News and Rumors 6/6/11 - 6/12/11

News


Magic Kingdom

• The Frontierland Shootin' Gallery is closed for a 4 month long refurb.  It is expected to reopen Oct. 1st. 

Epcot

• Changes are happening at Innoventions East.  The Don't Waste It Exhibit presented by Waste Management has closed.  A new attraction called Hero's Habit will be taking it's place, which will be an interactive video game experience. Second, it appears the House of Innovations will be reopening with all new technologies for around the home. 
• Construction walls have gone up in Japan, as it appears that the Kakigori stand is now going to be made into a permanent building. 
• New booths for this year's Food and Wine Festival include Hawaii, The Caribbean Islands, and Scandinavia. 

Disney's Hollywood Studios

• Voyage of the Little Mermaid's refurb dates have changed a bit.  The refurb has been moved up to start Aug. 13th and last through Sept. 4th. 

Disney's Animal Kingdom

• It appears the test of DJ Dyno-Mite was apparently successful as he is now back in Dinoland USA from 1 pm - 4:30 pm.  He will continue appearances until July 30th. 
• It's Tough To Be A Bug will be closed for refurb from Aug. 15th - Sept. 30th. 

General WDW News

• Magic Your Way Ticket prices have increased.  Please read this blog post for further details. 
• Reservations for 2012 packages are now eligible to be booked. 
• In addition, the Disney's Art of Animation Resort is now accepting bookings.  For guests looking to stay in June 2012, Starting June 1st, they may book at stay at the Finding Nemo suites.  Starting Sept. 1st, 2012, guests may choose from either Finding Nemo or Cars Suites.  Finally, starting Oct. 1st, 2012, guests may choose from Finding Nemo, Cars, or Lion King Suites.  No word yet on when the Little Mermaid rooms will be available just yet. 
• Also, guests who may be looking to stay at the Princess rooms in Port Orleans Riverside, reservations are open starting for March 4th, 2012.
• Disney Dining Plan info appears to be coming out. Look for a full blog post with that information here soon. 
• It appears that the Adventurer's Club and the BET Soundstage will be coming down for demolition soon to make way for Hyperion Wharf.

Rumors

•  Rumors indicate that the Villas at the Grand Floridian will indeed be the next DVC property announced and it very possibly could be announced at the D23 Expo.