Disney Rules! Archives - Masshole Mommy

How to Beat Fatigue at the Disney Parks

Jun 102019

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Don’t let sensory overload ruin your family’s Walt Disney World Vacation. Prepare for the inevitable with this advice on how to beat Disney park fatigue.

If you’re planning more than a one-day trip at a Walt Disney World theme park, Disney park fatigue is a real possibility for your family. This is especially true if you have any first-timers in your group. As magical as Walt Disney World is, it can be overwhelming. There is so much to see and so much to do. Sometimes it’s hard for guests to know where to start or where to end up. As much as I love going with the flow, if you have an extended Disney World stay on the books, I recommend you go into your trip with at least a cursory plan.

And that’s where I come in. I’m going to share some of my favorite tips for how to beat Disney park fatigue with you, so you can look forward to nothing but happy times on that most magical vacay! Continue reading »

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Mickey Mouse Bark

Mar 182019

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This Mickey Mouse bark is not only really easy to make, you only need a few ingredients to make it. It's the perfect treat for your favorite Disney fan!

You probably already know this, but I am a complete and utter Disney fanatic. I am raising my kids to be the same way and hopefully they will carry on the love with their own children some day. In addition to yearly trips to Orlando to visit the parks, on occasion I like to surprise the family with fun treats like this Mickey Mouse Bark that I whipped up recently. Guys, it’s so easy to make and if you know a major Disney fan, make some for them – they will love it.

This Mickey Mouse bark is wicked easy to make and you only need a few ingredients to make it. And before you ask, you can find the Mickey Mouse sprinkles right on Amazon (that’s where I got mine).

Mickey Mouse Bark

Here’s what you need:

1 1/2 cups white candy melts
Red M&M’s
Yellow M&M’s
Mickey Mouse Sprinkles
Red and white sprinkles

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How to Get Around at Walt Disney World (Transportation Options)

Apr 182018

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When you’re at Walt Disney World take the time to enjoy all of the modes of transportation that are available. They’re part of what makes a Disney vacation special. I’m not going to lie, when you plan a trip to Walt Disney World you should plan on A LOT of walking. While walking is basically the only way to get around while you are inside the parks, there are many other modes of transportation outside of them. Here’s a guide to all the different modes of transportation at Disney World and where you can use them.

Transportation Options at Walt Disney World

Monorail: The Monorail runs through the Magic Kingdom and connects some resorts (The Contemporary, The Polynesian and The Grand Floridian) with the park and the ticket and transportation center. It connects the Magic Kingdom theme park, with the contemporary resort, the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa and the Polynesian Resort. Switch at the Transportation Center to get to Epcot.

When you’re at Walt Disney World take the time to enjoy all of the modes of transportation that are available. They’re part of what makes a Disney vacation special.

The Magic Kingdom and Epcot are the only two Disney World park that can be reached by monorail. Continue reading »

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Disney World’s BEST Pool: Stormalong Bay at the Yacht & Beach Club

Nov 152017

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Stormalong Bay is arguably the best pool at Walt Disney world. Located at the Yacht & Beach Club, it's a mini water park and a great break from the parks.

My family loves our trips to Disney World and we really enjoy experiencing all of the resorts on Walt Disney World property. One of the things that Disney does really well are the pool areas at the resorts. We’ve stayed at several and have never been disappointed with the pool areas. While the pool at Caribbean Beach was our favorite for quite a while, we recently stayed at the Yacht Club and had a chance to experience Stormalong Bay – and now we have a new favorite. We were beyond impressed by the Stormalong Bay pool “complex” and it’s without a doubt the best pool at any of the resorts on the Disney property.

Stormalong Bay is arguably the best pool at Walt Disney world. Located at the Yacht & Beach Club, it's a mini water park and a great break from the parks.

But what’s all the fuss about? Continue reading »

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What is the Walt Disney World Fastpass+ and Tips For Using It

Oct 182017

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Here are tips to using Disney's Fastpass+. The Fastpass+ helps cut your wait time for attractions so you can make the most of your day at the parks.

Walt Disney World has been using the Fastpass+ system for a while now. It has made things a lot easier because it allows you to book in advance and save time. Below I will share what exactly the Fastpass+ is and some tips to using the Fastpass+ for you and your family!

Below you will find learn about Fastpass+ and the perks, and find ways to make sure you make the most out of the system! The tips below can help you with your schedule, so you can make sure to utilize each pass the best way possible.

Here are tips to using Disney's Fastpass+. The Fastpass+ helps cut your wait time for attractions so you can make the most of your day at the parks.

What is Disney’s Fastpass+
Fastpass+ is a system that Disney uses that allows you to reserve rides and attractions to reduce the time you spend waiting in lines both for rides and experiences such as character meet & greets or shows. They allow up to three Fastpasses per day to make the system fair, but there are a few restrictions. You can only make Fastpass+ choices for one park per day, so if you are visiting multiple parks, make sure to choose which park you want to use the Fastpasses on. Also, you can only book a Fastpass for each ride once per day, so if you love Space Mountain and want to book all three of your Fastpasses for three separate rides on the day you are at the Magic Kingdom – you are out of luck. The system won’t let you “repeat” rides on the same day. As of now you can book Fastpass+ for your whole trip 60 days in advance if you stay on property, or 30 days if you are not staying on property. Continue reading »

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Disney’s 2017 International Food & Wine Festival Guide

Sep 192017

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Here is everything you need to know before you go to Disney World's 2017 International Food & Wine Festival, which is a food lover's paradise.

For the 22nd year, the 2017 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival is back at Epcot. The festival is being held from August 31 – November 13, 2017 and all you need to enjoy this popular fall event is Epcot admission. Set up around the World Showcase, individual kiosks will offer guests the chance to try recipes from locations around the world! It’s a foodie paradise complete with delicious foods, wines, and craft beers from over 35 individual marketplaces.

Here is everything you need to know before you go to Disney World's 2017 International Food & Wine Festival, which is a food lover's paradise.

Food & Wine

In addition to the eleven countries represented in the World Showcase, you can try foods from places like Scotland, New Zealand, Greece, Africa, Belgium, Hawaii, India, and Patagonia. This year there is a wonderful Farm Fresh stand which features dishes like Crispy Chicken with Griddled Cornbread and Red Eye Gravy and Roasted Beet Salad with Green Beans, Feta Cheese, Minus 8 Vinaigrette, and Toasted Walnuts (vegetarian and gluten friendly). Continue reading »

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What To Pack For a Day at One of the Disney Water Parks #MagicalFamilyFirsts #cbias #ad

Sep 202016

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This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #MagicalFamilyFirsts #CollectiveBias

What To Pack For a Day at One of the Disney Water Parks

We are major Disney fanatics in our house. We seriously love all things Disney and every year our family visits Walt Disney World in Orlando. Actually we just got back from our 2016 Walt Disney World vacation about two weeks ago. I’m not claiming to be an expert, but I definitely know my way around the parks. Normally when we go to Walt Disney World, we get the Park Hopper ticket which allows us to go in and out of the 4 parks, but doesn’t include the two water parks. This year we got the Water Parks and More option, so we were able to go to the water parks as well. The “more” part of the Water Parks and More option included mini golf. Our family took advantage of the “more” this year as well, but really enjoyed our time at Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park, too.

Since we stay on Disney property, we don’t rent a car and rely on Disney’s bus transportation to get us where we wanted to go. Since it takes time to get from our resort to where we’re going, I like to be prepared with everything I need for the day and that especially goes for one of the water parks. Continue reading »

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5 Ways to Beat Disney World Exhaustion

May 102016

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5 Ways to Beat Disney World Exhaustion

Making it through a day at Disney World is almost a feat of human strength, but yet, people manage to do it every day and some folks do it several days in a row. Disney World exhaustion is a real thing, and it plagues so many guests that push their limits and try to get as much in at the parks as possible without giving themselves a break. Knowing how to avoid becoming exhausted while at the parks can mean the difference between really enjoying yourself and not ever wanting to return to Walt Disney World.

Use these 5 tips to beat Disney World exhaustion and really tackle all that the parks have to offer without falling over each night.

Start Taking Naps

We love it when the kids willingly nap, and believe me when I tell you that everyone in the family will learn to love naps at Walt Disney World. No matter how many or little days you have at the parks, you should leave a couple hours midday for relaxing, going back to your hotel room or rental and just relax, nap, snack and recharge. Doing this gives you the energy to get through the rest of the day, and really, midday is the worst time to be in the parks, with crowds thinning out later in the afternoon when you are ready to come back for more fun.

Ride Everything

Besides amusement rides, there are a lot of ride options around the Disney World parks, and you should take advantage of all of them in order to minimize the amount of time that you are on your feet and running around. No matter how well you plan it out, nor the shape you are in, the average guest can walk anywhere from four to eight miles worth of park a day. Even at a slow pace this is a lot when you are doing as much as you are for several days in a row. Take advantage of in park transportation, park to park transportation and even go out of your way to add a slow paced ride option to your itinerary that will give you a new view of the parks. Continue reading »

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Disney’s Best Hidden Bars and Restaurants

Apr 192016

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Disney's Best Hidden Bars and Restaurants

For some Disney diners, finding hidden bars and restaurants is all about finding a place to enjoy a meal that isn’t packed to the gills and for others it’s all about being in the know. If either is what you’re after, or if you just want to find another Disney World dining option that isn’t all everyone is talking about, these hidden restaurants and bars are all great options. From sit down to fast food to bars that have complete menus too, there is always something new to discover in your favorite park.

Boatwright’s, Port Orleans Riverside

Resort restaurants tend to go unnoticed if they don’t make it on any of the many top places to dine while at Disney World lists. and Boatwright’s is one of them. This restaurant dining hall can be found at the Riverside option of the resort, and is a great place for southern cooking with plenty of Cajun options that really pack in the flavor. One of the biggest complaints at Disney is that much of the food is bland in order to appeal to the masses, but you won’t find that a problem here. Decor-wise, the restaurant is unique, with a riverside, boat repair shack theme that makes it really feel like you are in the Deep South. Continue reading »

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Best Spots in Disney to Grab Coffee

Feb 012016

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Best Spots in Disney to Grab Coffee

To the joy of so many parents, the coffee situation at Walt Disney World has improved by leaps and bounds. For a place that does so many things right, it’s hard to believe that once upon a time it was hard to find a good cup of coffee, and even harder to find a calm place to sit and enjoy that coffee. Now though, you actually have a few places to grab a cup of coffee at Disney, and it is even possible to choose from among the best options.

These are among the best spots in Disney World for grabbing a coffee to help you get through a busy day.

Starbucks

There are now several Starbucks restaurants in the parks, as the chain was recently added to the lineup of recognizable brands to join Disney. The new location at Main Street Bakery is by far the most popular and most used, with lines forming at the start of the day and never really getting short until closing time. The Epcot location, right under Spaceship Earth is another fan favorite and has a futuristic feel to match the theme of the park and nearby rides. You can expect to find all of your Starbucks favorites here, from drinks to snacks to sandwiches. Continue reading »

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The Best Burger Joints at Disney World

Jan 052016

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The Best Burger Joints at Disney World

Burgers are one of the most popular and most common menu items at Disney World, but there are a few places that are worth going if you are looking to find the best burgers in the park. When it comes to finding the best burgers anywhere it can be more about the burger joint, which often makes all the difference and adds to the entire experience. At Disney, the atmosphere and decor in the restaurants really enhances your experiences, so this list is all about the best burgers and burger joints that can be found in Disney World.
These are the best burger joints at Disney World to frequent when it’s a burger kind of day.

Beaches and Cream

Beaches and Cream makes the list for its great burgers, nostalgic beachside diner atmosphere and delicious milkshakes to have with your meal. Fans love this place and everything is perfectly greasy and right off the grill, just the way a great fast food burger should be. At Beaches and Cream it’s all about the cheeseburger and onion rings, which are less expensive than other sit down restaurants. Continue reading »

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Keeping Cool at Disney World

Aug 202015

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Staying cool at Disney World during a hot Florida summer isn’t so easy when you are surrounded by hundreds of acres of pavement. Trust me, I know from experience. Four out of the last six of my family’s Disney trips were during the month of August, so I can definitely attest to how hot & humid it can be down there in the summer. Still, there are plenty of ways to stay cool, cool down and get wet during the park’s hottest summer days. The best part is that keeping cool takes what could be an almost ruined day and turns it into one of the best days you and the kids can have at the parks. There are tons of indoor options, water rides and even a pair of really exciting water parks that can easily take an entire day to enjoy.

If you end up at Disney World during one of Florida’s notoriously hot days, try one of these great ideas to keep everyone cool and happy.

Carry Beverage Bottles Continue reading »

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11 Hidden Disney Secrets

May 142015

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Are you a self-proclaimed Disney nut? There are so many secrets and tips to learn that you could never know them all. Before your trip to Disney Land in California or Disney World in Orlando, brush up on your Disney knowledge.

1. There are two lanterns in the window of the Hall of Presidents. These lanterns reference Paul Revere’s Ride, a poem about how the revolutionaries lit two lanterns if the British came by sea.

2. Want a behind-the-scenes peek of the park? There are underground and backstage tours that you can book. You can even check out Epcot Gardens, where hybrid fruits and veggies are grown, some in the shape of Mickey Mouse.

3. Wonder how staff members and the Disney cast get around the park without being spotted? There are underground tunnels that they use to move between different areas of the park. Otherwise, characters from Tomorrowland would have to pass through Frontier Land!

4. There are Smellitizers throughout Disney, which are machines that emit smells that are perfect for the specific area. For example, Main Street always smells like vanilla and baked cookies. The Pirates of the Caribbean line always smells salty, like water. Continue reading »

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Big Hero 6 Baymax Cupcakes #DisneySide

Mar 042015

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**Disclosure: My family received a copy of Big Hero 6 on Blu-ray & DVD at no charge. All opinions expressed here are strictly my own and were not influenced in any way**

Have you ever wanted to make your favorite character from Big Hero 6, but weren’t sure where to start? We recently got a copy of Disney’s Big Hero 6 on Blu-ray & DVD and I wanted to bring Baymax to life for my kids while we watched the movie, so I put my baking skills to the test. You can make these Baymax from Big Hero 6 cupcakes too! Just follow along.

Supplies:

1 or 2 cupcake pans
1 box of chocolate cake mix
1 tube of black icing
1 tube of vanilla frosting
Cupcake liners

Here’s what you do:

1. Mix the cake mix together as instructed on the box. Continue reading »

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Disney On Ice Presents Worlds of Fantasy Was So Much Fun!

Dec 232014

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**Disclosure: My family received a 4 pack of tickets at no charge in order to write about our experience at the show. All opinions are strictly my own and were not influenced in any way**

Experience a magical Disney fantasy live on ice! Rev up for non-stop fun with four of your favorite Disney stories at Disney On Ice presents Worlds of Fantasy Presented by YoKids Organic Yogurt. Thrill to high-speed stunts as Lightning McQueen and Mater race across the ice like you’ve never seen before! Dive into The Little Mermaid’s enchanting undersea kingdom and enter the mystical world of Pixie Hollow with Tinker Bell and the Disney Fairies! Join the Toy Story gang who are back in town to take on their most daring adventure ever! From wheels to waves, playtime to pixie dust, your family’s favorite Disney moments come to life at Disney On Ice!

Last Friday night, my family and I headed into Boston to see Disney On Ice Presents Worlds of Fantasy at The Agganis Arena at Boston University. It’s been a few years since we had been to a Disney on Ice production, so we were excited to see the show.

During the show, we had a chance to go through four “worlds” and we got to see the high speed version of four classic Disney stories.

I have to apologize for the photo quality in advance. The arena wasn’t well lit because of the show. Continue reading »

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So, What is a Dole Whip Anyway?

Aug 262014

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If you are new to Disney World, you may not have heard of Dole Whips before. Or maybe you have heard of a Dole Whip, but you’re not quite sure what one is and you’re wondering what all the buzz is about.

Well, let me clear this cult dessert up for you.

What is a Dole Whip?

A Dole Whip is a non-dairy (lactose free) soft serve frozen dessert. It is made from puree, which is then reconstituted with tap water and frozen before serving. The infamous frozen treat is available in three flavors: pineapple, orange and vanilla – and yes you can get orange or pineapple swirled with vanilla. Pineapple is original flavor and definitley my personal favorite! A Dole Whip can also be combined with pineapple juice to create a float and word on the street is that they are awesome, but I have never personally tried one.

Where you can find a Dole Whip at Walt Disney World: Continue reading »

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Dining at Disney World – Fun Without Characters

Aug 132014

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Disney World is a magnificent place to visit with your family. There are many things for the entire family to enjoy, including exhilarating rides and delicious dining. Many visitors choose to make Disney a family tradition year after year (like my family does), and even then, it can be hard to explore all of the wonderful options Disney has to offer. If you’re going to visit Disney this year, you should take some time to appreciate many of the unique experiences offered, especially when it comes to dining options. For a unique experience, try dining at these fun Disney restaurants that don’t include the traditional Disney characters.

Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant

Looking for an interesting and unique dining experience? You’ll need to head to the Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant if you’re spending some time over at Hollywood Studios. This fun restaurant has memorable booths shaped like classic ‘50s cars. This décor gives you the feeling that you’re actually experiencing a drive-in theater. The dining experience is made complete with tasty food and fun movie clips. If you have boys, they are going to love this part of Disney, I promise! Continue reading »

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Character Meals at Disney World

Aug 122014

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At Disney World one of the most coveted things to do is to eat with the characters. My family travels to Disney World every year and we have dined at most of these restaurants – some more than once! If you want to eat amongst the characters, fear not, they happen all over the Disney Kingdom! Advanced reservations are highly recommended and can be made at some restaurants up to 180 days in advance. The meals are either served buffet-style, family-style, or plated. Just sit back, relax and enjoy your meal as the characters will make their way around to each table. If you chase them, they might run away! Enjoy a variety of meal options and have fun checking out Disney World’s Character Meals.

Epcot:

The Garden Grill

If you love Chip and Dale’s, you have to come to the Chip and Dale’s Harvest Feast. It is located in the Land Pavilion of Future World. This restaurant features dinner with Mickey’s gang including Chip and Dale, and of course, Pluto. They are all dressed in their farmer’s best too. The kid’s menu has chicken tenders and mac and cheese on it. Reservations are recommended here.

Princess StoryBook Dining Continue reading »

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