Three random questions

[Scrump]

Hi everyone! I was just reading the 2005 Birnbaum Official Guide, and three totally unrelated, random questions came to mind. I've been lurking here awhile, so I know you guys know just about everything, and will be able to help me.

1. Ellen's Energy Adventure...Is it really Ellen Degenerus (Oh my gosh, I know that's not right, please excuse the spelling) that is in it, or is it just some generic character who happens to be named Ellen? I've heard that its her, but it really doesn't indicate that in the book. I really like her, (even though I can't spell her name) so that would make the 45 minute ride time worth it. Or would it? We only have one day at Epcot, and I'm not sure I want to take that much time out of the day to go to that. Is it worth it?

2. In the back of the book, there is a coupon for a free Disney pin at World of Disney at Downtown Disney. Anyone know what it looks like? I know I'll probably forget to take the coupon anyway, but just wondering if it was worth the special effort on my part to try not to forget it.

3. This will be my husband and my first vacation alone since our daughter was born 10 months ago. We want to do a special dinner, at a place that is not totally out of the way (only have time for MK, Epcot, and Downtown DIsney). What do you recommend?

Sorry this got long, but I appreciate the advice!

 

[scottnj1966]

answers

Hi everyone! I was just reading the 2005 Birnbaum Official Guide, and three totally unrelated, random questions came to mind. I've been lurking here awhile, so I know you guys know just about everything, and will be able to help me.

1. Ellen's Energy Adventure...Is it really Ellen Degenerus (Oh my gosh, I know that's not right, please excuse the spelling) that is in it, or is it just some generic character who happens to be named Ellen? I've heard that its her, but it really doesn't indicate that in the book. I really like her, (even though I can't spell her name) so that would make the 45 minute ride time worth it. Or would it? We only have one day at Epcot, and I'm not sure I want to take that much time out of the day to go to that. Is it worth it?

Yes it is her, also bill nye the science guy, and alex travec(trabec?) from jeopordy. The beginning film, and the film after the actual ride is what takes the longest. I have a video of most of it. If you have hi speed internet and icq or msn messenger i can send it to you., or its on my website.


2. In the back of the book, there is a coupon for a free Disney pin at World of Disney at Downtown Disney. Anyone know what it looks like? I know I'll probably forget to take the coupon anyway, but just wondering if it was worth the special effort on my part to try not to forget it.

I have not seen the pin and if it is even avalaible. Check with www.dizpins.com they may show it.

3. This will be my husband and my first vacation alone since our daughter was born 10 months ago. We want to do a special dinner, at a place that is not totally out of the way (only have time for MK, Epcot, and Downtown DIsney). What do you recommend?

Get reservation at the Castle at MK. It is beautiful and different.
Ohanas at the polynesian is very good also, Grand Floridian has a very nice restaurant also but it is very high priced.

http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/wdw/dining/diningDetail?id=CinderellasRoyalTableDiningPage

I have some pics of the inside of the castle if you want to see email me at bigfloridacountry@cfl.rr.com

Sorry this got long, but I appreciate the advice!

Have a great time at Disney. The castle is really looking good.

 

[longfamily]

most people really enjoy Universe of energy. The time wouldn't really be a factor as there are few lines in most of the park. One side of the park is the world Showcase and the other is future world. The only time you will stand in line throughout the day is in future world with the exception of El Rio Tempo (Mexico ride) and Maelstrom (Norway ride). You should have ample amount of time to complete the park in a day.

Since you are spending the day at Epcot, I would recommend that you have your dinner there. Each country in the world showcase boasts their own table dining restaurant. It is really a matter of what your taste buds like.

Many people really like Canada's steak house (not my personal favorite), For great seafood I would recommend the Coral Reef. For fun entertainment while you eat, Biergarten (germany) is worth the time spent. And for a truely unique experience the restaurant in Morrocco can't be beat. Also, the most romantic dinner is in Mexico dining by candle light on the river of time. If you do a search of the best dining or favorite dining on this site you will find descriptions of most of the places in Epcot. Have a nice trip!!!

 

[disneygirl_wdw]

EPCOT has soo many dining options. Coral Reef is really nice, they serve seafood with a view of the aquarium. If you like mexican the restaraunt inside the pavillion is really romantic. Biergarten is nice, but it's (in my opinion) more of a family atmosphere. Italy I would recommend, it has excellent food and a nice romantic atmosphere. Canada is nice too, another romantic dinning spot. Now I am hungry just thinking about it. My family always tells me I don't go to Disney for the rides, I go for the food. :slurp:

 

[crazycalf]

it is the real ellen D ( can't spell her last name) Jamie lee curtis is also in it as stupid judy and there is also albert einstein don't know the actor. Someone else said alex trebec and bill nye the science guy. You also have the actor who plays Kramer from sienfeld and finally the voice of chris berman from sports center.

As for a special resturant in the MK - cinderella's royal table. Epcot - canada on the monorail loop you can try Narcoose's or Victoria and Alberts but these are more expensive than the 2 in the park that I mentioned.

 

[DisneyBunny]

As for dinner, why not try The California Grill on the top of the contemporary? My in-laws swear by it. I've heard the food is spectacular, and The Unofficial Guide (The best WDW guide IMHO) claims that if you have only one place to eat a romantic meal, make that it. Get a PS for the time right before Wishes, and sit back and watch the fireworks over dinner.

Good luck!

 

[WDWEric]

The unofficial guide has SOOOO much more information than the official, I would recommend getting it if you are planning a trip to WDW.

 

[Dwarful]

The energy ride really depends on when you are going. We have done this ride several times, but probably dont do it every time we go. If you are going during a busy time, I'd skip that and do Figment, Space Ship Earth, Test Track, Maelstrom and El Rio De Tempo (spl?), Living Seas etc. In a busy time you could grab your fast passes for Test Track (be sure to get one for you and one for your husband some people think its one per party), then go over and see the other attractions, go back ride TT then head to World Showcase for Norway and Mexico...personally I wouldn't miss the American Exhibit! my favorite place to eat is the Biergarten & my family loves Norway! have a magical trip!

 

[ClemsonTigger]

Welcome, welcome Scrump

Yes, it is the Ellen D. you like. It is a nice show, not bad to pass the time waiting for your FP time for test track or the like. This was the first ride that had dinosaurs to see (before AK) and seemed to be more popular for that.

As for the pin, I'm not familiar with that one, but as they are giving them away, it will not be limited ed. therefore coveted, so don't make a special trip.

For dinner, Cinderella's or Tony's are both nice.
We prefer to have an adult beverage or two with dinner, and for that I would suggest Epcot. My preferences are for France, Morocco, Italy (a bit overpriced IMHO), and Mexico, although all have nice offerings. Check out the menu's at www.allearsnet.com under dining.
At DTD, I like Wolfgang Puck Cafe and Fultons.

 

[amykissangel]

Ellen's Energy Adventure is hysterical :animwink: - with the REAL Ellen Degeneres, Billy Nye, Alex Trabec, and Jamie Lee Curtis, or as Ellen calls her, "Stupid Judy." In Epcot, my parents' favorite place is Alfredo's in Italy, or either of the French restaurants.

In Magic Kingdom, Cinderella's Castle is wonderful, as well as Liberty Tree Tavern (though I suppose that's more of a family place.)

My parents ditched us kids one night and went to Victoria and Alberts at the Grand Floridian. It was suit/tie/dress kind of thing, and REALLY expensive, but they had the best time - They went without being crabby for almost a day and a half after that, hehe!

Have fun and enjoy your meal wherever you choose to eat!

 

[slappy magoo]

I'd recommend Rose & Crown Pub for a special dinner. Not too stuffy, but fun and good food. Try to get a reservation for 8pm, get there early, and really stress how much you'd like a table outside for Illuminations. If they can do it, they will, and you'll have a great seat for the fireworks. Done it twice and each time it was a high point of the respective trip.

 

[waltdisny]

it is the real ellen D ( can't spell her last name) Jamie lee curtis is also in it as stupid judy and there is also albert einstein don't know the actor. Someone else said alex trebec and bill nye the science guy. You also have the actor who plays Kramer from sienfeld and finally the voice of chris berman from sports center.

I love this ride. Bill Nye is the Best!:sohappy:

Don't forget weatherman Willard Scott's voice on the "radio broadcast."

 

[Pix E. Dust]

Your first question seems to have been answered and I know nothing about your second but I will give my two cents about the third. For our honeymoon, we have chosen a late dinner at Cinderella's Castle. To me, this spells romance. However, be adviced that they do not serve wine. So, I would also suggest (although I personally have not eaten here) the California Grill. You could arrange to watch fireworks from it. It is really quick to get to from MK, just take the monorail. And it's atop the Contemporary. So, those two would be my suggestions.

 

[jsfra209]

Hi everyone! I was just reading the 2005 Birnbaum Official Guide, and three totally unrelated, random questions came to mind. I've been lurking here awhile, so I know you guys know just about everything, and will be able to help me.

1. Ellen's Energy Adventure...Is it really Ellen Degenerus (Oh my gosh, I know that's not right, please excuse the spelling) that is in it, or is it just some generic character who happens to be named Ellen? I've heard that its her, but it really doesn't indicate that in the book. I really like her, (even though I can't spell her name) so that would make the 45 minute ride time worth it. Or would it? We only have one day at Epcot, and I'm not sure I want to take that much time out of the day to go to that. Is it worth it?

2. In the back of the book, there is a coupon for a free Disney pin at World of Disney at Downtown Disney. Anyone know what it looks like? I know I'll probably forget to take the coupon anyway, but just wondering if it was worth the special effort on my part to try not to forget it.

3. This will be my husband and my first vacation alone since our daughter was born 10 months ago. We want to do a special dinner, at a place that is not totally out of the way (only have time for MK, Epcot, and Downtown DIsney). What do you recommend?

Sorry this got long, but I appreciate the advice!

Yes it really is Ellen D in the attraction.

Reguarding the pin, it is either a "Remember the Magic" pin with Mickey on it or a pin with all the logo's on it (MK, EPCOT, A.K, MGM).. I bought that book last year, and those were my choices.

Reguarding where to eat .. Try OHANA at the Polynesian Resort... Talk about D E L I C I O U S!!! :slurp:

 

[nibblesandbits]

As everyone has mentioned, yes it is Ellen, but also just as a side note, this ride was filmed in the late 1990s I believe, so it's not the most recent thing she's done! (Not that that matters much, just thought I'd share)

 

[Miss Bell]

We love Universe of Energy. To maximize your time, I would get a Fast Pass to Test Track and then go ride Energy.

If you remember your coupon, get the pin no matter what it looks like, cause you can always trade it for something you like better with a cast member somewhere in the parks.

I'll echo the others and say Cinderella's Royal Table in Magic Kingdom for a romantic dinner.

Have a great time!

 

[Pumbas Nakasak]

Three random answers

1. No, Eisner only thinks he can walk on water.

2. Its better early in the morningwhenits cooler, but it is fun at any time.

3. A little dissapointing, more of an experience than a ride. Its worth doing but for me its a little dull.

 

[Scrump]

Wow...thanks guys! What great suggestions! I am at the moment leaning toward Mexico for dinner. It looks so neat in that dark pavillion with the boatride in the back ground. Too much good food, too little time!!!

We'll have to try Ellen...great idea to use it to pass time while waiting for a Fast Pass.

Thanks again!

 

[dandaman]

It is Ellen DeGeneres, indeed. She is pretty much what makes up the attraction for me, juat because of her humour...
Always makes me laugh. :lol:

 

[Halfling418]

Yay! I heart Ellen!

And Bill Nye!!

I've always really liked that ride.