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Hidden Hauntings – 10 Things You Might Have Missed on the Haunted Mansion

2. The Hidden Hitchhiker Along with hiding Easter eggs and references in their works, Disney is also known for recycling certain elements and sequences in their materials. This can be seen in films like The Aristocats, The Jungle Book, and Robin Hood; but it can also be seen in The Haunted Mansion. The graveyard is home to several “pop up” ghosts, ghost heads on springs that pop up from behind gra

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Hidden Hauntings – 10 Things You Might Have Missed on the Haunted Mansion

1. A Mysterious Voice Our last entry is one only the Disney historians may know, but all should take note. Upon exiting the ride, there is a large mausoleum towering next to the exit gate. Much like the graveyard queue, on each stone is written a humorous phrase about the deceased. One of these stones reads: “Farewell forever, Mister Frees, your voice will carry on the breeze.” This is a reference

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Hidden Hauntings – 10 Things You Might Have Missed on the Haunted Mansion

9. There’s Always My Way Every Haunted Mansion fan is familiar with the Ghost Host, that eerie voice that floats over the Doom-Buggies as they flow through the mansion. For some that’s all the Ghost Host is, a voice. However, he does have a physical form. In the “Stretching Room,” when he delivers the line “there’s always my way,” a projection of a hanging skeleton suddenly appears over the specta

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Hidden Hauntings – 10 Things You Might Have Missed on the Haunted Mansion

8. Moonlight Maestro This one took me by surprise on my last visit. As the Doom-Buggie travels through the hallway, it pulls guests by an old piano that appears to be playing by itself. Self-playing instruments are nothing new in the field of haunted houses. There’s practically an invisible marching band in Madame Leota’s seance room. However, this musical manifestation packs an extra surprise. If

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Hidden Hauntings – 10 Things You Might Have Missed on the Haunted Mansion

“Welcome, foolish mortals, to the Haunted Mansion.” How many times have we heard those words? The Haunted Mansion is one of the most recognizable Disney park icons, the main attraction for Liberty Square, and is certainly this writer’s favorite ride. On my last visit to The Magic Kingdom, I rode through the Mansion a grand total of six times (I regret nothing). The reason for the frequent visitati

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Hidden Hauntings – 10 Things You Might Have Missed on the Haunted Mansion

10. O’ Captain, My Captain As many Disney historians know, one of the original ideas for The Haunted Mansion involved the ghost of a murderous sea captain with a sharp harpoon and an appetite for gore. This character was scrapped long ago and never brought to the mansion. However, a soaking sea captain does reside in the graveyard queue at the front of the manor. He can be seen in a large stone ba

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Top 10 Experiences You Should Have At Walt Disney World’s Animal Kingdom

1. A Nighttime Spectacular The long-awaited “Rivers of Light” nighttime show has been delighting fans since its opening. Featuring an original score, gorgeous floats, and dancing fountains, this show beautifully encompasses the message that we are one with the Earth. Seating is limited for this production, so consider booking a FastPass, reserving a dining package, or lining up early for a coveted

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Top 10 Experiences You Should Have At Walt Disney World’s Animal Kingdom

Formerly regarded as a half-day park, Walt Disney World’s Animal Kingdom has matured into the enchanting destination it was meant to be. Unlike any other theme park in the country, Animal Kingdom is an oasis of diversity, nostalgic “edutainment”, and sincere respect for Mother Earth. With a park full of intricate detailing, green-friendly practices, and knowledgeable cast members, it’s a wonder (a

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Top 10 Experiences You Should Have At Walt Disney World’s Animal Kingdom

10. A Real African Safari! One of Animal Kingdom’s first attractions, many visitors consider this to be the crown jewel of the park. Board a large Jeep-like vehicle, and enjoy your ride through the Kilimanjaro Safari that features free-roaming lions, hippos, zebras, and other exotic creatures. Savor these close encounters with the animals as your tour guide dazzles you with facts about the wildlif

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Top 10 Experiences You Should Have At Walt Disney World’s Animal Kingdom

9. Climb Mt. Everest! For those who have a thirst for adventure, Expedition Everest — Legend of the Forbidden Mountain is calling your name. Board a roller coaster (I mean expedition) that is aiming to reach the top of the Himalayan Mountain. Just make sure you heed the warnings of the local Sherpas who fear and respect the mysterious Yeti. Not only is this coaster an adrenaline rush, the details

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