Walt Disney World® in Orlando, Florida, is one of the world's most popular vacation destinations, offering magical experiences for visitors of all ages. The sheer abundance of attractions, dining options, and entertainment choices can make creating the perfect Disney World® itinerary seem like a hassle. But don't worry — this comprehensive travel guide will help you unlock the magic of a perfect trip to Disney World®.
Theme Parks
At the heart of Walt Disney World® are its four main theme parks, each offering unique attractions and experiences.
Disney's Magic Kingdom®
As the most iconic of Disney World's® parks, Magic Kingdom® brings fairy tales to life. Dominated by Cinderella Castle, this park features classic attractions like Space Mountain, Pirates of the Caribbean, and It's a Small World. Don't miss the nightly fireworks spectacular that lights up the sky over the castle.
Disney's Animal Kingdom®
Animal Kingdom® combines thrilling attractions with wildlife encounters. Highlights include Expedition Everest, a high-speed roller coaster, and Kilimanjaro Safaris, where you can spot African wildlife. The park's centerpiece, the Tree of Life, comes alive at night with stunning projections.
Disney's Hollywood Studios®
Step into the movies at Hollywood Studios®. Star Wars fans won't want to miss Galaxy's Edge, an immersive land where you can pilot the Millennium Falcon. Other must-see attractions include The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror and Toy Story Land.
EPCOT
EPCOT blends technology and world cultures. Future World showcases incredible innovations, while the World Showcase lets you experience 11 countries in a single day. Be sure to try the cuisine from around the globe as you explore.
Places to Stay
Disney World® offers a range of on-site resorts to suit every budget and preference.
Deluxe Resorts:
- Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
- Disney's Polynesian Village Resort
- Disney's Contemporary Resort
Moderate Resorts:
- Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort
- Disney's Coronado Springs Resort
- Disney's Port Orleans Resort
Value Resorts:
- Disney's All-Star Resorts
- Disney's Pop Century Resort
- Disney's Art of Animation Resort
Staying at a Disney resort comes with perks like early park admission and complimentary transportation to the parks.
Places to Eat
Disney World® is a food lover's paradise, offering everything from quick-service meals to fine dining experiences.
Quick-Service Options:
- Satu'li Canteen (Animal Kingdom®)
- Woody's Lunch Box (Hollywood Studios®)
- Tangierine Café (EPCOT)
Table-Service Restaurants:
- Be Our Guest Restaurant (Magic Kingdom®)
- Tiffins (Animal Kingdom®)
- Le Cellier Steakhouse (EPCOT)
Character Dining:
- Cinderella's Royal Table (Magic Kingdom®)
- Tusker House Restaurant (Animal Kingdom®)
- Hollywood & Vine (Hollywood Studios®)
For a special treat, consider making a reservation at Victoria & Albert's, Disney World's® AAA Five Diamond restaurant located at the Grand Floridian Resort.
Places to Shop
Disney World® offers numerous shopping opportunities, from souvenir stands to upscale boutiques.
- Disney Springs: This outdoor shopping, dining, and entertainment complex features over 100 stores, including the massive World of Disney store.
- Main Street, U.S.A. (Magic Kingdom®): Browse charming shops for apparel, accessories, and collectibles.
- World Showcase (EPCOT): Each country pavilion offers unique merchandise reflecting its culture.
- Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge: The Zawadi Marketplace showcases African-inspired art and crafts.
Entertainment Areas
Beyond the theme parks, Disney World® offers additional entertainment options.
Disney's Blizzard Beach Water Park
Cool off on thrilling water slides and lazy rivers at Blizzard Beach Water Park. Highlights of this ski resort-themed water park include Summit Plummet, one of the world's tallest and fastest free-fall body slides, and Teamboat Springs, a family raft ride. For younger guests, Tike's Peak offers smaller slides and play areas. Note: At time of publishing Blizzard Beach is currently closed for renovations and upgrades. Check availability ahead of time.
Disney's Typhoon Lagoon Water Park
Enjoy water attractions amid a tropical paradise supposedly created by a typhoon. The Typhoon Lagoon Surf Pool produces 6-foot waves, while Miss Adventure Falls offers a family raft ride with exciting twists and turns. Snorkel with sharks and tropical fish in Shark Reef when available.
ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex
This 220-acre complex hosts amateur and professional sporting events throughout the year. Facilities include multi-purpose fields, a ballpark, an indoor arena, and a stadium. You can often watch competitions ranging from youth sports tournaments to professional training camps.
BoardWalk
This quarter-mile promenade features restaurants, shops, and nighttime entertainment. Enjoy street performers, specialty shops, diverse dining options, and nightlife spots like Jellyrolls, a dueling piano bar. The BoardWalk offers a charming atmosphere, especially in the evening when lights reflect off Crescent Lake.
Disney Genie Service
To make the most of your visit, consider using Disney's Genie Service, a complimentary digital planning tool available in the My Disney Experience app. Genie+ provides access to Lightning Lane entrances for select attractions, helping you skip the regular lines for an additional fee.
Planning Your Visit
When planning your trip to Disney World® Orlando, Florida, keep these tips in mind:
- Book in advance: Reserve your accommodations, dining, and FastPass+ selections early, especially during peak seasons.
- Use the My Disney Experience app: This official app helps you manage reservations, check wait times, and navigate the parks.
- Take advantage of Extra Magic Hours: If you're staying at a Disney resort, you can enjoy extra time in the parks before or after regular operating hours.
- Consider park hopper tickets: These allow you to visit multiple parks in one day, giving you more flexibility.
- Pack essentials: Bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and a portable charger for your devices.
- Take breaks: The Florida heat can be intense, so plan for rest periods during the day.
- Explore new attractions at Disney World®: Disney World® is constantly changing and improving, with new attractions opening regularly.
Walt Disney World® Resort in Orlando, Florida, offers a truly magical experience for all families. From thrilling rides and shows to delectable dining and unique shopping opportunities, there's something for everyone at this world-famous destination.
For more ways to enjoy Orlando's attractions, consider Orlando CityPASS® tickets, which offer savings on admission to other popular Orlando experiences.
Orlando Lodging
Part of a great vacation is finding a great place to stay. Use this map to find the right lodging for you:
Booking.comHeader Image ©Disney