Laurie at When You Wish Travel

09/03/2026

I'll sweat for this any day.

Orlando in September may be hot, but shorter waits, easier dining reservations, and lighter crowds make it a fan favorite times to visit!!

Personally, I'll take the heat over the crowds every time.

09/02/2026

Not all heroes wear capes. Some hold the bags.

While the thrill seekers are off riding the mountains, the bag holder is enjoying the air conditioning, people-watching, and a little peace and quiet.

Honestly? It's a badge of honor.

09/01/2026

Muggles, Hogwarts is calling... but a little friendly advice first!

Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey is one of the most immersive attractions at Universal Orlando, but it's also one of the roughest for guests prone to motion sickness.

My recommendation? If motion rides aren't your thing, still walk through Hogwarts Castle. The queue is incredible, and you can always take the "chicken exit" before boarding.

Sometimes the best memories come from experiencing the magic in a way that works for you.

08/31/2026

08/30/2026

Happy Frankenstein Day!
If Halloween Horror Nights feels a little too intense, Dark Universe might be the perfect middle ground!! You'll find classic Universal Monsters, a few spooky surprises, and just enough thrills to keep things interesting, all in a family-friendly theme park setting.
For fans of Frankenstein, Dracula, and the classic monsters, it's a fun way to embrace the spooky side without going full horror.

08/29/2026

Happy Anniversary, Galaxy's Edge!

Since opening on August 29, 2019, Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge has been helping guests step into a galaxy far, far away. If you're a true Star Wars fan, my advice is simple: slow down and take it all in! Some of the best memories happen between the attractions.

May the Force be with you.

08/28/2026

Some family-friendly advice for Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Orlando...

HHN is more than haunted houses. The entire event is designed to be intense, immersive, and just plain unsettling!!

That's why I always encourage families to be honest about whether it's the right fit for everyone in their group. The goal isn't to survive the night. The goal is to have fun.

08/27/2026

National Burger Day calls for one of my favorite Universal Orlando restaurants.

The Cowfish at CityWalk is my go-to recommendation when one person wants a burger, another wants sushi, someone is vegan, and everyone wants to leave happy. Because some of the best vacation memories are made around the dinner table, too.

08/27/2026

If leaving your furry family member behind is the hardest part of vacation, Disney has options. Dogs are welcome at select Disney resorts, including Art of Animation, Port Orleans Riverside, Yacht Club, and Fort Wilderness (additional fees and guidelines apply).

Not sure if bringing your pup is the right fit? Disney also offers Best Friends Pet Care, a full-service boarding facility right on property. I'd be happy to help you decide which option makes the most sense for your family and your vacation style.

08/25/2026

BIG Disney Cruise Line news just dropped… and Fall 2027 + Spring 2028 are looking GOOD.

Disney just released a first look at the upcoming itineraries, and there are some really exciting surprises in this release.

🍎 Disney Cruise Line is returning to NEW YORK CITY!
The Disney Wish will sail from NYC in Fall 2027 with cruises to Bermuda, New England + Canada. And yes… some of those Bermuda sailings include an extra day there!

🌴 More sailings from San Juan
The Disney Wish + Disney Fantasy will offer 5-7 night Southern and Eastern Caribbean itineraries from Puerto Rico.

⚓ Disney Destiny is coming to Port Canaveral
For the first time, the Destiny will homeport at Port Canaveral with 3-7 night Bahamas + Western Caribbean cruises.

🏝️ DOUBLE Castaway Cay itineraries!
Both the Disney Treasure and Disney Dream will have select sailings featuring TWO stops at Castaway Cay.

🌊 Disney Fantasy is sailing to Bermuda for the first time
Including an 8-night sailing from Fort Lauderdale that also visits BOTH Disney island destinations.

☀️ More California + Texas options
Disney Magic + Disney Wonder will sail from San Diego, while the Magic will return to Galveston with select itineraries visiting BOTH Castaway Cay + Lookout Cay.

🎃🎄 And of course, Halloween on the High Seas and Very Merrytime Cruises will return for Fall 2027!

And that is only scratching the surface of what was announced.

Booking Dates:

✨ August 31 — Early booking begins for select Castaway Club members
✨ September 8 — General booking opens

If a Disney Cruise is even remotely on your radar for Fall 2027 or Spring 2028, NOW is the time to start thinking about it.

Especially if you're eyeing New York, one of the double Castaway Cay itineraries, or one of the more unique sailings in this release.

Tell me which one caught your attention because I already have a few favorites. 👀