Refurbishment information is subject to change without notice and should be confirmed just prior to visiting. Updated information is available here.

Current

• Big Thunder Ranch Petting Farm (Disneyland) closed through 1/18/12 to remove holiday decor.
• Haunted Mansion (Disneyland) closed through 1/23/12 for removal of holiday decor.
• Redwood Challenge Creek Trail (DCS) closed through 1/28/12 for refurbishment.
• Refreshment Corner (Disneyland) closed through 2/24/12 for refurbishment.
• Gibson Girl Ice Cream Parlor (Disneyland) closed until Spring 2012 for renovation.
• Candy Palace (Disneyland) closed until Spring 2012 for renovation.
• Matterhorn Bobsleds (Disneyland) closed through 6/14/12 for refurbishment.
• Carnation Cafe (Disneyland) closed until Summer 2012 for renovation/expansion.

Upcoming

• Theater A at Soarin’ Over California (DCA) closed 1/23/12-1/27/12 for refurbishment. Theater B remains open.
• “it’s a small world” (Disneyland) closed 1/23/12-2/2/12 for removal of holiday decor.
• Sailing Ship Columbia (Disneyland) closed 1/23/12-2/17/12 for refurbishment.
• Grizzly River Run (DCA) closed 1/23/12-3/9/12 for refurbishment.
• Davy Crockett Canoes (Disneyland) closed 1/24/12 for refurbishment.
• Cafe Orleans (Disneyland) closed 1/24/12-1/26/12 for refurbishment.
• Soarin’ Over California (DCA) closed 1/30/12-2/3/12 for refurbishment.
• Redd Rockett’s Pizza Port (Disneyland) closed 1/30/12-2/10/12 for refurbishment.

Source Mousesavers Newsletter

Related articles

• Disneyland Refurbishment Schedule January 2012 (chipandco.com)
• Disneyland Refurbishment Schedule December 2011 (chipandco.com)

Refurbishment/closure information is subject to change without notice and should be confirmed just prior to visiting. Updated information is available at the Disney World Website.

Current

• Beach Sand Renourishment (Polynesian Resort) through 1/16/12; only portions of the beach will be closed at any one time.
• Pool Slide at Samawati Springs Pool (Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village) closed through 2/3/12 for refurbishment. The pool will remain open; guests can use the slide at Jambo House.
• Fantasmic! (Hollywood Studios) will not be performed through 2/12/12.
• Dumbo the Flying Elephant (Magic Kingdom) closed through 2/17/12 for refurbishment and move to Storybook Circus.
• Pool slide (Contemporary Resort) closed through 2/17/12. The pool will remain open.
• Honey, I Shrunk the Kids Movie Set Adventure (Hollywood Studios) closed through 3/11/12 for refurbishment.

• Typhoon Lagoon closed through 3/17/12 for annual refurbishment.
• Plaza Ice Cream Parlor (Magic Kingdom) closed through 3/27/12 for refurbishment.
• Tutto Italia Restaurant (Epcot) closed through 4/30/12 for refurbishment.
• Big Thunder Mountain Railroad (Magic Kingdom) closed through 5/27/12 for refurbishment.
• Innoventions: House of Innoventions exhibit closed through May 2012 for refurbishment.
• Grand Floridian Spa (Grand Floridian Resort) closed through mid-2013 due to construction at the resort. The Grand Floridian Fitness Center will remain open and guests may use The Spa at Saratoga Springs Resort.

Upcoming

• Doubloon Lagoon Pool (Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter) closed 1/17/12-1/18/12 for refurbishment. The Ol’ Man Island Pool at Port Orleans Resort – Riverside will available to guests.
• Main Street Electrical Parade (Magic Kingdom) will not be performed 1/20/12-2/10/12.
• Alligator Bayou Pool near buildings 24 & 25 (Port Orleans Resort – Riverside) closed 1/23/12-1/27/12 for refurbishment. All other leisure pools and the Ol’ Man Island feature pool will be open.
• Kali River Rapids (Animal Kingdom) closed 1/23/12-2/9/12 for refurbishment.
• Liberty Square Riverboat (Magic Kingdom) closed 1/28/12-2/3/12 for refurbishment.
• Alligator Bayou Pool near buildings 16, 17 & 18 (Port Orleans Resort – Riverside) closed 1/30/12-2/3/12 for refurbishment. All other leisure pools and the Ol’ Man Island feature pool will be open.
• Ol’ Man Island Pool (Port Orleans Resort – Riverside) closed 2/6/12-2/8/12 for refurbishment. All leisure pool and Doubloon Lagoon feature pool at Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter will be availble to guests.
• Piano Pool (All-Star Music Resort) closed 2/6/12-3/2/12 for refurbishment. The Calypso Pool will remain open.
• Meadow Feature Pool Slide (Ft. Wilderness Resort & Campground) closed 2/6/12-3/2/12 for refurbishment. The Meadow Feature Pool will remain open.
• Beach Pool Slide (Grand Floridian Resort) closed 2/6/12-3/2/12 for refurbishment. The Beach Pool will remain open.
• Studio Backlot Tour (Hollywood Studios) closed 2/13/12-3/10/12 for refurbishment.
• Magic Carpets of Aladdin (Magic Kingdom) closed 2/26/12-3/11/12 for refurbishment.
• Alligator Bayou Pool near buildings 36 & 39 (Port Orleans Resort – Riverside) closed 2/27/12-3/1/12 for refurbishment.
• Test Track (Epcot) closed April 2012-September 2012 for update.

Related articles

• Disney World Refurbishment Schedule January 2012 (chipandco.com)
• Disneyspeak: Do You Speak Disney’s Language? (chipandco.com)

You may remember that I was talking about Tomorrowland Speedway as a ride that should get a refurbishment of some sort.  Many of you commented, so thank you for that, most agreeing with me, some saying they should go green to cut down the smell, and even one telling me I was crazy.

This week I’m taking a look at Stitch’s Great Escape, another ride that I have absolutely no use for and one that I feel should be totally re-worked!

I know that a lot of you like the creepy crawly type rides.  I’ve heard many times that Stitch shouldn’t have been introduced here, that it should have remained Alien Encounter (officially ExtraTERRORestrial Alien Encounter.)  I’m not that type of park goer.  I don’t like Stitch’s Great Escape for the feeling of Stitch crawling over me, I didn’t like Alien Encounter either, and I generally don’t like any type of ride like that!

The question is, what should take it’s place?  Whatever it is, it needs to obviously fit the location.  Certainly it needs to be themed such that it fits into Tomorrowland properly, and in my opinion it should be something along the lines of a futuristic type ride.  What I would love to see happen is to somehow take one of my favorite movies — Meet the Robinsons — and take the scene where Lewis and Wilbur are flying in the time machine, and turn it around so that we are part of the scene.  That would be cool to me!

What do all of you think, though?  Should Stitch’s Great Escape be refurbished, and do you have any ideas as to what it should become?  Or am I crazy for thinking this?  Inquiring minds want to know!  Thanks, just leave your comments below!

Related articles

• Please Refurbish This Ride – Tomorrowland Speedway! (chipandco.com)
• Rides to Avoid with Little Mr and Miss (chipandco.com)

Here there guys and gals Anonymouse here.

Today’s Gossip comes to us from the Cast Members Mouth. Word is being spread that Peter Pan’s Flight in the Magic Kingdom is scheduled to get an Interactive Queue (Like The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh). So while you are waiting in these really long lines for a mediocre ride you will have something to stare at instead of the wild child waiting in line in front of you.

Construction is expected to start January 16th and end by March 6th, 2012. Disney is not expecting any closures during the construction and I imagine getting around in Fantasyland is going to start getting worse as the closure of Dumbo the Flying Elephant has occurred and Disney gets ready to open the new area.

Personally I think this ride is in need of an overhaul. But I know many of you Disney World purists will probably defend it till your dying day. Don’t get me wrong I love Peter Pan and I am an even bigger fan of Jake & the Neverland Pirates, but I don’t understand waiting in line for hours for a quick 2 minute ride.

If you need me I will be across the street riding It’s a Small World over and over again!

Anywho that is all the Disney Gossip I have right now. For my past Gossip articles be sure to check them out here.

Got any good rumors?  Please email me at AnonyMouse@chipandco.com or on my Facebook Page

Related articles

• Peter Pan Returns to Neverland in All New ‘Jake and the Neverland Pirates’ Premiere (chipandco.com)
• Top 10 Attractions at Walt Disney World (couponingtodisney.com)

Disney and General Motors announced today that have renewed their sponsorship agreement for the popular Epcot Attraction “Test Track.” Financial terms were not discussed but if you remember back when Test Track was built GM paid a whopping $100 Million Dollars for the previous 10 year contract!

The attraction is set to close sometime in April of 2012 to be upfitted with new Chevrolet cars and all new Chevrolet Design Center where you can go in and make your own concept cars.

Click here to see a first look at the Chevy Test Track Vehicles.

Here is information from a press release:

“We are excited to renew our long-term alliance with General Motors,” George Aguel, senior vice president of corporate alliances for the Walt Disney Co., “This unique agreement extends collaboration between two of the most recognized brands in the world, a relationship that spans over 30 years. The re-imagined Test Track Presented by Chevrolet will continue our shared goal of providing unique and innovative experiences that engage Disney guests in exciting and interactive ways.” ”

As part of the re-imagining, the Future World attraction will feature a sleek new “Chevrolet Design Center at Epcot” immersing Guests in the fascinating world of automotive design. Amid upbeat music, engaging media, dramatic lighting and a collection of Chevrolet concept cars and model vehicles, guests themselves will become automotive designers – and peer into the future of personal transportation in the process.

At interactive design and styling workstations, Guests will be able to create their own custom concept vehicles. The adventure will then shift into high gear as Guests buckle into their 6-person “SimCar” ride vehicle and put their design through its paces on the exhilarating hills, switchbacks and straight-aways of the Test Track circuit.

Their performance testing complete, Guests will move into a post-show area filled with special effects and be scored on how well their custom concept vehicle did. And of course, Guests will be able see the very latest Chevrolet vehicles in an all-new state-of-the-art showroom.

Stay tuned to our Disney World Refurbishment schedule where we will have refurb and closure information for you on the 15th of every month.

Related articles

• Interview with Hidden Mickeys Author Steven M. Barrett (chipandco.com)
• So what is this Disney Photopass thing? (couponingtodisney.com)

Dumbo Storybook Circus was ride testing today! This is part of the new Fantasyland expansion at Walt Disney World. Four Elephants were on the spinner, along with arms waiting for more. There will soon be double Dumbos in this area.

Visit http://www.JeffLangeDVD.com or http://www.MouseSteps.com for more information.

Related articles

• Magic Kingdom Update: New Fantasyland Construction Including Dumbo The Flying Elephant Ride Testing, Storybook Circus – Photos and Video (jefflangedvd.com)
• Changes coming to Magic Kingdom in Spring of 2012 (chipandco.com)

Walt Disney World Resort sure had a memorable year – from celebrating major anniversaries to marking continued progress on new attractions, the Disney Parks Blog team really had a lot of exciting news to cover in 2011.

That said, here are their picks for the top-five Walt Disney World Resort stories of the year.

1. Magic Kingdom Park Marks 40 Years – I was lucky enough to cover this milestone in person at Magic Kingdom Park on Oct. 1.
2. Mickey Tests Some Magic Words at Walt Disney World – In my opinion, this was one of the most amazing videos we posted in all of 2011. It shows a Mickey meet-and-greet experience that was tested earlier this year at Magic Kingdom Park.
3. AVATAR Coming to Disney Parks – Social Media Director Tom Smith broke the story of a new land coming to Disney’s Animal Kingdom back on Sept. 20. The new area will based on James Cameron’s award-winning film, “AVATAR.”
4. Beast Castle: Behind the Scenes with Walt Disney Imagineers – This blog post was our first inside look at the new Beast Castle, currently under construction in New Fantasyland. The area will begin opening in phases in fall 2012.
5. Walt Disney Imagineers Install Nemo Icons at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort – This video post gave our readers their first look inside this new resort, which is set to open in phases beginning in May 2012.

What would you add to the list?

Related articles

• “Walt Disney World Pro” iPhone App Updated with Newest Information, Photos and More (chipandco.com)
• A ‘Towering’ New Race Through the Night at Walt Disney World Resort (chipandco.com)

Refurbishment/Closure information is subject to change without notice and should be confirmed just prior to visiting. Updated information is available here.

Current

• Frances’ Lady Bug Boogie (DCA) closed through Winter 2011 for refurbishment.
• Plaza Pavillion (Disnleyland) closed through January 2012 for conversion to Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe.

Upcoming

• Refreshment Corner (Disneyland) closed 1/5/12-2/9/12 for refurbishment.
• Blue Ribbon Bakery (Disneyland) closed 1/5/12-6/30/12. It will be moved to the Plaza Pavilion.
• Haunted Mansion (Disneyland) closed 1/8/12-1/22/12 for removal of holiday decor.
• Big Thunder Ranch Petting Farm (Disneyland) closed 1/9/12-1/18/12 to remove holiday decor.
• Redwood Challenge Creek Trail (DCS) closed 1/9/12-1/27/12 for refurbishment.
• Matterhorn Bobsleds (Disneyland) closed 1/9/12-6/14/12 for refurbishment.
• Soarin’ Over California Theater A (DCA) closed 1/23/12-1/27/12 for refurbishment.
• “it’s a small world” (Disneyland) closed 1/23/12-2/2/12 for removal of holiday decor.
• Sailing Ship Columbia (Disneyland) closed 1/23/12-2/17/12 for refurbishment.
• Grizzly River Run (DCA) closed 1/23/12-3/2/12 for refurbishment.
• Davy Crockett Canoes (Disneyland) closed 1/24/12 for refurbishment.
• Soarin’ Over California (DCA) closed 1/30/12-2/3/12 for refurbishment.
• Redd Rockett’s Pizza Port (Disneyland) closed 1/30/12-2/10/12 for refurbishment.
• Gibson Girl Ice Cream Parlor (Disneyland) closed January 2012-Spring 2012 for renovation.
• Candy Palace (Disneyland) closed January 2012-Spring 2012 for renovation.

Mousesavers Newsletter

Related articles

• Disneyland Refurbishment Schedule December 2011 (chipandco.com)
• Disneyland Refurbishment Schedule November 2011 (chipandco.com)

Refurbishment/closure information is subject to change without notice and should be confirmed just prior to visiting. Updated information is available at the Disney World Website.

Current

• The Seas with Nemo & Friends (Epcot) Dive Quest is being cancelled for an indefinite period; if you have Dive Quest booked, check with Disney to confirm.
• Oak Trail Golf Course closed through 12/16/11 for refurbishment.
• Typhoon Lagoon closed through 3/17/12 for annual refurbishment.
• Innoventions: House of Innoventions exhibit closed through May 2012 for refurbishment.
• Grand Floridian Spa (Grand Floridian Resort) closed through mid-2013 due to construction at the resort. The Grand Floridian Fitness Center will remain open and guests may use The Spa at Saratoga Springs Resort.

Upcoming

• Osprey Ridge Golf Course closed 12/25/11 for refurbishment.
• Lake Buena Vista Golf Course closed 12/25/11 for refurbishment.
• Beach Sand Renourishment (Polynesian Resort) 1/4/12-1/16/12; only portions of the beach will be closed at any one time.
• Plaza Ice Cream Parlor (Magic Kingdom) closed 1/4/12-3/27/12 for refurbishment.
• Tutto Italia Restaurant (Epcot) closed 1/7/12-4/30/12 for refurbishment.
• Pool Slide at Samawati Springs Pool (Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village) closed 1/9/12-2/3/12 for refurbishment. The pool will remain open; guests can use the slide at Jambo House.
• Fantasmic! (Hollywood Studios) closed 1/9/12-2/12/12.
• Dumbo the Flying Elephant (Magic Kingdom) closed 1/9/12-2/17/12 for refurbishment and move to Storybook Circus.
• Big Thunder Mountain Railroad (Magic Kingdom) closed 1/9/12-5/27/12 for MAJOR refurbishment.
• Kali River Rapids (Animal Kingdom) closed 1/23/12-2/9/12 for refurbishment.
• Liberty Square Riverboat (Magic Kingdom) closed 1/28/12-2/3/12 for refurbishment.
• Studio Backlot Tour (Hollywood Studios) closed 2/13/12-3/10/12 for refurbishment.

Source Mousesavers Newsletter

Related articles

• Disney World Refurbishment Schedule December 2011 (chipandco.com)
• Disney World Refurbishment Schedule November 2011 (chipandco.com)

What leap year brings with it in 2012, besides an extra day, is nonstop fun for Disney guests.  At Walt Disney World Resort, they can spin with Dumbo as a new Fantasyland begins stirring to life, luxuriate in new royal guest rooms or family suites, chase down villains in a new interactive game in Magic Kingdom, or get behind the wheel of a Ferrari, Lamborghini or Porsche on a new supercar racing circuit. At sea, the all-new Disney Fantasy of Disney Cruise Line enters service with exciting new shipboard fun.And to all of the above add the exciting mid-year debut of Cars Land at Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, Calif.

Here’s a quick leap around what’s in store in 2012:

The Exotics Course featuring “supercars” (January 2012) — Beginning around mid-January, Richard Petty Driving Experience at Walt Disney World Resort will feature a brand-new adrenaline rush, the “Exotic Driving Experience.” The Exotics Course at Walt Disney World Speedway, a new one-mile circuit custom-built for the attraction, will be home to a riding experience for guests in “supercars” by Ferrari, Lamborghini, Audi, and Porsche. Thrill-seekers can get behind the wheel of these epic vehicles or navigate the circuit with a professional driver.  Reservations for 2012 can be made at www.exoticdriving.com.

Sorcerers invade the Magic Kingdom (early 2012) – In an all-new interactive experience, “Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom,” Merlin the magician will recruit guests as apprentice sorcerers to undertake missions to subdue villains and ne’er do wells.  Armed with magic spells in the form of special cards, guests must search for the magic symbols that lead them to animated villains’ hiding places. By casting different magical spell cards, players can do battle with Yzma, Kronk and other “baddies” hiding throughout the land. From fireballs to frantic frogs and cyclones, there are spells to bring down each and every villain, with a simple flick of the wrist. This immersive role-playing adventure is included with park admission.

New Fantasyland (early 2012) – The largest expansion project in Magic Kingdom history will open in phases beginning February 2012 at Walt Disney World Resort, featuring attractions and experiences in an area that will nearly double the size of Fantasyland.  Among the novelties, guests will be able to fly high with The Great Goofini or with Dumbo the Flying Elephant, “immerse” themselves in Under the Sea ~ Journey of the Little Mermaid and “be our guest” at the Beast’s Castle. Out of the gate in early 2012 will be The Barnstormer coaster, Fantasyland Station and – for the first time anywhere turning counter-clockwise – the first half of the Dumbo the Flying Elephant attraction. Completion of The New Fantasyland is scheduled for 2014 with most new experiences open by 2013.

Royal Guest Rooms (mid-February 2012) – Imagine waking up in a place where Disney Princes and Princesses have stayed. Beginning mid-February 2012, Walt Disney World guests staying at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside will discover special treasures left behind by the stars of favorite animated films such as “Aladdin,” “Beauty and the Beast” and “The Princess and the Frog.” In quarters befitting the young Princes and Princesses of the family (their parents, too!), guests can unwind amid remarkable décor. They’ll be able to watch “fireworks” swirl as they recline in ornate beds, curl up in custom linens and more. It is majesty and fun, rolled into one. Each of the 512 Royal Guest Rooms sleeps up to four guests in two queen beds.

Launch of Disney Fantasy (March 2012) – The Muppets leading guests in an interactive detective adventure game around the ship. Guests’ own drawings springing to life and dancing with animated Disney characters. Two new Broadway-caliber, spectacular musical stage shows. A Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique for magical princess and pirate makeovers. A fanciful water play area called AquaLab. Disney Fantasy, the newest ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet, will bring to life these innovations and more, offering a cruise experience from stem to stern that caters to every member of the family. The 4,000-passenger Disney Fantasy will sail week-long Caribbean cruises from Port Canaveral, Fla., with its maiden voyage scheduled for March 31, 2012. For a “boatload” of information about the new ship, go to www.disneycruise.com, click on the Ships & Activities tab and choose Disney Fantasy.

Disney Cruise Line Visits New Ports, Offers New Itineraries (beginning May 2012) – For the first time ever, Disney Cruise Line will set sail from three new ports in 2012 – New York, Seattle and Galveston, Texas – with several new itineraries planned. Beginning in May, the Disney Magic will sail 20 cruises from New York – including eight-night cruises to the Bahamas, five-night cruises up the New England coast to Canada and two-night weekend cruises. Also beginning in May, the Disney Wonder will sail 14 seven-night cruises from the Port of Seattle to Tracy Arm, Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan, Alaska, as well as Victoria, British Columbia. Beginning in September, the Disney Magic will sail 12 seven-night cruises from the Port of Galveston to the Western Caribbean. To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a vacation, guests can visit www.disneycruise.com, call Disney Cruise Line at 888/DCL-2500 or contact their travel agent.

Disney’s Art of Animation Resort (May 2012) – A new resort hotel inspired by Disney animation will feature 1,120 family suites themed after “The Lion King,” “Cars” and “Finding Nemo,” and 864 themed rooms in “The Little Mermaid” wings. Animated scenes will carry throughout building exteriors and room interiors and feature larger-than-life icons from the animated films in courtyard areas. Nemo will be the first wing to open, in May 2012, at the resort hotel — Disney World’s 25^th. The “Cars” wing is scheduled to open in late July and “The Lion King” wing in late September. The final wing, themed after “The Little Mermaid,” will debut in late 2012. Crowned by a 35-foot-tall model of King Triton, Disney’s Art of Animation Resort will be located next to Disney’s Pop Century Resort.

Upscale entertainment center (late 2012) – Splitsville, a 50,000-square-foot facility that combines bowling with billiards, dining, music and nightlife, is in development for Downtown Disney West Side.

Hit the Road with Mater and Lightning McQueen (summer 2012) — Some of the biggest thrills in the Disney California Adventure expansion are just down the road. Crowning the multi-year expansion project in 2012 will be the opening of Cars Land, inspired by the Disney•Pixar blockbuster “Cars.”  Cars Land will feature three immersive family attractions showcasing characters and settings from the movie, including one of the largest and most elaborate attractions ever created for a Disney park: Radiator Springs Racers, a twisting turning, high-speed adventure through the town and desert valleys of Radiator Springs. Other Cars Land attractions will include Luigi’s Flying Tires (striking a chord with anyone who remembers the Flying Saucers in Tomorrowland) and Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree, a spinning attraction with a musical, hoedown theme. Guests also will enjoy “Cars”-themed dining and shopping locations.

Related articles

• Coming to Disney Spring 2012 (chipandco.com)
• Disney’s Art of Animation Resort Construction Update, Coronado Springs Resort Christmas Decorations and Pepper Market Buffet Test – Photos and Video (jefflangedvd.com)

The Yakitori House in the Japan Pavilion at EPCOT has a new name and a new menu!!
It is now open!

It has taken on the new name  Katsura Grill.It has been a 3 month project to make the entire hillside into the
Katsura Gardens. It is said to be modeled after gardens in Japan and Katsura Imperial Villa. The Katsura
Imperial Villa is considered one of Japan’s greatest architectural achievements.

The Katsura Grill will still be a counter service resturaunt if you are using the Dining Plan.
The prices range from $6.99 for a Tsukemen Salad to $12.99 for  Spicy Tuna Roll and Tsukemen Salad.
You will see some of your old favorites combined with new featured items on the menu.

Photos and full menu will be coming soon to Chip and Co soon until then check out Food Confessions for all of your
favorite foods around “The World”.

If you have a Disney Food Confession or food news email me at dulcie@chipandco.com. We would love to feature you picture and link to your website or blog if you have one.

Related articles

• News! Epcot’s Katsura Grill Grand Opening and Menu Announced (disneyfoodblog.com)
• Disney Food Confession – Spicy Tuna Roll (chipandco.com)

Apparently people were less than interested in having cardio equipment in their rooms and tea tree oils in their shower. The Health and Wellness suites that were set to debut at the Contemporary Resort in late 2011 have been cancelled.

The suites on the 14th floor where the new wellness suites were going to be are still going to be remodeled but are no longer set to gear toward the health and wellness experience, as was the original intention announced back in April.

Why do you think the wellness suites are no longer in the plan?

Related articles

• Update on the Contemporary Resort’s Health and Wellness Suites. (everythingwdisneyworld.com)
• Is Disney’s Bay Lake Tower at Contemporary Resort for you? (chipandco.com)

Refurbishment information is subject to change without notice and should be confirmed just prior to visiting. Updated information is available on the Disneyland Website.

Current

• Toy Story Midway Mania (DCA) closed through 11/17/11 for refurbishment.
• Blue Bayou Restaurant (Disneyland) closed through 11/23/11 for refurbishment.
• Pirates of the Caribbean (Disneyland) closed through 11/23/11 for refurbishment.
• Court des ANGES (Disneyland) closed through 11/30/11 for refurbishment.
• Frances’ Lady Bug Boogie (DCA) closed through Winter 2011 for refurbishment.
• Plaza Pavillion (Disnleyland) closed through January 2012 for conversion to Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe.

Upcoming

• Indiana Jones Adventure (Disneyland) closed 12/6/11-12/7/11 for refurbishment.
• Refreshment Corner (Disneyland) closed 1/5/12-2/9/12 for refurbishment.
• Blue Ribbon Bakery (Disneyland) closed 1/5/12-6/30/12. It will be moved to the Plaza Pavilion.
• Big Thunder Ranch Petting Farm (Disneyland) closed 1/9/12-1/18/12 to remove holiday decor.
• Redwood Challenge Creek Trail (DCS) closed 1/9/12-1/27/12 for refurbishment.
• Matterhorn Bobsleds (Disneyland) closed 1/9/12-6/14/12 for refurbishment.
• “it’s a small world” (Disneyland) closed 1/23/12-2/2/12 for refurbishment.
• Sailing Ship Columbia (Disneyland) closed 1/23/12-2/17/12 for refurbishment.
• Grizzly River Run (DCA) closed 1/23/12-3/2/12 for refurbishment.
• Davy Crockett Canoe Docks (Disneyland) closed 1/24/12 for refurbishment.
• Soarin’ Over California (DCA) closed 1/30/12-2/3/12 for refurbishment.
• Redd Rockett’s Pizza Port (Disneyland) closed 1/30/12-2/10/12 for refurbishment.
• Gibson Girl Ice Cream Parlor (Disneyland) closed January 2012-Spring 2012 for renovation.
• Candy Palace (Disneyland) closed January 2012-Spring 2012 for renovation.

Source Mousesaver Newsletter

Related articles

• Disneyland Refurbishment Schedule November 2011 (chipandco.com)

Refurbishment/closure information is subject to change without notice and should be confirmed just prior to visiting. Updated information is available at the Disney World Website.

Current

• Magnolia Bend Leisure Pool near Buildings 90/95 (Port Orleans-Riverside Resort) closed through 11/19/11 for refurbishment.
• Swiss Family Treehouse (Magic Kingdom) closed through 11/19/11 for refurbishment.
• Osprey Ridge Golf Course closed through 11/23/11 and on 12/25/11 for refurbishment.
• Blizzard Beach closed through 12/3/11 for annual refurbishment.
• Yakitori House (Epcot) closed through 12/15/11 for refurbishment.
• Grand Floridian Spa (Grand Floridian Resort) closed through mid-2013 due to construction at the resort. The Grand Floridian Fitness Center will remain open and guests may use The Spa at Saratoga Springs Resort.

Upcoming

• Magnolia Golf Course closed 11/28/11-12/7/11 for refurbishment.
• Typhoon Lagoon closed 12/4/11-3/17/12 for annual refurbishment.
• Oak Trail Golf Course closed 12/8/11-12/16/11 for refurbishment.
• Lake Buena Vista Golf Course closed 12/25/11 for refurbishment.
• Beach Sand Renourishment (Polynesian Resort) 1/4/12-1/16/12; only portions of the beach will be closed at any one time.
• Plaza Ice Cream Parlor (Magic Kingdom) closed 1/4/12-3/27/12 for refurbishment.
• Tutto Italia Restaurant (Epcot) closed 1/7/12-4/30/12 for refurbishment.
• Fantasmic! (Hollywood Studios) closed 1/9/12-2/12/12.
• Dumbo the Flying Elephant (Magic Kingdom) closed 1/9/12-2/17/12 for refurbishment and move to Storybook Circus.
• Big Thunder Mountain Railroad (Magic Kingdom) closed 1/9/12-5/27/12 for refurbishment.

Source Mousesaver Newsletter

Related articles

• Disney World Refurbishment Schedule November 2011 (chipandco.com)
• Disney World Refurbishment Schedule October 2011 (chipandco.com)

Check out this fun photo from our friends at Walt Disney Imagineering. The team recently brought a little life into the New Fantasyland area at Magic Kingdom Park by planting the first tree.

To give you some reference, the building at the far left with the red and blue roof is actually the second floor of Pinocchio’s Village Haus, which peeks over the construction wall into New Fantasyland. The tree is being placed near what will become the entrance to New Fantasyland. The building at the right is Maurice’s Cottage, which will house fun, interactive storytelling with Belle and Lumiere.

Source Disney Parks Blog

Related articles

• A Tour Through New Fantasyland Expansion at the Magic Kingdom (chipandco.com)
• TEA Honors Joe Rohde and Disney with Thea Awards (chipandco.com)

Port Orleans Riverside

I recently took a look at the Pros & Cons of staying at Walt Disney World Resort’s Port Orleans Riverside. The property is currently undergoing refurbishments to replace furniture and update décor, and a question arose about room occupancy.

Disney is replacing all double beds at Port Orleans Riverside with queens and is removing the trundle bed altogether. This opened up a debate on whether or not parties of 5 would still be able to stay at this property. We now have a definitive answer: Yes!

Our very own Ken Brown did some investigation. Take a look at these pictures featured at The Unofficial Visitor’s Guide to Riverside and French Quarter:

Port Orleans Riverside after refurbishment

Port Orleans Riverside after refurbishment

The armoires have been exchanged for Murphy-style fold-down twin beds (similar to those at the new Art of Animation and Aulani Resorts), and the televisions with wall-mounted flat screens. Although a rate increase for this property is expected in 2012, I am excited to see these changes and am anxious to return to Port Orleans Riverside.

Related articles

• Is Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside Resort for You? (chipandco.com)
• Snack of the Week – Beignets at Port Orleans Resort (delightfullydisney.com)

Disney Parks Blog hosted the first ever live chat yesterday, for those of you who missed it, people were invited to ask questions to the Imagineer in an online chat and get an immediate response. I’m sure there were many more questions than answers but that’s to be expected…inquiring mines want to know!

Chris Beatty was rather “Disney-esque” in his responses; not giving away too much information but slightly foreshadowing what the new Fantasyland will have to offer.

Main topics of the discussion were the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, the Be Our Guest restaurant, Under the Sea-Journey of the Little Mermaid and the Great Goofini.

There were affirmations made regarding the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, confirming that it will be a family friendly “coaster” and not a major thrill attraction. The ride will feature new technology inspired by the film itself. The ride will be the first to debut the “swinging bucket” feeling in the cart itself. The Mine Train will focus on the Seven Dwarfs but of course Snow White will make an appearance within the attraction.

The Fantasyland expansion will open in phases beginning in fall of 2012 and will offer experiences related to the classic Disney films that everyone loves.

Under the Sea~Journey of the Little Mermaid has already opened in Disneyland’s California Adventure park but the Walt Disney World adventure will bring you through the grottos and underneath Prince Eric’s Castle while your waiting for your ride vehicle.

Another major portion of the expansion project is the Be Our Guest restaurant, Beast’s Castle and Belle’s Cottage. Chris mentioned that he was most looking forward to the opening of the Be Our Guest Restaurant. He truly believes that you’ll feel transported into the film once you step inside. When asked if Lumiere will appear like Remy does at Les Chef’s De France, Chris replied, “We’re currently working on a new blog update on Lumiere, so stay tuned to the Disney Parks Blog”.

Belle’s Cottage will feature a storybook adventure and you’ll feel as if you stepped inside the story of Beauty and the Beast. Gaston’s Tavern will have a larger than life portrait above one of the fireplaces.

Plenty of water has been added to the new Fantasyland areas. Under the Beast’s Castle and bridge past the Little Mermaid all the way to Dumbo the water features will make the environment feel authentic as only Disney can make it.

Last but not least, our beloved “Barnstormer” will be getting a make-over and transforming into “The Great Goofini”. Ride along with Goofy as he becomes a stunt pilot in the circus and be prepared for some Goofy flying lessons!

Chris mentioned more than once to keep an eye on the Disney Parks Blog for more updates and new secrets to be revealed!

Related articles

• Disney Confidential: More Fantasyland Rumors. (chipandco.com)
• Imagineers Use Innovative Technology in Fantasyland Expansion (chipandco.com)

Time-lapse of the beginning of construction of the expansion of Fantasyland in Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World in Florida.

Related articles

• Magic Kingdom Fantasyland Construction Update October 2011 (onlywdworld.com)
• Imagineers Use Innovative Technology in Fantasyland Expansion (chipandco.com)

Hey there guys and gals Anonymouse here.

If you know me in real life, you know that I live and breathe Disney gossip and the one thing that gets me all a twitter is anything about the Fantasyland Expansion.  Recently, I’ve been hearing rumblings that the Great Goofini is set to open sometime in the Spring.  I’m hearing May thrown around a lot, but I’d love to see it open in time for the big Spring Break crowds in early April.

You may recall that this new attraction is just a recycled Goofy’s Barnstormer (pray that they keep those chickens–I love them).  In Disney speak, it’s getting a new “overlay.”  I know, fancy right?  It will be themed along the lines of the Storybook Circus, with Goofy as a circus ringmaster.   And while it’s debatable whether or not kids even like the circus these days, that’s what you’re getting in the old Toon Town-a circus.  And you will like it. Bad Chip Monkey!

We already know that side A of the Dueling Dumbo will open some time in February (thanks to an article from yours truly),  so when Goofy opens up a couple of months later, this area should be complete, with a new train station, character meet and greets, and shopping.

But wait, there’s more.

Because we’re also hearing that the Journey of the Little Mermaid, the centerpiece attraction in the Fantasyland Expansion, may be further along than we thought. This is leading to some conjecture that we can expect soft openings sometime this summer. I’m not putting too much stock into this theory, but I like it and I hope it’s true.

I’ll keep you posted.

Anywho that is all the Disney Gossip I have right now. Let me know what you think in the comment box below. For my past Gossip articles be sure to check them out here. (Chip is making me plug my own articles)Bad Chip Monkey!

Got any good rumors?  Please email me at AnonyMouse@chipandco.com or on my Facebook Page

Related articles

• Disney Confidential: Dueling Dumbo Opening in February? (chipandco.com)
• No More Toontown – What does that mean? (chipandco.com)

Refurbishment information is subject to change without notice and should be confirmed just prior to visiting. Updated information is available on the Disneyland Website.

Current

• Redwood Challenge Creek Trail (DCA) closed through 10/28/11 for refurbishment.
• Blue Bayou Restaurant (Disneyland) closed through 11/23/11 for refurbishment.
• Pirates of the Caribbean (Disneyland) closed through 11/23/11 for refurbishment.
• Court des ANGES (Disneyland) closed through 11/30/11 for refurbishment.
• Frances’ Lady Bug Boogie (DCA) closed through Winter 2011 for refurbishment.

Upcoming

• “it’s a small world” (Disneyland) closed 10/24/11-11/10/11 for installation of holiday decor.
• It’s Tough to be a Bug! (DCA) closed 10/24/11-11/11/11 for refurbishment.
• Space Mountain (Disneyland) closed 11/1/11 to remove holiday decor.
• Big Thunder Ranch Petting Farm (Disneyland) closed 11/1/11-11/10/11 for installation of holiday decor.
• Toy Story Midway Mania (DCA) closed 11/15/11-11/17/11 for refurbishment.
• Indiana Jones Adventure (Disneyland) closed 12/6/11-12/7/11 for refurbishment. ]
• Gibson Girl Ice Cream Parlor (Disneyland) closed January 2012-Spring 2012 for renovation.
• Candy Palace (Disneyland) closed January 2012-Spring 2012 for renovation.

Source Mousesavers Newsletter

Related articles

• Disneyland Refurbishment Schedule September 2011 (chipandco.com)
• Six Attractions at Disneyland Resort Closing for Refurbishments (chipandco.com)