Visit Gertie the Dinosaur

This larger-than-life dino is more than just a great place to grab ice cream. It’s a nod to one of the first popular animated characters in the history of film, Gertie! Originally debuting on February 18, 1914, Gertie the Dinosaur was the first animated film to use animated techniques that would influence the next generation of animators, including Walt Disney. Some of these techniques include animation loops, keyframes, and registration marks. 

When constructing Disney-MGM Studios in the 80’s, Walt Disney Imagineers included an over-sized Gertie in their plans for Echo Lake. Thirty-three years later, she can still be found in this area of the park today!

Get Backstage Passes to Aerosmith’s Concert on Rock ‘N’ Roller Coaster

One of the biggest thrills at Disney’s Hollywood Studios is Rock ‘N’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith. This coaster takes guests from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 2.7 seconds, and they race through Hollywood to make it backstage in time for Aerosmith’s concert. While waiting in line, keep an eye out for any touring posters that may feature you as the headliner. Just don’t forget to keep your head back and smile for the camera as Steven Tyler counts down for your big launch!

Try Blue or Green Milk

Will you go blue or go green? When you’re enjoying Batuu’s legendary frozen beverage, you really can’t go wrong! The Milk Stand in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is serving up Blue and Green Milk to guests daily. Blue Milk has a more fruity taste, while Green Milk has a tropical citrus taste. Guests 21 and older can even add rum or tequila to their Blue or Green Milk for an alcoholic twist!

Find the Original Park Logo

Disney-MGM Studios became Disney’s Hollywood Studios in 2008, changing the park’s name and logo for the first time in almost two decades. While Disney’s Hollywood Studios is proudly displayed around the park today, there’s still a place where you can find this park’s original logo if you know where to look!

As you make your way toward the Chinese Theater at the park’s hub, pay the cameraman statue on the left a visit. You’ll find a Dedication Plaque for Disney-MGM Studios displayed near the base of the statue. It features the park’s original logo, its opening date, and a quote from Disney CEO at the time, Michael Eisner.

Take A Ride on Slinky Dog Dash

Andy got creative with his Mega Coaster Play Kit, adding his Slinky Dog and making a family-friendly coaster for toys of all ages! Slinky Dog Dash features unique views of Andy’s backyard and quite a few hidden details in plain sight. From nods to important dates and Pixar shorts to remnants of Pixar Place and the name of the smaller company that created Rex and was purchased by Mattel in a leveraged buyout, there’s a lot to take in on this attraction!

Meet Minnie and Sorcerer Mickey

Strike a pose with the park’s finest, Minnie and Mickey Mouse! The stars of Disney’s Hollywood Studios are ready for their close up at Red Carpet Dreams, and you can join them. Minnie is dressed in her Tinseltown best and red-carpet ready, while Mickey rocks his Sorcerer’s Apprentice costume from his hit Disney film, Fantasia. This memorable character meet and greet is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Drop in to the Hollywood Tower Hotel

If you’re a thrill-seeker, the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror is a must-do at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Did you know this attraction boasts the title of second tallest ride on property? At 199 feet tall, the Tower of Terror is only a half of an inch shorter than Walt Disney World’s tallest attraction, Expedition Everest. 

Since opening in 1994, the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror has undergone a few updates when it comes to its drop sequences, but the overall theming and storytelling it is known for has remained virtually untouched, standing the test of time almost three decades later. Don’t forget to make time to check in on your next Disney’s Hollywood Studios day!

Have A Meal At The Hollywood Brown Derby

Disney’s Hollywood Studios is home to a replica of a famous Hollywood restaurant from the Golden Age, The Hollywood Brown Derby. This signature dining restaurant has been a part of the park since its opening day and is known for its famous menu items like the Cobb Salad. You’ll feel like a celebrity taking a trip back in time to the Golden Age of Hollywood when you check this spot off of your must-do list!

Conquer Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance

Whether you’re a Star Wars fan or not, you won’t want to skip one of Walt Disney World’s most technologically advanced attractions to date. Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance puts guests right into the adventure of this galaxy far, far away. You find that this attraction features  familiar faces from the Star Wars universe, while you’ll also meet new allies along your journey. 

While it may be one of the longest waits in Disney’s Hollywood Studios, this immersive attraction has a longer ride time than most making it worth the wait. It’s guaranteed to be a new park favorite for you and your crew.

Use the Play Disney Parks App

The Play Disney Parks App is a free app available in the App Store and on Google Play. It helps guests get even more out of their Disney parks day thanks to trivia, digital achievements, playlists, interactive experiences and more. At Disney’s Hollywood Studios, you’ll want to pull up this app while waiting in the queue for both Toy Story Mania and Slinky Dog Dash and while visiting Batuu.

Experience Chewie Mode on the Millennium Falcon

It’s a big deal for Star Wars fans to check piloting the Millennium Falcon off of their bucket list, but have you heard of this hack? While riding Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run, guests can replace the voice of Hondo Ohnaka with Chewbacca for the entire experience! Activating Chewie Mode requires all six willing participants in the vehicle and the help of a Cast Member to unlock it. This is one hack that not every Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run-goer will experience, so ask your Cast Member about Chewie Mode next time you board the Millennium Falcon at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge!

Watch Muppet*Vision 3D

This 3D show is fun for the entire family! Muppet*Vision 3D was one of Jim Henson’s final projects before he passed away in 1990. This area of Disney’s Hollywood Studios had plans for a much larger Muppet footprint, including additional restaurants and attractions like a Muppet version of the Great Movie Ride. Although Jim Henson’s original vision for Muppet Courtyard was shelved after his untimely death, guests can still enjoy the attraction that inspired it all.

While you’re visiting Muppet*Vision 3D, keep an eye out for some extra special details. When you walk into the attraction’s building you’ll see a sign that states the crew will be back soon and the key is under the mat. Find the mat and you’ll see that there really is a key there! While in the lobby waiting for the show to start, take a look around. You’ll spot “a net full of jello” hanging from the ceiling – a visual gag that pays tribute to “Annette Funicello,” one of the original members of the Mickey Mouse Club. A photo of the Muppet version of Jim Henson can also be found in this room.

Have a Meal at ’50s Primetime Cafe

Take a trip back in time to the 1950s at this one-of-a-kind restaurant experience. Enjoy classic American comfort food like meatloaf, pot roast, and fried chicken at your cousin’s. Best part? There’s a television at every table! It’s no wonder that this restaurant has been serving guests ever since Disney-MGM Studios’ opening day. 

You’ll feel like you stepped right into a 1950’s sitcom. You can make your cousins proud and become an official member of the Clean Plate Club, but make sure you save some room for their famous Peanut Butter and Jelly Shake!

Assemble Your Own Droid at Droid Depot

Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is home to a number of Star Wars experiences that you can’t find anywhere else. Building your very own droid is a big one! Build your own BB-Series or R-Series droid from the colorful components that roll by on the conveyor belt in the Droid Depot. When you’re done you’ll have your very own travel companion, ready to take on all of your Batuu adventures with you! 

To secure your spot at the Droid Depot, you’ll have to book a reservation based on availability. Each appointment for this experience is about 20 minutes and will cost $99.

Visit Olaf at Celebrity Spotlight

There’s only one place that guests can give Olaf a warm hug at Walt Disney World resort, and it’s located at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Since character hugs are officially back, there’s never been a better time to visit your favorite snowman! Olaf can be found daily at Celebrity Spotlight in Echo Lake, meeting guests from 9:00 AM through 5:00 PM. He’s finally doing what frozen things do in summer, and he can’t wait to meet you!

Character Dining with Hollywood & Vine

Hollywood & Vine is a great choice for character dining at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, guests can interact with some of their favorite characters while enjoying a meal. At breakfast time, you’ll be joined by Disney Junior stars like Vampirina and Fancy Nancy for Play ‘n Dine, while for lunch and dinner Minnie, Mickey and friends will greet you at Minnie’s Springtime Dine.

Peep the Handprints Outside of the Chinese Theater

Disney-MGM Studios opened with some pretty impressive Hollywood details and the Chinese Theater exterior is one that’s remained virtually unchanged over the past three decades. Did you know the Chinese Theater at Disney’s Hollywood Studios is a full-scale replica of the original Grauman’s Chinese Theater found in Hollywood? While the attraction found within the building has changed, the iconic celebrity hand and footprints in the forecourt can still be found right out front. 

When you visit Disney’s Hollywood Studios next, make your way to the Chinese Theater forecourt and take a look at some of the stars that left their mark in this movie-themed park over the years! 

Train At Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy

Step into the Cars universe as a rookie racer getting trained by the best – Lightning McQueen himself! This first-of-its-kind attraction is high octane and gets you up close to all of the racing action. Find Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy at the end of Sunset Boulevard near Rock ‘N’ Roller Coaster!

Learn About Walt Disney at Walt Disney Presents

In 2001, Walt Disney Presents opened as a part of the 100 Years of Magic celebration, in honor of Walt Disney’s 100th birthday. Over two decades later, guests can still learn all about the man that started it all, Walt Disney on this self-guided gallery tour. Walt Disney Presents features rare artifacts, Disney merchandise through the ages, models of the Disney parks, and more. At the end of your tour, stick around for Walt Disney: One Man’s Dream, a 15-minute documentary about Walt featuring historic footage, rare audio clips, and Disney family home movies. Walt Disney Presents should be a must-do for any Disney’s Hollywood Studios-goer looking to learn more about the visionary before the Disney name.

Take a Walk Through Andy’s Backyard

Toy Story Land shrinks us down to the size of a toy. This is a land where guests feel like they are truly immersed into the story of Pixar’s first film franchise, Toy Story. If you’re a fan of Disney details, you’ll want to spend a little extra time exploring Andy’s Backyard on your next Disney’s Hollywood Studios day. A number of Pixar Easter Eggs have been worked into this land through dominos, blocks, price tags, and more. You can even find Andy’s dog Buster’s collar tag if you know where to look!

Watch Vacation Fun at the Mickey Shorts Theater

If you’ve never watched the new Mickey Mouse cartoons prior to experiencing Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, watching Vacation Fun at the Mickey Shorts Theater is a must-do. This original animated short film will get you all caught up on the new style of Mickey animation before you board your train on Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway! After you exit the theater, you can step right into some of the scenes from the film thanks to life-sized photo spots. You’ll feel like you really visited Potatoland, Yodelburge, and more.

Grab a Drink at Oga’s Cantina

This flagship eatery is the most popular place to grab a drink in all of Batuu. Oga’s Cantina features an extensive menu of galactic concoctions (both with and without alcohol) that will make you feel truly immersed in the Star Wars universe. This experience requires an advanced dining reservation, so plan ahead to lock yours in before your next Disney’s Hollywood Studios day.

Experience Disney’s Hollywood Studios’ Oldest Attraction

Did you know that none of the opening day attractions from Disney-MGM Studios are still in operation at Disney’s Hollywood Studios today? The attraction that boasts the title of oldest Disney’s Hollywood Studios attraction today is Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular! While this stunt show did open in 1989, it was still quite a few months after Disney-MGM Studios’ opening day.

Almost thirty-three years later, this action-packed show is still exciting audiences of all ages on their Disney’s Hollywood Studios day. So next time you visit Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular!, just know that you’re experiencing an important part of this movie-themed park’s history.

Sing Along with Elsa & Anna

Can’t get enough of Frozen? Disney’s Hollywood Studios has got you covered. For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration lets guests sing-along to their favorite songs from Frozen with Anna, Elsa, Kristoff, Olaf, and the royal historians of Arendelle. This sing-along takes place hourly from 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM, giving you plenty of opportunities to squeeze it into your ultimate Disney’s Hollywood Studios day!

Disney Visa Cardmember Photo Op

If you’re a Disney Visa Cardmember, this next must do is for you! Disney’s Hollywood Studios is home to an exclusive photo opportunity for Disney Visa Cardmembers, and you can find it at Star Wars Launch Bay in the Animation Courtyard. These free photo downloads will be digitally enhanced to show Star Wars characters posing right beside you. Eligible guests bring your Disney Visa Card and post for this special Star Wars photo opportunity! Available daily from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

Hop Aboard Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway

Nothing can stop us now! Hop right into Mickey & Minnie’s cartoon world on this colorful, family-friendly attraction. Did you know Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway boasts the title of very first ride-through attraction to star Mickey Mouse and his friends? Located inside the iconic Chinese Theater, this attraction features an innovative ride system, groundbreaking technology, and an unforgettable experience for guests. 

Keep an eye out for hidden Mickeys! Between the queue, attraction, and exit area of Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, hundreds of Hidden Mickeys can be found.

Handcraft Your Own Lightsaber

Have you always dreamed of handcrafting your own Lightsaber? At Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, this dream can become a reality! Savi’s Workshop at the Black Spire Outpost is where you’ll choose your path to construct your very own Lightsaber. After choosing from one of the four hilt themes and the color of your kyber crystal, you’ll assemble your hilt and connect it to a 31” lightsaber blade, deeming you ready for any galactic adventures in your future! Savi’s Workshop does require a reservation and lightsabers are $219.99.

Watch Beauty & the Beast Live on Stage

There’s no business like show business, and at Disney’s Hollywood Studios you can expect to find some of the best stage shows on property. Beauty & the Beast Live on Stage has been its recent return and it offers five showtimes daily for guests. Did you know this Broadway-style musical debuted on the same day as the animated film it’s inspired by? That’s right! The day that Beauty and the Beast hit theaters, November 22, 1991, this stage show also opened at Disney-MGM Studios.

Experience Star Tours – The Adventures Continue

Another 1989 attraction that can still be experienced at Disney’s Hollywood Studios today is Star Tours! While its location hasn’t changed in decades, the attraction itself got a major upgrade in 2011. Star Tours – The Adventure Continues takes you on one of 700 possible ride experiences, making every trip in the StarSpeeder 1000 an exciting adventure. Guests could end up traveling to locations from any of the nine films in the Star Wars saga, and you never know who will get chosen as the Rebel Spy on your trip!

Keep An Eye Out For Roger Rabbit Details

When Disney-MGM Studios opened in 1989, Roger Rabbit from Who Framed Roger Rabbit? had a pretty big presence as one of the new park’s focal point characters. Imagineers had planned for an area, Roger Rabbit’s Hollywood, to be located near the end of Sunset Boulevard where we find Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith today. Although this area never came to be, there are still remnants of Roger Rabbit to be found around the park over three decades later. 

Some details include the Roger Rabbit Window above Hollywood & Vine featuring the facade of Detective Eddie Valiant’s office with a Roger Rabbit-shaped hole through the window, Roger Rabbit’s hand and footprints that can still be found in the Chinese Theater forecourt, and a Maroon Studios billboard featuring Baby Herman, Roger Rabbit, and Jessica Rabbit is still overlooking Echo Lake. 

Enjoy the Nighttime Entertainment

Although we’re still waiting for a reopening date for Fantasmic! sometime this year, there’s still Disney’s Hollywood Studios-exclusive nighttime entertainment to experience! First, there’s Disney Movie Magic which begins nightly at 8:40 PM, projecting classic Disney movie moments onto the Chinese Theater under the stars. Immediately after at 9:00 PM is the Wonderful World of Animation. This nightly projection show takes guests on a journey through over 90 years of animation from Disney and Pixar. Make sure to head over to the Chinese Theater in advance to grab a great viewing spot!

Experience the Hollywood Tower Hotel: A Beacon of Magic

During the World’s Most Magical Celebration, all four of Walt Disney World’s park icons become Beacons of Magic after dark. Disney’s Hollywood Studios’ current park icon, the Hollywood Tower, serves as the park’s Beacon of Magic during the 50th anniversary celebration. Each night after dusk guests gather below the iconic Hollywood Tower Hotel to watch it glitter with EARidescence. This nightly occurrence is only available during the World’s Most Magical Celebration, so don’t miss your chance to watch this park icon come to life!

Grab A Disney’s Hollywood Studios Map

Before you leave the park at the end of your Disney’s Hollywood Studios day, don’t forget to grab a map. This complimentary souvenir is a great way to look back on your visit to the Most Magical Place on Earth, especially if it’s during an important celebration like Walt Disney World’s 50th anniversary!

Over three decades later, Disney’s Hollywood Studios continues to wow guests of all ages. With its immersive lands, big thrills, and authentic theming it’s no wonder Disney lovers keep coming back for more! Did your Disney’s Hollywood Studios’ must do make our list? Discuss it all with 150,000+ other Disney die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook.

The post 33 Things To Do At Disney’s Hollywood Studios appeared first on Orlando Informer.

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party

For the first time in years, guests can get excited for the return of Walt Disney World’s most spooktacular celebration! Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is officially returning to the Most Magical Place on Earth. This special Halloween event is coming to Magic Kingdom on select nights August 12, 2022 through October 31, 2022 after normal park operating hours, from 7:00 PM to midnight.

Guests can look forward to the return of their favorite Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party moments like trick-or-treating around Magic Kingdom, the “Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular” stage show, themed attraction overlays, Mickey’s Boo-To-You Halloween Parade, and more. To celebrate Walt Disney World’s 50th anniversary, Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party guests will also receive a keepsake 50th anniversary reusable trick-or-treating tote bag and a Halloween-themed 50th Anniversary celebration commemorative print!

The announced Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party dates are:

August: 12, 16, 19, 23, 26, 30

September: 2, 5, 9, 11, 13, 16, 18, 20, 23, 25, 27, 29, 30

October: 2, 4, 6, 7, 10, 11, 13, 14, 16, 18, 20, 21, 23, 25, 27, 28, 30, 31

Tickets for this special Halloween event go on sale May 18, 2022, with ticket prices ranging from $109-$199. Walt Disney World Annual Passholders and Disney Vacation Club Members are eligible for specially priced tickets for select dates. Mickey’s Not-So-Scary tickets can be purchased online or by calling 407-939-4240.

We’ll continue sharing new details for Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party as they materialize, so check back as we get closer to the spooky season! For now, let’s celebrate being Halfway to Halloween this weekend at the Most Magical Place on Earth. From limited time eats and treats to new Disney PhotoPass opportunities and Halloween details at the Disney Parks, we’re sharing everything you can look forward to for Halfway to Halloween this weekend.

No Tricks, Just Eats & Treats

Frankenstein Cake Slices

This three-layer chocolate cake is inspired by Frankenstein. Covered in cookies and cream buttercream and topped with M&M’s, it’s sold by the slice. Grab yours at Gideon’s Bakehouse in Disney Springs for a limited time through May 1, 2022.

Hocus Pocus “Amuck” Cakes

Three rich devil’s food cake cupcakes with “peanut boo-ter” filling decorated with colorful frosting to resemble each of the Sanderson Sisters. Find the Hocus Pocus “Amuck” Cakes through May 1, 2022 at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa.

Jack Skellington Popcorn Bucket

Nightmare Before Christmas fans, get excited! This Jack Skellington Popcorn Bucket is available in Magic Kingdom at the Liberty Square Popcorn Cart and other outdoor vending carts for a limited time. Grab yours for Halfway to Halloween through May 1, 2022. (Limited to two buckets per person per transaction while supplies last.)

Lady on the Gravestone 50th Chilling Chamber Pop

This pop features citrus cake crumbs, raspberry buttercream, and blue crisp pearls topped with white chocolate Lady on the Gravestone piece. Find it in Magic Kingdom at Sleepy Hollow through August 13, 2022.

Mickey Mummy Popcorn Bucket

This Mickey Mummy Popcorn Bucket is back at Disney Springs for the Halfway to Halloween weekend! Find it on the West Side of Disney’s Shopping and Dining District at various outdoor vending carts through May 1, 2022. (Limited to two buckets per person per transaction while supplies last.)

Pumpkin Spice Shadow Cakes

Enjoy chocolate-dipped spice cakes with a festive pumpkin buttercream filling. Find this treat through May 1, 2022 at Gideon’s Bakehouse in Disney Springs.

Sister’s Elixir Hot Cocoa Bomb

We smell chocolate – a dark chocolate cauldron from The Ganachery in Disney Springs! This cauldron is filled with marshmallows and hot cocoa mix, topped with an edible image of the Sanderson Sisters and served with a chocolate broom stirrer. It’s only available this weekend, so grab yours through May 1, 2022.

Valentina Cake

A classic red velvet cake covered in light cookies and cream marshmallow buttercream. Find the Valentina Cake through May 1, 2022 at Gideon’s Bakehouse in Disney Springs.

Halfway to Halloween Trading Cards

Gideon’s Bakehouse in Disney Springs is getting into the spirit of the season this weekend. In addition to the spooky specialty treats, each four and six cookie box will feature one of sixteen exclusive trading cards for Halfway to Halloween through May 1, 2022. There’s even a bonus card featuring Barnabas Mephistophelittle for those waiting in line at Gideon’s Bakehouse.

Spooktacular New PhotoPass Offerings

New Disney PhotoPass Lens

Sunset Boulevard in Disney’s Hollywood Studios has a new Disney PhotoPass Lens that’s perfect for Halfway to Halloween! You’ll feel like you’re stepping back in time to that stormy night long ago when five people boarded an elevator that took them directly to the Twilight Zone. With purchase of Disney Genie+ services, this new Disney PhotoPass Lens can be found on the My Disney Experience app.

Haunted Mansion PhotoPass Update

While flash pictures aren’t allowed on this classic Magic Kingdom attraction, guests will find that an image from it will materialize on the My Disney Experience app after riding it. While this ride photo is nothing new, the update does take advantage of the dead space in the picture. Each Haunted Mansion photo will feature a grim grinning ghost, just in time for Halfway to Halloween.

We’re still a few months away from spooky season at the Most Magical Place on Earth, but knowing what Halloween excitement is in store is half of the fun! We hope you’ll take advantage of these Halfway to Halloween offerings if you find yourself in Orlando this weekend. Discuss it all with 150,000+ other Disney die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook.

The post How to Celebrate Halfway to Halloween at Walt Disney World 2022 appeared first on Orlando Informer.

5. On An Attraction

Those on-ride photos are for making memories, right? If you’re proposing to your Disney person, an on-ride proposal could be perfect for you! If this seems too risky, right outside of the attraction of choice is a great alternative. Whether you’re a fan of the classics like Haunted Mansion or a thrill-seeker who loves conquering those Magic Kingdom mountains, a proposal by a meaningful attraction is the way to a Disney lover’s heart! It will also make that attraction so much more special to revisit again and again throughout the years.

4. World Showcase

If you’re interested in something more intimate or picturesque, World Showcase in EPCOT may be the proposal destination for you. With eleven pavilions to choose from, you can’t go wrong selecting a proposal spot that speaks to you! The gardens in Canada and France are both stunning and Morocco has quiet alleyways that make for a more private proposal spot. You’ll be able visit the pavilion where you popped the question for years to come!

3. Romantic Restaurants

Walt Disney World resort features so many unique and romantic dining experiences across property. One of the best romantic restaurant proposal spots is California Grill at Disney’s Contemporary Resort. With views of the castle from the top of the resort, you can’t beat a dining experience like that! If your goal is a dinner at Magic Kingdom, Cinderella’s Royal Table or Be Our Guest can make for a fairytale proposal. The Hollywood Brown Derby at Disney’s Hollywood Studios is the top dining spot in the park, and would be a memorable proposal spot. EPCOT features quite a few romantic restaurant options, but Le Cellier is a top contender for ambiance. If a restaurant on property is special to you, it’s the perfect place to pop the question!

2. During Fireworks

There’s no better way to end a Disney day than with a fireworks spectacular, and if your significant other is a big fan of these nighttime shows this may be the perfect way to propose! Your fireworks proposal doesn’t have to be on Main Street either. You can get creative with dinner at a nearby romantic restaurant overlooking the beautiful view! With new nighttime shows like Enchantment and Harmonious, you can create a special memory with these limited-time offerings that you’ll remember for a lifetime. 

1. Park Icons

While Cinderella Castle may be the first destination that comes to mind for a Walt Disney World proposal, there are plenty of other iconic proposal spots in each park. Start your Grand and Miraculous future together with a proposal near Spaceship Earth. If you’re a couple that’s all about adventure, a Tree of Life or Pandora – World of Avatar proposal may be the perfect location for you. In Disney’s Hollywood Studios, your proposal can fit right into whatever story you want to be a part of – Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, Toy Story Land, the Tower of Terror, and more!

Pro tip: Capture Your Moment

Did you know Walt Disney World offers 20-minute private photo sessions with a Disney PhotoPass photographer? These Capture Your Moment photo sessions are now available at all four parks and are perfect for documenting your Disney proposal! Your photographer will take you to some of the most picturesque spots in the park to capture shots you can’t normally get with Disney PhotoPass. If you had a proposal elsewhere on property, this private session is a great way to capture your excitement as a newly engaged couple before heading home from vacation. Booking your session is as easy as making a reservation through the My Disney Experience app!

A proposal at Walt Disney World is a memorable way to pop the question for Disney lovers. It makes your happy place that much happier! If a magical proposal destination is something you’ve always imagined, we hope this list inspired you. Did you have a Walt Disney World proposal? Discuss it with thousands of other Disney fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook. And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news, tips, and more at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando attractions.

The post Top 5 Places to Propose at Walt Disney World appeared first on Orlando Informer.

As both food-lovers and Mardi Gras enthusiasts, we were there for the first day of Universal’s Mardi Gras and we made it our mission to try everything they had to offer this year. Follow along with us as we share our thoughts on each eat, sweet, and sip found for Carnival Season 2022.

Review and photos of New Orleans: Planet Mardi Gras food and drinks at Universal’s Mardi Gras 2022

The New Orleans: Planet Mardi Gras booths at Universal’s Mardi Gras 2022 have two locations: Gramercy Park (opposite Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon) and Battery Park (across from Mel’s Drive-in).

King Cake

Price: $12.99

Our Rating: 7/10

King Cake is a Mardi Gras staple in New Orleans and at Universal’s Mardi Gras 2022 it lives up to its name. A king cake is essentially a cinnamon roll topped with icing and purple, green, and gold sanding sugar. (Purple, green, and gold represent justice, faith, and power.)

Mardi Gras Marshmallow Pie

Price: $5.49

Our Rating: 6/10

This sweet treat resembles a MoonPie, a pretty popular throw at Mardi Gras parades during Carnival Season. The Mardi Gras Marshmallow Pie is a dessert sandwich of graham cracker cookies filled with freshly made marshmallow covered in chocolate and topped with festive, Mardi Gras sprinkles.

Beignets

Price: $5.99

Our Rating: 7/10

We couldn’t resist trying this Mardi Gras classic again this year. We give these little bites of heaven a top score because they are no less than perfection. Something about that decadent powdered sugar atop pillowy, fried dough just keeps us coming back for more. A must-have NOLA treat! Beignets are a Vegan option at Universal’s Mardi Gras 2022.

Category 5 Punch

Price: $7.00 (9 oz.), $13.00 (12 oz. Souvenir), $8.00 (Refill)

Our Rating: 8/10

This drink is a twist on a New Orleans staple, the Hurricane. A Category 5 Punch is made with Myers’s Dark Rum, Cruzan Aged Dark Rum, passion fruit purée, orange and lime juice, grenadine, agave nectar. This pairs well with many of the food offerings at Universal’s Mardi Gras, it’s smooth and delicious, with fruity, tropical flavors.

Cajun Twisted Tater

Price: $8.49

Our Rating: 7/10

This next bite is a Universal classic. Flash fried ribbon potato thinly sliced and skewered, it’s salty and savory, and it’s a favorite at Universal Orlando Resort all year round! Cajun Twisted Tater is both Gluten Free and Vegan.

Cajun Twisted Frank

Price: $12.49

Our Rating: 5/10

This item brings together the flavors of a Nathan’s Famous foot-long and a Cajun Twisted Tater. We didn’t find that the Cajun seasoning had a big presence for the Cajun Twisted Frank, so if you were worried about it being too spicy that won’t be a concern. A Cajun Twisted Frank is Gluten Free.

A New Twist on Taters

Price: $6.00 (9 oz.), $13.00 (12 oz. Souvenir), $8.00 (Refill)

Our Rating: 7/10

A New Twist on Taters is made with Old Forester Bourbon, Gran Gala Orange Liqueur, brown sugar sweet potato syrup, Mexican Chocolate Bitters, and lemon juice. For our video, we took artistic liberty and garnished the drink with a piece of our Cajun Twisted Tater. This drink is meant to be a twist on an Old Fashioned, and we found it to be a tropical twist on an Old Fashioned. The Mexican Chocolate Bitters are very complementary to the Old Forester Bourbon, and the Gran Gala Orange Liqueur definitely comes out in this drink as a highlight.

Cajun Twisted Frank with Chorizo Queso

Price: $14.99

Our Rating: 6/10

Enjoy a flash-fried ribbon thinly sliced Cajun Twisted Tater stuffed with a Nathan’s Famous foot-long and topped with Chorizo Queso. The queso from this item finally brought that spice we were looking for in the Cajun Twisted Frank. We would definitely recommend this over the Cajun Twisted Frank without the Chorizo Queso!

Blackened Chicken Po’ Boy

Price: $7.99

Our Rating: 10/10

This sandwich is new to Universal’s Mardi Gras lineup. It features blackened chicken thigh, Cajun mayo, lettuce, tomato, and pickle all served on a French Quarter baguette. The Blackened Chicken Po’ Boy was a favorite for the day with its tender and flavorful chicken. All of the ingredients complimented each other well and the kettle chips served on the side were a great pairing. We will definitely order this again before the end of Universal’s Mardi Gras season!

Shrimp Gumbo with Rice

Price: $5.99

Our Rating: 8/10

Gumbo is a New Orleans classic, which makes it a perfect addition to Universal’s Mardi Gras lineup. This gumbo is made with gulf shrimp, okra, bell peppers, and a roux based served over white rice. We found it to be flavorful, but not too spicy and the portion is great bang for your buck.

Muffaletta

Price: $7.99

Our Rating: 8/10

Muffalettas are a staple sandwich in Louisiana, so we were excited to see this offering at Universal’s Mardi Gras 2022. It features mortadella, salami, ham, mozzarella, provolone cheese, olive relish on a toasted sesame seed bun, garnished with okra, and served with kettle chips on the side. While this isn’t a sandwich we would normally go for, we love it for Carnival Season at Universal. We definitely recommend it if you’re visiting this year!

Chicken & Andouille Sausage Jambalaya

Price: $6.49

Our Rating: 6/10

This classic New Orleans dish of mixed rice with andouille sausage, chicken, shrimp, tomatoes, and peppers, is garnished with a crawfish. We found this to have great flavor and while not overly spicy, it does have a cajun spice element to it. A staple of Universal’s Mardi Gras year after year, so we recommend it! Chicken & Andouille Sausage Jambalaya is Gluten Free.

Crawfish & Shrimp Boil

Price: $13.49

Our Rating: 7/10

The Crawfish & Shrimp Boil lives up to the Mardi Gras excitement this year like it always does! The presentation is fun and authentic to New Orleans in a “sack” just like you’d purchase your pounds of shrimp or crawfish to boil in Louisiana. The newspaper is also a fun nod to a traditional crawfish boil spread. We found that the crawfish and shrimp in the Crawfish & Shrimp Boil are much more flavorful than the crawfish garnish on the Chicken & Andouille Sausage Jambalaya. This boil also features andouille sausage, red bliss potatoes, and corn on the cob, just like boils in Louisiana.

This dish is also served as a Crawfish Boil or Shrimp Boil for $11.49 each, for those guests looking to sample just one or the other. These boils are all Gluten Free.

Piña Verde 

Price: $8.00 (9 oz.), $13.00 (12 oz. Souvenir), $8.00 (Refill)

This drink is made with Bacardi Superior Rum, Chartreuse Green Liqueur, Coco López Cream of Coconut, pineapple juice, lime juice, and fresh mint. This twist on the classic piña colada was pleasantly fruity and sweet, with a touch of herbal spice. We did find it enjoyable to sip on, but it wasn’t one of our top picks when we tried it last year.

Abita Purple Haze

Price: $6.00 (9 oz.), $11.00 (12 oz. Souvenir), $8.00 (Refill)

Our Rating: 9/10

This may have been our favorite beer from last year’s event! With a light and refreshing taste, it was super easy to sip on and paired nicely with the Cajun-dusted foods we were sampling alongside it. The touch of raspberry is what made it exceptionally delicious – if you’re a fan of fruity beers, you’ll definitely want to try this one

Yucca Fries with Chimichurri

Price: $3.99 

Our Rating: 8/10

Enjoy yucca fries with a chimichurri sauce to dip. The fries are tender and flavorful, and the chimichurri sauce pairs well with it. We thought it was a great snack!

Review and photos of Italy food and drinks at Universal’s Mardi Gras 2022

The Italy booth at Universal’s Mardi Gras 2022 is located in the New York area of the park (Louie’s Italian Restaurant, Gelato Window).

Meatball Garlic Bread Pressed Slider

Price: $7.99

Our Rating: 9/10

Enjoy Italian meatballs topped with mozzarella cheese stuffed between two slices of Texas Garlic Toast. This sandwich is meaty and delicious! The flavors of cheese, meat, and sauce come together for a great combination. The Texas Garlic Toast adds a nice crunch, too!

Tomato Basil Arancini

Price: $5.99

Our Rating: 8/10

This dish features fried risotto filled with tomato basil mascarpone and a spicy arrabiata sauce. We found this to be very creamy and the spice of the sauce lingers in the best way.

Vanilla-Amaretto Rum Gelato Float

Price: $14.50

Our Rating: 8/10

A cold and creamy cocktail of Cruzan Aged Dark Rum, Disaronno Amaretto, vanilla gelato and Coca-Cola. This drink is sweet and flavorful, with all four ingredients shining through to make it something special!

San Francisco Food Truck

Chicken Biscuit with Red-Eye Gravy

Price: $12.99

Our Rating: 6/10

A crispy chicken thigh, red-eye gravy, garlic pickles on a warm buttermilk biscuit with a side of apple cider slaw. While the chicken wasn’t as tender as we were expecting, the biscuit was delicious and this is still a great choice for picky eaters visiting for Mardi Gras this year.

Review and photos of Floribbean: Cape Canaveral food and drinks at Universal’s Mardi Gras 2022

The Floribbean: Cape Canaveral booth at Universal’s Mardi Gras 2022 is located in the San Francisco area (next to Lombard’s Seafood and Grille).

Sweet Corn Johnny Cake

Price: $6.99

Our Rating: 6/10

A flavorful combination of pulled jerk jackfruit, blood orange creams, avocado, and yellow mole sauce on a flattened cornbread pancake. While we didn’t find this to be spectacular, it was still pretty good. The sweet corn flavor of the pancake mix nicely with the jackfruit and avocado and the cilantro on top adds a sweet spice flavor. The Sweet Corn Johnny Cake is a Vegan option.

Shrimp and Avocado Ceviche

Price: $8.99

Our Rating: 6/10

A refreshing dish of poached shrimp, marinated radish, and blood orange sorbet. This ceviche is cool and refreshing, which will be great for those warmer days in the later months of Universal’s Mardi Gras season. 

Buttermilk Lemon Blueberry Shortcakes

Price: $4.99

Our Rating: 8/10

This treat features blueberry compote, basil mascarpone cream, and orange blossom honey all on a buttermilk biscuit. The berries added a tart flavor to what may normally be a sweet dish. The buttermilk biscuit is hearty, making this option great for sharing! The Buttermilk Lemon Blueberry Shortcakes are Vegan.

Conch Fritters

Price: $8.99

Our Rating: 10/10

A flavorful combination of flash-fried conch served with grilled pineapple and a pineapple remoulade. These fritters resemble hush puppies, but are instead made with conch. We were really impressed with both the flavor and sizing of this dish. The pineapple is a great pair for the savory flavoring of the conch fritter itself. Conch Fritters held the title of one of our favorites for the day!

Buttermilk Strawberry Shortcakes

Price: $4.99

Our Rating: 6/10

This treat features marinated strawberries, basil mascarpone cream, and orange blossom honey all on a buttermilk biscuit. The sweetness of the marinated strawberries really shine through in this dish, but we enjoyed it overall. The Buttermilk Strawberry Shortcakes are Vegan.

Swamp Head Wild Night

Price: $6.00 (9 oz.), $11.00 (12 oz. Souvenir), $8.00 (Refill)

Our Rating: 5/10

This honey cream ale is light and easy to drink. It has a tart flavor to it and we would definitely order it again!

Review and photos of Fusion: Machine Planet food and drinks at Universal’s Mardi Gras 2022

The Fusion: Machine Planet booth at Universal’s Mardi Gras 2022 is located on the London side of the bridge to Springfield, USA.

Creole Crab Beignets

Price: $9.99

Our Rating: 10/10

A savory take on a sweet, New Orleans classic. Cajun brown sugar-dusted beignets, stuffed with creamy crab dip and scallions. The crab dip tastes delicious within those fluffy beignets, making it another favorite from the day!

Ube Ice Cream Bubble Waffle

Price: $8.99

Our Rating: 10/10

This treat features purple sweet potato ice cream in a matcha green tea bubble waffle, topped with marshmallows, toasted coconut, strawberry Pocky sticks, and popping candies. We were really excited to try this treat and it didn’t disappoint! This will be great for warmer days during Universal’s Mardi Gras season. The Ube Ice Cream Bubble Waffle was another favorite of the day for us!

Mardi Gras Bubble Waffle

Price: $8.99

Our Rating: 9.5/10

This carnival-inspired treat features ube and matcha swirl soft-serve ice cream in a Belgian bubble waffle, topped with colorful Mardi Gras sprinkles and sweet corn Pocky sticks. Similar to the Ube Ice Cream Bubble Waffle, this will be another refreshing treat for warmer days at Mardi Gras this year! We were impressed with this offering and would definitely recommend it.

Junk Barge Fuel

Price: $8.00 (9 oz.), $13.00 (12 oz. Souvenir), $8.00 (Refill)

Our Rating: 9/10

This drink is made with Skrewball Peanut Butter Whiskey, Kahlúa, monin caramel, Mexican Chocolate Bitters, agave nectar, and ice coffee. We would describe this as a peanut butter iced coffee, which we really enjoyed! The whiskey flavor wasn’t too overpowering, which made for a smooth and delicious drink.

Duclaw Sweet Baby Java

Price: $6.00 (9 oz.), $11.00 (12 oz. Souvenir), $8.00 (Refill)

Our Rating: 8/10

Enjoy an espresso bean-infused chocolate peanut butter porter. If you love dark beers, you’re going to love this offering. While the peanut butter is more notable than the espresso, the espresso still isn’t absent from the drink. A great beer for a cloudy, Florida February day.

Review and photos of India: Floral Planet food and drinks at Universal’s Mardi Gras 2022

The India: Floral Planet booth at Universal’s Mardi Gras 2022 is located in Woody Woodpecker’s KidZone (near the entrance).

Potato, Pea and Carrot Samosas

Price: $8.99

Our Rating: 10/10

This dish features potato, pea and carrot samosas, served with green chutney. We really enjoyed this dish and its great texture. While it’s a more mild dish when it comes to spiciness, it was still flavorful. Potato, Pea and Carrot Samosas are Vegan.

Chana Masala

Price: $9.99

Our Rating: 10/10

Enjoy spiced chickpea curry, served with tomato and onion salad, basmati rice, and naan bread. This dish is topped with edible flowers which adds a fun and floral feel to it. This was another favorite dish for us and had a great portion size for the price! Chana Masala is a Vegan offering.

Vegetable Vindaloo

Price: $9.99

Our Rating: 10/10

This dish features romanesco cauliflower florets and sweet potatoes, braised in a hot and sour broth, and served with basmati rice. The romanesco sauce is the star of this dish! Overall a great healthier option of Universal’s Mardi Gras season, and we really enjoyed it. The Vegetable Vindaloo is Vegan.

Vegan Golden Chai Chocolate Blondies

Price: $4.99

Our Rating: 8/10

A chai-spiced vegan dessert bar with dark and white vegan chocolates. Perfect for a sweet break in your day during Universal’s Mardi Gras. The chai isn’t overwhelming and we thought it was a great dessert option.

Emerald Mojito

Price: $8.00 (9 oz.), $13.00 (12 oz. Souvenir), $8.00 (Refill)

Our Rating: 8/10

Enjoy a mix of Bacardi Superior Rum, agave nectar, lime juice, tropical green tea, and fresh mint. The agave adds a great sweetness and the mint isn’t overwhelming. The tropical green tea offsets the flavor of the rum, making it a very refreshing drink choice!

Review and photos of Southeast Asia: Volcano Planet food and drinks at Universal’s Mardi Gras 2022

The Southeast Asia: Volcano Planet booths at Universal’s Mardi Gras 2022 are located in Woody Woodpecker’s KidZone (near the entrance).

Shrimp Laksa

Price: $9.99

Our Rating: 7/10

This dish features shrimp, tofu, chicken, hard-boiled eggs, and Asian noodles in a spicy coconut curry broth. We would recommend this dish for Universal’s Mardi Gras goers! We enjoyed the flavors and were impressed by the portion size. 

Rou Jia Mo

Price: $8.99

Our Rating: 7/10

A meal of braised pork, Thai chili peppers, mustard greens, and cilantro in a soft griddled bun. The pork was great, very flavorful. We don’t feel the portion size for the price is as worthwhile as some of the other dishes we tried.

Papas Bravas

Price: $7.99

Our Rating: 7/10

Enjoy crispy roasted potatoes with salsa bravas, garlic aioli, and parsley. If you aren’t a fan of spicy food, we wouldn’t recommend this dish for you. Other than that, we really enjoyed the flavors and the size of the portion for this dish!

Savory Sopaipilla

Price: $5.49

Our Rating: 5/10

This dish features roasted butternut squash, pumpkin seeds, pebre salsa, and cilantro. While we did enjoy the flavors, it wasn’t anything spectacular in comparison to other items we tried. Savory Sopaipilla is a Vegan offering.

Review and photos of Brazil food and drinks at Universal’s Mardi Gras 2022

The Brazil booth at Universal’s Mardi Gras 2022 is located in Hollywood (Cafe La Bamba patio).

Romeo & Juliet Coxinha

Price: $5.49

Our Rating: 10/10

Enjoy guava and cheese-filled pastry bites. This dessert is sweet, but not too rich. A perfect balance of guava and cheese on the inside. We enjoyed it!

Pulled Chicken Coxinha

Price: $5.49

Our Rating: 7/10

This item is made with crispy pulled chicken in teardrop fritters. The breading is great and it’s a very flavorful offering. We enjoyed this, but it’s definitely not as much bang for your buck as other items around Universal’s Mardi Gras event this year.

Beef Rissole

Price: $5.49

Our Rating: 2/10

Simply a tender beef-filled crispy rissole. We were underwhelmed by this dish. Not much flavor in comparison to most of the other offerings at Universal’s Mardi Gras event. 

Review and photos of Central America: Comet Cruisin’ food and drinks at Universal’s Mardi Gras 2022

The Central America: Comet Cruisin’ booth at Universal’s Mardi Gras 2022 is located in Woody Woodpecker’s KidZone (KidZone Pizza Company).

Choripan with French Fries

Price: $11.49

Our Rating: 4/10

This dish features grilled chorizo, garlic mayo, chimichurri, tomato and onion curtido, on a split-top roll with crinkle cut fries. The tomato and onion curtido was fantastic, but that’s about it. We probably wouldn’t grab this dish again.

Salchipapas

Price: $8.49

Our Rating: 6/10

Enjoy chorizo, chipotle ketchup, dijonnaise, tomato and onion curtido served over crinkle cut fries. This is a hearty side dish that’s flavorful and balanced. While it isn’t a full meal, it’s still a great snack that we would definitely order again. The Salchipapas are Gluten Free.

Review and photos of Universal CityWalk Orlando food and drinks at Universal’s Mardi Gras 2022

The Universal CityWalk Orlando items at Universal’s Mardi Gras 2022 are located at The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen and Voodoo Doughnuts.

Mardi Gras Rhythm & Shake

Price: $16.00

Our Rating: 6/10

This milkshake is the Mardi Gras Specialty offering at The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen in Universal CityWalk Orlando. It features ube ice cream and Nutella, and the cup is decorated with colorful Mardi Gras sprinkles and topped with a golden saxophone cookie and green whipped topping. It’s very light and delicious in flavor and only available for a limited time. While it isn’t our favorite Toothsome milkshake, it still has a great flavor and is very festive in presentation.

Banana Cream Pie Donut

Price: $3.75

Our Rating: 5/10

This donut is the Mardi Gras Specialty offering at Voodoo Doughnuts in Universal CityWalk Orlando. It’s a yeast shell filled with banana custard and dipped in vanilla icing, sprinkled with cinnamon, and topped with a Nilla wafer. We found this treat to be underwhelming in comparison to other offerings for the Mardi Gras season. 

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All in all, it was a great first day of Universal’s Mardi Gras 2022! If you’re visiting Universal Orlando Resort from now through April 24, 2022, be sure to set aside some time at Universal Studios Florida for taking in all of the Carnival Season excitement. In addition to these delicious eats and sips, Universal’s Mardi Gras has welcomed back parades and concerts for the 2022 season! Get ready to “Let the Good Times Roll” at Universal Orlando Resort.

The post Review: Trying Everything at Universal’s Mardi Gras 2022 appeared first on Orlando Informer.

Beaches & Cream Soda Shop

This ice cream shop is a Walt Disney World staple for shakes and specialty sundaes. Located at Disney’s Beach Club Resort, Beaches & Cream Soda Shop is only a short walk away from EPCOT’s International Gateway! No matter what you may be craving, you can’t go wrong with their selection of ice cream creations. A few Beaches & Cream favorites include the No Way José, the Kitchen Sink, and the Chocolate Brownie Shake.

Kelly’s Homemade Ice Cream

Are specialty flavors more your style? Kelly’s Homemade Ice Cream might be the Orlando ice cream spot for you! This local ice cream spot has four locations in the Orlando area and all of their ice creams and sorbets are made in house. Each month brings an array of limited-time flavors, so it’s worth stopping by whenever you’re in the area! They even offer four-flavor ice cream flights when you just can’t decide and quarts and pints to take your favorites to go.

Florean Fortescue’s Ice Cream Parlour

Muggles and Wizards alike can enjoy ice cream creations from this ice cream parlor! Florean Fortescue’s Ice Cream Parlour is located at Diagon Alley in Universal Studios Florida. Fill your cone with an array of soft serve flavors. Their selection includes classics like vanilla and chocolate, or more adventurous flavors like granny smith and orange marmalade. This shop is also where you’ll find Butterbeer ice cream!

West Orange Creamery and Soda Fountain

Take a trip back to simpler times in this local take on an old-fashioned soda fountain – with a modern twist. West Orange Creamery & Soda Fountain serves Hershey’s Ice Cream to create an array of ice cream concoctions. Their epic shakes are a work of art, topped with a picture-perfect garnish of ingredients you’ll have to capture before you dig in! 

L’Artisan des Glaces

While exploring World Showcase in EPCOT, you’re going to want to make a stop at this artisanal French shop. Whether you go with a classic waffle cone or one of their shop specials, their ice cream and sorbet will leave you dreaming of the France pavilion at Walt Disney World! L’Artisan des Glaces has seasonal flavors of sorbet and ice cream, which means you’ll want to stop by each time you’re in town. Some shop favorites are the Croque Glacé and a Macaron Ice Cream Sandwich.

Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen

If you find yourself at CityWalk craving something sweet, look no further than Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen. This restaurant offers a menu that’s much more than just desserts, and is known for Jacques’ Specialty Shakes. With choices like Heavenly Hazelnut, Cookie Jar, and Thrilla in Vanilla, there’s sure to be something for every member of your crew on the menu!

Greenery Creamery

Located in Downtown Orlando, Greenery Creamery is Orlando’s first artisanal ice cream boutique. They pride themselves on serving both traditional and plant-based ice cream, made from local, organic ingredients. Order your choice of their scratch-made ice cream flavors in the form of a milkshake, cone, or pint. In addition to ice cream treats, Greenery Creamery also offers custom, handmade ice cream cakes! 

Salt & Straw – COMING SOON

Our last ice cream shop on this list is one that’s coming soon to the Orlando area. Disney’s Shopping and Dining District has a new ice cream spot set to open in March 2022! Salt & Straw is a Portland-based ice cream chain that’s excited to add Central Florida to their list of locations. Each Salt & Straw location features monthly flavors, and only time will tell what introductory flavors the Disney Springs location will be serving in March!

As you can see, the Theme Park Capital of the World has quite the selection of unique ice cream experiences. So no matter what type of ice cream delight you’re craving, you’re sure to find something delicious as long as you stick to this list while you’re in town!

What’s your go-to ice cream spot? Discuss it with 150,000+ other Disney fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook. And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news, tips, and more at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando attractions.

The post Where To Find the Best Ice Cream in Orlando appeared first on Orlando Informer.

Outdoor Kitchens

EPCOT festivals are known for their unique menus and exciting outdoor kitchens, and Flower & Garden Festival is no exception. Guests can taste and sip their way around the park, stopping at a number of outdoor kitchens along the way. Each booth offers menu items featuring the season’s freshest flavors that are sure to put a spring in your step.

Here’s what’s on the menus for the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival. Don’t forget that you can grab a Festival Passport to participate in the Garden Graze. This culinary tour will lead you to taste five dishes. Collect stamps in your passport while you’re on the scavenger hunt, and then go to Pineapple Promenade to get your festival-exclusive (and yummy) prize. 

1. Flavor Full Kitchen Hosted by AdventHealth (Between Imagination! and Refreshment Port)

Food:

• Grilled Street Corn on the Cob with savory garlic spread (Gluten/Wheat Friendly) (Plant-based) (Garden Graze)
• Seared Salmon with farro risotto and micro herbs
• Strawberry Mousse with chocolate-crisp pearls

Drink:

• Blood Orange Agua Fresca (non-alcoholic)
• Cookie Butter Worms and Dirt (non-alcoholic)

2. EPCOT Sunshine Griddle (Near Test Track presented by Chevrolet)

Food:

• Avocado Toast with marinated toybox tomatoes on toasted ciabatta (Plant-based) (Garden Graze)
• Shrimp and Grits: Blackened shrimp and cheddar cheese grits with brown gravy and sweet corn salsa
• Corned Beef Brisket Hash with house-made potato barrels, onions, peppers, cheese curds, and a soft-poached egg with Tabasco hollandaise (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly)
• Fried Cinnamon Roll Bites with cream cheese frosting and candied bacon

Drink:

• Froot Loops Shake (non-alcoholic)
• Joffrey’s Coffee Cold Brew Cocktail with milk, rum and coffee liqueur, and vanilla vodka

3. The Honey Bee-stro Hosted by National Honey Board

Food:

• Tupelo Honey and Sweet Corn Spoon Bread with jalapeños, bacon, and house-made whipped honey butter (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly)
• Lavender Honey Mustard-marinated Chicken Flatbread with whipped honey-ricotta cheese, marinated vegetables, and goat cheese
• Local Wildflower Honey-Mascarpone Cheesecake with orange blossom honey whipped cream, whipped honey, crystalized honey, honeycomb, dehydrated honey, and fennel pollen meringue kisses

Drink:

• Honey-Peach Freeze in a Souvenir Spike the Bee Sipper Cup (non-alcoholic) (Limit 2 per guest)
• Lemonade Mead
• Orange Blossom Honey Wine
• Honey-Peach Freeze with Blueberry Vodka

4. The Citrus Blossom (Near Port of Entry)

Food:

• NEW! Crispy Mojo Marinated Pork Belly, with avocado cream, corn salsa, salsa verde, and plantain chips (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly) 
• Tuna Tataki Bowl with spicy yuzu glaze, mango, avocado, and pappadam crisp
• NEW! Grapefruit Tart: Grapefruit curd, lychee jam, ginger mousse, and yuzu cream 

Drink:

• Orange-Lemon Smoothie in a Souvenir Orange Bird Sipper Cup (non-alcoholic) (Limit 2 per guest)
• Key Lime Hibiscus Ale
• Orange Peel Ale
• Citrus Honey Cream Ale
• Orange Sunshine Wine Slushy
• Beer Flight

5. Refreshment Port (Near Canada)

Food:

• House-made Italian Sausage and Peppers Poutine (Plant-based) (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly)

Drink:

• Salted Cucumber Apple Hard Cider
• Lavender Martini: Vodka with lavender and lemon

6. Pineapple Promenade (Near Port of Entry)

Food:

• Spicy Hot Dog with pineapple chutney and plantain chips
• DOLE Whip (Plant-based)

Drink:

• Frozen Desert Violet Lemonade (non-alcoholic)
• DOLE Whip with Fanta (non-alcoholic)
• Tropical Hefe Wheat Ale
• Fresh Pressed Mango, Pineapple, and Guava Wheat Ale
• Hazy Pebbles Fruity Hazy Milkshake
• Violet Lemonade Ale
• Sparkling Pineapple Wine
• DOLE Whip topped with mango cream liqueur
• Pineapple Beer Flight

7. Trowel & Trellis Hosted by Impossible (Near Disney Traders)

Food:

• Grilled Baby Vegetables with hummus cream and red pepper coulis (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly) (Plant-based) (Garden Graze)
• Impossible Sausage and Kale Soup (Plant-based)
• Boneless Impossible Korean Short Rib with cilantro-lime rice, Danmuji slaw, and Kimchee Mayonnaise (Plant-based)  
• NEW! Chocolate Cake with whipped cassis mousse, raspberry gelato, and fresh raspberries (Plant-based)

Drink:

• Twinings Energizing Matcha Cranberry & Lime Green Tea (non-alcoholic)   
• Bloom Hazy IPA
• Twinings Energizing Matcha Cranberry & Lime Green Tea with lime vodka served in a mason jar

8. Refreshment Outpost

Food:

• Pineapple Skewer with tajin seasoning (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly) (Plant-based)
• Tangerine soft-serve

Drink:

• Tangerine Cream Ale
• Blueberry Lemonade Hard Cider
• Organic Blonde Ale with passion fruit

9. Bauernmarkt: Farmer’s Market (Germany)

Food:

• Potato Pancakes with house-made applesauce (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly) (Plant-based) (Garden Graze)
• Potato Pancake with caramelized ham, onions, and herb sour cream (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly)
• Toasted Pretzel Bread topped with black forest ham and melted Gruyère cheese
• Warm Cheese Strudel with mixed berries

Drink:

• Hugo Lager
• Premium Pilsner
• Raspberry Radler
• Apfelschaumwein: Sparkling wine and apple liqueur
• Beer Flight

10. Magnolia Terrace (American Adventure)

Food:

• Southern Seafood Boil: Shrimp, mussels, crawfish, potatoes, corn, and Andouille sausage
• NEW! Spicy Chicken Gumbo with Andouille sausage and BEN’S ORIGINAL Long Grain & Wild Rice 
• Grilled Oysters with Cajun butter (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly)
• House-made Boudin Bites featuring BEN’S ORIGINAL Long Grain White Rice
• Pecan Praline (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly)

Drink:

• Bayou Cocktail: Spiced rum, coconut rum, fruit punch, and Minute Maid orange juice
• Orange Coriander Wheat Ale
• American Light Ale
• Double IPA
• Beer Flight

11. Tangierine Café: Flavors of the Medina (Morocco)

Food:

• NEW! Mediterranean Flatbread with za’atar, artichokes, olives, mozzarella, and feta cheese 
• Vanilla, Rose Water, and Pistachio Panna Cotta

Drink:

• Pomegranate Mimosa
• Ginger and Elderberry Ale
• Pomegranate Hard Cider
• Blackberry Mint Mead
• Flight

12. La Isla Fresca (Between Morocco and France)

Food:

• Arepas topped with melted queso fresco (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly)
• Arepa topped with shrimp, crushed avocado ají, and tomato sauce (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly)
• NEW! Arepa topped with chorizo 
• NEW! Coconut Tres Leches: Vanilla cake soaked in oat milk, almond milk, and coconut milk with toasted coconut (Plant-based) (Garden Graze)

Drink:

• NEW! Tropical Breeze: Lemonade, grapefruit juice, and simple syrup (non-alcoholic)
• Coconut Key Lime Ale
• Tropical Perception White Sangria
• NEW! Tropical Breeze with rum 

13. EPCOT Farmers Feast (Near Test Track presented by Chevrolet)

Food:

Early Bloom Menu (available March 2 through April 9)

• NEW! Chilled Potato and Leek Soup “Vichyssoise” with chive oil and crispy leeks  (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly)
• NEW! Char-grilled Bison Ribe-Eye with creamy leek fondue, roasted carnival cauliflower, Romanesco and port wine-goat cheese butter (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly)
• NEW! Goat Cheese Creamsicle Pop: Goat cheese Crémeux, orange cream, olive oil cake, cranberry sauce, and praline 

Springtime Menu (available April 10 through May 21)

• NEW! Grilled Vegetable Bruschetta with marinated peppers, zucchini, squash, artichokes, goat cheese, and balsamic glaze on grilled ciabatta 
• Herb-crusted Spring Lamb with marble potatoes, spring vegetables, and red wine butter sauce
• Strawberry Rhubarb Upside-down Cake with crème fraîche whipped cream

Summer Solstice Menu (available May 22 through July 4)

• Tomato and Cornbread Panzanella with burrata cheese and fresh basil
• Barbecue Seared Pork Tenderloin with summer succotash, herb butter, and grapefruit vinaigrette (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly)
• NEW! A Whole Lotta Melon: Feta cheesecake with watermelon curd, pickled watermelon rind, watermelon caramel, and compressed watermelon (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly)

Drink: (available throughout the Festival):

• Raspberry Lemon Verbena Whole-Leaf-Steeped Sparkling Hard Tea
• Hibiscus Lemonade Cocktail featuring hibiscus gin

14. Cider House (United Kingdom)

Food:

• NEW! BLT Scone with Nueske’s applewood-smoked bacon, sundried tomato, and basil 
• Dark Chocolate Raspberry Tart with whipped cream

Drink:

• Pink Lemonade Hard Cider
• Watermelon Hard Cider
• Triple Jam Hard Cider
• Pure Brewed Organic Lager
• Snakebite: Triple jam hard cider and pure brewed organic lager
• Cider Flight

15. Northern Bloom (Canada)

Food:

• Seared Scallops with French green beans, butter potatoes, brown butter vinaigrette, and applewood-smoked bacon (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly)
• Beef Tenderloin Tips, Mushroom Bordelaise Sauce, and Whipped Potatoes with garden vegetables
• Griddled Maple Pound Cake with warm peach compote and sweet corn gelato

Drink:

• Maple Popcorn Shake (non-alcoholic)
• Blonde Ale
• Blueberry Fruit Beer
• Apricot with Maple Syrup Blonde Ale
• Maple Popcorn Shake with maple rye whisky
• Beer Flight

16. Jardin de Fiestas (Mexico)

Food:

• NEW! Enchilada de Mole Negro: Chipotle chicken in a corn tortilla with mole negro, avocado mousse, crema Mexicana, and queso fresco (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly)
• NEW! Taco Vampiro: Barbacoa beef in a corn tortilla with crispy grilled Monterey jack cheese, salsa ranchera, and esquites (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly)
• NEW! Tostada de Chorizo: Plant-based Chorizo and black beans on a crispy corn tortilla with avocado mousse and queso fresco (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly)

Drink:

• Poppy Flower Margarita: Tequila blanco, hibiscus flower tea, cucumber juice, aperitivo, and blackcurrant liqueur with a chile salt rim
• Hypnotic Margarita: Tequila blanco, mezcal, rosemary syrup, cognac, and lemon juice
• Craft Mexican Lager

17. Lotus House (China)

Food:

• NEW! Spicy Mala Chicken Skewer 
• House-made Cheesy Crab Wontons

Drink:

• NEW! Rose Bubble Milk Tea (non-alcoholic) 
• Jasmine Draft Beer
• Marco Boba: Amaretto, iced coffee, milk, and boba
• Kung Fu Punch: Vodka, triple sec, mango, orange juice, and soda water
• Tang Dynasty: Tequila gold, light rum, strawberry, piña colada mix, white boba pearls, and soda water

18. Primavera Kitchen (Italy)

Food:

• Arancini: Fried Risotto Balls stuffed with braised beef served with grape tomato salad and balsamic emulsion
• Ravioli alla Boscaiola: Sweet sausage ravioli with sweet corn, spring vegetables, and cream sauce
• Bomboloni: Cream-filled Italian doughnut with raspberry sauce and powdered sugar

Drink:

• Pilsner                                                                                    
• Pinot Grigio                                                                           
• Chianti
• Prosecco                                                                                
• Rosa Regale
• Moscato                                                         
• Italian White Sangria with prosecco
• Italian Red Sangria with cabernet sauvignon
• Italian Margarita with limoncello and tequila

19. Hanami (Japan)

Food:

• Frushi: Strawberry, pineapple, and cantaloupe wrapped in sweet rice and pink soy wrap served with whipped cream, berry sauce, and toasted coconut
• Chicken Yakitori: Grilled chicken with scallions, red pepper-shoyu emulsion, and pickled onions
• Beef Tataki: Seared sirloin with red shiso sauce, watermelon radish, and sprouts

Drink:                                                                

• Yuzu Tilted Tonic Hard Seltzer
• Ozeki Pineapple Nigori Sake
• Cucumber Cooler: Sake, vodka, and cucumber garnished with a cucumber slice 

20. Fleur de Lys (France)

Food:

• NEW! Croissant au Fromage de Chèvre, Herbes et Ail Rôtie: Croissant with goat cheese, herbs, and roasted garlic 
• NEW! Pan Bagnat Classique: The Niçoise Sandwich with house-made bread, albacore tuna mayonnaise, tomato, black olives, lettuce, and celery
• NEW! Salade de Lentilles à la Lyonnaise: French Green Lentil Salad with bacon and garlic sausage 
• Beignet Caramélisé, Fourré Crème Vanille, Glacé au Caramel Fleur de Sel: Caramelized Beignet filled with vanilla cream and glazed with caramel fleur de sel

Drink:

• French Wheat Draft Beer
• VeRy Raspberry: Rosé wine with natural raspberry flavor
• Grand Mimosa Cocktail with orange liqueur, Champagne, and orange juice
• La Vie en Rose Frozen Slush: Vodka, orange vodka, and liqueur with white and red cranberry juice       

Funnel Cake

Food Item:

• NEW! Strawberry Cheesecake Funnel Cake topped with strawberry ice cream, cheesecake crumbles, strawberry drizzle, and whipped cream 

Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Company

World Discovery (Near Mission: SPACE) – NEW! Minty Melon Refresher: A lightly caffeinated blend of watermelon-cucumber-mint juice with strawberries and blueberries (Spirited option available featuring Watermelon-Basil Vodka)

Near Canada: Strawberry Fields Refresher – NEW! A lightly caffeinated blend of strawberry açaí juice with strawberries and blueberries (Spirited option available featuring strawberry-lemongrass vodka)

World Showcase (Near Disney Traders) – NEW! Pink Paradise Refresher: A lightly caffeinated blend of refreshing dragon fruit-lychee juice with strawberries and blueberries (Spirited option available featuring watermelon-basil vodka)

The American Adventure –  NEW! Wildberry Wonder Refresher: A lightly caffeinated blend of wildberry-hibiscus juice with strawberries and blueberries (Spirited option available featuring tropical rum)

Pro Tip: Grab a festival passport as you enter EPCOT for the day. These free booklets offer information on all outdoor kitchens for the festival, including menus, locations, dietary information, and more. Festival passports also make for a great souvenir, allowing you to mark off experiences as you try them throughout the festival!

Topiaries & Global Gardens

One aspect of EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival that sets it apart from the others is its colorful topiaries. EPCOT is in full bloom in spring thanks to these works of art cultivated by Disney horticulturists. While most festival topiaries remain the same from year to year, it’s always fun to hunt for their changing locations or any new additions to the lineup. 

If colorful gardens are more of your jam, look no further than Flower & Garden Festival! EPCOT offers an array of Global Gardens around the park for guests to enjoy. Some festival favorites in the past have been the butterfly garden, the tea garden, and the floating gardens. We can’t wait to see which gardens will be on display this year!

Pro Tip: Don’t rush past these floral finds around the park. Many of the Global Gardens feature fun, interactive experiences or extra bits of information that you don’t want to miss out on!

Garden Rocks Concert Series

This concert series adds an extra element of fun to this springtime festival. Each day during EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival, guests can groove to live performances at the America Gardens Theatre at the American Adventure Pavilion. These shows are usually thirty minutes long and happen multiple times each evening. Here’s the official lineup for 2022:

• March 4-5 – The Guess Who
• March 6-7 – Rick Springfield
• March 11-12 – Melina Leon
• March 18-19 – Mike DelGuidice, currently on tour with Billy Joel
• March 20-21 – Kool & The Gang
• March 25-28 – The Orchestra starring former members of ELO
• April 1-2 – The Spinners
• April 3-4 – The Pointer Sisters
• April 8-9 – Blue October
• April 15-16 – Tommy DeCarlo, singer of the band Boston
• April 17-18 – Don Felder, Formerly of The Eagles
• April 22-23 – STARSHIP featuring Mickey Thomas
• April 24-25 – Claudia Leitte
• April 29-30 – Berlin
• May 1-2 – TobyMac
• May 6-7 – Blood, Sweat & Tears
• May 8-9 – The Commodores
• May 13-14 – Ambrosia with Peter Beckett
• May 20-21 – A Flock Of Seagulls
• May 22-23 – Collin Raye
• May 27-28 – Thelma Houston
• May 29-30 – Little River Band
• June 3-6 – Simple Plan
• June 10-13 – Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone
• June 17-20 – Plain White T’s

Pro Tip: If you want to guarantee a seat at a Garden Rocks Concert, reserve a dining package for that day. A Garden Rocks Concert Series Dining Package includes an appetizer, entree, and dessert for lunch or dinner at one of EPCOT’s included restaurants and a guaranteed seat for each guest at one of the concert events held on that same day.

Fun For All Ages

One of the best things about the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival is that it offers something for everyone in your group to enjoy! For kids, there’s a springtime scavenger hunt, Spike’s Pollen-Nation Exploration. If there’s a foodie in your party, they can complete the Garden Graze – try five specially-noted menu items and receive a special festival-exclusive treat. Those who love to shop can graze their share of fresh, seasonal festival merchandise around the park, too. It’s easy to find something for each member of your party at EPCOT this spring!

Pro Tip: Make budgeting at the festival even easier with a Disney Gift Card. Simply load up your Disney Gift Card with funds for dining at the outdoor kitchens and shopping festival merchandise, and when you’re out of funds you can refill it again or stop spending for the day! The gift cards created for the festival even feature a wristlet keychain, making it easy to access them as you make your way around EPCOT.

As you can see, exciting things are blooming at EPCOT this spring! We hope you enjoyed this quick guide to EPCOT’s annual springtime festival.  If you’re visiting Walt Disney World from March 2, 2022 until July 4, 2022, make sure to plan a day for EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival 2022. What are you most looking forward to? Let us – and thousands of other Disney fans – know in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook.

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