Showing posts with label First Time Visiting Disney World Tips. Show all posts
Disney World Top 6 Benefits Of Using A Travel Agent
As vacation budgets get tightened it is more important than
ever to make sure that families make their Walt Disney World Vacation as
magical and stress free as possible so that it truly is a “Vacation”. Using a Disney Specialized Travel Agent can
have many benefits for planning and preparing for your trip.
The Walt Disney World Resort provides magical memories for
families, but planning a visit can be extremely complicated for the first time
visitor and the seasoned veteran. It
really does take an expert who is willing to spend the time to explain and
advise in order to make sure that you get the vacation that your kids have been
dreaming of. Make sure that the travel
agent you choose not only has Disney training, but has personally been there
many times so that they can speak from experience and not just refer to a
brochure.
Only WDWorld looks at the Top 6 Benefits that you can
achieve by having a Pro on your side.
Top 6 Benefits Of Using A Travel Agent For Your Disney Vacation
6. Disney Transportation Explanation
From setting up your reservations on Disney’s Magical
Express Service to get you from the Orlando International Airport to your
Disney World Resort to explaining how to navigate Disney’s Transportation
systems, a knowledgeable Travel Agent can save you significant time and money
during your vacation.
True Disney World experts can give you clear transportation
plans for getting to all of the Disney Theme Parks and then getting to your
Dining locations and back to your resort.
This is certainly an area where firsthand experience pays off.
Learning Disney World Vacation Tips: Using Disney Buses is an important part of the Disney Vacation that skilled Travel Agents can help guide you.
5. Disney Parks Touring Plans
Knowing how to successfully navigate the Disney World Theme
Parks and use the FastPass+ system to your advantage can make the difference
between best vacation ever and miserable frustration fighting crowds in the hot
Florida sun.
Having a plan makes a world of difference and knowing how to
minimize the impact of crowds can be a life saver. This doesn’t mean that your day has to be
scheduled from morning to night. A few
key strategies can work wonders.
Key suggestions like the Disney's Animal Kingdom One Day Must See Guide aid in the planning process.
4. Disney Dining Plan Deciphering
Nothing has generated as much buzz at Disney World than the
Disney Dining Plan. By thoroughly
understanding the different plans, you can make a good financial decision for
your family about whether to include it as part of your vacation.
A Disney World expert can also recommend which restaurants
(both Table Service and Quick Service) are the best to use with the Disney
Dining Plan and which are best to avoid.
3. Disney World Resort Sorting
Now that Disney World has over 25 different Disney World Resort Hotel options to choose from it is hard know which is the right one for your
family. Finding a Travel Agent that not
only knows something about each of them, but has actually stayed in each of
them is priceless! They are able to
answer your questions about the room layouts, resort amenities, dining options,
pools and walking distances that you just can’t get from a brochure.
There is a lot more to picking a Disney Resort than picking
a price range. You want to make sure
that the Theming, Room Sizes, and proximity to the Theme Parks that you are
interested in all meet your needs.
Families of 5 definitely need someone on their side to help
them weigh their best options.
2. Disney World Restaurant Reservation Planning
Dining has become one of the key features of a Disney World Vacation
over the last several years. There is a
wide variety of options including locations, cuisines, and entertainment. Like Dining in your local area, getting
restaurant feedback from someone that has actually dined there makes a world of
difference versus reading a menu or online reviews.
Find a Travel Agent that knows these restaurants because he
or she has dined there personally. Then
have them help you plan out which reservations are required. Since reservations for the Table Service
Restaurants can be made 180 days in advance many of the most popular locations
actually fill up months ahead of time.
Most families now plan their vacation schedule around when
they are able to secure dining reservations at particular restaurants. This may sound strange to the uninitiated,
but it is the process at Disney World, and those who know how to work with the
system best, get the best results.
The Disney World Quick Service Restaurants also should get some pre-trip consideration especially if you are using one of the Disney Dining Plans.
1. Disney World Discount Deal Searching
A
great Travel Agent will tirelessly find you the best deal, even if it means that
they will get a lower commission, because a happy customer is a returning
customer.
One
key trait to search for is a Disney Specialized Travel Agent that will continue
to watch for deals AFTER you have booked your trip in order to try to get you
an ever better deal.
You
also want a Travel Agent that will give you an honest recommendation about
options and extras and maybe even talk you out of purchasing one that you may
not need.
The
best scenario is a happy family that gets a great deal on the vacation that
they want to take, whether it be on a tight budget or over the top
extravagant. Disney can accommodate both
scenarios very well.
Use
your Disney Specialized Travel Agent as your planning partner and make sure you
start at least 6 months ahead of time if possible. A Walt Disney World Vacation is different
than any other vacation that you will take, often requiring a large amount of
planning prior to arrival, but if it is done well it can easily be your vacation
of a lifetime!
Need A Disney Specialized Travel Agent?
If you don't know a Travel Agent who is a Disney expert, give Only WDWorld Travel a try. Owner/Agent Michelle Collins has visited the Walt Disney World Resort over 50 times during the past 20 years and has visited all of the resorts and stayed in most of them personally. She has also dined in almost all of the Table Service Restaurants at Disney World.
Let her use her experience to help you plan your "Best Disney Vacation Ever!"
Checking Out The Attraction Board At Disney's Hollywood Studios
When you visit Disney's Hollywood Studios, one great place to pause is at the Attraction Board at the corner of Hollywood Boulevard and Sunset Boulevard shortly after you enter the theme park.
There is a certain charm to this low tech guide to all that is going on in this Disney World manifestation of early 1900's Hollywood. At this sign you can see what the current wait times are for all of the attractions in the park as well as parade times and tips.
You will see the sign on your right hand side as you make your way down Hollywood Boulevard towards the giant Sorcerer Mickey hat. From a design standpoint it blends in almost seamlessly with the buildings around it and does not seem out of place at all. You get the feeling that you are at a train or more likely cable-car stop in Hollywood when you encounter this helpful sign.
Instead of the transportation schedule though you get an amazing amount of helpful information if you take the time to stop and check it out. With all of the great Apps that exist to help you find your way, this old school sign still does the trick very well.
Some tips that you may see of the sign include:
- Today's Park hours for all of Disney World's Theme Parks
- Show times for each of the park's shows
- Descriptions of each attraction in case you are not familiar with them.
Next time you visit Disney's Hollywood Studios make sure that instead of rushing by this sign on your way to Toy Story Midway Mania, you take a moment to stop and check it out!
Disney World Vacation: Why A Rainy Day Could Be Your Favorite Day!
A rainy morning at the Walt Disney World Resort could be one of the best things that can happen to your vacation! When you are looking to avoid crowds in order to enjoy the wonderful Disney World attractions it is important to be able to go against the trends that the crowds follow.
Magic Kingdom Is The Place To Be!
On a rainy day, the Magic Kingdom may be the best place at Disney World to be. Not only do the crowds try to stay away from the rain, but the Magic Kingdom Theme Park consists of mostly indoor attractions that are located fairly close to each other.
Believe it or not the pictures shown here are taken from a Spring Break day during Easter Week where the parks were bursting at the seams, but a morning rain shower at park opening convinced most of the crowds to not venture out until later in the day.
By being prepared with an umbrella and willing to deal with the Florida weather we were treated to an almost empty park and extremely short lines for the first two hours of the day.
Rain is a part of the Florida weather, so it is in your best interest to be prepared for it. The good news is that the Florida rain showers usually don't last long, so if you have your umbrella and/or rain poncho, you can continue visiting the park while others either head for the exits or hold off visiting the parks altogether.
The empty park created an eerie feeling, but this was quickly replaced with joy at all of the attractions that could be enjoyed with the short lines. The above view of Tomorrowland meant that Space Mountain had no wait when it had been at 120 minutes or longer all week.
Frontierland looked just as empty.
When you find the Magic Kingdom this empty make sure that you ride the most popular attractions first. These will certainly fill up later in the day when the rains stop. The most popular attractions at the Magic Kingdom (in terms of long lines) are:
- Space Mountain
- Splash Mountain
- Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
- Peter Pan's Flight
- The Many Adventures Of Winnie The Pooh
- The Haunted Mansion
When the sun came out, so did the crowds. Later that same day the crowds returned to normal levels and the lines got very long. Luckily by this time we had ridden all of the most popular rides earlier in the day.
It is amazing the difference that a few hours time and a change in the weather can make.
By mid-afternoon the same Magic Kingdom that was so empty at opening was bustling with activity.
Disney World Vacation Tips
Here are some tips to follow if you are visiting Disney World during a busy time of the year:
- Bring rain gear! It rains some almost every day during the Spring and Summer at Disney World. Be prepared. This will allow you to continue to enjoy your day, while others are running for cover or figuring out how to dry off.
- Plan on visiting the theme parks right at opening. The time that the parks open are the least crowded time of the day. Aside from the initial crowd you may see getting through the gate, they will spread out once inside giving you approximately 2 hours of short lines even on good weather days.
- Don't allow rain to keep you from heading to a park. If your schedule is flexible head to the Magic Kingdom since most attractions are indoors and the walking distances are shorter.
Use Disney's FastPass To See More Attractions And Spend Less Time Waiting In Line
It is hard to find a time to visit the Walt Disney World Resort when there are no crowds and short wait times for the most popular attractions, but there is a way to reduce stress and your time spend waiting in lines. It is called Disney’s FastPass. This FREE, yes I said FREE, tool is available to all Disney World Theme Park Guests, but many either choose not to use it or wrongly think it costs extra and avoid it.
The FastPass is a way for Disney World Theme Park Guests to get a special pass to enter a shorter line at a specific time later in the day for a particular attraction. The benefit is that you can go and do something else while you are waiting for your allowed time, including riding other attractions.
As a Disney Park Guest you look for attractions with FastPass kiosks near the entrance and specially marked FastPass entrances. When you see the kiosk, you take your theme park entrance ticket and place it in the machine. The machine will return your ticket and issue you a FastPass with a specific return time to experience this attraction.
The reason that you must use your theme park ticket to be issued a FastPass is that Disney regulates how many FastPasses you can have active at one time. The FastPass that you receive will designate when you are eligible to get another FastPass from this attraction or any other within the theme park. Since there are only a limited number of FastPasses available each day for each attraction, this keeps the system fair for all to use.
Use FastPass Wisely
By using the FastPass system wisely, you can greatly reduce the amount of time that you spend waiting in line during the day. This in turn will make for a much more enjoyable day at Disney World, no matter how crowded it may be.
One of the best strategies for using Disney’s FastPass is to obtain them for the most popular rides as soon as you enter the Park in the morning. For example if you are visiting Epcot, the two most popular attractions are Test Track and Soarin’. If you get a FastPass for Soarin’ as soon as you enter the park and then go ride Test Track while the lines are still short early in the morning you will be able to hit both attractions with minimal wait, while others may have to wait over an hour for each later in the day.
You will notice that the FastPass gives you a range of time where you can return to the attraction to ride. Although you cannot return before the start time listed, you usually can still use the FastPass after the end time as long it is still for that particular day.
Key Attractions To Use FastPass
Here are the best attractions to use the FastPass feature on in each Park at Disney World:
· Space Mountain
· Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
· Splash Mountain
· Peter Pan’s Flight
· The Many Adventures Of Winnie The Pooh
· Soarin’
· Test Track
· Toy Story Mania!
· Rock ‘n Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith
· The Twilight Zone Tower Of Terror
· Expedition Everest
· Kilimanjaro Safaris
· Kali River Rapids
Don’t Miss Out On This FREE Benefit
Many guests don’t take advantage of Disney’s FastPass because they have visited other theme parks that charge extra money for their front of the line systems. Don’t make the mistake of skipping this valuable Disney World benefit that is free and available to all who choose to use it.
By using the FastPass system you can save a significant amount of time each day and increase the amount of time spent experiencing the attractions instead of waiting in lines.
Disney Dining Plan Tips For A Great Experience
The Disney Dining Plan can be a great option for your Walt Disney World Vacation. Knowing some extra tips on how to get the most from the Disney Dining Plan can make it even better.
Tip #1 Use The Extra Day
No Matter which Disney Dining Plan you choose there is one important fact to remember: All Disney Dining Plan credits last until midnight of the day that you check out of your Disney World Resort.
This applies even if you check into another Disney World Resort on that day. This is a great tip for those who like to split their trip at two different resorts.
Many families realize that the Disney Dining Plans can almost be too much food. By budgeting your expenditures and occasionally sharing a Quick Service meal, you can actually stretch your Dining Plan credits to either last an extra day or at least cover one meal on that extra day.
This is also a nice feature if you decide to take a "day off" from Table Service meals and get something lighter one day instead. This way your valuable Dining Credits don't go to waste.
Tip #2 Epcot Restaurants Provide Best Table Service Value
If you are looking for the best use of your Disney Dining Plan Table Service Credits in terms of dollars spent if paying out of pocket, then Epcot is your best place to eat. Here you will find Le Cellier, Les Chefs de France, Coral Reef, Tutto Italia, Le Hacienda de San Angel, Restaurant Marrakesh, & San Angel Inn.
These seven Table Service restaurants all have entrees that range from $20 - $35. They are all available as options when you have the Dining Plan. So if you had your heart set on Filet Mignon, then by all means get the Dining Plan to avoid having to pay at Le Cellier (One Table Service Credit For Lunch, or Two for Dinner.)
Tip #3 Think Buffet For Older Children and Character Meals
If your children are in the 7 - 9 year old range and the normal children's meal isn't enough food for them, then you should consider one of the Disney World Buffet or Family Style Dining Options for Table Service meals. Even though they pay the children's Dining Plan rate, they are allowed to eat whatever they want at the buffet.
Many of the Buffets also have have Disney Characters. This means not only can your children eat all they want at the buffet, but you have the added special touch of getting to meet and interact with the characters. These make great memories for your family vacation.
Recommended Buffets (all for 1 Table Service Credit per person) include: 1900 Park Fare (Grand Floridian Resort), Crystal Palace (Magic Kingdom), Chef Mickey's (Contemporary Resort), Princess Storybook Dining (Norway in Epcot), Biergarten (Germany in Epcot - No Characters, but lively entertainment).
Tip #4 Use the Snack Credits
The snack credits provide some of the most fun for my family when we use one of the Disney Dining Plans. There is such a wide variety of options, there is no excuse to not use your snack credits.
Even if you do not "snack" or feel the need for extra treats, you can use the snack credits for many breakfast items ranging from: pastries, muffins, yogurt parfaits, & fruit bowls.
Children enjoy having the option to "spend" their snack credits on the items of their choice. They like the competition of finding the best use for their credit, whether it be a Butterfinger Cupcake from Starring Roles or warm Cinnamon Roll from the Main Street Bakery.
Tip #5 Quick Service Means More Than Burgers
Disney World provides a wide variety of Quick Service Dining options, so don't feel that you are forced to spend your Quick Service Credits on Burgers or Pizza, but you can if that is what you crave.
From Barbecue Ribs at Flame Tree Barbecue, Fried Shrimp at Columbia Harbour House, Moroccan Shawarma Platters at Tangierine Cafe to Salmon at Sunshine Seasons there are plenty of choices which to use your Quick Service credits.
The Quick Service Credits even allows you to choose entrees or combination meals that normally cost over $10 each.
Tip #6 Takes The Stress Out Of Vacation Dining
The Final Tip and one that doesn't credit enough publicity is the stress that the Disney Dining Plans take out of your vacation.
By allowing you to be able to order what ever you want off of the menu for the same price, you don't have to worry about your child who wants to try the $28 entree. You also don't feel guilty about getting the most expensive item on the menu yourself.
The Disney Dining Plans enable you to relax and enjoy your vacation without worrying about the prices on the menus. For families on a budget (and who isn't) it is also nice to know what your food expenditures will be ahead of time, so that you can budget accordingly.
Strongly Consider The Disney Dining Plan
The various Disney Dining Plans will never be the inexpensive way to visit Disney World for your vacation, but there are a number of advantages to choosing to add it to your vacation.
With minimal effort you can get your money's worth and the stress reduction definitely makes it all worthwhile. Take advantage of some or all of these Tips and have a great Disney World Vacation!
Disney World Vacation Tips: Disney World Buses
One of the advantages of staying at a Disney World Resort Hotel during your Disney World Vacation is that you have access to FREE Disney World Transportation during your entire stay. You can leave the driving to the Disney World Cast Members and be delivered close to the front gate of each Disney World Theme Park.
Disney World Buses
If you are staying on the Disney World Property, then odds are you will be using the Disney Bus system to get around during your vacation. Disney’s fleet of over 230 buses do a great job of getting people around the 47 square miles of the Walt Disney World Resort.
Each resort that is served by the bus system has 5 different buses coming every 20-30 minutes to take people to each of the 4 Theme Parks and Downtown Disney. The two Disney water parks can also be reached through the bus system (Typhoon Lagoon on the Downtown Disney bus and Blizzard Beach on the Animal Kingdom bus).
To get where you want to go, start out at the bus stop for your resort. The larger resorts have multiple bus stops, so that you only have a couple minute walk to your nearest bus stop.
The buses are clearly marked with the electronic signs as to their destination. You board the bus that is going to your destination of choice.
When you are dropped off, the bus driver will tell you where to go to pick up the bus to get back to your resort. There are also signs in case you forget. Either way you find the number of the stop that corresponds to the resort that you are staying at. The only confusing part of this process is that your resort does not have the same numbered stop at each Disney World Theme Park, so you have to check the information boards to make sure you have the right Bus Stop #.
Leave The Driving To Disney!
When you want to return to your resort, you go to the designated bus area and catch your bus back to your resort. They make the process very simple. There really is no need to drive once you arrive at your Disney World Resort Hotel.
The picture above shows a return stop at the Magic Kingdom. The bus drop off & pick up point for the Magic Kingdom is much closer than where you can park. It is a definite advantage to use the Disney Bus system when travelling to the Magic Kingdom.
Disney Bus Mastery
Never fear, you can easily master the Disney Bus system and take advantage of this free service that you are entitled to by staying at one of the Disney Resorts.
Although from time to time there can be extended waits, by the time you factor in parking and the extra walking that would would have to do, taking the Disney World Buses is usually the fastest way to get to the Disney Theme Parks.
You can also use the bus system to visit other Disney World Resort Hotels either for the purpose of dining at the various restaurants or just to explore. You can either catch a bus to the desired resort hotel from one of the theme parks or from Downtown Disney.
Also remember you can always ask the bus driver if the bus is going where you are trying to go, or if he recommends catching a different bus to get to your desired location.
Lastly, if you are going to enjoy the Epcot Food & Wine Festival or enjoy some of the night time festivities, it is also nice to know that the bus is your designated driver.
Disney World Buses
If you are staying on the Disney World Property, then odds are you will be using the Disney Bus system to get around during your vacation. Disney’s fleet of over 230 buses do a great job of getting people around the 47 square miles of the Walt Disney World Resort.
Each resort that is served by the bus system has 5 different buses coming every 20-30 minutes to take people to each of the 4 Theme Parks and Downtown Disney. The two Disney water parks can also be reached through the bus system (Typhoon Lagoon on the Downtown Disney bus and Blizzard Beach on the Animal Kingdom bus).
To get where you want to go, start out at the bus stop for your resort. The larger resorts have multiple bus stops, so that you only have a couple minute walk to your nearest bus stop.
The buses are clearly marked with the electronic signs as to their destination. You board the bus that is going to your destination of choice.
When you are dropped off, the bus driver will tell you where to go to pick up the bus to get back to your resort. There are also signs in case you forget. Either way you find the number of the stop that corresponds to the resort that you are staying at. The only confusing part of this process is that your resort does not have the same numbered stop at each Disney World Theme Park, so you have to check the information boards to make sure you have the right Bus Stop #.
Leave The Driving To Disney!
When you want to return to your resort, you go to the designated bus area and catch your bus back to your resort. They make the process very simple. There really is no need to drive once you arrive at your Disney World Resort Hotel.
The picture above shows a return stop at the Magic Kingdom. The bus drop off & pick up point for the Magic Kingdom is much closer than where you can park. It is a definite advantage to use the Disney Bus system when travelling to the Magic Kingdom.
Disney Bus Mastery
Never fear, you can easily master the Disney Bus system and take advantage of this free service that you are entitled to by staying at one of the Disney Resorts.
Although from time to time there can be extended waits, by the time you factor in parking and the extra walking that would would have to do, taking the Disney World Buses is usually the fastest way to get to the Disney Theme Parks.
You can also use the bus system to visit other Disney World Resort Hotels either for the purpose of dining at the various restaurants or just to explore. You can either catch a bus to the desired resort hotel from one of the theme parks or from Downtown Disney.
Also remember you can always ask the bus driver if the bus is going where you are trying to go, or if he recommends catching a different bus to get to your desired location.
Lastly, if you are going to enjoy the Epcot Food & Wine Festival or enjoy some of the night time festivities, it is also nice to know that the bus is your designated driver.
Disney World Vacation Must See List
Planning your first Walt Disney World Vacation can be a daunting task. With so much to see and do, how do you decide? All of the choices make it both exciting and frustrating.
Only WDWorld has set out to create a list of Must See Attractions for your Disney World Vacation. This list is based upon a typical week long vacation with 6 days to spend at the Disney World Theme Parks.
Magic Kingdom
The Magic Kingdom was the first theme park created at Disney World and for most it is also their favorite. You should plan on spending two days at the Magic Kingdom during your Disney World Vacation.
In a park filled with Classic Attractions, narrowing down a list of Must See Attractions is difficult, but here we go:
1. Space Mountain – The original roller coaster in the dark is still thrilling after all these years.
2. it’s a small world! – No Disney vacation is complete without riding this classic attraction.
3. Pirates of the Caribbean – Explore the world of pirates and catch Jack Sparrow in action.
4. Splash Mountain – Thrilling flume ride and great audio-animatronics from “Song Of The South”
5. Wishes – The Definition of a Fireworks Show. Disney knows how to do it right!
6. Main Street Electrical Parade – Unbelievable night time parade, not to be missed.
7. Celebrate A Dream Come True Parade – Disney excels at parades, so don’t miss it.
8. Peter Pan’s Flight – Best ride in Fantasyland with unique ride system to simulate flight.
9. Jungle Cruise – Classic Disney attraction filled with corny jokes and family fun.
10. Hall Of Presidents – Incredible tribute to the American Presidents with amazing audioanimatronics.
11. Haunted Mansion – Another great Disney hallmark attraction that isn’t too scary.
12. Tomorrowland Transportation Authority – Restful trip through Tomorrowland.
13. Mickey’s PhilharMagic – Unbelievable use of 3-D movie technology.
14. Walt Disney Railroad – Get a view of the whole park in one big loop.
15. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad – Exciting Rollercoaster without the big hill. Great theming!
16. Walt Disney’s Carousel Of Progress – 1964 World’s Fair creation that is still fun to see today.
17. Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin – Toy Story tie-in that is fun competition for whole family.
18. Country Bear Jamboree – Enjoyable show filled with music and corny jokes.
19. Dumbo – Classic attraction aboard Dumbo, the lovable flying elephant.
20. Character Meet & Greets – Meet Mickey Mouse, your favorite Disney Princess, or Tinker Bell and her fairy friends.
Epcot
Epcot is a very large park filled with attractions and things to see and do. This park focuses upon technology and World Cultures. You will find many interactive exhibits here, as well as, a wide variety of live entertainment. You should also plan on spending two days experiencing Epcot.
Must See List of Things To Do In Epcot:
1. Soarin’ – Amazing Hang Gliding Simulation that is for the whole family.
2. Test Track – The fastest attraction at Disney World as you take a car through its paces.
3. Spaceship Earth – Relaxing history of communications in the giant geosphere.
4. Living Seas With Nemo and Friends – Amazing giant aquarium that never gets old.
5. Illuminations: Reflections of Earth – The laser, fire, video, waterspout, fireworks show each night.
6. American Adventure – Incredible audio-animatronic show of the history of America.
7. Mission Space – Whether you choose Mild or Wild try this Space flight simulator.
8. Kim Possible World Showcase Adventure – Cool interactive game that takes one on mission in the World Showcase.
9. Living With The Land – Relaxing boat ride and great look at what is possible in farming, gardening, and science of plants.
10. Ellen’s Energy Adventure – Enjoyable trip back to Dinosaur times learning about Energy along with Ellen.
11. Captain EO – Michael Jackson’s landmark 17 minute 3-D Film.
12. Maelstrom – Exciting boat ride through Norway past trolls and polar bears.
13. World Showcase Kidcot Stations – Great way for kids to interact with Disney Cast Members from all over the World and make a mask that they can take home as “free” souvenir.
14. Experience World Showcase – A whole day can be spent exploring the 11 Country Pavilions of the World Showcase.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Disney’s Hollywood Studios is your chance to experience the movies from a totally different point of view. There are thrill rides, stunt shows, musical shows, and behind the scenes looks at movie making. Plan on spending 1 day at Hollywood Studios.
1. Toy Story Midway Mania – The ultimate video game turned into a theme park experience.
2. Twilight Zone Tower Of Terror – Incredible Elevator Drop Ride that is beyond thrilling.
3. Rock ‘n Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith – Fast paced indoor Roller Coaster set to the music of Aerosmith.
4. Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular – Stunt show recreating famous scenes from The Raiders of The Lost Ark.
5. Lights, Motors, Action! Extreme Stunt Show – Car chases, jumps, and explosions all taking place right before your eyes at unbelievable sppeds.
6. Voyage of the Little Mermaid – Live action, animation, and puppetry are used to make this popular show retelling Ariel’s story.
7. The Great Movie Ride – A trip through the history of the movies with scenes from many classic favorites.
8. Star Tours – Adventure on a Starspeeder that gets off course and caught up in the battle between the Rebels and the Alliance.
9. Muppet*Vision 3D – Muppets with 3D technology that sounds like a recipe for fun and mischief.
10. American Idol Experience – Disney’s version of American Idol, where you vote for the winner and the contestants are fighting to win a Front of the Line Audition Pass.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom
At Disney’s Animal Kingdom the live animals are the star of the show. This is a park that should be allotted one full day. The shows are top notch and are not to be missed and Expedition Everest may be the best ride at Disney World. This is the newest of the 4 theme parks and the level of Imagineering Detail is amazing.
Here is the Animal Kingdom Must Do List:
1. Expedition Everest – Fear the Yeti on this amazing Roller Coaster set on Disney World’s Tallest Mountain.
2. Kilimanjaro Safaris – The single largest attraction area wise, this is where you will find animals in natural habitat areas on this simulated safari through Africa.
3. Festival Of The Lion King – Top notch show featuring singers, dancers, acrobats, and beautiful costumes.
4. Finding Nemo The Musical – Broadway style musical with incredible puppets tell the story of Marlin and his quest to be re-united with his son Nemo.
5. Dinosaur! – Time travel thriller as you escape hungry dinosaurs and a earth shattering asteroid.
6. Kali River Rapids – Guaranteed to be soaked after riding this raft ride.
7. It’s Tough To Be A Bug / Tree Of Life - 3-D movie and audio-animatronic action with the characters from A Bug’s Life movie.
8. Mickey’s Jammin’ Jungle Parade – Fun parade with Mickey Mouse and a Jungle Safari twist.
9. Maharajah Jungle Trek – Walking tour to explore the animals of Asia.
10. Pangani Forest Exploration Trail – Walking tour to explore and learn about the animals of Africa.
Other Items That Should Be On Your Must Do List
1. Ride The Monorail – Disney’s featured form of transportation.
2. Eat at a Character Meal – Get personal interaction with the Disney Characters while dining in themed restaurant.
3. Take pictures with Disney Characters – Preserve the memories by posing with the Disney Characters and taking your picture with them.
4. Stop to enjoy the wonderful Disney World Live Entertainment in each of the parks- The live entertainment in the Disney World Parks is top notch and to often passed by as people race to the next attraction. This is part of what makes Disney World so great – so slow down and enjoy it!
Only WDWorld has set out to create a list of Must See Attractions for your Disney World Vacation. This list is based upon a typical week long vacation with 6 days to spend at the Disney World Theme Parks.
Magic Kingdom
The Magic Kingdom was the first theme park created at Disney World and for most it is also their favorite. You should plan on spending two days at the Magic Kingdom during your Disney World Vacation.
In a park filled with Classic Attractions, narrowing down a list of Must See Attractions is difficult, but here we go:
1. Space Mountain – The original roller coaster in the dark is still thrilling after all these years.
2. it’s a small world! – No Disney vacation is complete without riding this classic attraction.
3. Pirates of the Caribbean – Explore the world of pirates and catch Jack Sparrow in action.
4. Splash Mountain – Thrilling flume ride and great audio-animatronics from “Song Of The South”
5. Wishes – The Definition of a Fireworks Show. Disney knows how to do it right!
6. Main Street Electrical Parade – Unbelievable night time parade, not to be missed.
7. Celebrate A Dream Come True Parade – Disney excels at parades, so don’t miss it.
8. Peter Pan’s Flight – Best ride in Fantasyland with unique ride system to simulate flight.
9. Jungle Cruise – Classic Disney attraction filled with corny jokes and family fun.
10. Hall Of Presidents – Incredible tribute to the American Presidents with amazing audioanimatronics.
11. Haunted Mansion – Another great Disney hallmark attraction that isn’t too scary.
12. Tomorrowland Transportation Authority – Restful trip through Tomorrowland.
13. Mickey’s PhilharMagic – Unbelievable use of 3-D movie technology.
14. Walt Disney Railroad – Get a view of the whole park in one big loop.
15. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad – Exciting Rollercoaster without the big hill. Great theming!
16. Walt Disney’s Carousel Of Progress – 1964 World’s Fair creation that is still fun to see today.
17. Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin – Toy Story tie-in that is fun competition for whole family.
18. Country Bear Jamboree – Enjoyable show filled with music and corny jokes.
19. Dumbo – Classic attraction aboard Dumbo, the lovable flying elephant.
20. Character Meet & Greets – Meet Mickey Mouse, your favorite Disney Princess, or Tinker Bell and her fairy friends.
Epcot
Epcot is a very large park filled with attractions and things to see and do. This park focuses upon technology and World Cultures. You will find many interactive exhibits here, as well as, a wide variety of live entertainment. You should also plan on spending two days experiencing Epcot.
Must See List of Things To Do In Epcot:
1. Soarin’ – Amazing Hang Gliding Simulation that is for the whole family.
2. Test Track – The fastest attraction at Disney World as you take a car through its paces.
3. Spaceship Earth – Relaxing history of communications in the giant geosphere.
4. Living Seas With Nemo and Friends – Amazing giant aquarium that never gets old.
5. Illuminations: Reflections of Earth – The laser, fire, video, waterspout, fireworks show each night.
6. American Adventure – Incredible audio-animatronic show of the history of America.
7. Mission Space – Whether you choose Mild or Wild try this Space flight simulator.
8. Kim Possible World Showcase Adventure – Cool interactive game that takes one on mission in the World Showcase.
9. Living With The Land – Relaxing boat ride and great look at what is possible in farming, gardening, and science of plants.
10. Ellen’s Energy Adventure – Enjoyable trip back to Dinosaur times learning about Energy along with Ellen.
11. Captain EO – Michael Jackson’s landmark 17 minute 3-D Film.
12. Maelstrom – Exciting boat ride through Norway past trolls and polar bears.
13. World Showcase Kidcot Stations – Great way for kids to interact with Disney Cast Members from all over the World and make a mask that they can take home as “free” souvenir.
14. Experience World Showcase – A whole day can be spent exploring the 11 Country Pavilions of the World Showcase.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Disney’s Hollywood Studios is your chance to experience the movies from a totally different point of view. There are thrill rides, stunt shows, musical shows, and behind the scenes looks at movie making. Plan on spending 1 day at Hollywood Studios.
1. Toy Story Midway Mania – The ultimate video game turned into a theme park experience.
2. Twilight Zone Tower Of Terror – Incredible Elevator Drop Ride that is beyond thrilling.
3. Rock ‘n Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith – Fast paced indoor Roller Coaster set to the music of Aerosmith.
4. Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular – Stunt show recreating famous scenes from The Raiders of The Lost Ark.
5. Lights, Motors, Action! Extreme Stunt Show – Car chases, jumps, and explosions all taking place right before your eyes at unbelievable sppeds.
6. Voyage of the Little Mermaid – Live action, animation, and puppetry are used to make this popular show retelling Ariel’s story.
7. The Great Movie Ride – A trip through the history of the movies with scenes from many classic favorites.
8. Star Tours – Adventure on a Starspeeder that gets off course and caught up in the battle between the Rebels and the Alliance.
9. Muppet*Vision 3D – Muppets with 3D technology that sounds like a recipe for fun and mischief.
10. American Idol Experience – Disney’s version of American Idol, where you vote for the winner and the contestants are fighting to win a Front of the Line Audition Pass.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom
At Disney’s Animal Kingdom the live animals are the star of the show. This is a park that should be allotted one full day. The shows are top notch and are not to be missed and Expedition Everest may be the best ride at Disney World. This is the newest of the 4 theme parks and the level of Imagineering Detail is amazing.
Here is the Animal Kingdom Must Do List:
1. Expedition Everest – Fear the Yeti on this amazing Roller Coaster set on Disney World’s Tallest Mountain.
2. Kilimanjaro Safaris – The single largest attraction area wise, this is where you will find animals in natural habitat areas on this simulated safari through Africa.
3. Festival Of The Lion King – Top notch show featuring singers, dancers, acrobats, and beautiful costumes.
4. Finding Nemo The Musical – Broadway style musical with incredible puppets tell the story of Marlin and his quest to be re-united with his son Nemo.
5. Dinosaur! – Time travel thriller as you escape hungry dinosaurs and a earth shattering asteroid.
6. Kali River Rapids – Guaranteed to be soaked after riding this raft ride.
7. It’s Tough To Be A Bug / Tree Of Life - 3-D movie and audio-animatronic action with the characters from A Bug’s Life movie.
8. Mickey’s Jammin’ Jungle Parade – Fun parade with Mickey Mouse and a Jungle Safari twist.
9. Maharajah Jungle Trek – Walking tour to explore the animals of Asia.
10. Pangani Forest Exploration Trail – Walking tour to explore and learn about the animals of Africa.
Other Items That Should Be On Your Must Do List
1. Ride The Monorail – Disney’s featured form of transportation.
2. Eat at a Character Meal – Get personal interaction with the Disney Characters while dining in themed restaurant.
3. Take pictures with Disney Characters – Preserve the memories by posing with the Disney Characters and taking your picture with them.
4. Stop to enjoy the wonderful Disney World Live Entertainment in each of the parks- The live entertainment in the Disney World Parks is top notch and to often passed by as people race to the next attraction. This is part of what makes Disney World so great – so slow down and enjoy it!
How To Beat The Summer Heat At Disney World
As the summer temperatures reach record levels it is a good time to think about how to stay cool at the Walt Disney World Resort.
If the best time for your family to vacation at Disney World is during the summer, then the Florida heat is something that you will have to contend with.
There are many ways to escape the heat at Disney World, whether you are looking to cool off a little or cool off a lot. Let's look at a list of some of your options:
Disney Resort Pools - The Walt Disney World Resorts all have pools for you to enjoy and there is no better time than during the summer. Many have slides and special splashing areas for young children. This is a great way to break up the day and cool off a little bit before you head back into the parks.
Disney Attractions That Get You Wet! - There are many Disney World attractions that will get you wet, from just a splash to a drenching downpour. The summer is the best time to enjoy the cooling off benefits of these attractions. Favorite Disney Attractions that get you wet are: Kali River Rapids & Splash Mountain (note: You actually get the wettest at the beginning of theSplash Mountain as you approach the area pictured above). Other attractions that may get you wet include: Maelstrom, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Mickey's PhilharMagic, Pirates Of The Caribbean, The Magic Carpets of Aladdin, Muppet Vision 3-D, Voyage Of The Little Mermaid, & Captain EO.
Disney Park Misters - Within each of the Disney World Theme Parks there are several misters to help cool you off as you walk by. These are very refeshing and do a great job to beat the summmer heat. For an in depth look at misters (with lots of photos) in each of the Disney Parks read: Disney Parks - Staying Cool In The Summer Heat.
Club Cool At Epcot - The refreshing stop should be on every Epcot park visitors list, especially during the summer. Within this air conditioned building in Future World are a selection of FREE soft drinks to taste. You probably can't stay hydrated by visiting here alone (although I'm sure there are those who have tried), but you can quench your thirst by trying several of the chilled carbonated beverages.
Disney World Water Parks - For the ultimate "Get Wet" experience, try one of the Walt Disney World Resort's Water Parks - Typhoon Lagoon or Blizzard Beach. All of the Disney World theming and detail that you love in their theme parks applied to a Water Park.
Disney World's Frozen Treats - One of the best ways to stay cool is to try one (or more) of the great Disney World Frozen Treats that are available. Favorites include: the famous Dole Whip and Dole Whip Float, Frozen Lemonade, Tropical Smoothies, Milk Shakes, Ice Cream, Ice Cream Sundaes, the American Dream in Epcot, & Ice Cream Cookie Sandwiches.
Florida Brief Rain Storms - Another way to cool off is to enjoy the near daily afternoon rain showers that central Florida are known for. Use these brief showers to cool off and refresh. Don't get soaked and be miserable, but sometimes being a little wet feels good on a hot day.
Take Advantage Of Late Disney Park Hours - During the busy summer season it is not uncommon for the Disney Theme Parks to have extended hours. The Magic Kingdom can be open as late as 3:00 AM if you are a Disney Resort guest. These late hours are the coolest of the day and can help you beat the heat. The Disney Parks also take on a different feel at night and it becomes another experience to enjoy.
Enjoy Disney World! - No matter how hot it gets there are always ways to beat the heat and have a great time at Disney World. Use any or all of these tips and don't let the heat slow down or take away the magic from your Disney Vacation.
If the best time for your family to vacation at Disney World is during the summer, then the Florida heat is something that you will have to contend with.
There are many ways to escape the heat at Disney World, whether you are looking to cool off a little or cool off a lot. Let's look at a list of some of your options:
Disney Resort Pools - The Walt Disney World Resorts all have pools for you to enjoy and there is no better time than during the summer. Many have slides and special splashing areas for young children. This is a great way to break up the day and cool off a little bit before you head back into the parks.
Disney Attractions That Get You Wet! - There are many Disney World attractions that will get you wet, from just a splash to a drenching downpour. The summer is the best time to enjoy the cooling off benefits of these attractions. Favorite Disney Attractions that get you wet are: Kali River Rapids & Splash Mountain (note: You actually get the wettest at the beginning of theSplash Mountain as you approach the area pictured above). Other attractions that may get you wet include: Maelstrom, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Mickey's PhilharMagic, Pirates Of The Caribbean, The Magic Carpets of Aladdin, Muppet Vision 3-D, Voyage Of The Little Mermaid, & Captain EO.
Disney Park Misters - Within each of the Disney World Theme Parks there are several misters to help cool you off as you walk by. These are very refeshing and do a great job to beat the summmer heat. For an in depth look at misters (with lots of photos) in each of the Disney Parks read: Disney Parks - Staying Cool In The Summer Heat.
Club Cool At Epcot - The refreshing stop should be on every Epcot park visitors list, especially during the summer. Within this air conditioned building in Future World are a selection of FREE soft drinks to taste. You probably can't stay hydrated by visiting here alone (although I'm sure there are those who have tried), but you can quench your thirst by trying several of the chilled carbonated beverages.
Disney World Water Parks - For the ultimate "Get Wet" experience, try one of the Walt Disney World Resort's Water Parks - Typhoon Lagoon or Blizzard Beach. All of the Disney World theming and detail that you love in their theme parks applied to a Water Park.
Disney World's Frozen Treats - One of the best ways to stay cool is to try one (or more) of the great Disney World Frozen Treats that are available. Favorites include: the famous Dole Whip and Dole Whip Float, Frozen Lemonade, Tropical Smoothies, Milk Shakes, Ice Cream, Ice Cream Sundaes, the American Dream in Epcot, & Ice Cream Cookie Sandwiches.
Florida Brief Rain Storms - Another way to cool off is to enjoy the near daily afternoon rain showers that central Florida are known for. Use these brief showers to cool off and refresh. Don't get soaked and be miserable, but sometimes being a little wet feels good on a hot day.
Take Advantage Of Late Disney Park Hours - During the busy summer season it is not uncommon for the Disney Theme Parks to have extended hours. The Magic Kingdom can be open as late as 3:00 AM if you are a Disney Resort guest. These late hours are the coolest of the day and can help you beat the heat. The Disney Parks also take on a different feel at night and it becomes another experience to enjoy.
Enjoy Disney World! - No matter how hot it gets there are always ways to beat the heat and have a great time at Disney World. Use any or all of these tips and don't let the heat slow down or take away the magic from your Disney Vacation.

































