No matter how much time you set aside for your Disney World vacation, you will never be able to take in every aspect of every park in a single trip. The theme parks can be overwhelming, especially to first-time visitors. By learning about each park you can better plan your trip and target the rides and attractions you most want to see.
Magic Kingdom
The Magic Kingdom is the park people think of when they think of Disney World. From the iconic view of Cinderella’s Castle to the frantic fun of Space Mountain, the Magic Kingdom has something for visitors of all ages. The Magic Kingdom is divided into several distinct sections, each with their own themeing and feel:
- Main Street U.S.A: Guests enter the park and are deposited onto this charming walking district, complete with shopping, dining and entertainment options. Catch a horse-drawn taxi to Cinderella’s Castle, or take your time and wander through the shops. This is also where you’ll find stroller rentals and lockers large enough to store a piece of carry-on luggage. Consider renting a locker if you have a lot of gear or so you don’t have to carry your purchases and other items through the park.
- Fantasyland: Stroll through the castle and you’ll end up in Fantasyland, which is full of attractions that will appeal to guests of all ages. Gentle and fun rides like Dumbo, Peter Pan’s Flight and “It’s a Small World” will appeal to the littlest members of your travel party, while older kids will enjoy the Carousel and the Mad Tea Party.
Note: In 2011, Fantasyland will be receiving a major overhaul, so check to be sure your favorites will be open before you book your trip.
- Adventureland: Follow the sound of jungle drums and you’ll arrive in Adventureland, home of Pirates of the Caribbean, the Jungle Cruise and the Tiki Room.
- Frontierland offers a taste of the old frontier, compete with shooting gallery, taverns and rustic, rough hewn flair. Coaster fans will gravitate towards the towering mountains that dominate Frontierland–Splash Mountain and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad.
- Tomorrowland: Take a voyage to the stars on Space Mountain, help catch a pesky alien and laugh with the monsters when you visit the rides and attractions of this eye-catching, fast paced land.
Epcot
You really can travel around the world in a single day when you visit the Epcot theme park. World Showcase is made up of 11 separate nations, arranged side by side around a single lagoon. You can have croissants in France, sushi in Japan and beer in Germany, all in the same day. Each pavilion features cast members from the host country, unique shopping experiences, and assorted rides and attractions.
You can also experience the fun of Future World, home of the “Big Ball” that is the ride most commonly associated with Epcot. Take a high speed whirl on Test Track, or glide gracefully through the air on Soarin’. No matter what part of Epcot you choose, you’ll have a blast exploring this well thought out theme park.
Animal Kingdom
Disney World’s largest theme park is packed full of exciting animal experiences and encounters. You can see live animals in a natural setting, encounter fantasy creatures like a yeti on Expedition Everest and learn about extinct animals in Dinoland U.S.A.
Hollywood Studios
Hollywood Studios is a “don’t miss” theme park for movie fans. Every ride and attraction here is built around your favorite movies and characters, from the exciting Star Tours to the sweet and gentle Playhouse Disney. Thrill seekers won’t want to miss the breath-taking drops of the Tower of Terror, or the high-speed high jinks of the Rock n’ Roller Coaster. Disney’s Hollywood Studios has something for every member of the family.
Water Parks
More than just a few pools and slides, the Disney water parks are mini theme parks. Visit Blizzard Beach and you’ll see what happens when a ski resort gets hit with a heat wave. Hint: Lots of fast paced, watery fun.
Typhoon Lagoon offers a tropical getaway, and the only spot in Disney that allows you to swim with real sea creatures, including sharks. In addition to the exhilarating Shark Reef, guests can enjoy water slides of all types and one of the largest wave pools in the world.
Conclusion
Depending on the number of days you have to visit Disney, you may want to pick out the parks that appeal to you most and start exploring. Allow a full day for each of the four main theme parks and at least a half day if you decide to visit a water park or spend some time at your resort.