The Ultimate Walt Disney World Guide

Disney World Florida Magic Kingdom Guide Things to do

Being the cynic that I am, I would normally be incredibly skeptical of anywhere that calls itself "The Happiest Place on Earth". However, when it comes to Walt Disney World, well, I'm completely sold. Admittedly, I'm an early convert. I grew up a Disney kid through and through, obsessed with the princesses (my favourite's Belle, who's yours?), the parks (I've been to every Magic Kingdom except Shanghai!), and of course all things Mickey Mouse.

Growing older, the magic doesn't diminish. It simply changes. Sure, I'm old enough to realise that no, that's not actually Mickey, it's some bloke (probably sweating profusely) in a costume. But I'm willing to suspend disbelief and go with it, because, well, it's Disney World! And as an adult, you can go on all the big rides, and try all the fun cocktails. Why let the kids have all the fun?

I recently spent a week at Walt Disney World Florida, discovering highlights across the four theme parks, the water park Typhoon Lagoon, and the various dining and entertainment destinations beyond. It was by no means exhaustive, but provided a solid base for all the must do's and best practices for a trip to Disney World, from advance planning to making the most of your experience. I've distilled this into a Disney World guide with all my top tips, and an overview of the highlights of the parks.

I visited Walt Disney World Florida on a press trip as a guest of Disney Parks UK and Virgin Atlantic. This post contains affiliate links, which means that if you choose to purchase a product or experience listed I may make a small commission, at no cost to you. Purchasing through my links helps me pay for the costs of running my blog, so it's greatly appreciated!

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Disney Trip 101

Tree of Life Animal Kingdom Photo Spots Disney World Florida Travel Holiday Guide

Advance Planning is Key

Though you can still have an incredible time with little to no advance planning, if you want to get the most out of your trip a little preparation goes a long way. For example if you want to stay at a Disney resort you'll need to book in advance, and many of the best restaurants require reservations (sometimes months in advance!).

Get Techy With It

Download the My Disney Experience app in advance of your trip for help booking the aforementioned restaurant reservations, lighting lane passes, and plenty more. The app even allows you to check in to your Disney resort in advance, automatically shares your ride photos, lets you order food at quick serve restaurants, and shares real time ride wait time updates.

Getting Around

Breathe a sigh of relief. Getting around the park is incredibly easy, with a plethora of transport options available. There's regular shuttle buses, as well as boats, monorails, and even a cable car, and all the popular routes between resorts, parks, and attractions will have at least one form of transport available.

Go With The Flow!

With 4 theme parks and 2 water parks, plus attractions including Disney Springs and the Boardwalk, Walt Disney World is absolutely massive. You'll be hard pressed to see and do everything in one trip without completely burning out, and to expect to do so is setting yourself up for failure. Take in the magic, take your time, and enjoy the moment!

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What to Pack for Disney World

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Walt Disney World Florida Animal Kingdom Maharajah Jungle Trek
Star Wars Galaxy's Edge Hollywood Studios Disney World Florida Guide
  • I'm going to start with the most important tip: keep it comfy! You're going to be rushing around the parks all day in your fits, so comfort is key. In particular, you want to wear shoes you know you can last in all day. My go to was a trusty pair of Converses, or flat sandals are a good idea to beat the Florida heat.
  • It's usually hot hot hot during the day, so light, airy clothes work best. However it can be a bit chillier in the mornings and evenings, so you might want a light shawl or jacket. If you're planning on going to Typhoon Lagoon, don't forget your swimsuit!
  • Florida weather can be volatile, particularly in rainy season, so something waterproof such as a poncho is a must to defend against any unexpected downpours.
  • Lastly, have fun with it! Grab your ears, put on your best Disney merch, or try your hand at a Disney Bounding look (outfits inspired by the colour palettes and style of Disney characters). I went safari-chic for Animal Kingdom, and channelled my inner Princess Leia for a visit to Hollywood Studios - you know I love a good theme!

My Disney World Wardrobe

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The Parks : An Overview

Magic Kingdom

The OG, Magic Kingdom is where the majority of classic Disney characters live. It's home to the iconic Cinderella's Castle, and is a great destination for family-friendly fun - plus a few thrill rides for the adults!

Animal Kingdom

My personal favourite, Animal Kingdom is a beautiful ode to all things mother nature. There's areas dedicated to Africa and Asia, plus a safari on-site. An absolute must-visit is the incredible Pandora and the immersive Avatar Flight of Passage ride.

Hollywood Studios

All things cinema are celebrated at Hollywood Studios, with the major draws including areas dedicated to Star Wars and Toy Story.

Epcot

Epcot is best known for it's World Showcase, replicating countries from around the world with impressive installations, food and drink. It also holds its own with rides, including one of the park's best rollercoasters inspired by The Guardians of the Galaxy.

Typhoon Lagoon

Disney World's water park hosts plenty of water-based fun, from child-friendly attractions to adrenaline pumping raft rides. There's also a second water park, Blizzard Beach, but at time of writing it's closed for refurbishment.

Harambe Market Disney World Florida Animal Kingdom Photo Spots Travel Guide
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Where to stay at Disney World

Board Walk Inn Disney World Resort Florida Where to Stay Entrance
Board Walk Inn Disney World Resort Florida Where to Stay
Board Walk Inn Resort Disney World Florida Where to stay at Disney Guide
Board Walk Inn Disney World Resort Florida Where to Stay
Hotel Resort Review Disney BoardWalk Inn Walt Disney World Florida Hotels

Disney World Florida has a number of resorts within the premises, from budget options to deluxe resorts and villas. During my trip I stayed at deluxe resort BoardWalk Inn. It's the resident resort at the eponymous BoardWalk, a harbourside shopping and dining destination within the Disney World premises. It's in a prime position within walking distance of EPCOT and Hollywood Studios, as well as being connected by boat, bus, and cable car.

The BoardWalk Inn - and the Board Walk it resides on - is supposedly reminiscent of the seaside towns of turn of the century Atlantic City. Honestly, as a Brit I don't entirely get the reference. But it manifests in elegant spaces steeped with nostalgia, and just a touch of kitsch.

As ever, it's all about those little details. Silhouettes of classic Disney characters decorate the lamp shades, whilst old-fashioned carnival machines and retro prints line the walls. The standout is the carnival carousel-inspired chandelier that greets guests in the foyer. Keep an eye out also for the beautiful miniature model rollercoaster in the lounge.

The rooms are ample in size, with all the basic amenities. There's a bar and restaurant on site, as well as a gym and pool. Unfortunately I somehow didn't make it to any of these as I spent as much time as possible at the parks - however I can recommend the cocktails from the stand just outside the hotel!

Ultimately BoardWalk Inn makes a great base for your Disney trip. It's got all the essentials and lots more besides, plus it's prime location on the buzzing BoardWalk is great for exploring the surrounding areas.

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The Parks: Everything you need to know

  • Opening Times: The parks all have different opening times, which can be viewed here. If you're a guest at one of the resorts, you can benefit from early entry - it gets busy from the get go, so take full advantage!
  • Magic Bands: Pick up a magic band (basically a snazzy tech watch) and you can use it to get into the parks, open your room, link your photos, and plenty more. It's not a necessity, but does make the experience that bit smoother.
  • Virtual Queues and Lightning Passes: Some rides have virtual queues you can join via the My Disney Experience App. You'll also want to use the app to allocate your lightning line passes if you have them. I'd save them for the big ticket rides to avoid long wait times, then do any other big rides first thing in the morning or last thing before you leave, when queue times are shorter.
  • Park Timings: I'd recommend dedicating a full day to each theme park, plus a day for Typhoon Lagoon and shopping at Disney Springs if you're interested in those. Allow for downtime too, as walking around the parks all day every day can be intense! However if you're short on time you can pick up a park hopper ticket, which allows you to visit multiple parks in a day. Keep in mind some parks are open earlier / later, or worth visiting for the evening events.
  • Parks with Kids: Keep in mind some rides have height restrictions, or could be a bit scary for smaller tots. Conveniently, Disney World has a rider switch programme for certain rides, which allows an adult to wait with a child unable to ride an attraction and then board the attraction without waiting in line again.
Hollywood Studios Tower of Terror Walt Disney World Florida
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My Top 3 Disney World Rides

HOLLYWOOD STUDIOS

ANIMAL KINGDOM

MAGIC KINGDOM

Magic Kingdom Guide

Magic Kingdom is the original Disney Park, home to the majority of classic characters and the iconic Cinderella's Castle. It's one of the more family friendly parks, with plenty of rides suitable for smaller children. However it's not all for the kids! There's a fair few thrill rides, including the new TRON Lightcycle / Run, which is the fastest ride in a Disney park, and an absolute must-do for adrenaline junkies.

For me Magic Kingdom is full of nostalgia, home to all the Princesses and timeless Disney characters we grew up with. Though some of the rides feel a bit tame now, they still hold such a special place in my heart. From making my folks go round and round on the giant teacups (on repeat), to graduating to Thunder Mountain Railroad and discovering a love of coasters, it's a real trip down memory lane, with some welcome new additions thrown into the mix.

Magic Kingdom is separated into 5 distinct areas. Stroll down Main Street USA to discover Fantasyland, Tomorrowland, Frontierland, Adventureland, and Liberty Square.

Fantasyland has all the Disney favourites, with standout rides including Peter Pan's Flight and Seven Dwarves Mine Train. Tomorrowland houses big guns Space Mountain and TRON. Frontierland's flagship is the aforementioned Thunder Mountain Railroad, and Adventureland is home to Pirates of the Caribbean and Jungle Cruise. Colonial era America is represented in Liberty Square, where you'll find the Liberty Belle steamboat and the Haunted House.

Of the four main parks Magic Kingdom is the one I would recommend allocating the most time to, due to the sheer number of rides and attractions. There's so much to do and see, with regular parades, character sightings, and the iconic fireworks to end the night.

Magic Kingdom Cinderellas Castle
Ursula little Mermaid Ride Disney World Guide Magic Kingdom
Walt Disney World Magic Kingdom Cinderellas Castle
Walt Disney World Magic Kingdom Festival of Fantasy Parade

Top Rides and Experiences

  • Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Frontierland. A classic Disney rollercoaster set aboard a train that whizzes through the landscapes of a haunted gold mine.
  • Seven Dwarves Mine Train, Fantasyland. Similar to the above, but set within a diamond mine with a Snow White theme.
  • The Haunted Mansion, Liberty Square. One of my favourites, prepare to be immersed with playful illusions and dramatic decor in this spooky haunted house.
  • Space Mountain, Tomorrowland. Arguably one of the scarier rides at Magic Kingdom, Space Mountain is a high speed thrill coaster in the dark. This one isn't for the faint of heart!
  • TRON Lightcycle / Run, Tomorrowland. Magic Kingdom's latest ride and it's biggest coaster yet, TRON is a major thrill attraction and the fastest ride in a Disney park. Hop aboard a Lightcycle and ride through the computerised world of The Grid.
  • Disney Festival of Fantasy Parade. The Festival of Fantasy parade celebrates the classic characters of Fantasyland along Main Street, with showings at 12 and 3pm. Expect to see all your Disney favourites!
  • Happily Ever After Fireworks. A trip to Disney World is not complete without the classic fireworks extravaganza over Cinderella's Castle to end the night.

Dining at Magic Kingdom

  • Be Our Guest Restaurant: Enter The Beast's palace for a French fine dining inspired affair. A great special occasion choice, advance reservations required.
  • Jungle Navigation Co Ltd Skipper Canteen: A Jungle Cruise inspired restaurant with international cuisine hailing from Asia, South America, and Africa, reservations required.
  • Columbia Harbour House: A great quick serve (no reservations) option with a predominantly seafood centric-menu including lobster roll and shrimp skewers.
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Animal Kingdom

Animal Kingdom was a completely new park to me on this trip, and as such I had little to no expectations. However, it completely blew me away.

Of all the parks, it's arguably the most beautifully designed, with a next level attention to detail. It's also absolutely massive, with plenty of major rides including a coaster or two. But there's also plenty more to do besides, including shows, animal trails, and even a safari.

The park is split up into 5 distinct areas: Africa, Asia, Discovery Island, Dino Land USA, and Pandora. There are rides and experiences throughout, however a lot of the biggest new attractions are found in Pandora.

The Disney parks are all about an immersive experience, and that quality is at its very best at Animal Kingdom. Thought is put into even the tiniest of details, with time-worn old Bollywood posters lining the walls in Asia, and hand drawn, rustic lettering of perfectly weathered Harambe Market in Africa. And just wait until you see Pandora...

Animal Kingdom isn't just aesthetic photo ops, however. It's got a number of major attractions, including coasters, immersive experiences, and plenty of family friendly fun. If you like a thrill ride, head up Expedition Everest in Asia to try your luck against the mythic yeti, or immerse yourself in the world of Pandora in the mesmerising Avatar: Flight of Passage ride.

It's also a great dining destination, with a plethora of quick serve and table service joints. I've listed a few standouts below - and be sure to try the otherworldly cocktails in Pandora!

Pandora Avatar Animal Kingdom Walt Disney World Florida
Disney World Animal Kingdom Expedition Everest
Animal Kingdom Walt Disney World Florida Theme Park Travel Guide Tree of Life
Asia Animal Kingdom Walt Disney World Florida Theme Park Travel Guide

Top Rides and Experiences

  • Avatar Flight of Passage, Pandora. Fly a winged mountain banshee and explore the world of Avatar in this immersive 3D simulation. If any ride is going to blow you away, it's this.
  • Na'vi River Journey, Pandora. A slow moving boat ride through the mystical Pandora rainforest. It's laid back, and absolutely enthralling, with some incredible animatronics.
  • Expedition Everest, Asia. Take a train up Everest and avoid the mythic yeti on this high speed thrill ride. Probably one of my favourite Disney World coasters!
  • Dinosaur, DinoLand USA. A playful, if turbulent, race through time to rescue a dinosaur before being hit by a meteor. It's bumpy, but a lot of fun!
  • Kilimanjaro Safaris, Africa. A fascinating guided drive through the Harambe Wildlife Reserve, which is home to over 30 species of animals. We spotted rhinos, giraffes, and flamingos on our visit!
  • Festival of the Lion King, Africa. A show-stopping spectacular inspired by the classic film, with 3 showtimes throughout the day.
  • Moana meet and greet, Discovery Island. It's not a Disney trip without bumping into a few characters, including a meet and greet with Motunui voyager Moana.

Dining at Animal Kingdom

  • Tiffins: Animal Kingdom's signature restaurant destination, Tiffins is an upscale offering with three themed dining rooms. Reservations are required, and it's not the most budget friendly, but great for a special occasion. It's also connected to Nomad Lounge, which is a great spot for drinks and bites.
  • Satu'li Canteen: Pandora's resident quick serve restaurant, serving up otherworldly build your own bowls of beef, chicken, shrimp, or tofu with a base and sauce.
  • Flame Tree Barbeque: Discovery Island is home to this barbecue spot with a beautiful outdoor oasis seating.

Hollywood Studios

Star Wars Galaxy's Edge Disney World Orlando Florida Hollywood Studios

Prior to this trip, Hollywood Studios was the park I had least expectations of. I knew almost nothing about it, other than it had a Star Wars area (hence my Leia-infused getup!). Turns out, it’s also a whole lot more.

The park originally started life as MGM studios, and was renamed as its current incarnation in 2008. The initial concept of a working studio lot has been retooled somewhat over the years, however the basic premise survives. You enter through Hollywood Boulevard, a bit like Main Street were Main Street modelled after the golden age of Hollywood. Art Deco facades house much of the park's shopping outlets, whilst parades and street entertainment flood the thoroughfare throughout the day.

Beyond Hollywood Boulevard there are six main areas: Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, Toy Story Land, Sunset Boulevard, Echo Lake, Commissary Lane and The Animation Workshop. I spent most of my time entranced by the immersive future-scapes of the imaginary Star Wars world of Batuu, with forays further afield to experience the top attractions.

Ride-wise, Hollywood Studios houses a fair few big hitters. Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance is arguably the top draw, and coasters such as Slinky Dog Dash and Rock "n" Roller Coaster are also popular. And for the real thrill-seekers, Hollywood Studios' flagship ride Tower of Terror is a must.

Though it's not the biggest park, it's worth a full day or an evening visit to enjoy Fantasmic, an after dark theatrical spectacular on the lagoon. With fireworks, floats, and plenty of action, it's one of the most captivating nighttime experiences across the parks.

Star Wars Rise of the resistance Ride Walt Disney World Florida

Top Rides and Experiences

Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge. Join the Resistance and escape the clutches of Storm Troopers in this immersive Star Wars ride with plenty of twists and turns.

  • Slinky Dog DashToy Story Land. A playful coaster with plenty of drops - and great views across the park - aboard a giant Slinky Dog.
  • Micky and Minnie's Runaway Railway, Hollywood Boulevard. An journey through the colourful comic universe of Minnie and Mickey, this ride may be child-friendly but it's not to be missed by adults alike!
  • Rock 'n' Rollercoaster, Sunset Boulevard. Why Disney World is home to an Aerosmith ride, I have no idea. But I'm not complaining! This high-speed thrill ride takes you through an abstract rendering of the streets of LA to make it backstage at an Aerosmith concert.
  • The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, Sunset Boulevard. Hollywood Studios' spookiest ride through the infamous Hollywood Tower Hotel is a bit of a cult classic, and with good reason. With sudden drops, it's not for the faint hearted!
  • Fantasmic, Sunset Boulevard. An extravagant show to end the night, showcasing pyrotechnics, stunts and visual effects with cameos from all the Disney favourites.

Dining at Hollywood Studios

  • Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo, Star Wars. Quick serve dining in Galaxy's Edge, with a range of dishes including poke, pork ribs, and chicken salad.
  • Oga's Cantina, Star Wars. Primarily a watering hole with futuristic alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages as well as a few bar bites. The real draw, though, is the resident droid DJ! Book in advance, or try your luck with a walk-up.
  • Roundup Rodeo BBQ, Toy Story Land. Family style barbeque dining (plus a plant based offering) in Woody's toy box. Reservations required.
  • Sci-Fi Dine-In Theatre, Commissary Lane. 1950s drive-in movie inspired diner serving up All-American cuisine to a backdrop of classic movies. Reservations required.
Hollywood Studios Tower of Terror Walt Disney World Florida
Star Wars Galaxy's Edge Hollywood Studios Walt Disney World Florida 1
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Epcot

When compared to the other parks, EPCOT is a bit of an anomaly. Whilst Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, and Hollywood Studios pretty much do what they say on the tin, EPCOTs theming is more nuanced.

In the original planning stages Walt Disney had envisaged EPCOT as a model community "The Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow". The project lost steam following his death, with the concept rejigged to a theme park with an educational ethos.

There is the World Showcase, housing rides, dining and drinking experiences inspired by different countries from around the world. Ride through the stories of Frozen and Ratatouille in Norway and France respectively, sit down for a pub lunch in England, or grab an (apparently very good, please report back) avocado margarita in Mexico. 

But EPCOT doesn’t stop at the World Showcase. Further areas World Nature and World Discovery house various rides and attractions inspired by nature, science, and technology - plus plenty of Disney characters sprinkled throughout. Need for a “big ticket” attraction brings the somewhat incongruous Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind ride to EPCOT. How it fits in, I have no idea, but it’s so much fun I don’t care.

I didn’t spend a huge amount of time at EPCOT on my trip, so sadly this area of the guide is a little lighter. An excuse to return! However I did manage to tick off most of the major attractions, including the Guardians ride (twice!), and dinner at the otherworldly Space 220. 

ECPOT Walt Disney World Guide
EPCOT France Pavillion Walt Disney World Florida
ECPOT Guardians of the Galaxy Ride Walt Disney World Guide
Space 220 Restaurant EPCOT Dining Guide Walt Disney World Florida

Top Rides and Experiences

  • Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, World Discovery. My favourite EPCOT ride is a fast paced coaster through the dark with a rotating soundtrack of epic 80s tunes. Expect a few cameos from Guardians characters!
  • Remy's Ratatouille Adventure, World Showcase. A playful immersive experience where the rider takes on the role of Remy the rat trying to navigate the oversized world of a French restaurant kitchen.
  • Soarin' around the World, World Nature. If you're looking for a more relaxing ride experience, trying Soarin'. This simulation ride takes viewers around the world via some incredible graphics of national landmarks such as the Taj Mahal and Sydney Opera House.
  • Test Track, World Discovery. One of the park's fastest rides, test track allows you to design your own car and take it on a test run.
  • Frozen Ever After, World Showcase. A playful character boat ride through the world of Frozen.
  • EPCOT Forever, World Showcase. EPCOT's nightly fireworks display celebrating the past, present, and future of EPCOT.

Dining at EPCOT

  • Space 220, World Discovery. An out of this world dining experience in space, with creatively plated and innovative food to match. Reservations required.
  • Les Halles Boulangerie-Patisserie, France Pavillion. A quick serve spot in France for all things pastries, sandwiches, and even macarons.
  • Le Cellier Steakhouse, Canada Pavillion. Steak is served up in a wine cellar in this chic, upscale dining restaurant.
  • Takumi-Tei, Japan Pavillion. A sophisticated fine dining experience consisting of Japanese sushi and wagyu, with omakase menu options. Reservations required.
  • Rose & Crown, United Kingdom Pavillion. British classics such as fish and chips in a cosy pub ambience. A good vegan option, and though reservations are required walk-ups are doable here.
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Typhoon Lagoon

Typhoon Lagoon Water Park Walt Disney World Florida Park Travel Blogger

Despite being a total ride fiend, I am decidedly not a water baby, so water parks have never been my domain. However, I was excited to check out one of the two water parks, Typhoon Lagoon, on my Disney World trip.

A slightly smaller park, it offers a respite from the fast paced days spent exploring the main parks. Typhoon Lagoon is home to some low key rides and entertainment, as well as plenty of spaces to relax. Most of the attractions are family friendly, however there are a few adrenaline pumping raft rides for the big kids amongst us.

Dining options are more low key here too, with surf shack style quick serve options offering up burgers, tacos, and ice creams to cool down on humid Florida days.

 

Walt Disney World Typhoon Lagoon Water Park Guide to Florida Orlando

Top Rides and Experiences

  • Crush n Gusher: A Typhoon Lagoon signature, this adrenaline pumping raft ride with three different slide routes is the closest thing to a coaster at the park.
  • Miss Adventure Falls: A four person raft ride exploring a shipwreck sight for hidden treasure.
  • Castaway Creek: Typhoon Lagoon's lazy river takes you on a relaxing loop around the park. Ideal for the afternoon, when you want to chill after rushing around the rides!
  • Typhoon Lagoon Surf Pool: The surf pool at Typhoon Lagoon alternates between calm waters and 6-ft high surf waves.
  • Humunga Kowabunga: 3 enclosed body slides plunge you down Mount Mayday - in the dark!
  • Ketchakiddee Creek: Dedicated to tots under 4ft tall, this is the perfect water playground to keep the little ones occupied.

Dining at Typhoon Lagoon

  • Leaning Palms: Your standard park fare, including burgers, wraps, and a surprisingly blue pina colada.
  • Typhoon Tilly's: Find tacos, salads, and a range of beers and wines at this casual quick serve outpost.
Typhoon Lagoon Water Park Walt Disney World Florida Park Travel Blogger Lazy River
Typhoon Lagoon Water Park Planning a trip to Walt Disney World Florida Park Travel Blogger
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Dining at Disney World

You can head into your Disney World trip with everything planned out months in advance, and have a magical time. Alternatively you could plan next to nothing, and still have a magical time. It’s Disney World, after all! However if there’s one thing I would recommend putting the time into advance planning, it’s dining at Disney World.

Many of the best restaurants require reservations, which can be tricky to get. Reservations open up 60 days in advance, and can be booked online, via the app, and via phone. Hot tickets like Victoria & Albert's, and Cinderella's Royal Table get snapped up sharpish, so be prepared! However spaces do often appear when cancellations arise, so it's worth keeping an eye on the app for that special booking.

If you're not fussed about the full dining experience (or want to spend more time on the rides!), there's countless quick serve dining options throughout the parks, as well as plenty of snack outlets. These vary from cult classics, to entirely skippable, so if you're a bit of a foodie like myself, I'd recommend doing some research.

I've included an overview of some of the dining experiences I enjoyed during my Disney World trip, including a variety of bookable and quick serve options.

Resort Restaurants

Ohana Disney's Polynesian Village Resort Walt Disney World Orlando Florida Hotels
Ohana Disney's Polynesian Village Resort Walt Disney World Orlando Florida Hotels

Ohana

Start your day the best possible way with a hearty breakfast at Ohana, housed inside Disney's Polynesian Village Resort. This was actually my first Disney dining experience of the trip, and it did not disappoint. We visited for the "Best Friends Breakfast" featuring Lilo & Stitch, which serves up family-style American breakfast with a Polynesian twist. There's also opportunities to meet Lilo, Stitch, as well as Mickey and the rest of the gang. With hefty portions of scrambled eggs, breakfast potatoes, and Mickey waffles, as well as vegetarian and vegan options, it's great fuel before a day of hitting the rides.

California Grill Dining Disney World Florida Restaurants Where to eat Empanada
California Grill Dining Disney World Florida Restaurants Where to eat

California Grill

California Grill is one of the least Disney branded restaurants on the premises, however the absence of characters and Disney kitsch is foregone in favour of a chic, upscale dining experience. Sat atop the 15th floor at Disney's Contemporary Resort, the restaurant offers panoramic views over Magic Kingdom, best enjoyed at night during the Happily Ever After fireworks. The cuisine is international fine dining, with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients paired with Californian wines. We tucked into a range of dishes including a particularly decadent crab mac and cheese, and a beautifully cooked beef tenderloin.

Table Service Restaurants

Space 220 Epcot dining disney world florida restaurants
Space 220 Epcot dining disney world florida restaurants food

Space 220

If there's one thing I've been banging on about time and time again in this post, it's how well Disney sees through a theme. Of the restaurants I visited, this is at its best at Space 220, a fine dining restaurant in EPCOT. Guests enter an interactive elevator to take them up to a panoramic space station, where diners enjoy views back down over "earth" - with the odd cameo from an astronaut. The food is equally out of this world, with playful drinks and innovative plating to really cement the theme. Standouts included the tuna tartare and miso black cod, but there were no bad dishes!

Rodeo Roundup BBQ Toy Story Restaurant Disney World Florida
Rodeo Roundup BBQ Toy Story Restaurant Disney World Florida

Roundup Rodeo BBQ

Guests enter the world of Andy's toys in this playful dining experience found in Toy Story Land at Hollywood Studios. The space is completely kitted out like Andy's toy box, with plenty of classic Toy Story characters throughout. The menu is family style dining, with a bbq platter served alongside a selection of sides. There's also a plant friendly alternative available. Just make sure to freeze when Andy comes in!

Quick Serve Restaurants

Columbia Harbour House Disney World Review Dining
Yak and Yeti Quick Serve Breakfast Animal Kingdom Disney World Florida

Left: Lobster roll and the trio platter of fried shrimp, chicken strips and battered fish at Columbia Harbour House, a cosy New England inspired seafood joint in Magic Kingdom. From advance research I'd heard that this is one of the better quick serve eateries in Magic Kingdom, and it was hearty and filling, if not mind-blowing.

Right: Breakfast Bowl at Yak & Yeti's quick serve counter. Animal Kingdom's Yak & Yeti has both quick serve and table service offerings. We ended up at the former for a quick bite to eat. Personally I would have preferred the cheese melted, but other than that it hit the spot!

Dole Whip Disney World Snacks Eating
Satu'li Canteen Food at Animal Kingdom Walt Disney World Florida

Left: Disney World is known for an array of great snacks, but if there's one thing you have to try, it's dole whip. Acquiring something of a cult status, it's a refreshing soft serve available in various flavours throughout the parks. The classic is the pineapple, which I tried at Magic Kingdom. It's light, sweet but not cloying, and the perfect treat to cool off in the Florida heat.

Right: The best quick serve meal I enjoyed during my trip was Satu'li Canteen, located in Pandora at Animal Kingdom. The highlight is create your own bowls with a choice of base, protein, and sauce. I also tried steamed "cheeseburger" pods, which were essentially asian-style buns stuffed with mince meat.

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I hope this Disney World guide meets trip overview has been helpful and inspiring for your future Disney adventures! Do let me know any must-do attractions or secret spots I've missed for next time...

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Ultimate Disney World Guide Orlando Florida
Ultimate Disney World Guide Orlando Florida
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