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.