtown Disney District at the Disneyland Resort, where you and your family can dive into cool, tasty treats and the season’s hottest must-have merchandise.
This one-of-a-kind Disney experience recently began a phased reopening with a mix of family-friendly restaurants offering outdoor seating, favorite snacking stops and shopping boutiques. First stop, be sure to visit the flagship World of Disney store for the largest selection of Disney toys, souvenirs, accessories, collectibles and more.
So shop it, taste it, wear it, love it! Here are 10 cool ways to make your summer sizzle:
1. Warm Waffle Sundae at Ballast Point Brewing Company
Overlooking the Downtown Disney District, enjoy the upper deck patio and delve into this pearl sugar waffle made with vanilla bean ice cream, crumbled chocolate wafers, Victory At Sea chocolate sauce, candied walnuts and fresh berries. Try pairing with Ballast Point’s Victory at Sea Imperial Porter!
2. Frosty, Frozen Lemonade at Wetzel’s Pretzels
Nothing says summer like a fresh, frosty, frozen lemonade! Yet, any time of year you can sip on this delightful refreshment, with your choice of the original flavor or strawberry lemonade.
3. Churro Ice Cream Sandwich at California Churro
Through the month of August, don’t miss your chance to try this vanilla bean ice cream sandwich covered with two freshly-rolled, colored crispy cereal churro buns!
4. Strawberry Shortcake CrazyShake at Black Tap Craft Burgers & Shakes
Get your camera and your sweet tooth ready! This strawberry shake has a vanilla-frosted rim topped with a strawberry shortcake ice cream bar, pink & white twisty pop, whipped cream, strawberry drizzle, crumbled cake and a cherry. All shakes can be made with a vegan dairy free ice cream base and lactose free whipped cream.
5. Beignets at Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen
Hurray for beignets, as Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen and Express locations just reopened! Indulge in this classic taste of New Orleans with these delicious French donuts which are made fresh throughout the day, deep fried and topped with powdered sugar. They are available in the restaurant and to-go from the Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen Express window.
6. Cool Shades at Sunglass Icon
Stay cool and look cool in these classic Ray-Bans with a touch of Mickey Mouse! These functional and stylish sunglasses, named Justin Mickey A20, feature Mickey Mouse character art and limited-edition engraving on the temples, officially making the Justin Mickey the latest addition to the Ray-Ban x Disney collection.
7. Sunny and Seaside Pandora Charms
Summery and precious, add these charms to your collection: the Pandora Passions Pave Ice Cream Cone Sapphire and CZ Charm, the Pandora Tropical Starfish CZ Charm and the Pandora Me My Summer Sun Crystal Charm.
8. Summer Sandals and Beach Towels at California Sole
California Sole is the place to give your feet a treat! Slip into a comfy pair of OluKai, Reef, Sanuk, Vans or Havaianas, and add a Pura Vida bracelet for that breezy, beachy, California look. Get the Nomadix go-anywhere towel and take it with you to the beach, yoga or camping. It’s lightweight, quick-drying, sand-resistant and is made from recycled plastic bottles.
9. Beachwear at Curl Surf
Curl Surf has you covered for summertime fun. Stop by to check the newest selection of Roxy, Quiksilver, Levi’s and Billabong, along with graphic tees, swimwear, shorts and sandals. (Adding water is optional!)
10. Refresh at Rinse Bath & Body Co.
Stop by Rinse’s kiosk in the Downtown Disney District, where you can pick up natural products scented with essential oils, including the Lavender Refreshing Spray to spritz your skin and the Peppofoot Stick to put the pep in your step!
If you haven’t visited the Downtown Disney District lately, be sure to familiarize yourself with our health and safety measures at Disneyland.com/DTD to learn important details, including that all guests, ages 2 and older, must wear a face covering.
During the month of August, Downtown Disney District hours are extended to 9 p.m. Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Continue to check Disneyland.com/DTD or the Disneyland app for the latest details, as information is updated often and individual locations may vary.
We hope you are enjoying these summer days with your family, and we look forward to seeing you again soon in the Downtown Disney District!
From our friends at disneyparks.disney.go.com Filed Under: Disneyland Resort, Downtown Disney District, DLR, DTD
