by Kimberly LaPaglia | Nov 5, 2017 | Disney, WDW Resorts
Romance at Walt Disney World: Favorite Hotels for Couples
Romance at Walt Disney World?! If you’re reading this article, you are either looking for romantic ideas for your Walt Disney World vacation or you are wondering how couples are finding lovely moments to share at a theme park.
I’m writing this so that you don’t doubt for a moment that couples can find romance at Walt Disney World. I’ve got date suggestions coming soon too. For now, let’s delve into the hotels at Walt Disney World. This photographic tour will point out our favorite hotels for couples at WDW.
Join us on this romantic journey; better yet, grab your sweetheart, a fabulous beverage, and start planning your trip together.
In the spirit of fairytales, these resorts inspire us to dream in settings similar to the Disney classics. Reserve a room at any of these hotels and let their charm woo you and your beloved.
Disney’s Grand Floridian
Some guests love the old world charm, others find it a little too reminiscent of their grandmother’s parlor. Either way, look a little closer at Disney’s Grand Floridian.
Let time go by at the GF Lobby.
Yes, I have a bias here. Michael and I honeymooned at the GF; we also have spent many anniversaries holding hands and staring up at the gabled roofs.
Victorian elegance at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort.
What makes it so grand? It’s a quiet evening listening to the Grand Floridian Society Orchestra.
Request your favorite tune!
A waterside table at Narcoossee’s will have fireworks flying between the two of you. Don’t forget to find the perfect spot to watch fireworks from the resort. We recommend a table or the patio at Narcoossee’s, a Magic Kingdom fireworks cruise from the marina, a balcony from your lagoon view room, or a cozy spot on the dock.
Narcoossee’s waterfront restaurant
With a spa, a lobby filled with fresh cut flowers, an assortment of restaurants, beautiful rooms (request a dormer or “attic” room), maids on parade (do they still do this?!), two featured pools, and a view of Cinderella’s Castle, the Grand Floridian should definitely be a top choice for your romantic weekend or week-long stay.
Disney’s GF is GRAND.
Our most romantic moment ever in Walt Disney World? Renewing our vows for our tenth wedding anniversary!
Our 10th anniversary vow renewal.
We rode in Cinderella’s Coach, exchanged vows at Disney’s Wedding Pavilion, had a small reception at the Grand Floridian, and ended the evening with an Epcot IllumiNations dessert party for our family and friends.
Disney’s BoardWalk Resort
At first glance, the BoardWalk Resort seems to be too busy for romance. However, the goings-on at the BoardWalk add to the mystique.
Evening at the BoardWalk.
For rooms, we recommend a Concierge garden view or a two-story garden villa with a charming and private entrance. Rooms facing the boardwalk will be noisier so do request a quieter location.
Club Level Garden Rooms have private gardens!
Quiet morning or evening strolls around the BoardWalk or a walk to Epcot’s World Showcase for a memorable meal are just some of the reasons the BoardWalk is sure to steal your heart.
We recommend escaping to the Belle Vue Lounge to toast your own love story before lounging in your room.
Concierge room at BoardWalk Inn.
Then, head down to Ample Hills Creamery to indulge in an ice cream flight.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
Set under a thatched room in an exotic setting, the Animal Kingdom Lodge will delight your senses. Wood crackling fires, intoxicating smells, a sprawling pool with shaded lounge chairs, moonlight illuminating a giraffe on the savanna — these are all reasons to cozy up to your loved one at this unique resort.
Animal Kingdom Lodge Lobby
We love exploring the nooks and crannies of AKL. There’s always some where to sit back and take in the wonders of the lodge. Or sneak kisses at an outdoor overlook. At night, sip grown up beverages in the Victoria Falls Lounge or stop by the campfire at Arusha Overlook.
Firepit with cozy rocking chairs.
You’ll find both Jambo House and Kidani Village to offer romantic surroundings.
Disney’s Port Orleans French Quarter
What moderately priced hotel at Walt Disney World exudes charm? For us, it’s Disney’s Port Orleans French Quarter.
Sit by the fountain.
The wrought iron railings, lantern lighting, paved walkways, and gorgeous fountains beckon lovers on romantic walks.
Take an early evening stroll.
Along the way, you’ll run into the Sassagoula River with water gently lapping against the riverbank. Around the bend, is our next choice for romance and it’s another moderate resort…
Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside
For a romantic stay, we recommend requesting a room in one of the three-story mansion buildings. Grand staircases, bubbling fountains, and white stately columns welcome guests at Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside Resort.
Gorgeous fountain at Riverside.
A stroll through the mansion section of this resort soothes weary souls.
Romantic walkway.
You’ll find your hearts melting as you admire the horse-drawn carriage slowly meandering through the lush landscaping with picturesque azaleas and magnolias lining the way. Reserve your extra-fee ride in advance by calling (407) WDW-PLAY.
Horse-drawn Carriage Ride.
In the late evening, take a walk to French Quarter and share beignets with your sweetie.
Sugary sweetness.
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
Exotic flowers and dark woods are featured throughout the lobby of the Polynesian Village. Romance is in the air in the colorful but soothing Great Ceremonial House.
Cute Tiki Statue welcomes guests to the south seas atmosphere at Polynesian Village.
Watch for hula lessons; extra points if you both join in! Afterwards, find a warm and cozy place in the tropical themed lobby.
At night, the tiki torches will light your way as you stroll to a beachside hammock with a Dole Whip to share from Pineapple Lanai.
Tiki Torches light your way.
Lovebirds will find lots to do: sip a Lapu Lapu out of a coconut, find a serene spot to sit at the quiet pool, listen to the sounds of the ferry boat in the distance, enjoy a beverage at Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto.
Visit Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto.
Purchase some wine and chocolate-covered macadamia nuts to enjoy in your room or at your private Oasis patio right by the pool.
Wine and Chocolate Macadamia Nuts!
The above are all solid options for a romantic getaway at Walt Disney World. With the right planning, most hotels at Disney World can be romantic. Just add a picnic meal, a beverage in the moonlight, or hold hands while watching an outdoor movie. For rates and availability, visit my Disney Vacation Planning page.
Finally, make sure to sign up for our newsletter to stay tuned for in-depth hotel reviews.
What’s your favorite romantic Disney hotel? Contact Us or Follow Us on Facebook (or any of our social media channels) and share your photos!
by Kimberly LaPaglia | Nov 5, 2017 | Disney, Epcot, Europe, Paris, Travel, Walt Disney World
Paris Travel Theme
Bienvenue à Paris – welcome to our Paris Travel Theme.
An iconic landmark.
You’ll never forget your first trip to Paris. Steeped in romance and indulgence, the streets lined with bakeries and boutiques are sure to delight your senses. Around every corner, history and art merge in memorable architecture. And if you love the Eiffel Tower (and puzzles) as much as I do, try the Eiffel Tower 3D Puzzle!
Arc de Triomphe.
Paris, France
Paris will likely stop you in your tracks — countless times as you explore this very special city. From the labyrinth hallways at The Louvre to the awe-inspiring, sky-scraping Eiffel Tower, there are sights to take in all around you. Step inside the treasured buildings for jaw-dropping scenery.
Inside Notre Dame.
Paris captures hearts and makes you fall in love with architecture, history, art, food, and wine.
Paris Las Vegas Hotel and Casino
While the splendors of Paris are difficult to duplicate elsewhere, travelers can find a small taste of Paris while vacationing in Las Vegas. At Paris Las Vegas you’ll find the excitement of the City of Lights. There’s even a crepe stand inside. YUM!
A small dose of Paris in Las Vegas.
Full hotel review — coming soon!
France Pavilion in Epcot
Walking through Epcot’s France pavilion, Walt Disney World guests can sample Parisian food and wares.
View of France Pavilion in Epcot.
From the bakery to the ice cream parlor to the crepes on the street, Epcot’s France pavilion serves up plenty of sweet treats. Table service dining is a huge draw here too. Ever since Chef Bocuse first opened Les Chefs de France at Epcot in 1982 (it was the first and only Bocuse-affiliated restaurant in the U.S.A.), guests have been savoring the sips and bites at this family-friendly location.
We always start our meal with the French Onion Soup.
Baked to perfection!
Bonus Paris Travel Theme: LEGOLAND
Even built with LEGOs, Paris themes are recognizable.
LEGOLAND California features The Paris Las Vegas Hotel among the other hotels on the Las Vegas strip. Want to impress the kids? Take them to a LEGOLAND park!
Paris Hotel built from LEGOs.
Paris Las Vegas Hotel at LEGOLAND Florida.
Paris is love at first sight. Travel to Paris via France, Epcot at Walt Disney World, or Las Vegas!
What’s your favorite place to tour in Paris? Do you have a Paris themed travel idea to share?
by Kimberly LaPaglia | Oct 30, 2017 | Disney, Walt Disney World
Halloween Tips for WDW
It’s never too late to get prepared for your Disney vacation and today we have Halloween Tips for WDW. Walt Disney World celebrates the seasons with unique parties, festive decor, and yummy treats all year long. During the fall months, the Magic Kingdom features not-so-scary fun for the whole family.
Planning for 2018? My favorite outside ticket source is Undercover Tourist. You can save $59 on a 6-Day Disney World Park Hopper Ticket; check out the ticket options.
Halloween Merchandise
While you’ll find plenty of costume choices and seasonal bakery items, store shelves are also filled with Halloween wares for your home.
Haunted Mansion Hatbox Ghost.
Trick or Treat!
Decorate your home for Halloween.
Halloween Costume Tips
Keep your costume comfortable, family-friendly, and weather appropriate. Visits earlier in the season should plan for an outfit that can be comfortable in the Florida heat. Yes, even after dark, you’ll be sweating (or glistening!) from the high humidity. For truly unique Disney styles, head to The Dress Shop at Cherry Tree Lane.
Haunted Mansion items.
Read the guidelines. Plan your costume ahead of your vacation to save money on last minute shopping or higher prices at Walt Disney World.
Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party
Since August 25, 2017, families have been enjoying Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party on select nights at the Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World. The event is held from 7:00 PM to midnight.
Happy Haunts.
Kids of all ages have been seen trick or treating throughout the park. We spotted some terrific costumes on our fall visits. If you are lucky to attend one of the last parties of the season or have plans to visit in 2018, don’t plan your costume until you read over the Halloween costume guidelines. Parties end November 1st giving the park time to transform for the Christmas celebrations including Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party.
Adult ticket prices started at $74 for the earlier parties and went up to nearly $100 for the late October/early November events. Book tickets early for popular dates including Halloween night on October 31st.
Reserve party tickets early for popular dates!
We love this family friendly party.
Seasonal Balloons.
Don’t forget to line up early for character greetings as long queues are the norm.
Line up early to meet Jack.
These adorable dwarfs love the Halloween party. Well, maybe not that Grumpy one. 😉
Seven Dwarfs at Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party
Tip: Arrive at 4PM and Cast Members will allow entry with your party ticket. We recommend resting earlier in the day so that you can take full advantage of the late night hours. Boo to You!
Seasonal Halloween Treats
Many Halloween treats can be found throughout the parks, resorts, and Disney Springs. No trip down Main Street is complete without a detour through the Main Street Confectionery. Tip: Visit bakery hot spots prior to closing time to avoid long lines while your tummy is rumbly.
All-Star Music filled their bakery case with sugar cookies with orange and black sprinkles.
Seasonal sugar cookies are delicious.
Mouthwatering treats add doses of deliciousness to the Halloween festivities in Walt Disney World.
Grab a seasonal cupcake!
Of course, Rice Crispy Treats take on holiday designs too. These Candy Corn Rice Crispy Treats make great snacks and gifts.
Rice Crispy Treats make great gifts for friends back home!
Disney Resorts
At All-Star Music, we spotted guests showing off their Halloween spirit with this fun window display.
Halloween spirit!
And make sure to sign up for our newsletter to stay tuned to more holiday Disney magic.
Disney Parks
Magic Kingdom
The Magic Kingdom’s festive decorations make fall an extra fun time to visit.
Fall decor at the Magic Kingdom
One of our favorite seasonal stops in the Magic Kingdom is the Main Street Confectionery.
Main Street U.S.A. never disappoints — love the fall decorations.
Main Street U.S.A.
Magic Kingdom is family-friendly at Halloween, even the scarecrows are fun not frightful.
Not-so-scary scarecrow.
Animal Kingdom
Even DinoLand U.S.A. surprises guests with whimsical Halloween decorations.
Dino Decor.
Disney Springs
Disney Springs was spooktacular too with tasty treats and fun photo ops.
Halloween at Disney Springs.
Shop til you drop!
Shop til you drop during Halloween time.
World of Disney can be crazy busy so stop by on a weekday morning or evening for a less chaotic experience. The seasonal decor is stunning.
Halloween Decorations at World of Disney.
At Vivoli il Gelato, the seasonal pumpkin gelato is my husband’s favorite flavor.
Why choose only one flavor of gelato?
Do you have any Halloween Tips for WDW? What did you wear to Walt Disney World’s Halloween Party this year? Contact Us or Follow Us on Facebook and share your photos!
by Kimberly LaPaglia | Oct 29, 2017 | Disney, Disney Springs, Vintage Disney, Walt Disney World Throwbacks
Cherry Tree Lane
Based on the upscale London address in Disney’s Mary Poppins, Cherry Tree Lane was a source of must-stop shopping fun at the Marketplace Co-Op at Disney Springs in Walt Disney World.
While the square footage of this store was small, there were a lot of tempting items for purchase lining the shelves. From pricey Dooney & Bourke handbags to unique jewelry, Cherry Tree Lane was THE place to splurge on a souvenir or gift.
Did you stop by Cherry Tree Lane?
The Dress Shop at Cherry Tree Lane
The Dress Shop was a collection of nostalgic Disney designs for adults. Perfectly created for grown-ups, dresses and accessories featured designs from popular Disney attractions.
Be Cinderella!
Designs were inspired by Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room, “it’s a small world,” The Haunted Mansion, and the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Other creations showcased classic Disney characters, including Minnie Mouse, Snow White from Walt Disney’s “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,” and Alice from Walt Disney’s “Alice in Wonderland.”
Inspired by The Hollywood Tower Hotel.
Dresses ranged in sizes from XS-XL. There were some styles that went up to 3XL, so guest could keep checking for their favorite dress pattern.
Haunted Mansion items.
Vera Bradley Handbags
Also, Disney designs were offered on Vera Bradley bags.
Remember these Vera Bradley Disney patterns?
Dooney & Bourke Handbags
Next, we liked to peruse the Dooney & Bourke handbags with beautiful Disney patterns. This Bambi bag was adorable, right?!
Adorable Bambi bag by Dooney & Bourke.
The stock changed frequently, so it was fun to stop into Cherry Tree Lane when visiting Disney Springs.
Disney Dooneys!
Dooney & Bourke displays were nestled within The Dress Shop items.
I liked to stop by Cherry Tree Lane and look at the Dooney & Bourke collection.
Pet Merchandise for Your Dog
Even your favorite furry pal could find stylish accessories at Cherry Tree Lane!
Accessories for your dog!
This was one of my favorite places to shop at Walt Disney World!
Author P.L. Travers brought magic to 17 Cherry Tree Lane with the arrival of Mary Poppins to this fictitious address in London. Shopkeepers at The Dress Shop at Cherry Tree Lane in the Marketplace Co-Op of Disney Springs used to send shoppers on their way with nostalgic outfits.
While Cherry Tree Lane is now closed, there are many other places to shop at Disney Springs. Don’t miss Tren-D, DisneyStyle, Marketplace Co-Op, Vera Bradley, and World of Disney. Just to name a few!
Disney Springs Tips
- Annual Passholders – when shopping, ask if you get a discount. Don’t forget to show your AP and picture ID!
- Avoid weekends; browse on a weekday morning.
- Check out shopdisney.com for at-home shopping.
Contact Us, Follow Us on Twitter, or comment below. What Disney dress or accessory is on your wish list?
by Kimberly LaPaglia | Oct 1, 2017 | Disney, Disney Restaurants, Disney Springs
WDW Table Service Review: Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’
You must add Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ restaurant to your next Walt Disney World itinerary. Bless your heart; this is southern comfort food served with innovative style.
Michael and I booked a meal at this cozy Table Service Restaurant — Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ — located in Disney Springs.
Lunch at Homecomin’!
Repeat visitors may have noticed the subtle name change here. The restaurant debuted as Homecoming and then took on a more southern sound, Homecomin’. Indeed, Chef Art has brought his culinary skills back to his Floridian roots. In Jasper to the north of Disney World, Chef Art’s mom, Addie Mae, used local ingredients like sugar cane and citrus in her homemade recipes. You’ll find cake on the menu if you have room for dessert; Chef Art baked cakes for Central Foods in the 1981 Magic Kingdom college program. Welcome to Homecomin’!
Homecomin’ Decor
An outdoor patio (and screened porch) welcomes guests to sit a spell while drinking beverages from Shine Bar.
Large Dining Table.
Porch.
Beautiful view of Disney Springs from screened porch.
Shine Bar.
Inside, some of the rustic chandeliers boast the wonders of russet potatoes. I’m a starch, lovin’ spud fan so I was already digging the farmhouse ambiance.
Russet Potatoes. Yes, please!
With a late lunch reservation, we were seated quickly inside the quiet restaurant. As the dinner hour neared, the restaurant filled up and the noise level increased. Still, it was a relaxing meal with attentive service.
The dining room showcases local farmers.
You’ll notice that some tables offer pretty views of Disney Springs.
Tables in Dining Room.
Inside and outside, guests will find mentions of Florida Sunshine and local ingredients throughout the decor.
The open kitchen window.
While waiting for your table or prior to exiting the restaurant, look for personal artifacts adorned on the restaurant walls.
Letter from WDW to Chef Art Smith.
While the ambiance is comforting, the food also sets the mood for an experience to relish.
Homecomin’ Food and Beverages
Local farmers are key to the fresh ingredients showcased on the menu. As you’ll see, this restaurant’s menu is Florida-inspired.
Menu.
Beverages include shine on tap, crafty moonshine, resort cocktails, wine, moonshine flights, and beer (drafts, cans, and bottles).
Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ Beverage Menu.
Shine Bar.
My husband and I both ordered the Thigh High Chicken Biscuits as our entree.
Thigh High Chicken Biscuits
Drizzled with hot honey, three biscuits are filled with Chef Art’s famous fried chicken thighs plus bread and butter pickles. These were absolutely divine.
Thigh High Chicken Biscuits.
Drizzled in honey!
Typically, southern dinners showcase an assortment of sides that are usually no less delicious than the main course. The choices we made at Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ did not disappoint. We opted to share the Creamy Mashed Potatoes and Momma’s Mac and Cheese. Both were easily shareable due to the hefty portions and rich flavors.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes
These were a game-changer for both of us. We wondered throughout the meal how a simple dish like mashed potatoes could be elevated to such divine quality. Yes, they are as creamy as they are unforgettable.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes.
Look at that gravy!
Momma’s Mac and Cheese
Please, just order the mac and cheese. First of all, this dish is visually stunning; the family seated near us had to ask what it was so they could order it too.
And every forkful is filled with tender macaroni brimming with cheese.
Momma’s Mac and Cheese.
It’s impossible to describe the mouth-watering adventure that our taste buds were treated to during this meal. We both agreed that all three of our choices were some of the best food that we’ve ever tasted. We truly left wondering how these simple, southern specialties could be so different from anything we’ve previously tasted. Every bite was savored and yes, we’re going back for more very soon!
Fun souvenirs.
Recommendation and Tips
Portions are hearty. Share some or all elements of your meal.
Dine early to beat the crowds.
Order an appetizer as your entree; as a picky eater, I’m always a fan of restaurants with apps that are entree-worthy.
Ask your server about the restaurant, Chef Art Smith, and local ingredients. We found out that Chef Art Smith is as generous and kind in person as he is portrayed in the media.
Chef Art stops by about twice per month.
The restaurant features local farmers.
Check out the merchandise.
Souvenir Cups.
Disney Restaurant Facts
- Disney Springs/The Landing
- American Cuisine/Vegetarian Items Limited
- Kids Menu
- Casual Table Service/Grab and Go Items Available
- Some Dining Plans Accepted
- Menu
Have you dined at Homecomin’ yet? What should we try on our next visit? Contact Us, Follow Us on Twitter, or comment below.
