4. Enchanted Rose lounge to open soon at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort

Image: Disney

Earlier this year Mizner's Lounge at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort closed forever, and Disney announced that they were re-theming this space to a new Beauty and the Beast themed lounge, which we now know will be called Enchanted Rose, and will be opening in just a few weeks. 

As confirmed previously, this location will feature four unique spaces inspired by the live action Beauty and the Beast film. The lounge's signature bar will glow from the light of a gold chandelier that takes its inspiration from Belle’s flowing ball gown, with subtle nods to the Beast’s magical rose. In another room, guests will find a space that recalls the iconic library from the film, with classical baroque designs and French furnishings inspired by Belle, with hints of the Beast’s friends. Another character-inspired space inside this expanded lounge will be the garden room, which will be a whimsical space that draws its inspiration from the enchanted forest surrounding Beast’s castle. Finally an outdoor patio will evoke the romance of Beast’s garden terrace.

The menu at the Enchanted Rose will include sharable bites, including Mini Smoked Short Rib Sliders with glacier blue cheese and onion marmalade on brioche buns, Espelette Pepper-Spiced Shrimp or Octopus a la Plancha with black olives, blistered tomatoes, and fingerling potatoes. The beverage menu will include specialty Beauty and the Beast-themed cocktails as well as spirits, beer, cider and non-alcoholic options for guests of all ages.

5. Free admission to NBA Experience now available for Cast Members and friends/family

Image: Disney

Walt Disney World offers its Cast Members free admission to theme parks and a certain number of admissions for family and friends, but beginning today Cast Members will be able to take advantage of a new perk: free admission to the newly-opened NBA Experience. 

Complimentary admission to the NBA Experience does not count toward a Cast Member's allotted number of Main Entrance Pass theme park admissions, and Cast Members may redeem this offer once per day, as many days as they would like to visit before the end of the year.  Block-out dates may apply, but have not been announced yet. Guests of the Cast Member must be present when redeeming this offer at the NBA Experience ticket window. 

Standard pricing for the NBA experience is $34 for adults and $29 for kids 3-9.