DisWorldGuide

“It’s Tough to Be a Bug” has been a staple of Animal Kingdom since the park’s opening on April 22, 1998. Now, Disney World has announced that this classic attraction will soon close for good.

This show, based on the Pixar film “A Bug’s Life,” has entertained guests with its unique perspective on the world of insects. The show takes place inside the iconic Tree of Life, where visitors experience a blend of 3D film, live-action, and special effects that create the feeling of being part of the insect world. With Flik as the host, the audience learns about the lives and challenges of insects, as well as their important role in the ecosystem. The show has been known for its scary yet fun 4D effects, making it a memorable experience for both children and adults.

The final performance of “It’s Tough to Be a Bug” will take place on March 16, 2025, and the attraction will close for good the following day. Disney has announced that the attraction will be replaced by a new show based on the film “Zootopia,” titled “Zootopia: Better Zoogether.” This new show will introduce characters like Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde and is scheduled to open in the winter of 2025.

Animal Kingdom has seen several changes in recent years. The DinoLand U.S.A. area is currently being transformed into a new themed area called Tropical Americas. This new area will include attractions based on “Encanto” and “Indiana Jones,” as well as a carousel inspired by Disney animals. Additionally, “Kali River Rapids” is temporarily closed for maintenance and is expected to reopen in March 2025.

These changes are part of Disney’s ongoing efforts to renew and improve their parks, providing guests with new and exciting experiences. While it is sad to say goodbye to a classic like “It’s Tough to Be a Bug,” it is exciting to see what the future holds for Animal Kingdom and the new attractions to come.

Disney World has recently made a subtle but potentially significant change to the wording of who qualifies for the Disability Access Service (DAS), a program designed to help guests with disabilities navigate the parks more comfortably.

The change involves the removal of a single word – “only” – from the program’s description, which has sparked debate among guests and their families.

The DAS program was introduced in 2013 as a replacement for the previous “Guest Assistance Card” system, which had been misused by some visitors. The program allows individuals with disabilities to reserve a time for attractions without having to physically wait in line. Instead, they are given a virtual spot in the queue, allowing them to relax or engage in other activities in the park while waiting.

Last summer, Disney implemented significant changes to the DAS program, including stricter criteria for eligibility. Disney also began requiring guests to undergo a video chat with a cast member to assess their needs. At the same time, the program’s accessibility was tightened significantly: “DAS is intended to accommodate only those Guests who, due to a developmental disability such as autism or similar, are unable to wait in a conventional queue for an extended period of time.” This wording emphasized that the program was primarily aimed at individuals with developmental disabilities, such as autism or similar conditions, but also raised concerns that others with disabilities might be excluded.

The new change, quietly introduced a few days ago, removes the word “only” from the sentence. The updated wording now reads: “DAS is intended to accommodate Guests who, due to a developmental disability such as autism or similar, are unable to wait in a conventional queue for an extended period of time.” While this change may seem minor, it could potentially have significant implications for how the program is perceived and implemented. By removing “only,” Disney is emphasizing that the program is no longer limited to helping individuals with developmental disabilities but also aims to include others who may need the service due to similar challenges.

Reactions to the change have been mixed. Some see it as a positive step toward a more inclusive approach, where more individuals with various types of disabilities can access the program. Others, particularly caregivers of individuals with developmental disabilities, worry that the change could lead to their needs being deprioritized or overlooked in the new wording.

Disney has emphasized that they remain committed to providing an inclusive experience for all guests and that the DAS program is just one of many services they offer to support individuals with disabilities. They encourage guests with questions or concerns to contact them directly to discuss their needs.

With this latest change in wording, it is clear that Disney continues to adjust the DAS program to balance the needs of guests with disabilities against the need to prevent misuse. However, the question of how these changes will affect those who rely on the service remains open.

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MuppetVision 3D has been a staple of Hollywood Studios since its opening in 1991. The attraction, which was Jim Henson’s last major project before his death, has delighted visitors with its unique blend of 3D technology and the Muppets’ characteristic humor. However, the end is near as Disney has announced the closing date for MuppetVision 3D.

Walt Disney World recently announced that Muppet*Vision 3D, located at Muppets Courtyard in Hollywood Studios, will permanently close starting June 8, 2025. This marks the end of an era and the beginning of a new one, with the transformation of Muppets Courtyard into Monsters Inc. Land.

Last fall, Disney announced that Muppets Courtyard will be remodeled into a new Monsters Inc. Land, inspired by the popular Pixar film. This new area will include Disney’s first suspended roller coaster, taking visitors on an exciting ride through the door scene from the movie. Additionally, there will be new dining establishments and shops, giving visitors a taste of the monster world in Monstropolis.

Although many fans will miss Muppet*Vision 3D, Disney promises that the Muppets will not disappear entirely. Kermit, Miss Piggy, and the rest of the gang will be moving to Sunset Boulevard, where they will take over Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster and give it a new musical twist. This means the Muppets will still have a presence in the park, even though their old home is being transformed.

So, as we bid farewell to Muppet*Vision 3D and visit it one last time on June 7, we can also look forward to the new experiences awaiting us in Monsters Inc. Land.

Walt Disney World has just announced a significant update to its new Premier Pass for Lightning Lane. From now on, the Premier Pass will be available to all guests, regardless of whether they are staying at a Disney hotel or not. Previously, this pass was only available to guests staying at a Disney World Resort.

The Premier Pass for Lightning Lane allows guests to skip the long lines and gain quick access to all attractions through the Lightning Lane. Despite the very high price, the pass has so far been a success among park visitors. The price for the Premier Pass ranges from $119 to $400 depending on the park and the day. With the Premier Pass, you can use the Lightning Lane for all attractions in the park without having to reserve a time in advance.

In addition to the Premier Pass, there are also other pass options for Lightning Lane. The Multi Pass allows guests to reserve Lightning Lane times for three attractions in advance and then one at a time after the first three are used. This pass is ideal for those who want flexibility and the ability to experience multiple attractions without queues, at a much more affordable price than the Premier Pass. Prices for the Multi Pass range from $15 to $35.

The Single Pass can be purchased for a few selected attractions, which are often the most popular in each park. These attractions are not included in the Multi Pass, and the Single Pass allows guests to prioritize these specific attractions without standing in long lines.

The latest change to the Premier Pass means that it is now available to all guests, regardless of where they are staying. Guests staying at Disney World hotels can purchase the pass up to seven days in advance, while all others can purchase it up to three days in advance. The Premier Pass gives guests access to all attractions through the Lightning Lane, once per attraction, without having to book a time in advance. This pass is ideal for those who want maximum flexibility and access to all attractions without limitations.

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Planning a trip to Walt Disney World can be both exciting and overwhelming. With four theme parks, two water parks, and a variety of entertainment options, there’s a lot to consider. Here is some practical information, along with a few tips and tricks, to help you make the most of your Disney vacation.

Walt Disney World opened in 1971 and is one of the world’s most popular vacation destinations. Located in Orlando, Florida, it consists of four theme parks: Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom. Each park offers unique experiences, from classic attractions and parades to exciting shows and interactive experiences. In addition to the theme parks, Walt Disney World also has two water parks, over 25 themed resorts, golf courses, shopping areas, and a wide variety of restaurants. With its magical environment and endless entertainment options, Walt Disney World is, as Disney itself says, “The most magical place on Earth.”

Single-Day Tickets and Annual Passes

When planning your visit, it’s important to choose the right type of ticket. Single-day tickets provide access to one park per day. Prices for these single-day tickets vary depending on the season, but a single-day ticket for adults (10 years and older) starts at around $119 per day. The more days you purchase tickets for, the lower the price per day. For example, a 4-day ticket might cost around $105 per day, while a 10-day ticket can cost as “little” as $60 per day. This makes it more economical to buy tickets for multiple days if you plan a longer stay.

You can also purchase the Park Hopper option, which allows you to visit multiple parks on the same day and gives you greater flexibility to experience more. There is also a water park add-on that you can add to your tickets, giving you access to Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon and/or Disney’s Blizzard Beach. If you purchase this add-on, you get as many days in the water parks as you have purchased regular park days. So if you have bought tickets for four days in the parks, you get, with the water park add-on, four days in the water parks as well. Be aware that there will be restrictions regarding when the tickets must be used, usually within a limited period.

If you plan multiple visits throughout the year, or two years in a row, an annual pass can be a good investment. The annual pass offers benefits such as free parking, discounts on food and souvenirs, and exclusive access to special events. You can also add options like water parks and park hopper to your annual passes.

My Disney Experience

“My Disney Experience” is Disney World’s app for managing your Disney World vacation (also available via Disney World’s website). Here you can manage your tickets, and book MultiPass and SinglePass for Lightning Lane. You can also book tables at one of Disney World’s many restaurants or pre-order food from the fast food restaurants. In addition, you can view photos taken of you on attractions or by the park’s many professional photographers, as well as see opening hours and showtimes in the various parks. The app is also a complete map of the entire Disney World, with information about everything in the park, from attractions to dining and restrooms, and it also provides an overview of all attraction wait times in real-time. Download it from the App Store or Google Play.

Avoiding Lines

Lines can be a major challenge at Disney World, but there are several strategies to minimize wait times. Lightning Lane is a paid service that allows you to reserve times for popular attractions, so you can skip the regular lines. Arriving early in the day can also help, as the parks are often less crowded at opening time. Single Rider lines are another option for those who don’t mind riding alone, and these lines are often much shorter. However, note that only a few attractions offer Single Rider lines. Another good tip is to plan to visit attractions while major shows, parades, or fireworks are taking place, as lines are often shorter during these times.

To avoid lines at counter service restaurants, you can pre-order food in the app. Order food in the app, find a table when you arrive at the restaurant, and click the button in the app that tells them you have arrived. You will then be notified in the app when your food is ready, and you can go and pick it up at a separate window.

Weather

You can also use the weather to your advantage. Especially in summer and fall, you can expect a heavy but usually short-lived afternoon shower in Florida. If you find a dry place to stay until the shower is over, a good number of people will have left the park due to the rain. You may therefore experience shorter lines after a shower. This is especially true in the water parks. Everything is closed when it rains, as thunderstorms often accompany the showers, and you will almost always find significantly fewer people in the water park once the rain has stopped.

Shows and Entertainment

Disney World is known for its spectacular shows and parades. Some of the best include “Happily Ever After,” a fantastic fireworks show over Cinderella Castle in Magic Kingdom, and “Fantasmic!” in Disney’s Hollywood Studios, which combines fireworks, water screens, and live-action scenes. “Festival of the Lion King” in Disney’s Animal Kingdom is a Broadway-like performance that celebrates the story of The Lion King. In Magic Kingdom, you can also experience the popular daytime parade “Festival of Fantasy Parade.” This parade takes place daily and features many of your favorite Disney characters on impressive floats.

Avoiding Crowds

To make the most of your visit without being overwhelmed by crowds, you can visit the parks during the off-season. January, February, and September are usually less busy months. The My Disney Experience app provides real-time information on wait times and helps you plan your day efficiently. There are also websites that offer “crowd calendars,” which use statistics to estimate how many people will be in each park a year in advance.

It’s also important to take breaks and relax at the hotel or in quiet areas of the park to avoid exhaustion.

Events and Special Occasions

Disney World has many special events throughout the year that can make your visit even more magical. Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is a family-friendly Halloween celebration in the fall, with special parades and fireworks, and Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party gets you into the holiday spirit with parades, shows, and “snow.” The Epcot International Food & Wine Festival is a culinary festival with food and drinks from around the world. Disney After Hours gives you access to the parks after closing time with shorter lines and free snacks. After hours, Halloween Party, and Christmas Party are separately ticketed events.

Accommodation

When it comes to accommodation, you have several options both inside and outside Walt Disney World. Staying at a Disney hotel is expensive but offers benefits such as early access to the parks, free transportation to and from the parks, and the ability to reserve Lightning Lane times earlier than other guests.

If you want to save money, you can consider staying outside the Disney area. There are many good hotels nearby that offer free transportation to the parks and other benefits. You can also rent an apartment or a house and rent your own car. The advantages of this are significantly lower prices and more choices, but you miss out on some benefits that only Disney hotel guests receive.

Renting a House

We also rent out a house centrally located in Florida, with four bedrooms, three bathrooms, an open living room and kitchen in light colors, and a west-facing outdoor area with a private pool. A perfect place for both relaxation or a more active vacation. The house is located in the Paradise Palms resort just outside Orlando and only 15 minutes from Walt Disney World.

The house is rented out with all amenities and can accommodate up to 10 guests. Here you will find both luxury and comfort. Each bedroom is equipped with its own TV, and in the living room, you will find a large corner sofa centered around a 46-inch flat screen. The living room, kitchen, and dining room are in an open plan. The kitchen has granite countertops and all facilities, just like at home.

Other Tips

To make the most of your visit, it’s a good idea to reserve restaurants in advance, as popular restaurants can get fully booked quickly.

Comfortable shoes are a must, as you will be walking a lot in the parks. Also, remember to drink plenty of water, especially during the hot and humid months in Florida.

With these tips and tricks, you should be well-prepared for an unforgettable vacation at Walt Disney World.

Walt Disney World is preparing for a range of exciting new offerings in 2025. From new shows and attractions to elegant lounges and nighttime parades, visitors will be able to experience magical moments and unforgettable adventures. Here is an overview of what awaits in Magic Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, EPCOT, and Animal Kingdom in 2025.

Hollywood Studios

Disney is launching a new show called “Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After,” featuring characters like Cruella de Vil, Captain Hook, and Maleficent. The show promises humor and charm, with several well-known Disney villains making appearances. The expected opening is in the summer of 2025.

Additionally, “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure” will come to life on stage. This show includes live performances, puppets, and impressive visual effects. Beloved songs like “Under the Sea” and “Part of Your World” will be performed, along with new numbers such as “Daughters of Triton” and “Kiss the Girl.” This show was originally scheduled to open in 2024 but is now expected to open in the spring of 2025.

EPCOT

Spaceship Earth will feature a new elegant lounge opening in late spring. This lounge will offer culinary creations and a fantastic view of the park, including the fireworks.

Test Track, presented by General Motors, will have a new storyline developed by Walt Disney Imagineering and General Motors. This attraction will open in late summer 2025 and will include new cars and test driving.

Magic Kingdom

A new nighttime parade called “Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away” will light up summer evenings in 2025. The parade will feature characters from Disney films such as “Peter Pan,” “Encanto,” “Frozen,” and “Moana,” with the Blue Fairy from “Pinocchio” as a central figure.

Adventureland will get a new Pirates of the Caribbean-inspired tavern in 2025. This tavern will offer food and drinks in a pirate theme, with several magical surprises.

Animal Kingdom

A new 4D production called “Zootopia: Better Zoogether!” will open in the Tree of Life Theater in the winter of 2025. The show will feature characters like Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde in a family-friendly adventure.

The DINOSAUR attraction will close by the end of 2025 to be transformed into an Indiana Jones attraction, as part of the new Tropical Americas area.

Disney After Hours

Disney After Hours events will provide exclusive access to theme parks after closing time, including snacks like ice cream and popcorn. The events will take place at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, EPCOT, and Magic Kingdom on selected dates starting in January 2025.

Recurring Fun

Walt Disney World will continue to offer popular festivals and events such as the EPCOT Flower and Garden Festival, EPCOT Food and Wine Festival, Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party, and Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, with over 200 days of themed and seasonal magic.

Video: New Attractions and Experiences in 2025

Youtube channel: DisWorldGuide – YouTube

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Walt Disney World in Florida is known for its magical experiences and iconic attractions. However, in 2025, several well-known attractions will close permanently to make way for new and exciting experiences, while others will close for a shorter or longer period of time.

Attractions that are closing permanently

Tom Sawyer Island

A classic attraction in Magic Kingdom inspired by Mark Twain’s stories, will close early in 2025. This tranquil and adventurous island, where visitors can explore hidden caves and cross swinging bridges, will make way for Cars Land, based on the Cars movies. The new park will bring Radiator Springs to life with an exciting rally course and a family-friendly attraction.

Liberty Square Riverboat

Liberty Square Riverboat, which takes guests on a relaxing tour around the Rivers of America, will also close early in 2025. This historic boat ride will also be replaced by Cars Land, similar to Tom Sawyer Island.

MuppetVision 3D

MuppetVision 3D in Hollywood Studios has been a favorite among visitors since 1991. The show combines 3D technology with practical effects and animatronic Muppet characters and will close sometime in 2025. It will be replaced by Monsters Inc. Land, which will include an exciting “Doors Coaster,” Disney’s first suspended dark ride coaster.

TriceraTop Spin

TriceraTop Spin in Animal Kingdom is a family-friendly attraction where guests can fly around in dinosaurs and will close on January 12, 2025. This attraction will make way for the new Tropical Americas section, which will include themes from Encanto and Indiana Jones. According to Disney, the section will bring a fresh and exotic atmosphere to the park.

It’s Tough to Be a Bug!

It’s Tough to Be a Bug! is a 4D film based on the Pixar movie “A Bug’s Life,” which has been part of Animal Kingdom since 1998. This attraction will close permanently in the fall of 2025 and be replaced by a new Zootopia show, which will open in the winter of 2025. The new attraction will be an interactive and engaging experience for the whole family.

Dinosaur

Dinosaur in Animal Kingdom, which takes guests on a journey back in time to find an Iguanodon, will close at the end of 2025. This attraction will be replaced by a new Indiana Jones attraction.

Attractions that are closing temporarily

Rock’n’Roller Coaster

Rock’n’Roller Coaster will eventually close to be transformed from an Aerosmith theme to a Muppets theme, including Dr. Teeth and The Electric Mayhem. However, Disney has not announced when this change will occur.

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad will close on January 6th for extensive upgrades. This popular roller coaster in Frontierland will return in 2026 with new elements and improvements that will provide an even more exciting experience for guests.

Astro Orbiter

Astro Orbiter, located in Tomorrowland, will be closed from January 13, 2025, and is expected to reopen in the summer of 2025. Disney has not specified exactly what will be done during the refurbishment, but such a long closure suggests that significant work will be carried out.

Kali River Rapids

A popular raft attraction in Animal Kingdom, providing guests with an exciting and wet journey through a simulated river course in Asia. This attraction will close on January 6, 2025, and is expected to reopen in mid-March 2025. The refurbishment will include maintenance of both rafts and water systems, as well as updates to improve guest comfort and safety.

Gran Fiesta Tour

A charming boat ride through the Mexico Pavilion in Epcot, inspired by Disney’s “The Three Caballeros”. The attraction will close on January 6, 2025, and reopen on March 15, 2025. The upgrades will include technical improvements and visual updates, making the ride even more engaging for guests.

Hall of Presidents

Hall of Presidents will also close for upgrades as the United States gets a new president in January. This iconic attraction in Liberty Square, which presents all U.S. presidents in an impressive animatronic display, will close on January 20, 2025. The planned reopening is expected to be in late fall 2025.

Tron Lightcycle Run is one of the newest and most exciting attractions at Walt Disney World and Magic Kingdom. This futuristic roller coaster, which opened in 2023, is inspired by the popular Tron film series and offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience a high-speed journey through a digital world. The attraction is known for its impressive technology, fast speeds, and spectacular visual effects, making it a favorite for many visitors.

Tron Lightcycle Run was first introduced at Shanghai Disneyland in 2016 under the name Tron Lightcycle Power Run. It quickly became a favorite among park guests, leading to the decision to bring the attraction to Magic Kingdom in Florida. Construction of Tron Lightcycle Run at Magic Kingdom began in 2017, and after several years of work and anticipation, it finally opened to the public in 2023. The attraction is located in Tomorrowland, an area of the park dedicated to future technology and innovation.

The ride on Tron Lightcycle Run is an adrenaline-filled experience. Guests sit on motorcycle-like vehicles, known as lightcycles, and are launched at high speed through a series of sharp turns, steep hills, and impressive light effects. The track is partially indoors and partially outdoors, providing a dynamic experience with both dark, neon-lit sequences and open, airy sections.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Tron Lightcycle Run is its use of advanced technology to create an immersive experience. The attraction utilizes a combination of physical movement, projections, and lights to transport guests into the Tron universe. This includes an impressive entrance through a digital portal and an exciting finale that gets the heart racing.

The story behind Tron Lightcycle Run is as fascinating as the ride itself. The Tron films, which began with the original Tron in 1982 and were followed by Tron: Legacy in 2010, have been known for their groundbreaking use of special effects and futuristic aesthetics. Tron Lightcycle Run is a natural extension of this legacy. The attraction captures the essence of the films by combining high-tech design with thrilling action and a sense of adventure.

Tron Lightcycle Run has quickly become one of the most popular attractions in Magic Kingdom, and it’s easy to see why. With its unique blend of technology, speed, and visual splendor, it offers an experience unlike anything else in the park.

For those seeking excitement and adventure, Tron Lightcycle Run is an unforgettable journey into a digital world where anything is possible. Whether you’re a fan of the Tron films or just love roller coasters, this attraction is sure to give you an experience you won’t soon forget.

Disney recently announced that the popular show “¡Celebración Encanto!” will now become a permanent part of the entertainment offerings at Epcot. This colorful and energetic show, held at the new CommuniCore Plaza, has been a popular addition to the park since it was first introduced.

The show lasts about 25 minutes, with an additional 10-minute dance party at the end. It features dancers, songs from the movie “Encanto,” and special appearances by characters Mirabel and Bruno. The audience is encouraged to participate actively, making it a fun experience for the whole family. “¡Celebración Encanto!” is performed several times daily. Exact times can be checked in the My Disney Experience app.

“¡Celebración Encanto!” was first introduced in March 2024 as a temporary show, initially planned to run from June 10 to September 6 of the same year. Due to its popularity, the show was extended through Hispanic & Latin American Heritage Month and beyond. Now, Disney has confirmed that the show will remain a permanent part of Epcot’s entertainment lineup.

The show is part of the larger transformation of Epcot, which included the opening of CommuniCore Hall and Plaza. These new areas have brought a range of new attractions and entertainment options to the park, and “¡Celebración Encanto!” has quickly become a favorite among visitors. With its catchy music, lively dance, and interactive elements, “¡Celebración Encanto!” will continue to bring the magic of “Encanto” to life in the heart of the park. Whether you’re a big fan of the movie or just looking for a fun experience, this show is definitely something you should catch on your next visit to Epcot.

Disney has recently announced that the popular attraction Astro Orbiter, a classic carousel ride in Magic Kingdom, will close for an extended period.

Astro Orbiter, located in Tomorrowland, will be closed from January 13, 2025, and is expected to reopen in the summer of 2025. Disney has not specified exactly what will be done during the renovation, but such a long closure period suggests that significant work will be carried out. This could include system maintenance, visual updates, and a general refurbishment of the attraction. Astro Orbiter is a classic carousel ride where guests can control the height of their rockets as they circle around planets, and it is, of course, important that the attraction is kept in top condition to ensure a good experience for visitors.

Astro Orbiter first opened in Magic Kingdom in 1974 under the name Star Jets. It was renamed and redesigned to Astro Orbiter in 1994 as part of a larger update of Tomorrowland. The attraction is known for its unique location atop the PeopleMover platform, giving guests a fantastic view of the park as they soar around in their rockets.

The renovation of Astro Orbiter aims to ensure that it remains an exciting and safe attraction for future generations. Disney fans can look forward to a renewed and improved experience when the attraction reopens in the summer of 2025.