This past week, I had the pleasure of vacationing to Orlando, Florida, and with that always comes a visit to the happiest place on Earth: Disney World. I have been to Disney more than once, and I can definitely say that I discover something new and amazing every time I go. Here is a small list of my favorite things to do that I’ve collected over the years of traveling to Disney World.
1. Pin Trading (All Parks)
Okay, this might sound childish, but hear me out. I have traded pins in Disney since I was 12, and it really adds a fun touch to the trip. There are pin stations in every park and you can purchase either ones you like individually or as a pack. You can choose to put the pins on a lanyard, your shirt, or anywhere else you can imagine. As for me, I put mine on my camera strap and Monsters University hat. Once you get your pins, you can go up to any cast member and ask them to trade with you. They have to say yes, and you are open to pick any of the pins that they present to you. Even though a majority of the pin-trading population is kids, I personally find it to be a nice way to interact with more people in the park and to see all sorts of pins, including vintage and discontinued ones!
2. Be Our Guest (Magic Kingdom)
Disney recently built the Beast’s castle from Beauty and the Beast in the Magic Kingdom. You can make reservations to eat breakfast, lunch, or dinner there. Breakfast and lunch are quick service meals (similar to a Panera Bread or Noodles and Company) and you get to sit in the grand ballroom. Dinner is sit-down, and the Beast comes around to do a meet-and-greet with the guests of his castle. The menu is a mix of American and French cuisine, with the dessert menu having the infamous “Grey Stuff” that Lumiere sings about in the song Be Our Guest (trust me, the “Grey Stuff” is delicious and everyone needs to try it). This is one of my favorite places to eat while in the parks!
3. Toy Story Mania! (Hollywood Studios)
This is one of my favorite rides in all of Disney. It is a 4-D, interactive game that includes all of your favorite characters from the movie Toy Story. You play against the person next to you to shoot the most items on the screen. There are five different levels, all with different targets to shoot at. It’s fun and fast-paced with a lot of energy, plus you get to play with a friend! I always recommend going on this ride and FastPassing it so you can beat the line and get straight to the fun.
4. Eat Crepes in France (Epcot)
Crepes are one of my favorite desserts, and nothing beats eating them in my favorite place. There’s a small crepe stand in France’s section of the World Showcase in Epcot. There’s a variety a flavors and you can even add ice cream to it! They’re always delicious and perfect way to relax on a summer day in Disney.
