I’ve been to Walt Disney World Resort in Florida more times than I can count. One might think I’ve done and seen everything. Since the property covers more than 40 square miles, I’m happy to report that this is amazingly untrue. Of course, there are attractions and restaurants I’ve been to every time I go, favorites are favorites. But recently my friend and I made a list of many things I had never done. Now, it’s a goal of mine to get through that list. Over the past two years, I was fortunate to be able to go visit the Most Magical Place on Earth four times and packed in many firsts for myself.
Around the Resort
One of my goals is to experience being a guest at as many Walt Disney World Resort hotels as possible. In 2022 and 2023, I stayed for the first time at The Cabins at Fort Wilderness, Animal Kingdom Lodge, Port Orleans Riverside and Coronado Springs. All four properties offer different themes and amenities that make them incredibly special. From animal encounters to pools and parties, each property is truly unique. Staying in a cabin had been a long-time dream of mine as an Adirondack girl. What made this lodging so special for me was that I truly felt that we were in our own little house in the mountains. As a guest, you have actual privacy and the rustic charm one would expect. Staying at Coronado Springs I was able to immerse myself in a Spanish and Mexican-inspired oasis which was extremely magnificent. While there, I got the chance to dine at Three Bridges Bar and Grill at Villa del Lago, a recently opened restaurant on the water. As we basked in the night’s beauty with a perfect view of the new Gran Destino Tower, my friend and I shared a sangria flight, and some delicious queso and guacamole.
In-Park Dining
Since there are so many restaurants and dining options on Walt Disney World Resort property, it’s not surprising that each time I go it’s very easy to try tasty new treats. The World Showcase in EPCOT is so big and full of interesting global delicacies. As a New Yorker, I always pass the Canadian Pavilion taking it for granted. That being said, so many people have marveled at the incredible food at Le Cellier Steakhouse that I pushed it to the top of my list. Wow, thank goodness I did. Upon entering, the ambiance is regal and welcoming. And the food, c’est magnifique! You can order very expensive French wines, juicy steaks and fancy hors d’oeuvres. Or you can do what I did and choose to enjoy some yummy poutine, a Canadian classic.
In-Park Entertainment
Speaking of old standbys, sometimes we are so excited about new things we forget about the classics that make the parks so special. Believe it or not, I had never been to Tom Sawyer Island. I also had never taken a ride on the Liberty Square Riverboat or the famous Walt Disney World Railroad. All these things are special and unique in their own right. They also make for great activities on days when the Magic Kingdom is packed. Tom Sawyer Island has suspension bridges and wilderness trails, a big playground for little kids, and caves to explore. There are even rocking chairs to relax and even secluded restrooms.
There always is something new to explore, whether it is new to the resort or simply new to you. I encourage all of you who have been to Walt Disney World Resort (or even to the Disneyland Resort) to take the time to write down things you’ve never taken the time to experience and set a goal to achieve at least one each day of your trip. You may decide you have a new favorite to come back to!
Want to learn more about Disney Vacation planning? Speak to a AAA Hudson Valley Travel Agent and discover what magic lies ahead!
