Categories
Disney Merch Disney Parks Other

The Clawwwww! This Alien Pizza Planet Disney x Loungefly Backpack Is Out of This World!

We’re ramping up for the Walt Disney World theme parks to re-open again on July 11th!

Slinky Dog in Toy Story Land

And, that means we’re stocking up on new outfits, Minnie Ears, and (of course) new bags so we can carry all our goodies!

Whether you’re a pro at Toy Story Mania or a big fan of Slinky Dog Dash, you’ll LOVE the new Loungefly X Pixar Toy Story Claw Machine Mini Backpack! We can’t get over the fact that there’s an actual claw chilling on the front!

©Disney

The back has smooth straps so you can tote your backpack around from Alien Swirling Saucers to a meet-and-greet with Buzz Lightyear…

©Disney

…and the inside has a galaxy print that makes you want to travel to the very distant Pizza Planet!

©Disney

Speaking of Pizza Planet, the zipper features a keychain with the restaurant’s logo attached, so you can daydream about all the pizza slices you could ever want. (The Aliens are obviously just as excited as we are about pizza!)

©Disney

You can get the Loungefly X Pixar Toy Story Claw Machine Mini Backpack for $75 online at Loungefly.com! And, we recommend ordering yourself some cheese or pepperoni pizza to go along with it! ;D

Need more Toy Story? Then you should check out the newest light-up cup in Disney World to pair with your backpack!

What is your favorite Toy Story film? Let us know in the comments below!

Related posts:

  1. Disney Princesses…and ICE CREAM? Check out the New Loungefly We Didn’t Know We Needed!
  2. Spotted! The New Disney X Loungefly Minnie Polka Dot Collection Is Coming TOMORROW!
  3. We’re Havin’ Such a Good Time with THESE New Robin Hood Loungeflys!

From our friends at www.disneyfoodblog.com
Filed Under: disney merchandise, Disney News, disney parks, Featured, News, Alien backpack, Disney, Disney merch, Disney merchandise, disney news, Disney World, Disney World reopening, disney x loungefly, Loungefly, Loungefly X Pixar Toy Story Claw Machine Mini Backpack, Toy Story, Toy Story merchandise

Categories
Disney Business Disney News Disney Parks Other

Creepy or Very Cool? Disney Just Filed a Patent for More Realistic and Advanced Skin for Robots and Animatronics!

Disney is always working on some crazy new tech, and WE’RE always looking out for their newest innovations!

Hondo Ohnaka

Imagineers have been doing a lot of work on tech for the parks and a LOT of that has to do with robotics. Disney is at the forefront of animatronic and entertainment robotics engineering, so they come up with crazy new inventions ALL THE TIME. Recently, we’ve spotted a realistic robot handshake and a patent for an autonomous park-roaming robot. Today, we spotted a NEW patent and this one focuses on a robot’s…skin? You read that right! Take a look!

Disney cranks out patents like nobodies business, but they don’t all apply to the parks. Sometimes they’re coming up with a neat consumer product or a new way to innovate in the film industry. Today though, we spotted a patent for a “Robotics Skin System with Integral Elastomeric Links to Complete Mechanical Linkages.”

©Disney

Now we know what you’re thinking: “What the HECK does that mean???” Essentially, Disney has developed a new skin (yes, like people skin) for their animatronics and robots. The “new” aspect is that this skin system can be used to connect moving parts of the robot instead of with a frame and joints underneath. The best way to visualize this is to think of a robotic octopus tentacle that has no mechanical bones.

©Disney

We apologize for the following illustration because it IS horrifying, but it’s a pretty good explanation of how this tech could be used. In a humanoid robot, the skin system could be used as a face made of latex (or similar material) with stiffened areas to connect to the motorized and robotic aspects, rather than the more traditional “robot skeleton” with a rubber skin stretched over it.

©Disney

We’re not sure if that’s cool or creepy, but we are leaning towards the cool side. This is definitely the kind of tech that Disney could apply with new animatronics in their theme parks so it will be interesting to see what sort of bots are developed in the coming years!

We’ll be keeping a close eye on new Disney tech, so follow along with us to make sure you know all about the new innovations!

What do you think of this amazing new tech? Tell us in the comments! 

From our friends at www.disneyfoodblog.com
Filed Under: Disney News, disney parks, Featured, News, Animatronics, Audio-Animatronics, Disney innovation, Disney Patent, Disney Tech, Imagineering, Robot skin

Categories
Disney Food Disney Parks Other

Review! Are Killer Fries Enough to Make Us Love Planet Hollywood in Disney World?

We’ve been eating our way around all the newly reopened restaurants at Disney Springs. Now it’s time to take a trip over to Disney Springs’ local observatory, Planet Hollywood to see how the food has fared since reopening.

Planet Hollywood

While we’ve already taken you with us to Terralina Crafted Italian, Morimoto Asia, The Polite Pig, and more, we’re heading back to Flavortown to see if the food is a hit or miss.

We’re typically cautiously optimistic when we eat at Planet Hollywood. The food is ok. Is it the BEST food in Disney Springs? Nah, probably not. But, there’s a decent variety offered here, and with Guy Fieri designing much of the menu, the food has his unique flair to it. Want mac and cheese on your burger? They got that. Want not one but THREE kinds of fries with your meal? Yep, got that too. Those big, crazy milkshakes in a mason jar? You get it. ?

But while the menu boasts some unique options, we’ve been largely underwhelmed by this spot in the past. Would this trip change our minds?

Atmosphere

If you’ve never been to Planet Hollywood, it’s right across from the AMC Theatres! As we walked inside the restaurant, we spotted multiple health and safety guidelines from the get-go. There are hand-sanitizing stations and hand-sanitizer canisters placed around the area for guests and Cast Members to use.

Hand-Sanitizing Stations

There were social distancing stickers placed on the ground before you greeted the hostess at the front with a plexiglass barrier.

Planet Hollywood Entrance

Since Planet Hollywood also has two stories, there are distancing markers on the ground leading upstairs as well! (Wave hi to Chewie on your way up to your table!!)

Staircase

If you’ve never been here before, be sure to stop and check out some of the movie memorabilia on the walls. They have some REALLY unique props and costumes from some of your favorite movies and it’s totally worth checking out.

Inconceivable! They Have Princess Bride Costumes on Display!

Although seating is available inside the restaurants so you can watch some movies while you eat on the domed ceiling…

Planet Hollywood Indoor Seating

…we decided to enjoy the sunshine on the rooftop since outdoor seating is currently open as well.

Planet Hollywood Outdoor Seating

Time to eat!

Eats

Planet Hollywood has a limited menu at the moment, and your server will provide you with a paper menu to look at while you decide what you want to snack on!

Planet Hollywood Menu

The restaurant is using wrapping cutlery wrapped in napkins, so there’s no contact!

Cutlery

The drinks are in glass cups that the servers are careful to touch minimally…

Water Glass

…and the restaurant is also using compostable straws in drinks.

Compostable Straw

Our server told us that since it’s been very quiet at the restaurant and there’s a limited menu, our food would come out pretty quickly after it’s ordered. And, boy was she right! We received our whole meal within a few minutes of placing our order (!!!). It was CRAZY fast!

Our Meal!

Drinks

First up, we ordered a frosty drink. The B-A-N-A-N-A-S Boozy Milkshake for $17.99 used to be known as the Space Monkey, but now it appears to be named after Gwen Stefani’s “Hollaback Girl” (because why not??). The milkshake is served in a souvenir glass and mixed up with Cruzan coconut rum, banana liqueur, coconut purée, and chocolate milk.

B-A-N-A-N-A-S Milkshake

Although it might be a milkshake, B-A-N-A-N-A-S tasted more like a banana piña colada! While the name implied a LOT of banana flavor, it was more of a coconut and chocolate drink with just a hint of banana.

B-A-N-A-N-A-S Milkshake

We would have loved to had a stronger banana flavor, but we still thought the “cocktail” (it’s more like a dessert tbh) was smooth and sweet!

B-A-N-A-N-A-S Milkshake

This drink is pretty hefty sized though, so be careful not to fill up on shake instead of food! ?

Eats

We tried the “Bird Is the Word” Chicken Sandwich, which reminded us of a Nashville Hot Chicken sandwich! You can grab this for $17.99. The sandwich was piled with fried chicken, buttermilk ranch dressing, hot honey sauce, pickles, cheddar cheese, and cole slaw.

Bird is the Word Chicken Sandwich

Although we’re big fans of the chicken sandwiches you can get at Chicken Guy! or Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ right around the corner, the “Bird Is The Word” was still very tasty!

Bird is the Word Chicken Sandwich

The honey was the most prominent part of the sandwich, which gave a hint of spiciness to the sandwich. We thought there could have been a bigger punch of spiciness to balance things out. Buuut, we did LOVE all the pickles on top!

Bird is the Word Chicken Sandwich

IF you’re not a fan of spice, this should still be enjoyable for you. We picked up way more sweetness than spice on this one! We do have to say, though, that Planet Hollywood’s fries ROCKED!!

Fries

These are Guy Fieri’s Triple Fries which basically means they dump three styles of fries in the frier instead of one. We ain’t complainin’. We had standard french fries, waffle fries, and filmstrip type fries in our mix. They were delightfully seasoned and crispy, which complimented the sweetness of the chicken sandwich.

Fries

If you want to add some ketchup to your fries, your server will currently give you packets instead of a bottle.

Ketchup Packets

We’ll give credit where credit is due — the fries here are legit. They’re REALLY good.

Paying

At this time, Planet Hollywood isn’t using checkbooks, so your server will bring your check out on a plate with a towelette.

Check

And, before you leave, you can also use hand-sanitizer located at the tables inside Planet Hollywood!

Hand-Sanitizer

Nosh or Not

Consider dining at Planet Hollywood if:

  • You’d like to experience a unique atmosphere. Planet Hollywood has an array of movie memorabilia (like Chewbacca’s costume) that you can look at.
  • You want approachable comfort food like burgers, pastas, more.
  • You want a fun experience for your whole family! While grown-ups may be able to enjoy the cleverly named menu items a little more than the kids, your whole party can enjoy the entertainment at Planet Hollywood. Whether you want to watch movies while you eat or have a beautiful view of Disney Springs at night, there’s something for everyone here.

Planet Hollywood Server

You may want to skip Planet Hollywood if:

  • You are looking for really great, unique food. Disney Springs has a lot of awesome places that just have better eats and drinks — to put it simply. If you want a chicken sandwich like the one we had during our visit, we recommend visiting Chicken Guy! or Homecomin’ instead for some awesome options.
  • You want something on the cheaper side. While Planet Hollywood is not as expensive as other places like The Boathouse or Wine Bar George, it still can be pricey. Plus, for the food you’re getting, you can get better options at quick-service locations for a lower price.

Planet Hollywood Meal

Overall

So is it our favorite restaurant in all of Disney Springs now? Nope, sorry guys. BUT, we still enjoyed our meal. Planet Hollywood checks a lot of boxes for certain families looking for a unique meal in Disney Springs, which we can appreciate. We LOVED the crazy quick service and the fact that our server was a total sweetheart. However, our meal was just okay for the price we paid. But, we would totally go back to Planet Hollywood just to have another basket of fries all to ourselves. ?

Do note that Planet Hollywood closed again. While we don’t know when they will be reopening, we will be sure to keep you updated. You can read about this closure here.

These are the 5 restaurants you should skip during your next trip to Disney World!

What is your favorite thing to eat at Planet Hollywood? Let us know in the comments below!

From our friends at www.disneyfoodblog.com
Filed Under: disney dining tips, Disney News, disney parks, Disney Springs, Featured, Snacks, Table-Service, Walt Disney World, bananas boozy milkshake, bird is the word, chicken sandwich, Disney, disney dining, disney news, disney restaurants, disney springs, disney springs reopening, Disney World, Planet Hollywood, planet hollywood reopening

Categories
Disney Parks Disney Rumors & Gossip

Will Disneyland Open in July? Here’s Why It Might!

Disney World is set to open on July 11th, but we haven’t heard a peep about reopening from Disneyland!

Sleeping Beauty Castle

The original Disney park has been closed since March in response to the global health crisis, and many are wondering about reopening. With Disney World set to open next month, could Disneyland Resort follow a similar pattern to open in July? Some signs point to yes!

Reservations are currently available starting July 15th.

Originally, Disneyland Resort was only accepting reservations for June 1st and later. After a few weeks, that date got pushed back to July 1st. Now, it has been pushed AGAIN with the earliest reservations available starting July 15th.

Disneyland Main Entrance

On one hand, the fact that reservations have been pushed back might make it seem like Disneyland will be closed for longer. BUT, the fact that the date was only pushed back further into July and not all the way into August could be a good sign. If things were still looking like late summer or beyond, they may have wanted to push it back even further.

it’s a small world in Disneyland

In Disney World, new reservations and ticket sales are currently halted so that they can accommodate those who already had reservations as they get ready to open on July 11th. Disneyland’s reopening could be handled differently, but if Disney uses the Disney World reopening as a model — the July 15th date could mean that the parks will reopen near that date.

Disneyland would be permitted to reopen in Phase 3 of California’s reopening plan — as early as June.

The reopening of Disneyland depends on the restrictions that have been put in place by the California government. Right now, the government has indicated that the state is moving towards Phase 3 of reopening, which includes its theme parks. Governor Newsom stated that the next phase could be less than one month away.

Partners Statue at Disneyland

Disneyland isn’t the only theme park waiting for a reopening. Several other major theme parks in California are looking to open in July. Legoland California is hoping to reopen on July 1st and Universal Studios Hollywood is pushing to be allowed to open next month as well.

Universal Studios

The lifting of government restrictions would be a huge step towards the reopening of Disneyland. Still, Disney HAS erred on the side of caution. Even as theme parks begin to open in Florida, Disney opted for a reopening date of more than a month later than other theme parks. Again, if Disneyland follows a similar model, then entry into Phase 3 in June could still mean a July reopening for the theme park.

Positive response to Disney World’s reopening could help Disney executives make decisions about Disneyland.

With Disney World potentially opening prior to Disneyland, the results of the Florida opening could indicate what the company can expect. Disney executives like Bob Chapek and Bob Iger looked to success in Shanghai Disneyland to help with the plan for Disney World, and they may look to Disney World when reopening Disneyland.

Disneyland Magic Happens Cupcake

Even prior to opening, Disney can look to indicators of demand and customer satisfaction for how a Disneyland reopening will look. Plus, Disneyland has more local visitors than Disney World which will simplify the effects that travel could have on theme parks. If Disney World sees success, Disney may have more confidence in reopening the California parks.

Magic Happens Parade

Even if Disneyland waits a while for Disney World to reopen, a mid to late July reopening is still possible.

Disneyland Hotel

So far, there are a few indicators that Disneyland could possibly reopen in July. Ultimately though, it will be up to when the California government, health officials, and Disney executives determine that a reopening can happen responsibly. We’ll be sure to keep you updated about all of the new information for Disneyland’s reopening!

When do YOU think Disneyland will reopen? Share your thoughts in the comments!

From our friends at www.disneyfoodblog.com
Filed Under: disney california adventure, disney parks, Disneyland, Disneyland Resort, Featured, California Government, disneyland closure, Disneyland reopening, Theme Park Reopening

Categories
Disney News Disney Parks Other

NEWS: EPCOT’s Spaceship Earth Refurbishment Reportedly Postponed Indefinitely

As part of a multi-year transformation of Walt Disney World’s EPCOT, Spaceship Earth — the attraction that also serves as the park’s icon — was set to undergo a major refurbishment of its own.

Spaceship Earth

That refurbishment was supposed to begin on May 26th. And, in fact, even at press time, Spaceship Earth is still listed as being closed for refurbishment on Walt Disney World’s website.

However, according to an article by the Orlando Sentinel, the refurbishment of Spaceship Earth has been postponed indefinitely. The article shares information provided by Eric Clinton, leader of the Local 362 union.

Spaceship Earth

In discussing cast members who will be returning to Walt Disney World for the reopening of the theme parks this summer, Clinton noted that employees will be needed to staff Spaceship Earth since the ride will be open to guests.

So, it looks as though we will see the “grand and miraculous” attraction that we have known for a long time now…

The Birth of the Rennaissance scene in Spaceship Earth

… when EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios welcome guests back starting July 15th. They will follow the opening of Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom on July 11th, and you can find more information on the upcoming reopening of Walt Disney World by visiting any of the links below.

Source: Orlando Sentinel

What do you think of this latest development about Spaceship Earth? Please let us know with a comment!

Related posts:

  1. Could Spaceship Earth Be Closing Soon in Epcot? We Found a Few Clues…
  2. What’s New at Epcot This Week: Guardians of the Galaxy and Ratatouille Construction, Mission Space Restaurant, Cuties, and Christmas Kringla!
  3. Check Out This GRAND AND MIRACULOUS Spaceship Earth Accessory Spotted in Disney World!

From our friends at www.disneyfoodblog.com
Filed Under: disney parks, Epcot, Featured, Walt Disney World, delay spaceship earth refurb, Disney World reopening, Spaceship Earth, spaceship earth refurbishment