I remember going to Walt Disney World when I was 7-years-old and the place was so big my parents actually rented a stroller to cart me around from place to place. Okay, that’s kind of embarrassing to admit, but my point is, Disney World is enormous! The whole, incredible place is made up of four Theme Parks, each of which has dozens upon dozens of rides, shows, shops, and restaurants. My money’s on the rides, but, honestly, what makes Disney World so awesome is that there is something unforgettable for everyone to enjoy, whether you’re a thrill seeker, a Broadway buff, or just in it for the souvenirs.
Since there’s so much to see and do, it’s a good idea to strategize and make sure you have time for all the absolute must-dos/sees. That’s why I decided to put together this A+ list, because the last thing you want is to show up at Disney World and be so overwhelmed by choices that you freeze up and miss out on some of the best parts. Once you get through this essential list, you can always check out the other fantastic sights and rides, but I guarantee you will be beating yourself up if you don’t make it onto the Soarin’ Around the World aerial adventure or take a ride on Space Mountain. So, grab your Mickey Mouse ears and get ready to create the most memorable Disney trip ever!
The Essential Walt Disney World Roadmap & Bucket List
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Star Tours: The Adventures Continue
What it is: Hollywood Studios is your #1 destination for all things Star Wars. If you're a fan, the Star Tours: The Adventures Continue simulator ride should be at the top of your must-do list. Want to know how awesome it is? For starters, there are so many options that you’ll be able to experience a different, unique adventure practically every time, from the underwater realms of Naboo to the fear-inducing Death Star. And if you’re interested in celebrity sightings, you’re sure to bump into C-3PO, Boba Fett, and many others along the way. This ride is seriously not to be missed.
Where it is: Disney's Hollywood Studios
Perfect for: Bigger kids and grown-ups; there is a 40-inch height requirement for admission.
Travel tip: You’ll definitely be wanting your FastPass+ for this one, and check out the Star Tours: The Adventures Continue Wait Times for an idea of what the lines might be like when you plan to go. Also, pregnant mamas and anyone with motion sickness should probably sit this one out.
Photo: Walt Disney World News
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Have a Character Meal
What it is: For the experience of a lifetime, your kids can share a meal with Disney pals such as Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, and Donald Duck, or head to Cinderella’s Royal Table in Cinderella Castle and have breakfast, lunch, or dinner with this beloved Disney icon alongside other fairytale royalty.
Where it is: Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, as well as select Disney resorts.
Perfect for: Children, big and small
Travel tip: If you make the earliest reservation at Crystal Palace or Cinderella’s Royal Table, you'll beat the crowds!Photo: Walt Disney World News
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Go to DinoLand U.S.A.
What it is: Cower under the 50-foot-tall brachiosaurus at DinoLand's entrance and then race inside to dig for dinosaur bones and fossils, roam prehistoric lands in a time-traveling ride, then slip and slide through the discovery-oriented play-maze of skeletal remains. How cool does that sound?!
Where it is: Animal Kingdom; if you haven’t been here recently you will be amazed by the park’s transformation into a nighttime theme park with dazzling new shows and entertainment.
Perfect for: Any dino-loving kid or archeology enthusiast
Travel tip: Don't miss the Dino-Institute, hosted by Bill Nye the Science Guy, which leads to Dinosaur, a positively primeval simulator ride.Photo credit: Walt Disney World News
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Check out Disney Springs
What it is: A lively, gorgeous waterfront mecca, the completely revamped Downtown Disney is filled with exquisite restaurant with celebrity chefs, fabulous shopping (from boutiques to your fave top brands), and world-class shows like Cirque du Soleil. It's like nothing you've ever experienced. The Spanish Revival architectural style will be the perfect ambiance to kick back with a cocktail at the end of your Disney day. Where it is: Centrally located on Buena Vista Drive in Orlando, Florida, in between all Disney World Resorts and Theme Parks.
Where it is: Centrally located on Buena Vista Drive in Orlando, Florida, in between all Disney World Resorts and Theme Parks.
Perfect for: Everyone. Literally.
Travel tip: Get there via bus or water transportation from your Disney World Resort hotel, or take a bus from any of the theme parks to Disney Springs after 4 p.m.Photo: Walt Disney World News
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See IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth
What it is: This nightly finale is not to be missed (in fact, catch as many of the nighttime shows as you can -- they're incredible!). With IllumiNations, you'll be immersed in this jaw-dropping spectacular that incorporates fire, gushing fountains, lasers, and seriously impressive fireworks, all surrounding a 28-foot globe covered in screens depicting vivid images that celebrate life, diversity, and humankind. Not a bad way to wrap things up!
Where it is: Epcot
Perfect for: Grown-ups and fireworks afficionados
Travel tip: Make a dinner reservation at one of the nearby restaurants for an hour before the show, and request a table with a view.Photo: Walt Disney World News
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Experience Soarin’ Around the World
What it is: Strap in and set sail high above it all in this fantastic aerial adventure that takes guests all over the world. Within this impressive 80-foot projection screen dome, you'll be dazzled by an array of sights, sounds, and even smells of the globe's most impressive locales, from the Eiffel Tower in Paris to the Great Wall of China.
Where it is: Epcot
Perfect for: Adventure seekers, young and old
Travel tip: Not a good bet for those with motion sickness, FYI. Also, this is another contender for a "FastPass" as the lines can be long.Photo: Walt Disney World News
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Ride Space Mountain
What it is: No trip to Walt Disney World could possibly be complete without a high-speed ride on the coolest indoor outer space-themed steel roller coaster ever. BTW, if you're into coasters, be sure to check out Rockin’ Roller Coaster, Big Thunder Mountain, Primeval Whirl, and Expedition Everest too!
Where it is: Magic Kingdom
Perfect for: Adrenaline junkies over 3'8".
Travel tip: Hit up Space Mountain first thing in the AM or just before closing, or book your "FastPass" for easier access.Photo: Walt Disney World News
