Beautiful June!  With the sunshine and showers, the grounds around the parks and resorts are lush and lovely.  The remaining Star Wars Weekends are on the calendar for June, joined in 2011 by the USA Gymnastics Open Championships scheduled to take place at the  ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex.

For nearly twenty years, June has also been the month chosen for the annual non-Disney-affiliated get-together known as Orlando Gay Days.  Participants typically stay at a designated off-site hotel and enjoy  a roster of both family- and adult-oriented activities there, which include parties, literary and film festivals, religious services, and seminars, as well as time in the Walt Disney World parks.

Fast Facts

Special Events: Star Wars Weekends; USA Gymnastics Open Championships

Attendance levels: Schools out and the summer crowds begin to arrive.   Generally speaking, events held at ESPN Wide World of Sports have little effect on park numbers, although participants may be housed at a specific resort,  typically one of the Value Resorts, which may impact the experience of other guests staying there.  The Gay Days schedule calls for a visit to a designated park each day, so those wishing to avoid the additional crowds can choose to visit a different park.

Weather: Although not quite the  rainiest month of the year,  on average, guests can expect rain during 14 of June’s 30 days.  With high and low temperatures ranging from the lower seventies to the low nineties, and the humidity up 5% over May, it’s getting hot and humid and will remain so until October.

Packing: Pack for summer but let your own habits be your guide – some guests like to bring a small hand-held fan or mister, and a day pack large enough to hold a water bottle; others prefer a light-weight, long-sleeved garment to wear in chilly, air conditioned areas.

No one does Disney quite like our friend Sam.  You may remember his amazing image for our Grand Floridian Resort and Spa page.  We thought we’d give you another peek at the world, as seen through his own special looking glass.  We think it really “reflects” his uniquely creative point of view!

Those of you who experience the annual frustration of trying to make reservations for the special events at the EPCOT International Food and Wine Festival will want to hear more about a new food and wine celebration vacation package to be offered from Sunday, October 24 to Wednesday, October 27, 2010.

Although the details are still sketchy, we know that it will be limited to only 100 guests and, much like an Adventures by Disney itinerary, will be filled with wonderful, exclusive experiences.

This unique and exciting vacation package, Disney’s Grape Getaway, will be available inclusive of resort reservations, or without the accommodations for those who have already made their travel plans.  It will feature three days of exclusive events including a special private party.  Although the members of the Tables in Wonderland program will be notified as further information becomes available, including the cost and the booking window, this package will be open to all guests.

If you would like to be notified when the delicious details are released, please email Whimsical World Travel using the form on the Contact a Concierge page, or call 888-373-2752.

The turn onto Timberline Drive is a detour to another place and time.  Through the pines, past topiaried wildlife, around a bend, and the magnificent Wilderness Lodge emerges from the trees.  A cheerful group of “park rangers” waits to greet guests and usher them into the spectacular lobby – a sight which never fails to astonish the first-time visitor.  The subject of so many superlatives, this glorious interior is a study in contrasts: at once soaring and snug, dark but colorful, animated yet calm.

The architecture, art, and artifacts compose a harmonious song which echoes with the notes of grand national park lodges and Native American culture.  The stones of the massive fireplace replicate the Grand Canyon’s geological strata and specially-commissioned totem poles rise more than fifty feet, adding to the majesty of the space.  A small bridge spans the bubbling source of Silver Creek which meanders outside and tumbles down as a splashing waterfall on its “journey” to Silver Creek Springs Pool and Bay Lake.

All of the 727 guest rooms are housed in a single building designed in a rough “V” shape with the main entrance at the bottom and the wings enclosing the pool and courtyard and extending out towards Bay Lake.

Although it’s located right next to the park, this is the only deluxe Magic Kingdom resort not connected via the monorail, investing it with a sense of peace and seclusion.

Outdoor Pleasures

Despite its location in the heart of central Florida, there is a true sense of the great wilderness here, with towering pines, berried branches, and woodland animals.

Nestled in the trees, this beautiful resort extends an invitation to spend time outside, enjoying the woodsy surroundings.  Guests can rent bicycles, surrey bikes, and boats from Teton Boat and Bike Rentals to explore the grounds and the waterways of Bay Lake and Seven Seas Lagoon.  A mile-long bike path runs between Disney’s Wilderness Lodge and Disney’s Fort Wilderness.  Bay Lake Beach provides a sandy stretch along the lakeshore which is not only a great spot for relaxation and playtime during the day, but the perfect place for viewing the Electrical Water Pageant each evening.

There’s catch-and-release fishing for some old-fashioned fun – arrange for a two-hour guided excursion out on the water, or mosey over to Disney’s Fort Wilderness for the dockside cane-pole variety.

The perfectly-themed Silver Creek Springs pool has a water slide, wading pool, and spa, and guests also have use of Hidden Springs pool and spa at the adjacent Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge.

Transportation

In addition to bus transportation from its conveniently-located bus stop, boats travel from the dock to the Magic Kingdom, Disney’s Contemporary Resort, and Disney’s Fort Wilderness.

The boat ride to the Magic Kingdom may be the most pleasant transportation option at Walt Disney World; it’s certainly a great way to begin a day at the park.  There is valet parking available, as well as self-parking in the main parking area, a short walk from the lobby.

Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Resort

901 Timberline Drive
Lake Buena Vista, Florida 32830

Phone 407-824-3200
Fax 407-824-3232

Photographer Peter Lee shares his “noteworthy” discovery hidden at Mickey’s Philharmagic.

May storms in with Star Wars weekends, an annual event that attracts thousands to Disney’s Hollywood Studios for meetings, motorcades, and lots of fun activities featuring the heroes and villains of Star Wars fame.  Typically scheduled during the last weeks of May and the first part of June, the weekends begin just as EPCOT’s International Flower and Garden Festival is winding down.

Although Disney’s Hollywood Studios is packed for the special weekend events, overall, May crowds are moderate until the Memorial Day weekend when the numbers ramp up for the summer and remain high through August.  While not yet at summer levels, both the temperature and humidity begin to climb.  The average rainfall, although nearly double April’s precipitation at almost 4”, is far lower than that of June and July, the rainiest months of the year.

Fast Facts

Special Events: Star Wars Weekends

Attendance levels: With the exception of Disney’s Hollywood Studios during Star Wars Weekends, crowds are moderate until the Memorial Day weekend

Weather: It’s beginning to feel a lot like summer; the Florida sun is hot bringing temperatures ranging from the high eighties to low nineties dropping to mid- and upper-sixties, with more humidity and rainfall

Packing: Warmer weather invariably means more rain, so be prepared for showers and hot weather

Some guests mistakenly assume that the elegant Grand Floridian is less kid-friendly than other Disney resorts.  In fact, it’s a wonderland for children of all ages.  In addition to two large pools and a children’s water play area, there’s a sandy beach, a playground, and a variety of exciting meals and activities with a Disney touch.

1900 Park Fare Choose the Supercalifragilistic Breakfast with Mary Poppins, Alice, and the Mad Hatter or dine with Cinderella and her Prince at Cinderella’s Happily Ever After Dinner.

Wonderland Tea Party Alice and the Mad Hatter return to 1900 Park Fare for an hour in the afternoon to entertain small guests between the ages of four and twelve with stories and games, and help them decorate their own cupcakes.   The price is $40.00 plus tax.
Hours: Weekdays 2:00p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Phone: (407) 939-3463

My Disney Girl’s Perfectly Princess Tea Party A Royal event takes place in the lovely Garden View Lounge where small Princesses, ages three to eleven, and their adult companions, can enjoy an hour and a half of singing and storytelling, characters and crumpets.  Each child leaves with an armload of special gifts which contribute to the cost of $250.00 plus tax for a party of one child and one adult.
Hours: Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Phone: (407) 939-3463

Captain’s Shipyard Cruise Kids from four to twelve can head out into the wild blue of the Seven Seas Lagoon and Bay Lake in search of adventure, treasure, and lunch!
Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday,  and Saturday 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Phone: (407) 939-7529

Gasparilla Grill and Games A small video arcade is nestled into the corner of this quick-service dining location that features a selection of salads, sandwiches, desserts, drinks, and ice cream.

Mouseketeer Club Most kids love it when their parents decide on an adult evening and drop them off at one of Disney’s Children’s Activity Centers.  For $11.50 per hour with a two-hour minimum, potty-trained children ages four to twelve enjoy activities, games, arts and crafts, and movies.  Dinner is also included between 5:30 and 7:30 p.m. and is ordered at the time of arrival.
Hours: 4:30 p.m. to midnight
Phone: (407) 824-1666

Movies Under the Stars Arrive at 8:00 p.m. to enjoy the Dance Party and Campfire, before settling down to a movie at 9:00 p.m.  Check the schedule for featured movies.

Mousecraft at M. Mouse Mercantile Get creative on Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m. when “Grand” kids meet for arts and crafts.

Storytime at M. Mouse Mercantile A bed-time treat; Mondays at 8:00 p.m.

Thought you’d fallen through the rabbit hole when you saw the opening photo? Our friend Sam, aka Disney Resort, a consummate magician, created this custom image especially for this post.  Thank you, Sam!

Few visitors remain unimpressed when they first walk through the doors and into the beautiful lobby of Disney’s Wilderness Lodge.  This resort is filled with references to the historic National Park lodges on which it’s based, Native American culture, the beauty of the natural world, and Disney icons.

While it’s fun to stroll the building and grounds, for a deeper appreciation we suggest the Wonders of the Lodge tour.  Follow your Ranger for an in-depth look at the architecture and landscape.  Hear the stories behind the hand-crafted totem poles, the art pieces, and the towering fireplace.  Explore nooks and seek out Hidden Mickeys and even hidden bears.  Listen to the lore and learn about the symbols and myths woven into the carvings and designs that are found throughout the lodge.

Every tour is unique, but you can make yours special by asking questions.  The guides truly love talking about their subject and will reward your enthusiasm with lots of fun facts!

No prior registration is necessary, there is no charge,  and you don’t have to be a guest of Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Resort to participate.  Just join the Ranger in the lobby a little before 9:00 a.m.

Wonders of the Lodge

Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Resort

Wednesday through Saturday 9:00 a.m.

Walt Disney World is blooming by the beginning of April.  EPCOT International Flower and Garden Festival is in full swing with the floral displays and topiaries at their most beautiful and a full roster of Flower Power Concerts, gardening presentations, and special events.

Each year, the Magic Kingdom is closed to the general public on several evenings for Disney Grad Nite celebrations.  On these Friday and Saturday nights, high school seniors take over the park to mark their graduation with special parties and performances.

Historically the most popular time for annual spring breaks at schools around the country, April ushers in some of the heaviest crowds of the year, particularly around Easter.  Happily, the high attendance is accompanied by beautiful weather, making wait times much less stressful.  April is an exceptionally dry month with rainfall dropping back to a bit more than 2 inches.  Take advantage of the balmy temperatures and low humidity while managing the crowds by following our fav5 tips!

Fast Facts

Special Events: EPCOT International Flower and Garden Festival; Disney Grad Nites

Attendance Levels: Expect very high crowd levels throughout the month as school vacations and spring breaks free up families to vacation with their children.  Since Easter typically falls in April rather than March, numbers will soar during at least one week of the month, reaching near  annual peaks for park attendance

Weather: Beautiful central Florida weather with highs in the low eighties and lows generally dropping to the low sixties.  April is a drier month and boasts the lowest humidity of the year, making it a great time for some serious park-hopping

Packing: Bring your summer favorites for strolling the parks and swimming in the pools.  Something with long sleeves is handy for cooler evenings