Ah, Disney, the most magical place on Earth! There is something so contagious and pleasing about stepping onto the Disney grounds. Whether you take to the thrilling rides, spend your time meeting Mickey and the gang, or prefer to be pampered with the princesses, it’s almost impossible for anyone to not enjoy their time.

While some may say, “Disney is only for kids,” they are highly mistaken. This year marked my third trip to the magical land, this time for my 21st birthday (turn up) and it was by far my favorite trip. Here are seven reasons why:

1. I rode every single roller coaster, without crying.

OK I might have been a bit of a baby when I was younger... but this year I was a big girl and made my way to every ride. Yes, even space mountain. I’ll admit I was hesitant at first, but after my first ride I became an adrenaline junkie.

2. I was finally tall enough to see the whole park.

When you’re young (and fairly short) it’s hard enough to see your parents, let alone the actual park. A large portion of my trips from younger years involve me being waist-level with hundreds of strangers and getting my tiny feet stepped on... No bueno.

3. Aladdin was finally my height (kinda).

Let’s admit it, we all still have crushes on our favorite princes... Mine just happens to be the Arabian bad boy turned prince. Sorry, Jasmine.

4. No more falling asleep during the firework finale.

Going at it all day in the heat can wear you out pretty fast. By 10 p.m. most of us are thinking its bedtime, not bring on more fun. But with older age, and lots of coffee, I am proud to say up and at em’ this go around.

5. I could get all the ice cream I wanted without spoiling my dessert.

I have a pretty large sweet tooth that my parents would control by only allowing sweets after dinner. Well watch out parents, I’m a big kid now! I mean Mary Poppins said it best herself, “Just a spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down!”

6. Being a mouse, duh.

Evidently the best accessory any girl can get in Magic Kingdom. Even Minnie Mouse herself thought they looked pretty snazzy. Wearing the large-sized ears was much easier now that they actually fit my head.

7. You get to re-live your childhood.

Though the magic never dies, the ultimate reason Disney is better older is because you get to relive all of the wonderful memories you experienced over the years. Growing up would have been much more mundane without the beloved films and experiences Walt Disney laid the foundation for. So for that, thank you Walt for 60 years of magic!