Howdy! Hope you are having a magical day because in Walt Disney World there is manatee magic happening in EPCOT, Cinderella’s 75th Anniversary merchandise is now available in the parks, and more fun in the Magic Kingdom.
Good Morning from the Transportation and Ticket Center
Good morning from the Transportation and Ticket Center (TTC). It’s a beautiful morning to divert from my scheduled tasks to check on things over at EPCOT. I, like most, think it’s most efficient to park at the TTC when park hopping between EPCOT and Magic Kingdom.
EPCOT Monorail Views
The Test Track refurbishment continues on with little major updates for the time being. However, the butterfly enclosure for the Flower and Garden Festival is certainly underway. You can already see the plastic chains hanging at what will be the exit. The playground is also making great progress near the World Showcase. Currently, this is where the Paint By Numbers Expression Section is for the Festival of the Arts.
Good Morning from EPCOT
Crowds were wild this morning. Between the cheerleaders, graduate senior trips, and so many other large groups it’s just a bit chaotic. However, I am on a singular mission in EPCOT this morning and it’s a very exciting mission.
The Seas Manatee Magic
Two young manatees have moved into the guest view manatee tank in The Seas in EPCOT. I was told all the wonderful and tragic details of these manatees, Cider and Mino. Be sure to visit our website to read their stories. There are two more boys in an enclosure that’s not visible to guests.
My favorite moment was watching Cider peep through the window a few times before bravely coming into the public space. Give Cider and Mino a few more days to get used to their new space and I’m sure they will be out more.
Back To the TTC
I opted for the most efficient transportation back to the TTC, the monorail. I had spent a while in The Seas so it was nearing lunchtime, always a busy time for Disney transport.
General Joe Potter to Magic Kingdom
The express monorail to Magic Kingdom was tragically busy with all the young groups currently visiting the parks. I opted for a much less chaotic and more manageable energy level of the ferryboat. The open-air boat helps diffuse some of that teenage spunk.
Mickey Mouse Hockey Jersey – $84.99
In the Emporium I found a Mickey Mouse Hockey Jersey with embroidered and stitched patches. It felt very high quality, obviously not a real Hockey Jersey, but certainly will hold the test of time if you’re an investment item shopper.
Cinderella 75th Anniversary MagicBand+ – $54.99
I love the Cinderella 75th Anniversary merchandise that is being released, and this MagicBand+ is no exception. I love the glass slipper in the center puck. I love the SILVER dress with a very subtle 75th at the clasp. I found this in the Emporium as well.
Good Morning from Magic Kingdom
After being in EPCOT most of the morning I was thrown off by my late morning in Magic Kingdom. I guess I’m so used to being here for the morning opening show and all the morning festivities that I’m all shaken up with a cavalcade coming toward me upon arrival.
Liberty Belle and Big Thunder Mountain
The Liberty Belle has become a staple of my Magic Kingdom days. I can’t help myself from checking on what might be happening to Big Thunder Mountain, and what the crews may do next. Maybe it’s being a local, but the construction in the parks has always been interesting to me.
There was a lot of movement in the front bottom right of Big Thunder Mountain. It looked like crews were working on some structural supports close to the edge of the water. One construction worker was nice enough to wave to the guests onboard the Liberty Belle.
The new track seems to be laid in the back of the mountain in the space we reported on. It’s shiny and black and looks super clean. I also love that the possums remain in their tree.
Pink Sequined Ear Headband – $34.99
In Fantasy Faire in Fantasyland, I found a sparkly new pink sequined ear headband available for $34.99. I love these and think they would be the perfect pink for any Minnie and Barbie-loving girl or woman out there.
TRON Identity Program Walk-Up Only
The TRON Identity Program goes up and down, so rather than book reservations online, the company has decided to clear reservations and work as a walk-up opportunity, which is much less stressful than trying to make and arrive for a reservation. Stay tuned to our website for more details on the TRON Identity Program.
Have you ever gone through the Tron Identity Program before? Let me know in the comments below.
Temptation Upon Exit
I think it’s rude that Magic Kingdom parks this popcorn cart right near the exit, and I believe they pump that sweet salty popcorn smell extra in this spot. It’s so tempting every time. Have you ever fallen victim to the Magic Kingdom exit popcorn cart?
Lakeshore Lodge Construction
There is slow progress at the Lakeshore Lodge construction area. Crews were working and adding more walls, but nothing looked like a resort yet. It’s giving me flashbacks to watching the Polynesian Tower construction.
Quick Getaway
After a magical morning and great afternoon, it was time to skedaddle. I took the express monorail back to the TTC where I found my Corolla chariot home.
I hope you enjoyed our morning manatee watching and the fun in Magic Kingdom. Obviously, my day was made early with the new manatees in EPCOT. I hope they enjoy their temporary home. Let me know if you’re excited to meet the newest editions to EPCOT in the comments below.
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