8 Reasons Why Disney Is Good For The Soul

Do you remember that scene in Tangled when Rapunzel catches her very first up-close glimpse of the floating lights from the boat? Scrambling to get to the edge for a better view, her eyes grow wide and her breath is stolen away as the lanterns rise in scattered unison above her in the night sky. The viewer can practically feel her emotions—her heart racing and beating thunderously, the excitement and wonder swelling within her chest. Call me crazy, but I can identify with these emotions—it’s how I feel when my vehicle finally begins reaching that last leg of the drive to Disney, when the Walt Disney World archway welcoming all visitors comes into view. I felt this way when I drove through that Walt Disney World underpass as a child, and I continue to feel this way as an adult with children of my own. I don’t think I’ll ever lose that sense of magic and wonder that comes over me, and I know I’m not alone. A vacation to Disney is, for many, a conglomeration of things—a chance to spend quality time with family and friends, an exciting getaway, a therapeutic retreat, an opportunity to leave behind all the worries of the world, and so much more. The magic of it all taps into that inner part of our soul, pulling the kid in us to the surface and granting us permission to feel (and act out!) that childhood exuberance all over again. Still need more convincing that Disney is good for the soul? Here are 8 reasons why!

8. Disney Masters Magic

“It has that thing – the imagination, and the feeling of happy excitement- I knew when I was a kid.”—Walt Disney

When Walt Disney dreamed up this enchanting place, he dreamed big, spectacular dreams. He wanted to create a place where people couldn’t stop smiling, a world that had people believing in pixie-dusted fairies, swashbuckling pirates, and happily ever after. There are magical moments happening at every turn—between the attractions, shows and even Cast Member interactions—and the memories you will make here are unforgettable. No other theme park destination has a handle on the magic like Disney does. The sight of Cinderella Castle glowing at night, fireworks bursting bright colors in the star-riddled sky behind it—it’s enough to make a grown-up shed a tear or two. The spark of wonder that is ignited in me from the moment I arrive stays lit throughout my vacation, the flame only growing brighter and more intense with each experience. There isn’t a stone left unturned at the Parks, every attraction and show and parade so intricately developed with attention to detail that you can’t helped but be wowed by it all. Hang out with a “face” character for a couple of minutes or grab a bucket of popcorn and watch the nightly “Celebrate the Magic” projection show on the Castle and tell me you don’t feel the wondrous pull of Disney magic. It’s unparalleled and available in ample supply to everyone!

7. Appeals to Everyone

“Part of the Disney success is our ability to create a believable world of dreams that appeals to all age groups. The kind of entertainment we create is meant to appeal to every member of the family.” —Walt Disney

I was intrigued by Disney World as a child, and am just as drawn to this place as an adult. I absolutely love spending a day at the Parks with my children and even look forward to the times when I have a sitter and can slip into the Parks sans kiddos. You see, Disney appeals to everyone—young or old, married, single, with or without children. It has this special *something* that defies age, even often softening the cynic’s heart with just one trip.

6. It’s a Sight For Sore Eyes

“You don’t build it for yourself. You know what the people want and you build it for them.” —Walt Disney

Gorgeous, manicured gardens, beautifully designed buildings, clean walkways—Disney is truly a feast for the eyes. Did you know that some of the sod at Disney is replaced as little as once a month? Yep, brand new grass, every couple of weeks or so. Sounds kind of crazy, right? Well, when you think about the number of visitors they see in a week alone—the high number of people constantly traipsing around their property—you start to realize just how hard they must work to ensure that their property glints and glistens, always looking lush and pristine. Without the constant (and I mean CONSTANT) attention to their grounds, it would look neglected and sad. And Disney looks far from sad—it’s one of the most jaw-dropping, dazzling destinations I’ve ever experienced. Disney never sleeps. There are employees who work tirelessly throughout the night to make sure everything looks fresh and inviting. No dying flowers, no wilted, brown grass. Everything is picture perfect, vibrant, and new. Disney is a breath of fresh air and a sight for sore eyes.

5. They Dot Every “i” and Cross Every “t”

“Whatever you do, do it well. Do it so well that when people see you do it they will want to come back and see you do it again and they will want to bring others and show them how well you do what you do.”—Walt Disney

Disney is on top of their game at all times. Did a child just lose their lunch on the ground? Blink and you might just miss it (thank goodness). It will be there and gone in no time because Cast Members are trained to handle basically any scenario you can imagine and they do so in a very timely manner. There is an intricate system in place here—a plan for anything and everything under the sun. Everything from the serious stuff like emergency evacuation plans to the more menial things like how to handle a ranting parent. There are mishaps at Disney all the time. Things go wrong every day, but we don’t often see it because Disney has it under control. They are prepared to create a pleasing, unimposing environment and are consistent in their outstanding customer service.

4. Never Gets Boring

“The fun is in always building something. After it’s built, you play with it awhile and then you’re through. You see, we never do the same thing twice around here. We’re always opening up new doors.”—Walt Disney

As a Passholder, I visit Disney World often. Between the four theme parks, Downtown Disney, and the numerous Disney Resorts I never grow tired of it. There are so many ways to spend a day at the Parks, and as I tap my MagicBand on the touch point sensor at the entrance to the Park, I’m filled with eager excitement, knowing there will be something I will stumble upon that I haven’t yet experienced before. Disney is constantly in a state of evolution—new attractions, shows, and parades constantly being dreamed up and developed. No two Disney days are alike and I find that so refreshing!

Bonus Tip!

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3. Great Way to Connect With Others

“To all who come to this happy place: Welcome.”—Walt Disney

There is a huge sense of community within the Disney realm. That’s because many people don’t just like Disney, they LOVE Disney and are devoted lifelong fans. It’s easy to strike up a conversation with a fellow Disney lover. Whether bonding over Disney of yesteryear, debating the upcoming refurbishments and changes, exchanging Disney recipes, or sharing tips and insider tricks, you’ll rarely ever run out of things to talk about when Disney enters the discussion. Disney unites people together, and not just while at home away from the Parks. I’ve met some wonderful people while vacationing at Disney—fellow parents, fellow attraction riders, even Cast Members. It is a friendly, happy place and I love the sense of camaraderie that is often found within this “world.” It has a way of connecting people from all facets of life, young or old. When Disney is a shared interest, strangers instantly become fast friends.

2. It’s an Escape

“I don’t want the public to see the world they live in when they’re in the Park. I want to feel they’re in another world.”—Walt Disney
From the moment you drive onto Disney property it’s, “Goodbye, troubles. Hello, happiness!” Everything that is weighing you down seemingly melts away at the words, “Welcome home!” as you pull past the gatekeeper and into your Disney resort. The Cast Members at Disney are some of the most accommodating employees I’ve ever witnessed, helping cement some wonderful, magical memories for many families. I never feel a sense of urgency to make sure my family is having a good time when we are there—good times simply happen at every turn. Surprising magical moments come when you least expect them, moments you just don’t come across too often in the real world. Let’s face it, from time to time we ALL need a retreat, and Disney is the perfect getaway.

1. It’s Inspiring

“I believe in being a motivator.”—Walt Disney

Walt Disney was a pioneer—a dreamer and a doer. He made things happen, despite the many naysayers who tried to stand in his way. With his courage, determination, and sheer grit, he built what is now one of the most wonderful (and popular) vacation destinations on earth. When you visit the Disney Parks, you can’t help but feel inspired by Walt’s work. His fingerprints are everywhere, reminding us all that dreams really can come true.

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 Walt Disney World deal, share expert advice and their services are totally FREE! It’s genius!