The city of Orlando is known for its numerous theme parks that earned it the title “Theme Park Capital of the World”. The most prolific amongst its amusement parks is Walt Disney World, a.k.a. The Happiest Place on Earth and just about every child’s dream.
Disney World in Florida breathes life to all the beloved classics we grew up with. It’s home to a slew of rides, character experiences, speciality stores, and other attractions that keep the magic alive.
What are the different parks in Walt Disney World Resort?
This massive park is not only the biggest in Florida or the United States, it’s the biggest in the whole world. It’s made up of four different theme parks: Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
1. Magic Kingdom
Magic Kingdom, dubbed as the Most Magical Place on Earth, is home to all the fantasy and fairytale-themed attractions, with the iconic Cinderella's Castle as its focal point.
2. EPCOT
Another park within Disney World is Epcot, where all of Disney’s inventions and innovations culminate. Its rides, such as those in Future World, showcase technology and space (the fun way, of course!)
3. Disney’s Hollywood Studios
You’ll get a taste of Hollywood all the way from Orlando, Florida over at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Its own Hollywood Boulevard also has replicas of LA landmarks such as Grauman’s Chinese Theatre.
4. Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Last but not least is Disney’s Animal Kingdom, which is every animal lover’s dream. After all, plenty of Disney’s beloved characters are animals! All its experiences take you to the jungle and other wildlife habitats the safe way.
Each park has its own opening and closing times, and it may change throughout the year. It’s best to check their schedule before your visit to ensure that your park of choice will be open.
How do I plan a budget-friendly trip to Walt Disney World?
You can book your tickets to the Happiest Place on Earth easily and quickly on Klook! Take note that Disney World theme park tickets come in two options: a one park per day ticket or a park hopper one that lets you pass through the different parks in one day. You can also book tickets good for two up to ten days—after all, there’s much to see and do!
Just remember that multi-day tickets must be used within their validity periods, and you will need your physical ticket to enter the park the next day.
What are the best rides and attractions at Walt Disney World?
What’s a theme park without rides and attractions? At Disney World, these are designed with characters and themes lifted straight from the films and storybooks for an immersive experience. Here are some of the magical and thrilling rides you have to try:
Find out what it’s like hitching a ride on Dumbo’s back on Dumbo the Flying Elephant, a kid-friendly ride both parents and little ones will enjoy!
Another favourite of the young and young at heart is It’s a Small World, an indoor boat ride featuring sets and animatronics—all singing along to the song—mimicking costumes and landmarks of different nationalities. Curious as to what Australia’s feature looks like? Well, you’re gonna have to find out!
Turning towards the thrilling side we have Twilight Zone Tower of Terror in Hollywood Studios. This fan favourite ride will hurtle you up and down on a haunted elevator-style lift, employing lights and sounds for a realistic effect.
Space Mountain is popular amongst lovers of all things space. This indoor rollercoaster will have you blasting off to infinity and beyond!
Everybody loves Toy Story, so Slinky Dog Dash is a hit for all ages! This roller coaster will have you going on twists and turns around Andy’s backyard filled with giant toys.
Heading over to Animal Kingdom, we have Rafiki’s Planet Watch where visitors can learn more about wildlife and their environments. This interactive conservation centre provides an engaging learning experience for the whole family!
Of course, there are plenty more rides in the entire complex, but we shan’t give them all the way! Go ahead and book your Disney World tickets to see them for yourselves during your one-of-a-kind trip.
What are the dining options at Walt Disney World?
Feeling peckish after all those rides? Lucky for you, there’s food at every turn at Disney World. There are plenty of kiosks, lounges, quick-service eateries, and even full-service restaurants. Oh, and a lot of the food is Mickey Mouse shaped—as they should be!
The dining experience in Disney World can also get immersive. Satu’li Canteen in Animal Kingdom is a prime example, as its interior and menu are based on the culture of the Na’vi from the film, Avatar (not to be confused with Nickelodeon’s Avatar who bends four elements!).
Topolino’s Terrace is also a well-loved food joint in the park. This rooftop resto offers fantastic views of the resort along with French and Italian cuisine. Mickey Mouse and friends also take their time to visit guests!
Where can I stay at Walt Disney World?
At Walt Disney World, the accommodations are attractions in their own right. There are around 25 Disney-owned places to stay that keep the fantasy alive even after the parks have closed.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge is a prime example of keeping the magic alive after hours. Around 200 animals live in the lodge area, and yes—you can see them from your guest room! You can spot a giraffe or two as soon as you peak through the windows.
Remember Topolino’s Terrace? That’s located in Disney’s Riviera Resort, an upscale resort with a European flair blended seamlessly with the Disney brand. Here, you’ll also see classic works of art (think Van Gogh) reimagined as Disney characters!
What is the best way to get around Walt Disney World Resort?
There are plenty of transportation options to Disney World from Orlando International Airport. Various companies offer shuttle services that take you straight to the park complex. Convenient, right? If you want to drive yourself and be the captain of your own ship (car), you can also opt for a car rental.
The airport also has bus stops for the public bus system that takes you to various theme parks and tourists attractions in the city. And there’s always the option of hailing a taxi at the Arrivals Level (Level 2) of the airport!
Pro-tip: if you stay in any of the official Disney World hotels, you can get complimentary transportation services to get around the four different parks from where you’re staying. There’s a bus system, ferry services, a monorail, and even a gondola! That’s how massive the Happiest Place on Earth is!