by Adventure Devo
Whenever we talk about Disney tips and recommendations, the words “must do” always seem to get thrown around, but what makes something truly worthy of “must do” status? Let’s take a look at some frequently recommended activities and see what makes them so special.
Frozen Ever After – Epcot
Frozen Ever After opened recently (in June of 2016) and the technology of the ride shows it. The ride replaced the Maelstrom ride in Epcot’s Norway Pavilion, and the track is basically the same (save for small additions and alterations). What makes this ride special, however, is the amazing technology Disney brings to the table. You feel like you’re actually in the movie with Olaf’s typical antics and Elsa’s extravagant ice castle. The last thing I want to do is spoil it for you, but I’ve never been able to see the characters on this ride and not have a huge grin on my face the entire time.
One important note: as this is a fairly new ride, it is exceedingly popular. Wait times without FastPass+ reservations are often better measured in hours rather than minutes. If you’re planning your trip in advice, it’s highly recommended that you secure your FastPass+ reservation for the ride as soon as possible (typically 30 days out from your trip or 60 days out from the day you check in to a Disney resort hotel). If you’re not able to snag one, the ride is usually still open at park opening rather than later in the day with the rest of the World Showcase, so be sure to book it as soon as you get past the turnstile.
Kilimanjaro Safaris – Disney’s Animal Kingdom
A ride on Kilimanjaro Safaris is one of those magical experiences that could only be brought to you by Disney. What is a “ride” for us humans is actually the 110-acre Harambe Wildlife Reserve which is home to over 34 species of African animals. What’s particularly amazing about the expedition is that you’ll never have the same experience twice. I’ve been on multiple trips during which an animal or two completely blocked the path of the vehicle, I’ve seen giraffes get close enough to touch, and I’ve even been a little nervous knowing a lion was only feet away. Kilimanjaro Safaris is often cited as visitors’ favorite experience during their Walt Disney World Resort vacation and for good reason.
‘Ohana – Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
Literally just writing about ‘Ohana makes me excited. ‘Ohana is one of the best dining experiences I’ve had at Disney. Many people don’t realize that you can get a dinner reservation at any Disney resort regardless of whether or you’re staying there. A couple transportation methods to Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort include taking the monorail from Magic Kingdom or Epcot, a bus from Disney Springs, Animal Kingdom, or Hollywood Studios, or a car yourself (just tell the gate guard you have a reservation at ‘Ohana).
‘Ohana is a unique dining experience because ordinarily, there is no menu besides one for drinks. The food is brought out to your table in courses starting with bread, salad, and appetizers such as lo mein noodles and honey coriander chicken wings. Soon, however, waiters will come around with huge skewers of meat (usually shrimp, chicken, and beef) that they generously lob onto your plate. The final course comes as a bread pudding with ice cream and bananas foster topping (as if you weren’t full enough already). It’s some of the best food I’ve ever had, and my most important tip for you is to make sure you come with an empty stomach!
Everyone’s got their own Disney World must-do’s, but these may be some of the most memorable experiences at Walt Disney World Resort!
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*All for Dreams Travel is an independent agency with Gateway to Magic Travel, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner.
