Opening Date Revealed for Pixar Place Hotel at Disneyland Resort, Plus Sneak Peek of Great Maple Menu, Pixar-Themed Hotel Rooms and More

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney Resorts

Playful Pixar elements have been coming to life over the past few months at Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel at Disneyland Resort, and we’re excited to share that the property will officially transform into Pixar Place Hotel on Jan. 30, 2024, becoming the first fully Pixar-themed hotel in the United States. Today, we’re giving you a glimpse of rooms inspired by Pixar stories, menu items to look forward to when Great Maple opens soon, plus what you can enjoy on your vacation now!

Favorite Pixar Stories Abound in the New Pixar Place Hotel Lobby

Pixar Place Hotel will evoke the inspiration and humor that goes into every Pixar film, while celebrating the artistic process. Showcasing early sketches to finished design, the art and decor will highlight vibrant Pixar stories, revealing some never-before-seen artwork.

When the lobby is complete, guests will see even more unique art inspired by Pixar films and be greeted by the iconic Pixar Lamp balancing atop its ball, with an imaginative mobile of beloved Pixar characters floating from the bright skylight above. The mobile will depict the beginning stages of Pixar filmmaking, when animators create the characters’ designs with their most basic shapes and colors. The characters we’ll see are at the beginning of their journey, just as the guests who step into the lobby begin their own story at the Disneyland Resort!

First Look at a Reimagined Guest Room Featuring Iconic Pixar Characters 

Now, let’s give you a colorful peek inside one of the guest rooms! From pillows inspired by the Pixar Ball to lighting reminiscent of the Pixar Lamp, there will be whimsical nods to the animation studio throughout these comfortable and contemporary accommodations. Some of the art was even created by Pixar Animation Studios artists expressly for Pixar Place Hotel! The headboards will consist of concept art from a variety of Pixar features, including “The Incredibles,” “Toy Story 3” and more that are arranged in order from warm to cool colors, sharing the importance of color to the tone of a scene.

Great Maple Opening Soon, Plus More Snacking Details Revealed

Now, let’s dish! Opening in November, Great Maple restaurant will bring its innovative menu of upscale comfort food for breakfast, lunch and dinner. This modern American eatery will serve a robust selection of dishes made from scratch daily including the Cajun Shrimp & Cheddar Biscuit Benedict, Soda Pop-Braised Baby Back Ribs, Charred Cauliflower Hummus, Maple Pecan-Crusted Salmon, Market Fish, a variety of inspired salads, and my favorite, the Buttermilk Fried Chicken & Maple Bacon Doughnuts!

A few weeks after the ground-floor flagship eatery opens, more culinary delights also operated by Great Maple will open. A new grab-and-go coffee shop in the lobby called Sketch Pad Café will serve assorted pastries accompanied by a selection of coffee and tea. Plus, an all-new menu will debut at the rooftop pool bar to be named Small Bytes, serving up salads, wraps, assorted cheese plates and more which you can enjoy with signature beverages.

Pixar-Themed Offerings You Can Enjoy Now

If guests are ready to “dive in” to the fun now, families can frolic at the hotel’s new “Finding Nemo”-themed splash pad and pool area! Recently opened for guests of Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel, this rooftop oasis features Pixel Pool, which is lined with relaxing loungers, along with Nemo’s Cove pop-jet splash pad, and the not-to-miss Crush’s Surfin’ Slide, a 186-foot-long waterslide inspired by the coolest sea turtle in the ocean. The adjacent play court and pool bar will open later this fall.

Near the pool, gather with friends on comfy couches surrounding firepits inspired by some of Pixar’s more hotheaded characters, including Jack-Jack from Pixar’s “The Incredibles” and Anger from Pixar’s “Inside Out.”

Back in the lobby, browse through the new gift shop STOR-E — a playful take on the Pixar film name “WALL-E” — featuring Pixar-themed apparel and toys, plus more Disneyland Resort souvenirs and sundries.

Plus, a new and expanded fitness center recently opened, offering treadmills, free weights and more complimentary for hotel guests. Keep an eye out for a mural of Mike and Sulley running on a treadmill, inspired by Pixar’s “Monsters University.”

Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel is open and welcoming guests during this transformation and offers the added benefits of staying on property at the Disneyland Resort, including a dedicated entrance across the street with direct access to Disney California Adventure Park.*

There’s much more to come, so don’t miss a thing!

*Both Theme Park admission and park reservation for Disney California Adventure Park are required for park entry at this special entrance for Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel guests, and a hotel reservation does not guarantee theme park access.

Disney Unveils Commemorative Plaques for Fans Celebrating 50+ Visits

Posted on by Mathew Corn Uncategorized

Disney is saying thank you to fans in a big way.

The reason that Disney has managed to stay so relevant for the past 100 years is because of the fans who keep supporting the company year after year. Whether it is visiting Disney Parks, watching Disney movies, buying merchandise, or taking a vacation on the Disney Cruise Line, die-hard fans are willing to shell out money in order to support the Disney company as a whole.

Now, Disney is going the extra mile to say “thank you” to some of their most dedicated fans. As a token of their appreciation, Disney is giving dedicated fans a commemorative plaque at one Disney location.

Right now, mega fans of the Disney Cruise Line are getting recognized for their incredible dedication to the cruise line with a commemorative display at Castaway Cay, one of Disney’s premier vacation destinations.

Disney Cruise Line has revealed a unique and memorable tradition to honor their dedicated Guests who have embarked on fifty or more voyages with the cruise line. As a testament to their unwavering loyalty and love for the Disney Cruise Line experience, these esteemed Guests are presented with a prestigious and commemorative plaque on the island.

Disney Castaway Cay is Disney’s private island in the Bahamas. The island is exclusively for Disney Cruise Line Guests visiting the area on a Bahamian or Caribbean cruise. There, Guests can relax and enjoy the exciting attractions that Disney provides. Castaway Cay is the perfect location for the new commemorative display that Disney has put up.

This exceptional recognition serves as a heartfelt gesture from Disney Cruise Line, acknowledging the incredible milestones reached by these devoted sailors. The adorned plaque symbolizes the remarkable journeys that have been embarked upon, encapsulating the cherished memories and experiences shared on countless voyages to the captivating shores of Castaway Cay.

Crafted with utmost care and attention to detail, these commemorative plaques are a true manifestation of the strong bond forged between Disney Cruise Line and its most esteemed passengers. Each plaque is thoughtfully designed, featuring an exquisite blend of artistry and elegance. The intricate craftsmanship captures the essence and spirit of the Disney Cruise Line experience, making it a truly remarkable keepsake.

The plaque not only reflects the remarkable commitment of these loyal Guests, but it also serves as a tangible memento, a tangible piece of history that can be proudly displayed as a reminder of the extraordinary adventures and cherished moments shared at Castaway Cay. Its presence evokes a sense of nostalgia, transporting the recipients back to the sun-kissed beaches, crystal-clear waters, and enchanting tropical landscapes that make up the picturesque setting of Castaway Cay.

Disney Announces Blizzard Beach Reopening Date

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney Parks

Disney’s Blizzard Beach water park has been closed for refurbishment since the spring. Disney has announced the reopening date for Blizzard Beach and the date Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon will close for refurbishment.

Everyone’s favorite winter-themed warm water wonderland is ready for another season of magical fun! Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park will reopen on November 6 – just in time for another festive holiday season!

Here are some of the most frost-tastic things I’m looking forward to when Blizzard Beach swings open its gates once again:

Snagging the New Disney Water Park Seasonal Pass

Hold on to your mittens because we just launched the NEW Disney Water Park Seasonal Pass! This new pass allows guests to visit Disney Water Parks again and again now through May 24, 2024, for just $79 plus tax. So, make sure you’re stocking up on sunscreen during your holiday shopping.

The seasonal pass has no block out dates and no reservations are required. Plus, free parking awaits all those embarking on an arctic journey to Blizzard Beach!

Indulging in New and Returning Food and Beverage

Get ready to savor new food and beverage options! Specialty churros have made their way to the menu at Arctic Expeditions and there’s no way I’m missing out on these:

  • S’mores Churros – Churro bites topped with graham cracker crumbs, marshmallow whipped cream, chocolate sauce and toasted mini marshmallows
  • Banana Split Churros – Churro bites topped with banana slices, sliced strawberries, pineapple chunks, cookie and brownie pieces, chocolate and caramel sauce, whipped cream and a cherry.

I also plan to save room for the new Honey Sriracha Chicken Wings and Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings at Warming Hut. Of course, guests can enjoy all of their returning favorite treats and drinks at Lottawatta Lodge, Polar Pub, Frostbite Freddy’s and more.

Letting the Kids Splash Around in Tike’s Peak

Don’t forget to send photos to your friends and relatives up north as you enjoy the heated water flowing through Tike’s Peak. The “Frozen”-themed hangout features Anna and Elsa in their igloo castle and a wading pool where kids can splash around with Olaf and his Snowgie pals.

Twist and Turn Down Teamboat Springs

Take the whole family on an epic whitewater journey! Up to six riders can float down a mountain on one of the world’s longest raft adventures.

Ski-daddle to the Toboggan Racers

Compete with other guests in a race on mats down an eight-lane slalom-style, 250-foot-long  “toboggan” water slide race that features three exhilarating dips and hills.

Take a Chill-axing Ride on Cross Country Creek

Float on a scenic lazy river passing through mysterious caves and illuminated grottos while dipping your toes into Mount Gushmore’s refreshing (and heated) spring water.

Enjoy the Holidays with a Tropical Twist

Snow boots are not required as you walk through the little white flurries greeting guests at the entrance. Just make sure you schedule time to hang out with Santa relaxing in his tropical best at his favorite vacation destination. And if you’re looking for holiday flavors, Blizzard Beach has those too! Peppermint shakes and cookie decorating are among the limited-time treats adding to the festivities.

As a person who grew up shoveling snow and scraping ice off windshields, I can say there’s nothing better than spending a winter day in the Florida sun with friends and family! So, pick up your Disney Water Parks Seasonal Pass now and I’ll see you at the top of Mount Gushmore.

Do note that Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon will be closed for refurbishment beginning November 6. Look for that park to reopen in the spring.

Disney Makes Huge Announcement About ‘Bluey’ Via Press Release

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney+

Disney just made a huge announcement about Bluey, the beloved children’s show that has taken children’s programming to a whole new level.

Bluey fans are apparently some of the most patient people on earth. After all, they’ve been waiting for what seems like forever for new episodes of the fan-favorite children’s program about the Heeler family–Bluey, her sister Bingo, and her parents Chilli and Bandit–to arrive. And whether it’s Disney or the Australian production team responsible for generating new episodes of the series, the powers-that-be have heard fans’ pleas for new episodes, and they have answered.

In an official press release on Wednesday, Disney announced that ten new episodes of Bluey will make their way to Disney Junior and Disney Channel beginning on November 6. One ten-minute episode will premiere on the channels each weekday through Friday, November 17–each time at 7:30 a.m. EST. Encores will be part of programming throughout the day.

To clarify, the press release from Disney is not announcing brand-new, never-before-seen episodes of Bluey. Instead, the ten episodes that will premiere on Disney Junior and Disney Channel are those that were released over the summer, so Disney+ subscribers have likely seen these episodes. The debut refers to the episodes’ debut on Disney television–on Disney Junior and the Disney Channel.

The addition of the ten episodes to Disney television means that the offerings will be a part of the rotating line-up of Bluey episodes, and fans can watch the episodes on live television whenever they air.

The additional episodes batch is referred to as Season 3B, as it’s the second group of episodes from the third season of the show. The newest batch includes two episodes of Bluey that feature celebrity cameos and a few episodes that are quite emotional in nature–and might just hit some adult fans with all the feels. And, of course, the episodes will feature the usual antics and silliness fans have come to expect from–and love about–the Heeler family and their friends.

Though this news is a bit disappointing for Bluey fans who’ve already seen the episodes, there’s still good news. Truly new episodes from the third season of the show will debut on Disney+, on Disney Junior, and on Disney Channel in 2024. As of the time of this post, there are still ten episodes that have only aired in their native Australia, as well as three episodes that haven’t been seen by any Bluey fans.

Disney’s Celebrating Its 100th by Giving Out FREE Disney Anniversary LEGO Sets

Posted on by Mathew Corn Uncategorized

Disney and LEGO are celebrating the 100th anniversary of The Walt Disney Company by giving out free anniversary LEGO sets, and fans won’t want to miss this set!

The Walt Disney Company is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year, and LEGO is joining in the celebration, especially as the two entities share a long-standing partnership that began in 1999.

Per LEGO:

In 1923, two brothers founded a new animation studio that went on to become one of the most treasured companies in the world. We know it today as Walt Disney Animation Studios, and it continues to bring magic and joy to millions of people around the world. It’s now been 100 years since The Walt Disney Company was born, so to celebrate its centenary, we’re taking a trip down memory lane to explore our partnership with Disney.

The Disney-LEGO partnership began in 1999 in the Hundred Acre Wood, where Christopher Robin, Winnie-the-Pooh, Eeyore, Tigger, Rabbit, Piglet, Kanga, and Roo all live. The first Disney LEGO sets had a Winnie the Pooh theme and were comprised of just eight LEGO bricks. And though the sets are among the most simple LEGO has manufactured over the years, they eventually gave way to more detailed and complex sets.

disney lego winnie the pooh

Over the years, Disney-inspired LEGO sets have included characters from all of Disney and PIXAR’s major franchises, including Mickey and Minnie Mouse, Disney Princess, PIXAR’s Toy Story, Cars, and WALL-E, and Disney’s Pirates of the Caribbean.

disney lego sets

There are also Disney LEGO sets that include scores of Disney mini-figures of characters such as Captain Hook, Donald Duck and Daisy Duck, Aladdin, Stitch, Alice in Wonderland, Ariel, Ursula, and more. Some sets even include Prince John from Disney’s Robin Hood, Oswald the Lucky Rabbit, Baymax, the Queen of Hearts, Mulan, and Dr. Facilier from Disney’s Princess and the Frog.

In short, the Disney and LEGO partnership has been really good for fans of both enterprises who love the challenge of a new set of LEGO bricks–and are enamored by the lore and legacy of The Walt Disney Company’s history.

Now, in celebration of that 100-year-long history, LEGO and Disney have partnered yet again to bring fans a new LEGO brick set inspired by one of Walt Disney’s first-ever created characters. Sorry, Oswald, we don’t mean you.

disney's steamboat willie mickey mouse

Soon, fans will be able to get an adorable Steamboat Willie LEGO set–and pay nothing for it! The celebratory LEGO set comes with a Mickey Mouse mini-figure that’s dressed as Steamboat Willie. Bricks included in the set can be used to build Willie’s iconic steamboat, as seen in the Steamboat Willie short, created by Walt Disney and animator

Ub Iwerks, which was released on November 18, 1928.

steamboat willie lego

The Steamboat Willie LEGO set deal is through shopDisney, and it is live now on the website, as long as supplies last.

To get the free Steamboat Willie set, fans need to spend $150 on the site before including taxes and shipping and use the promotional code GIFT. This activates the free LEGO set deal in the cart. The best news of all is that the $150 doesn’t have to be spent on LEGO sets. It can be spent on anything on the site, so long as the total comes to $150 before tax and shipping.

The only things excluded from the $150 total are pre-orders and Disney gift cards.

FREE Steamboat Willie LEGO Set with any purchase of $150 or more Apply code: GIFT at checkout for your free gift to appear in your bag.

What a great time to begin holiday shopping and get a little something for that Disney fan on the list. And for fans who opt to keep Steamboat Willie for themselves, hey, there’s no judgment here. But hurry, the offer expires on October 29, 2023, or when supplies are exhausted, whichever comes first.