There’s some exciting news for vaccinated families traveling to Walt Disney World and the Disneyland Resort during the upcoming warmer months: masks will now be optional.
Both resorts shared that their Covid-19 guidelines have been updated to reflect that guests visiting the park no longer need to wear face coverings while indoors, like riding an attraction. While parkgoers don’t have to mask up to ride the likes of “It’s a Small World,” they will continue to need to wear them on certain spaces, like buses and if receiving first aid.
photo: Disney
It’s been a long two years of navigating the pandemic, but coronavirus cases have continued to drop and the changes to Disney’s guidelines reflect the efforts to return to normalcy. As parents, we’re honestly just excited that we can enjoy the parks during Spring Break and summer without developing a sweat mustache or wrangling our kids to keep their nose and mouth covered.
Now the kicker: dropping the mask mandates is specifically for vaccinated guests. While Disney hasn’t stated they will be asking guests to attest to their vaccination status, the company says, “We expect Guests who are not fully vaccinated to continue wearing face coverings in all indoor locations, including indoor attractions and theaters.”
The new guidelines are now in effect, just in time for your upcoming family vaycay. And of course, if you feel more comfortable keeping your face coverings in place, there’s no magic lost.
Minnie Mouse just may have overshadowed the Paris Fashion Week. For the first time, Minnie is sporting a new pantsuit outfit—custom designed by Stella McCartney—with her signature polka-dots in blue and black.
She’ll be rocking this new ensemble in honor of Women’s History Month throughout March. Her new, modern getup is also in celebration of the 30th Anniversary of Disneyland Paris.
And it seems as thought the pantsuit is working for Minnie. As part of a more global collaboration with The Walt Disney Company, Stella McCartney will market a unique Minnie Mouse t-shirt as part of the International Women’s Rights Day, which will be exclusively available online and in Stella stores on March 8, 2022.
Good thing Minnie’s wearing pants, because it’s so much easier to rule the world when you’re not in a mini skirt and heels (though she—like many of us—have done a pretty good job of doing just that for decades).
—Shelley Massey
Feature photo: Matt Stroshane for Walt Disney World
No one can deny the magic that is Disney, but a trip often means some careful budgeting. To celebrate the New Year, the Disneyland Resort just announced a special deal for Southern California residents that will definitely save some big cash.
Available for purchase now, park goers can snag a special three-day, one-park per day weekday ticket that equals out to be just $67 a day ($199 up front)! The tickets can be redeemed on weekdays from Jan. 3 through May 26, 2022 for a consecutive three-day visit or three separate days excluding Saturdays and Sundays.
photo: Disneyland Resort
If you prefer to park hop, there will be other ticket options available that include:
3-day Park Hopper weekday ticket for $259
3-day, 1 park per day weekday ticket with Disney Genie+ service for $259
3-day, Park Hopper weekday ticket with Disney Genie+ service for $319
The tickets will require theme park reservations and valid ticket for the same park on the same date. Guests will also have the special opportunity to schedule a private party in Mickey Mouse’s house in Toontown during that time!
From Jan. 19 to Mar. 6, 2022, groups of up to 10 people can spend 90 minutes in the house to decorate cupcakes, play games, do crafts, have a Disney PhotoPass photo opportunity with Mickey Mouse and quicker entry to Gadget Go Coaster. Grab your tickets, make your reservation and head to Disneyland.com/CelebrateMickeysToontown for all the details!
Theme parks can be big family fun, but for persons with disabilities it can be a challenge. From the crowds and noise to long wait times, many families steer clear of amusement parks because it can be too stressful––but not at Disneyland.
The park has just announced several changes its Disability Access Service (DAS) to bring the magic to everyone. Designed specifically for people who have difficulties tolerating long lines due to a disability (those in scooters and wheelchairs do not qualify), DAS lets park goers book return times for select attractions so they can avoid standing in line.
photo: Disneyland Resort
While the service does not allow guests to skip the line, it does provide a return window that is similar to the length of the line so they can move around the park instead of waiting in line. And starting Dec. 20, park goers can pre-register for DAS Advance virtually.
Using a live video chat up to 30 days in advance of your visit (and no less than 2 days before), you can book up to two one-hour return windows for select experiences. Additionally, you can book return times from within the app once you arrive in the park. This new feature lets guests skip the trip to a Guest Relations location scattered throughout the park.
You can start taking advantage of the new services as of Dec. 20 for your next trip. And there’s much to be excited about: the Main Street Electrical Parade is making a comeback!
You don’t have to travel overseas to get to the most magical place in the world. You just have to make your way to Anaheim, California where you’ll encounter sunny skies, surfable beaches, science-y wonders and, of course, Disney Land! Read on for a rundown on where to stay, eat and play during your dream family getaway to Anaheim.
Stay
Element Anaheim Resort Convention Center
The Westin Anaheim Resort If you are looking for a getaway home-base that offers a little luxury combined with everything you need in one place, The Westin Anaheim Resort is the perfect spot for you to call home while in Paradise. This brand new Four-Diamond hotel is steps away from Disneyland, so bring your strollers and walking shoes because you won’t need a vehicle or Uber to get around. Along with its gorgeous accommodations that feature signature amenities and Westin’s beloved Heavenly® Beds for parents (your kids won’t be the only ones sleeping like babies), your crew can swim in the outdoor pool or exhilarate your body in the Westin WORKOUT® fitness studio featuring Peloton bikes when you aren’t playing with Mickey and Minnie. Plenty of onsite eateries make feeding the family without having to go far a sinch! Options, including a steakhouse, Mexican restaurant and rooftop bar.
Element Anaheim Resort Convention Center
If you are planning an extended stay in Anaheim, The Element Anaheim Resort will quickly make your family feel at home. This eco-friendly hotel features guest rooms that come with fully equipped kitchens, spa-inspired bathrooms, and of course Heavenly® Beds. Make sure to book one of their Kids Suites which offer bunk beds and a separate play area and TV for the little ones. And this spot makes mornings easy with a complimentary Rise breakfast featuring a make-your-own parfait yogurt station, a fresh range of whole fruits and other healthy options parents are sure to love. Additional hotel perks include a heated outdoor pool for hours of water play along with an outdoor patio complete with seating and two barbecue grills.
Play
A trip to Anaheim wouldn’t be quite as magical without a trip to Disneyland! If you want a real insider tip take our advice, get up early and get to the park right before 8 a.m. when the fun begins. Disneyland features two amazing theme parks—Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park. We suggest getting a multi-day ticket so you can make the most of your visit and hit both parks. Prices start at $76/day. Make sure to hit all the classic rides including Pirates of the Caribbean and Indiana Jones Adventure! And make sure the Star Wars fans in the family experience the brand-new Rise of the Resistance ride!
Disneyland isn’t the only activity Anaheim has to offer. While on vacation make sure to hit one of the beautiful nearby surfable beaches like Huntington State Beach where the kids can splash in the waves and play in the sand while parents surf. For a break from the sun, let your little ones get science-y at the DiscoveryCube OC, Anaheim's Hands-On Science Center. This massive building houses award-winning exhibits that kids can interact with. Your auto-fanatics can make their own race car in the physics lab and learn the science behind the sport while playing hockey. From exploring outer space to playing with dinos, there’s more to do at this massive science center than your family can possibly pack into one day…but give it a try. We dare you.
Eat
Annette Benedetti
Whether you spend your day on the beach, at the park or exploring the science center, one thing is guaranteed to occur: big appetites and hangry kiddos. Keeping everyone’s tummy full can feel like a full-time job when you are on a big family vacation, but it’s super easy while in Anaheim. Right outside the Westin’s front door, lies one of the best Mexican eateries in town, Puesto. Enjoy noshing on award-winning tacos, burritos, and ceviche. And don’t forget the margaritas for mom! This family-owned and operated restaurant serves up handmade tortillas and an innovative approach to traditional Mexican cuisine with California's fresh, local ingredients.
If you don’t want to leave your hotel to eat, or you are looking for an elevated dining experience, then you’ll want to check out Westin’s own restaurant Tangerine Room. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner Tangerine Room has a continuously evolving seasonal menu that showcases local flavors. Enjoy signature dishes such as our SoCal benedict with cage-free eggs, burgers, sandwiches, quality steaks and so much more.
For dining experiences that get you out of your room and fill you up with the best bites the area has to offer, we suggest Poppy & Seed a local eatery that features spacious seating arranged both inside and out in a unique greenhouse setting. While the atmosphere is beautiful, the food is irresistible. This location is one of Orange County’s newest dining experiences created by the award-winning chef and restauranteur Chef Michael Reed. The menu serves upscale American small plates including smoked duck breast, spaghetti, and even burgers for your babes. Don’t forget to relax with one of their cocktails at the end of a long day.
Finally, the foodies in your family will definitely want to take a trip to the Packing District, the OC’s original food hall located in a historic 1919 citrus-packing house. This food hall is home to over 50 restaurants and culinary artisans. There is literally something for everyone in your family and more. From sushi to vegan pizza to tacos and tequila, you’ll have to return every day of your trip to try it all.
Annette Benedetti
A trip to Anaheim offers your family the quintessential California vacation experiences that can be had over and over again as your children make their way through all of their ages and stages. What you don’t fit in one visit, will be waiting for you when you return, which your crew is guaranteed to want to do as soon as they are on the road home.
—Annette Benedetti
Editor’s note: Travel expenses were paid for by Marriott Bonvoy all opinions expressed here belong to the writer.
Mickey’s Toontown is about to get a makeover. Disney shared the exciting news this week that the beloved area of the park will close in March 2022 to undergo a major upgrade.
The reimagined Mickey’s Toontown is set to reopen in early 2023 and will be the home of new attraction, Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway. Not only that, but Imagineers plan on creating new play experiences and lots of open place spaces for fun and relaxation.
Toontown will be packed with new sights, sounds, and sensations where kids can enjoy active and tactile play where they can play, slide, spin, splash and touch.
Families will also get to enjoy CenTOONial Park with two interactive play experiences, including a fountain with water tables and dreaming tree with sculpted tree roots ready for play.
Plenty of more news awaits leading up to the reopening so stay tuned!
All aboard the holiday express! The holiday season is upon us so now is the time to plan ahead for the best part, the quality time spent together. Kick this season into high gear by starting a new Christmastime tradition of going on a festive train ride to the North Pole. We’ve compiled a list of all the best options so scroll down and discover your Christmas adventure.
Inspired by the beloved classic The Polar Express, the Southern California Railway Museum has brought the story to life with an enchanting recreation you won't want to miss. The experience begins as you board a completely decked-out holiday train and have your golden ticket punched by the animated train crew. Once settled on board, the activities (set to the sounds from the original motion picture) ensue, with hot cocoa and shortbread biscuits served by dancing chefs, to a reading of the famous children's story and joyous singing with merry carolers. Meanwhile, the express chugs along all the way to the North Pole for a visit with Santa!
Cost: $50-$70/adults; $44-$64/children(2-11); free for children under 2
'Tis the season to board the Christmas Train! Depart from the train station at Santa's village and travel through historic Irvine Park past twinkling Christmas lights and decorations to the North Pole. Here, alight the train and meet jolly Ol' Saint Nick. After snapping your next family portrait and enjoying a cup of hot cocoa, board again and journey back to Santa's village through the tunnel of lights. Then, in Santa's Village, there is no shortage of fun-filled activities, from cookie decorating to storytime with Mrs. Claus to a festive jump house and ice fishing.
Cost: Irvine Regional Park Entrance $3-$7/vehicle Christmas Train $20-$30/person; free for children under 2 Santa's Village $6/activity
The Pacific Southwest Railway Museum is offering the North Pole Limited train ride this holiday season. Onboard this 90-minute journey to pick up Mr. and Mrs. Claus, you will hear Santa's elves singing our favorite Christmas carols while enjoying cookies and hot chocolate, followed by a reading of a popular Christmas story. Then, every passenger will enjoy a personal meeting with Santa on the train as it makes its way back to Campo Depot.
Cost: $35-$50/adult; $25-$40/children(3-12); $10/children under 3
Campo Depot 750 Depot St. Campo, CA 91906 Online: psrm.org
El Dorado Frontier is a mini theme park found inside El Dorado Park. It is most famously known for its mile and a half long train ride that was built over 60 years ago. Every weekend during December, they host a Winter Wonderland extravaganza. Admission includes an unlimited carousel and train rides, while their other attractions are priced separately and include gem panning, hand-car mining buggy rides and carnival games. Lastly, the owners have really put a lot of thought into the aesthetics of this place and there are plenty of festive photo opportunities.
Cost: El Dorado Park Entrance $8/vehicle El Dorado Frontier $17/person
El Dorado Frontier 7550 E. Spring St. Long Beach, CA 90808 Online: eldoradofrontier.com
Next on our Christmas list, is this fun-size train that will surely impress your little conductors. In Costa Mesa, on the third weekend of every month, Goat Hill Junction offers free public rides on the cutest miniature locomotives you've ever seen. For the weekend of December 18 & 19, the trains will be decked out in holiday décor. The ride typically lasts 12 minutes and covers two loops of the park. The only requirement is riders must be walking and at least 31" tall.
Orange County Model Engineers 2480 Placentia Ave. Costa Mesa, CA 92626 Online: http://ocmetrains.org
Lastly, for an extra magical Christmas, Disneyland Park is the place to be and after a long closure, the Disneyland Railroad is open again! The ride is a perfect way to enjoy all the scenic holiday views that Disneyland is so famous for. There are four different stations to hop on and off of the train throughout the park and with an 18-minute long journey, it provides a perfect walking break for you and your littles.
Walt Disney World is almost ready to kick off its 50th Anniversary Party, and of course that means there’s a new coffee blend to go with it!
Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Company, the official speciality coffee of the resort has just announced the Walt Disney World® 50th Anniversary Blend. A dark blend of 100% Arabica beans from Central and South America, the blend also has notes of blueberry, black cherry and lemon.
In addition to a brand new flavor, the The Walt Disney World 50th Anniversary Blend comes packaged in a special bag with noted golden castle imagery. Just like previous Joffrey’s coffee, it will be available at locations throughout Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort.
Want to know where you can get a cup? Just head to the WDW Resort, in-room at Walt Disney World
Resort, Disneyland Resort hotels, Disney Vacation Club hotels and resorts, Joffrey’s Disney Springs–The Landing location, select Walt Disney World Resort merchandise stores in-park and at around the resort and at signature restaurants within Walt Disney World and Disneyland.
You can also purchase the Walt Disney World® 50th Anniversary Blend online at joffreys.com beginning Sept. 29.
Halloween Time may have just kicked off at the Disneyland Resort, but that doesn’t mean the magic makers aren’t prepping for the holiday season, too. Not only can park goers expect plenty of festive food, music, entertainment and decor, but Disney is offering a brand new, limited-capacity event!
Disney Merriest Nites brings Mickey Mouse and his friends together for six themed parties all rolled into one throughout Disneyland on five select nights in November and December. Access to the nights requires a separate ticket, but will give you after-hours access to select attractions, entertainment and all with limited capacity.
As part of the festivities, Mickey Mouse kicks off the party on Main Street, U.S.A. with Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy and friends. Head to New Orleans Square to see Princess Tiana’s bayou-inspired celebration, and you’ll find Miguel from Coco over in Frontierland.
The three remaining celebrations involve Lilo & Stitch in Adventureland, Elsa in Fantasyland with lots of winter vibes and Buzz Lightyear in Tomorrowland. Each party features themed photo backdrops, character sightings and festive food and drink.
Guests will be able to hop on attractions with far fewer crowds, especially taking advantage of the dressed up “it’s a small world” Holiday and Haunted Mansion Holiday, in addition to a special viewing of “A Christmas Fantasy” Parade.
For the evening, park guests can also take advantage of unlimited Disney Photopass digital downloads!
Disney Merriest Nites will take place on Nov. 11, Nov. 16, Nov. 30, Dec. 7 and Dec. 9. You can purchase beginning Sept. 14, at approximately 9 a.m. on Disneyland.com and the Disneyland app.
You may have heard the rumors: Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resort are no longer offering Fast Passes and we’re here to tell you: it’s true. But while the free service won’t be offered anymore, Disney is not leaving us hanging!
Coming this fall you’ll be able to access the new Disney Genie service! The digital service not only helps you create a fun-filled itinerary but it’s also complimentary (please, and thank you). Keep scrolling to find out all the details!
Disney’s video covered a ton of important details so let’s break it down. First, Disney Genie fits right into the My Disney Experience and Disneyland apps so you don’t need yet another app on your already cluttered phone. You’ll be able to indicate your must-ride attractions, fave food and interests that include your can’t miss character experiences.
Once you load in your deets, Disney Genie will help guide your day by suggesting ideal times to head to attractions, when to get on restaurant waiting lists and wait times. It will also adjust throughout the day as crowds ebb and flow. No more walking across the entire park to find out the princesses have gone on a lunch break!
photo: Joshua Sudock/Disneyland Resort
If you are still craving that front-of-the-line experience, guests will have the option to use the Disney Genie+ service and make up to two individual attraction selections to skip the line. Both of these are paid options.
Disney Genie+ service will be priced at $15 per ticket per day at Walt Disney World Resort and $20 per ticket per day at Disneyland Resort. This service gives you the chance to pick the next available time to arrive at certain attractions and experiences by using the Lightning Lane entrance. Like the old Max Pass, guests can only make one selection at a time, throughout the day. Additionally, you’ll also be able to access Disney parks-themed audio experiences and photo features like augmented reality lenses (Walt Disney World only) and unlimited Disney PhotoPass downloads from your day at Disneyland Resort.
For attractions not included in Disney Genie+ service, park goers will be able to schedule a time to arrive at up to two super popular = attractions each day using the Lightning Lane entrance. Depending on the park, attraction and day, the price will fluctuate for this service.
