For as long as I can remember my family has loved Disney and all it has to offer. I need two hands to count the number of times I’ve been to Disney World, and I am very fortunate for that. People often ask “Aren’t you tired of it by now? You’re 19, you’re a little old to be so excited about Disney World.” To that I say, whatever age you are is the perfect age to go to Disney World. There’s something for every age group, every ability level, and every circumstance. So here are 12 reasons that show you why you’re never “too” anything- too old, too young, too disabled, to enjoy a day in the happiest place on Earth.
1. There are rides suitable for all ages
Whether you’re a tiny tot or 100 years old there is a ride for you at Disney World. Small children and those who don’t like big rides can enjoy attractions like “It’s a Small World” and Prince Charming’s Regal Carousel. Conversely, those who seek the thrill of a coaster can find their adrenaline rush on faster rides like Space Mountain and Splash Mountain. No matter what your ride preference or riding capabilities are there is something for you to enjoy in the Magic Kingdom.
2. World class dining opportunities
If you’re a foodie, or someone who’s just not into rides but loves a good meal, Disney World is also the place for you. With amazing chefs and themed restaurants with cuisine from all parts of the world and your imagination- a food lover will never be bored. Different sections of the park have different themes and the restaurants correspond to those themes, so the map you get at the front gates isn’t just your guide to rides but to great dining as well.
3. You can enjoy countless professional performances
Theatre-lovers, Disney fanatics, concert go-ers and lovers of dance this one is for you. Disney World’s live performances are nothing short of a spectacle, and are sure to entertain all who attend. If you find yourself unable or uninterested in riding the rides go to some performances like “The Festival of the Lion King” in Disney’s Animal Kingdom park or the live action stage shows of The Little Mermaid, Finding Nemo, and Beauty and the Beast located in different parks. Live action performances will never disappoint, and often are a nice break from the Florida heat in an air conditioned theater.
4. You don’t HAVE to go to Magic Kingdom
If you truly feel as though you don’t belong in Magic Kingdom, you feel too old or too bored with the park, you’re in luck because Disney World boasts four other attractions. Aside from Magic Kingdom there is also Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney Springs (formerly known as Downtown Disney). These parks and attractions host options for many different types of days at Disney World, and could offer an experience better suited to your needs and wants as a Disney customer.
5. Drinking around the world in Epcot
For those who are of age, you can drink in Disney World. I repeat, Disney World has alcohol. Leave behind your strongly held image of a dry park, if you’re seeking to turn up with Mickey Mouse it is possible. Epcot is a park that offers cultural opportunities and mini versions of different countries, and a challenge of sorts has been created by Disney lovers. Drinking around the world in Epcot is when guests try a drink from each “country” in Epcot in one day, it’s a tradition loved by many and can be enjoyed by you if you’re over 21 in Disney.
6. Disability access throughout the parks
Regardless of age, size, and ability Disney has something for everyone. The park aims to be handicap friendly, and offers wheelchair and ECV (electric conveyance vehicles) are available for rent. Most rides have ramps that make lines accessible, and parts of the line for families with wheelchair or ECV bound members to ensure the entire family gets to ride together and doesn’t have to wait very long. Disney transportation is also accessible for wheelchairs and ECVs and every ride has a disclaimer at the beginning for who should and should not ride the ride based on medical conditions, height, etc.
7. You can bring your own children someday
Someday when you are grown and have children of your own, while the park might not be your number one destination, the smiles on your children’s faces will change all of that. My parents always tell my sister and me that the best thing about going to Disney is getting to take other people with them and experience their joy alongside their own.
8. Disney Springs offers nightlife opportunities
Disney Springs, or Downtown Disney as some of us might know it, is a spot for dining, shopping, and enjoying a more urban feeling area of the Disney World experience. This is a way to still experience Disney magic, as a lot of the store contain Disney merchandise and the feel of the area is still decidedly Disney, but without the long lines for rides. Disney Springs also offers some nightlife opportunities for the 21+ crowd with an area called that houses bars and pubs. Disney Springs also has musicians who periodically perform, and cool things to explore like the various Lego statues.
9. Landmarks and photo opportunities
If you love photography, you’ll never grow tired of Disney World. With so many landmarks, character experiences, and just pure people watching, there is always something fascinating for your lens to capture. I know I usually take a digital SLR with me, and this year I’ll be adding a Polaroid to the mix. The opportunities for photography are endless, so bring your camera and go wild, you’ll be sure to have a lively album afterwards.
10. Nighttime Fireworks shows
These are an experience you can’t miss when you go to Walt Disney World, and whether you’re 3 or 103 you will not be able to stop the feeling of awe and excitement you’ll get from these fireworks displays. With a beautifully colored sky, Tinkerbell zip lining across the park, and all your favorite Disney tunes as background music the fireworks are sure to bring joy no matter what age you are.
11. Souvenirs
Even if you don’t like rides, or food, or fireworks, or performances, there is one thing you’ll always find at Disney World- a souvenir you love. Maybe it’s a pair of Mickey ears. Maybe it’s a rare edition of a Disney painting. Maybe it’s a picture of that time you and your cousin spilled your ice cream all over yourselves in line for the Flying Dumbo ride, but no matter what you will find something you love and you’ll be able to keep it with you forever, and that is priceless.
12. Reliving your childhood memories or releasing your inner child
There are many reasons you’ll always be the exact perfect age to go to Disney World, but we all know that the number one reason is that it brings out your inner child. No matter what age you are, you’ll feel excited when you step into the park. You’ll see your favorite character walking around from the movie you watched over as over as a kid. You’ll get on that ride you’ve always wanted to ride and feel the whoosh of air as it starts. You’ll feel the heat of the Florida sun warm your face as you explore the happiest place on Earth with people you love, and suddenly you’ll be six years old again, and that’s truly the magic of Disney World.