Favorite Attractions at Walt Disney World

I am often asked for suggestions on what to see or what not to miss when visiting Walt Disney World. That's a tough question because everybody has different tastes. But in the spirit of trying to be accommodating, here is what I like:

Items noted with ** are my "not to miss" attractions.



Magic Kingdom

** Mickey's Philharmagic - A must see 3D presentation.
Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin - A mild ride where you shoot up the aliens.
Space Mountain - you must enjoy mild (but jerky) roller coaster action (in the dark).
Splash Mountain - a cute ride with one quick drop. You will get wet.
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad - a mild roller coaster, no big drops (really good at night).
Pirates of the Caribbean - one of the oldest (but refurbished) rides at Disney.
The Haunted Mansion - no on leaves Disney without visiting. The refurbishment makes it even better.

Liberty Tree Tavern - a great place for dinner, meet characters (but not Mickey).
Crystal Palace - a very busy place to have dinner with the Pooh gang.

Spectro Magic - A beautiful night time parade (limited nights - check schedule).
** Wishes Fireworks - A great place to watch is behind the Castle (behind the carousel) or in front of Casey's on main street.



Hollywood Studios (formerly Disney MGM Studios)

** Lights Motors Action - an extreme stunt show.
** Toy Story Mania - a mild 3D action shoot 'em up ride
Muppet Vision 3D - A good, but older, 3D presentation.
Voyage of the Little Mermaid - a very well done show.
Indiana Jones Stunt Spectacular - worth seeing once.
Rock'n Roller coaster - must enjoy roller coasters.
Twilight Zone Tower of Terror - a really great ride. No, you don't just drop 13 floors. Great visual effects.
Prime Time Cafe - a fun place for dinner. Keep your elbows off the table though and be sure to eat all your vegetables!

** Fantasmic - Spectacular night time show - ask about the dinner package (advanced seating).



Animal Kingdom

** Festival of the Lion King - a very colorful and musical presentation.
** It's tough to be a bug - We've seen this 3D presentation over 50 times and can't wait to see it again.
** Expedition Everest - a roller coaster junkies awesome ride.
Primeval Whirl - prehysterical spinning roller coaster is a wacky run that sends you through a maze of curves, hills and drops.
Finding Nemo - a  musical that is bound to be enjoyed by everyone (don't sit in the bottom section)
Killimanjaro Safaris - a truck ride through the savannah. This is a two week excursion that lasts 10 minutes.



Epcot

** Turtle talk with Crush - see this amazing advancement in animation technology.
Soarin' - take a free-flying adventure across the natural wonders of the Golden State
Test Track - 60 mph action in a test vehicle.
Honey I shrunk the audience - a cute 3D presentation.
Mission Space - you'll really feel like your blasting off. Must be able to handle spinning sensation.
Spaceship Earth - Refurbished  in February 2008 this is worth a quick ride if the line is not long. There is a cute surprise during the ride.

** Illumination - night time display around the bay.



Other

O'Hana - restaurant at the Polynesian Resort serving BBQ beef, turkey, pork and sausage on skewers.

Beaches n Cream - soda shop at the Yacht/Beach Club features the greatest Hot Fudge Cake you'll ever have (ask about the kitchen sink). Stroll the Boardwalk when you're done.

Typhoon Lagoon - the best water park in the world with the largest waves, long lazy river and crystal white sand. Lots of shade too if you get there early.

Downtown Disney Marketplace - a great place to shop and walk around, especially in the evening. And as most people do, stroll into Ghirardelli's for a free piece of chocolate.