Universal Orlando Resort is sharing a sneak peek inside the stunning, full-scale recreation of the British Ministry of Magic that will be the setting of the innovative new attraction, Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry –opening on May 22, 2025, at Universal Epic Universe. The groundbreaking new attraction found within The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic promises to be Universal’s most impressive ride to date – blending massive, incredibly detailed environments, powerful storytelling, unprecedented ride technology, and so much more to take guests on an action-packed adventure to witness the trial of the infamous Dolores Umbridge.
Just like Hogwarts Castle in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade and Gringotts Bank in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley, the immense scale and awe-inspiring details within the British Ministry of Magic will amaze guests as they are immersed in yet another iconic location from the beloved Warner Bros. Pictures Harry Potter films. The journey through the typically restricted wizarding government building will take guests through the grand Ministry atrium, Dolores Umbridge’s office, other Ministry departments, and more before boarding magical, omnidirectional lifts to bring Dolores Umbridge to justice once and for all.
Here is a closer look at some of the highly immersive details and environments guests will find in Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry:
Métro-Floo Corridor
Guests will journey from wizarding Paris – the setting of the other exciting experiences inspired by the Fantastic Beasts films in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic – to the Ministry via the Métro-Floo – a unique mode of transportation inspired by the iconic Floo Network from the films. As they emerge from the fireplace-like structures they’ve seen in the films, guests will immediately find themselves in the lobby of the Ministry of Magic.
The Ministry of Magic Atrium
The jaw-dropping grand atrium of the Ministry of Magic comes to life in all its grandeur in the queue for the attraction. Here, guests will find a restored Fountain of Magical Brethren statue, the breathtaking enchanted weather ceiling, an endless array of Ministry offices from floor to ceiling and many more intricate details for guests to discover while inside. Guests will also discover that their visit falls on the same day that Dolores Umbridge will stand trial for her crimes against the wizarding world.
Ministry Reception
Guests will pass by the Ministry Reception, where wizards typically ask for information before going about their wizarding business. However, guests won’t find anyone working the reception booths today as the entire Ministry is busy preparing for the trial.
Dolores Umbridge’s Office
A glittering chandelier illuminates Dolores Umbridge’s former office, which is revealed to be just as over-the-top as the woman herself with its pink hues and ornate gold carvings throughout. Here, guests will meet Higgledy, Umbridge’s former house-elf, for the first time as she enthusiastically cleans out the office ahead of the trial.
Daily Prophet, Memos, and Other Wizarding Details
Guests should keep an eye out for a variety of details from the films while they venture through the Ministry, like the latest edition of the Daily Prophet, flocks of interdepartmental memos and even the belongings of some of their favorite characters from the films.
Magical Ministry Lift
Guests will board a magical, omnidirectional lift that seats up to 14 guests to travel even deeper through the British Ministry for the long-awaited trial of Dolores Umbridge. Adorned with vibrant red and gold accents, these lifts are unlike any ride vehicle ever created and will propel guests up, down, forward, backward, sideways and more throughout the Ministry – just like guests have seen in the films.
Additional Ministry Areas
Once aboard the ride, guests will find themselves on a thrilling chase to catch Umbridge as she attempts to escape her trial – all while dodging attacks from the Death Eaters, rampaging creatures and more along the way. Additional areas guests will soar through in the British Ministry include the Magical Archives –a cavernous library filled with towering cabinets that hold centuries of Ministry archives and wizarding documents; the Department of Magical Creatures – where creatures have escaped and are running amuck; and the Time Room – which is overflowing with a variety of Time-Turners and unique timekeeping devices.
Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry will open at Epic Universe on May 22, 2025, and is just one of many exciting experiences in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic. The third installment of Universal Orlando’s wildly popular Harry Potter-themed lands will also include an all-new live show, Le Cirque Arcanus, inspired by the Fantastic Beasts films; a variety of highly themed dining and retail experiences; interactive wand magic and captivating entertainment.
Select multi-day tickets and vacation packages that include one-day access to Universal Epic Universe are on sale now. Fans can also plan their visit with The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Exclusive Vacation Package, which includes 7-night hotel accommodations. This 5-day theme park ticket gives themfour days of park-to-park access to Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure, plus one separate day admission to Universal Epic Universe and more. This package also includes Early Park Admission to select attractions at Epic Universe, Volcano Bay, and either Universal Studios Florida or Universal Islands of Adventure (valid theme park admission required), plus other wizarding perks like a special Florean Fortescue’s Ice Cream Flight with a Honeydukes Cooler Tote, one breakfast at Leaky Cauldron in Diagon Alley, the Three Broomsticks in Hogsmeade and Café L’air De La Sirené in the Ministry of Magic, one Shutterbutton’s Photography Studio session and more.
Universal Orlando Resort is sharing an official first look inside Universal Epic Universe – the destination’s fourth incredible theme park grand opening on May 22, 2025. The new theme park will present a level of immersion and innovation that is unmatched as it unlocks the portals to five astounding worlds: Celestial Park, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk and Dark Universe – each filled with extraordinary adventures that go beyond guests’ wildest imagination.
Here is an official look at some of the breathtaking locations guests will be able to explore at Universal Epic Universe:
(c) Universal
The Chronos – the icon of Universal Epic Universe As guests start their day, they will pass through the stunning Chronos portal that serves as the gateway to the incredible adventures found in Epic Universe. The first world guests will encounter upon entering the Chronos is Celestial Park, where they can board a shooting comet for an exhilarating roller coaster adventure, dine on delectable cuisine, shop exclusive merchandise to commemorate their visit and more.
(c) Universal
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic In The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, guests will journey from a Muggle park in Paris into the breathtaking spectacle of 1920’s Place Cachée – a hidden, bustling shopping district in wizarding Paris. Within Place Cachée, guests will find numerous dining venues like Café L’air De La Sirène, chic shopping options like Les Galeries Mirifiques, a live, full-scale theatre experience, Le Cirque Arcanus and more. They’ll also journey from wizarding Paris to the British Ministry of Magic to witness the long-awaited trial of the infamous Dolores Umbridge in the thrilling ride, “Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry.”
(c) Universal
SUPER NINTENDO WORLD After guests emerge from the iconic green pipe into SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, they’ll be immersed into the worlds of beloved Nintendo characters Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, Toad, Donkey Kong and more. Within Universal Orlando’s most colorful and interactive experience yet, they’ll encounter familiar places inspired by Nintendo’s games, including Mt. Beanpole.
(c) Universal
How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk Upon entering the larger-than-life world of How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, guests will be captivated by a real-life version of the iconic sweeping vista straight from the wildly popular “How to Train Your Dragon” films. As they take in the vast sparkling lagoon, two 40-foot-tall Viking statues and an energetic village perched above churning seas, guests can embark on a variety of Viking adventures inspired by the beloved film series – including experiencing what it’s like to fly on a dragon on Hiccup’s Wing Gliders, competing to outscore and out soak fellow guests on Fyre Drill, posing for a photo with Toothless and so much more.
(c) Universal
Dark Universe In Dark Universe, guests will explore the shadowy village of Darkmoor – home to Universal Monster legends like Dracula, The Wolf Man, Frankenstein’s Monster and more. The icon of this ominous world is Frankenstein Manor, where guests will venture deep into its catacombs and face a horde of enraged monsters on Universal Orlando’s most chilling attraction ever – Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment.
This holiday season, ditch the traditional gifts and give something that lasts a lifetime—the gift of travel! Instead of more stuff, why not treat your loved ones to an unforgettable adventure? Here’s why travel is the ultimate Christmas gift that will make memories for years to come.
1. Lasting Memories Over Material Things
Travel is the gift that keeps on giving! The memories you create on a trip will stay with you forever, far longer than a sweater or another pair of socks. Those memories are something you can talk about, laugh about, and treasure for years to come.
2. Stronger Bonds
What better way to bond with family or friends than by sharing the adventure of travel? From exploring new destinations to experiencing new things together, a trip creates memories that bring you closer and deeper together.
3. Experiences > Stuff
We all know the drill—more stuff just means more clutter. But experiences? They enrich our lives in ways material gifts just can’t. Travel lets you explore new places, try exciting activities, and get a taste of cultures you’ve never seen before. Talk about a happiness boost!
4. Personal Growth and Discovery
Travel pushes you out of your comfort zone. It helps you gain new perspectives, discover more about the world (and yourself), and build valuable life skills—like problem-solving and adaptability. It’s an adventure that challenges and transforms you.
5. Eco-Friendly and Sustainable
Instead of adding to the piles of plastic toys or excess gadgets, travel is a gift that’s much more sustainable. It’s all about experiences—ones that don’t leave a trail of waste behind. Plus, many travel options (like eco-tours) support responsible tourism.
6. A Break from the Daily Grind
Everyone needs a little R&R! A getaway offers the perfect chance to hit the reset button, recharge, and unwind. Say goodbye to work stress, endless emails, and hectic schedules—your gift of travel is a full-on mental vacation.
7. Celebrate Adventure and Curiosity
Travel is all about discovery! Whether you’re hiking through lush forests, exploring ancient ruins, or simply trying new foods, it’s a gift that celebrates curiosity, adventure, and the joy of seeing the world with fresh eyes.
8. Boost Mental Well-Being
Studies show that travel has a powerful impact on mental health. The excitement of planning a trip, the joy of new experiences, and the relaxation that comes with time away all contribute to a happier, more balanced life.
9. Tailored to Their Dreams
A travel gift is as unique as the person you’re gifting it to! Love the beach? How about a tropical getaway? Into hiking? A mountain adventure awaits. You can customize the perfect experience based on their personal interests and passions.
10. Flexible and Stress-Free
Not sure when or where they’d like to go? No problem! With travel gift cards, vouchers, or flexible bookings, you give your loved ones the gift of choice. Let them decide the destination or timing, so it fits into their life and schedule.
11. No More Clutter
It’s time to say goodbye to extra stuff! Travel doesn’t take up space in the house, and the experiences and memories it creates are far more meaningful than any trinket or knick-knack. No wrapping paper waste, no clutter—just pure, unforgettable memories.
12. Supports Local Communities
When you gift travel, you’re also giving back to the communities that depend on tourism. You’re supporting local businesses, artisans, and economies, making your gift even more meaningful. It’s the perfect way to give back while exploring the world.
13. A Digital Detox
Let’s face it—everyone’s glued to their phones these days. A trip to a remote location or an off-the-grid retreat can offer a much-needed break from technology. It’s the ultimate way to reconnect with nature, the people around you, and your own well-being.
14. Broadens Horizons
Traveling exposes us to new cultures, languages, and ways of life. It opens our eyes to the beauty of diversity and fosters empathy, tolerance, and understanding. It’s a gift that helps you grow as a global citizen and appreciate the world in all its wonderful diversity.
15. Creates Shared Stories
The best part of travel? The stories! Whether it’s a funny mishap or a breathtaking view, you’ll have tons of tales to share. These shared experiences become part of your bond and something you’ll always look back on fondly.
16. A Surprising Twist
The element of surprise makes travel an unforgettable gift. Imagine gifting someone a surprise vacation to their dream destination—it’s an experience that will leave them speechless with excitement!
17. Perfect for Milestones
Travel is a fantastic way to celebrate life’s big milestones—whether it’s a graduation, anniversary, retirement, or any other special moment. A well-planned trip can mark a new chapter in life with unforgettable memories.
18. Focus on Wellness
Need to recharge? A wellness retreat or a serene nature escape is a perfect gift for someone looking to relax and rejuvenate. From yoga retreats to spa vacations, travel can be the ultimate self-care experience.
19. Explore New Hobbies
Traveling often sparks new interests and hobbies—whether it’s learning photography, cooking regional dishes, or hiking new trails. A trip might inspire your loved ones to pick up a new passion and enrich their lives in exciting ways.
20. The Gift of Time
At the end of the day, giving the gift of travel is giving someone the gift of time—time to explore, time to relax, and time to make new memories. It’s an opportunity to break free from the usual routine and spend time in a new and exciting way.
Ready to ditch the usual gift cards and gadgets? This year, give your loved ones something truly special: an adventure they’ll never forget. Whether it’s a weekend getaway, a dream vacation, or a surprise trip, the gift of travel will be a present they treasure for years to come!
There is nothing quite like opening your hotel room door for the first time and seeing the sea staring back at you. Our first experience at Sandal’s Royal Bahamian started with our room overlooking the beach. After spending a few minutes marveling at the bluest water I had ever seen, I was excited to see everything else the resort had to offer.
A quick poke around the room left me impressed; a simple bit spacious room complete with king sized four poster bed, a large bathtub and shower, and a separate small sink so two could get ready at a time; I almost overlooked the stocked complimentary minibar in our room. Refilled every day with special requests fulfilled, it was an unexpected but lovely addition to the room. While we chose to not take advantage of a Butler suite during our stay, the ability to have an on-call guide, concierge, sommelier, and overall vacation guru at your beck and call offered to bring the pampering to the next level.
Determined to take full advantage of our stay, we immediately started checking out menus, reviewing excursions, and exploring all of the amenities the resort had to offer. With 10 incredible restaurants and 2 on-site food trucks, there was never a lack of options when we wanted to take a break for a snack or a meal. We started each morning with a fantastic breakfast, getting a chance to try both buffet-style offerings at Kanoo and a sit-down meal at La Plume.
The buffet at Kanoo was different every morning, and offered everything from cereal and pastries to an omelet station and a full hot bar. With the likes of Eggs Benedict, breakfast burritos, spicy stewed chicken, bacon and eggs, and so much more, it was a quick and filling start to the day.
Kanoo- Breakfast and Lunch Buffet Daily
La Plume, the French-inspired restaurant on the property, was equally delightful. Their menu was more traditional breakfast fare with an elevated flair. Blueberry compote-topped pancakes and Grand Marnier crunchy French toast paired with Corned Beef Hash and Eggs Benedict was our order, but you would be hard pressed to find anything on the menu that wasn’t delicious.
La Plume- Breakfast and Dinner
Fueled and ready to explore, most days immediately found us on the sand wading into the ocean post breakfast. It’s hard to describe exactly how clear blue the water is in Nassau; we swam and snorkeled every day, scouring the beaches and rocks for all of the fish, crabs, rays, and all of the other colorful and plentiful sea life. Everywhere we turned there was a flash of color and a gorgeous visual that kept bringing us back, searching for more.
In addition to the pool and the resort beach, we spent two afternoons on the private island across from the resort. Just a quick boat ride from Gordon’s Over the Water, the phenomenal seafood restaurant built on a pier over the beach, we stepped onto a secluded island that really felt like we were in our own patch of paradise.
Private Island
Complete with a pool, swim-up bar, and the Aralia House restaurant all of the perks of the resort came with us to the island, but there was so much more to be found on it’s shores. Red Lane Spa offered cabana massages overlooking the ocean, and there was enough sand and surf to keep everyone on the island busy. What was most notable was that it never felt crowded; every time we ventured out we were on a full ferry of passengers ready to enjoy their stay.
Within moments of disembarking, though, the crowds seemed to drift away and scatter to various points of the island. While there was always a small crowd at the pool or taking advantage of Aralia House’s Jerk Chicken and other fare, it was never overwhelming or felt busy. It truly felt like our own small private slice of the sea, and getting away from our fellow guests for a few hours to nap in the shade or splash in the shallows was easy.
More Dining… Oh, MY!
Once we returned from to the resort in the evening, our real work began: deciding where to have dinner. Fish and Chips at The Queen’s Pearl, an incredible selection of sushi and sashimi at Soy, Butch’s Steakhouse, La Plame, Italian American inspired Tesoro, the options kept going. There was something for everyone on each menu, and it was easy to substitute to ensure each diner was satisfied. The waitstaff and the Culinary Concierge also were fantastic when it came to any food allergies or issues, offering alternatives and changes to make sure each guest enjoyed their meal to the fullest. The two food trucks on offer, Sweets n Tings and Coco Queen, were my favorite snack locations. With Coco offering more traditional island options like fried conch and fish tacos, and Sweets making crepes to order (along with other cookies, confections and pastries) it was hard choosing just one offering. So I rarely did; I ordered multiple items just in case every time I stopped by!
Tesoro- Italian Dining
Soy- Sushi dinner only
Gordons Over the Water- Seafood dinner only
Le Plume- French Cusine Breakfast and Dinner *dinner is reservations only
Sweets n Tings and Coco Queen Food Trucks
In between meals, there was always something happening at the resort. Morning had group activities by one of the three pools, and there were activities and excursions throughout the day. Snorkeling and scuba diving was offered offsite, as well as an option to swim with the piggies on a nearby island. There was parasailing, jet ski rentals, and boat tours available offsite, or there was always the option of a chaise lounge by the pool or the beach with a cool drink while you soaked up the sun. Choice was the recurring theme that underlined our entire stay: there were always options to satisfy every type of traveler.
Red Lane Penthouse Gym
If you are concerned about keeping up with your fitness routine there is a state-of-the art penthouse gym overlooking the crystal-clear Bahimian waters! Who wouldn’t be motivated with a view like this? The gym is included in your stay and you can take advantage of the bottled water and equipment for your entire stay.
The large communal spaces were well kept up and well suited to their purpose; we saw several wedding parties take advantage of them during our stay. As a perk of booking, guests are able to plan and hold their wedding or recommitment ceremony for no cost at the resort, and there were multiple venues to choose from. A hidden veranda surrounded by greenery and decorated with island flair held one such event, and we watched several couples tie the knot on the beach at sunset.
Staff photographers were knowledgeable and engaged in capturing the moment for each couple, and spent time and considerable care making sure the memories were well documented. There was a sense that no detail was too small for the resort staff, who were lovely all around, to consider in making every stay memorable.
Resort Room Photos
While we were visiting the resort we were able to tour several rooms. All rooms and suites at Sandals are divided into three room categories: Sandals Luxury, Club Level, Butler Elite Level. In short, Sandals Luxury are Sandals’ entry-level rooms, Club Level rooms offer room service and Butler Elite suites come with personalized butler service.
The more private and luxurious Butler Elite suites are referred to as Love Nest Suites. Besides being more luxurious, expect Love Nest Suites to have the same amenities as the other Butler Elite suites.
Club Level
Club Level rooms are slightly more luxurious than Luxury Level rooms and come with free room service from 7 AM until 10 PM. This is one of the main reasons guests are willing to upgrade from a Luxury level suite. Sandals’ room service gives you the opportunity to order breakfast on bed, and to have lunch and dinner delivered to your suite. Ideal if you don’t feel like dressing yourself up for the restaurant, or when you want to have a romantic dinner on your balcony or patio.
Sandals Royal Bahamian Island Village Honeymoon Luxury Villas
Swim-up Suite
Our overall impression of the resort was very strong; from the moment we stepped on property we were surrounded by picturesque views, white columned buildings nestled perfectly against the backdrop of lush greenery and the ocean, and equal parts fun and excitement as well as quiet, contemplative areas. There were several pools that were full of travelers enjoying drinks and the sun, as well as hidden spots throughout the resort where a couple could get away for a quiet conversation or to watch the sunset in a covered veranda.
I don’t think I’ll ever forget that first view of the waves breaking on the beach below our balcony, the scent of the salt air, or the overwhelming sense of peace and calm that came with having every need seen to and every expectation surpassed. In fact, I plan on reminding myself at regular intervals. Our stay, though short, was reinvigorating and restful in a way that many longer getaways have not been. When Butch said that his idea of heaven was to live by the sea, he was speaking just a bit for all of us.
Are you ready to book yet? Take a look at what is included in your stay at Sandals Royal Bahamian:
Did summer sneak up on you? It seems like we were putting away the last remnants of the holiday season, and then… BAM! The kids are out of school for summer break, and we didn’t plan a thing to do.
If you’re like me, and you didn’t plan a thing, don’t worry! We compiled a list of great last-minute getaway options for a fun summer the kids won’t soon forget.
Disney Cruise
It might be a little too hot to trek through the parks this time of year. But, if you are a Disney fan, you can take advantage of all the fun aboard Disney Cruise Line. Disney Cruise Line has itineraries through Summer 2023 on the Magic, Wonder, Dream, and Fantasy legacy ships, plus the brand-new Disney Wish! There are sailings to popular ports of call in the Greek Isles, Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Alaska, and the Caribbean.
@Photo: Matt Stroshane
The Disney Wish will homeport in Port Canaveral near Orlando for a series of three- and four-night Bahamas cruises to Nassau and Disney’s private island oasis, Castaway Cay. The Disney Wish will feature exciting new additions, including Disney’s first “Frozen”-themed theatrical dining experience and AquaMouse, a wild water adventure and first-ever Disney attraction at sea.
@Sandals Resort®
Beaches Resort- Jamaica, Turks & Caicos, and St Pete
Beaches Resorts offer an all-inclusive luxury vacation for families. The perfect family getaway is Beaches Resorts in Jamaica, Turks & Caicos, and St Pete! Situated on the most beautiful pristine white-sand beaches of the Caribbean, Beaches Resorts offer many exhilarating activities for kids of every age. Here, tots, teens, grandparents, and everyone can enjoy the most exceptional all-inclusive family vacations beneath the Caribbean sun!
@Nickelodeon-Hotels-Resorts-
Nickelodeon Hotels and Resorts Riviera Maya – Playa del Carmen, Mexico
The kid-friendly Nickelodeon Hotels and Resorts Riviera Maya in Playa del Carmen (about 30 minutes from the international airport and a host of other Cancun family resorts) brings SpongeBob SquarePants, Dora the Explorer, and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles to life in a five-star all-inclusive resort setting where every room is a swim-up oceanfront suite.
Family vacation highlights at this resort include character breakfasts, live Nick-themed shows and entertainment, and a six-acre outdoor water park with slides, rides, and splash pads.
@Disney®
Aulani, a Disney Resort and Spa – Oahu, Hawaii
On the island of Oahu in Hawaii, family vacations get a decidedly Disney spin at Aulani, a Disney Resort and Spa, where the resort’s mostly all-inclusive rates include nightly bonfires, character experiences, live entertainment, walking tours, ukulele lessons, a kids’ clubs, and a game room—to say nothing of its many kid-friendly pools, lazy rivers, and splash pad. With its abundance of offerings and plenty of fun add-ons like luaus and paddle boarding, there’s a lot to recommend this Disney spot in Hawaii.
@Getty
Yosemite, California
It’s not just that the roads offer a sort of national park autobahn experience for the lucky parent who drives, the spectacularly dizzying views of scenery of Half Dome and El Capitan and more for those who don’t, but that there are endless ways to explore the unique environments of Yosemite National Park. Here, family playtime looks like waterfall hikes in the valley, easy scrambles on big-fun Pothole Dome, swims and picnics at Dog Lake, mesmerizing meanders through the giant sequoias of Tuolumne Grove, and challenging day hikes deep into the woods and up to the top of 9,931-foot Clouds Rest. Believe us, there’s a ton more (and this Yosemite Guide details the best of them).
San Diego, California
San Diego is one of the best places in California to stick your feet in the sand while simultaneously having access to top-shelf urban adventures. Boasting year-round warm temperatures, the city offers 70 miles of dreamy coastline with options for everyone, but some that are especially great for families. At La Jolla Shores, tide pools and small, slow waves are great for little kids, while older ones will go bananas for surf lessons with Surf Diva. Wildlife lovers will want to see the seals and sea lions at Shell Beach. Of course, you can’t miss a visit to the San Diego Zoo, one of the best in the world with its giant pandas and safari park experience.
Among Balboa Park’s many museums, the new Comic Con Museum is a massive hit for all ages with playful pop culture exhibits and programs where kids can bring their favorite characters to life. And let’s talk about dining, because you’ve got it all for all ages, too. Being oceanfront is a must, grab a one to three-bedroom unit at the Shore House at The Del, Hotel Del Coronado’s new beach house hotel, each with indoor-outdoor lounge areas and fire pits. This resort looks really similar to Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort 😉
There are so many different places to visit and we are here no matter where the summer wind takes you. So sit back, shoot us an email, and let Winds in the East Travel, LLC plan the perfect summer getaway for your family!
Designed as much for nostalgic adults as it is for kids, Disney’s Pop Century Resort is a pop-culture mecca for those of us who grew up in the ’70s, ’80’s, and ’90s! There are several distinct areas that have exciting and fun themes from the ’50s through the ’90s. On one tower you’ll find a four-story jukebox. On another, you’ll find a towering Mickey Mouse phone. And if you have a birds-eye view you’ll see the life-sized foosball court that guests can walk right through. The entire resort has hidden surprises that make for fun photo ops with giant characters like Mr. and Mrs. Potato Head waving across a manicured pathway!
Disney’s Pop Century Resort is categorized as one of Disney’s Value Resorts, along with Disney’s All-Star Music Resort, Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort, Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort, and Disney’s Art of Animation Resort. This resort has had a incredible renovation from the lobby, pools, grounds, and rooms.
Resort Overview
Disney’s Pop Century Resort is an enormous, 2,880-room resort hotel that was built as an homage to 20th-century pop culture. The property is brimming with giant colorful installations, and three outdoor pools paying tribute to different decades. This resort is a great value option given its convenient location and access to Disney’s Skyliner service to Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Epcot. Guests also have free buses to Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, the water parks, and Disney Springs.
Reasons We Love This Resort:
Skyliner Route Resort
Newly Renovated Spacious Rooms
Playful grounds are a homage to late 20th-century pop culture
Three large outdoor pools and kiddy pool with water features
Food court and pool bar
Free shuttle to Disney theme parks
Big video arcade, and an outdoor playground
Early Entry to access the parks and other Disney resort perks
Free Wi-Fi throughout
Amenities:
Wi-Fi Service (complimentary wi-fi access in guest rooms, main lobbies and main pools)
Dining Options (quick service and pool bar)
Designated Smoking Areas
Locker Rentals (near pools)
Luggage Service (luggage assistance, valet parking assistance, dry cleaning)
Laundry Services (24-hour self-service laundry room is available)
Housekeeping Services (every other day due to covid protocals)
24-Hour ATM (near the front desk)
Merchandise Delivery and Pickup
Grocery Orders
Ice and Vending Machines
Everything POP store for sundries, snacks, apparel and souvenirs
Safekeeping (in-room safes)
Rapid Fill (refillable mugs)
Wake-up Call Service
Disability Service (mobility, hearing, visual and service animal accommodations; call (407) 939-7807
Three pools
Arcade
A Full Range of Accommodations
The hotel’s 2,880 rooms have all been completely remodeled and offer a “moderate” feel with a value price. All of the rooms now have 2 Queen beds, one of these is hidden in the wall that can be pulled down when you need it. There are also rooms with king-size beds available as well. In the room, you will find tables for two with wood chairs, cabinets that house a mini-fridge, updated HD TVs with messages that greet each guest, nice bowl sinks, and a separate bath/toilet area with a sliding door to give privacy.
Standard Room:
Views of the Resort Hotel or Parking Areas
1 Queen-Size Table Bed and 1 Queen Bed or 1 King Bed
Sleeps up to 4 Adults
Preferred Pool View Room:
Views of Hippy Dippy Pool
Close to Classic Hall, Dining, Shopping and Transportation
1 Queen Bed and 1 Queen-Size Pull Down Bed or 1 King Bed
Sleeps up to 4 Adults
Preferred Room:
Views of Courtyard or Landscaping
Close to Classic Hall, Dining, Shopping and Transportation
1 Queen Bed and 1 Queen-Size Table Bed or 1 King Bed
Sleeps up to 4 Adults
Standard Pool View Room:
Views of Bowling Pool or Computer Pool
1 Queen Bed and 1 Queen-Size Table Bed or 1 King Bed
Sleeps up to 4 Adults
Dining Information
Everything Pop Shopping and Dining
Everything Pop Shopping and Dining offers a full food court with mobile ordering cabibilites. Everything on the menu is $14.99 and under offering a great option to save a little money on your meals. Hours: 7 AM to 11 PM
The menu offers traditional plated breakfast dishes that are available each morning along with an assortment of pastries. You’ll also find the normal food court offerings such as pizza, pasta, burgers, and sandwiches for lunch and dinner. However, you can get spahetti dinner, turkey dinner, and the occasional pot roast.
Petals Pool Bar is located by the Hippy Dippy pool. You can try house specialties like the tropical Banana Cabana or Poolside Iced Tea, all while you play ping-pong! Cocktails, draft beer, sangria and wine are also available.
The resort has three outdoor pools and each have a different theme! There are larger-than-life decorations paying tribute to the ’50s, ’60s, or the ’90s. The 1960s-themed Hippy Dippy Pool is the largest, including flower-shaped water jets, a kiddy pool, and located next to Petals Pool Bar with seating on a colorful terrace. It also hosts regular evening screenings of Disney movies. If the kids want to play some “real” video games, head inside to the Fast Forward Arcade with a wide variety of video games and air hockey.
Hippy Dippy Pool
Go with the flow at the Hippy Dippy Pool, home to far-out flower-shaped water jets and a lazy 1960’s attitude. Featuring over 235,613 gallons, this pool is big on fun. For the little ones, a kiddie pool is located behind Classic Hall, just behind the Hippy Dippy Pool.
Bowling Pool
Celebrate the 1950s at this 144,352-gallon pool shaped like a bowling pin.
Computer Pool
Go for a dip at this 1990s-themed, computer-shaped pool that includes a giant floppy disc and keypad.
Movies Under the Stars
For even more enjoyment, Disney movies are screened on select nights at the Hippy Dippy Pool.
Jogging Trail
Enjoy a breezy run or walk: Take a brisk one-mile jog around Disney’s Pop Century Resort complex.
Playground
Children can climb, slide and play at the fun play area located in the ’70s section.
Fast Forward Arcade
Play video games old and new at this arcade in the Classic Hall building, adjacent to the food court.
POP Century Resort Transportation
Get around Walt Disney World Resort with ease using these convenient, complimentary transportation options.
How to get to each park:
While staying at Disney’s POP Century Resort you may be wondering how you can get to each park using the free transportation systems offered at Walt Disney World. We have it broken down for you:
Magic Kingdom: There are free resort buses that offer transportation to Magic Kingdom nearly every 20 minutes from the resort. Buses typically run for an hour after park close.
EPCOT: Since Disney’s POP Century Resort is on the Skyliner route you have access to hop the Skyliner to EPCOT at least one hour before park opening and for one hour after park close. If the Skyliner is closed for any reason Disney will provide buses to and from the resort.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios: Just like EPCOT, this park is on the Skyliner route. You will have access to hop the Skyliner to EPCOT at least one hour before park opening and for one hour after park close. If the Skyliner is closed for any reason Disney will provide buses to and from the resort.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom: There are free resort buses that offer transportation to Disney’s Animal Kingdom nearly every 20 minutes from the resort. Buses typically run for an hour after park close.
Disney Springs and Water Parks: There are free resort buses that offer transportation to Disney Springs and the water parks nearly every 20 minutes from the resort. Buses typically run for an hour after Disney Springs or the water park close.
