Slinky Dog Dash: A Thrilling Journey through Toy Story Land

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney Parks, Hollywood Studios

Slinky Dog Dash is a thrilling roller coaster attraction located in Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Walt Disney World Resort. This family-friendly coaster is a must-visit for guests of all ages, offering a fun-filled adventure through the imaginative world of Toy Story.

From the moment you enter Toy Story Land, you’re transported to a world where toys come to life. Slinky Dog Dash is no exception. The ride is set within the playful backyard of Andy, the boy from the Toy Story films, and Slinky Dog himself is your guide. The attraction’s design and décor make you feel like a miniature toy, with oversized building blocks, crayons, and other toys that create an immersive and whimsical atmosphere.

Slinky Dog Dash is a family coaster that combines the excitement of a roller coaster with the charm of the Toy Story franchise. The ride vehicles, shaped like Slinky Dog, are comfortable and accommodating for riders of various ages. The coaster takes you on a journey filled with twists, turns, and small drops, providing just the right amount of thrills for both children and adults.

As you wait in the queue for Slinky Dog Dash, you’ll encounter various interactive elements, including games, toys, and humorous signs. These help keep the anticipation levels high and provide entertainment for guests while they wait.

Throughout the ride, you’ll encounter familiar Toy Story characters and scenes. Keep an eye out for Jessie, Rex, and the Green Army Men as they join in on the fun. The vibrant visuals and audio-visual effects create an engaging and exciting experience.

Slinky Dog Dash is designed to be accessible and enjoyable for the entire family. The height requirement is relatively low, making it suitable for younger riders, but it also offers enough thrills to entertain older guests. It’s the perfect ride for parents and children to enjoy together.

In conclusion, Slinky Dog Dash at Toy Story Land is a beloved attraction that brings the magic of the Toy Story films to life. With its immersive theming, family-friendly coaster experience, and interactive queue, it’s a must-visit for anyone looking to add a touch of Toy Story whimsy and excitement to their Disney adventure. Whether you’re a fan of Woody, Buzz, and the gang or simply seeking a fun and delightful ride at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Slinky Dog Dash promises an unforgettable journey through the imaginative world of Toy Story. So hold on tight, and get ready for a playful coaster adventure with Slinky Dog!

The Rose and Crown Pub: A Taste of British Hospitality at Epcot

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney Dining, Disney Parks, Epcot

within Epcot’s United Kingdom Pavilion at Walt Disney World Resort, the Rose and Crown Pub is a quintessential British watering hole that offers visitors a taste of authentic British hospitality. With its charming atmosphere, traditional pub fare, and an extensive selection of beers and spirits, the Rose and Crown Pub is a must-visit destination for those seeking a delightful British experience.

As you approach the Rose and Crown Pub, you’re immediately transported to a charming British village. The exterior features classic British architecture, complete with thatched roofing and picturesque surroundings. The pub’s location along the World Showcase Lagoon provides a stunning view of Epcot’s nighttime spectaculars.

The menu at the Rose and Crown Pub features a delectable selection of classic British dishes. From fish and chips to bangers and mash, the cuisine is a true representation of traditional British comfort food. The kitchen takes pride in using quality ingredients to create authentic flavors that transport diners across the Atlantic.

No British pub experience would be complete without a proper drink, and the Rose and Crown Pub delivers on that front. The drink menu offers a wide range of beers, ales, and ciders, both from the UK and around the world. The pub’s selection of Scotch whisky is equally impressive, making it a haven for whisky enthusiasts.

To enhance the pub experience, the Rose and Crown Pub often features live entertainment. Guests can enjoy the lively tunes of British musical acts, including talented musicians who perform traditional and contemporary British songs. It adds an extra layer of authenticity and merriment to your visit.

The staff at the Rose and Crown Pub is known for their warm and friendly service, creating an inviting atmosphere that makes guests feel right at home. Whether you’re dining indoors or at the outdoor terrace, you’re likely to encounter staff who are not only attentive but also eager to share stories and make recommendations.

While the Rose and Crown Pub captures the essence of a traditional British pub, it’s also family-friendly. The children’s menu offers options for younger diners, ensuring that families can enjoy a taste of Britain together.

In conclusion, the Rose and Crown Pub at Epcot’s United Kingdom Pavilion is a culinary gem that celebrates the warmth, flavors, and traditions of British hospitality. With its charming ambiance, authentic pub fare, extensive drink selection, and welcoming staff, it offers a unique dining and drinking experience that transports guests to the heart of Britain. Whether you’re a fan of British cuisine, a lover of fine drinks, or simply seeking a relaxing and friendly atmosphere at Disney, the Rose and Crown Pub promises an unforgettable taste of British hospitality that will leave you with fond memories of your visit. Cheers!

Former Imagineering President Bob Weis Leading Gensler’s Entertainment Practice Area

Posted on by Mathew Corn Uncategorized

Former President of Walt Disney Imagineering Bob Weis will be leading the creation of Gensler’s new Entertainment Practice Area, he announced on Instagram Thursday.

Weis retired from Imagineering in early 2023 and then joined design and architecture firm Gensler as their Global Immersive Experience Design leader. He wrote on Instagram that with the Entertainment Practice Area, he, alongside Lexi Barry and their team, will “bring storytelling to life through physical, digital, and sensory engagement.” The team includes former Imagineers Elisabeth Papadopoulos, Greg Ashton, and Eric Robison.

The video Weis shared includes some of his concept art and notes.

When Weis joined Gensler, he said, “At Disney, we often collaborated with Gensler, and I was able to see firsthand its culture of design innovation that transforms the quality of life in our world. This is what visionary companies are seeking, and what we all are yearning for as we interact with the world around us. Gensler’s commitment to leading the future of design is perfectly aligned with my passion for developing unique, immersive experiences with a diversity of creative voices.”

In an interview at the time, Weis laid out what he thinks the three main elements of immersive experience are:

First, these are experiences that people want to do together. We’re tired of being at home in front of our computers. We’re looking for communal celebratory experiences with our friends, family, and other people in our community.

This is why Gensler is so important in the development of immersive experiences. The firm already has such an incredible commitment to the cultural vibrancy of cities and the place where we live, work, and play. It’s exciting to think that we can create great stories that people can experience together in new ways and do them in the spaces Gensler already creates.

The second element is that we are immersing people into the space, meaning we are surrounding them with the theme, the story, and the idea. This is different from what we’re used to, which is watching things on a screen or seeing a piece of sculpture or painting in a museum. In this medium of immersive experiences, we want to break out of the screen and really envelop all the senses — sight, smell, emotion, the feel — all the things that can tell the story in physical ways that you will never forget.

And the last element that is key to an immersive experience — and this is maybe the hardest to accomplish — is that we are giving people agency in the story itself. We want people to feel that these experiences are their story and that the story becomes about them. Think of going to the theater, but instead of watching the play from your seat, you are part of the play. You are impacting how the conflict is resolved or how the art piece is accomplished. You have a real authentic impact on the experience. It’s an active role.

Weis was with Walt Disney Imagineering for 42 years, serving as president of WDI for a time and then Global Imagineering Ambassador. He officially departed Disney on January 2, 2023.

Entertainment Update for Upcoming Disney Jollywood Nights at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney Parks, Hollywood Studios

This summer Disney announced an all new holiday event coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Recently, Disney released more information about some of the entertainment coming to the party.

Holiday Fiesta En La Calle

“Holiday Fiesta En La Calle” will be one of the entertainment offerings featured at a brand new nighttime party, Disney Jollywood Nights, when it debuts at Disney’s Hollywood Studios on November 11 at Walt Disney World. Guests will head down Commissary Lane and discover a holiday street fair filled with lively energy. Latin holiday music will fill the air as musicians play along the walkways. Warm lighting and colorful décor will give the street a vibrant feel as guests sip drinks and nibble treats inspired by Latin holiday traditions.

The Villas at Disneyland Hotel at Disneyland Resort are Now Open!

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney Parks, Disney Resorts

Today Disney Vacation Club officially opened its 16th property, The Villas at Disneyland Hotel at the Disneyland Resort, which is the 4th and newest tower available to guests staying at the Disneyland Hotel.

Did you know each tower at the Disneyland Hotel has a unique name? The new Disney Vacation Club tower is named “Discovery” and joins the three existing Disneyland Hotel towers named “Fantasy,” “Adventure” and “Frontier.”

In this all-new, 12-story tower, guests will find 344 themed rooms celebrating the creativity and magic behind some of the most beloved Walt Disney Animation Studios stories just steps away from all the magic at the Disneyland Resort theme parks!

“The Villas at Disneyland Hotel celebrates the remarkable legacy of Walt Disney Animation Studios’ storytelling and the creative process these talented artists go through to bring Disney characters to life from sketch to screen,” said Bill Diercksen, senior vice president and general manager of Disney Vacation Club. “With imaginative details and spacious accommodations, this beautiful new tower is the perfect place for families to create magical vacation memories for years to come.”

Today’s dedication in California was FULL of character – literally!

Princess Tiana, Anna and Elsa, and King Louie and Baloo, all characters featured throughout the tower’s enchanting custom artwork, were there to celebrate the opening of this brand-new resort. And closing out the show with a powerhouse number, Disney on Broadway legend Kissy Simmons gave a soul-stirring performance of the new Disney Vacation Club anthem “Where We Belong (Welcome Home).”

 In the spirit of celebration, here are four reasons to check out the newest Disney Vacation Club resort:

SURROUND YOURSELF WITH DISNEY STORIES

The Villas at Disneyland Hotel celebrates the creative storytelling process with countless artistic details woven throughout every space.

From the moment guests enter the lobby, they’ll greeted by a beautiful mural exclusively created for The Villas at Disneyland Hotel by Disney Animation artist Lorelay Bové, known for her work on favorites like “The Princess and the Frog” and “Encanto.” This brand-new artwork brings together your favorite characters, scenes and stories – including a sneak peek of art from the upcoming Walt Disney Animation Studios film, “Wish.”

With extraordinary attention to detail, the creativity of Disney immerses every guest in beloved stories at every stop! From the stunning lobby to each of the 344 guestrooms where the worlds of “Sleeping Beauty,” “Fantasia” and “The Princess and the Frog” come to life.

Speaking of rooms…

TREAT YOURSELF TO COMFORT

Powered with pixie dust and combined with just-like-home amenities, each room type at The Villas at Disneyland Hotel offers the perfect stay for families of all sizes to stay year after year.

For smaller parties, The Villas at Disneyland Hotel features newly imagined duo studios for two and spacious deluxe studios that sleep up to four.

For those looking for even more space, families can spread out in a one- or two-bedroom villa that features a full-size kitchen equipped with cookware, comfortable living area, and washer and dryer.

Guests looking for even more space can stay in the multi-level Grand Villas that sleep up to 12 guests. Grand Villas feature three bedrooms, full-size kitchen, large dining area, washer and dryer and a double-sided fireplace connecting the living area to a private outdoor balcony.

A PERFECT STAY FOR PLAY

Get ready for some fun in the sun at the brand-new Palette Pool area! Little ones can cool off at the whimsical “Steamboat Willie” splash pad, inspired by the revolutionary sound cartoon that marked the world debut of Mickey Mouse! Kids can star in their own story by joining captain Mickey at the helm of the boat brought to life with waterfalls, fountains and misty fog effects.

After all that fun, you can head to the Palm Breeze Bar – which will open later this year – to grab a tasty poolside drink and snack.

All Disneyland Hotel guests will be able to enjoy this exciting new area, as well as the other two pool areas and water slides that guests have enjoyed for years at the resort.

Guests can also take advantage of the tower’s ideal location just steps away from the excitement of Disneyland park, Disney California Adventure park and the Downtown Disney District.

We loved celebrating the official opening of The Villas at Disneyland Hotel today with our Disney Vacation Club family, and we can’t wait for guests to visit this incredible new tower soon!