SeaWorld Update 4.14.13

Haven't done a SW update in a while, not much going on there lately other than the Antarctica construction, but a few new things around the park.

First, a look at the construction progress of the new Antarctica attraction opening soon.

 Large trees now surround the area 

One of the main pathways leading up to the attraction?

A look at the attraction from the Skytower. Antarctica Empire of the Penguins will officially open May 24th

Restrooms across from Journey to Atlantis has been re-painted.

After loosing one of the false killer whales last year, SW has re-named the Whale and Dolphin theater to just Dolphin theater. 

A few weeks ago new Coke freestyle machines were added to one of the drink kiosks near the Dolphin theater.

Finally, a new green screen shark encounter photo area inside the Sharks Encounter exhibit.

Viva La Musica SeaWorld's hispanic festival is also now going on select dates on Sats. check links tab for details. The Bayside pathway opens at noon there you will find fun, food and entertainment for everyone. Concert starts at 3pm. Event is inclued with your paid admission to SW.

Universal Studios Update 4.11.13

Transformers construction is mostly complete outside. Most of the construction walls have been removed around the attraction a few weeks ago. 

You can now also meet with Megatron out near the Supply Vault. A few weeks ago Bumblebee and Optimus Prime were the only ones meeting guests. The Transformers meet guest daily. Currently no set times  and can change at any time. Once the barricades are set out near the attraction it will be easy to spot them and will take turns coming out throughout the day.

Video: Megrantron, Optimus Prime and Bumblebee

A few weeks ago high winds tore the banner off the front of the Rip Ride Rockit attraction. Still no banner today.

Area around Transformers receiving some much needed attention.

Universal also getting ready and setting up for the Grad Bash event for high school seniors. A Coke karaoke stage has been set up opposite the Horror Make-up show and props around both Universal parks. Grad Bash dates:

• Friday, April 12 

• Friday, April 19 

• Friday, April 26 

• Saturday, April 27 

• Friday, May 3 

• Saturday, May 4 

A quick look at the construction over at the old Jaws area: 

Finally, the Simpsons area. 

 New small Simpsons shop across the attraction.

Epcot pic updates 4.11.13

Some of the flower beds at Epcot are being changed to plants that can tolerate warmer temps. Epcot's Flower and Garden Festival ends next month ( May 19th )

The Fountain View located near the Epcot character spot has now closed to be transformed into a Starbucks; opening later this year. This is the second location Disney will be transforming into a Starbucks. Earlier this year, the Main St bakery at the MK closed to be turned into a the popular coffee shop. 
Most of the Fountain View's inside is now cleared of most furniture. It used to be a place where you can buy pastry and was just recently a place to buy Edy's ice cream and other beverages.

Work continues on the front of Mission Space. The ride is open.

A few months ago, things have moved around at the Morocco pavilion in World Showcase. The store located near the lagoon moved to the front seating area of the Tangarine Cafe. The stage in which the Morrocc'n band performs was moved to the left by the boat dock. All to make way for a new eatery. More details to come..

Magic Kingdom updates and new monorail wrap 4.8.13.

A quick look at the construction progress of the 7 Dwarf mine train at the Magic Kingdom. One side, across the Little Mermaid attraction is looking good! but, still a long way to go.

Parts of the track pieces for the ride is sitting out at Disney's old private runway just passed the MK toll booths.

A few weeks ago, monorail black came out with a new wrap promoting the new Iron Man Movie coming out next month.

Also a few weeks ago, Splash Mt re-opened after being closed for refurbishment earlier this year.

New Dumbo souvenir popcorn buckets sold at the MK. They are $12.

This Thursday, ABC America's Funniest Videos AFV will be taping a show at the Magic Kingdom. A Mickey shaped stage has been set up in Town Square. The taping will be done after the park closes. The show will air in May.

Finally, Disney Imagineers release a video on the new interactive game opening soon at Adventureland in the MK
VIDEO:

Changes to the blog:
Most of the post will be shorter. Will stick all updates for each park  in one post rather than putting them all together in one long post. Check back often!