the Official Blog of the Unofficial Guides

  • War Memorials Banner

    Paying Tribute on Veterans Day and Every Day

    Armistice Day, known as Veterans Day here in the United States, is when we honor our sons and daughters who lost their lives in the defense of our country. Armistice Day marks the day and time that a cessation of hostilities was signed after WWI. Many countries commemorate this day on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month. All

  • Illuminations featured

    Say Farewell to IllumiNations and Welcome the Future with Epcot Forever and The Epcot Experience

    At the end of September, Walt Disney World retired IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth to make way for new entertainment and attractions that are arriving at Epcot in the coming years. Today, we’re taking a fond look back at IllumiNations and looking forward to the park’s future with full videos of Epcot Forever and the new Epcot Experience exhibit.

  • Batuu Banner

    On Batuu, Chef James Kleinschmidt Serves Food with a Story

    Liliane Opsomer, coauthor of The Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World with Kids, recently talked with James Kleinschmidt, Chef de Cuisine, Concept Development Team, about the food offerings at the brand-new land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Here is her report. About Chef Kleinschmidt A graduate of the Baltimore International Culinary College, Chef James Kleinschmidt started his career with Disney 22

  • Rafiki's Planet Watch Banner

    Rafiki’s Planet Watch Well Worth a Visit

    Rafiki’s Planet Watch and Conservation Station, the park’s veterinary headquarters, is really worth a visit for families with young kids. Liliane Opsomer, coauthor of The Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World with Kids, recently visited. Here is her report. It will take a little time and effort, and it helps to be inquisitive. The area is quite removed from the

  • US. Capitol banner

    What to Expect from a Visit to the United States Capitol

    The Capitol’s Visitor Center has a glorious skylight view of the Capitol dome; the addition has made space for the many statues and artifacts that have been in storage. It also shows films on the history of the building. Here’s where you sign up for a tour, if you haven’t done so in advance. (To sign up in advance, visit