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20 Experiences You Simply MUST Have at Disney World in Your Lifetime

Castle Fireworks

Walt Disney World in Florida is known as the “Vacation Kingdom”.  With four world-class theme parks, 20+ resort hotels, two waterparks, five golf courses, shopping, dining, nightlife, and dozens of restaurants, there is so much to do!  Disney is constantly innovating and updating their parks and resorts.  It is nearly impossible to see and do everything.  Here are 20 Non-Negotiables - 20 Experiences You Simply MUST Have at Disney World Resort in Your Lifetime.  

1. Nighttime spectaculars

During your Disney vacation, be sure to make time for the nighttime shows at each park.  These may very well be the highlight of your trip!  Currently, you can experience Wishes fireworks at Magic Kingdom, Star Wars fireworks and Fantasmic! at the Disney Studios, Illuminations at Epcot and the soon-to-come Rivers of Light at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. 

Hoop De Doo
Photo credit Disney

2.  Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Review

You’ll have a rip-roarin’ time at this fun, rollicking, Western themed vaudeville dinner show!   It takes place in Pioneer Hall located at the Fort Wilderness Campgrounds. FYI: Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Review has been running continuously since Disney World opened in 1971!  

3.  Dining in World Showcase

Most of us will never be able to experience all the different foods of the world.  In Epcot’s World Showcase, you can come close!  Before your trip, make a dining reservation for Morocco, China, Mexico or any of the 11 countries represented.  You’ll be hosted by cast members native to that country.

Chef Mickey's
Photo Credit Disney

4.  Character Dining

If you have children in tow (or even if you don’t), you simply MUST do a character meal!  Have breakfast with Mickey Mouse, lunch with Pooh and friends or dinner with the wicked stepsisters.  Bring your autograph books and a camera to record all the fun!  

Animal Kingdom Lodge

5. Staying with Disney

Spend a little more and stay at one of Disney’s on-site resort hotels.  Enjoy the Disney quality, free transportation all around Disney World and even extra theme park hours for resort guests.



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BONUS TIP: Consider planning and booking your next Disney trip with an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner you can trust like Mickey Travels. They’ll help you get the best Disney travel deal, share expert advice and their services are totally FREE! It’s genius!