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10 Must-Do Experiences For The Most Fantastic Disney Vacation!

A trip to Walt Disney World is a dream come true for many, filled with magic, adventure, and unforgettable moments. With four incredible theme parks, world-class resorts, and endless dining and entertainment options, planning the perfect vacation can feel overwhelming. To help you create the most magical experience, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 must-do experiences at Walt Disney World.

1. Immerse Yourself in Themed Lands

Walt Disney Imagineers excel at transporting guests into extraordinary worlds. Start your journey in the World Showcase at EPCOT, where you can explore cultural experiences from France to Norway. At Disney’s Hollywood Studios, shrink to the size of a toy in Toy Story Land or become part of the Star Wars universe in Batuu.

epcot flower and garden festival

Over at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, explore the lush beauty of Pandora and experience an African safari. Don’t just rush through—pause to savor the delicious food and intricate details that make these lands unforgettable.

2. Meet Mickey Mouse and Friends

Disney Characters
Credit: Tokyo Disney Resort

No Disney vacation is complete without seeing Mickey Mouse himself. To guarantee a memorable encounter, make a reservation for a character dining experience like Wish Makers Enchanted Dining or Garden Grill. You might also spot Mickey greeting guests at locations like EPCOT’s entrance or Magic Kingdom’s Main Street, U.S.A. Seeing Mickey and his friends will undoubtedly add a sprinkle of pixie dust to your trip.

3. Relax at the Resort Pools

Disney's wilderness lodge resort poolDisney’s Wilderness Lodge Resort (Credit: Disney)

Take a break from the parks and spend some time at your Disney resort’s pool. Themed to perfection, Disney’s pools offer fun activities like trivia and games for the whole family. Whether you’re splashing around or lounging poolside, this downtime is the perfect way to recharge before another magical day.

4. Experience Disney’s Unique Transportation

Getting around Walt Disney World is an adventure in itself! Glide through the skies on the Disney Skyliner or enjoy the classic monorail ride. Boats and ferries provide scenic routes to and from the parks, adding a sense of wonder to your travels. These transportation options are more than just a way to get around; they’re experiences that add to the magic of your trip.

5. Indulge in Mickey-Shaped Treats

Mickey ice cream

Nothing says Disney magic like iconic Mickey-shaped snacks. From pretzels to ice cream bars, these delicious treats are available throughout the parks and resorts. Snap a photo of your Mickey-shaped delight with Cinderella Castle in the background for a picture-perfect memory.

6. Ride the Classic Attractions

dumbo the flying elephant at magic kingdom Walt Disney World

Classic attractions are a cornerstone of any Disney vacation. Be sure to ride Pirates of the Caribbean, Peter Pan’s Flight, and Dumbo the Flying Elephant at Magic Kingdom. These timeless experiences capture the essence of Disney and are a must for both first-timers and seasoned visitors.

7. Seek Out Thrill Rides

For those who crave adventure, Disney offers a variety of thrilling attractions. Conquer the mountains at Magic Kingdom—Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Space Mountain, and the reimagined Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. Over at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, take on Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster. Thrill-seekers will also love Expedition Everest at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. These rides prove that Disney magic isn’t just for kids!

8. Connect with Animals

Disney’s Animal Kingdom offers unique opportunities to connect with wildlife. A ride on Kilimanjaro Safaris will take you through the heart of Africa, where you can spot giraffes, elephants, and other incredible animals.

animal-kingdom-kilimanjaro-safaris-zebras-unsplash-nicholas-fuentes
Credit: Nicholas Fuentes, Unsplash

Stroll along walking trails to encounter otters, tigers, and gorillas. These experiences provide a deeper appreciation for nature and the world’s diverse ecosystems.

9. Discover Cutting-Edge Attractions

Disney Imagineers are constantly pushing the boundaries of innovation. Don’t miss out on the newest attractions, like Avatar Flight of Passage in Pandora and Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. These state-of-the-art rides showcase Disney’s commitment to creating unforgettable experiences for guests of all ages.

10. End the Day with a Nighttime Spectacular

Happily Ever After
Credit: Disney

A Disney day isn’t complete without a nighttime show. Catch Happily Ever After at Magic Kingdom or Luminous: The Symphony of Us at EPCOT. These spectacular displays of fireworks, music, and projections create magical moments that will leave you in awe. Be sure to arrive early to secure a good viewing spot!

Bonus: Embrace the Magic

While it’s tempting to pack your itinerary with non-stop activities, don’t forget to slow down and savor the magic around you. Wander through World Nature at EPCOT or enjoy a leisurely snack on the hub grass in Magic Kingdom. Sometimes, the most magical moments are the unplanned ones—a spontaneous character interaction or discovering a hidden detail you’ve never noticed before.

Planning a Disney vacation can be overwhelming, but these must-do experiences will help you create memories that last a lifetime. Whether it’s savoring a Mickey-shaped treat or taking in the beauty of Pandora, these activities ensure your Disney trip is nothing short of fantastic.

Jennifer Retzlaff

My name is Jennifer Retzlaff and I became a lifelong Disney fan during my first trip to Walt Disney World in 6th grade. From that moment, Disney became a big part of my life. I live in Iowa with my husband and two kids who are growing up too quickly for my liking. I started introducing my love for Disney early to my family with a Disney honeymoon and then trips when our youngest of 18 months. Since then, our family has been to Walt Disney World over five times and we continue to plan and dream for the next… More »

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