DISNEY NEWS ROUNDUP: New Ticket Type Announced; Huge Summer Dining Discount; Big Thunder Opening Date & Details; Monsters Inc Land Aerial Photos; New Menu at Studios Restaurant & More

There have been some really big announcements in the last couple weeks from Disney World. Disney announced a new ticket type that could be perfect for night owls along with some huge summer dining discounts. We finally have a re-opening date with some details on new magic for Big Thunder Mountain at Disney’s Magic Kingdom. Disney is planning some really cool treats, popcorn buckets, sippers and more for Star Wars Day, we have a look at some cool aerial photos showing construction progress over at Monsters Inc. Land. All this and more in this week’s news roundup.

 

1 – Disney World Launches New Ticket Type

Special ticket options and offers come along from time to time. Whether is a discounted multiday ticket or seasonal Florida residents like the 4 Day/4Park ticket, there is a somewhat regular schedule for these offers. However, what Disney World announced today is something outside the box. We can’t remember the last time we saw this, and it might be perfect for the night owls out there.

Click here for full details.

2 – NEWS: Huge Dining Discounts Announced for Summer

It’s a great time to be a Disney World Passholder. V.I.Passholder Summer Days are coming back and some sweet perks are coming with them. One of those perks in a pretty hefty discount on dining.

Click here for full details.

3 – NEWS: Disney Reveals Big Thunder Mountain Opening Date & New Magic Details

Big Thunder Mountain at Disney’s Magic Kingdon in Walt Disney World closed for refurbishment in January of 2025. This was not your typical refurbishment lasting a few months. During the 16-month closure nearly everything including the track has been replaced. Disney Imagineers have also been busy upgrading the theming including some new magic to surprise and delight guests. Sixteen month is a long time to wait, but we’re betting it will be well worth it.

Now, we finally have an opening date along with some details on what guests can expect when Big Thunder reopens this spring. Check out the full details below.

 

4 – NEWS: New Menu Unveiled at Hollywood Studios Fan Favorite Restaurant

Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant is one of our favorite table service restaurants in all the Disney parks. It’s not just the great food. The entire experience is so unique that this is the one dining location that made the list for every Walt Disney World vacation we’ve ever taken. If you’ve never been to Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant, or if it’s been awhile since your last visit, now is the perfect time to make reservations because Disney has just unveiled an updated menu with some delicious looking additions.

Click here for full details & photos.

5 – NEWS: Monsters Inc Land Aerial Photos Show Progress Including First Coaster Pieces

In the long list of great Pixar films, Monsters Inc. is one of my favorites. I can’t wait for the new Monsters Inc Land to open at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. I’m especially excited for the flying door coaster which looks so cool in the concept art. Construction is coming along quickly and new aerial photos show much of the progress including the installation of the first structural pieces.

Click here for photos & details.

6 – NEWS: Special Eats, Popcorn Buckets, Drinks & Sippers Revealed for Star Wars Day at Disney World

For Star Wars fans there is no bigger day of the year that May 4th, unofficially known as Star Wars Day. Fortunately, celebrations aren’t long ago in a galaxy far, far away. They’re right around the corner taking place all over Walt Disney World. Disney has revealed some special Star Wars inspired food and drink offerings along with some awesome popcorn buckets and sippers. These are going to go fast!

Click here for full details & photos. And May the 4th be with you.

 

7 – NEWS: Disney Provided Behind the Scenes Look at Animal Care at Animal Kingdom

Disney’s Animal Kingdom is a special place. There’s something magical about experiencing these amazing creatures up close. With animal encounters in such immersive environments, it’s easy to forget that there is a lot of work that goes on behind the scenes to care for the full-time residents of Animal Kingdom. Ahead of Earth Day, Disney has provided a glimpse of what it takes to keep everyone healthy and happy.

Click here for a behind the scenes look.

8 – Lake Buena Vista Golf Course Closing for Renovations

Disney’s Lake Buena Vista golf course will be closing this spring for extensive renovations and upgrades. The golf course is expected to reopen later this fall. Disney World’s other three golf courses will be available during this time.