Walt Disney World Refurbishment Schedule-Updated December 2019

Be sure to check out our schedule before planning your trip to Walt Disney World Resort.  As always, a Snapshot Getaways team member is here to help plan your vacations!  

Magic Kingdom:
Walt Disney World Railroad Dec 2018-TBD
Splash Mountain-Early January through Late February

Epcot:

Test Track 1/13/20-2/26/20

As part of the ongoing transformation of Epcot Fall 2019-2020

• Fountain View Starbucks will relocate to a temporary location
• Club Cool will close to return in the future
• Meet Disney Pals at Epcot will temporarily close with characters featured elsewhere throughout Epcot
• Pin Central will operate temporarily out of a new location.  The Camera Center will close.
• Heritage Manor will close and return next year
• Art of Disney will operate from a new location 
• Electric Umbrella will close sometimes this winter to be replaced by a new dining option
• Mouse Gear will move to a temporary home this winter.

Disney's Hollywood Studios

None at this Time

Disney's Animal Kingdom

None at this Time

Disney's Water Parks
Typhoon Lagoon Annual Refurbishment 1/5/20-Mid March 2020 
Blizzard Beach Annual Refurbishment 9/8/19-Early 2020

All Star Music Resort
Calypso Pool Mid September 2020-Mid December 2020

Art of Animation Resort
Big Blue Pool Mid September 2020-Mid December 2020

Beach Club Resort
Beaches & Cream Soda Shop Closed Early August-Winter 2019

Disney’s Fort Wilderness:
Tri-Circle D Ranch will relocate to a nearby area.  The Draft Horse Barn and Pony farm will be redesigned into a new, enhanced barn.  Pony Rides have temporarily moved to the Trail Blaze Corral near the entrance.  

Polynesian Village Resort
Disney’ Spirit of Aloha Dinner Show 1/19/20-1/27/20

Pop Century
Hippy Dippy Pool January 2020-Early Spring 2020

Disney Springs
None at this Time

Devoted DIY-Recycling T-Shirts

Photo Courtesy of DisneyStore.Com

We love Disney t-shirts, it's one of the most popular items purchased in the parks.  However, what to do when it’s unwearable?  Maybe worn out from too many trips, stained from the Turkey Leg or no longer fits (nothing to do with the Turkey Leg).  You can always recycle (or the new word is upcycle) your favorites. Here are a few ideas of my own and some fun tips I found while searching the internet.

Make a Quilt
Or if you are like me, have someone make a quilt for you.  There are many services out there that will take your old t-shirts,  cut out the image and sew into a quilt of memories.  What better way to have your trip memories available as a cozy blanket to wrap around you as you watch your favorite Disney classic on TV. If you are handy of course you can do this on your own and make it a family project!

Make a Story

Many of the photo printing sites out there offer soft and hard cover books of your photos.  Some even use Disney backgrounds and graphics.  Often there are great deal for free books or half price book.  Take a close up photo of the image on your t-shirt.  Either on you, or stretched out on the back of a chair.  Make a collage book of your favorite t-shirts and maybe include text with fun anctedotes of that particular trip.  For example: "This is the 2010 trip shirt we bought Andrew after he got soaked on Splash Mountain”.  You can even put in a few pics of your family wearing the shirt on a trip.  Then if the shirt is in good shape, give to a charity of your choice.  There are many kids that will never make it to Disney and the shirt alone will be priceless.

Make a Journal

Now this is a simple craft to do with your older children. Purchase a plain journal, preferably with a hard cover. Lay out the book and arrange the t-shirt image around the front and back. Leaving an at least an inch extra, cut out the graphic from the shirt and any extra material for the back. Simply glue the flaps down inside the cover, folding corners as needed. Use binder clips to keep in place while the glue dries.  Cut away any extra fabric.  Now you have a new journal. Maybe for recording memories of the next trip to Disney?

Repurpose the Shirt

• Tote Bag:  The internet is full of ideas for repurposing t-shirts. One of the easiest is to turn it into a tote bag. It’s washable and durable and the world certainly has enough plastic bags! Click here for step-by-step instructions.
• Throw Pillows:  What better way to decorate your child’s room (or your child at heart) than with throw pillows from Disney t-shirts.  Click here to get instructions for this fun project.
• Wall Art:  No need to buy expensive art from Disney, use your t-shirts instead.  A quick trip to the art supply or craft store and you’re ready to redecorate.  Click here for the instructions to Disney decorate.
• Laptop or Ipad Case: Keep those electronics protected and maybe disguised a bit. Click here for the instructions. 

I had fun finding some new ideas for recycling t-shirts.  Any ideas you would like to share?  Please leave them in the comment section!

Maria is a Travel Planner for Snapshot Getaways and has quite a few t-shirts to upcycle!  Contact her at maria@snapshotgetaways.com or visit her Facebook page for help planning your trip!

Top 5 Nap Spots in Magic Kingdom

Going back to the resort is the best way to get a nap in for a soon to be cranky little one. Especially if they need a 2 hour nap to recharge.  Sometimes that is not possible, so here are my Top 5 nap spots in Magic Kingdom.  I’ve found these to be great places to put back the stroller and cross our fingers.

1. Tomorrowland-The benches outside Tomorrowland Speedway.  I know it sounds crazy, but the noise must act like white noise because I’ve had success here.  It’s shaded and the rest of the family can explore the many rides in the area.  A trip on the Transit Authority People Mover or Carousel of Progress, might get your little one relaxed prior to placing them down for their nap.   There  is plenty of space, and amenities like bathrooms and snacks are nearby.
2. Tom Sawyer Island-This is also a hidden gem to explore.  The boat ride should soothe your little one and by the time you find a quiet bench they will be in Disney Dreamland.  If you have older children you can send them along to explore the island with another adult.  There are caves, a fort and play areas to keep them busy for a while.  The only negative is that while bathrooms are available, snacks are not.   So plan ahead.
3. Walt Disney World Railroad-This is an idea if your child requires movement to fall  asleep.  While they can not be in the stroller, if you have sling or carrier they will soon be out.  You can ride the railroad as long as you like and although there is noise, it is soothing to the little ones.
4. Baby Care Center-Located near Main Street and Crystal Palace, the Baby Care center gives babies and their parents a place to wind down.  It can be busy and you need to leave your stroller outside.  But for a little decompression it’s perfect.   The air conditioning is a bonus!
5. Liberty Square-Check the parade and meet and greet schedules before you commit to this area.  There are a ton of nooks to park with your stroller.  Again, shade is helpful here.  There are quiet spots near the Christmas Shoppe and entrance to Adventureland as you pass The Crystal Palace.

Disney Devoted Tip:  "As a last "resort" get on the monorail.   You can go to Epcot and back, or to one of the resorts.   The Polynesian has many quiet spots or their beach has some comfortable beach chairs.   While you are welcome, please remember to be respectful of the resort guests.

Maria is a Travel Planner with Snapshot Getaways.  Follow her Facebook Page or email maria@snapshotgetaways for travel planning.

Christmas in the Rest of "The World"

Everyone knows that the Magic Kingdom is the place to be during the holidays.  At least everyone that read my last article, Christmas in the Magic Kingdom.  Now, I'm going to continue my Christmas series and discuss what happens during the Holiday season at Epcot, Animal Kingdom, Hollywood Studios and Downtown Disney.

Downtown Disney

Downtown Disney is like Santa's Workshop.  Everything you need to fill your stockings surrounds you at every turn.  If I had an unlimited shopping experience at Downtown Disney my first stop would be the LEGO imagination center.  Actually it's where my husband and kids would blow the most money.  They would stock up on unique Lego pieces and then get a set to put together when they got home.  Me, well I would take my half and spend it all at Once Upon a Toy and Disney's Day of Christmas.  Once Upon a Toy is where I would splurge on some Mr. Potato Head pieces (for my sons of course) and get a few board games for the upcoming winter months.  Disney's Days of Christmas store not only has ornaments, but holiday goodies such as cocoa, chocolate and cookies.  Great gifts to bring home for those unlucky enough not to be at Disney with you.  Everywhere you turn there is a variety of one of a kind shops to make everyones holiday merrier.

After  you've completed your holiday shopping, Downtown Disney boasts some holiday events.  Here is where you will find the big man himself, Santa Claus.  Starting November 14th through New Years Day (times vary), you can meet Santa and give him your wish list in his chalet.  Note:  In past years, December 25th through January 1st, Santa was replaced by Santa Goofy.  My guess is that Santa has a few things to do?  Santa's Village is located next to the World of Disney Store.  Purchase a cocoa at Ghirardelli and stroll through to take in the lights, stilted Toy Soldiers and Holiday musical
performances.  Treat your children to a ride on the small holiday train or the elegant carousel.

Mickey Mom's Tip:  Have someone stay with your children and make a night of it.  Either use Disney's childcare options or beg Grandma to put them to bed.  Then head out to do your shopping in peace and privacy.  Enjoy a couples dinner at any of the fantastic restaurants in Downtown Disney.



Hollywood Studios

Like the other parks, Hollywood Studios has a specially decorated tree at its entrance.  Covered in movie feel and old reels, reminding you where Disney began.  However, the reason to visit Hollywood Studios at Christmas is the Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights.  Jennings Osborne from Arkansas once has an extravagant display of Christmas lights and decorations.  So much so that he purchased the property next to his so that he could make his display larger.   In 1995 Jennings decided to give all his lights and decorations to Disney so they would be on permanent display during the holiday season.  I think there might have been some push from the local residents in his hometown to make this happen.

The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights is not to be missed.  The show begins at dusk and ends at midnight, beginning November 7th and is included with your admission to Hollywood Studios.  Every building in the Streets of America section is covered in millions of lights and lighted sculpture.  There are lights between the buildings and over your head. Every 10 minutes or so these lights are set to music and the magic begins.  Grab a hot cocoa and take it all in.  I can't seem to find the words to express how breathtaking this experience is. If you are lucky, your evening will be capped off by a little Disney "snow.

Mickey Mom's Tip:  This is not to be missed if you are in Disney for the holidays.  Make the evening special by treating yourself to a cocoa and a holiday dessert.  Then find a park bench in the Streets of America.  There are tons of hidden gems in the show, so don't forget to look at the windows on the buildings.

Animal Kingdom

Of all the parks, there is definitely less of the "typical" Christmas characteristic here; more organic but magical none the less. When visiting you will notice less of the holiday decor for the protection of the inhabitants and considering the theme of the Animal Kingdom. That is not excuse not to make a visit during your holiday trip. Their Tree is filled with African and Asian art pieces, animal themed of course. 

Mickey Mom's Tip: The characters at Adventurers Outpost will be in their holiday costumes. Swing by for a unique photo opportunity that will be sure to remind you of your special trip to Disney.



Epcot

Epcot during Christmas is one of my favorite places. This is actually where we spent Christmas Day during our trip. It was less crowded and we had our Christmas Dinner at Le Cellier in the Canada Pavilion. Epcot has many special events during the holiday season. The most popular is the Candlelight Processional. The story of Christmas is read by celebrity narrators and accompanied by an orchestra and choir. In 2014 it will be held nightly from November 29th to December 30th at the American Gardens Theater. Times are 5pm, 6:45pm and 8:15pm, but get there early to get a seat. This performance is free with your paid Epcot admission, but Candlelight Processional Dinner Packages are also available for an additional cost. Your reservation will guarantee seating and premium fireworks viewing. They include a meal of your choice at many Epcot restaurants. Reservations can be made with your Disney Travel Planner or by calling 1-407-WDW-DINE and selecting "special dining events". Tickets are on sale now. At of this time here are the announced celebrity narrators:

2014 Candlelight Processional

Another reason to make time at Epcot during the holidays is to tour the World Showcase. Each pavilion boats a Storyteller who shares to traditions of Christmas in their country. Each Storyteller takes a different approach to entertaining the visitors. In Mexico the Three Kings put on a show and in China they share how the New Years celebration is most important to them. Several pavilions boast a Santa Claus, La Befana (Italy) or Father Christmas in detail detailed costume. In 2014 from November 29th through December 30th, Storytellers are available daily. Santa and Mrs. Claus can be seen in the American Pavilion from November 29th to December 24th.  Check your times guides for a schedule when you arrive at the park. Each pavilion also sells in their shops treats, ornaments and holiday treasure that you will not find anywhere else without a passport.





Mickey Mom's Tip: If you children still believe in Santa be sure to have some answers to their questions about all the different Santa's. We told our son that these were just actors pretending to be Santa and that the real Santa changes his clothes depending on which country he visits. Just be ready for THAT question!

Are you looking to book a Holiday vacation to Walt Disney World?  Contact me at maria@snapshotgetaways.com for a quote.

Update on Refurbishments-October 2014

Magic Kingdom Park
Walt Disney World Railroad The Magic Behind Our Steam Trains Tour The Magic Carpets of Aladdin Haunted Mansion Splash Mountain Cinderella's Royal Table Harmony Barber Shop	Sep. 29 - Nov. 7, 2014 Sep. 29 - Nov. 7, 2014 Nov. 10 - 21, 2014 Dec. 1 - 19, 2014 Jan. 4 - 30, 2015 Jan. 5 - Mar. 6, 2015 Feb. 2 - Mar. 30, 2015
Disney's Hollywood Studios
Fantasmic!	Nov. 19 - 21, 2014
Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park
Pangani Research Center - Aviary and Hippo viewing closed Affection Section Kali River Rapids	Sep. 2 - Nov. 14, 2014 Oct. 7 - Nov. 10, 2014 Jan. 20 - Feb. 2, 2015

Disney's Typhoon Lagoon Water Park
Closed for Annual Refurbishment	Oct. 26, 2014 - Jan. 3, 2015
Disney's Blizzard Beach Water Park
Closed for Annual Refurbishment	Jan. 4 - Mar. 14, 2015

Disney's All Star Music Resort
Intermission Food Court Note'able Games Arcade will serve as a temporary location for grab-and-go meals such as sandwiches, salads, and bakery items. Transportation will be provided for Guests who wish to dine at Disney's All-Star Sports Resort or Disney's All-Star Movies Resort. Pizza and other items available for in-room delivery daily from 3 p.m. to 1 a.m.	Aug. 4 - Dec. 19, 2014
Note'able Games Arcade Guests may visit the arcades available at Disney's All-Star Sports Resort and Disney's All-Star Movies Resort.	Jul. 26 - Dec. 19, 2014
Disney's Animal Kingdom Villas - Kidani Village
Uwanja Camp Water Play area not available	Sep. 22 - Oct. 24, 2014
Disney's Beach Club Resort
Guest Room Renovations Guest rooms will be refurbished with new hard and soft goods. Guests will not be accommodated in the affected areas but it is possible that some noise could travel while work is in progress (between 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily).	Oct. 13, 2014 - Aug. 22, 2015
Disney's Polynesian Village Resort
General Construction The east portion of the beach (near the Transportation and Ticket Center) and Sunset Point are being refurbished and are unavailable. Guests may see or hear work in progress.	Dec. 2013 - Mar. 2015
Great Ceremonial House - Lobby The atrium is being reimagined to highlight the cultural elements of Polynesia and provide more expansive views. At certain times of day, there may be some noise and alternative paths of travel may be needed throughout the Great Ceremonial House. To enhance the check-in experience, Guests are encouraged to participate in Online Check-In.	Mar. - Dec. 2014
Nanea Volcano Pool and Slide The main pool and slide will be closed for enhancements. Guests who stay at Disney's Polynesian Village Resort while the main pool is closed will receive one complimentary ticket for each member of their party to visit Disney's Blizzard Beach Water Park during their stay.	Jul. 28, 2014 - early 2015
Samoa Snacks Merchandise Location Closure	Aug. 29, 2014 - TBD
Disney's Wilderness Lodge
Silver Creek Springs Pool The main pool and slide will be closed for enhancements. During this time, the leisure pool at The Villas at Disney's Wilderness Lodge will remain open. Guests will also have the opportunity to visit either the Main Pool at Disney's Contemporary Resort or the Meadow Swimmin' Pool at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground. Complimentary transportation will be provided to both of these neighboring resorts.	Sep. 3 - Nov. 27, 2014
Trout Pass Pool Bar	Sep. 3 - Nov. 27, 2014
Walt Disney World Swan Hotel
Guest Room Renovations Renovation work is scheduled to take place between 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. daily. No guests will be accommodated in the renovation area as to minimize impact on the guest experience.	Aug. 20, 2014 - TBD

Downtown Disney® Area
Roadwork on Buena Vista Drive Due to heavy roadwork, expect delays on Buena Vista Drive. It is recommended that Guests use complimentary Walt Disney World Resort transportation from Parks and Resorts to Downtown Disney and plan to arrive early for reserved dining and entertainment experiences.	Through Mar. 2016 

To Stroller or Not to Stroller?

That is the question!  The question I get most from clients and friends traveling to Disney World.  Especially if your little pirate or princess has ditched their stroller while at home.  But Disney is not a trip to the mall, it's miles and miles of walking.  In my opinion the answer is a resounding YES, if your child is 5 or under.  After that, it's a personal decision based on you and your situation.  So that gives you the "Who", and I'm also here to provide you with the What, Why, When and How.

WHAT?

What kind of stroller is best for Disney?  Well, it depends on your family situation.  There are sit and stands, frames for infant carriers, umbrella strollers, SUV strollers, double strollers, etc.  If you are bringing your own stroller, I suggest a cross between an umbrella stroller and a deluxe stroller.  We bring one that folds several times and has a carrying strap.  Ideally if it reclines and folds up neat, that is a Disney Stroller.  The strollers that are able to be rented in the parks are not appropriate for infants, but the average toddler is comfortable.  The stroller is hard plastic with a brake and sun canopy and some have small storage baskets.

WHY?

Walking makes for a healthy child, right?  Why confine them to a stroller?  Well, because an average day at Disney is MILES of walking.  Walking from the resort room to the bus stop, the bus stop to the entrance, etc.  All that walking is tough on little legs and short fuses.  Why you want a stroller for your little one is to avoid this:

• Carrying Them-As well as your backpack, with your own tired feet.   You will have no control over when or where this happens.  I can pretty much guarantee it will not be at a good time. So be prepared for #2.
• Negotiating-You will offer treats, another ride on Buzz Lightyear, a trip to Mars.  Anything to keep them moving and off your aching back.  Now you are either doing more walking or carrying more stuff.
• The Shut Down-As you will have no control over #1 and #2 this is inevitable.  If you are lucky this will just involve a “stop and drop” near a quiet, shaded bench.  More than likely it will be in the middle of the tight walkway around Cinderella Castle...or so I've heard.  The Shut Down  can also turn into The Complete Meltdown, carrying them out of the park kicking and screaming. The number to cancel your Advanced Dining Reservation, that your agent made 180 days ago, is 1-407-WDW-DINE.

WHEN?

Again, you know your child best. There is no prize given for being a hero and carrying your child around all day.  So here are some general guidelines to consider:

• Infants-They will almost always need a stroller.  Even if you bring the best carrier in the world, Florida's heat will require a break for both you and baby. Maybe you will even get a nap in the stroller?  Sit back with your Mickey Premium ice cream bar and put your own feet up for an hour or so.  Stay tuned for articles on my favorite nap spots in the Parks.
• Toddlers-This age group will need a stroller as well. You might get away without it if you are returning to the parks for dinner after a nap, that's up to you. But during the day at the parks those little legs will need a break.  At this age, the stroller is also a nice measure of control as you maneuver around the crowds.
• Preschoolers-This is where your decision becomes difficult.  You probably haven't used a stroller for a while at home. Maybe it's still stored in the garage from your last Disney trip. If you decide on a stroller, plan on using it at the end of the day and more so towards the end of the trip. The rest of the time it will be a place to store stuff while on the rides.  Disclaimer:  When I say stuff, I do not mean cameras, iPads or purses. Disney is not that magical.

HOW?

• Bring Your Stroller from Home-Easy choice if you are driving.  If you are flying you can check your stroller at the gate and it will be waiting for you outside the airplane when you disembark.  This does not count against your luggage limits and there is no charge.  Same goes for car seats.  This option gives you a stroller at all times; airport, resort, and the parks.
• Rent a Stroller from Disney Guest Services-Single ($15 a Day) or Double ($31 a Day) strollers are available to rent as you enter the parks. There are discounts for multiple days and you will need to leave a deposit on your credit card or resort room. They put your name on the stroller and it is yours for the day inside that park. Plan ahead and bring a ribbon or towel to wrap around the handle of your stroller to make it easier to spot in the sea of strollers. The downside to this choice is that you don't have a stroller upon leaving the parks. The upside is that you don't have a stroller to carry and lug around after leaving the parks. Strollers are welcome, but not available for rent at the water parks. Double strollers are not available for rent at Downtown Disney. 
•  Rent a Stroller from an Outside Vendor-This is rapidly becoming a popular option. There are many companies in the Orlando area which provide this service. Orlando Strollers and Kingdom Strollers are two popular companies. The procedures vary, but basically a company will deliver your stroller selection to your Disney Resort or off site rental. This means you will have your stroller at the resort and in the parks, but don't have to haul it on the plane. Also, there are  Special Needs strollers for older, disabled children. FYI-They will offer you stroller insurance which covers the stroller if it is lost or stolen. This is a personal decision, I am not up to date on the current crime rate statistics for Disney Stroller Theft.

The most important thing to remember is that you know your child best, so ultimately you have to decide what's best for your family. Being prepared with your options and planning ahead of time will make your Disney trip Magical.

Maria, AKA Mickey Mom is a Travel Planner for Snapshot Getaways. When she is not planning trips for others, she is dreaming of going to Disney.  Check out her MickeyMom Facebook Page

Friday Freebie-Disneyland Recipes

For many of us, a trip to Disney is not complete without a particular food item.  You can find many recipes online, but the best place to go is the Disney Insider.  They provide the recipe direct from the chef!  Subscribe to their newsfeed for the newest updates at the park as well.  Here are a
few of our favorites from Disneyland:


Maurice's Treats Strawberry Twists

Cheesy Enchilada Soup

Club 33's Pumpkin Beignets

Steakhouse 55's Lump Crabcakes

Please share any recipes or photos from your special Disney Parks food creations!

Maria aka MickeyMom is a mom to 2, loves to eat at Disney and is a travel planner for Snapshot Getaways.  Follow her Facebook Page or contact her at maria@snapshotgetaways.com

Friday Freebie-Celebration Buttons

One of the most popular pieces of advice given by savvy Disney travelers is to get your “Disney Button” .  You may ask what could possibly make you want to look like you work for a restaurant chain while visiting Disney?  Well, Disney is its own little “World” and wearing Disney Buttons and Mickey Ears on your head are all OK.  So here is the dish on Disney World Buttons.

What are they?

Well, they are a 3 inch round button provided by Disney at no charge to you.  They promote different occasions you might have come to Disney to celebrate.   Currently there are buttons available for the following:

• First Visit (Can be personalized)
• Happy Birthday or Feliz Cumpleanos (Can be personalized)
• Happy Anniversary
• Just Married
• Just Engaged
• Family Reunion
• Generic “I’m Celebrating”

Where do I get one?

• If you’ve notated your special occasion on your resort reservation its likely they will have ready for you when you check in.  If not, ask at the concierge desk and they will make up a button for you.
• Guest Services at Animal Kingdom, Hollywood Studios or Epcot.
• City Hall at the Magic Kingdom

What do I get with my button?

A little extra pixie dust is all I tell everyone to expect.  Everything after that is a bonus!  Cast Members will go out of their way to wish you a “Happy Birthday” or other occasion when they notice your button.  Here are some other perks we’ve gotten over the years:

• The button itself makes a cool souvenir, make sure they redo the writing as you finish your trip.  It can get a little rough-looking after a few days.
• A special dessert (cupcake, ice cream, etc.) at a table service meal.
• Signed birthday cards from the characters at a character meal.
• Stickers handed out randomly by cast members.
• Balloon Bouquets from the resort
• Extra attention during a live show

What are the rules?

There are no hard and fast rules for getting a button.  While Disney gives them out freely I think it ruins the magic if you take a button just to get free stuff.  That being said, I don’t think it has to be your actual birthday or anniversary to get a button.  If you are in Disney celebrating the occasion then make sure everyone knows it!  My son’s birthdays are 6 weeks apart and when we celebrate at Disney we go in between both their days.  They both get a celebration button of course!

Anyone have a button I didn’t mention above?  They’ve changed over the years and some come and go.  Want to share your button stories?  We would love to hear from you!

Maria aka MickeyMom is a mom to 2 boys and sadly has never gotten a celebration button.  She is also a travel planner with Snapshot Getaways and you may follow her on her Mickey Mom Facebook Page.

Friday Freebie-Customized Park Maps

NOTE:  AS of JAN 2015 Disney is no longer offering these customized maps.  We will notify you if they are available.

Little known fact.  Disney has something for free...and it's practical and can be a souvenir of your trip.  Customized Walt Disney World Maps.  This is perfect for First Timers and Disney Devotees to get a Dumbo's eye view of the four parks before traveling.  Familiarize yourself with the park layout and how far apart those rides can be.  Especially important when planning your dining reservations and FastPass Plus.

You can order your maps directly from Disney by clicking here.  Or going to your My Disney Experience Page.  You can decide to print maps of all four parks, or just one park in particular.  These maps can be customized to choose which rides you want on your "must do" list.  You can even map out your dining plans!  All you do is check a box next to the ride or attraction.   There are even tailored suggestions for travelers with little kids, big kids and no kids.

After you've customized your maps you have the option to print them at home or have them printed by Disney.  If you have them printed by Disney they will mail them to you at no cost and they are much prettier than the smaller, tri-fold maps at the parks.

Disney Devoted Tip:  If you choose not to order maps before you leave you can always print them when you get home.  By selecting the rides and attractions you did during your trip, you now have a  souvenir to put in a scrapbook.

Snapshot Getaways agents are more than happy to assist clients who book with us, on their Fastpass Plus and Dining Reservations.   You still can order the cool maps!


Maria is a Travel Planner for Snapshot Getaways and tries to order maps every trip!  Follow Maria at her Mickey Mom Facebook page.

The Cheapest Souvenir in Disney

What kind of souvenir can you get for 51 cents at Disney?  A Souvenir Pressed Penny.  Every attraction in the country seems to know the power of the pressed penny machine and Disney is no exception.  What sets Disney World apart is the sheer number and variety of pennies available.  There are entire blogs and websites devoted to pressed penny collecting.  I'm going to keep it simple and give you the low-down on pressed pennies at Disney World.

What are They?

Pressed Penny Machines are typically a crank-type machine which will elongate your penny and stamp a selected image on the front.  At Disney most of the machines have a button now instead of a crank.  The cost involved is two quarters plus the one penny you want to smoosh.  Although not prevalent,  there are also pressed quarter machines.  They are $1.25, four quarters and the additional quarter to be pressed.  After depositing your coins, you select an image from several choices and turn the crank or press the button.  For kids, this is their favorite part.  Hence the appeal of the penny machine.

Where are They?
Just about everywhere!  All the Parks and most of the Resorts will be happy to take your 51 cents.  Most of the attraction have a penny machine located near the exit or in the gift shop.  They will feature images and the name of the ride or attraction which makes them a great memory.

Why Pressed Pennies?
Besides being cheap, kids love them.  A penny from your resort is something you can look back on and stir up memories of your trip.  Kids can collect pennies from rides, especially the ones they have been waiting they've been waiting to be tall enough to go on for years.  A pressed penny can also solve that "gimme/getme" moment for minimal cost.  For 51 cents you've made your kids day...until you pass the next gift shop.  There are a ton of images and Disney changes them out occasionally, so they are something you can keep doing on subsequent trips.  A bonus benefit is the size.  They will not weigh down your backpack or require souvenir delivery.

Ready to hunt for some pennies?  Here are locations for Disney World and Disneyland.

Disney Devotee Tips:

• Buy a Penny Collection Book-This can be done ahead of time, but I recommend treating yourself to a Disney book.  Most of the gift shops carry them.  Organize your books by park, trip, etc.  If you plan to buy a book ahead of time, make a fun craft of decorating it for your trip.
• Be Penny ready-Before you leave, have your pennies at the ready.  The best method I've found is an old film container or mini M&M container (empty of course).  Put two quarters and a shiny penny in and repeat until full.  That way you are not fumbling in front of the machine for change.
• Avoid Repeats-If you are a frequent traveler, take a photo copy or cell phone pic of your pennies before you go back to Disney.  That way you will know which pennies you already have.
• Old vs. New Pennies-Older Pennies (Before 1982) that are all copper will "smoosh" cleanly, while newer pennies (zinc with copper outside) will have streaks from the zinc.  This is a choice you will have to make.  Older pennies can be soaked in vinegar to shine them up a bit.
• Heads vs. Tails-The head side of the penny is preferable.  The monument image on the tail can often distort the stamping.

Maria is a mom to 2 penny collectors and likes to eat mini M&M's.  She is also a travel planner with Snapshot Getaways and would love to help you plan your next trip.  You can follow her on her Mickey Mom Facebook Page.