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Disney World
The Most Magical Place on Earth!
Where dreams come true....
Why
The Why, When & How to visit...
It's the most magical place on earth, where dreams come true, need I say more?? It's also the world's biggest amusement park and a self-contained city twice the size of Manhattan by area (thanks Viator for that fun fact).
When
How
Disney World parks and resorts are conveniently located a 20-30 minute drive from Orlando's airport (MCO). There are third party shuttle buses from the airport, otherwise, car service, rental, cab or ride share are all options. Once on park property, there are free modes of transportation to get around to the various parks and resorts.
November through March is the best time to go for average highs in the 70s (F) and avoid the 80s and 90s (F). These months also have the lowest amount of rain. Disney World's Most Magical Celebration 50th Anniversary runs through March 2023. The 100th Anniversary of The Walt Disney Company starts January 1, 2023.
Where
to stay...
1) Walt Disney World Dolphin or Swan - If you're looking to stay at a Disney resort and not break the bank doing it, then The Walt Disney World Dolphin or Swan are your answer. The hotels are adjacent to one another of similar designs with shared amenities, so it's really up to you which to choose depending on cost and availability. The hotels are conveniently located within walking distance of Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Disney Boardwalk with a free ferry boat to take guests to each.
The hotels are filled with a plethora of amenities, including pools, beach, swan paddle boats, beach volleyball, gym, several restaurants and bars, cool spa, playground, etc. The rooms are simple, but nice and spacious. For a premium experience and price, stay at the new Walt Disney World Swan Reserve. The Reserve is a newly constructed hotel adjacent to the Swan that opened in Nov. 2021. It has a contemporary design and more upscale rooms and F&B. Pictures and more details with the ability to book is accessible for the Dolphin here, for the Swan here, and the Swan Reserve here.
2) Disney's Riviera Resort - Disney's Riviera Resort is one of the newest Disney resorts that opened in December 2019. As a result, it has one of the nicest room options with a contemporary design, while still incorporating Disney elements. They also offer suites and villas with kitchens for large groups. However, aside from two cool looking restaurants and a pool, amenities are minimal in comparison to the Swan and Dolphin. The hotel is located near the gondola / aerial tram / skyline transportation that goes to Epcot and Hollywood Studios. Pictures and more details with the ability to book is accessible here.
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3) Star Wars Galatic Starcruiser Adventure - If you're a big Star Wars fan and willing to drop several thousand dollars for an all out Star Wars experience, then Disney's Galatic Starcruiser Adventure is calling. This experience includes a 2 night stay in the starcruiser with an action packed itinerary, including access to Hollywood Studios for the Star Wars experience, and food. I'm definitely not doing this adventure justice, so check it out for yourself here.
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*Looking for an apartment stay? Click here to see what Sonder has available around Disney.
What
Do
to...
1) Visit a Disney Park - (of course!) With four main parks to choose from across Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom, there's plenty to keep you entertained. Magic Kingdom is the quintessential Disney experience featuring the classic Disney characters and rides ideal for young children. Epcot transports guests around the world to experience tastes of different countries featured in Disney movies. Hollywood Studios features highlights of Hollywood and experiences from big screen hits like Star Wars and Toy Story. Animal Kingdom takes guests on a safari and through various animal adventures.
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2) Enjoy Disney Boardwalk and Disney Springs - Disney's boardwalk is a short strip of entertainment options near Epcot and surrounding hotels. It has a dance hall (Atlantic), dueling piano bar (Jellyrolls​), and my favorite magic bar (AbracadaBar), along with other F&B options, including a bakery with Disney treats, and shops. Disney Springs has over 100 stores, 60 restaurants, and lots of entertainment. Entertainment includes a Disney Cirque du Soleil show (highlighted below), bowling alley, movie theater, live music, hot air balloon ride, House of Blues, and more.
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3) Experience the Disney Cirque du Soleil Show - Disney partnered with Cirque du Soleil to create "Drawn to Life", which opened in November 2021. "Drawn to Life" combines acrobatic performances and choreography with new Disney animation and an original score inspired by Disney music. The show plays at a theater in Disney Springs to check out while there. Tickets can be purchased through Viator here.
Eat
Around the World at Epcot. Why choose one cuisine when you can have multiple from around the world at Epcot? Start in Canada and end in Mexico or vice versa with cuisine from countries featured in Disney movies.
Drink
Around the World at Epcot. Similarly, indulge in beverages from around the world with champagne in France and margaritas in Mexico. *If of legal drinking age to drink responsibly
Wear
Disney Gear
(of course!)
Watch
Listen
"When You Wish Upon a Star" by Leigh Harline and Ned Washington
Gift
Click here for Gift ideas