Top 10 Things to Do at Disney World Animal Kingdom

Animal Kingdom is the newest and largest park in the Walt Disney World Resort. It is also the only one with an Animal Theme. Unfortunately it is the least most visited of all the parks. It should be included in any visit to Disney World. Most guests can visit these ten attractions in half a day and still be able to visit other parks.

1. Expedition Everest

Expedition Everest is the newest attraction at Animal Kingdom. Guests are taken on a trek through the Himalayas in a rebuilt steam train to reach the base camp at Mount Everest. Their route uses a shortcut through the “forbidden mountain” thought to be protected by the fabled Yeti. Upon encountering this audio-animatronics Yeti, the steam train descends the mountain backwards!! Height Requirement - 44”. Fast passes available. Tip: Head straight to this ride first. Grab a fast pass then go to Kilimanjaro Safaris.

2. Kilimanjaro Safari

Guests are taken on a safari through the Harambe Wildlife Reserve in an open-aired jeep. Various animals are located throughout freely roaming the area. Some of the animals will even come very close to the vehicle. The tour guide relates information about the many animals. No height requirement. Fast Passes available. Tip: Ride this attraction either first thing in the morning or just before the park closes in order to view the most animals. During the hottest part of the day the animals take refuge and are not as visible.

3. Kali River Rapids

Kali Rivers Rapids is a raft float trip along the turbulent waters of the Chakranadi River. It begins as a peaceful journey until guests come upon illegal loggers. Note: You will probably get very wet on this ride especially going down the 30 ft. waterfall. Height requirement - 38”. Tip: If you do not want to get soaked purchase some cheap (you can get them for $1 at the dollar store) rain parkas and wear them during the ride.

4. The Tree of Life

The Tree of Life is the icon of Animal Kingdom. It sits in the center of the park on Discovery Island. There are lots of spots around the park that provide great opportunities to photo the Tree. Over 300 animals are carved into its trunk. The queue for It's Tough to be a Bug wraps around the Tree. Walk through to admire the workmanship indicative of Disney!! Tip: Look for the hidden Mickey on the Tree of Life.

5.It's Tough Be A Bug

This is one of several 3-D attractions at Disney World. In this show the characters from A Bug's Life teach guests that bugs and insects can be their friends and not just pests. In addition to some neat 3-D effects there are some special surprises.

6. DINOSUAR

This ride was formerly Countdown to extinction. Guests have been asked by a scientist from the Dino Institute to perform a special mission. He's hacked into the time travel computer system and asked travels to bring back an Iguanadon. The only problem is they must make it out before the meteor hits the earth. Height requirement-40". Fast passes are available. Tip: This ride is very intense for small children. Use the child swap feature if possible.

7. The Festival of the Lion King

This is my family's favorite park musical. Featuring music from The Lion King guests are entertained by acrobats (dressed as monkeys), men on stilts and dancers. There is even a fire baton act!! Characters from the movie are atop huge floats and watch the show with guests. The professionalism of the performance is just wonderful.

8. Camp Minnie-Mickey Greeting Trails

Located in Camp Minnie-Mickey the greeting trails give young ones the opportunity to meet their favorite characters, get autographs and take pictures. This character greeting area is the most organized of all the parks (to the joy of the parents). Guests wind their way through the trails where Mickey and friends are located at various spots. Tip: Use the big Sharpie style markers for autographs. They are much easier for the characers to handle.

9. Finding Nemo-The Musical

Enter the big blue world under the sea at the Theater in the Wild. Using live actors, puppetry and acrobats, the story of Nemo and his friends is recounted. There are five 30-minutes shows daily.

10. Rainforest Cafe

There are two locations at Disney. One is located at Downtown Disney. The second is just outside the gates of Animal Kingdom. The decor represents an Amazon Rainforest and features robotic animals and insects. There is also a huge aquarium. Menu items include burgers, seafood, sandwiches, pasta and steaks. A kids menu is also available. Tip: To the best of my knowledge Rainforest Cafe is not included in the Disney Dining Plan. Ask a Disney Cast member for more information.

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Top 10 Things To Do At Walt Disney World in Orlando

There are so many things to see and do at Disneyworld that most guests do not have the time (or energy) to visit them all. First time visitors may be overwhelmed trying to do everything. The following list includes the must sees and dos.

1. Visit Magic Kingdom

Magic Kingdom is the crowning glory of the Disney World resort. It was the first park built and has some of the most memorable rides. Plan to spend at least one day at this park especially with young children. It is usually the busiest of the four parks but well worth the time. Magic Kingdom is divided into seven sections or “lands” - Main Street USA, Tomorrowland, Mickey’s Toon Town Fair, Fantasyland, Liberty Square, Frontierland and Adventureland. Special Tip: Be sure to get fast passes for Space Mountain right away. Then go ride Buzz Lightyear Star Command. Most people go straight to Fantasyland.

2. Visit Hollywood Studios

Hollywood Studios - formerly MGM Studios - was the third park built at Disney World. Its theme is based 1930’s Hollywood. Attractions at Hollywood include two of the biggest thrill rides in the resort - Tower of Terror and Rockin’ Rollercoaster. The Studios also have some of the best shows in the entire resort. Special Tip: Head straight to Tower of Terror and get a fast pass then go immediately and ride Rockin’ Rollercoaster. Most people go to ride Tower of Terror first so the line at Rockin’ Rollercoaster will be shorter.

3. Visit Epcot

Epcot was the second park built at the Disney World resort and draws its inspiration from technological innovations. Its acronym stands for Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow. It is divided into two distinct sections. Future World incorporates innovative technology through attractions like Test Track, Mission Space and The Land. World Showcase focuses on international culture. Special Tip: Head straight to Test Track and get a fast pass, then go ride Soarin’. Ride Spaceship Earth later in the day when there is no line.

4. Visit Animal Kingdom

Animal Kingdom was the last park built at WDW and the only one to be themed around animals. Discovery Island, home to the Tree of Life, is located in the center of the park and has paths that lead to the other six areas. The other six areas are home to attractions such as Kilimanjaro Safaris, Expedition Everest and the Festival of the Lion King. Special Tip: Go straight to Expedition Everest and get a fast pass, then go ride Kilimanjaro Safari.

5. Visit Downtown Disney

Downtown Disney is the shopping district of the WDW Resort. There are several unique shops and restaurants including Legoland and Planet Hollywood. Downtown Disney is also home to Cirque du Soleil - La Nouba and Disney Quest, a three-story interactive theme park.

6. Ride the Monorail to Epcot

There are two monorail systems at Disney World. One track runs on a circular path from Magic Kingdom through Grand Floridian Resort, the Polynesian Resort, the Main Parking Area and The Contemporary Resort. The second track runs between Magic Kingdom and Epcot. The sight of seeing the “Big Ball” as the monorail is approaching Epcot is spectacular especially at night. Special Tip: Ask the monorail cast member to sit up front with the conductor. You may have to wait for several trains but it is worth the wait.

7. Eat at Boma in the Animal Kingdom Lodge

Boma specializes in American and African cuisine. The Dinner buffet, one of the largets at Disney, offers over 60 items including authentic African soups, seafood and wood-roasted meats. While some of the offerings are exotic, there is something for everyone. The open kitchen atmosphere allows guests to view the culinary experts at work. The dessert bar is unbelievable. Boma restaurant is included on the Disney Dining Plan. Special Tip: Make reservations for 5:30 when the restaurant opens so there will be no wait for seating although you should arrive 15 - 20 minutes before your reservation. Since this is a very popular restaurant once it opens wait times could be up to 45 minutes even with a reservation.

8. Eat at O’Hana in the Polynesian Resort

This restaurant is fabulous. It is all-you-can-eat family style with the waiter bringing the food to your table. Guests start their meal with a variety of appetizers followed by side dishes, wood-roasted meats served on skewers and finally dessert. The atmosphere is Hawaiian and the kids are invited to participate in a parade and limbo contest. O’Hana is included in the Disney Dining Plan.

9. Eat at Chef Mickey’s

Chef Mickey’s is located in the Contemporary Resort and is a character dining experience. Photo opportunities with Mickey, Minnie and the gang abound. Characters sing and dance and invite the children to participate in a parade. This is a favorite for young children. A breakfast buffet and dinner buffet are available. Chef Mickey’s is included in the Disney Dining Plan. Special Tip: Since this is one of the most popular character meals in the park make late reservations for dinner if possible.

10. Eat with the Princesses

For guests with little girls this is a must. There are two restaurants with princess dining.Cinderella’s Royal Table inside the castle is the most popular and most difficult to get reservations. The food is not that great but the experience makes up for it. Princesses on site include Cinderella, Belle, Jasmine and others. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served. This restaurant is included on the Dining Plan but costs two credits.

The Princess Storybook Breakfast is located at the Norway Pavilion in Epcot. It is served family-style, all-you-can eat. It is easier to get reservations here and less expensive, however, Cinderella does not make an appearance at this location.

Special Tip: Be on the phone with Disney Dining at 7:00 am EST exactly 180 days in advance of your trip in order to possibly get reservations for Cinderella’s Castle. If all else fails, contact the concierge at your hotel if staying on property.For more a more in depth look at Disney check back for more Top 10 Disney to do lists in the future.

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Top 10 Things To Do At Disney's Magic Kingdom

Magic Kingdom is the flagship of the WDW resort. There is so much to do and see it was difficult to narrow it down to just 10. If your time is limited at the Kingdom these are the a ttractions you must make sure you visit.

1. Space Mountain

One of three mountains at Magic Kingdom, this rollercoaster is located in Tomorrowland. Guests board the train at the Space Port and are then hurled into the darkness of space with only the glowing planets and stars as light. Height requirement - 44”. Fast passes available.

2. Splash Mountain

This is the second mountain at Magic Kingdom. It is located in Frontierland across from Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. This attraction is similar to many “log rides” at other parks. This one, however, is done Disney-style. Guests are taken on a peaceful river ride featuring a large cast of audio-animatronic characters from Disney’s Song of the South before plummeting down the 52’ drop. Height requirement - 40”. Fast passes available.

3. It’s a Small World

Yes, it is cheesy. Yes, you will be singing, whistling and humming the silly song all day long. Yes, everyone has to ride this attraction. It is located in Fantasyland. There is no height requirement and fast passes are not available.

4. Monsters, Inc. Laugh Floor

This is one of the newest attractions at Magic Kingdom and an absolute must see. The premise is a Monsters comedy show. Guests are ushered into a theater setting. Monsters, Inc. characters interact with the audience as they do their comedy routines. Several audience members are called to participate. One special guest becomes “that guy” throughout the entire show. It is very entertaining for adults and children alike. Due to the high interaction between characters and guests each show is unique.

5. Astro Orbiter

Astro Orbiter sits above the TTA platform in Tomorrowland. While the ride itself is not that spectacular (similar to the Dumbo ride but in rockets) it is the view that makes it worth the ride. As the rockets spin there is a great view of Tomorrowland and Cinderella’s Castle. The best time to ride this attraction is at night when Magic Kingdom is all lit up. Fast pass available

6. Carousel of Progress

This attraction was built for the 1964 World’s Fair. After a short period at Disneyland it was moved to WDW in 1975. It is located in Tomorrowland. The attraction takes place in rotating theater with six scenes. Each scene depicts an American family (audio-animatronics) during different eras of technology. There is no height requirement and no fast passes. Be sure to look for the hidden Mickey’s in the last act.

7. Buzz Lightyear Space Ranger Spin

This ride is an absolute family favorite. If you have any video gamers in the family this is definitely a must. It is located in Tomorrowland adjacent to Monsters, Inc. Laugh Factory. Riders are loaded into the space cruiser vehicle equipped with two laser guns and a joystick. The object is to shoot the targets with the laser guns to accumulate points. The space cruiser can be rotated with the joystick. Point totals are shown on the vehicle dashboard. Even though the lines may get long for this attraction it moves relatively quickly since the space cruisers are in constant motion. No height requirement. Fast passes available.

8. The Haunted Mansion

This is another family favorite. Guests are ushered into a dark mansion where they are welcomed quite chillingly. They are then escorted to the Doom Buggies for the ride portion of the attraction. Although not particularly scary the audio-animatronics and special effects are wonderful. The ride has undergone some changes in the last couple of years due to the movie by Disney. Be sure to look for the hidden Mickey’s in the ballroom scene. No height requirements. No fast passes available.

9. Pirates of the Caribbean

Just the queue leading up to the ride is great and has some great photo ops. The ride itself takes place in a boat where guests float along a river viewing various scenes from the pirate life using audio-animatronics. The ride has been updated to feature Captain Jack Sparrow. It was so well done you would almost swear it was Johnny Depp in real life.

10. SpectroMagic Parade

SpectroMagic is probably the most beautiful parade at Disney. It is held nightly (or semi-nightly depending on the season) at Magic Kingdom. Each of the 27 floats are covered with LED lights and depict a different Disney film. This is one of the most popular parades so be sure to get a viewing spot early.

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Top 10 Things To Do At Disney's Hollywood Studios

So much to do and so little time. If you get through Hollywood Studios (formerly MGM Studios) with these 10 things under your belt, you will not be disappointed.

1. The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror

This is one of the biggest thrill rides in all the Disney World Resort. It takes place in the Hollywood Hotel. Guests are ushered to the elevator in order to go to their rooms. However, once on the elevator something goes terribly wrong. The elevator plummets 13 stories. The elevator rises back up only to plummet again. This ride cannot be missed. Height requirement-40”. Fast passes available. Tip: As soon as the park opens head straight to this ride and get a fast pass. Then go ride Rockin’ Rollercoaster. Most people ride the Tower first so the lines at Rockin’ are shorter.

2. Rockin’ Rollercoaster

Set to the tunes of Aerosmith this attraction is the second fastest ride at Disney World. Guests begin their ride in a limo-shaped rollercoaster and then flung from 0 - 57 miles an hour in just 2.8 seconds. The rollercoaster has 3 inversions in the indoor setting which supposedly represents interstate 5. Height requirement-48”. Fast passes available. Tip: After your fast pass for Tower of Terror is used come back and get fast passes for Rockin’ Rollercoaster.

3. Indiana Jones Stunt Spectacular

This show takes place in a huge covered amphitheater. The cast members demonstrate how stunts were done for the Indiana Jones movies. It is very well done and entertaining. There is also a great twist at the end. Several volunteers are recruited for the show. Tip: This is a good show to see in the hot part of the day. The theater is well shaded and cool.

4. Star Tours

This is a must for all Star Wars fans. There are some great photo ops while waiting in line. This is a simulator ride. The premise is that space tourists (you) are en route to the moon of Endor when the accident prone robot pilot accidentally veers off course. Tourists now find themselves right in the middle of the battle to destroy the Death Star. Height Requirement- 40”. Fast passes available. Tip: Be sure to look around in the Star Wars shop. There are some really neat limited edition and one of a kind items - great gifts for the Star Wars fan.

5. Voyage of the Little Mermaid

Whether you liked the Little Mermaid or not this show is awesome. It is a mixture of live action, audio-animatronics and black-light puppetry. There are several shows throughout the day. Fast passes are available although probably not needed. Tip: This is another great show to see during the hottest part of the day. It is in an indoor theater and there is some light water spraying on the audience.

6. Muppet Vision 3-D

This is one of several 3-D shows at Disney World. The premise is that the Muppet Characters are preparing to present a show using the new 3-D technology developed by Dr. Bunsen Honeydew and his assistant Beaker. There are some really great 3-D moments in the show.

7. The Great Movie Ride

This ride takes guests through a review of some of the greatest movies of all-time with the use of audio-animatronics. Each car has tour guide who gives information on each movie and actually becomes part of the action later in the ride. Height requirement - none.

8. Lights, Motor, Action! Stunt Show

This stunt show features cars and motorcycles during fast pace chase sequences. Guests are shown some of the tricks used when filming these types of scenes for movies and television. The show is pretty good but drags on a little long. It is a must see at least once though.

9. Beauty and the Beast - Live on Stage

This Broadway style show is located in the amphitheater next to the Tower of Terror. It begins with a cute comedy act who are supposedly the janitors. The costuming and set for this production are beautiful. The performances are wonderful. This is one of the greatest live actions shows at Disney. Tip: Try to see this show just prior to the seating for Fantasmic! which is right next door. You can leave Beauty & the Beast and go right into Fantasmic!

10. Fantasmic!

Fantasmic! is the closing act at Hollywood Studios. It takes place in an outdoor amphitheater and is set on water. Mickey appears as the Sorcerers’ Apprentice and battles with the Disney villains. There are neat visual hydrotechnics

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Top 10 Things To Do At Disney's Epcot

Epcot is the most underrated Disney Theme Park. Most visitors do not believe there is much to do here. In the last couple of years Epcot has become my family’s second favorite place to visit. Several new attractions have been added and the food choices in the World Showcase are wonderful. This is a list of our favorite things to do at Epcot.

1. Soarin’

Soarin’ is located in the Land Pavilion. It is a simulated hang glider ride in which guests soar over various landmarks across the country. The combination of scenery and special scent effects have made this attraction a family favorite. Height requirement-40”. Fast passes available. Tip: Try to be seated in the first row so that other guests’ legs are not dangling over your head.

2. Test Track

Test Track is the fastest attraction at Disney. Guests take a ride in a futuristic test car through the GM testing facility and shown how different testing procedures are done. The final test is the race around the track with a top speed of 65 miles per hour. Height requirement - 40”. Fast passes available. Tip: The line for this attraction can become extremely long. A separate single rider line is available and much quicker if you do not mind riding with other guests.

3. Mission: SPACE

This ride is not for the weak at heart. (Barf bags are located on the main attraction.) Due to the number of guests who became sick after riding this ride, Disney introduced a “half-throttle” version. This attraction simulates a space shuttle take-off that then sling-shots around the moon and finally lands on Mars. Riders are exposed to G-forces of up to 2.4 which is more than twice the force of gravity on earth. It is a very intense ride. Height requirement - 44”. Fast passes are available. Tip: As soon as the park opens head to Mission: Space and get a fast pass. Then go ride Test Track.

4. Spaceship Earth

Spaceship Earth is located in the “Big Ball” that is the icon for Epcot. Guests take a journey through time as audio-animatronics characters show the history and future of global communication. In July of 2007, Disney imagineers began a major remodel of the ride. The second half of the ride when the guests begin their descent is almost completely new. The remodel was completed in February of 2008. Tip: Since this is the first attraction upon entering the park most guests ride it first and the line becomes long. Wait until later in the day and you will be able to ride with almost no wait.

5. Honey, I Shrunk the Audience

This is one of several 3-D shows at Disney. The premise is that Wayne Szalinski, played by Rick Moranis, is receiving the Inventor of the Year Award for his Shrinking Machine and you have been invited to attend the ceremony. Because the device will be demonstrated guests must wear their “safety goggles.” Several mishaps occur including the shrinking of the entire audience. There are some great 3-D effects along with some other special surprises. Fast passes are available but are usually not needed as the theater holds a large amount of guests at one time.

6. Turtle Talk with Crush

This is one of the newest attractions at Epcot. Guests are ushered into a small theater. Little dudes get to sit on the floor in front of the digital underwater screen. Big dudes have to sit on the benches behind them. Soon Crush appears and begins to totally interact with the little ones including a question and answer session. The entire show is very humorous. Tip: Ask Crush what his favorite food is.

7. The Seas with Nemo & Friends

Nemo & Friends is really for the younger ones but is a beautiful attraction. Guests ride in a clam shell under the sea while watching scenes from Finding Nemo. The last section of the ride features a real aquarium with special screens that still show Nemo and some of his friends. The effect is pretty cool.

8. Journey Into Imagination with Figment

This attraction is located in the Imagination! Pavilion next to Honey, I Shrunk the Audience. Guests are taken to five labs in which they explore the five senses. The entire ride is hosted by a purple dragon named Figment and has special appearances by Dr. Nigel Channing (also in Honey, I Shrunk the Audience).

9. Tour World Showcase

Many Disney guests by-pass the World Showcase because they think there is not much for children to do. While this is somewhat true remember this is Disney World. There are two things that you can do to keep your children entertained while you tour the areas. Each country now has a special spot for children called Kidspot. At the first country you visit (Mexico or Canada depending on the direction you go) visit Kidspot and get a paper mask on a stick. Kids can decorate their masks with crayons and markers available at the spot. As you visit each country look for the Kidspot area. The host will stamp the mask as you visit and add attach a special paper cut out representing that country. This is a completely free souvenir for your child and they love doing it. Secondly, you can buy a passport kit from any of the shops. They cost around $10 and include a passport, stickers and a button. At each country’s Kidspot, the host will stamp the passport and write a little note to the children. Kid’s can then place the stickers in the book. There are also some great photo opportunities in the Showcase.

10. Eat International Cuisine at a World Showcase Restaurant

Each country in the World Showcase has a restaurant. This is a great opportunity to try something new and different. All of the restaurants are included in the Dining Plan. Advanced reservations are highly suggested but many times during lunch there is no problem with a walk-in visit. Tip: If you have a party of picky eaters try Teppan Edo in Japan. The chefs cook at your table and you can’t go wrong with the menu of chicken, steak and shrimp. Even the pickiest eater will enjoy the food.

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