Three More Disney World Fan Favorite Dining Options Reopening!

Dining at Walt Disney World has been a challenge since many table and quick-service restaurants remain closed around property during the phased reopening. Thankfully, Disney has announced new table service options that are returning to Walt Disney World.

From a Disney Cast Member;

Walt Disney World Resort has even more reasons to get excited about visiting in May and beyond! You’ll be able to see beloved characters when Chef Mickey’s at Disney’s Contemporary Resort reintroduces an all-you-care-to-enjoy dinner starring the Fab Five. Over at the EPCOT Resort area, you’ll be able to once again enjoy seaside meals when Cape May Café at Disney’s Beach Club Resort reopens, and, get your taste buds ready for the re-opening of Tusker House Restaurant at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park.

Chef Mickey’s Dinner

Starting May 16, Chef Mickey’s will offer an all-you-care-to-enjoy family-style dinner that will include “no touch” appearances like snapping a selfie or waving hello as Mickey Mouse and some of his favorite pals make surprising appearances in each of the dining rooms. Similar to other character dining locations, Guests will take home a souvenir with character signatures and colorful artwork.

Seeing your favorite characters isn’t all you can look forward to at Chef Mickey’s! The dinner menu will include items for the whole family, like starters of “Chef Mickey’s Caesar,” citrus-poached shrimp salad, and assorted breads; main courses of gnocchi, roasted garlic potato Gratin, plant-based faro wheat fried rice, prime rib, roasted turkey, and salmon; and an assortment of sweets to top off the meal. Little ones in your family can enjoy mac and cheese, chicken nuggets, turkey corn dog nuggets, and more!

Cape May Café 

If you ever dream of escaping to the beach and enjoying all the delicious food of an oceanside town, you’ll be happy that Cape May Café at Disney’s Beach Club Resort reopens on May 18! The New England-style restaurant is a perfect location to refuel before and after a day of adventure at Walt Disney World.

Guests returning to Cape May Café will find old favorites and new changes, along with its signature service and quality. The restaurant will serve breakfast and dinner, but Minnie’s Beach Bash Character Breakfast and the Seafood-and-More Dinner Buffet will not return at reopening.

That’s not to say there aren’t plenty of treats in store! The all-you-care-to enjoy family-style breakfast menu will feature popular staples like pastries (including the layered crispy, cream-filled “Lobster Tail”), omelets, and Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse waffles. Highlights from dinner will include house-made Parker House rolls and corn bread, a seafood boil with a variety of fresh seafood, The Turf Platter with steak and chicken, and – my personal favorite – lobster mac and cheese.

Bookings for Cape May Café and dinnertime at Chef Mickey’s open on May 7.

Tusker House Restaurant

The guest-favorite character dining location at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, Tusker House Restaurant, will reopen this summer! During the modified character experience, guests will enjoy delicious family-style entrees inspired by the flavors of Africa and can snap photos of Donald Duck and friends, dressed in their safari best as they promenade through the restaurant. We will share more about the menu and reservation information soon.

Disney Now Casting Actors, Stunt Performers, and Musicians for Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser

If you are a Central Florida local and want to join the crew of the Halcyon, it might be your lucky day. Disney has posted several positions at the Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser hotel. Disney is asking for online submissions at this time. If you’re a fan eager for your first galactic cruise to Batuu, these role descriptions provide new information about the ship’s crew.

Actors

CAPTAIN: Seeking a mature, commanding actor with strong improvisational abilities to portray the Halcyon’s Captain. She is a worldly Pantoran (40s-50s) with a rich, diverse history and dedication to her vocation. She is a strong and charismatic leader who has served as a well-respected ship commander for some time and demands the attention and focus of every room she walks into. 

CRUISE DIRECTOR: Seeking an effervescent actor with strong improvisational abilities to portray the Halcyon’s Cruise Director. She is a human (30s) with the capacity to learn that life is about more than the fun of the moment, and draws inspiration from the efforts she sees being made to bring harmony and justice to the galaxy. A born cruise director who loves travel and adventure, she is a cheerful and harmonious people person. 

SHIP MECHANIC: Seeking a friendly and engaging actor with strong improvisational abilities to portray the mechanic. A youthful (late teens-20s) human with big dreams, his enthusiasm sometimes outpaces his capabilities, and, as a result, he tries to present a braggadocios front to mask the vulnerability of being far from home. 

THE FIXER: Seeking a confident and engaging actor with strong improvisational abilities to portray The Fixer. Character portrayed is a well-traveled, devil-may-care human (40s). A convincing and handsome schemer, he uses his charm to his advantage as he seeks out associates to enlist in his criminal enterprise. His calculated and conniving approach is an intellectual dance; a paso doble that leaves passengers wondering… was he the bull or the matador? Actors with sleight of hand tricks a plus and are encouraged to prepare a demonstration of abilities.

FIRST ORDER LIEUTENANT: Seeking a charismatic and engaging actor with strong improvisational abilities to portray the First Order Lieutenant. Character portrayed is human (40s) and working his way up the ladder. An ambitious officer of the First Order, the Lieutenant is new to his position of power, and is working hard not to let us know that. He doesn’t see a line between abusing and leveraging power.

SABER TRAINER
: Seeking warm and engaging athletic actors with improvisational abilities to serve as Saber Trainers. Character portrayed is in their 20’s-30’s. Patient and well-composed instructors, Saber Trainers serve as expert wielders of the lightsaber and he/she/they take cruisers through a physical demonstration. Prior sword/saber experience a plus as the role requires the ability to confidently brandish a lightsaber. Only talent local to the Central Florida area will be considered.

Actors with Musical Talent

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THE FIRST-TIME CRUISER: Seeking a youthful and friendly actor/guitarist/singer with strong improvisational acting abilities to portray The First-Time Cruiser. Character portrayed is a Togrutan (20s) who aspires to be more than the “alien next door”. This hopeless romantic is a friendly and earnest musician who happily serenades his fellow guests as he aspires to impress the Galactic Superstar. He is a strong rhythm guitarist with a happy go lucky, easy going musical style.  A struggling singer/songwriter looking for his big break. Vocal range low C to high A; Low tenor/high baritone. 

GALACTIC SUPERSTAR: Seeking an actor/vocalist with strong improvisational abilities to portray our Galactic Superstar. Character portrayed is a Twi*lek (30s-40s) who commands respect and flame-roses at her feet. Operating in a legally-dubious world of galactic intrigue while fighting for her race’s integrity and freedom, she is also a phenomenally soulful singer who demands focus in every conversation and performance alike. Her vocal range is preferably that of a Mezzo Soprano and her musical style is a hybrid of neo-soul, jazzy, funk, colored by her extensive travel and experiences.

In the newly-released details of the Crown of Corellia Dining Room, these performers were discussed, and concept art of the area is seen above.

Actors with Stunt/Combat Abilities

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REY: (5’6”-5’8”) Seeking a dynamic and athletic actor with an athletic, slender build and strong improvisational abilities to portray Rey. Rey is a survivor, toughened by her life as a scavenger on the harsh desert planet of Jakku. Despite dismissing herself as a “no one”, she learns that her life is being shaped by the mysterious power of the force. Actors with prior experience or knowledge in stage combat, Wushu, martial arts, or hand-to-hand are encouraged to attend. 

Disney released a video earlier today showing Rey wielding the “real” lightsaber. We expect to see this in action at the hotel.


KYLO REN:
 (6’0”-6’2”) Seeking a dynamic and athletic actor with improvisational abilities to portray Kylo Ren. A menacing Force-sensitive warrior, Kylo is driven by his connection to the dark side to achieve his ultimate goal of galactic domination. Actors with prior experience or knowledge in stage combat, Wushu, martial arts, or hand-to-hand are encouraged to attend. 

We’ve seen some of what the encounter with Kylo Ren will entail back in 2019 when we explored the concept art and floor plans for the Halcyon. One of the highlights of the experience will be an attack by the First Order, likely still looking for the spy from Batuu. Guests will conduct a space assault from the ship’s bridge, but at some point, Kylo Ren will come aboard the ship.

Details Announced for Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser Hotel at Walt Disney World

Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser will fully immerse guests in a galaxy far, far away when it debuts in 2022 at Walt Disney World Resort. As part of this first-of-its-kind vacation experience, guests become the heroes of their own stories during a two-day, two-night adventure where they see, feel and live Star Wars.

A model of the Halcyon starcruiser is viewable by guests for a limited time in Disney’s Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. When guests book the two-night vacation experience for Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser, debuting at Walt Disney World Resort in 2022, they will stay aboard this glamorous ship as they plunge into an all-immersive Star Wars story that goes beyond anything Disney has created before. (David Roark, photographer)

Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser invites guests into a new kind of “storyliving” as they travel the galaxy in style aboard the glamorous Halcyon starcruiser, known for its impeccable service and exotic destinations. They will stay in well-appointed cabins, experience exquisite dining and out-of-this-world entertainment, visit Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and much more.

Throughout the journey, guests’ choices will determine their personal adventures by interacting with characters, crew and other passengers they meet as they become part of the action and the broader Star Wars saga. Decisions guests make will determine how their individual stories unfold as they seize control of their destinies – and potentially impact the fate of the galaxy.

Launch from Walt Disney World Resort

  • The adventure begins when guests arrive at the Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser terminal at Walt Disney World and check in for their two-night experience.
  • Guests will enter a Launch Pod to begin their Star Wars Through windows above, they’ll see themselves leave their world behind as they jump into hyperspace and draw closer and closer to the massive and magnificent Halcyon starcruiser.
  • When the Launch Pod docks with the starcruiser and the airlock opens, guests will step into the ship’s main deck Atrium to begin their journey through a galaxy far, far away.

An All-Immersive Experience

  • A visit aboard the Halcyon starcruiser plunges guests into a multi-day, interactive story that interweaves with members of the crew, other passengers, familiar Star Wars characters and others. Guests may encounter the starcruiser’s strong and charismatic captain, the ship’s plucky mechanic, heroes of the Resistance or many more as they choose alliances and chart their courses.
  • The all-immersive experience features enthralling onboard activities, such as:
    • Learning the ancient ways of the lightsaber and facing off against a training remote, where guests may discover their own connection with the Force.
    • Visiting the starcruiser’s Bridge to learn about its systems and how to operate them, including navigation and defense – skills that may come in handy during a journey through this adventure-filled galaxy.
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  • Guests will find refreshment each day in an enticing supper club known as the Crown of Corellia Dining Room. This bright and welcoming hall will offer breakfast and lunch daily to passengers before transitioning each evening into a lavish multi-course menu of both otherworldly and familiar origins.
    • One night’s dinner will feature a live performance from a galactic superstar who can captivate an entire room with the crook of her jewel-encrusted purple Twi’lek finger.
  • The journey also includes an excursion to Batuu, where guests can explore the winding pathways of Black Spire Outpost and seek out a hidden Resistance base.

Fun Facts – Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser

  • Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser guests will be the first to see characters like Rey wield a brand-new, more realistic lightsaber designed by Walt Disney Imagineering Research and Development to create dramatic in-person moments previously only seen in films or shows.
  • Every window in the Halcyon starcruiser – including those in each cabin – has a view of the galaxy beyond, with ever-changing vistas as the ship progresses from destination to destination.
  • Guests will be able to explore the starcruiser and perhaps discover hidden spaces deep in the mechanics of the ship – perfect for uncovering secrets … or holding clandestine meetings.
  • The Crown of Corellia Dining Room is named for Corellia, the planet known galaxy-wide for the shipyards that created not only the Halcyon starcruiser, but also the famed Millennium Falcon.
  • For a limited time, guests visiting Disney’s Hollywood Studios can now see a model of the Halcyon starcruiser on display inside Walt Disney Presents.

Disney World Announces Summer Room Sale

It’s looking like it’s going to be a busy summer at Walt Disney World! Disney has a released a new room sale for select Walt Disney World Resort hotels for most nights July 11-September 29, 2021.

Experience the same legendary detail, service and storytelling found in our parks when you book a stay at a Disney Resort hotel. From unique accommodations to distinctive dining options, themed rooms and more, the Disney Resorts Collection offers Guests a variety of options that exemplify the Disney difference.

And now you can save up to 25% on rooms at select Disney Resort hotels for stays most nights July 11, 2021 through September 29, 2021.

The health and well-being of our Guests and Cast Members continues to be a top priority and we’ve implemented new measures to promote enhanced cleaning, physical distancing and reduced contact. Learn more about these efforts in the Know Before You Go section below.

This offer is valid for the Disney Resort hotels listed below. View the chart to explore savings within each Resort Category.

Resort CategoryResort Savings
Select Disney Deluxe Villa ResortsSave Up to 25%
For stays most nights July 11 to September 29, 2021
Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village
Disney’s BoardWalk Villas
Disney’s Riviera Resort
25%
Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows (Deluxe Studio Only)
10%
Select Disney Deluxe ResortsSave Up to 25%
For stays most nights July 11 to September 29, 2021
Disney’s BoardWalk Inn (Opening July 2, 2021)
Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
25%
Disney’s Beach Club Resort (Opening May 30, 2021)
Disney’s Wilderness Lodge (Opening June 6, 2021)
Disney’s Yacht Club Resort
15%
Select Disney Moderate ResortsSave Up to 20%
For stays most nights July 11 to September 29, 2021
Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort
The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort
20%
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort10%
Select Disney Value ResortsSavings
For stays most nights July 11 to September 29, 2021
Disney’s Pop Century Resort15%
Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort10%
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort (Family Suites)20%
CampgroundsSave Up to 10%
For stays most nights July 11 to September 29, 2021
The Campsites at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort10%

Offer DetailsValid Travel Dates
Stay most nights July 11, 2021, through September 29, 2021

Length of Stay Requirements

  • Minimum – 1 night
  • Maximum – 14 nights

Important Details

  • Additional per-adult charges may apply if more than 2 adults per room at Disney Value, Moderate and Deluxe Resorts and Studios at Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts.
  • Advance reservations required.
  • Cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion.
  • Offer excludes the following room types: 3-bedroom villas, Cabins at Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, Bungalows at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows, The Little Mermaid Standard Room at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort.
  • Valid admission and a park reservation are required for the same park and same day to enjoy theme parks and special events and are not included in this offer.
  • Resort hotel reopening dates are subject to change.

Top Entertainment Experiences Currently Open or Coming Back Soon

Via DisDining.com

No one does entertainment like Disney!  So when we visit Walt Disney World, we always fit in as many live entertainment experiences as we can.  Like everything else, the number and kind of live shows available in WDW has changed during the pandemic.  But the good news is that there are many live entertainment experiences currently open, or that will soon be back, in altered formats to ensure everyone’s safety.  Here are a few!

1. Festival of the Lion King

If you’ve been missing Festival of the Lion King, you’ll be thrilled to know that a modified version will return to Disney’s Animal Kingdom this summer. While we have no official start date, Disney has announced a “mid-May” debut! The show has been updated to allow for physical distancing, and you’ll notice a difference in seating arrangements at Harambe Theatre too, with a goal of keeping cast members and guests safe while they enjoy the show. We can’t wait to join the celebration of this spectacular live show!

2. Voices of Liberty

I’ll never forget stumbling onto a live performance by the incomparable Voices of Liberty at Disney’s Epcot – it was an utterly magical moment!  And there are plenty more magical moments in store for guests, as the group performs daily at America Gardens Theatre (with a totally new repertoire, featuring a healthy heaping of Disney favorites!).  If you’ve never treated yourself to the dulcet tones of the Voices of Liberty, now’s the perfect time, and if you’ve been missing their stunning vocal acrobatics, welcome back!

3. Feathered Friends in Flight

The latest in a series of shows featuring live birds at the Caravan Stage Theater in Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Feathered Friends in Flight has been entertaining guests since the park reopened in summer 2020.  It’s hosted by actual animal trainers at WDW, and showcases the natural talents and survival techniques used by birds in the wild.  The show features several different bird species, many of which you’ll see flying overhead; you’ll learn a thing or two about our amazing feathered friends while seeing them in action!

4. Cirque du Soleil and Disney – Drawn to Life

If you never got to experience the La Nouba show by Cirque du Soleil at Disney Springs before it closed in 2017, you’ll be just as excited as I am for Drawn to Life!  A collaboration between Cirque du Soleil and Disney (I’m in!), this new live show is a delightful collision of Disney animation and gravity-defying acrobatics.  Performers interpret classic Disney animation through choreography, inspiring costuming and even an all-new score – with classic Disney music as its inspiration, of course.  We’re told the stage is actually designed as a larger-than-life animation table!  While we don’t have an exact opening date to share with you yet, Drawn to Life is coming “later this fall” to Walt Disney World – and we can’t wait!

5. For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration

Do you have a Frozen fan in your household?  If so, you’ll want to head to For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration in Disney’s Hollywood Studios on your next WDW vacation.  Performed several times daily, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to belt out all of your favorite Frozen songs along with Elsa, Anna and Kristoff, and you’ll enjoy your favorite scenes from the movie – wearing a mask and in physically distanced seats, of course, for safety! 

6. Dapper Dans

Ah, Dapper Dans, how we’ve missed you!  Thankfully, this iconic barbershop quartet has returned to Disney’s Magic Kingdom, putting smiles on faces up and down Main Street USA.  You’ll find them in the train station or on a trolley car now, but the stellar harmonies and wacky humor you love are the same as you remember!  The Dapper Dans perform 20-minute shows throughout the day.

7. Grand Floridian Pianist

We’re still mourning the departure of the unparalleled Grand Floridian Society Orchestra, but there’s good news – the Grand Floridian Pianist has returned to the lobby of Disney’s flagship resort!  Safely physically distanced and wearing a mask, this maestro of the keys will entertain and delight music lovers of all ages.  There’s something so magical about live music in the posh lobby of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa, and we couldn’t be happier!