For nearly 50 years, guests visiting Magic Kingdom Park have embarked on a relaxing half-mile journey around the picturesque waters of the Rivers of America, sailing aboard an iconic grand streamer riverboat with stunning views of both Frontierland and Liberty Square. But after many years of helping guests make memories, the Liberty Belle riverboat recently took her own very unique journey, sailing through open water.
Last October, cast members drained the waters of the Rivers of America, sending the Liberty Belle to dry dock behind Magic Kingdom Park in order to replace her underwater track. In preparing for her return, teams worked together overnight to sail her through Bay Lake and Seven Seas Lagoon, around Disney’s Contemporary Resort and crossing in front of Magic Kingdom Park. They then towed her by hand through a narrow water channel before underwater divers reconnected her to the newly refurbished track and brought her home. Once docked back in Liberty Square, cast members put on the finishing touches before opening to guests this morning.
In the Liberty Belle’s absence, more than 100 cast members contributed their specialized crafts and skill during the four-month scheduled refurbishment. Anchored by the planned track replacement for the vessel, cast members took advantage of the Rivers of America being drained to also make some enhancements including updated rockwork, landscaping and adding fresh paint to the surrounding areas.
A project of this scale truly took a Kingdom to ensure its success, and today guests and cast members can once again sail the waters of the Rivers of America aboard this historic 47-foot authentic steam-powered paddle wheeler.
If you are visiting Magic Kingdom Park this year, be sure to head on over to Liberty Square to enjoy this classic attraction.
Mad Hatter Adventures, Travel Company is an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. They are a FULL Service AWARD WINNING Travel Agency! Contact them TODAY!
With Sunday’s big game kicking off just down the road, Disney, like many others, is gearing up for the excitement of Super Bowl weekend. Although, Walt Disney World won’t host the annual Super Bowl parade down Main Street U.S.A. at Magic Kingdom Park this year, Disney will continue the time-honored tradition of featuring the Super Bowl star player in the iconic “I’m Going to Disney World!” commercial on Sunday night. Be sure to stay tuned after the big game to catch the commercial on major TV networks and social media! Disney Parks hopes to be able to bring back our other Super Bowl traditions next year, including letting football and Disney fans see and cheer on their favorite player in the park.
This year’s commercial will be the latest installment in a long-running Super Bowl tradition created by Disney in 1987 when New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms first appeared in the commercial following the team’s Super Bowl victory. Since then, the commercial has featured some of the biggest names in Super Bowl history, and we’re excited to see who will be the star of this year’s commercial!
Mad Hatter Adventures, Travel Company is an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. They are a FULL Service AWARD WINNING Travel Agency! Contact them TODAY!
You might have already heard that the Government of Canada has prohibited Cruise ships until March 1st of 2022. We are monitoring the situation and our clients affected by this extension.
We stay up to date on all travel notices to give you peace of mind while traveling. If you have a cruise booked with a Mad Hatter Adventures, Travel Company Travel Advisor, we will be contacting you to let you know of your options.
Below is the release from Canada:
The Government of Canada continues to monitor the evolving COVID-19 pandemic and the impact it is having on the marine and tourism sectors. Keeping Canadians and transportation workers safe and healthy are top priorities for Transport Canada.
Today, the Minister of Transport, the Honourable Omar Alghabra, announced two new Interim Orders, which prohibit pleasure craft in Canadian Arctic waters and cruise vessels in all Canadian waters until February 28, 2022. This means:
Adventure-seeking pleasure craft are still prohibited from entering Arctic waters.
Passenger vessels carrying more than 12 people are still prohibited from entering Arctic coastal waters, including Nunatsiavut, Nunavik, and the Labrador Coast.
Cruise vessels carrying 100 or more people are still prohibited from operating in Canadian waters.
Pleasure craft used by local Arctic residents will not be affected by these measures.
With these prohibitions in place, public health authorities will be able to continue focusing on the most pressing issues, including the vaccine rollout and new COVID-19 variants.
To limit the spread of COVID-19, the Government of Canada continues to advise Canadian citizens and permanent residents to avoid all travel on cruise ships outside Canada until further notice.
Essential passenger vessels, such as ferries and water taxis, should continue to follow local public health guidance and protocols, and follow mitigation measures to reduce the spread of COVID-19 and prevent future outbreaks. These could include: reducing the number of passengers, ensuring physical distancing, the wearing of masks, and enhanced cleaning and hygiene measures.
Cruise vessels in Canadian waters pose a risk to our health care systems. The Government of Canada will continue to evaluate the situation and make changes as necessary to ensure the health and safety of all Canadians. Should the COVID-19 pandemic sufficiently improve to allow the resumption of these activities, the Minister of Transport has the ability to rescind the Interim Orders.
Its February already and Valentines days is right around the corner! There’s no wrong way to celebrate and with shopping and sweet treats, the possibilities for a perfect Valentine’s Day are endless at Disney Springs.
If you’re in need of some gift ideas, here is a list of sweet shopping spots you can’t miss. Have you seen the new Disney nuiMOs collection and Minnie’s new park-ready dress with a matching mini backpack by Loungefly that debuted on Feb. 1.
Spread the love from Pandora Jewelry with adorable Mickey and Minnie bracelet charms and rings. At ALEX AND ANI, discover vibrant new bangles and stackable sets that fill their hearts with joy. If bold colors and personalized pieces are more their thing, stop by Rustic Cuff for engravable jewelry and colorful cuffs, bangles, beads, and more.
Don’t forget to add these destinations to your shopping list:
Basin – Love is definitely in the air with the sweet aromas of fruits and flowers in adorable bath bombs and soaps. New this year are “Be Mine” Bath Bombs topped with a conversation heart and Love Bath Bombs featuring red and pink sea salts for a little extra relaxation.
Kate Spade New York – Hold your love letters and things close to your heart in Kate Spade’s new Valentine’s collection. Or rock your dots with the latest Kate Spade x Disney Parks Collection featuring classic silhouettes with Minnie Mouse’s iconic look.
Lilly Pulitzer – Share your love of Lilly with those you love and enjoy gifts with purchase Feb. 5-7, 2021. Receive a hair pin with every $75 spend, a pair of bamboo earrings with every $150 spend and a printed jewelry box with every $300 spend while supplies last.
Lovepop – Turn your Valentine’s Day card into something more with a beautiful 3D card design from Lovepop. New designs from Star Wars are available this year including our favorite child from “The Mandalorian” and don’t miss their beautiful paper flower bouquets that make a lasting impression.
Sugarboo & Co. – Say “I love you” with adorable home décor, cards, artwork and more with new arrivals at Sugarboo & Co.
Sunglass Icon – Is your sweetie the ultimate Disney fan? Surprise them with the newest Ray-Ban x Disney sunglasses.
UGG – The Lunar New Year Collection has all the Valentine’s vibes with its blossom embroidery and pastel pink colors. This collection includes everything from boots and slippers, to backpacks and wallets.
Vera Bradley – Fall in love with the new Sweet Hearts pattern featured your favorite bag styles along with cozy robes and blankets.
If you’re looking for an incredible dinner for two or a sweet snack to share with your pal, make plans to dine at these locations who are offering a little something special to celebrate your loved one.
Everglazed Donuts & Cold Brew – From Feb. 12-14, indulge with a heart-shaped donut crowned with sweet cream and heart-shaped sprinkles.
Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Soda Fountain – Enjoy a delicious Ghirardelli sundae with “buy one, get one” half off on all sundaes from Feb. 5-14, 2021. (Limit one per person, cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion.)
Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea – Treat your valentine to a coffee date with the Fairytale Love Latte featuring espresso, milk, dark chocolate sauce, caramel and coconut syrups. Plus, pick up a seasonal gift set as a take-home treat while supplies last.
Paddlefish – On Valentine’s Day, enjoy the Chef’s Special Seafood Boil for Two featuring Maine Lobster, Key West Shrimp, Cedar Key Littlenecks, Corn Bread, Red Potatoes, and Sweet Corn for $89 per couple. (Add a bottle Sparkling Cava for $30.) No discounts or substitutions.
Planet Hollywood – From Feb. 12-14, enjoy a Valentine’s prix fixe special for $34.95 featuring your choice of House or Caesar Salad, Roasted Prime Rib or Grouper and New York Cheesecake with Strawberry Sauce. (Add on Champagne for $6 a glass or $18 per bottle.)
Jaleo by José Andrés – Celebrate and enjoy a taste of Spain with the Chef’s Tasting Experience For Two plus decadent specials on Valentine’s Day for $95 per person. Special menu additions for the evening include seared scallops, fried shrimp, pork ‘canelones’ with béchamel sauce and berry soup with cheese ice cream.
Terralina Crafted Italian – On Valentine’s Day, enjoy Chef Justin’s special pre-fixe menu for two featuring Spicy Shrimp Scampi, Braised Bone-In Short Rib with wild mushroom and fennel risotto, and tiramisu for $90 per couple. (Add a bottle of Villa Sparina Rose for $30.) No discounts or substitutions.
The Edison – Enjoy an evening of industrial gothic elegance, live entertainment, paired with decadent dishes such as melt-in-your-mouth filet, a New York strip cooked to perfection, and indulgent desserts including a rich red velvet cheesecake and the signature DB “Clothesline Chocolate Covered Candied Bacon.” Available Feb. 12-14.
Sprinkles – New this year is the Valentines Red Velvet Cupcake with a romantic twist on the classic red velvet in southern-style light chocolate cake with cream cheese frosting and topped with Luck in Love sprinkles by Fancy Sprinkles. Available Feb.1-14. The classic Raspberry Chocolate Chip Cupcake also returns Feb. 1-28 featuring a Belgian dark chocolate cake topped with luscious raspberry frosting.
YeSake – Make a sweet stop at Yesake and try the new Chocolate Cherry Boba Tea served with heart shaped sprinkles and chocolate chips. Available Feb. 1-28.
Vivoli il Gelato – The Love Potion returns and is sure to hit the sweet spot with vanilla gelato, Fanta strawberry, whipped cream, sugar rock candy and sprinkles. Available through Feb. 18.
Reservations are strongly recommended. Your favorite sweet spots including Amorette’s Patisserie, The Ganachery, and Marketplace Snacks are also serving up limited-time delights for Valentine’s Day.
A day or evening isn’t complete at Disney Springs without an amazing experience and there are two that I always recommend. The Aerophile Balloon Ride will soar you high in the sky with a breathtaking, 360-degree view of Walt Disney World Resort (Tip: We recommend calling ahead (407) 938-9433) to check on availability as this experience is weather permitting.) You can explore Disney Springs by water as well in a Vintage 1960s Amphicar Ride at The BOATHOUSE where you’ll take a 20-minute captain-guided tour.
Happy Valentine’s Day!
Mad Hatter Adventures, Travel Company is an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. They are a FULL Service AWARD WINNING Travel Agency! Contact them TODAY!
Fall in love this February in the Downtown Disney District at Disneyland Resort! You’ll find gifts and goodies that steal your heart, just the right match for your culinary craving, something special for all your loved ones, plus outdoor dining and dining reservations – all in time for Valentine’s Day.
Star Wars Trading Post and WonderGround Gallery
First, a sweet surprise: Star Wars Trading Post, will open in its new location on Feb. 19, and WonderGround Gallery also re-opens that day with its unique collection of housewares and fashion items!
Star Wars Trading Post becomes your go-to place for all things Star Wars. The design is inspired by a hidden jungle Resistance base and the merchandise offers something for every traveler on their galactic journey – with new collections and even a Paddy Frog light-up sipper!
Be sure to check out the new Child – inspired streetwear collection, with designs inspired by “The Mandalorian” series on Disney+. This all-new collection inspired by Grogu, aka the Child, features t-shirts, leggings, hats and more.
Looking for a fun way to spend your “credits”? Try the Batuuan Spira*, a themed Disney Gift Card available at Star Wars Trading Post and good for spending at select participating locations throughout the Disneyland Resort. The Batuuan Spira is a keepsake that’s both fun and useful.
Select outdoor dining is back!
You can enjoy outdoor dining once again in the Downtown Disney District at locations including Naples Ristorante e Bar, Uva Bar & Café, Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen, Tortilla Jo’s and Black Tap Craft Burgers & Shakes. Ballast Point Brewing Co. has opened its relaxing beer garden, offering the Ballast Point burger, ahi poke, soyrizo & roasted cauliflower tacos and seasonal fare.
Sweep them off their feet with a Valentine’s treat
Invite someone to be yours with a “Bee Mine” apple, enrobed in red chocolate and decorated with white and dark chocolate with a cute little chocolate bee, available now through Feb. 14 at Marceline’s Confectionery and Trolley Treats on Buena Vista Street.
Kayla’s Cake macarons are so pretty, it’s easy to say: “Just as beautiful as you” when presenting a premium box of six with flavors including rose champagne heart, sea salt caramel and mango dragon fruit.
What makes a meal from Earl of Sandwich complete? Heart-shaped cookies and brownie desserts paired with a sandwich and a drink.
And you can’t go wrong with a Red Velvet Cake Batter Shake on the patio at Black Tap Craft Burgers & Shakes.
Give a “bundle,” a necklace or new nuiMOs
Ballast Point Brewing Co. is offering two Valentine bundles for beer lovers: The Single and The Taken, presented in red Ballast Point buckets.** See location for details and here’s a hint: crowlers!
Stop at Sugarboo & Co. for a sterling silver necklace from the Air Mail collection. Each necklace comes with an envelope to mail your gift to a special someone, with a message of your choice.
Looking for something rad for your loved one? Look no further than Curl Surf for the latest in beach styles.
Pink Minnie Mouse ear headbands and Alex and Ani bracelets are sure to please. Or introduce a friend to new Disney nuiMO’s, available at World of Disney and Disneyland Resort Backlot Premiere Shop. You’ll adore these miniature character plush, and they have outfits and accessories for a fashionable twist!
The Disney fan in your life will treasure something to commemorate the 20th anniversary of Disney California Adventure park. A limited assortment, including t-shirts with the anniversary logo, will be available starting Feb. 8 at World of Disney and Elias and Co.
Be sure to visit Disneyland.com/DTD to learn important details about our health and safety measures prior to your arrival, such as the requirement for temperature checks and for all guests, ages 2 and older, to wear an appropriate face covering.
Check back soon for information about more shopping and dining experiences coming to the Downtown Disney District! We wish you a Happy Valentine’s Day, filled with love and kindness!
*The Batuuan Spira Gift Card can be purchased for $4.99 plus tax in addition to the chosen activation amount (minimum activation of $100). It is not eligible for discounts, is nonrefundable, and may not be redeemed for cash, except as required by law. Visit DisneyGiftCard.com for complete terms and conditions.
**Guests must be 21 years of age or over to consume alcohol. Valid photo ID required.
Mad Hatter Adventures, Travel Company is an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. They are a FULL Service AWARD WINNING Travel Agency! Contact them TODAY!
Info@MadHatterAdv.com or 1 – 844 – M – HATTER
*Information and Photos from the Disney Parks Blog
Walt Disney World Golf is continually looking for ways to enhance the golf experience and their latest innovation is already turning heads up and down the fairways around Walt Disney World Resort!
Introducing the Robo-Cart!
If you’ve ever walked around an 18-hole golf course carrying your clubs or using a push cart, you know that can be exhausting. Disney Golf aims to ease that hardship with the Robo-Cart, a small robotic golf cart that uses GPS and Bluetooth technology to transport your clubs safely around the course.
Golfers merely clip on the cart’s small transmitter (I found that attaching it to your belt behind your back works best), load your golf bag on it and then the autonomous cart follows a few paces behind you wherever you go. If you stop, the cart stops. If you start walking, the cart starts moving (max speed is approximately 7 mph).
Obviously you have to be a little careful when you’re walking across narrow bridges or along any lakes on the course, but Disney Golf officials told me the GPS technology in the carts is very accurate and, as a result, they have not had any incidents of golfers leading the carts into any trouble.
The Robo-Carts, designed by Club Car, are also equipped with all of the amenities that golfers need – beverage cooler, cup holder, sand bottle and even a USB port so you charge your smartphone while you play. The front of the cart has a color GPS screen that gives you all of the standard yardage information typically available on full-size riding golf carts.
Walt Disney World Resort is one of only a few places in the surrounding area where you’ll find these robotic carts in use. They are ideal for Disney’s Oak Trail golf course, a 9-hole walking course that appeals primarily to families and younger golfers, however they are also available if you want to walk the 18-hole Magnolia and Palm championship courses.
The best part is the Robo-Carts rent for only $10 in addition to your green fees. They are available only at the Palm, Magnolia and Oak Trail courses.
And here’s another tip for you: If you’re interested in playing on Saturday or Sunday mornings, you can book your tee time at least six days in advance to get a 10 percent discount on your green fees ($49 plus tax). It’s part of a new “Early Bird’’ program for weekend tee times before 11:30 am.
See you on the tee box!
*Content and Photos from Disney Parks Blog
Mad Hatter Adventures is a FULL SERVICE, AWARD WINNING Agency. They are an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. Contact them TODAY for ALL your travel needs! Info@MadHatterAdv.com 1-844-M-HATTER
An adorable pair of Masai giraffes are now on the savanna at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. You can see these 2 on the Kilimanjaro Safari.
Disney’s giraffes breed as part of the Species Survival Plan (SSP), which is overseen by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and ensures responsible breeding of threatened and endangered species. You can see more about that on the National Geographic Disney+ series, Magic of Disney’s Animal Kingdom,
If you would like to experience the safari and see all the animals, contact Mad Hatter Adventures, Travel Company for a FREE QUOTE! Info@MadHatterAdv.com
Mad Hatter Adventures, Travel Company is an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. They are a FULL Service AWARD WINNING Travel Agency! Contact them TODAY!
Haul out the holly, as well as the chocolate, pretzels, peppermint, candy and oh yes, waffles, to create these amazing Disney themed holiday “charcuterie” boards. Santa may not leave your house when he gets a peek at the boards #DisneyCreator at Home, Ginny Phillips of Making Main Street, has created!
This mom of three has pulled out all the festive ideas and holiday magic to create sweet and savory boards perfect for Christmas Eve and Christmas morning! Put on those matching PJs, turn up your Disney holiday playlist and get ready for some merry good fun!
Magical Christmas Eve Hot Chocolate Board
While some may have visions of sugar plums on Christmas Eve, you will only have visions of delectable hot cocoa filled with chocolate Mickey bombs with this creative board. Not sure how to make your own chocolate Mickey bomb? No worries! Ginny has supplied your elf crew with simple step-by-step directions on how to make this board!
Christmas Morning Mickey Waffle Board
Your family will come bounding down the hall on Christmas morning when the air is filled with the delectable smell of Mickey waffles. The presents might have to wait when they see this holiday extravaganza laid out for breakfast. Ginny has included some of her favorite topping choices for her board, but the limit on your ideas is as high as the star on top of the tree! If the Mickey Waffle Maker is on your Christmas list, make sure you ask to open that gift a day early!
Are you creating your own Holiday Boards this season? We would love to hear about it!!!!
Its not to late to head to Walt Disney World or Universal to experience all the holidays have to offer! Contact Mad Hatter Adventures, Travel Company to book a LAST MINUTE GETAWAY TODAY!!!!
Mad Hatter Adventures is a FULL SERVICE, AWARD WINNING Agency. They are an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. Contact them TODAY for ALL your travel needs! Info@MadHatterAdv.com 1-844-M-HATTER
‘Tis the season for giving! The celebration of Disney and Make-A-Wish® working together for 40 years to grant life-changing wishes continues with the debut of the latest collection of Disney Parks Wishables. Themed to the Magic Carpets of Aladdin attraction, the adorable new series features the original wish granter himself: Genie! This collection is available NOW at select Disney Parks around the world, the Disney store and online at shopDisney.com and is the perfect stocking stuffer for the holidays!
This Disney Parks Wishables is the final collection in the trio of product this fall that began with the debut of the popular Wishes Come True Blue color collection and last month’s lovable Mickey Mouse plush, which unlocked donations to Make-A-Wish! I’m excited to announce that as of today, sales from these two merchandise offerings have unlocked a total donation of $591,100 to Make-A-Wish so far, and we’re not done yet…
That’s right, the Disney Parks Wishables: Magic Carpets of Aladin series is the first-ever product collection from Disney Parks with 100 percent of the purchase price from each sale being donated to a charitable organization, and just in time for the holiday season!
Mad Hatter Adventures, Travel Company is an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. They are a FULL Service AWARD WINNING Travel Agency! Contact them TODAY!
Info@MadHatterAdv.com or 1 – 844 – M – HATTER
*Information and Photos from the Disney Parks Blog
I am excited to share a NEW experience this holiday season at Universal Orlando Resort. Universal Studios Orlando announced that they will be offering a limited access evenings-only tour for guests who want to experience all the holiday entertainment and options at the resort with minimal wait. This all-new “Universal’s Holiday Tour,” will cost $59.99 (plus tax) per guest and theme park admission with a 2-Park 1-Day Park-to-Park ticket is required. Annual Passholders receive a special discount on the tour with pricing starting at $49.99. Guests who purchase tickets for this event, which takes place select evenings through the holiday season will be able to enjoy the following:
Enjoy priority access to Universal’s Holiday Experience Featuring Macy’s Balloons, where they can get up-close with larger-than-life parade balloons and stunning floats inspired by everything from iconic holiday staples to characters from popular animated films – and enjoy a special appearance by Santa Claus
Embark on a tour of the first-ever Holiday Tribute Store, featuring four incredibly-themed rooms – including one inspired by The Grinch – stocked with a variety of new merchandise
Meet and greet The Grinch at Circus McGurkus Cafe Stoo-pendous in Seuss Landing, where they can encounter the mean, green one himself and enjoy a delicious Hot Cocoa Bar Cap off the evening in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade at Islands of Adventure with an exclusive showing of “The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle” – a stunning projection of holiday spirit and Christmas moments inspired by the beloved “Harry Potter” stories
Guests will also receive a special, themed gift during the tour to commemorate their experience
I am so excited about this! We already have our Universal tripped BOOKED and I can’t wait to add this on!!!
The Delightful Traveler 