Every day, millions of people from all over the world visit Walt Disney World in Orlando, Fla. People come back year after year because it truly is the happiest place on Earth with pixie dust on every corner. When visiting the four theme parks, it is easy to overlook all of the hidden gems and underrated attractions with all there is to see and do. After eight trips to WDW, I have acquired a list of some of my favorite hidden gems in all four theme parks:
1. Cinderella's Goodnight.
Ah, my favorite Disney park, Magic Kingdom. There is something so magical about Cinderella's Castle at night that gives me chills every time. Most people know about Magic Kingdom's nightly fireworks show, Wishes, but not everyone knows that there is an extra surprise. Each night as the park is closing, Cinderella's Castle lights up and a message plays throughout the park, thanking everyone for visiting and wishing everyone a good night.
2. Club Cool.
Cool down at Club Cool! Located in Epcot near Innovations West, Club Cool is an air conditioned spot sponsored by Coca Cola. Here, you can sample soft drinks from all over the world for free!
3. DiVine.
While walking through Animal Kingdom, you may notice a group of guests on the pathway between Africa and Asia looking up at the beautiful foliage. But, what they are really looking at is DiVine, a woman on stilts who is beautifully decorated to blend seamlessly into the dense greenery. Look carefully, you may never notice her until she moves!
4. Hidden Mickeys.
If you take the time to look around Disney property, there are thousands of hidden Mickey heads! One of my favorite spots to look for hidden Mickeys is at a Disney Resort. Check out the carpet, the curtains, even the furniture!
5. The Windows on Main Street.
Next time you walk down Main Street at Magic Kingdom, look up at the windows lining the street. On each window is a name of an Imagineer whohelped Walt bring his dreams to life. Walt even has his own window at the very end of Main Street that overlooks Cinderella's Castle so that he can always watch over his Kingdom.
6. Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover.
Easily the most underrated ride in Magic Kingdom. Sure, it's not the most exciting attraction, but it is great to just hop on, relax and people watch. Plus, there is almost never a wait! This ride takes you on a tour around the second floor of many Tomorrowland attractions including Space Mountain and Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin. Next time Space Mountain breaks down and the lights are turned on, hop on the PeopleMover to check out the track!
7. Sci Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant.
Modeled after a 1950s drive-in theater, guests can dine in colorful convertible cars while enjoying a reel of clips of classic sci-fi movies. A definite Disney must do!
8. Carousel of Progress.
Originally created by Walt Disney himself for the 1964 World's Fair, this is one of the most classic and timeless attractions you will find at Walt Disney World. Located in Tomorrowland at Magic Kingdom, you will travel through the 20th century in a moving theater. Remember, "there's a great big beautiful tomorrow shining at the end of every day!"
9. One Man's Dream.
This air-conditioned exhibit in Hollywood Studios allows you to walk through the life of Walt Disney and the early stages of the Disney company. This attraction features some actual items that belonged to Walt himself, as well as models of both Disneyland Paris and Tokyo.
10. Snorkel at Typhoon Lagoon.
Typhoon Lagoon is one of Walt Disney World's famous water parks. Not many people know that you can actually swim with tiger sharks, stingrays and lots of tropical fish at Shark Reef in Typhoon Lagoon! The best part is that it is included with your water park ticket.
11. Magic Kingdom Rope Drop.
Early risers, this one's for you! About 15 minutes before park opening, Disney characters and Main Street performers sing "Good Morning" and put on a welcome show on the train station platform before Mickey Mouse comes out to officially open the park for the day.
So, on your next visit to Walt Disney World, take the time to slow down and notice all the wonderful hidden gems and the many details it has to offer. You don't want to miss these hidden gems!
