Friday, January 20, 2012

Main Street Memories 365 - Disney's Coast to Coast Challenge


Disney's Coast to Coast Challenge:

Do you want the ultimate test in endurance with a Disney twist? Then join the runDisney Coast to Coast Race Challenge! If you complete a runDisney half marathon or marathon at the Walt Disney World® Resort and the Disneyland® Resort in the same calendar year, then you will receive an additional medal commemorating your achievement!

1) Complete one of the following runDisney Races at the Walt Disney World® Resort:

- Walt Disney World® Marathon
- Walt Disney World® Marathon Relay
- Walt Disney World® Half Marathon
- Goofy's Race and a Half Challenge
- Disney's Princess Half Marathon
- Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon

AND

2) Complete one of the following runDisney Races at Disneyland® Resort:

- Tinker Bell Half Marathon
- Disneyland® Half Marathon



You are automatically entered into the Coast to Coast Race Challenge when you register and complete the required combination of races. Travel West to East or East to West, you choose how to earn your Coast to Coast Race Challenge medal, but you must complete one race at the Walt Disney World® Resort and one race at the Disneyland® Resort. You must have an official time for each of the events that you complete and each event must be either a half marathon or marathon. You will receive your medal after completing the second leg of your Coast to Coast Race Challenge. Limit one medal per runner per calendar year.

Sign up to start your challenge today!Click here to get started!



Thursday, January 19, 2012

Main Street Memories 365 - Help! I'm planning a Disney trip!

Help! I'm planning a Disney Vacation!!!

We often get LOTS of emails, with LOTS Of questions, and sometimes, they are very much the same.

That being said, we KNOW how stressful it can be, and we are here to help! And that's why we love what we do! We can help take some of this stress away, and make YOU feel a little more comfortable about your upcoming vacation.

So, here's a Q&A session we had recently with one of our guests, we thought maybe you could find some helpful info in here:


1. Is Hollywood Studios the same thing as Universal Studios?

No, Hollywood Studios is a Disney Theme Park and Universal is it's own.

2. We really want to do the safari at the Animal Kingdom. Is there different safaris or just one? Is there an additional fee to go on the safari or is it covered by the Hopper ticket? Also, is there a particular time of day that you know when the safari is at its best when the animals are more on the move?

Ok. There is a safari, that is an attraction at Animal Kingdom, included in your ticket, that you can do over and over if you want. Then there is the Guided Tour, the Wild Animal Trek. It is an additional $189 per person. Here's some info on it.

3. What at each park is not covered by the Hopper tickets that we will pay out of pocket for?

Nothing at all. Well, there are some "tours" but those are really things that you would not typically do. I can send you some info on those. But, really, all of the rides, shows, attractions, etc are all included. (food, souvenirs, etc are not!)

4. Do meal vouchers work for every restaurant or are there certain ones that take more than one or do not take one at all? Also, I know you said that it covered a snack, a little meal and a big meal, but what does that cover- drinks, apetizers, etc?

Yes, most every restaurant on Disney property takes the Disney Dining plan. If you are using a Table Service, you would get your entree, drink, and dessert. A Quick Service is the entree, drink and dessert, and then a snack (ice cream bar, popcorn, piece of fruit, bottled water.....LOTS of snack options)

5. Do we need to make reservations for our meals and if so how far in advance? or do you do that for us?

Yes, I can gladly do that for you. You can make dining reservations as early as 180 days prior to your arrival, so as soon as we have a confirmation number, we would want to go ahead and get started on that!

6. Will our car be able to stay parked at the resort when we get there or will we need to drive anywhere?

Yes, you can leave your car the entire time, and you can take Disney transportation if you would like. That being said, you also receive complimentary parking while in a Disney resort.

7. Do shuttles have fees and if so how much?

NO ;)

8. Do you have any strong recommendations for romantic things to do or places we must eat while we are there?

Yes, there are a few dining recommendations that I can give. We can check availability when we start working on that :)

9. What do we do if it rains?

If it rains, you can
A) go back, rest, enjoy the resort
B) roll your pants leg up and enjoy the rain, and enjoy the parks with less crowds, because everyone else chose option A
**I always say, a rainy day at Disney is better than a day at home :)

10. So, if you think of everything what will we have to pay for out of pocket once we get there?

If you have the Disney Dining plan, your tickets and your resort, honestly you will need souvenir $$ and probably a little bit of what I call "snacky" money. You might need to buy a breakfast or 2 out of pocket, or you can take bagels, muffins, granola bars, etc to have in the room. And, alcoholic drinks are not included in any of the dinners.

11. How far away is the Pop Century resort from the parks? How far would we have to walk if we needed to go back to the room?

Oh, you would not be able to walk to the Pop Century. You would take the Disney Transportation buses back to the resort. They are at the front of each park, and they run about every 10 minutes back to Pop Century.

12. I know you said that we needed to put down a $200 deposit, how exactly would we do that? And the rest of the money, does that have to be in one bulk payment or do we do that in small payments?

You can pay your deposit however you choose. You can pay via credit/debit card, or you can mail a check. And then on the balance, it is due in full approx 45 days prior to your arrival. And you can make as many or as few payments, as often as you want before then.

13. With Hopper passes, does it matter how many times we go in and out of the parks? Ex. if on day one we stay half a day at the Animal Kingdom and 1/2 day at Magic Kingdom, can we re-enter those parks on a diferent day? I guess just kind of wanting to know how the passes work, do we just present them at the front gates and they take one away from us or how exactly does that work?

You are absolutely correct! As long as you have the hopper option on your tickets, you can go in and out of each Disney Theme park as often as you want, every day, all day!

14. One more question, I know I should have probably asked this before but the last travel agent we had for our honeymoon we did not pay him anything, the resort paid him once we reserved the trip, is that how it works with ya'll or do we have to pay you a fee?

Yes, you do not pay a fee for my service! No fees at all.

Wednesday, January 18, 2012

Main Street Memories 365 - DisneyBaby


Introducing DisneyBaby.com

If you have a special mom or baby in your life to celebrate, Disney Baby has the perfect gift that will make any new mom say "Awwww".

Check them out today at DisneyBaby.com

And the fun part is, they want your memories too!

We're proud as new parents about our special Disney Baby Magical Moments feature and can't wait to share it with you. Moms, dads, family and friends will love sharing their photos and special stories about baby... everything from that first giggle to first steps to the messiest of moments. Every moment is magical! Take a second and share a moment now.

Go ahead, add your moment now!

Tuesday, January 17, 2012

Main Street Memories 365 - Bedtime Stories at Walt Disney World Resort

Did you know you could treat your little ones to a bedtime story at the Walt Disney World Resort?




If you are staying at one of the Walt Disney World Resorts, there is a channel on your in-room television where you can tune in to hear a nightly bedtime story featuring none other than Duffy the Disney bear....Mickey's very own teddy bear! Stories begin nightly every 15 minutes until 10pm.


What a perfect way to end a magical day and send your little ones off for some much-needed slumber!!





Monday, January 16, 2012

Main Street Memories 365 - Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom






Visitors to Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World will soon have a new interactive experience to enjoy. Cast Members have begun to test a new interactive experience called Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom. Featuring unprecedented interaction with animated characters, Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom transforms Adventureland into an immersive game enabling fans to cast spells. In this role-playing, trading card game, players try to defeat the Disney Villains who are working to take over the Magic Kingdom. Armed with magic spells in the form of special cards, players must search for the magic symbols that lead them to the animated villains’ hiding places. By casting different magical spell cards, these Sorcerers can do battle with Yzma, Kronk and other ne’er do wells hiding throughout the land. From fireballs to frantic frogs and cyclones, there are spells to bring down each and every villain, with a simple flick of the wrist. While still in its testing phase, Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom is expected to be available to Guests early 2012. Playing the game will be included as part of park admission.




If you are part of the testing of this exciting new opportunity, let us know what you think!

Thursday, January 12, 2012

Main Street Memories 365 - Disneyland Disney Visa Offer

Day 12


Disneyland has released a new room only special for Disney VISA cardholders only. This deal will become available for the general public to book on January 17, 2012. A Disney VISA card is required at this point to book this deal, and typically, you must pay your deposit with the Disney VISA card at time of booking.

Sample Savings:

Disney’s Grand Californian: 20% off
Disneyland Hotel: 20% off
Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel: 25%
While the savings is on the hotel portion only, guests can add specially priced park passes to the room to make it a package, which would then include all the Disneyland extras including Magic Mornings.

Travel must be completed by April 15, 2012. Applies only to standard and concierge level rooms and not valid with previously booked rooms. Excludes applicable taxes and fees. Subject to availability as the number of rooms allocated for this offer is limited. Limit two (2) rooms per reservation and five (5) people maximum per room. Not valid in combination with any other hotel discounts or offers.

This offer must be booked by March 11, 2012.

Wednesday, January 11, 2012

Main Street Memories - Royal Highness Package

Day 11 - Royal Highness Package

Oh, well. What's a royal ball? After all, I suppose it would be frightfully dull, and--and--and boring, and--and completely...Completely Wonderful!! --Cinderella
Cinderella's Royal Table - Dream Dining

A new addition to your dining experience at Cinderella's Royal Table in Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World.

For the ultimate in royal treatment, the exclusive "Her Royal Highness Package" comes complete with a Princess Balloon on your table prior to arrival, a tiara adorned with crystals, and an extraordinary princess-themed cake prepared by Cinderella's Royal Chefs. It's sure to make any girl feel like a true princess for the day!

To order "Her Royal Highness Package," arrange a Fairytale Engagement or simply learn more about the enhancements available at Cinderella's Royal Table, call (407) 824-4477 or email wdw.crt.special.events@disney.com. Please note: These options require at least 7 days' advance notice.


Monday, January 9, 2012

Main Street Memories 365 - Magical Express

Day 8 -

I think this is the beginning of a beautiful friendship – The Fox and the Hound


Walt Disney World transportation is an issue for many people that are flying into Orlando International Airport.

But, it doesn't have to be! Disney's Magical Express is a Complimentary Service provided to all guests staying at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel.

How does it work?

Magical Express will pick you up at the airport, and deliver you to your resort hotel.
They will take care of your luggage!
When you leave your original airport, you will tag your luggage with the Yellow tags provided for you. You will not have to handle your luggage again. Magical Express will deliver your luggage to your resort room.

When you arrive at the Orlando International Airport, you will proceed downstairs to the Magical Express location, and if you have your Magical Express Booklet, you will go directly to the check-in kiosk and you will be directed to your appropriate motor coach.

If you do not have your booklet, you will need check-in at the Guest Services desk, and they will check you in, and then you may proceed!

What about on the way home?


The night before your departure, you will receive a Magical Express envelope, with instructions in it, on your door.

When you are ready to depart for home after your Walt Disney World vacation, you will go to the Magical Express desk at your resort, and they will take care of you.

***All of this is complimentary, as part of your "perks" for staying at a Walt Disney World Resort!!

Sunday, January 8, 2012

Main Street Memories 365 - Pineapple Dole Whip


So, the VERY famous Pineapple Dole Whip is a snack that is a "must have" on the list of many many Disney Guests.

Did you know------

That the Magic Kingdom is not NOT the only place that you can find this yummy little treasure?

Now, you can also purchase this little beauty in Capt. Cook's, the Quick Service area, at Disney's Polynesia Resort.

The best part about this news is that you don't need a Theme Park Ticket to get this little specialty. You can zip over to Disney's Polynesian Resort, and get one at your leisure!

Yum! Yum!!!

Friday, January 6, 2012

Main Street Memories 365 - Do you Pinterest?

Day 6
Do you Pinterest?

"It's kind of fun to do the impossible" -Walt Disney
I would never be dehydrated again :) Mickey Mouse oreos

So, do you Pinterest?

Actually, that's a great question? I have found that it is almost my second go-to search by, other than swagbucks, of course :)

Ok, so when you are on there, you can search for some fun items. Like this countdown calendar, and even a tutorial on how to make it.

Or the Oreos above.

or the water bottles! How cute are they? And these were intended for a birthday party, but what if these were in your backpack every time your kids wanted a drink!

The possibilities are endless!

So, as you are "trip planning", give Pinterest a shot, you may find a world of Magic on there!

And here's Brittney's board "It all Started with a Mouse"

and Susan's board "Disney = Happiness"

But, consider yourself warned. Pinterest can be addicting. Period. The end!






Thursday, January 5, 2012

Main Street Memories 365- Baby Care Center and First Aid

Day 5

"If it’s not boroque, don’t fix it." – Cogsworth in Beauty and the Beast



This is a tip, worth remembering.

Did you know:

In the First Aid center, you can ask for a complimentary band aid. But, in the gift shop, they are $2.35 for 2!


In the Baby Care Center, they have wipes and diapers for you to use "in an emergency"


In the First Aid center, you can ask for a Tylenol or Ibuprofen and they will give it to you (you have to sign to receive it) complimentary, but they are $$ in the gift shop!

In the Baby Care Center, they have a full assortment of snack and drinks available for you to purchase. In case you need a quick pick me up, or if you have a very picky-eater child, or if you just need to bypass the line, and grab a snack STAT!!!

In the Baby Care Center, they have a nice, private, quiet spot for nursing mothers only.


In the First Aid center, you can ask for an Elastic Wrap (Ace bandage) for your ailments, at no charge!

And, in the Baby Care Center, they have "non-automatic-flushing" potties......in case you have a little Pirate or Princess that is a little bit "scared" of potties that flush...while they still might be on it :)

Wednesday, January 4, 2012

Main Street Memories 365 - Electrical Water Pageant

Day 3 -

"Just keep swimming, Just keep swimming" ---Finding Nemo




Take a step back, to October 1971. The Electrical Water Pageant began with the dedication of Disney's Polynesian Resort.

Today, it continues to travel to each of the Magic Kingdom Resorts each night beginning at 9pm

If you are near any of these resorts, make your way to the beachfront, or if you are lucky enough to have a "Lake View" room, you can watch it from your balcony!

Typically, the pageant begins at Disney's Polynesian Resort at 9pm, then traveling to Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa at 9:15pm. It then arrives at Disney's Wilderness Lodge by approx 9:35pm, over to Fort Wilderness, and then finishing up at Disney's Contemporary Resort around 10:05pm.

If the Magic Kingdom has Extra Magic hours or extended park hours, you can also spot the Electrical Water Pageant around 10:20pm

Again, it looks a little "old school" but it's very fun to watch and hear, as it travels thru the water!

Tuesday, January 3, 2012

Main Street Memories 365 - Princess Half Marathon


One of the best Girl Weekends by far, is Disney's Princess Half Marathon Weekend.

Princess come from near and far to set out on the roads of Walt Disney World for 13.1 miles of Royal Fun!

You will meet Princes and Princesses along the way, and maybe even a few villans.


So, grab a girlfriend, or 5, and come RunDisney!

You will NOT regret it!

A fun weekend is always on the agenda!!!!

And when you cross the finish line, and they place that Gold Tiara Medal around your neck....ahhhhh.....best feeling in the world!

**And, we at Main Street Memories have packages available with your resort room and your park tickets, as well as dining plan! Give us a call today to join in the fun!!

Monday, January 2, 2012

Main Street Memories 365 - 2012 Dining Plan

Day 2 -

I’m so rumbly in my tummy. Time for something sweet. – Winnie the Pooh

disney dining plan 2012 Disney Dining Plan Changes   Now with new restaurant listings


Have you heard? They have added some new locations to the 2012 Disney Dining Plan. This is great news for you in 2012 if you are participating in the Disney Dining Plan! I know that T-Rex and Rainforest Cafe will be a popular addition!!



New Table Service Dining Locations Include:





  • Bongos Cuban Cafe at Downtown Disney


  • House of Blue at Downtown Disney


  • Paradiso 37 at Downtown Disney


  • Portobello at Downtown Disney


  • Rainforest Cafe at Downtown Disney and Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park


  • T-Rex at Downtown Disney


  • Fulton’s Crab House at Downtown Disney-requires 2 table service dining credits


  • Bistro de Paris at Epcot-World Showcase at France-requires 2 table service dining credits


  • Wolfgang Puck Cafe: The Dining Room at Downtown Disney-requires 2 table service dining credits


New Quick-Service Dining Locations Include:





  • Landscapes Cafe at the new Art of Animation Resort


  • The Paddock Grill at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort


  • Katsura Grill at Epcot-World Showcase at Japan


  • Bongo’s Cuban Sandwich Window at Downtown Disney


  • Marketplace Snacks at Downtown Disney
And if you need to see the full list of dining locations, click here for complete pdf's

See you tomorrow :)

Sunday, January 1, 2012

Main Street Memories 365

Day 1


I think this is the beginning of a beautiful friendship – The Fox and the Hound


Welcome!

If you are dropping in for the first time, we are excited to have you!

Welcome to Main Street Memories 365---a year full of postings, tips, tricks, photos, suggestions, and maybe just some fun little facts along the way!

Regardless, it will be a post a day full of Disney Goodness! So, come back each day, and see what's up for the day!



Starting January 1, 2012, enter every day through February 29, 2012 for a chance to win one of 60 vacation packages for 4 to either Walt Disney World Resort or Disneyland Resort.

And if you win....make sure to come back and let us know!!! We would be THRILLED!!!!!

Enter HERE!!!

See you tomorrow!