There are so many hot spots in Disney World it can be hard to narrow down what you want to see if in a time crunch. I was lucky to go down with friends and get to see many of the wonders Disney holds. While hard to narrow down all the exciting things we did these were some of the highlights.
1. Epcot’s France
I had never really spent time in Epcot during past trips but we spent some time exploring the different countries showcased in their "Around the World." One of the sections I loved was France. We stopped at a fantastic ice cream shop, got to take in the scenery, and the performances.
2. Rockin’ Roller Coaster
I am a roller coaster nut, there are very few rides I will pass on and this isn’t one of them. We had a (surprisingly) quick wait, which helped the members of our party avoid too many nerves. I had been on this ride a few years ago and remembered loving it. I love that it is all about Aerosmith and they play their music as we wait, the quick take off, and the flips. It is an all around great ride. It is a must.
3. Happily Ever After Fireworks
I think the Disney World firework show was perhaps my favorite part of the whole trip. They were without a doubt the best fireworks I have ever seen. I love how the color of the castle changed and they projected characters onto it. It usually starts around 9:15 p.m. but make sure to get there early so you can procure a good viewing spot, it fills up quick.
4. Animal Kingdom Safari
My friends and I we’re super fortunate to have gotten a fast pass for the Safari, so we were able to virtually walk right onto the safari cart. It was super cool to see the sleeping lions, elephants, and the giraffes. It was also interesting to hear about Disney’s conservation efforts and hear animal facts from our safari driver.
5. Flight of Passage
“Avatar” is a pretty good movie but it pales when being able to experience it yourself through the “Flight of Passage” ride. We had to wait a while but the setting around the ride looked as if you were on Pandora with the floating islands, strange flora, and waterfalls. Inside the building, while we had to wait more, we got to see the lab and be matched to an Avatar. The ride itself felt so lifelike and better than “Soarin.” The colors, motion, and being matched to a Banshee was all incredible. I can't wait to ride it again.
6. Pin trading/ buying
All of my friends and myself were incredibly excited about buying pins. They cover so many different movies and attractions from all the parks. I got a “Tower of Terror” pin and some of my friends got “Aristocats,” Disney princesses, or safari pins. Even if you don’t end up buying pins, take a look at them. They are beautiful, intricate, and a big part of Disney culture.
7. Epcot's Flower and Garden exhibit
I was excited that our trip coincided with the flower and garden show, but I know it doesn’t last for forever, so if you can try to stop. The flowers, food pairings, and garden sculptures were all fantastic. So try to stop and check out some of your favorite Disney characters all made out of shrubbery.
With so many amazing places to stop in Disney it’s hard to choose where to go if you have limited time. But these stops give a taste of each of the sprawling parks.
