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!

Off to Walt Disney World for the #CoolestSummer Press Event

We are thrilled to announce that Disney Sisters are heading to Walt Disney World today (RIGHT NOW) to cover the Coolest Summer Ever Press Event! How fun is that? We can't wait to share with all of you the amazing things to do this summer at Walt Disney World Resort! And we are not just talking about the Frozen Summer Fun!

Whether you prefer spending your time at one of the 4 Theme Parks, the 2 Water Parks, Downtown Disney, laying poolside at any of the Disney Resorts, or doing all of those things... (YESSS!!!)

Get ready to have the Coolest Summer Ever! 

It all kicks off with the 24 Hour Summer Kick-Off Celebration on Friday May 22!

Stay Tuned! The last time we were at Walt Disney World was 2 years, for Disney Social Media Moms Conference. (That's a long time if you're keeping track.) There's lots of news coming from us from Orlando, Florida this week. Make sure to follow along on @DisneySisters on all social media channels. We'll be using the hashtag #CoolestSummerEver just FYI.

Who is ready to plan their "Coolest Summer Ever" at the Walt Disney World Resort?

Disclosure: We were invited to the Walt Disney World Resort as a member of the media to experience the Coolest Summer Ever Press Event. (Including airfare and hotel accommodations) No other compensation was received. The opinions on this blog are 100% magical and 100% those of the Disney Sisters only. Thanks for reading!

New Walt Disney World Ticket Prices: Magic Your Way and Annual Passes

If you frequent Disneyland Resort in California, then you may have noticed the recent admission price increase. As of today, Walt DisneyWorld Resort Guests will also pay higher rates.

The price adjustment includes everything from a 1 day park ticket to an Annual Passport. With the new renovations to Fantasyland at Magic Kingdom, and after the admission increase in California, many have anticipated that rates in Florida would rise too. You can check out all of the new rates below from Disney Parks Blog.

Magic Your Way: Facts on Walt Disney World Prices

Theme Park Ticket Options(*)
Days On Ticket	Base Ticket			Optional Add-Ons
	Ages 10-up	Ages 3-9	Park Hopper®	Water Park Fun & More	Park Hopper® & Water Park Fun & More	No Expiration
10 days	$318 ($31.80/day)	$300 ($30.00/day)	$57	$57 (10 visits)	$79 (10 visits)	$275
9 days	$308 ($34.22/day)	$290 ($32.22/day)	$57	$57 (9 visits)	$79 (9 visits)	$250
8 days	$298 ($37.25/day)	$280 ($35.00/day)	$57	$57 (8 visits)	$79 (8 visits)	$215
7 days	$288 ($41.14/day)	$270 ($38.57/day)	$57	$57 (7 visits)	$79 (7 visits)	$190
6 days	$278 ($46.33/day)	$260 ($43.33/day)	$57	$57 (6 visits)	$79 (6 visits)	$165
5 days	$268 ($53.60/day)	$250 ($50.00/day)	$57	$57 (5 visits)	$79 (5 visits)	$130
4 days	$256 ($64.00/day)	$239 ($59.75/day)	$57	$57 (4 visits)	$79 (4 visits)	$85
3 days	$242 ($80.67/day)	$226 ($75.33/day)	$57	$57 (3 visits)	$79 (3 visits)	$40
2 days	$176 ($88.00/day)	$164 ($82.00/day)	$57	$57 (2 visits)	$79 (2 visits)	$30
1 day	$89	$83	$35	$57 (2 visits)	$79 (2 visits)	n/a

Base Ticket admits guest to one theme park each day of use. 

Park choices are: Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

Park Hopper option entitles guest to visit more than one theme park on each day of use. 

Park choices are any combination of Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, 

Disney’s Animal Kingdom on each day of use.

Water Park Fun & More option entitles guest to a specified number of visits (between 2 and 10) to a choice of entertainment and recreation venues. Choices are Disney’s Blizzard Beach water park, Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon water park, DisneyQuest, Disney’s Oak Trail golf course, ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex (includes 30-minutes of game play at The PlayStation® Pavilion), Disney’s Fantasia Gardens (before 4:00 pm) and Disney’s Winter Summerland (before 4:00 pm).

No expiration means unused admissions on a ticket have no expiration date. 

All tickets expire 14 days after first use unless No Expiration is purchased.

Annual Pass: Prices and Options 

Theme Park Annual Pass Options (*)
Ticket	Ages 10-up	Ages 3-9
Annual Pass	$574	$574
Annual Pass entitles guest to unlimited admission for 365 days from the activation date (except activities/events separately priced) to Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Disney’s Animal Kingdom, as well as complimentary parking.
Premium Annual Pass	$699	$699
Premium Annual Pass entitles guest to unlimited admission for 365 days from the activation date (except activities/events separately priced) to Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Disney’s water parks (Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon), Disney’s Oak Trail golf course, DisneyQuest and ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, as well as complimentary parking.

Will the higher rates at Disney Theme Parks prevent you from going or limit your frequency? Or will you continue to visit the Parks just as you have in the past? 

We want to know!

Inside Disney's Art of Animation Resort Lobby

There are so many fantastic sights to see at the new Disney Resort, Art of Animation and we want to  share it all with you. Between the pool, the suites, the pool, the arcade, the pool, the play areas, the pool there's a lot of stunning visuals.

Let's talk about the Artwork in the Lobby and what they Animation Hall. All of your favorite characters in all stages of sketches adorn the walls and even the chandelier. The entire hotel is Walt Disney Animation and Disney Pixar themed. It literally makes you feel like you are apart of your favorite animated movie. The resort theme features 4 movies, "Finding Nemo," "The Little Mermaid," "Cars" and "The Lion King." If you are a fan of Disney movies (and who isn't) then you will definitely want to check out Disney's Art of Animation Resort opening May 31, 2012.

Watch a video tour of Disney's Art Of Animation Resort main lobby also called Animation Hall. 

"Enjoy a stay and a starring role in your favorite Disney / Pixar film." -Rick Allen, General Manager

Full Disclosure: We were invited to the Disney Social Media Moms Celebration. Walt Disney World offered a special discounted rate for all attendees and their families. This is a once in a lifetime experience and we are grateful to Disney for allowing us to participate. We'll be sharing unique things seen and heard throughout the Celebration. Please keep in mind these our own personal thoughts and opinions, not those of the Walt Disney Company.