Magic Bands are without a doubt, the number one, “top”, must have fashion accessory on your next Disney World vacation! Check out: Disney 101: Magic Bands…Don’t Leave Home Without Them! to find out why!

Disney 101: Magic Bands…Don’t Leave Home Without Them!

This cute little wrist accessory is not just for showing off your “Disney side”…it has a ton of other uses and will be your best friend once you get into Disney World!

Magic Bands are fairly simple and they were made to make your life easier while you are on your magical vacation. All of the “must haves” in ONE place! Keys to the room, park tickets, dining information, credit cards…the list goes on. The Magic Band makes traveling back and forth to the parks easier and a whole lot lighter! Let’s face it, sometimes we DO get pretty weighed down with things we need in the parks.

They have been known to have a glitch or two in the past, but Disney is on top of the matter and is always working out the kinks to improve any issue. My family and I have been plenty of times since the start of Magic Bands and I will be honest in the fact that there has been a time or two that we have not been fans of the Magic Bands. Yet every time we go they get better and better and now we are very pleased with these handy, dandy accessories. So don’t be afraid of the new technology, embrace it! (I have to remind myself of that everyday!).

What will Magic Bands do?

• First and foremost, Magic bands are small, waterproof, all-in-one wristbands that allow you to access your vacation plans and reservations that are stored in My Disney Experience.
• Magic Bands will unlock your Disney Resort room.
• Magic Bands replace your key to the world card.
• Magic Bands are your “ticket” into Disney Theme Parks and Water Parks with valid park admission. Special admission ticketed events can also be linked up to the Magic Bands!
• Magic Bands allow you to check in at Fast Pass entrances.
• Magic Bands allow you to connect your Disney Photo Pass images to your My Disney Experience account. This is done automatically now! Instantly see your photos and even videos! If you have pre-purchased Memory Maker, you can even start downloading and sharing your images right from your phone.
• You can charge merchandise and food on your MagicBand during your Disney Resort Stay. (Don’t take it home and expect it to work the same way for you.) Make sure you add your credit card information into the check-in portion of My Disney Experience, so you are able to have the payment option from your MagicBand. Even after doing this, STILL check with the resort during check-in. We always say it’s better to be safe than sorry.
• If you are on any of the Disney Dining Plans, all of your information will be on your Magic Band.

• If you are staying on property in a Disney World Resort, you will also receive “magical extras“. These include luggage tags and MORE!

Magic Bands are all about convenience. These wrist bands mean you have one less thing to keep up with. It’s always on your wrist! Plus, all Magic Bands have a sensor touch point that you will scan each time you do any of the above things. Just place the Mickey to Mickey at any touch point area and watch the magic take place.

How do I get a Magic Band?

You will receive Magic Band if you are staying on Disney Resort Property or if you are a Walt Disney World Passholder for no additional fee. If you are not staying on Disney Resort Property or Passholder, you have the option of buying a Magic Band in the parks or in Disney Springs.

Magic Band Tips

• A four-digit pin number will be needed in order to make purchases with your Magic Band. Add this in your My Disney Experience account before leaving home.
• The same pin number will also be needed if you are using the Disney Dining Plan.
• Magic Bands are available in the following colors: RED, GREEN, ORANGE, BLUE, YELLOW, PINK, PURPLE and GRAY.
• Also available for an additional charge are all kinds of cute decorations for your bands. These are available all over Disney World and online!
• They WILL fit. From the smallest or arms to the larger ones, the adjustable band makes it super easy!
• Magic Bands are available in select limited edition and special event designs!

Make sure to pack your Magic Bands FIRST! If you are flying, you will want to have them in your carry-on luggage. When driving, make sure you keep them close by also! You will need them to enter your resort area.

If you are using a Disney Vacation Planner, they will link all of your reservations to your My Disney Experience. You can do the same as you plan your magical vacation! I hope this helps with all of your vacation planning and as always, if you have more questions feel free to let us know.

Walt Express Favorites!

Here are a few of our favorite custom MagicBands!

Do you love the ease of the Magic Band? It makes traveling back and forth around Disney World SO easy!

Join the Disney Express Lane Facebook Group to discuss this and many other Disney related topics.

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Disney World Height Requirements

Disney World is famous for their fun and interactive rides and attractions. Most of these are very “family friendly”, meaning the entire family can enjoy the ride or attraction together! Many people have a misconception that these rides and attractions are for “bigger” kids and adults. That is simply just not true. There are only a few that have a height requirement. These height requirements are in place for the protection of your children. Please follow the rules. We have included only those rides and/or attractions that have a height requirement.

MAGIC KINGDOM

• Barnstormer-35 inches or taller
• Big Thunder Mountain Railroad-40 inches or taller
• Seven Dwarfs Mine Train-38 inches or taller
• Space Mountain-44 inches or taller
• Splash Mountain-40 inches or taller
• Tomorrowland Speedway-32 inches or taller

EPCOT

• Mission: Space-44 inches or taller
• Soarin’-40 inches or taller
• Test Track-40 inches or taller

HOLLYWOOD STUDIOS

• Alien Swirling Saucers-32 inches or taller
• Rockin’ Roller Coaster-48 inches or taller
• Slinky Dog Dash-38 inches or taller
• Star Tours-40 inches or taller
• Tower of Terror-40 inches or taller
• Millennium Falcon, Smugglers Run-38 inches or taller
• Star Wars, Rise of the Resistance-40 inches or taller

ANIMAL KINGDOM

• Avatar: Flight of Passage-44 inches or taller
• Dinosaur-40 inches or taller
• Expedition Everest-44 inches or taller
• Kali River Rapids-38 inches or taller
• Primeval Whirl-48 inches or taller

DISNEY’S TYPHOON LAGOON WATER PARK

• Bay Slides-60 inches or taller
• Crush ‘n’ Gusher-48 inches or taller
• Humungu Kowabunga-48 inches or taller
• Ketchakiddiee Creek-48 inches or taller

DISNEY’S BLIZZARD BEACH WATER PARK

• Chairlift-32 inches or taller
• Downhill Double Dipper-48 inches or taller
• Slush Gusher-48 inches or taller
• Summit Plummet-48 inches or taller
• Tike’s Peak-48 inches or taller

DISNEY SPRINGS

• Marketplace Carousel-42 inches or taller
• Marketplace Train Express-48 inches or taller

Side Note

• If your child is not tall enough for a ride or attraction, don’t try to make them tall enough by adding heels or items in their shoes (yes, we have seen it all). The height restriction is for YOUR CHILD’S SAFETY! It’s simply not worth putting your child or someone else in danger.
• If your children or yourself are not big coaster fans, just click this link to find out what is available! KIDS WHO DON’T LIKE ROLLER COASTERS.

Join the Disney Express Lane Facebook Group to discuss this and many other Disney related topics.

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6 Athletic Shoes That Are Perfect For Your Next Disney Parks Visit

1. 696 Suede in Faded Pink/Rose Sandstone by New Balance
2. Adidas by Stella McCartney Adipure Trainer Sneakers by adidas by Stella McCartney
3. Holiday Bastille in Tafta Black by Veja
4. CrazyTrain Pro in Navy by adidas by Stella McCartney
5. 247 Nubuck in Marblehead/Sea Salt by New Balance
6. AW Run Mid in Black

Disneybounding

Other Disneybounding posts you may like!

Don’t miss our other Disneybounding articles that I am sure you will find helpful! Every girl loves dressing up in style. Disneybounding isn’t about dressing up in your daughter’s princess costume, it’s about looking good, stylish and comfortable in your amazing digs! It’s all about style, my dear! So let’s do this!

Minnie Mouse Rocks Her Dots On The Walk Of Fame

John Stamos and Fiancee Caitlin McHugh Disneybounding Engagement

Mary Poppins And Dooney Bourke Team Up For The Ultimate Bag

Instagram Disney Style

Check out faithnpixie1’s Instagram style! Check out her new posts everyday to see what she posts next from Disney or all about Disney-style and Disneybounding!

A post shared by {ThePurposeFULLWoman} Amanda (@faithnpixie1) on Feb 4, 2018 at 5:51am PST

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Just Announced: La Nouba by Cirque du Soleil Will Close in December

For almost 20 years, La Nouba by Cirque du Soleil has been a part of the Disney Springs experience. Just announced today from Disney, La Nouba by Cirque du Soleil will have it’s final show on December 31, 2017. Read on to find out what Disney Parks Blog has released.

This news is not a complete surprise since it comes following the announcement about Disney Quest closing as well.

From Disney Parks Blog

With over 8,500 performances to date, La Nouba by Cirque du Soleil has been a Disney Springs staple for nearly twenty years. Since its inception in late 1998, the show has welcomed many new acts; the most recent additions include a duo of comedic clowns followed by a troupe of world-famous break dancers and a real-life couple skilled in the rarely-seen art of aerial bamboo. La Nouba has been seen by over 10 million guests and will continue to dazzle audiences with its breathtaking blend of daring acrobatics and dazzling choreography through 2017, with a final performance scheduled to take place on December 31, 2017.

With ten months to take in a show, you still have plenty of time to be mesmerized by the artistry of the talented La Nouba team. For additional details, including current offers, or to purchase tickets, click here or call 407-939-7600.

“We are incredibly proud of the success that La Nouba has had for nearly two decades,” said Jerry Nadal, Senior Vice President of the Resident Shows Division for Cirque du Soleil. “We want to thank Walt Disney World Resort for a wonderful relationship over the years. We look forward to announcing what’s next for Cirque du Soleil.”

Wondering what’s next? Given Disney’s strong relationship with Cirque du Soleil over the years, we may soon have news to share about exciting new entertainment coming to Disney Springs so stay tuned to the Disney Parks Blog.

Although we are sad to see this long running circus act go, we are excited about the “hint” of something NEW coming to Disney Springs! What are you thoughts?

Please join us in our facebook group, DISNEY EXPRESS LANE, to discuss this and more Disney fun!

PHOTO CREDIT: WDW NEWS

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D-Luxe Burger: A Disney World Quick Service Dining Review

Located in the Disney Springs area, this is one restaurant that will have you “hooked” after one bite! We were there for the grand opening and have made several trips back. Yes, it’s THAT good!

When you arrive, you will place your order at the counter. You will then be handed a “pager” and your drink cups. You will also notice many sauces available for dipping those homemade fries in! Finally, somewhere that doesn’t mind you gorging yourself on their delicious sauces. Once you have everything situated on your table, your order will arrive in a brown paper bag, probably dripping with D-Luxe goodness. Some people would argue that is grease, but I like to believe that is just extra yumminess trying to escape. Yes, I am from the South and we do believe in grease.

The Burgers

These are not your regular or ordinary burgers. There are actually only seven to choose from. Of the three of us dining on our most recent visit, we choose the “El Diablo”, the “Southern Classic” and for the little one dining, he chose his favorite: the “Kids Cluck”. Let me just break this down for you so you will understand the deliciousness of these burgers. Also, you may want to ask for a fork, it’s that big! They are quite messy too, but don’t worry, there is a whole roll of paper towels on your table!

• El Diablo-If you like a little spice in your life, then this one is for you! Chorizo-and-Signature Blend Patty, Fried Banana Peppers, Pepper Jack Cheese, Lettuce, Tomato, and Chipotle Mayonnaise.
• Southern Classic-Well, you KNEW I would choose it! All of your “southern faves” on a burger…PURE genius, I tell you! Signature Blend topped with a Fried Green Tomato, Pimento Cheese, Lettuce, and Bacon. Seriously! I told you, all of the Southern favorites..on…a…burger. You are welcome.
• Kid’s Cluck-This one is a child’s meal with a ground chicken patty. It’s actually on the “Mickey Kid Check” menu. They also offer a cheeseburger on the kid’s menu as well. This “child’s” size is the normal “adult” size that you get in most restaurants. so you can imagine how large the regular ones are here. Of course, my child had no problems putting the ENTIRE cluck away.

Other Burger Offerings:

• BBQ Burger-Signature Blend topped with a Fried Onion Ring, Smoked Gouda, Bacon, Barbecue Sauce, and Lettuce
• Veggie Burger-topped with Tzatziki, Green Bean Salad, Lettuce, and Tomato
• Bacon and Blue Burger-Signature Blend topped with Lettuce, Tomato, Onion, Bacon, Onion Jam and Bleu Cheese
• Cluck Burger-(for grown-ups)-Ground Chicken Patty, Garlic Herb Sauce, Avocado, Lettuce, and Tomato
• Classic Burger-Signature Blend topped with Cheddar, Lettuce, Tomato, and Pickle

Desserts

OK, something this good has to have a downside. They did offer a dessert that looked wonderful, but when you tasted it, it was a mix between cardboard and paper. It has since been taken off of the menu. They do not offer “traditional desserts” that you are accustomed to in other Disney restaurants.

They do offer a LARGE variety of gelato shakes and floats that are out of this world. With flavors such as Godiva Chocolate and Strawberry Malt Gelato Shake, Salted Caramel Gelato Shake, Smoked Bourbon Gelato Shake or S’mores Gelato Shake, you won’t even miss a thing! There are actually fifteen flavors to choose from (with or without alcohol).

Yes, they also serve alcohol. With such samplings as: Michelob Ultra, Funky Buddha Floridian Hefeweizen, Lagunitas IPA, and Angry Orchard Crisp Apple Hard Cider, you are sure get your “fill” here!

The views expressed in this blog are MY personal opinion and may differ from someone else’s. Someone else may have really liked the cardboard dessert, but I try to be honest here! HA! Thanks for reading and I hope you have enjoyed my review on D-Luxe Burger.

Quick Tips

• D-Luxe Burger is a little different than other quick-service restaurants. You do not receive a dessert with your meal. You will receive your burger, fries and a drink. The shakes will cost an additional charge. I promise you though, if you can EVEN finish your burger, you will NOT want nor need dessert at this time. I have “heard” that they will substitute the fries for a small float, but I have not experienced this. I do not want to give up those delicious hand-cut, homemade fries (with all of the various dipping sauces).
• Speaking of, here they are: Garlic Ranch, Horseradish, Chipotle Mayo, 3 Mustard and Honey, Buffalo Blue Cheese, and Curry Ketchup.
• This restaurant is also on the Disney Quick Service dining plan. Although these helpings are HUGE and you could share a burger and fries, I DO NOT recommend it. Be greedy, it’s totally worth it!
• Most burgers are cooked to a medium/pinkish color. If you would like yours a little more “well done”, just let them know. They will be more than happy to accommodate.

I hope you will stop by this fine establishment and have a burger! Let us know if you do or if you have already dined here! We would love to know your thoughts!

Please join us in our Facebook group: DISNEY EXPRESS LANE to discuss all things Disney!

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Top 5 Dining Options at Disney World’s Disney Springs

Here are some of our favorite restaurants to visit and the reasons why we keep coming back time and time again.

1. T-Rex Cafe:  Walt Express has nonstop feedback on how awesome this place is with kids. If your kids are dinosaur fans or if you are a dinosaur fan, this restaurant is a “must dine” restaurant! The menu is very kid friendly and the scenery is absolutely breathtaking! Dining plans that include table service credits are accepted at this action packed restaurant! Find out more right here: T-REX-DINING with dinosaurs.

2. Rainforest Cafe: Great food surrounded by animated safari animals and erupting volcanoes with an excellent kid-friendly menu. Most dining plans are accepted at this restaurant, you simply need table service credits! Watch out for “live animals”! ***Bonus tip for this restaurant: Rainforest Cafe has great “Disney” merchandise and occasionally will have a magical sale!

3. Earl of Sandwich:  I’m not a big fan of sandwiches, BUT this place definitely made me a fan! It’s a great lunch spot for anyone and most dining plans are accepted.

4. Deluxe Burger: This is one of Disney Springs’ newest restaurants. If you want a delicious and LARGE burger, this is the place for you! Dining plans are accepted and honestly, it’s one of the best values you can find for a quick service credit. Keep in mind, when I say “large”, I mean LARGE!

5. Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant: This restaurant has great food, great entertainment and great spirits. Be prepared for a loud and fun environment and don’t miss the scallops and bread pudding. Dining plans that include table service credits are accepted at Raglan Road.

Disney advises all Disney Resort Guests to take advantage of the complimentary Disney transportation options when heading over to Disney Springs. There is more parking now, but driving in the area can be tricky. A few resorts also offer transportation by water taxi to and from Disney Springs!

Tips for dining at Disney Springs:

• Most restaurants in the Disney Springs district will accept the Disney Dining Plans.
• Be sure to allow for extra time traveling to and from Disney Springs.
• NOW, you can travel to Disney Springs from a Disney World park! Check it out, right HERE!

Join the Disney Express Lane Facebook Group to discuss this and many other Disney related topics.

Photo Credit: Disney Media (“Disney Springs”)

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I recall three years ago, it was pouring and my daughter, mother, and I scrambled to find some place to get out the rain. Without knowing what to expect, we walked into live music, bowling lanes left and right, and a place packed with a bunch of families having the same idea as us.

Splitsville: A Disney World Dining Review

Splitsville is not your average bowling alley with food. It is beautiful and big with two levels for dining and bowling. The music is loud and there is always a  variety of tunes playing. The waiter was so much fun and very outgoing. We also thought it was a nice touch that he was wearing an old time bowling shirt. By the end of our dinner experience, my daughter was up on her feet with him dancing to the DJ’s music which ended up getting a group of other kids dancing too! Like every Disney restaurant, the service was absolutely amazing.

Let’s Talk FOOD!

Splitsville has everything from California spring rolls to pizza and all American burgers! Our favorite appetizer definitely was the nachos! (My daughter is a huge fan.) They are colorful chips loaded with nacho cheese, sour cream, jalapeños, and avocado ranch. You could almost make this a meal it is so big! Their pizza is served on a homemade crust and served with any topping you could ever think of and it’s all up to you!

Like everything on their menu, their burgers are amazing and seems to be a crowd favorite. On of the well-known burgers is called the Mad King. It is a twenty-one ounce triple decker burger, with double cheese, bacon, and topped with onion rings. All for twenty dollars you can’t beat that. Our waiter told my family is was the biggest burger in all the land! The menu also included tons of options to wash all this deliciousness down. For the adults, they even have a bar stocked with different beer and wine selections.

As you can image, after we finished our entrees we were stuffed. We were barely able to even think about dessert, but the waiter recommended the Ghirardelli Brownie A La Mode. It is a triple chocolate brownie, topped with vanilla ice cream, chocolate sauce, whipped cream, and sprinkles. YUM!

Strikes and Memories

Splitsville offers two floors of entertainment including 30 bowling lanes, 3 billiard tables, five bars, and an outside patio seating and balcony located upstairs! These are not just your ordinary bowling lanes, they literally go every which way. Reservations are definitely recommended for bowling. Each lane can hold up to eight people and includes unlimited bowling for the duration of your reservation. During the day, bowling is $25.00 per person and at night and on the weekends,it’s $30.00. That price includes the bright colorful bowling balls and shoe rental.

One thing to note about Splitsville  is that there is a limit on reservation times based on the size of your group. For one to two people, you can reserve a lane for an hour. For groups of seven to eight people, you can reserve the lane for an hour and forty-five minutes of fun. To get the most out of your bowling experience, I recommend that you eat before or after your bowling reservation (not during).

I would recommend Splitsville to every family who visits Disney Springs. You truly can’t beat amazing food, live music, and of course bowling and laughs with family and friends. My family never thought we would end up at a bowling alley at Disney but thanks to the great laughs and memories we will go back every time we visit Disney!

Join the Disney Express Lane Facebook Group to discuss this and many other Disney related topics.

photo credit: Splitsville at Walt Disney World Downtown Disney via photopin (license)

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Find these at the Fountain View location in Epcot. Also, don’t forget about the tumblers for your cold drinks.

Or how about these cute mugs from the Main Street Bakery, Magic Kingdom location.

With locations coming to Animal Kingdom and Hollywood Studios there is anticipation that they will carry their own mugs for their park, of course.

Also, don’t forget about the Orlando mug from the Starbucks Downtown Disney locations.

Of course, we can’t forget about Disneyland!

Many Starbucks fans already enjoy collecting these mugs but, now you can collect them in the most magical place! Will you be collecting the Disney “You are Here” series mugs? Have you seen them in the parks yet?

Join the Disney Express Lane Facebook Group to discuss this and many other Disney related topics.

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• Magic Kingdom: Who can’t get enough of the fireworks at the Magic Kingdom? Well, you are in luck. This firework spectacular is not to be missed! Along with “Holiday Wishes: Celebrate the Spirit of the Season,” you can also enjoy “Fantasy in the Sky” fireworks and a musical show. This special fireworks display will be presented on Dec. 30 and Dec. 31, 2014 at 11:50 p.m.

• Epcot: Enjoy the World Showcase in Epcot as you participate in all each country has to offer with their own New Year’s celebration as you soak up sounds of bands and DJs. Plus, World Showcase promenade is the place to be as IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth lights up the sky with a message of peace and goodwill. Two showings of this nighttime spectacular will take place on New Year’s Eve, at 6 p.m. and 11:40 p.m.

• Hollywood Studios: This family oriented fun will leave you mesmerized come nightfall on Dec. 31, 2014, the “rake and roll” cover band Mulch, Sweat and Shears takes the stage for a set of iconic songs. If you can stay up late enough for the midnight fireworks you will not be disappointed!

• Downtown Disney: There are no fireworks at Downtown Disney but, you can enjoyspecial New Year’s Eve food and beverage tents, merchandise stands and entertainment. You can also enjoy dining experiences, movies, bowling, Cirque du Soleil, shopping and more. Or, you can explore some of the newest offerings including the Food Trucks at Exposition Park and the flagship Starbucks location at Downtown Disney West Side, as well as the Marketplace Co-Op at the Downtown Disney Marketplace.  PLEASE NOTE: If you are arriving in your own vehicles, please  follow signs to available parking, which may be located adjacent to the Downtown Disney area. It is recommended that you arrive at least 60 minutes in advance of all reservations and planned activities. If you are staying at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel, it is recommended that you use complimentary transportation, as parking may be limited.

Happy New Year! Let me know if you have experienced any of these fun New Year’s experiences. I would love to hear!

Join the Disney Express Lane Facebook Group to discuss this and many other Disney related topics.

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As we know, Walt Disney World is always a magical place but, visiting during the holidays makes it even more magical! Add a visit to Downtown Disney during this time and you will not be disappointed! Downtown Disney has holiday shopping to unique dining experiences so there is something for everyone. November 14- December 30, 2014 you will have the opportunity to meet Santa during the Festival of the Seasons and while you are there enjoy the “uniquely handcrafted” holiday decor, Downtown Disney is a must-do during this festive time of year!

Downtown Disney is a little difficult to maneuver around these days due to construction and such at this time so, with holiday festivities vastly approaching it may make for more boggled down traffic. So keep these few tips in mind when traveling to Downtown Disney at Walt Disney World.

• Arrive earlier in the day for a more leisurely shopping experience.
• If you are staying at select Disney Resort hotels consider taking the complimentary Disney transportation, as parking may be limited.
• Guests should follow the signs to available parking, which may be located in adjacent lots across the street.
• Allow extra travel time for reservations or showtimes; 60 minutes in advance.
• When driving via I-4, take exit 67 for the most efficient route to Downtown Disney.

I am excited to visit the Downtown Disney area during the holidays! How about you?

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