Disney Interactive Studios invited gamers and Disney guests on both coasts to play its much-talked about new gaming system, Disney Infinity, this past week for the first time. At E3 (Electronic Entertainment Expo) in Los Angeles, players formed long lines to try their hands at the game that has been compared repeatedly to Activision's Skylanders. In Orlando, the game was set up for two days at Car Masters Weekend at Downtown Disney's West Side.

There was no way my 10-year-old son wanted to miss out on the opportunity to preview Disney Infinity two months before its Aug. 18 North America release date, so we headed to Walt Disney World and braved the crowds Sunday afternoon. When we arrived, the line to play the game was shorter than I expected, especially considering that people who played the demos were given the Dash ("The Incredibles") character piece, which will sell for $13.

The Disney Infinity booth had four gaming stations set up -- two for playset-only mode and two for Toy Box mode. We asked to play the Toy Box version each of the three times we stood in line because that is the key difference between Disney Infinity and Skylanders. The Toy Box allows players to mix Disney and Pixar characters and environments, each creating their own unique games that they can share with their friends. Play-set mode, by comparison, puts the game characters in their own self-contained world that is appropriate only to their movie or TV show franchise.

Jared Bald, senior designer for Toy Box, was among the staff at Downtown Disney showing visitors how to play the game. He said the developers he has worked with for the last two years compare the Toy Box in the game to a physical toy box, albeit one that holds many more of toys, but the fascination by young players is the same. "Give kids hundreds of toys on a living room floor and they will play for hours," he said. "There is no end to what they can do with Disney Infinity."

It took my son, who is an avid gamer, a few minutes to get acclimated to the game, but once he did, he was excited about the Toy Box option. He especially wanted to race his sister's characters in vehicles or on mounts. Could his Buzz Lightyear Astro Blaster beat her Cinderella Coach?

Ben Simonsen, a concept artist on Disney Infinity, said that designing the vehicles was, in fact, one of his favorite aspects of working on the Disney Interactive project. He said that my son's interest was indicative of what they had seen by other players at the demonstration: Kids seemed to be more focused on interacting with other players than progressing through a goal-oriented game. And Disney Infinity allows for that, to be sure.

My 8-year-old daughter had one question, though, when encountering anyone affiliated with Disney Infinity: Will there be any Disney Princess characters? So far, none have been announced, but the coach vehicle and Cinderella Castle are available, as well as an environment from "Tangled" with Rapunzel, in the Toy Box. Although no one officially could confirm that any of the royal beauties will join the gaming system, it was suggested that they would be a logical progression, given their strong market brand.

Disney Infinity will have another booth with demo stations on Aug. 16 near Once Upon a Toy at Downtown Disney Marketplace. A Disney World cast member said that she hopes the game will be available for purchase at that time, and she expects developers to be there to answer questions and sign copies.

To read my previous articles about Disney Infinity, please click here and here.

Disney Infinity at E3

This week, my children, a friend and I finally made it a point to play miniature golf at Walt Disney World's Fantasia Gardens. For years, we have chosen to sink our putts at the newer Winter Summerland courses located near Blizzard Beach, but it was time to check out the long-standing competition.

Fantasia Gardens is located across from the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel near Epcot. It is home to two very different courses: A traditional miniature golf course by the same name and Fantasia Fairways, an 18-hole golf course with water hazards, sand traps, roughs designed to be played only by putting. Make no mistake -- Fantasia Fairways is a challenging course for serious golfers.

For that reason, we chose Fantasia Gardens for our foursome. As you would expect, the theme of Disney World's first miniature golf course is taken from Disney's 1940 animated classic, "Fantasia." Expect to see elephants and hippos, snowflakes and mushrooms, and Mickey Mouse and the film's iconic brooms dotting the course.

My 10-year-old son and 8-year-old daughter noticed that Fantasia Gardens "rewards" players more often with squirting or spraying water than Winter Summerland does. Of course, they thought this was great fun, especially on a hot Florida afternoon! At Winter Summerland, there is one water feature on each 18-hole course, while Fantasia Gardens offers multiple opportunities for a good soaking.

Perhaps the most fantastic is the water display on Hole 16, which is lined with the famous brooms and buckets. Walt Disney Imagineer Senior Concept Designer Joe Lanzisero explained the hole this way after Fantasia Gardens opened in 1996: "Everyone gets the payoff here. You don't have to do anything special to get the brooms to dump the water. The water squirts not only over the putting area, but over where the people walk, too. This is programmed so that the buckets shoot water in sequence, but if you make it to the putting green in one shot, the ball has to go by three sensors so all the buckets splash at one time."

We also found out the hard way that Fantasia Gardens gives putters many more uphill battles than Winter Summerland does. This factor alone increased the difficulty factor, especially for the younger members of our group. Players have to have the magical touch to be able to hit the ball hard enough to make it to the top of the mound without sending it flying off course. This can be frustrating at times for inexperienced golfers. We all needed multiple attempts to propel our golf balls to the top on Hole 17.

Nevertheless, two of the kids in our group managed to get a hole-in-one, and they were thrilled when cast members offered them a surprise for their efforts.

Overall, we enjoyed our experience at Fantasia Gardens, but I think we'd all still pick Winter Summerland as our first choice for miniature golf at Walt Disney World. The Christmas-themed courses offer a better variety of fun challenges that are less frustrating for younger players, and there are fun photo opportunities and a picnic area. Players finish their round at the "clubhouse" with a candy cane.

Prices for both Winter Summerland and Fantasia Gardens are $14 for adults and $12 for children ages 3 to 9 for 18 holes. Guests who decide to play both courses get a 50 percent discount on the second 18 holes played on the same or next day by showing their original receipts. Disney World passholders also can receive a 50 percent discount every time they play; the deal is good for the passholder and up to three guests.

The Road Crew from Radio Disney AM 990 is going to be traveling back and forth across Central Florida this summer, bringing music, games and prizes to a lot of family friendly local events. The experiences are inexpensive or free and often include prizes and fantastic giveaways.

Here's the upcoming schedule for those Disney DJs:

June 13

Orange County Public Library, South Creek Branch: 11 a.m. at 1702 Deerfield Blvd., Orlando. The Radio Disney Road Crew caps a weeklong library tour for its Summer Fun Kick Off promotion. This is an interactive event for the whole family.

June 15

Fifth Third Street Fair in Sanford: 10 a.m. to noon at 109 Bernini Way. Come out and hear Radio Disney hits while enjoying some family time.

Sea Turtle Odyssey at New Smyrna Beach: 7 to 9 p.m. at the Shoppes at Seaside Station on Flagler Avenue. The event itself kicks off at noon with educational opportunities hosted by Canaveral National Seashore, Marine Discovery Center, Marine Science Center and NSB Turtle Trackers. After the Radio Disney Road Crew wraps up, families can watch a movie under the stars, "A Turtle's Tale: Sammy's Adventure."

Summer Saturday Nights at Brevard Zoo in Melbourne: 5 to 7 p.m. at 8225 N. Wickham Road. Summer Saturday Nights take place every Saturday in June and July at the zoo from 5 to 9 p.m. Admission is just $6. Many of the animal exhibits are open until dusk, and special animal encounters begin at 7 p.m. Plus, there are live musical performances and a kids' water play area open until 7:30. Last admission is at 8 p.m.

June 21

New Fantasyland Mobile Experience in Orlando: 1 to 3 p.m. at Orlando Premium Outlets at 4951 International Drive. At this event, Walt Disney World Parks and Resorts will share the latest news about its New Fantasyland section of the Magic Kingdom. Enter to win a family four-pack of tickets to the Magic Kingdom to experience New Fantasyland for yourself!

Monsters U Premiere in Ocoee: 5 to 7 p.m. at West Oaks Mall, 9401 W. Colonial Drive. Radio Disney's Road Crew will be throwing a red carpet event to celebrate the opening of Disney-Pixar's "Monsters University." Families can enter to win passes to see the sequel to "Monsters Inc." following the party.

June 22

Kids' Run at Winter Springs Town Center: 3 to 5 p.m. at 434 Tuskawlla Road. The event kicks off with the race, so be sure to wear your running shoes! Afterward, celebrate with Radio Disney's Road Crew.

June 29

Summer Saturday Nights at Brevard Zoo in Melbourne: 5 to 7 p.m. at 8225 N. Wickham Road. The AM 990 Road Crew returns to the East Coast for another fun family night.

Fifth-Third Community Appreciation Event in Conway (Orlando): 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 10401 Curry Ford Road. Fifth-Third Bank invites families to come out and enjoy free entertainment.

With only two months until the scheduled launch of Disney Infinity, the highly anticipated gaming system that is expected to give Activision's Skylanders a run for its money, the marketing is ramping up. Participants at the three-day E3 (Electronic Entertainment Expo) in Los Angeles that begins today will be among the first to play. It had been previously announced that the gaming platform would be available to guests at Orlando's Downtown Disney last week, but that didn't happen.

Disney Infinity allows players to place physical versions of their favorite Disney characters onto an Infinity Base and seemingly transport them into the virtual worlds of Monsters University, the Incredibles, Cars, Pirates of the Caribbean and the Lone Ranger. What sets Disney Infinity apart from Skylanders -- and other Disney Interactive games -- though, is its Toy Box feature, which allows users to mix various Disney and Pixar stories and characters.

Disney describes the Toy Box concept this way: "Unlock virtual toys from each play set – characters, buildings, weapons, gadgets and more – and bring them into the Toy Box where you can mix them all up to create your own game. In the Toy Box, there are no rules and you can create any adventure you want."

Disney Interactive will be offering E3 participants the opportunity to try all of the announced play sets and the Toy Box mode at its 18 demonstration stations. In fact, when they approach the booth, those same attendees will feel as if they have stepped onto a life-size version of the Infinity base that lights up.

"If you look around from the base, you will catch glimpses of iconic Disney characters and environments, re-imagined as toys using our unique Infinity art style. You will see new characters like Wreck It Ralph and Tonto mixing it up with old favorites like Bullseye from Toy Story and Stitch," according to the press release.

There also will be a photo op that features a Toy Box-like fusion of Cinderella's Coach and a monster truck in front of the famed princess's castle.

Among the Disney merchandise that fans are sure to stand in long lines to get their hands on: custom T-shirts, shirt sleeves or hoodies made from 10 combinations exclusively at the booth and pre-release Infinity character toys that will be distributed through a vending machine.

Like Skylanders, Disney Infinity will be available for a variety of console gaming systems, including Nintendo Wii, Nintendo Wii-U, Xbox 360 and Playstation 3. Disney's version also will be compatible with PC computers and mobile devices later in the year. One or two players can tackle the structured adventures, and "Toy Box" mode allows up to four players in the game.

Starter packs, which include the video game, Infinity Base, three play sets, three characters, one Infinity Power Disc and web codes, go on sale August 18 for about $75. Additional play sets are priced about $30 to $35.

Through June 23, Nintendo is hosting a booth outside Once Upon a Toy Store at Downtown Disney at Walt Disney World as part of its Wii U Tour. Guests can stop by and try at no charge a variety of Wii U games, including Nintendo Land, New Super Mario Bros. U, LEGO City Undercover and Need for Speed Most Wanted U. Disney Infinity was expected to be available, as well. Perhaps after the marketing splash at E3, it will be. We'll keep you posted; expect a review if it becomes available.

As Orlando residents, my family and I have had various combinations of theme-park passes since our kids were toddlers. For several years, those included the popular water parks: either Disney's Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon or SeaWorld's Aquatica.

With school out for summer, now we are considering an option we haven't yet tried: The after-2 p.m. water-park pass that is available to Florida residents. For a reduced price, guests can purchase an annual pass that allows entry into the water parks only after 2 p.m. with no blackout dates.

The water parks offer this option, of course, because that's when the crowds start to thin out. Guests who have been in the water since 9 a.m. often are ready to head back to their hotels by mid-afternoon. Plus, in Florida, it's a given that many summer days include afternoon rain, which also clears a water park pretty quickly. Added to this is the fact that the afternoons often are the hottest parts of the days.

So, purchasing an after-2 p.m. pass is a gamble with the weather. But at about half the cost of a regular annual pass to the water parks, we think it just might be worth a try. The water parks stay open later in the summer, often until 8 p.m., so we potentially still could spend six hours on the slides and in the pools.

Now, the difficult decision: Which water park do we choose? Our family has happy memories at all three water parks. But on paper, Disney's Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon are the better deal.

At Disney, the after-2 p.m. pass is $66.03 for adults and $53.25 for kids (including tax) ages 3 to 9. It allows the passholder entry into two separate Disney water parks for one year from the date of purchase. Plus, there is no charge for parking. In addition, Walt Disney World allows guests to bring coolers of all sizes, including large rolling ice chests, so it is possible to bring a meal and drinks for the day and save money. The only restrictions involve glass containers and alcohol.

At SeaWorld's Aquatica, Florida residents can purchase an after-2 p.m. pass for $58.58 for adults and $53.25 for kids (including tax) ages 3 to 9. It is good only for the one park and only through the end of 2013. There is a $12 charge to park each time you visit. SeaWorld restricts coolers to a 16-quart size, and food is limited to snacks, bottled water, baby food and whatever is needed for those with dietary restrictions. Of course, alcohol and glass containers are not permitted. SeaWorld does have a small picnic area outside its gates and guests are allowed to use the tables for meals stored in their vehicles and then re-enter the water park.

But how do you measure value when your children prefer one water park over another? How would you decide? Please tell us in the comments.

My family was crazy enough to brave the crowds at SeaWorld on Memorial Day -- and we even got in the two-and-half-hour line to experience the new Empire of the Penguin attraction in the new Antarctica section. Unfortunately, I was overly optimistic about what we would experience and what my kids would enjoy.

A two-hour-plus queue winds back around Pacific Point Preserve, where the sea lions live. SeaWorld was prepared for the interest in its new attraction with lines roped off, large umbrellas offering ample shade from the Florida sun, and free cold water stations. Still, asking my 10-year-old son and 8-year-old daughter to stand in line that long was asking for trouble. So, I stayed in line and my husband took the kids to burn off some energy in Shamu's Happy Harbor.

With a bit of good timing, they rejoined me as we entered the ride building. Unfortunately, that's where things fell apart during our experience. The ride had "technical difficulties" no fewer than five times, adding more than 30 minutes to our wait. And unlike at Walt Disney World, where cast members are efficient about informing and directing guests when something goes wrong, the SeaWorld team members that day didn't do much of either.

Although the lack of information during an extended theme-park wait certainly is frustrating for anyone, it really put a damper on the experience for our family. My husband had another afternoon commitment, so he left before riding, and my cautious son was so leery of the ride after all its stops and starts that he refused to go on it at all. A team member did offer everyone in our ride vehicle a one-time front-of-the-line pass so we could experience Empire of the Penguin again without the frustrations.

Still, I can't help but wonder why SeaWorld chose not to perform soft openings of the ride -- as many theme parks do -- to work out any bugs in the attraction. This would have been especially important before holiday weekend crowds converged there.

My daughter, who did ride Empire of the Penguin with me, enjoyed the tale of Puck the penguin and was mesmerized by the multi-colored icicles. She was not intimidated by the scene when the leopard seal chases Puck, and she seemed wowed by the reveal of the penguins in their habitat. She certainly would go again.

When we stepped off the ride, we met my son in front of the swimming penguins. A cast member led him to the habitat and even offered to stay to with my son, though I felt comfortable with him walking the short distance from the ride queue by himself. We all took a quick peek at the penguins -- neither of my children were willing to stay in the 30-degree Fahrenheit temperature for more than a few minutes in their summer outfits!

My daughter mentioned she thinks SeaWorld should offer the use of heavy coats, as they do at Gaylord Palm's ICE! each year. Visitors could bring their own hoodies or fleece jackets, but I think that's a bit unrealistic at a Florida theme park in the nine hot months of the year. Of course, there is the underwater viewing area of the penguins in an adjacent room that is warmer.

One interesting aspect of the penguin habitat was that the lighting was different from when I saw the exhibit at the media preview three days beforehand. A publicist explained that's because SeaWorld simulates the levels of sunlight at Antarctica at various times of the day.

After we exited Empire of the Penguin, we opted for an early dinner at Expedition Cafe, the new quick-service restaurant in the Antarctica area. My son and I sampled the Orange Chicken and brown rice from the Asian counter, and we both liked it. At the media event, Executive Chef and Director of Culinary Operations Hector Colon had explained that orange chicken is the top pick for kids at Asian restaurants, and we could understand why. My daughter tried the Shamu Kid's Meal of a chicken wing and French fries at the Stateside counter and ate it all, though it wasn't her favorite meal experienced in the park.

Afterward, we sampled the new drink from Coca-Cola, South Pole Chill, which is a SeaWorld exclusive. My children don't drink much soda and weren't sold on the flavor, which tastes like a light cream soda. However, as a Diet Coke addict, I really liked it! The nearby Glacial Collections store sells refillable cups that are like the penguin version of Mr. Potato Head, and these certainly appeal to kids, my own included.

Children also might enjoy meeting the character Puck, who appears throughout the day across from Empire of the Penguin. And beginning this month, SeaWorld is offering a new Penguins Up Close tour, which allows guests to pet real penguins and have their photos taken with the birds. The price is $59 for adults and $39 for kids ages 3 to 9.

Maybe I was expecting too much from an untested attraction on one of the busiest theme-park days of the year. I hope that, once the mechanical issues are resolved, we can return again and perhaps both my kids will have a more engaging experience at this attraction like they’ve had repeatedly at the dolphin and Orca sites at SeaWorld. Until then, though, I imagine they will choose to chill at some of their other favorite attractions and shows in the park.

Animal Kingdom's newest attraction, Wilderness Explorers, is built around a theme from the Disney-Pixar film "Up." One of the main characters in the 2009 animated movie, Russell, is a Wilderness Explorer, which is a fictional version of Boy Scouts. As Russell is working to earn his final merit badge, he gets caught up in an elderly man's drama and ends up traveling on an unexpected journey.

Now Walt Disney World's newest theme park has developed a Wilderness Explorers program that encourages kids to learn about specific areas of their world by earning merit badges, similarly to how the group functions in the movie. The Wilderness Explorers attraction at Animal Kingdom, which debuted June 1, is open to all guests, though the materials are geared toward kids ages 7 to 10.

With both of my children in the target age range and involved in real-life Scouting, our family was eager to try the new attraction this weekend. To get started, we visited the first troop leader post, which is located just over the bridge on the edge of Discovery Island. (There are other starting points in Africa, Asia, DinoLand U.S.A. and Rafiki's Planet Watch.)

Troop leaders initiate kids by teaching them the Explorer call, which has three hand gestures and corresponding vocals: "The wilderness must be explored!" with hands framing a view; "Caw Caw" with hands shaping a bird; and "Roar!" like a lion (or other large beast) with paws up and out. They also say the Wilderness Explorers' Motto, which is a short pledge to be "a friend to all, be it plants or fish or tiny mole." Like real-life Scouts, kids earn their first badges after mastering the group's mission statements, and they receive a handbook outlining the other merit badges they can earn and a sticker to wear in place of "uniform."

Wilderness Explorers can complete 30 additional badges -- which actually are stickers placed in their handbooks -- in any order or timeframe they choose. They don't have to be finished on the same day.

In several sections of the park, multiple badge locations are grouped together, making it easy to complete related badges together. For example, six Wilderness Explorers stations can be found at Rafiki's Planet Watch. Here's a plan: Ride the Wildlife Express Train to Rafiki's Planet Watch, stop to earn the Habitat badge on the walk to the Conservation Station. Once inside, learn about Animal Nutrition, Veterinary medicine and Recycling to earn badges, which are requirements for the Conservation badge. Step outside into the Affection Section, a petting yard, and earn the Hand Washing badge after visiting the animals. Be sure to check the map in the handbook indicating locations for each badge to plot your course.

Some badges are more interactive than others, and that certainly affects the interest levels of the kids participating. My children really enjoyed the Animal Find badge, which challenged them to find 22 specific animals anywhere in Animal Kingdom during their day. When we stopped at the locations for the Asian and African Culture badges, they were taught a foreign-language phrase and were less enthusiastic about those experiences. Overall, my 8-year-old daughter was more excited about the Wilderness Explorers attraction than my 10-year-old son. She was happy to learn at each station and wanted to complete as many badges as possible. My son, on the other hand, was embarrassed to wear the Wilderness Explorers sticker and thought many of the exercises at the stations were too easy for him.

Wilderness Explorers has replaced the Kids' Discovery Club program, which featured six learning stations throughout the park. Those stations, such as one where kids dig for fossils and then assemble a color-coded dinosaur, have been absorbed into the new program as badge locations.

Wilderness Explorers is included in regular admission to Animal Kingdom. The attraction opens at 10 a.m. daily, one hour after the rope drop.

Chef Tony Mantuano of Chicago’s Spiaggia, Cafe Spiaggia and Bar Toma will be hosting an adult cooking class at Downtown Disney's Portobello Restaurant on Friday, June 14.

During the two-hour Pantry Raid cooking class, Mantuano will show participants how to use ingredients most people keep on hand at home to create a variety of Italian specialties. Among the demonstrations are pickling vegetables, fresh pasta preparation, and balsamic and honey tastings.

"Like our cooking classes for children, this class will have ample participation from audience volunteers, and the dishes that are demonstrated will be served to the class," said Steven Richard, area chef for Levy Restaurants and former executive chef at Portobello. 

Also, wine will be paired with each of the dishes: Zonin Prosecco with antipasti, Bertani Valpolicella with pizza, Mazzei Badiola with pasta, and Ruffino Moscato with dessert.


Certainly, attendees at cooking classes have a desire to become better chefs themselves. I recently asked Chef Mantuano, though, what he thinks motivates adults to become creative cooks.

"I think adults are inspired by memories from their childhood and from their travels. We all want to recreate a dish our grandmother made or other family recipes. We also want to recreate them with our own little twist," he said. "I’ve added a few of my nonna’s recipes, some with my own take, at my restaurants. I also love traveling and bringing home food memories to recreate favorite dishes or meals with my family or at one of my restaurants."

The Pantry Raid class is designed to appeal to cooks of all skill levels, and Mantuano will offer tips, tricks and strategies to take away and use at home. For beginning cooks -- who might feel motivated, yet overwhelmed, by the many possibilities -- Mantuano offers this advice:

"Start with something simple and make a cuisine or dish you already like or know. This way you know what to expect in the end.  You do not want your first attempts at cooking to be overly complicated or with cuisines you’re not sure of the flavor profile. For those who like authentic Italian food, I’d suggest making a spaghetti pomodoro. Find a great dried pasta brand, such as from Giuseppe Cocco, and a pomodoro recipe online either with fresh tomatoes (in the summer) or canned San Marzano tomato puree. This is typically a simple and easy-to-follow recipe that will help build up confidence in the kitchen. From there they can start advancing with other recipes." 

Mantuano encourages budding chefs to enjoy the entire creative process involved with cooking. He said he thinks many adults actually find the most pleasure in shopping for each dish.

"I think adults like sourcing ingredients the most. Going to their local grocery store or food shop to pick out the ingredients themselves is an exciting part of the process, especially as they get to know their butcher, fishmonger, cheesemonger, and others," he told me. "I think the more adventurous like going to the market and seeing what is in season and then figuring out a menu."


The Portobello Pantry Raid cooking class, which runs from 1 to 3 p.m. June 14, is $49.95 per person. The class will be capped at 32 participants to maintain an intimate experience with Chef Mantuano. To make a reservation, call 407-828-8996.

Going on a pirate's adventure never gets old, does it, mateys?

The creative forces at Disney World are banking on that with a new scavenger hunt at the Magic Kingdom called, not surprisingly, A Pirate’s Adventure. Located in a small building on the outskirts of Adventureland, just past the arches connected to Pirates of the Caribbean and across from the Pecos Bill and Tortuga Tavern dining area, is the spot where would-be pirates plot their raids. After a series of simple steps on a touch-screen computer, players will head out on one of five possible quests to help Captain Jack Sparrow locate the Treasures of the Seven Seas. They are armed with a paper map and a "magic talisman" (otherwise known as a RFID-chipped card).

My 10-year-old son and 8-year-old daughter recently tested A Pirate's Adventure and found it to be a swashbuckling experience of map-reading, hidden clues and entertaining special effects. Each quest is fairly short -- about 15 minutes, if there are no lines -- and easy to solve. Every clue triggers a physical action, from a firing cannon to a moving skeleton, which are fun surprises for all ages. Of course, the wow factor is diminished a bit if players are waiting behind others with the same map who reveal the clues first.

Still, the game allows players to explore Adventureland, taking them to some corners of the land that they previously may not have noticed. And certainly, like other scavenger hunts at Walt Disney World, A Pirate's Adventure offers guests an experience that can be had at their leisure -- in between dining reservations or FastPasses, for example.

That widespread appeal of an attraction for all ages that doesn't have to be scheduled has led to the recent additions of several scavenger hunts in the theme parks. Epcot's Kim Possible World Showcase Adventure was reworked last summer as Disney Phineas & Ferb: Agent P's World Showcase Adventure. Guests help Agent P defeat his nemesis, Dr. Doofenshmirtz, by receiving assignments via a mobile phone (instead of a talisman). They, too, are rewarded with physical surprises in the countries of World Showcase.

Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom debuted a little over a year ago. It's a game of a different sort, though, in which guests use collectible cards to cast spells on Disney villains. The game portals are screens placed throughout the Magic Kingdom, and the game has various levels of difficulty. This game relies more on strategy than physical cues. As such, each guest's experience is different, so those waiting in line won't necessarily have the reveal spoiled for them.

Back at A Pirates Adventure, if guests help Captain Jack succeed in all five missions, they’ll be welcomed as part of his new crew.

Here's a video of the game (with spoilers)

How long could two kids and their parents last at the Magic Kingdom when the theme park was open 24 hours? We set out to find out Friday at the Monstrous Summer All-Nighter.

My husband and I are night owls, routinely staying up until 3 a.m. or later, so that was in our favor. However, both our 10-year-old son and 8-year-old daughter had a full day of school before we headed to the Magic Kingdom in the afternoon, so they were tired. But they were really excited about the event, so that adrenaline helped fuel their determination to stay awake.

When we arrived about 4:30 p.m., the Transportation and Ticket Center parking lot was already about two-thirds full. I wondered if the park would close because of capacity crowds at some point, but we continued to see folks arriving all night.

Guests entering the park were given Monstrous Summer buttons and could collect a special Times Guide for the event. We headed straight into The Emporium to check out the event merchandise because I had hoped to get the kids' the All-Nighter T-shirts. Unfortunately, those only came in adult sizes and only the big sizes were left late in the afternoon. They were offered on DisneyStore.com for three days, though, so I ordered them online as we waited in attraction lines in the park.

After that, we really didn't have an agenda -- just a loose plan of what we wanted to do, based on crowds. And, boy, were there crowds! The Magic Kingdom was jam-packed during the afternoon and evening hours for this special event, which fell on a Friday and the beginning of a holiday weekend. I'm told the crowds were much lighter when the park opened at 6 a.m. and through the morning hours.

We started off by riding the railroad to Adventureland to grab FastPasses for Splash Mountain for my husband and my daughter and to check out the new A Pirate's Adventure. (I'll have a review of that later this week.) Using the FastPass system definitely was key to getting on the popular rides without having hours-long waits. Still, we couldn't help but wish FastPasses were available all night. The system shut down by 1 a.m., and the crowds really didn't thin out until about 3 a.m. Consequently, Space Mountain and other popular rides still had long standby queues well after midnight.

Earlier in the night, we had dinner at Columbia Harbour House, where just about every table was taken. I can't remember the last time I saw the counter-service restaurant so busy. From there, we let the kids decide which attractions they wanted to do. We took a break about 9:30 p.m. to have the special Monsters University-themed Eye Scream Sundaes at the Plaza Ice Cream Shop and watch the Wishes fireworks show.

At that point we decided to get a double-stroller for my daughter and all our stuff. She hasn't ridden in a stroller for years, but we thought she would be the first to get tired and a ride for her might allow our son to stay longer. It was a good call, even for the $31 price tag. Then we headed out to experience more attractions. Shortly after midnight, we met up with Deb Koma and her son. (There were plenty of blog meets going on throughout the park, and AllEars.Net hosted one in the morning.)

By 2 a.m., my kids had caught their second wind, much to my surprise, so we stopped by Disney's Up All Night Dance Party in front of Cinderella Castle and then got in the hour-long queue to meet Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse dressed in their pajamas. It was a long wait, but my son and daughter humored me. My daughter even changed into her own PJs for the photo.

Afterward, the line for Space Mountain finally had dropped to 45-minutes so my husband and daughter joined the queue, while my son and I rode Peter Pan's Flight and The Haunted Mansion. Then, we all stopped by Cosmic Ray's for a breakfast sandwich and made our way out of the Magic Kingdom about 5 a.m. As we were leaving, guests were still coming into the park. We headed out, though, and pulled into our driveway east of Orlando at sunrise.

Was it a crazy night? Absolutely. It was crowded in the park that night, many of the attraction lines were long, and the kids and husband got cranky at times as the hours wore on. But will my children remember the fun of being in the Magic Kingdom all night under the full moon and stars? You bet! That was a timeless memory that’s worth a little missed sleep now for the magic they’ll recall for years to come.

Just as it did with Turtle Trek, SeaWorld Orlando is again educating and entertaining its visitors about a particular species by telling a story through the point of view of one animal. This time, though, the experience is more immersive, including a restaurant and other themed areas.

The new Antarctica section of the park opens today (May 24) and its centerpiece ride, Empire of the Penguin, takes visitors on a journey with Puck, a baby penguin. Much like last summer's new TurtleTrek, Empire of the Penguin appeals to its audience by showcasing one animal's battle against nature and then allowing guests to observe the animals in their habitat.

This formula seems to work well, combining cutting-edge technology with the thrill of seeing rare animals up close. TurtleTrek introduced guests to Orlando's first 3D 360-degree dome theater in 2012. Empire of the Penguin offers guests another industry first: wireless, trackless navigation for cars in the attraction.

Each simulator ride car allows guests to choose one of two levels of exploration – Wild Expedition or Mild Expedition – for various degrees of ride intensity. Designers say each version also has multiple variations for a feeling of unpredictability.

“When our little hero penguin learns to waddle and slide, we’ll feel what it’s like as the car moves and reacts to the storyline. When he takes his first swim or barely escapes danger, our guests will feel as if they’re right there with him,” said Brian Morrow, SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment creative director.

I rode the mild version of Empire of the Penguin at the media preview of Antarctica and was enchanted by it. The smooth ride offers plenty of surprises and moments to "ooh" and "ahh" during Puck's journey. Morrow said kids are drawn to the brilliant colors and playing hide-and-seek with Puck. My 8- and 10-year-old are eager to experience it for themselves. (Can't get enough Puck? The character meets guests outside the ride.)

Deb Wills rode the Wild Expedition and compared the motion of the ride vehicle to that of The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh at Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom. She said the movements are mostly gentle, but there is a bit more spinning, so those sensitive to motion sickness may want to stick with the mild ride.

Empire of the Penguin is being touted as an adventure that the whole family can experience together, regardless of ride preference. As the mother of a child who does not like thrill rides, I certainly appreciate this planning. There is only one ride queue, so families remain together until it splits just before guests listen to the pre-show and board their simulators. Of course, the vehicles dock at the same location in the penguin habitat and families can see the amazing little birds together. Child swap also is available for Empire of the Penguin.

In addition, the content of the ride is appropriate for all ages. In one scene, Puck is chased by a leopard seal and the music is bit ominous. It's not nightmare material, however. "This is not a scary ride, though there are real animals that behave in real ways," Morrow said.

Any guest who is able to sit unaided can ride Empire of the Penguin. Children who are shorter than 48 inches must be accompanied by another guest. To ride the Wild Expedition, children must be 42 inches tall.

The penguin habitat at the end of the ride really does give guests a bird's eye view of these rare flightless wonders. You'll see about 250 Adelie, gentoo, king and rockhopper penguins swimming, preening and possibly nesting. And you will feel like a penguin, too, with temperatures that hover around 30 degrees Fahrenheit in the enclosure.

SeaWorld educators, such as Senior Aviculturalist Michelle Hartman, line the path in front of the penguins to answer guests' questions. She explained that a new Penguin Up-Close tour will begin in June. The one-hour experience allows smaller groups of guests to interact with the penguins, even petting them and posing for photos, for an additional charge. (Currently, penguin interactions are only available with the Behind The Scenes Tour.)

Finally, visitors can warm up in an adjacent underwater viewing room. The three levels allow for multiple vantage points. This room also will host groups of children, typically Scout or school groups, who book sleepovers.

The Antarctica section also includes a new counter-service restaurant, Expedition Cafe. Visitors here have a choice of three different cuisines: American, Italian and Asian. Adults will find salads, sandwiches and hot entrees in each restaurant that start at about $9 each. Kids' meals were selected with crowd-pleasers in mind -- fried or baked chicken, hot dogs, spaghetti, lasagna, orange chicken, teriyaki chicken, or pepper steak -- and cost about $6 each.

Hector Colon, executive chef and director of culinary operations, explained that Expedition Cafe also will offer to-go options because "you never want to be without food in Antarctica." These will include snacks such as beefy jerk and trail mix, plus a make-your-own peanut-butter-and-jelly-sandwich kit for kids.

The nearby South Pole Beverage station has three Coca-Cola Freestyle machines that feature SeaWorld's exclusive flavor, South Pole Chill. It's been compared to a cream soda, and I have to agree with that assessment. Delicious! Guests have the option of purchasing a Cup That Cares for $9.95 or they can create a Cup That Cares -- much like a Mr. Potato Head for penguins -- for $15.95. Both versions contain RFID chips that allow the beverage stations to recognize the user's name and keep track of the number of refills, which it records as a measure of reducing the guest's carbon footprint. In addition, $1 of the purchase price is donated to the SeaWorld & Busch Gardens Conservation Fund.

Antarctica offers both indoor and outdoor seating areas. Those who opt for air conditioning in the Sub-Zero Recreation Center will see a location themed to the scientists who live and work at "the bottom of the world," as SeaWorld bills Antarctica.

Of course, there is a penguin gift shop in this area, Glacial Collections. Surprisingly, Empire of the Penguin does not exit through the shop. At Glacial Collections, guests will find penguin-themed merchandise of all sorts, including plush versions of Puck. At the time of the official opening, though, there weren't many items with Antarctica logos, save for some T-shirts.

After almost three years in the making, Antarctica is poised to be another cool attraction at the park in more ways than one. Antarctica is included with regular admission to SeaWorld Orlando.

Fans of Disney Pixar's "Monsters, Inc." have less than a month until the prequel, "Monsters University," hits theaters on June 21. In the meantime, The Walt Disney Co. is kicking its promotion into high gear with lots of merchandise and eye-opening deals. Here is a look at the latest from Mike and Sully. (And, of course, AllEars will have team coverage of the Monstrous Summer All-Nighter at Walt Disney World and Disneyland on Friday. Stay tuned for our reports!)

Monsters University Storybook Deluxe app

Disney Publishing has released a new app in its Storybook Deluxe series that is a companion to the upcoming prequel film. Like its counterparts, this animated storybook is interactive, offering kids the opportunity to participate in the story by touching the screen in various ways. They also can choose to read the story themselves or turn on narration.

The app also includes the tools for each user to create his or her own Monsters University ID badge. Kids ages 6 to 10 are invited to take a photo of themselves with their mobile devices or select one already stored there and then “Monsterify” it by adding various effects for eyes, ears, horns and more. That never gets old! There also are five games, but they all work on the same principle: The player must dodge objects on his or her journey to the simulator kid, who must be made to scream.

As I've written before, I think the Disney storybook apps are great portable tools for young readers and Disney fans. On this app, I wish there were more variety in the games, but the badge option is pretty entertaining. Monsters University Storybook Deluxe sells for $6.99 in the iTunes App Store for the iPad, iPhone, iPod Touch and iPad Mini.

Monsters University soundtrack

The "Monsters University" soundtrack is set to be released on June 18 and is available for pre-order on Amazon.com for $14.99. The 20-song CD features an original score composed and conducted by Randy Newman, who recently was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Disney Visa Card members can claim a special deal through June 17 -- pre-order a download of the "Monsters University" soundtrack for just $7.99 with their credit cards. The deal is good after the release date, too, through July 31.

Monsters University movie tickets

Disney Movie Rewards members who purchase specific Disney-Pixar DVDs can earn free vouchers for admission to "Monsters University." Members must purchase "Monsters, Inc." 5-Disc Ultimate Collector's Edition; "Monsters, Inc." 3-Disc Blu-ray Combo Pack; or "Monsters, Inc." 3-Disc DVD Combo pack to earn a $10 voucher. The "Monsters, Inc." and "Finding Nemo" DVDs are worth $8 movie tickets when the codes are entered disneymovierewards.com. This offer is valid through July 31.

You also can earn free movie tickets for Monsters University from Kellogg's. Find codes printed inside specially marked cereals and enter them on the Kellogg’s Family Rewards website. It takes 6 codes to earn one e-Movie Cash ticket good for a Disney movie. Participating cereals include Krave, Mini-Wheats, Rice Krispies, Apple Jacks, Crunchy Nuts, Corn Pops, Frosted Flakes, Froot Loops and Crispix.

Monsters University Sweepstakes

There's still time to enter the Monsters University Sweepstakes, which will award a grand-prize trip for six people to Walt Disney World. The vacation includes roundtrip airfare, a stay at Art of Animation resort, 5-Day Magic Your Way Tickets with Park Hopper, a VIP tour guide for a day and a $650 Disney Store gift card. First prize is a $1,000 Disney gift card.

This sweepstakes is open to Disney Movie Rewards members age 13 and older and ends June 2. Members may enter once for free and then up to 99 additional times by redeeming DMR points or by mailing a 3.5 x 5 postcard with the appropriate information for each entry. (See website for official rules.)

Disney fans, who also are Star Wars fans, know that for four weekends in May and June, Disney's Hollywood Studios turns into a mecca for all things related to that galaxy far, far away. As the event has grown, so have the number of things that are geared toward kids.

My children, who are ages 8 and 10, now enjoy the excitement of the special event weekends, but there was one year when my son joined the ranks of the intensely fascinated. That was the year his night-owl parents took him to the theme park before it opened in a bid to get Jake Lloyd's autograph. (You can read about our experience here.)

This year, we had a more casual approach to our arrival time because we weren't seeking an autograph. That was a mistake, though. The Force is not with families who do not line up outside the turnstiles at least an hour before park opening.

The two kid-centric events -- Jedi Training Academy and Padawan Mind Challenge -- require registration, which is available immediately after the rope drop in front of the Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Theater and ABC Sound Stage, respectively. On Saturday, all 19 sessions of the training academy and two trivia games were filled by mid-morning and the wait list halted at 70 hopeful kids, a cast member told me. So, my top tip for families who have children eager to take part in the Star Wars activities is to plan for an early arrival.

Here are our favorite must-dos for families who want to maximize their Star Wars fun:

1. Legends of the Force Motorcade and Celebrity Welcome -- Even if you're not a Star Wars fan, it's difficult not to get excited when you see this parade kick off. The familiar music and array of elaborately costumed characters create excitement, for sure. Plus, the celebrities and event hosts ride in a motorcade that culminates in a ceremony on the main event stage in front of the Sorcerer Hat. Guests wanting a curbside seat line up for this parade at least an hour ahead of time. We lucked into a spot this year about a half hour before the parade's start that wasn't half bad. Areas are blocked off near the right side of the stage for the parents of kids who are chosen for the parade, but there are spots behind them that line the front of the stage. We could not see the parade from that point, but half of the characters walked past us on their way to the stage, high-fiving my kids, and then we had a decent view of the ceremony on stage. It worked for us.

2. Jedi Training Academy -- Kids ages 4 to 12 learn how to wield a light saber from master Jedi instructors on an outdoor stage next to Star Tours. Once they've mastered the basics, they take a turn battling someone from The Dark Side. Sign-up is required for this event, but the good news is that it is a permanent feature at Hollywood Studios. If you miss it during Star Wars Weekends, the event is available year round. Robes similar to the ones the kids don for the academy can be purchased in nearby Tatooine Traders for about $50, and there is a build-your-own light saber station, as well.

3. Padawan Mind Challenge -- In this trivia contest, kids ages 4 to 11 use their mental forces to keep up with two galactic hosts on the main event stage in front of the Sorcerer Hat. Guest C3PO provides some laughs and encourages the kids as they use their light sabers to indicate answers. Registration is required for this event, which has two afternoon sessions.

4. Merchandise and character photos -- Take time to visit Darth's Mall, the huge merchandise tent that is set up back behind Rock 'n' Roller Coaster. Here you'll find limited edition Star Wars items; Star Wars Weekends 2013 merchandise; photo opportunities with Luke, Leia, R2D2, C3PO, and the Rancor; and the "cast yourself in Carbonite" experience that was inspired by a scene from "The Empire Strikes Back." My daughter loved being able to meet Leia and R2D2, who played along when she gave him her princess crown, and my son added to his collection a special Jedi Mickey plush that marks the 30th anniversary of "Return of the Jedi." There also are many character meet-and-greets with those from The Alliance, The Empire and Mickey and pals seen dressed in Star Wars costumes throughout the park.

5. HyperSpace Hoopla! -- End the day by viewing this hilarious dance competition in which Star Wars characters try to outdo each other in a dance-off set to popular music hits. This event has become so popular over that years that guests line up in front of the main stage well beforehand. (See the AllEars.Net Hyperspace Hoopla! video.) Disney also broadcasts the Hoopla on the large adjacent screen at American Idol Experience, and folks sprawl out on the cement to watch. My son and I were among them, and it was a pleasant way to see the show without being sandwiched in between all the other guests.

Let me know your tips for kids at Star Wars Weekends, by leaving a comment below.

Following the popularity of wedding dresses inspired by the Disney Princesses, a new collection of special-occasion gowns that hint at royalty has been developed for girls celebrating their 15th birthdays. The Disney Royal Ball Quinceañera Dress Collection debuted this week from Disney Consumer Products and Ashdon Inc.

Similar to a "Sweet 16," a quinceañera is a coming-of-age celebration for Latina girls. It often includes a religious ceremony and a lavish reception with family and friends. During the party, the birthday girl dances a waltz with her father and changes from flat shoes to high heels to signify the transition to womanhood.

"The Disney Royal Ball collection is designed to create a royal statement and a lifetime of memories," said Nick Yeh, CEO of Ashdon Brands, in a press release. "The gowns are fun to wear and fit wonderfully into traditionally festive environments, providing a magnificent and special way for Quince girls to realize their very own princess-inspired dreams."

The debut line features 21 gowns — two styles for each Disney Princess and a special new gown, "la Corona de la Princesa," that will be added to the line each year. Girls can pick from designs that represent the personalities of Ariel, Belle, Cinderella, Jasmine, Mulan, Pocahontas, Rapunzel, Sleeping Beauty, Snow White and Tiana. Disney's newest princess, Merida from "Brave," does not yet have her own quinceañera gown.

The Disney Royal Ball Quinceañera Dress Collection is available at specialty and formal-wear retailers in the United States and Canada. The dresses come in a range of colors in sizes 0-20 and are priced from $530 to $999. To see all the gowns, view the photo gallery.

In 2007, Walt Disney World added quinceañera parties to its booming party-planning business. Associates at Disney's Catered Events create custom celebrations for these milestone birthdays, which can be just as over-the-top as Disney weddings with Cinderella's glass coach and footmen, a tiered cake and character appearances.

Base pricing starts with a per-person charge for the venue, plated meal with cake, and background music. These fees begin at $85 per person. Enhancing the decor, food, music or more increases the cost, of course.

The venues for the balls so far have been Grand Floridian Resort and Spa, Boardwalk Inn & Villas, Yacht & Beach Club Resort, Contemporary Resort, Coronado Springs Resort and the American Adventure Rotunda at Epcot. Guests certainly are not limited to these locations, however. Event planners work with the guests to design dessert parties, private viewings of theme-park fireworks or other special occasions. If you can dream it, Disney planners will do their best to make it happen.

Guests can begin planning a quinceañera at Disneyland by calling 714-520-7072 or at Walt Disney World Resort by calling 321-939-4648.

Through June 7, QuinceañerasMagazine.com is hosting La Corona De La Princesa sweepstakes, offering one reader the chance to win the Disney Royal Ball Quinceañera gown of their choice, a VIP weekend trip for two to Southern California, a $1,000 cash prize and more. The top 10 finalists will receive a Disney Royal Ball Quinceañera gown of their choice and a subscription to Quinceañeras Magazine. For contest details visit quinceanerasmagazine.com/articles/la-corona-de-la-princesa.

Disney Publishing Worldwide has announced it is expanding its outreach to children with type 1 diabetes through a series of custom books that have been co-created with Lilly Diabetes, a subsidiary of pharmaceutical firm Eli Lilly & Co. The books, which debuted in 2011, are being translated and made available in 18 countries through doctors' offices.

The Disney group entered a partnership with Lilly Diabetes two years ago to educate children and their families about the disease -- and to help them find a sense of normalcy in their lives. Now, the two companies aim "to reach even more families who have been impacted by type 1 diabetes – emphasizing what they can do instead of what they can’t do, and offering stories of familiar characters, such as Mickey Mouse and his friend, Coco, the fun-loving monkey who has type 1 diabetes," said Lilly Communications Director Kelley Murphy.

Coco's adventures can be found in two titles that are part of the popular children's Mickey Mouse Clubhouse series, “Coco Goes Back to School” and “Coco and Goofy's Goofy Day.” The latter is the first to be translated for global distribution. In "Coco and Goofy's Goofy Day," Coco shows Goofy that she can attend his birthday party, enjoy the treats and activities in moderation and still have fun. Goofy is the one who struggles with limiting himself on his special day.

A third book starring Coco will be released this summer. “Coco's First Sleepover” was written to help children and their families prepare for the child’s first night away from home after being diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. People with type 1 diabetes, which often has an onset in childhood, have high blood sugar levels, usually because their bodies do not produce enough insulin or respond to the insulin that is created. They must monitor their condition daily and adjust medicines, food and exercise accordingly.

To that end, another Disney book in the series is a cookbook, "Dishing it up Disney Style," with healthy recipes for the entire family to enjoy.

Tweens also will be offered books that address their concerns about sharing their type 1 diabetes with their peers. Among them are “Up for the Challenge,” “Power Forward,” “Running Interference” and “Hannah Montana - Uptight, Oliver's Alight”; the first two are being translated into languages other than English. Two new titles for kids ages 9 to 13 also will be introduced this summer: “Superstar Dreams” and “Covering the Bases."

In another effort to reach more families, the first three books that are being translated and the cookbook will be posted online when a new website is completed in August or September, Murphy said. In the meantime, Disney is hosting content from dietitians, psychologists, nurses and families on its website, spoonful.com/type1. It offers tips for everyday challenges and includes recipes and printable resources.

"Lilly Diabetes' objective is to bring safety, health, comfort and a bit of magic to children worldwide," said Andrew Hodge, international vice president of Lilly Diabetes, in a statement. "We saw the positive impact our collaboration with Disney Publishing Worldwide had on families living with type 1 diabetes in the U.S. over the last two years, and we are excited to expand our reach globally."

Lilly introduced the world's first commercial insulin and continues to market related medicines.

And though guests at Disney Parks won’t see the Coco character, the little monkey already is having a positive effect on some.

One AllEars.Net reader whose 9-year-old daughter who lives with type 1 diabetes said the resources were invaluable in her family's planning for an upcoming trip to Walt Disney World. "Coco carries her diabetic supplies in a backpack and wears a diabetes bracelet, too," said Sheila Meyle. "Thank you Disney and Lilly Diabetes for bringing this very important issue to the public's attention and making a friend of Mickey's seem as normal as all the kids with diabetes want to be."

AllEars.Net has a section about how to plan for a vacation at Walt Disney World when someone in your party is living with diabetes. Plus, we have updated and complete menus for all the resort restaurants, so you can plan meals in advance.