From magical rides and parades to iconic character encounters and dining, there’s no shortage of unforgettable experiences waiting for you at Walt Disney World. For first-timers and seasoned visitors alike, here are the top 20 bucket list items you won’t want to miss on your Disney vacation!
20. Meet Mickey Mouse, the Icon Himself!
A trip to Walt Disney World isn’t complete without meeting the “big cheese” himself. Find Mickey Mouse at Town Square Theater in Magic Kingdom and at other spots throughout the parks, such as EPCOT’s Character Spot. Snap a photo, collect an autograph, and enjoy a memorable moment with everyone’s favorite mouse!
19. The Festival of the Lion King at Animal Kingdom
Join Simba and friends for a musical adventure in the Festival of the Lion King, voted one of the best shows at Walt Disney World. With high-energy acrobatics, dance, and fire performances, this is a can’t-miss celebration that brings the Lion King story to life.
18. Dine at Be Our Guest Restaurant
Step into Beast’s castle for a fairytale dining experience at Be Our Guest Restaurant in Magic Kingdom. The stunning decor features the grand ballroom and the mysterious West Wing, making for a magical meal that’s just as much about the ambiance as the delicious food.
17. Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and the Launch Bay
Take a journey to a galaxy far, far away with a visit to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Hollywood Studios. Meet iconic characters like Chewbacca and more. Plus, explore Star Wars: Launch Bay to view authentic memorabilia and step into the world of Jedi and Sith.
16. Dine at Cinderella’s Royal Table
Enjoy an elegant meal inside Cinderella Castle with princesses like Cinderella, Ariel, and Snow White. Dining at Cinderella’s Royal Table is a truly regal experience that includes a grand banquet hall, stained-glass windows, and personalized attention from some of Disney’s most beloved princesses.
15. Character Dining at The Crystal Palace
Join Pooh and friends at The Crystal Palace in Magic Kingdom for a charming meal with characters from the Hundred-Acre Wood. Enjoy a buffet feast as you meet Pooh, Tigger, Eeyore, and Piglet in a bright, garden-themed restaurant.
14. Take a Jungle Cruise Adventure
Step aboard the Jungle Cruise in Adventureland, where your skipper will guide you through exotic rivers with classic Disney humor. The ride’s campy narration and hidden surprises make this Magic Kingdom attraction a fan favorite for all ages.
13. Chat with Crush at Turtle Talk
Head to EPCOT’s Turtle Talk with Crush to meet the laid-back sea turtle from Finding Nemo. This interactive show lets guests ask questions and interact with Crush in real-time, creating a unique experience that’s both funny and heartwarming.
12. Dine with Royalty at Akershus Royal Banquet Hall
Enjoy a Norwegian-inspired feast at Akershus Royal Banquet Hall in EPCOT’s Norway Pavilion, where you’ll be joined by a rotating lineup of princesses. This dining experience is an enchanting way to meet beloved characters in a castle setting.
11. Set Sail on Pirates of the Caribbean
Adventure awaits on Pirates of the Caribbean in Magic Kingdom! This iconic boat ride takes you through scenes of pirate mischief, featuring beloved characters like Captain Jack Sparrow. Don’t miss this classic attraction that inspired the hit movie series.
10. Blast Off on Star Tours
Join C-3PO and R2-D2 on an intergalactic journey in Star Tours – The Adventures Continue at Hollywood Studios. This thrilling 3D motion-simulator ride takes you on a new adventure with every visit, so each trip promises a unique Star Wars experience.
9. Brave the Darkness on Space Mountain
Launch into the unknown on Space Mountain, a thrilling indoor roller coaster in the dark. With sharp turns and quick drops, this classic ride in Tomorrowland is a must for thrill-seekers who want to experience one of Disney’s most iconic coasters.
8. Take the Plunge on Tiana’s Bayou Adventure
Join Princess Tiana with Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, a log flume ride filled with catchy tunes, whimsical scenes, and an unforgettable 50-foot drop finale. This ride offers refreshing splashes on hot days and is a must for fans of Disney’s storytelling and theming.
7. Hold on Tight on Big Thunder Mountain
Experience the “wildest ride in the wilderness” on Big Thunder Mountain Railroad in Magic Kingdom’s Frontierland. This runaway train coaster zips through an abandoned gold mine with sharp turns and unexpected surprises, making it a classic thrill for all ages.
6. Experience the Disney-Fan Favorite Runaway Railway
Although The Great Movie Ride has closed, it remains a cherished memory for many Disney fans. The ride took guests on a journey through classic movie scenes. Guests today can enjoy Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway, which fills the space with a vibrant, cartoon-inspired ride featuring Mickey and Minnie in a whole new adventure!
5. Soar Above Scenery on Soarin’
Feel the wind in your hair on Soarin’ Around the World at EPCOT. This popular attraction lets guests soar over iconic landmarks worldwide, from the Great Wall of China to the Pyramids of Egypt, with sights, sounds, and even scents that make the experience unforgettable.
4. Enjoy the Magic Kingdom’s Festival of Fantasy Parade
Marvel at Festival of Fantasy Parade, a daily procession featuring beloved characters like Rapunzel, Ariel, and Peter Pan. With colorful floats, enchanting music, and magical moments, this parade is a true Disney experience and a chance to see favorite characters up close.
3. End the Night with Fantasmic!
Finish your day at Hollywood Studios with Fantasmic!—a nighttime extravaganza where Mickey faces Disney villains in an epic battle of good versus evil. With fireworks, water effects, and live-action scenes, Fantasmic! is an unforgettable show for every Disney fan.
2. Reflect on Unity with EPCOT’s Fireworks
Celebrate global unity with EPCOT’s Luminous The Symphony of Us fireworks spectacular. Held nightly on the World Showcase Lagoon, this inspiring show brings together cultures from around the world with music, lights, and fireworks, reflecting the spirit of EPCOT.
1. Happily Ever After Nighttime Spectacular
Wishes was a beloved Magic Kingdom fireworks show celebrating the power of dreams. Although it’s been replaced by Happily Ever After, the new show captures the same magic with updated projections and music, creating a breathtaking experience over Cinderella Castle.
With countless activities to choose from, Walt Disney World has something for everyone. As you plan, keep these experiences in mind to make the most of your magical adventure!
