Disney World will forever be my (second) home. I have been there countless times and I could honestly spend every day of my life there. The culture of Epcot, the excitement of Hollywood Studios, the adventure of Animal Kingdom, and the pure wonder that is the Magic Kingdom always has me coming back for more. As a die-hard Disney addict, I definitely have made my way around the parks, hotels, and restaurants. While I do have much love for the typical things most people like about Disney, like Mickey Mouse, Rockin’ Rollercoaster, Tower of Terror, the princesses, the fireworks, and turkey legs, I have been able to discover some hidden treasures through the gates to Disney that the typical person might not know about. So, the next time you make it to the most magical place on Earth, you might want to check out something new!

Ample Hills Creamery

Ample Hills is undoubtedly, the best ice cream that you will find on Disney property. There is an entrance to the Boardwalk in between France and the U.K. pavilions. Just a short walk from Epcot to the Boardwalk and you will find Disney’s Beach Club Resort, along with Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, the Cape May Cafe, and my beloved Ample Hills. Ample Hills has a variety of flavors, and they are far from typical. Peppermint Pattie, Butter Pecan Brittle, Baked/Unbaked, and my personal favorite, Ooey Gooey Butter Cake are just a few of the delicious flavors that they serve! And no, at Ample Hills you don’t just get a simple ice cream cone, because you must get the sundae, decked out with a layer of warm brownie or a blondie, your choice of ice cream flavors, with your choice of toppings (I like rainbow sprinkles), hot fudge, whip cream, and a cherry on top!

Meet and greet with Gaston

Personally, I love character meet and greets. At Disney World, it feels as if you’re actually meeting the character from right out of the movie. Both face and fur characters always feel authentic and genuine. It truly is amazing how well these people stay in character! There are some fantastic face and fur characters that I have met throughout the years, but my personal favorite has to be Gaston from Beauty and The Beast. Gaston was completely accurate in both looks and attitude. Seeing Gaston is less of a meet and greet, and more of an actual experience. He usually can be found strolling around Gaston’s Tavern in the Fantasyland part of Magic Kingdom, unlike most characters whom you have to wait in long and boring queues for. Instead of just taking a quick picture and being on your merry way, Gaston likes to hold an actual conversation, crack a few jokes and poses for a few pictures along the way. If you’re a Beauty and the Beast fan, you must go and see Gaston for yourself!

Yorkshire County Fish Shop

It is no secret that Epcot is the park to be in for some amazing food. From Le Cellier to Via Napoli, there are countless restaurants that are a real treat. As opposed to sit-down restaurants, the Yorkshire County Fish Shop is one of the best quick services at Disney World. Located in the UK pavilion, this quick service only has one dish- and that is fish and chips! It is great because the line is usually short, so if you’re looking for a quick solution to hunger, this place can definitely be the answer. Located conveniently next to it is a cute little area to sit and enjoy your fish and chips while looking all around the World Showcase.

The Hall of Presidents

The Hall of Presidents isn’t so hidden, but definitely something many people (including myself) has passed up during a few Disney World vacations. Located in Liberty Square in the Magic Kingdom, it is the perfect spot to go to in order to beat some of the midday heat that gets to everyone in Florida. Upon entering the building, you are escorted to a theater where the presentation is shown. Narrated by Morgan Freeman, the history of politics in America and noting some of the most prestigious figures in our country, the show's grand finale is when the curtains open, showing all 43 Presidents of the United States as animatronic replicas. It really is a breathtaking sight to see 43 life-sized replicas of every one of our leaders. If you want to see the Hall of Presidents for yourself, you should hurry up because it will be closed starting in January 2017 for some refurbishments!

The Carrot Cake Cookie

The home of the carrot cake cookie is in Disney's Hollywood Studios. This is no average cookie in shape, form, or size, Not only is the cookie gigantic, but it is actually 2 cookies. Yes, I said 2 cookies. Think of it as a whoopie pie, 2 cookies sandwiched with buttercream icing in the middle. Yes, I know, believe me, it really is that good. This deliciously fresh cookie use to call the Writer’s Shop home, but unfortunately, the shop is no more due to the massive amount of construction within Hollywood Studios. Now, this sweet treat can be found just a short walk away at Sweet Spells on Sunset Boulevard.