Tips Archives - On the Go in MCO

Walt Disney World Planning Tools Launching October 19th

IT. IS. TIME.

Walt Disney World just announced that the Disney Genie service will launch on October 19, 2021, at Walt Disney World Resort!

Walt Disney World – Disney Genie

Available for all guests in the My Disney Experience app, the complimentary Disney Genie service offers new features that let you create your best Disney day.

These features include a personalized itinerary creator that effortlessly and smartly maps out an entire day inspired by the things you love – helping you make the most of your park time so you can have more fun.

The complimentary Disney Genie Service Includes:

Tailored Recommendations – You’ll receive attraction and dining recommendations inspired in part by what you told Disney Genie service you’re most interested in doing. It even displays a good time to go to an experience and an idea of the forecasted wait. Need to swap a recommendation out? No problem. Like many popular navigation apps, Disney Genie will continue to offer new suggestions throughout the day, so you can make the most of your time during your visit.
A Personalized Daily Itinerary – Your “My Day” tab is where you’ll find Disney Genie recommendations and any plans you’ve made, including dining reservations, Disney Resort hotel reservations and activity bookings. You’ll also be able to virtually chat with a Cast Member who can help answer any questions that arise.
A Custom Tip Board – This new feature will let you see estimated wait times for your top attractions, entertainment and dining. You’ll also be able to order food, make dining reservations, check into a restaurant, request to join an available virtual queue (currently at Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure), and even book arrival times for our new Lightning Lane entrance at select experiences if you’ve purchased Disney Genie+ service.

Walt Disney World – Disney Genie+

In addition to getting all of the great features that come with upgrading to the complimentary version of Disney Genie service, purchasing Disney Genie+ service will offer even more convenience and flexibility, for $15 per ticket per day.

Disney Genie+ Perks Include:

Enjoy the Magic You Want with Less Wait – Save time waiting in line by purchasing Disney Genie+ service! This new service, at more than 40 attractions and experiences throughout the Walt Disney World theme parks, lets you select the next available arrival window for the new Lightning Lane entrances. You can make one selection at a time throughout the day—from classics like Haunted Mansion and thrill rides like Big Thunder Mountain Railroad to newer favorites like Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run (experiences subject to limited availability). With Disney Genie+, you can select Lightning Lane arrival windows across multiple theme parks for those who have the Park Hopper option.

Disney PhotoPass Lenses – Access special Disney PhotoPass Lenses for your mobile device, allowing you to explore magical new augmented reality effects.
Audio Tales – Discover the parks in cool new ways through fascinating fun facts and behind-the-scenes insights you can listen to during your visit.

Disney Genie+ selections are available beginning at 7:00 AM on the day of your visit, you’ll have the opportunity to secure your first arrival time.

Starting October 19th, you’ll be able to purchase Disney Genie+ service on the day of your visit or purchase as an add-on to a theme park ticket by modifying your existing ticket prior to arrival. You can also purchase new tickets that include Disney Genie+ before your visit.

When using Disney Genie+ guests are responsible for:

Determining whether options and recommendations are appropriate for their party and
consulting all experience restrictions and advisories, including height requirements, health and safety advisories and accessibility guidelines.

Lightning Lane

With this launch, we’ll also be introducing the Lightning Lane entrance. Available for purchase through our Disney Genie+ add-on at more than 40 attractions – or individually, “à la carte” at some of our most highly demanded attractions – the Lightning Lane entrance can save you time waiting in line.

Click here for a first look at the list of current attractions with Lightning Lane entrances and info on pricing.

As a reminder, attractions continue to offer a traditional standby queue or from time to time, a virtual queue may instead be used at select attractions, like right now at Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure.

To get ready for the launch, I’ll be sharing more information as it becomes available, but you can also visit DisneyGenie.com for more details.

Universal Orlando Premieres 2021 Special Offers

The Universal Orlando Resort is welcoming 2021 with SEVERAL special offers that invite guests to plan an epic trip to the award-winning theme park destination this year.

Here are the epic offers guests can take advantage of today:

Get 3 Months Free on any 2-Park Annual or Seasonal Pass

Right now any guest who purchases a 2-Park Annual or Seasonal Pass will receive three extra months free to enjoy all that Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure have to offer. Universal Orlando Annual and Seasonal Passes are loaded with benefits and perks to experience the resort like a pro, including exclusive extras like discounts and special offers.

This offer is available for purchase through March 31, 2021. Blockout dates apply on select passes. For more information and to purchase, click here.

Family Savings on Vacation Packages

Guests can also take advantage of special offers to receive huge savings on a multi-day getaway to Universal Orlando now through mid-December.

Guests who purchase a 4-Day, 2-Park or 3-Park ticket (starting at $224.99 per adult, plus tax) can save up to $50 per ticket – that’s a combined savings of up to $200 for a family of four.

Guests can also take advantage of this offer as part of a vacation package to Universal Orlando, and receive a total savings of up to $800 on a package that includes five-night accommodations at one of Universal’s beautifully-themed hotels and 4-day theme park tickets for a family of four.

These offers are available for purchase now through April 27, 2021, and can be used for visits through December 17, 2021. For more information and to purchase, click here.

Florida Resident Ticket Offer

Florida residents can also take advantage of an exclusive Universal Orlando ticket offer to purchase a 1-Day, 2-Park ticket (as low as $181 per adult, plus tax) and receive three extra days free to experience both Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure.

Florida residents can purchase this ticket now (subject to availability) and can visit any four days through April 30, 2021 with no blockout dates. This offer is not available for purchase at the front gate. For more information and to purchase, click here.

Florida Resident Staycation Offer

Staying in one of Universal Orlando’s hotels is the best way to make the most of a vacation to the award-winning theme park destination, with exclusive theme park benefits like Early Park Admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, free Universal Express Unlimited access at select hotels, convenient and complimentary transportation across the destination and more.

Florida residents can take advantage of nightly rates as low as $79 plus tax at the all-new Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites, while non-Florida residents can book a stay at Dockside Inn and Suites for as low as $88 per night, plus tax based on a four-night stay. And, with a hotel for every vacation style and budget, discounted nightly rates are currently available at every Universal Orlando hotel.

For more information about these offers, visit www.UniversalOrlando.com.

Walt Disney World Reopening: Theme Park Essentials

With Walt Disney World reopening today for an Annual Passholder Preview and this weekend for guests, I thought that it would be a good chance to share the theme park essentials I take to the parks in our new normal.

Walt Disney World Reopening: Theme Park Essentials

Hand Sanitizer

While you can find hand sanitizer and hand washing stations throughout the parks, I really like having my own hand sanitizer with me because it gives me the opportunity to go ahead and use a little as soon as I get on or as soon as I get off of an attraction.

Battery Operated Fan

I find the most useful thing to have in my bag when I go into the theme parks is a battery operated fan.

Wearing a mask while you are outside can make things feel hotter than expected, and when I have my battery operated fan I’m able to pop it on when I need an extra boost of cold air to help me feel more comfortable.

Extra Face Coverings

Speaking of feeling more comfortable, I always pack extra face coverings just in case I need to switch them through the day.

It’s the rainy season and wearing a wet face covering is about as comfortable as wearing wet socks, so just make sure you pack an extra mask so that you’ll have it just in case.

Alcohol Pads

This one might sound weird…but stick with me…

I bring alcohol pads, much like the ones that you’d find in a Doctor’s office, to help clean my phone throughout the day.

One thing that I have become hyper aware of is how many times I pick up and put down my phone from a surface during the day, and this gives me an extra slice of peace of mind.

Portable Cell Phone Charger

On every list I’ve ever made about what I keep in my bag, a portable cell phone charger has always been on the list.

However, it’s even more important now as you are going to need to do more things on your phone in the theme parks throughout the day.

These are my five theme park essentials, but I’m sure as I visit the parks more I’m going to find there other things that I like keeping with me so I’m sure they’ll be a part two to this post.

If you have a must-have to bring in your theme park bag, especially for the Walt Disney World Reopening, I would love to hear about it!

You can find more information about theme park news and tips by subscribing to our YouTube Channel and following @onthegoinmco on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!

Tips and Tricks for Visiting Disney Springs

Disney Springs at the Walt Disney World Resort is now open, and currently operating in Phase 1 of their reopening strategy.

I was really excited to be there to see what everything was like, and to share my experience with you!

Here’s what I learned from my visit to Disney Springs that you might find helpful for your next visit!

Parking 411

Disney Springs Reopening Phase 1 Tips and Tricks

Disney Springs is managing their parking a little differently than you would expect from their initial announcement.

The Orange and Lime garages will both open however, they are opening the orange garage first to help manage the flow of guests into Disney Springs.

Upon entering the garage be sure to pay attention to new signs and to watch for additional directions from Cast Members.

Currently they are not staggering parking spaces, so be prepared to park as normal.

Pro-Tip: If you want to avoid the crowds, your best access point will be the Hotel Plaza Boulevard Walkway as it has the least amount of foot traffic entering Disney Springs.

Don’t be intimidated by Temperature Check

After you have parked, it’s time to make your way to your Disney Springs pre-admission health check.

Advent Health employees are administering temperature checks at all points of entrance to Disney Springs, and any guest with a temperature over 100.4 will not be granted entrance.

Pro-Tip: This is where they will have disposable masks if you do not have one. You will have to sign a form to receive one, but they are available.

Wearing a mask takes some getting used to

Here’s the truth…

I visited Disney Springs from 9 AM until 3 PM, and it was a pretty hot day (it got up to around 97 degrees).

I wore my mask the entire time, aside from the hour I was eating my lunch, and while it did get a little uncomfortable at times I walked for a while without stepping into a store I wouldn’t say it was unbearable.

The best thing you could do is listen to your body, and if you are getting overheated or overwhelmed step into a store or carry a small fan with you to get a little extra cool air on your face.

Wearing masks reduces the spread of germs, but it only works if everyone participates. Let’s start to change the paradigm of wearing a mask to an act of kindness! Think of it as your way to help others stay safe and healthy.

Pro-Tip: Don’t carry a drink or wear your mask incorrectly, because not only could you be stopped by security…other guests aren’t shy about speaking up. Just wear the mask. Don’t be that person!!!

Speaking of Food

One of my favorite parts of visiting Disney Springs is grabbing a bite to eat because they have so many great options!

If you are planning to have a meal, make sure you make a reservation for full-service dining locations in advance to ensure you have a table as seating is limited.

Also most dining locations are not offering their full menus, so be sure to check in advance online to make sure that they have the dish you have been craving.

If quick service is more your thing, be patient as there have been long lines, especially at Chicken Guy. If you want to cut down on your wait, try eating an hour before or after a ‘typical’ mealtime.

Pro-Tip: Disney is waving 24-hour cancellation fees for missed reservations, so if you change your mind about going out or aren’t feeling up to it you can cancel up to the last minute.

Shopping

Many shopping locations are open for business, but there are a few things to keep in mind before you start your shopping spree!

First is that you will need to be be prepared for cashless transactions, since they are encouraging customers to pay with apps like Apple Pay over cash transactions.

If you do make a purchase, be a little extra patient as you are waiting in line as most locations are taking extra time between transactions to wipe down keypads between uses.

Make sure that you pay attention outside of stores for queues and social distancing markers. Busier stores, like Sugarboo & Co., are having their employees help regulate the flow of guests in their stores.

Pro-Tip: If a store you want to visit has a long queue to get in, enjoy a walk around D Springs visit when people would typically be eating.

I had an amazing time at Disney Springs, and I’m excited about more stores & restaurants to open!!!

You can find more information about theme park news and tips by subscribing to our YouTube Channel and following @onthegoinmco on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!

No-Sew T-Shirt Mask DIY

With the reopening of places like Disney Springs and Universal Orlando’s CityWalk requiring guests to wear face coverings, I thought I’d share an easy, no-sew mask that I found on the Cricut website that you can make with something you have in your closet…a t-shirt!!!

How to Make a No-Sew T-Shirt Mask Perfect for the Theme Parks

What you’ll need:

Mask pattern (for adults & for kids)
A t-shirt
Scissors
Pins (optional)

No-Sew T-Shirt Mask Directions:

Step 1: Cut out the appropriate size mask template for your project.

Step 2: Fold your t-shirt in half down the center of the garment. Do not use the side seams.

Step 3: Layout the t-shirt on a flat surface and smooth out the wrinkles by hand.

Step 4: Plan out where you would like to cut from the t-shirt.

Tip: With the proper planning, you can get quite a few masks from each t-shirt!

Step 5: Place your mask template along the fold of the t-shirt.

Tip: Using straight pins to secure your pattern to the t-shirt can make cutting your pattern out easier.

Step 6: Use scissors to cut around the pattern.

Tip: Don’t stress about making the cuts perfectly at first, because it’s super easy to go back and clean-up any areas.

Step 7: To cut the slits, fold the fabric & template so that the slits can be cut easily.

Tip: Use smaller scissors for a more precise cut.

Step 8: If you chose to use pins, take them out before removing the pattern, and unfolding the fabric.

Step 9: At each slit, gently tug on the fabric on the outside of the slit to stretch out the material. Repeat for each slit.

Step 10: Wear your mask and enjoy your time outside!

How to Wear Your No-Sew T-Shirt Mask:

Fold the top edge of both layers down about .5″ (1.3 cm) and bring to your face, with the inner layer against your face, holding by the top loops on both sides.
Loop the top slits over your ears on each side.
Bring the bottom slits up to loop over your ears on each side.
Adjust the fit as necessary.

No-Sew T-Shirt Mask DIY - Putting your mask on

What do you think??? They’re so easy to make and super lightweight!

You can find more information about theme park news and tips by subscribing to our YouTube Channel and following @onthegoinmco on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!

Star Wars Day 2020 – What to Watch

It’s a very special day… Its Star Wars Day!!!

And while there’s no place I would rather be than running around Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, there are some really great things you can watch to celebrate Star Wars Day at home!

5 Things to Watch on Star Wars Day

1. Disney Gallery: The Mandalorian

On May 4th Disney+ will be adding some great Star Wars content and features you won’t want to miss!

Star Wars Day - Disney Plus Disney Gallery Star Wars The Manalorain — Disney+

I am REALLY excited about the new ‘Disney Gallery: The Mandalorian’ 8 episode series that takes fans behind the scenes of the first live-action Star Wars series.

In the series Executive Producer, Jon Favreau along with the cast and crew share an unprecedented look at the making of the series through interviews, never-before-seen footage, and roundtable conversations hosted by Favreau himself.

New Disney Gallery: The Mandalorian episodes will be released every Friday after Star Wars Day.

2. The Final Episode of Star Wars: The Clone Wars

Star Wars Day - Disney Plus Final Clone Wars Episode — Star Wars

I don’t know about your house, but my house is excited for the final episode of Star Wars: The Clone Wars, “Victory and Death.”

Created by George Lucas and shepherded by Dave Filoni (The Mandalorian), the animated series first aired in 2008 and became an entry point into Star Wars for an entire generation, following fan-favorites like Anakin Skywalker, Obi-Wan Kenobi, and Padmé Amidala, while introducing major new characters like Jedi Padawan Ahsoka Tano and Captain Rex. Star Wars: The Clone Wars became a multiple-Emmy Award winner and a favorite among Star Wars fans.

The final season features Ahsoka Tano and Rex on their adventures that lead up to Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith.

3. Stream Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker

TODAYS IS THE DAY!!!!!!

You can now stream the entire Star Wars Saga because Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker is now available on Disney+.

Though I’ll let you argue about the right order to see them in…

4. Star Wars Concept Art takes over Disney+

Star Wars Day - Disney Plus Concept Art Takeover — Star Wars

This week there is going to be a concept art takeover on Disney+ featuring each Star Wars film’s and series’ artwork.

From Star Wars: A New Hope to The Mandalorian, the updated art will feature pieces from celebrated artists such as the legendary Ralph McQuarrie and Academy Award-winning artist, author, and production designer, Doug Chiang. On the Disney+ home screen, the animated Star Wars brand tile, viewable on web and connected TV devices, gets upgraded with a new animation that honors the signature hyperspace jump.

Disney+ Bonus

There are new Star Wars avatars for Disney+!!!

You can now choose from Darth Maul, Jabba the Hutt, Bo-Katan, D-O, Captain Rex, a porg, and 332nd trooper.

5. Watch YouTube videos of Star Wars attractions in the parks!

Since we all can’t be in the parks for Star Wars Day, watch your favorite Star Wars attractions on YouTube!

And while you are there…make sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel!!!

I hope that you have a great Star Wars Day!!! May the 4th be with you!!!

Theme Park Tips: Making the Most of a Rainy Day

Florida weather can be rather unpredictable and wet, so to help make your rainy day more bearable here are my top theme park tips for a rainy day.

Watch the weather while you are on the go (no pun intended)

Tips for Staying Cool in the Theme Parks Tips for Beating the heat in the Theme Parks Tips for Rainy Days in the theme parks

Make sure you have a reliable weather app to use while you’re in the parks.

My favorite is the Channel 9 Severe Weather App, because you can sign up for custom alerts in your area, stream live radar, and get an accurate hour-by-hour forecast.

Keep an eye out for temporary closures or delays

Some attractions and transportation options may shut down temporarily during heavy rain, wind, or lightning.

To be safe, check the park’s official app for any notices before you head towards an attraction or ask an attendant about any closures or delays before you hop in line.

Think ahead for meals

On rainy days quick service and full-service dining locations tend to get really crowded and unable to accommodate walk-up seating requests, so it is always best to try to make a reservations in advance.

At Walt Disney World you will want to use the My Disney Experience App and at the Universal Orlando Resort you can use Open Table to make restaurant reservations.

If you are at Walt Disney World in a quick service dining location, consider using the Mobile Ordering option on the My Disney Experience App to cut your wait down!

Park bag hack for rain jackets and umbrellas

Packing a Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party Bag - Raincoat in Zip Top Bag Theme Park Tips

When going to the parks with a backpack, keep your rain jacket or umbrella inside of a zip top bag so when you take the jacket out you can put your keys or cell phone inside to keep them dry.

Then when the rain stops, you’ll have a handy place to put your wet jacket.

Choose the right shoes

Pack like a runDisney Princess theme park tips

Choosing the right shoe is super important for surviving a rainy day in the theme park.

Pick a shoe that is comfortable with a non-slip sole and plenty of tread.

You also may want to consider leaving the rain boots at home, because they tend to fill up with water during heavy storms and get quite heavy.

Wear clothes that dry quickly

When it is going to be a wet day in the park choosing to wear lightweight and quick drying clothing will definitely make you more comfortable, and as a bonus when it gets hot again it will wick away the sweat to help keep you cool!

Don’t pass up a good show or movie

Flurry of Fun Disney's Hollywood Studios Walt Disney World Theme Park Tips

When the sun is out you might be quick to pass up a show or movie, but they are the PERFECT activity for a rainy day because they are shown in huge venues making them walk-up friendly.

One of my ABSOLUTE favorites is First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration at Disney’s Hollywood Studios…hear me out…there’s nothing like hearing a Dad belt ‘Let it Go’!!!!

Don’t let the rain give you the blues

Tips for Staying Cool in the Theme Parks Tips for Beating the heat in the Theme Parks hurricane dorian theme park tips

Even though it’s raining, remember that your day isn’t ruined!

You’re still in a theme park with your family and friends, so just let go and splash in a puddle or two!

I hope that you’ve enjoyed these rainy day theme park tips!

Walt Disney World – Disney Genie

Walt Disney World – Disney Genie+

Disney Genie+ selections are available beginning at 7:00 AM on the day of your visit, you’ll have the opportunity to secure your first arrival time.

Lightning Lane

Walt Disney World Reopening: Theme Park Essentials

Hand Sanitizer

Battery Operated Fan

Extra Face Coverings

Alcohol Pads

Portable Cell Phone Charger

Here’s what I learned from my visit to Disney Springs that you might find helpful for your next visit!

Parking 411

Don’t be intimidated by Temperature Check

Wearing a mask takes some getting used to

Speaking of Food

Shopping

You can find more information about theme park news and tips by subscribing to our YouTube Channel and following @onthegoinmco on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!

How to Make a No-Sew T-Shirt Mask Perfect for the Theme Parks

What you’ll need:

No-Sew T-Shirt Mask Directions:

How to Wear Your No-Sew T-Shirt Mask:

5 Things to Watch on Star Wars Day

1. Disney Gallery: The Mandalorian

2. The Final Episode of Star Wars: The Clone Wars

3. Stream Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker

4. Star Wars Concept Art takes over Disney+

Disney+ Bonus

5. Watch YouTube videos of Star Wars attractions in the parks!

Watch the weather while you are on the go (no pun intended)

Keep an eye out for temporary closures or delays

Think ahead for meals

Park bag hack for rain jackets and umbrellas

Choose the right shoes

Wear clothes that dry quickly

Don’t pass up a good show or movie

Don’t let the rain give you the blues

To follow along on our adventures and for Theme Park Tips on the go make sure to follow @onthegoinmco on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook!