Doing Disney Without Kids (is Awesome)

Earlier this month we (just us three sisters) were fortunate enough to attend the Disney Social Media Moms Celebration at the Walt Disney World Resort. We’re west coast-Disneyland girls so anytime we get an opportunity to head east (only having been a few times), we are pretty ecstatic. Unlike our past trips, this time we made a collective decision to make it a sisters-only trip. Admittedly, it wasn’t the popular decision with our families BUT sometimes it’s a call you have to make. Needless to say, we had the trip of a lifetime. Between all the magic that the #DisneySMMC provides and the fact that we were kid free (no offense to our amazing children) our entire trip was practically perfect in every way.

All of that said, there were a number of things we excitedly experienced and thoroughly enjoyed that would have likely not been the case if we had been traveling with our kids. Looking back now, it almost feels like a dream. It was THAT dreamy.  If and when you ever consider taking a trip to the Walt Disney World Resort without your kids, here’s just a few things you might want to consider:

Take Pictures (of things other than your kids)

There are so many amazing things to photograph at any of the Disney Resorts. From larger than life landscapes to the tiniest of Disney details, going on your own personal photo walk, through the parks (without any agenda but to shoot) is one of the most enjoyable of experiences ever.

Play with Creative Apps (because playing is fun)

Our new favorite photo app to use is Boomerang and there is no better place to play with that app than at Disneyland. I mean, how fun! We can't even! When you're on your own (without the kids) you can take the time you need to focus on trying something new which can make your mobile phone photography feel like play.

Pin Trade (for YOU)

Pin trading is fun with the kids, for sure! But when you trade just for YOU, you get to score the pins you really want. It's a fun way to coax out your own inner-kid. Remember her?

Shop (browse in any store you want for as long as you want)

So often the most enjoyable part of shopping, is just the browsing. And when you've got kids in tow, there's not a lot of time (or patience) for browsing. We took advantage of our time on trip and browsed in any and every store that tickled our fancy. We may or may not have bought a few Dooney & Bourke bags.

Tour Hotels (because awesome)

We're pretty sure our kids wouldn't appreciate being dragged from the Parks to spend time strolling around and exploring the Resort Hotels, so doing it on our sisters-only trip was an enjoyable (and relaxing) way to spend some grow-up time.

Drink (cheers)

No kids. No driving. No explanation necessary.

Enjoy Restaurant Meals (at a leisurely pace)

We had the most enjoyable, leisurely meals ever on our trip. Don't get us wrong, we love a good corn dog from a stand but, having the opportunity to slow down and savor both the atmosphere and the delicious food only made our time together more special and memorable.

Eat Sweet Treats (anytime, day or night)
Sweets on a Disney trip are a given but as with most things with kids, we try to be examples of moderation and timeliness. The best part of traveling with kids to the Disney Parks is that you don't have to curb your cravings. If you want to try every dessert at Epcot, you go! If you want ice cream for breakfast, just do it. Anything goes when it's adults only. No guilt. And there's no sharing required.

Stay Up Late (YOLO)

Without bed times to consider, you've got every freedom imaginable! Watch all the fireworks. Close the park down. Don't sleep! When you're with your grown-up friends or family, you've got lots of chatting and laughing to do. Even if it's until the wee hours of the morning. Who cares! You're not going to wake anyone up. Except maybe your neighbors! Which reminds us, sorry neighbors, we had some serious sister time we were catching up on.

Although we were busy following the schedule and activities of the conference itself (which was awesome!), we still had plenty of time to stroll, savor, get silly and reconnect. It was an amazing trip! If you ever get the chance to do Disney with your sisters, your friends, your partner, without the kids, we highly recommend it. Or maybe you already have traveled as adults to a Disney Resort. If so, we’d love to hear about it! What was your favorite part?

Disclaimer: We were invited to Disney Social Media Moms Celebration at Walt Disney World Resort where we paid a conference fee that included accommodations and some meals on the conference dates.

15 Ways To Have the #CoolestSummer Ever at Walt Disney World Resort

Important announcement: Summertime is still in full effect people! Please don't let the back-to-school commercials on TV every 5 seconds change your mind. Do not allow all of (dare we even mention) the Halloween merchandise showing up in stores rush you through the last month of your summer vacation. Some of our kids don't even go back to school until after Labor Day this year, which means there is still plenty of time to enjoy 6 weeks more of fun in the sun! If you are heading to the Walt Disney Resort this August there is so many cool things to see and do!

(Photo courtesy of Walt Disney World Resort)

We've recently shared with you the 15 Coolest Things to do at Disneyland Resort this summer and now we are happy to tell you 15 ways to have the "Coolest Summer Ever" while at the Walt Disney World Resort! With so much exciting new entertainment, dining and shopping experiences to try there's something for everyone in your family and the magic goes on all summer long. Whether you are a thrill seeker, a shopper, a Frozen fan, an explorer or all of the above you won't be disappointed!

1. Walt Disney World Resort Pools

Care for a dip? There are so many amazing Walt Disney World Resorts and each come with their own incredible themed pools. Don't forget to take full advenatge of them while you are on holiday at Walt Disney World. Our family trip tip is to hit the parks in the morning, take a break back at the Hotel for swimming in the afternoon, and finally head back to the Parks in the evening to catch a show and beat the crowds. Some of our favorite pools are at the Art of Animation (pictured), the Contemporary, and the Yacht Club/Beach Club Resorts. Which are your favorites?

2. Seven Dwarfs Mine Train

(Photo courtesy of Walt Disney World Resort)

Heigh-ho, heigh-ho it's off to the mine train we go. One of the newer attractions to join the Magic Kingdom Park, part dark ride and part swaying coaster this enchanting train ride will soon become one of your family favorites. You can whistle while you work wait in line to see Snow White and your favorite dwarfs!  If Big Thunder Mountain is the wildest ride in the wilderness, then this ride is the wildest ride in New Fantasyland. Now boarding and bringing smiles to all ages!

3. Dole Whip

The unofficial Disney treat of summer. If you haven't experienced a Dole Whip at a Disney Park, there's no better time than during the hot summer months. This non-dairy pineapple, soft serve dessert is sold at multiple spots in Walt Disney World and there's pretty much always a line for this frozen delight. Variations of the Dole Whip cup also include the Dole Whip float, Dole Whip twist cup and for adults you may even want to get yours with spiced rum. (select locations) If it's not already, it will be your new Disney Parks summertime favorite.

4. Disney Water Parks

(Photo courtesy of Walt Disney World Resort)

Sunny ‘ski’ slopes and palm tree-lined lazy rivers await guests this summer at Disney’s Water Parks – Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon. We loves us some lazy river action! Sometimes during the steamy, humid summer months in Florida you may want to get away from the hot theme parks and have a wet and wild time. The only hard choice to make is Typhoon Lagoon or Blizzard Beach. Trust us, you'll come out a winner no matter which park you choose!

5. Anna and Elsa Meet and Greet

When they’re not visiting Hollywoodland, Anna and Elsa from “Frozen” meet and greet with guests daily at Princess Fairytale Hall in Magic Kingdom Park. The royal sisters also appear during the daily Disney Festival of Fantasy Parade, and guests can enjoy visuals from “Frozen” during the “Celebrate the Magic” projection show that transforms Cinderella Castle each evening. Leave it to these Frozen sisters to cool off everyone's summer! Be sure to check out our ultimate Frozen Summer Fun Guide to Walt Disney World.

6. La Nouba by Cirque du Soleil

(Photo courtesy of Walt Disney World Resort)

We can't think of a more perfect match then pairing a Cirque show in the middle of Walt Disney World Resort. 'La Nouba' (in french "The Party") cast of over 70 international performers including singers, trapeze artists, jugglers, clowns, bikers, and many more incredible acts. Outrageous costumes, incredible sets, brilliant choreography, dramatic lighting and live music turn the ordinary into the extraordinary at the Cirque du Soleil production, La Nouba. Guests can see this theatrical french circus of strength and beauty in Le Theatre at Downtown Disney. Click to buy your tickets online.

7. Harambe Market

(Photo courtesy of Walt Disney World Resort)

New dining and entertainment offerings welcome Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park guests this summer as the theme park continues to undergo the largest expansion in its history. (AVATAR-inspired land coming early soon!) Africa Marketplace, a new shopping and dining option for park- goers in Harambe, the village anchoring the Africa section of the park, which recently opened. One highlight of the new space will be Harambe Marketplace, a new quick-service food and beverage location offering street-inspired dishes from walk-up windows. The new space also will open up a new pathway from Africa to Bradley Falls and the Asia section of the park.

8. Take A Ride on an Amphicar

If crusing down the river in a unique boat is your idea of summer fun, you won't want to miss out on the amphicars, waterfront adventures offered at The BOATHOUSE restaurant. Bon voyage as the Captain drives your car boat off the Amphicar Launch right into the waters of Lake Buena Vista. Make a splash in Orlando & embark on this 20-minute tour of the landmarks of Downtown Disney aka the home of the new Disney Springs. This may be the coolest thing you can do at the Walt Disney World Resort this summer! We also recommend eating at The BOATHOUSE: Great Food, Waterfront Dining, Dream Boats, is a new upscale, experience in the heart of Downtown Disney with a gourmet menu featuring steaks, chops, fresh seafood and a raw bar. Summer waterfront dining at's it best whether you're a sailor or just a seafood lover. We highly recommend saving room for the Gibsons S'mores Baked Alaska for dessert. To. Die. For.

9. "Frozen" Summer Fun Live

The fun heats up when “Frozen” Summer Fun LIVE all summer long at Disney’s Hollywood Studios Park. Guest favorites Anna, Elsa, Kristoff and Olaf take part in a multitude of 'Cool' activities. From the Frozen Royal Welcome, to A "Frozen" Sing-A-Long Celebration, from Olaf's Summer Cool Down to Coolest Summer Ever" Dance Party. There's plenty of Frozen magic to excite the biggest Frozen fans and chill out even the hottest summer. Check out our Frozen Summer Guide to Frozen Fun.

10. Splash Mountain

(Photo courtesy of Walt Disney World Resort)

Prepare to get soaked in the ultimate log ride with the classic characters Br'er rabbit, Br'er bear and Br'er fox. Everybody's got a laughing place and your family will probably find theirs while getting splashed at the bottom of the 5 story drop in Frontierland! You'll have a zippidi doo dah day if you ride this wet attraction at Magic Kingdom Park sure to cool you off on the hottest of summer days. Our tip: the closer you are to the front of the log, the more you get wet in this whimsical watering hole.

11. Shopping at Downtown Disney

(Photo courtesy of Walt Disney World Resort)
If you're a fan of shopping while on vacation for the best souvenirs, (and who isn't) then you may want to carve out sometime of your trip at Downtown Disney. If you didn't know, DTD is currently undergoing a magical makeover into Disney Springs, an exciting new waterfront district for shopping, dining and entertainment. Guests can find hot summer fashion trends and cool new waterfront dining. New retail stores include Sanuk, APEX by Sunglass Hut, Havaianas, Erin McKenna Bakery NYC and more, as well as new dining experiences such as The BOATHOUSE (now open) and Morimoto Asia (opening fall 2015). Disney Springs will be completed in 2016. Sounds cool to us!

12. Kali River Rapids

(Photo courtesy of Walt Disney World Resort)

The fastest way to cool down at Disney's Animal Kingdom Park has got to be while on a whitewater adventure along the scenic Chakranadi River. Wet and wild is the theme of this fantastic journey as you make your way onto this large, circular 12-passenger raft, just perfect for your entire family! Strap yourself in, hide your cell phones, and beware of erupting geysers as you begin your bumpy voyage down the mountain. You may want to bring a change of clothes because there won't be a dry spot on you. Our family has had to wring out our socks on a number of occasions. Nobody escapes the Rapids without getting soaked, but what better way to bring down your body temperature and chill out?

13. Trader Sams Grog Grotto

(Photo courtesy of Walt Disney World Resort)

Pull up a bar stool and get ready to mix and mingle at one of the coolest spots on the "island." Tropical beverages with tiny umbrellas and exotic appetizers are what you desire then Trader Sams is the place that you'll want to be while on your Walt Disney World vacation. Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto is located off the main lobby of Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort; the adjacent Trader Sam’s Tiki Terrace offers views of the marina and Seven Seas Lagoon. Don't forget to pick up some of the collectible tiki mugs and bring the magic home with you. Shark Bait Hoo Ha Ha!

14. Live Musical Entertainment

Epcot guests can enjoy cool new entertainment acts throughout Epcot World Showcase this summer and here's the list of who is performing, where straight from Disney:

• Italy – The spectacularly choreographed flag-throwing team of Sbandieratori Di Sansepolcro combines live music, energy, the flair of hand-painted flags, and magnificent period costumes.

• United Kingdom – Strolling the quaint streets of the United Kingdom pavilion, the Paul McKenna Band is a traditional, acoustic four-piece group from Glasgow, Scotland. Their contemporary approach to songs never strays too far from their Scottish, folk music roots.

• Morocco – B’net Al Houwariyate, a multi-generational Berber music and dance troupe from Marrakesh, illuminates the stories and experiences of women in Morocco in a lively and interactive performance.

• Canada – The Canadian Lumberjacks demonstrate the time-honored tradition of Canada’s great timber and logging eras in a thrilling and friendly competition, featuring axe-throwing, chopping, log-rolling and more.

• American Adventure – Beloved a cappella group Voices of Liberty moves outdoors twice per week to perform a modern twist on American classics at the American Gardens Theatre stage. Other days, a new five- member, contemporary a cappella group brings a vibrant musical energy to the stage. The group will perform a diverse range of popular American hits, all presented in a unique style with custom arrangements by Tim Davis, best known for his work on “Glee.”

15. Casey Jr. Splash 'N' Soak Station 

There is no better way to cool off the younger family members than with a super fun, super wet splash pad. Guests are in luck - Magic Kingdom Park has one, located near the train station in Storybook Circus. At Casey Jr. Splash 'N' Soak Station kids can have a blast in this circus-themed water play zone filled with interactive water features inspired by the locomotive from the beloved Disney movie, Dumbo. Don't forget to bring a bathing suit or a change of clothes!

(Photo courtesy of Walt Disney World Resort)

We hoped you enjoyed our top 15 ways to have the coolest summer ever at Walt Disney World Resort. What is your favorite, we'd love to hear it!

It's gonna be one COOL Summer!
You might even say the 
#CoolestSummer EVER!

 Disclosure: We were graciously hosted by the Walt Disney World Resort at the #CoolestSummer Ever Press Event. (Including airfare, hotel accommodations, meals, and park tickets.) No other compensation was received. The opinions on this blog are 100% magical and 100% those of the Disney Sisters only. All photos belong to us unless otherwise stated. Thanks for reading our blog!

Teen Beach 2: Coolest Beach Party Ever at Typhoon Lagoon

What if your kids could have the ultimate summer beach party with the bikers and surfers from Teen Beach 2?  Well it looks like their ship just came in because Teen Beach Movie has invaded Typhoon Lagoon Water Park this summer at Walt Disney World Resort! 

(Image via Disney Parks)

Part of Walt Disney World's Coolest Summer Ever celebration, guests can now hit the shores and experience a retro Teen Beach 2: Beach Party from May 22 to July 5, 2015. You can discover if your "Disney Side" is more 'Surfer' or 'Biker' (or both) during this 60s-style Beach Party. Activities include water ballon tossing, dancing, hula hoop spinning, relays in the sand, beach ball throwing - plus you will Twist and Shout to the grooviest dance music since the first Teen Beach Movie! Make sure to find an official Teen Beach 2 party planner at the park to get you started. COWABUNGA!

There's so much wet and wild fun to explore at Disney World's Water Parks. Your family can cool off at Disney's Typhoon Lagoon Water Park which has awesome waterslides, relaxing rivers, surf lessons, raft rides, snorkeling at Shark Reef, a water play area for kids, and a giant wave pool. Or they can cool out in winter wonderment at Disney's Blizzard Beach Water Park. And you thought Splash Mountain got you soaked!

(Image via Disney Channel)

Teen Beach 2 premieres Friday, June 26 at 8pm on Disney Channel.

 Disclosure: We were graciously hosted by the Walt Disney World Resort at the #CoolestSummer Ever Press Event. (Including airfare, hotel accommodations, meals, and park tickets.) No other compensation was received. The opinions on this blog are 100% magical and 100% those of the Disney Sisters only. These images are from Disney Channel and Disney Parks. Thanks for reading our blog!

Amphicar at Walt Disney World: A Closer Look

It's a car. It's a boat. It's an amphibious automobile.

They call it an Amphicar!

Ahoy there! Did you know there are currently nine of these part land, part sea beauties operating right outside The Boathouse in Walt Disney World Resort? They are all a part of the newly re-imagined Downtown Disney Area which is getting a magical makeover into what eventually will be called 'Disney Springs.' (To be complete in 2016.) Walt Disney World guests can now experience these Captain-guided Amphicar tours in vintage vehicles, which are open and ready for cruisers! You and 2 of your closest friends can hop aboard on the Amphicar launch, as your car drives right into the water. Make a splash in Orlando & embark on this 20-minute tour of the landmarks of Downtown Disney! Included in your journey is a little whimsical history lesson about the Amphicar from your Captain and how they came to be. (We hear they may have a joke or two up their sleeve.) It's the perfect thing to include in your #CoolestSummer Bucket List at Walt Disney World!

About the Vintage Amphicar Tour:

The cost is $125 per car.

Vintage Amphicar Tour is a 20 minute trip.

Tours are offered hourly (weather permitting) each day from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Every Amphicar trip includes a skipper who is the perfect informative tour guide.

Each vehicle seats up to three guests (three adults or two adults and two small children).

You don't have to be dining at The Boathouse in order to take a tour.

They currently accept walk up reservations.

About the Amphicars:

Amphicars are rare vehicles that drive on land and float in the water!

There are currently nine of these restored Amphicars at Walt Disney World Resort.

These Amphicars were purchased from private collections worldwide. 

Only 3,878 of these unique vehicles were produced during the 1960’s (1961 to 1968). 

The Boathouse is the only place in the world where you get the opportunity to ride in these vintage vehicles.

For more information please go to TheBoathouseOrlando.com.

For more information on how to have the Coolest Summer Ever visit Walt Disney World Resort.

 Disclosure: We were graciously hosted by the Walt Disney World Resort at the #CoolestSummer Ever Press Event. (Including airfare, hotel accommodations, meals, and park tickets.) No other compensation was received. The opinions on this blog are 100% magical and 100% those of the Disney Sisters only. All photos belong to us unless otherwise stated. Thanks for reading our blog!

Frozen Summer Fun Guide to Walt Disney World

Do you want to know how to stay FROZEN all summer long?

Does a chilling out in an enchanted snowstorm sound like fun to you?

Are you ready to have the Coolest Summer Ever?

Brrrrr... Did it get cold in here or is it just us? Well, if getting a 'warm hug' from Olaf is on your (or your child's) Frozen Bucket List, then Disney's Hollywood Studios at the Walt Disney World Resort is where you want to be this Summer! With so many new chill things to do there, you should definitely get your "Frozen On!" All summer long, from June 17 to September 7, 2015 you can experience newly added magic for kids of all ages at Disney's Hollywood Studios in Orlando, Florida! Arendelle has come to Walt Disney World and everyone's invited!

Frozen Summer Fun Guide
The 10 Must-Do FROZEN things at Walt Disney World Resort!

Frozen Royal Welcome

Smile and wave, smile and wave. Watch your favorite royal sisters of Arendelle, Queen Elsa and Princess Anna along with other citizens of their town meet and greet Park guests. The perfect way to start your day, by greeting Disney Princesses!

For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration

If singing "Let It Go" along with a bunch of strangers in a theater along with Queen Elsa is your thing, then you totally have to do this! A live show with all of your favorite Frozen stars, included in this entertaining mini-musical that retells the tale of Arendelle's history.

Frozen Procession with Anna and Elsa

Ice cutters, skiers, ice skaters, and more! Hollywood Boulevard gets some Frozen fun when Anna, Elsa, Olaf, and even Kristoff make their way in the coolest processional of the summer. Frosty good fun!

Olaf's Summer Cool Down

Meet Olaf... In Summerrrrrrr! This is one cool snowman. You can meet this cute guy and tell him about all things hot and summer, he'll be just thrilled. Make sure to get a warm hug, trust us, he likes warm hugs!

Coolest Summer Ever Photo Spots

It's easy to look Cool when you have the right backdrop! Plenty of places and faces to capture the magic and memories of your Frozen Summer Fun, so be on the look out for the perfect spot to say Freeze uh, "Cheese!"

Hot Frozen Nights: DJ Dance Party

When the sun goes down this summer it's going to get even hotter... we mean cooler! Shake your Frozen groove thing to this nighttime dance party playing all of your favorite hits! For a chance to be featured onscreen during the party, be sure to share your song requests and photos on social media!

Frozen Fireworks Display

Who doesn't want to end the night with a flurry of Frozen Fireworks? We do and we know that you do too! See the Frozen magic light up the sky with beautiful sights and sounds that will have you and your little ones dreaming of sparkling snowflakes for many moons to come.

Frozen Merchandise

You can stock up on all of your favorite Beautifully Disney makeup, Frozen dolls, stuffed Sven the reindeer, talking Olaf's, Anna or Elsa gowns, and so much more! Bring some of these adorable souveniers home and you can keep the magic alive all year long.

Frozen Inspired Food and Beverages

Eat, Drink, and be Merry! Enjoy all that Frozen Summer Fun has to offer you and your family, that includes the food. Disney can make food magical, so make sure to try delicious new Frozen-inspired treats and frosty cold drinks.

Frozen Summer Fun Premium Package
Reserve this package for your chance to be treated like royalty, for a fee you can make reservations which include, seating at Royal Welcome, Frozen sing-along, and the Frozen Fireworks Spectacular with special dessert party!

And for a limited time only you can still see the Anna and Elsa Topiaries at Epcot Flower and Garden Festival HERE.

It's gonna be one COOL Summer!
You might even say the 
#CoolestSummer EVER!

 Disclosure: We were graciously hosted by the Walt Disney World Resort at the #CoolestSummer Ever Press Event. (Including airfare, hotel accommodations, meals, and park tickets.) No other compensation was received. The opinions on this blog are 100% magical and 100% those of the Disney Sisters only. All photos belong to us unless otherwise stated. Thanks for reading our blog!

Epcot Flower and Garden Festival in Full Bloom

The time is almost up for this year's Epcot's Flower and Garden Festival, as the Walt Disney World Resort bids farewell to Spring and welcomes in the Coolest Summer Ever! Before it goes, we wanted to share some of our sightings at this year's International Festival! Epcot is by far one of our favorite Disney Parks. The gorgeous sights, delightful sounds, and fresh flavors, this event is a great way to experience Disney Magic in a unique way. Of course we are always sad to see the Flower and Garden Festival go, but like all of our other favorite special events at Disney Parks, it will be back next year! And while we are waiting for it to come back we can enjoy other amazing happenings like Star Wars Weekends, Frozen Summer Fun, during the Coolest Summer Ever at the Walt Disney World Resort!

Here are some highlights not to be missed around Epcot's World Showcase:

Outdoor Kitchens with seasonal springtime treats like Pineapple Dole Whip, Frushi, and Sangria. 

Educational opportunities that teach how to bring spring at Epcot to your own garden

Magical topiaries (grown locally) featuring your favorite Disney Characters 

*Anna and Elsa Topiaries new this year!*

Entertaining Music at the Garden Rocks Concert Series

Butterflies on the Go presented by Go Go SqueeZ

English Tea Garden by Twinings of London

and so much more!

Epcot's International Flower and Garden Festival is the perfect blend of family fun for all ages.
With only a few days left, make sure you visit soon before it fades away. 

Special Event dates March 4 - May 17, 2015

Disclosure: We were graciously hosted by the Walt Disney World Resort at the #CoolestSummer Ever Press Event. (Including airfare, hotel accommodations, meals, and park tickets.) No other compensation was received. The opinions on this blog are 100% magical and 100% those of the Disney Sisters only. All photos belong to us unless otherwise stated. Thanks for reading our blog!