Yes, I'm 20 and I love Disney. In today's pop-culture world, this isn't nearly as childish as it could be, but I do still get mixed reactions when I say I am going to Disney World on vacation… again. Generally, especially from people who haven't been since they were little children, they say they're jealous and wish they could go again to experience it as an adult. For people that go regularly, we compare notes about the best places to eat and best rides to ride and overall tricks-of-the-trade. But some people, few but some, look at me like I'm absolutely insane to be 20- nearly 21- years old and eagerly awaiting my flight to the Most Magical Place on Earth. To prove to those people that Disney is an experience you can enjoy at any age, here are the top 15 reasons why I love Disney World, even at 20-years-old:
1. The food.
German Dessert in Rapunzel's Frying Pan.
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I could break this down into multiple sub-categories for you about what, when, and where at the best places to eat in Disney World. However, that's an article all by itself. To keep it simple, you'll NEVER go hungry at Walt Disney World and you can find any type of food imaginable, all made to perfection. Eating is honestly the number 1 reason I go to Disney on a regular basis.
2. The Mountains.
Space Mountain.
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To break this down for those not in on the lingo: Space Mountain, Old Thunder Mountain Railroad, Splash Mountain, and Expedition Everest. These are the BEST rollercoasters in the park (in the world in my opinion), and must rides for every thrill seeker.
3. Fast Passes.
Go LEFT
I am THE least patient person I know, and Fast Passes make waiting in line much more bearable. Going into each day, you can get up to three fast passes for rides of your choice which reduces your wait time considerably. Once you use all three, you can even get more!
4. Disney Resort Hotels.
Grand Floridian.
When my family goes, we ALWAYS stay on property in Disney Hotels. It's just so much more convenient. There is access to the parks and other resorts provided by monorail, bus, and boats. Plus, the staff at the hotels is excellent, the rooms are luxurious, and there are different price levels of the resort so anyone can stay for any price.
5. Holiday celebrations.
Christmas at Epcot
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It wasn't until I was in college that my family made it down to Disney World to see the Christmas decorations – a bucket list item for my dad. We went the days immediately leading up to Thanksgiving, and since then have gone back every year. There is truly no other word than magical for the elaborate decorations put up throughout all of the parks for the holidays, and I love seeing them. Plus, extra park hours and free sugar cookies aren't much to complain about!
6. Shows.
Freezing the Night Away
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Yes, these are probably made for children, but as I've learned over the years from re-watching some of my favorite movies: there is definitely some adult humor hidden in Disney. Plus, I love the singing and dancing of Broadway-level performances, all to songs I've known since childhood and can sing along to.
7. Starbucks.
Magic Kingdom
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In the past few years, Starbucks has slowly been opening up stores in the different Disney parks. For those of us who consider it to be a staple to our diet, this was a life-changer. I really appreciate it because not only is the price the same as non-Disney Starbucks, it counts as a snack on the meal plan if you choose to buy it and you can use your Starbucks app to earn stars.
8. People watching.
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Do I really need to explain?
9. Fireworks.
magic kingdom
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As I divulged in my Fourth of July article, I have a bit of a thing for fireworks. Add that to projected animation on Cinderella Castle and Disney music, and I'm hooked.
10. Extra magic hours.
Late Nights at Hollywood Studios
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It's an art form to know when to go into the parks. Here's my tip: use the extra magic hours. These hours are available to people staying on property, and generally at least two parks (during peak season) have hours either before open or after close. This makes it great for early birds or night owls, or people who want to be in the park for 18 straight hours
11. Magical Express.
As I've gotten older, I've learned to appreciate the logistics of easy travel. With the Magical Express, Disney's buses will pick you up at Orland International Airport and drive you to your Disney Resort Hotel. That simple.
12. Other Disney vacation access.
LIKE A CRUISE
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Again with another logistical marvel. Disney also has an extremely successful (and amazing) fleet of cruise ships. Throughout the year, some of these ships sail out of Port Canaveral, Florida. If you're in a Disney Resort Hotel, you can book a Cruise (which is a must-do in my opinion) and stay at Disney World congruently and the transportation will be taken care of for you.
13. Hollywood Studios.
Tower of Terror
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This is the park that I will tell you is my favorite 9/10 times you ask me. I'm a movie buff, and between the Hollywood feel and thrill rides (Rockin' Rollercoaster and Tower of Terror and more) I always fill my day in this park to the fullest.
14. Tomorrowland's People Mover.
the People Mover
Just ride it. This one has some nostalgic value for me, and even at 20, I can't hold in a laugh when they page Mr. Tom Morrow. What can I say, I'm a sucker for a corny one-liner
15. Time with family and friends.
THE FAM
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I know this can be a component of any vacation, but Disney World is really a special place where my family (almost) always gets along. It's a great place to get away, be warm during the normally frozen Illinois winters, and enjoy each other's company. I'll never turn down a trip to Disney with the fam.
