You're probably thinking, "what in Walt Disney World is that?" This, my padawan readers, is the Star Wars Weekends Darth Mall!
Star Wars Weekends, which begins this Friday, is known for offering exclusive event merchandise; and the prime place to find it all is at this location known as the Darth Mall.
In addition to merchandise, you can find other Star Wars items like you would find at Tatooine Traders at the exit of Star Tours. Although, anyone who has tried shopping in Tatooine Traders on a normal day knows how crowded it can be. This shop during Star Wars Weekends would be chaos so another location is necessary.
The Darth Mall in the past has also been home to character spots, places to meet and greet with Star Wars characters or Disney characters dressed as Star Wars characters, such as Jedi Mickey or Minnie as Princess Leia.
So what exactly can you buy at the Darth Mall? Pins! This is where we go for the 2013 Star Wars Weekends pins. You can also find other collectibles, including artwork. Artists really get creative when combining the Disney universe with that of the Star Wars universe!
So where is the Darth Mall? This is the really cool part. The Darth Mall is actually back behind Rock n' Roller Coaster in the space next to the Tower of Terror, an area that is usually off limits to guests. It's cool to be in a backstage area of the park; and you also get a great view of the Tower of Terror at a angle you never get to see normally.
Tip: During one of our visits, we dropped by Darth Mall in the evening, an hour or two before closing, and there was only a few people browsing inside. We had most of the place to ourselves! What was even better was that most of their exclusive merchandise was still available, including the collectible pins. While we can't guarantee the same will happen during your visit, it wouldn't hurt to check for yourself.
 Tatooine Traders Entrance Are you a Star Wars fan? Are the men in your family tired of following you around the World of Disney Store and the other cute shops you find at the parks and resorts? Do you want to find some truly unique merchandise? Then you want to check out Tatooine Traders at Disney's Hollywood Studios!
Located at the exit of the Star Tours attraction, or around the back of the Star Tours area, you will find a sand colored hut called Tatooine Traders! The Star Wars fan in your family will tell you that this structure looks just like one of the buildings on Luke's home planet of Tatooine from the films.
Now we know that Star Wars stuff can be found almost everywhere in our day and age; but the Star Wars merchandise inside of this store is truly unique!
We're talking about build-your-own lightsabers, Chewbacca and Yoda backpacks, Star Wars inspired Mouse Ears, unique shirts and apparel, stuffed Ewoks, Jedi bathrobes, and lots of Disney inspired Star Wars toys and extras. It's almost overwhelming, especially for true Star Wars fan, and that's not even considering the normal Star Wars fan gear like books, tees, and action figures.
Because this shop serves as the attraction's exit, and because it's so popular, Tatooine Traders is often crowded; but everyone needs to stop in here at least once. However, be warned that the little Jedi in your family, or your husband for that matter, may not want to leave! If you don't want to deal with the crowds, then try to visit first thing in the morning or in the evening hours.  This sign is the coolest! Awesome references to R2-D2 and C3P0! In addition to the build-your-own lightsaber station, Tatooine Traders also has another station where you can build your own mini droid! (For you non-Star Wars fan, a droid is a robot!)
You or your child will get to select the parts for your droid and then assemble it right there in the store. It will be about the size of an action figure. What's really fun is the amusing accessories you can add to your droid, such as Mouse Ears!
Tatooine Traders is one of the most unique stores on Disney property and a promised land for many Star Wars experts. It's a great way to do a little shopping and keep the men happy to, as well as to find a teen friendly souvenir?
Be sure to check it out on your next trip!
If you're an avid Disney fan like us, then you probably have spent some of your souvenir budget on a Disney book at the parks and gift shops! You may have even purchased a Disney book at your local bookstore or online whenever you need a Disney fix! (We certainly have!)
There is a lot of Disney literature out there, ranging from guide books to Disney secrets to biographies to coffee table books and more! But today, we are going to feature our favorite Disney books from our Disney library which have actually illuminated and revealed stories, tips, and information that we didn't know or that gave us a greater appreciation for Disney.
How To Be Like Walt: Capturing the Disney Magic Every Day of Your Life by Pat Williams-This is one of our all-time favorite books! It is organized like a biography which begins with Walt's childhood, covers his early struggles and experiments with animation, the rise of the Disney Company and animated features, Disneyland, and later Disney World and his death. The book contains a lot of detail and witness accounts and offers one of the best, if not the best, insights into Walt himself. If you're not a fan of Walt already, you certainly will be after this book! At the end of each chapter, Pat Williams breaks down what Walt did or how he thought and acted in each section and how you can do the same. Walt really was a role model and we can all benefit by learning to be a little more like Walt! You can find this book at bookstores or online. Our rating: 5 Glass Slippers.
Walt Disney World Trivia Book: Secrets History and Fun Facts Behind the Magic by Louis A. Mongello-Want to test your Disney knowledge? Look no further than the Walt Disney World Trivia Book! This book is truly packed full of secrets, history, and facts, and is organized by each park and then the rest of the Disney property. Some questions are surprisingly challenging and we are sure you will learn something! Wouldn't this be a great way to keep your family entertained on your way to Walt Disney World? We think it would! This book is available in bookstores or online. Our Rating: 4 Glass Slippers.
The Imagineering Field Guides by the Imagineers-Are you fascinated by Imagineering? Would you like to see the Disney parks through the eye of an Imagineer? These field guides are for you! These small books, written by the Imagineers, offer a little history behind Imagineering before taking you through each section of the parks to reveal hidden secrets, techniques, stories, and more! The pictures are great and the book is the perfect size to carry with you as you tour Walt Disney World! There is a book available for each park so check them out today! These books are available in the travel section of most bookstores, online, and at the Disney parks and resorts. Our Rating: 4 Glass Slippers.
Walt Disney Imagineering: A Behind the Dreams Look at Making More Magic Real by The Imagineers-This 192 page book is full of photos, artwork, concept art, stories, insights and more of Disney Imagineering from all over the world! It also offers some concept art from the Magic Kingdom's New Fantasyland! This book focuses on more recent Imagineering efforts, ranging from the opening of international parks, such as Tokyo DisneySea, Animal Kingdom, Hong Kong Disneyland, and etc. We doubt that you have ever seen some of these Disney photos and drawings before. If you're looking for a look at the Disney magic you know, but also overseas, this book is for you and would make a great addition to your own Disney library! This book is available online or might be found at the Disney parks and resorts. Our Rating: 5 Glass Slippers.
The Hidden Magic of Walt Disney World by Susan Veness-Looking for some Disney secrets that you don't know? Don't think there's anything out there that you haven't read or heard? This particular book may change your mind! The Hidden Magic of Walt Disney World is filled with hundreds of secrets! (But be warned if you get an older edition as some info and secrets may be outdated and no longer exist; and some may argue that it's not legit info.) Whether it is or isn't, there is still plenty of Disney secrets that are true and it's fun to explore the parks after what you have learned! This book can be bought online and may be on bookstore shelves. Our Rating: 3.5 Glass Slippers.
Disney in Details A Scavenger Hunt Through the Walt Disney World Resort by Disney Editions-This beautiful book is filled with gorgeous photos of Walt Disney World, as well as a few scavenger hunts! Adults will appreciate the quality of the photos and hidden details; and kids will enjoy flipping through the pages and see pictures of magical attractions and colorful characters and picturesque sights! This book is also great for photographers, as many of the photos are taken from unique views and angles that they may like to imitate themselves! Purchase this book for collection online or at while at the Disney World parks and resorts, it would make a great souvenir! Our Rating: 3.5 Glass Slippers.
Looking to add some Disney magic to your personal style? Looking for the perfect gift for the Disney girl in your life? You can never go wrong when it comes to Disney and a great bag; and this week, Disney has combined both winning elements with several new arrivals! Take a look! Wouldn't this be great for the princess in your life? We think it's charming, great for storing your princess treasures. See it now for $39.95. Isn't this Cinderella tote gorgeous! We really like the silver initial; and the silver and black accents really compliment the design. The cost of this bag is $49.95, but how great would this be when checking for your reservations at Cinderella's Royal Table during your next trip? This little wristlet is one of our favorites out this entire Cinderella collection and displays the phrase "One pair of shoes can change a girl's life." How fitting for Cinderella, or for any Disney princess young or small! It currently costs $29.95. Catch it before the clock strikes midnight! How sweet is this little purse? How perfect for carrying your treasures when visiting the new Be Our Guest Restaurant at the new Fantasyland! The golden accents are true to Belle's color scheme and we especially like the braided, black velvet chain! Check it out now for $39.95. This canvas tote is the largest of the collection with gold glitter and black ribbon accents! It's currently $49.50 and we think it's fit for a princess! Complete your Belle hand bag collection with this stylish wristlet that stands on its own with the phrase, "He loves me, He loves me not" printed across the canvas. Help keep yourself organized with this character inspired clutch for $29.95.
Are any of these bags on your wish list? Which one is your favorite?
Homesick for Walt Disney World? Feeling like adding some Disney magic to your daily life? If so, check out our picks from the DisneyStore.com! Lately Disney has been producing stylish, Disney themed throw pillows so your own home can feel like a castle! This pillow is $22.95 and has two contrasting sides. The corduroy front says, "once upon a time," while the back consists of a black, woven material that says, "happily ever after"! So these plush toys which convert into pillows are a big trend right now, so Disney has produced their own featuring either Tigger, Pooh, Dumbo, and Marie! While kids will naturally enjoy one of these characters, adults can benefit from this purchase too as it acts as a travel pillow, perfect for when your little prince or princess needs to catch a few winks when you're out and about. Who doesn't like the sea gulls from Finding Nemo, right? You can bring another one of Disney's great throw pillows home for $22.95; and we bet the whole family will enjoy it! Take a look at this Walt Disney World themed tote bag! It's obviously cute, especially with the black bow accent, but the front is covered with pink and green iconic Disney park images, such as Mouse Ears, fireworks, tea cups, and more! Plus, "I love Walt Disney World" is printed near the bottom! Therefore, this is a perfect bag for a Disney fan and can give you that little Disney fix while back in reality. Right now this tote is $49.95 so check it out now!
We are always on the lookout for stylish Disney products. Check out some of our favorite picks from the DisneyStore.com! Isn't this adorable? Owls are very popular right now, and you can join the trend with a Disney twist! If you look closely, you will see that this owl even contains a few Hidden Mickeys too! This brooch currently costs $24.95 and it comes in a gift box complete with a gold ribbon. Check it out today! This stylish Disney tank reads, "Yes, you're the fairest of them all..." and it's currently on sale for only $16.99! This tank will keep you cool, and looking cool, while strolling through the parks! Add a little Disney to your style with these Mickey Glove earrings! They are covered with Swarovski crystals by the Arribas Brothers and are reasonably priced at $27.50! This quilted throw is perfect for any Disney World or Disneyland fan, and especially for a Disney historian! The quilt blocks showcase some famous Disney nostalgia, like a vintage Mickey Mouse Club button or the locations for the E-Ticket attractions! This quilt currently costs $54.95 and we think it would be perfect to cover up with while watching your favorite Disney movie or a Disney Parks DVD?
We are always looking for unique and fashionable souvenirs for all of us grown-up Disney princesses, and today's find comes from the DisneyStore.com and is an adorable Minnie Mouse tank for women! This tank will keep you looking chic, adorable, and fabulous, as the shirt reads, as well as cool with it's racer back and long hem! We think it would make a great outfit to wear at the parks during your Disney Vacation, don't you? It currently costs $24.50, go check it out now!
So, as you know, we are always on the lookout for stylish Disney souvenirs for us grown-up Disney princesses, and what princess doesn't like a new purse? Exactly. That's why we are featuring this new Tinkerbell tote with matching cosmetic bag today!
This Tinkerbell tote is canvas with foil and metallic accents with a sweet Tinkerbell screen print! This particular tote can help you stay organized with its side exterior pockets and interior pocket. While we like tote bags, we don't like the fact that some have open tops making it easy for our stuff to fall out; but this bag has a magnetic closure for extra security!
This Tinkerbell tote currently costs $39.50, so be sure to check it out today! If you like the Tinkerbell Tote, take a look at this matching cosmetic bag! It's pleated and fully covered with sequins to sparkle like pixie dust! It currently costs $19.50 and would be great for you or your own little princess!
So, as you know, we are always on the lookout for stylish Disney souvenirs for us grown-up Disney princesses, and we are also huge fans of the Disney Dooney and Bourke bags! So naturally we are really excited about this new Disney souvenir as it is both cute and stylish and Dooney and Bourke!
Today's featured souvenir is an iPhone case displaying the print you can find on the Disney Dooney and Bourke sketch collection bags! Now your phone can match your purse! How cool is that? Also, pay close attention to the bottom of the case which displays that famous brand name label! This case is for iPhone 4 and 4S and doesn't cover those ports and buttons that you might need. There are also two color backgrounds for this print which you can choose, such as white (which is pictured) and black. This adorable case currently costs $50, which is a little pricey, but we think definitely worth it!
Of all the souvenirs and Disney merchandise we have purchased over the years, our favorite is, and probably will continue to be, Disney Dooney and Bourke bags!
Dooney and Bourke, for those of you who don't know, is a popular company known for their stylish, and expensive, purses; and now Disney has joined with them to make a variety of Disney themed bags for grown-up princesses to dream about!
The only catch is that you can't get these bags anywhere but on property or at the Disney Store online, unless you count Amazon or Ebay of course! However, since these souvenirs are not in the same category or abundance as Disney World magnets or stuffed Mickeys, it can be a little difficult to know just where to find them.
So today, we are going to tell you just where you can find Disney Dooney and Bourke bags when at WDW!
If you're hunting for these stylish souvenirs at the parks, we always recommend checking out the shops that line the main street leading into Hollywood Studios or the Magic Kingdom, particularly the adult clothing or jewelry stores! This is especially true of the Magic Kingdom in our Disney Dooney hunting experiences.
If you're shopping for one of these bags at the Disney Resorts, you may not have much success unless you head to the Grand Floridian, particularly the Summer Lace shop. Most of the time you can find a style or two and a pretty decent selection!
One of our favorite go-to locales for a new Disney Dooney is Downtown Disney. Naturally, the World of Disney, the world's largest Disney Store, would carry Disney Dooneys; but this isn't always the case! In fact, the popular Tren-D boutique nearby never fails to have a few Disney Dooneys available; and we believe that they offer the best selection of styles on property! But beware, this store is popular so we don't recommend waiting if you find the size and style you want. It may not be there when you return!
Are you a fan of Disney Dooney and Bourke bags? Where do you go to browse the latest selection? Share with us!
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