Firstly, yes – we know Ever After is two words. We promise, we aren’t starting this whole endeavor off with a typo or a misunderstanding. Truth be told, it was actually a typo, but we loved the idea behind it. The idea that EverAfter wasn’t just “evermore” or “forever” – but rather that it was a euphoric feeling of both past and future, memory and anticipation, gratitude and optimism, nostalgia and hope. For us, the phrase stemmed from Disney’s Happily Ever After, and many other fairy tales, but chasing our own ever after had more to do with that idea; continuing to be grateful for the magical life we’ve been blessed with while also prioritizing the importance of making more memories going forward. We wanted to remember what it took to make these moments as a family, we wanted to figure out how to continue making them, and we wanted to share this journey with others in hopes that maybe it inspires or assists them in their pursuit of their own, Happily “EverAfter”!
Our focus is primarily Disney World, because why not chase happily ever after in the most magical place on earth, right? While we have discussed the possibility of expanding to Disneyland, Disney’s numerous resorts and parks around the world, and Disney Vacation Club resorts outside of the “bubble” (looking at you Aulani), we typically vacation each year in Disney World, so that is our primary area of discussion. Therefore, our goal with this new venture is to share our love of all things Disney with anyone who is interested; friends, family, or even those just as addicted to reading/seeing/watching as much about Disney as we are!
With that in mind, we invite you all to enjoy our website, our YouTube channel, and our social media pages as they grow and evolve. We will do our best to share content as often as possible and to capture as much as possible in the hopes that you may find useful tips, tricks, and recommendations should you ever decide to book a trip to Walt Disney World – or even if you just prefer to live vicariously through us (we don’t judge!) We appreciate any and all who decide support us and we hope you will find something worth while as you share in our journey chasing our EverAfter (and maybe we can help you chase yours, too!)
Disney’s shopping, dining, and entertainment district
When people think of Disney, often their thoughts jump right to the parks. The outdoor adventures of Disney’s Animal Kingdom, drinking around the world in Epcot, Galaxy’s Edge in Hollywood Studios, and the dazzling display of Happily Ever After at Magic Kingdom. However, while Disney Springs may not be at the forefront of one’s mind when considering their Disney trip, it often becomes a highlight for many and has become a must do for most Disney vacations. We’re happy to provide our breakdown of Disney’s shopping, dining, and entertainment district as well as some insight on our favorite spots in the Springs!
Disney Springs is broken into four separate sections, Town Center, The Landing, Westside, and Marketplace, with Town Center being a central hub and primary entrance. Each section has its own vibe and atmosphere, with the Landing focusing heavily on dining and beautiful water views, Westside being a more modern and entertainment focused area, and Marketplace offering family friendly stores, attractions, and snacks, such as Goofy’s Candy Company, where you’ll find an array of sweet treats (and even be able to design your own) or Marketplace Snacks and their selection of sundae filled bubble waffles.
The bubble waffles at Marketplace Snacks are a BIG hit!
Disney Springs is both free to enter and offers free parking, and while you’ll certainly find plenty of shopping and dining options to spend that Disney cash on, there are also plenty of sights to see and free entertainment that can make coming to Disney Springs feel like a park day without the cost of a park ticket. Some of the entertainment options include live music at the AdventHealth Waterside Stage, being serenaded by the Strolling Piano, building your own designs at the LEGO Imagination Center (a free play zone for kids – and kids at heart,) photo opportunities with larger than life creations and statues of some of your favorite Disney characters, as well as plenty of window shopping and beautiful water views. If you’re willing to pay to see more, you can enjoy incredible experiences like Cirque Du Soleil, riding through Lake Buena Vista in a Vintage Amphicar tour, or seeing Disney Springs like never before by taking a ride in Aerophile, a tethered helium balloon.
Aerophile is a unique and adventurous experience
Beyond the plentiful opportunities to enjoy entertainment, Disney Springs is also home to many different dining opportunities, offering snacks, quick service, and table service options with enough variety to satisfy any craving. Looking for something sweet and cold to beat the Florida heat? Swing over to Swirls on the Water to get your Dole Whip fix. Maybe you’re looking for something savory? Try the Chicken Guy and their collection of signature sauces. Seeking that caffeine pick-me-up to carry you through the day? Head on over to Joffery’s Coffee & Tea Company, where you can get custom art designs on the top of your latte. And if it’s a memorable experience you’re after, try Raglan Road, where you can have a great meal while enjoying live Irish music and river dancers, or head to The Boathouse to feast on seafood while relaxing by the lake.
Swirls on the Water offers a variety of Dole Whip flavors
Disney Springs also offers great dining options for families with small children, with exciting and over the top themed restaurants such as Rainforest Cafe, T-Rex (think Rainforest Cafe, but with dinosaurs,) and Planet Hollywood, where your kids can jam out to their favorite Disney songs while you indulge your inner child with out of this world shakes and Cap’n Crunch crusted chicken tenders. While these may not be pure Disney experiences, they do offer plenty of fun for your kids while they enjoy the music or watching the animal and dinosaur animatronics come to life, and they come at a price that doesn’t drown your wallet in regret.
When it comes to shopping, Disney Springs hits all the marks. From art galleries, jewelry stores, and clothiers, to toy stores, gift shops, and plenty of Disney themed speciality outlets, like Disney Ever After, where you can create your own headband with different Disney characters to pick from in your design. The pinnacle of this all comes together in the well known World of Disney, a massive and eye-catching retailer that is actually the largest Disney merchandise store in the world. Filled with all types of souvenirs, apparel, home goods, and more, World of Disney is the ultimate stop for anyone looking to bring a little magic home with them. You can also find more common retail outlets as well, such as the LEGO store, Columbia Sportswear, Vera Bradley, and many more. All in all, Disney Springs consists of over 100 shops and over 50 dining options, making it a go-to destination for anyone from their first time to a seasoned Disney adult.
The LEGO store is surrounded by incredible LEGO creations
So if you’re planning a Disney trip and looking for a recommendation, we would absolutely say Disney Springs is a must do. While you’re there, consider checking out some of our favorite go-to spots, including Gideon’s Bakehouse, a delicious bakery with incredible cakes and cookies among other options. A pro tip – if you’re planning to head to Gideon’s, consider making it your first stop in the morning, as lines fill up fast and you may be waiting a while to enter the bakery. Trust us though, the cookies and cakes are worth the wait, and their cold brew coffees are pretty impressive as well.
The half pound cookies at Gideon’s need their own lightning lane
For a dining option that never disappoints, The Polite Pig is a highly rated quick service that offers an incredible selection of smoked meats and BBQ (did the name give it away?) as well as a bourbon bar and a wide variety of craft cocktails. Recognized on the Michelin guide, The Polite Pig is owned by award winning chefs James and Julie Petrakis and has steadily grown into a must try destination for many. We’ve enjoyed The Polite Pig on multiple occasions and it has quickly become one of our favorite eats in the Springs. We would personally recommend the Butcher Board for Two, which will give you a well rounded taste of the menu. For drinks, the Pigsty is both delicious and comes with an adorable little pig on top (yours to keep) and the Grapefruit Margarita is the perfect refresher under the sun. Plus, did we already mention the bourbon bar? (We know we did, but it’s worth mentioning twice!)
The Butcher Block for Two doesn’t disappoint The Pigsty is as delicious as it is adorable
And finally, if you’re looking for a little extra fun and a way to commemorate your trip, consider heading over to the Disney PhotoPass Studio, where you can get magical photos taken by the same professional photographers that work in the parks. Whether it’s a fun shot flying through London on your way to Neverland, getting the scare meter filled to power Monstropolis, or having a dream in the Snuggly Duckling, this is sure to be a hit with your whole party.
From dining and shopping to entertainment and sightseeing, Disney Springs truly has something for everyone. It has become such a popular attraction with our family, that even when we’re in Florida for trips that have nothing to do with the house of mouse, we still take a day to head over, grab a bite, and feel that Disney magic. So if you find yourself in the Orlando area, whether you’re there for your next Disney trip or any other reason, be sure to spend a day exploring and enjoying all the Springs has to offer; we’re sure you won’t be disappointed!
Our review of Disney’s original DVC resort, Old Key West:
A Key Full of Magic
While traversing Disney World, have you ever noticed the kiosks stationed with cast members and signs that read “Disney Vacation Club” and wondered, what’s that all about? Disney Vacation Club is Disney’s point based vacation club program, or otherwise, a timeshare program through Disney that gives access to certain resorts and perks when members purchase a contract. The original DVC is none other than the beautiful Old Key West resort, located in the Disney Springs area. We had the pleasure of staying at this resort last October and are excited to share our thoughts on our experience and our overall take on what makes this resort a home away from home.
Themed after the romanticized Florida Keys, Old Key West combines island atmosphere with relaxing vacation vibes, to offer one of the more tranquil Disney resorts available. The rooms here are a bit more spacious than those of other DVC resorts, and the property takes a mostly subtle approach to interweaving the Disney aesthetic (with one very fun exception.) While the rooms may have minimal decor compared to some of the more in-your-face stays at Disney (looking at you, Art of Animation), they do still offer some fun Disney touches for your party to enjoy, and the resort is filled with hidden Mickey’s, including a massive “hidden” Mickey in the main pool that’s hard to miss.
The Sandcastle pool at Old Key West
Old Key West is also a very large DVC resort, with several sections spread throughout the property, which is good to keep in mind when making a room selection. Room type and location are divided by studios and villas, standard location or near the hospitality house. The hospitality house is the main hub on property built along the Sassagoula River and includes the reception area, dining options, the resort gift shop, recreation, the fitness center, a super fun playground themed with larger than life beach buckets, the main resort pool, and more.
For amenities, Old Key West has all the standards, including bell services, quick service and table dining options, spacious rooms, and the more Disney specific perks. This includes free transportation to all four parks and Disney Springs, free standard parking and 30-minute early access, and extended evening hours on select park nights. They also offer the standard Disney resort activities, including pool parties, free roasted marshmallows with s’mores kits available to purchase, movies under the stars, the ability to rent surrey bikes, and fun games for all at the Conch Flats Community Hall.
Beautiful and relaxing views at Old Key West
There are also several pools to enjoy on property beyond the main pool, with different room sections built around or nearby quiet pools – which offer a little more peace and solitude from that of the main pool. If you are looking for the games, music, and excitement however, you will have to stroll on down to said Sandcastle pool and be amazed by the detail that was put into this area. Beyond offering a 125-foot water slide built into the aforementioned Sandcastle, you also have a sand play area, a kids splash and play zone, a whirlpool spa, and a sauna built into a lighthouse – talk about theming!
Old Key West also offers several fun dining options, including Good’s Food to Go, Turtle Shack Poolside Snacks, and Gurgling Suitcase Libations & Spirits. The only table service dining on property is Olivia’s Cafe, offering brunch and dinner, but while there may not be a wide variety of dining options, the resort certainly makes the most of what they offer. Olivia’s brunch was a delight, where we enjoyed options both sweet and savory, and Good’s Food to Go was perfect for quick meals and snacks for our kiddos, including the resort exclusive Key Lime Dole Whip.
The Key Lime Dole Whip from Good’s Food to Go
For those looking to work off those Mickey waffles, beyond the fitness center at the hospitality house, Old Key West also offers a walking/jogging path throughout the resort, which can be a beautiful way to start your day or end your evening. Nothing like doing your daily cardio while watching a magical sunrise or sunset inside the bubble. The path takes you through the different sections of the resort and also coasts along Disney’s Lake Buena Vista Golf Course for serene fairway views. And while touching on the ability to walk through the resort, that is one thing worth notating; this resort is quite large and spread out. We did not mind walking from our room to the main building and pool, but there were some days where the walk back was a chore for our littles. On the bright side, this resort offers an internal bus route that can be used for traversing between your room and the main building, or of course you can simply drive down and park at the hospitality house as well.
Touching on the buses, these are going to be your only option to get to and from the parks short of driving. The good news is that Old Key West does not share a bus loop with any other Disney resorts, however the internal loop can add time to your park commute, which is something to consider if you have reservations to catch or are hoping to rope drop. Old Key West does offer boat transportation, as well as buses, to Disney Springs. This was a truly fun and relaxing experience, as you will float on down the Sassagoula River and arrive at Disney Springs back entrance, exclusively for guests staying at one of the Disney Springs area resorts. This ease of access to Disney’s shopping and entertainment district also makes up for the limited dining options, as you will have a wide variety of options available in the Springs.
Disney Springs is just a short boat (or bus) ride away
Now when it comes to our recommendation, there really isn’t a Disney Resort we wouldn’t recommend, so the question becomes more so, who would we recommend Old Key West to? Well, anyone looking for a more relaxed stay, and those who don’t mind being a little more removed from the parks on those resort days. Old Key West maybe does not offer the transportation options of those resorts on the monorail loop or the skyliner, and it may not have the views of those in the Magic Kingdom or Epcot areas, but what it lacks in transportation and scenery, it makes up for with peaceful atmosphere and subtle touch. Make no mistake, you’re still going to feel like you’re staying at a Disney Resort, as the nuanced theme is done just right, and the amenities are still magical. In fact, on the first day of our stay, we went down to the Sandcastle pool only to see Donald Duck walking about and greeting guests! Talk about an exciting way, especially for those with kids, to start a vacation, right? If you’re the type who likes to take a day and unwind after being in the parks, this is the perfect place to do just that. Maybe you’re not interested in going to the parks at all, and you just want to enjoy a Disney resort staycation? Old Key West fits the bill once again.
Truly, while Old Key West doesn’t always get picked as one of those “must stay” Disney resorts, it does seem to always get glowing reviews from those that go. Old Key West was actually our first time staying on Disney property, and now it holds a special place in our hearts. The resort is beautiful, the dining, while limited, is delicious, and the pool and additional activities were a lot of fun. You also still get the incredible Disney cast members with their commitment to making your trip so memorable.
We would be remiss if we did not shout out Hannah, a cast member working in the pool area who came over and sat with our youngest daughter for about 30-minutes while she played in the pool and showed off all of her “tricks” (which was the ability to jump from the stairs into the pool very cautiously again and again.) Hannah was so kind and sweet to our daughter and made her whole trip. When we went to leave the pool, she came over and gave both our girls some stickers and a little squishy apple toy that my youngest still has and refers to as her “Hannah apple.” This trip was about 8-months ago and yet my daughter still gets excited anytime we talk about Disney to go back and see her friend, Hannah. When people talk about the magic you get from a Disney vacation, that’s what they mean.
So if you’re booking a trip to Disney soon and not sure where to stay, consider a few things. If you’d like somewhere peaceful, relaxed, with island vibes and the ability to unwind, Old Key West might be the pick for you. Emerse yourself in the Florida Keys island atmosphere, and be prepared to soak in the calm and cool Disney vibes from the moment you approach the gate and hear, “welcome home!”
Check out our review of our recent stay at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge – Jambo House
When considering which Disney resort to stay at, what things are important to you? If your answer includes dining, theming, atmosphere, views, and the overall experience, then Animal Kingdom Lodge might just be the right place!
Animal Kingdom Lodge is divided into two separate resort buildings, Jambo House and Kidani Village. Having recently stayed at Jambo House, we wanted to share our experience, thoughts, and overall take on what makes this resort so special.
Animal Kingdom Lodge – or AKL as it will henceforth be called in this review – is part of Disney’s deluxe resorts collection, and stands out for its unique theming, affordability, and availability in comparison to other Disney deluxe resorts. And when we say unique theming – this resort fully stands out from any other Disney resort – in a really cool way!
The resort consists of multiple savannas that are home to over 200 animals, expert cast members who can teach you more about the wildlife, and incredible rooms available to book that offer balcony views of the animals eating, sleeping, and living their best life right in Disney. Ever dream about having your morning coffee while you relax on a balcony, watching giraffes and zebras enjoy breakfast? This is the only Disney World resort that can turn that dream into reality.
AKL is a wild time for all, including the wildlife
With an African safari theme, AKL not only delivers on incredible views of wildlife at every turn, but it also offers a beautiful, relaxing resort atmosphere that is just Disney enough to make you feel like you’re always in the magic, without ever feeling overwhelming. Arriving at Jambo House was an experience all on its own, as the main resort building is astonishing both inside and out. Walking up to the lobby instantly fills you with the excitement of what’s ahead, and walking in will make your jaw drop. This resort is breathtaking to take in for the first time (and each time thereafter, too.)
Jambo House lobby is a sight to behold
Filled with African art and inspired by traditional South African wildlife reserve lodges, Jambo House let’s no detail go to waste. From the incredible chandeliers that resemble Maasai warrior shields and spears, the Great Window, a floor to ceiling glass wall at the rear of the lobby overlooking the Arusha Savanna, Ogun’s fire pit, a gorgeous indoor hearth, and an incredible suspension bridge on the 5th floor, offering an elevated view of the African-inspired architecture, Jambo House stands second to none in providing incredibly themed atmosphere.
The wonders don’t stop there however, as every section of this resort is brimming with African culture and Disney magic. Heading outside of the lobby, you will find yourself immersed in a beautiful savanna consisting of several dozen animals, including giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, ankole cattle, pelicans, and more. Looking to cool off from the Florida heat? Head over to the massive Uzima Springs pool, with a zero-entry section and a fun waterslide for the kids. Craving something special to satisfy your hunger? Check out one of the many fantastic dining options this resort offers, with unique African cuisine and more tame options for the picky eater in your group.
Sanaa is one of the many incredible dining options available at AKL
Speaking of dining – AKL has no shortage of options, and each one of them has something unique to offer. Stop by the breakfast buffet at Boma to get a new take on what it means to be in a food coma, or as it’s called here, the Boma Coma. Head over to the Mara to enjoy quick service meals and snacks that range from African offerings to grab and go options, perfect for a snack or a coffee fill-up before hitting the parks. Grab a drink at the Victoria Falls Lounge, or aim for something truly memorable by dining at AKL’s signature restaurant, Jiko – The Cooking Place. Maybe you’re wanting a wonderful view to go with your dinner? Over at Kidani Village, Sanaa offers the ability to dine while enjoying incredible savanna views and indulging in their Indian style bread service – which we would highly recommend for anyone who hasn’t tried it before.
Sanaa Indian style bread service – a must try
Beyond the sights and delicious dining, this resort also offers all of your typical amenities; from beautifully themed rooms that are comfortable for families, couples, or single-rider resort goers, to a full fitness center for those looking to burn off the Boma cals, to bell services able to help you with inquiries and requests throughout your stay. On top of the typical amenities of staying at a resort, you also get the Disney perk amenities such as free transportation to and from the theme parks, as well as Disney Springs, free standard parking at all four parks, early park entry as a Disney resort guest, allowing access to the theme parks 30 minutes before opening, and as a guest of a Disney deluxe resort, extended evening hours in the park after they have closed for everyone else, on the nights this is offered. This is a fantastic perk and a great way to ride some of the highly sought after attractions without having to battle the larger crowds.
While transportation isn’t a highlight of this particular resort in comparison to those on the skyliner or monorail loops, you can still take the Disney buses to get just about anywhere you need to go within the Disney bubble for free, or you can reserve a Mini Van, Disney’s exclusive transportation option through the Lyft app, and enjoy being chauffeured around by a Disney cast member in style; Minnie Mouse style that is. And though this resort may be a little further removed from the rest of the Disney World parks, it is located right next to Animal Kingdom (surprise, I know) and is a great option for those who want to be stimulated while in the parks and relax when not.
On top of everything else, AKL also offers plenty of excitement for guests of all ages, without ever having to leave the resort during your stay. There’s an arcade to get your game on, nightly marshmallow roasting (completely free and with s’mores kits available to purchase,) movies under the stars on select nights each week, poolside activities and music, playgrounds, and themed resort activities such as the Jambo House lobby art tour. If you’re looking for something truly unique for your young ones, head over to the pool at Kidani Village (fully available to guests staying at AKL regardless of which building they choose) where they have the impressive Uwanja Camp water playground, which is guaranteed to be a hit with the kids. Truly – it’s like a little mini water park, stationed right next to a gorgeous pool equipped once again with zero-entry, a 128-foot water slide, and a small slide for the littles. But it gets better, it’s also right next to the Maji pool bar, so you can enjoy a cocktail and a gourmet grilled cheese while your kids soak up all the sun and all the fun.
The Uzima pool and Samawati pool both make a splash with guests
So once it’s all said and done, how would we rate this resort? To answer plainly: quite high! We loved our stay at Jambo House from the moment we arrived to the moment we begrudgingly checked out. The overall aesthetic and theming truly amazed us, and between the incredible views of the animals (both from our balcony and from the many viewing areas throughout,) the endless activities, and the unique delicious dining options, we had a trip that will be remembered forever. The only negative thing we could honestly say was that the transportation was limited and that it was further from the other parks, but in reality we didn’t mind taking the buses to get around and with free parking, driving to the parks wasn’t a bad option at all, especially when utilizing early access and extended evening hours. That “far away” drive by the way, was a whole 15 minutes give or take – so nothing really to complain about. If asked, would we recommend this resort to others? 100% we would!
Regardless of whether you’re a frequent flyer in the Disney bubble or a newcomer looking for that once in a lifetime Disney trip, Animal Kingdom Lodge has something for everyone to fit your needs. So if you’re looking for a wild time that’s sure to be a roar amongst your pride, consider AKL for your next visit, we have a feeling you won’t regret it.
Considering staying at one of the many resorts on property in Disney World, but not sure which one to choose? Keep an eye out for our upcoming resort reviews to help you decide which resort will help make your vacation truly go the distance!
Chasing EverAfter 