My big 9-year-old and I were recently whisked away to New York City by the amazing team at Adventures by Disney so that we could experience the New York City Short Escape trip. Although our trip was provided to us, all of our opinions are ours, always! We are incredibly grateful for our partnership with the Adventures by Disney team for this experience that will surely be remembered forever! Scroll all the way down for some fun photos from our adventure.
Wait, Disney in NYC? What? Is there a new park? NO!
Adventures by Disney is a leader in group-guided travel and showcases itineraries built with families in minds, and their Short Escapes are two- to four-night adventures in iconic destinations that can be booked as stand-alone getaways or as add-ons to other vacation plans. Combining visits to must-see attractions with hands-on activities and opportunities to discover hidden gems, these itineraries are founded on enriching, authentic experiences and bolstered by signature Disney storytelling, VIP service, and special access.
Our trip started with The Ride, a bus adventure unlike your standard tour bus, to see some of Manhattan’s most iconic sights including Times Square, Madison Avenue, the Chrysler Building and more.
The next morning, we started bright and early with a backstage trip to Good Morning America, and even were in the audience for the live morning show. What a thrill it is to see all of the work of how these live shows make it into the living rooms of families across the country. I mean we were literally sitting just feet away from George Stephanopoulos and Lara Spencer! Can I also mention that Chrissy Teigen was there promoting her new cookbook and that Emma Stone was a guest? #FANGIRL!
Next up was a behind the scenes tour of the New Amsterdam Theater (this, of all of the experiences we had in NYC was my son’s FAVORITE!) where we learned from docents about the history of the theater all the way up to the current show on stage – Aladdin. We were able to stand ON the stage of this gorgeous historical landmark and even try on some authentic props.
After a delicious slice of authentic NYC pizza at the famous John’s Pizzeria, a converted tabernacle church that’s now the largest pizzeria in the country, we headed to a private rehearsal studio to learn the words and dance steps to FIXER UPPER from Frozen. We giggled and smiled our way through the workshop. Even though it was a little intimidating at first, the instructors were so much lively and inspiring. It felt so freeing to leave all of our inhibitions at the door and just have FUN!
As if this day isn’t already beyond expectations, we headed back to our hotel (The InterContinental in Times Square) and freshened up for the grand finale of the evening – seeing Frozen on Broadway. After the show (ahhh, it’s so wonderful you MUST see it for yourself! I don’t want to spoil it!) we had the incredible pleasure of a meet & greet with two of the cast members, including the talented Aisha Jackson who played Anna.
I know, I know – this was one jam-packed NYC day, but wow, did we enjoy every single minute of it.
But honestly, the best part? Even above all of these VIP and behind-the-scenes experiences, were our two knowledgeable Disney-trained Adventure Guides, Laurie and Chris (hi guys!!). They truly made sure that we enjoyed a once-in-a-lifetime vacation from start to finish. They are so thorough and thoughtful – every single detail is taken care of so that we were able to soak in every moment of our New York City experience. From giving the kiddos a special birthday pin to passing out authentic NYC black & white cookies for a snack, we were in the best hands!
Have you considered Adventures by Disney for your next family vacation? Check out the website when you can and you’ll be oogling and drooling over the destinations just like we do! In 2019, families will have more ways than ever to explore the world with Disney with an expanded line-up of Short Escape vacations with Adventures by Disney, a leader in guided group travel worldwide. In addition to its existing portfolio of more than 50 global vacations, Adventures by Disney will transport travelers to three new international cities on brand-new itineraries in Boston, London, and Vancouver, Canada (one of our very favorite cities!).
