Disney has made changes today to its dining reservations system. Often when disney messes with its tech, the result is… frustrating. These changes, however, offer users a refreshing upgrade. One change, in particular, was much needed and honestly, we are surprised it has taken them this long to make the switch.
Previously, when you searched for a dining reservation, you would see a selection of randomly generated times rather than all available openings. This meant that if you did not want the time that Disney threw out at you, you had to manually search. It was difficult. It was unnecessarily complicated. It was everything we have come to expect from Disney tech. Now, however, when you search for a restaurant, you will see every available reservation opening for that day. This has streamlined the reservation process and made it easier to snag those difficult-to-obtain Table Service restaurants. Below are examples of the old way (left) and the new system (right). Rather than 3 randomly selected times, you can now view all of the time slots with ease.
While it might seem like a small change on the surface, it is one that will have a big impact going forward. I can’t tell you how many Advanced Dining Reservations I’ve lost out on personally because I was searching for a specific time, and it got snatched out from under me. This change was a long time coming and, overall one that will improve the guest experience.
Available times will also be sorted by meal period so it's more clear when you're booking a lunch or dinner reservation timeslot. Old vs. new: pic.twitter.com/TzwayPJQm3
Nestled in the heart of Adventureland at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom, the Tortuga Tavern stands as a vibrant and immersive dining destination, offering visitors a taste of the Caribbean amidst a bustling world of swashbuckling adventures.
Inspired by the iconic Pirates of the Caribbean attraction, Tortuga Tavern carries forth the spirit of pirate lore and maritime lore. The name itself pays homage to the legendary pirate haven, Tortuga Island, known for its bustling pirate community and tales of buried treasure. From the moment visitors approach the tavern’s entrance, they are greeted by a charming facade that evokes the essence of a quaint Caribbean hideaway.
The interior of Tortuga Tavern further transports guests to a bygone era, adorned with nautical accents, rustic wooden furnishings, and whimsical pirate-themed decor. The ambiance exudes a sense of camaraderie, as if pirates and privateers of old are enjoying a hearty meal together after a day of adventure on the high seas.
The menu at Tortuga Tavern is as enticing as the decor, offering a delectable array of Caribbean-inspired dishes. Among the favorites are the mouthwatering Barbacoa Beef and Jerk Chicken sandwiches, both bursting with bold flavors that delight the taste buds. For those seeking a vegetarian option, the Roasted Corn and Vegetable Salad is a refreshing and satisfying choice.
However, the true star of the menu is the Tavern’s famous Turkey Leg, a colossal treat that has become a symbol of indulgence for Disney park-goers. The succulent and tender turkey leg is seasoned to perfection, offering a savory and satisfying meal fit for a buccaneer.
Tortuga Tavern not only serves up delightful dishes but also embraces the spirit of fun and adventure with occasional appearances from pirates and swashbuckling entertainers. Guests may find themselves amidst impromptu pirate performances, creating moments of laughter and excitement that leave lasting memories.
One of the hidden gems of Tortuga Tavern is its outdoor seating area, where diners can enjoy their meals in the shade of lush palm trees and immerse themselves in the vibrant ambiance of Adventureland. It’s an ideal spot to rest and recharge before continuing on to explore the wonders of the Magic Kingdom.
In conclusion, Tortuga Tavern offers a captivating blend of culinary delights and immersive theming, providing a Caribbean oasis in the heart of Adventureland. Whether you’re seeking a hearty meal, a taste of the pirate’s life, or simply a moment of respite, this charming tavern promises an experience that will make you feel like you’ve sailed into a legendary port of call. So, next time you embark on a magical journey through the Magic Kingdom, don’t miss the opportunity to discover the treasures that await you at Tortuga Tavern.
Nestled within the enchanting realm of Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom, the Golden Oak Outpost stands as a beloved and cherished destination for visitors of all ages. This hidden gem, often overlooked amidst the hustle and bustle of the park’s more iconic attractions, offers a delightful respite for those seeking a taste of frontier life and a hearty meal to recharge their energy.
Step back in time as you cross the threshold of Golden Oak Outpost, transported to an era of pioneers and adventurers. The theme of this quaint establishment pays homage to the spirit of the American frontier, reminiscent of old western outposts where travelers found solace and sustenance. The attention to detail is evident in every nook and cranny, with wooden facades, rustic decor, and subtle nods to the wild frontier in the form of wagons, barrels, and cowboy paraphernalia.
The menu at Golden Oak Outpost is simple yet satisfying, offering a selection of mouthwatering comfort foods. Among the favorites are the scrumptious chicken nuggets, crispy and tender, served with an array of dipping sauces to appease every palate. Their signature waffle fries, perfectly seasoned and delightfully crunchy, are an absolute must-try for visitors craving that extra touch of decadence.
For those seeking a more substantial meal, the outpost also serves delectable chicken and waffle sandwiches, blending sweet and savory flavors in a delightful harmony. The portions are generous, making it an ideal spot for families and groups to share a meal together, reminiscing about the adventures of the day while relishing the ambiance of the Old West.
As you savor your meal, you can enjoy the picturesque surroundings, which often include sightings of Disney characters in their western attire, making surprise appearances to entertain and create magical memories. The convivial atmosphere of Golden Oak Outpost fosters a sense of community, as guests come together to celebrate the spirit of camaraderie that has defined the American frontier.
Golden Oak Outpost is not just a place to eat; it’s an experience that captures the essence of nostalgia and timeless charm. Its quaint ambiance, scrumptious offerings, and enchanting theming make it a treasure trove waiting to be discovered by park-goers looking to immerse themselves in a different era.
In conclusion, if you find yourself strolling through the Magic Kingdom and hunger beckons, don’t pass by Golden Oak Outpost. Venture inside, and you’ll be treated to a culinary journey that goes hand-in-hand with a journey back in time to the wild, wonderful days of the Old West.
The Holidays at the Disneyland Resort are returning Nov. 10, 2023, through Jan. 7, 2024! We can’t wait for Guests and their loved ones to create special memories and treasured traditions with new and returning holiday offerings around the resort. We’re excited to taste our way through the Disney Festival of Holidays marketplaces, watch dazzling projections and fireworks illuminate Sleeping Beauty’s Winter Castle and snap a photo with Mickey Mouse in his all-new holiday outfit in Disneyland Park!
Here are the details about the celebrations, décor, entertainment and more that will be featured this holiday season.
Experience Cultural Celebrations in Disney California Adventure Park with Disney Festival of Holidays
A distinctly Disney holiday celebration with diverse food, live entertainment and more, Disney Festival of Holidays draws inspiration from multicultural seasonal celebrations and cherished traditions of Christmas, Navidad, Diwali, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and Three Kings Day. Guests can enjoy some new and returning favorite food and beverage items at the Disney Festival of Holidays marketplaces and groove to music and dance performances at the Palisades Stage, Sonoma Terrace and for the first time, in the Hollywood Backlot, where Disney Festival of Holidays will also be celebrated. Additionally, get ready to dance along as Disney and Pixar characters march to the beat of the Holiday Toy Drummers in “Mickey’s Happy Holidays.”
Festivalgoers may choose to purchase a Sip and Savor Pass, which offers eight entitlement tabs that can be redeemed for select food and nonalcoholic beverages from several marketplaces and participating dining locations in Disney California Adventure.* Each Sip and Savor Pass is valid for the entirety of Disney Festival of Holidays and can be shared among friends and family, so the whole group can sample delicious dishes together this season.
Disney ¡Viva Navidad! will return to Paradise Gardens Park for its tenth season, and this year, Guests can taste their way through an all-new menu at Paradise Garden Grill. Watch the Three Caballeros as they host a joyous street party, featuring Mexican folklórico dancers and mariachis, Brazilian samba dancers and percussionists, giant mojiganga puppets and Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse in their holiday best. Additional festivities in this area will include live music and dancing, visits with beloved Disney characters and special appearances by Mirabel from Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Encanto.”
Enjoy Festive Décor and Transformed Attractions Throughout Disneyland Resort
There’s no better place to enjoy wintertime decorations and twinkling lights than The Merriest Place on Earth! Throughout Disneyland Resort, Guests can gaze at spectacular holiday décor including Sleeping Beauty’s Winter Castle, adorned with icicles and snow-capped turrets; a gingerbread house inspired by sweet treats and pastries at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa; and Christmas trees with uniquely themed ornaments in both theme parks, the Downtown Disney District, Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa and Disneyland Hotel. And with a bit of Disney magic, “snow” is scheduled to fall every night in select areas of Disneyland park!
Ornaments, lights and more will also embellish favorite attractions that get a special holiday overlay. In Disneyland, Guests will be serenaded with choruses of jolly tunes on the wintry waterway of “it’s a small world” Holiday, and Jack Skellington from “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas” redecorates the Haunted Mansion, transforming it into the frightfully festive Haunted Mansion Holiday, complete with a new, hauntingly delightful gingerbread house. Gear up for some cheer in Disney California Adventure on Luigi’s Joy to the Whirl and Mater’s Jingle Jamboree, which will both undergo seasonal spins for the “haul-idays.”
Delight in Seasonal Spectaculars and Holiday Entertainment
A photo with Disney characters becomes even more merry, as Mickey Mouse and some of his friends will don all-new outfits in Disneyland park, putting a spin on the classic red and green with midcentury modern-inspired looks! Plus, the whole family can visit with Santa Claus, who will pose for jolly photos around Disneyland Resort through Dec. 24.
And of course, the holiday season isn’t complete without enjoying some merry entertainment. At Disneyland Park, “A Christmas Fantasy Parade” will spread cheer, starring characters from Disney Animation’s “Frozen,” Disney and Pixar’s “Toy Story” and many more. In the evenings, Guests can watch as the “Believe…In Holiday Magic” nighttime spectacular illuminates the night sky with breathtaking fireworks and sprinklings of snow. And for Guests who want to add even more holiday magic to their trip, the Holiday Time at the Disneyland Resort Guided Tour will offer a hosted experience of select seasonal offerings and reserved viewing for “A Christmas Fantasy Parade.”**
At Disney California Adventure Park, “World of Color – Season of Light” will fill Paradise Bay with the spirit of togetherness and love as hundreds of fountains illustrate warm moments from Disney animated films.
In addition to holiday shopping and dining in the Downtown Disney District, Guests can groove to a variety of “mistle-toe-tapping” live musical performances on select evenings at the Downtown Disney LIVE! stage. At Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa and Disneyland Hotel, Guests can enjoy a wonderfully cozy atmosphere, enhanced with live entertainment some nights.
We are counting down the days until Holidays at the Disneyland Resort begins!
An iconic collaboration is set to captivate the hearts of fans around the world.
It has just been revealed that some of the Disney princesses have been transformed into American Girl dolls as part of a collaboration celebrating the Disney100 celebration. This extraordinary union brings together two iconic brands -the Walt Disney Company and American Girl- to create a magical product like no other.
The fact that it has taken so long for this collaboration to happen is honestly surprising. There is a ton of crossover between Disney fans and fans of American Girl dolls. American Girl is known for creating high-quality dolls and accessories that inspire children to be brave, kind, and confident. They are well known for their line of dolls featuring characters from different parts of history, as well as their “Doll of the Year” series.
This year, Disney has been hard at work creating unique and incredible collaborations with beloved brands. They are doing this as a way to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Walt Disney Company. Collaborations include everything from a Disney Car to LEGO sets to Disney Makeup collections.
Now, this new line with American Girl Dolls is in the running for being the best collab of all.
American Girl has just released three limited edition collector Dolls based on some of the most iconic Disney princesses. The collection includes Princess Jasmine, Princess Belle, and Princess Rapunzel. The dolls are made in extremely limited batches of 4,000 dolls each and are priced at $300 each. Each doll comes with the full costume from their respective animated film and a certificate of authenticity.
While these dolls are certainly on the more expensive end of American Girl Dolls, these collectibles will likely be worth a lot in the future. It is unclear if more princesses will be getting dolls in the future. There would certainly be a market for other Princesses like Tiana, Cinderella, Snow White, and Mulan.
