With 6 days spent in Florida over the course of Spring Break, 4 of those days were completely devoted to none other than the exploration of Disney World. With four different parks, balance was struck as we spent exactly one day in each park. Based on our experiences, here are my rankings from least exciting to most exciting.
4. Magic Kingdom: Arguably the most “magical” park, the problem is exactly just that. It is magical, but eerily too similar to Disneyland. Having been at Disneyland in California exactly five times, the magic that came with the first visit was eliminated every visit thereafter. It was still wonderful, but of course ruined by the thunderstorm that erupted and canceled the new “Seven Dwarves” ride after we had already waited 2 hours in line for it.
Best Experiences: Hall of Presidents (because I love History), and the magical evening fireworks show (WISHES).
3. Epcot: With rides not particularly as exciting at the other parks, Epcot still has a form of magic reminiscent much of a world’s fair. It’s kind of a combination of a Natural History Museum, an Observatory, and an Aquarium in terms of the inner exhibits offered. The major upside of Epcot of course is the experience of walking down the avenue and exploring the different countries – their cultures, their short films, their food, and their structures.
Best Experiences: Spaceship Earth Ride, the Exhibitions of the different countries (BOBA IN China!), Pictures with Mulan, and seeing the Village People perform live (YMCA!)
2. Animal Kingdom: Even though I’m not a big fan of the zoo, I did enjoy the animal kingdom, for the animals were much closer in person on the Safari Ride (which means they were probably much more drugged up). Being with the company I was with, we didn’t spend much time looking at animals anymore – focusing most of our efforts on rides and shows – just the way I like it.
Best Experiences: The Finding Nemo Musical (JUST TERRIFIC!), The Safari Ride where we got to go to animals up close, and Pictures with Mickey and Minnie.
1. Hollywood Studios: This is the Disney version of Universal Studios. Being a completely new experience, I absolutely loved it! Being that I grew up with most of these Disney movies as a kid, the magic was recaptured in a variety of different experiences and interactions at the park.
Best Experiences: Beauty and the Beast Musical (YAY!), Indiana Jones Behind the Scene Stunts, Star Wars Fireworks, and FANTASMIC (a truly magical colorful water show).
It was a rewarding experience, and well worth the money. I probably won’t be back anytime soon though, for Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure will always be in my backyard.
