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Starbucks Makes Splash at EPCOT a Bit Early

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I snuck into EPCOT today after a little bird told me that the new Starbucks was opening a few days ahead of schedule. Turns out it was just a preview, but karma was on my side and I was allowed in with a group of guests to help the team work out any final kinks before officially opening tomorrow, September 4th.

The new location keeps the Fountain View name, but ditches the ice cream for other, more caffeinated treats. The layout will look very familiar to those who have visited the Magic Kingdom Starbucks. Only instead of turn of the century look and feel, there’s a vaguely futuristic, decidedly fluid watery environment. It’s appropriate given the Fountain View location.

It is a slightly smaller space than the MK location. Similarly there are no tables or chairs, or even benches, inside. There is a small space on an exterior porch for some tables, but you’re exposed to the elements there. So you take your chances if the winds blow the fountain mist your way.

Another change is that there is now only one entrance via the front doors that face the fountain. I’m not sure this is a good move, as it means there’s no way to get coffee without getting wet when it’s raining and no where to hangout inside when it does.

I love me some Starbucks, of course your mileage may vary depending on your addition level. Having it at EPCOT is going to make those chilly mornings easier. It’s nice that the prices aren’t that much above your typical Starbucks location either.

More photos below the jump:

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Mac & Cheese Burger – Taste Test and Review

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So I heard a Mac & Cheese Burger had been added to the menu at Electric Umbrella, which made my choice of themeparks to visit this weekend easy. Macaroni and Cheese is one of my favorite comfort foods and my kid has a full on love affair for the stuff.

To be honest, I was a bit hesitant when I first heard about the idea. I had tried the Macaroni & Cheese and truffle oil gourmet hot dog over at Fairfax Fare in DHS and wasn’t impressed, not for the price at least. My son loved it, however. So we agreed to split the new burger and share a salad in an attempt to be a little healthier.

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The Macaroni & Cheese burger is a full 1/3 lb Angus Burger that is topped with a generous portion of bacon, a nice slide of cheddar cheese, and a scoop of baked macaroni & cheese. You can also choose grapes instead of fries for your side. I found the bun a nice size, easy enough to get your hand around, if a bit crumbly. It’s served dry, so stop by the condiment bar on your way to the table if that’s your thing.Read More »Mac & Cheese Burger – Taste Test and Review

Fresh Fruit Snack Option Unbelievable

A couple weekends ago I noticed that the sweet treats the Confectionery and Big Top Treats at the Magic Kingdom were accompanied by healthier fresh fruit options. At the time I remarked how nice it was to see Disney back up its healthy kids initiative… Read More »Fresh Fruit Snack Option Unbelievable

Celebrity Watch: Game of Thrones Actress Has Stark Fun at Magic Kingdom

One does not simply pull the sword from the stone at the Magic Kingdom. But it is just one of the many fun things celebrities get to do when they visit Disney on vacation. During her visit at the end of August, 16-year old Maisie… Read More »Celebrity Watch: Game of Thrones Actress Has Stark Fun at Magic Kingdom

Disneyland Half-Marathon Crowds Returning Champion

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runDisney continues its string of sold out events when it held the Disneyland Half-Marathon this weekend at Disneyland. Jimmy Grabow, from the aptly named town of Runner Springs, CA, repeated his champion run for the second straight year with a time of 1:07:41, slightly off his record-setting pace of 1:05:29 in 2012. Ricardo Ramirez finished second with a time of 1:14:30.

The female champion, Stephanie Dinius, crossed the finish line in record fashion, capturing the women’s title with a time of 1:15:47. Rachel Booth held the previous record, 1:18:01, from the 2011 Disneyland Half Marathon. Last year’s female champion, Cindy Lynch, finished as runner-up with a time of 1:25:29.

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The half marathon field of 17,500 registered runners passed through Disneyland, Disney California Adventure, Angel Stadium and the streets of Anaheim. Along the route, runners were greeted by cheering fans, Disney characters, music and live entertainment.

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Celebrity Watch: Sheryl Crow at LEGOLAND Florida Ahead of Album Debut

There’s a reason stars like Sheryl Crow come to central Florida for vacation. The wonderful array of theme parks and other destinations also serves as a great platform to help promote whatever their latest project is. I’m not sure of the connection between LEGOLAND Florida’s… Read More »Celebrity Watch: Sheryl Crow at LEGOLAND Florida Ahead of Album Debut

Terrific Dick Van Dyke Interview

I know what you’re going to be doing for at least two hours this holiday weekend. Once you start listening to this wide ranging and entertaining interview with Disney Legend Dick Van Dyke on the Kevin Pollack Chat Show you’ll clear your schedule for next… Read More »Terrific Dick Van Dyke Interview

How should Disney World Celebrate 50 Years of Magic?

We are 8 years away from Walt Disney World’s 50th anniversary. Disney likes to start planning these major anniversaries many years in advance. Plans for anything major, like multiple attractions, innovative parades, or theme park rebranding efforts would have to be in the early stages… Read More »How should Disney World Celebrate 50 Years of Magic?