What to See and Do First at Disney World

Photo courtesy of Walt Disney World Resort

Covering nearly 40 square miles, Walt Disney World is roughly the size of San Francisco or two Manhattan islands. Within this expansive space you’ll find 46 resort hotels, four massive theme parks, 475 places to dine and a host of other entertainment options. Although you could stay at Disney for weeks without repeating the same activity, here are the attractions you must do during your time at Walt Disney World.

Visit the Main Man... er, Mouse

It all started with a mouse, so naturally you’ll want to meet Mickey and take that family photo. He’s a busy guy, so make sure you pick up a daily park guide to find out where and when to meet the beloved character. And with quite the wardrobe including more than 136 outfits, Mickey Mouse always comes dressed for the occasion. 

Before the Clock Strikes Midnight

After walking through the Magic Kingdom gates, stroll down Main Street and behold the magical site of Cinderella Castle. Standing at 189 feet tall, the entire castle is made of fiberglass, not brick or stone as Disney magic would have you believe. For the ultimate memory, grab a table inside the castle at Cinderella’s Royal Table and meet the princess herself while dining in this storybook setting.

Disney Springs

Currently undergoing a multi-year facelift, this sprawling entertainment center is filled with more than 150 venues. Admission is free and inside you’ll find dining options for every occasion, high end retailers, luxury bowling at Splitsville and an astounding Cirque Du Soleil show.

For the Thrills

Three mountains are a must-visit: Splash Mountain, Space Mountain and the Himalayan Mountains. The five-story fall on Splash Mountain is equally exhilarating and refreshing on a hot summer day at the Magic Kingdom. In Tomorrowland, Space Mountain’s journey through the cosmos is filled with endless twists and turns. Surprisingly the top speed for this attraction is 28 mph, but the unpredictability in the dark makes for a thrilling ride. For the ultimate adrenaline kick hop aboard Expedition Everest in Animal Kingdom where you’ll experience a double loop turn and a backwards descent down the mountain while trying to escape the Yeti.

Character Dining

The best way to spend some quality time with your favorite pals is to dine alongside them. From Cape May Café at Disney’s Beach Club Resort to Princess Storybook Dining at Akershus Royal Banquet Hall in Epcot you’ll find plenty of opportunities to dine with Mickey and his pals. Chef Mickey’s serves up a magical experience too with the classic characters joining guests for all-you-want-to-eat breakfast and dinner buffets.

Magical Skies

With Cinderella Castle as the backdrop, endless fireworks take to the sky in Wishes at the Magic Kingdom. Watch for Tinker Bell soaring through the sky 750 feet above the crowd, but look closely as her entire trip only lasts about 34 seconds. At Epcot enjoy IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth with lasers, dancing flames, cascading fountains and fireworks all synchronized to dramatic music during this 13-minute show.

Walt Disney World is filled with endless enjoyment and fun for adults and kids alike. Just remember, it’s (not) a small world after all.

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