Trip Report “Excuse me ma’am, can you put your phone away? Snow White doesn’t like apples” March 2019 *COMPLETED*

Sadly, I’ve been back in the real world for 4 days, but I’m glad to say that it was a great trip! Different, but still great. Surprisingly, the Disney depression is not very high (not sure if that’s a good thing ), but I don’t want to take any risks, so let’s get this TR started!

For those of you who are just joining, I’d like to say welcome and feel free to read my PTR for background info.

Pre-Trip - Birthday, spring break, R.I.P. IllumiNations

So this happened today. :joyfull::joyfull::joyfull::joyfull::joyfull::joyfull::joyfull::joyfull::joyfull: More details including the who, when, and where to follow soon!

forums.wdwmagic.com

Before I start, I want to warn everyone that I only have a month left before the semester is over. With that being said, the next 4 weeks might get extremely busy and I may not have a lot of time to post, so please bear with me. I don’t want to drag this TR out like I did with the last one, but I make no promises.

Up next: Travel Day

 

[John park hopper]

Interesting opinion, and I can understand the reason why you want to wake up, with exactly your preference. As for the hotels cutting back on the clock radios, I see that more as a money-saving idea (even though I'm sure they get a very low price when they buy these in bulk). Just because many people may prefer their smartphones, doesn't mean they have to completely eliminate the clock radios, so that's why I see this as a money-saving initiative only, on their part.

I have often wondered how many people walked off with the clock radios and maybe that is another factor in eliminating them from the room.

 

[sdemore]

I have one and use it everyday much to my kids horror!

We not only have the clock radio/alarm, but also use flip phones!! My kids laugh every time we text because it takes 10x''s longer for us to answer them

 

[MinnieM123]

I have often wondered how many people walked off with the clock radios and maybe that is another factor in eliminating them from the room.

Oh my, hopefully not! Plus, I can't imagine anyone taking one of those -- mostly because everyone's suitcase is just so tightly packed to begin with -- no space left for a clock radio, too!

 

[Captain Barbossa]

Homecomin’

Our ADR wasn’t until 12, but we got there at 11:45 and were seated immediately. Since the weather was sooo nice, I requested a table on the porch.

After reading such good reviews, thanks to various TRs, my expectations were very high.

Everything sounded good, but I stuck with @lostpro9het ‘s advice and got the Thigh High Chicken Biscuits. I also ordered a side of Momma’s Mac and Cheese. L ordered the same, but got the Creamy Mashed Potatoes as her side.

They were fantastic! I thought the thighs would be small since they were on a biscuit but it was the complete opposite. They were very tender and not over breaded. And that hot honey? My God that stuff is good! I ate the 1st biscuit plain, but drowned the other 2 in it. Thanks for the recommendation @lostpro9het, I’ll definitely be getting these again!

The mac & cheese was also very good and no doubt the best I’ve ever had on property! Unfortunately, I was only able to conquer half of it before tapping out.

L also really enjoyed the chicken biscuits, along with the mashed potatoes. I tried a bite of her mashed potatoes and they were sooo good! I think I’ll get those for my side next time. She was only able to eat 1 1/2 of the biscuits before getting full. She got a to go box and brought the rest home.

I wanted to say yes when our waitress asked if we’d like to have a look at the dessert menu, but we were stuffed.

So, what was the verdict? Well, on a scale of 1-10, I’d probably give it a 100 and 2 thumbs up, and I’m not just saying that. The reason why is because it was a complete dining experience, something I haven’t encountered in a while at a sit down at WDW. We were seated right away, our waitress was very friendly, as was the rest of the staff that we encountered, and took good care of us, our food was brought out in no time, the temperature of our food was hot but not burning hot, the quality/taste was excellent, and the portions were more than large.

Overall, we had a really good experience. Everything was great and definitely lived up to the hype! From now on, Homecomin’ will be a must do every trip!

We walked around before hitting up some stores. We both had a couple of gift cards that needed to be spent.

I’m interested to find out what the new display is going to be.

Up next: More DS

 

[riverside]

I tried a bite of her mashed potatoes and they were sooo good!

They are the best mashed potatoes that I have ever had!!

 

[LisaBelle]

The mac & cheese was also very good and no doubt the best I’ve ever had on property!

I LOVED that Mac & cheese! I would rank it as the best I’ve ever eaten period!

 

[Rista1313]

They are the best mashed potatoes that I have ever had!!

Me too!

 

[Captain Barbossa]

They are the best mashed potatoes that I have ever had!!

I agree! The texture was very different, but it was good!

I LOVED that Mac & cheese! I would rank it as the best I’ve ever eaten period!

It was very good and very cheesy!

 

[Captain Barbossa]

DS continued

Our first stop was Goofy’s Candy Co.

L wanted to get M’s mom some of those Mickey shaped chocolate covered coconut things. She loves coconut and we get them for her every trip.

The store, which isn’t very big to begin with, was packed, so we got the coconut and got out of there pretty fast.

The Christmas store was close by, so we stopped in there.

I didn’t take any pictures, but they had some really pretty, and expensive, ornaments. I could be wrong, but I think this was the first time that I’d ever been in that store.

I do think that Saratoga Springs is a beautiful resort and I like the fact that you can walk right over to DS.

From what I’ve read, it seems like people either love it or they hate it. There is no in between. I guess I need to stay there and find out for myself. The main thing that people seem to complain about is its distance from the parks. If anyone would like to share their opinion on SS, please feel free to do so!

Our next stop was Disney Pin Traders. This is no doubt my favorite pin store. There were so many that I wanted to get, like this one.

I’m not gonna lie, this can be me sometimes.

After much deliberation, and L urging me to hurry up , I ended up getting 2 pins and a mystery set. I think my total was over $50. Yeah that mystery set wasn’t cheap, but I had to have it. (do plan on doing a merch review) The CM that checked me out was very interesting. Let’s just say that he enjoyed his job a little too much.

We headed out of Disney Pin Traders and were enroute to our last destination.

Up next: More DS

 

[Spash007]

They had this displayed outside of the gift shop. It was Lion King trivia.
View attachment 386439
I got 4, 5, half of 7, and 9 correct. In other words, I need to brush up on my Lion King knowledge. But to be fair, I’ve never actually sat down and watch the Lion King from start to finish before. Yeah I know that’s like a sin, but it’s true. I am looking forward to seeing the remake in a couple weeks.

Up next: DS

#5 - Pumba?? How do you mispell a Disney character's name as a Disney CM?

 

[Captain Barbossa]

#5 - Pumba?? How do you mispell a Disney character's name as a Disney CM?

I didn't even notice that. Not surprised though. I don't think the 2nd A at the end is necessary either.

 

[Disney Lover Addie]

DS continued

View attachment 387471View attachment 387472

Our first stop was Goofy’s Candy Co.
View attachment 387473

L wanted to get M’s mom some of those Mickey shaped chocolate covered coconut things. She loves coconut and we get them for her every trip.

View attachment 387474

The store, which isn’t very big to begin with, was packed, so we got the coconut and got out of there pretty fast.

View attachment 387475

The Christmas store was close by, so we stopped in there.

View attachment 387476

I didn’t take any pictures, but they had some really pretty, and expensive, ornaments. I could be wrong, but I think this was the first time that I’d ever been in that store.

View attachment 387477

View attachment 387478
I do think that Saratoga Springs is a beautiful resort and I like the fact that you can walk right over to DS.
View attachment 387479
From what I’ve read, it seems like people either love it or they hate it. There is no in between. I guess I need to stay there and find out for myself. The main thing that people seem to complain about is its distance from the parks. If anyone would like to share their opinion on SS, please feel free to do so!

Our next stop was Disney Pin Traders. This is no doubt my favorite pin store. There were so many that I wanted to get, like this one.
View attachment 387480
I’m not gonna lie, this can be me sometimes.

After much deliberation, and L urging me to hurry up , I ended up getting 2 pins and a mystery set. I think my total was over $50. Yeah that mystery set wasn’t cheap, but I had to have it. (do plan on doing a merch review) The CM that checked me out was very interesting. Let’s just say that he enjoyed his job a little too much.

We headed out of Disney Pin Traders and were enroute to our last destination.

Up next: More DS

OMG! I love the pins! (I’m a huge pin trader myself). There’s a lot of cast members that really get into their job, and I think that adds so much more to the experience. Glad you enjoyed your trip!

 

[Captain Barbossa]

DS continued

We made it to our final stop.

And yes, Stitch still pukes on your kids.

It was crowded but not as crowded as it was on Saturday night.

I thought these mugs were neat.

These Mickey pirate ship toys must be new.

Haven’t seen them before.

If I was 10 years younger, this would’ve been a for sure cop.

My desire to get this quickly went away once I saw the $100 price tag. I’d probably end up breaking it while trying to put it together anyways.

Ah, something much more affordable.

I’ve been eyeing this for a couple of years. I just need to go ahead and buy it.

After looking around for a while, we decided that it was time to head back to Music. L got a t-shirt for our dad and I got a new press penny book. I was also going to get a WDWRR t-shirt, but they were out of mediums.

Now that I’ve completely experienced the “new” WoD, I can officially say that I like the old version better. Call me crazy, but it doesn’t seem as big as it used to be. I also miss the unique theming that was in the old store. Remember the Adventure Room (boys section) that had all the skeletons, like the ones in the jail cell that would move? I’m sorry, but cheap/tacky looking projections on the floor doesn’t “wow” me like other people. But that’s my opinion.

We said goodbye to DS and made way for the bus stop.

Up next: Leaving DS

 

[Captain Barbossa]

Leaving DS

We got on a bus and were on our way back to Music.

Not being rude, but our driver was a complete idiot. There’s no other way to put it. First of all, he obnoxiously yelled and shouted the entire ride back, and it wasn’t like important stuff either. He made some loud announcement that we were departing DS and felt the need to go into detail about all of the different restaurants and stores that were there. Dude we know. We were all just there. Please shut up and focus on driving.

Instead of staying on Buena Vista Drive, like any other bus driver would do, he took some bass-ackwards way and the next thing I know we’re passing the entrance to OKW and POFQ!

He then made some sort of u-turn and proceeded to get on EPCOT Center Drive. Everyone on the bus was more than aggravated at this point. So, we went passed EPCOT and got on World Drive. I was thinking, ok maybe he’ll finally get off on Buena Vista. Wrong! He went right passed the exit! The guy sitting next to me was P’d off and repeatedly asked the driver if he was lost.

He got off on Osceola and finally got on Buena Vista. Idk why the hell he didn’t stay on Buena Vista in the first place. It literally ends at the ALL-Stars. It couldn’t be more of a straight shot.

Since it was a shared bus, we stopped at Sports first. He told the guests getting off that he really enjoyed driving them around and he just didn’t want it to end. Well that didn’t settle well with the guy that sat next to me. He, along with a few other people getting off, had some choice words for the driver.

We finally arrived at Music.

I didn’t catch his name tag, but I hope that I never have to ride with him again.

I kept my mouth shut, but I was P’d off myself. It took 30mins to get back! Had he stayed on Buena Vista it would’ve taken about 15mins!

We went in Maestro Mickey’s so we could pick up our items that we had sent to the resort, which was another reason why we took the bus to DS. We really would’ve had to rush ourselves if we picked them up this morning and drive to DS.

I absolutely loved all the CDs they had on the walls.

They had released a bunch of new ALL-Star merch, including this t-shirt.

I think this describes me well, except I repeated Movies 4 times before staying at Sports or Music. I am glad to see some new/different merch for the ALL-Stars. They also released a new ALL-Star pin that I ended up buying.

With our last minute purchases made, it was time to say goodbye to Melody Hall.

Pictures of different musicians and singers adorned the walls in the lobby.

I happen to be a huge Johnny Cash fan.

Up next: More Sports

 

[Captain Barbossa]

Sports continued

Kind of obvious , but here’s the directory of Music.

We stayed in building 7. To be honest, I like the way Music is laid out. Imo, it seems a little bit easier to navigate than Sports or Movies.

We slowly made our way to the car.

The roses in the courtyard were very pretty.

Up next: Leaving Music

 

[Disney Drew]

Already feeling that sadness you get when leaving the World...

 

[Captain Barbossa]

Leaving Music

We really enjoyed staying in the Broadway section. It kind of had a Streets of America (RIP) feel to it. Streets of America was our favorite land/area at DHS, so it was nice to experience something that reminded us of it.

These storage containers in the parking lot are for the room refurbs going on at Movies.

Not sure if y’all can see, but there is a load of mattresses on the back of that UTV.

See ya later ALL-Star Music. Thanks for being our home for the past 4 days.

Up next: Heading home

 

[Swissmiss]

I can’t believe your trip was only four days - reading your trip report I had the impression that it was so much longer because you get so much done each day! Thanks for sharing with us

 

[Captain Barbossa]

Leaving “the World”

It was exactly 3 o’clock when we got in the car. Yes, I was sad that we were leaving, but I wasn’t as sad as I thought I’d be. I think taking it somewhat easy and spending a good bit of time in DS eased the pain a little bit. We usually rush out and hit the road early on checkout days.

Another reason why I wasn’t real upset, is because I’d return to WDW in less than 10 months. After our trip last May, I had no idea when I’d be back. I mean I kept this trip in mind over the summer and into the fall, but I wasn’t confident that it would work out. Sometimes it’s good to be proven wrong! So my point being, since I returned to WDW in less than a year, which I wasn’t expecting by any means, I might be going back sooner than I think.

We got on Osceola and headed to i4.

They were doing a lot of construction on the Osceola/Victory Way intersection where the new entrance to DHS is. Because of all the work going on, the “See Ya Real Soon!” sign was missing. Hopefully it’ll return once the work is finished.

Traffic in Orlando was heavy, but it never came to a standstill like it did Saturday afternoon.

We approached the eyesore just before 4.

I decided that it was time to break out my new IllumiNations CD.

So glad I found this gem.

A couple hours later, we were met with the typical bumper to bumper, complete standstill, weekday Jacksonville traffic. Birds were being flipped (not by us), spit was being spat (also not by us), and even a couple of drivers got out of their cars and were ready to duke it out. Needless to say that tempers were flaring everywhere. And I thought Atlanta traffic was bad.

It finally cleared up once we got across the St. Johns.

Later Florida

We stopped to get gas and dinner in Richmond Hill, which is about 30mins south of Savannah.

We crossed the state line at 9 and made it to M’s parent’s house by 10:30. Except for the traffic in Jacksonville, it was a smooth and uneventful trip back.

Next up: Final Thoughts & Merch Review

 

[Captain Barbossa]

I can’t believe your trip was only four days - reading your trip report I had the impression that it was so much longer because you get so much done each day! Thanks for sharing with us

We try to do as much as we can! Thanks for reading!