6. Take a tour.
Most of the magic at Disney World is, well, magic. But a small percentage of the magic in the parks is a result of the tireless creative efforts of some brilliant Imagineers. And Disney is only too happy to allow Guests an insider’s look at some of that magic by offering tours of all kinds. Some Disney tours allow you an inside look at attractions and Magic Kingdom’s expansive underground tunnel system called utilidors (yes, they do exist!). Other tours guarantee Guests an amazing look into parts of EPCOT and even into the training of some of the sea animals in the 5.7-million-gallon aquarium in The Seas with Nemo and Friends pavilion. For a complete list of available tours or to book your tour, call (407) WDW-TOUR.
7. See Beauty and the Beast—Live on Stage!
The “tale as old as time” has never been told more beautifully. On Sunset Boulevard at Hollywood Studios, you can sit in the 1,500-seat Theater of the Stars and relive the beautiful story of Belle and her Beast. The music, costuming and performers are amazing, and the sets and props help to illustrate the fantastic tale of a young girl who happened upon a castle with a very impatient master. FastPass+ service is available for this attraction—use one of your selections to get one of the best seats in the house so you don’t miss a second of this stellar performance.
8. Order the thing that looks like it’s from a Dr. Seuss book at The Edison.
The Edison is one of the newest restaurants at Disney Springs. The food is not only good, but it’s creative as well. For an appetizer, try the Clothesline Candied Bacon. It’s candied bacon—on a clothesline (yes, we’re serious), and it’s delicious! Try the Edison Burger—betcha can’t eat it all without a friend—and for dessert, share a ginormous milkshake for two or order the Lollipop Tree, a Dr. Seussian-looking invention that is delivered to your table in the form of a tree with holes drilled into it. Each hole holds a cheesecake pop that’s been rolled in crushed goodies of all kinds, and there’s even bubble gum whipped cream for dipping. (I know, it sounds weird, but it’s really good!)
9. Experience The World of Disney.
The World of Disney at Disney Springs is the largest Disney character merchandise store in the world. You can find almost any souvenir you’ve been eyeing in the parks at this store. Just browsing through this store is an experience. It’s such a big place, you’ll want to plan to visit when you aren’t in a rush.
10. Experience the classics.
Pay homage to the man who started it all and enjoy the classic attractions that were the brain children of Walt himself. Include on your itinerary the Jungle Cruise, the Enchanted Tiki Room, Pirates of the Caribbean, the Carousel of Progress, Peter Pan’s Flight and It’s a Small World.